TO: Mayor and City Council
FROM: Dustin Anderson, Director of Community Development
SUBJECT:
title
Resolution Authorizing Execution of a Lease Agreement Between the City of Joliet and La Sociedad, Inc., DBA Casa Catrina Mexican Heritage Cuisine
end
BACKGROUND:
The City of Joliet issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) seeking an experienced restaurateur or hospitality professional to establish a family-friendly business at the old Joliet Union Station, 50 E. Jefferson Street, where the former MyGrain Brewery was located. MyGrain Brewery closed in 2023, and the space has been vacant since then.
A total of four (4) complete proposals were received and reviewed by a group of City staff members across different divisions, including Purchasing, Planning, City Manager's Office, Facilities, and Economic Development. Following the initial review, staff identified three candidates to advance to the formal interview stage. Following the interview process, staff determined that La Sociedad, Inc. DBA Casa Catrina Mexican Heritage Cuisine (Casa Catrina) was the most appropriate fit for this lease opportunity, based on their personnel bandwidth, previous experience, concept, marketing plan, and available capital. The Casa Catrina team includes ?ngel Zamudio, Joaqu?n Anguiano, and Jos? V?zquez. All three members of the team individually own restaurants and other series of businesses, including Culichi Town in Stone Park, and Tequila CJ in Chicago.
The Economic Development Division proceeded to conduct due diligence to confirm the information submitted by Casa Catrina's team, which included a comprehensive criminal and financial background check. There were no reportable items found through the background checks.
The proposed terms of the lease include:
* Initial lease term of five (5) years.
* Two (2) five-year renewal options if both parties agree.
* Starting rent of $7,000.00, with a 5% annual increase.
* The tenant will be responsible for all utility bills a...
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