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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...
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