Glen Ellyn officials: Spend $50 a month at 3 local stores

Glen Ellyn is joining a national campaign that encourages residents to shop locally with specific caveats to help area merchants.

The 3/50 project, so named because it encourages residents to spend $50 a month at three local stores, is being pushed to help struggling businesses survive.

It was started by Cinda Baxter, a former retailer in Minnesota. The premise is to visit the three shops you'd hate to see close and spend money there.

According to the project's Web site, the350project.net, if half of the employed population nationwide spent just $50 a month in locally owned, independent businesses, it would generate $42.6 billion. In addition, proponents contend 68 percent of what's spent locally comes back to the community.

"Although we've been doing the shop local support forever, when it's a national movement, it helps bring more focus," said Jane Patch, executive director of the Glen Ellyn Economic Development Corporation. "It's just great for the community all the way around."

Patch said the real crux of the 3/50 project is that individuals can make a difference just by thinking about looking in town first for their needs.

The EDC has been pushing other programs in a time when all towns are seeing waning sales.

Although Glen Ellyn has some new businesses opening, a recent 1 percent sales tax hike has some retailers worried.

"Glen Ellyn is not unique in that regard," Patch said.

The new businesses have been taking advantage of grants that help them fix their facade and interior.

The EDC also has been pushing for extended hours on Thursdays and Fridays, especially during the summer.

"People tend to be out with the nice weather," Patch said.

"When we can help smooth the way, remove an obstacle, that's what we want to do," Patch said. "We want to be there for the retailers to help them achieve their business goals."