Commission Meeting Minutes
Submitted by: LaShawn Brown

1. Walgreens’ Departure and Community Concerns

Lack of Communication: Walgreens has not reached out to the land owners about plans to vacate the space. Attempts to contact Walgreens lease administration via phone and email have been unsuccessful. Lease Agreement Issues: Per lease agreement, a 30-day notice is required, which has not been received to date. Walgreens retains control over who moves into the vacated space, posing a significant hurdle for the community.

Impact on Community: Walgreens has been a longstanding presence since the 1930s, employing black staff and contributing to the community. Concerns about the space being taken over by businesses that do not serve the community’s needs, such as dollar stores.

2. Community Outreach and Media Strategy

Current Outreach Efforts: Limited outreach has been conducted; need for more proactive engagement.

Proposed Media Actions: Develop a comprehensive media strategy to highlight community concerns. Utilize national media contacts to gain broader support and leverage. Organize press events, possibly coinciding with Walgreens’ closing date on February 27th.

Narrative Development: Emphasize the historical significance of Walgreens in the community. Highlight the negative impact of Walgreens’ departure on multi-generational wealth and community stability.

3. Economic Implications and Community Support

Economic Challenge: Walgreens is listed for $17,000 a month, which is significantly higher than previous lease rates. Potential use of Cook County vacancy tax credits to offset costs. 

Community Investment: Discussion on the need for community commitment to maintain cleanliness and upkeep of the vacated space. Suggestions include involving community volunteers or extending existing contracts.

Potential Grants and Funding: Opportunity to apply for a $4 million grant from the City of Chicago’s Storefront Activation grant. Perkins and Will working on securing additional funds and implementing Corridor Live initiatives.

4. Consultant Engagement: Perkins and Will

Project Overview:  Perkins and Will to assist with the Corridor Live project, a comprehensive revitalization strategy for 71st Street. Focus on facade enhancement, branding, marketing, storefront activations, and land assemblage.

Phased Approach: Phase 1 (February – March): Understanding and analyzing the corridor. Phase 2 & 3 (April – June): Developing brand identity and activation strategies. Phase 4 (July): Documenting and planning for implementation.

Budget Allocation: Reallocation of $80,000 from the Facade Enhancement Program to cover consulting fees.

Total proposal cost: $150,000 (secured $70,000, seeking additional funds).

5. Summer Festival Planner

Selection of event planners for the Summer Festival. Finalists: Juan and Only and Full Court Marketing.

6. Facade Enhancement Program Funding Reallocation:

$80,000 allocated for facade enhancements under economic development.  Proposed Change: Redirect $80,000 from facade enhancements to Perkins and Will consulting fees. 

Upcoming Meetings:

Walgreens Closure Community Meeting: March 19th at Bryn Mawr Church from 6 to 8 PM.