West Cook News

Village of Brookfield Economic Development Commission met Feb. 19

Here are the minutes provided by the commission:

I. Call to Order

The regular meeting of the Economic Development Commission was called to order at 8:36 a.m.

Chairperson Pro Tem: Jennifer Baader

II. Roll Call

Commissioners Present: Baader, Curelo, Mack, Moore, and Richard Commissioners Absent: Baader, Pardun, Silva

Others Present: Trustee Ketchmark, Village Manager Wiberg, Community Development Director Popovic, Economic Development Specialist Adasiak, Communications Manager Uphues, and Management Analyst Rife

III. Approval of Prior Meeting Minutes

Chair Baader asked for a motion to approve the January 15, 2025 Meeting Minutes. Commissioner Mack moved to approved and the motion was seconded by Commissioner Richard. Motion passed: 5-0.

IV. Community Development Department Report

1) Commissioner Vacancy

Discussion on potential candidates to fill the vacancy on the Economic Development Commission. Community Development Director Popovic mentioned Gina Sharenow as a potential candidate to represent the Chamber of Commerce. The urgency of filling the EDC position was emphasized along with the need for a Chamber representative.

2) Brookfield Shops Update

Popovic provided an update on the Brookfield Shops, noting that electrical installation will begin as soon as the weather allows. She also mentioned that the Brookfield Shops Vendor Selection Day is scheduled for March 4. Popovic emphasized that there is a lengthy list of tasks to tackle as we move ahead toward the Shops' Opening Day. Popovic explained that staff have undertaken the initial work necessary to bring this initiative to fruition for its opening in June 2025. She touched on key milestones staff has achieved thus far and mentioned the next phase which includes overseeing the exterior and interior build out that includes electrical work, interior build-out (drywall, insulation, flooring), restrooms, exterior signage, decor and aesthetic enhancements, landscaping and outdoor enhancements, security measures, furniture and fixtures, accessibility features (ramps and ADA compliant adjustments) and technology set-up. Commissioner Popovic mentioned that the Berwyn Shops representatives this Commission met last year, Kendra and Patrick, have launched a consulting business with a focus on assisting municipalities and non-profit entities with the development of retail incubator programs, providing grant assistance, and offering a range of operational tools to support successful program implementation and sustainability. Their services are available April 1, 2025.

Popovic stressed that there are several critical projects that would benefit from additional support and specialized expertise unique to this initiative since this is Brookfield's first year launching and establishing the program. She expressed having the additional guidance and support would be helpful especially with other key initiatives within the Community Development Department that require its attention and resources. Popovic explained that given the remaining tasks required in the next 10 weeks, it would be advantageous to utilize experienced consultants during this phase who can quickly engage, provide immediate support, and provide valuable feedback. Popovic shared their proposal and scope of work. Commissioner Baader expressed that the first year is definitely worth this investment as we want this program to succeed. Commissioner Mack suggested a fee based on time and material rather than a flat fee. The Commissioners noted that it would be useful to have their assistance for a range of 10-16 weeks to assist through the grand opening but that any further work would be subject to need and further review. A motion was made by Commissioner Richard to further the discussion of PLM Consulting for the Brookfield Shops to the Village Board. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Mack. The motion passed unanimously: 5-0.

V. Old Business

1) Shop Local Gift Card Program Update

Popovic presented the analytics for the Shop Local Gift Card program, which show that there is currently $13,000 in outstanding loaded gift cards. She also sought feedback on whether to continue or discontinue the program. The discussion included the potential investment in additional gift cards, promotional efforts, and inquiries regarding the Chamber’s remaining inventory. Commissioner Richard noted that the Chamber likely has a significant amount of inventory on hand and believes there are cards held by some businesses. He expressed concerns about the program's continuation, particularly given the rise of technology-driven payment methods like Apple Pay and other efficient options. Commissioner Mack emphasized the importance of marketing the existing inventory, pointing out that many people forget about the cards. He suggested that instead of purchasing more inventory, efforts should be focused on promoting and utilizing the existing inventory of cards.

VI. New Business

1) Discussion of Property Improvement Program Request for 8858 Burlington Avenue

The Commissioners reviewed a PIP application from Araceli (Maria) Verduzco (Petitioner) for a Property Improvement Program (PIP) Grant to support a sign improvement at 8858 Burlington Avenue. Petitioner operates Loca Mocha Cafe Inc., at 8858 Burlington, under a month-to-month sublease agreement with the Village of Brookfield. Petitioner intends to use the PIP grant to update the café's outdated signage, replacing it with a more modern design to refresh and modernize the building's exterior. The Commissioners unanimously support the proposed upgrade. A motion was made by Commissioner Moore made a motion to recommend to the Village Board for further discussion. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Curelo. The motion passed with a vote of 5-0.

2) Discussion of Property Improvement Program Request for 8819 Ogden Avenue

The Commissioners reviewed an application from 8819 Ogden Avenue LLC (Petitioner) – Demetrios Konstantopoulos, for a Property Improvement (PIP) Grant to support exterior enhancement of 8819 Ogden Avenue. This location will be a second location for a drive-through restaurant called Bill's Place. The Petitioner intends to undertake a comprehensive renovation of the entire property with interior and exterior improvements. PIP funding is requested for additional exterior improvements to the facade and the signage. The petitioner wants to significantly improve the building's curb appeal on Ogden and its overall aesthetic, elevating its visual impact and ensuring a more attractive, inviting exterior. Commissioner Mack made a motion to recommend to the Village Board for further discussion. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Moore. The motion passed with a vote of 5-0.

VII. Commissioner Reports

Commissioner Richard asked about installation of EV charging ports and discussed the possibility of installing EV chargers at the ATM site on the FNBB property. Popovic reported about the awarded grant the Village received for EV charging stations and mentioned the current sites selected are the Village Hall and Elhert Park. Popovic indicated that staff would explore the potential of adding or changing locations to include a partnership with the bank. Village Manager Wiberg noted that we are entering a new era and asked Richard to provide more details on charging his electric vehicles. 

Commissioner Curelo commented that the initiative is helping bridge the gap. Popovic added that staff would review the parameters of the grant to determine what options might be available.

VIII. Public Comment

None.

IX. Adjournment

A motion to adjourn was made by Commissioner Mack and seconded by Commissioner Baader. The meeting adjourned at 9:38 a.m.

https://brookfieldil.civicweb.net/document/173338/EDC%20Minutes%20(02-19-25).pdf?handle=A655653C74EF485B8E92A21F6D135793