For Immediate Release
Contact:  Jason Gerwig
630/407-6022
June 17, 2008

Agreement  Will  Ensure Historic Museum Remains Open

WHEATON — Kyle Gilgis says an intergovernmental agreement between the County and the Wheaton Park District, which was approved by the Development Committee on Tuesday, will ensure the DuPage County Historic Museum remains open and operating.

Gilgis, Chairwoman of the Development Committee, notes that the agreement will provide stability, and enhance the growth of the Museum, while also ensuring the current collection held is available for visitors to review and enjoy.

“This agreement between DuPage County and the Wheaton Park District is a win-win for everyone,” said Gilgis (District 3).  “We can now ensure that the DuPage Historic Museum retains its wonderful collection, while at the same time looking at new and innovative ways to increase attendance and enhance partnerships with other facilities.”

County Board Member Debra Olson notes that as part of the agreement, the Museum must develop a strategic plan within a year, which will be guided by the policies of the American Association of Museums.  The plan will emphasize fundraising, refinement of the collection, partnering with other museums and cultural institutions and the updating of the DuPage County history gallery. 

"I want to commend the Wheaton Park District for partnering with the County so that we can work together to keep this historic building open,” said Olson (District 4). 

While the Wheaton Park District will be getting improved administrative offices when they move into the Museum, the majority of the facility will remain Museum space.  The Park District will also pay no rent, will assume all maintenance and administrative costs, and the two dedicated Museum staff will be employees of the District.  DuPage County will continue to commit $130,000 to the Museum for the next five years.

The agreement now awaits final action by the full County Board, which is scheduled to meet on Tuesday, June 24^th at 10:00 a.m.  For more information on DuPage County, please visit www.dupageco.org. 

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