Council approves outdoor-service license at Bass Street Landing; city attorney to review private-event conflict language

The Moline City Council approved a licensing agreement permitting 1848 Entertainment LLC (dba Pub 1848) to use the Bass Street Landing public plaza for outdoor alcoholic and food service from April 19 through Sept. 30, 2025.

Why it matters: Bass Street Landing is a high-traffic public plaza used for weekly events and special gatherings; licensing outdoor alcohol service affects event management, downtown operations and private rentals of the space.

Discussion and staff response: Council members asked whether the license would permit alcohol service during private rentals or bridal events that may wish to exclude on-site alcohol sales. Alderperson Schmidt asked specifically whether a private rental that did not want alcohol would be precluded from doing so if the license authorized outdoor sales during the same period.

An attorney on staff (city attorney, title not specified in the transcript) said he drafted the current language based on prior-years’ agreements and that he would review the concern and redraft the language if necessary. The attorney said, “I will definitely look at that closely and give you an answer soon,” and indicated he could return with tightened language where needed.

Council action and follow-up: The council moved and approved the licensing agreement by voice vote and asked staff to confirm whether the existing agreement language allows service during private rentals and to amend the agreement if needed before final execution. The item was described as largely similar to prior-year language with a few tightening changes.

Sources: Staff presentation and council discussion recorded in the March 4 meeting transcript.