Kane County Reporter

At its Jan. 12 meeting, the Village Board of Huntley heard a business proposal for the potential purchase of a property in the village. The project is located at 11808 Main St. and Chris and Barb Lincoln, owners of the Lincoln Farmstead, want to purchase the building and establish a new business called Lincoln House and Company as a wine and coffee bar. 

The building will require interior renovations and they also plan to work on the outdoor area. These changes will qualify them for renovation and small business grants, and the owners plan on applying to those as they can.

At least one board member approved of the idea.

“I'm excited that you're coming because you're adding to the charm of the square and the fact we have a tea shop and now we have this," board member Ronda Goldman said. "That's the way I look at it.”

Business representatives gave a presentation to the board, saying that they want to be the new favorite go-to coffee shop in the area, as the building they are moving into was previously a coffee spot. The board was told the cafe will have a limited food menu. The board was told the cafe will not have a drive thru as the owners want to emphasize coming in to hang out, work, or connect with friends. The representatives said the cafe will create items like charcuterie boards and snacks that pair with the wine menu to differentiate themselves from any other offerings in the community.

They also want to ensure offerings for vegetarians, vegans, and other diet restrictions. They showed the board diagrams of how they will renovate the interior and the building. They are hoping to open the business by May or June, and they are also hoping to attain or be able to use the courtyard next door. 

Though no votes on the matter were take, the board seemed to be very supportive.