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A Resolution Authorizing Approval for a Funding Grant Agreement between the Village of Oak Park and Explore Oak Park and Beyond in the Amount of $229,042 for 2026 and Authorizing its Execution
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Introduction
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The Funding Grant Agreement between the Village of Oak Park and Explore Oak Park and Beyond, including a scope of services and program goals and measures, in the Amount of $229,042 for Fiscal Year 2026, is presented for the Village Board’s review and approval.
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Recommended Action
Approve the Resolution
Prior Board Action
The Board has taken the following prior action(s):
• On October 14, 2025, the Finance Committee of the Village Board supported the funding request of $229,042 for fiscal year 2026.
• On December 3, 2024, the Board approved a funding grant agreement in the amount of $209,042 for fiscal year 2025.
• On December 4, 2023, the Board approved a funding grant agreement in the amount of $209,042 for fiscal year 2024.
• On January 17, 2023, the Board approved a funding grant agreement in the amount of $175,000 for fiscal year 2023.
Background
Explore Oak Park and Beyond, formally known as Visit Oak Park, is a non-profit State of Illinois certified tourism bureau that provides marketing and advertising services for the various attractions located in its service area. Explore Oak Park and Beyond assists 20 communities in the Oak Park area, including Oak Park, with these marketing and advertising services. The Village of Oak Park has been a primary funder of Explore Oak Park and Beyond, in partnership with the State of Illinois, for decades. Explore Oak Park and Beyond has begun to collect membership dues from other communities. As of today, a total of 11 communities and 1 community asset are fiscal partners, with a total contribution of $57,000. The Village’s grant support is provided from a portion of the funds collected from Oak Park’s Hotel/Motel tax, the majority of which is realized from stays at short-term rentals, the single Oak Park Hotel, and the single Oak Park bed-and-breakfast.
The 2026 service agreement calls for Explore Oak Park and Beyond to encourage tourism-related visits to Oak Park through their targeted marketing and advertising efforts across multiple types of media. Additionally, they are to provide professional assistance and consultation to Oak Park tourism attractions, including, to name a few, Hemingway Birthplace, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Dr. Percy Julian, Unity Temple, etc.
Explore Oak Park and Beyond is recognized as an important community-based organization that, in partnership with Oak Park business districts, businesses, and non-profits, contributes to the health and economic vitality of Oak Park.
Timing Considerations
There are no specific timing considerations associated with this item.
Budget Impact
The Proposed 2026 Fiscal Year Budget includes $229,042 in funding for Explore Oak Park and Beyond in the Office of Economic Vitality Budget.
Staffing Impact
There is no staffing impact associated with this item. The item aligns with the department’s core service delivery.
DEI Impact
Explore Oak Park and Beyond works to market and advertise services and events in Oak Park. It is a vital component of attracting tourism to Oak Park and the economic vitality of the Village.
Community Input
There has been no community input given in relation to this item.
Staff Recommendation
Approve the Resolution.
Advantages:
• The Village would continue to support tourism initiatives in Oak Park.
Disadvantages:
• This action requires the expenditure of funds for the funding request for the funding grant agreement.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
Approve the agreement at a lesser amount.
Advantages:
• This would be a lesser financial impact to the Village.
Disadvantages:
• Explore Oak Park and Beyond would not have sufficient funds to match the State’s grant.
Alternative 2:
The Board can elect not to approve the Resolution.
Advantages:
• This action can result in a cost savings to the Village of $229,042 for fiscal year 2026.
Disadvantages:
• The organization would not have sufficient funds to match the State’s grant, and would not have revenue for the new fiscal year.
Anticipated Future Actions
There are no anticipated future actions in relation to this item.
Prepared By: Noemy Diaz, Administrative Officer of Development Services
Reviewed By: Craig Failor, Development Services Director
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Resolution
2. Agreement
3. Funding Request