The city council shall require that a county or state police officer review all applications and examine local, state and national police records to determine the criminal history, if any, of the applicant. In addition, the city council may contact character references and obtain a statement as to the moral character of the applicant. Following such examination and investigation, the recommendations of the city council shall be made in writing to the city recorder. Those involved in applications for licenses under these ordinances shall be permitted access to all licensed premises, and shall make periodic inspections of said premises, reporting its findings to the city council and the administrator. (1995 Code § 14-5-4)