Dear Neighbor,
As you may know, the owners of the Island Groove Café, 7644 N. Sheridan Road, have asked me to support their application for a tavern liquor license to operate a night club at the site. In order to apply for a tavern license at that site, they must first apply for a special use permit from the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Although it is not controlling, my opinion as Alderman carries considerable weight with both the Zoning Board of Appeals, which considers the special use permit application, and the Mayor’s Liquor Commissioner, who considers the tavern license application. I held two community meetings on the issue, and the matter was reviewed by the 49th Ward Zoning and Land Use Advisory Committee at several meetings.
After careful consideration of all the issues, including the opinions of those who live closest to the location, I have decided to oppose Island Groove Café’s application for a special use permit. Denial of the special use permit would prevent the owners from applying for a liquor license. In the unlikely event that the Zoning Board of Appeals grants a special use permit, I will also oppose the Island Groove’s application for a tavern liquor license.
I would like to thank the many community residents who attended the meetings and/or shared their views with me through letters, e-mails and telephone calls Your thoughtful opinions helped me arrive at my decision on this issue.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Very truly yours,
Joseph A. Moore