Highland Park public meetings in 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for December 18, 2025, is canceled. All agenda items will be continued to the regular meeting on January 15, 2026, at 7:30 P.M. at City Hall. The agenda otherwise contains only routine procedural items such as approval of minutes and public comment.

• Meeting canceled; all items continued to January 15, 2026
• Approval of draft minutes from November 20, 2025
• Business from the public
• Old business and new business items (none specified)

Plan and Design Commission

The Plan and Design Commission will hold a public hearing (PUD-2025-00079) for a Special Use Permit, Final Planned Development, design review, final plat, and variances at 734 Central Ave. The commission will also approve an amended resolution that sets the schedule of regular meetings for 2026. An administrative design review update will be presented, and the next regular meeting is scheduled for Jan. 6, 2026.

• Public Hearing #PUD-2025-00079: Special Use Permit, Final Planned Development, design review, final plat, and variances for 734 Central Ave.
• Approve amended resolution setting the 2026 schedule of regular Plan & Design Commission meetings.
• Administrative Design Review Update (information item).
• Next regular meeting set for Jan. 6, 2026 at City Hall.
• Case briefing (details not specified).

The Plan and Design Commission approved a Special Use Permit for a final planned development at 734 Central Avenue, including modifications and a final plat of resubdivision, with conditions. The project includes 11 residential units, a parking garage, and one inclusionary housing unit. The commission also approved the design review for the project and adopted a state-compliant 2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved Special Use Permit for 734 Central Ave with 3 conditions (5-1)
• Approved Design Review for 734 Central Ave (unanimous)
• Adopted state-compliant 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved November 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

City Council - Regular Rescheduled

The City Council will consider an ordinance for the 2025 tax levy and a compensation plan for city employees. The body will also review several planned development permits and improvement grants for local businesses.

• Ordinance providing for the levy of taxes for tax year 2025
• Special Use Permits for Planned Developments at 250 Skokie Valley Road, 932 and 942 Deerfield Road, and 1632-1646 Second Street
• Improvement grants for Matchmaker Bookshop LLC, CRG Ravinia LLC, and Bandido Inc.
• Ordinance approving the City Employee Compensation Plan for 2025 and 2026
• Purchase of a Model 900 Sewer Freightliner

The City Council approved the 2025 tax levy ordinance, a compensation plan for city employees, and a slate of omnibus items including contracts and grants. It also approved a planned development at 1632-1646 Second Street with an inclusionary housing plan, and granted exterior and interior improvement grants to CRG Ravinia LLC (565 Roger Williams Ave) by a 4-3 vote. The council approved appointments to boards and commissions for 2026 terms.

• Approved 2025 tax levy ordinance (O66-2025) (7-0)
• Approved employee compensation plan for 2025-2026 (O65-2025) (7-0)
• Approved omnibus items 1-2, 5, 7, 10-28 (7-0)
• Approved exterior and interior improvement grants for CRG Ravinia LLC (4-3)
• Approved exterior improvement grant for Matchmaker Bookshop LLC (7-0)
• Approved Second Street PUD and development agreement (7-0)
• Approved appointments to boards and commissions for 2026 (6-0)
• Approved minor amendment to planned development at 1950/1964 Sheridan Road (7-0)

Committee of the Whole - Regular Rescheduled

The Highland Park Committee of the Whole will hold a regular rescheduled meeting to discuss several items, including the Highland Park Community Foundation's 2025 annual report, an update and budget determination for the Place of Remembrance, and a proposed new land use for Champions Point. The committee will also consider approving minutes from its November 24, 2025 regular and closed sessions. Public comments can be submitted via email, phone, or live during the meeting.

• Highland Park Community Foundation Annual Report 2025
• Place of Remembrance Update & Budget Determination
• Discussion of Proposed New Land Use – Champions Point
• Approval of minutes from November 24, 2025 regular and closed sessions

The Committee of the Whole approved the minutes from the November 24, 2025, meeting and reached a consensus to budget $2 million for the construction of the Place of Remembrance. Additionally, the Council discussed a proposed land use amendment for the Champions Point property, with a majority of members expressing interest in continuing further exploration of the project.

• Approved November 24, 2025, meeting and closed session minutes (6-0)
• Supported $2M budget for Place of Remembrance construction
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Human Relations Advisory Group

The Human Relations Advisory Group will meet to discuss updates for the 2026 MLK Day of Service and the 2026 HP Awards. The meeting includes time for public comment and updates from city staff and the chairman.

• 2026 MLK Day of Service updates
• 2026 HP Awards discussion
• Approval of October 9, 2025 meeting minutes

The Human Relations Advisory Group discussed logistics for the 2026 MLK Day of Service and the 2026 HP Awards, including service project participation, entertainment, and award nominations. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only decision was unanimous approval of the October 9, 2025 meeting minutes.

