City Council
Regular MeetingHighland Park, IL · October 20, 2025
Minutes
Minutes of a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Highland Park
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Meeting Location: City Hall 1707 St Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035
I. Call to Order
At 7:30 PM, Presiding Officer Blumberg called the meeting to order and asked for a roll
call:
II. Roll Call
Present: Presiding Officer Blumberg, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross,
Tapia (Remote), Lidawer (Remote)
Absent: Mayor Rotering
Staff Present: City Manager Neukirch, Director of Public Works Bannon, Community
Development Director Fontane, Assistant City Manager Jason, Police
Chief Jogmen, Finance Director McCaulou, Fire Chief Schrage,
Commander Curran, Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska
Also Present: Corporation Counsel Elrod
All Councilmembers present at City Hall were in consensus to allow Councilmembers
Tapia and Lidawer to attend the meeting remotely.
III. Pledge of Allegiance
IV. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the City Council Held on
September 29, 2025
Councilmember Bruckman moved to approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting of
the City Council Held on September 29, 2025. Councilmember Center seconded the
motion. Upon a voice vote, Presiding Officer Blumberg declared the motion Passed
(6 - 0).
MOVER: Councilmember Bruckman
SECONDER: Councilmember Center
AYES: Presiding Officer Blumberg, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman,
Ross, Tapia, Lidawer
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Mayor Rotering
B. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council Held on
October 6, 2025
Councilmember Center moved to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the
City Council Held on October 6, 2025. Councilmember Bruckman seconded the
motion. Upon a voice vote, Presiding Officer Blumberg declared the motion Passed
(6 - 0).
MOVER: Councilmember Center
SECONDER: Councilmember Bruckman
AYES: Presiding Officer Blumberg, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman,
Ross, Tapia, Lidawer
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Mayor Rotering
V. Approval of Warrant List
A. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from September 26, 2025 to October 09, 2025.
Councilmember Bruckman moved to approve the Warrant List. Councilmember
Ross seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, Presiding Officer Blumberg
declared the motion Passed (6 - 0).
MOVER: Councilmember Bruckman
SECONDER: Councilmember Ross
AYES: Presiding Officer Blumberg, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman,
Ross, Tapia, Lidawer
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Mayor Rotering
VI. Report of Mayor
Presiding Officer Blumberg provided an opening statement regarding the hostages that
were released from Gaza.
A. Proclamations
October 2025 is the 80th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness
Month
Presiding Officer Blumberg proclaimed October as National Disability Employment
Awareness Month.
Employment Specialist, Don Miner, presented information on the Center for
Enriched Living programming, including the positive effects the Center has had on
members of the community.
VII. Business from the Council
Councilmember Center discussed Highland Park High School’s homecoming and the
Wolters Field scoreboard. He communicated concerns that have been expressed by
members of the community as to the functionality of the scoreboard and the difficulties
families are experiencing. He expressed interest in future discussions with the school
district and future review of how the voiced concerns can be remedied.
VIII. Business from City Staff
A. Neighborhood Meetings
City Manager Neukirch provided information on two upcoming neighborhood meetings
– meeting with School District 113 and neighbors surrounding Highland Park High
School and Wolters Field, and a neighborhood and public meeting pertaining to the
redevelopment of the Public Services Center and Fire Station #34.
B. 2026 Proposed Budget Department Staff Reports
City Manager Neukirch provided information on the proposed 2026 Budget
Department Staff reports, and summarized Councilmember highlights and
recommendations that were shared in advance of the City Council
Councilmember Ross expressed a preference to use the term Master Plan, versus
Comprehensive Plan, as it pertains to the plan update that will begin in 2025. She also
indicated that she believes the City should be budgeting more for tree planting.
City Manager Neukirch noted that the total, proposed Forestry budget is $1.4M.
She referenced the budget workshop when the tree canopy map was highlighted citing
laudable efforts in tree planting community wide, and cited that Highland Park has a
larger tree canopy compared to neighboring communities. She welcomed policy
feedback if there were specific areas where Councilmembers felt increased trees
should be considered.
IX. Business from the Public (Individuals wishing to be heard regarding items not listed
on this agenda)
Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska provided an opening statement regarding
Business from the Public.
Ken Temkin, Highland Park resident, voiced concerns as to how the Chicago area has
changed. He expressed concern with ICE's actions and requested the City impose a ban
on ICE federal actions in the community. Presiding Officer Blumberg invited Mr.
Temkin to follow-up with the City Manager as this matter has been evaluated.
Renee Bova, Highland Park resident, discussed how her domestic violence problem has
become a community problem.
X. Omnibus
Councilmember Ross asked about the purchase of the Cot System and possible recalls.
Fire Chief Schrage provided information on the Cot system and indicated that what is
being proposed to purchase is the industry standard within the area. He noted that the Cot
System is currently in all of the City's ambulances and the system has been successful. He
explained that staff is proposing to purchase the warranty as well to ensure the system is
maintained in the best way possible. He noted that this system will relieve injuries for the
members of the Fire Department team.
Councilmember Bruckman moved to approve items 1 - 4 by omnibus vote consideration.
Councilmember Ross seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, Presiding Officer
Blumberg declared the motion Passed (6 - 0).
MOVER: Councilmember Bruckman
SECONDER: Councilmember Ross
AYES: Presiding Officer Blumberg, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman,
Ross, Tapia, Lidawer
NAYS: None
ABSENT: Mayor Rotering
Finance
1. Approval of Water Rates Effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Public Works
2. R127-2025 - A Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the
City’s Purchasing Manual and Approving an Agreement with Gewalt Hamilton
Associates, Inc., of Vernon Hills, Illinois, for Professional Surveying Services
Community Development
3. O54-2025 - An Ordinance Granting Variances From Article XX of the Zoning
Code (The Barn, 1900 First Street)
Public Safety
4. R128-2025 - A Resolution Approving the Purchase of a Cot System from Stryker
Corporation of Kalamazoo, Michigan
XI. Adjournment
Councilmember Center moved to adjourn the City Council meeting. Councilmember
Bruckman seconded the motion. Upon a voice vote, Presiding Officer Blumberg declared
the motion passed unanimously.
The City Council adjourned its meeting at 08:02 PM
Respectfully Submitted,
Ashley Palbitska
Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk
Agenda
City Council Meeting
City Hall
1707 St Johns Avenue,
Highland Park, Il 60035
October 20, 2025
7:30 PM
Agenda
Individuals with questions or feedback about an agenda item can address the City in the
following ways:
1. Emails with Unlimited Information. Individuals may email the City an unlimited number
of words at cityhp@cityhpil.com. Emails will be forwarded to the City Council if
requested. All emails received will be acknowledged.
2. Telephone. Individuals with no access to email may leave a message with the City
Manager’s Office at 847.926.1000.
3. Live Comments. Individuals are able to address the Council during the City Council
meeting. Questions/comments should be limited to three minutes or less.
Committee of the Whole and City Council meetings are broadcast live on the City’s Facebook
page and on the City’s website. Meetings can be watched after the meeting from a video link on
the City’s website.
The City encourages individuals to sign-up for its enews for important information from the
City. To sign-up for the enews, visit www.cityhpil.com.
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
III. Pledge of Allegiance
IV. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the City Council Held on
September 29, 2025
B. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council Held on
October 6, 2025
V. Approval of Warrant List
A. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from September 26, 2025 to October 09, 2025.
VI. Report of Mayor
A. Proclamations
• October 2025 is the 80th Anniversary of National Disability Employment
Awareness Month
B. Other Business
VII. Business from the Council
VIII. Business from City Staff
A. 2026 Proposed Budget Department Staff Reports
IX. Business from the Public (Individuals wishing to be heard regarding items not listed
on this agenda)
X. Omnibus
Finance
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-926-1020)
1. Approval of Water Rates Effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Public Works
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-432-0807)
2. A Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City’s
Purchasing Manual and Approving an Agreement with Gewalt Hamilton
Associates, Inc., of Vernon Hills, Illinois, for Professional Surveying Services
Community Development
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-432-0867)
3. An Ordinance Granting Variances From Article XX of the Zoning Code (The
Barn, 1900 First Street)
Public Safety
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-926-1084)
4. A Resolution Approving the Purchase of a Cot System from Stryker
Corporation of Kalamazoo, Michigan
XI. Items Removed From Omnibus Vote Consideration
XII. Other Business
XIII. Closed Session
XIV. Adjournment
Packet
City Council Meeting
City Hall
1707 St Johns Avenue,
Highland Park, Il 60035
October 20, 2025
7:30 PM
Agenda
Individuals with questions or feedback about an agenda item can address the City in the
following ways:
1. Emails with Unlimited Information. Individuals may email the City an unlimited number
of words at cityhp@cityhpil.com. Emails will be forwarded to the City Council if
requested. All emails received will be acknowledged.
2. Telephone. Individuals with no access to email may leave a message with the City
Manager’s Office at 847.926.1000.
3. Live Comments. Individuals are able to address the Council during the City Council
meeting. Questions/comments should be limited to three minutes or less.
Committee of the Whole and City Council meetings are broadcast live on the City’s Facebook
page and on the City’s website. Meetings can be watched after the meeting from a video link on
the City’s website.
The City encourages individuals to sign-up for its enews for important information from the
City. To sign-up for the enews, visit www.cityhpil.com.
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
III. Pledge of Allegiance
IV. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the City Council Held on
September 29, 2025
B. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council Held on
October 6, 2025
V. Approval of Warrant List
A. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from September 26, 2025 to October 09, 2025.
VI. Report of Mayor
A. Proclamations
Page 1 of 120
• October 2025 is the 80th Anniversary of National Disability Employment
Awareness Month
B. Other Business
VII. Business from the Council
VIII. Business from City Staff
A. 2026 Proposed Budget Department Staff Reports
IX. Business from the Public (Individuals wishing to be heard regarding items not listed
on this agenda)
X. Omnibus
Finance
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-926-1020)
1. Approval of Water Rates Effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Public Works
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-432-0807)
2. A Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City’s
Purchasing Manual and Approving an Agreement with Gewalt Hamilton
Associates, Inc., of Vernon Hills, Illinois, for Professional Surveying Services
Community Development
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-432-0867)
3. An Ordinance Granting Variances From Article XX of the Zoning Code (The
Barn, 1900 First Street)
Public Safety
(Questions concerning these items can be directed to 847-926-1084)
4. A Resolution Approving the Purchase of a Cot System from Stryker
Corporation of Kalamazoo, Michigan
XI. Items Removed From Omnibus Vote Consideration
XII. Other Business
XIII. Closed Session
XIV. Adjournment
Page 2 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Ashley Palbitska, Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk
Department: City Manager's Office
Title: Approval of the Minutes of the Special Meeting of the City Council Held on September
29, 2025
Recommendation:
For the City Council’s approval are the minutes of the Special Meeting of the City Council held
on September 29, 2025.
Attachments:
1. MIN CC 9-29-2025
Page 3 of 120
..
MINUTES OF A SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK
MEETING DATE: Monday, September 29, 2025
MEETING LOCATION: The Moraine, 1201 Park Ave West, Highland Park, IL 60035
CALL TO ORDER
At 7:01 PM, Mayor Rotering called the meeting to order and asked for a roll call:
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia, Lidawer,
Blumberg
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Neukirch, Director of Public Works Bannon, Community
Development Director Fontane, Assistant City Manager Jason, Police Chief
Jogmen, Fire Chief Schrage, Commander Curran, Assistant to the City
Manager Palbitska
ALSO PRESENT: Corporation Counsel Elrod, Representatives from: The Habitat Company
(Zack Zalar), DLA Piper (Katy C. Jahnke Dale), KLOA, LLC (Michael
Werthmann), BSB Design (Natalie Viscuso)
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
REPORT OF THE MAYOR
Mayor Rotering provided remarks of support in remembering the hostages of Gaza.
BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC (Citizens wishing to be heard regarding items not listed
on this agenda)
Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska provided opening remarks as it relates to Business
from the Public.
Carl Lambrecht, Highland Park resident, discussed the housing in Fort Sheridan being part
of Highland Park and real estate taxes.
SCHEDULED BUSINESS
OTHER BUSINESS (the City Council will consider and then either approve or
disapprove the following items)
Community Development
1. Consideration of a Rezoning to RM1 and R7, a Preliminary Plat of Re-subdivision
with variations, and a Special Use Permit in the Nature of Preliminary Planned
Development with Design Review and Modifications from City Code (1660 and
1700 Old Deerfield Rd.)
Community Development Director Fontane presented information related to a
consideration of a Rezoning to RM1 and R7, a Preliminary Plat of Re-Subdivision
with variations, and a Special Use Permit in the Nature of Preliminary Planned
Development, Design Review, and Modifications from City Code (1660 and 1700
Old Deerfield Rd.).
Page 4 of 120
Katy C. Jahnke Dale, partner with DLA Piper, presented information regarding the
proposed development.
The Council, Ms. Dale, Mr. Zalar, Mr. Werthmann, and staff discussed:
• The purpose for the recommendation of split zoning for the property
• Importance of having a full conversation regarding the easement
• Understanding as to whether or not the project will be completed in stages or
developed all at once
• The importance of the project being completed fully and protections that
could be incorporated into the development agreement that would ensure the
development is completed
• Understanding that the development is a great catalyst for the Briergate
District
• Proposed storm water management will be addressed within the property with
little to no concerns and Lake County has confirmed the plan
• The traffic study was completed by KLOA and provided to the City’s third
party, CivilTech, for review and comments
• The applicants have continued to work with the school districts and Park
District as it relates to volume of traffic in the area
• All proposed lighting for the project will be compliant with Article VI of the
City Code, including Dark Sky compliance
• No Further Remediation (“NFR”) letter is not a requirement of the zoning
request but it will be a requirement of the development project
• The importance of continued communication with the neighbors and while
neighbor notice is not required of an NFR, the letter will be recorded against
the property when the evaluation has been completed
• OSHA will be involved during construction to ensure all steps are being
followed as it relates to construction (i.e. dust) and how that may impact the
neighbors
• There is no contiguous fencing around the development; there is fencing in
different sections for security and safety
• The alley on Richfield is planned to be resurfaced by the City in 2026 and staff
will ensure this project is coordinated with the development project
• Request to continue the sidewalk up to Old Skokie
• Composition of the Woodland Trail and accessibility and usability by the
public; request to consider an alternative to wood chips
• A signal at the entrance of the development would not assist with the flow of
traffic to benefit the area
• A conflict with the individual owning a trust has been worked through and a
letter of support has been provided based on that work
• The tree preservation plan is forthcoming and will be reviewed by the City’s
Forester
• Importance of inclusionary housing within the development and the revised
plan by the developer which will be reviewed again by the Housing
Commission; the Housing Commission has provided approval but will review
any and all revisions
Page 5 of 120
• Request that language be incorporated into the development agreement that
would not allow for construction traffic to traverse down Ridge Road
• Concerns as it relates getting individuals and families in to and out of the
development
• Review of the traffic study process, as conducted by KLOA and reviewed by
the City’s third party consultant, CivilTech
• Consideration of the development of the Toys R’ Us property; the impacts this
may have on the area with the proposed development being discussed
• How inclusionary housing provides for a density bonus within the
development
• Recognizing that the plan continues to develop and become better over time
based on the many conversations that have been had at the Plan and Design
Commission (“PDC”) and with the neighbors
• Confirmation that the Woodland Trail is available for public access and not
just the residents within the development
• Concerns with the composition of the Woodland trail, concerns from the City
Forester related to using a different material than suggested and health of trees,
and request to review different materials that could be used to allow easier
access for pedestrians, bikers, strollers, etc.
• Request to ensure the City will have the ability to restrict the property only to
the proposed development and not allow any future development on the
property outside of the proposed project
• Review of the traffic study that will be conducted at a later date and how
comprehensive the study will truly be
• Understanding that not burying the current electric lines is a financial decision
• The proposed sidewalk is to be 8 feet to match the width of the current
sidewalk in front of the Police Department
• The importance of understanding the impact the development may or may not
have on emergency response times
• Continued appreciation for the public input that has been provided by the
residents regarding the proposal
• Continued appreciation for the work done by the PDC
• Request to have the developers pay for all of the permit fees up front to ensure
the project will be completed
• The fencing that is behind each unit is continuous but there is no fencing that
is continuous along Ridge Road
• Request for a gated emergency entrance and exit into and out of the
development for Police and Fire services if necessary in future; would require
approval from multiple agencies; Chief Jogmen confirmed HPPD does not
believe there will be response times issues as presented
• Architectural design and esthetics of the proposed units throughout the entire
development
• Information as to how bicyclists and pedestrians were factored into the traffic
study
• Load spaces are not a requirement and the property management company
would work on the process for move-ins and move-outs within the
development
Page 6 of 120
• Agreement to allow for up to six EV chargers to be installed to benefit the
community within the development
• Request for continued conversation with the neighbors as it relates to the
crosswalk at Devonshire
Kenneth Tat, Highland Park resident, voiced concern with the proposed left turns
into/out of the development.
Dan Wagner, Highland Park resident, voiced concerns with density, change of
zoning to the spur road, and bus loads going in and out of the development.
Director Fontane provided information to the change of the zoning.
Stephanie Kerch, Highland Park resident, voiced concerns with the split zoning,
consequences if the project is delayed, traffic issues, the potential of increase in
people having an impact on emergency services, how the public benefit seems
minimal, and the creativity of the architecture of the buildings.
Pamela Runshaw, Highland Park resident, noted most of the people that attended
the community meetings were opposed to the development. She voiced concerns
about the reduction of units only being 5%, green space zoned as R7, attractiveness
of the buildings, and the variances being requested.
Joe Kessler, Highland Park resident, voiced concern about school buses not being
mentioned in the traffic study, architectural style of the buildings, and revenue for
taxes brought in to Highland Park.
Mayor Rotering noted that the tax information was provided in the agenda packet as
was the projected numbers for students within the development area.
Erin Casdnin, Highland Park resident, voiced concerns with Habitat being a
corporate landlord and the unfavorable feedback provided about the company on
the Better Business Bureau website.
Leslie Spitzer, Highland Park resident, voiced her appreciation for the development
and discussed how it will have positive impacts on the community and business
vibrancy.
Jim Lederer, Highland Park resident and business owner, noted that changes have
been made but there are concerns with what potentially could happen in the future.
Julie Europe, Highland Park resident, voiced concern with the proposed
development in its current form.
Michael Turnoff, Highland Park resident, discussed split zoning, petition signed by
homeowners, and requested the proposal be sent back to the PDC before the
Council makes any decisions.
Anne Flanagan Bassi, Highland Park resident, discussed how the development will
be a benefit to the community.
Page 7 of 120
Janet Swartzen, Highland Park resident, voiced concern with trying to make this
project perfect when we don’t own it and losing this project which would provide
needed rental housing for a by right industrial project allowed under current zoning.
Lisa Raven, Highland Park resident, voiced concern with the tot park as there is a tot
park in the area already. She requested information on how the City will protect the
homeowners in the Heatherdale subdivision. She voiced concern with the access
road and the rail road.
Sandy Leury, Highland Park resident, voiced concern with density, height, zoning
requests, missing ADA considerations and access into and out of the development.
She requested the elimination of the crosswalk at Devonshire.
Eugene, Highland Park resident, noted that every resident on Grove is opposed to
the development in its current form.
Mayor Rotering thanked the community for their participation. She reviewed what
has been considered for this property. She voiced her appreciation for concerns
related to density and height.
The Council, Mr. Zalar, Ms. Dale, Ms. Viscuso, Corporation Counsel Elrod and staff
discussed:
• The limitation on the feasibility of the right turn in/out of the development
• How the development plan will not allow for a further reduction in units
• A reduction in the height of the units is not feasible as what is being
proposed is currently what is being designed in the market right now, the
large amount of faith in what can be financed and the feasibility of the
project to be cohesive with what is being requested in the community
• Connectivity with all parts of the community
• Engineering, stormwater management and response times for emergency
services will be confirmed as the project continues through the planning
process for the development
• The impacts of density and layered zoning for the project
• Standard documentation regarding protection for the City if the development
were not to be completed in a timely manner
• How the payment in-lieu is permissible based on the proposed plan for the
project
• Importance of diversity of housing within the community as a whole
• Confirmation that an updated traffic study to be conducted in the future at
the request of the City once the property is leased and stabilized which will
reevaluate all access points in to and out of the development
Corporation Counsel Elrod provided information on the plan development process.
He noted that there are no documents for approval on the agenda tonight and
explained that the Council can request to have documents drafted for review at a
future meeting. He provided information related to a petition that was received by
the City and the review that will be undertaken to provide next steps in the process.
Page 8 of 120
Councilmember Blumberg moved to direct the drafting of the preliminary approval
package with agreement by the applicant. Councilmember Lidawer seconded the
motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilmember
SECONDER: Annette Lidawer, Councilmember
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia,
Lidawer, Blumberg
Administration
2. Proposed Lake Cook Road Path -LCDOT Project
Mayor Rotering requested this item be moved to a future meeting for discussion.
City Manager Neukirch noted it will be placed on a future agenda.
ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Tapia moved to adjourn. Councilmember Lidawer seconded the motion. On a
voice vote, Mayor Rotering declared the motion passed unanimously.
The City Council adjourned its meeting at 11:06 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ashley Palbitska
Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk
Page 9 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Ashley Palbitska, Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk
Department: City Manager's Office
Title: Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council Held on October 6,
2025
Recommendation:
For the City Council’s approval are the minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council held
on October 6, 2025.
Attachments:
1. MIN CC 10-6-2025
Page 10 of 120
Minutes of a Regular Meeting of
The City Council of the City of Highland Park
MEETING DATE: October 6, 2025
MEETING LOCATION: City Hall - 1707 St Johns Avenue
I. Call to Order
II. Roll Call
At 7:31 PM, Mayor Rotering called the City Council meeting to order and asked for a roll
call:
Present: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia,
Lidawer, Blumberg
Absent: None
Staff Present: City Manager Neukirch, Director of Public Works Bannon, Community
Development Director Fontane, Assistant City Manager Jason, Finance
Director McCaulou, Fire Chief Schrage, Assistant City Manager Taub,
Commander Curran, Communications Manager Bennett, Assistant to
the City Manager Palbitska
Also Present: Deputy Corporation Counsel Passman
III. Pledge of Allegiance
IV. Approval of Minutes
A. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council Held on
September 25, 2025
Councilmember Lidawer moved to approve as amended the Minutes of the Regular
Meeting of the City Council. Councilmember Tapia seconded the motion. Upon a
voice vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
MOVER: Councilmember Lidawer
SECONDER: Councilmember Tapia
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross,
Tapia, Lidawer
NAYS: None
PRESENT: Councilmember Blumberg
V. Approval of Warrant List
A. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from September 11, 2025 to September 25, 2025.
Page 11 of 120
Councilmember Tapia moved to approve the Warrant List. Councilmember
Blumberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the
motion passed unanimously.
MOVER: Councilmember Tapia
SECONDER: Councilmember Blumberg
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross,
Tapia, Lidawer, Blumberg
VI. Report of Mayor
Mayor Rotering provided a statement remembering the hostages in Gaza.
