===== PDF PAGE 8 ===== CITY OF WEST CHICAGO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY ITEM TITLE: 2026–2028 Economic Development Work Plan: Q2 Progress Report & FY2027 Priorities AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: 7 MEETING DATE: 07/28/2026 STAFF REVIEW: Kelley Chrisse, AICP, CEcD SIGNATURE ITEM SUMMARY: On November 3, 2025, the City Council approved the 2026–2028 Economic Development Work Plan. This memo provides a second quarter (Q2) 2026 status update on implementation progress and highlights key areas of activity. Q2 2026 Summary Implementation continues across the Work Plan with several key milestones achieved during the second quarter. Major efforts focused on downtown activation, redevelopment planning, communications, infrastructure investment, and business development. While several initiatives need to be reprioritized to align with available resources and project schedules, work continues to advance the City's long-term economic development goals. Key Highlights • Downtown Revitalization: Mosaic Market successfully launched in June, expanding downtown activity through weekly markets, entertainment, and community programming. The RFQ for the West Washington Street Concept Plan was completed, and a development agreement is being prepared for a proposed downtown townhouse project. The Downtown Revitalization Commission also recommended exploring a form-based code approach to support future redevelopment. • Business Development: One Downtown Investment Program application was approved, another was submitted for review, and one housing development is ready for permit issuance while three additional housing projects remain under preliminary review. The review of business regulations also continues. • Digital Services & Communications: Seventeen proposals were received for the City's new official website, with contract award anticipated in August. Business e-newsletters resumed, bilingual communications continued to expand, and additional direct mail communication opportunities are being implemented. • Community Partnerships & Culture: Community Engagement Roundtable meetings have begun to strengthen collaboration among local organizations. Blooming Fest and Mosaic Market incorporated expanded live art, music, cultural programming, and artisan activities, while the America 250 Parade was successfully held on July 5. • Infrastructure & Investment: Construction is underway on Western Avenue, Downs Road, and Fenton Lane. A water and sanitary rate study was approved to support long-term infrastructure planning, while the Prince Crossing Road water tower project has been placed on hold pending funding after the loan application was not approved. ===== PDF PAGE 9 ===== The Commission's continued input remains valuable in identifying opportunities to strengthen West Chicago's economic competitiveness, supporting implementation of the Work Plan, and ensuring alignment with the City's Strategic Priorities. Looking Ahead As implementation continues, staff has evaluated the Work Plan based on progress during the first six months of 2026. While implementation remains on track, several initiatives have emerged as priorities for continued focus, others are recommended for reprioritization, and several new strategic initiatives may warrant consideration during development of the FY2027 Budget and future updates to the Economic Development Work Plan. Confirm High-Priority Initiatives The following initiatives continue to represent the City's highest economic development priorities and are recommended to remain a primary focus through the remainder of 2026 and into 2027: • Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project to support infrastructure improvements, placemaking, and long-term economic vitality. • West Washington Street Redevelopment, including completion of the Concept Plan and implementation of redevelopment opportunities. • Business Regulations Review to modernize Chapter 9, improve the business climate, and streamline licensing and permitting processes. • New City Website & Digital Services, including launch of the .gov website and continued expansion of business communications. • Downtown Housing & Redevelopment, including continued support for redevelopment projects and implementation of the Downtown Investment Program. • Business Attraction & Marketing – Continue development of the InWestChicago website, online business directory, available property inventory, and other business attraction tools to strengthen marketing and investment efforts. Recommended Re-Prioritization To better align available resources with current priorities, staff recommends the following adjustments to the Work Plan: • Defer implementation of the Retail Lease Trac subscription until redevelopment marketing tools and the online property inventory are more fully developed. • Reschedule workforce partnership initiatives with the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce and Aurora Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to align with available staff capacity and other business support initiatives. • Postpone business