Economic Development Commission

Regular Meeting

Mundelein, IL · July 24, 2025

Minutes

Mundelein Economic Development July 24, 2025 Commission Meeting Minutes CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order at 7:32 AM on Thursday, July 24, 2024, at the Mundelein Village Hall. ATTENDANCE Commission Attendance: Present: Chairman Decker, Commissioner Streb, Commissioner Lowry, Commissioner Kalicki, Commissioner Mitial, Commissioner Trillhaase, Commissioner Echeverria, Commissioner Gibbs, Commissioner Jackson, Commissioner Shutan Absent: Also Present: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner; Erin Swanson, Administrative Assistant Commissioner Trillhaase left at 9:06 AM. ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions or deletions to the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTARY Freedom Nguyen, Communications & Community Engagement Manager, informed the Commission that he is currently working on the Annual Marketing Plan. He encouraged the Commission to consider adding their events to the Mundelein calendar and also extended an invitation to collaborate on other EDC marketing initiatives. MINUTES APPROVAL Approval of the May 22, 2025 Minutes Motion to approve the May 22, 2025, Economic Development Commission Regular Meeting Minutes. RESULT: Passed [Yes 10, No 0, Abstained 0] MOVER: Commissioner Angela Trillhaase SECONDER: Commissioner Edward Streb AYES: Michael Decker, Edward Streb, Laurel Lowry, Robert Kalicki, Sarah Mitial, Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echeverria, Virginia Gibbs, Raymond Jackson, David Shutan NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None NEW BUSINESS S.T.A.R. Grant Application - Smokin BBQ on 45 Motion to recommend approval of Smokin BBQ on 45 S.T.A.R. Grant application for an amount not to exceed $1,500. Danita Ward was present to inform the Commission about their project. Ms. Ward is seeking to replace the outdated lighting in the dining area with fixtures that are more modern and cost-effective. The existing lighting was inherited from the previous cellular business, and she noted that the current electric bills are high. She believes new fixtures would provide both aesthetic and financial benefits. Ms. Ward also mentioned that some customers have commented on the outdated lighting. The Commission clarified that while the contractor is local, their business is not located in Mundelein, based on the address listed on the quote. RESULT: Passed [Yes 10, No 0, Abstained 0] MOVER: Commissioner Edward Streb SECONDER: Commissioner Raymond Jackson AYES: Michael Decker, Edward Streb, Laurel Lowry, Robert Kalicki, Sarah Mitial, Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echeverria, Virginia Gibbs, Raymond Jackson, David Shutan NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None Chamber Membership Grant Application- Three Birds Yarn Studio Motion to recommend approval of the Chamber Membership Grant application for an amount not to exceed $200. Chairman Decker informed the Commission that Three Birds Yarn Studio is a new business that has opened in Mundelein. Commissioner Lowry confirmed that the business operates a successful online store and is now transitioning to a brick-and- mortar location. RESULT: Passed [Yes 10, No 0, Abstained 0] MOVER: Commissioner Virginia Gibbs SECONDER: Commissioner Laurel Lowry AYES: Michael Decker, Edward Streb, Laurel Lowry, Robert Kalicki, Sarah Mitial, Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echeverria, Virginia Gibbs, Raymond Jackson, David Shutan NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None District Assignments Chairman Decker informed the Commission about changes to district assignments. He explained that the request originated from District 1 representative, Commissioner Trillhaase, and expressed his support for the change. Chairman Decker noted that District 1 includes the Downtown area, and that it would be beneficial to have a representative who is also a member of Mundelein Community Connection (MCC) engaging with these centrally located businesses. He encouraged all Commissioners to bring forward any reassignment requests and to collaborate with one another to facilitate any desired changes. Introductions Chairman Decker gave a brief introduction of the newest commissioner, David Shutan, and gave him a moment to introduce himself. Commissioner Shutan stated that he has been living in Mundelein since 2016. He grew up in the Highland Park area and briefly lived in Scottsdale, Arizona. He lives in Loch Lomond and wanted to get more involved in the community. He works for a