A. Proclamations
Sister Cities International Day - October 14, 2025
Mayor Rotering proclaimed October 14, 2025 as Sister Cities International Day.
Carol Wolfe, Sister Cities Foundation President, accepted the proclamation and
shared an update on activities.
Councilmember Ross provided comments.
Diwali Awareness Day - October 20, 2025
Mayor Rotering proclaimed October 20, 2025 as Diwali Awareness Day.
Sukhu and Ajit Kalra, owners of Indus Progressive Indian Restaurant, accepted the
proclamation and provided information in celebration of Diwali Awareness Day.
VII. Business from City Staff
City Manager Neukirch highlighted information on the Omnibus Agenda.
She also noted there is a special meeting scheduled for October 30, 2025 at 7 PM
regarding redevelopment of the property at 1700 Old Deerfield Road, commonly known as
the former Solo-Cup property.
VIII. Business from the Council
There was none.
IX. Business from the Public (Individuals wishing to be heard regarding items not listed
on this agenda)
Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska provided opening comments.
Page 12 of 120
X. Omnibus
Councilmember Ross asked a question about Item 7 regarding the visibility of the electric
box for the proposed sign at 1900 First Street.
Amy Morton, owner of The Barn, provided information about the electric box in relation
to the new sign.
Councilmember Lidawer asked what has been taking so long as it relates to items 8 and 9
on the omnibus agenda.
Community Development Director Fontane provided information on the timing.
Councilmember Blumberg moved to approve Items 1-9 by omnibus vote consideration.
Councilmember Bruckman seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor
declared the motion passed unanimously.
MOVER: Councilmember Blumberg
SECONDER: Councilmember Bruckman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia,
Lidawer, Blumberg
Administration
1. R120-2025 - A Resolution Supporting the Illinois America250 Commemoration
2. R121-2025 - A Resolution Repealing Resolution No. R87-2025 and
Approving the Regular Committee of the Whole and City Council Meeting
Schedule for 2026
Finance
3. O53-2025 - An Ordinance Amending the Annual Budget of the City of Highland
Park, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for the Fiscal Year Ending December 31,
2025 Reflecting 2025 Estimates Determined During the 2026 Budget Process
4. R122-2025 - A Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City’s
Purchasing Manual and Approving Change Order No. 3 to the Banking Service
Agreement with Highland Park Bank & Trust
5. R123-2025 - A Resolution Approving the Lease of Multifunction Copiers from
Gordon Flesch Company, Inc., of Madison, Wisconsin, through the PEPPM
Cooperative Technology Purchasing Program
Public Works
6. R124-2025 - A Resolution Approving the Purchase of Salt from Morton Salt,
Inc., of Chicago, Illinois through the Illinois Department of Central Management
Services Joint Purchasing Program
Page 13 of 120
Community Development
7. Consideration of Sign Variances (1900 First St.)
8. R125-2025 - A Resolution Approving the Extension of the Period of Validity of
a Special Use Permit for a Planned Development (2745 and 2699 Skokie Valley
Road)
9. R126-2025 - A Resolution Approving a Plat of Consolidation (2745 and 2699
Skokie Valley Road)
XI. Other Business
A. Consideration of a Special Use Permit in the Nature of a Concurrent Preliminary and
Final Planned Development and Design Review with Modifications from City Code
(250 Skokie Valley Rd.)
Councilmember Lidawer asked why numbers were not provided with the crash
report.
Community Development Director Fontane explained the reason for the missing
information. He confirmed that the information will be provided for the final
documents.
Mayor Rotering requested confirmation that a landscape plan will be provided as
well.
Director Fontane noted that all final documents will be provided for further
approval; the item on tonight's agenda is a request for consideration.
Councilmember Lidawer moved to approve the Consideration of a Special Use
Permit in the Nature of a Concurrent Preliminary and Final Planned Development
and Design Review with Modifications from City Code (250 Skokie Valley Road).
Councilmember Tapia seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor
declared the motion passed unanimously.
MOVER: Councilmember Lidawer
SECONDER: Councilmember Tapia
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia,
Lidawer, Blumberg
Page 14 of 120
B. Consideration of a Special Use Permit in the Nature of a Concurrent Preliminary and
Final Planned Development, Final Plat of Re-subdivision, and Design Review, with
Modifications from City Code, for a 5-story, 19-unit Multi-Family Development
(1632, 1640, and 1646 Second St.)
Community Development Director Fontane presented information regarding a
Consideration of a Special Use Permit in the Nature of a Concurrent Preliminary and
Final Planned Development, Final Plat of Re-subdivision, and Design Review, with
Modifications from City Code, for a 5-story, 19-unit Multi-family Development
(1632, 1640, bad 1646 Second Street).
Elliot Wiczer, attorney for Fulton Development; Mark Muller, President of Fulton
Developers; and Kyle Fell, Project Architect for Fulton Developers, provided
information as it relates to the proposed development.
The Council voiced their appreciation for the involvement of the neighbors as that is
an integral part of the process. They voiced appreciation for the setback of the fifth
floor, the proposed public benefit (not including the larger sized inclusionary units),
the attractiveness of the building, and the continued investment in the community.
They voiced concern regarding larger-sized inclusionary units being labeled as a
public benefit and how fewer units within a development provide for fewer
inclusionary units. They requested more renderings in future presentations that
provided a bigger picture of the area, to include how the development will fit into the
area with what has already been developed. They discussed the importance of
creating more green space on the property or near by the property in the same
neighborhood.
The Council, Fulton Developers Representatives and staff discussed what will be
included in the final documents and areas of concern that will be addressed; the need
for the first floor wall to provide privacy for the tenants; review of another possible
public benefit; preservation of the mature trees surrounding the property; the need to
include traffic from the Wolbright project into the traffic study; review if design of
the buildings to ensure not all developments look alike; steps to mitigate
construction noise and dust; the inclusion of connectivity and public safety for the
community; inclusion of EV chargers available to the tenants; and the explanation
for Commissioner Henry's dissent at the Plan and Design Commission meeting.
Leslie Jackie, Highland Park resident, voiced concern about noise and dust from the
Wolbright project. She voiced concern with the percentage of lot coverage and
environmental impacts.
Page 15 of 120
Beth Russell, Highland Park resident, noted that this project does not provide a
compensatory public benefit for the community. She voiced concern regarding the
tree preservation planning for the property.
Dale Cahones, Highland Park resident, described a trend with developments by
Fulton Development. She voiced concern about the amount of green space that will
be provided and the mature trees on the development property.
Kathleen Glissen, Highland Park resident, voiced concerns about the traffic study.
Denis Siegel, Highland Park resident, voiced concern about the proposed green
space and the bulk of the development.
The Council and Mr. Muller discussed the importance of needing more green space,
as well as the need for a better public benefit.
Councilmember Blumberg moved to...a public benefit that will provide for green
space that could be off-site.
Councilmember Blumberg moved to direct the drafting of final documents for the
project subject to the approval of the public benefit and green space.
Councilmember Lidawer seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor
declared the motion passed unanimously.
MOVER: Councilmember Blumberg
SECONDER: Councilmember Lidawer
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross,
Tapia, Lidawer, Blumberg
C. Proposed Lake Cook Road Path - LCDOT Project
City Manager Neukirch presented information regarding the Lake Cook Road Path
as proposed by the Lake County Department of Transportation.
The Council, City Manager Neukirch and Public Works Director Bannon discussed
appreciation for the project; the impact on traffic where the road narrows; signal
enhancements; safety concerns with houses and driveways impacting cyclists and
pedestrians; more review of the south side of Lake Cook Road; and the funding of
the project indicated by Lake County.
Page 16 of 120
Mark Portman, Highland Park resident, discussed the funding of the project and
work that could be conducted on the south side of Lake Cook Road. He believes this
to be a disastrous proposal.
Elliot Rossen, Highland Park resident and Chair of the Transportation Advisory
Group ("TAG"), provided information discussed by TAG in support of the project.
There was support to request Lake County reconsider the path on the south side of
the roadway, although the Council was in consensus with the proposal from Lake
County regarding the Lake County Road Path project on the north side of the road.
XII. Adjournment
Councilmember Tapia moved to adjourn. Councilmember Center seconded the motion.
Upon a voice vote, Mayor Rotering declared the motion passed unanimously.
The City Council adjourned its meeting at 9:54 PM
Respectfully Submitted,
Ashley Palbitska
Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk
Page 17 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Lara Lukasik, Deputy Finance Director
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Department: Finance Department
Title: Warrant List and Wire Transfers from September 26, 2025 to October 09, 2025.
Recommendation:
Staff recommends approval of the warrant list and wire transfers for September 26, 2025 to October 09,
2025 in the amounts of $2,966,241.89 and $831,378.71 respectively, for total disbursement of
$3,797,620.60.
Dates Amount
Warrants:
Warrant List 1 (Detail Attached) September 26, 2025 - October 02, 2025 $1,396,570.88
Warrant List 2 (Detail Attached) October 03, 2025 - October 09, 2025 $437,376.79
Subtotal Warrants (Detail Attached) $1,833,947.67
SSA19 Tax Receipts to CBD Alliance October 3, 2025 $3,823.50
Total Warrants $1,837,771.17
Payroll Pay Period: September 15, 2025 - September 28, 2025
Check Date October 03, 2025 $1,128,470.72
Total Warrants & Payroll $2,966,241.89
IMRF Retirement Fund October 7, 2025 $125,666.25
CCMSI Workers Comp Claims September 29, 2025 $1,039.13
CCMSI Workers Comp Claims October 6, 2025 $999.13
Amazon Capital Services October 2, 2025 $4,533.84
IPBC Medical/Dental Premium October 1, 2025 $612,233.99
West Government Services October 9, 2025 $581.70
Elrod Friedman LLP - Legal Services October 9, 2025 $66,829.36
Elrod Friedman LLP - Legal Services October 9, 2025 $156.00
Univar Solutions USA October 2, 2025 $553.20
J.P. Morgan Chase Commercial Card October 9, 2025 $17,589.74
J.P. Morgan Chase Visa Costco Card October 9, 2025 $1,196.37
Total Wires $831,378.71
Total Submitted for Approval $3,797,620.60
Page 18 of 120
Purchases are made consistent with the City’s purchasing policy. This policy provides that “when all other
terms and conditions are equal, preference will be given to vendors whose businesses are located in
Highland Park. However, this preference will not adversely affect quality, service, or price consideration.”
Attachments:
1. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from September 26, 2025 to October 09, 2025. PDF
Page 19 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 1
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
419492 10/02/25 38724 ADVANCED LUBRICATION 40522 20250002 SUPPLIES WP $713.35
Total $713.35
419493 10/02/25 35986 ADVANCED WEIGHING SYSTEMS 40588 20252689 TRUCK SCALE FEES PD $137.20
Total $137.20
419494 10/02/25 38327 AEP ENERGY 1853110 SRVS @ 632 ROGER WILLIAMS AVE FIN $201.68
1853224 SRVS @ 100 HIAWATHA TRL FIN $39.72
1853326 SRVS @ 0 CENTRAL DEERFIELD FIN $2,145.04
1901730 SRVS @ 0 OLD MILL SKOKIE FIN $19,343.02
Total $21,729.46
419495 10/02/25 14419 AIR ONE EQUIPMENT 40503 20251208 EQUIPMENT FD $1,145.00
Total $1,145.00
419496 10/02/25 39091 ALYSSA KNOBEL 40572 20250630 CRISIS COMMUNICATIONS CMO $150.00
Total $150.00
419497 10/02/25 39403 ARMS SECURITY 30556 20241799 SECURITY SERVICES RAVINIA FOOD TRUCK CMO $874.50
THURSDAYS
30561 20242150 SECURITY SERVICES PORT CLINTON CMO $699.60
CONCERTS
Total $1,574.10
419498 10/02/25 39403 40488 20252115 SECURITY SERVICES FOOD TRUCK CMO $699.60
THURSDAYS
40489 20252149 SECURITY DOWNTOWN CONCERTS CMO $396.00
40490 20252149 SECURITY DOWNTOWN CONCERTS CMO $198.00
40553 20252149 SECURITY DOWNTOWN CONCERTS CMO $643.50
Total $1,937.10
419499 10/02/25 34391 B & F CONSTRUCTION CODE 40540 20252704 R - INSPECTION SERVICES BLDG $813.44
Total $813.44
419500 10/02/25 5885 BAXTER WOODMAN 40541 20250515 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $1,205.00
40555 20252471 HAVENWOOD AVE ENG $20,240.75
Total $21,445.75
419501 10/02/25 38677 BOWMAN CONSULTING 40494 20250840 MISC SERVICE ENG $2,595.03
40495 20251613 LINDEN AVE WM ENG $1,375.00
40496 20250872 MISC SERVICE ENG $7,788.28
Page: 1
Page 20 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 2
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $11,758.31
419502 10/02/25 37558 BP LAWN SPRINKLERS 40497 20252555 SPRINKLER REPAIR ENG $420.00
Total $420.00
419503 10/02/25 38693 CHICAGO LAND AGENCY 40536 20252849 R - REAL ESTATE TRANSFER STAMP FIN $28,515.00
Total $28,515.00
419504 10/02/25 23349 CINTAS #22 40523 20250365 UNIFORM RENTAL WP $63.47
Total $63.47
419505 10/02/25 23349 40437 20250151 UNIFORM RENTAL FLEET $123.77
40438 20250251 UNIFORM RENTAL TRNST $15.97
40439 20250385 UNIFORM RENTAL FACIL $27.69
40441 20250396 UNIFORM RENTAL SEWER $78.29
40442 20250248 UNIFORM RENTAL STR $92.38
40443 20250247 UNIFORM RENTAL WTRDS $78.72
40504 20250114 UNIFORM RENTAL FD $6.04
40582 20250326 UNIFORM RENTAL PD $6.84
40583 20250326 UNIFORM RENTAL PD $12.39
40584 20250326 UNIFORM RENTAL PD $12.39
Total $454.48
419506 10/02/25 2020 CIORBA GROUP 40498 20250874 PED BRIDGE OVER 41 ENG $14,564.01
Total $14,564.01
419507 10/02/25 14137 CIVILTECH ENGINEERING 40499 20251848 HP SR CENTER ENG $30,298.76
Total $30,298.76
419508 10/02/25 26496 COMCAST CABLE 40505 20251048 INTERNET CITYWIDE INTERNET SERVICE CS $3,993.04
40506 20250948 INTERNET BACKUP PD CS $174.92
40574 20251048 CITYWIDE INTERNET SERVICE CS $141.99
40585 20250158 UTILITIES INTERNET PD $37.84
Total $4,347.79
419509 10/02/25 26496 40507 20250946 INTERNET ACCESS WATER PLANT CS $137.80
Total $137.80
419510 10/02/25 11799 COMMISSION LAKE COUNTY 40502 20252813 IWEA-SAM WORKSHOP ENG $100.00
STORMWATER MGMT
Page: 2
Page 21 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 3
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $100.00
419511 10/02/25 35430 COMMONWEALTH EDISON 1840627 SRVS @ 500 HAZEL AVE FIN $36.63
1840829 SRVS @ 777 N ST JOHNS AVE FIN $36.71
Total $73.34
419512 10/02/25 33313 CONRAD POLYGRAPH 40575 20251689 EXAM POLYGRAPHS HLTH $675.00
Total $675.00
419513 10/02/25 28796 COPENHAVER CONSTRUCTION 40500 20252259 LINDEN WM ENG $266,996.02
Total $266,996.02
419514 10/02/25 38822 DAVEY RESOURCE GROUP 40570 20250015 SOFTWARE SUBSCRIPTION FORST $2,100.00
Total $2,100.00
419515 10/02/25 38347 RJS UNITED 40552 20252021 EVENTS DOWNTOWN BANNERS CMO $100.00
SIGNBOARDS
Total $100.00
419516 10/02/25 32102 EPIC BUSINESS ESSENTIALS 40529 20250021 SUPPLIES PW $13.20
Total $13.20
419517 10/02/25 19204 PARAMEDIC SERVICES ILLINOIS 40542 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $340.00
40543 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $530.00
40545 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $1,280.00
40546 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $1,301.00
40547 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $310.00
40548 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $600.00
Total $4,361.00
419518 10/02/25 40148 FLORO FLOSI 40537 20252747 BUILDING MAINTENANCE WP $1,650.00
Total $1,650.00
419519 10/02/25 36284 FLUID AIRE DYNAMICS 40517 20252167 EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES WP $962.00
40518 20252264 EQUIPMENT SUPPLIES WP $923.73
Total $1,885.73
419520 10/02/25 33100 FOSTER COACH SALES 40556 20252666 SUPPLIES FD $130.37
Total $130.37
419521 10/02/25 40019 GENUINE PARTS 40557 20252043 SUPPLIES FD $43.49
40558 20252043 SUPPLIES FD $62.30
Page: 3
Page 22 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 4
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
40579 20251959 SUPPLIES PD $32.45
Total $138.24
419522 10/02/25 20187 HAGG PRESS 40514 20252020 PRINTING SNR $2,739.00
Total $2,739.00
419523 10/02/25 474 HIGHLAND PARK ELECTRIC 40573 20251398 EVENTS DOWNTOWN GENERATORS FUEL CMO $6,893.50
Total $6,893.50
419524 10/02/25 1326 HIGHLAND PARK FORD 40512 20251934 OUTSIDE REPAIRS PD $504.30
40559 20251423 SUPPLIES FD $30.25
40560 20251423 SUPPLIES FD $30.92
40580 20252356 VEHICLE PARTS PD $288.38
40586 20252356 VEHICLE PARTS PD $70.07
40587 20252356 VEHICLE PARTS PD $491.89
Total $1,415.81
419525 10/02/25 18168 HIGHLAND PARK HOSPITAL 40562 20251337 EDUCATION TRAINING FD $2,750.00
Total $2,750.00
419526 10/02/25 497 H.P. TOPS 40491 20252857 RESIDENT ACADEMY T-SHIRTS CLRK $246.00
Total $246.00
419527 10/02/25 1285 IL CITY/COUNTY MANAGEMENT 40511 20250772 JOB POSTINGS HLTH $50.00
Total $50.00
419528 10/02/25 32200 ILLINOIS HOMICIDE INVESTIGATOR 40513 20252831 ILHIA CONFERENCE NEUMAN CUMBA PD $690.00
Total $690.00
419529 10/02/25 34837 INTERDEV 40577 20250355 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PD $5,898.90
Total $5,898.90
419530 10/02/25 6346 ILLINOIS SECRETARY STATE 40534 20252781 TITLE PLATES PD $190.00
Total $190.00
419531 10/02/25 39902 JOHN M HOCK 40589 20252872 SHAUGHNESSY INV TRAINING PD $250.00
Total $250.00
419532 10/02/25 40092 JOYCE E HAWORTH 40566 20252743 R - BRUNCH LEARN SNR $225.00
Total $225.00
419533 10/02/25 31064 JUDITH STERN FRIEDMAN 40576 20251896 R - ACTIVITIES FLORAL DESIGN WORKSHOP SNR $137.57
Total $137.57
Page: 4
Page 23 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 5
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
419534 10/02/25 33275 JX ENTERPRISES 40563 20252602 SUPPLIES FD $89.97
Total $89.97
419535 10/02/25 12845 LAI 40519 20252574 PARTS WP $571.64
Total $571.64
419536 10/02/25 1309 LAKE COUNTY CLERK RECORDING 40550 20250440 R - RECORDING FEES PLAN $400.00
Total $400.00
419537 10/02/25 39858 LINDE GAS 40564 20252178 OXYGEN SUPPLIES FD $59.27
40565 20252178 OXYGEN SUPPLIES FD $142.09
Total $201.36
419538 10/02/25 697 MENONI MOCOGNI 40531 20250041 MATERIAL HAULING FORST $400.00
40535 20252635 CONCRETE STR $1,097.20
Total $1,497.20
419539 10/02/25 749 MUTUAL ACE HARDWARE 40525 20250014 SUPPLIES FORST $5.93
40530 20250085 SUPPLIES WTRDS $17.98
40532 20250085 SUPPLIES WTRDS $27.00
40539 20250014 SUPPLIES FORST $27.68
Total $78.59
419540 10/02/25 4218 NORTH SHORE GAS 1901025 SRVS @ 525 CENTRAL AVE FIN $14.39
1901124 SRVS @ 0 OLD MILL FIN $1.13
1901423 SRVS @ 977 VILLAS CT FIN $91.54
1901624 SRVS @ 2035 RICHFIELD AVE FIN $46.77
Total $153.83
419541 10/02/25 7789 ONCE UPON A BAGEL 40567 20252323 R - ACTIVITIES BRUNCH LEARN SNR $179.90
Total $179.90
419542 10/02/25 2 PETER BAKER 40493 20252393 MFT STREET ENG $921,818.60
40527 20252634 ASPHALT STR $327.68
40528 20252634 ASPHALT STR $173.44
Total $922,319.72
419543 10/02/25 34396 RIPPLE PUBLIC RELATIONS 40492 20250642 SSA - 17 RETAINER CMO $4,125.00
Total $4,125.00
419544 10/02/25 14680 ROWELL CHEMICAL 40520 20252450 CHEMICAL SUPPLIES WP $11,007.07
Page: 5
Page 24 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 6
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $11,007.07
419545 10/02/25 16787 SCOTT LEVENFELD 40554 20250287 LEGAL SERVICES LEGL $1,150.00
Total $1,150.00
419546 10/02/25 1448 SECRETARY STATE VEHICLE 40533 20252782 TITLE REGISTRATION PD $173.00
Total $173.00
419547 10/02/25 20161 SKOKIE VALLEY LAUNDRY 40515 20251793 SUPPLIES LAUNDRY UNIFORMS SNR $496.35
Total $496.35
419548 10/02/25 24595 SPECIAL PROJECT STAFFING SALEM 40551 20252390 TEMPORARY CLERICAL HELP PLAN $865.28
Total $865.28
419549 10/02/25 40177 STEVE AMY LAUER 40501 20252854 EQUIPMENT SERVICES ENG $737.48
Total $737.48
419550 10/02/25 1005 THE ART CENTER HIGHLAND PARK 40516 20251046 R - CLASSES ART SNR $1,411.20
Total $1,411.20
419551 10/02/25 22779 TYLER TECHNOLOGIES 40509 20251400 SOFTWARE IMPLEMENTATION CS $2,560.00
40510 20251400 SOFTWARE IMPLEMENTATION CS $1,280.00
Total $3,840.00
419552 10/02/25 19876 VERIZON WIRELESS 40526 20250520 WATER METER DATA COLLECTORS WTRDS $175.16
Total $175.16
419553 10/02/25 39435 VISTRA INTERMEDIATE 2197024 SRVS @ 0 ST JOHNS AVE FIN $67.58
2197120 SRVS @ 3430 WESTERN AVE FIN $35.35
2197224 SRVS @ 50 LOGAN LOOP FIN $798.49
2197317 SRVS @ 1700 N ST JOHNS AVE FIN $341.88
2197420 SRVS @ 0 CENTRAL AVE FIN $451.09
2197921 SRVS @ FIRST ST ELM ST FIN $44.34
2198023 SRVS @ 600 CENTRAL FIN $1,308.49
2198120 SRVS @ 1849 GREENBAY FIN $98.74
2198318 SRVS @ 700 ST. JOHNS FIN $22.31
2198420 SRVS @ 700 ST. JOHNS B FIN $42.11
2198621 SRVS @ SE LAUREL AVE FIN $20.77
2198723 SRVS @ 1377 DEER CREEK PKWY FIN $35.16
2198824 SRVS @ 0 GREENBAY FIN $161.82
Page: 6
Page 25 of 120
10/9/2025 7:39 PM Warrant List Page: 7
