Committee of the Whole

Committee of the Whole Meeting City Hall - 1707 St Johns Avenue October 6, 2025 5:30 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. Approval of Minutes A. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole on September 25, 2025 B. Approval of the Minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole Held on September 25, 2025 III. Scheduled Business A. 445 Central Ave. Discussion Regarding Uses B. Place of Remembrance Design Firm Consultant Recommendation C. Update Regarding Relocation of "Miss Nitro" IV. Other Matters V. Closed Session VI. Adjournment Page 1 of 62 Staff Report Meeting Date: October 6, 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 Committee of the Whole on September 25, 2025 Recommendation: For the City Council’s approval are the minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole held on September 25, 2025. Attachments: 1. MIN COTW 9-25-2025 Page 2 of 62 .. MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE OF THE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK MEETING DATE: Thursday, September 25, 2025 MEETING LOCATION: City Hall - Pre-Session Conference Room 1707 St. Johns Avenue, Highland Park, IL 60035 CALL TO ORDER At 5:31 PM, Mayor Rotering called the meeting to order and asked for a roll call: PRESENT: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia, Lidawer ABSENT: Councilmember Blumberg 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, Deputy Chief Olson, Communications Manager Bennett, Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska ALSO PRESENT: Corporation Counsel Elrod APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole Held on September 8, 2025 Councilmember Lidawer moved to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole Held on September 8, 2025. Councilmember Bruckman seconded the motion. Upon a voice vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously. RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Annette Lidawer, Councilmember SECONDER: Barisa Bruckman, Councilmember AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia, Lidawer ABSENT: Councilmember Blumberg SCHEDULED BUSINESS 1. Mosquito Abatement District Report & Options City Manager Neukirch introduced the discussion regarding the South Lake Mosquito Abatement District ("SMLAD") & Options for Council input. It was noted the SMLAD is a separate unit of government and the City does not oversee its operation, although feedback is requested which would be shared with Lake County and the District. Assistant City Manager Taub provided information as to the proposed dissolution of the SMLAD and the options that would be available to continue services. The Council, Corporation Counsel Elrod, and staff discussed distribution of assets if the South Lake Mosquito Abatement District were to dissolve, the municipalities Page 3 of 62  covered by SMLAD, former Councilmember Stone's involvement and advocacy on this topic as Chair of SLMAD, the potential to merge with the North Shore Mosquito Abatement District ("NSMAD"), board membership make up currently and into the future, services currently provided through Clarke and NSMAD, proposing that current SLMAD board members become ex-officio members to the NSMAD board for two years following the merge, obtaining information when the other effected municipalities publically discuss this matter, and the timeline and actions moving towards a merge with the NSMAD. The Council was in favor of moving forward with next steps to merge with NSMAD. City Manager Neukirch noted that a letter will be drafted expressing the support to move forward with merging with NSMAD and recognizing the work of SLMAD and Clarke. She noted the request regarding ex-officio members and distribution of current assets of SLMAD if there was a full dissolution. Mayor Rotering, Corporation Counsel Elrod and City Manager Neukirch discussed how to express the City's disappointment with the current actions being undertaken in regards to the potential dissolution. 2. 2026 City Special Events City Manager Neukirch introduced the discussion regarding special events. Assistant City Manager Jason and Communication Manager Bennett presented information on 2025 Special Events, proposals for 2026 Special Events and began review of private events requesting sponsorship assistance. In consideration of time, staff and Council focused high level on proposed budget for the 2026 event season and presented slate of events. The Council and City staff discussed the cost of the events per person in attendance, the need to have longer events through the night due to the time and effort of the event set-up, the importance of diversity at the events, feedback from participating vendors and festival goers, reporting the weather year over year to have a full understanding of the attendance at each event, comparison