Lombard seeks proposals for new summer event

Lombard-based nonprofit groups interested in planning and operating a new summer festival in the village are being encouraged to submit proposals before month's end.

The village issued the request this week, seeking "new and creative ideas that are not tied to any past historic events or locations."

Village Manager Scott Niehaus said the request is "open-ended" and gives groups a "blank canvas."

"They do not need to do anything that is identical or synonymous with the Taste of Lombard," he said. "Their proposal does not need to fall on the Fourth of July. It does not need to encompass five days of activities."

Village officials decided in January to suspend Taste of Lombard due to what they called the "unforeseen dissolution" of the Lombard Jaycees, which sponsored the event for 32 years. There was no festival or carnival this year, but a fireworks display hosted by the village took place on July 4.

While the request for proposals is flexible, there are guidelines. The proposed event should take place between June and September and run at least two days.

In addition, interested nonprofits must be in solid financial standing with a proven track record of serving the community and three or more years of event or festival planning experience. If a group does not have sufficient planning experience, it can propose partnering with a professional planning company or other nonprofit that meets those requirements.

The event can be held anywhere in the village, with approval from the property owner. Nonprofits that submit proposals also are being asked to identify what community organizations or programs would be supported by proceeds from the event.

Groups are welcome to attend an informational meeting at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 15, at village hall, 255 E. Wilson Ave., during which they can ask village staff members questions about the proposal requirements.

Proposals must be submitted to Assistant Village Manager Nicole Aranas by 4:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28. Once the proposals are received, village staff will do an initial review and eliminate any groups that didn't follow the rules or don't meet the requirements.

"It is a competition," Niehaus said. "We hope to see multiple proposals."

In October, the newly formed Lombard Pride Committee will interview the groups that were narrowed down by village staff. The committee is responsible for exploring options for the new event and advising the village board on matters concerning it and other existing and future events in town.

"Ultimately, the pride committee is just a recommending body," Niehaus said. "Anything they do would be recommended to the village board and the village board would be the one to make any final approvals."

The committee hopes to send its recommendation to the village board by the end of the year.