• Approved October 9, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed 2026 MLK Day of Service logistics (no vote)
• Discussed 2026 HP Awards nominations and outreach (no vote)

Historic Preservation

The Historic Preservation Commission will consider a landmark nomination and determine the historic significance of a property. The body will also discuss ways to encourage historic preservation and introduce the 2026 awards.

• Preliminary consideration of landmark nomination for 3135 Priscilla Avenue
• Determination of historic significance for 1373 Oakwood Avenue
• Discussion on encouraging historic preservation
• Introduction to 2026 Historic Preservation Awards

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved a preliminary landmark designation for the H.W. Kadell House at 3135 Priscilla Avenue, a 1941 Contemporary-style home designed by architect George Keck. The commission found the property meets landmark criteria #1, 4, 5, and 6 and has sufficient integrity. A separate motion to determine historic significance for 1373 Oakwood Avenue failed on a 2-3 vote, with commissioners split on whether the house met the criteria. The commission also discussed potential incentives for historic preservation, including grants and tax abatements, but took no formal action.

• Approved preliminary landmark designation for 3135 Priscilla Avenue (H.W. Kadell House) unanimously.
• Denied determination of historic significance for 1373 Oakwood Avenue (motion failed 2-3).
• Approved minutes of the November 13, 2025 regular meeting unanimously.
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:11 p.m. unanimously.

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The Foreign Fire Insurance Board of Highland Park will hold a routine meeting on December 8, 2025, at Fire Station #33. The agenda includes standard items such as roll call, approval of previous minutes, treasurer's report, and old/new business, with no specific action items listed.

• Meeting at Fire Station #33, 1130 Central Avenue, Highland Park
• Treasurer's report
• Old business and new business discussion

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Highland Park Board of Fire and Police Commissioners is holding a special meeting to handle routine administrative business. They will select two regular meeting dates for 2026, approve the destruction of verbatim records older than 18 months, and release closed session minutes older than 6 months. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Selection of two regular meeting dates in 2026
• Approval of destruction of verbatim records older than 18 months
• Approval to release closed session minutes older than 6 months

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals' December 4, 2025 regular meeting is canceled. All agenda items will be continued to the next regular meeting on December 18, 2025, at the same time and location. The agenda otherwise contains only standard procedural items such as approval of minutes and public comment.

• Meeting canceled; all items continued to 12/18/2025
• Approval of 11/20/2025 draft minutes
• Public comment period
• Staff report

Police Pension Board

The Highland Park Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting to conduct a hearing on Matthew Bobek's application for a duty disability pension. The board will appoint a hearing officer, admit evidence, hear testimony, and may take action on the application. A closed session may follow to deliberate on the evidence and testimony.

• Hearing on duty disability pension application for Matthew Bobek
• Appointment of hearing officer
• Admission of documentary evidence
• Testimony of witnesses for applicant and/or city
• Possible action on application

Transportation Advisory Group

The Highland Park Transportation Advisory Group will hold its December 3, 2025 meeting to review and discuss transportation planning items including bike-friendly community goals, sidewalk connections, and a pedestrian bridge project. The group will also receive updates on the 2026 capital improvement plan and IDOT ramp improvements.

• Continued Discussion of Bike Friendly Community Rating Target
• IDOT Improvements at Half Day Road Exit Ramp
• Final 2026 Capital Improvement Plan
• US-41 Pedestrian Bridge Project Overview
• North Highlands Sidewalk Connection Update (Krenn/Hyacinth/Western)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will consider the 2026 proposed budgets for the Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods Associations. The body will also discuss a potential no-smoking policy change for Peers house rules.

• Proposed 2026 budgets for Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods Associations
• Peers house rule change regarding a no-smoking policy
• ERES Management Report and financials for Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods Associations
• Housing Trust Fund financials
• Sunset Woods financials

The Highland Park Housing Commission voted 2-3 against a proposed no-smoking house rule change for the Peers Housing Association, with concerns raised about enforcement, resident mobility, and the need for more resident feedback. The matter was continued to the February 2026 meeting by a 4-1 vote. The commission unanimously approved the 2026 budgets for the Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods Associations, and approved outgoing proclamations for Commissioners Bernstein and Gonzalez.

• No-smoking policy change for Peers denied (2-3)
• No-smoking policy discussion continued to February 2026 meeting (4-1)
• Approved 2026 budgets for Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods Associations (5-0)
• Approved outgoing proclamation for Commissioner Marcia Bernstein (5-0)
• Approved outgoing proclamation for Acting Chair Luis Gonzalez (5-0)
• Approved November 5, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (5-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole is scheduled to meet at City Hall on November 24, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The agenda includes procedural items such as calling the meeting to order, approving previous minutes, and adjourning. No substantive decisions or discussions are listed beyond a utility billing policy item.