development workshops until completion of the Business Regulations Review and implementation of streamlined business processes. • Adjust implementation schedules for initiatives dependent on other projects, including the vacant commercial storefront registry, redevelopment property inventory, and business survey, to reflect sequencing and resource availability. Emerging Strategic Initiatives for 2027 As staff begins preparing the FY2027 budget, several opportunities have emerged that may warrant consideration for inclusion in the Economic Development Work Plan: • City Rebranding Initiative – Coordinate a comprehensive branding initiative with the launch of the new City website to establish a modern, consistent identity across all communications, marketing, and economic development efforts. • Community Survey – Conduct a statistically valid community survey to better understand resident ===== PDF PAGE 10 ===== • and stakeholder priorities, measure perceptions of City services and economic development initiatives, and help inform future strategic planning and budget decisions. • Downtown Construction Support Strategy – Develop a coordinated communications, business assistance, and placemaking strategy to support downtown businesses during construction of the Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project. • Grand Lake Boulevard / Elliott Avenue Land Use Transition Study – Evaluate the long-term feasibility of transitioning the Grand Lake Boulevard and Elliott Avenue area from industrial to residential or mixed residential uses. The study would examine floodplain constraints and developability, compatibility with adjacent neighborhoods, strategies for transitioning existing industrial properties over time, and opportunities to reduce truck traffic through downtown by relocating industrial businesses to more appropriate locations. The study would provide the technical and policy foundation needed before considering any future land use changes. • Revolving Loan Fund – Evaluate establishment of a local revolving loan fund to provide gap financing for business expansion, redevelopment projects, tenant improvements, façade improvements, or other strategic economic development investments. Such a program could complement existing grant programs while creating a sustainable funding source that replenishes itself through loan repayments. • Bridge Loan Partnership – Explore partnerships with local financial institutions, economic development organizations, or nonprofit lenders to establish a bridge loan program that assists businesses and developers with short-term financing while awaiting grant reimbursements, permanent financing, tax credits, or other funding sources. ACTION PROPOSED: Staff requests feedback regarding: • Whether the identified high-priority initiatives should remain the primary focus for implementation through 2026. • Whether the recommended reprioritization appropriately reflects current City priorities. • Whether the emerging strategic initiatives should be incorporated into the FY2027 Budget and future updates to the Economic Development Work Plan. Attachment: 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan Q2 Status Update Matrix ===== PDF PAGE 11 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Revitalizing Downtown Advance Redevelopment & Infill 1.A.1 Continue promoting Downtown developments to construct 200+ dwelling units in total Ongoing Core BCR, CD Development agreement is being prepared for a proposed downtown townhouse project. Revitalizing Downtown Advance Redevelopment & Infill 1.A.2 Conduct outreach and develop concept plan for the public use of the West Washington Street Redevelopment Site 2026 Core BCR, CD, Downtown Revitalization Commission 1st Quarter RFQ completed; release anticipated in late July. Revitalizing Downtown Advance Redevelopment & Infill 1.A.5 Amend zoning regulations in the B-1 District bulk requirements to allow greater height, density (perhaps bonuses for TOD), and intensity 2026 Core BCR, CD, Downtown Revitalization Commission 2nd Quarter Downtown Revitalization Commission recommended exploring a form-based code approach. Revitalizing Downtown Expand Downtown Business & Retail Mix 1.B.1 Attract new retailers and restaurants to downtown and support existing ones via the Retail & Restaurant Grant Program Ongoing Core BCR Program promotion continues through business outreach and quarterly meetings. Revitalizing Downtown Expand Downtown Business & Retail Mix 1.B.2 Assist local entrepreneurs turning vacant buildings into businesses through the Downtown Investment Program Ongoing Core BCR One application approved; one additional application submitted. Revitalizing Downtown Expand Downtown Business & Retail Mix 1.B.3 Host quarterly meetings with downtown businesses and property owners to share City updates, coordinate promotions, and obtain feedback Ongoing Core Admin, BCR, CD, Police, PW Quarterly Q2 meeting held on June 16 where feedback was gathered on the Big Boy event and Mosaic Market so far Revitalizing Downtown Expand Downtown Business & Retail Mix 1.B.6 Amend zoning regulations to expand