The meeting opened with a detailed presentation on the 1% lodging tax, a local revenue source that complements the state’s 3% tax. A speaker with extensive experience as the executive director of Visit Cook County highlighted the tax’s importance, describing it as a valuable funding mechanism for destination marketing. This tax supports several tourism community associations, allowing them to fund events and programs, with allocations based on tax collected in their respective areas. The speaker emphasized the county’s reliance on tourism, noting that 81% of the economy depends on visitors. Efforts to bolster visitation during shoulder seasons, such as November and April, were stressed as growth opportunities.

A discussion emerged around the participation of locals in events funded by the lodging tax. Concerns were raised about community burnout due to the influx of visitors. In response, initiatives like a mini-grant program were highlighted, which funds local nonprofits and supports community events like the Readers and Writers Festival. The importance of local engagement in the tourism economy was underscored, with emphasis on how visitor-generated funds enhance residents’ lives.

The board also explored data collection methods for understanding visitor demographics, particularly Canadian tourists. A reported 40% decline in Canadian traffic was attributed to factors like currency strength and seasonal travel. Marketing efforts in Canada, specifically Thunder Bay, were mentioned as part of a strategy to boost Canadian visits.

Shifting focus, the conversation turned to the community hub’s funding needs. The hub, a critical resource for Cook County’s aging population, faces financial challenges due to its reliance on public health and human services grants. A request was made for $125,000 annually from the county to support its operations, covering building costs and salaries. The hub’s budget, approximately $225,000 annually, includes reimbursements from the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency for food programs. With 32.7% of residents aged 65 and above, the hub’s role in fostering social interaction and providing essential services is vital.

Board members addressed the competitive nature of grant funding, noting that many nonprofits vie for limited resources. The need for stable county funding was emphasized, with a call to return to a budget line item for the hub. The hub serves a broad demographic, offering programs like youth writing workshops and legal kiosks, which draw diverse audiences. Efforts to increase awareness of the hub’s offerings were discussed, alongside challenges in overcoming perceptions of the hub as solely for seniors.

The meeting also touched on housing issues, particularly initiatives to renovate tax-forfeited homes into affordable housing. Plans to acquire and rehabilitate homes in collaboration with local governments were outlined. The importance of diverse housing options, including affordable rental and homeownership opportunities, was stressed.