The Crystal Lake City Council has approved a pared-down version of the liquor commission, a change requested by Mayor Aaron Shepley, who will serve as the liquor commission by himself.
Shepley’s predecessor, former Mayor Robert Wagner, bulked up the liquor commission during his tenure, adding five members who acted as advisers. Wagner also retained a lawyer who acted as a hearing officer.
City ordinance requires Crystal Lake’s mayor to serve as liquor commissioner. Duties include issuing liquor licenses and presiding over proceedings concerning violations of the liquor ordinance.
“The change is a matter of style,” Shepley said. “It’s going back to the way it was before (Wagner) got here. It’s cutting back on extra bureaucracy. It’ll be quicker and cheaper.”
The City Council unanimously approved Shepley’s request.
