Liquor License Request Sparks Debate in La Grange: A Children's Boutique's Bid to Serve Alcohol

In a surprising move, a children's boutique in La Grange, Illinois, has requested a liquor license, sparking a heated debate within the community. Waterlemon, a combination of a retail children's boutique, café, and children's play space, is seeking permission to sell single-serve wine, beer, and liquor to the public, raising concerns about the appropriateness of serving alcohol in a family-oriented establishment.

Navigating the Complexities of Alcohol and Children's Spaces

Waterlemon's Unique Business Model

Waterlemon, a relatively new business that opened its doors in 2019, has already been operating with a bring-your-own-liquor license, allowing customers to bring their own beer and wine during private events on weekends. This license has been in place to accommodate birthday parties, bridal showers, and similar events where adult supervision is required. However, the business is now seeking to expand its offerings by obtaining a license to sell alcohol directly to the public, albeit during specific hours on weekdays and weekends.

The Proposed Alcohol Sales

According to the village's memo, Waterlemon is requesting permission to sell sangria, beer, wine, and mixed drinks, all of which would be canned or bottled. The proposed hours for alcohol sales would be from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. The business has stated that its customers have expressed interest in this idea, and it believes it will be well-received, as well as help boost revenue for both the business and the village.

Staffing Challenges and Age Requirement Changes

In addition to the request for a liquor license, Waterlemon is also seeking to lower the age requirement for employees working during private events with alcohol. Currently, the bring-your-own-liquor license requires any employee working a weekend shift during a private event with alcohol to be 21 years old or older. Waterlemon is requesting to lower this age to 18, citing the difficulty in finding employees in the current job market, where the majority of applicants are 18, 19, or 20 years old. The business has stated that this change would help with staffing on weekends, which has been a challenge.

The Village's Response and Next Steps

The village's liquor commission has heard Waterlemon's requests and is now considering the implications of accommodating them. To allow for the proposed changes, the village would need to amend its existing code, which means the issue will be returning to the commission for further deliberation. Ultimately, the Village Board will have the final say on whether to grant Waterlemon's requests.

Balancing Interests and Concerns

The Waterlemon case highlights the delicate balance that communities must strike when it comes to the intersection of children's spaces and alcohol. While the business may see the potential for increased revenue and customer satisfaction, there are valid concerns about the appropriateness of serving alcohol in an environment primarily catered to children. The village must carefully weigh the potential benefits against the potential risks and ensure that any decisions made prioritize the safety and well-being of the community.

Navigating the Regulatory Landscape

The village's liquor commission and Village Board will need to navigate the complex regulatory landscape surrounding the sale of alcohol, particularly in the context of a children's-focused business. They will need to consider factors such as the proposed hours of operation, the measures in place to prevent underage access to alcohol, and the potential impact on the overall character and atmosphere of the La Grange community.

Engaging the Community

As the village deliberates on Waterlemon's requests, it will be crucial to engage the broader community in the decision-making process. Residents, parents, and other stakeholders should be given the opportunity to voice their concerns and perspectives, ensuring that the final decision reflects the values and priorities of the La Grange community.