Northfield public meetings in 2025

Special Meetings

The Happ Road Committee will meet to review notes from the November 19 meeting and receive updates from the Village. The agenda includes reports from the Business and Resident Outreach Committees and the Writing Committee.

• Review of November 19, 2025 meeting notes
• Business Outreach Committee report
• Resident Outreach Committee report
• Writing Committee report

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will hold a public hearing to review a signage application and discuss commercial design guidelines. The body is considering a request for two signs at 300 Happ Road.

• Application for two 15.8 square foot box signs for Mike’s Barbershop at 300 Happ Road, Suite 114
• Discussion of updating design guidelines for the Village’s commercial districts

Architectural Commission

The Northfield Architectural Commission will first approve the summary notes from its October 14, 2025 meeting. It will then consider an application for two 15.8‑square‑foot box signs for Mike’s Barbershop located at 300 Happ Road, Suite 114. Finally, the commission will discuss updating the village’s design guidelines for its commercial districts.

• Approve summary notes of the Architectural Commission – October 14, 2025
• Application for two 15.8 sq ft box signs for Mike’s Barbershop at 300 Happ Road, Suite 114
• Discussion of updating design guidelines for the Village’s commercial districts

The Northfield Architectural Commission, with Kathryn Talty serving as acting chair, approved the summary notes from the October 14 meeting by unanimous voice vote. After that, the commission held a hearing on an application for two 15.8‑square‑foot box signs for Mike's Barbershop at 300 Happ Road, Suite 114. No vote or final decision on the sign application was recorded in the minutes.

• Approved October 14 summary notes (unanimous voice vote)
• Heard sign application for Mike's Barbershop at 300 Happ Rd, Suite 114 – no decision recorded

Village Board

The Committee of the Whole will consider a request from Reva Development Partners to purchase the Village‑owned Hawthorne Lane right‑of‑way adjacent to 464‑466 Central Avenue. The board will also review design and construction cost estimates for a proposed public parking lot near the 1700 block of Orchard Lane ($38,000 design fees, $200,000 construction). A discussion will cover a rent increase of $125 per month for the Village‑owned condominiums at 308 Happ Road and a change to annual lease cycles. Additional items include a potential closed session, service‑delivery discussion, and employee hiring methodology.

• Request to purchase Hawthorne Lane ROW near 466 Central Ave (Reva Development)
• Public parking lot design fees $38,000 and construction estimate $200,000 near 1700 block Orchard Lane
• Rent increase $125 per month and annual lease cycle for condos at 308 Happ Road
• Potential closed session (30 minutes)
• Discussion of Village service delivery (15 minutes)

The board unanimously approved the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes. Trustees voted to convene a Closed Session to consider setting a price for the sale or lease of Village‑owned land near 466 Central Avenue. After the Closed Session, the board adjourned the meeting by unanimous voice vote. No other actions were decided.

• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved motion to convene Closed Session to consider sale/lease of land near 466 Central Ave (AYES: Orth, NAYS: 0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will consider several actions at its December 2 meeting, including adopting an ordinance that amends Chapter 11 and Appendix D of the Village Code to modify commercial outdoor dining regulations. The board will also adopt an ordinance concerning the 2025 tax levy and a resolution that abates property taxes related to the 2015 General Obligation Refunding Bond. In addition, the board will approve October 2025 bills and disbursements totaling $2,497,639.62 and approve minutes from prior meetings.

• Adoption of an ordinance amending Chapter 11 and Appendix D – commercial outdoor dining
• Adoption of an ordinance concerning the 2025 tax levy
• Approval of a resolution abating 2025 property taxes for the 2015 GO Refunding Bond
• Approval of bills and disbursements for October 2025 – total $2,497,639.62
• Approval of minutes from the October 28, 2025 regular and closed sessions and prior closed sessions

The Village Board approved the October 2025 bills and disbursements, adopted several consent items including the 2025 tax levy ordinance, and passed an ordinance changing Chapter 11 and Appendix D of the Village Code to streamline commercial outdoor dining permits. All motions passed with six votes in favor and none opposed.

