Consumer Affairs Commission

Consumer Affairs Commission Minutes JULY 18, 2024 – 6:00pm | Meeting called to order by Biju Krishnan Attendance In Attendance: • Biju Krishnan, Chair • Ted Lavine • Anil Pillai • George Mathew • Howard Meyer • Natalie Lopatkiewicz • Gary Merrill Village Staff: • Carol White Excused: • Pratap Sampat • Khem Khoeun, Trustee • Jerry Kirkpatrick Minutes I. Meeting called to order at 6:11pm. II. Approval of Minutes. Natalie Lopatkiewicz motioned to approve the minutes from April 10, 2024. Ted Lavine seconded. Motion passed. III. Old Business None. IV. New Business Natalie Lopatkiewicz visited Soul Good Coffee to introduce the Consumer Affairs Commission and to discuss Soul Good Coffee’s experience after winning Business of the Year in 2023. She reported back that Christina really appreciated the video that was promoted by the Village announcing the honor and that it brought new customers to the shop. She also talked about our “Start Your Day in Skokie” coffee mug campaign and how she enjoyed participating. Gary Merrill spoke about his meal at Charcoal Oven and what a delicious first-class experience it was. The owners were excited to welcome him and share with him their commitment to the community. He remarked that the service was great, he enjoyed a huge steak, the homemade cherry pie was delicious, and the restaurant was clean and wheelchair accessible. He said it is the best kept secret in Skokie! #621232 Farmers Market: Ted Lavine visited the Farmer’s Market and was pleased with the great crowd and variety of vendors. Business of the Year: Discussion took place regarding Business of the Year. Ballot boxes will be placed at the four (4) nominees for 2023 and at the front desk of the Village. The solicitation of nominees will begin August 1, 2024. IV. Communications Village Staff, Carol White shared her progress in her 11 months as Economic Vitality Coordinator and express her excitement to work with this board and the Village. Over 16 new businesses have signed leases in Downtown Skokie and Main Street and she is excited for more recruits to commit before end of 2024. V. Public Comment: None. Motion to adjourn was made at 7:00pm and was passed unanimously. Respectively submitted, Carol White, Economic Vitality Coordinator, Village of Skokie Next Meeting: Tuesday, August 6, 2024 6:00pm Page 2