Arthouse to Open at Aurora Arts Center, Promising a Fresh Dining Experience

Located at 116 W. Galena Blvd in downtown Aurora, the Galena Hotel, originally known as the Fox River House, is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the city. Built in 1857 by A.N. and G. Pierce, the Fox River House was established along the Fox River to serve as a welcoming stop for travelers. Unfortunately, the original hotel was destroyed by a devastating fire in 1860, which led to the building being left vacant for two years.In 1862, local businessman E.D. Huntoon purchased the property and set to work rebuilding the hotel. This new structure, known as the Huntoon House, became a central gathering spot for the community for the next 26 years. Huntoon’s commitment to hospitality made the hotel a vital hub for both locals and visitors, contributing to Aurora’s growth.By 1888, the hotel underwent a name change to the Northwestern Hotel, marking a new chapter in its history. The hotel changed hands several times over the years, and in 1907, it became known as the Grand Hotel when Mrs. Jones took ownership. In 1961, the Koummoutseas family purchased the property, renaming it the Galena Hotel, which remains its name to this day.In 1976, the Galena Hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its place as an important part of Aurora’s heritage. The building has withstood time and transitions, preserving its historical significance while adapting to the changing needs of the city. From the Fox River House to the Galena Hotel, this landmark has played a vital role in the community, serving as both a gathering space and a reminder of the city’s rich past.Today, the Galena Hotel stands as a proud symbol of Aurora’s history. Its transformation from a traveler’s respite to an enduring beacon of local heritage is a testament to the city’s resilience and the importance of preserving history for future generations. Whether in its early days as a hotel along the Fox River or as the Galena Hotel, this building is more than just a structure—it’s an integral part of the community’s identity and legacy.

In a landmark move that bridges Aurora’s rich past with its vibrant future, the historic Galena Hotel building, one of the city’s oldest structures, is being reborn. The redevelopment of this iconic building into micro-apartments promises not only to preserve history but to introduce an innovative housing solution to downtown Aurora.The Galena Hotel, located at 116 W. Galena Blvd, was built in 1862 and has been vacant since 2020. The building is now being purchased and redeveloped by local entrepreneur Fernando Barrera, an East Aurora native and Aurora Central Catholic graduate, who plans to transform the 10,000-square-foot structure into 21 micro-units. These units, ranging from 260 to 550 square feet, will be rented at an affordable price point of $1,050 to $1,350 per month, making them a unique addition to Aurora’s housing market.The concept of micro-units is new to Aurora, but it’s gaining traction in urban centers across the country. These compact living spaces are designed to maximize functionality with features like Murphy beds and fold-down desks, while still offering modern amenities. Barrera has emphasized that while the units are smaller in size, they are intended to serve working professionals looking for an affordable, centrally-located place to live with easy access to downtown’s amenities.The city’s approval of the redevelopment plan, which includes a $1.3 million tax increment financing (TIF) incentive, will provide Barrera with the necessary funds to bring the project to life. The city’s contribution, drawn from gaming revenue, will help offset construction costs while also helping to preserve the building’s historic integrity.“We’re excited about this project because it blends innovation with history,” said David Dibo, Aurora’s Economic Development director. “This redevelopment represents an exciting opportunity to bring new life to a downtown property while providing affordable housing options for people who want to live in the heart of Aurora.”A Historic Building, A Bright FutureThe Galena Hotel was originally constructed in 1862 and has seen many transformations over the years. Its most recent owner, Barrera, bought the building in 2023 and has worked tirelessly to design a plan that fits the building’s historic character while addressing the demand for affordable housing.Barrera’s plans include restoring the building’s central stairwell and corridors while adding a new elevator and stairwell to the back of the building to ensure accessibility. The building’s transformation will include both the restoration of key architectural features and necessary modern updates to create a comfortable living space.“This is my bread and butter—redeveloping older buildings into something new, and I’m excited to give this building new life,” Barrera said.The renovation of the Galena Hotel is not only an exciting project for Aurora but also a key step in revitalizing the downtown area. It will add much-needed housing in a central location and provide affordable options for professionals who want to be close to the vibrant, growing downtown area.A Community-Oriented DevelopmentThe development of the micro-apartments at the Galena Hotel is a prime example of a community-oriented project that is mindful of both the city’s history and its future. Aurora’s downtown area has seen significant changes over the years, with new businesses, restaurants, and cultural destinations drawing in more residents and visitors. As the city grows, projects like this help preserve the city’s historic character while also providing opportunities for people to live in the heart of Aurora.With the addition of affordable housing in the form of micro-apartments, Barrera hopes to fill an unmet need for small, affordable, and centrally located apartments in Aurora. The apartments will offer convenience for residents, with access to public transportation and a walkable downtown area with restaurants, shopping, and entertainment just steps away.As the city continues to evolve, it’s clear that projects like this will be key to supporting growth and maintaining Aurora’s unique character. The Galena Hotel redevelopment is expected to be completed by early 2026, and once finished, it will provide much-needed housing that caters to the growing demand for downtown living.For more updates on this exciting redevelopment, follow the city’s progress on the official Aurora Buzz website and stay tuned for more information about the ongoing projects shaping Aurora’s future.