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
2199220 SRVS @ 605 LAUREL AVE FIN $109.72
2199420 SRVS @ ROGER WILIIAMS FIN $104.04
2302417 SRVS @ 438 CENTRAL FIN $16.25
40524 20252249 ELECTRICITY WP $339.50
40568 20252249 ELECTRICITY WP $2,903.91
40569 20252249 ELECTRICITY WP $159.63
Total $7,061.18
419554 10/02/25 34483 ZORO TOOLS 40538 20250127 SUPPLIES WP $123.25
Total $123.25
Total $1,396,570.88
Page: 7
Page 26 of 120
10/9/2025 7:41 PM Warrant List Page: 1
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
595 10/02/25 39182 AMAZON CAPITAL SERVICES 40301 20252456 SUPPLIES ENG $44.79
40323 20250120 OFFICE SUPPLIES FIN $49.98
40327 20252490 CLEANING SUPPLIES HLTH $218.13
40357 20250992 PROGRAM SUPPLIES SNR $280.80
40358 20250992 PROGRAM SUPPLIES SNR $116.46
40360 20250993 OFFICE SUPPLIES SNR $7.59
40361 20250993 OFFICE SUPPLIES SNR $82.80
40382 20250019 SUPPLIES WP $137.93
40383 20252461 DEHUMIDIFIER FACIL $2,412.72
40384 20250417 SUPPLIES FACIL $280.09
40385 20250417 SUPPLIES FACIL $47.94
40387 20252422 SUPPLIES FORST $75.89
40424 20252576 EDUCATION TRAINING FD $79.98
40425 20252561 EQUIPMENT FD $125.93
40426 20252601 SUPPLIES FD $84.99
40429 20250676 SUPPLIES PD $204.01
40430 20252584 SUPPLIES PD $41.99
40432 20252488 SUPPLIES FORST $151.04
40571 20251177 OFFICE SUPPLIES FD $90.78
Total $4,533.84
596 10/02/25 36864 UNIVAR SOLUTIONS USA 40521 20250098 CHEMICAL SUPPLIES WP $553.20
Total $553.20
Total $5,087.04
Page: 1
Page 27 of 120
vchlist Warrant List Page: 1
10/09/2025 10:38:01AM City of Highland Park
Bank code : aphpbt
Warrant Date Vendor Invoice PO # Description/Account Amount
296574 10/9/2025 039096 CLARK LINDA Ref000290246 UB REFUND 2030 KIPLING CT 1,597.45
Total : 1,597.45
296575 10/9/2025 039097 ROTH YUVAL Ref000290247 UB REFUND 1782 RICHFIELD AVE 45.73
Total : 45.73
2 Vouchers for bank code : aphpbt Bank total : 1,643.18
2 Vouchers in this report Total vouchers : 1,643.18
Page: 1
Page 28 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 1
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
419555 10/09/25 40166 DEBBIE KEATING 40390 REFUND - EXTR-2025-02246 BLDG $250.00
Total $250.00
419556 10/09/25 40185 247 SERVICES 40606 REFUND - PLMB-2025-01139 FIN $500.00
Total $500.00
419557 10/09/25 6066 ABC PRINTING 40667 20250510 PRINTING FORMS BLDG $240.00
Total $240.00
419558 10/09/25 40181 ABIGAIL DANIEL 40608 REFUND - EXTR-2023-00351 FIN $500.00
Total $500.00
419559 10/09/25 38352 ADVANCED CLEANING 40750 20250798 JANITORIAL SERVICES FACIL $11,034.22
40751 20250797 JANITORIAL SERVICES FACIL $3,100.99
Total $14,135.21
419560 10/09/25 14419 AIR ONE EQUIPMENT 40693 20252154 SUPPLIES TURNOUT BOOTS FD $1,963.00
Total $1,963.00
419561 10/09/25 38615 ALFRED BENESCH 40691 20250855 ST JOHNS BRIDGE ENG $14,574.96
Total $14,574.96
419562 10/09/25 36958 ALTA ENTERPRISES 40655 20250237 PARTS FLEET $19.32
Total $19.32
419563 10/09/25 39228 ALVAREZ 40668 20250504 LANDSCAPING SERVICES PLAN $127.72
40746 20252126 HOURLY GROUNDS FORST $4,354.33
Total $4,482.05
419564 10/09/25 38925 AMERICAN TESTING INSPECTION 40726 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $190.00
40727 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
40729 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $380.00
40730 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $380.00
40731 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
40732 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
40733 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $570.00
40734 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $190.00
40735 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $285.00
40736 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
40737 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
Page: 1
Page 29 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 2
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
40738 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $190.00
40739 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
40740 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $285.00
40741 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $165.00
40742 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
40743 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $95.00
Total $3,395.00
419565 10/09/25 38925 40728 20250789 R - ELEVATOR INSPECTION SERVICE PLAN $285.00
Total $285.00
419566 10/09/25 26996 ANDERSON LOCK 40753 20252733 LOCKSMITH SERVICES FACIL $2,871.95
Total $2,871.95
419567 10/09/25 45 RENTOKIL NORTH 40749 20250752 PEST CONTROL FACIL $395.03
40752 20250747 PEST CONTROL FACIL $125.00
Total $520.03
419568 10/09/25 38917 ANTARCTIC MECHANICAL 40800 20252599 LIFE SAFETY INSPECTION WP $1,600.00
40801 20252605 LIFE SAFETY REPAIRS WP $3,995.00
Total $5,595.00
419569 10/09/25 33921 APPLIED CONCEPTS 40723 20252830 REPLACEMENT BATTERY COVERS PD $102.00
Total $102.00
419570 10/09/25 39403 ARMS SECURITY 40682 20252115 SECURITY FOOD TRUCK THURSDAYS CMO $432.63
Total $432.63
419571 10/09/25 39403 40680 20252149 SECURITY DOWNTOWN CONCERTS CMO $396.00
Total $396.00
419572 10/09/25 19823 BEST TECHNOLOGY 40754 20250801 CLEANING SERVICE FACIL $2,400.00
Total $2,400.00
419573 10/09/25 29404 CCMSI 40703 20252251 PROPERTY CASUALTY DEDUCTIBLES FIN $1,405.02
Total $1,405.02
419574 10/09/25 39085 CHC WELLNESS 40707 20250622 WELLNESS PROGRAM TECHNOLOGY FEES HLTH $1,972.00
40708 20252391 WELLNESS PROGRAM TECHNOLOGY FEES HLTH $1,820.00
Total $3,792.00
419575 10/09/25 23349 CINTAS #22 40610 20250365 UNIFORM RENTAL WP $63.47
Page: 2
Page 30 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 3
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $63.47
419576 10/09/25 23349 40611 20250151 UNIFORM RENTAL FLEET $123.77
40612 20250251 UNIFORM RENTAL TRNST $15.97
40613 20250385 UNIFORM RENTAL FACIL $27.69
40614 20250396 UNIFORM RENTAL SEWER $85.43
40615 20250248 UNIFORM RENTAL STR $84.62
40616 20250247 UNIFORM RENTAL WTRDS $78.72
40694 20250114 UNIFORM RENTAL FD $11.59
Total $427.79
419577 10/09/25 14137 CIVILTECH ENGINEERING 40692 20250448 ENG SERVICE ENG $265.36
Total $265.36
419578 10/09/25 31602 CLARK BAIRD SMITH 40816 20250812 LEGAL SERVICES CMO $57.50
Total $57.50
419579 10/09/25 22726 COMMERCIAL TIRE 40650 20251617 TIRES FLEET $145.00
40651 20251617 TIRES FLEET $590.00
Total $735.00
419580 10/09/25 14821 CORE MAIN 40631 20250402 SUPPLIES WTRDS $1,300.80
Total $1,300.80
419581 10/09/25 34342 COMMUNITY PARTNERS 40673 20250976 2025 HTF OPERATING PLAN $23,546.25
AFFORDABLE HOUSING
Total $23,546.25
419582 10/09/25 233 CRAFTWOOD LUMBER 40695 20250178 SUPPLIES FD $17.23
40755 20250418 SUPPLIES FACIL $4.98
40756 20250418 SUPPLIES FACIL $58.27
40757 20250418 SUPPLIES FACIL $26.98
40758 20250418 SUPPLIES FACIL $38.69
40759 20250418 SUPPLIES FACIL $11.19
40760 20250418 SUPPLIES FACIL $23.96
Total $181.30
419583 10/09/25 38347 RJS UNITED 40687 20252896 SSA - 17 CANDY STROLL POSTERS CMO $220.00
40688 20252021 EVENTS BANNERS DOWNTOWN EVENTS CMO $76.23
Total $296.23
Page: 3
Page 31 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 4
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
419584 10/09/25 16005 EL-COR INDUSTRIES 40640 20250061 PARTS FLEET $393.44
40641 20250061 PARTS FLEET $106.60
Total $500.04
419585 10/09/25 40171 EZZE SERVICES 40396 REFUND - EXTR-2025-02321 BLDG $250.00
Total $250.00
419586 10/09/25 405 FEDEX 40674 20252342 SHIPPING CHARGES PLAN $53.00
Total $53.00
419587 10/09/25 35589 FERGUSON ENTERPRISES 40619 20252474 SUPPLIES WTRDS $3,967.00
Total $3,967.00
419588 10/09/25 19204 PARAMEDIC SERVICES ILLINOIS 40669 20252395 R - PLAN REVIEW SERVICES PLAN $2,060.00
Total $2,060.00
419589 10/09/25 38806 FORCE AMERICA DISTRIBUTING 40657 20252771 REPAIR SERVICES FLEET $24.71
40658 20252771 REPAIR SERVICES FLEET $642.86
Total $667.57
419590 10/09/25 23546 GALE CERABONA 40672 20250495 HPC PROFESSIONAL SERVICES MINUTE PLAN $257.50
TAKER
Total $257.50
419591 10/09/25 11877 GALLS 40802 20250295 R - PACE OPERATOR UNIFORMS TRNST $22.88
40803 20250295 R - PACE OPERATOR UNIFORMS TRNST $70.20
40804 20250295 R - PACE OPERATOR UNIFORMS TRNST $239.20
40805 20250295 R - PACE OPERATOR UNIFORMS TRNST $66.04
40806 20250295 R - PACE OPERATOR UNIFORMS TRNST $41.60
Total $439.92
419592 10/09/25 40019 GENUINE PARTS 40633 20252505 PARTS FLEET $68.08
40634 20252505 PARTS FLEET ($63.00)
40635 20252505 PARTS FLEET $125.00
40636 20252505 PARTS FLEET ($125.00)
40637 20252505 PARTS FLEET $274.40
40638 20252505 PARTS FLEET ($126.00)
40639 20252505 PARTS FLEET $125.00
40663 20251876 R - PARTS TRNST $74.84
40664 20251876 R - PARTS TRNST $299.36
Page: 4
Page 32 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 5
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
40665 20251876 R - PARTS TRNST $36.81
40666 20251876 R - PARTS TRNST $20.34
40696 20252043 SUPPLIES FD $10.27
40697 20252043 SUPPLIES FD $23.33
Total $743.43
419593 10/09/25 37548 GFL ENVIRONMENTAL 40719 20252886 OIL FILTER DISPOSAL PD $43.73
Total $43.73
419594 10/09/25 13888 GORDON FLESCH 40814 20251039 MULTI FUNCTION COPIER CS $1,541.26
Total $1,541.26
419595 10/09/25 40082 GORDON HUETHER PARTNERS 40712 20252866 STIPEND DESIGN REMEMBRANCE CMO $2,500.00
Total $2,500.00
419596 10/09/25 28949 GRANICUS 40683 20252744 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CLRK $4,427.91
Total $4,427.91
419597 10/09/25 315 GREELEY HANSEN 40598 20250793 ENGINEERING SERVICES WP $1,626.40
Total $1,626.40
419598 10/09/25 39990 GREVERS NORTH SHORE 40393 REFUND - PLMB-2023-00158 BLDG $500.00
LAWNSPRINKLER
Total $500.00
419599 10/09/25 2699 GUY SCOPELLITI 40594 20250103 HOURLY GROUNDS FORST $7,771.30
40595 20252228 PLANT INSTALLATION SEWER $7,000.00
40596 20251946 HOURLY GROUNDS FORST $956.00
40597 20252801 HOURLY GROUNDS FORST $4,010.70
Total $19,738.00
419600 10/09/25 39981 HAL EMALFARB 40628 R - AR - 1135 - 27650 REFUND RETIREMENT FIN $13.70
Total $13.70
419601 10/09/25 39161 HARRIS KAL PRODUCTIONS 40713 20252901 HOLIDAY LIGHTING ENTERTAINERS CMO $895.00
Total $895.00
419602 10/09/25 39202 HARTWIG PLUMBING HEATING 40761 20250751 PLUMBING REPAIRS FACIL $250.00
Total $250.00
419603 10/09/25 30847 HERITAGE CRYSTAL CLEAN 40810 20252845 SUPPLIES OIL FLEET $366.87
Total $366.87
Page: 5
Page 33 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 6
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
419604 10/09/25 1326 HIGHLAND PARK FORD 40698 20252519 SUPPLIES FD $163.08
40715 20252356 VEHICLE PARTS PD $50.59
Total $213.67
419605 10/09/25 29018 HOME DEPOT CREDIT SERVICE 40763 20252070 SUPPLIES FACIL $109.27
40764 20250359 SUPPLIES FACIL $124.43
Total $233.70
419606 10/09/25 40167 HOYD BUILDERS 40391 REFUND - PLMB-2024-00464 BLDG $1,000.00
Total $1,000.00
419607 10/09/25 18478 IDLEWOOD ELECTRIC 40765 20250422 SUPPLIES FACIL $332.03
Total $332.03
419608 10/09/25 13192 IL OFFICE STATE FIRE MARSHAL 40766 20252873 BOILER INSPECTIONS FACIL $285.00
Total $285.00
419609 10/09/25 38915 ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT HEALTHCARE 40699 20252452 R - GEMT PROGRAM FD $65,172.79
Total $65,172.79
419610 10/09/25 24621 INDUSTRIAL ORGANIZATIONAL 40709 20250606 FD WRITTEN EXAMS HLTH $2,625.00
SOLUTIONS
Total $2,625.00
419611 10/09/25 542 INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY 40625 20252487 MEMBERSHIP DUES FORST $220.00
ARBORICULTURE
40626 20252487 MEMBERSHIP DUES FORST $220.00
Total $440.00
419612 10/09/25 1430 IRELAND HEATING 40767 20251403 HVAC MAINTENANCE FACIL $1,553.80
40768 20251403 HVAC MAINTENANCE FACIL $192.25
40769 20251951 HVAC MAINTENANCE FACIL $2,367.36
Total $4,113.41
419613 10/09/25 40180 JED STONE 40607 REFUND - PLMB-2023-00015 FIN $500.00
Total $500.00
419614 10/09/25 24057 JOE O'NEILL 40807 20252926 R - SUPPLIES REIMBURSEMENT FACIL $94.77
Total $94.77
419615 10/09/25 40184 JULIAN GROSS 40690 20252899 HOLIDAY LIGHTING DJ CMO $1,400.00
Total $1,400.00
419616 10/09/25 37139 KAPLAN PAVING 40605 REFUND - EXTR-2025-02231 FIN $500.00
Page: 6
Page 34 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 7
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $500.00
419617 10/09/25 40172 KAPLAN PAVING 40397 REFUND - EXTR-2024-00716 BLDG $250.00
Total $250.00
419618 10/09/25 37243 KRISTI MCCAULOU 40799 20252893 R - IGFOA CONFERENCE EXPENSES FIN $597.81
Total $597.81
419619 10/09/25 39835 KSM PROMOTIONS 40716 20252363 PROMO ITEMS PD $3,250.10
Total $3,250.10
419620 10/09/25 1309 LAKE COUNTY CLERK RECORDING 40676 20250505 R - RECORDING FEES PLAN $862.00
Total $862.00
419621 10/09/25 7917 LEACH ENTERPRISES 40652 20252844 PARTS FLEET $83.81
40653 20250206 PARTS FLEET $636.81
40661 20250260 R - PARTS SUPPLIES PACE BUS TRNST $63.99
Total $784.61
419622 10/09/25 37070 LEWIS G. BENDER 40818 20251334 TRAINING SUPERVISORY LEADERSHIP CMO $7,190.00
Total $7,190.00
419623 10/09/25 38891 LEXIPOL 40717 20250705 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PD $22,209.67
Total $22,209.67
419624 10/09/25 26539 LOGSDON OFFICE 40670 20250501 SUPPLIES BLDG $28.04
Total $28.04
419625 10/09/25 2161 LUND INDUSTRIES 40725 20252907 VEHICLE STRIP PD $950.00
Total $950.00
419626 10/09/25 3546 M.E. SIMPSON 40745 20252909 EMERGENCY LEAK DETECTION WTRDS $1,825.00
Total $1,825.00
419627 10/09/25 39634 MARK GREENBAUM 33715 REFUND - EXTR-2024-01498 BLDG $250.00
Total $250.00
419628 10/09/25 39983 MARY HAYES 40630 R - AR - 1196 - 27652 REFUND RETIREMENT FIN $7.43
Total $7.43
419629 10/09/25 39949 MATRIX IMAGING SOLUTIONS 40786 20251311 WATER BILL POSTAGE FIN $2,442.09
Total $2,442.09
419630 10/09/25 33302 MATTHEW GRASSO 40711 20252432 R - TUITION REIMBURSEMENT CMO $869.00
Page: 7
Page 35 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 8
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $869.00
419631 10/09/25 3027 MCMASTER-CARR 40648 20252858 PARTS FLEET $530.77
40649 20252858 PARTS FLEET $519.95
Total $1,050.72
419632 10/09/25 697 MENONI MOCOGNI 40593 20250388 SUPPLIES SEWER $24.75
Total $24.75
419633 10/09/25 16847 METROPOLITAN INDUSTRIES 40744 20252815 LIFT STATION SERVICES SEWER $5,370.00
Total $5,370.00
419634 10/09/25 17623 MUNICIPAL GIS PARTNERS 40621 20250715 GIS SERVICES PROGRAM STAFFING PW $18,027.28
Total $18,027.28
419635 10/09/25 710 MICROSYSTEMS 40677 20251405 RECORD MANAGEMENT SERVICES PLAN $3,279.67
40678 20251405 RECORD MANAGEMENT SERVICES PLAN $7,571.43
Total $10,851.10
419636 10/09/25 17838 MID AMERICAN WATER WAUCONDA 40747 20251461 SUPPLIES WTRDS $2,525.00
40748 20252434 SUPPLIES WTRDS $346.81
Total $2,871.81
419637 10/09/25 39000 MORENO LANDSCAPE 40700 20252802 ROUTINE GROUNDS FORST $12,144.00
40701 20251947 ROUTINE GROUNDS FORST $6,804.00
40702 20251947 ROUTINE GROUNDS FORST $2,187.00
Total $21,135.00
419638 10/09/25 749 MUTUAL ACE HARDWARE 40591 20250389 SUPPLIES SEWER $29.96
40592 20250389 CREDIT APPLY 660507 SEWER ($2.16)
40624 20250014 SUPPLIES FORST $38.03
40654 20250218 PARTS FLEET $1.98
40771 20250419 SUPPLIES FACIL $6.82
40772 20250419 SUPPLIES FACIL $10.42
40773 20252769 SUPPLIES FACIL $43.18
40775 20252769 SUPPLIES FACIL $32.54
Total $160.77
419639 10/09/25 15041 NCC-PETERSON 40776 20250824 SUPPLIES FACIL $193.85
40777 20250824 SUPPLIES FACIL $816.68
Page: 8
Page 36 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 9
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $1,010.53
419640 10/09/25 40187 NO. SUBURBAN SYNAGOGUE 40627 R - AR - 1367 - 27457 REFUND FIN $190.00
OVERPAYMENT
Total $190.00
419641 10/09/25 36922 NORTH SHORE AUTO SPA 40718 20252887 CAR WASHES PD $220.00
Total $220.00
419642 10/09/25 33907 NORTHWEST TRUCKS 40645 20251529 PARTS FLEET $114.29
Total $114.29
419643 10/09/25 30060 NSN EMPLOYER 40817 20250569 UNEMPLOYMENT ADMINISTRATION CMO $359.29
Total $359.29
419644 10/09/25 38930 PACE ANALYTICAL 40600 20252685 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES WP $1,200.00
40601 20250767 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES WP $131.50
Total $1,331.50
419645 10/09/25 837 PARK DISTRICT HIGHLAND PARK 40710 20252895 MEMBERSHIP DUES HLTH $222.00
Total $222.00
419646 10/09/25 39982 PATRICIA GINNELLY 40629 R - AR - 1167 - 27651 REFUND RETIREMENT FIN $7.43
Total $7.43
419647 10/09/25 2 PETER BAKER 40622 20252634 ASPHALT STR $284.16
40623 20252634 ASPHALT STR $517.12
Total $801.28
419648 10/09/25 39016 PITNEY BOWES 40778 20250450 POSTAGE MACHINES LEASE FACIL $592.62
40779 20250450 POSTAGE MACHINES LEASE FACIL $310.20
40780 20250450 SUPPLIES FACIL $166.10
Total $1,068.92
419649 10/09/25 40183 PRINCESS PARTY CHICAGO 40714 20252900 HOLIDAY LIGHTING ENTERTAINERS CMO $600.00
Total $600.00
419650 10/09/25 16691 RECORD-A-HIT 40685 20252882 ENTERTAINERS HOLIDAY LIGHTING CMO $1,192.50
Total $1,192.50
419651 10/09/25 24500 REYES MONTEMAYOR 40724 20252908 R - REIMBURSEMENT SUPPLIES PD $173.56
Total $173.56
419652 10/09/25 40165 RICK SMITH 40389 REFUND - EXTR-2024-01183 BLDG $750.00
Page: 9
Page 37 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 10
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $750.00
419653 10/09/25 34396 RIPPLE PUBLIC RELATIONS 40686 20250998 EVENT RETAINER CMO $6,000.00
Total $6,000.00
419654 10/09/25 923 MICHAEL WHITNEY DRAEGERT 40642 20250226 DOT INSPECTIONS FLEET $565.00
40662 20250224 R - SAFETY LANE TESTING PACE BUSES TRNST $106.50
Total $671.50
419655 10/09/25 25207 RUSH TRUCK CENTER 40643 20251069 PARTS FLEET $18.74
40644 20252553 VAC-CON DIAGNOSTIC FLEET $907.03
Total $925.77
419656 10/09/25 11611 SDS HOLDINGS 40617 20250026 UNIFORM SUPPLIES WP $37.69
40618 20250026 UNIFORM SUPPLIES WP $107.95
40632 20250242 UNIFORM SUPPLIES STR $250.00
Total $395.64
419657 10/09/25 39632 SHARON BURACK 26056 DEPOSIT REFUND VAR-2023-00012 BLDG $324.73
Total $324.73
419658 10/09/25 12533 SHERWIN WILLIAMS 40781 20252397 SUPPLIES FACIL $1,324.44
40782 20252863 SUPPLIES FACIL $7.83
40783 20252863 SUPPLIES FACIL $464.30
40784 20252397 SUPPLIES FACIL $960.89
40785 20252397 SUPPLIES FACIL $425.17
40787 20252397 SUPPLIES FACIL $289.50
Total $3,472.13
419659 10/09/25 40083 SITE DESIGN GROUP 40704 20252867 STIPEND DESIGN REMEMBRANCE CMO $2,500.00
Total $2,500.00
419660 10/09/25 24595 SPECIAL PROJECT STAFFING SALEM 40671 20252390 TEMPORARY CLERICAL HELP PLAN $1,081.60
Total $1,081.60
419661 10/09/25 26883 STAPLES CREDIT PLAN 40721 20250885 SUPPLIES PD $53.90
40722 20250885 SUPPLIES PD $44.90
40788 20250357 SUPPLIES FACIL $309.49
40789 20252595 SUPPLIES FACIL $430.73
40790 20252595 SUPPLIES FACIL $169.98
Page: 10
Page 38 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 11
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
40795 20250122 OFFICE SUPPLIES FIN $190.27
Total $1,199.27
419662 10/09/25 40094 STUDIO STIGSGAARD 40705 20252868 STIPEND DESIGN REMEMBRANCE CMO $2,500.00
Total $2,500.00
419663 10/09/25 40084 SWA GROUP 40706 20252869 STIPEND DESIGN REMEMBRANCE CMO $2,500.00
Total $2,500.00
419664 10/09/25 583 THE KNOX 40770 20252767 SUPPLIES FACIL $291.00
Total $291.00
419665 10/09/25 39807 THOMAS SCHROEDER 40798 20252892 R - IGFOA CONFERENCE EXPENSES FIN $695.34
Total $695.34
419666 10/09/25 34926 TKG ENVIRONMENTAL 40602 20251233 STREET SWEEPING STR $600.00
40620 20251233 STREET SWEEPING STR $600.00
Total $1,200.00
419667 10/09/25 38612 TLF*FLORAL GARDENS 40675 20252884 FLORAL ARRANGEMENT PLAN $99.00
Total $99.00
419668 10/09/25 39984 TMK HAWK PARENT 40689 20251736 KITCHEN EQUIPMENT 1201 PAW CMO $65,307.60
40813 20251905 1201 PAW W WALKIN INSTALLATION CMO $15,066.40
Total $80,374.00
419669 10/09/25 39584 TOTAL PAVING BRICK SERVICE 29626 DEPOSIT APPROACH EXTR 2023-00091 BLDG $500.00
Total $500.00
419670 10/09/25 1749 PATSON 40646 20252853 PARTS FLEET $2,216.87
40647 20251371 PARTS FLEET $49.04
Total $2,265.91
419671 10/09/25 15397 HD SUPPLY 40609 20250391 SUPPLIES SEWER $790.90
Total $790.90
419672 10/09/25 31841 USIC LOCATING 40603 20250877 UTILITY LOCATES WTRDS $2,161.01
40604 20250795 UTILITY LOCATES WTRDS $12,308.99
Total $14,470.00
419673 10/09/25 38898 VERIZON 40656 20250401 GPS SERVICES FLEET $751.12
Total $751.12
419674 10/09/25 19876 VERIZON WIRELESS 40815 20252674 POTSOLVE LINES 911 CALL BOX ELEVATOR CS $580.14
Page: 11
Page 39 of 120
10/9/2025 7:45 PM Warrant List Page: 12
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
Total $580.14
419675 10/09/25 38896 WEX BANK 40659 20251922 WEX FUEL CARDS FLEET $82.00
40660 20251922 WEX FUEL CARDS FLEET ($7.79)
Total $74.21
419676 10/09/25 15432 WHOLESALE DIRECT 40590 20251577 PARTS FLEET $102.81
Total $102.81
419677 10/09/25 34483 ZORO TOOLS 40791 20252188 SUPPLIES FACIL $157.44
40792 20252678 SUPPLIES FACIL $127.98
40796 20252188 SUPPLIES FACIL $13.72
40797 20252678 SUPPLIES FACIL $136.35
Total $435.49
Total $435,733.61
Page: 12
Page 40 of 120
10/9/2025 7:50 PM Warrant List Page: 1
City of Highland Park
Check # Date Ven# Vendor Name Inv # PO # Description/Account Dept Amount
598 10/09/25 37940 ELROD FRIEDMAN 40679 20250288 LEGAL SERVICES LEGL $66,829.36
40681 20250288 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LEGL $156.00
Total $66,985.36
599 10/09/25 32860 JPMORGAN CHASE MASTERCARD 40774 SEPTEMBER 2025 CREDIT CARD FIN $17,589.74
Total $17,589.74
600 10/09/25 36932 VISA FLEX PROGRAM COMMERCIAL 40811 20250416 SUPPLIES FACIL $191.92
40812 20252843 SUPPLIES FACIL $1,004.45
Total $1,196.37
601 10/09/25 30071 WEST GOVERNMENT SERVICES 40720 20250039 EQUIPMENT SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES PD $581.70
Total $581.70
Total $86,353.17
Page: 1
Page 41 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Jennifer Dotson, Executive Assistant to the Mayor and City Manager
Department: City Manager's Office
Title: October 2025 is the 80th Anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness
Month
Recommendation:
It is recommended the attached Proclamation be approved in order to recognize the month of
October and commemorate the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness
Month.
