Journal Editor

Restoration work of the former Kinder's hardware store building in downtown Des Plaines is likely to begin this summer following City Council approval Monday night to convert the property into a bank building.

Alderman Monday night gave tentative approval to Des Plaines National Bank to build and operate a three-lane drive-through directly to the east of the Kinder building. Currently on that site is the Tin Lizzie car parts store building which will be demolished. Final approval is expected on Apr. 18.

According to bank President John Eilering, if final approval is granted, restoration work on the century-old structure can begin. Aldermen gave unanimous approval to the plan at Monday night's City Council meeting.

In supporting the plan, city officials agreed that the bank project is the start of major redevelopment of the Ellinwood Street corridor east of Pearson Street. According to Community Development Committee chairman Ald. Tom Becker (6th), a "tremendous amount" of interest in the block has been shown by developers. So far, he said, that interest has included requests that the city provide sizable financial incentives, which officials at this time are reluctant to grant.

For the last two years, Des Plaines National Bank has been trying to purchase highly visible property in the downtown area to build and open a new banking facility. For about the last year, it has operated out of first floor offices at 701 Lee St. About two years ago, the bank bought the Des Plaines Theater building in the hope of building a new facility there. However, those plans were later dropped. Des Plaines National also owns Mt. Prospect National Bank located in downtown Mt. Prospect.

Becker said Monday that plans call for 18 parking spots to be provided on the property and that the building's second floor be used for banking offices. The drive-through will include pedestrian warning and safety measures as cars exit onto Ellinwood.

The property is still owned by the Kinder family. However, sale of the building and land is expected to be completed within 45 days.