THE JOURNAL & TOPICS NEWSPAPERS | WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2008
More Music, Games In Park Ridge Bars?
Park Ridge bars and restaurants took another step toward having video games and more televisions when the city council on Monday, Dec. 1 approved first reading of changes in the city's liquor ordinance.
The proposed changes include allowing jukeboxes or music machines, allowing video and arcade games, removing restrictions on the size and number of televisions, and creating an additional license classification for live entertainment.
Some aldermen worried that allowing video games could result in minors hanging out in bars. Ald. Dave Schmidt (1st) proposed making it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to play a video or arcade game unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. After discussion, the amendment was changed so someone must accompany the person under 21 over 21.
The proposal also removes a previous restriction on the number of televisions allowed in an establishment.
The current ordinance limits a business to four and further limits the size of the displays. After discussion, the council also agreed to allow televisions to be mentioned in advertisements, but not on signage at the business.
Ald. Rich DiPietro (2nd) tried to refer the matter back to committee to further refine the ordinance before approval. However, Mayor Howard Frimark pointed out it was only the first reading.
"We might want to pass something then make some changes," he said.
DiPietro's motion to refer was defeated and the council then approved the changes and the amendments.
The proposal will return to the council for final reading on Monday, Dec. 15.