St. Charles Council Swears In Alderman, Approves Hive Liquor License

The August 5, 2021, St. Charles City Council meeting brought notable leadership updates, critical financial decisions, and approvals that highlight the city’s commitment to governance and community engagement.

Meeting Overview

The meeting lasted 14 minutes and 22 seconds, covering a range of topics including a swearing-in ceremony for a new alderman, liquor license approvals, financial updates, and commission appointments.

Leadership Appointment: Richard Bala Joins the Council

The council opened with the appointment and swearing-in of Richard Bala as Ward One Alderman, filling a vacancy with a term set to expire on April 30, 2023. Judge Clint Hall officiated the swearing-in, marking Bala’s official entry into the council.

COVID-19 Emergency Extension

The council unanimously approved an ordinance to extend the city’s COVID-19 state of emergency until its next regular meeting. The decision reflects continued vigilance as public health measures evolve.

Approval of Liquor License for The Hive

A major discussion centered around the B1 liquor license and 2 AM late-night permit for The Hive at 204 West Main Street.

Concerns Addressed During Discussion

• The application bypassed committee review due to scheduling delays.

• Questions were raised about a recent arrest of an applicant, clarified as a first offense with no conviction and active participation in a diversion program.

• Police leadership confirmed thorough vetting and recommended approval.

The council approved the license, supporting local business development while addressing concerns transparently.

Financial Resolutions and Authorized Depositories

The council approved Harris Bank N.A. as an authorized depository and updated authorized officers for city accounts, as well as those managed for the North Central Narcotics Task Force and Tri-City Ambulance. These updates were prompted by recent staffing changes.

New Appointments to City Commissions

Three community members were officially appointed:

• Jillian Barker – Saint Charles Housing Commission

• Karen Hibble – Planning Commission

• Zachary Ewald – Planning Commission

These appointments emphasize the city’s focus on strong leadership and representation in community planning.

Additional Highlights

• Treasurer John Harrell’s birthday was announced and celebrated.

• The council moved to executive session following the public meeting.

• Routine committee reports were presented without extended discussion.

Conclusion

The August 5, 2021, council meeting underscored transparency, public safety, and community growth. From welcoming a new alderman to approving The Hive’s liquor license, the city demonstrated its balance of supporting local business development while maintaining accountability.

FAQs

Who was sworn in as the new Ward One Alderman in St. Charles?

Richard Bala was appointed and sworn in as Ward One Alderman, filling a term through April 30, 2023, with Judge Clint Hall officiating.

What COVID-19 measure did the council approve?

The council unanimously extended the city’s COVID-19 state of emergency until the next regular meeting, ensuring continued public health vigilance.

What liquor license was approved during the meeting?

A B1 liquor license with a 2 AM late-night permit was approved for The Hive at 204 West Main Street, following police vetting and public discussion.

Were there any financial updates during the meeting?

Harris Bank N.A. was approved as an authorized depository, and authorized officers for city accounts—including those for the North Central Narcotics Task Force and Tri-City Ambulance—were updated.

What new appointments to city commissions were made?

Three appointments were made: Jillian Barker to the Housing Commission, and Karen Hibble and Zachary Ewald to the Planning Commission, enhancing community representation.