East Peoria Chamber of Commerce

East Peoria Mayor John Kahl shared an optimistic vision for the city’s next few years Friday, albeit while speaking at a venue with an uncertain future. Kahl delivered his annual State of the City address from the banquet room at the Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino, steps away from the riverboat gambling attraction that parent Boyd Gaming is looking to replace.

When East Peoria completed construction of the EastSide Centre in 1996, the multisports complex was a few steps ahead of its time. But now the times are catching up to the concept, the city's mayor said Friday.

Mayor John Kahl said East Peoria managed to weather the financial impact from COVID-19 last year by acting quickly to cut expenses and delay planned purchases.

The city of East Peoria will allow nonessential businesses to begin reopening Friday.East Peoria Mayor John Kahl is implementing his Tri-County Phased…