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TO: Mayor John Laesch
FROM: The Law Department
DATE: June 17, 2026
SUBJECT:
An Ordinance Proposing a New "SSA 1 - Aurora Downtown District" and Calling for a Public Hearing Thereon.
PURPOSE:
To create a special service area ("SSA") to provide special services to the downtown area in order to foster a strong, vibrant downtown by promoting the growth, stability, and long-term success of local businesses.
BACKGROUND:
Special Service Area Number One was originally adopted on September 6, 1994 and has been extended and reestablished over the years. The most recent "SSA-One" will expire at the end of the 2026 calendar year.
DISCUSSION:
With the expiration of the current SSA-One, staff is proposing the establishment of a new special service area to be known as "SSA 1 - Aurora Downtown District" to serve the businesses located within the boundaries of the SSA. The non-profit Aurora Downtown District shall provide special services, including, but not limited to, organizing events, promoting, enhancing, and supporting the success of the downtown area.
IMPACT STATEMENT:
Approval of this Ordinance will set a public hearing for the proposal of SSA 1- Aurora Downtown District to be held on August 25, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Approve this Ordinance and Call for a Public Hearing on the proposal of "SSA 1- Aurora Downtown District."
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
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An Ordinance Proposing a New "SSA 1 - Aurora Downtown District" and Calling for a Public Hearing Thereon.
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WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREA...
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