• Approved October 2025 bills and disbursements (6‑0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items: meeting minutes, 2025 tax levy ordinance, and property‑tax abatement resolution (6‑0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 11 and Appendix D for commercial outdoor dining (6‑0)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Special Meetings

The Happ Road Committee will meet on November 19, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in the Village Hall Multi‑Purpose Room. The agenda includes a preliminary draft recommendation for the Happ Road Improvement Committee, along with routine items such as meeting notes, old business, a village update, outreach committee reports, and audience comments. No specific decisions are listed beyond discussion of the draft recommendation.

• Preliminary Draft – Happ Road Improvement Committee Recommendation
• Review of meeting notes from 9 October 2025
• Discussion of old business
• Village update presentation
• Outreach committee reports

The Happ Road Committee approved the formation of two outreach groups—one for businesses and one for residents—to gather input on the corridor project. The committee set a target to complete its final report by March and scheduled the next full committee meeting for a date between December 11 and December 23. No formal votes or budget allocations were recorded.

• Formed business outreach group (members: Asheesh, Andrew, Pam, Kelly, Sarah, Jennifer)
• Formed resident outreach group (members: Edwin, Alicia, Francisco, Maureen, Christine, Samantha)
• Set target for final report completion by March
• Scheduled next full committee meeting for a date between Dec 11 and Dec 23
• Resident group agreed to meet after Thanksgiving, tentatively Dec 2 or Dec 3
• Business group tasked with compiling a complete business email list

Board of Police Commissioners

The agenda text consists of numeric codes and placeholders such as '/i255' without any readable descriptions of items. No specific items, decisions, or proposals can be extracted from the source. Therefore the agenda appears to contain no identifiable agenda items for residents.

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will hold a public hearing on Monday, November 10, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Village Hall Board Room. The hearing will focus on discussing the design guidelines for the Village’s commercial zoning districts. No decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Discussion of design guidelines for the Village’s commercial zoning districts

Architectural Commission

The Northfield Architectural Commission will approve the summary notes from its October 14, 2025 meeting. It will then discuss design guidelines for the village’s commercial zoning districts. No other items are on the agenda.

• Approve summary notes of Architectural Commission meeting – October 14, 2025
• Discuss design guidelines for Village’s commercial zoning districts

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Northfield Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on November 5, 2025, to consider two requests: a front yard variation for a garage addition at 514 Woodland Lane South and a deadline extension for a new residence at 1386 Winnetka Road.

• 514 Woodland Lane South: Front yard variation request for garage addition
• 1386 Winnetka Road: Request to extend building permit deadline to June 1, 2026

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a front‑yard setback variance for 514 Woodland Lane South, seeking a 31.5‑foot setback instead of the required 35‑foot setback to permit garage replacement and a second‑floor addition. The board will also review a request from Red3 Development, LLC to extend the construction deadline for a new single‑family residence at 1386 Winnetka Road to June 1 2026. Public comment will be offered before the meeting adjourns.

• 514 Woodland Lane South – front‑yard setback variance (31.5 ft vs 35 ft) for garage replacement and second‑floor addition.
• 1386 Winnetka Road – request to extend building‑permit construction deadline to June 1 2026 for new single‑family home.

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a front‑yard setback variance for 514 Woodland Lane South, allowing a 31.50‑foot setback instead of the required 35.00 feet, with the variance effective until November 5 2026 and contingent on a building permit being issued within one year. The board also unanimously granted a seven‑month extension of the building permit for 1386 Winnetka Road, extending the deadline to June 1 2026. Both motions carried with a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved front‑yard setback variance for 514 Woodland Lane South (7‑0)
• Granted seven‑month building‑permit extension for 1386 Winnetka Road (7‑0)
• Approved July 2 2025 summary notes (4‑0‑3 abstain)

Village Board

The Committee of the Whole will discuss several agenda items, including continued discussion of the village-owned condominiums at 308 Happ Road, implementation items from the Vision Plan 2040, a proposal for public parking in the 1700‑block of Orchard Lane, and a process to address resident requests related to dedication of private roadways and creation of special service areas. No decisions are indicated; the items are slated for discussion.

• Continued discussion of village-owned condominiums at 308 Happ Road
• Discussion of implementation items from Vision Plan 2040
• Discussion of proposed public parking in the 1700‑block of Orchard Lane
• Discussion of process to address resident requests on dedication of private roadways and creation of special service areas

The Board approved the September 30 minutes with a 5‑in‑favor, 1‑against voice vote. It agreed to consider selling a vacant village‑owned condo unit, raise rents by $125 per month, and align lease terms with the fiscal year and CPI. The Board gave consensus approval to proceed with design and construction of a public parking lot in the 1700 block of Orchard Lane, estimating $38,000 in design fees and $200,000 for construction. Staff was tasked with drafting a policy for Special Service Areas and roadway dedication requests for future board review.

