Ordinance will close businesses deemed threats to public safety

May 7, 2015 – Businesses in Chicago considered a threat to public safety could now be shut down immediately.

The city council on Wednesday approved an ordinance giving the city the power to close a business if the superintendent of police declares it a public nuisance. The criteria includes violent offenses only – killing, aggravated assault or battery, criminal sexual assault, illegal discharge of firearm, or “any conduct that causes another person to suffer unconsciousness, severe bruising or bleeding, or disability or disfigurement.”

42nd Ward Alderman Brendan Reilly supported the ordinance. Reilly has been trying to close a River North restaurant/bar that would likely meet the criteria. Fights and an assault on a police officer have been reported at Nouveau Tavern on West Ontario Street.

“For too long, legal loopholes and an extensive appeals process have enabled the worst establishments in the city to remain open,” says Reilly (left). “This ordinance will give law enforcement more tools to shut down these bad actors and restore peace for neighbors.”

The ordinance authorizes the superintendent of police to immediately close a business for up to six months. During that time, the owner of the business would have the right to a hearing to either show that a public safety issue did not occur or else provide a plan of action to ensure public safety. The city can still pursue revocation or suspension of a business license, or other penalties and fines.

The city has had the right to close a business temporarily while police investigate a violent offense, but the business could reopen pending the outcome of a license disciplinary hearing, which can take as long as six months.

Says Reilly, “Neighbors shouldn’t have to sacrifice their quality-of-life while the owners of these irresponsibly managed businesses game the system and take advantage of legal loopholes to stay open and wreak further havoc on the community.”