City of Edwardsville Tourism Advisory Committee met March 12
Here are the minutes provided by the committee:
I. ROLL CALL
Present Guests
James Arnold Elizabeth Grant
Craig Becker
Sara Berkbigler
Kathryn Biarkis
Dillon Borri
Kimberli Goodner
Janet Haroian
Lisa Ybarra
Janet called the meeting to order at 8:05am.
PUBLIC COMMENT
A. Janet congratulated Lisa Ybarra on receiving the City of Edwardsville Small Business of the Year Award announced at the Business Forecast Breakfast at SIUE.
B. Elizabeth announced that the Lewis & Clark Community College stude3nts are putting on a Singer Showcase on April 16th at the Wildey Theater. Tickets are $10 per person. There will be 14 different entertainers in the 90-minute show. The event is supported by Great Rivers & Routes.
III. АPPROVAL OF MINUTES
On a motion by Kimberli and a second by Lisa meeting minutes from February 12, 2026, were unanimously approved.
IV. ADMINISTRATIVE
A. Tourism Budget F26/27 Update:
James reported that the total amount requested of $170,000 was approved and included in the City’s FY2026-27 budget. There were a couple of changes within the line items – and he distributed a copy of the approved budget breakdown, reflecting the following:
$144,000 Professional Expenses: Great Rivers & Routes Tourism
$4,000 Other Commodities/Supplies: Destination Edwardsville
$22,000 Project Allocations: Downtown in December
B. Tourism Grants-Gallery Space Update:
James reported that Edwardsville will receive $400,000 as part of the 5th round of Route 66 grants. Most of that money, $380,000 will be dedicated to the property at 246 N Main Street. The additional $20,000 will be used for 1-2 new murals. Asbestos abatement on the building was taking place, and the storefront design has been approved. The Edwardsville Arts Center is considering a Route 66 art exhibit for the front space in the center when it opens. The design was presented at the Business Forecast Breakfast and includes windows being added back to the front façade.
C. Route 66-Mural Updates:
James reported that locations are being determined for the murals. One spot is likely along the side of the Lizotte building near the Route 66 monument. The staff is also looking into solar lighting for the mural and monument, helping to make it more visible in the evening.
V. OLD BUSINESS
Committee Secretary Position – Janet asked for someone to volunteer. Dillon Borri agreed to serve as Secretary starting in May 2026.
VI. NEW BUSINESS
A. Sara reported that she met with Amanda who could not attend today’s meeting, but wanted to provide some ideas:
1. Letter from the Mayor – To have in the hotel rooms of those who have coordinated a group to come to Edwardsville (sports tournaments, conferences, weddings, etc.). A personalized letter letting them know that Edwardsville appreciates their stay and hopes they enjoy their stay, suggesting they visit the QR code to find restaurants, parks and entertainment opportunities.
2. Provide a bag of items welcoming the group to town – including allowing businesses to provide discounts and samples, etc. Janet suggested that the Chamber be included in the conversation since they provide welcome packets to visitors and new citizens; perhaps there is an opportunity to work together with them.
3. Elizabeth suggested that the committee work with the Edwardsville CEO students to challenge them with helping to assist with ideas to capture the younger generation’s attention.
4. Focus Groups – Interest in working in groups of two to facilitate some focus groups to gather firsthand information from various businesses in order to help support them with tourism initiatives.
B. The committee is interested in getting a quote on stickers that can be distributed. Colorful stickers are popular with many to put on their laptops and drink cups. James will work with Cathy to get some ideas on a colorful design and quote for the next meeting.
C. The committee is interested in getting a quote on reusable bags that can be used for the welcome items for group coordinators. James will bring bag prices to the next meeting.
VII. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 9:04am.
https://www.cityofedwardsville.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_03122026-4008
