Joliet's Mayor Changes His Mind On Eden's Bar Liquor License Vote

JOLIET — This week, Joliet Mayor Terry D'Arcy sat down and wrote a letter that outlines his change of heart regarding a decision that will impact the future of Joliet's bar and restaurant industry — notably the fate of 926 Gardner St. —currently known as Eden's Bar and Grill.

The liquor license transfer is now back on the agenda for Tuesday night's meeting. The license was originally on the Joliet City Council agenda in March — with a recommendation from D'Arcy to reject the liquor license transfer and the Joliet Police Department citing serious crimes at the Eden's establishment. But before the vote occurred, the liquor license was pulled off the Council agenda.

"Since March 18, I have spoken with the applicant in person and visited the applicant's proposed place of business located at 926 Gardner Street," D'Arcy's letter outlined. "I observed the layout and operation of the business and looked closer at the surrounding areas. I have discussed additional security measures that will be taken by the applicant to mitigate any potential issues with the property. The immediate areas surrounding the business is primarily residential."

D'Arcy's letter goes on to explain how "I have reconsidered my opinion" and "it is my opinion that the issuance of the Class B liquor license ... located at the 926 Gardner Street will have a positive impact on the surrounding area and the city of Joliet as a whole. I support the issuance of a Class B liquor license for Tony Bar & Grill and intent to vote 'no' on Council Memo 207A-25."

The Council resolution, according to Tuesday night's agenda, asks the city's nine elected officials to deny the proposed liquor license transfer from Eden's Bar and Grill.