Main-Dempster Mile Commenced Reconstitution Process

The Evanston business group has started the required legal steps to renew its official designation.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Main-Dempster Mile Commenced Reconstitution Process

Live Poll

Should local business districts undergo regular public reviews to justify their continued existence and tax funding?

The Main-Dempster Mile organization began the formal process to reconstitute itself following state-mandated requirements. The group must complete this renewal to continue its operations as a Special Services Area.

Why it matters

State law mandates that the organization reconstitute after 12 years to maintain its operational authority. This renewal ensures the business district can continue funding marketing and community improvements through a property tax surcharge.

The organization operates with an annual budget of $300,000 funded by property tax surcharges. This past year, the district saw 14 new merchants move in while eight businesses closed.

The players

Main-Dempster Mile

This is a marketing group and Special Services Area organization serving an Evanston business district.

Curt's Cafe

This is a local business that recently received an $8,500 donation from the Main-Dempster Mile organization.

The details

The organization, which has operated since 2015, plans to use its resources for upcoming projects including installing festoon lights on the 700 block of Main Street and planting sunflowers at 801 Main Street. The group is also credited with saving the Main Street Fair from cancellation and recently presented $8,500 to Curt's Cafe.

The Main-Dempster Mile was founded in 2015.
The organization held its annual meeting on October 8, 2026.
The organization's state authorization is set to expire in 2027.
Sunflowers are scheduled for planting at 801 Main Street in spring 2027.

Market Landscape

The renewal process aligns with the Illinois Special Services Area law, which requires organizations to undergo formal reconstitution every 12 years. This cycle ensures that business districts maintain current community support and oversight for their tax-funded operations.

Property owners in the district will be subject to a 3% tax surcharge to fund the organization's $300,000 annual budget. Residents and shoppers can expect continued community enhancements like the Main Street Fair and new aesthetic improvements to the local streetscape.

The takeaway

Groups operating as tax-funded service areas must strictly adhere to state-mandated renewal schedules to avoid dissolution. Proactive engagement in these administrative processes allows local business districts to sustain ongoing community programming and street beautification.