Officials want to make Libertyville a destination
Passports will be issued but shoppers aren't being asked to go far to spend their money.
"Destination Libertyville" is the most recent strategy by village officials to prompt shoppers to buy local and give shopkeepers a boost.
The program, which begins Sunday and runs until June 13, gives shoppers access to special in-store promotions and prizes.
It was designed to allow every business in all parts of town to participate by signing "passports" presented by shoppers.
Prizes from more than 20 businesses are valued at nearly $3,000. More than two dozen businesses are offering special promotions, such as discounted oil changes or free fitness classes.
Prize packages include a $100 gift certificate to Sunset Foods or Century Electric as well as a ride in the Libertyville Days parade or lunch with Mayor Terry Weppler.
It's an extension of a "Shop Libertyville," which began last fall but was focused on the downtown area.
"This is to benefit all Libertyville business," Weppler said. "The village itself shouldn't be favoring a single area of shopping."
The promotion features three "voyages" - business areas on Peterson/Buckley roads; North Milwaukee Avenue and downtown; and, South Milwaukee and Park avenues.
Participants become eligible for prizes by visiting any six merchants (two in each voyage) or service providers and making "minimal purchases."
Passports are signed and serve as prize entry forms. Signatures plus receipts for purchases of $5 in each retail area are needed to qualify for prizes.
Prizes include a $1,400 gift basket to downtown merchants, gift cards, car detailing packages and other items.
Passports are available online, at area stores, the village hall and Cook Memorial Public Library.
They must be delivered to the Libertyville village hall, 118 W. Cook Ave., or can be placed in the green paid bills box outside or at the police station, no later than June 17. Prize winners must be at least 18.
A list of prizes, promotions, a searchable business directory and details are at libertyville.com/destination.
According to the village, the program was inspired by businesses trying to generate excitement and sales and reward customer loyalty.
The goal is to strengthen local businesses and boost sales tax revenue, which has been declining since a peak of about $8 million in 2001.
Total sales tax for 2008-09 was $800,000 less than expected at about $6.2 million. The village has budgeted about $6 million for 2009-10.