company that offers software for government agencies. The remaining commissioners introduced themselves to Commissioner Shutan. OLD BUSINESS 2025 Summer Business Mixer I. Guadarrama gave an overview of the event. The event was under budget. A survey was sent out. Although there were not many responses, the ones received were positive. Some recommended future topics included community population growth and business growth rates. Workshops and panel discussions were also recommended. Commissioner Lowry suggested possibly moving the event indoors for next year. Proposed a tentative October date for the next mixer event. Suggested possible future event / social media seminar in the future. Chairman Decker discussed the improved conversations when the group was relocated indoors. Commissioner Trillhaase agreed with productive discussions at the mixer. Commissioner Jackson reflected on positive observations of social media after the event. Commissioner Lowry reviewed the calendar for the scheduling of the next event. She would like to look at mid-end of October and stated that Tighthead may offer space free of charge. Chairman Decker asked I. Guadarrama to check the calendar for Village availability for the next event. EDC Tabling Events Chairman Decker discussed tabling events for the Grand Prix and the Farmers Market regarding foot traffic. Commissioner Trillhaase reviewed the dates of the upcoming farmers' markets and requested volunteers to staff the table. She also recommended splitting shifts in the future. Chairman Decker discussed attending more public-facing events and discussed how the commission could offer more benefits to the public attending events. Micro Shops at Mundelein Commissioner Streb is planning to give a presentation on the Micro Shops to the Village Board. He reviewed the slide presentation on the prospective layout with Park Street and Lake Street options. Commissioner Streb also reviewed similar shops located in McHenry and Batavia and presented statistics on the conversion of the shops to larger brick and mortar businesses. McHenry was able to build their mini shops for under $1,000,000.00, but this was partly because they utilized donated labor. Commissioner Streb stated that he plans to ask to Board to create a group to determine site, cost, and to initiate fund-raising. Commissioner Jackson asked about fundraising plans. Commissioner Streb discussed a tentative plan to create a plaque wall for recognizing initial donors. He also mentioned a prior discussion with the community development director where she had mentioned possible grants to explore. COMMITTEE UPDATES Chairman Decker assigned new commissioner David Shutan to the Recognize committee and gave an overview of the different committees and goals. Recognize (Robert Kalicki, David Shutan) No updates Advise (Michael Decker, Raymond Jackson) Commissioner Jackson stated that he had reached out to some businesses but has not received any responses to date. Commissioner Jackson also stated that there is a new business looking for available space to lease. The business offers custom apparel design. The business is currently located in Volo but would like to relocate to Mundelein. Attract (Ed Streb, Sarah Mitial) Commissioner Mitial reached out to DoubleTree. The hotel is interested in receiving a list of local businesses to have for handing out to guests. Retain (Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echevarria) Commissioner Trillhaase brought up the idea of mini business meet-ups. Businesses in town could take turns hosting a meet up for one hour per month. Educate (Virginia Gibbs, Laurie Lowry) The flyer for business resources was discussed. Feedback was received that some contacts on the flyer were difficult to reach. An overhaul of the flyer may be needed. OTHER REPORTS No other reports VILLAGE PROJECT UPDATES I. Guadarrama recomended the commission watch the Board Meeting scheduled for July 28th. The Village will be making updates to the Social Media policy and this will have information that all commissioners will need to follow. NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING, Thursday, August 28, 2025 ADJOURNMENT Motion to adjourn the Regular Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025. RESULT: Passed [Yes 9, No 0, Abstained 0] MOVER: Commissioner Laurel Lowry SECONDER: Commissioner Raymond Jackson AYES: Michael Decker, Edward Streb, Laurel Lowry, Robert Kalicki, Sarah Mitial, Miguel Echeverria, Virginia Gibbs, Raymond Jackson, David Shutan NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None The meeting adjourned at 9:10 AM.

