South Cook News

At its March 7 meeting, the Tinley Park Village Board of Trustees received requests from two area businesses. Lucky Hot Dog sought a class D liquor license and Mr. Smoke Tobacco Store sought a special-use permit.

The owner the Lucky Hot Dog location at 8020 W. 171st St. said he was seeking the basic liquor license as a way to generate additional income at the store, which sells hot dogs and other snacks. The shop’s owners were hoping to return their business to the levels it enjoyed before the pandemic. The move also will keep the business in the village.

“We were, at a time, looking at Frankfort, New Lennox, moving out of Tinley Park because there was no support whatsoever from the village,” owner Josh Hullett told the board. “I’ve come here multiple times with multiple other mayors and talked to them, and they always just pushed me to the side or didn’t even reply or sent a trustee to talk with me.”

Hullett told the board that Mayor Michael Glotz and his team take the time to talk to small business owners.

“(They) actually come into our establishment and ask how we’re doing, and ask if there’s anything they can do to help out,” he told the board. “So I’m just saying, I’ve never seen a mayor and team like Mike Glotz ever. So, I’m staying in Tinley.”

Most board member supported granting the license, and saw no legal hurdles and noted that they support local businesses.

Trustee Diane Galante offered some opposition, arguing that children frequent the business.

Hullett, who owns the business with his wife Jen, said that the liquor license is a way to generate more revenue, and they remain a family operated business and will be family friendly.

“It will help pay the bills,” Hullett said, adding the liquor would be “hidden” and just a small part of the business.

The board approved the measure, with Galante casting a dissenting vote. 

The board unanimously approved the special-use permit for Mr. Smoke to allow owners to proceed with plans to open a shop on 7212 191st St.