The proposed changes: Destination Geneva launched last year and handed out four $2,500 grants in its first year. The expanded version would make $75,000 available total — $50,000 allocated for grants up to $10,000 each, plus up to six smaller $2,500 grants. Under the proposal, the program would be based on reimbursements, meaning organizations document expenses to get paid back after spending funds.

Where the money would come from: The program draws from Geneva's hotel/motel tax. According to a city official, about 60% of that revenue goes to the Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau under a separate contract, leaving the city with the balance. State law requires those funds to be spent specifically to promote tourism, conventions, or overnight stays by non-resident visitors. That restriction shapes how the program would work.

The Swedish Days question: One alderman asked whether festivals like Swedish Days would qualify under the overnight visitor requirement. City attorney Scott Fintzen said that festivals would be eligible, but applicants would have to explain how their event is expected to bring visitors from 50 or more miles away or generate overnight stays, and then document whether it actually happened.