Highland Park Council Resolves Liquor License Controversy Amid Community Division

By Joseph States | Chicago Tribune | Updated: February 11, 2025

Highland Park’s City Council voted Monday to amend a 90-year-old ordinance barring council members from holding liquor licenses, ending a yearlong debate sparked by Councilman Jeff Hoobler’s 2024 resignation. Hoobler, owner of Steep Ravine Brewing Company, chose to step down rather than relinquish his license, igniting a divisive controversy.

The council passed the amendment unanimously after months of delays, criticism, and heated public debate. Although a referendum supporting the change passed overwhelmingly in November, the vote was postponed until 2025, prompting criticism from council members Annette Lidawer and Andres Tapia, as well as residents who questioned the timing.

Mayor Nancy Rotering defended the council’s deliberation, citing the importance of addressing unanswered questions and upholding government integrity. However, Tapia and Lidawer criticized the delay as politically motivated, suggesting it disadvantaged potential candidates like Hoobler.

Former council member Hoobler called the timing a “calculated move to manipulate the democratic process,” as he was unable to run for his vacated seat. Public commenters urged the community to move past the controversy and rebuild unity after a period of divisiveness.

For the full article, visit the original publication on the Chicago Tribune: Link to original article.