Plan Commission Gives Go-Ahead to Craft Brewery

The village of Oswego plan commission gave its unanimous approval Thursday night for a special use permit for Misfit Craft Brewery to .

Supporters of the project turned out in large numbers with a couple dozen people in the audience at village hall. No one spoke out against the project, but plan commissioners did have some questions for one of the business' partners, Jason Thalman.

Commissioner Kent Jones had the most enquiries, mostly centered around ensuring the space in around the old Fire Barn would be suitable for the business. He also questioned how waste produced in the beer production process would be handled.

Thalman said he and his two partners have yet to discuss those issues with Fox Metro. 

Thalman was also asked about plans for the façade of the historic structure that was vacated in 2009 by the , which still owns the building.

Initially, Thalman said, only signage would be added to the front of the building. However, eventually he said he envisions replacing the garage door on the front with floor-to-ceiling windows that would allow passersby to view the large brewing vats inside.

“I’d love for one day people to go by and see the sun shining off our large stainless steel vats,” he said.

Commissioner Jerry Bannister questioned whether Misfit's plans for 75-to-100-person private parties would require more parking than the 21 spots that would be available to the brewery. He suggested valet parking may be one way to accommodate larger crowds.

“I’ve been to many events at were they’ve valet parked cars and that might be something to consider,” he said.

Thalman reiterated his hopes that the brewery would be open by Oct. 1, saying that to do so, approval would need to come soon from the Village Board due to the large amount of equipment that needs to be ordered to start the business.

He also restated that the business has no plans to sell food, nor will it be a bar-like atmosphere for patrons to drink large amounts of alcohol. A tasting room will be available for those wishing to sample the three types of beer the company plans to begin initially brewing.

The Village Board is set to discuss the project at its committee of the whole and regular meeting to begin at 6 p.m. Tuesday at .