Attachments:
1. 2025 NDEAM 80th Anniversary of National Disability Awareness Month v3
Page 42 of 120
Page 43 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Department: Finance Department
Title: 2026 Proposed Budget Department Staff Reports
Recommendation:
Attached are 2026 Proposed Budget Department Staff Reports, which include highlights of the
six City department budgets: Administration (City Manager's Office), Community
Development, Finance, Fire, Police and Public Works. The information is provided to the
Council and public consistent with the City’s budget schedule. The information is also
consistent with the information presented in the FY2026 Proposed Budget.
Policy Consideration:
The Proposed Budget has been submitted to the Mayor and City Council for their review,
elements of the budget have been presented at public budget workshops, and the City Manager
and Finance Director have held 1:1 meetings with each official to discuss components of the
proposed budget. No presentation is planned at the City Council meeting. Questions about the
City’s budget should be directed to City Manager Neukirch or Finance Director McCaulou.
Following approval of the proposed budget, staff will provide public communication about the
budget highlighting the City’s updated mission, values, objectives and plans for Fiscal Year
2026. We will also advance focused news items to provide information about key projects,
services and initiatives, particularly as they align with the City’s six priorities.
Next Steps
Nov. 3 Proposed Budget on website
Nov. 10 Public Hearing for Budget
Nov. 24 Public Hearing for Tax Levy
Nov. 24 Budget Adopted
Dec. 15 Tax Levy Approved
Core Priorities:
Page 44 of 120
Attachments:
1. 01 CM Budget Staff Report
2. 02 FN Budget Staff Report
3. 03 PD Budget Staff Report
4. 04 FD Budget Staff Report
5. 05 CD Budget Staff Report
6. 06 PW Budget Staff Report
Page 45 of 120
Memorandum
Date: October 20, 2025
To: Mayor Nancy R. Rotering
City Council Members
From: Erin Jason, Assistant City Manager
Emily Taub, Assistant City Manager
Copy to: Ghida S. Neukirch, City Manager
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Subject: Budget 2026 - City Manager’s Office
Mayor and City Council Members:
This is a City Manager’s Office Department 2026 Budget Summary. Additional information is
included in the draft budget document previously distributed to you and to be potentially
included in the proposed budget document to be distributed to you on October 31, 2025, prior to
publication to the public on November 3, 2025.
Objectives
1. Effectively manage a $142 million balanced budget, 120+ major projects, and six
departments, meeting and exceeding the needs of over 30,000 residents while continuing
to pursue trauma informed approaches to ongoing resiliency efforts.
2. Support enhancements to the City’s internal inclusion policies and initiatives.
3. Continue actively pursuing opportunities for economic development and environmental
sustainability in line with the City’s Core Priorities.
4. Continue implementing the City’s Sustainability Plan and progress toward the City’s GHG
reduction target.
5. Continue to develop and implement a plan to enhance the accessibility of City
communications.
6. Organize business forums on various topics, including how to better leverage regional
assets.
7. Advance the City’s business development strategic plan including administration of
incentive programs, assisting new and existing businesses, and relationship building.
8. Pursue intergovernmental agreements to share resources, conduct joint purchasing,
reduce expenses, and continuously improve efficiencies among City and partner
organizations.
9. Partner with Finance and Public Works to develop a long-term plan for the repair and
conservation of the City’s public art collection.
10. Continue review of City Code and business license applications; recommending updates to
increase accessibility and promote business friendly practices.
11. Continue enhancing the planning, coordination and promotion of City-sponsored special
events and related permanent infrastructure enhancements.
12. Continue to provide victims of the shooting and their families with dedicated
communications, facilitated services and programming, and resources.
Page 46 of 120
Memorandum
Department Budget
Expenditures 2026 Total Expenditures
by Fund Type 2026 Inc. / (Dec.) Contractual Svc. 72%
($millions) Bdgt. vs. 2025 Est. Personnel 20%
General Fund 8,520,600 (1,536,400) -15% Transfers 4%
Other Govt. Funds 956,400 (2,085,000) -69% Capital 3%
Materials & Sup. 2%
Internal Service Funds 8,052,200 599,400 8%
Total All Funds 17,529,200 (3,022,000) -15% 0% 20%40%60%80%
Notable Budget Comments:
1. General Fund – City Council, Executive, Resiliency, Human Resources, Communications,
Senior Services, City Clerk, Legal Services, Business Development, Special Service Area –
SSA, Board of Fire & Police Commissioners.
2. Other Government Funds – Sustainability, Capital Project Fund - Senior Ctr., Tax
Increment Fin. – Briergate.
3. Internal Service Funds – Insurance/Wellness Fund.
General Fund Budget
Expenditures
by Program 2026 Inc. / (Dec.) 2026 Total Expenditures
($millions) Bdgt. vs. 2025 Est.
City Council 481,900 (4,900) -1% Contract
53%
CMO Administration 1,155,300 (117,100) -9% Svcs.
Human Resources 946,500 105,300 13%
Communications 695,500 23,300 3% Personnel 38%
Senior 865,000 51,600 6%
City Clerk 326,900 10,400 3%
Legal Services 930,300 (15,700) -2% Capital 6%
Business Development 1,979,000 (1,465,000) -43%
Special Service Area - SSA 220,000 20,000 10% Matl. &
3%
Resiliency Division 865,300 (123,100) -12% Sup.
Board of Police/Fire Comms. 54,800 (21,100) -28%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Total General Fund 8,520,500 (1,536,300) -15%
Page 47 of 120
Memorandum
General Fund Notable Budget Comments:
1. Personnel includes the following staffing changes, consistency with the City's
compensation plan changes, and anticipated higher insurance costs.
Action Quantity Equivalent Position
Removal (1.0) FT Senior Services Program Coordinator
Addition 1.0 FT Assistant Manager of Senior Services
Removal (1.0) FT Resiliency Manager
Addition 1.0 FT Social Services Specialist
Removal (1.0) FT Assistant Human Resources Manager
Addition 1.0 FT Human Resources Manager
Total 0.0
2. Human Resources - increases for tuition reimbursement, organizational consulting,
employee training, and recruitment costs.
3. Communications - higher programing costs for Octoberfest Sponsorship and America 250
celebration.
4. Senior Services - activities programming costs funded by senior fee revenue.
5. Business Development - reduced boutique incentive funding and lower revenue sharing
costs, consistent with the City's business development plan.
6. Board of Police/Fire Commissioners - recruitment costs.
7. Exec., HR, Comms., Clerk, - IT charge reallocation between City divisions due to updated
usage data.
8. Resiliency - lower capital, given 2025 security and public safety upgrades.
Memberships
1. Northwest Municipal Conference - $15,400
2. Visit Lake County - $15,000
3. Solid Waste Agency of Lake County - $15,506
4. Lake County Partners - $5,000
5. National League of Cities - $3,800
6. Lake County Municipal League - $3,000
7. Illinois Municipal League - $2,040
8. US Conference of Mayors - $3,950
9. Metropolitan Mayors Caucus - $1,480
10. ICSC - $125
11. Municipal Clerks of Lake County - $60
Page 48 of 120
Memorandum
Other Funds Budget
Expenditures
by Fund Type 2026 Inc. / (Dec.) 2026 Total Expenditures
($millions) Bdgt. vs. 2025 Est.
Contractual Svc. 90%
Environmental Sustainability 271,400 17,000 7%
Transfers 8%
Capital Proj. Fund - Senior Ctr. - (2,677,000) -100%
Tax Increment Fin. - Briergate 685,000 575,000 523% Personnel 2%
Other Governemntal Funds 956,400 (2,085,000) -69% Capital 0%
Insurance/Wellness 8,052,200 599,400 8%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
Total Internal Service Funds 8,052,200 599,400 8%
Other Funds Notable Budget Comments:
1. Environ. Sustain. - Transfer to Eqp. Fund.
2. Capital Project Fund - Senior Center renovation substantially complete in 2024.
3. Insurance/Wellness - Anticipated higher employee insurance costs.
Tax Increment Financing Fund Budget
BriergateTIF
Fund Summary 2026 Inc. / (Dec.)
$millions Bdgt. vs. 2025 Est.
Property Tax Increment 1,248,000 38,400 3%
Interest Revenue 57,200 - 0%
Total Revenue 1,305,200 38,400 3%
Transfers 685,000 575,000 523%
Total Expenditures 685,000 575,000 523%
Net Increase/(Decrease) 620,200 (536,600) -46%
Fund Bal. Beg. of Year 3,198,500 1,156,800 57%
Fund Bal. End of Year 3,818,700 620,200 19%
Fund Bal. % Oper. Exp. 557%
Fund Bal. % Target 0%
Briergate TIF Notable Budget Comments:
1. Property Tax Increment - The 2026 Budget tax increment is based on the most
conservative of three projections developed for the origination of the Briergate TIF. The
2025 Estimate is based on an updated Lake County estimate.
2. Capital expenditures are for Briergate TIF district development assuming full use of
available funds in 2027 and future years with specific use of funds subject to potential City
or developer project proposal, recommendation by staff if staff deems the project
beneficial to TIF district development, and City Council approval.
Page 49 of 120
Memorandum
3. Although the City's Fund Balance Target is 0%, the fund balance can accumulate in
anticipation of planned projects, with funds generally not expended prior to fund balance
accumulation.
2026 Training Initiatives
1. Supervisory Update - Policy and legal update for new and updated laws.
2. Skill Building - Enhance skills of employees through trainings such as business writing,
communication and software skills.
3. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Continue to build skills for employees.
4. Harassment Prevention/Diversity/Equity/Inclusion Training
a. Continue and build on prior initiatives.
b. Compliant with Public Act 101-0221.
5. ALICE Training - Continue to empower employees to make swift and effective decisions as
part of active shooter/threat training
Page 50 of 120
Memorandum
Date: October 20, 2025
To: Mayor Nancy R. Rotering
City Council Members
From: Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Copy to: Ghida S. Neukirch, City Manager
Subject: Budget 2026 – Finance Department
Mayor and City Council Members:
This is a Finance Department 2026 Budget Summary. Additional information is included in the
draft budget document previously distributed to you and to be potentially included in the
proposed budget document to be distributed to you on October 31, 2025, prior to publication to
the public on November 3, 2025.
Objectives
1. Preserve Aaa credit rating, ensure actuals result in a balanced operating budget, funding is
available for capital, and fund balances meet or exceed targets.
2. Issue $24 million of general obligation bonds and assume a $7.9 million IEPA loan for City
capital projects.
3. Issue GFOA award quality Budget & Financial Report.
4. Achieve an unmodified audit opinion.
5. Support City initiatives for business attraction and retention.
6. Hold voting Board seat and support public safety pension funds and OPEB, including
coordination with State for pension funds investment.
7. Hold voting Board seat and support Suburban Liability Insurance Pool (SLIP) initiatives.
8. Continue the City’s ERP software implementation.
9. Continue the City’s long-term IT security plan.
10. Support IT initiatives for all City and across City depts.
11. Continue succession plan and cross-training.
Department Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate
2026 Total Expenditures
Expenditures by Program Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Pensions, OPEB &
Finance Division 1,883,700 128,600 7% Oth. Transfers
49%
Non-departmental Transfers 5,468,300 (988,100) -15%
City Insurance 2,743,200 201,200 8%
Insur. & Debt Svc. 34%
Total General Fund 10,095,200 (658,300) -6%
Public Safety Pension Levy 7,259,500 280,200 4%
Debt Service 6,045,100 2,848,800 89% Fin. & IT Ops. 16%
Information Technology 2,313,000 (334,800) -13%
Total All Funds 25,712,800 2,135,900 9% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Page 51 of 120
Memorandum
Notable Budget Comments:
1. The proposed $25.7 million budget managed by Finance, includes the City’s contributions
to public safety pensions and OPEB, Citywide liability insurance, City-wide debt service,
General Fund Transfers to other funds, and Finance and IT operations.
2. 39% of the total, or $10.1 million, is for the City’s contribution to public safety pensions
and OPEB. It is City policy to fund the public safety pension funds to 90% by year 2040, as
determined by a third party actuary, and at a higher level, when funds are available.
Funding to 90% by 2040 is the Illinois State Statute required funding level for public
safety pension funds. The City funds pension contributions from a combination of
property tax levy and other sources such as partial state income tax receipts, partial
proceeds from the sale of assets when available, and other revenue sources as identified,
with a goal of minimizing the impact to the taxpayer. The 2026 budget includes $9.5
million in City contributions (transfers) to the public safety pension funds, of which $7.3
million is from property tax levy, accounted for in the Public Safety Pension Levy Fund,
and $2.2 million is from state income tax revenue (LGDF) and personal property
replacement tax, accounted for in the General Fund. The $9.5 million funds the City's
statutory actuarially determined contribution of $7.3 million and additional contribution
of $2.2 million, with a goal of minimizing the long-term City contribution cost.
3. Finance and IT combined operations costs are expected to be lower than 2025, given lower
ERP implementation costs, net of higher personnel and operating costs. Personnel costs
are consistent with the City’s compensation plan and higher insurance costs. ERP costs are
consistent with the long-term implementation contract previously approved by City
Council, although the timing of costs between years has changed due to implementation
timing changes. Operating costs changes reflect market prices.
4. The decrease in transfers is due to lower transfer from the General Fund to the Capital
fund to pay for capital improvements, consistent with the City’s CIP.
5. City liability insurance of $2.7 million is higher than 2025 due to anticipated liability
insurance cost increase, consistent with pool market changes, although actual market
quotes will not be available until December, consistent with recent years. Non-pool market
changes would be even higher if the City were not insured within a pool.
6. The Debt Service is consistent with the City's debt service schedule for previously issued
debt and new tax leviable debt proposed for 2026 to partially pay for capital
improvements.
Page 52 of 120
Memorandum
Date: October 20, 2025
To: Mayor Nancy R. Rotering
City Council Members
From: Lou Jogmen, Chief of Police
Copy to: Ghida S. Neukirch, City Manager
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Subject: Budget 2026 – Police Department
Mayor and City Council Members:
This is a Police Department 2026 Budget Summary. Additional information is included in the
draft budget document previously distributed to you and to be potentially included in the
proposed budget document to be distributed to you on October 31, 2025, prior to publication to
the public on November 3, 2025.
Objectives
1. Expand the 10 Shared Principles of Public Safety to other City Departments to support
inclusivity and support the City’s initiatives.
2. Continue engaging in community outreach efforts, through individual and organized
events, demonstrating a commitment to strong and collaborative relationships with the
public.
3. Coordinate traffic and parking education, enforcement, and safety campaigns, including
bicycle education and safety initiatives.
4. Further develop the Threat Incident Case Management initiative.
5. Continue enhancing leadership, career development, and succession opportunities.
6. Maintain Illinois Law Enforcement Accreditation Program (ILEAP) certification.
Department Budget
2026 Budget vs. 2026 Total Expenditures
2026 2025 Estimate
Expenditures by Fund Type Budget Incr. / (Decr.) Personnel 73%
Contractual Svc. 18%
Total General Fund 15,644,800 870,000 6%
Transfers 5%
Other Governemntal Funds 855,200 200 0% Capital 2%
Materials & Sup. 2%
Total Internal Service Funds 587,600 132,500 29%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Total All Funds 17,087,600 1,002,700 6%
Page 53 of 120
Memorandum
General Fund Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate 2026 Total Expenditures
Expenditures by Program Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Administration 1,550,900 210,100 16% Personnel 79%
Records/Communications 1,729,900 (2,800) 0%
Contract Svcs. 19%
Patrol 8,798,500 849,800 11%
Investigations 2,391,200 (67,200) -3%
Capital 1%
Extra Jobs 547,000 (111,200) -17%
Traffic/Community Service 532,500 (6,400) -1% Matl. & Sup. 1%
Parking Enforcement 94,800 (2,300) -2%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Total General Fund 15,644,800 870,000 6%
General Fund Notable Budget Comments:
1. Personnel changes include the addition of a full-time IT Support Specialist replacing a
contracted position in the department, and are consistent with the City's compensation
plan, collective bargaining requirements, and anticipated higher insurance costs.
2. Admin and Training - higher costs for reallocation of IT Charges between City divisions
due to updated usage data.
3. Communications/Records - decrease in expense due to higher professional services for
dispatch contract increase net of eliminating contracted IT services.
4. Patrol - higher capital consistent with the City's 10-year CIP and higher equipment charges
consistent with Eqp. Fund costs.
5. Investigations - lower full-time labor costs.
E911/ETSB Fund Budget
2026 Budget vs. 2026 Total Expenditures
2026 2025 Estimate
Expenditures Budget Incr. / (Decr.) Transfers 97%
Personnel - - 0%
Operating Costs 26,200 200 1% Contract
3%
Svcs.
Capital, Transfer, Debt 829,000 - 0%
Total Police E911 855,200 200 0% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100%
E911/ETSB Notable Budget Comments:
1. Surcharge Revenues – Landline and wireless funds from State.
2. Transfers – Contractual obligations for consolidated dispatch & other eligible expenditures
incurred in the General Fund.
3. Revenue budget consistent with Glenview dispatch and state guidance.
Page 54 of 120
Memorandum
Police Equipment Budget
2026 Budget vs. 2026 Total Expenditures
2026 2025 Estimate
Expenditures Budget Incr. / (Decr.) Capital 53%
Personnel 130,600 8,800 7% Personnel 22%
Contractual Services 28,700 100 0%
Matl. & Sup. 20%
Materials and Supplies 118,300 900 1%
Contract Svcs. 5%
Capital, Transfer, Debt 310,000 122,700 66%
Total Equipment Fund 587,600 132,500 29% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Police Equipment Notable Budget Details:
1. Capital – consistent with City’s 10-Year Capital Improvement Program.
2. 2026: two administrative hybrid vehicles with outfitting, two patrol hybrid vehicles with
outfitting and one mechanic vehicle.
