Grand Bear in Utica sold to Oak Brook investment company

Utica Mayor David Stewart announced the sale of Grand Bear Lodge to Sonnenschein Services Investment Groupe during a village board meeting Thursday.

The company, based out of Oak Brook, has more than 30 years in the hospitality and property management industry throughout the United States, the Caribbean and Western Europe.

Stewart said Sonnenschein officials told him they have "exciting things planned" for the waterpark/hotel business south of the village, including interior remodeling. The sale was finalized Monday.

"We're very happy with the news and we think it is a positive change for the village and the resort," Stewart said.

Grand Bear Lodge suffered a near disastrous fire on Jan. 2, 2018. The waterpark, which was heavily damaged in the blaze, recently reopened.

Village Clerk Laurie Gbur presented updated information on potential bids for providing municipal electric aggregation for Utica residents and businesses. Following limited discussion, the trustees decided to again to go with Progressive Energy Group.

At a previous meeting, Progressive representative Arnie Shramel reminded the board his company has been providing the electric aggregation to the village since 2010 with little problem and notable savings. He said, should the board continue with Progressive, the annual savings for Utica customers were projected to be $51.10.

The current aggregation contract for the village expires in September. As in past arrangements, any resident or business could opt-out of the voluntary program at any time.

The board will take a formal vote on the new 12-month renewal contract at a meeting next month.

Director of Village Affairs Jamie Turczyn said preparations are set for a Block Party event on Saturday, June 29, in the downtown area and the annual Independence Day fireworks celebration scheduled for Friday, July 5. Plans are also underway for the Pork Fest weekend Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 17 and 18. The board set the fest's budget to not exceed $30,000.

Before adjournment, trustees discussed problems with garbage and trash recently left by unknown persons using the public shelter at Carey Memorial Park. The board decided to place signs in the near future to remind people to clean up after themselves. The board is considering a small refundable deposit fee for use of the shelter by families or groups who are from outside the village limits.