A recent report by the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Elgin to the city council highlighted efforts to capitalize on the city’s amenities to add to the local economy.
Executive Director Krisilee Murphy said the ongoing partnership with the city to develop new projects around historic architecture, small meetings, sporting events, and wedding venues has been working, and a new campaign, 10 Reasons to call Elgin Home 2019, is in the works.
Wendy Howard, sales manager, said in the past year $500,000 has been added to the economy through these efforts, including the Ring Around Elgin event in February that booked nine weddings after brides and grooms saw what Elgin has to offer with innovative, historic venues. Weddings alone will add $50,000 to the Elgin economy, she said
Howard believes the city is doing well with booking events even though it lacks a large convention center. I agree with Howard that Elgin is a great place to hold smaller meetings, sport events, and simple, casual weddings.
Elgin is attractive r conventions and visitors due to the availability of reasonable real estate, trained workers, and easy access to the Jane Addams Tollway.
Those desiring an historic home likely can find one if they’re ready for the labor of love that is renovations and continuous maintenance.
The city would benefit from continuing to support new developments to the west of Randall Road. Young families could be drawn to that area for newer homes at affordable prices.
The City of Elgin will never be able to compete with Chicago and all that it has to offer. But It can offer people a smaller, close-knit community with great amenities. Elgin can and should continue to be remolded into the affordable gem of the Fox Valley.