Board recommends funding utilities for Stellar Vista Observatory amid $300,000 phase‑one estimate

The Kane County Economic Development Board on Oct. 27 discussed the Stellar Vista Observatory project and voted to recommend that the county commission consider using economic development GRAMA funds to pay for utilities that would allow Phase 1 to proceed.

The board's chair introduced the item, noting the agenda included a "Stellar Vista Observatory proposal for $25,000," and asked for a motion. A board member moved to "approve additional GRAMA funds from the economic development for this Stellar Vista, for the utilities so they can get up and rolling off the ground," and the motion was seconded.

During earlier discussion, the project presenter described a two‑phase plan: Phase 1 is about 600 square feet with bathroom and storage and could take an optimistic six weeks (realistically up to 12) to construct. The presenter also outlined fees for private night‑sky experiences to raise operating funds: $150 per hour for small groups, $200 per hour for larger groups and $250 per hour for very large groups; interpreters would receive a portion while remaining revenue would go to the project.

Board members and the presenter raised infrastructure concerns. The presenter said the remote site requires roughly 1,900 feet of underground conduit and step‑down transformers from a 34,500‑volt line, which was cited as the main driver of a roughly $300,000 phase‑one construction estimate. One board member noted contract language that prioritizes capital infrastructure promoting economic development, including utilities and recreational assets, and said the project might fit that language; members agreed to confirm whether state grant or contract rules permitted using the proposed funds for utility work.

The board called for the ayes; the chair reported one opposed member but concluded the recommendation was "favorably recommended" to the county commission. Members asked staff to verify whether a simple majority of members present meets board rules for a formal recommendation and whether the county commission would still consider the matter if the board recommended denial.