Nestled in the heart of Kane County, Holbrook Mill is a building that is a testament to Aurora’s rich industrial past. Built in 1843 from meticulously stacked limestone, this historic structure stands as possibly the oldest industrial site in the county. Over nearly two centuries, it has served as a livery stable, carriage works, and grist mill, reflecting the versatility and industrious spirit of its time.A Structure at the Brink of DemiseBy the late 20th century, the mill faced an uncertain future. Weathered by time and neglect, it had fallen into disrepair, with demolition looming as a stark possibility. However, the community rallied around the mill, recognizing its historical significance. In 1990, Holbrook Mill earned a landmark designation, ensuring its preservation as a symbol of Aurora’s industrial roots.Restoring History: The 2006 RenovationIn 2006, a monumental restoration project began. The approach was as bold as it was meticulous: dismantling the mill stone by stone, then rebuilding it atop a new, secure foundation. Using salvaged materials and adhering closely to the building’s original specifications, the restoration not only revived the mill’s structural integrity but also enhanced its sustainability. These efforts earned the project points toward LEED certification, underscoring the perfect blend of historical preservation and modern eco-consciousness.The mill’s intricate design, with its towering limestone walls and authentic craftsmanship, reflects the ingenuity of early Aurora builders. The project’s detailed execution ensured that the Holbrook Mill retained its historical charm while being prepared to withstand the challenges of the modern era.Holbrook Mill Today: A Community TreasureToday, Holbrook Mill stands proudly as a testament to Aurora’s past and a beacon of preservation success. It reminds us of the importance of safeguarding our heritage, blending the old with the new, and honoring the stories of the spaces that shaped our community.Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a proud Auroran, the Holbrook Mill is a must-see landmark. Its enduring presence reminds us that with dedication and vision, history can live on for generations to come.Want to learn more about the restoration process? Dive into the Holbrook Mill Restoration Presentation to uncover the detailed journey of bringing this historic treasure back to life.

From the charming Phillips Park Zoo to the historic Paramount Theatre, Aurora is home to some incredible landmarks. Cast your vote and let us know which spot you think defines our city best!

If you’ve ever wondered what to do with old electronics, clothing, or paper items, Aurora has the solution for you. Thanks to Kane County’s monthly pop-up recycling events, residents now have a reliable and eco-friendly way to dispose of unwanted items—right in their own city.Recycling Made SimpleHeld in the parking lot of Aurora Ace Hardware at 994 N. Lake St., these pop-up events provide a convenient drop-off spot for a variety of items, including electronics, textiles, books, and more. Televisions and monitors are also accepted for a small fee. The initiative ensures that reusable materials are kept out of landfills while giving Aurora residents an accessible option to recycle responsibly.Clair Ryan, Kane County’s recycling coordinator, emphasized the importance of maintaining a presence in Aurora after previous recycling efforts didn’t fully take off. “We knew we needed a better, more welcoming option for residents,” Ryan explained. “The monthly pop-ups allow us to serve Aurora and surrounding communities like Batavia and North Aurora in a convenient way.”A Post-Holiday BoostThe events often see a surge in activity after the holidays. Broken Christmas lights, old televisions replaced by newer models, and the cardboard boxes from online shopping are just a few of the items brought to the recycling site during this time. Representatives from eWorks Electronics Services, Kane County’s recycling partner, are always on hand to collect electronics and ensure they’re properly processed.“We see a lot of TVs and other electronics after Christmas,” said Felipe Salto of eWorks, who helps oversee the collections. “It’s great to see people making an effort to recycle rather than toss these items in the trash.”How It WorksThe pop-up recycling events are held monthly, typically on Saturdays, for three hours. Residents can bring a variety of items, including: • Electronics (fees may apply for certain items like TVs and monitors) • Textiles and clothing • Books and magazines • Paper productsWhile cardboard is accepted, residents are encouraged to bring large amounts of it to other sites like Fabyan Parkway or West Dundee, which are open five days a week.Why It MattersRecycling through programs like these not only helps reduce waste in landfills but also provides an alternative for materials to be reused. Gary Patterson, a resident from Plainfield, summed it up best: “This is better than throwing stuff in a landfill.”Whether you’re looking to responsibly recycle after the holidays or clean out old items cluttering your home, these monthly pop-up events are an easy and impactful way to do your part for the environment.For more details on upcoming events and acceptable items, visit Kane County’s recycling website or follow their updates. Let’s keep Aurora clean and green!

