Kankakee City Council discusses liquor license transfer and new gaming cafe proposal

The Kankakee License & Franchise Committee convened on July 11, 2025, to discuss several key topics, including updates on utility assistance programs and the transfer of liquor licenses for local businesses.

During the meeting, it was announced that the Association of Community Water Agencies (ACWA) has initiated a customer assistance program aimed at helping residents with income-based support. This program includes a variety of resources such as phone numbers, a website, and a QR code for residents to access more information.

The committee also revisited the topic of single-serve alcohol boundaries, with no new updates reported. The primary focus shifted to new business matters, particularly the request from Mr. Patel for a transfer of a liquor license for the Landing Zone, a bar located near the Economy Lodge on South Route 4552. Concerns were raised regarding the property's history, which has seen numerous calls to law enforcement—nine calls since March and twenty in the past year. Mr. Patel, who does not currently reside in Kankakee, must either move to the city or appoint a local manager to comply with city regulations. The committee decided to defer action on this request until Mr. Patel could attend a future meeting to address these concerns.

Additionally, the committee discussed a proposal for a new gaming café at 634 North Entrance. This would be the last available gaming café permit, as the city has capped the number at six. The prospective owner, who has experience in the gaming industry, outlined plans for the café, which aims to provide a safe and community-focused environment for adult gamers. The café will offer a variety of gaming options and complimentary snacks. The committee noted that the landlord's approval was still pending, and the owner would need to secure a conditional use permit and meet safety regulations before proceeding.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing efforts to support local businesses while ensuring community safety and compliance with city regulations. The committee plans to revisit the liquor license transfer and gaming café proposals in future sessions as more information becomes available.