Consumer Affairs Commission

CONSUMER AFFAIRS COMMISSION MINUTES September 8, 2021 In attendance: Khem Khoeun Brian Augustine, Joanne Haeberlin, Biju Krishnan, Howard Meyer, Anil Pillai, George Mathew, Ted Lavine, Nasko Pelinkaj Excused: Gary Merrill, Pratap Sampat Absent: Ruhul Chowdhury Meeting was called to order at 6:31 Farmers Market. Nasko reminded that we still have 9 markets left with the last one November 7. Besides the regular food vendors we have weekly entertainment and rotating Skokie craft vendors. Sunrise has finished their season. There will be a Bike Valet but while they have a presence, there should be no solicitation. Ted suggested we explore having Verlo which is a mobile bike repair bus. It was decided that since they were non food connected it wouldn’t work with the Village ordinance. First loyalty card redemption went well. There are 2 more. October 17 and November 7. Nasko to include in weekly market newsletter. Nasko also reported on the popularity of the matching SNAP program. It had been decided to limit the match to $5.00 as we are rapidly using our two grants. Joanne asked for suggestions on distribution of the loyalty cards for next year. Suggestions included moving CAC table (with tent) to a more central location. Signage at both entrances showing stamping vendors. Put loyalty cards with a small sign in Village Hall lobby. Brian to follow up with Kneads and Wants to see if they would like to donate a $50 gift certificate for the loyalty card grand prize drawing. Possibly have donated or purchase two $25 gift certificates. Business of the Year. Brian reported that 142 nominations were received representing 56 different businesses. While Skokie Public Library was nominated, they are not considered a Skokie business. Discussion about whether Farmers Market vendors were eligible. It was decided that if they didn’t do business in Skokie beyond Sunday, they could not be considered a Skokie business. Questionnaires have been distributed with a return due by September 27. Questionnaire review by the subcommittee is scheduled for 5:30 on October 6. Presentation in the Trustee meeting is tentatively scheduled for November 1. Brilliant Smart Phone. Joanne to discuss with Ann Tennes if one of these items could be included in issues of NewSkokie. Our next meeting date has been changed to October 12 at 6:30. Miscellaneous. Howard reported that the layout for the Backlot Bash to be tweaked for next year. Meeting adjourned at 7:35. Joanne Haeberlin Chair