Kewanee Chamber reports modest retail growth, new businesses and solar farm plans

Mark Mikenas of the Kewanee Chamber of Commerce told the City Council on Aug. 14 that Kewanee’s retail sales in 2022 were $251 million, up 1.5% from the prior year, continuing five consecutive years of retail growth.

Mikenas said the city’s events calendar has helped drive visits and spending. He cited the Fourth of July event at Francis Park, fireworks at Northeast Park, the Prairie Chicken Arts Festival and the 27th year of Concerts in the Park. He noted the upcoming 47th Annual Hog Days/Stampede Days parade and race and said presale carnival tickets sold faster than in past years.

“New businesses have been popping up,” Mikenas told the council, pointing to a new Dollar General building, a Scooters outlet, a new taxi service, an ice cream shop and the Kewanee Voice. He said reports he has received indicate shoppers are coming from outside the city, especially for furniture, general merchandise and lumber.

Mikenas said he is working with Enpower, which plans to build a solar farm on the former boiler property; he said the group is discussing placing a memorial on the site to honor the business and its workers. Councilmember Komnick praised the chamber’s update, and Councilmember Colomer asked how the city could encourage continued growth. Mikenas said many businesses ask about incentives and that he refers them to City Manager Gary Bradley to pursue available city programs.

Why it matters: The chamber’s account offers the council a snapshot of local economic trends and upcoming events that may shape tourism and sales-tax revenue in the near term. New businesses and the planned solar installation are developments the council and city staff may factor into short-term planning and permitting work.

What the council will do next: The presentation was informational; councilmembers responded with questions and appreciation and referred incentives inquiries to the city manager for follow-up.