The Cheesekeeper shop in Arcades Center in Belleville remains temporarily closed as the ownership of the longtime specialty shop is transferred to new hands.
The new owners, Ellen Federer and James Federer, attended a meeting of Belleville’s Zoning Board of Appeals to request a Class C liquor license in their names. Those board members who were present voted unanimously to recommend approval of the request by the City Council. The item will added to the agenda for the Dec. 4 meeting.
The Federers told the board that the license would be for the continued sale of wine and liquor at the shop. Ellen Federer added they would like to continue holding the occasional wine tasting as well.
Economic Development Director Cliff Cross explained to the board that wine tastings would be permitted under the Class C license, for which the shop has applied.
Ellen Federer told the board they do not plan any changes to the shop’s operations but will likely add security lighting and cameras.
After the meeting, I had a quick word with Ellen Federer and asked when The Cheesekeeper might reopen. She replied that it could be sometime in the next couple of weeks. Once open, hours of operation will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.
The Cheesekeeper is located at 6500 W. Main St., suite 214, in Belleville. For more information, call 618-398-7184.
Jennifer Green has been with the Belleville News-Democrat since 2006. She covers restaurants and business openings/closings. Green is a 2001 graduate of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Please share tips and feedback at 618-239-2643 or [email protected].
