Highwood public meetings in 2024

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss and potentially recommend action on several zoning and land-use items, including a zoning variation at 330 North Avenue, a special use permit for a tattoo parlor at 43 Highwood Avenue, and a zoning map amendment for 140 Morgan Place. They will also consider approving up to $38,000 for engineering assistance on a lead service line replacement program and discuss parking regulation at 454-460 Green Bay Road. A public hearing is scheduled, but its topic is not specified in the agenda.

• Consideration of a zoning ordinance variation for 330 North Avenue
• Special use permit for a tattoo parlor at 43 Highwood Avenue
• Zoning map amendment from R-2 to R-3 for 140 Morgan Place
• Proposal from Christopher Burke Engineering for lead service line replacement assistance, not to exceed $38,000
• Discussion on regulating parking at 454-460 Green Bay Road

City Council

The City Council will review several zoning requests and a proposal for lead service line replacement assistance. The body is also considering a special use permit for a tattoo parlor.

• Proposal for Christopher Burke Engineering to assist with Lead Service Line Replacement Program not to exceed $38,000
• Zoning variation for 330 North Avenue
• Special Use Permit for a tattoo parlor at 43 Highwood Avenue
• Zoning Map Amendment from R-2 Residential to R-3 Residential for 140 Morgan Place
• Approval of 12/03/2024 AP Warrant List

Highwood Police Pension Board

The board will discuss and possibly act on appointing new legal counsel, with Puchalski Goodloe under consideration. A new trustee, Chris Meter, will be appointed by the city. Public comment will be heard before a possible closed session.

• Appointment of Chris Meter as trustee by the city
• Discussion/possible action on current legal representation
• Discussion/possible action on new legal representation – Puchalski Goodloe
• Public comment period
• Possible closed session

City Council

The City Council will discuss the 2024 tax levy and ordinances to abate taxes for general obligation bonds. The body is also considering increasing the hourly rate for part-time police officers and adding a Class B liquor license to the city code.

• Proposed increase of part-time police officer hourly rate to $40.00
• Consideration of the 2024 Tax Levy for the City of Highwood
• Tax abatement ordinances for General Obligation Bonds Series 2020 (up to $3,100,000) and Series 2021 ($9,255,000)
• Resolution for a wall sign for Kirby Fit at 4 Highwood Avenue
• Proposed amendment to City Code to add a Class B liquor license

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider ordinances regarding the 2024 tax levy and the abatement of taxes for two general obligation bond series. The body will also discuss increasing part-time police officer pay and development proposals for 118 South Central.

• Proposed increase of part-time police officer hourly rate to $40.00
• Tax abatement ordinances for Series 2020 bond (up to $3,100,000) and Series 2021 bond ($9,255,000)
• Ordinance for the 2024 tax levy, collection, and assessment
• ARC application for a wall sign for Kirby Fit at 4 Highwood Avenue
• Proposed addition of a Class B Liquor License to the City Code

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Highwood Planning & Zoning Commission will hear three petitions: a request for a variance to build a detached garage at 330 North Avenue with setback and floor-area-ratio relief, a special-use permit for a tattoo parlor and art gallery at 43 Highwood Avenue, and a zoning-map amendment to change 140 Morgan Place from R-2 to R-3. Staff recommend approval of the garage variance due to neighborhood precedent and hardship.

• Variance for garage at 330 North Avenue (R-3 district) with setback and floor-area-ratio relief
• Special-use permit for tattoo parlor and art gallery at 43 Highwood Avenue (MX-2 district)
• Zoning-map amendment to reclassify 140 Morgan Place from R-2 to R-3

Ad Hoc Beautification Committee

The Ad Hoc Beautification Committee will meet to discuss the process and selection of various beautification projects in the City of Highwood. The meeting also includes a review of previous minutes.

• Discussion on prioritization, process, and selection of beautification projects

City Council

The City Council will consider the tax levy amount for the 2024 tax year and a $25,000 consulting agreement for a development site. The body will also review several sign and mural applications and a change to liquor license classifications.