downtown permitted uses to include artisan manufacturing, arts & culture, child/elder care, medical services, shared workspaces, and more 2026 Core BCR, CD 1st Quarter Form-based code discussions continue. Revitalizing Downtown Activate Downtown with Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.1 Coordinate seasonal decorations and aesthetic enhancements to create a cohesive Downtown experience Ongoing Supporting BCR, PW Mosaic Market banners installed for the summer season. Revitalizing Downtown Activate Downtown with Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.2 Support development of summer Cultural Market & Food Truck weekly series 2026 Supporting BCR, CD, Police, PW 2nd Quarter Mosaic Market launched successfully on June 4. Revitalizing Downtown Activate Downtown with Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.3 Identify City-owned properties Downtown for art showcases or murals and connect with artists to activate 2026 Supporting BCR - Cultural Arts Commission 3rd Quarter No activity this quarter. 1 of 7 ===== PDF PAGE 12 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Revitalizing Downtown Activate Downtown with Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.5 Evaluate regulations to activate public sidewalks (i.e. permit sidewalk sales and pop-up activities) 2026 Core BCR, CD 2nd Quarter No activity this quarter. Revitalizing Downtown Activate Downtown with Events, Arts & Placemaking 1.C.6 Amend zoning regulations to allow greater use of food trucks 2026 Supporting BCR, CD 1st Quarter Food truck regulations remain under review. Revitalizing Downtown Enhance Mobility, Connectivity & Public Realm 1.D.1 Improve signage for Downtown public parking lots and map locations online 2026 Supporting BCR, PW No activity this quarter. Revitalizing Downtown Enhance Mobility, Connectivity & Public Realm 1.D.2 Conduct outreach to design the Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project 2026 Core BCR, PW 2nd Quarter Design presented during Mosaic Market on June 18. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Modernize Digital Service Delivery & Access 2.A.1 Continue livestreaming City Council meetings Ongoing Supporting Admin City Council meetings continue to be livestreamed. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Modernize Digital Service Delivery & Access 2.A.2 Expand bilingual/multilingual communications across City channels Ongoing Supporting BCR Bilingual communications continue to expand across City platforms, including on the new website. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Modernize Digital Service Delivery & Access 2.A.3 Design and implement new official City website (.gov) 2026 Core BCR 3rd Quarter Seventeen proposals were received; contract award is anticipated in August. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Modernize Digital Service Delivery & Access 2.A.4 Improve City calendar and meeting records management systems 2026 Core Admin, BCR 2nd Quarter Calendar and meeting records management to be included in the new website. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Modernize Digital Service Delivery & Access 2.A.6 Add capabilities for direct mail, SMS/text updates, and WhatsApp groups 2026 Supporting BCR 1st Quarter 2026 - Direct mail only. An event calendar was published in the spring Library Program Guide that was mailed to residents. The Quarterly City Bulletins are now available to be mailed to those who opt-in. Additional opportunities to enhance direct mail are being explored. 2 of 7 ===== PDF PAGE 13 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Build Transparency & Accountability Through Data & Communication 2.B.1 Host an annual open house to showcase City projects and services Ongoing Supporting Admin, BCR, CD, Finance, Police, PW April This item is complete for 2026. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Build Transparency & Accountability Through Data & Communication 2.B.2 Expand feedback opportunities with online surveys throughout the year, including post-event surveys 2026 Supporting BCR No activity this quarter. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Build Transparency & Accountability Through Data & Communication 2.B.3 Provide regular communication with the business community through social media, newsletters, and InWestChicago website 2026 Core BCR Monthly Business e-newsletters resumed; InWestChicago website development continues. