City Council Meeting 05/27/2026 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPJBw2WBDrM Automatic captions; not audio-verified. [6:00] Evening. [6:10] I'd like to call to order the city council meeting for the city of Highland Park, Illinois, May 27th, 2026. Will the clerk please call the role? [6:16] Council member Center, present. Council member Bman here. [6:19] Council member Ross here. [6:20] Council member Tapia present. Council member Little here. Council member Bloomberg here. [6:24] Mayor Ro here. We have a quorum. Everyone, please rise for the pledge of allegiance. [6:29] I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation [6:38] under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [6:45] [clears throat] [6:45] I just want to share that we have the third graders coming through currently and um Red Oak was here today and they [6:53] we have asked the mayor anything and one of the questions was how old is that flag and I said I don't know but it's [laughter] the flag that we salute. So [7:00] they were very excited to do the pledge of allegiance in English and in Spanish and it was really wonderful to have them here. Continuing on with our agenda, I [7:09] am seeking a motion to approve the minutes of the regular meeting of the city council held May 11th and the closed session of the regular meeting of the city council held also on May 11th, 2026. [7:18] So moved. Second. All in favor say I. [7:21] I. Any opposed? Hearing none. Those minutes are approved. May I have a motion to approve the warrant list? So moved. Second. [7:28] Any comments or questions on the warrant list? Any from the public? Hearing none. Will the clerk please call the vote? Council member center. Hi. Council member Buckman. Hi. [7:36] Council member Ross. Hi. Council member Tapia. Hi. Council member Little. Hi. Council member Bloomberg. Hi. Mayor Ring. [7:42] I. We have seven eyes, no nays, and the warrant list is approved. [7:47] I am now going to continue with the report of the mayor. Before we continue our business this evening, I want to share that item D under other business, [7:55] which pertains to a special use permit and plat of RE subdivision at 147 Central Avenue, will be continued to the [8:03] next city council meeting at the request of the applicant. So, we are not discussing it this evening. Um, and we will be considering this item at the [8:11] regular meeting being held on June 29th, 2026. It begins at 7:30 here in council chambers. Anything else I should be adding? Corporation Council. [8:20] No, we'll make a formal motion when it gets to the agenda. Gotcha. That was good notice. [8:26] Okay. Thank you. So, if you came for 147 central, you're welcome to make a comment during business from the public, but it will not be on tonight's agenda, [8:34] and we will be discussing it in about a month. Thank you. Uh we have no appointments this evening. I'm delighted to say we have several proclamations [8:42] this evening. Let's be proud. June is pride month and Highland Park is proud to be an affirming and welcoming community that celebrates the full richness of who we are and whom we love. [8:54] I have a proclamation. Whereas the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, interex, asexual, [9:01] and a-romantic LGBTQ plus communities of Highland Park are an integral part of the vibrant culture and climate of Highland Park. And whereas the diverse [9:10] LGBTQ plus communities continue to contribute to the widespread academic, economic, artistic, and social spheres within and around our greater community. [9:19] And whereas the month of June was designated Pride Month to commemorate the Stonewall riots which occurred in June 1969 and are generally recognized [9:27] as the catalyst of the LGBTQ plus rights movement. And whereas the city of Highland Park remains committed to protecting the civil rights of the LGBTQ [9:35] communities as part of our unified effort to forge a more open and just society. And whereas one of the great things about Highland Park, Illinois is [9:43] our capacity to live together and advance together across every conceivable difference. This June, we stand with the LGBTQ plus communities as [9:52] they declare their pride in who they are and who they love. And whereas the LGBTQ plus communities still face an unacceptable level of discrimination and [10:00] violence, we must remain vigilant and we must continue to make the case that each of us as human beings share a fundamental thing in common. All of us [10:09] want to be loved and all of us want to love. We all deserve the chance to live our own individual lives free from [10:15] prejudice and bias. Now therefore, I, Nancy Rotary, mayor of the city of Highland Park and the city council of Highland Park, do hereby proclaim June 2, 2026 to be LGBTQ plus pride month. [10:28] And we celebrate and we support our LGBTQ plus communities and their rights to live their lives out loud during [10:35] Pride Month and frankly every month, as well as continue to demand equal rights for all. At this time, I'd like to [10:42] invite Dr. Smith to come to the podium to accept the proclamation. [10:47] [applause] [10:52] [applause] [10:57] Thank you. Thank you so much for the chance. Thank you everyone. Yeah, thank you. [11:02] [snorts] [11:03] [clears throat] [11:05] And I'll just share that we are proud to display the trans-inclusive progress pride flag at city hall and we encourage community members to show their support [11:13] for our LGBTQ plus neighbors as well. At a time when crimes against the LGBTQ plus community are increasing, [11:21] especially with respect to trans people, it is more important than ever to show our solidarity and our support. Thank you all for coming this evening and for all that you bring to our community. [11:30] Thank you. Continuing on, June is immigrant heritage month, an opportunity to celebrate the leadership and [11:38] accomplishments and contributions of immigrants and their children to our community and our nation. We also celebrate those who advocate for [11:46] immigrant families, ensuring that immigrants are fully welcomed, celebrated, and valued in our communities. I'll read the proclamation. [11:54] Excuse me. Whereas generations of immigrants from every corner of the globe have built our country's economy and created the unique character of our nation. And whereas nearly all of us can [12:02] trace our heritage to another nation and we must never forget where we came from and why our ancestors [clears throat] came here. And whereas immigrants [12:10] continue to grow businesses, offer innovative ideas, strengthen our economy, and create jobs in Illinois and throughout our nation. And whereas immigrants have provided Highland Park [12:18] with unique social