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Community Improvement Corporation outlines sign replacement, donor conduit role
Summary
Bob Russell, president of the Community Improvement Corporation, told Geneva council the CIC funded replacement of the downtown LED sign with grants and donations totaling $225,000 and acts as a 501(c)(3) fiscal conduit for local organizations.
Bob Russell, president of the Community Improvement Corporation (CIC), told the City of Geneva council on Oct. 27 that the nonprofit’s mission is to “advance, encourage and promote industrial, economic, commercial and civic development” and to support employment opportunities and sustainable growth.
Russell said the CIC was created in 1997 and operates under state law that permits municipalities to form economic‑development corporations. He told council the CIC’s 2024 state audit found the organization in compliance with standards and internal controls.
Russell described the CIC’s local makeup and activities: the group has 15 members with one vacancy and five seats that represent the City of Geneva. He highlighted a recent project to replace the community LED sign, saying that “due to the effort of a lot of people…we were able to get grants and donations to the $225,000 to replace that sign.” Russell said the sign is used to promote city events and that nonprofits may advertise on it for a small fee.
He also described the CIC’s role as a 501(c)(3) conduit, saying the organization currently acts as fiscal agent for about 14 community organizations and manages roughly $115,000 in funds held on their behalf.
Russell invited interested residents to apply to fill the CIC vacancy and provided the group’s contact information for advertising or other inquiries.
