Homer Glen trustees give direction to explore comprehensive plan update, TIF eligibility and hotel‑motel tax

Trustees voiced consensus to pursue research and staff analysis on several economic development initiatives: updating the village comprehensive plan, investigating Tax Increment Financing (TIF) eligibility for the 150 Ninth Street corridor, studying a potential hotel‑motel tax and evaluating hiring a social media and communications firm for outreach.

Trustee LaPorte requested that the board pursue an updated comprehensive plan, noting the village’s most recent approved plan dated to 2005 and a 2020 update that was not adopted. "A comprehensive plan is a road map giving direction to the future of our village," she said, and trustees indicated support for moving forward.

Trustee Schaller moved that the village manager instruct finance and economic development staff to initiate work on establishing a TIF district for the 150 Ninth Street corridor, including procuring a professional eligibility study under the Illinois Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act and reporting findings within 120 days. Trustees indicated consensus for staff to investigate and report back; no binding action to create a TIF was taken at the meeting.

The board also gave direction to staff to research the potential for a hotel‑motel tax as lodging development is anticipated near Silver Cross Hospital and the sports complex. Trustees said staff should prepare revenue projections and an economic impact analysis so trustees can evaluate options.

Finally trustees reaffirmed interest in hiring a social media/communications firm to improve outreach on village initiatives and to help market economic development opportunities. Staff said Economic Development Director would provide additional information upon return from leave.

These items were framed as direction to investigate and return to committees and the board for consideration; no ordinances or TIF designations were enacted at this meeting.