Late yesterday, the Jllinois Liquor Control Commission issued COVID-19 Related Action issuing guidance on whether a State liquor license holder authorized to conduct on-premises alcoholic liquor sales only can sell "Packaged Sales" or "To Go Sales". The State’s directive gives authority to the Local Liquor Commissioner to decide whether or not to allow this type of sales during the pandemic.

As of today, March 20, 2020, as Rock Island’s local Liquor Commissioner, I am allowing Rock Island liquor license holders with a State "On Premises Only" license to sell "Packaged Sales" and "To Go Sales". This directive will allow our bars and restaurants to sell alcohol to go as long as it is in its original packaging, i.e: 6 pack, sealed can, sealed bottle, etc., or in a specialty type packaging with a sealable lid such as a "growler" or "crowler". Containers must be sealed when leaving the premises and sales of alcohol in open containers will not be allowed. No alcohol can be consumed on premise.

I also want to recognize the hardship this closure makes on our local businesses and have decided to extend the expiration date of all 2020 City of Rock Island liquor licenses from April 30th, 2020 to June 30, 2020. No late fees will be accessed for license holders as long as the license is renewed on or before June 30, 2020. Please continue to display your current liquor license until such time your renewal license has been issued.

Your renewal applications will be sent to your establishment on or about April 151 (or when the State mandated closure has lifted) and you may not receive an additional notice to renew by the extended deadline. Please note that as of this time, this extension only applies to your April 2020 liquor license renewal. All further renewals will be on the regular annual or semi-annual schedule.

We are committed to working with our citizens and businesses through these unprecedented times. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact my office at 309-732-2012.

Sincerely,

Mike Thoms

Mayor / Local Liquor Commissioner

City of Rock Island