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St. Charles Approves Social Worker, Drone Safety Plan

  • Sep 8
  • 2 min read

Meeting Overview

On March 21, 2023, the St. Charles Government Operations Committee met to discuss liquor license modifications, late night permits, mental health services for the Police Department, and innovative public safety measures. Key approvals included:

  • Alcohol license amendments for Arcada Theater and 12 Arcata Incorporated

  • Late night permits for Class B and C licenses for FY 2023-2024

  • One-year contract for a full-time Police Department social worker with AID

  • Resolution supporting proactive drone use for law enforcement

The meeting concluded with a motion to enter Executive Session to address security and safety procedures.


Alcohol License Amendments

Arcada Theater (D5 License)

  • Reason for Change: Expansion into two entities—Honesty Entertainment (theater/ground floor) and Club Arcata Inc. (restaurant/third floor)

  • Additional Expansion: Studio 64 and Arcadian Suites (11 hotel rooms)

  • Impact: Ordinance amendment allows multiple site licenses under one roof

  • Outcome: Approved

12 Arcata Incorporated (B1 to P5)

  • Change: Liquor license classification modified from B1 to P5

  • Additional Note: Waiver of fees granted

  • Outcome: Approved


Late Night Permits for Class B and C Licenses

  • Scope: All qualified applicants for FY 2023-2024

  • Compliance Checks:

    • Vetting by Police Department staff and all department heads

    • Ensured no outstanding debts or code violations

  • Notable Updates: Businesses with past violations (e.g., McNally's, Evergreen Pub, Riverside Pizza) are now in good standing

  • Non-Compliant Issue: One business required to update fire alarm/suppression systems within 30 days

  • Outcome: All compliant applicants approved


Police Social Worker Contract (AID)

  • Contract Term: One year

  • Role: Full-time social worker embedded within the Police Department

  • Program Success:

    • 588 client referrals in the previous year

    • Long-standing program predating national mental health service discussions in policing

  • Funding: Primarily from the 708 Mental Health Board, minimizing general fund impact

  • Future Considerations: Potential transition of social worker position to a full-time City employee

  • Outcome: Approved


Drones as First Responders Resolution

  • Current Limitation: Illinois Drone Surveillance Act restricts proactive use by law enforcement

  • Resolution Goal: Support legislative changes allowing proactive drone use for public safety, including monitoring large gatherings and events

  • Financial Impact: None to the city

  • Outcome: Approved


Additional Notes

  • Administrative procedures and video gaming statistics were approved

  • Item 7A was removed from the agenda and rescheduled for April 3, 2023

  • Executive Session planned to discuss security procedures and school safety


Key Takeaways

  • St. Charles continues to adapt local regulations to meet evolving business and entertainment needs

  • Mental health services remain a high priority, with the Police Department leveraging community partnerships for social support

  • The city is proactively advocating for public safety innovations through drone legislation


Conclusion

The March 21 committee meeting highlights St. Charles’ commitment to public safety, mental health, and adaptive local business regulations. Residents can expect a well-supported police social worker program, enhanced compliance for late night establishments, and advocacy for modernized drone use to strengthen community safety.

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