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Strengthen Coordination & Engagement Across the Community 2.C.1 Continue to engage other taxing jurisdictions and public agencies to share costs of services, facilities, and programs Ongoing Supporting Admin, BCR, Finance Discussion continues for a shared program guide. Delivering Exceptional & Transparent Services Strengthen Coordination & Engagement Across the Community 2.C.2 Coordinate and invite all taxing bodies to attend an “Annual Community Strategy Summit” to align priorities and explore shared initiatives 2026 Supporting Admin, BCR 2nd Quarter Community Engagement Roundtable launched in July to strengthen partnerships. Connecting the Community Expand Mobility & Physical Connectivity 3.A.1 Develop sidewalk and bicycle network to connect parks, outdoor spaces, and recreational facilities Ongoing Supporting CD, PW The City has partnered with Healthy West Chicago to identify capital improvement and signage opportunities. Connecting the Community Expand Mobility & Physical Connectivity 3.A.2 Identify opportunities to provide wayfinding signage along trails to connect users to community assets 2026 Core BCR, PW 1st Quarter Wayfinding opportunities are being evaluated as part of the Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project. Connecting the Community Strengthen Community Partnerships 3.B.1 Recruit volunteers to serve as City ambassadors to share stories and connect residents and businesses with City resources that support local investment and opportunity 2026 Core BCR 2nd Quarter Not started. Connecting the Community Strengthen Community Partnerships 3.B.2 Expand partnerships with regional and local organizations to connect residents to workforce and small business resources that grow the local economy 2026 Core BCR 2nd Quarter Not started. 3 of 7 ===== PDF PAGE 14 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Elevating Culture & Community Identity Support Diverse Cultural Expression Through Events & Storytelling 4.A.1 Evaluate City-hosted or sponsored special events to ensure they incorporate cultural initiatives Ongoing Supporting BCR Community partners are coordinating efforts to align community and cultural events. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Support Diverse Cultural Expression Through Events & Storytelling 4.A.2 Feature one or two parades to celebrate community culture 2026 Core BCR, Police, PW America 250 Parade held on July 5. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Support Diverse Cultural Expression Through Events & Storytelling 4.A.3 Develop a walking tour of history, culture, and art 2026 Supporting BCR - Cultural Arts Commission & City Museum 3rd Quarter Walking tour completed for the Big Boy event. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Support Diverse Cultural Expression Through Events & Storytelling 4.A.4 Strengthen signature events with live art, music, and artisan vendors Ongoing Supporting BCR - Cultural Arts Commission Live art, music, and cultural programming expanded through Blooming Fest and Mosaic Market. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Support Diverse Cultural Expression Through Events & Storytelling 4.A.5 Expand music, dance, and performance events in public spaces Ongoing Supporting BCR - Cultural Arts Commission Live music and entertainment areas are being incorporated into the Downtown Modernization & Beautification Project. 4 of 7 ===== PDF PAGE 15 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Elevating Culture & Community Identity Champion Inclusive Intiatives That Reflect Cultural Richness 4.B.1 Partner with Mexican Cultural Center DuPage to expand cultural programming and cross-cultural partnerships 2026 Core BCR 3rd Quarter No activity this quarter. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Champion Inclusive Intiatives That Reflect Cultural Richness 4.B.2 Partner with Casa Michoacán and Despertar Latino to promote cultural festivals and strengthen Latino heritage celebrations 2026 Core BCR 2nd Quarter Partners are coordinating the Mexican Independence Day celebration. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Preserve & Enhance Historic & Cultural Assets 4.C.1 Continue to publicize and expand local incentives and grants for preservation where feasible Ongoing Supporting BCR, CD No activity this quarter. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Preserve & Enhance Historic & Cultural Assets 4.C.2 Survey selected properties to increase awareness of historical assets 2026 Supporting BCR - City Museum, CD 1st Quarter Historic Resources Survey scheduled for Historic Preservation Commission review on July 28. Elevating Culture & Community Identity Promote City Identity Through Branding & Storytelling 4.D.1 Create monthly business and community spotlight articles across City communications 2026 Supporting BCR 3rd Quarter Business community spotlight articles have been posted, as applicable (e.g. St. Andrews 100th Anniversary). Elevating Culture & Community Identity Promote City Identity Through Branding & Storytelling 4.D.2 Create an online business directory to promote Shop Local 2026 Supporting BCR 2nd Quarter Restaurant listings are being developed for the InWestChicago website. Investing in Our Future Strengthen Physical Infrastructure 5.A.1 Replace and maintain infrastructure within industrial parks Ongoing Supporting PW Western, Downs, and Fenton Lane are under construction. Investing in Our Future Strengthen Physical Infrastructure 5.A.2 Continue maintenance and replacement of water and sanitary systems to exceed standards Ongoing Supporting PW Water and sanitary rate study approved. Investing in Our Future Strengthen Physical Infrastructure 5.A.3 Consider use of development incentives/public financing tools for roadway/infrastructure Ongoing Supporting BCR, PW The City issued a General Obligation Bond to fund roadway improvements in the industrial parks. No additional update. Investing in Our Future Strengthen Physical Infrastructure 5.A.4 Present concept plan for new elevated water tower at Prince Crossing Rd and Washington St for public comment 2026 Core BCR, PW 2nd Quarter Loan application was not approved so the project is on hold, pending funding. 