DeKALB | Some bar patrons are beginning to say enough is enough to cover charges.

“We charge all night until close,” said Ed Ryan, a manager at Starbusters Bar & Grill. “We charge all weekend; Thursday, Friday and Saturday night.”

Starbusters doesn’t usually lower the cost of liquor, either, Ryan said. Drink specials stay the same, with or without cover.

Other bars follow suit

“It’s a $2 minimum that starts at 10 p.m.,” said Bar One owner Bob Myers. “Typically we don’t do $5 unless there is special entertainment or if we bring performers in at different times. That would be the only reason to raise the cover.”

Extra weekend expenses, such as live entertainment and extra staff, is the main reason for a cover charge, Myers said. He also said 10 to 15 security guards usually work on the weekend nights, especially at 11 p.m., when the crowd picks up.

“Cover charges offset what we have to deal with during the night,” Myers said.

Explanations from owners don’t quell complaints about the extra charge, though.

“[Bar owners] know we’re college students and we’re low on cash,” said senior communication major Jason Hook.

On Saturday night, the cover at Starbusters went from $6 to $7 as of 10 p.m.

“I think it’s ridiculous,” said Tommy Jerr, a senior corporate communication major. “Molly’s doesn’t have a cover unless they have a band or tent.”

Jerr, however, said paying the cover was just a part of going out for the night.

“I just feel like I’m going out for a good time and money isn’t an option,” he said.

Molly’s Eatery declined to comment about their cover charges.

Factors affecting cover

The closure of the Barn has inherently increased the business of other area bars. It also helps bring in more cash during special events at bars that charge cover.

Since he took over Bar One in March, Myers has noticed an increase in business.

“I know this bar had a reputation before that wasn’t real popular,” Myers said.

Ryan, however, said there has not been a noticeable increase in business at Starbusters. “It’s such a small town,” he said. “People go to Molly’s and Bar One and end up here.”

The city council and liquor commission have alluded to future regulations being put in place regarding liquor codes. Bar owners are concerned the city will attempt to control how much bar owners can charge for a cover.

“It would be wrong, it’s free enterprise,” Ryan said. “Isn’t that what America is about?”

Janessa Ensinger is a City Reporter for the Northern Star.