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Council declares small parcel behind Niche restaurant surplus to allow outdoor dining sale
Summary
Council approved Resolution 2025-89 to declare about 667 square feet of city-owned land behind Niche restaurant surplus and authorized staff to advertise and negotiate sale, subject to public utility easement and use limitations.
The Geneva City Council unanimously approved a resolution declaring approximately 667 square feet of city-owned land behind Niche restaurant surplus and authorized staff to advertise and negotiate sale offers for a parcel to be used for outdoor dining and related uses.
City Administrator Stephanie Dawkins told the council that Illinois state law limits the city’s ability to lease public land for liquor service and outdoor dining; the city has previously sold or exchanged small parcels for similar purposes. The resolution authorizes staff to solicit proposals and negotiate a sale subject to council approval. The property would be encumbered by a public utility easement for the city's benefit, and permitted uses would be limited to gardens, outdoor dining, landscaping and similar activities; no structures would be allowed.
Alderman Reineke asked for clarification and the administrator confirmed the area equates to three parking spaces immediately behind the restaurant. Kathleen Timoshenko, director of economic development, was present to answer questions; the mayor voted as part of the corporate authority. A motion by Alderman Marks, seconded by Alderman Paschke, passed unanimously (11–0).
Staff cited downtown revitalization goals — thriving downtown, diverse and resilient economy, and redevelopment investment — as reasons the negotiated sale and use restriction would support existing downtown businesses while preserving city utility access.
