$150,000 Incentive Given To Developer

DARIEN, IL — The Darien City Council on Monday approved giving as much as $150,000 to a developer for the construction of a building to include Dunkin' Donuts and a pizzeria. This money will help pay for upgraded architecture, similar to what is at the clock tower across the street.

The building is planned for the site of the old Phillips 66 gas station at the northwest corner of Cass Avenue and Plainfield Road. City officials said they wanted the enhanced architecture because they see Cass and Plainfield as the gateway to Darien. The upgrades are estimated to cost $300,000.

"It's an important intersection," Mayor Joseph Marchese told the council.

The developer is John Manos, president of Bloomingdale-based Jemco & Associates. He also owns Brookhaven Plaza, which is on the same corner as the proposed building.

As part of the agreement with the city, the developer granted an easement to allow the construction of a marquee sign to promote the community. The sign also would include the names of the Dunkin' Donuts and the pizzeria, City Administrator Bryon Vana said before the council meeting.

In a November letter to the city, Manos asked for the city's help.

"While we are eager to develop this site, we have been advised by our lender and (real estate agents) that it is very risky to develop a center this small and with only two tenants, especially when there is no franchiser guarantee," he said. The $150,000 "would make the site as aesthetically pleasing as the property that you constructed across the street."

Over the last decade, various improvements have been made at the intersection, Alderman Ted Schauer said.

"I truly believe the $150,000 is worth every penny," said Schauer, who represents the first ward.

Seventh Ward Alderman Tom Belczak agreed. At first, he said he wasn't sure how he would vote on the $150,000, saying it was a lot of money. But then he said he asked the question, "Do you want something that is OK or something that is good?" He concluded the $150,000 would be money well spent.

Mayor Marchese said the city would not release the money until two weeks after it grants an occupancy permit for the building.

The council unanimously approved the agreement with Manos. Aldermen also approved variances for the project, including allowing the building on a lot that is too small under the city's zoning ordinance. Second Ward Alderman Lester Vaughan was absent.

Officials said the developer wanted to move quickly on the project. The Dunkin' Donuts in Brookhaven Plaza will move into the new building.

Some aldermen wondered whether the city could request enhanced architecture in certain areas of town, including requiring the use of brick. But the mayor warned against that.

"If you demand that builders use brick, some people won't build," Marchese said.

After the meeting was adjourned, Manos spoke to the council, saying he appreciated the agreement.