of attendance at City events to events in other municipalities, the need to boost attendance at the Port Clinton Concert series, increased marketing and advertising, and the need to review comparisons of cost between holding events in the space previously called The Lot and Port Clinton square. Council was in consensus of approval for the event budget and maintaining the main schedule of events as presented. Council will continue a deep dive of the event elements and potential additional City-produced events at a future meeting. The Council, City staff, and Amdur Productions Director of Events Operations, Dieter Benz, discussed the request being made by Amdur Productions for sponsorship of the Arts on Sheridan and the Port Clinton Arts Festival in the future. City Manager recommended the discussion be continued to a future meeting to fully discuss the 2026 events and other requests being made by other event organizers. Page 4 of 62  The Council was in consensus to continue the conversation to a future meeting. At 6:58 PM, Mayor Rotering recessed the Committee of the Whole meeting. At 8:35 PM, Mayor Rotering reconvened the Committee of the Whole meeting. Members Present: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia, Lidawer Members Absent: Councilmember Blumberg City Staff Present: City Manager Neukirch, Assistant City Manager Jason, Deputy Chief Olson, Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska Also Present: Corporation Counsel Elrod, Michael Cohen - Highland Park Resident 3. Independence Day 2026 Planning City Manager Neukirch introduced the discussion regarding Independence Day 2026 Planning. Assistant City Managers Jason & Taub presented information on Independence Day 2026 Planning. The Council, Highland Park resident Michael Cohen, and staff discussed planning for the Remembrance Ceremony, evening entertainment to include fireworks or drone show, and elements of the parade to include timing of when the parade should take place and the route. Consensus of the Council was to bring back a fireworks show in conjunction with the Park District’s Independence Fest on July 3rd, move forward with alternate ways to remember those whose lives were taken in lieu of a formal Remembrance Ceremony in advance of July 4th, and continue a parade on Independence Day with a 10:45am start time. CLOSED SESSION Councilmember Center moved the Council to close its meeting to the public, pursuant to the following cited section of the Illinois Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 120/2(c)), for the purposes of (i) purchase or lease of property (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5)); (ii) setting a price to sell or lease property (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(6)); and (iii) potential/pending litigation (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11)). Councilmember Tapia seconded the motion. On a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously. At 9:45 PM, the Council recessed the public portion of the meeting to meet in Closed Session. Page 5 of 62  At 10:46 PM, Mayor Rotering reconvened the open session of the Committee of the Whole meeting. Members Present: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Center, Bruckman, Ross, Tapia, Lidawer Members Absent: Councilmember Blumberg City Staff Present: City Manager Neukirch, Assistant to the City Manager Palbitska Also Present: Corporation Counsel Elrod ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Lidawer moved to adjourn the Committee of the Whole meeting. Councilmember Tapia seconded the motion. Upon a voice vote, the Mayor declared the meeting adjourned. The Committee of the Whole adjourned its meeting at 10:46 PM. Respectfully submitted, Ashley Palbitska Assistant to the City Manager/Deputy City Clerk Page 6 of 62 Staff Report Meeting Date: October 6, 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 Closed Session of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole Held on September 25, 2025 Recommendation: For the City Council’s approval are the minutes of the Closed Session of the Regular Meeting of the Committee of the Whole held on September 25, 2025. Attachments: 1. MIN CWCS 9-25-2025 Page 7 of 62 Staff Report Meeting Date: October 6, 2025 Staff Contact: Joel Fontane, Director of Community Development, Ghida Neukirch, City Manager Department: Community Development Department Title: 445 Central Ave. Discussion Regarding Uses Recommendation: Council feedback requested regarding a proposal from property owner Scott Canel regarding uses 445 Central Ave. Policy Consideration: Scott Canel, owner of 445 Central Avenue, proposed to the City Manager a self-imposed voluntary penalty provision for non-performance related to the tenanting of the first floor space of his property at 445 Central Avenue. One use of this property was the subject of a