Country club to begin renovation

By Northern Star Staff

DeKALB — The DeKalb City Council approved a development agreement and rezoning for the Kishwaukee Country Club, 1901 Sycamore Road, that is set to be completed in the spring of 2018.

The $2 million plan includes the development of a new one-story clubhouse on the property that will house a pro shop, a dining and bar area, a kitchen, men and women’s locker rooms and offices. The new building will be located to the west of the current clubhouse, which will be demolished when the new one is completed.

Sixth Ward Alderman Dave Baker said the new clubhouse would serve as a nice renovation to the 106-year-old establishment.

“Speaking as a former Kishwaukee member — I resigned last October — I can tell you after 20 years of being there that this club is an icon to the community,” Baker said. “…The thing to keep in mind is that it’s an important enhancement to our community. I believe it helps in economic development.”

The new clubhouse would be about half the size of the current building, which is around 16,000 square feet. Construction is set to begin in mid-to-late summer.

Fourth Ward Alderman Bob Snow echoed Baker’s sentiments regarding the potential for stimulation of the DeKalb economy.

“I think the country club is a great asset to the city,” Snow said. “It’s another demonstration of reinvestment into the community [and] another example of being proudly DeKalb.”

The council approved the project in a 7-0 vote, with Third Ward Alderman Michael Marquardt not voting. The next city council meeting will be held 6 p.m. May 8 at the DeKalb Municipal Building, 200 S. Fourth St.