By Tracey Conti
•
March 26, 2024
From community connections to new opportunities in the Village of Sugar Grove, watch Jennifer Konen share her insights on the community’s vision for 2024 and beyond. This video captures the full State of the Village event hosted by the Sugar Grove Economic Development Corporation. STATE OF THE VILLAGE 2024 The sold-out breakfast was moderated by Jonathan Meagher, Vice Chairman of the Sugar Grove EDC and General Manager of Rich Harvest Farms. It also featured remarks by Waubonsee Community College President Dr. Brian Knetl and brought together over 150 residents, local business owners, elected officials, investors, and stakeholders. Key highlights and accomplishments include: Celebrating Success: President Konen showcased notable wins from the past 12 months, including a historic 0% property tax increase, the arrival of new dining destinations like Burnt Barrel and Primos Tacos, strategic staff additions, advancements in the Commercial Property Enhancement Program, and collaborative efforts to bolster public safety like the placement of a new school resource officer at Harter Middle School. Growing Opportunities: The Village is moving closer toward its vision of being a community where residents can get everything they need right here, with new additions like Starbucks, Cold Stone Creamery, and Cilantro Taco Grill coming soon. Driving Force: Sugar Grove’s driving force for the future is Connection, which includes linking residents with businesses, collaborating across governmental bodies, supporting education and recreation, fostering non-profit partnerships, nurturing community connections, organizing community events, and recognizing the power of collective impact over individual efforts. Investments in Infrastructure : Updates on new infrastructure projects in the community, including a new pedestrian bridge and crosswalk at IL Route 30 to enhance connectivity and safety within the Village. Updates on Crown Community Development: President Konen also shared more about the Village's ongoing work with Crown Community Development, emphasizing that it’s more than new restaurants, shopping, and opportunities to gather; it's about economic stability, diversifying our tax base, attracting even more businesses, and enhancing support for essential community services. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to continue visiting sugargroveil.gov for the latest community updates.