• Resolution to determine the 2024 Tax Year tax levy amount
• Proposed $25,000 agreement with Ryan, LLC for consulting on development site at 420-424 Sheridan Road
• Ordinance to add a Class B Liquor License to the Highwood City Code
• ARC application for a wall sign at 20 Highwood Avenue (Electric Collective Hair Lab)
• ARC application for a façade mural at 552 Sheridan Road, Unit 1C (La Plancha Loca)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will review and potentially recommend action on several items, including setting the 2024 tax levy, creating a new Class B liquor license, and approving Architectural Review Commission applications for signs and a mural. Also under discussion are a $25,000 consulting agreement for the 420-424 Sheridan Road development site, part-time police officer hourly rates, and the July/August treasurer's reports.

• Consideration of a Resolution determining the 2024 tax levy
• Ordinance amending Section 4-1-7 to add a Class B liquor license
• Resolution approving an ARC application for a wall sign for Electric Collective Hair Lab at 20 Highwood Avenue
• Resolution approving an ARC application for a wall sign for The Training Yard at 523 Bank Lane
• Motion to approve a $25,000 consulting agreement with Ryan, LLC for the development site at 420-424 Sheridan Road

Highwood Firefighter's Pension Fund

The Highwood Firefighters' Pension Fund Board of Trustees holds a regular meeting to approve minutes, receive financial and investment reports, and act on administrative items. Decisions include reviewing the annual actuarial valuation and tax levy request, approving fiduciary liability insurance renewal, and setting cost-of-living adjustments for pensioners. Board officer elections for President and Secretary are also on the agenda.

• Review/Approve Actuarial Valuation and Tax Levy Request (Nyhart)
• Review/Approve Fiduciary Liability Insurance Renewal
• Approve Annual Cost of Living Adjustments for Pensioners
• Board Officer Elections – President and Secretary
• Review/Approve GCM Recurring Withdrawal Instructions and Cash Flow Projection for 2025

Highwood Police Pension Board

The regular meeting of the Highwood Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees scheduled for October 10, 2024, has been cancelled.

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss a resolution for wall and door signs at 9 Highwood Avenue. The body will also review the September 17, 2024, warrant list for payments.

• Resolution for two wall and door signs for Aud Originals at 9 Highwood Avenue
• Payment of $181,468.29 to City of Highland Park for GIS and contract services
• Payment of $20,197.52 to Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. for street capital and other projects
• Payment of $15,225.00 to Demuth, Inc. for sanitary sewer repairs
• Payment of $7,000.00 to CJ Materials & Recycling, LLC for water tower concrete hauling

The City Council approved a resolution for an ARC application for two wall and door signs for Aud Originals at 9 Highwood Avenue. The council also approved the September 3, 2024, City Council and Committee of the Whole minutes, and the September 17, 2024, AP Warrant List for payment. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved ARC application for two wall and door signs for Aud Originals at 9 Highwood Avenue (voice vote, all present aye)
• Approved City Council minutes for September 3, 2024 (voice vote, all present aye)
• Approved Committee of the Whole minutes for September 3, 2024 (voice vote, all present aye)
• Approved 09/17/2024 AP Warrant List for payment (roll call vote, all present aye)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hear presentations from Harlem Irving Companies and Continuum Capital on their responses to the RFP for properties surrounding 420-424 Sheridan Road, and discuss the upcoming tax levy. Also on the agenda: a presentation by Moraine Township on Community Mental Health Boards and consideration of a resolution for wall and door signs at Aud Originals at 9 Highwood Avenue. The committee will review the September 17 warrant list totaling approximately $262,000 in payments.

• Presentations by Harlem Irving Companies and Continuum Capital on RFP responses for properties surrounding 420-424 Sheridan Road
• Discussion on the upcoming tax levy
• Presentation by Moraine Township on Community Mental Health Boards
• Consideration of a resolution approving an ARC application for wall and door signs at Aud Originals, 9 Highwood Avenue
• Review and approval of the September 17 warrant list (List #380) totaling $262,000+

