About Us
We Sweat the Small Stuff
Our edge lies in the intersection of construction and permitting. As former contractors, we understand the pressures and stakes of commercial construction delays. As seasoned permit expediters, we know how to submit applications strategically for faster approvals. With deep knowledge of the Chicago Building Department and the flexibility to adapt to on-site or regulatory changes, we’re more than a service provider—we’re your strategic ally from planning to approval.
Who We Help
At JLA, we collaborate with key players in the design and construction process—offering the permitting support they need to stay focused on their main responsibilities.
We regularly partner with:
Architects, Contractors, Developers, Construction Managers, & Property Managers
Principal
Alex westa
Alex has over 29 years of experience managing thousands of building permit submissions and various ancillary approvals. Prior to permit expediting, he worked as a general contractor with Professional Design Builders Inc., focusing on suburban home construction and remodeling. A veteran of the First Gulf War, Alex served in the Illinois Air National Guard. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology with a concentration in Construction Management from Western Illinois University.
Principal
Richard darche
Richard brings over 27 years of experience processing permits in the City of Chicago, with a focus on new construction submittals and national retail rollout programs. He previously served as a construction superintendent with Town & Country Homes from 2006 to 2008. Richard holds a degree in Construction Engineering from Bradley University and is a licensed real estate agent.
Project Manager
lorena garcia
Lorena brings over 24 years of permit expediting experience in Chicago. She is highly familiar with all submittal programs and has supported a wide range of project types. Lorena is especially experienced with the City’s online Hanson submittal system and keeps current with its evolving processes and standards.
Project Manager
Phil Rohan
Phil has over 10 years of experience as a Project Manager at JLA, supporting tenant buildouts and new retail construction projects. His background as a Journeyman Sprinkler Fitter and small business owner provides him with a strong understanding of construction logistics and client needs. Phil also has experience in financial services and enterprise software, having worked with Omni Financial, the IRS, and GE Access. He earned his degree from Arizona State University.
Position / Role
Patrick thomas
Patrick joined John Lyle & Associates in 2023 after more than 20 years in the restaurant industry. His skill in managing pressure, multitasking, and solving problems creatively has quickly made a positive impact on project delivery. Patrick leverages his leadership experience as a bar and restaurant manager to keep complex permitting tasks moving smooratively.
Building Code Consultant
Scott hill
Scott brings a strong background in architecture and construction management to the JLA team. He is an Associate Member of the AIA, a member of the International Code Council (ICC), and a Certified Project Manager for the Illinois Capital Development Board (CDB). His areas of focus include code consulting, due diligence, occupancy placards, and pre-plan reviews. Scott served in the U.S. Marine Corps for four years, attaining the rank of Sergeant E-4, and earned a Bachelor of Architecture with honors from the Illinois Institute of Technology. He holds ICC certifications in Building Plan Examination and Accessibility Plan Review.
Project Manager
Sal Randazzo
Sal has over five years of experience in permit expediting and licensing across Chicago, Illinois, and other jurisdictions. He specializes in project management and consulting, supporting high-profile projects at the Chicago Board of Trade, Aon Center, Civic Opera Building, and Old Chicago Post Office. Sal earned a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies and Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University.
Position / Role
Linas yurkas
Linas offers over 26 years of permit expediting experience in Chicago and nearby suburbs, along with more than 13 years in project management. He specializes in CDOT and signage submittals and has extensive knowledge of all permitting processes in the city. Linas earned his bachelor’s degree with honors from the University of Illinois at Chicago.