3. 2027: three patrol hybrid and two parking enforcement hybrid vehicles.
4. 2028-34: five vehicle replacements per year.
Page 55 of 120
Memorandum
Date: October 20, 2025
To: Mayor Nancy R. Rotering
City Council Members
From: Joe Schrage, Fire Chief
Copy to: Ghida S. Neukirch, City Manager
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Subject: Budget 2026 – Fire Department
Mayor and City Council Members:
This is a Fire Department 2026 Budget Summary. Additional information is included in the
draft budget document previously distributed to you and to be potentially included in the
proposed budget document to be distributed to you on October 31, 2025, prior to publication to
the public on November 3, 2025.
Objectives
1. Continue community outreach through various programs throughout the year.
2. Practice continuous improvement through evaluation, response analysis and training.
3. Continue public and Highland Park staff education with emphasis on community
preparedness, technical certifications, and safety protocols.
4. Enhance and implement recruitment and retention plans.
5. Support diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, initiatives, and recruitment efforts.
Department Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate 2026 Total Expenditures
Expenditures by Fund Type Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Administration 1,387,200 56,100 4%
Personnel 65%
Emergency Medical Services 861,000 278,700 48%
Fire Suppression and Training 8,685,600 376,000 5% Capital 19%
Total General Fund 10,933,800 710,700 7%
Contractual Svc. 13%
Enhanced 911 12,400 600 5%
Capital Fund - Fire Station 2,165,100 1,514,900 233%
Materials & Sup. 2%
Other Governemntal Funds 2,177,500 1,515,500 229%
0% 20%40%60%80%
Total Internal Service Funds 820,800 (123,800) -13%
Total All Funds 13,932,100 2,102,400 18%
Page 56 of 120
Memorandum
Notable Budget Comments:
1. Personnel changes are consistent with the City's compensation plan, collective bargaining
requirements, and anticipated higher insurance costs.
2. Administration - higher professional services for dispatch contract increase, higher
maintenance of equipment for communications equipment and software enhancing
interoperability with other agencies.
3. EMS and Fire Suppression/Training - higher equipment charges consistent with Eqp.
Fund costs and capital changes consistent with the City's 10-Year CIP.
4. Capital replacements are consistent with the City's 10-Year CIP:
a. 2026: two staff vehicles, an ambulance, Stryker power load system and cot, and a
Fire Rescue Boat.
b. 2028: ambulance and Stryker power load system and cot.
c. 2030: dive van and auto extrication equipment.
d. 2031: one staff vehicle.
e. 2032: ladder truck, utility 33 pick-up truck, and UTV (cost shared with PD).
f. 2033: fire engine.
g. 2026-35: radio network equipment.
h. 2027, 28, 30, 31, 33, 34, 35: cardiac monitors/defibrillators.
i. 2028-2029: auto extrication equipment and thermal imaging equipment
Apparatus Replacement Schedule
Page 57 of 120
Memorandum
The Department has adjusted the apparatus replacement schedule based upon staffing
deployment needs, emergency response requests, and maintenance trends. The current trends
with difficulty getting equipment and delayed manufacturing has caused some changes in
replacement dates. The Department, when supply allows, has moved toward a more aggressive
maintenance and replacement program due to reliability and corrosion issues.
Page 58 of 120
Memorandum
Date: October 20, 2025
To: Mayor Nancy R. Rotering
City Council Members
From: Joel Fontane, Director of Community Development
Copy to: Ghida S. Neukirch, City Manager
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Subject: Budget 2026 - Community Development
Mayor and City Council Members:
This is a Community Development Department 2026 Budget Summary. Additional information
is included in the draft budget document previously distributed to you and to be potentially
included in the proposed budget document to be distributed to you on October 31, 2025, prior to
publication to the public on November 3, 2025.
Objectives
1. Development Assistance
a. Board and Commission Advisory Support
b. Review Application Process & Improve Accessibility of Application Information
c. Education & Outreach with Businesses, Contractors, Developers & Residents
2. Plan Development & Implementation
a. Comprehensive Plan Update
b. Historic Preservation Education & Outreach – Historic Property Plaque Pgm.
c. Housing Pgm. Capital Plan Review
d. Move HP – Bike Walk Implementation
e. Ravinia TIF Capital Plan Implementation
3. Policy – Recommend/Implement Code Changes
a. Building Stretch Code Consideration
b. Historic Preservation Explore and Recommend Incentives
c. Payment In-Lieu of Affordable Housing Unit Fee Review
d. Zoning Code Improvements & Subdivision Code Changes
4. Operational
a. Enterprise Permitting & Licensing – EnerGov. Refinement & Training
b. Cross Functional Training & Transitioning New Staff Into the Department
c. Assess permit process and implement changes aimed at further streamlining.
Page 59 of 120
Memorandum
Department Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate 2026 Total Expenditures
Expenditures by Fund Type Budget Incr. / (Decr.) Personnel 57%
Total General Fund 4,332,000 229,000 6% Contractual Svc. 22%
Other Governemntal Funds 1,218,000 549,000 82% Capital 20%
Materials & Sup. 1%
Total Fiduciary Funds 545,000 (571,000) -51%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Total All Funds 6,095,000 207,000 4%
Notable Budget Details:
1. General Fund – Community Development - Building Division and Planning Division; and
four Commissions: Historic Pres., Housing, Plan and Design, and Zoning Board of Appeals.
2. Other Govt. Funds – Tax Increment Financing Fund (TIF) – Ravinia Business District
3. Internal Service Funds (Fiduciary Fund) – Housing Trust Fund.
General Fund Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate 2026 Total Expenditures
Expenditures by Program Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Personnel 79%
Building Division 3,005,100 72,400 2%
Planning Division 1,285,700 157,600 14% Contract
20%
Svcs.
Historic Preservation Commission 12,500 (3,000) -19%
Matl. &
Plan Commission 9,000 200 2% 1%
Sup.
Housing Commission 9,100 200 3%
Capital 0%
Zoning Board of Appeals 10,600 1,600 18%
Total General Fund 4,332,000 229,000 6% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
General Fund Notable Budget Comments:
1. Personnel changes are consistent with the City's compensation plan, and anticipated higher
insurance costs.
2. Building Division - lower equipment charges consistent with Eqp. Fund expenditures and
lower costs for reallocation of IT Charges between City divisions due to updated usage data.
3. Planning Division - higher costs for professional services for Comprehensive Plan update.
4. Historic Preservation Commission - lower activities programming cost as Historic
Resources Survey completed in 2025.
Page 60 of 120
Memorandum
Ravinia TIF Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate
Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Property Tax Increment 796,500 15,600 2%
Interest Revenue 74,700 - 0%
Total Revenue 871,200 15,600 2%
Capital Expenditures 1,218,000 549,000 82%
Total Expenditures 1,218,000 549,000 82%
Net Increase/(Decrease) (346,800) (533,400)
Fund Bal. Beg. of Year 2,833,500 186,600 7%
Fund Bal. End of Year 2,486,700 (346,800) -12%
Fund Bal. % Oper. Exp. 204%
Fund Bal. % Target 0%
Ravinia TIF Notable Budget Comments:
1. Property Tax Increment - The 2025 Estimate is based on an updated Lake County 2025
estimate. The 2026 budget and estimates through the end of the TIF assume a conservative
2% average annual increase.
2. Ravinia Business District capital anticipated in the City’s 10-Year CIP includes:
a. 2026: Burton Ave. and Alley Lighting, Seating and Artwork
b. 2027: Signage and Parklets
c. 2028: Crosswalks, Gateway lighting, additional On-Street Parking
3. Although the City's Fund Balance Target is 0%, the fund balance accumulates in anticipation
of planned projects, with funds generally not expended prior to fund balance accumulation.
Page 61 of 120
Memorandum
Housing Trust Fund Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate
Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Pymt. In-Lieu of Affordable
Units & Demolition Tax 487,900 333,700 216%
Demolition Permit 12,000 - 0%
Reimb. & Other Revenue 83,700 (7,700) -8%
Transfers from Other Funds - - 0%
Total Revenue 583,600 326,000 127%
Personnel Expenditures 49,000 700 2%
Contractual Services 496,000 (571,700) -54%
Total Expenditures 545,000 (571,000) -51%
Net Increase/(Decrease) 38,600 896,900
Fund Bal. Beg. of Year 1,110,100 (858,300) -44%
Fund Bal. End of Year 1,148,700 38,600 3%
Fund Bal. % Oper. Exp. 211%
Fund Bal. % Target 150%
Housing Trust Fund Notable Budget Comments:
1. Expenditures – changes consistent with City's comp. plan, scattered site/grants, prgrm.
operating grant, temp. housing assistance and reimburse. of demo. tax per development
agreements. The table above assumes that all monies ($500K) allocated to the CCHI grant
are disbursed in FY-25. Given the timing of this grant’s approval Oct. 2025, to the extent
that grant disbursements do not occur in FY-25 there will be a corresponding increase in
FY-26 expenditures.
2. A word on Fund Balance Target. Maintaining a fund balance is key to overcoming revenue
shortfalls and having sufficient resources to take advantage of strategic opportunities or
special projects, for which it can be less than target. Budgets are developed consistent with
the fund target. The purpose of this target is to ensure that core programs and services are
maintained. Funds that exceed the fund balance target are available for programming
beyond supporting core services. Per policy, expenditures related to core operations that can
be funded if the Housing Trust Fund falls below its fund target: Grants - Operating support
grant for Community Partners for Affordable Housing and scattered site affordable housing
grants to secure and make permanently affordable at least two housing units; Staffing - the
total compensation for two days of City staff time per week; Temporary Housing Assistance
- 60 nights at hotel or other accommodation - as needed; and Other contractual or legal
financial obligations.
Page 62 of 120
Memorandum
Housing Assn. Properties (Component Unit)
2026 Budget vs.
2026 2025 Estimate
Budget Incr. / (Decr.)
Apt. Rent & Housing Asst. 2,028,500 41,600 2%
Commercial Rents 700 - 0%
Vacancy Loss (23,400) (2,700) 13%
Non-Revenue Units - - 0%
Interest Income 19,900 3,200 19%
Other Income 2,100 (200) -5%
Total Revenue 2,027,800 41,900 2%
Contracted Personnel 341,800 15,100 5%
Administration 221,800 6,800 3%
Operating Expenditures 126,000 20,100 19%
Maintenance 155,900 30,300 24%
Materials & Supplies 1,600 - 0%
Utilities 148,000 (12,100) -8%
Taxes and Insurance 194,300 26,600 16%
Debt Service 417,300 (11,700) -3%
Total Expenditures 1,606,700 75,100 5%
Net Revenue (Deficit) 421,100 (33,100)
Housing Assn. Properties Notable Budget Comments:
1. Stable budget for Peers, Ravinia and Sunset Woods (14 units within 60 unit building).
Vacancy loss down due to fewer reduced unit turnover.
2. Increases in total revenue due to rent increase, net of lower interest rates and vacancy loss
based in average vacancy rate for the past two years. Non-revenue producing unit was
converted into a revenue producing unit, which is now included in “Apt. Rent & Housing
Asst.” line
3. Cost increases for utilities, administration, personnel related benefits, and insurance.
4. Operating increase due to anticipated increase for cost for trash removal, repairs to fire panel
and smoke detector replacements, purchase of supplies for REAC preparation, anticipated
plumbing repairs to showers and tubs, cost increase for snow removal.
5. Maintenance decrease given completion of boiler and furnace work, fire protection
improvements, catch basin cleanout, plumbing repairs at Peers, and HVAC, roof and
plumbing work at Ravinia.
Page 63 of 120
Memorandum
Date: October 20, 2025
To: Mayor Nancy R. Rotering
City Council Members
From: Ron Bannon, Director of Public Works
Copy to: Ghida S. Neukirch, City Manager
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Subject: Budget 2026 – Public Works Department
Mayor and City Council Members:
This is a Public Works Department 2026 Budget Summary. Additional information is included in
the draft budget document previously distributed to you and to be potentially included in the
proposed budget document to be distributed to you on October 31, 2025, prior to publication to
the public on November 3, 2025.
Department Budget
2026 Budget vs.
2026 General Fund Expenditures
2026 2025 Estimate
Expenditures by Fund Type Budget Incr. / (Decr.) Capital 64%
Administration 763,800 (54,200) -7% Personnel 19%
Engineering 1,090,700 900 0% Contractual Svc. 15%
Forestry 1,436,400 (32,400) -2% Materials & Sup. 1%
Facilities 6,339,700 3,223,400 103%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Parking Maintenance 3,339,300 (32,900) -1%
Total General Fund 12,969,900 3,104,800 31% 2026 Total Expenditures
Multi-Modal Transportation 6,920,900 126,000 2% Capital 55%
Personnel 17%
Motor Fuel Tax 1,400,000 (450,000) -24%
Contractual Svc. 12%
Water Fund 24,278,400 2,830,500 13%
Debt Service 7%
Sewer Fund 7,381,500 191,100 3%
Transfers 5%
Street & Other Construction 6,701,000 (2,062,000) -24% Materials & Sup. 3%
Equip. Maint. & Replacement 2,052,400 (427,600) -17%
0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Total All Funds 61,704,100 3,312,800 6%
Notable Budget Comments:
1. Personnel changes are consistent with the City's compensation plan, and collective
bargaining requirements, and anticipated higher insurance costs.
2. In addition to the changes noted above and below, the following divisions were impacted
by reallocation of IT Charges between City divisions due to updated usage data: Admin.,
Engr., Forestry, Water Fund, Sewer Fund, and Equip. Maint. & Replacement Fund.
3. Parking, Facilities, and Forestry include updates for parking lots/decks maint./repair ($3.1
million), MoveHP ($3.8 million), facilities ($1.2 million), Ped. Bridge over US 41 planning
($450,000), and tree planting/maint. ($175,000), consistent with the 10-year CIP.
4. Multi-Modal Transp. Fund - lower eqp. charges consistent with Eqp. Fund costs, lower
professional services, net of higher capital consistent with the 10-Year CIP.
Page 64 of 120
Memorandum
5. The Water and Sewer Funds include changes in contractual services and materials and
supplies reflecting marketplace cost increases.
6. The Water Fund includes increases for maintenance of equipment, higher preventive
maintenance, and higher professional services for instruments, controls and SCADA
service. In addition, increased costs for corrosion control (lead) treatment and electricity
kWh.
7. In addition to the changes noted in above, the year-to-year variances for the Water, Sewer,
Capital Fund-Str., and Eqp. Funds reflect changes in capital, debt service, and eqp.
charges, consistent with the City's 10-year CIP. Additional fund information is included in
the fund and capital sections of the budget document.
8. Capital Fund-Streets 2026 improvements are for Streets ($4.9 million), Bridges ($1.1
million), Public Svcs. Bldg. planning ($2 million), Ravines ($650,000),and Sidewalks
($70,000), consistent with the 10-year CIP.
Objectives – General Fund
1. Administration & Contract Services
a. Effective and Efficient Service Delivery
b. Oversight of 11 Sections/Divisions
c. Support diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, initiatives, and recruitment
2. Engineering
a. 10-yr CIP Planning and Implementation
b. Flood Mitigation and Stormwater Management (Buy Out Program)
c. Private Development Reviews and Inspections
d. IDOT Grants Administration (Over $49 million Grants Received)
e. Oversee design services for 10 infrastructure improvement projects
f. Oversee design consultant services for 20 infrastructure improvement projects
g. Oversee construction for 11 infrastructure improvement projects and manage
consultant field inspections on contracts for 10 public improvement project
3. Forestry
a. Tree Removal/Planting Program, Native Plantings
b. Continue increased landscape maintenance programs in the Central and Ravinia
Business District
4. Facilities
a. Ensure All Public Buildings with No Life Safety Issues (avg. age 50+)
b. Planning for the redevelopment of Public Services Building and Fire Station #34
c. Preventive Maintenance and Capital Projects
d. Tuck Pointing The Art Center
Page 65 of 120
Memorandum
Objectives – Multimodal Fund
1. Streets
a. Contractual Street Sweeping
b. Snow and Ice Control Operations
c. Road and Sidewalk Maintenance
d. Special Events Assistance
2. Transit
a. Pace and Ravinia Operations
b. Safety and In-service Training
c. Connector (City funded; 3 days/week)
Objectives – Water Fund
1. Water Production
a. Ultrafiltration Membrane Module Replacements – Year 3 of 3
a. Master Meter Upgrades (3)
b. Water Plant’s Primary Water Intake and New Raw Water Shore Well Improvements:
engineering phase (80/20 Grant funded)
c. Energy efficiency upgrades (80/20 Grant funded)
d. Lead Corrosion Control Treatment Optimization Study
e. Water Plant Control System Cybersecurity
2. Water Distribution
a. Hydrant Flushing, Valve Turning Maintenance
b. Leak Detection Monitoring of Water Loss
c. Lead Service Lines Replacement Program
d. Water Use Portal
e. Sheridan Road North of Edgecliffe Drive Project
Objectives – Sewer Fund
1. Maintenance of Storm and Sanitary Systems
2. Televise, Clean and Flush Sewers
a. Sanitary Sewers Flushing (3-yr Cycle)
b. Storm Manholes and Inlets Cleanup
c. Storm Sewers Flushing (7-yr Cycle)
3. Ravines and Bluff Inspections
4. Sewer Spot Repairs
5. Voluntary Sewer Lateral Program
6. Sheridan Road North of Edgecliffe Drive Storm Sewer Project
Page 66 of 120
Memorandum
Objectives – Parking
1. Capital
a. Parking Lots Striping
b. Patching & Miscellaneous Parking Lot Repairs
c. Complete design and construction of the following lots:
i. Ravinia Train Station (west of tracks)
ii. Central Train Station (east of tracks)
iii. Public Works Yard & Fire Training
d. Maintenance - Snow, Ice Control, and hauling operations
Public Works Equipment Budget
2026 Budget vs. 2026 Total Expenditures
2026 2025 Estimate
Expenditures Budget Incr. / (Decr.) Personnel 36%
Personnel 744,600 36,500 5% Capital 34%
Contractual Services 164,800 50,200 44%
Matl. & Sup. 22%
Materials and Supplies 443,100 (2,300) 0%
Contract Svcs. 8%
Capital, Transfer, Debt 700,000 (512,100) -42%
Total General Fund 2,052,500 (427,700) -17% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80%
Public Works Equipment Notable Budget Comments:
1. Continue reviewing existing fleet needs, partnering with other departments and users, to
identify purchases, equipment maintenance costs, and other solutions in maintaining a
viable cost-effective rolling fleet.
2. Continue training on new and old equipment. Continue reviewing existing fleet needs,
partnering with other departments and users, to identify purchases, equipment
maintenance costs, and other solutions in maintaining a viable cost-effective rolling fleet.
3. Reorganization of the shop floor to increase productivity and safety.
4. Continue researching and reviewing alternative fuels and technologies, including
upcoming advancements in heavy equipment, as part of the City’s ongoing effort to reduce
emissions.
5. 2026 capital replacements include:
a. Replace jet truck with a combination sewer truck.
Page 67 of 120
Memorandum
Capital Project Management – 2026
39,658,400 2026 Capital Improvements
13,346,000 Water System Improvements
7,980,000 Lead Service Line Replacement Program Water DistributionEngineering
1,750,000 Membrane Replacements Water Production/Engineering
1,000,000 Sheridan Rd, North to Edgecliff Water DistributionEngineering
750,000 Sheridan Rd Sidewalk/Relocate Utilities Water DistributionEngineering
600,000 54" Intake Pipe Extension Design & Constr Water DistributionEngineering
205,000 High Lift #2 & Pumps #4/5 Varbl. Freq. Dr. Rplcmt. Water Production/Engineering
180,000 Judson Ave Bridge Water DistributionEngineering
120,000 Wade Ave Bridge Water DistributionEngineering
100,000 Insertion Valve Water DistributionEngineering
75,000 Beech Ln/Beech St Bridge Water DistributionEngineering
70,000 Dean Ave Bridge Water DistributionEngineering
55,000 Meters/Interconnects Water DistributionEngineering
50,000 Briergate Bus. Dist. Improvements Water DistributionEngineering
30,000 St. Johns Bridge Water DistributionEngineering
30,000 Pedestrain Bridge over US 41 Water DistributionEngineering
351,000 All Other All Water Areas
7,961,000 Road and Parking Rehabilitation
3,300,000 Asphalt & Concrete Street Improvement
3,055,000 Parking Lots and Decks Maintenance/Repair
600,000 Clavey - US 41 to Green Bay Street Improvement
485,000 Briergate Bus. Dist. Improvements Street Improvement
300,000 Beech Ln, NE Beech Ln to Beech St Street Improvement
65,000 Public Works Yard Roadway Street Improvement
55,000 Green Bay Rd - Central to Clavey Street Improvement
101,000 All Other Maintenance/Repair
4,390,000 Sewer Systems Improvements
1,380,000 Sheridan Rd, North to Edgecliffe Storm Sewer
540,000 Clavey, US 41 to Green Bay Storm Sewer
500,000 Sheridan Rd Sidewalk Storm Sewer
360,000 Judson Avenue Bridge Storm & Sanitary Sewer
320,000 Flood Mitigation Management Program Storm Sewer
240,000 Wade Ave. Storm & Sanitary Sewer
225,000 Lining, Inspection, Lateral, Treatment Storm & Sanitary Sewer
200,000 Park Ave West Bridge Sanitary Sewer
170,000 Beech Ln/Beech St Bridge Storm & Sanitary Sewer
150,000 Briergate Bus. Dist. Improvements Storm Sewer
60,000 St Johns Avenue Bridge Storm & Sanitary Sewer
45,000 Dean Ave Bridge Storm & Sanitary Sewer
30,000 Pedestrain Bridge over US 41 Storm Sewer
25,000 Lift Station and Pump Improvements Sanitary Sewer
145,000 All Other Storm & Sanitary Sewer
4,050,000 Sidewalks and MoveHP Plan Improvements
3,655,000 Facilities Improvements (Priority 1)
2,423,400 Fleet and Equipment
700,000 Combo 2 Unit Sewer Truck Replacement and Upgrade
525,000 Ambulance & FD Staff Vehicles Replacement
507,000 Information Technology Equipment Replacement and Upgrade
310,400 Police Vehicles (2 Patrol, 2 Admin, 1 Mechanic) Replacement and Upgrade to Hybrd
222,000 Public Safety Equipment Replacement Replacement and Upgrade
159,000 Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System Replacement and Upgrade
1,218,000 Business District Improvements
1,218,000 Ravinia TIF District Development Artwork
1,075,000 Bridge Design and Repairs
300,000 Park Ave West Improvements
180,000 Judson Ave Bridge Improvements
175,000 Ped Bridge over US 41 Improvements
120,000 Wade Ave. Improvements
100,000 Inspections & Consulting Improvements
85,000 Beech Street Bridge Improvements
85,000 Dean Ave Bridge Improvements
30,000 All Other Improvements
715,000 Street Lighting and Striping Improvements
650,000 Ravine Improvements Improvements
175,000 Forestry - Tree Planting Replacement and Upgrade
Page 68 of 120
Memorandum
Capital Project Management – 10-Year Plan
Capital Projects Communication Plan
The City is regularly evaluating and enhancing its communication modalities. Below are
highlights of standard operating procedures for construction projects.
