The Moline City Council on Jan. 7 advanced to second reading an ordinance that restructures tobacco-dealer licensing into three classes and imposes a temporary moratorium on new Class A licenses while establishing a 90-day grandfathering window for existing businesses that become subject to the new licensing categories.

Under the proposed code change, the city would create three license categories (Class A, B and C) and cap some categories. Council members and the city attorney corrected a scrivener's error in the printed cap for Class B licenses during floor discussion. Alderman Timmian moved and, after additional floor debate, the council added a motion to grandfather current, legitimately operating businesses that would newly require a Class C license; council members later added a 90-day deadline for such businesses to submit an application.

The ordinance language as amended preserves existing license-holders through their current renewal cycles and provides currently operating businesses that must obtain a Class C license 90 days from passage to submit the application. City staff and the clerk's office said businesses should file as soon as practicable so applications can be considered in a timely fashion.

Council members said the measure reflects concerns shared by local schools and public-health partners about youth access to vaping and alternative nicotine products, and that it aligns with actions taken by other regional municipalities. The council recorded unanimous votes to approve the grandfathering amendment and to advance the ordinance as amended to a second reading.

Why it matters: The measure restructures local tobacco licensing and temporarily limits new Class A licenses, while giving currently operating but previously unlicensed businesses a short window to come into compliance. The council emphasized enforcement, public-health outreach and coordination with schools.

What happens next: The ordinance will return for a second reading and final vote after staff and the clerk incorporate the approved amendments and correct the scrivener's error in the printed caps.