LaSalle planning commissioners recommend approval for stationary trailer to serve as tavern kitchen at 1050–1056 First Street

The LaSalle Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend the city council approve a special-use permit allowing a stationary, decommissioned food-truck trailer to operate as a permanent kitchen at 1050–1056 First Street, where it would serve the patrons of the Corner Oasis tavern.

Petitioner Robert Donovan, who said he represents himself, trustee Joanne Donovan and tavern owner Katie Elston, told the commission the trailer will be disabled so it cannot be moved and will be hard‑piped to the property’s natural gas and electric service. "Trailer would not move ever," Donovan said, and he described removing key jacks and setting the unit on blocks.

Why it matters: Commissioners and staff emphasized that state and local health, fire and building codes still apply even though the unit is a trailer rather than a built-in kitchen. Fire Chief Jerry Jassik told the commission the owners have a quote to install a hood fire‑suppression system with an emergency gas shutoff and that the hood and suppression system will require annual inspection. Donovan told the commission the suppression work was scheduled pending the permit decision and said he had applied for county health approval.

The commission heard details about operations: customers would order at the trailer service window (accessible from inside the bar) and could carry food inside or sit on a patio. Donovan said the trailer contains limited equipment (an 18‑inch griddle, one deep fryer, work tables, a freezer and sinks) and that dishes would be taken inside the tavern for cleaning in a three‑compartment sink, which he said complies with health‑department practice for stationary trailers.

Bar owner Katie Elston said she and Donovan ceased serving from the trailer once staff told them a special‑use permit was required and presented petitions of local support; she told the commission she had gathered "over 150 signatures" backing the project and stressed the operation would offer affordable meals and local employment opportunities.

The commission also discussed insurance and liability: Donovan said he currently insures the trailer and that, if the permit is granted, the tavern owner would place the unit on the business’ insurance policy. Commissioners asked staff to obtain a copy of the county health‑department approval and other documentation before operations begin.

Motion and vote: A motion recommending that the city council grant the special‑use permit for operation of a roughly 7‑by‑14‑foot trailer as a permanent kitchen—subject to compliance with the city’s fire, building and health codes and other applicable governmental requirements (cite: zoning section 153.075 and subparagraphs noted in the record)—was read into the record and approved by roll call. Commissioners James Brady, Jessica Durgans, John Fletcher, Sam McNeely, Mike Nisowski, Dale Teeman and John Caywoods voted yes, resulting in a unanimous recommendation to the council.

What happens next: The planning commission’s recommendation will go to the LaSalle City Council, which has the authority to grant final approval and may add additional conditions. The commission and staff noted that any change in ownership of the trailer or any movement of the unit (even temporarily) would require a new application. The hearing closed with no further business and the commission adjourned.