and cultural influence, fundamentally enriching the extraordinary character of our hometown. [12:24] And whereas immigrants have been tireless leaders not only in securing their own rights and access to equal opportunity, but have also campaigned to [12:31] create a fairer and more just society for all Americans. And whereas despite these countless contributions, the role of immigrants in building and enriching [12:40] our nation has frequently been overlooked and undervalued throughout our history and continuing to the present day. Therefore, I, Nancy Roing, [12:47] mayor of the city of Highland Park and the city council of Highland Park, do hereby designate June 2026 as immigrant heritage month and encourage all [12:55] residents and local businesses to recognize and appreciate the stories of immigrants and their contributions to our community. [13:04] [clears throat] Excuse me. Highland Park truly celebrates the contributions of our immigrant neighbors to our community. from sharing their languages, [13:11] cuisines, and cultures to starting successful businesses, creating art, and more. We recognize that our immigrant community is facing great uncertainty. [13:20] And I'm pleased to say that joining us this evening is Alexander Vaser representing the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic to accept the proclamation [13:27] and share information about the important work they're doing. Thank you for coming, Alexander. [13:34] [applause] [13:48] Good evening, Mayor Roering and City Council. Thank you to the city of Highland Park for recognizing Immigrant [13:55] Heritage Month. By celebrating this month, you're acknowledging that our community has long been built, shaped, [14:02] [clears throat] [14:03] and strengthened by generations of immigrants who came here seeking what we all want, opportunity, safety, and a [14:11] better future. As an immigration attorney with the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic here in Highland Park, I see [14:18] the reality behind the statistics every day. [14:22] In our service area, immigrants make up roughly 23% of the population. And nearly onethird of the businesses of [14:30] business owners in the Chicago metro area are immigrants. But we all know they are so much more than numbers. [14:37] Immigrants are our neighbors, our local business owners, our students, and the backbone of our local economy. [14:45] This month is not only an opportunity to celebrate the contributions of immigrants, but also to ensure [14:52] individuals and families have access to accurate information, trusted resources, and meaningful support. Unfortunately, [15:00] navigating the complex American legal system can be an overwhelming, terrifying experience, especially when [15:07] facing language barriers or fleeing hardship. [15:12] For over 11 years, the North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic has stood by these individuals and families, providing accessible, free, trusted legal [15:21] representation to help thousands of community members find stability, dignity, and a voice. [15:27] Right now, our immigrant neighbors are being targeted by scams and misinformation from fraudulent individuals exploiting their fear and hope. [15:36] That is why our work and your public support tonight is so vital. As part of the immigrant heritage month, North [15:43] Suburban Legal Aid Clinic has compiled immigrant related resources on our website beyond what is always available. [15:51] Simply navigate to our homepage www.nslegalaid.org. [15:56] Click on immigrant heritage month slider to navigate to our regularly updated know your rights materials, educational information, and cultural [16:05] recommendations including books and movies. Thank you again, Mayor Broering and City Council for standing with us, [16:12] celebrating our shared heritage and ensuring that Highland Park remains a welcoming, safe home for all. [16:18] Wonderful. Thank you so much. [applause] And I'll just share that we deeply [16:26] appreciate the work that the Legal Aid Clinic has been doing and that they provide affordable and accessible legal counsel, ongoing community education and [16:35] advocacy in the areas of immigration, domestic violence, and housing. And as you mentioned, visit nslegal.org to learn more about the clinics, [16:43] immigration law practice, and other practice areas. Thanks for joining us this evening. [16:48] Um, for more than 20 years, Cancer Survivor Beauty and Support Day has encouraged those in the beauty and wellness industries to support cancer [16:55] survivors to provide complimentary services on the first Tuesday in [clears throat] June. Highland Park resident Barbara Padet created this [17:04] annual national event to bring joy to cancer survivors of all genders, ages, and types of cancer. These experiences [17:11] are transformative and restorative for cancer survivors and fighters. I'd like to invite Barbara to the podium to share more about her incredible program and to [17:19] explain how to locate participating salons and businesses. [17:24] It's always great to see you. Thanks for joining us. Oops. [17:30] I can put uh thank you for allowing me to speak here. I usually don't have notes, but I'm getting older. [laughter] [17:39] Uh 2003 was a long time ago. I really want to start by thanking Carol Wolf and [17:45] Lori Wyatt for working so hard uh to get generous volunteers in both city sitter [17:55] sister cities uh Madna Italy and Porto Viarta. [18:01] uh they there are over 12 places that will be offering complimentary beauty [18:08] services to cancer survivors on June 2nd. And it has helped to make my cancer [18:16] survivor beauty and support day an international day uh not just a national day. [clears throat] [18:24] Excuse me. I started this in one spa here in Highland Park in 2003 with [18:31] absolutely no intention of it ever becoming a an international event [18:39] and to have uh a resolution in Washington that proclaims the first [18:46] Tuesday in June as National Cancer Survivor Day. And that is when those in the beauty and wellness industries can [18:56] offer any complimentary service they wish to all men, women, and children cancer survivors. [19:04] But my website is really more than just the places that are available here in [19:12] Highland Park and our surrounding suburbs. The places are in alphabetical order from all over the country. And [19:21] what is surprising to me is how many people will say, "I didn't even know you had a website." This is, you know, over [19:28] 23 years. And the truth is it offers so much more. Every person in this room, [19:35] every person watching her tonight knows a cancer survivor that could benefit from the June 2nd event. [19:46] there are people