Village board approves Class 26 liquor license for 111 Elm Workshop

The Westmont Village Board on May 14 approved an ordinance increasing the number of available Class 26 liquor licenses by one so the owner of 111 Elm Workshop can serve alcohol to registered class participants.

Deputy Liquor Commissioner Mullhern introduced the request, saying the recently created Class 26 allows businesses running training classes to purchase and serve alcohol only to enrolled attendees and not to the general public. Mullhern said staff completed a background check on the applicant and found no issues that would prevent approval.

Jen Caferty, who identified herself as the owner of 111 Elm Workshop, told the board her shop attracts a range of customers and that offering a glass of wine during classes (for example, bachelorette events) would enhance the customer experience while allowing the business to control alcohol service. "They're really looking forward to it. It really would enhance when we're doing bachelorette parties... to be able to have a glass of wine," Caferty said.

Trustee Plowman moved to approve the license increase and Trustee Little seconded; a roll call vote recorded all trustees voting yes and the motion passed. The ordinance authorizes the Liquor Commissioner to issue the license consistent with Class 26 conditions: sale or service only to registered class attendees, vendor‑purchased alcohol controlled by the licensee, and no general retail alcohol sales.

Next steps: The village will permit issuance under the Class 26 rules and the licensee may proceed with service only during qualifying classes.