Committee Approves Licenses, Veteran Service Credit

The Government Operations Committee met on August 15, 2022, to review license applications and approve a resolution benefiting military veterans. Key decisions reflected the committee’s commitment to supporting local businesses and community employees.

Meeting Overview

The 22-minute meeting covered approvals of previous meeting minutes, several new license applications, and a resolution regarding IMRF service credit for military service.

Date: August 15, 2022Duration: 22 minutes, 4 secondsLocation: Government Operations Committee Meeting

Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes

The meeting began with the approval of prior meeting minutes, referred to as "Islanders items." No objections were raised, and the motion passed.

Decision: Previous meeting minutes approved.

New License Approvals

Fox Valley Massage Therapy

A new massage license application for Fox Valley Massage Therapy was presented. The Police Chief confirmed the applicant’s background was clear. The motion to approve the license passed.

Decision: Massage license approved.Action Item: Forward to City Council for final approval.

Max Beer and Wine Spirits (A1 Liquor License)

The committee reviewed an A1 liquor license application for Max Beer and Wine Spirits, an asset sale from a previous owner. After background verification, the motion to approve the license was passed.

Decision: A1 liquor license approved.Action Item: Forward to City Council for final approval.

Mr. Hibachi Express and Sushi (B1 Liquor License)

The most detailed discussion involved the B1 liquor license application for Mr. Hibachi Express and Sushi.

Key Points Discussed:

• The application advanced with a 2-1 recommendation from the Liquor Control Commission.

• Applicant Ricardo “Ricky” Melendez Hernandez has a prior felony conviction and a past violation for dispensing sake without a license.

• Legal counsel clarified the LLC structure exempts the applicant from personal citizenship and residency requirements under the city’s 1934 Liquor Control Act.

• Applicant holds a green card and demonstrated transparency and rehabilitation over 15 years.

• One committee member abstained for personal review; the motion passed for recommendation to City Council.

Decision: B1 liquor license recommended to City Council.Action Item: Forward recommendation to City Council.

IMRF Service Credit for Military Service

The committee reviewed a resolution to allow veteran employees to purchase up to four years of past military service credit under IMRF, extending the previous limit of two years.

Key Points:

• Resolution is cost-neutral for the city; employees cover costs.

• Supports veteran employees in retirement planning.

Decision: Resolution approved and recommended to City Council.Action Item: Forward resolution to City Council for final approval.

Executive Session

At the conclusion of the public meeting, the committee voted to enter Executive Session to discuss probable or imminent litigation, concluding the formal discussion of public items.

Attendees and Speakers

• Committee Chair: Mr. Soqueta

• Police Chief: Presenting license applications

• Legal Counsel: Mr. Peppers

• Applicant: Ricardo “Ricky” Melendez Hernandez

• Committee Members: Besner, Warball, Valencia, Leger, Pye, Lightner, Vanguard, Bancroft, Luncioni, Bob, Brian, Steve, Rita

Conclusions

The August 15 meeting reflected the committee’s dedication to supporting local businesses while ensuring legal compliance and public safety. Approvals of massage and liquor licenses help promote community commerce, while the IMRF resolution enhances benefits for veteran employees. These decisions collectively balance business development with public interest and civic responsibility.

Final Verdict: The committee successfully advanced local business approvals and veteran support measures, setting a proactive tone for City Council review.