watching and they will become a cancer survivor and they will be able to benefit. There is on my [19:55] website great clips for those of you that don't know there are over 4,800 of them in the country and they offer clips [20:03] of kindness for people who are starting treatment where they are about to lose their hair. They offer a wonderful [20:12] program. Walgreens. How many Walgreens are there just in Highland Park? And how many people know that Walgreens offers [20:21] feel more like you? There's Sephora that offers complimentary beauty classes. [20:28] There's the beauty bus in Los Angeles if you know people there going through any kind of treatment that goes to people's [20:36] homes. There's first ascent which offers healing. It's power of adventure for [20:43] young adults of cancer and multiple scerosis. So the website is really more than just what is offered on that day. [20:53] June is National Cancer Survivor Month and not very many people even know that [21:02] the first Sunday is uh national cancer survivor day. My event is National Cancer Survivor Beauty and Support Day. [21:13] I am looking for more support. I think more has to be done. So, if anyone in this room knows a congressman or a [21:21] senator kind of well, I would love their support. I already have the support of of many, but I need more to get more [21:30] information out there. And just being here tonight offers so much. I thank you so much. Thank you so much, Barbara. [21:38] [applause] [21:42] Your advocacy is truly an inspiration, and it's wonderful to see you. Thanks for coming. [21:48] June is National Gun Violence Awareness Month, and tonight several of us are wearing orange in memory of high schooler Hadia Pendleton, who was shot [21:56] and killed on a playground in Chicago in 2013. [22:01] #wear orange weekend honors Hadia's life in the first weekend in June and has grown into a national call to action for [22:08] nationwide policy to keep our communities safe. We also recognize June 4th as National Safe Gun Storage Day. [22:17] Safely storing unloaded firearms in locked safes separate from ammunition is critical to limiting the risks of unintentional death, injury, or damage, [22:25] particularly to children for whom firearms remain the leading cause of death. I'm going to repeat that. In this country for children, firearms are the [22:34] leading cause of death. Additionally, June 21st marks National Ask Day, an initiative of the Brady Campaign to End [22:42] Gun Violence. Given the number of cases in which a child gains access to an unsecured weapon at a family member or friend's home, Ask Day encourages [22:51] parents to ask whether and how firearms are secured before their child visits. [22:56] Safely storing firearms and setting good boundaries are simple practices that help prevent accidental gun violence, suicides, and gun theft. Policies like [23:05] these have a tangible impact on public safety. I'd now like to invite Susan Mason representing the Deerfield Highland Park Moms Demand Action to the podium to say a few words. [23:19] Thank you, Mayor Roering. Thank you, Highland Park Board. Um, I just want to say thank you so much for continuing to [23:27] support gun violence prevention and continuing to try and make our community safer. We are all the better for it and [23:36] your continued advocacy is greatly appreciated. Thank you so much. Thank you. [23:42] [applause] [23:46] And thank you to Susan who I call Susie. [23:48] [clears throat and cough] [23:49] Your advocacy and continued engagement is absolutely inspiring and necessary to making change. Um, to that end, I want [23:56] to highlight that the first item on tonight's agenda is a resolution in support of a statewide legislative initiative, the Responsibility and [24:04] Firearm Legislation Act, otherwise known as the Rifle Act. The resolution will formalize the city of Highland Park's support for this effort to to hold gun [24:13] manufacturers financially liable for gun violence by requiring them to pay fees based on the public health costs of injuries effective January 1, 2028 [24:22] through a no fault compensation program for victims. If passed by the general assembly and signed into law by Governor Pritsker, Illinois would become the [24:30] first state in the nation to require gun manufacturers to share in the public health costs of their products. We don't need a reminder of the lifelong [24:38] consequences of gun violence in this community. Nearly four years ago, we experienced the devastation and the trauma of gun violence. And while we [24:47] have demonstrated great resilience, we were all forever changed by just one minute of gun violence. There have been 151 mass shootings in 2026 thus far. [24:57] That's 10 more than this time last year. [25:00] Firearms continue to be the leading cause of death of American children and teens according to the analysis of CDC data and during gun violence prevention [25:09] month and always we continue to advocate for national policy to end this vicious cycle. Ashb did you want to say anything [25:16] about the rifle act or just appreciation from Anthony? [25:24] Yes. The rifle act is the please state your name for the rifle act is responsibly Firearm Legislation Act and it does exactly what [25:32] you would say. It was um thought the idea came to Dr. Anthony Douglas who is um a doctor in Chicago and was tired of [25:42] seeing um having to have these conversations with family members and victims of gun violence and knew firsthand like many of us that cost of [25:50] gun violence is put on taxpayers and victims and survivors. And so this is a revolutionary kind of legislation that [25:59] would finally make the gun industry accountable. And we all know that mental health is gun violence prevention. And [26:07] this would put um money into resources to make those um kinds of help accessible to survivors all over [26:14] Illinois. Um Anthony couldn't be here because they just went to Springfield um for advocacy day, but is with many many [26:21] thanks that you are helping us um by stating how important this is and and dedicating Highland Park support of it and we're really appreciative. [26:31] Absolutely. And thanks for all that you do to help prevent gun violence. It's been unbelievable. Thank you. [26:39] Um one more item from the mayor. [26:42] Celebrated annually as summer recreational activities are about to begin. Water safety month serves as a reminder of how important it is to [26:50] practice water safety when swimming, boating, and enjoying our beaches, pools, and other water activities. We're proud to support our colleagues at the Park District of Highland Park on their [26:58] water safety campaign, which we encourage all community members to review. The park