The Committee of the Whole approved the minutes from the November 10, 2025 meeting and reviewed the Utility Billing Leak Adjustment Policy. A majority of the council expressed support for the policy and its recommendations. The committee also held a closed session regarding security and property before adjourning.

• Approved minutes of the November 10, 2025 meeting (7-0)
• Recessed into closed session for security and property discussion (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Highland Park City Council is meeting to consider a range of routine and significant items, including the approval of the 2026 annual budget, annual fees, and the employee compensation plan. The agenda also includes several resolutions for contracts and service agreements, as well as a public hearing on the 2025 tax levy. Most items are grouped under an omnibus vote, but can be removed for separate discussion.

• Ordinance approving the 2026 annual budget (FY Jan 1–Dec 31, 2026)
• Resolution establishing annual fees for 2026
• Ordinance approving employee compensation plan effective Jan 1, 2026
• Resolution waiving bidding and approving security services contract with Arms Security Corporation
• Public hearing on tax levy for tax year 2025

The City Council approved the FY 2026 annual budget and a 17-item omnibus agenda covering contracts, fees, and development agreements. They also passed an ordinance amending motor-driven vehicle rules (6-1) and set annual fees for 2026. A public hearing on the 2025 tax levy was held and closed.

• Approved FY 2026 annual budget (O60-2025) via omnibus vote (7-0)
• Approved omnibus items 1-3, 5, 7-19 (7-0), including fireworks, security, and development agreements
• Approved motor-driven vehicle ordinance amendment (O59-2025) (6-1)
• Approved 2026 annual fees resolution (R139-2025) (7-0)
• Approved minutes of Oct 30 and Nov 10 meetings (7-0)
• Approved warrant list and wire transfers (7-0)
• Closed public hearing on 2025 tax levy (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Highland Park Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on November 20, 2025, to discuss a variance request for a screen porch addition at 1331 Hilary Ln. The request seeks to exceed the allowable Floor Area Ratio under the zoning code. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes, public comment, and a staff report.

• Variance request #VAR-2025-00057 for property at 1331 Hilary Ln, zoning district R6, to exceed Floor Area Ratio for a screen porch addition
• Approval of draft minutes from 11/06/2025 meeting
• Business from the public
• Staff report
• Recognition of outgoing member

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a request for a floor-area-ratio (FAR) variance to allow for the construction of a screened-in porch at 1331 Hilary Lane. The petitioner cited the need for a usable outdoor space due to noise and environmental conditions near the Skokie River and highway. The board voted 4-2 to approve the variance.

• Approved November 6, 2025, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FAR variance for 1331 Hilary Lane (4-2)

Firefighters Pension Board

The Highland Park Firefighters’ Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold its regular meeting on November 19, 2025, at City Hall. The agenda includes routine procedural items, investment and financial reports, and updates on membership, benefits, and legal matters. Several new business items focus on 2026 preparations, including setting board meeting dates and reviewing fiduciary liability insurance.

• Review and approval of 2026 Board Meeting Dates
• Review and possible action on Fiduciary Liability Insurance Renewal
• Approval of Trustee Training Registration Fees and Reimbursable Expenses
• Monthly Financial Report and Presentation of Bills by Lauterbach & Amen
• Review and adoption of Municipal Compliance Report

The Highland Park Firefighters' Pension Fund Board approved the quarterly investment report, monthly financial report, and disbursements, and set 2026 monthly recurring deposits at $520,000 from FPIF. They also approved a $750 quarterly retainer for legal services, designated authorized agents, and adopted a Decision and Order for Kevin Knoll. No applications for membership, withdrawals, retirement, or disability benefits were considered.

• Approved August 21, 2025 meeting minutes with amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Sawyer Falduto quarterly investment report and acknowledged FPIF reports (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial report and $88,859.24 in disbursements (4-0)
• Set 2026 monthly recurring deposits at $520,000 from FPIF (4-0)
• Approved, adopted, and published Decision and Order for Kevin Knoll (unanimous)
• Designated Trustees Lind and McCaulou as Authorized Agents and Lind, McCaulou, and Susan Hill as Account Representatives (4-0)
• Engaged Reimer Dobrovolny & Labardi PC at $750.00 quarterly (4-0)
• Established 2026 board meeting dates (unanimous)

General

City officials and Ravinia Festival leadership will meet to review the 2025 season and discuss preliminary plans for 2026. The meeting includes reports on transit, traffic management, and public communication.

