More Du Quoin nonprofits can apply for one-time liquor licenses

Nonprofits and civic organizations will find it easier to get one-time liquor licenses in Du Quoin, now that the city council has expanded the scope of who can apply for them.

On Monday, commissioners and Mayor Guy Alongi agreed to a change in the license ordinance that gives the city liquor commissioner (the mayor) discretion to award a one-time license for what he deems a worthy cause - like a fundraiser or a festival.

City Clerk Andrew Croessman said the city discovered the current ordinance was perhaps too restrictive when it could not grant a license to people wanting to put on an art show in Du Quoin.

The previous ordinance language was specific in what types of groups could apply for the special license, he said. Those specifics remain, but now the mayor has latitude to approve a request that before wouldn't have exactly fit the bill.

"The (previous language) tried to put everyone in a mold," Croessman said. "But if their request is something reasonable, they shouldn't be hung up on the code."

The change in the ordinance is in effect immediately, he added.