HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 09/22/2020 - Economic Development Commission
City of McHenry
Economic Development Commission
Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2020
Chairman Mrachek called the September 22, 2020 regular meeting of the City of McHenry Economic
Development Commission to order at 4:00 p.m. The meeting was held via Zoom Web Conferencing
and all information was announced to the public for attendance via Zoom or by Telephone. In
attendance were the following: Bionda, Bremer, Mrachek, Rankins, Mayor Jett. Absent: Jessup,
Pfeifer, Tenuto, Schaefer. Also in attendance were: Director of Economic Development Martin and
Economic Development Coordinator Wolf and Chamber of Commerce Events Director Molly Ostap.
Public Comment: There was nobody in attendance for public comment.
Approval of Meeting Minutes dated July 28, 2020
Motion by Rankins, seconded by Bionda, to approve the July 28, 2020 Regular Meeting minutes of
the Economic Development Commission, as presented:
Voting Aye: Bionda, Bremer, Mrachek, and Rankins.
Voting Nay: None.
Abstaining: Jett.
Absent: Jessup, Pfeifer, Tenuto, Schaefer.
Motion carried 4-0.
Chamber of Commerce Introduction
Molly Ostap of the McHenry Chamber of Commerce attended and discussion ensued regarding how
to best inform businesses who to contact when they have questions or need help. A Chamber
introduction video was presented. A matrix was presented in an attempt to clarify where
businesses are best helped, and by which entity, in their business needs. A document will be
finalized that can be shared by the City and the Chamber when talking to businesses to help explain
our areas of expertise.
Commissioner Reports
Chairman Mrachek asked for personal visits and discussions with businesses to be continued on an
ongoing basis by EDC members.
Economic Development Commission Videos
Commissioners who haven’t submitted videos were encouraged to get them done and sent to
Director Martin or Coordinator Wolf as soon as possible.
Commercial Tenant Incentive Program Update
Coordinator Wolf informed the Commission that two grant applications were submitted and
approved: Miller’s Diner and Pineapple X’Pressed Smoothies.
Economic Development Commission
September 22, 2020
Page 2
Transition to Economic Recovery Plan
Director Martin summarized the neighborhood zoom meeting that was held regarding business
needs in the community. A second meeting was recommended targeted toward restaurants to
determine how we can best help them as the weather changes and outdoor dining is less inviting. A
Zoom meeting was suggested with business ambassadors (DC Cobbs, Kim & Patty’s, Bimbo’s, and
Village Squire suggested) as panelists willing to help other restaurants with questions. Tents,
lighting, tables, heaters and space requirements were discussed regarding need and expense. We
will encourage very strong promotion of carryout and delivery campaigns to make sure residents
are informed of what is available. An invitation will be sent to all liquor holding establishments to
update them on current requirements and guidelines and get input from them on their current
needs.
Shop & Dine McHenry Promotion
We are still determining ways to spread the word and promote the website.
Business Recognition Program
Recognition has been completed for Kim & Patty’s Café; Joule Technologies; Tony’s Family Tailor;
Ortho Go PT; Miller Formless; Morrie and Sons Auto; and Chas. Herdrich. The Commission also
participated in historical recognition for the Riverside Chocolate Factory building. Attempts are still
being made to schedule notable business anniversaries with Dreisilker and Medela.
Staff Reports
Manufacturing month is October. Meeting adjourned at 5:10 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_______________________________
Mike Mrachek, Chairman
Economic Development Commission