DeKalb’s growing thirst for places to drink liquor could be quenched by an upcoming series of new liquor licenses.

When Bar One had its liquor license revoked, a class A license was available for another business.

The city of DeKalb put out a request for qualifications to see which business would most benefit the city. The city staff conducted an extensive background check to assure themselves of a responsible business with a vested interest.

“We want an owner with a significant investment in the business,” said deputy Liquor Commissioner Cory Warren.

The city received three well qualified candidates from the process and stipulated that the results could be used if another license became available, Warren said.

A wine cafe proposal was deemed most qualified and will be located at 251 E. Lincoln Highway. At the Aug. 13 city council meeting, the wine cafe proposal will be on the agenda.

Mel Witmer will own the downtown cafe as well as O’Leary’s, located at 260 E. Lincoln Highway.

When the proposal came before the city council on June 23 it was determined that the cafe would get a different version of class A that accounts for its location within the recently deemed downtown conservation district.

The business is trying to cater to young professionals and focus more on bringing in the graduate crowd, Warren said.

This left the city with a remaining A license which will go to second place bidder Reilly’s, 1215 Blackhawk Road. The north side bar currently holds an E license.

“Reilly’s has a good track record as an operating business which carried some weight,” Warren said.

Another license is poised to be released as the city has conducted another special census and the city of DeKalb has eclipsed the 45,000 person mark.

Within the city code it is stipulated that another license can be granted each time the city adds another 5,000 people.

Although approval of the proposal is still pending, at the Aug. 13 council meeting, a new tenant at the old Bar One site, 1000 W. Lincoln Highway was the third qualified candidate and is in line to receive an A license when one is available.

Also coming to the downtown area this fall, McCabe’s, on E. Lincoln Highway, will be reopening after significant remodeling.