City Council

This regular meeting will consider several ordinances and resolutions: amending the liquor code to add a Class A license, approving a canopy and digital price cabinets for the Citgo at 104 Washington Avenue as part of a conversion to BP, authorizing a reciprocal agreement with District 112 for school security camera access, and enacting a new ordinance regulating camping within city limits. Also on the agenda are appointments to the Fire and Police Commission and Police Pension Board, approval of two warrant lists, and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Appointment of Chris Meter to Board of Fire and Police Commission and Police Pension Board
• Ordinance to add Class A liquor license to city code
• Resolution approving ARC application for Citgo at 104 Washington Ave to convert to BP with digital price cabinets and removal of existing pole sign
• Motion to authorize reciprocal reporting system agreement with District 112 for school security camera access
• Ordinance regulating camping within city boundaries

The City Council approved an ordinance adding a Class A liquor license to the city code, with Alderman Falberg recused. It also approved a resolution for a Citgo station conversion to BP, a police-school camera agreement, and an ordinance regulating camping within city limits. All other items were routine approvals of minutes, appointments, and warrant lists.

• Approved ordinance adding Class A liquor license (roll call, Falberg recused)
• Approved ARC application for Citgo conversion to BP at 104 Washington Ave, conditioned on pole sign removal
• Authorized Police Chief to execute reciprocal reporting system agreement with District 112 for school security camera access
• Approved ordinance regulating camping within corporate boundaries
• Appointed Chris Meter to Board of Fire and Police Commission
• Appointed Chris Meter to Police Pension Board
• Approved 08/20/2024 AP Warrant List for payment
• Approved 09/03/2024 AP Warrant List for payment

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will discuss four new business items: a new Class A liquor license classification, a sign and canopy conversion at 104 Washington Avenue, a reciprocal school security camera agreement with District 112, and an ordinance regulating camping on public property. The committee will also consider appointments of Chris Meter to two boards and approve warrant lists.

• Ordinance adding a Class A liquor license to city code
• Resolution approving canopy with digital LED price cabinets at 104 Washington Avenue (Citgo to BP conversion)
• Motion authorizing police chief to enter reciprocal reporting system agreement with District 112 for school security cameras
• Ordinance regulating camping within city boundaries
• Appointment of Chris Meter to Board of Fire and Police Commission and Police Pension Board

The Committee of the Whole reviewed several items for approval at the next regular City Council meeting, including a new Class A liquor license, a BP conversion with a condition to remove a pole sign, a school security camera agreement, and a camping ordinance. No final votes were taken; all items are scheduled for formal approval by the City Council.

• Reviewed ordinance adding Class A liquor license (Alderman Falberg recused)
• Reviewed ARC application for Citgo-to-BP conversion with pole sign removal condition
• Reviewed reciprocal reporting system agreement with District 112 for school cameras
• Reviewed ordinance regulating camping within city limits
• Entered executive session at 7:05 P.M. and reconvened at 7:29 P.M.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning & Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on a petition by Midwest Young Artists for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) at the vacant lot at 64 Westover. The project proposes a new performing arts building with a 728-seat auditorium, four stories, and 283 parking spaces. The meeting includes only this scheduled business item.

• Petition for Planned Unit Development by Midwest Young Artists for property at 64 Westover (PIN 16-10-401-014)
• Proposed new performing arts building with 728-seat auditorium, 4 stories, 46 ft height
• 283 total parking spaces (160 paved, 123 overflow grass) with 7 accessible spaces
• Request to build on a vacant lot in the R-1 single-family zoning district
• Traffic study and parking management plan included in application

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider an ordinance to add a Class A liquor license classification to the city code. They will also vote on motions to rent parking space from Medina Landscaping and North Suburban Dental through May 1, 2025, and discuss a third amendment to the City Manager's employment agreement. The meeting includes approval of minutes, warrant list, and reports.

• Ordinance adding Class A liquor license classification
• Motion to rent parking space from Medina Landscaping through May 1, 2025
• Motion to rent parking space from North Suburban Dental through May 1, 2025
• Third amendment to City Manager's employment agreement
• Approval of August 6, 2024 warrant list

The City Council approved several routine items, including the warrant list, May and June Treasurer's Reports, and minutes from prior meetings. It also approved agreements to rent parking space from Medina Landscaping and North Suburban Dental through May 1, 2025, and approved a third amendment to the City Manager's employment agreement. An ordinance to add a Class A liquor license was tabled.