• Approved September 30 minutes (voice vote 5‑in‑favor, 1‑against)
• Consensused to consider selling a condo unit upon vacancy and raise rents $125/month
• Consensused to align condo lease cycle with fiscal year and adjust rents by CPI
• Consensused to move forward with design and construction of Orchard Lane parking lot ($38k design, $200k construction)
• Consensused to continue Special Service Area practice pending credit‑worthiness review
• Consensused to create policy for roadway dedication and SSAs to present at future meeting
• Consensused to implement Vision Plan 2040 recommendations as outlined
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Village Board

The Village Board will discuss several infrastructure projects, including the West Frontage Water Main and Middlefork Road Bridge. The board is also reviewing September 2025 bills and disbursements totaling $1,424,323.30.

• Award of West Frontage Water Main Project to Everlast Blacktop, Inc. for $805,950
• Professional Services Agreement with Ciorba for West Frontage Water Main construction management for $80,212
• Architectural services agreement with Wight & Company for the Library Branch for $136,400
• Design services agreement for the Middlefork Road Bridge up to $70,000
• Ordinance amending Village Code Chapter 3 regarding temporary traffic control and parking

The Village Board approved the September 2025 bills and disbursements, the consent agenda items, a design services agreement up to $70,000 for the Middlefork Road Bridge, a $805,950 contract for the West Frontage Water Main replacement and an $80,212 construction‑management agreement, and a $136,400 architectural services agreement for the library branch. Each motion passed with six votes in favor and none opposed. No public comments were received on any of the items.

• Approved September 2025 bills and disbursements (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 1‑4 (minutes, fund balance policy, traffic ordinance, tax levy) (6-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Middlefork Road residents and design services up to $70,000 (6-0)
• Approved West Frontage Water Main project award to Everlast Blacktop, Inc. for $805,950 (6-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Ciorba for $80,212 (6-0)
• Authorized execution of library architectural services agreement with Wight & Company for $136,400 (6-0)

Police Pension Board

The Northfield Police Pension Fund Board will review and vote on several financial and administrative items, including cash projections and a repeat withdrawal request for 2026 from the Illinois Public Officers Pension Investment Fund (IPOPIF). The agenda also includes termination of retirement benefits for two pensioners, Ken Smith and Tony English, and a recommendation of a tax levy with a municipal compliance certification. Additional items cover meeting minutes, investment updates, and upcoming training opportunities.

• Approval of 2026 repeat withdrawals from IPOPIF
• Termination of retirement benefits for Ken Smith and Tony English
• Recommendation of tax levy and certification of municipal compliance report
• Review of cash projections and cash needs
• Investment update – Verus Advisory Report

The Northfield Police Pension Fund Board approved the corrected minutes from August 20, 2025. It adopted a $1,791,955 tax levy request to the Village Board and certified the municipal compliance report. The Board also approved several financial actions, adjusted the IPOPIF withdrawal amount, terminated two retirees' benefits, and set the 2026 quarterly meeting dates.

• Approved corrected minutes of Aug 20 2025 (AYES: Bell, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)
• Approved tax levy request of $1,791,955 and certified municipal compliance report (AYES: Bell, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)
• Approved July‑Sept 2025 financial statements and payment of bills totaling $30,080.85 (AYES: Bell, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)
• Modified IPOPIF repeat withdrawal to $185,000 per month starting Jan 2026 (AYES: Bell, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)
• Approved filing of the DOI Annual Statement (voice vote, passed)
• Accepted IPOPIF investment reports (AYES: Beli, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)
• Terminated benefits for Ken Smith and Tony English (AYES: Bell, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)
• Approved quarterly meeting dates for 2026 (AYES: Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes, Bell; NAYS: none; ABSENT: Lustig)

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will hold a public hearing to consider four applications for variations to village ordinances. These requests involve signage for businesses, a residential fence, and athletic facility upgrades for a school district.

