Good Standing Eligibility Requirements

To be considered in good standing (no fee required), merchants must:

• Participate in at least two DSMC-sponsored events per year

• Attend at least two general meetings annually

• Join at least one committee and attend 75% of its meetings

• In addition, Downtown Skokie merchants are expected to comply with village zoning and operational standards:

  • Ground Floor Use: Retail streets must reserve ground-floor space (within 24 feet of the right-of-way, park, or open space edge) for retail or customer-oriented services

  • Minimum Operating Hours: Certain retail businesses must be open at least 40 hours per week, per zoning Appendix A

  • Outdoor Use Restrictions: Most business activities must be conducted indoors. Outdoor sales or vending may require special use permits

  • Certificate of Occupancy: Required before opening a business (a general business license is not required)

  • Signage Standards: All signage must comply with Village of Skokie design requirements and be approved by the Village Hall Building Division

Benefits for All Downtown Merchant Members (regardless of standing)

• Business listing on the Downtown Skokie website (name and address)

• Opportunity for inclusion in Vibes in the Village, our public-facing Downtown Skokie newsletter with over 50% readership, which exclusively promotes events and activities within the Downtown Skokie boundaries

• Invitations to participate in collaborative events, Downtown Skokie marketing efforts, general board meetings, and networking gatherings

• Access to the members-only newsletter — a direct update from the DSMC President — featuring:

  • Noteworthy happenings in Downtown Skokie

  • Potential new businesses and developments

  • Updates from the Downtown Skokie Village Trustee

  • Commentary on Village Board discussions that affect the district

  • Minutes from open and committee meetings

  • Dates of upcoming DSMC and key community meetings

• Opportunity to co-sponsor a Downtown Skokie event, which includes:

  • Name/logo featured in promotional materials

  • Event listing on the DSMC website

  • Inclusion in member newsletters and email campaigns

  • Admission for up to two representatives to the sponsored event

Additional Benefits for Members in Good Standing

• Priority listing on the Downtown Skokie website and in Vibes in the Village

• Voting rights on DSMC initiatives, events, and funding decisions

• Priority placement in seasonal campaigns (e.g., holiday guides)

• Eligibility for leadership roles or committee chair positions

• Advance notice and priority access to marketing opportunities and grant programs

• Recognition as a Featured Member in rotating website and newsletter spotlights

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must demonstrate a meaningful professional or community connection to Downtown Skokie

• Must pay an annual membership fee of $350/year

Benefits:

• Opportunity to co-sponsor a Downtown Skokie event, which includes:

  • Name/logo inclusion in promotional materials

  • Event listing on the DSMC website

  • Access to the DSMC newsletter and mailing list for promotion

  • Admission for up to two representatives at the sponsored event

• Invitation to attend general meetings and networking gatherings

• Optional recognition as a supporting partner on the DSMC website (name and logo)

• Access to volunteer or advisory roles on select committees (non-voting)

Downtown Merchant Members

For brick-and-mortar businesses located in Downtown Skokie

All Downtown Skokie merchants are automatically enrolled with option to opt out.