Agenda

Packet

AGENDA MUNDELEIN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION MEETING July 24, 2025 - 7:30 AM Village Hall - Board Room 300 Plaza Circle, Mundelein, IL 60060 I. CALL TO ORDER II. ATTENDANCE III. ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA IV. PUBLIC COMMENTARY V. MINUTES APPROVAL A. Approval of the May 22, 2025 Minutes VI. NEW BUSINESS A. S.T.A.R. Grant Application - Smokin BBQ on 45 Motion to recommend approval/denial of Smokin BBQ on 45 S.T.A.R. Grant application for an amount not to exceed $1,417.47. B. Chamber Membership Grant Application- Three Birds Yarn Studio Motion to recommend approval/denial of the Chamber Membership Grant application for an amount not to exceed $200. C. District Assignments VII. OLD BUSINESS A. 2025 Summer Business Mixer B. EDC Tabling Events Page |1 Page 1 of 25 C. Micro Shops at Mundelein VIII. COMMITTEE UPDATES A. Recognize (Robert Kalicki, Jen Grieco) B. Advise (Michael Decker, Raymond Jackson) C. Attract (Ed Streb, Sarah Mitial) D. Retain (Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echevarria) E. Educate (Virginia Gibbs, Laurie Lowry) IX. OTHER REPORTS X. VILLAGE PROJECT UPDATES XI. NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING, THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2025 XII. ADJOURNMENT The Village of Mundelein, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, requests that persons with disabilities who require certain accommodations to allow them to observe and/or participate in this meeting, or who have questions about the accessibility of the meeting or facilities, to contact the ADA Coordinator at 847-949-3200 to allow the Village to arrange accommodations for those persons. Economic Development Committee Agenda 7/24/2025 Page |2 Page 2 of 25 Mundelein Economic Development May 22, 2025 Commission Meeting Minutes CALL TO ORDER The regularly scheduled meeting of the Economic Development Commission was held on May 22, 2025. Chairperson Decker called the meeting to order at 7:30 AM. ATTENDANCE Commission Attendance: Present: Chairman Decker, Commissioner Streb, Commissioner Lowry, Commissioner Kalicki, Commissioner Trillhaase, Commissioner Echeverria, Commissioner Gibbs, Commissioner Jackson Absent: Commissioner Mitial Also Present: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner; and Jessica Marvin, Associate Planner ADDITIONS OR DELETIONS TO AGENDA There were no additions or deletions to the agenda. PUBLIC COMMENTARY There was no public commentary. MINUTES APPROVAL Approval of the April 24, 2025 Minutes Motion by E. Streb, seconded by R. Jackson to approve the April 24, 2025 meeting minutes. RESULT: Passed [Yes 8, No 0, Abstained 0] MOVER: Commissioner Edward Streb SECONDER: Commissioner Raymond Jackson AYES: Michael Decker, Edward Streb, Laurel Lowry, Robert Kalicki, Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echeverria, Virginia Gibbs, Raymond Jackson NAYS: None ABSTAIN: None NEW BUSINESS Mundelein Grand Prix I. Guadarrama informed the Commission about the upcoming Mundelein Grand Prix Page 3 of 25 and requested the EDC’s assistance in promoting the sponsorship kits during site visits to the Mundelein business community. She also noted that if a few commissioners are interested in staffing the table, staff will arrange for an EDC tent and table at the event on Monday, July 21, 2025. EDC Tabling Opportunities I. Guadarrama informed the Commission about possible EDC tabling opportunities, and R. Jackson recommended sending a survey to determine which commissioners can attend each event. Staff will send out a survey within the upcoming week. OLD BUSINESS Great Lakes Naval Base Welcome Packet/Pamphlet The Commission discussed partnering with local hotels that may be interested in a similar welcome packet or pamphlet. A. Trillhaase and M. Decker will reach out to the two hotels and motel in Mundelein. Micro Shops at Mundelein The subcommittee (E. Streb, L. Lowry, and S. Mitial) provided an update to the Commission and will continue meeting monthly to further discuss the project. The subcommittee will present the project to the Village Board on July 28, 2025, to request permission to proceed with the research and to form a larger committee with potential partners. I. Guadarrama and E. Streb will collaborate on the PowerPoint presentation. 