U.S. Attorney Courtney Cox announced a push for East St. Louis clubs to close earlier yesterday at a news conference alongside other federal, state and local leaders in East St. Louis.
For decades people have been coming to East St. Louis after the St. Louis bars and clubs close, mostly at 1 a.m. About 20 clubs and bars in East St. Louis remain open until 3 a.m. or later.
The result, authorities say, is an increase in violence and too many drunk drivers.
Cox announced the push for an earlier closing time Thursday at a news conference with other federal, state and local leaders in East St. Louis.
Bryan Williams helps run a recently opened club and internet broadcasting company, Club TV.
He says the 6am license is why they picked East St. Louis. Williams also says the crime issues could be addressed in many other ways than shutting businesses down.
“We don’t have a problem paying extra taxes and our main concern is for our patrons to be safe and this is an entertainment district so why take it away, ” said Williams
The ultimate decision rests with the East St. Louis City Council.
Information from the Associated Press contributed to this report.