Geneva HPC Approves Pure Oil Plan, Hung Up On Landscaping

The HPC approved the plan to put a bank drive through for Geneva Bank and Trust in the Pure Oil building on Tuesday night.

They separated the landscaping plan from the motion in order to review it further before a meeting May 29. The architect added in a "lollipop style" sign to tonight's presentation that will mimic the old Pure Oil signage. There will also be some type of plaque or commemorative to educate the public on the significance of the building.

The Pure Oil garage doors will either be preserved and stored or left in place in the up position to maintain the look of the former station. In addition, a portion of the back side of the building will be demolished for parking space as will the building directly behind on Fifth Street.

The proposal will now move on for approval to the Plan Commission.  Public commentary was split between those who liked the plan because it preserved the property and those who felt that the drive through is not the best use of this landmark or were concerned about the structural integrity of the building.

Liz Safanda of the Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley commented that Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1996 would be triggered because the bank would carry FDIC insurance; the act requires that any federal agency must review the effects of their actions on historic properties. This review may include the state historic preservation officer and the public, depending on what is found in review.

Property owner Joe Stanton estimated that if all goes well, construction will begin in the fall.