http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-990973.mp3
Macomb, IL – Indoor smoking is prohibited at restaurants and most other public places in Illinois. But a new establishment in Macomb will encourage smoking.
The Cloud Nine Hookah Lounge is on North Lafayette Street, in the building that most recently housed the bar Detox.
Mayor Mike Inman stressed the owner has not applied for a liquor license.
"Food and beverage components are limited to an extent (by state law), so there won't be any serving of alcohol," Inman said.
"He (the owner) indicated that in some of his establishments up in Chicago (that) they dispense food and drink from vending machines that were pre-packaged. So there would be be no food handling, no food preparation on-site and that is in compliance with state law."
Inman said there are no local ordinances on the books for a smoking club. He said it will be entirely regulated by state law.
The mayor also said that while he is not a smoker, he is excited to have the new business in town. He said a ribbon cutting is scheduled for this week.