The City of Aurora is set to receive a series of new digital roadside signs, thanks to a recently approved agreement with Community Digital Displays. These modern displays will feature city branding and advertisements, offering a blend of public service messaging and commercial advertising. The 20-year agreement, approved by the City Council on December 17, ensures that the signs will be constructed, maintained, and operated at no cost to the city.What’s in It for Aurora?Community Digital Displays will install these signs, with Aurora receiving one out of every eight advertising slots for community messages—completely free of charge. These slots can be used for announcements like community events, Amber alerts, and severe weather updates. Local nonprofits and small businesses will also benefit, as they will receive discounts for advertising space.The first sign, planned for the Aurora Municipal Airport, will feature a unique design and is estimated to cost around $250,000 if constructed by the city. Standing 30 feet tall and 27 feet wide, it will include a 9-foot by 18-foot digital display. Additional signs, set to be placed at key “gateways” into the city, will be smaller, measuring just under 12 feet tall and 15 feet wide with a 6-foot by 12-foot display. Each of these signs would typically cost around $100,000 to build, but the agreement ensures no expense to Aurora.Community and Business BenefitsBeyond saving the city money, the signs offer a new advertising avenue for local businesses. Community Digital Displays has committed to working with chambers of commerce to support “mom and pop” businesses and the local economy. The company will also provide free design and art services for city messages displayed on the signs.Concerns and CompromisesWhile the agreement passed with a 9-3 vote, not all aldermen were on board. Concerns were raised about the billboard-like size of the signs and the lack of clarity on the exact number and locations of the smaller “gateway” signs. To address this, the council decided that the Building, Zoning, and Economic Development Committee would have the final say on sign placement, with aldermen having the option to appeal decisions to the full City Council.Mayor Richard Irvin recused himself from the discussion, citing a desire to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest.Looking AheadThe new digital signs are expected to enhance Aurora’s communication capabilities while offering local businesses a cost-effective advertising platform. As the first sign goes up at the Aurora Municipal Airport, residents can anticipate a modern addition to the cityscape that blends public service and commercial outreach.Stay tuned for updates on the placement of the gateway signs and how these new digital displays will shape Aurora’s future.Sources  R. CHRISTIAN SMITH | rsmith@chicagotribune.com 

Aurora is moving forward with plans to renovate the fourth floor of City Hall, a $660,000 project designed to streamline operations and modernize the space. This effort aims to consolidate the Finance Department onto a single floor, addressing longstanding inefficiencies.Jim Birchall, Aurora’s Chief Public Facilities Officer, detailed the proposal during the City Council’s Infrastructure and Technology Committee meeting. The renovation will completely overhaul the space, stripping it down to the bare structure before rebuilding with new furniture, soundproof walls, upgraded LED lighting, and updated bathrooms.“This is a project we’ve wanted to tackle for years,” said Birchall. “It’s exciting to finally bring this vision to life.”Project Details and FeaturesThe Infrastructure and Technology Committee recommended the project to the full City Council, citing a proposed budget of $659,674 with a 10% contingency. Lite Construction Inc., the lowest bidder, was selected to handle the renovations.Key upgrades include: • Optimized Office Layout: The redesign will feature six private offices and 14 cubicles, addressing current size disparities. • Improved Bathrooms: In addition to remodeling the fourth-floor facilities, bathrooms on the third and fifth floors will be updated to meet current building codes, including the addition of floor drains. • Energy Efficiency: A dedicated rooftop heating and cooling unit will serve the fourth and fifth floors, enabling better temperature control and energy savings when offices are unoccupied. • Enhanced Airflow: The project will improve ventilation within the renovated space.Contractor Track Record and OversightAlderman John Laesch, at large, noted that Lite Construction has completed projects for the East Aurora School District, calling their work reliable but cautioning about potential budget overruns. Birchall assured the committee that the city has a strong track record of keeping projects on budget and plans to closely monitor this one.Currently, Lite Construction is also working on the renovation of 745 Broadway for the city. Birchall expressed satisfaction with their progress so far, noting positive feedback from references and architectural firms familiar with the company.Looking AheadPending City Council approval, the renovation will represent a significant step toward modernizing Aurora’s municipal spaces, ensuring efficiency, accessibility, and energy savings. The project aligns with the city’s commitment to creating a productive and welcoming environment for its employees and residents alike.Stay tuned for updates as Aurora moves closer to revitalizing City Hall’s fourth floor.Source: Chicago Tribune

