Decatur City Council approves ordinance changing video gaming licenses

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND)- Decatur businesses will now be able to get a video gaming license thanks to changes on the city's liquor code.

During Monday night's City Council meeting the council approved several changes to the liquor code related to video gaming in an effort to support local businesses.

Class V is the liquor license that allows for video gaming, and the number of licenses available is currently capped.

Council's action Monday night will now allow for a Class V license to be issued dependent on a development agreement with the applicant.

While Council agreed the desire is to reduce the number of video gaming establishments, they felt that certain businesses that request gaming do provide overall greater value to the city by being in business.

Members said the exchange of a gaming license for a business that may provide a unique entertainment option, significant investment, and/or brings jobs to the community was worth it.

Council also approved language allowing the transfer of a liquor license to the new owner if everything about the business is remaining the same, except for the change in ownership, or if the owner is staying the same but moving the location of the business.

This includes an additional $250 fee to transfer the license.