• 1721 Orchard Lane: Request for window clings and wall signs totaling 80.13 square feet
• 820 Frontage Road: Request for a 74.7 square foot wall sign for BluePearl Pet Hospital
• 1940 Sunset Ridge Road: Request for an 8-foot high fence
• 7 Happ Road: Request for a 617 square foot video scoreboard and two 114 square foot scoreboards
• 7 Happ Road: Request for light fixtures up to 90 feet tall and 18-foot safety netting fencing

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission will first approve the summary notes from its September 8, 2025 meeting. It will then consider four applications that each require variances from the village sign, fence, or lighting ordinances. The items include signage at Dana Reed Designs, a wall sign for BluePearl Pet Hospital, a taller fence at 1940 Sunset Ridge Road, and multiple scoreboard, lighting and fencing proposals from New Trier Township High School District 203 at 7 Happ Road.

• Variation for signage at Dana Reed Designs, 1721 Orchard Lane – five window cling displays and a wall sign totaling 80.13 sq ft, exceeding sign ordinance limits.
• Variation for a 74.7 sq ft wall sign for BluePearl Pet Hospital, 820 Frontage Road, exceeding the 50 sq ft limit in Section 12.4.I.
• Variation to install an eight‑foot high fence along the south property line of 1940 Sunset Ridge Road, exceeding the four‑foot limit in Section 18‑10.
• Variations for New Trier Township High School District 203 at 7 Happ Road: a 617 sq ft video scoreboard, two 114 sq ft scoreboards, 80‑, 50‑, and 90‑ft light fixtures, and up to 18‑ft safety‑netting fencing, all exceeding ordinance limits.

The commission approved a set of signage variations for Dana Reed Designs Jeweler at 1721 Orchard Lane, including increased lot coverage and rotating window clings. It also approved a variation for BluePearl Pet Hospital at 820 West Frontage Road, allowing a 74.7‑sq‑ft channel‑letter wall sign. Both motions passed unanimously (chorus of ayes). No other decisions were recorded.

• Approved signage variation for Dana Reed Designs Jeweler at 1721 Orchard Lane (unanimous)
• Approved variation for BluePearl Pet Hospital sign at 820 West Frontage Road (unanimous)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The board will meet to review the treasurer's report and discuss old and new business. No specific action items or contracts were listed on the agenda.

The board unanimously approved five equipment purchases, each limited to a specific amount: $600 for fitness vests, $12,000 for workout apparel, $300 for a shop vac, $500 for fans and clocks, and $3,000 for Adirondack chairs. Brad Knudson was added as a new foreign fire member without a special election, and board leadership was updated with Clement as Chairman and D. Shine as Vice Chairman.

• Approved purchase of fitness vests and weighted plates (≤ $600) – unanimous
• Approved purchase of workout apparel online store (≤ $12,000) – unanimous
• Approved purchase of a shop vac (≤ $300) – unanimous
• Approved purchase of fans and clocks for bunkrooms (≤ $500) – unanimous
• Approved purchase of Adirondack chairs (≤ $3,000) – unanimous
• Added Brad Knudson as new foreign fire member – unanimous
• Named Clement as Chairman – unanimous
• Named D. Shine as Vice Chairman – unanimous

Special Meetings

The Happ Road Committee will meet to review project updates and goals. The agenda includes a discussion on a Cook County right-of-way and sidewalk proposal.

• Cook County right-of-way/sidewalk proposal
• Happ Road project updates from Andrew Juedes
• Review of suggestions for Happ Road from September 2, 2025

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board will consider several consent items, including approval of the August 2025 bills and disbursements, adoption of the FY 2025‑26 budget amendment, and appointment of a new Architecture Commission member. It will also vote on an intergovernmental agreement with the Winnetka‑Northfield Public Library District and a Planned Unit Development ordinance for 405 Central Avenue. All items are listed as consent items for an omnibus vote.

• Authorize contract with Schroeder Asphalt Services, Inc. for the 2025 Pavement Patching Program, not to exceed $66,225
• Execute intergovernmental agreement with the Winnetka‑Northfield Public Library District for facility expansion
• Adopt ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2025‑26 budget
• Appoint Jen Andrew to the Architecture Commission to fill the remaining term ending September 1, 2025
• Adopt ordinance granting approval of a Planned Unit Development and zoning relief at 405 Central Avenue

The Board approved the August 2025 bills and disbursements, the consent agenda items—including a $66,225 pavement‑patching contract, an intergovernmental agreement with the Winnetka‑Northfield Public Library District, a budget amendment, and the appointment of Jen Andrew to the Architecture Commission—and adopted an ordinance granting a Planned Unit Development and zoning relief for a 5‑story condominium at 405 Central Avenue. All motions passed unanimously with six votes in favor and none opposed.