• Approved 08/06/2024 AP Warrant List (unanimous)
• Approved May 2024 Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved June 2024 Treasurer's Report (unanimous)
• Approved parking space rental agreement with Medina Landscaping through May 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved parking space rental agreement with North Suburban Dental through May 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved third amendment to City Manager's employment agreement (unanimous)
• Tabled ordinance to add Class A liquor license

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss a proposal for a Class A liquor license and regulations regarding camping on public property for homeless individuals. The body will also consider parking rental agreements and an amendment to the City Manager's employment contract.

• Ordinance to add a Class A Liquor License to the Highwood City Code
• Discussion on regulating camping on public property for homeless individuals
• Parking space rental agreements with Medina Landscaping and North Suburban Dental through May 1, 2025
• Selection of a statue for the pocket park at 341 Waukegan Avenue
• Third Amendment to the City Manager’s Employment Agreement

The Committee of the Whole discussed several items but made only one substantive decision: selecting a 7-foot statue by artist Chris RWK for the pocket park at 341 Waukegan Avenue. Other items, including a sign proposal, a liquor license ordinance, and camping regulations, were discussed but deferred for future action. Several motions, including parking space rentals and a city manager contract amendment, are slated for approval at the regular City Council meeting.

• Selected 7-foot statue by Chris RWK for pocket park at 341 Waukegan Avenue
• Asked Pool Plaza representative to return with formal sign submittal
• Requested applicant attend next meeting for Class A liquor license ordinance
• Discussed camping regulations; will revisit at future meeting
• Parking space rental with Medina Landscaping to be approved at regular meeting
• Parking space rental with North Suburban Dental to be approved at regular meeting
• Third amendment to City Manager's employment agreement to be approved at regular meeting

Ad Hoc Beautification Committee

The Ad Hoc Beautification Committee will hold discussions on coating murals, completing the pocket park at Walker & Waukegan, and setting a process for selecting future beautification projects. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is limited to discussion.

• Discussion on protective coating of murals
• Discussion on outstanding items for pocket park at Walker & Waukegan
• Discussion on prioritization, process and selection of various beautification projects

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider several ordinances creating new liquor license classes (Class D, Class B, and allowing craft distilleries/breweries to also produce wine). They will also vote on accepting up to $100,000 for lighting and irrigation and up to $90,000 for plants and shrubs at the Pocket Park at Walker and Waukegan Avenues, as well as an easement agreement and land sale related to a development at 400 Green Bay Road. The FY 2025 budget and salary ordinances are also scheduled for consideration.

• Ordinance to add a Class D liquor license
• Ordinance to add a Class B liquor license
• Ordinance allowing craft distilleries/breweries with Class N licenses to also produce wine
• Motion to accept $100,000 proposal from Mariani Landscaping for lighting/irrigation at Pocket Park
• Motion to accept $90,000 proposal from Mariani Landscaping for plants/shrubs at Pocket Park

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will hold a public hearing and consider ordinances for the Fiscal Year 2024/2025 appropriations and employee compensation. The body is also reviewing updates to liquor license classifications and several park and real estate agreements.

• Public hearing for Annual Appropriation Ordinance for Fiscal Year 2024/2025
• Proposed Mariani Landscaping contracts for Pocket Park (Walker Ave and Waukegan Ave) not to exceed $100,000 for lighting/irrigation and $90,000 for plants/shrubs
• Proposed ordinances to add Class B and Class D liquor licenses and allow Class N licenses to produce wine
• Proposed real estate sale of a 1,241 square foot parcel to Nightengale One LLC for $5,000
• Proposed easement agreement with Nightengale One LLC for access between Sheridan Road and 400 Green Bay Road

Highwood Firefighter's Pension Fund

The Highwood Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will meet to conduct regular business, including electing a President and Secretary. The board will also review financial reports from Sikich, LLP and consider retirement benefit decisions for Ronald Pieri.

• Election of Board President and Secretary
• Retirement benefit decision for Ronald Pieri
• Review of the City’s Annual Audit
• Approval of trustee training fees and expenses
• Financial reports from Sikich, LLP

Highwood Police Pension Board

The regular meeting of the Highwood Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees was scheduled for July 11, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. This meeting has been cancelled.

