Celebrating 65 Years of Batavia Commercial Real Estate: A Journey Through Time
Introduction
Batavia Commercial Real Estate, a cornerstone of the Batavia, Illinois community, is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. From its humble beginnings to becoming a significant player in the commercial real estate market, the company’s journey is a testament to vision, resilience, and community spirit.
The Early Years
Founded in 1959 by Larry Dempsey, Batavia Enterprises, Inc. (BEI) began with the purchase of the 105,000 square foot former US Wind Engine and Pump Company facilities. These buildings, which had served as a munitions manufacturing plant during World War II, marked the start of BEI’s venture into creating multi-tenant, mixed-use properties. Larry’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to the community laid the foundation for what would become a thriving business. While the building was the first step for Batavia Enterprises, the most important step was, and always will be, the drive to serve our customers’ needs.
Expansion and Growth
Batavia Enterprises has diversified its portfolio over the years. Larry began looking for additional opportunities in the mid-1970s and purchased the former Dukane building on Route 64 in St. Charles. This historic Dukane building, formerly the Operadio Manufacturing and Globe Music Co. making banjos and radios, is now a multi-tenant office and industrial building referred to as the Cedar Avenue Business Center with distinctive suites for professionals reflecting the character of the buildings creative origins.
Larry’s next purchase was a new industrial facility in West Chicago that faces the DuPage County Airport. Today, this building is home to several of our long-standing customers. Each acquisition was driven by a desire to meet the diverse needs of businesses in the area, from industrial and commercial to retail and residential spaces. This period of growth was characterized by strategic investments and a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.
A Family Legacy
Larry Dempsey’s vision was carried forward by his son, Gerry Dempsey, who joined the company in 1979. Under Gerry’s leadership, BEI continued to grow, doubling its portfolio and reinforcing its commitment to the community. The company’s success has always been rooted in its family values and dedication to serving its customers’ needs.
Prior to the death of Larry Dempsey in 1988, Gerry became president of Batavia Enterprises and hired a certified property manager who would soon become an integral member of the company and the BEI Family, Dan Stellato. Throughout Dan’s career with BEI, he focused on both marketing and operational elements of the business and assisted Gerry on all major projects and purchases. Together, Gerry and Dan worked on the design and development of major accomplishments including the American Cancer Society buildout, the conversion of a Jewel grocery store into a Walgreens, the rehabilitation of the Lincoln Atrium Business Center (formerly a Batavia church) and many more projects throughout the Fox Valley area. The team also converted an 1878 Victorian home, currently called the Newton House, to an office building while retaining all its historical charm.
Following in his father’s footsteps, and with the help of Dan’s expertise, Gerry continued to expand the company’s portfolio, which included expanding into land acquisition. The company purchased 16 new land sites, over 1,000 acres, and purchased or totally remodeled 42 existing properties. With the sales of some of the acquired land parcels, Gerry was able to assist in the development of such local treasures as the Geneva Commons shopping center, Meijer and Lowes in St. Charles, as well as the residential developments of Bricher Commons in Geneva, and Redgate, and Thornley on the Fox in St. Charles.
Modern Era and Community Impact
In 2007, Batavia Enterprises expanded to include a 3rd generation with the addition of Gerry’s youngest son, Austin Dempsey. Austin joined the family business and currently holds the position of owner and CEO. Austin’s focus and priority when joining the BEI Family was to put more efficient systems in place making property management and sales & leasing two separately functioning departments. His other major priority was revitalizing and spearheading the concept of the “BEI Family” by rejuvenating BEI’s customer relationships and playing a more active role in supporting the local community.
Austin instilled five core values that are the guiding principles shaping the culture, vision and mission of BEI going forward. Because he believes “what” the company does is important, but “how” the company does it makes the difference. BEI’s core values are:
• Respect for our customers
• Commitment to excellence
• Growth Focused
• Personal Accountability
• Teamwork
Today, BEI manages over 50 properties and continues to play a vital role in the local community. The company’s core values, specifically respect for customers, commitment to excellence and community building, are evident in ongoing projects and partnerships. BEI is not just a real estate company; it is a community partner, contributing to local non-profits, educational initiatives and community events.
The company is a strong supporter and sponsor of local and regional non-profit organizations including: Batavia MainStreet, Fox Valley Patriotic Organization, The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, Mutual Ground, CASA Kane County, Batavia United Way, Anderson Humane, Water Street Studios and the Batavia, St Charles, Geneva and Sandwich Chambers of Commerce.
Celebrating 65 Years
As BEI celebrates its 65th anniversary, it reflects on a rich history of innovation, growth, and community service. The company’s journey from a single property to a diverse portfolio is a testament to its adaptability and vision. Looking ahead, BEI remains committed to its mission of providing quality real estate solutions and fostering community development.
As the company marks this significant milestone, the community is invited on Thursday September 19th to celebrate and commemorate the continuing legacy of excellence and community engagement for many years to come.