• Approved August 2025 bills and disbursements (6‑0)
• Approved contract with Schroeder Asphalt Services, up to $66,225 for pavement patching (6‑0)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement with Winnetka‑Northfield Public Library District for facility expansion (6‑0)
• Adopted amendment to FY 2025‑26 budget (6‑0)
• Appointed Jen Andrew to Architecture Commission (6‑0)
• Adopted ordinance granting Planned Unit Development and zoning relief for 405 Central Avenue (6‑0)

Village Board

The Committee of the Whole will vote on the FY2024/2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and the Police Pension Actuarial Report. Members will continue discussion of the village's credit‑card processing fees, which total about $60,000 per year. The board will consider elevating the part‑time building official to a full‑time position with a salary range of $110,000‑$120,000. An update on the Winnetka Road Bridge project, estimated at $200,000 with a $16,000 savings, will also be reviewed.

• Approval of the FY2024/2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
• Discussion and acceptance of the Police Pension Actuarial Report for FY ending April 30, 2025
• Continued discussion of credit‑card processing fees (~$60,000 annually) and possible surcharges
• Staffing request to make the building official full‑time (salary $110,000‑$120,000)
• Winnetka Road Bridge enhancements project cost $200,000 with $16,000 savings

The Village Board approved the August 26 minutes, accepted the FY2024/25 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, and approved the Police Pension Actuarial Report recommending a $1,791,955 contribution. Discussions were held on credit‑card processing fees and revisions to the Fund Balance Policy, but no votes were taken on those items. The meeting was adjourned at 6:46 PM.

• Approved August 26, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted FY2024/25 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (6‑0)
• Accepted Police Pension Actuarial Report recommending $1,791,955 contribution (6‑0)
• Discussed credit‑card processing fee policy (no vote)
• Discussed revisions to Fund Balance Policy (no decision)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Village Board

The Committee of the Whole will meet at the Happ Inn, Better Time Conference Room, 305 Happ Road on September 17, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. The agenda includes a call to order, a public comment period, and a two‑hour visioning session to discuss goals for the village’s commercial areas. No formal decisions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Visioning session discussing goals for the Village’s commercial areas
• Public comment period
• Call to order and adjournment

The Committee of the Whole met on September 17, 2025 to review the Vision Plan 2040 for commercial districts. No formal actions or approvals were taken; the discussion was informational. The meeting was adjourned after Trustee Orth moved to adjourn, seconded by Trustee Whittaker, and a unanimous voice vote approved the motion.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission reviewed a request from Dana Reed Designs for permanent signage and window clings at 1721 Orchard Lane. Commissioners asked questions about size, placement, material, and compliance with sign regulations. No formal approval, denial, or vote was recorded.

Special Meetings

The Happ Road Committee held a walking tour of the north corridor and gathered resident input on visibility, road straightening, and pedestrian access. The members nominated and accepted Alicia Bellar as the committee secretary. The group agreed on a revised vision statement for Happ Road, noting it will be reviewed at the next meeting. The next meeting is scheduled for October 9.

• Alicia Bellar appointed committee secretary (accepted without opposition)
• Committee adopted revised vision statement for Happ Road (to be revisited at next meeting)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Planned Unit Development (P.U.D.) application. The petitioner is seeking to build a five-story, 12-unit condominium building. The request includes relief from several B-3 Zoning District standards.

• P.U.D. application for 405 Central Avenue (Project PZ2025-0011)
• Request to reduce east side yard from 10’ to 3’
• Request to reduce north rear yard from 10’ to 3’-8”
• Request to increase maximum building height from 65’ to 76’
• Request to reduce minimum loading berths from 2 to 0

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission approved the minutes from its August 7, 2025 meeting by unanimous consent. The commission then held a public hearing on the proposed PUD at 405 Central Avenue, noting it is a recommending body and will forward its recommendation to the Village President and Board of Trustees. No final decision on the PUD was made at this meeting.

