The debate over whether The Smokin’ Pig should be allowed to serve alcohol two hours earlier on Sundays continued Monday night, as Grayville city leaders once again delayed a final decision on the matter. The popular local business has been seeking permission to begin liquor sales at 10 a.m. instead of the current noon start.
The issue, discussed for more than half of the 16-minute post-executive session, has divided both city commissioners and fellow liquor license holders. Some licensees have voiced opposition to the earlier hours, while others say their constituents are indifferent.
Police Chief Mason Siegel contributed to the discussion, noting he did not expect the change to lead to a significant increase in crime, although he admitted a lack of empirical data to support his opinion. He also expressed understanding for the restaurant’s perspective, especially with many KOA campers likely to patronize the business for breakfast and brunch beverages.
Commissioner Don Baldwin ultimately moved to table the decision again, suggesting the council needed more input before moving forward. “We need to definitely do something or get off the pot,” Baldwin remarked. Commissioner James was the lone vote against postponement.
Also Monday night, council members voted to apply for an IEPA Water Pollution Control loan to support the city’s sewer lagoon project. Grayville recently secured a $1 million grant for the project, which is slated to begin in spring 2027. Mayor Travis Thompson noted that while the grant funds are already available, obtaining a low-interest loan could free up city resources for additional infrastructure improvements. The council approved a first reading of the related ordinance.
In new business, the council approved a loan grant request for Zack Walter to help cover the costs of demolishing a property at 302 North Fourth Street. The total cost of the cleanup is expected to be $5,500; the city will contribute $2,750, or half the cost, to assist with the demolition.