• Meeting cancellation

Downtown TIF District Annual Joint Review Board

The Annual Joint Review Board will review the TIF report for fiscal year 2020/2021. The board will also discuss current projects within the Downtown TIF District.

• Review of Annual Filing of TIF Report for Fiscal Year 2020/2021
• Discussion on current projects within the TIF

Downtown TIF District Annual Joint Review Board

The Annual Joint Review Board will review the annual filing of the TIF report for the 2021/2022 fiscal year. The board will also discuss current projects within the Downtown TIF District.

• Review of the Fiscal Year 2021/2022 TIF report
• Discussion on current projects within the TIF

Downtown TIF District Annual Joint Review Board

The Annual Joint Review Board will review the annual filing of the TIF report for the 2019/2020 fiscal year. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding current projects within the Downtown TIF District.

• Review of Annual Filing of TIF Report for Fiscal Year 2019/2020
• Discussion on current projects within the TIF
• Appointment of a public member and chair

City Council

The City Council will consider an ordinance to expand overnight parking permits to include 454 Green Bay Road. The meeting also includes the approval of recent meeting minutes and the June 18 warrant list. Additionally, the Mayor will present a proclamation for LGBTQI+ Pride Month.

• Ordinance amending Section 7-5-6 to expand overnight parking permits to 454 Green Bay Road
• $324,064.08 payment to Bolder Contractors for Bank Lane
• $10,050.00 payment to Carefree Comfort, Inc. for HVAC at 17 Highwood Avenue
• Approval of the June 18, 2024, warrant list

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will discuss future uses for the property at 244 Waukegan Avenue and review appearance code compliance processes. The agenda also includes a review of recent treasurer's reports and an ordinance regarding overnight parking.

• Ordinance to expand overnight parking permits to 454 Green Bay Road
• Discussion on uses for property at 244 Waukegan Avenue following acquisition
• $324,064.08 payment to Bolder Contractors for the Bank Lane Project
• $10,050.00 HVAC repair at 17 Highwood Avenue
• Review of March and April 2024 Treasurer’s Reports

City Council

The Highwood City Council will meet to consider the FY 2025 budget and an IDOT resolution for the Bank Lane Project. The council will also review a motion regarding a Right of Reversion, Memorandum of Understanding, and Easement Agreement.

• Approval of the FY 2025 Budget
• IDOT Resolution for the Bank Lane Project
• Right of Reversion, MOU, and Easement Agreement
• Approval of the June 4, 2024, Warrant List

Committee of the Whole

The committee will consider approving the FY 2025 budget and an IDOT resolution for improvements to the Bank Lane Project. The meeting also includes a review of TIF revenue growth since 2018 and a discussion regarding signage at the Citgo gas station on Washington Avenue.

• Approval of the FY 2025 Budget
• IDOT Resolution for Bank Lane Project improvements
• Discussion of signage at 104 Washington Avenue
• Review of TIF revenue growth from 2018 to present
• Consideration of a Right of Reversion, MOU, and Easement Agreement

Highwood Firefighter's Pension Fund

The Highwood Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting to review the retirement pension of Ronald Pieri. The board will consider a petition to intervene by the City of Highwood and review evidence before taking possible action on the retirement benefit.

• Reconsideration of the retirement pension of Ronald Pieri
• City of Highwood’s Petition to Intervene regarding Ronald Pieri's pension

City Council

The May 21, 2024 Regular City Council meeting has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided at this meeting.

Committee of the Whole

The May 21, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider approving eight Architectural Review Commission applications for signage and outdoor seating at local businesses, authorize two change orders for the Pocket Park Phase I construction totaling $52,408.59, and approve a contract with SE Inc. for maintenance services. The council will also vote on purchasing up to 1,500 tons of road salt at $84.11 per ton for the 2024-2025 winter season. Two library board appointments are also on the agenda.