1. During Design
a. Notification Letters
b. Open House (Public Meeting)
2. During Construction
a. Electronic Message Boards
b. Dedicated Project Webpage
c. Signage On-Site
d. Advance Notifications
e. Frequent Updates
f. Social Media & Email Blasts
g. City Website Regular Project Updates
Page 69 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Thomas Schroeder, Accounting Manager
Kristi McCaulou, Finance Director
Department: Finance Department
Title: Approval of Water Rates Effective January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026
Recommendation:
Water rates are recommended to be approved effective January 1, 2026 through December 31,
2026. The Water Rates were discussed with the City Council as part of the FY 2026 budget
development process.
Policy Consideration:
The City has a uniform water service agreement with the municipal customers of Deerfield,
Lincolnshire, Bannockburn and the Glenbrook Sanitary District, including a term spanning years
Page 70 of 120
2008 through 2033. Section 7 of the agreement defines the method in which the water rate
assessed to both contract and residential customers is determined. The agreement calls for an
annual adjustment in the water rate, if needed, each January 1 and requires that the City give
notice of the water rate by November 1 of the preceding year. A copy of the water rate pricing
model supporting the proposed rate is included as Attachment I. City Council reviewed the
proposed water rate calculation during the September 8, 2025 budget workshop. The base water
rate of $3.466 per 100 cf is adjusted for meters and billing services for Highland Park residential
customers and for an export surcharge for municipal contract customers. The proposed water rate
of $4.267 for Highland Park residential customers continues to be one of the lowest in the
Chicagoland area.
Notification of the proposed rate was provided verbally to the contract customers during the
City’s Annual Water Customers meeting held on September 3, 2025 with written notification
letters to be distributed by November 1, 2025 as per contract. The proposed rate continues the
City’s tiered water rate structure, which first became effective in 2013 as part of the City’s water
conservation and efficiency initiative. The water rate structure includes the base rate, or “tier 1”
rate, a second tier rate for usage of 6,001 to 8,000 cf of water, and a third tier rate for usage
above 8001 cf of water.
The water usage charge ensures the financial sustainability of the Water Fund, financing
operational costs and capital investments for the water system, which are not subsidized by City
tax revenues. The City plans water system improvements to preserve and enhance the overall
quality of water service. The City strives to control operating costs, ensuring the City’s rates
remain competitive with other municipalities. Highland Park residents and the City’s contract
customers will continue to benefit from one of the lowest water rates in the area, as shown in
Attachment II.
Section 50.280 of the City Code provides that water rates shall be established by the Annual Fee
Resolution, which is currently scheduled for City Council adoption on November 24, 2025 along
with adoption of the 2026 budget. Approval of water rates is necessary at this time in order to
make the notification to outside customers by November 1, 2025, as required by the water
service agreements.
Core Priorities:
Fiscal Stability
The proposed FY 2026 Highland Park resident water of $4.267 per 100 cf is a $0.144 increase
from the FY 2025 rate. The total revenue impact to the City is a year-to-year increase of
approximately $480,000 versus the 2025 estimate.
Attachments:
1. RFCA Attachment I - Annual Rate Calculation 2026
2. RFCA Attachment II - Water Rate Comparables
Page 71 of 120
WATER RATE PRICING MODEL Fiscal Public Economic Infrastructure Environmental
Vibrancy
Stability Safety Development Investment Sustainability
(CCF BASED) WATER RATES
PROPOSED JANUARY 1, 2026 Attachment I
Rate Allocation Highland Park Municipal/
1 Rate/100cf Resident Non-Resident
Base Basis
Past Year % Total 46.65% 53.35%
Operations:
Production $4,010,800 3.10 $0.967 $0.967 $0.967
Distribution $1,524,100 3.10 $0.367 $0.367 $0.367
Total Operations $5,534,900 $1.334 $1.334 $1.334
Capital:
Annual $5,391,000 3.10 $1.300 $1.300 $1.300
Debt Service $3,236,400 3.10 $0.780 $0.780 $0.780
Total Capital $8,627,400 $2.080 $2.080 $2.080
Services $216,200 3.10 $0.052 $0.052 $0.052
Base Rate $14,378,500 $3.466 $3.466 $3.466
Other Costs:
Export Surcharge2 $1,150,600 1.66 $0.520 $0.000 $0.520
Meters $575,500 0.85 $0.505 $0.505 $0.000
Lead S.L. Debt Svc.3 $166,700 0.76 $0.146 $0.146 $0.000
Billing $171,000 0.85 $0.150 $0.150 $0.000
Total $16,275,600 2026 Rate: $4.267 $3.986
2025 Rate: $4.122 $3.851
Increase: $0.144 $0.134
Notes:
1. Allocation Basis indicates either 1) the volume of water demand (expressed in billions)
over which costs in the rate base are spread or 2) the water export surcharge.
2. Water export surcharge is 15% effective July 1, 2010.
3. Lead service line debt service starts in 2026 and will only be charged to Highland Park
residents and not to municipal non-resident customers.
Page 72 of 120
Attachment II
WATER FUND
WATER RATE COMPARABLES Fiscal
Stability
Public
Safety
Economic
Development
Infrastructure
Investment
Environmental
Sustainability
Vibrancy
Residential Water Rates (Per 100 Cubic Feet)
$0 $1 $2 $3 $4 $5 $6 $7 $8 $9 $10 $11 $12
Wilmette 2025 $2.75
Lake Forest 2025 $3.37
Chicago 2025 $3.66
Waukegan 2026 $3.67
Highland Park 2025 $4.12
Highland Park 2026P $4.27
Gurnee 2025 $4.49
Northbrook 2025 $4.69
St. Charles 2026 $4.71
Evanston 2025
Lincolnwood 2025
Buffalo Grove 2025
Kenilworth 2025
Libertyville 2026
Glenview 2025
Wheeling 2025
Lake Bluff 2025
Des Plaines 2025
Winnetka 2025
Arlington Heights 2025
Grayslake 2025
Skokie 2025
Mundelein 2025
Glencoe 2025
Park Ridge 2025
Mount Prospect 2025 $11.59
Source: Highland Park Finance Department Survey of local municipalities
Page 73 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Ron Bannon, Director of Public Works
Department: Public Works Department
Title: A Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City’s Purchasing Manual
and Approving an Agreement with Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., of Vernon Hills, Illinois,
for Professional Surveying Services
Recommendation:
Staff recommends waiving formal bidding requirements and awarding the Professional
Surveying Services Contract for the Public Services Building and Fire Station #34 property to
Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., Vernon Hills, IL, for the not-to-exceed price of $45,000.
Although a waiver is requested, the City sought proposals for this work and recommends a
contract with Gewalt Hamilton which was the lowest and most responsible respondent.
Policy Consideration:
The Public Services Building was constructed in 1974 and renovated in 2000, and Fire Station 34
was constructed in 1978. The two City-owned facilities are located at 1100-1150 Half Day Road,
Highland Park. The City’s preliminary evaluation identified that the current facilities need
redevelopment or substantial renovation. On September 25th, City Council awarded the contract
for architectural services to Williams Architecture.
In order to perform the design of these building improvements, a survey of the entire property is
needed. The City has several engineering firms under contract that perform this type of work.
For this reason, the initial survey work was not included in the architectural firm’s scope of
work. The City solicited proposals from two firms currently under contract, as well as from the
civil engineering firm that is part of the Williams Architecture project team, Gewalt Hamilton
Associates, Inc.
The scope of work includes:
• Documentation of existing conditions across the entire parcel
• Topographic survey, including ROW
• Benchmark identification
• Spot elevations
Page 74 of 120
• Location of underground and visible utilities
• Tree tagging
• Plat of Survey
Ultimately, Gewalt Hamilton Associates provided the low and responsible proposal at a price of
$39,000. The total cost recommended for this project is $45,000, which includes an approximate
15% ($6,000) contingency to account for any unforeseen circumstances or changes identified
during the field portion of the work. In addition, Gewalt Hamilton Associates provides
continuity, as this firm will be performing the civil engineering work for Williams Architecture
as the project moves forward.
Core Priorities:
Fiscal Stability
Sufficient funding for this work has been budgeted in the FY 2025, 2026, and 2027 Capital
Budget.
Attachments:
1. Proposal 2025.CS103 CoHP Fire Station & Public Services Center
Page 75 of 120
City of Highland Park
Resolution No.
A Resolution Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City’s Purchasing Manual
and Approving an Agreement with Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., of Vernon Hills,
Illinois, for Professional Surveying Services
WHEREAS, the City Department of Public Works has identified the need to complete a survey
of the entire Public Services Building property in preparation of its anticipated redevelopment or
renovation (“Services”); and
WHEREAS, the City solicited proposals from two engineering firms currently under indefinite
quantities contracts to perform miscellaneous engineering services; and
WHEREAS, Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., of Vernon Hills, Illinois (“Consultant”),
provided the low and responsible proposal for the provision of the Services; and
WHEREAS, the City desires to enter into an agreement with the Consultant for the provision of
the Services (“Agreement”); and
WHEREAS, in order to award the Agreement to the Consultant, the City Council has
determined that it is appropriate to waive competitive bidding for the Agreement, in accordance
with the City’s Purchasing and Fixed Asset Policies and Procedures Manual (“Purchasing
Manual”); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that entering into the Agreement with the
Consultant will serve and be in the best interest of the City;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF HIGHLAND
PARK, LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, as follows:
SECTION ONE: RECITALS. The foregoing recitals are incorporated into, and made a part
of, this Resolution as findings of the City Council.
SECTION TWO: WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING REQUIREMENTS. The
advertising and bidding requirements for the Agreement are hereby waived in accordance with
the Purchasing Manual and the home rule powers of the City.
SECTION THREE: APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT. The Agreement by and between the
City and the Consultant is hereby approved in substantially the form attached to this Resolution
as Exhibit A.
SECTION FOUR: EXECUTION OF AGREEMENT. The City Manager and the Deputy
City Clerk are hereby authorized and directed to execute and attest the Agreement with the
Consultant, upon receipt by the City Clerk of at least one original copy of the Agreement
executed by the Consultant; provided, however, that if an executed copy of the Agreement is not
received by the City Clerk within 30 days after the effective date of this Resolution, then this
authority to execute and attest the Agreement will, at the option of the City Council, be null and
void.
SECTION FIVE: EFFECTIVE DATE. This Resolution will be in full force and effect from
and after its passage, by a vote of two-thirds of the City Council, and approval in the manner
provided by law.
Page 76 of 120
Page 77 of 120
June 20, 2025
Chief Joe Schrage
City of Highland Park
1707 St. Johns Avenue
Highland Park, IL 60035
Re: Proposal for Professional Services
Fire Station #34 & Public Services Center
1100 Half Day Road
Highland Park, IL
GHA Proposal No. 2025.CS103
Dear Chief Schrage:
Thank you for your consideration of Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc. (GHA) in providing the
Professional Surveying Services for the City of Highland Park Public Services Center and Fire
Station #34 Improvements. We are submitting this proposal as we are aware of the impending
improvements at the subject property. The scope of this survey is what would be needed for the
design of that facility.
I am available to discuss this proposal at your convenience. We are pleased to have the
opportunity to make our services available to you and look forward to assisting you with this
important project.
Sincerely,
Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc.
Donald E. Matthews, P.E., CFM
Vice President
dmatthews@gha-engineers.com
847-821-6220
Encl.: GHA Proposal No. 2025.CS103
Page 78 of 120
City of Highland Park
Fire Station #34 & Public Services Center
GHA Proposal No. 2025.CS103
The City of Highland Park, 1707 St. Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035 and Gewalt Hamilton
Associates, Inc. (GHA), 625 Forest Edge Drive, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, agree and contract as follows:
I. Project Understanding
The City of Highland Park seeks to redevelop/modernize the fire station and the Public Services Center
located at 1100-1150 Half Day Road, Highland Park, Illinois. The site is home to the Public Works
Department and Community Development Department within its Public Services Center building, and
Fire Station #34 in a separate building. The Public Services Building was constructed in 1974 and
renovated in 2000, and Fire Station #34 was constructed in 1978.
The total survey area encompasses approximately 16.75 acres, which spans across the Skokie River (the
East Fork of the North Branch of the Chicago River). The section of the property located on the eastern
side of the river is about 8.75 acres and is designated for improvement. The boundaries of the current
conditions will extend from the eastern edge of the Skokie River to the west, a portion of the golf course
path situated south of the southern boundary line, and a 25-foot overlay along the eastern property line.
Additionally, the residence at 1072 Half Day Road will be included in the existing conditions.
Considering the possible requirement for roadway and traffic signal design, the existing conditions and
Right-of-Way (ROW) will encompass Half Day Road (IL Rt. 22) extending from the Skokie River at the
western boundary, to the eastern ROW line of Compton Avenue. Additionally, existing conditions and
ROW will be necessary on Summit Avenue, stretching from Half Day Road to a point 200 feet north of
the northern ROW line of Half Day Road. The total area of the existing condition and topographic survey
including ROW, land east of the river, residential lot, survey overlap, and the portion of the preserve, is
13.7 acres. See attached Survey Limits Exhibit.
As the southern third of the site falls within the designated regulatory floodplain, GHA will utilize the
National Geodetic Survey (NGS) NAVD ’88 benchmarks for determining elevations. Throughout this
procedure, GHA will verify elevations against the benchmarks provided by the City of Highland Park and
Lake County.
II. Scope of Services
The survey will meet or exceed the Minimum Standards of Practice as set forth by the Illinois
Administrative Code for a Topographic Survey. Accordingly, we will provide the following services:
A. Existing Conditions Topographic Survey
1. Obtain benchmark information (NAVD88) from NGS, County, and the City of Highland
Park.
2. Horizontal coordinates shall be referenced to the State Plane Coordinate System, Illinois
East Zone, NAD83 adjustment. Vertical elevations shall be referenced to the North
American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD88). All units shall be U.S. Survey feet and
decimal parts thereof.
June 20, 2025 2025.CS103 Page 2 of 5
Page 79 of 120
3. Establish two (2) permanent site benchmark(s) (i.e., crosses or boxes cut on concrete,
flange bolts on fire hydrants, etc.) on-site.
4. Contours will be provided at 1’-0” maximum vertical intervals; error shall not exceed one-
half the contour interval.
5. The limits of the topography will overlap 25’ onto adjacent property boundaries. See
Survey Limits Exhibit attached.
6. Spot elevations will be provided on a maximum 50-foot grid covering the entire
property. Paved areas will have a grid density of approximately 30’. High points and low
points will be shown. Overflow routes will also be shown.
7. The survey will show the location of the visible, physical improvements on the site (e.g.,
structures, fencing, site furniture, walks, curbing, etc.).
8. The location of underground utilities, both observed and from available record
information, will be provided, including the location and size of water mains, fire
hydrants, and valves. The survey will show depth, size, and direction of flow for all
sanitary, storm drains, and culverts serving the property. The location of all manholes,
catch basins and all pipe inverts that are accessible will be depicted. The cost for marking
private utilities is not included in this proposal, but GHA will include this information if
the Client arranges to have private utilities marked in the field.
9. Location of “dry” utilities such as telephone, electric, gas and cable T.V. lines, etc. will be
depicted based on visual surface evidence and a JULIE design stage locate. The cost for
marking of private utilities is not included in this proposal, but GHA will include this
information if the Client arranges to have private utilities marked in the field prior to our
field visit.
10. Trees 6” caliper or greater will be shown as deciduous or coniferous. GHA will tag the
trees that are located upon request by the client. Species/condition reports are not
included.
B. Plat of Survey
GHA will complete a Boundary Survey of the subject parcels. The boundary survey will be
based upon current commitments for title insurance or recorded deeds, to be provided by the
Client. The plat will be prepared and certified by a Licensed Illinois Professional Land Surveyor.
The Plat of Survey will show all boundary lines with bearings and distances, all encroachments
onto or outside of the boundary lines, any easements of record found at the time of the Survey,
found or set boundary monuments, and all visible on-site surface improvements. The survey
will be prepared in accordance with the pertaining Illinois Minimum Standards for Boundary
Surveys.
III. Services Not Included
Any service not enumerated in Section II. Scope of Services, including, but not limited to the
following, is not included in this proposal/agreement. These services may be provided at the request
of the Client as an additional service. GHA will provide the Client with an estimate of the additional
work scope and request authorization to proceed prior to commencing additional services.
1. Preparation of ALTA/NSPS Land Title Survey, Easement Plats, Consolidation Plats, or
other survey documents beyond those noted;
June 20, 2025 2025.CS103 Page 3 of 5
Page 80 of 120
2. Meetings with public officials, agencies, or architects, etc.;
3. Tree inventory;
4. Any other survey services not specified in Section II. Scope of Services.
IV. Compensation for Services
Based upon the scope of services, GHA proposes a fee breakdown as shown below.
Phase Cost
Existing Conditions & Topographic Survey (East of River, ROW & $20,500.00
Preserve – approximately 13.7 acres)
Plat of Survey (Entire Parcel and Residential Lot – approximately 16.75 $17,500.00
acres)
Lump Sum Fee $38,000.00
Estimated Reimbursable Expenses $1,000.00
Lump Sum + Reimbursables $39,000.00
Reimbursable expenses, including items such as printing, mileage, messenger service, record
documents, and other non-technical project related expenses, will be billed to the Client at cost.
Additional services requested and authorized by the Client, beyond those outlined in Section II:
Scope of Services, will be billed on a time-and-materials (T&M) basis in accordance with the
attached GHA Hourly Rates.
Invoices will be submitted on a monthly basis and will detail charges made against the project and
services performed. This allows the Client to review the status of the work in progress and the
charges made.
V. General Conditions
The delineated services provided by Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., (GHA) under this Agreement
will be performed as reasonably required in accordance with the generally accepted standards for
civil engineering and surveying services as reflected in the contract for this project at the time when
and the place where the services are performed.
Nothing contained in this Agreement shall create a contractual relationship with or a cause of action
in favor of a third party against either the Client or GHA. GHA’s services under this Agreement are
being performed solely for the Client’s benefit, and no other party or entity shall have any claim
against GHA because of this Agreement or the performance or nonperformance of services
hereunder. In no event shall GHA be liable for any loss of profit or any consequential damages.
The Client and GHA agree that all disputes between them arising out of or relating to this Agreement
or the Project shall be submitted to nonbinding mediation in Chicago, Illinois unless the parties
mutually agree otherwise.
GHA, Inc. shall not have control of and shall not be responsible for construction means, methods,
techniques, sequences, or procedures, or for job site safety measures. Such control is the sole
responsibility of the Client’s contractor.
June 20, 2025 2025.CS103 Page 4 of 5
Page 81 of 120
This Agreement, including all subparts and Attachment A, which is attached hereto and
incorporated herein as the General Provisions of this Agreement, constitute the entire integrated
agreement between the parties which may not be modified without all parties consenting thereto
in writing.
By signing below, you indicate your acceptance of this Agreement in its entirety.
Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc. City of Highland Park
Mark M. Hamilton, P.L.S. By: __________________________________________
Project Manager
Its: ___________________________________________
Date:
Encl.: Attachment A
GHA Hourly Rates
Survey Limits Exhibit
June 20, 2025 2025.CS103 Page 5 of 5
Page 82 of 120
ATTACHMENT A TO GEWALT HAMILTON ASSOCIATES, INC.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
1. Standard of Care. The services provided by Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc., (GHA) under this Agreement will be reasonably
performed consistent with the generally accepted standard of care for the Scope of Basic Services called for herein at the time when and the
place where the services are provided. GHA will use reasonable care to comply with applicable codes and laws in effect at the time its services
are provided.
2. Duration of Proposal. The terms of this Agreement are subject to renegotiation if not accepted within 60 calendar days of the date
indicated on this Agreement. Requests for extension beyond 60 calendar days shall be made in writing prior to the expiration date. The fees
and terms of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect for one year from the date of acceptance of this Agreement, and shall be
subject to revision at that time, or any time thereafter if GHA gives written notice to the other party at least 60 calendar days prior to the
requested date of revision. In the event that the parties fail to agree on the new rates or other revisions, either party may terminate this Agreement
as provided for herein.
3. Client Information. Client shall provide GHA will all project criteria and full information for its Scope of Basic Services. GHA may
rely, without liability, on the accuracy and completeness of the information Client provides, including that of its other consultants, contractors
and subcontractors, without independently verifying that information.
4. Payment. Payments are due within 30 calendar days after a statement is rendered. Statements not paid within 60 calendar days of the
end of the calendar month when the statement is rendered will bear interest at the rate of one percent (1.0%) per month until paid. The provision
for the payment of interest shall not be construed as authorization to pay late. Failure of the Client to make payments when due shall, in GHA’s
sole discretion, be cause for suspension of services without breach or termination of this agreement. Upon notification by GHA of suspension
of services, Client shall pay in full all outstanding invoices within 7 calendar days. Client’s failure to make such payment to GHA shall constitute
a material breach of the Agreement and shall be cause for termination by GHA. GHA shall be entitled to reimbursement of all costs actually
incurred by GHA in collecting overdue accounts under this Agreement, including, without limitations, attorney’s fees and costs. GHA shall
have no liability for any claims or damages arising from either suspension or termination of this Agreement due to Client’s breach The Client’s
obligation to pay for GHA’s services is in no way dependent upon the Client’s ability to obtain financing, rezoning, payment from a third party,
approval of governmental or regulatory agencies or the Client’s completion of the project.
5. Instruments of Service. The Client acknowledges GHA’s plans and specifications, including field data, notes, calculations, and all
documents or electronic data, are instruments of service. GHA shall retain ownership rights over all original documents and instruments of
service. All instruments of service provided by GHA shall be reviewed by Client within 10 calendar days of receipt. Any deficiencies, errors,
or omissions the Client discovers during this period will be reported to GHA and will be corrected as part of GHA’s Basic Services. Failure to
provide such notice shall constitute a waiver. The Client shall not reuse or make, or permit to be made, any modifications to the instruments of
service without the prior written authorization of GHA. The Client waives all claims against GHA arising from any reuse or modification of
the instruments of service not authorized by GHA. The Client agrees, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to defend and indemnify and hold
GHA harmless from any liability, damage, or cost, including attorneys’ fees, arising from the unauthorized reuse or modification of the
instruments of service by any person or entity. The parties agree that if elements of the Scope of Basic Services identified in this Agreement
are reduced and/or eliminated by Client, then Client waives, releases and holds GHA harmless from all claims and damages arising from those
reduced and/or eliminated services. If GHA’s Scope of Basic Services does not include construction administration phase services, Client
assumes responsibility for interpretation of the instruments of service and construction observation, and waives all claims against GHA for any
act, omission or event connected thereto. Unless included in GHA’s Scope of Basic Services, GHA shall not be liable for coordination with of
the services of Client’s other design professionals.
6. Electronic Files. The Client acknowledges that differences may exist between the electronic files delivered and the printed instruments
of service. In the event of a conflict between the signed / sealed printed instruments of service prepared by GHA and the electronic files, the
signed / sealed instruments of service shall control. GHA’s electronic files shall be prepared in the current software GHA uses and will follow
GHA’s standard formatting unless the Scope of Basic Services requires otherwise. Client accepts that GHA makes no warranty that its software
will be compatible with other systems or software.
