Du Quoin moving forward on Taco Bell

Du Quoin residents soon will have their chance to "Live Mas" with the newest addition to the city's restaurant landscape.
At Monday's city council meeting, commissioners approved a plat map for public display to allow restaurant entrepreneur John Moroney to build a new Taco Bell at the Southtowne Shopping Center on Du Quoin's south side.
Mayor Guy Alongi said the $1.3 million development will span about 2,500 square feet and create between 18 and 30 full- and part-time jobs.
Alongi also said the city is working to bring a grocery store to the shopping center.
Moroney operates W & M Restaurant Co., which runs Taco Bell locations in both Illinois and Missouri. Moroney's business also operates the Taco Bell location in nearby Carbondale.
Alongi said the city will continue to work to attract new businesses.
"In small towns, economic development is taken in small steps, and we ask everyone to be patient as we navigate through these waters," Alongi said. "I am hopeful that good things continue to happen in Du Quoin."
There was no firm timeline presented for when the new restaurant will open.