2025 Summer Business Mixer L. Lowry provided an update to the Commission, noting that an email with assignments for the Commissioners will be sent as the event date approaches. The Summer Business Mixer is scheduled for June 26, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM on the South Patio of Mundelein Village Hall. She also recommended having one EDC commissioner and one MCC member at each table to help facilitate conversations. The subcommittee (L. Lowry, V. Gibbs, and R. Kalicki) will continue to meet to finalize event details. Mandatory Use of Village-Issued Email for Commissioners I. Guadarrama informed the Commission that staff will no longer send EDC emails to personal email addresses. All correspondence will be sent through the Commissioners’ EDC email accounts. Several commissioners mentioned they are experiencing technical difficulties, and staff noted that Jen Marshall will assist with resolving these issues at the end of the meeting. M. Echeverria left at 8:33 AM. Page 4 of 25 COMMITTEE UPDATES Recognize (Robert Kalicki, Vacancy) There were no updates. Advise (Michael Decker, Raymond Jackson) The Advise Committee suggested forming a small committee with local small businesses, similar to Coffee with the Mayor. This committee would meet quarterly, with discussion topics varying at each meeting. Attract (Ed Streb, Sarah Mitial) There were no updates. Retain (Angela Trillhaase, Miguel Echevarria) There were no updates. Educate (Virginia Gibbs, Laurie Lowry) The Educate Committee reminded the Commission about the Summer Business Mixer. OTHER REPORTS Village Board Committee Assignments I. Guadarrama informed the Commission that Trustee Daniel Juarez serves as Chair of the Community and Economic Development Committee, with Jen Grieco as Vice Chair and Tony Ugaste as a committee member. Economic Development Commission Opening I. Guadarrama informed the Commission that she and M. Decker are still interviewing applicants. Free Business Advertising Opportunity A. Trillhaase informed the Commission about the upcoming Mundelein Arts Festival and requested the EDC’s support in sharing the sponsorship form with the Mundelein business community during site visits. VILLAGE PROJECT UPDATES There were no Village project updates. Page 5 of 25 NEXT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETING, TBD ADJOURNMENT Motion by R. Jackson, seconded by L. Lowry to adjourn the meeting. RESULT: Passed [Yes 7, No 0, Abstained 1] MOVER: Commissioner Raymond Jackson SECONDER: Commissioner Laurel Lowry AYES: Michael Decker, Edward Streb, Laurel Lowry, Robert Kalicki, Angela Trillhaase, Virginia Gibbs, Raymond Jackson NAYS: None ABSTAIN: Miguel Echeverria The meeting was adjourned at 9:06 AM. Respectfully submitted, Jessica Marvin, Associate Planner Recording Secretary Page 6 of 25 To: Commission Members From: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner For: Mundelein Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025 Subject: S.T.A.R. Grant Application - Smokin BBQ on 45 Attachments: 1. STAR Grant - Smokin BBQ on 45 2. Images of Dining Area Background: Danita Ward, owner of Smokin BBQ on 45, has submitted a S.T.A.R. Business Grant application for a proposed building improvement project at 428 N. Lake Street. In 2021, Smokin BBQ on 45 received a BIG Grant from the Village, which allowed the business to expand into an adjacent unit and add a new dining room and ADA bathrooms. Prior to this expansion, the business primarily operated on a take-out model. While the BIG Grant helped cover part of the expansion costs, the remodeling budget was fully utilized, leaving no funds available to update the dining room lighting system. With the new dining area now operational, Mrs. Ward is seeking to modernize and enhance the lighting to improve the customer experience and overall ambiance. This upgrade is expected to contribute positively to the restaurant's appeal and potentially increase tax revenue. The proposed project includes installation of updated lighting fixtures, with some items being sourced from Home Depot. The contractor selected for the job is based in Mundelein. The total estimated cost of the project is $2,834.95, and Smokin BBQ on 45 is requesting $1,417.47 in grant funding, representing 50% of the total project cost. Recommendation: Motion to recommend approval/denial of Smokin BBQ on 45 S.T.A.R. Grant application for an amount not to exceed $1,417.47. Page 7 of 25 Page 8 of 25 Page 9 of 25 Page 10 of 25 Page 11 of 25 Page 12 of 25 Page 13 of 25 Page 14 of 25 Page 15 of 25 To: Commission Members From: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner For: Mundelein Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025 Subject: Chamber Membership Grant Application- Three Birds Yarn Studio Attachments: 1. Application Background: Erin Gates, owner of Three Birds Yarn Studio, submitted a Chamber Membership Grant application to cover the membership fee for Mundelein Community Connection. Although the grant allows for reimbursement of up to $350, she is only requesting $200. Recommendation: Motion to recommend approval/denial of the Chamber Membership Grant application for an amount not to exceed $200. Page 16 of 25 Page 17 of 25 Page 18 of 25 To: Commission Members From: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner For: Mundelein Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025 Subject: District Assignments Attachments: 1. EDC Member Districts Map Background: With the recent opening at the EDC, there will be a change in assignments. Chairman Decker will provide more details about the changes. Recommendation: Page 19 of 25 District 1: District 2: District 