By Sara StrongLocal bartenders may not have to wave goodbye to customers anymore, as they leave for last calls in South Dakota and Iowa.In July, state law allows bars and restaurants to serve alcohol until 2 a.m. instead of the previous 1 a.m. closing. South Dakota, Iowa and Wisconsin have allowed the 2 a.m. closing time for years, prompting Minnesota’s change.Depending on the location, it’s up to cities or counties to approve the change. In Rock County’s case, the ordinance doesn’t need changing because it was already unspecific about closing times.Businesses that want to stay open until 2 a.m. must file for a separate permit from the state, almost like a liquor license. The fees for that permit range from about $200 to $600. Businesses will be charged on a sliding fee based on earnings from alcohol.Staying open until 2 a.m.?oKJ’s, Hardwick, probably notoGreen Lantern, Hardwick, unsureoHowling Dog, Luverne, yesoEagles, Luverne, unsureoSharkee’s, Luverne, probably weekendsoMagnolia Steakhouse, Luverne, as needed if busyoKenneth Bar, unsureoKelly’s Roadhouse, Hills, nooBeaver Bar, Beaver Creek, probably notoDriver’s, Beaver Creek, unsureoLuverne Country Club, rural Rock County, as neededoRock County Sportsman’s Club, rural Rock County, unavailable for comment
