A bold vision for Mundelein's economic future emerged at the September 8, 2025, Board of Trustees meeting, as officials discussed the creation of a new working group aimed at establishing a vibrant marketplace for local entrepreneurs. The proposal, driven by a passionate advocate for small business development, calls for a dedicated team of 8 to 10 members with expertise in architecture, retail, and fundraising to explore the feasibility of constructing a series of small shops in the community.

The estimated cost for this ambitious project ranges between $1 million and $1.5 million, with fundraising efforts expected to play a crucial role. The speaker highlighted successful models from nearby Batavia and McHenry, where local businesses and community members contributed significantly to similar initiatives. Notably, both towns utilized high school shop classes for construction, a strategy Mundelein could replicate through a partnership with the College of Wake County.

The working group would be tasked with developing detailed plans, including shop designs and funding strategies, and would report back to the Board in four to six months. The speaker emphasized the importance of collaboration, suggesting that local businesses and organizations, including the Lake County tourism board, could provide additional support and funding opportunities.

Concerns were raised about the availability of commercial real estate in Mundelein, with some board members questioning whether the village could accommodate the growth of these new businesses once they outgrew the proposed marketplace. The speaker acknowledged this challenge but remained optimistic about the potential for future retail spaces, particularly in the yet-to-be-developed bank triangle area.

As the discussion unfolded, the need for ongoing support and education for new business owners was underscored, with comparisons drawn to the comprehensive assistance provided in McHenry and Batavia. The meeting concluded with a call for the Board to consider the proposal for the working group and potential funding, setting the stage for a transformative initiative that could position Mundelein as a leader in Lake County's entrepreneurial landscape.