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Resolution Approving a One-Time Funding Request of $82,500 from the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce to Implement the Chamber Financial Sustainability Plan
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Introduction
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The purpose of this resolution is for the Village of Oak Park to provide a one-time funding contribution to the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce (“the Chamber”), which will allow the Chamber to implement a financial sustainability plan focused upon new and existing membership initiatives. This one-time request for an operating funding contribution is a strategic reinvestment into Oak Park’s business infrastructure.
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Recommended Action
The Office of Economic Vitality recommends approval of the resolution granting funding to the Chamber to implement the Chamber financial sustainability plan.
Prior Board Action
On February 24, 2026, the Village Board heard a presentation (ID 26-209) from the Chamber describing all of the services the Chamber provides to enhance the business climate in Oak Park.
Background
For over a century, the Chamber of Commerce has served as an advocate for business and growth engine for the local economy. The Chamber represents over 350 local businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurs who make our commercial corridors vibrant, distinct, and economically durable. When local businesses thrive, Oak Park benefits through stronger sales and property tax revenues, thriving commercial corridors, local job creation, and a vibrant community character. Over the past year, the Chamber has experienced a number of challenges that have affected their operations and financial position. Due to some staffing changes in 2025, the Chamber was unable to secure sponsorships, member relations, and other revenue generation during that time.
Meanwhile, an interim Executive Director was engaged as a transition consultant and worked part-time through April 2026. During this leadership transition over the past year, interim co...
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