Woodfield tourism bureau tries to woo back Palatine

A last-ditch effort by proponents of the Woodfield Chicago Northwest Convention Bureau didn't appear to sway Palatine officials into keeping their membership.

"I just don't see how we're getting our money's worth," said Councilman Mike Jezierski. "We're not tangibly seeing anything."

Officials think re-allocating the $28,000 in annual dues toward their own marketing campaign would generate more hotel and restaurant business than the Schaumburg-based bureau produces.

At a budget hearing Monday, Bureau President Fran Bolson called on the council to reconsider withdrawing. Hoffman Estates pulled out of the group last March. State Rep. Suzie Bassi also spoke on the bureau's behalf, saying every dollar put into tourism yields a return of $7 through jobs, future sales leads, dining and other sales. One hotel manager said the number is sure to increase with the prospect of Chicago hosting the 2016 Olympics.

But Village Manager Reid Ottesen estimated Palatine's membership brought in about $6,000 as a direct result of the bureau's efforts. That was OK in 2002, when towns still paid a flat $4,000 for the bureau's services, but not now.

The move to withdraw becomes official Dec. 1, when next year's budget is expected to be approved.

Several representatives of Palatine hotels discussed the benefits of belonging to the regional bureau. Michael Cohen of Hotel Indigo said convention business in Schaumburg trickles down to peripheral businesses.

"There is a ripple effect for communities within a short distance (of the bureau)," said Cohen. "We know it's of great benefit to our hotels."

Holiday Inn Express General Manager Erica Lesus said the bureau generated 132 sales leads in 2007, which has the potential of totaling 4,000 room nights this year.

"We can't afford to leave that money on the table and let go of a vital sales team," Lesus said.

One bureau brochure promoting area hotels was passed out, but councilmen weren't impressed because Palatine gets just a few mentions.

Ottesen recommended Palatine retain its membership in name only. That way the bureau could continue to receive state grant money factoring in Palatine's population.

Palatine will also cut ties with the National League of Cities, saving $5,200 annually. Ottesen said the organization, which raised its dues this year, duplicates much of what the Northwest Municipal Conference does.