recent consideration that proposed to amend the use restrictions that limit the use of the first floor to retail and restaurant uses, a condition of this development’s 2018 zoning approval. Mr. Canel shared that he is committed to tenanting the first floor of the building quickly, but acknowledges that it could take up to two years to do so. He indicates that he is exploring bakery-coffee shop concepts, particularly those that provide employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. His vision for the larger of the two remaining spaces on the first floor of the building is a “world-class” dinner restaurant. He expressed openness to other concepts should they present themselves, and mentioned that he would also consider an established restaurant group as an alternative to creating a concept himself. Mr. Canel volunteered to provide a penalty for continuing non-performance past with regard to a time frame for tenanting the remaining two spaces on the first floor in accordance with retail and restaurant uses as required; and expressed how Dr. Lefferdink’s dermatologist office is a necessary first step to fully utilizing this building and bringing more vibrancy to the east side of downtown Highland Park. The City did not request any funding; instead, Mr. Canel indicated that the funding helps to ensure that he will adhere to a timeline for tenanting the remaining first floor space after Ms. Lefferdink’s dermatologist office opens in one of the spaces. Based on discussion between the Page 8 of 62 City Manager and Mr. Canel, following financial gift was offered by Mr. Canel, and the associated timeframe suggested by the City Manager. Mr. Canel proposed a gift to the City in the amount of $250K if he does not carry out the remaining tenanting of the ground floor of his property. The gift to the City could be used to promote businesses and for economic development purposes. He requested a time frame of the end of year 2027 to lease the remaining space on the ground floor of his building and the restaurant/retail businesses open to the public. The remaining space of the building shall be leased by a restaurant or retail use that would be permitted pursuant to the City’s Zoning Code. The City Manager suggested the following amended timeline: 1. Complete permit sets shall be submitted to the City for review no later than ten months from the date of City Council approval of the amendment to the PUD (dermatologist approval) or a gift of $200K is made to the City for the purposes stated; 2. Temporary Certificate of Occupancy issued and the business(es) must be open no later than 6 months thereafter or the City retains $50K for the purposes stated; and 3. A Letter of Credit shall be issued in the name of the City of Highland Park for a total amount of $250K. Mr. Canel expressed concern with the timeline citing challenges with leasing property and potential delays that would be out of the control of the property owner of his direct contractors. He requested consideration to lease and have the businesses open by the end of year 2027. Council feedback is requested pertaining to this policy consideration. Core Priorities: Economic Development Development brings tax base and job to the City. Vibrancy Creates vibrancy by attracting people to the City and providing services to residents. Attachments: None Page 9 of 62 Staff Report Meeting Date: October 6, 2025 Staff Contact: Emily Taub, Assistant City Manager, Amanda Bennett, Communications Manager Department: City Manager's Office Title: Place of Remembrance Design Firm Consultant Recommendation Recommendation: The Place of Remembrance Working Group recommends the City enter into an agreement with SWA Group to design a meaningful and lasting permanent place of remembrance. Policy Consideration: Background In 2023 the City Council established a Working Group to guide the planning process for the permanent place of remembrance for the Highland Park shooting. The place of remembrance will have three primary objectives: • Create an accessible public place for reflection, remembrance, and solace; • Pay tribute to the memories of Katie Goldstein, Irina McCarthy, Kevin Michael McCarthy, Jacki Lovi Sundheim, Stephen Straus, Nicolas Toledo, and Eduardo Uvaldo; • Honor the community’s resiliency, especially those who were injured. The Working Group has been meeting regularly since November of 2023. The Working Group, with input from the public and notably victims, brainstormed a list of possible locations and issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a consultant to assist in gathering community feedback in keeping with the commitment to public engagement in the process. In conjunction with the Working Group’s feedback, the City entered into an agreement to work with Do Tank. Following extensive community engagement, Do Tank's Location Feedback Report