• ARC applications for signage/seating at Ami Jerusalem Kitchen (148 Green Bay Rd), Lucky Bamboo Food (114 Washington Ave), Top Spa & Nails (110 Washington Ave), JJ Service Center (433 Sheridan Rd), and Station 246/440/546 (Green Bay Rd)
• Two change orders for Pocket Park Phase I construction totaling $52,408.59
• Agreement with SE Inc. for maintenance services
• Purchase of up to 1,500 tons of salt at $84.11/ton for 2024-2025 winter
• Appointments of Janelle Cleland and Catherine Regalado to Library Board

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will consider approving eight Architectural Review Commission applications for signage and outdoor seating at local businesses, authorize two change orders totaling $52,408.59 for the Pocket Park Phase I construction, and discuss entering a maintenance services agreement with SE Inc. and purchasing road salt for the upcoming winter. The meeting also includes appointments to the Library Board and review of the bill warrant list.

• ARC application for door/window signage and outdoor seating at Ami Jerusalem Kitchen, 148 Green Bay Road
• ARC applications for wall signs at Lucky Bamboo Food (114 Washington Ave), Top Spa & Nails (110 Washington Ave), JJ Service Center (433 Sheridan Rd)
• ARC applications for monument signs at Station 246, 440, and 546 Green Bay Road
• Motion to authorize two change orders for Pocket Park Phase I construction totaling $52,408.59
• Resolution to accept Morton Salt bid and purchase up to 1,500 tons of salt at $84.11/ton for 2024-2025 winter

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider several action items, including whether to deny an appeal of the zoning administrator's decision regarding 140 Morgan Place, authorize up to $30,000 for landscaping services, agree to an amended legal fee structure, and approve a planning support services agreement. The agenda also includes routine items like approving minutes, the warrant list, and a proclamation honoring Pete Sirotti.

• Consideration of Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation to deny appeal of zoning decision at 140 Morgan Place
• Motion to authorize City Manager to accept Scopelliti Landscaping proposal for 2024 season, not to exceed $30,000
• Motion to agree to amended fee structure for Klein, Thorpe & Jenkins legal fees
• Motion to authorize City Manager to accept agreement with Lakota Group for planning support services
• Proclamation expressing appreciation for Pete Sirotti's service to the community

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will review a zoning appeal denial, a landscaping contract, legal fee changes, planning support services, and a water service line update. They will also consider a proclamation honoring Pete Sirotti and review the April 16 warrant list.

• Consideration of Planning and Zoning Commission's recommendation to deny appeal of Zoning Administrator's decision regarding 140 Morgan Place
• Motion to authorize City Manager to accept Scopelliti Landscaping proposal for 2024 season, not to exceed $30,000
• Motion to agree to amended fee structure for Klein, Thorpe & Jenkins legal fees
• Motion to authorize City Manager to accept agreement with Lakota Group for planning support services
• Update on water service line material inventory and initial lead service line replacement program

Highwood Firefighter's Pension Fund

The Board of Trustees will review monthly financial reports from Sikich, LLP and quarterly investment reports. The board will discuss retirement benefit updates for Pieri and consider engagement letters for Ottosen DiNolfo and Sikich, LLP.

• Review of Pieri Interim Retirement Benefits and City of Highwood’s Petition to Intervene
• Review and possible action on Sikich, LLP and Ottosen DiNolfo engagement letters
• Certification of Board Election Results for Active and Retired Member positions
• Review of FPIF Actuarial Valuation as of May 1, 2023
• Review of the City’s Annual Audit

Highwood Police Pension Board

The Highwood Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will review monthly financial reports from Sikich, LLP and quarterly investment reports. The board will consider actions regarding cash flow projections, a fiduciary liability insurance extension, and an engagement letter for Sikich, LLP.

• Review and approval of Fiduciary Liability Insurance 6-Month Coverage Extension
• Discussion and possible action on Sikich, LLP Engagement Letter
• Certification of Board Election Results for the Active Member Position
• Status of disability application hearing dates for Rico Stringer
• Approval of Trustee Training Registration Fees and Reimbursable Expenses

City Council

The City Council will consider an ordinance raising the water rate to $5.38 and approve six ARC applications for wall, awning, and lighting signs at local businesses. It will also review and approve three warrant lists for payments and minutes from prior meetings.