• 2025 Ravinia Festival season recap
• Preliminary plans for the 2026 season
• Review of major projects
• Transit report
• Traffic Management Plan

General

The Highland Park Public Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial reports and the October bill list. The board will consider the approval of donation naming agreements and expansion change orders.

• Approval of October 2025 Bill List
• Consideration and approval of donation naming agreements
• Consideration and approval of expansion change orders
• Discussion of Illinois Standards for Public Libraries for 2026 Per Capita Grant

Plan and Design Commission

This regular meeting of the Plan and Design Commission has been canceled, with no business scheduled. The agenda contains only standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and approval of minutes, but the meeting will not take place. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 2, 2025, at City Hall.

• Meeting canceled – no business
• Next meeting: December 2, 2025, at City Hall

Sustainability Advisory Group

The Sustainability Advisory Group will meet to discuss details for the 2026 Work Plan. The meeting also includes updates from city staff and the chairman.

• Discussion of 2026 Work Plan details

The Sustainability Advisory Group met and discussed priorities for the 2026 work plan, including communications, resident engagement, composting, and renewable energy. No formal decisions or votes were taken on these topics. The group approved the minutes from the October 20, 2025 special meeting.

• Approved October 20, 2025 special meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historic Preservation

The Historic Preservation Commission will meet to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a property at 242 Linden Park Place. The body will also hold a discussion on encouraging historic preservation.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 242 Linden Park Place
• Discussion regarding encouraging historic preservation
• Commissioner / Open Meetings Act Training

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for rear window and door modifications at 242 Linden Park Place, a non-contributing structure. The commission also discussed incentives to encourage historic preservation, including grants, tax abatements, and land use incentives, but took no formal action, deciding to continue the discussion at a future meeting. Minutes from the September 29, 2025 special meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved COA for window/door expansion at 242 Linden Park Place (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 29, 2025 special meeting (unanimous)

Police Pension Board

The Highland Park Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to review investment performance, approve bills and financial reports, and act on membership and benefit applications. The board will also discuss trustee training, set 2026 meeting dates, and consider several disability and retirement matters. The agenda includes routine items such as minutes approval and public comment.

• Investment performance review by Sawyer Falduto Asset Management, LLC
• Presentation and approval of bills, including additional bills
• Application for membership by Gabriel Bahena
• Approve surviving spouse benefits for Margaret Cipolla (deceased pensioner Christopher Cipolla)
• Refund of excess contributions for Brian Bodden

The Highland Park Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees approved a repeat monthly withdrawal of $580,000 from IPOPIF effective January 15, 2026, and amended the Schwab money market target balance to $580,000 with excess funds over $650,000 transferred to the BMO Bank operating account. The board also approved a $3,700 active member workshop, accepted a new member, approved a surviving spouse benefit, and set 2026 meeting dates. Trustee Scott Fishman resigned from the board effective immediately.

• Approved repeat monthly withdrawal of $580,000 from IPOPIF effective Jan 15, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved $3,700 engagement of L&A for active member workshop (5-0)
• Accepted Gabriel Bahena into the pension fund as Tier II participant effective Oct 27, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved surviving spouse benefit of $6,936.62/month for Margaret Cipolla (5-0)
• Approved $186.34 refund of excess contributions to Brian Bodden (5-0)
• Approved City of Highland Park petition to intervene in Matthew Bobek disability matter (4-0, Fishman abstained)
• Established 2026 meeting dates: Feb 12, May 14, Aug 13, Nov 12 at 5:00 p.m. (voice vote, Fishman abstained)
• Approved $69,360.21 in quarterly disbursements (5-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss the schedule for 2026 city-sponsored events. The body will also review the Spring Clean-Up Program.

• 2026 City-Sponsored Events
• Review of Spring Clean-Up Program

The Committee of the Whole discussed the 2026 City-Sponsored Events slate and the Spring Clean-Up Program. A majority of Council supported incorporating World Music Fest into the Port Clinton Friday Night Concert series, having the City produce Oktoberfest in the Ravinia Business District, providing in-kind contributions up to $5,000 to Arts on Sheridan and Port Clinton Art Festival, and not offering an in-kind contribution for the Randolph Street Market Vintage Shindig. A majority also favored continuing the Spring Clean-Up Program in 2026. No formal votes were taken; these were consensus directions for staff.

• Supported incorporating World Music Fest into Port Clinton Friday Night Concert series (majority)
• Supported City-produced Oktoberfest in Ravinia Business District (majority)
• Supported in-kind contribution up to $5,000 to Arts on Sheridan and Port Clinton Art Festival (majority)
• Opposed in-kind contribution for Randolph Street Market Vintage Shindig (majority)
• Supported continuing Spring Clean-Up Program in 2026 (majority)

City Council

The Highland Park City Council will meet on November 10, 2025, to discuss and vote on several items, including amendments to traffic accident reporting rules, a new water billing system launch, and multiple contracts for engineering and consulting services. The meeting will also include public hearings on the fiscal year 2026 budget and zoning changes for specific properties.