7. Applicable Codes. The Client acknowledges that applicable laws, codes and regulations may be subject to various, and possibly
contradictory, interpretations. Client accepts that GHA does not warrant or guarantee that the Client’s project will comply with interpretations
of applicable laws, codes, and regulations as they may be interpreted to the project. Client agrees that GHA shall not be responsible for added
project costs, delay damages, or schedule changes arising from unreasonable or unexpected interpretations of the laws, codes, or regulations
applied to the project, nor for changes required by the permitting authorities due to changes in the law that became effective after completion
of GHA’s instruments of service. Client shall compensate GHA for additional fees required to revise the instruments of service to comply with
such interpretations. Client shall also compensate GHA for additional fees required to revise the instruments of service if Client changes the
project scope after GHA’s completes its instruments of service.
8. Utilities and Soils. When the instruments of service include information pertaining to the location of underground utility facilities or
soils, such information represents only the opinion of the engineer as to the possible locations. This information may be obtained from visible
surface evidence, utility company records or soil borings performed by others, and is not represented to be the exact location or nature of these
utilities or soils in the field. Client agrees that GHA may reasonably rely on the accuracy and completeness of information furnished by third
parties respecting utilities, underground conditions and soils without performing any independent verification. Contractor is solely responsible
for utility locations, their markings in the field and their placement on the plans based on information they provided. Client agrees GHA is not
liable for damages resulting from utility conflicts, mistaken utility locates, unfavorable soils, and concealed or unforeseen conditions, including
but not limited to added construction costs and/or project delays. If the Client wishes to obtain the services of a contractor to provide test holes
and exact utility locations, GHA may incorporate that information into the design and reasonably rely upon it. If not included in the Scope of
Basic Services, such work will be compensated as additional services.
Attachment A, July, 2018 Page 1 of 2 Page 83 of 120
9. Opinion of Probable Construction Costs. GHA’s Scope of Basic Services may include the preparation of an opinion of probable
construction costs. Client acknowledges that GHA has no control over the costs of labor, materials, or equipment, or over the contractor’s
methods of determining prices, or over competitive bidding or market conditions. Opinions of probable costs, shall be made on the basis of
experience and qualifications applied to the project scope contemplated by this Agreement as well as information provided by Client (the
accuracy and completeness of which GHA may rely upon), and represent GHA’s reasonable judgment. Client accepts that GHA does not
guarantee or warrant that proposals, bids, or the actual construction costs will not vary from opinions of probable cost prepared for the Client.
GHA shall not be liable for cost differentials between the bid and/or actual costs and GHA’s opinion of probable construction costs. Client
agrees it shall employ an independent cost estimator if, based on its sole determination, it wants more certainty respecting construction costs.
10. Contractor’s Work. Client agrees that GHA does not have control or charge of and is not responsible for construction means,
methods, techniques, sequences or procedures, or for site or worker safety measures and programs including enforcement of Federal, State and
local safety requirements, in connection with construction work performed by the Client or the Client’s construction contractors. GHA is not
responsible for the supervision and coordination of Client’s construction contractors, subcontractors, materialmen, fabricators, erectors,
operators, suppliers, or any of their employees, agents and representatives of such workers, or responsible for any machinery, construction
equipment, or tools used and employed by contractors and subcontractors. GHA has no authority or right to stop the work. GHA may not direct
or instruct the construction work in any regard. In no event shall GHA be liable for the acts or omissions of Client’s construction contractors,
subcontractors, materialmen, fabricators, erectors, operators or suppliers, or any persons or entities performing any of the work, or for failure
of any of them to carry out their work as called for by the Construction Documents. The Client agrees that the Contractor is solely responsible
for jobsite and worker safety and warrants that this intent shall be included in the Client’s agreement with all prime contractors. The Client
agrees that GHA and GHA’s personnel and consultants (if any) shall be defended/indemnified by the Contractor for all claims asserted against
GHA which arise out of the Contractor’s or its subcontractors’ negligence, errors or omissions in the performance of their work, and shall also
be named as an additional insured on the Contractor’s and subcontractors’ general liability insurance policy. Client warrants that this intent
shall be included in the Client’s agreement with all prime contractors. If the responsible prime contractor’s agreement fails to comply with the
Client’s intent, then the Client agrees to assume the duty to defend and indemnify GHA for claims arising out of the Contractor’s or
subcontractors’ negligence, errors or omissions in the performance of their work.
11. Contractor Submittals. Shop drawing and submittal reviews by GHA shall apply only to the items in the submissions that concern
GHA’s scope of Basic Services and only for the purpose of assessing if, upon successful incorporation in the project, they are generally
consistent with the GHA’s Instruments of Service. Client agrees that the Contractor is solely responsible for the submissions and for compliance
with the Instruments of Service. Owner agrees that GHA’s review and action in relation to the submissions does not constitute the provision of
means, methods, techniques, sequencing or procedures of construction or extend to jobsite or worker safety. GHA’s consideration of a
component does not constitute acceptance of an assembled item.
12. Hazardous Materials. Client agrees that GHA has no responsibility or liability for any hazardous or toxic materials, contaminants or
pollutants.
13. Record Drawings. If required by the Scope of Basic Services, record drawings will be prepared which may include unverified
information compiled and furnished by others, the accuracy and completeness of which GHA may reasonably rely upon. Client accepts that
GHA shall not verify the information provided to it and agrees GHA will not be responsible for any errors or omissions in the record drawings
due to incorrect or incomplete information furnished by others to GHA.
14. Disputes. Client agrees to limit GHA’s total aggregate liability to the Client for GHA’s alleged acts, errors or omissions to $50,000
or the amount of GHA’s paid fees for its services on the project, whichever is greater. GHA’s liability to Client shall be limited to twelve
months from the last invoice submitted to Client by GHA, regardless of payment by Client. GHA makes no guarantees or warranties, either
expressed or implied, including any warranty of habitability or fitness for a particular purpose. The parties agree to waive all claims against
the other for any and all consequential damages, including attorneys’ fees. The parties agree to waive against each other all rights and claims
otherwise covered by property insurance, by builder’s risk insurance or by all risk insurance, including but not limited to subrogation rights
regardless of whether the claims arise during or post-construction and regardless of final payment to GHA.
All disputes arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall first be negotiated between the parties. If unresolved, the dispute shall be
submitted to mediation as a condition precedent to litigation. Mediation shall take place in Chicago, Illinois unless the Client and GHA mutually
agree otherwise. The fees and costs of the mediator shall be apportioned equally between the parties. If mediation is unsuccessful, litigation
shall be the form of dispute resolution and shall be filed in the jurisdiction where the project was pending. The controlling law shall be the law
of the jurisdiction where the project was located. Client agrees that all causes of action under this Agreement shall be deemed to have accrued
and all statutory limitations periods shall commence no later than the date of GHA’s services being substantially completed. Client agrees that
any claim against GHA arising out of this Agreement shall be asserted only against the entity and not against GHA’s owners, officers, directors,
shareholders, or employees, none of whom shall bear any liability and may not be subject to any claim.
15. Miscellaneous. Either Client or GHA may terminate this Agreement without penalty at any time with or without cause by giving the
other party ten (10) calendar days prior written notice. The Client shall, within thirty (30) calendar days of termination pay GHA for all services
rendered and all costs incurred up to the date of termination in accordance with compensation provisions of this Agreement. Client shall not
assign this Agreement without GHA’s prior written consent. There are no third-party beneficiaries to this Agreement.
Attachment A, July, 2018 Page 2 of 2 Page 84 of 120
GHA PROFESSIONAL SERVICES HOURLY RATE GUIDE:
2025
The following rates will remain in effect until December 31, 2025, at which time they are subject to an
annual increase:
PRINCIPAL $ 270.00 ENGINEER TECHNICIAN V $ 205.00
SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER II $ 255.00 ENGINEER TECHNICIAN IV $ 172.00
SENIOR PROJECT MANAGER I $ 225.00 ENGINEER TECHNICIAN III $ 155.00
PROJECT MANAGER II $ 206.00 ENGINEER TECHNICIAN II $ 130.00
PROJECT MANAGER I $ 182.00 ENGINEER TECHNICIAN I $ 95.00
ENGINEER VI $ 215.00 LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT $ 185.00
ENGINEER V $ 200.00
ENGINEER IV $ 185.00 DATA MANAGER $ 165.00
DATA TECHNICIAN III $ 154.00
ENGINEER III $ 175.00
DATA TECHNICIAN II $ 137.00
ENGINEER II $ 158.00
DATA TECHNICIAN I $ 105.00
ENGINEER I $ 149.00
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE
LAND SURVEYOR IV $ 220.00 $ 200.00
SPECIALIST IV
LAND SURVEYOR III $ 181.00 ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE
$ 180.00
LAND SURVEYOR II $ 160.00 SPECIALIST III
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE
LAND SURVEYOR I $ 140.00 $ 155.00
SPECIALIST II
ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCE
$ 142.00
GIS TECHNICIAN IV $ 192.00 SPECIALIST I
GIS TECHNICIAN III $ 165.00
GIS TECHNICIAN II $ 135.00 ADMINISTRATIVE II $ 118.00
GIS TECHNICIAN I $ 115.00 ADMINISTRATIVE I $ 95.00
CAD MANAGER $230.00 ACCOUNTING MANAGER $ 200.00
CAD TECHNICIAN III $ 158.00 ACCOUNTING II $ 144.00
CAD TECHNICIAN I $ 130.00 ACCOUNTING I $ 135.00
CAD TECHNICIAN I $ 105.00
Services provided under this Agreement will be billed according to the rates in effect at the time
services are rendered.
GEWALT HAMILTON ASSOCIATES, INC. - 625 FOREST EDGE DRIVE - VERNON HILLS, IL 60061
847.478.9700 GHA-Engineers.com
Page 85 of 120
Sources: Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc.
Copyright nearmap 2015
Lake County, Illinois GIS Division
County of Lake, IL, Esri Canada, Esri, HERE, Garmin, INCREMENT P, Intermap, USGS, METI/NASA, EPA, USDA
o
1 in = 230 ft
Plat of Survey Limits
Existing Conditions Limits Survey Limits Exhibit
Gewalt Hamilton Associates, Inc.
This exhibit is for informational purposes and may not have been prepared for, or be suitable for legal, engineering, or surveying purposes. Date:
Page 86 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: Karl Burhop, Senior Planner
Department: Community Development Department
Title: An Ordinance Granting Variances From Article XX of the Zoning Code (The Barn, 1900
First Street)
Recommendation:
Staff recommend granting the requested sign variances, allowing an internally illuminated projecting
sign and internally illuminated wall sign at 1900 First St. (the, “Property”).
Policy Consideration:
The City Council considered this request at its Oct. 6, 2025 meeting, and directed staff
to draft an approval ordinance.
The City Council requested the power supply box be located elsewhere and screened
from view. The ordinance has a Condition C stating:
4903-2688-7281, v. 1
Page 87 of 120
• “Screening of Power Supply Box. The power supply box for the Proposed Signs
must be located on the Property in a manner that is hidden from view from
adjacent rights-of-way.”
Site 1900 First St.
Location: Proposed Amendment.
The Applicant proposes:
Zoning B5 Central Business District
District. • An internally illuminated wall
sign 20.83 sq. ft. in area.
Applicant: Dave Gonzales (APO
Internal illumination requires a
Architecture PC)
Property Imperial Realty Company
sign variance.
Owner: • An illuminated projecting sign
Project Barn Steakhouse Sign Code (also known as a ‘blade’ sign)
Name / Variations at the northeast corner of the
Description façade 2.8 sq. ft. in area[1].
Internal illumination,
encroaching into or over the public right-of-way, and the sign type (projecting
sign) require variances.
• Installation Hanitatek Solar Bronze 35 Window Film to all First Street facing
windows, one gas lamp sconce, and trimboards to be painted in black matte
finish at two locations.
The Applicant’s narrative explaining the project is in Attachment 1 (no changes from
the Oct. 6 Council meeting). The sign dimensions and design material exhibits are in
Exhibit B (as stated previously the projecting sign was reduced in area; the internal
lighting information is also included. The tenant space (currently vacant) is zoned B5.
The signs are for a tenant that will occupy the first floor. Note that there is an existing
tenant next store (nail salon) with existing signage, all of which shall remain, and are not
part of this review.
Per Sec. 150.2024, one wall identification sign is allowed, up to 90 sq. ft. in area. The
two proposed signs combined are 23.6 sq. ft. the projecting sign will project 27 total
inches.
Public Comment.
No written comments were submitted
Request for Relief.
The applicant requests the following relief to allow one 2.8 Sq. Ft (1.67’’ by 1.67’)
illuminated projecting sign on the façade above the entryway at 12.3’ off the ground and
one illuminated wall sign, which requires the following variations to allow:
• The installation of projecting sign.[2]
• Internal illumination of both the wall sign and projecting sign in the B5 District[3].
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• Encroachment into the ROW[4] for the projecting sign.
Standards for Relief.
There are two sets of standards related to this matter. The first are general that pertain
to all sign and then there are standards particular to projecting signs.
• General Standards per Sec. 150.2031(B):
o “Standards. No variance from the requirements of this Article XX shall be
granted unless the Plan and Design Commission or the City Council, as
the case may be, determines that:
▪ (i) the requested variance is appropriate due to a particular
hardship or special unique circumstance, and
▪ (ii) the requested variance will not defeat the fundamental purposes
and intent of this Article as expressed in Section 150.2002 of this
Chapter, and
▪ (iii) the requested variation will not be detrimental to the public
welfare or injurious to property in the vicinity of the Lot for which a
variance is granted.”
• Specific Standards per the Sign Code Sec. 150.2031(C)(1)(g):
o “To permit a Projecting Sign on a Lot, but only when that Sign is
pedestrian-oriented, is of an artistic nature, and is part of a Sign package.
The mounting brackets of the Projecting Sign shall be an integral part of
the Sign and complementary to the design of the Sign.”
[1] The projecting sign was 3.24 sq. ft. on the prior submission (for the Oct. 6 City Council meeting), and staff indicated the Applicant stated
they would reduce to three sq. ft. or below.
[2] Projecting signs are prohibited per Sec. 150.2027(J), but are allowed by variance per Sec. 150.2031(C)(1)(g).
[3] Internal illumination is prohibited in the B5 Zoning District per Sec. 150.2007, but is allowed by variance per Sec.150.2031(C)(2)
[4] Not complying with Sec. 150.2014(A) and Sec. 150.2027(G).
Core Priorities:
Economic Development. The Barn represents an important addition to the City's restaurant
community that was attracted to the City through its economic development incentives.
Vibrancy. The proposal adds to the vibrancy of downtown by adding visual interest through
high-quality aesthetic design of signs.
Attachments:
1. Ordinance Exhibit A - Legal Description of the Property
2. Ordinance Exhibit B - Sign Plans
3. Ordinanec Exhibit C - Uncondtional Agreement and Consent
4. Attachment 1 - Project Narrative
4903-2688-7281, v. 1
Page 89 of 120
City of Highland Park
Ordinance No.
An Ordinance Granting Variances From Article XX of the Zoning Code (The Barn, 1900
First Street)
WHEREAS, Imperial Realty Company, an Illinois corporation (“Owner”), is the
record title owner of the real property located in the B5 Central Business District of the
City (“B5 District”), commonly known as 1900 First Street, and legally described in
Exhibit A attached to and, by this reference, made a part of this Ordinance
(“Property”); and
WHEREAS, the Property is improved with a one-story commercial structure
(“Building”); and
WHEREAS, The Barn Steakhouse 2, LLC, an Illinois limited liability company
(“Applicant”), desires to operate a restaurant in the Building; and
WHEREAS, the Applicant desires to install (i) a new internally-illuminated sign
on the Building that will project from the Building and into the First Street public
right-of-way (“Proposed Projecting Sign”); and (ii) a new internally-illuminated wall
sign on the Building (“Proposed Wall Sign”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 150.2027(J) of the “City of Highland Park
Zoning Ordinance of 1997,” as amended (“Zoning Code”), projecting signs are
prohibited in the City; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 150.2007(A)(3) of the Zoning Code, signs may
not be internally illuminated; and
WHEREAS, Sections 150.2014(A) and 150.2027(G) of the Zoning Code prohibit
signs that are located in, or project over, any public right-of-way and
WHEREAS, the Applicant, with the consent of the Owner, has filed an
application for variances from Sections 150.2007(A)(3), 150.2014(A), 150.2027(J), and
150.2027(G) of the Zoning Code to permit the installation of the Proposed Projecting
Sign and Proposed Wall Sign (collectively, the “Proposed Signs”) on the Property
(collectively, the “Requested Variances”); and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 150.2031(C)(2) of the Zoning Code, the City
Council is authorized to consider and grant the Requested Variances; and
WHEREAS, at its regularly scheduled meeting on October 20, 2025, the City
4903-2688-7281, v. 1
Page 90 of 120
Council heard and considered the Applicant’s request for the Requested Variances; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that the Requested Variances
meet the required standards for variances from Article XX of the Zoning Code, as set
forth in Section 150.2031(B) of the Zoning Code; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it will serve and be in the
best interest of the City to grant the Requested Variances to permit the Proposed Signs,
subject to the conditions, restrictions, and provisions of this Ordinance;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK, LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, as follows:
SECTION ONE: RECITALS. The foregoing recitals are incorporated into, and
made a part of, this Ordinance as the findings of the City Council.
SECTION TWO: APPROVAL OF REQUESTED VARIANCES. Pursuant to
Section 150.2031(C)(2) of the Zoning Code and the home rule powers of the City, and
subject to, and contingent upon, the conditions, restrictions, and provisions set forth in
Section Three of this Ordinance, the City Council hereby grants the following variances
from the Zoning Code to the Applicant to permit the installation of the Proposed Signs:
1. A variance from Section 150.2027(J) of the Zoning Code to permit installation of a
projecting sign on the Property;
2. Variances from Section 150.2007(A)(3) of the Zoning Code to permit the Proposed
Signs to be internally illuminated; and
3. Variances from Sections 150.2017(A) and 150.2027(G) of the Zoning Code to permit
the Proposed Projecting Sign to project into the First Street right-of-way.
SECTION THREE: CONDITIONS. Notwithstanding any use or development
right that may be applicable or available pursuant to the provisions of the Zoning Code,
the approval granted pursuant to Section Two of this Ordinance is hereby expressly
subject to, and contingent upon, the development, use, and maintenance of the
Proposed Signs and the Property in compliance with each and all of the following
conditions:
A. Compliance with Regulations. The construction, development, use, operation,
and maintenance of the Property and the Proposed Signs must comply
with all applicable City ordinances, as the same have been or may be
amended from time to time, except to the extent specifically provided
otherwise in this Ordinance.
B. Compliance with Sign Plans. The development, installation, use, operation,
and maintenance of the Proposed Signs must comply with that certain
plan prepared by ISD Imagine Sign + Design and consisting of eight
sheets, with a latest revision date of September 30, 2025, a copy of which
4903-2688-7281, v. 1
Page 91 of 120
is attached to and, by this reference, made a part of this Ordinance as
Exhibit B (“Sign Plan”).
C. Screening of Power Supply Box. The power supply box for the Proposed Signs
must be located on the Property in a manner that is hidden from view
from adjacent rights-of-way.
D. Limitation of Variances. The relief granted in Section Two of this Ordinance
apply and is limited only to the Proposed Signs depicted and described in
the Sign Plan. No future alterations or modifications may be made to
either of the Proposed Signs, causing either sign to be in further
nonconformity with the requirements of Article XX of the Zoning Code,
without first obtaining City approval in accordance with the applicable
provisions of the Zoning Code. All other signs, and portions of signs, on
the Property must comply with Article XX of the Zoning Code, and all
other applicable provisions of the City’s codes and ordinances.
E. Reimbursement of City Costs. In addition to any other costs, payments, fees,
charges, contributions, or dedications required under applicable City
codes, ordinances, resolutions, rules, or regulations, the Applicant must
pay to the City, promptly upon presentation of a written demand or
demands therefor, all legal fees, costs, and expenses incurred or accrued
in connection with the review, negotiation, preparation, and consideration
of this Ordinance. Payment of all such fees, costs, and expenses for which
demand has been made must be made by a certified or cashier’s check.
Further, the Applicant is liable for, and must pay upon demand, all costs
incurred by the City for publications and recordings required in
connection with the aforesaid matters.
SECTION FOUR: FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH CONDITIONS. Upon the
failure or refusal of the Owner or the Applicant to comply with any or all of the
conditions, restrictions, or provisions of this Ordinance, as applicable, the approvals
granted pursuant to Section Two of this Ordinance may, at the sole discretion of the
City Council, by ordinance duly adopted, be revoked and become null and void;
provided, however, that the City Council may not so revoke the approvals granted
pursuant to Section Two of this Ordinance unless it first provides the Owner and the
Applicant with two months advance written notice of the reasons for revocation and an
opportunity to be heard at a regular meeting of the City Council. In the event of
revocation, the development and use of the Property will be governed solely by the
applicable provisions of the B5 District and the applicable provisions of the Zoning
Code, as the same may, from time to time, be amended. Further, in the event of such
revocation, the City Manager and Corporation Counsel are hereby authorized and
directed to bring such enforcement action as may be appropriate under the
circumstances.
SECTION FIVE: RECORDATION; BINDING EFFECT. A copy of this
Ordinance will be recorded with the Lake County Recorder of Deeds. This Ordinance
4903-2688-7281, v. 1
Page 92 of 120
and the privileges, obligations, and provisions contained herein inure solely to the
benefit of, and are binding upon, the Owner, the Applicant, and each of their respective
heirs, representatives, successors, and assigns.
SECTION SIX: AMENDMENTS. Any amendment to the variance granted in
Section Two of this Ordinance that may be requested by the Owner or the Applicant
after the effective date of this Ordinance may be granted only pursuant to the
procedures, and subject to the standards and limitations, provided in the City Code.
SECTION SEVEN: EFFECTIVE DATE.
A. This Ordinance will be effective only upon the occurrence of all of the
following events:
1. Passage by the City Council in the manner required by law;
2. Publication in pamphlet form in the manner required by law; and
3. The filing by the Owner and the Applicant with the City Clerk of
an Unconditional Agreement and Consent, in the form of Exhibit
C attached to and, by this reference, made a part of this
Ordinance, to accept and abide by each and all of the terms,
conditions, and limitations set forth in this Ordinance and to
indemnify the City for any claims that may arise in connection
with the approval of this Ordinance.
B. In the event the Owner or the Applicant do not file fully executed copies of
the Unconditional Agreement and Consent, as required by Section 7.A.3 of
this Ordinance, within 30 days after the date of final passage of this
Ordinance by the City Council, the City Council will have the right, in its
sole discretion, to declare this Ordinance null and void and of no force or
effect.
