The DeKalb City Council approved a $51,991 forgivable loan for O’Leary’s Pub & Grill to install a larger-than-anticipated elevator and to complete interior renovations.

O’Leary’s Pub & Grill, 260 E. Lincoln Highway, also said it will use city tax increment funds to renovate the sprinkler and sewer systems.

“I think it’s a good investment for the city to support this business owner,” DeKalb City Manager Mark Biernacki said.

O’Leary’s estimated it will generate $1.2 million in food and beverage sales annually and would return the value of the loan in the form of tax revenue for the city within two years.

O’Leary’s owner Mel Witmer spoke before the council made its decision. Witmer said the project has become more complicated than when it started and that he already has invested $900,000.

“We certainly need the city to stand beside us,” Witmer said. “We’re a family establishment somewhere between an Applebee’s and a Hard Rock Cafe.”

Fifth Ward Alderman Pat Conboy said he agreed with the council’s decision.

“It’s clear to me that this seems a project where using TIF funds seems quite appropriate,” Conboy said.

The council also noted that the city would be able to claim a prorated amount of the grant if, for any reason, the business failed within five years. The city entered into a mortgage with the company to ensure it would get the money.

The council also discussed using a portion of Taylor Municipal Airport for a truck driving school run by CDL Transport Trainers. The company said they have a more than 90 percent placement rate for its students. The city council decided to further discuss the issue at the next meeting.

“It’s a great idea and a great project,” 3rd Ward Alderman Steve Kapitan said. “It’s certainly a job they can’t ship overseas.”

The council also decreased the speed limit from 30 mph to 25 mph on Miller, Woodley and Linden avenues.