recommended a prominent, primary location in the Rose Garden and a subtle, secondary location in Port Clinton Plaza. Overview The Working Group issued a Request For Qualifications (RFQ) from experienced architects, Page 10 of 62 artists, designers, and design teams to create a meaningful and lasting place of remembrance. A link to the RFQ can be found here: RFQ+Design+Services.pdf Seventeen responses were received to the RFQ. The Working Group narrowed the responses to four shortlisted finalist firms based on their combination of experience and public engagement. The shortlisted firms were invited to provide 3-5 concept designs and renderings for the primary and secondary place of remembrance and then interviewed by the Working Group. Responses were evaluated by a number of criteria including, but not limited to: • Adherence to the intent of the RFQ • Approach to the project and its fit with the community • Respondent's qualifications and reputation • Prior experience on similar or related types of projects • Quality of the proposed project plan and proposed deliverables • Community engagement approach and process For information on the RFQ responses, concept designs, and interviews of the four shortlisted finalists, please see the following link: RFQ Design Services — Place of Remembrance | Highland Park, IL IMPORTANT: The concept designs will not be the final design of the permanent place of remembrance. However, the concepts provided the Working Group and the public with valuable insight into four unique ways of approaching this significant undertaking. The Working Group carefully considered each firm's incorporation of trauma-informed community engagement as well. The project scope entails extensive engagement with victims' family members, individuals who were injured, and the community as a whole, and understanding how each team will approach, conduct, and analyze community engagement was critical to the overall evaluation of each submittal. At the request of the City Council, regular updates pertaining to the Place of Remembrance have been provided to the City Council at City Council meetings and via email. Feedback Broad themes emphasized during the interviews and feedback discussions are noted below. Gordon Huether Studio & EDSA Focused on their mission to inspire public engagement as a part of the process. Site Design Partnership with trauma-informed design social worker to build on inclusive engagement and collaboration with stakeholders for place-based planning. StudioSTIGSGAARD Focused on gathering and incorporating feedback from victims and the community and ensuring voices are heard. The design focus was on being welcoming, identity, and meeting people where they are at. Page 11 of 62 SWA Emphasized their trauma-informed approach and experience engaging with the public, particularly within the context of similar projects. Feedback from the public was discussed at the August 27, 2025 meeting of the working group. The City requested feedback through Resiliency and general public communications. Additional feedback provided by the public included the following: • Restore the water feature in the Rose Garden. • The Healing Path design from StudioSTIGSGAARD evoked tears and is recommended for the Rose Garden. • Suggested that the place of remembrance be: o Tranquil (the Rose Garden is suggested) o Traditional o Fountain • The proposals are too large in design, impose too much on the town, and are expensive to execute and maintain. Recommendation After careful review and consideration of all submittals and interviews with the top candidates, the Working Group suggests the City enter into an agreement with SWA Group as the design firm on this project. Working Group members felt that SWA's response reflected the strongest understanding of the project scope, stakeholder groups, and the importance of trauma-informed community engagement. Working Group members shared that SWA's package best articulated the relationship between the primary site at the Rose Garden and the secondary site at Port Clinton, and seemed most inclusive of seasonality needs specific to our area, ensuring that the final design would remain a meaningful tribute throughout the year, even during winter. Core Priorities: Fiscal Stability The budget for this project has not been established. If Council feedback is received to move forward with SWA, the City will enter into negotiations to determine a cost for the project. Infrastructure Investment The permanent place of remembrance will incorporate a primary installation at the Rose Garden, and a subtle secondary installation at the Rose Garden, each a significant infrastructure undertaking given the presence of existing structures at or adjacent to the site. Once a design firm has been selected, the working group and staff will work with the project managers to define the scope of