5 of 7 ===== PDF PAGE 16 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.1 Actively recruit housing developers by partnering with landowners Ongoing Core BCR One housing development is ready for permit issuance; three others are under review. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.2 Encourage occupancy of vacant commercial spaces through a vacant commercial storefront registry 2026 Core BCR, CD 1st Quarter Downtown Revitalization Commission review is anticipated in August. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.3 Attract new retailers to vacant spaces through Retail Lease Trac subscription 2026 Core BCR 3rd Quarter Not yet started. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.4 Prepare and maintain an online inventory of available land and property for redevelopment 2026 Core BCR 2nd Quarter Property inventory development has begun. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.5 Conduct regular business surveys to identify risks for business relocation or expansion 2026 Core BCR 4th Quarter The optional survey with the Business Registration Renewal will continue. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.6 Host regular meetings with the DuPage Airport Authority (DAA) to update the IGA and develop a strategy to leverage the airport as an asset 2026 Core BCR Quarterly Not yet started. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.7 Coordinate quarterly workshops with partners on business development topics, including investment, funding opportunities, and budgeting techniques 2026 Core BCR 3rd Quarter Not yet started. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.12 Review business registration and licensing regulations to support flexibility and industry shifts 2026 Supporting Admin, BCR 2nd Quarter Business regulations review is underway. Investing in Our Future Promote Sustainable & Strategic Economic Development 5.B.13 Conduct a comprehensive review of multi-family housing regulations, including the R-6 District near Downtown, to identify opportunities for zoning updates that support redevelopment, compact housing options, and expanded residential base to strengthen West Chicago’s business environment 2026 Core BCR, CD 3rd Quarter Not yet started. 6 of 7 ===== PDF PAGE 17 ===== City of West Chicago 2026-2028 Economic Development Work Plan 2026 Q2 Status Report Priority Initiative Priority Alignment Projects/Policy Updates Activity Year Core or Supporting Participating Department / Entities Milestone Q2 Status Update Investing in Our Future Expand Workforce Readiness & Industry Collaboration 5.C.1 Support manufacturing talent pipeline by participating in Greater Chicago Advanced Manufacturing Partnership (GCAMP) Ongoing Supporting BCR Membership was renewed in January. No new update. Investing in Our Future Expand Workforce Readiness & Industry Collaboration 5.C.2 Partner with College of DuPage and local industries to develop internship, apprenticeship, or train-to-hire programs Ongoing Core BCR No new update. Investing in Our Future Expand Workforce Readiness & Industry Collaboration 5.C.3 Regularly gather data on evolving education and workforce training needs Ongoing Supporting BCR No new update. Investing in Our Future Expand Workforce Readiness & Industry Collaboration 5.C.4 Explore partnership with Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce to provide direct workforce development support for manufacturers 2026 Core BCR 2nd Quarter Not yet started. Investing in Our Future Expand Workforce Readiness & Industry Collaboration 5.C.5 Partner with Aurora Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to provide targeted business and workforce support 2026 Core BCR 3rd Quarter Not yet started. Investing in Our Future Expand Workforce Readiness & Industry Collaboration 5.C.6 Host annual event with manufacturers to understand challenges and connect to business development resources 2026 Supporting BCR October Planning is underway. Investing in Our Future Ensure Resilient & Adaptive Policies 5.D.1 Continue proactive evaluation of budget allocations to align with community-driven priorities Ongoing Supporting Admin, Finance 2028 budget preparation has begun. Investing in Our Future Ensure Resilient & Adaptive Policies 5.D.2 Maintain flexibility in zoning and development codes to respond to emerging industries and evolving community needs Ongoing Supporting CD No new update. Investing in Our Future Ensure Resilient & Adaptive Policies 5.D.3 Review regulations for modern practices, enforceability, and community priorities 2026 Supporting Admin, BCR, CD Business regulations review continues with interdepartmental coordination. 7 of 7