(A) The Liquor Control Commissioner may suspend, for not more than 30 days, or revoke for cause any license issued under this chapter for a violation of any of the provisions of this chapter or any state law pertaining to the sale of alcoholic beverages. If, upon a determination in writing, under oath, that the continued operation of the licensed premises would constitute a clear and present danger to the health, safety or welfare of the residents of the city, the Commissioner may order the immediate closing of the licensed premises pending a hearing on the charges, which hearing shall be held not later than 72 hours after the issuance of the immediate closing order.
(B) The Commissioner shall conduct all revocation and/or suspension proceedings in compliance and accordance with the provisions of Chapter 43 of the Illinois Revised Statutes, as amended, provided that the following requirements are met:
(1) A public hearing must be held by the Commissioner or his or her duly authorized deputy;
(2) The licensee must be given a three-day written notice to appear and defend at the hearing, which notice shall briefly state the matters and things charged to require the hearing;
(3) A copy of the notice issued to the licensee shall be posted on the City Hall bulletin board, and an announcement of the hearing shall be made at the next regularly scheduled Council meeting;
(4) The hearing shall be open to the public, and the evidence presented thereat shall be reduced to writing as an official record of the proceedings;
(5) Within five days after the termination of the hearing, the Commissioner must state the reasons for his or her determination in a written order of discharge, revocation or suspension;
(6) A copy of the written order must be served upon the licensee within the same five-day period. A copy of the written order shall also be sent to Council at its next meeting;
(7) Within 20 days after receipt of the order, the licensee may appeal the order to the State Liquor Control Commission; and
(8) After the Commission’s action, the matter may be heard by the courts under the Administrative Review Act of the Illinois Revised Statutes.
(Ord. passed 8-2-1976)