district has created a great video highlighting ways to stay [27:06] safe while enjoying the water and we encourage everyone to visit city hpil.com/wateratersafety [27:13] to see the video. Most importantly, Rosewood Beach is Highland Park swimming beach. Only swim when a lifeguard is on [27:20] duty. Additional fire safety tips are available online at pdhp.org. [27:26] Many thanks to our fire chief Joe Shraggy, our deputy chief, Bill Brennan, and the incredible team of public safety [27:33] professionals at the fire department who are providing emergency water rescue services. Thank you all and please share that with your team. Thank you. [27:41] [applause] [27:46] Uh that concludes the mayor's report. Any business from the council? Nope. [27:51] Great. Thank you. City Manager Newkerk, will you provide the staff report, please? Yes, thank you, mayor. Um, just want to highlight that on the omnibus [27:59] agenda, there are nine items recommended for approval. I'll have appropriate staff reports. Um, just want to uh bring [28:06] note two items. Item number seven pertains to recommendation to award a contract for our lead service line replacement program. This is phase two. [28:17] Um, we had a bid opening on the 18th. We are recommending the lowest bidder. Um all the proposals have been reviewed by [28:24] our staff as well as our consultant engineer and corporation council and so we're recommending approval of that contract. Um and then item number eight [28:32] is a resolution uh approving an agreement with ID do pertaining to the Sheridan Road sidewalk project. Um certainly as the council knows we've [28:40] been talking about this sidewalk for many many years. Um this is a grantf funded project and um an important public safety project for the city. So [28:49] the proposed sidewalk would be on the east side of Sheridan Road um from Cedar Dean to Roger Williams. Um we've been [28:57] working very closely with all the impacted neighbors. We'll continue to do so. Um so subject to council approval that would give the green light to ID [29:04] dot to move forward. We anticipate construction would start um in July um with the bulk of the work starting after [29:13] July 4th um and then continue through the end of the construction season this year. So recommending approval on that one. [29:20] Thank you. I saw several families with strollers in the street over the holiday weekend and it was like, "Oh, we need the sidewalk so desperately." Yes. [29:28] Yes. Um and then the second item, just want to introduce Megan Cherry, who's going to give an overview of our leaf blower regulations. Um, just very [29:35] briefly, as the council may recall, um, there was an ordinance that was approved, um, with the intention to have [29:42] an outright ban of our gas powered leaf blowers, um, to take place effective 27. [29:48] So, we are recommending that, um, that we have on the next agenda an ordinance continuing the current regulations and [29:57] having a policy discussion in the first quarter of 27. This will give time for our regional leaf blower group um of [30:05] which Megan is involved in, I'm involved in, and council member Bloomberg. We have a consultant that's doing some assessment on u impact of leaf blowers [30:14] as a follow-up to the initial study that was done and uh we'll come back with a report and recommendation at that time. [30:20] So, Megan just has two slides um to go through. [30:23] Good evening, mayor and council. Thank you for having me tonight. I just want to provide you with a brief overview of the city's gas powered leaf blower [30:31] regulations. Um, a little bit of background information. In 1999, the city enacted its first gas powered leaf blower ban. Um, that ban prohibited the [30:40] use of gas powered leaf blowers during May 15th and October 15th of each year. [30:45] Um however in 2021 in consideration of the environmental impacts of gas powered [30:52] leaf blowers Highland Park took the lead along with Glen Cohen wet in establishing the regional leaf blower working group and that working group [31:00] consists of municipalities professional association landscapers and environmental groups and they are [31:06] looking at the impact of a need for regulations on gas powered leaf blowers in the region. So in 2022, the group's [31:15] consultants, the American Green Zone Alliance, also known as AGXA, and Quiet Communities, issued a final report based on their review of the data available at [31:24] the time. And based on that final report, the city council approved in 2023 the city's current ban on gas powered leaf blowers. That is a 9-month [31:32] ban and only permits the use of gas powered leaf blowers in the months of April, October, and November of each year. The rest of the year, you have to [31:39] use an electric leaf blower. So, in terms of education and enforcement, the community development's building [31:47] division primarily enforces this ordinance. Um, inspectors who witness violations will issue a citation and then if the city receives reports from [31:54] residents regarding violations, city inspectors will go out to the property in question, leave anformational door hanger, and then they will attempt to [32:02] speak to the property owner as well about the ordinance. In addition, the city has thirdparty inspectors that conducts two citywide sweeps per month [32:10] in the months uh in May through September um in search of violations. [32:15] And then finally, the city communicates information about the ban to residents and landscapers via our various communication modalities including the Highlander and the E-News. [32:26] So, as city manager Newkerk mentioned, um there is a feasibility study um happening right now uh with the regional [32:33] working uh regional leaflor working groups uh consultants AXA and Quiet Communities. Seven properties are involved in the study. There's one [32:40] property located in Highland Park and the researchers are really looking at several data points including runtime, noise levels, and equipment performance. [32:51] and they completed field work in April and will complete another round of field work in the fall. So we expect to [32:58] receive their findings in late 2026 or early 2027. So as this feasibility study will play a key role in discussions [33:05] pertaining to a total ban on gas powered leaf blowers. Seaff is recommending that we extend the current ban on gas powered leaf blowers that is is set to expire at [33:14] the end of this year so that there's no lapse in regulation of this equipment. [33:18] And then once we receive the findings of the study, we will, as city manager Newkerk uh mentioned, present those findings at a committee of the whole um [33:26] in the first quarter of 2027 for potential