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East Dundee seeking new operator of caboose concession stand

Village now accepting proposals for downtown caboose concession stand

East Dundee officials are accepting proposals from businesses interested in operating out of the village-owned caboose concession stand.

The caboose, originally built in 1952 for the Milwaukee Road railroad, was purchased by the village and has been used as a concession stand in the downtown area since May 2015, Deputy Village Administrator Jennifer Johnsen said.

Rather than extending the agreement with current tenant, Dundee Depot Dogs, the village board decided to seek a new food vendor to rent the caboose at 112 Railroad St.

"It's a really great opportunity to help define downtown East Dundee and really become a part of what we're trying to do here and the image we're trying to portray as a historic village located on the Fox River Trail," Johnsen said. "Anyone interested in embracing that image with us, we'd encourage them to apply."

Dundee Depot Dogs operator Jim Stanula had indicated he wanted to divest himself of the business and was searching for a buyer to take it over, Johnsen said. Last month, trustees denied his request for a 30-day contract extension and opted to start over with a new request for proposals. At the time, Village President Lael Miller said East Dundee had already received several inquiries from potential concession stand operators.

The village isn't limiting its search to a specific concept or style of food, Johnsen said. However, special consideration will be given to experienced operators, applicants who propose using local food products and menus that would not conflict with other nearby restaurants.

"We see it as a tourist attraction," she said. "We're open to all types of businesses."

As part of the application, potential operators must submit a full business plan, a suggested menu, financial estimates and security plans, according to village documents. The chosen business will be required to pay the village a minimum of 11.5 percent of its gross sales as its monthly rent.

The new vendor would also be expected to operate the caboose at least eight hours per day, six days a week from April 1 through Oct. 31, documents show, as well as during community events at the village's request.

Proposals are due to the village by 4 p.m. March 20, at which point a selection committee will evaluate the plans and interview potential operators. The village board would have to vote on a license agreement with the new business.

Johnsen said she expects the concession stand to be up and running in late spring or early summer.

More information about submitting proposals can be found on the village's website at eastdundee.net.

  A caboose concession stand in downtown East Dundee could soon get a new operator. Village officials are seeking proposals from businesses interested in renting the space. Rick West/rwest@dailyherald.com
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