• Amendment to traffic accident reporting rules (Section 71.275 of Highland Park Code)
• New water billing system launch
• Award of grant assistance consulting services to Civiltech Engineer, Inc. and Baxter & Woodman, Inc.
• Award of traffic engineering services to Civiltech Engineering, Inc., Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc., and Baxter & Woodman, Inc.
• Repeal of Resolution R145-2024 and revised agreement with USIC Locating Services, LLC

The City Council approved the October 20, 2025 minutes, the warrant list, and an omnibus of eight items including tax revenue estimates, consulting agreements, and a police cadet program. They also approved amendments to special use permits for 445 Central Avenue and 763 Dean Avenue, and authorized drafting documents for a planned development at 932 and 942 Deerfield Road. A public hearing on the FY2026 budget was held, with adoption scheduled for November 24, 2025.

• Approved minutes of October 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved warrant list and wire transfers (unanimous)
• Approved omnibus items 1-8 including tax revenue estimate, consulting agreements, and police cadet MOU (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit amendment for 445 Central Avenue with reporting requirements (6-1)
• Approved special use permit amendment for 763 Dean Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved drafting documents for planned development at 932 and 942 Deerfield Road (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on FY2026 budget; adoption scheduled for Nov 24, 2025

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Highland Park Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will hold a special meeting to conduct routine procedural items and vote on two substantive items: approval of the FY2026 Workplan and establishment of an initial eligibility list for police entry-level positions.

• Approval of the FY2026 Workplan
• Establishment of an Initial Eligibility List (Police Entry Level)

The Board approved the Fiscal Year 2026 Work Plan and the minutes from the September 26, 2025, meeting. Commissioners also conducted interviews for entry-level police officer candidates during a closed session.

• Approved September 26, 2025, meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved FY2026 Work Plan (3-0)
• Moved to closed session for personnel matters (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Highland Park Zoning Board of Appeals will hold its regular meeting on November 6, 2025, at City Hall. The board is scheduled to discuss routine items including approval of previous minutes and a staff report on the 2026 meeting resolution. The only substantive item is a public hearing on a fence-height variance request for a property at 2789 Oak St.

• Variance request for 4-foot front-yard fence height at 2789 Oak St (R4 & R5 zoning districts)
• Public hearing on the variance request

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a variance allowing a 6-foot fence where 4 feet is normally required at 2789 Oak Street, a corner lot with unusual conditions. The board also approved the 2026 meeting resolution, which removes the April 3, 2026 meeting from the schedule. Minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting were approved without corrections.

• Approved fence height variance #VAR-2025-00056 at 2789 Oak Street (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Meeting Resolution, removing April 3, 2026 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved October 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will review financial reports for the Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods associations. The body is also considering an updated 5-year Capital Improvement Plan and a resolution for a CPAH operating grant drawdown.

• Peers & Ravinia updated 5-year Capital Improvement Plan
• Resolution Approving CPAH Operating Grant Q3 Drawdown
• ERES Management Report and Financials
• Sunset Woods Insurance informative item
• Housing Trust Fund (HTF) Financials

The Housing Commission approved the third-quarter operating grant drawdown for the Community Partners for Affordable Housing (CPAH). Commissioners also discussed capital improvement needs for the Ravinia and Peers housing properties, including future roof replacements and potential funding strategies.

• Approved October 8, 2025, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved CPAH Operating Grant Q3 drawdown (unanimous)

Plan and Design Commission

The Highland Park Plan and Design Commission will meet on November 4, 2025, to consider two design review cases and a public hearing for a special use permit amendment. The meeting will also include administrative updates and a case briefing, with no major policy decisions scheduled.

• DES-2025-00081: Design review and sign package amendment for 10 Skokie Valley Rd.
• PUD-2025-00067: Public hearing for special use permit amendment, design review, and code modifications at 763 Dean Ave. (Ravinia School)
• Administrative Design Review Update (information item)
• Case Briefing (no details provided)
• Next meeting scheduled for November 18, 2025

The Plan and Design Commission unanimously approved a design review and sign package amendment for the Shell station at 10 Skokie Valley Road, including new wall signs and a digital sign. It also unanimously approved a special use permit amendment for Ravinia School (763 Dean Avenue) to add 13 new parking spaces and 3 additional spaces, with landscaping and zoning modifications. Both approvals were recommended by staff and passed with no opposition.

