Plainfield to host business incubation center

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Updated: January 29, 2012 2:41AM

PLAINFIELD — Thinking of starting a new business? Your new office could be Plainfield Village Hall.

The Plainfield Village Board on Monday adopted a resolution that establishes the Business Evolution Center in space occupied by the Building Department, which now has an office in the public works facility.

Village planner Michael Garrigan said the center would assist new businesses by providing them with an economical and affordable place to do business.

“The goal of this new business incubator center is not to compete with local landlords, but instead to provide business start-ups with a professional space at Village Hall for a very affordable price,” he said.

The proposed business center, Garrigan said, would occupy approximately 4,000 square feet at Village Hall, 24401 W. Lockport St.

The space includes a conference room and more than 15 cubicles. The village would charge a nominal monthly fee for the use of phones, Internet and copiers.

“The village has recently seen an explosion of small business start-ups as reflected in the substantial increase in home occupancy business licenses that the village has received over the past several years,” Garrigan said. “Many of these new start-ups do not have professional office space and are using their homes for offices.”

Trustee Margie Bonuchi supports the concept.

“It’s a great way to get people off the ground,” especially those who recently lost their jobs, she said.

Garrigan said the planning department would manage the center, which would share the Village Hall’s hours of operation.

The village would have the discretion to terminate any license.

Each licensee would carry its own insurance to protect the village from potential liability. Plus, Garrigan said staff is working with Main Street Plainfield about taking a dedicated space within the center.

In other economic news, the village board discussed a business attraction plan, “Come Grow with Us.”

The plan, prepared by the economic development task force, identifies areas in the village where staff would like to attract commercial development, including South Route 59, downtown and 143rd Street.

Economic tools to attract business include impact fee waivers, property tax abatements and sales tax incentives.

Maggie Pearson of Plainfield said her hometown lacks upscale stores.

“I end up going to Naperville or the Promenade in Bolingbrook for my specialty purchases,” said the mother of two. “I would much prefer to spend my money in Plainfield.”

Trustee Jim Racich said he is glad to see the village take a proactive approach.