Paddle and Trail Aurora lease approved

A retail shop that plans to offer canoe tours on the Fox River will rent its Aurora location from the city for $6,000 a year under a lease approved Tuesday by the city council.

Paddle and Trail Aurora will be managed by Aurorans and outdoor enthusiasts Charlie Zine and Gary Mechanic and will open in a former brick company building owned by the city at 107 S. Spruce St.

Store management has the option of seeking grant funding from a development agreement with the city to help cover the costs of turning the building into a store selling gear for biking, boating, hiking and running.

At the request of Alderman-at-Large Bob O’Connor, who leads the council’s finance committee, the store also has an exit clause, which grants the option of canceling the lease before signing a development agreement if remodeling costs are too high.

“We didn’t ask for it, but we definitely appreciate that they’re, in spirit, 100 percent with us in wanting this to be a successful retail operation,” Zine said. “They recognize what we’re trying to do is in concert with the city’s efforts to recast the downtown into a more modern and functional downtown. Retail and recreation are part of that.”

Mayor Tom Weisner said Paddle and Trail’s business plan matches the city’s goal of increasing use of the river.

During an initial meeting with Zine, Mechanic and Paddle and Trail owner Walter Loos, Weisner surprised the trio by offering to lead them on a walking tour of downtown to find an appropriate space for their business.

“I think it’s a good way for them to get established and try to build the business,” Weisner said. “I think it works for everyone.”

Zine gained access to the building Wednesday morning. After a brief look around, he said he anticipates the space will need flooring and garage door upgrades, display cases, racks for boats and bikes and a new coat of paint before it’s transformed into Paddle and Trail.

“We’re basically converting a three-car garage to a showroom for bikes and boats,” Zine said.

The store is planning a launch party May 6 and a grand opening in the summer.