• Ordinance amending fee schedule to increase water rate to $5.38
• ARC application for wall sign at Top Spa & Nails, 110 Washington Avenue
• ARC application for wall sign at Chachua Mexican Restaurante, 758 Sheridan Road
• ARC application for wall sign at Lucky Bamboo Food, 114 Washington Avenue
• ARC application for five awning signs and ten goose neck lights at Ami Jerusalem Kitchen, 148 Green Bay Road

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will consider an ordinance to increase the water rate to $5.38, a move directed by the City Council following a review of the water fund's maintenance costs. The meeting also includes resolutions to approve five ARC applications for wall and awning signs at local businesses on Washington Avenue, Sheridan Road, and Green Bay Road. Additionally, the body will discuss a First Amended and Restated Right of Reversion, Memorandum of Understanding, and Easement Agreement.

• Ordinance amending the Comprehensive Fee Schedule to increase the Water Rate to $5.38
• Resolution approving ARC application for a Wall Sign at Top Spa & Nails, 110 Washington Avenue
• Resolution approving ARC application for a Wall Sign at Chachua Mexican Restaurante, 758 Sheridan Road
• Resolution approving ARC application for a Wall Sign at Lucky Bamboo Food, 114 Washington Avenue
• Resolution approving ARC application for five Awning Signs and ten Goose Neck Lighting Fixtures for Ami Jerusalem Kitchen, 148 Green Bay Road

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution directing the City Manager to sign contracts with Elliott, Herky's, and Hirsch for concrete, excavation, and masonry work at 341 Waukegan Avenue for pocket park construction, not to exceed $350,000. The resolution waives competitive bidding to expedite construction before Mural Fest on June 6, 2024. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, warrant list, and reports.

• Resolution to waive competitive bidding and contract with Elliott ($200,000), Herky's ($50,000), and Hirsch ($100,000) for pocket park work
• Pocket park at Waukegan and Walker Avenues to include mural walls, seating, and landscaping
• Construction expedited to complete before Mural Fest on June 6, 2024
• City Manager's spending authority exceeded, requiring Council approval
• Preliminary budget estimate for the park ranges from $447,225 to $524,975

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will discuss a resolution to authorize contracts for the pocket park at 341 Waukegan Avenue, totaling up to $350,000, and will review the draft FY2025 budget. The meeting also includes a discussion on strategic planning and project prioritization.

• Resolution to direct City Manager to contract with Elliott (concrete, up to $200,000), Herky's (excavation, up to $50,000), and Hirsch (masonry, up to $100,000) for pocket park construction at 341 Waukegan Avenue, waiving competitive bidding.
• Discussion on FYE 2025 draft budget, including $900,000 for community beautification, $210,000 for Mural Fest, $200,000 for sanitary main lining on Prairie Avenue, and $30,000 for sidewalk repairs.
• Discussion on strategic planning and project prioritization.
• Public hearing and review of minutes, appointments, and bill warrant list.

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to consider an appeal of a decision made by the Zoning Administrator. The appeal concerns the property located at 140 Morgan Place.

• Appeal of the Zoning Administrator’s decision regarding 140 Morgan Place

Ad Hoc Beautification Committee

The Ad Hoc Beautification Committee will discuss the process, prioritization, and selection of various beautification projects in Highwood. The agenda also includes a review of previous minutes.

• Discussion on the prioritization, process, and selection of city beautification projects

City Council

The March 5, 2024 Regular City Council meeting has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Committee of the Whole

The March 5, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider authorizing the city manager to contract for street sweeping services up to $25,000, sign an agreement with Jacobs Engineering for a water plant condition assessment, and sign a memorandum of understanding with Celebrate Highwood for Mural Fest. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, the warrant list, and reports.

• Street sweeping services contract up to $25,000
• Jacobs Engineering water plant condition assessment agreement
• MOU with Celebrate Highwood for Mural Fest
• Approval of warrant list totaling $108,728.47
• Public input and committee reports

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will review a motion to authorize the city manager to contract for street sweeping services (up to $25,000), sign an agreement with Jacobs Engineering for a water plant condition assessment, and sign a memorandum of understanding with Celebrate Highwood for Mural Fest. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, appointments, and the bill warrant list. No final decisions are made at this meeting; items are discussed and forwarded to the City Council.