each installation. The firm will take the City's commitment to environmentally sustainable practices into consideration as they develop and refine the project work plan. Attachments: None Page 12 of 62 Staff Report Meeting Date: October 6, 2025 Staff Contact: Amanda Bennett, Communications Manager Department: City Manager's Office Title: Update Regarding Relocation of "Miss Nitro" Recommendation: Council previously supported the relocation of "Miss Nitro" to the triangular parcel at Deerfield Rd. & Central Ave. In 2025, staff and corporation counsel worked with Arbor Terrace and CSH Highland Park (property owners of the parcel) on a license agreement whereby the sculpture would be relocated to this space with the City retaining ownership of the work and responsibility for maintenance of the adjacent area. Ultimately, while CSH appreciated the opportunity to partner with the City, they were unable to secure approval of the agreement. Staff request Council feedback on three alternate locations: • Brown Park in the Ravinia District (previously recommended by the Cultural Arts Advisory Group (CAAG)) • Lincoln Park, south of the Central Business District along St. Johns Ave. • City-owned parcel immediately east of the Highland Park Public Library on Laurel Ave. The attachments include photographs of each site. Policy Consideration: Prior Council Discussion The relocation of "Miss Nitro" was previously discussed at the following City Council and Committee of the Whole meetings: • October 28, 2024 Committee of the Whole Meeting: Council feedback provided on desired location (Deerfield Rd. & Central Ave.), conservation treatment (patina), and siting (park-like; no hard landscape) • April 14, 2025 City Council Meeting: Approval of an agreement with Pacific Coast Conservation for the provision of art conservation and relocation services • June 16, 2025 City Council Meeting: A Resolution approving a license agreement with CSH Highland Park, property ownership group for Arbor Terrace Highland Park (Note - Page 13 of 62  CSH ultimately did not approve this agreement) Prior Cultural Arts Advisory Group Discussion CAAG discussed “Miss Nitro” at two meetings: • June 4, 2024 Special Meeting • July 16, 2024 Regular Meeting The minutes of these CAAG meetings, as well as individual, anonymous feedback from CAAG advisors, are attached to this report. These items were previously shared with Council to inform prior discussions. Site Option: Brown Park CAAG members unanimously recommended Brown Park for the relocation of the work, though there was also strong support for the parcel at Central and Deerfield. CAAG members' discussion focused on the placement of the sculpture as either a gateway or a destination. As a neighborhood park, Brown Park was identified as a "destination" site for CAAG, one that would attract visits from general business district foot traffic, but also entail some of the safety and damage concerns that the sculpture encountered at the Highland Park Public Library. CAAG’s discussion included several considerations: • Placing the sculpture in the Ravinia District would be advantageous because of significant foot traffic during the summer in particular (due to Food Truck Thursdays, the Farmers Market, Metra travelers headed to Ravinia Festival) and throughout the year, given that this is a vibrant business corridor. Several advisors felt that Brown Park would receive greater foot traffic than the sculpture's current location, because “Miss Nitro” is not located outside the front entrance of the Library and is outside of the core CBD. • Relocating the sculpture to the Ravinia District is in line with the RD’s identity as a flourishing business district with an artsy angle. • The location at Brown Park has the potential to be a destination (easy to access for individuals who want to see this major work of art) for community members. The Park District of Highland Park Board discussed the possibility of relocating the sculpture to Brown Park as prior considerations regarding the potential development of Brown Park, which hindered use of the site as a potential location for the sculpture, have been resolved. Previously, Park District and City staff had been in discussions to explore the activation of the site as an event/gathering space in the Ravinia District, with the recommendation of the Ravinia Neighbors Association and SSA #17 property owners. In addition, the Park District was considering plans for a multi-year planning process focused on this park that would have required longer-term storage of "Miss Nitro" at additional cost to the City. City and Park District staff revisited this potential location once the City was notified that it was no longer possible to move forward with planning to install the sculpture at the Central and Deerfied parcel. The Park District Board discussed the matter at their