It Ain't All Big Hair and Cadillacs

ILLINOIS SUPREME COURT UPHOLDS EDGEWATER COMMUNITY LIQUOR REFERENDUM- DRY VOTE GOES INTO EFFECT ON MAY 5TH, 2007

The dry vote finally went into effect Friday, May 5th and prohibits retail sales of alcohol of any kind in the 32nd precinct of the 48th ward (Rosemont to Glenlake on Winthrop and Granville to Glenlake on Kenmore (west side), except for liquor served in a restaurant (incidental). The successful vote dry referendum election was held on February 25th, 2003, but its effect were delayed for 4 years by liquor stores who filed two lawsuits.

The Edgewater Community Council spearheaded the proposed referendum in 2003 and has continuously worked to secure its passage. ECC began a petition drive, sent letters to voters, and begin a tireless effort to ensure the passage of the referendum. With the pro bono assistance of Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw, LLP and attorney Patricia Sharkey, fours years of litigation including filings and appeals in the Illinois Circuit Court, the Illinois Appeals Court, cumulated in Patricia Sharkey arguing the case before the Illinois Supreme Court in November of 2006. The Illinois Supreme Court's decision was rendered in January of 2007. The Mandate of the Supreme Court ordering a reversal of the Illinois Circuit Court decision was issued on April 30, 2007.

On May 5th, 2007, the City of Chicago Department of Permits and Licenses issued an order revoking the liquor licenses of Granville and Sun Liquors (the only liquor stores in the precinct). That order was served by the 24th District Police on the owners at approximately 2:30 p.m. on the 5th. From that moment, the liquor sales were prohibited and the stores had a brief period of time to remove all liquor from the premises.

For over 20 years community residents have had problems with these liquor store owners and the public drinking, drug dealing, and prostitution that circled around their establishments. Edgewater Community Council began tackling this issue over four years ago-and with the persistence and dedication of Patricia Sharkey, Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw LLP, and the dedication of community residents who supported our efforts, we are grateful that this matter has been resolved in the courts.

Throughout this four year battle-Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw, LLP, allowed attorney Patricia Sharkey to represent the Edgewater Community Council and the individual citizen intervenors on a pro bono basis by funding hundreds of legal hours. The Edgewater Community Council is deeply indebted to Mayer, Brown, Rowe & Maw, LLP and very grateful for the commitment and dedication of Patricia Sharkey. Also, Ms. Sharkey serves as the President of the ENN, Block Club, Edgewater.