Highland Park Residents Push for Change in Liquor License Laws

Support for Amending City Code Grows Among Voters

Highland Park, IL — Despite the overwhelming majority of Highland Park voters favoring a non-binding, citizen-initiated referendum to allow holders of liquor licenses to also hold elected municipal office, only a minority of the Highland Park City Council supported an immediate vote on the matter. The final results of the Nov. 5 election in Lake County are set to be certified on Friday. But according to unofficial results, about 75 percent of the city’s approximately 23,000 voting-age residents cast a ballot on the advisory referendum asking, “Should the City of Highland Park, Illinois amend its laws to allow liquor license holders to serve as elected city officials?” Nearly 82 percent of Highland Park voters — 14,190 out of 17,341 votes cast, according to the Lake County Clerk’s Office — said “Yes.”

Explaining why her answer remains “No,” Mayor Nancy Rotering said she respects the input of residents and aims to ensure that the city operates transparently. “We all up here value public opinion, and this topic has been included in our 2025 work plan for further discussion and consideration,” Rotering said at the start of Monday’s City Council meeting. More than nine months earlier, the mayor voted against an amendment to lift the City Code’s prohibition on police and elected officials being issued liquor licenses earlier this year leading to 3-3 deadlock. That effectively forced the seventh councilmember — Ravinia Brewing Company co-owner Jeff Hoobler, the only candidate Rotering refused to endorse and the one who received the most votes in last year’s municipal elections — to choose between his business and his seat on the council.

Impact on Highland Park Residents

The push for amending the liquor license laws in Highland Park has generated significant debate and tension among residents, city officials, and business owners. The overwhelming support for the referendum indicates a desire for change and transparency in local government. The decision to delay a vote on the matter has left many residents feeling unheard and frustrated.

Impact on the World

The outcome of this local issue in Highland Park may serve as a reminder of the importance of listening to the voices of the community and honoring the will of the people. The debate over liquor license laws and elected officials can spark discussions about ethics, transparency, and democratic processes in governments around the world.

Conclusion

The ongoing debate in Highland Park highlights the complexities of balancing public opinion, existing laws, and the responsibilities of elected officials. The outcome of this issue will not only impact the residents of Highland Park but also serve as a case study for governance and decision-making processes in communities worldwide.