• Approved Design Review & Sign Package Amendment with Variations for 10 Skokie Valley Road (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use Permit Amendment for Ravinia School parking expansion (unanimous)

City Council

The Highland Park City Council is holding a special meeting to consider a resolution approving a preliminary development plan and preliminary plat of subdivision for properties at 1660 and 1700 Old Deerfield Road. Public comment is invited via email, phone, or live at the meeting.

• Resolution approving preliminary development plan and preliminary plat of subdivision at 1660 and 1700 Old Deerfield Road

The City Council approved a preliminary development plan and preliminary plat of subdivision for the property at 1600 and 1700 Old Deerfield Road, with an amendment requiring the applicant to pay for any traffic pattern changes if a future traffic study necessitates them. The approval was unanimous (7-0). Amendments to add a $50,000 landscaping public benefit increase and to consider R7 zoning failed.

• Approved preliminary development plan and plat for 1600/1700 Old Deerfield Road (7-0)
• Amended resolution to require applicant to pay for traffic pattern changes if study necessitates (7-0)
• Amendment for $50,000 landscaping public benefit increase failed (3-4)
• Amendment for R7 zoning consideration failed (no second)

Business and Economic Development Advisory Group

The Business and Economic Development Advisory Group will meet to approve its 2026 meeting resolution and work plan, finalize nominations for district liaisons, and receive the 2026–2030 Business Development Strategic Plan. The group will also hear updates from city staff, the chairman, the Chamber of Commerce, and advisors.

• Approve 2026 BEDAG Meeting Resolution
• Approve 2026 BEDAG Work Plan
• Presentation of 2026–2030 Business Development Strategic Plan
• Finalize nominations for Business District Liaisons

The Business and Economic Development Advisory Group approved the 2026 meeting resolutions and the 2026 Work Plan, incorporating copy edits and clarifications requested during the meeting. The group also received a presentation on the 2026-2030 Business Development Strategic Plan and discussed nominations for Business District Liaisons, with a deadline set for January 28, 2026. No formal amendments were introduced regarding targeted outreach to critical businesses.

• Approved February meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Work Plan with copy edits (unanimous)
• No formal amendment on targeted outreach to critical businesses
• Business District Liaison nominations deferred to January 28, 2026

General

The City of Highland Park holds a neighborhood meeting to discuss the #34 Redevelopment Project at the Public Services Center/Fire Station. Attendees will review the project overview, timeline, next steps, and address questions.

• #34 Redevelopment Project overview and timeline discussion
• Public Services Center/Fire Station location at 1707 St Johns Avenue

Sustainability Advisory Group

The Sustainability Advisory Group will hold a special meeting to discuss and take action on the 2026 Work Plan. The group will also receive updates from city staff and the chairman.

• Action item and discussion regarding the 2026 Work Plan

The Sustainability Advisory Group discussed and reached consensus on four focus areas for its 2026 work plan: communication, community education, natural areas, and greenhouse gas reduction. No formal decisions were made; the group will develop actionable steps at its November 13 meeting. The minutes from September 11, 2025, were approved as amended.

• Approved September 11, 2025 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Consensus to include four focus areas in 2026 work plan: communication, community education, natural areas, greenhouse gas reduction
• Agreed to develop actionable steps at November 13 meeting

General

The City of Highland Park and Township High School District 113 are holding a joint neighborhood meeting at Highland Park High School. The agenda includes introductions, a District 113 report, and public comment. This is a community information session, not a formal decision-making meeting.

• Joint meeting with Township High School District 113
• Public comment limited to 3 minutes per speaker
• Emails accepted at [email protected]
• Phone comments via City Manager's Office at 847.926.1000

The Township High School District 113 and the City of Highland Park held a neighborhood meeting to discuss safety, facilities, and noise regulations at Highland Park High School and Wolters Field. No formal votes were taken. Officials agreed to draft a comprehensive plan for sound system usage to balance student experience with neighborhood noise concerns, which will be shared for public feedback.

• No formal actions or votes were taken during this meeting

Cultural Arts Advisory Group

The Cultural Arts Advisory Group will meet to discuss its 2026 workplan and a photography contest. The group is also scheduled to address a 2026 meeting resolution.

• 2026 Meeting Resolution
• Photography Contest discussion
• 2026 Workplan discussion

Plan and Design Commission

The Highland Park Plan and Design Commission will hold its regular meeting on October 21, 2025, at City Hall. The body will consider minutes from the September 16 meeting, review design and signage applications for properties at 791-799 Central Ave. and 1200 Old Skokie Rd., and hold a public hearing for a four-townhome development at 932 Deerfield Rd. & 942 Deerfield Rd. No decisions are scheduled on the withdrawn hearing or pre-application meeting.

