Lombard trustees approve $19,000 grant for Brewfest despite committee recommending $3,500

The Village of Lombard Board of Trustees voted unanimously March 5 to award a $19,000 local tourism grant to the organizers of the Lombard Brewfest, an event scheduled for July 18, 2026, overriding the Community Promotion and Tourism Committee's recommendation to limit funding to $3,500 for village services.

The committee chair told the board the committee's recommendation was limited to village services and that the board could choose to fund additional reimbursable expenses. "The Community Promotion and Tourism Committee reviewed this application and recommended approval of a grant limited to the cost of village services in the amount of $3,500," the committee chair said, adding, "The Board makes the final funding decision."

Board discussion centered on the event's history, local economic benefits and the mechanics of the grant. One trustee recounted prior awards and deliberations: in 2024 the committee approved about $17,500 and the full board later awarded $19,000; the same $19,000 request was submitted this year. "Based on success of the previous year, there was always a request for more," a trustee said, noting the applicant this year did not ask for an increase beyond $19,000.

Village staff provided budget and funding details: the overall event cost is listed as $85,000, the applicant requested $19,000 (about 22% of that total), anticipated attendance is about 1,200 people, and the request is funded from hotel/motel tax proceeds rather than property tax. Staff emphasized the award is reimbursement-based: organizers pay expenses up front and submit receipts for reimbursement. "This is a reimbursement. This is not upfront money for them to go spend," staff said.

Trustees also discussed community reach and public safety. One board member described the Brewfest as a regional draw that brings visitors from neighboring towns and benefits local restaurants and retailers. Police leadership confirmed the event historically has not produced notable public-safety problems.

After discussion, a trustee moved to approve the full requested amount of $19,000; the board took a roll-call vote and recorded unanimous approval.

The grant award is subject to the village's reimbursement requirements and documentation; the clerk recorded the motion and the unanimous vote. The board then concluded regular business and adjourned.