um to enact a total ban in 2028. [33:32] Great. Thank you so much. Thanks, Council Member Lord. [33:35] Um I would just like to ask I think it's been beautifully carried out. I think it's been studied. I think there's been a lot of time spent to make sure that [33:43] landscapers and everyone else is able to comply with everything that's going on and that the technology for the electric um leaf blowers really gets up to speed, [33:52] no pun intended. But um I just wanted to suggest that yes, I think an extension is a wonderful idea. were not without an [34:00] ordinance. But since the feasibility study should be done in the first quarter of 27 and since the months that [34:07] we talk about usage in general um are in the fall, what I'd like to see is that we extend it through September 30th of [34:16] 2027 so that in effect the ban could take place for the fall season of 27. So [34:24] assuming the feasibility comes back and we have enough time. We've been studying this for five years. So this will give us additional data points, bring us completely up to date technologically [34:32] speaking, but I'd really like to see it go into effect for that quarter of 27. [34:38] So in effect, if there's a ban, there's a ban. And maybe that's not the recommendation, but I I'd hate to see it put off for another whole year or a season. So that's all. [34:48] Did you want to respond or um I mean it's certainly up to the council. I mean, our intention is to bring back the policy discussion so that [34:57] way you have the consultant report so you can really make the most informed decision. Um, but it's certainly up to up to you [35:05] and we can certainly extend it and then change the date if we decide we want to move forward with the band. So, okay. Thank you. Thank you so much. [35:14] Thank you. Thank you. [35:16] Um, and with that, thank you, city manager, assistant to the city manager, Pelitzka, if you could please introduce the next item on our agenda, business from the public. [35:25] Thank you, mayor. The next item on the agenda is business from the public. This is an opportunity for members of the public to address the city council on a [35:33] topic that is within the council's purview and jurisdiction, but is not listed in another location on the agenda. If you would like to speak about [35:41] a matter that is listed on the agenda, we ask that you wait until that agenda item is called and we will give you an opportunity to speak then. If your [35:49] matter is on the omnibus consent agenda, please let us know if you'd like us to remove that matter from the consolidated list so that you can speak about it. [35:58] Please be aware that business from the public is not intended to be a forum for open dialogue or engagement with members of the city council. Rather, it is [36:06] intended as an opportunity to make comments to the city council. Please do not expect a response from anyone tonight. If appropriate, we may direct [36:15] the city manager or other staff to respond to questions or issues raised at a later date. All comments should be directed to the city council. All speakers will be limited to 3 minutes. [36:26] We request that the public not applaud or make other comments after any speaker. We ask that everyone be respectful, civil, and non-repetitive. [36:34] Great. Thank you so much. Are there any members of the public who wish to be heard this evening? Please come forward and state your name for the record. [36:43] You're My name is Renee Bova. Okay. I'm been a [36:55] resident in Highland Park since 1993 and trying to move. [37:00] Am I ready? Okay. Um this is my topic is democrats need a boss. Okay. The pro the problem lies with the injustice system [37:09] not enforcing the legal system. The laws u past dysfunctional executives it describes systems failure. They fail to [37:16] perform functions and instead cause problems distress and impairment worse. [37:20] Susceptible means easily influenced affected and and harmed by something. [37:25] Everyone to become susceptible to illnesses, damage, liable influenced and so social stuff. Follow the wrongdoing typ typically means usage to describe [37:34] interest or improper improper conduct that causes harm to individuals, businesses and public interest. And don't we know that? So let's get to the [37:43] sol and that's removing checks and balances decrease protection. So let's get to the solution. The Chicago Police Department frequently refers to its [37:51] members both active and fallen as family. The police are the police or family you protect yourself and loved ones. There's been enough violence to [37:58] learn from mistakes and correctly ensure family do get returned home safely. The correction starts with do something enforcing the laws. Checks and balances not change to release criminals. [38:10] Okay. Example starts with the ten commandments. Curfew enforce laws not change. Kill bugs or they kill you. [38:17] Maintain landscaping and wildlife. Be a United Nation checks and balances and other stuff. [38:24] I'm a conservative Republican. [38:27] and I want to move. Okay. Because um I'm being beaten by all the neighbors and my children are get my ex I've had my own [38:35] experiences with the injustice system has been wrong. Okay. It's it's led to very bad no healthcare. It's the [38:44] injustice system is to blame, not the police. They're in the middle of it and they they have to enforce the laws. That's it. Thank you. [38:51] Okay. Oh, I wanted to say discipline your children for for the in there there is hope. Do not be a willing party to [39:00] their death. Okay. Do not withhold discipline from a child. If you punish them with the rod, they will not die. [39:05] That's mine, not a social worker. Social workers don't punish you. Okay, that's it. [39:11] Thank you very much. Any other members of the public wishing to be heard? Nope. [39:16] All right, we will continue on with our scheduled business. Our omnibus [snorts] agenda has items one through nine [39:23] grouped together for consideration. I am seeking a motion to approve items one through nine. So move. Second. [39:30] Any comments or questions on items one through nine. [39:32] Mayor, I'd like to make a comment on option on number eight, which is the Sheridan Road sidewalk. Mhm. [39:38] I just want to acknowledge that um we are talking about um working with um an Illinois grant in the amount of about [39:47] 1.7 million and um a federal grant for $659,000 and prices have gone up. And because of [39:55] that, even though this was budgeted for knowing that those grants would not cover everything, we still have additional costs. And so I'm I'm very [40:03] grateful to the city for being responsible in terms of determining how we're going to cover that