City of Darien Economic Development Committee met Aug. 18.
Here are the minutes provided by the committee:
1. Call to Order
The meeting was called to order at 7:06PM. Committee Members present were Bryan Gay, Lou Mallers, Brian Liedtke, Matt Weberling, Angelo Imbrogno, and Nick Pitzer. Also present were Mayor Joe Marchese and City Planner Jordan Yanke.
2. Public Comment
None.
3. Approval of Minutes – June 23, 2022
Minutes were approved by unanimous consent.
4. New Business
a) Concept Plan Discussions for Development Areas (PAGE 4) i. Chestnut Court Shopping Center City Planner Jordan Yanke provided opening remarks and a summary regarding the Committee’s push to create high-level conceptual plans for the City’s Key Development Areas and other areas. Discussion ensued on two options for the center, one being to reduce the vacancy rate and enhance the aesthetics of the center, such as façade improvements. Another option is to redevelop the center and maintain commercial uses with mixed-use if feasible. Comments on redeveloping the site mostly addressed the physical layout and the potential of annexing property where the Chase Bank is located into the overall center.
ii. Darien Plaza (Q-Bar)
This discussion item was continued to a future meeting date.
iii. Chinoy Property
Staff presented the details on the Chinoy property. Committee members spoke about the opportunity at the site and the fact that it is in close proximity to the high school, library, and community park. It is also preferred to look at the adjacent parcels to the south and east of the site, as well as across Plainfield Road to the north where the vacant parcel could be used for natural habitat and community signage. Potential uses for the subject property include a restaurant or limited retail, in addition to residential or a small mixed-use development.
5. Old Business
a) Previous Follow Up/Hanging Matters
i. EDC Member Updates
Mayor Marchese recapped Darien Fest and Committee discussion ensued on it being a success. Other discussion pertained to the final concert at Carriage Greens being on August 25, 2022 and that the concerts have been successful and good for the community and golf course.
ii. Staff Updates
Staff gave a general update on development and building projects throughout the City. Fry the Coop restaurant is targeting September for opening.
6. Next Scheduled Meeting
The next scheduled meeting is Thursday, September 1, 2022.
7. Adjournment
Meeting was adjourned at 8:26PM.
https://www.darien.il.us/getattachment/2e446ae1-e2c4-436e-909c-786604744d97/Economic-Development-Committee-Meeting-August-18,-2022.aspx
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