• Approved minutes from August 7, 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Village Board

The Board approved the July 2025 bills and disbursements with a 6‑0 vote. It then approved all seven Consent Agenda items, including a $44,000 purchase of a Kubota mini‑excavator, with a 6‑0 vote. Finally, the Board adopted an ordinance amending Article 5 of the Village Code to implement a grocery retailers’ and service occupation tax, passing 5‑1.

• Approved July 2025 bills and disbursements (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 1‑7, including $44,000 excavator purchase (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Article 5 to implement grocery retailers’ and service occupation tax (5-1)

Village Board

The Village Board unanimously approved the July 15, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved passing credit‑card processing fees to homeowners for escrow and large‑ticket items, but not for utilities. The Board authorized moving forward with a full‑time building official position (salary $110,000‑$120,000) and will advertise both part‑time and full‑time roles. It agreed to reassess placement of the Northfield logo on the Winnetka Road Bridge after new drawings are received.

• Approved July 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved surcharge on credit‑card fees for escrow and large items (no vote recorded)
• Authorized creation of full‑time building official position ($110k‑$120k) (no vote recorded)
• Will advertise part‑time and full‑time building official positions (no vote recorded)
• Agreed to explore alternate placement of Northfield logo on Winnetka Road Bridge (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Police Pension Board

The Northfield Police Pension Board elected its officers and approved the prior meeting minutes. It accepted the actuarial valuation and the monthly financial report. The board authorized a recurring $190,000 withdrawal from the Illinois Police Officers’ Pension Investment Fund to cover cash needs. It also approved new member applications and two resolutions on signatory and IPOPIF agent authority.

• Elected board officers – approved (3-0 roll call)
• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes – approved (3-0 roll call)
• Accepted actuarial valuation – approved (voice vote)
• Approved monthly financial report – approved (3-0 roll call)
• Established $190,000 monthly withdrawal from IPOPIF – approved (3-0 roll call)
• Approved membership for Officers Patino, Delichte, Alcantar, Lezon – approved (voice vote)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-02 (signatory authority) – approved (3-0 roll call)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-03 (IPOPIF authorized agents) – approved (3-0 roll call)

Special Meetings

The Happ Road Committee agreed to meet every two weeks to advance its six‑month goal. Members also agreed to have Village Manager Patrick Brennan solicit chairperson votes by email. The group will continue goal discussions, identify stakeholders, develop an engagement plan, and review the road concept prepared by Francisco Gonzales‑Pulido at the next meeting.

• Adopted biweekly meeting schedule (consensus)
• Agreed to solicit chairperson votes via email (consensus)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission approved the minutes from its June 2, 2025 meeting. The commission then held a public hearing on a special‑use permit and a subdivision request for 1822 Willow Road, but as a recommending body it will forward its recommendation to the Village President and Board of Trustees for final action. No final decision on the permit or subdivision was made at this meeting.

• Approved June 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The board approved the purchase of a Milwaukee impact wrench (up to $350), a Tekton impact socket set (up to $400), and a hose‑testing contract with Firecatt (up to $5,000), each passing unanimously. The battery‑powered clock purchase was tabled. The board also decided to hold a special election for the Garard position, with Clement becoming chairman to oversee it.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Milwaukee 1/2" impact wrench purchase up to $350 (unanimous)
• Approved Tekton 1/2" impact socket set purchase up to $400 (unanimous)
• Approved hose testing contract with Firecatt up to $5,000 (unanimous)
• Tabled battery‑powered clock purchase
• Planned special election for Garard position; Clement to become chairman and schedule election

Village Board

The Village Board unanimously approved the Bosworth Sidewalk Project contract up to $264,070, ratified the $57,300 award for the Village Hall window replacement, and approved a $29,575 roadway condition assessment. It also appointed Greg Jones as village attorney and Stephanie Harper Stefanik to the Zoning Board of Appeals, adopted an ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the Village Code and a resolution revising the 2025 meeting schedule, and rejected the sole bid for the W. Frontage Water Main project. All votes were 6‑0 with no public comments recorded.

