# Economic Development Committee Meeting 9-23-2026


**Body:** City of Evanston, IL
**Date:** September 22, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Professional Services, Construction & Infrastructure, Grants & Funding, Policy


The City of Evanston Economic Development Committee met on September 23, 2026, to discuss various economic development initiatives and policies affecting local businesses. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the proposed update to the outdoor dining fee structure, with staff recommending a simplified three-tier flat payment system to maintain current revenue levels. Committee members debated reducing fees to encourage more outdoor dining, ultimately approving a 50% fee reduction to support small businesses and stimulate downtown vibrancy. The committee also discussed the regulation of sweepstakes machines, considering a $1,000 per fill fee, with input from business owners highlighting concerns about the proposed fee's impact. Additionally, the committee addressed the need for clearer policies on Tax Increment Financing (TIF) requests and expressed interest in aligning economic development efforts with the upcoming opening of a major university stadium. No contract awards or specific procurement actions were taken during this meeting, but several policy discussions could influence future procurement and vendor opportunities related to business support programs and downtown development.

**Source:** City of Evanston, IL