Small and mid-sized businesses are the backbone of our economy, creating jobs and contributing to the unique flavor of our community. When we intentionally spend our money with locally-owned businesses, we foster a thriving local economy that benefits everyone in Aurora. That’s why Aurora Buzz encourages you to commit to spending local with our initiative, “AuroraSpendsLocal,” aimed at keeping money circulating right here in our city.Here are five key reasons why supporting Aurora-based businesses matters:1. LOCAL JOBS ARE CREATED AND SUSTAINED.Spending money at local businesses boosts their productivity, strengthens our local business climate, and creates more job opportunities for residents. From small boutiques to family-owned restaurants, every dollar spent locally contributes to sustaining jobs in Aurora.2. MORE MONEY STAYS IN THE COMMUNITY.When you spend locally, the money recirculates back into Aurora, funding non-profits, community organizations, and initiatives that directly serve the people who live here. Supporting local businesses helps ensure that the dollars you spend benefit your neighbors and the causes close to home.3. THE LOCAL ECONOMY BECOMES STRONGER.Every additional dollar spent in Aurora boosts economic activity and generates tax revenue, which contributes to the overall growth and health of our city. A strong local economy benefits everyone by creating more opportunities and resources.4. COMMUNITY PRIDE AND QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVE.Local business owners don’t just operate here—they live here, volunteer here, and give back to the community. By supporting their businesses, you’re helping fund local charities, schools, and events, which improves Aurora’s quality of life and builds community pride.5. LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE IS ENHANCED.Taxes collected from local businesses contribute to better roads, improved schools, and other vital infrastructure. A thriving local business scene leads to a well-supported and better-connected city for all.Let’s commit to keeping Aurora strong and vibrant by choosing to spend local first. Whether it’s dining at a neighborhood restaurant, shopping at a local boutique, or using a local service, every choice matters.Join the Movement: #AuroraSpendsLocalWant to connect with local businesses? Explore our directory of Aurora-based companies and start making an impact today!Let’s make Aurora the best it can be by supporting the businesses that call our city home.

I love exploring Aurora’s food scene, and brunch is one of my favorite meals, yesterday I was in Chicago and had Shakshuka for breakfast w/ Lebnah. It got me thinking bout Aurora and with so many spots to choose from, I need your help! I’ve started a poll of some of the best brunch spots in town—but I know there are others I haven’t discovered yet. Drop your favorites, and I’ll add them to the poll. Then, I’ll take my appetite on the road and share the journey with you on my story!

Aurora officials are taking decisive steps toward securing two significant land parcels on Lake Street, just north of New York Street, as part of a long-term vision for the city’s downtown revitalization. These parcels, located at 201 and 213 N. Lake St., are critical components of the city’s ambitious Riverfront North District—a vibrant mixed-use area envisioned to include housing, retail, restaurants, and entertainment venues.A Strategic Investment for Downtown AuroraCity officials presented the proposal at a recent City Council meeting, emphasizing the importance of acquiring these parcels to maintain control over their development. “Time is of the essence. We need to be in control of the destiny of this parcel,” said Alex Minella, senior planner in the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development. “If we are not in control, it is not going to be the highest and best use of the property.”The city is considering an option agreement that would allow it to purchase the properties for $1.3 million. The agreement requires an initial $100,000 payment, which can be applied to the purchase price if the city decides to proceed with the acquisition within the next year. The deal reflects a negotiated compromise between the city and property owner Kevin Fitzpatrick, who originally sought $1.5 million for the parcels.The Vision for the Riverfront North DistrictThe parcels are strategically located near other redevelopment projects, including the site of the former West Suburban Bank building, which the city has already purchased. That site is part of a broader three-phase development plan that includes a proposed 4,000-seat theater and event center, known as the City of Lights Center. While aldermen have approved the first phase of the project, the future of the theater itself is still under discussion.Minella emphasized that controlling these parcels aligns with the city’s master plan for the Riverfront North District. The area is envisioned as a hub for modern, urban living and commerce. However, a recent offer from a nonprofit organization to purchase the land for transitional housing prompted city officials to act, as such a use would not align with the district’s intended purpose.A Broader Strategy for Aurora’s FutureCity officials stressed that acquiring these parcels is not solely tied to the City of Lights Center project. “What we can do is strategically acquire properties,” said Alex Alexandrou, the city’s chief management officer. He explained that while the land could eventually serve as part of the theater project—such as for parking facilities—its acquisition is primarily about ensuring the city can shape its future development.This proactive approach has drawn some skepticism, with Ald. John Laesch noting that the move feels like a step toward committing to the theater project. However, Alexandrou assured the council that the property purchase remains a separate decision. “The staff negotiated this in good faith,” he added, defending the terms of the deal.A Transformational OpportunityThe Lake Street parcels represent an opportunity to advance Aurora’s efforts to revitalize its downtown core. By securing these properties, the city aims to foster a thriving, connected community space that benefits both residents and businesses. This acquisition, coupled with ongoing redevelopment projects, underscores Aurora’s commitment to building a more vibrant and economically diverse downtown.The City Council is expected to vote on the proposal next week, marking another step in Aurora’s journey toward realizing its ambitious vision for the Riverfront North District and the broader downtown area.