• Motion to authorize street sweeping services contract up to $25,000
• Motion to sign agreement with Jacobs Engineering for water plant condition assessment
• Motion to sign MOU with Celebrate Highwood for Mural Fest
• Review of bill warrant list totaling $108,728.47
• Public hearing scheduled

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will discuss and consider several items, including an ordinance to change Buffo's liquor license classification, a resolution appointing an alternate director to the Solid Waste Agency, and a motion to authorize a $171,000 construction oversight contract for 2024 capital projects. They will also discuss the December 2023 Treasurer's Report, a potential RFP for the 420-424 Sheridan Road site, and a draft MOU for Mural Fest. The agenda includes routine items like warrant list approvals and minutes.

• Ordinance to eliminate Class A liquor license and add Class C to allow Buffo's to change license designation
• Resolution appointing Assistant to the City Manager as Alternate Director to Solid Waste Agency of Lake County
• Motion to execute agreement with Christopher Burke Engineering for construction oversight, not to exceed $171,000
• Discussion on releasing RFP for 420-424 Sheridan Road development
• Review of draft MOU between City and Celebrate Highwood for Mural Fest

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider an ordinance to eliminate a Class A liquor license and add a Class C license to allow Buffo's to change its license designation, and a resolution appointing the Assistant to the City Manager as alternate director to the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County. They will also consider a motion to direct the City Manager to execute a construction oversight services agreement with Christopher Burke Engineering for 2024 capital projects, not to exceed $171,000. The agenda includes approval of minutes, warrant lists, and reports.

• Ordinance amending City Code 4-1-7 to eliminate Class A liquor license and add Class C for Buffo's
• Resolution appointing Assistant to City Manager as alternate director to SWALCO
• Motion to execute agreement with Christopher Burke Engineering for construction oversight, not to exceed $171,000
• Approval of AP warrant lists for 01/16/2024 and 02/06/2024
• Appointment of Marc Facchini as SWALCO Alternate Director

Highwood Police Pension Board

The Board of Trustees will discuss monthly financial reports from Sikich, LLP and quarterly investment reports. The meeting includes reviewing membership applications and the status of a disability benefit application.

• Membership applications for Clayton Plumtree and Kevin Robinson
• Disability application hearing dates for Rico Stringer
• Review of IPOPIF Actuarial Valuation as of May 1, 2023
• Review and approval of Ottosen DiNolfo engagement letter
• Approval of trustee training registration fees and expenses

City Council

The January 16, 2024 Regular City Council meeting has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Committee of the Whole

The January 16, 2024 Committee of the Whole meeting in Highwood, IL has been cancelled. No items were discussed or decided.

Highwood Firefighter's Pension Fund

The regular meeting of the Highwood Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees scheduled for January 11, 2024, has been cancelled.

Highwood Police Pension Board

The regular meeting of the Highwood Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees scheduled for January 11, 2024, has been cancelled.

City Council

The Highwood City Council will consider accepting a $2,582,523.30 bid from Bolder Contractors for the Bank Lane Improvements Project, authorizing the purchase of 244 Waukegan Avenue, and approving an ordinance about non-scheduled bus drop-offs. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, warrant lists, and reports.

• Bid from Bolder Contractors for Bank Lane Improvements: $2,582,523.30
• Ordinance to authorize real estate contract for 244 Waukegan Avenue
• Ordinance addressing non-scheduled bus drop-offs
• Approval of AP warrant lists for 12/19/2023 and 01/02/2024
• Treasurer's reports for September, October, November 2023

Committee of the Whole

The Highwood Committee of the Whole will review a bid for the Bank Lane Improvements Project, an ordinance to purchase 244 Waukegan Avenue, and an ordinance regulating non-scheduled bus drop-offs. They will also discuss the September-November 2023 Treasurer's Reports and a proposal for a new mural-painting event in 2024. The meeting includes review of minutes, appointments, and bill warrant lists.

• Consideration of a motion to accept Bolder Contractors' bid of $2,582,523.30 for Bank Lane Improvements Project
• Ordinance authorizing purchase of 244 Waukegan Avenue
• Discussion on September, October, November 2023 Treasurer's Reports
• Discussion on Celebrate Highwood creating a 2024 mural-painting event
• Ordinance addressing non-scheduled bus drop-offs