cost, but there will be an additional cost to the [40:11] city. And I specifically asked that we look for ways to make it even less, which the city still did look at and has [40:18] considered over time because it's a 5-ft sidewalk. I even asked for a 4ft sidewalk, but in order to get these grants, we have to comply with what they [40:27] believe, right? And so I just want to make sure that people understand that even though it's going to cost us more money, we really have delved into how to [40:35] still hold down those costs and if there was any way to do it. So thank you staff for checking into that for me today. [40:41] Appreciate it. Thank you. Uh we have a motion. [clears throat] We have a second. Will the clerk please call the vote? Council member Centuri. Council member Brackman. Hi. [40:48] Council member Ross. Hi. Council member Tapia. Hi. Council member Little. Hi. Council member Bloomberg. Hi. Mayor Roing. [40:54] I. Seven eyes, no nays. Items 1 through nine have been approved. [41:01] Corporation council, can we take A and B? Yes, we can. Thank you. Okay. So, items item A is a resolution ratifying a [41:10] minor amendment to a plan development for 418 Sheridan Road uh Ravenia Festival Association. Item B is a [41:17] resolution approving a special license agreement with Ravenia Festival Association. Uh, we have read and [41:24] reviewed and discussed this. I'm seeking a motion to approve items A and B. Move to approve. Second. [41:30] Any comments or questions on A or B? I have. Council member Litter. [41:34] Sorry, I have two points of clarification that I wanted to [clears throat] um ask the council for approval of. Um, it was staff's recommendation that we do keep this um [41:43] on the same schedule as when we review agreements with Ravenia Festival. That's fine. Um, we have a review coming up [41:50] budgetarily in three years and because this was just discussed, the thought was to keep this for 23 years. Even though [41:58] there is an annual review that occurs, I think it would be prudent to review this after 3 years and then go on the 20-year [42:05] schedule. Um, but because this is a new license agreement, I would like to see review um in three years uh when the [42:12] regular raven agreement comes up. So I just want to highlight that this is specific to public safety and has [42:21] nothing to do with the finances at all of Ravenia. This is an operational issue related to giving Ravenia um season [42:29] specific and event specific control of that area which leads into Ravenia Festival for security purposes. Um, I [42:37] appreciate the elegance of keeping things on the same timetable, but I also feel like when you're discussing public safety, let's just be conservative and [42:46] let's make sure that we're moving forward in a way that's consistent, that can be planned on, and that can be counted on by our police department. Um, so I myself am in favor of continuing [42:56] with the 23 years. Um, open to discussion from the council. I I did have a reason as to why though also if you look at the drawing here and that [43:04] goes to my second point which has to do with um sidewalks and asphalt and how um crowds will be managed which we are [43:13] giving um Virginia Festival the ability to manage and I think that makes perfect sense but because that covers some of our ground and because I want to make [43:22] sure there's an understanding of what will be paved how it will be paved the earlier stuff went to the point of uh [43:29] asphalt and you know if if this is by a parking lot or where the buses are letting people off that's one thing that's what I want to make sure we [43:37] understand tonight and if it's not you know this community has fought really hard to keep that path you know gravel [43:47] and soft right and so number one I wanted a clarification of that but that's another reason why I thought to really look at the down and dirty as to [43:56] how this agreement is working three years down the line would be helpful So, there's the excuse me, [clears throat] Jim Schmidz with Verinia Festival. Uh, [44:04] to clarify, um, kind of the lay of the land here and what we're proposing to add in terms of pavement. Uh, I'm going [44:11] to do my best to point it out. This map is is blown out pretty far, but uh, this is an existing roadway here, uh, asphalt [44:18] roadway approximately 20 ft wide. Um, buses drop off, you know, they pull in off of, uh, St. John's here, uh, and [44:26] they let off St. John's here. The proposal that we have on the table is to add uh six feet of width to that roadway right out here on the uh the west side [44:35] bordering the railroad tracks. That is for facilitation of the bus line. That bus line at times goes all the way down to the entry plaza all the way back up [44:43] and then back into the grounds. Um and it gets very tight if we're trying to bring an ambulance down or a car. Um we're pushing our crowd who are waiting [44:52] in line into the gravel close to the railroad tracks. It's hard for them to pull wagons. It's hard to walk in the dark on gravel. There's puddles. So, um [44:59] that's the proposal is a 6ft uh widening of that roadway uh to give us a sidewalk. Are trees coming down to do that? [45:06] No trees come down. No, it right now it's a it's a very densely packed stone gravel u area. And does that mean that [45:14] there won't be stone gravel the entire will there be any interruption of the stone gravel path that Highland Parkers [45:22] use and have fought for for running and and and bicycling even though I know asphalt can be better for some of those [45:31] activities but will that make it so it's not continuous park it isn't continuous now okay well that's what I want to I'd like [45:39] to see a better picture of it to understand if we're taking away the gravel path. [45:43] Yeah, it there is we are not. I guess the simple answer is we are not the the Green Bay Trail would would stay intact in terms of crushed limestone. [45:52] Okay, that that's the question, right? Okay. Yes. Thank you. [45:56] Okay. I mean, I didn't know if you could blow it up and but if the city manager says [clears throat] that the path will not be interrupted, that's the answer to my question. That's fine. Thank you. [46:04] Okay. Thank you. [46:05] Uh thoughts from this group. I'm going to just run down 23 or three or did you have comments? [46:10] I just had a comment. um not about. So, I just wanted to make sure since I'm the liaison for Ravenia Festival um neighborhood meetings that we will uh [46:19] communicate this at our next neighborhood meeting so people are aware. Um and I and will you also be putting signs up and notifying the [46:27] neighborhood that we're going to be doing some updates? [46:29] Uh we could