4903-2688-7281, v. 1
Page 93 of 120
EXHIBIT A
LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPERTY
The property commonly known as 1900 First Street, in Highland Park, IL, legally described
as follows:
Lot 6 in Block 2 in the City of Highland Park, Lake County, Illinois
4903-2688-7281, v. 1 Exhibit A-1
Page 94 of 120
EXHIBIT B
SIGN PLAN
4903-2688-7281, v. 1 Exhibit B-1
Page 95 of 120
Contact : Redgi Woods
Client : The Barn Steakhouse
Address : 1900 1st St, Highland Park, IL 60035.
Date : September 30th, 2025
Phase: Permit Package 3.1
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
Exterior Design Permit Package
Landlord approval Date
Client Approval Date
APPROVED APPROVED REVISIONS
As Is As Noted Needed
Page 96 of 120
AREA PLAN AND PROJECT INFORMATION
PROJECT TITLE INDEX
The Barn House
GENERAL
ADDRESS 1.0 AREA PLAN & PROJECT INFO
1900 1st St, Highland Park, IL 60035 2.0 EXISTING/PROPOSED
SCOPE SIGN A:
A - Panel Sign 3.0 DESIGN/DIMENSIONS
B - Blade Sign
TECHNICAL DETAILS
OWNER OF REAL PROPERTY SIGN B:
Alfred Klairmont 4.0 DESIGN/DIMENSIONS
CEO & President ELECTRICAL DETAILS: AREA MAP AREA MAP DETAIL
Imperial Realty Company
4747 West Peterson, Suite 200 5.0 POWER & CONTROL FLOW TO SIGN
Chicago, IL 60646
Phone: 773-736-8344
LESSEE OF REAL PROPERTY
Amy Morton
Owner-Operator
AMDP Management
312.510.1004
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
thebarnsteakhouse.com
SIGN B
GENERAL CONTRACTOR
Kirk Bacastow | Vice President of Construction
SIGN A
LG GROUP
363 W Ontario St
Chicago, IL 60654
kirk@lg-group.com
773.343.7536
ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR
Dexter Electric Group
334 Huehl Road
Northbrook, IL 60062
Ilya Bronstein
SIGN COMPANY INFORMATION
Imagine Sign & Design LLC
TGC 135257
1517 W Augusta Blvd, Unit 3
Chicago IL, 60642 SITE MAP
773-349-1400
1.0
Page 97 of 120
TH E B AR N S T E A K H OU S E EXISTING CONDITIONS / PROPOSED IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN
EXISTING CONDITIONS
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
1900 1st St, Highland Park,
IL 60035.
Sales: Redgi Woods
Sign type: Signage
Design Package
09/30/2025
NORTHEAST ELEVATION
PROPOSED
715 SQFT OVERALL AREA SIGN A SIGN B
EXISTING SIGNAGE FOR
ADJACENT TENANT TO REMAIN
NOT PART OF THIS APPLICATION
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
17’ - 8”
12’ - 4” H 12’ - 6.5” H IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN has created the designs, ideas,
ABOVE GRADE ABOVE GRADE drawings, artistic renderings, plans, arrangements and other
creative materials set forth in this document and is the sole
owner of all right, title and interest therein, incluiding, without
limitation, all copyrights and other intellectual property
rights with respect thereto. No person shall reproduce, use or
disclose any of these materials without the express written
permission of IMAGINE SIGN+DESIGN . By accepting receipt
here of, the recipient acknowledges and agrees to the foregoing.
34’
NORTHEAST ELEVATION
49’ -3” NORTHEAST WALL SECTION 2 .Page
0 98 of 120
SIGN A PANEL SIGN DESIGN/DIMENSIONS IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
1900 1st St, Highland Park,
IL 60035.
DAY VIEW Sales: Redgi Woods
Sign type: Signage
Design Package
09/30/2025
10’
A. ALUMINUM BACKER WITH
624 PROTODYNASTIC
ALUMINUM FACE, 3”
WELDED RETURNS.
A CUTOUT CHARACTERS.
BACK LIT (2700K).
25” 1” STEEL STANDOFFS
PAINTED TO MATCH.
624 PROTODYNASTIC
ALUMINUM
NIGHT VIEW
REFERENCE
SCALE 1:15
0 15” 30”
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN has created the designs, ideas
drawings, artistic renderings, plans, arrangements and othe
creative materials set forth in this document and is the sole
owner of all right, title and interest therein, incluiding, withou
limitation, all copyrights and other intellectual property
rights with respect thereto. No person shall reproduce, use or
disclose any of these materials without the express written
permission of IMAGINE SIGN+DESIGN . By accepting receipt
here of, the recipient acknowledges and agrees to the foregoing
3 .Page
0 99 of 120
SIGN A PANEL SIGN TECHNICAL DETAILS IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
1900 1st St, Highland Park,
IL 60035.
Sales: Redgi Woods
Sign type: Signage
Design Package
09/30/2025
A. ALUMINUM BACKER WITH
624 PROTODYNASTIC
ALUMINUM FACE, 3”
DAY VIEW WELDED RETURNS.
CUTOUT CHARACTERS.
BACK LIT (2700K).
1” STEEL STANDOFFS
PAINTED TO MATCH.
10’
A
25”
624 PROTODYNASTIC
ALUMINUM
REFERENCE
SCALE 1:15
ELECTRICAL CALLOUT 0 15” 30”
1” STEEL STANDOFFS
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN has created the designs, ideas
drawings, artistic renderings, plans, arrangements and othe
creative materials set forth in this document and is the sole
owner of all right, title and interest therein, incluiding, withou
limitation, all copyrights and other intellectual property
rights with respect thereto. No person shall reproduce, use or
disclose any of these materials without the express written
permission of IMAGINE SIGN+DESIGN . By accepting receipt
here of, the recipient acknowledges and agrees to the foregoing
3Page
. 1 100 of 120
SIGN B BLADE SIGN DESIGN/DIMENSIONS IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
1900 1st St, Highland Park,
IL 60035.
Sales: Redgi Woods
Sign type: Signage
DAY VIEW NIGHT VIEW Design Package
09/30/2025
A. 4” D-ALUMINUM CABINET
WITH 624 PROTODYNASTIC
ALUMINUM FACES.
CUTOUT GRAPHIC.
INTERNALLY LIT (2700K).
7” 20” B. 1/8” PASTEL ORANGE
ACRYLIC.
C. 2”x2” STEEL TUBE WITH
MOUNTING PLATE
A
B 20”
624 PROTODYNASTIC PASTEL ORANGE
ALUMINUM L-662 GLOSS
C REFERENCE
SCALE 1:10
0 10” 20”
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN has created the designs, ideas
drawings, artistic renderings, plans, arrangements and othe
creative materials set forth in this document and is the sole
owner of all right, title and interest therein, incluiding, withou
limitation, all copyrights and other intellectual property
rights with respect thereto. No person shall reproduce, use or
disclose any of these materials without the express written
permission of IMAGINE SIGN+DESIGN . By accepting receipt
here of, the recipient acknowledges and agrees to the foregoing
4 Page
. 0101 of 120
DETAIL POWER & CONTROL FLOW TO SIGN TECHNICAL DRAWING IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE
1900 1st St, Highland Park,
IL 60035.
Sales: Redgi Woods
Sign type: Signage
Design Package
09/30/2025
POWER SUPPLY BOX
120 V LV WIRE
ELECTRICAL CALLOUT
BY ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR BY IMAGINESIGN & DESIGN
120 V LINE (THNN/ROMEX) 120 V LINE 120 V LV WIRE (16/18 AWG)
WITH DIMMING CONTROL
POWER SUPPLY BOX
ELECTRICAL PANEL JUNCTION BOX (CONTAINS: SIGN
(120V) (120V) -MEANWELL 12V/150W (12V LEDs)
-DIMMER)
POWER & CONTROL FLOW TO SIGN
ALL DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES
POWER SUPPLY WIRING DIAGRAM IMAGINE SIGN + DESIGN has created the designs, ideas
drawings, artistic renderings, plans, arrangements and othe
creative materials set forth in this document and is the sole
owner of all right, title and interest therein, incluiding, withou
limitation, all copyrights and other intellectual property
rights with respect thereto. No person shall reproduce, use or
disclose any of these materials without the express written
permission of IMAGINE SIGN+DESIGN . By accepting receipt
here of, the recipient acknowledges and agrees to the foregoing
Power Supply Model:ELG-75-12B (2 units in total)
Input Voltage Range: 100–305V
Total Watts: 150W
Current Per Supply: 1.25A at 120V Input.
5 Page
. 0102 of 120
THANK YOU! Page 103 of 120
EXHIBIT C
UNCONDITIONAL AGREEMENT AND CONSENT
TO: The City of Highland Park, Illinois (“City”):
WHEREAS, Imperial Realty Company, an Illinois corporation (“Owner”), is the
record title owner of that certain real property commonly known as 1900 First Street, in the
City (“Property”); and
WHEREAS, Ordinance No. __________, adopted by the City Council on October 20,
2025 (“Ordinance”), grants variances from the “City of Highland Park Zoning Ordinance of
1997,” as amended, to The Barn Steakhouse 2, LLC (“Applicant”) to permit the installation
of a projecting sign and a wall sign on the building on the Property; and
WHEREAS, Section Seven of the Ordinance provides, among other things, that the
Ordinance will be of no force or effect unless and until the Owner and the Applicant have
filed, within 30 days following the passage of the Ordinance, their unconditional agreement
and consent to accept and abide by each and all of the terms, conditions, and limitations set
forth in the Ordinance;
NOW, THEREFORE, the Owner and the Applicant hereby agree and covenant as
follows:
1. The Owner and the Applicant hereby unconditionally agree to, accept,
consent to, and will abide by, each and all of the terms, conditions, limitations, restrictions,
and provisions of the Ordinance.
2. The Owner and the Applicant acknowledge that public notices and
hearings have been properly given and held with respect to the adoption of the Ordinance,
has considered the possibility of the revocation provided for in the Ordinance, and agree not
to challenge any such revocation on the grounds of any procedural infirmity or a denial of
any procedural right.
3. The Owner and the Applicant acknowledge and agree that the City is
not and will not be, in any way, liable for any damages or injuries that may be sustained as
a result of the City’s granting of the variances for the Property or its adoption of the
Ordinance, and that the City’s approval of the variances does not, and will not, in any way,
be deemed to insure the Owner or the Applicant against damage or injury of any kind and at
any time.
4. The Owner and the Applicant hereby agree to hold harmless and
indemnify the City, the City’s corporate authorities, and all City elected and appointed
officials, officers, employees, agents, representatives, and attorneys, from any and all claims
that may, at any time, be asserted against any of such parties in connection with the City’s
adoption of the Ordinance granting the variances for the Property.
[SIGNATURE PAGE FOLLOWS]
4903-2688-7281, v. 1 Exhibit C-1
Page 104 of 120
Dated: , 20__
ATTEST: IMPERIAL REALTY COMPANY
By: By:
Its: Its:
ATTEST: THE BARN STEAKHOUSE 2, LLC
By: By:
Its: Its:
4903-2688-7281, v. 1 Exhibit C-2
Page 105 of 120
APO Architecture
September 25, 2025
To: Anthony Mistretta, Planner
The City of Highland Park
Department of Community Development – Planning Division
1150 Half Day Road
Highland Park, IL 60035
(847) 926-1858
RE: The Barn Steakhouse – 1900 First Street: Project Narrative
THE BARN STEAKHOUSE CONCEPT STATEMENT – FACADE AND SIGNAGE
The Barn Steakhouse in Highland Park is a hide-a-way waiting to be discovered; classic and clubby
with old world charm. The look and feel of the restaurant is a throwback to the classic club styled
steakhouse with a dramatic bar, plush leather seating and wooden bead board ceiling; all creating
an intimate ambiance hidden behind glazed windows that calls patrons back to a lost era.
The exterior at 1900 First Street is perfectly suited for The Barn Steakhouse, the facade clad in
simple Chicago brick with a vine-filled, cobblestone alley adjacent that will be a much coveted
outdoor dining destination.
The Barn Steakhouse is smart, simple and warm. There is nothing flashy or shiny about the concept
which is why the signage is understated. Made out of natural materials the dark-bronze, steel, flush
mount sign hung slightly off center above the front door will glow illuminating the natural brick
beneath. No lights will be seen from the sign, only a glow illuminating the letters THE BARN and
creating a halo around the edge of the metal work.
The small blade sign is playful and will glow as well with the warmest light possible at 2700 creating
visibility from North and South as patrons walk down the sidewalk to the entrance.
The signage is meant to match the experience inside the restaurant which is subtle, playful, smart
and timeless.
Page 106 of 120
APO Architecture
VICINITY MAP
1900 First Street, Highland Park, IL
Page 107 of 120
APO Architecture
CONTEXTUAL PHOTOS
1900 First Street – Front Façade (looking west)
Property Directly North (1910 First Street)
Page 108 of 120
APO Architecture
Property Directly South (Pulse Fitness – 1892 First Street)
Property South (The Box – 1890 First Street)
Page 109 of 120
APO Architecture
Looking North From Property
Looking South at Property
Page 110 of 120
APO Architecture
Looking South from Property
Looking North at Property
Page 111 of 120
APO Architecture
Please let me know if you have any questions prior to the city meeting.
Looking forward to meeting discussing our project!
Sincerely,
Dave Anthony Gonzales, RA
Managing Partner
CC: Amy Morton, Owner
Page 112 of 120
Staff Report
Meeting Date: October 20, 2025
Staff Contact: William Brennan, Deputy Fire Chief
Joe Schrage, Fire Chief
Department: Fire Department
Title: A Resolution Approving the Purchase of a Cot System from Stryker Corporation of
Kalamazoo, Michigan
Recommendation:
Staff recommends purchase of a Stryker Self Loading Cot system for improved patient handling.
The purchase of this Stryker Self Loading Cot System will complete the outfitting of Highland
Park’s new front line and reserve ambulances. Although there is another firm that provides a
self-loading system, it is not compatible nor interchangeable with the cots that are used by the
Department, thus a bid waiver is requested as this is a sole source purchase.
Policy Consideration:
Paramedics are consistently placed in physical situations that have potential to result in back
injuries. These incidents involve, but are not limited to, handling and transporting injured
patients with acute or chronic disorders. On a typical transport, the minimum number of lifts
anticipated are as follows: 1) lifting the patient from the floor to the stretcher; 2) bringing the
stretcher to waist height; 3) loading the stretcher into the ambulance; 4) unloading the stretcher
from the ambulance; and 5) transferring the patient from the stretcher to the hospital bed. Each
of these lifts puts unique forces on the provider’s body and presents opportunities for injury.
The Stryker Self Loading Cot system is an innovative battery-powered hydraulic system that
raises and lowers the patient with the touch of a button. It reduces strenuous lifting and the
associated risk of back injury. Use of the Stryker Self Loading Cot System has proven to reduce
spinal loading, resulting in reduced injuries, lost or modified workdays, and workers’
compensation costs.
The manual back-up system provides complete cot operation in the event of power loss.
Retractable head section allows the cot to be shortened in any height position for maximum
versatility and use in tight spaces. Exclusive automatic high speed retract feature reduces load
and unload times. The Stryker Self Loading Cot system is a tool used to reduce back injuries.
Training, practice, and personal fitness are still the primary form of protection from
musculoskeletal injury.
Page 113 of 120
Core Priorities:
Fiscal Stability
Due to an upcoming 5% price increase we are seeking early approval to secure the current
price. The total cost is not to exceed $95,000.00. Funds have been allocated in the FY2026
Capital Improvement Program budget for this equipment (1110401.71040). This equipment will
be purchased, delivered, and installed in FY2026.
Public Safety
Vital tool for treatment and transport for EMS.
Infrastructure Investment
The same cot is used in all Highland Park Fire Department ambulances and allows for
interchangeability and standardization of tools within the fleet.
Attachments:
1. Exhibit A - Stryker Quote
Page 114 of 120
City of Highland Park
Resolution No.
A Resolution Approving the Purchase of a Cot System from Stryker Corporation of
Kalamazoo, Michigan
WHEREAS, the Highland Park Fire Department (“Department”), as part of
an established replacement schedule, has identified the need to update the cot
system in the City’s reserve ambulance (“Cot System”); and
WHEREAS, the Department’s replacement schedule calls for the addition of
one Cot System in 2026 for a new ambulance purchase; and
WHEREAS, the City’s three other ambulances already contain new Cot
Systems manufactured by Stryker Corporation, of Kalamazoo, Michigan
(“Stryker”); and
WHEREAS, the Department has been satisfied with the performance and
reliability of the Cot Systems manufactured by Stryker; and
WHEREAS, the City has determined that, in order to provide effective and
efficient life safety services, it is in the best interest of the City that the Cot
Systems within all City ambulances be of the same make and model; and
WHEREAS, Stryker has submitted a quote for the sale of one new Cot
System to the City in an amount not to exceed $95,000.00; and
WHEREAS, Stryker is the sole source available to the City for the purchase
of the a new Cot System manufactured by Stryker; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it is appropriate to waive
competitive bidding for the purchase of one new Cot System, in accordance with the
City's Purchasing and Fixed Asset Policies and Procedures Manual ("Purchasing
Manual"); and
WHEREAS, the City Council has determined that it will serve and be in the
best interest of the City and its residents to purchase one new Cot System from
Stryker, in an amount not to exceed $95,000.00;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF
HIGHLAND PARK, LAKE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, as follows:
SECTION ONE: RECITALS. The foregoing recitals are incorporated into,
Page 115 of 120
and made a part of, this Resolution as findings of the City Council.
SECTION TWO: WAIVER OF COMPETITIVE BIDDING
REQUIREMENTS. The advertising and bidding requirements for the purchase of
one new Cot System are hereby waived in accordance with the Purchasing Manual
and the home rule powers of the City.
SECTION THREE: APPROVAL OF PURCHASE. The purchase of one
new Cot System from Stryker, in a total amount not to exceed $95,000.00, is hereby
approved.
SECTION FOUR: EXECUTION OF REQUIRED DOCUMENTATION.
The City Manager and the Deputy City Clerk are hereby authorized to execute and
attest, on behalf of the City, all documents necessary to complete the purchase
authorized pursuant to Section Three of this Resolution.
SECTION FIVE: EFFECTIVE DATE. This Resolution will be in full force
and effect from and after its passage, by a vote of two-thirds of the City Council, and
approval in the manner provided by law.
Page 116 of 120
New Ambulance - w/ warranty
Quote Number: 11080499 Remit to: Stryker Sales, LLC
21343 NETWORK PLACE
CHICAGO IL 60673-1213
USA
Version: 1
Prepared For: HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT Rep: Savannah Johnson
Attn: Email: savannah.johnson1@stryker.com
Phone Number:
Quote Date: 10/09/2025
Expiration Date: 01/07/2026
Contract Start: 03/05/2025
Contract End: 03/04/2026
Quote Summary
Delivery Address Sold To - Shipping Bill To Account
Name: HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT Name: HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT Name: HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT
Account #: 20069716 Account #: 20069716 Account #: 20069716
Address: 1130 CENTRAL AVE Address: 1130 CENTRAL AVE Address:
HIGHLAND PARK HIGHLAND PARK
Illinois 60035-3299 Illinois 60035-3299
Equipment Products:
# Product Description Qty Sell Price Total
1.0 639005550001 MTS POWER LOAD 1 $34,711.11 $34,711.11
2.0 650705550001 6507 POWER PRO 2, HIGH CONFIG 1 $37,524.73 $37,524.73
3.0 650707000002 KIT, ALVARIUM BATTERY, SERVICE 2 $587.08 $1,174.16
4.0 650700450301 ASSEMBLY, BATTERY CHARGER 1 $840.32 $840.32
5.0 650700450102 ASSEMBLY, POWER CORD, NORTH AM 1 $19.24 $19.24
Equipment Total: $74,269.56
ProCare Products:
# Product Description Qty Sell Price Total
6.1 POWERLOAD-PROCARE Power Load for MTS POWER LOAD 1 $9,560.92 $9,560.92
03/06/2025 - 05/05/2030
√ Parts, Labor, Travel √ Parts Only √ Preventative Maintenance
6.2 POWERPRO-PROCARE Power Pro 2 for 6507 POWER PRO 2, HIGH CONFIG 1 $4,937.94 $4,937.94
03/06/2025 - 05/05/2030
√ Parts, Labor, Travel √ Parts Only √ Preventative Maintenance
ProCare Total: $14,498.86
1
This is not an Invoice Page 117 of 120
New Ambulance - w/ warranty
Quote Number: 11080499 Remit to: Stryker Sales, LLC
21343 NETWORK PLACE
CHICAGO IL 60673-1213
USA
Version: 1
Prepared For: HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT Rep: Savannah Johnson
Attn: Email: savannah.johnson1@stryker.com
Phone Number:
Quote Date: 10/09/2025
Expiration Date: 01/07/2026
Contract Start: 03/05/2025
Contract End: 03/04/2026
Price Totals:
Estimated Sales Tax (0.000%): $0.00
Shipping and Handling: $984.29
Grand Total: $89,752.71
Comments/Terms/Signatures
Prices: In effect for 30 days
Terms: Net 30 Days
Shipping & Handling Includes:
Standard freight, special packaging, semi rigging cranes, labor & delivery of equipment to final location, removal of all packaging, pre-delivery site
check, education/training
Terms and Conditions:
Deal Consummation: This is a quote and not a commitment. This quote is subject to final credit, pricing, and documentation approval. Legal
documentation must be signed before your equipment can be delivered. Documentation will be provided upon completion of our review process
and your selection of a payment schedule. Confidentiality Notice: Recipient will not disclose to any third party the terms of this quote or any other
information, including any pricing or discounts, offered to be provided by Stryker to Recipient in connection with this quote, without Stryker’s prior
written approval, except as may be requested by law or by lawful order of any applicable government agency. A copy of Stryker Medical's terms
and conditions can be found at https://techweb.stryker.com/Terms_Conditions/index.html.
2
This is not an Invoice Page 118 of 120
Purchase Order Form
Account Manager : Savannah Johnson Purchase Order Date : 10-09-2025 11:37:00 -0400
Cell Phone : Expected Delivery Date :
Stryker Quote Number : 11080499
Customer PO Number :
Bill To Customer # : 20069716 Sold To / End Customer # : 20069716 Deliver To Customer # : 20069716
User
Company Name : HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT Company Name : HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT Company Name : HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPT
Contact or Department : Contact or Department : Contact or Department :
Street Address : Street Address : 1130 CENTRAL AVE Street Address : 1130 CENTRAL AVE
Addt'l Address Line : Addt'l Address Line : Addt'l Address Line :
City, ST, ZIP : ,, City, ST, ZIP : HIGHLAND PARK, Illinois, 60035-3299 City, ST, ZIP : HIGHLAND PARK, Illinois , 60035-3299
Phone : Phone : Phone :
Authorized Authorized Authorized
Customer Customer Customer
Initials Initials Initials
Description Total
$89,752.71
Total : $89,752.71
Attachment: Stryker Quote Number : 11080499 Stryker Terms and Conditions
www.strykeremergencycare.com/terms
Page 119 of 120
Purchase Order Form
Accounts Payable Contact Information
Name :
Email :
Phone :
Authorized Customer Signature
Name :
Title :
Signature :
Date :
Attachment: Stryker Quote Number : 11080499 Stryker Terms and Conditions
www.strykeremergencycare.com/terms
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