The Macomb City Council has numerous concerns about the liquor license application submitted by Christine Ann Koellner.
She plans to open a video gaming parlor called Annie’s Café at 1140 East Jackson Street. She said her business would not compete with other bars in town.
Koellner said missed last week’s public hearing on her liquor license application because of hazardous road conditions between the Quad Cities and Macomb.
The city also said she submitted an incomplete application, and Mayor Mike Inman said she’s left the city with plenty of unanswered questions. He wondered whether he should reject her application.
“I have to be honest with you, I am not in the habit of being on this side of development. It’s my job to encourage development in this community,” Inman said.
“I am extremely disappointed that you did not show up for our public hearing where many of these things could have been answered to the public’s satisfaction last week.”
City Attorney Kristen Petrie also expressed concerns. She said bits and pieces of the application were submitted at different times. Her concerns include:
- Parking
- Access to the facility
- Hours of operation due to school traffic around to corner
- Security
- Staffing
- Age limitations
The City Council is expected to vote on Koellner’s liquor license application during its next meeting on Tuesday, February 17.
Koellner plans to start similar businesses in Galesburg, and West Peoria. She hopes to open those at the beginning of next month after obtaining approval from the state’s gaming board.
