LAKE FOREST : Spurring Economy to Be Group’s Goal

The City Council asked business leaders this week to help form an economic advisory committee to find ways to stimulate the city’s economy.

The coalition of Lake Forest businesses was asked to develop a list of candidates for the committee and suggest joint projects between the business community and the city.

The action was taken as an alternative to hiring a consultant.

The advisory committee would take on a number of projects designed to bring more businesses and shoppers into Lake Forest.

The group would perform tasks such as keeping track of available retail and commercial space, information that would be made available to firms who inquire about locating in Lake Forest.

Two chambers of commerce operate in Lake Forest. Ken Smith, the president of one, said he would cooperate with the other business group.

Bob Forsberg, a local businessman, told the council that it would be wise to include the business community in any plan to stimulate the Lake Forest economy.

“Allow staff to do what they do best--run the city,” Forsberg said. “Allow business professionals to do what they do best--watch out for the economic well-being of the city.”

Council members hope to have suggestions for the new economic committee ready by their Jan. 18 meeting.