Des Plaines Mayor Touts City's Progress in Annual Address

Mayor Andrew Goczkowski highlights investments, new businesses, and public safety improvements in State of the City speech.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 10:51am

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In his annual State of the City address, Des Plaines Mayor Andrew Goczkowski touted the city's progress over the past year, including investments in downtown properties, the opening of 11 new restaurants, and a drop in crime rates. The mayor also announced the upcoming opening of a new Costco Business Center and the construction of a $285 million Vetter pharmaceutical facility, signaling continued economic growth in the city.

Why it matters

Des Plaines has faced economic challenges in recent years, but the mayor's upbeat assessment suggests the city is rebounding and positioning itself for future prosperity. The investments in downtown, new business openings, and public safety improvements are all positive signs that could attract further development and residents to the community.

The details

In his speech, Mayor Goczkowski highlighted several key developments in Des Plaines over the past year. The city has invested in multiple properties along Lee and Miner streets downtown, including the former white bank building that will become a restaurant in 2027 and the former Olivetis' restaurant property, which will also be converted into a new eatery. Additionally, the city purchased two lots on Miner Street near the Des Plaines Theater, which the city had previously renovated and hired Onesti Entertainment to manage. The mayor also noted that local construction value has almost doubled between 2021 and 2025, and the city council recently approved plans for a new Costco Business Center on Devon Avenue. Goczkowski also touted the opening of 11 new restaurants in the city and Des Plaines' recognition as one of the top 250 best places to live by U.S. News & World Report magazine. The mayor emphasized that crime is down and the police and fire departments are fully staffed and responsive to the community's needs.

  • Mayor Goczkowski delivered the State of the City address on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
  • The city has invested in downtown properties over the last year or two.
  • The Costco Business Center on Devon Avenue was approved by the city council last week.
  • The $285 million Vetter pharmaceutical facility at Mount Prospect and Algonquin roads is currently under construction.

The players

Andrew Goczkowski

The mayor of Des Plaines, who delivered the annual State of the City address highlighting the city's progress and future plans.

Onesti Entertainment

The company hired by the city of Des Plaines to manage the operations of the renovated Des Plaines Theater.

Costco

The retail chain that is opening a new Costco Business Center in Des Plaines on Devon Avenue.

Vetter

The pharmaceutical company that is constructing a new $285 million facility in Des Plaines at the intersection of Mount Prospect and Algonquin roads.

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What they’re saying

“We're definitely on our way.”

— Andrew Goczkowski, Mayor of Des Plaines

“Hire locally, engage, invest, tell the story and shop local.”

— Andrew Goczkowski, Mayor of Des Plaines

What’s next

The city council will likely continue to monitor the progress of the new Costco Business Center and Vetter pharmaceutical facility developments, as well as explore additional opportunities to invest in the downtown area and attract new businesses to Des Plaines.

The takeaway

Des Plaines appears to be rebounding from past economic challenges, with the mayor highlighting a range of positive developments including new investments, business openings, and public safety improvements. This suggests the city is well-positioned for continued growth and prosperity, though maintaining this momentum will require ongoing collaboration between city leaders, businesses, and the community.