Ottawa Mayor Dan Aussem issued an emergency order today that all businesses with liquor licenses of class B, D, E, or R must close at 10pm. Violations could lead to fines of $75 to $750 and the immediate suspension of the liquor license. The rule applies to bars, restaurants, gaming parlors, clubs, and any other businesses with the affected license classes.
The mayor’s order says the reason is to minimize opportunities for people to gather in large numbers for long times during which they may spread the COVID-19 virus. LaSalle County has had a surge in cases during the last month. Mendota’s mayor issued emergency orders concerning mask requirements earlier this week.
As of Saturday, Mendota led the county in coronavirus cases with 163. Ottawa was second with 106. Streator is third with 105.