• Approved Bosworth Sidewalk Project contract up to $264,070 (6-0)
• Ratified award of 2025 Window Replacement Project to McCann for $57,300 (6-0)
• Approved roadway condition assessment by IMS up to $29,575 (6-0)
• Appointed Greg Jones of Ancel Glink as Village Attorney (6-0)
• Appointed Stephanie Harper Stefanik to Zoning Board of Appeals (6-0)
• Adopted ordinance amending Chapter 2 of Village Code (6-0)
• Adopted resolution revising 2025 regular meeting schedule (6-0)
• Rejected sole bid for W. Frontage Water Main project (6-0)

Village Board

The Committee approved the Open and Closed Session Minutes from June 17, 2025 by unanimous vote. Trustees decided to present a grocery sales tax ordinance at the August Board meeting, with a fallback to reconsider it in February or March 2026 if not passed. The Board gave consent for the Village Manager and President to seek community donations for the 2026 Centennial Celebration planning. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved June 17, 2025 Open and Closed Session Minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to bring grocery sales tax ordinance to August Board meeting
• Approved exploring community donations for Centennial Celebration planning (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed (unanimous voice vote)

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission considered a petition to vary Section 12-5(R) of the Sign Ordinance to permit a new 114‑square‑foot scoreboard at the New Trier athletic fields on 7 Happ Road, and to allow an identical future sign on an adjacent field. Commissioners moved a motion to approve the variation, which was seconded and passed unanimously. No other agenda items were decided.

• Approved sign ordinance variation for 114‑sq‑ft scoreboard (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variation to reduce the side‑yard setback from 10.00 ft to 3.36 ft for a two‑story addition at 530 Woodland Lane South. The motion passed 4‑0 with two members absent, and the variation is effective until July 2 2026 and requires a building permit within one year. Earlier, the board also approved the June 4, 2025 summary notes by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved June 4, 2025 summary notes (4‑0)
• Granted variation to reduce side‑yard setback for 530 Woodland Lane South addition (4‑0), effective until July 2 2026 and contingent on a building permit within one year

Village Board

The Board approved May 2025 bills and disbursements (6‑0 vote) and adopted the consent agenda, including a resolution to use Rebuild Illinois bond funds for road resurfacing (6‑0 vote). Trustees gave the Village Manager authority to negotiate with two architectural firms for the Library expansion. The Board adopted an amendment to Annex A of the Village Code that permits four‑story buildings on the west side of Central Avenue (5‑1 vote).

• Approved May 2025 bills and disbursements (6‑0)
• Adopted consent agenda items: meeting minutes, bond‑fund allocation for road resurfacing, debt write‑off policy (6‑0)
• Granted Village Manager authority to negotiate library expansion with two architects (unanimous consent)
• Adopted zoning amendment allowing 4‑story height west of Central Avenue (5‑1)

Village Board

The Village Board unanimously approved the open and closed session minutes from April 15, 2025. It also approved moving into a closed session to discuss legal counsel, employee compensation, and village property matters. The Board reached consensus that the Village Manager will further refine the Investment Policy draft and present it at a future meeting. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved convening Closed Session to consider legal counsel and property matters (unanimous)
• Approved April 15 open and closed session minutes (unanimous)
• Directed Village Manager to refine Investment Policy draft for future adoption (consensus)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Village Board

The Village Board approved a motion to enter Closed Session to consider the appointment, employment, performance, and compensation of the Village's legal counsel. The motion passed with six votes in favor and none opposed. Later, the Board approved a motion to adjourn the special meeting by voice vote.

• Closed Session motion approved (6-0)
• Adjournment motion approved (voice vote)

Architectural Commission

The Architectural Commission voted to approve the minutes from the January 13th meeting. Four signage applications were presented for Elite Wellness North Shore, Dunkin', Sweat Shack, and Blowfish Sushi & Ramen, but the record does not show any approvals, denials, or votes on those items. No other decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved January 13th minutes

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a six‑month extension of the building permit for the new single‑family residence at 1386 Winnetka Road, setting the new expiration date to November 11, 2025. The motion passed 4‑0 with two members absent and no cash bond was required. Earlier, the Board also approved the February 5, 2025 summary notes by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved six‑month building permit extension (expires Nov 11 2025) – vote 4‑0
• Denied requirement for a cash bond with the extension – vote 4‑0
• Approved February 5 2025 summary notes – vote 4‑0

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Plan and Zoning Commission approved the minutes from the May 5, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. The commission then discussed the proposed B‑3 Central Avenue Corridor zoning amendment, including land‑use designations, building heights, and special‑use considerations, but no further actions were voted on.