um we don't we don't have a permit yet, you know, pending this conversation. We're waiting on doing the actual work. But um when that goes up, [46:38] we could put signage out indicating to people that it's going to happen. We know, you know, from my time here to keep the roadway open and the path open while the work is happening, but we will [46:46] bring it up at the neighborhood meeting and take any questions from from the public there. Okay. Yeah. [46:50] Okay. Thank you. Thanks. And I think it's important to note you meet twice a year in with public meetings for the neighbors and anybody else to join and [46:59] participate and talk about raven operations, questions, concerns. [47:03] Yeah. And and you know, we are we are open to taking phone calls and questions, emails outside of those meetings, too. I have a lot of personal [47:10] interaction with neighbors too. So any questions that come along, we try to address. Great. Thanks. [47:15] Thank you. All right. So I'm just going to ask 23 or three. [47:18] What years for the agreement for the license? Yes, I'm good. With which one? [47:22] Um with what the original 23. Yeah. Okay. 23. 23. 23. Okay. I'm 23. You want three? Yeah. [47:30] Council member Ross. [47:32] Um yeah, I I guess 23. I mean I I don't see the problem with reviewing it in three [47:40] years though. I I I kind of council member center. Yeah, I believe in three. [47:46] Okay. My understanding is we have four to three. So we will be voting on it. [47:50] Can can you explain the problem with with reviewing I mean I it's it's public safety and it's been [47:57] recommended by staff and we have public safety professionals who are counting on certain programs. They have operations. [48:06] They have manuals. They have emergency procedures. [48:10] Why do we need to switch a room after three years? [48:13] Can I also make one other suggestion or one other point? Sure. So, one other point that um could come up and and was raised by us was um we thought at one [48:22] point perhaps Ravenia would be willing as part of safety to add to the path in terms of light. Okay. And and at this [48:30] point they don't want to do that and that's fine. But um and it's something that had been in our plan not as a number one priority but as a at a very [48:37] high price. So if in the next three years at some point we felt it might be necessary to revisit not necessary but [48:44] we wanted to revisit the issue of lights that would be something that along with safety and they put together a very lovely proposal in which they said they might be willing to contribute to that. [48:55] So that would be something as a matter of safety that I would like to see reviewed in the next three years too, just in case there is the money to do [49:02] that type of work or someone felt the need that it was necessary. [49:05] Great news. We've talked about that in the past and we have examined it carefully with our staff. Happy to reopen the question, but I don't know [49:13] that it necessarily needs to be a piece of this license agreement that deals with their public safety plan. [49:19] I'm just saying that's one of the reasons I was raising it for three year. [49:22] Thanks. I appreciate it. I I I'm I'm okay with 23 years. I I I on the safety issue, but I think the lighted path [49:30] issue, I definitely would like to revisit and we can certainly bring that back. Um but I don't think the two need to be together. [49:38] We do love safety. Um and with that being said, I think we have a motion. I believe we have a second for both of them. For both of them with a 23-year term. [49:47] Will the clerk please call the vote? Council member Center. I. Council member Buckman. I. Council member Ross. Hi. Council member Tapia. Hi. Council member Little. [49:56] No. Council member Bloomberg. Hi. Mayor Roing. [49:59] I. Six eyes, one nay. Items A and B have been approved. Item C is an ordinance authorizing and directing the acquisition of temporary construction [50:08] easements through condemnation for the Judson Avenue Bridge project. Um, I don't know if we need a presentation. We have been reading about this. I do [50:16] believe we have two members of the public who wish to comment at this time. [50:20] please come forward and state your name for the record. And um thanks for joining us this evening. [50:29] Mayor, if if I could just make a quick comment um before the Serrets speak. Um so we are continuing to work with the [50:37] residents in the hopes of obtaining temporary easements for this project as well as other projects that we have throughout the community. Um this action that is before the city council this [50:45] evening is really a proactive measure just making sure that we still stay on schedule. Um we've been working on acquiring the temporary easements since [50:54] December of last year. Um we already have uh an agreement in place. We're hoping to get the others secured. So [51:02] this is really just a formality. We've given a 60-day notice to all the impacted property owners just to let them know that this would be the natural [51:09] next step as part of this process that if we can't reach agreement, it would go through this route. But again, we still are hopeful that we will be able to reach agreement with everybody impacted. [51:18] Great. Thank you. Welcome. [51:23] My name is Larry Serret. I live at 835 Judson, one of the properties that's on the agenda for tonight's um ordinance [51:32] concerning the Judson Avenue Bridge temporary construction easements. I'm going to abbreviate that as TCE just for simplicity. My wife Laura is also here. [51:40] Um we're here to rebut the notion that the city's negotiation for TCE has been in good faith and to suggest [51:47] improvements to the process. The tce process is deeply flawed, unnecessarily adversarial, as evidenced by the fact [51:55] that after all these months, three three of the four property owners have not agreed, at least as of this morning. [52:02] We're not opposed to bridge reconstruction, but we wanted to be treated fairly and respectfully, which has not been the case. [52:10] The TCE process started for us in 2022 with a presentation by the city engineer who explained the need for tcees at all [52:18] four corners of the bridge on Judson Avenue. We heard nothing further then about this subject until the summer of [52:25] 2025 when we were surprised to learn from the appraiser hired by the city's land acquisition company, Santa Cruz, [52:33] that the property at one of the four corners was granted an exemption from TCE. It's never a good idea to start a [52:40] negotiation with a surprise and it left us wondering what else the city and Santa Cruz had not told us. [52:47] Um, in December 2025, we received a packet from