• DES-2025-00075: Design review, sign package, and code variations for 791-799 Central Ave.
• DES-2025-00076: Sign package amendment, design review, and code variations for 1200 Old Skokie Rd.
• PUD-2025-00056: Public hearing for four-townhome development at 932 Deerfield Rd. & 942 Deerfield Rd.
• Withdrawn hearing PUD-2025-00057 for motor vehicle sales/storage lot at 2000-2060 Skokie Valley Rd.
• Pre-application meeting scheduled for 793 Laurel Ave. & 1696-1704 McGovern St.

The Highland Park Plan and Design Commission approved design reviews and sign packages for properties at 791-799 Central Avenue and 1200 Old Skokie Road, and recommended approval for a four-townhome development at 932 and 942 Deerfield Road. A pre-application proposal for a multi-story residential development at 793 Laurel Avenue and 1696-1704 McGovern Street was also discussed. Additionally, a public hearing for a motor vehicle sales lot at 2000-2060 Skokie Valley Road was withdrawn.

• Approved September 16, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved design review and sign package for 791-799 Central Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved sign package amendment for 1200 Old Skokie Road with Option 1 signage (5-2)
• Recommended approval for 4-townhome residential development at 932 & 942 Deerfield Road (6-1)
• Heard pre-application presentation for residential development at 793 Laurel Ave & 1696-1704 McGovern St (No vote)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:05 p.m. (Unanimous)

Committee of the Whole

The Highland Park Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss two scheduled items: a review of regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters, and a discussion of bicycle parking and connectivity policy. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the October 6, 2025 regular and closed sessions. No votes or final decisions are listed on this agenda; items are for discussion only.

• Review of e-bike and e-scooter regulations
• Discussion of bicycle parking and connectivity policy
• Approval of minutes from October 6, 2025 regular meeting
• Approval of minutes from October 6, 2025 closed session

The Committee of the Whole approved minutes from the October 6, 2025, meeting and discussed potential amendments to e-bike and e-scooter regulations. Council members provided direction to staff regarding future ordinance drafting, including support for waiving driver's license requirements for operators. Additionally, the committee reviewed bicycle parking and connectivity policies, ultimately deciding to maintain current standards.

• Approved minutes of October 6, 2025, regular meeting (6-0)
• Approved minutes of October 6, 2025, closed session (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Highland Park City Council will meet on October 20, 2025, to approve minutes, warrant lists, and proclamations. The meeting includes votes on water rate increases for 2026 and a waiver for a surveying services contract with Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc. Public comments and a proposed budget report are also scheduled.

• Approval of water rates effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
• Resolution waiving formal bidding requirements for surveying services with Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc. for an unspecified amount
• Ordinance granting variances for The Barn at 1900 First Street
• Resolution approving purchase of a cot system from Stryker Corporation

The Highland Park City Council approved the minutes of two prior meetings, the warrant list, and an omnibus of four items including 2026 water rates, a surveying services agreement, a zoning variance for The Barn, and a cot system purchase. All votes were 6-0, with Mayor Rotering absent. No substantive decisions were made beyond these approvals.

• Approved minutes of Sept 29 and Oct 6 meetings (6-0)
• Approved warrant list and wire transfers Sept 26-Oct 9 (6-0)
• Approved 2026 water rates effective Jan 1-Dec 31, 2026 (6-0)
• Approved R127-2025 waiving bidding and contracting Gewalt Hamilton Associates for surveying (6-0)
• Approved O54-2025 granting zoning variances for The Barn, 1900 First Street (6-0)
• Approved R128-2025 purchasing cot system from Stryker Corporation (6-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Highland Park Zoning Board of Appeals is holding its regular meeting to discuss old and new business, including specific property cases at 175 Prospect Ave and 71 Indian Tree Dr. The board will also consider a 2026 meeting resolution and work plan. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with calls to order, minutes approval, and public comment.

• Old Business: 175 Prospect Ave
• New Business: 71 Indian Tree Dr
• 2026 Meeting Resolution
• 2026 ZBA Work Plan
• Approval of 08/21/2025 draft minutes

The Highland Park Zoning Board of Appeals approved a setback variance for a new home construction at 175 Prospect Avenue and a side-yard setback variance for a new detached garage at 71 Indian Tree Drive. The board also approved the minutes from their August 21, 2025, meeting and discussed the 2026 meeting schedule and work plan.

• Approved August 21, 2025, meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved setback variance for 175 Prospect Avenue (5-2)
• Approved side-yard setback variance for 71 Indian Tree Drive (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:44 p.m. (7-0)

Historic Preservation

The Historic Preservation Commission meeting scheduled for October 9, 2025, is cancelled. The provided agenda contains only procedural boilerplate.

Human Relations Advisory Group

The Human Relations Advisory Group will meet to approve the 2026 meeting resolution and work plan. The group will also discuss planning for the 2026 MLK event and 2026 HP Awards.