• Approved May 5 minutes (unanimous)

Village Board

The Board approved the April 2025 bills and disbursements, approved the April 15 meeting minutes, and adopted the 2024 Cook County Multi‑Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan. It also approved an adjustment to the Village Manager’s compensation and agreed to pursue a state grant for sidewalk improvements with a 10% cash match. New committees were created and board members were assigned as liaisons to various commissions.

• Approved April 2025 bills and disbursements (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved April 15, 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0 roll call)
• Adopted 2024 Cook County Multi‑Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (voice vote 6‑0)
• Approved adjustment to Village Manager’s annual compensation (6‑0 roll call)
• Approved moving forward with state grant application for sidewalk project with 10% cash match (no vote recorded)
• Created Economic Advisory Working Group chaired by Trustee Fowler
• Formed Happ Road Committee with fifteen members as described
• Assigned board members as liaisons to various commissions (e.g., Ed Elfmann to Zoning Board of Appeals, Todd Fowler to Plan & Zoning Commission, etc.)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission met on May 5, 2025 and approved the minutes from the March 31, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. The commission then discussed the Central Avenue Corridor zoning amendments but took no further action. No other items were decided at this meeting.

• Approved March 31, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Police Pension Board

The board accepted the updated retirement benefit calculations for three recently retired officers, adding the Regular 2.4 component as pensionable salary. It also approved a one‑year engagement letter with Lauterbach & Amen for pension fund services. Additional actions included accepting a new member application, updating a transfer calculation for Officer Maite Castillo, and tabling cash‑flow projections until the treasurer can attend.

• Approved revised retirement benefit calculations for John Nitch, William Lustig, and Louis Zaknoun with Regular 2.4 included (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Accepted one‑year engagement letter with Lauterbach & Amen (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Accepted Albert Wagner's application for membership and creditable service transfer (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Approved update of calculation for Officer Maite Castillo's transfer of creditable service (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Tabled discussion of cash‑flow projections and cash needs until next meeting (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Accepted IPOPIF investment report and State Street statement (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Certified election results: re‑elected trustee Kenneth Hanus (active) and elected retired trustee Christine Bell (ayes: Smith, Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; nays: none; absent: Lustig)
• Approved Resolution 2025-1 recognizing Ken Smith’s service (ayes: Hanus, Whiteman, Karnes; abstain: Smith; absent: Lustig)

Village Board

The board unanimously approved the March 18, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to commission a condition and market assessment of the six Village‑owned condominium units at 308 Happ Road, placing lease renewals on a month‑to‑month basis and delaying any action for at least six months. The board expressed support for a proposed debt write‑off policy, which will be brought forward at a future meeting. Motions to hold a closed session, to adjourn it, and to adjourn the meeting were all approved.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Decided to commission a condition study and market assessment of the six condos at 308 Happ Road; lease renewals placed month‑to‑month, no action for minimum six months
• Board expressed support for a debt write‑off policy; adoption to be considered at a future meeting
• Approved motion to convene Closed Session at 6:02 PM (ayes: 6, nays: 0, abstain: 0)
• Approved motion to adjourn Closed Session at 6:59 PM
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Village Board

The Northfield Village Board unanimously approved a special‑use ordinance allowing Shred Body LLC to operate a fitness class studio at 300 Happ Road. The board also adopted an amendment to the 2024‑2025 budget and a resolution updating the Affordable Housing Plan. All motions passed with six votes in favor and none opposed.

• Approved bills and disbursements for March 2025 (6‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items: March 18 minutes, USPS lease amendment, appointments of Richard Joutras and Evan Karnes (6‑0)
• Adopted ordinance amending the fiscal year 2024‑2025 budget (6‑0)
• Adopted special‑use ordinance for Shred Body LLC fitness studio at 300 Happ Road (6‑0)
• Approved resolution updating the Affordable Housing Plan (6‑0)
• Approved motion to hold closed session on employee matters (6‑0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Plan and Zoning Commission

The Northfield Plan and Zoning Commission met on March 31, 2025. The commission approved the minutes from the March 3, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. A public hearing was held on a special‑use permit request for Shred Body, LLC at 300 Happ Road, but the commission made no final decision, noting the recommendation will be forwarded to the Village President and Board of Trustees for a vote at their April 15 meeting.

• Approved March 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Held public hearing on special‑use permit request for Shred Body, LLC (no decision made)