Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Alcohol Licensing topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Village board approves D19 liquor license for Fat Cat Art Gallery on Harrison Street
Summary
Trustees adopted an ordinance amending the village code to allow arts-and-crafts establishments, including galleries, to serve beer, wine or sparkling wine for gallery openings and events; the new class D19 license was approved for Fat Cat Art Gallery at 19 Harrison Street.
The Village Board approved an ordinance amending chapter 3 of the Village Code to allow arts-and-crafts establishments — including art galleries — to be eligible for a new Class D19 liquor license permitting the on-site service of beer, wine and sparkling wine at gallery openings and arts-and-crafts events.
Assistant Village Attorney Rashida Jackson explained the D19 license text and said the Liquor Control Review Board had reviewed the application and recommended approval. The amendment adds gallery openings and arts-and-craft shows to the code language and authorizes serving limited alcohol on site for consumption in connection with gallery events.
Raymond Call Jr., the applicant and owner of Fat Cat Art Gallery at 19 Harrison Street in the Harrison Art District, described the gallery's programming and said roughly 70% of the gallery's inventory is priced under $300. He said the license would allow the gallery to host "sip-and-paint" events and gallery openings where a two‑ounce drink service would be offered in compliance with BASSET training. "We like to think of our gallery as a place that people can come, sit back, have something to drink," he said.
Trustees voted to concur with the Liquor Control Review Board and adopt the ordinance. Clerk Waters recorded affirmative votes for trustees present; the board formally congratulated the applicant.
Why it matters: The D19 license creates a new regulated pathway for small local galleries and arts venues to offer modest on-site alcohol service tied to gallery programming, aligning the code with practices in other communities and enabling cultural events that pair art displays with beverage service.
Action details: Motion to adopt the ordinance was made by Trustee Straub and seconded by Trustee Enya. The roll call recorded affirmative votes from trustees present and the ordinance was adopted.
