Aldermen discuss grocery expansion and parking pressures on Kankakee’s East Side

Aldermen discussed redevelopment and parking concerns for the East Side after a ward representative said a new grocery-store owner has invested heavily and plans to expand into adjacent parking.

The alderman said the owner told her he had invested roughly $500,000 and wants to add parking and improve the store’s frontage. Council members asked whether prior city commitments to recruit or reserve space for a larger supermarket on the East Side would constrain that expansion, and suggested the alderman check with economic-development staff (referred to in the meeting as 'Barbie') and the mayor’s office to learn of any coordinated plans.

Members expressed support for local investment while noting the need for fairness if other local investors seek similar permits or liquor licenses. No formal action or vote was taken; the item was treated as a heads-up for staff to coordinate.