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A Study Session on the Draft Recommendations and Objectives Outlined in the Economic Vitality Strategic Plan Prepared by Consultant Camoin Associates, Inc.
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Introduction
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The purpose of this agenda item is to review and discuss the draft Economic Vitality Strategic Plan.
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Recommended Action
Staff recommends the Board of Trustees provide feedback on the recommendations and objectives outlined in the draft Economic Vitality Strategic Plan.
Prior Board Action
The Board has taken the following prior action(s):
• On January 14, 2025, the Board of Trustees provided feedback on the preliminary framework for the Economic Vitality Strategic Plan
• On July 23, 2024, the Board of Trustees approved Resolution 24-227 approving a Professional Services Agreement with Camoin Associates, Inc. to complete an Economic Vitality Strategic Plan
Background
On April 12, 2024, the Village issued a Request for Proposals ("RFP") for a comprehensive Economic Vitality Strategic Plan in accordance with Village Board Goal 6.1: Update the Village's Formal Economic Vitality Strategy. The RFP was posted for a three (3) week period with final responses due at 4 pm on May 8, 2024. The Village received three (3) responses to the RFP with Camoin Associates, Inc. submitting the lowest qualified bid at a total cost of $125,000.00.
On July 23, 2024, the Board of Trustees approved Resolution 24-227, approving a Professional Services Agreement with Camoin Associates, Inc. to complete a Comprehensive Economic Vitality Strategic Plan. Since approval of Resolution 24-227, staff representing the Manager's Office, Development Services, and Neighborhood Services have met with the consultant on a biweekly basis.
Since July 23, 2024, Village Staff and Camoin Associates, Inc. have met with over 75 local, state, and federal organizations, facilitated a community pulse survey, hosted an Open House with the support of the Oak Park Public Library, and researched best practices and emerging trends to develop the recommendations and objectives covered within the draft plan.
Timing Considerations
Adoption of the Plan by the Board of Trustees in advance of the April recess will position the Village for successful and timely implementation.
Budget Impact
There is no budget impact associated with this agenda item.
Staffing Impact
There are no staffing impacts for consideration associated with this item at this time. The item aligns with the department’s core service delivery.
DEI Impact
Goals and objectives related to diversity, equity, and inclusion have assisted in guiding the development of the Plan. The Village’s goals and objectives related to DEI have guided the draft Plan’s recommendations and objectives intended to create a more inclusive local economy that:
1. Supports businesses and individuals from diverse backgrounds
2. Provides equitable access to resources, creating opportunities for minority and disadvantaged entrepreneurs
3. Creates ongoing opportunities for civic engagement to influence the Village’s economic vitality philosophy and strategy
Success as it relates to DEI will be defined by a dynamic partnership between staff, the consultant, and the public.
Community Input
Since August 2024, the following community engagement has occurred:
1. Three (3) engagement sessions were held at the project launch between August 25 and 28, 2024; two (2) included Village Staff and one (1) included members of the community
2. Four (4) focus groups were held between October 21 and 22, 2024. Focus groups consisted of representatives from the Business Advisory Council; Retail, Tourism, and Entertainment Stakeholders; Real Estate Developers; and Workforce and Education Professionals
3. Individual focus groups were held throughout October with representatives from the local business community
4. A community survey was open throughout November 2024
5. A Study Session with the Village Board was held on January 14, 2025
6. An Open House was hosted at the Oak Park Public Library on February 12, 2025
7. Staff and the consultant have engaged with the public throughout the development of the Economic Vitality Strategic Plan.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommends the Board of Trustees and the public provide feedback on the draft recommendations and objectives.
Alternatives
There are no alternatives associated with this presentation and discussion.
Anticipated Future Actions
Staff anticipates the Final Economic Vitality Strategic Plan will be presented to the Board for adoption by resolution on March 18, 2025.
Prepared By: Brandon Crawford, Economic Vitality Administrator
Reviewed By: Ahmad Zayyad, Deputy Village Manager
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Village of Oak Park Draft Economic Vitality Strategic Plan, Engagement Summary, and Economic Conditions Assessment