3: District 4: District 5: David Virginia Angela Miguel Michael Shutan Gibbs Trillhaase Echeverria Decker, Chairman District 6: District 7: District 8: District 9: District 10: Raymond Laurie Sarah Edward Robert Jackson Lowry Mitial Streb Kalicki Page 20 of 25 To: Commission Members From: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner For: Mundelein Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025 Subject: 2025 Summer Business Mixer Attachments: None Background: The 2025 EDC Summer Mixer welcomed a total of 54 attendees, including 27 members from the Mundelein business community. From the Village, there were 6 elected officials, 8 EDC Commissioners, and 5 staff members in attendance.As guests arrived, EDC Commissioners invited them to locate their EDC district and meet their respective Commissioner in exchange for a raffle ticket. This activity encouraged introductions and helped attendees identify key contacts for future questions or support. Once the program began, EDC Commissioners introduced themselves and our community partner, MCC. They presented the various grants and support resources available to the business community. Following the introductions, attendees participated in a speed networking activity, where they were grouped with an EDC Commissioner and/or MCC representative to discuss four questions: • What is the biggest challenge facing your business? • What works best for you in marketing your business? • Are you using AI in your business? • What resources have you used (EDC, CLC’s Small Business Development Center, etc.), and how have they helped your business? Due to a storm quickly approaching, the event was relocated to the Board Room, but the conversations continued. The evening concluded with a raffle, where attendees won several prizes, including Mundelein gear and gift cards to: • Smoke N BBQ on 45, Page 21 of 25 • Park Street Restaurant, • Tony Cannoli, • Tighthead Brewing Co., • Gale Street Inn Budget Summary: Total Budget: $1,500 Total Expenses: $1,484.82 Remaining: $15.18 under budget Breakdown: Publicity: $752 Liquor License & Insurance: $151 Food, Refreshments, Ice: $456.82 Prizes: $125 Feedback Summary: A survey was sent to all attendees (excluding Village staff and officials). Those who responded to the survey found the speed networking activity particularly valuable, although many wished for more time at each table. Most agreed that the topics discussed were relevant. Compared to last year, attendees found this mixer more informative and appreciated the reminder about the various grant opportunities offered by the Village. Topics of Interest for Future Events: • Community population growth • Business growth rates • Collaborative marketing strategies Suggested Event Formats for the Future: • Workshops • Panel discussions Overall, the event was a great success. Staff received positive feedback as guests were leaving. Despite the rain and a last-minute venue change, attendees enjoyed the conversations, good food, and drinks. Recommendation: Page 22 of 25 To: Commission Members From: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner For: Mundelein Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025 Subject: EDC Tabling Events Attachments: None Background: A sign-up sheet was sent to all Commissioners for tabling opportunities throughout the summer. The final schedule is as follows: June 7 – Farmer’s Market Opening Day Laurie Lowry Robert Kalicki Michael Decker Sarah Mitial July 19 - Farmer's Market Gear Up for the Grand Prix (CANCELED) Michael Decker July 21 – Mundelein Grand Prix Laurie Lowry Michael Decker August 2 – Farmer’s Market Mundy Pride Ed Streb Miguel Echeverria August 9 – Farmer’s Market Back to School Michael Decker August 19 – Farmer’s Market Vendor Appreciation Day Michael Decker Page 23 of 25 September 13 – Farmer’s Market Fiesta en el Mercado Raymond Jackson Robert Kalicki Based on the first tabling event experience, staff recommends having at least two Commissioners signed up for each event. If only one Commissioner is available, staff recommends canceling the tabling event for that day. It is important that Commissioners attend the events they have signed up for. If staff is unavailable to assist with setup or takedown, Commissioners will need to pick up the table, tent, and other materials at least one day in advance and return them to Village Hall the next business day. These events are a valuable opportunity for Mundelein residents and local business owners to meet members of the EDC, ask questions, and learn more about the Commission’s efforts to support economic development in the Village. Recommendation: Page 24 of 25 To: Commission Members From: Isabel Guadarrama, Senior Planner For: Mundelein Economic Development Commission Meeting of July 24, 2025 Subject: Micro Shops at Mundelein Attachments: None Background: The Committee will provide any updates as needed. The project will be presented to the Village Board on July 28, 2025. Recommendation: Page 25 of 25