Santa Cruz containing engineering drawings and shortly [52:54] thereafter several conveyance documents which are designed to transfer our rights in this easement uh, requiring [53:02] our signatures and other personal information. These documents included an offer to purchase the tce supposedly [53:09] based on comparables and a dollar calculation, but without a detailed explanation of how the comparables were chosen or how the amount was calculated. [53:19] The documents indicated that on our property, eight mature trees were and other vegetation would be removed in exchange for one tree and six bushes. [53:30] So, um, since real estate is not my field of expertise, I thought I nevertheless that I'd start on my own by [53:39] responding and writing with a letter to the, uh, Santa Cruz organization asking detailed questions, mostly about the [53:45] compensation calculation, but more so about property damage and property restoration, as well as insurance. [53:54] Santa Cruz's response to that letter was mostly nonresponsive and suggested that we make a counter offer to the city or [54:02] else the city will resort to condemnation. One of many times that Santa Cruz attempted to bully us by threatening instead of offering [54:09] suggestions that would alleviate our concerns. [54:14] Now, in contrast, a good faith response would have at least addressed our issues by explaining why they were not agreeable to the city and offering [54:22] constructed alternative ways to address those issues. In other words, I was hoping they would don't tell me what you [54:29] would Yeah, we're going to do. [54:37] Okay. Where do we right here? [54:40] Okay. I'm Laura Sarah, resident 835 Judson. So what Larry said, in other words, don't just tell me what you won't do, tell me what you will do. Saying no is not negotiation. [54:52] Once he received or we received the largely unresponsive response, we sent a detailed agreement of our own stating how we'd like to resolve the issues. [55:00] After a long delay, received another letter from Santa Cruz stating mostly, "No, no, not negotiable, without any [55:08] constructive alternatives, and asking us to negotiate against ourselves with another counter offer." For your average HP resident, this brick wall style of [55:16] negotiating without addressing the interests of the other side, without constructive alternatives, is both frustrating and not conductive to an [55:24] agreement. It generates ill and a sense of betrayal from the people we voted for. [55:30] Eminent domain lawyers with whom we consulted and described this experience say that negotiating without a city attorney is useless and said that no [55:38] deal will be reached without litigation because then a city attorney will get involved. [55:44] Our experience directly with the city manager and Ron Bannon has been helpful in part but not enough. This my way or the highway negotiation style and lack [55:53] of respect and condensation particularly toward me by Santa Cruz is why you are having to consider lawsuits instead of [56:00] an agreement in which interests of all parties are dealt with. Um you should know that we're still negotiating. We had a seemingly productive call today [56:07] with Mr. Bannon Santa Cruz and others and hope to see language from the city that concludes the negotiation. [56:14] Um, one of our neighbors, if I can find this, Beth Clolobashar Mendes put in a [56:21] response to the city through the however that works and was hoping that her response would be read tonight. And since it's not, she asked me to read what I could. [56:30] Um, this is from Beth Cloverar Mendes, owner of 845 Judson. No, 804. [56:36] 804. What did I say? Never mind. After reviewing the staff report in the agenda package, we are portrayed as villains, ignoring the city and the offers. When [56:44] the consultants approached us, it was obvious they were hired to make a quick closing deal with the homeowners. When we reviewed the appraisal report, this was the first alarm as none of the [56:52] properties used compared to my home. We met with the city to discuss our reservations due to the inaccurate information provided by Santa Cruz, the [57:00] consultant. We expressed our concerns, which are still not answered. My counter offer was not accepted by the city when the appraisal report was given. At least [57:09] two items were not correct. The value of the home was not accurate and the comparisons used for the appraisal were not ravine properties. In addition, they won't agree to the time frame to replace [57:18] all trees and plants. We spoke to other owners who experienced past bridge projects and they're still angry about the whole situation and don't have the [57:26] promised replacement of trees and plants. We renovated our property and had plans to list it for sale. the project will deter riders or cause a reduction in the sale price. [57:35] I have a home office. I am told the noise is horrific. This means I have to move my home office out of my home and endure more costs. Um, I'm out of time [57:45] so I'm not going to read the whole thing, but I will give her a copy of the record. I also have copies of If you'd like to give them to the clerk, that'd be great. [57:55] Thank you so much. Wonderful. Those are my ideas. Thank you for your time. [58:00] Thank you. Thank you very much. Um, any comments or questions from the council? [58:07] Well, it's it's pending litigation. [58:09] So, right, that's I [laughter] understand. Uh, so with that, we are seeking approval of item C. Is there a motion? [58:20] Uh, I would move to approve. Is there a second? Is there a second? Second. [58:26] Thank you. Uh, will the clerk please call the vote? Councilman Center, come back to me. I'm sorry. Come back to me. [58:33] Council member, Council Member Brockman, I. [58:36] Council member Ross, I. Council member Tapio. Hi. [58:39] Council member Little I. Council member Bloomberg. Hi. Council member Center. I. Mayor Roing. [58:46] I. Seven eyes, no nays. Item C is approved. As I mentioned at the beginning, item D has been continued to [58:52] our next meeting on June 29th. Um, are we having close session? [58:58] Yes. Okay. So, I am seeking a motion to go into close session. So, moved. Do we we need to stay wide? [59:05] Yes. [laughter] 11. Uh, give me just a minute. Thank you. [59:11] Motion to go into close session to discuss litigation pursuant to 5CS120/2C11. Is there a second? [59:20] Second. Will the clerk, please call the vote. Council member center. I. Council member Buckman. [59:26] I. Council member Ross. Hi, Council Member Tapia. Hi. Council member Little. [59:30] Hi, Council Member Bloomberg. Hi, Mayor Rotary. [59:32] I seven eyes, no. We will go into close session. Thank you so much. Thank you.