Cresthill adds planner, announces two ribbon cuttings and updates on local gas station

Cresthill officials on Aug. 19 introduced a new city planner and announced upcoming ribbon-cutting events for two businesses, while providing a progress update on a local gas station project. Economic and Community Development Director Dan Ritter told the council the city's new planner, Atipa, started that day and will participate in planning commission meetings. Ritter also said Morning Delight Cafe (2400 Caton Farm Road, the former Luzano's Pizza) will host a ribbon cutting on Thursday at 8:30 a.m., and O'Reilly Auto Parts will hold a ribbon cutting on Sept. 6 at 10:30 a.m., followed by a community event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ritter said O'Reilly will occupy the former Big Lots location and that the city expects more new businesses to fill vacancies in the near term. On a separate question about a gas station at Broadway and Caton Farm, Ritter said staff do not have a final opening date but that the site was awaiting pumps and the developer anticipated it would be within about a month as they complete phase 1 of the project. Why it matters: new businesses and planning staff affect local economic activity, employment and service choices for residents. Ending: the council heard the notice items and did not take formal action; the planner has begun work and the two ribbon cuttings are scheduled as announced.