Development News for Oswego, Illinois

Commission Debates 'Business of the Month' Selection Process, Considers Revote

The council discussed nominations for 'Business of the Month'. Previously, Discovery Inspection Services and DeMont Guitars were elected. Benny's Place was the third highest vote-getter. The commission is deciding whether to slot Benny's Place for June or conduct a revote, as two of the top vote-getters have already been featured. Bartell's Autoplay and Impact Sports Reg were also among the higher vote-getters. There is a discussion about including the reasons for nomination and providing more information about the businesses to the commission for informed voting. Nominations for Restoration 1, Y, Midwest Melbourne, and Y were mentioned for a potential revote.

New Businesses and Retail Developments Announced Across Town

Several new businesses and developments are noted. Billy Bricks and Mooji's are officially coming to town. A new record store called Needle and Groove will open next to Pam's boutique and co-force, aiming to test market demand. Bay 54 is expected to open this month (June). The Shodine building has a very interested party nearing a deal. Downtown is showing momentum with the potential for a new establishment in the Shodine building. The Dairy Barn has garnered interest. On Route 34, Dutch Broads and HomeGoods are starting construction, with HomeGoods initiating site work soon. TJX Companies is excited to be in the community and is considering bringing additional brands. Coldstone is set to open this summer. Cozy House Furniture has opened in the old Party City location and is an Ashley Furniture exclusive dealer. Additional retail is coming to Orchard Road, including a multi-tenant retail center. A car wash is planned behind the gas station on Orchard Road. Harrison Square has committed tenants, including Terminator Fitness, and is in discussions with restaurant users. Trader Joe's is on target to open this year, aiming for a fall opening. A new 10,000 square foot retail space is planned for the outlot at the Trader Joe's development. Morticom has a tentative deal with a group that is not a restaurant for the Millenhelm building.

Fall Small Business Development Event Planned to Connect Local Businesses with Resources

The Economic Development Department is planning a Small Business Development Event for the fall, focusing on connecting local small businesses with resources such as SCORE, business mentors, the Illinois Small Business Development Center, the Chamber of Commerce, financial packages, loan programs (including SBA loans), and general counseling. They are considering inviting the SBA and plan to hold the event in October or November. Volunteers are needed for planning, and the commission members expressed interest in participating.

Business Retention Efforts Continue; Industrial Firm PFP Showcases Automation Investment

The Business Retention and Expansion program has not had specific activities since the last meeting but is entering a ramp-up season for retail deals. The department plans to re-engage with this program in late summer or early fall. Recent businesses visited include Midwest Melt, and a discussion took place regarding School of Rock. A detailed visit was made to the operation of PFP, which produces milk replacer for cats. The sons of the former owner have invested significantly in automation to improve efficiency, resulting in a 'night and day' difference in production. This industrial development highlights the importance of understanding existing businesses for attracting further investment. The commission is considering adding PFP to a list of notable businesses.