(Above) Realtor Karen Sorenson, Landmark Title owner Mike Staeck and City Development Director Brian O'Connell meet in O'Connell's office on Monday afternoon. Staeck was delivering a check from Developer Tom Tousis to secure an option on land at the corner of Washington Avenue and West Boulevard in West Racine.
Tousis intends to build a grocery store, gas station and restaurant on the site. His plans were delayed, however, when it was discovered a stormwater pipe was bisecting his proposed building. The city's Redevelopment Authority, which technically owns the property, voted last week to give Tousis until Monday at 4:30 p.m. to make a $5,000 payment to secure the option. The check was delivered Monday at 4:10 p.m.
Tousis' proposal now heads to the City Council for approval. It's scheduled to go to the Access Corridor Review committee, which will evaluate the merits of the project. O'Connell said Monday it's unclear when Tousis' proposal will be taken up, because changes are likely coming to the project.
