(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Hawthorn Mall wants to add a business that would mix drinking and shopping, but a municipal attorney has some concerns.
Tapville Social allow guests who have been ID’d to verify their age to pour their own beer and wine into 16-ounce cups. Each person is allowed up to 32 ounces per day, and they can drink the alcohol at the location or take it with them as they stroll around a mall.
Joe Tota, the company’s founder and CEO, said they operate 29 franchises in more than 10 states. That includes three location in Chicago-area malls, and now Tapville Social hopes to add Hawthorn Mall.
“For the retailers … it helps to increase ‘dwell time’ for shoppers,” Tota said.
There was support last week from some trustees, but others raised concerns.
And Village Attorney James Ferolo wondered, “How secure are we in the ability of this operator to ensure that only individuals 21 and over are going to be drinking?”
In the end, the board asked for more time and information before it makes a decision on a liquor license.