St. Charles Approves RV Sales Facility, Facade Grants, and Explores Business Registration

Introduction

The St. Charles Planning & Development Committee convened on May 13, 2021, for a meeting that featured key development approvals, funding support for building restoration projects, and a deep dive into the city’s economic progress. The agenda included approval of a new RV sales facility, decisions on facade improvement grants, review of the Economic Development Annual Report, and a debate on implementing a business registration or licensing program.

Key Decisions at a Glance

• ✅ RV Sales Facility Approved: Special use permit for Barrington Motor Sales RV, with an extended occupancy deadline to June 1, 2022.

• ✅ Facade Grants Awarded:

  • $14,870 reimbursement for restoration work at 201 Cedar Avenue.

  • $5,312.50 reimbursement for siding upgrades at 11 North Third Street.

• 📈 Economic Development Review: 2020 report highlighted resilience amid COVID-19, strong construction valuation, and downtown revitalization efforts.

• 🔍 Business Licensing Discussion: Committee requested research into registration programs in other municipalities to improve data tracking.

Barrington Motor Sales RV Facility Approved

The committee unanimously approved a special use permit for Barrington Motor Sales RV to operate at 3825 Commerce Drive.

Key Details:

• The dealership will display 10-12 smaller vehicles on-site, while most inventory will remain in off-site storage.

• The business projects $5-10 million in sales annually, operating largely through online sales.

• An extension to June 1, 2022 was granted for occupancy, as the current tenant’s lease ends May 30, 2022.

This approval brings a new, modernized RV sales model to St. Charles, reinforcing the city’s reputation as a commercial hub.

Facade Improvement Grants Strengthen Historic Preservation

Two facade improvement grants were awarded, continuing the city’s investment in maintaining its historic charm:

201 Cedar Avenue

• Applicants: Karen and David Lando

• Project: Exterior repair, siding, window sills, trim, painting, and glazing.

• Total Cost: $29,740

• Grant Awarded: $14,870 (50% reimbursement)

• Reasoning: The property’s historic significance and prominent location justified maximum reimbursement.

11 North Third Street

• Applicants: Amber and Terry Grove

• Project: Replacement of vinyl siding with James Hardy siding.

• Total Cost: $21,250

• Grant Awarded: $5,312.50 (25% reimbursement)

• Reasoning: After extensive discussion, the committee determined the project was primarily maintenance work, warranting the lower reimbursement rate, despite Historic Commission support for 50%.

Economic Development Annual Report Highlights Resilience

Economic Development Planner Sierra Miller and Director Rita presented the 2020 Economic Development Annual Report.

Key Insights:

• Construction Valuation: Reached a three-year high, indicating strong development despite COVID-19 challenges.

• Sales Tax Revenue: Rebounded sharply in late 2020, signaling local economic recovery.

• Downtown Initiatives: Efforts like the temporary dining program and First Street closure boosted businesses and downtown activity.

• Digital Tools: “Think St. Charles” website now offers a virtual broker tour, a business guide, and an integrated available sites database.

Business Registration Program Debate

The meeting closed with a heated discussion on business licensing:

• Proponents: Argued a registration program would help track business trends, identify vacancies, and support targeted economic development.

• Concerns: Some officials feared it could be viewed as “anti-business” if seen as overly bureaucratic.

• Next Steps: Staff will research registration programs in other municipalities, focusing on low-cost, low-burden solutions.

Conclusion

The May 13 meeting showcased St. Charles’ commitment to strategic growth and historic preservation, while also sparking a meaningful conversation about improving business data collection. The approval of the Barrington Motor Sales RV facility and targeted facade grants highlight the city’s proactive approach to supporting both economic development and community character.