Dupage Policy Journal

Village of Villa Park Economic Development Commission met Feb. 15.

Here is the minutes as provided by the Commission:

The meeting of the Economic Development Commission was called to order at 5:35 p.m. on February 15, 2017.

PRESENT: Nat Rosasco, Ben Gulino, Larry Calvert and Tony Oddo.

OTHERS PRSENT: Economic Development Director Jan Fiola, Trustee Nick Cuzzone and Charles Pickerill.

PUBLIC INPUT ON AGENDA ITEMS: None.

APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:

The minutes for the Economic Development Commission for January 18, 2017 were approved.

Motion to accept the minutes was made by Commissioner Larry Calvert and seconded by Commissioner Tony Oddo. The motion passed with all ayes.

NEW BUSINESS:

Economic Development Director, Jan Fiola informed the Committee of the following improvements within the village.

New development for the Roosevelt Road Corridor area is being investigated. Steps to annex property into the village are being addresses and a redevelopment agreement will need to be put into place.

Wash-U Car Wash continues construction in preparation for the prefab building and equipment. They are aiming for a spring opening.

Pets Supply Plus construction for the new building continues moving forward.

Wendy’s has submitted plans and is currently working towards their building permits.

Existing business is expanding and preparing to present their plan to the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Village Management is working with a Developer regarding the Garden Station project.

Currently they are in the research and development stage.

The Special Events Permit Application Packet has been completed and will be presented to the Board of Trustee and the next meeting on February 27th for final approval.

Gathering proposals for a Master Bike Plan including, bike rakes, programs and wayfinding signs.

GENERAL DISCUSSION:

The commission turned the topic to goals they would like to achieve this year. The areas included:

* Defining a geographical downtown area and ways to promote the businesses and the vision for the region. Identify commercial, business and retail sites available with suggested uses, keeping in mind smaller units which may not be marketed.

* Divide the village into sections where each Commissioner would be responsible for identifying business related issues that may need attention from the Director or Village Manager. Create a list of available spaces with square footage, amenities and potential uses.

* Locate other similar municipalities that have had successful growth and determine how they accomplished their goals.

* Create a campaign to enhance and freshen the villages image, discussions &/or flyers with realtors showcasing the advantages and benefits of working and living in Villa Park.

* Ideas and a budget to paint the wall near the Prairie Path will be submitted. Artists may donate time; need an outline of supplies and costs.

* Promote Village events with the assistance of current business owners with the use of their signage.

* Assist and support new businesses to ensure their success.

PUBLIC COMMENTS:

None.

COMMISSIONER COMMENTS:

None.

ADJOURNMENT:

Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Commissioner Larry Calvert and seconded by Commissioner Tony Oddo. The motion passed with all ayes. The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.