Elk Grove Village cuts into special events
Elk Grove Village will be spending $176,000 less this year on community events such as the Fourth of July parade and fireworks, Tour of Elk Grove and annual tree lighting ceremony.
But the average resident won't notice a difference, Mayor Craig Johnson said.
The cuts amount to 35 percent of the total special events budget. It includes reducing the number of parade entries, having fewer lights on trees and bushes and no reindeer for the holidays, and a more modest fireworks display.
"We are scaling back all our special events," Johnson said. "We actually cut over $40,000 out of the bike race budget this year."
While the Tour of Elk Grove is almost entirely funded by sponsorships and a special hotel/motel tax, with hotel revenues down the village would have to make up the difference out of its general fund.
Johnson said that cannot continue under the current economic climate.
The village recently raised fees for vehicle stickers, construction permits, plan review and inspection for the first time in 18 years to collect an additional $275,000 yearly that would help cover the increased cost of providing those services.
On Tuesday the village board will discuss the 2010-11 budget and reductions are expected. The meeting will begin at 6 p.m. at village hall, 901 Wellington Ave.
Even with the special events budget cuts, the Tour of Elk Grove will maintain its distinction of having the largest purse in North America for a professional cycling race, Johnson said.
This year's race, scheduled for July 30 through Aug. 1, will include a challenge for residents to come up with signs welcoming the bicyclists. Contest entries will be judged by village trustees and the top three winners will receive gift cards worth $500, $300 and $200 from Elk Grove Village Bank and Trust.
"It's a way to get residents more involved," Johnson said. "It should make it exciting ... and I think the riders will appreciate it. Let's show the world the kind of hospitality we have here in Elk Grove."