• 2026 MLK Event discussion
• 2026 HP Awards discussion
• CommUNITY Conversations update
• 2026 Meeting Resolution approval
• 2026 Work Plan discussion and approval

The Human Relations Advisory Group approved its 2026 work plan, which includes a new review of the City's statement against hate and definition of anti-Semitism. The group also approved the 2026 meeting resolution and minutes from May and August. No public comments were received, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting resolution (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 work plan, including hate statement review (unanimous)

Housing Commission

The Housing Commission will discuss financial reports for several housing associations and the Housing Trust Fund. The body is considering resolutions for affordable housing developments and the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Amendment to Inclusionary Housing Application for townhomes at 1700 Old Deerfield Road
• Grant agreement for affordable housing for adults with disabilities at 1651 Richfield Ave
• Review of ERES Management Report and financials for Peers, Ravinia, and Sunset Woods
• Approval of 2026 Housing Commission Regular Meeting Schedule
• Discussion of 2026 Housing Commission Workplan

The Highland Park Housing Commission approved meeting minutes and payment invoices, recommended approval of the final inclusionary housing plan and departures for a 227-unit townhome development at 1700 Old Deerfield Road, approved a grant agreement with CCHI and HODC for affordable housing at 1651 Richfield Avenue, and approved the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved September 10, 2025, regular meeting minutes (6-0)
• Recommended approval to City Council of Final Inclusionary Plan for 34 units and code departures at 1700 Old Deerfield Road (6-0)
• Recommended approval to PDC and City Council for $185,000 payment-in-lieu and AMI relief at 1700 Old Deerfield Road (6-0)
• Approved Grant Agreement with CCHI and HODC for affordable housing at 1651 Richfield Avenue and found unit floor area acceptable (6-0)
• Approved Resolution for 2026 Housing Commission Regular Meeting Schedule (6-0)

Committee of the Whole

The Committee of the Whole will convene to approve minutes from prior meetings and review scheduled business items, including a discussion about uses for 445 Central Ave., a consultant recommendation for the Place of Remembrance design, and an update on the relocation of the "Miss Nitro" statue. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• 445 Central Ave. discussion regarding uses
• Place of Remembrance design firm consultant recommendation
• Update regarding relocation of "Miss Nitro" statue

The Committee of the Whole reached consensus to move forward with the proposal for 445 Central Ave, conditioned on the $250K being paid to the City upfront, allowing the dermatologist to open, and requiring remaining vacancies to be filled by end of 2027. They also agreed to proceed with SWA as the design firm for the Place of Remembrance, with memorial pieces completed before July 4, 2027. A majority expressed interest in relocating the 'Miss Nitro' sculpture to Brown Park, followed by Lincoln Place Park. The meeting included two closed sessions for litigation, property, and security matters.

• Consensus to move forward with 445 Central Ave proposal, with $250K paid upfront to City
• Consensus to allow dermatologist to open at 445 Central Ave, remaining vacancies filled by end of 2027
• Consensus to move forward with SWA as design firm for Place of Remembrance
• Majority interest in relocating 'Miss Nitro' sculpture to Brown Park, then Lincoln Place Park
• Approved minutes of September 25, 2025 regular and closed session meetings (unanimous)
• Closed session for pending litigation, property purchase/lease, and security (unanimous)
• Closed session for potential litigation, property purchase/lease, and security (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will vote on a 2025 budget amendment and several land-use permits. The meeting includes discussions on a 19-unit multi-family development and a Lake Cook Road path project.

• Ordinance amending the annual budget for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2025
• Special Use Permit for a 5-story, 19-unit Multi-Family Development at 1632, 1640, and 1646 Second St.
• Special Use Permit for a Planned Development at 250 Skokie Valley Rd.
• Sign variances for 1900 First St.
• Purchase of salt from Morton Salt, Inc. via the Illinois Department of Central Management Services

The City Council approved a special use permit for a planned development at 250 Skokie Valley Road and directed drafting of final documents for a 5-story, 19-unit multi-family development at 1632, 1640, and 1646 Second Street, subject to approval of public benefit and green space. The council also approved an omnibus agenda with nine items, including budget amendments and various resolutions. No substantive decisions were made on the Lake Cook Road Path project, which was discussed but not voted on.

• Approved special use permit for planned development at 250 Skokie Valley Rd (unanimous)
• Directed drafting of final documents for 19-unit development at 1632-1646 Second St, subject to public benefit and green space approval (unanimous)
• Approved omnibus items 1-9, including budget amendment O53-2025 and resolutions R120-2025 through R126-2025 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 25, 2025 meeting as amended (unanimous)
• Approved warrant list and wire transfers from Sept 11-25, 2025 (unanimous)