Manteno Wants Every Local Business to Get a License

Officials in Manteno say they do not know which businesses are open in town. They also do not know if those buildings follow safety codes. Trustee Mike Barry raised this issue at a finance committee meeting. He wants every business to post a village license where people can see it.

The goal is to start the program on January 1, 2027. Before that happens, leaders must write an ordinance. The village board must approve it. Two committees will review the plan first. The yearly fee could be between 50 and 100 dollars. Barry says this is not about raising money. It is about knowing who owns each shop and making sure the building is safe.

The village last updated its business rules in 1956. Jim Paicz is the new building standards director. He says January is a slow month for permits, so it is a good time to begin. Mayor Annette LaMore agrees. She notes that new businesses keep moving to Manteno, so waiting until May does not make sense. Right now, no one can say how many businesses operate in the village.

Barry helped check the Gotion battery plant to make sure it followed the law. He wants that same level of review for every commercial space. Trustee CJ Boudreau says the rule would stop people from wondering if some businesses get treated differently. Most towns post licenses near the cash register. Manteno does not. Applications might reach mailboxes by late November. The first year could be bumpy, but officials say they will make it happen.