Lake County Gazette

Gurnee council members recently held a public hearing to gather input on a plan they have approved that will see the village contribute one-fourth of the total costs needed to perform interior improvements and renovations at Gurnee Mills in order to make a tenant space suitable for a new Mexican restaurant.

With the village costs slated to be capped at a maximum of $50,000, Gurnee Economic Development Director Ellen Dean told the crowd the idea of the two ventures together strikes her as a  can’t miss proposition.

“The project before you this evening pairs up two of Gurnee's preeminent business partners Gurnee Mills Shopping Center and Khayat Enterprises,” Dean added in a video of the meeting posted to YouTube. “Gurney Mills at 2 million square feet, 200 stores and restaurants is a giant in this industry. Khayat Enterprises, a 40-year old brand based in the area, a pioneer in multiple restaurant concepts is a giant in its industry. And bringing them together is a wonderful opportunity of what I think is kind of uniquely Gurnee and that we have business partners, large and small, that collaborate to bring new amenities that our residents and our visitors enjoy.”

As part of the hearing, village officials offered background on the proposal, including stressing that as the state’s third largest mall Gurnee Mills has always sought to improve and expand their retails spaces and offerings. Dean added that the idea for the latest proposal comes as the lease of an anchor tenant is set to expire in December, opening up the space needed for the proposed creation of Lola’s Tacos and Tequila.

Developers peg the total costs for the needed improvements at around $200,000, with the village’s contribution slated to be completely reimbursed by sales tax within four years of operation. Among the restaurant’s features will be a fresh ingredient Mexican salad bar, specialty margaritas and cocktails and musical entertainment on the weekends.

All those involved hope to see the restaurant open before the Cinco de Mayo holiday, with the establishment offering full-service and outdoor dining before the summer tourism season that developers promised will offer increased cultural activities and a new, vibrant feel to the area.