The DeKalb Liquor Commission sent a recommendation to the city council to allow a bowling alley to receive 35 percent of its income from alcohol sales instead of 25 percent.

The proposed change came after Mardi Gras Lanes, the only Class J license holder in the city, asked the commission to amend the law so Class J establishments can receive more income from alcohol sales and build a separate bar area.

Edward Tadevich, owner of Mardi Gras, 1730 Sycamore Road, said they asked for the change because the establishment plans to expand and add a bar area. With the addition, they don’t feel comfortable with only having 25 percent of their sales from alcohol.

He said patrons currently are allowed to drink beer while bowling or eating. If the bar area is added, only those over 21 can enter it.

Tadevich said construction on the inside of the building will begin as soon as plans are finalized. Exterior construction will begin at the end of April.

Commission member Kevin Braden introduced the motion at Tuesday’s liquor commission meeting to change the ordinance to say bowling alleys can have bar areas, but it can only be 20 percent of the alley’s total area and no one under the age of 21 will be permitted to enter unless they are with a parent or guardian.

If the city council passes the ordinance, Mardi Gras will have the same hours as Class A liquor license holders.

City Attorney Margo Ely said there has never been any serious problems with Mardi Gras in regard to its liquor license.

Commission member Gerald Phillips said they had to be careful when making the changes to avoid problems with other future Class J establishments.

Ely said that if problems arose, the liquor commission and council would be able to change the rules.

The commission unanimously passed the proposal.

Also at the meeting, DeKalb Liquor Commission Chairman Jeff Whelan said the commission might have to think about a Class P license, which will allow places like grocery stores to sell packaged liquor.

He said that is because potential incoming grocery stores may want to sell liquor.

Phillips said the commission should discuss the option if the city council brings it to them.