Market wants liquor

By Justin Gallagher

Inboden’s Meat Market, a grocery store known locally for its specialty meats, is awaiting the creation of a liquor license to sell beer and wine.

Owner Tom Inboden said he wants to “accommodate the customers’ needs.” Inboden’s, 1106 N. First St., has been a DeKalb fixture since 1961.

“They are looking to develop a specialty line of alcohol that would complement the food. It appears unique,” said 2nd Ward Alderman Kris Povlsen.

Although Inboden has not formally applied for a liquor license, the inquiries he has made have started the process.

DeKalb City Attorney Norma Guess said Inboden’s is unlike any other alcohol-selling business in the area because it is small and does not serve prepared food. Inboden’s is not eligible for any existing licenses.

The eligibility problem can be overcome, Guess said.

The commission is looking to modify Chapter 38 of the intoxicating liquors section of DeKalb’s municipal code, Guess said.

The liquor commission is crafting Inboden’s license and upon completion will send the license to the City Council for a vote, Guess said.

“Based upon the info he gave us, we are trying to craft a license for his size business with the security measures of a Class D license,” Guess said.

Class D security measures specify the alcohol must be secured in a lockable storage area and separate from non-alcoholic items, Guess said.