Darien Pool Hall May Seek City Subsidy: Official

DARIEN, IL – A proposed pool hall and restaurant in Darien may be seeking a subsidy from the city government, an official said this week.

The business, 9 Sting Billiards, plans to open in the space formerly occupied by XSport Fitness. It is at the Chestnut Court shopping center, southeast of 75th Street and Lemont Road.

At Monday's City Council meeting, Dan Gombac, the city's municipal services director, said the owner has come forward seeking an "economic incentive." The city's staff is working on it, he said.

"We'll be forwarding information to the City Council shortly," Gombac said.

He was referring to money from a tax increment financing district, or TIF, that the city formed last year to revive the struggling shopping center.

According to 9 Sting's plan, the business would include 32 pool tables, six video game machines, a "high-end" darts area and a mezzanine level with space for private parties and corporate events.

The business is seeking a liquor license for a bar.

On Monday, the City Council approved the zoning for 9 Sting.

The owner, Darick Ammons, said the business's new concept would revolutionize the world of playing pool.

"The mental image that often comes to mind (of a pool hall) is a dark and smoky place," Ammons said in a letter to Darien officials. "They have typically not been seen as a place to bring a date or (have) a fun night out."

He continued, "We are building a place that is embracing greater technology in ways that will enhance the classic experience without taking away the authenticity of the game. We're providing a modern, well-lit place with high ceilings and clean lines that is both inviting and trendy."

A camera on every table will make games viewable for livestreaming, he said.

A couple of years ago, developer Kumar Bhavanasi bought Chestnut Court, with plans to renovate much of the largely vacant shopping center.

Last year, the City Council approved a tax increment financing district for Chestnut Court. Under state law, increases in a district's property tax income are reinvested in the district itself.

The idea is that the growth in property value over time would reimburse the tax district for the subsidy.