Buffalo Grove still discussing pandemic relief options for businesses
Relief could be on the way by spring for some Buffalo Grove businesses affected by the pandemic.
Village trustees agreed Monday to further explore in February or March the idea of deferring the renewal period for liquor and video gambling licenses, as well as reducing related fees.
However, trustees abandoned other relief proposals, including reducing the food and beverage tax, waiving business license fees and providing $2,500 grants to restaurants.
The renewal period for liquor licenses begins in May.
Trustees and Village President Beverly Sussman expressed concerns about being able to provide relief without financial harm to the village or increasing the burden on taxpayers.
"We are trying to look at the total picture, how much it will cost our residents, how much it will cost the village, and how we can help (businesses)," Sussman said. "And we are really trying to think of ways to help you."
Trustee Lester Ottenheimer III added, "If the village is going to do something, it's got to do something that's actually going to be meaningful to these businesses."
Trustee Joanne Johnson said the liquor license fee discount makes sense, because the impact on village finances seems manageable.
Trustee Eric Smith said neighboring towns aren't enforcing Gov. J.B. Pritzker's ban on indoor dining, unlike Buffalo Grove.
"We're keeping these businesses closed, whereas other villages around us totally ignore that," Smith said.
Trustee Andrew Stein suggested the village ease up on the video gambling license fees.
"If restaurants aren't open and you're not selling liquor, there aren't going to be any video gaming terminals operating," he said.
Trustee David Weidenfeld disagreed with board members who believe more direct forms of relief - such as grants to restaurants - could hurt the village financially.
"We took $1.7 million out of the reserves and did not take a financial hit on our bond rating," he said. "To take ($200,000) or $300,000 out or something like that now isn't going to change that either, I don't believe.
"Remember that we are reinvesting to some degree in the community."