Why Shop in O'Fallon This Holiday Season?

It's the time of year when the stores are packed, people are rushing through the aisles with Christmas lists and looking for the best deals to complete their holiday shopping.

This holiday season, O'Fallon Patch asked city leaders why they encourage residents to shop right here in O'Fallon. Here's what they had to say: 

Erin Williams, President/CEO of O’Fallon Chamber of Commerce

"Many residents don’t realize that many of the business owners in O’Fallon are also leaders in the non-profits in our area. Many business leaders and owners are working on Boards or fundraising for organizations like the Salvation Army, Crider Center or Habitat for Humanity. These owners have a vested interest in the vitality of our community and they are giving their time, talent and treasure to work towards the best quality of life for all of our citizens. Supporting the businesses that support our community in all facets just makes sense. We are blessed to have business leaders that believe they are stewards of the community, and we want to keep them!" 

O'Fallon Mayor Bill Hennessy

"Every dollar counts in building our community, which is why it’s so important to “Keep It in the ‘O.’” When you shop in O’Fallon, whether it’s for everyday items like buying gas, or big ticket purchases like furniture or a new car, your sales taxes stay working right here in O’Fallon. Sales taxes help fund our City parks, our police force, and keep our streets and roads well-maintained.

And, keeping it in the O – shopping O’Fallon, first – is a really powerful tool for keeping and growing jobs in our City. When you support hometown businesses, you help retain an exciting variety of shopping and dining options and promote retail diversity, too."

O'Fallon Economic Development Director Mike Hurlbert

"That’s a great topic, and timely too with the holiday shopping season.  I think it’s vitally important for residents to spend their funds in their local community. It comes right back to them in terms of supporting government services (such as police, parks, and building safety), public improvements (roads and infrastructure) and economic development (creating and supporting local job growth).  When shoppers “Keep It In The ‘O” they help to ensure these services and thereby continue to make O’Fallon one of the best places to live, work, and play."