September 10, 2025 meeting, and expressed support for further Page 14 of 62 discussions regarding the relocation of the sculpture to Park District property such as Brown Park or Lincoln Park. Pacific Coast Conservation expressed concerns with this location, given the ease of access to the sculpture from the sidewalk. The conservator noted that the sculpture displays signs of damage due to lawn maintenance and wear and tear consistent with kids climbing and playing on the sculpture, including surface damage from weed whackers, scratches, and graffiti. To guard against this, the conservator recommends a hardscape plaza siting or elevation if in a park-like setting. The existing budget incorporates the recommendation for increased elevation to minimize damage from lawn care, which was a concern for the prior location at Deerfield & Central. Staff note that hardscape redevelopment of the site would come at additional, non- budgeted cost. The restoration treatment supported by the City Council uses a wax base that will require maintenance; unnecessary interaction with the sculpture, such as from children climbing on it or landscaping damage, will require additional care and restoration as part of annual maintenance. The base annual maintenance costs are estimated at approximately $2,000/year. Site Option: Lincoln Park A Councilmember requested evaluation of Lincoln Park, a neighborhood pocket park along St. Johns Ave.. While the site would provide a quiet environment with close access to the trail and sidewalk, there is limited parking and an existing sculpture at the park. This neighborhood site does not satisfy CAAG's recommendation that the sculpture be situated in either a "gateway" or "destination" location, featuring high-visibility or ease of access, respectively. Site Option: Site Immediately to the East of HP Library While this parcel has the advantage of being City-owned and in close proximity to the high- traffic Library building with ample parking, CAAG advisors shared concerns about this location and did not recommend moving forward. Because the sculpture would be set back from the main road, it would not be a "gateway," and the setback past the entrance to the Library would also limit pedestrian visitors. Other advisors noted that the shape of the parcel, existing landscaping, and uneven topography did not seem conducive to the prominent display of the work. However, some advisors noted some advantages of this location, namely the continuation of the association between "Miss Nitro" and the Library building, and the hope that the sculpture could lead to more development of that parcel to attract visitors there, such as a playground. About the Sculpture Information about the work, one of the most significant in the City's collection, is included as an attachment. Core Priorities: Fiscal Stability The City has budgeted for the restoration of the work and related costs primarily via an agreement with Pacific Coast Conservation, approved by Council in April 2025. Pacific Coast Conservation's costs include the on-site work of the conservator throughout the process, conservation and patination, art handling and moving fees. Additional costs relate to the Page 15 of 62 preparation of the site, including storage, survey and foundation work. Because of the Council's preferred conservation method, the expectation that the piece will not be in storage for more than one year, and Council's preference for a park-like siting, the project is budgeted at approximately $150,000, to be split with the Highland Park Public Library. The total also takes into consideration the conservator's professional conditions assessment of the work, which was performed as the work was dismantled and could be appropriately assessed. Infrastructure Investment The City's goal is to find a location suitable for the long-term enjoyment of this sculpture, minimizing the risk of potential future relocation. Relocation of "Miss Nitro" will entail site preparation, including concrete foundation points, as well as landscaping and siting improvements. Vibrancy The relocation of "Miss Nitro" is an important part of efforts to enhance community enjoyment and appreciation of the City's public art collection. Attachments: 1. 100625 About Miss Nitro Background for Council 2. Miss Nitro Interim (Post De-Install) Report from Pacific Coast Conservation 3. June 24 2024 CAAG Minutes 4. July 16 2024 CAAG Minutes 5. Location Feedback from CAAG Advisors Page 16 of 62  C Ciittyy ooff H Hiigghhllaanndd PPaarrkk P UU BB LL II CC A RR TT I NN VV EE NN TT OO RR YY Name: Miss Nitro Location: Southeast corner of St. John’s Ave. and Hazel Ave., in front of the Highland Park Library Artist: Peter Voulkos Berkeley, CA Materials: Bronze Date: Installed summer, 1973 Owner: The City of Highland Park Purchase Price: $40,000 (The National Endowment for the Arts paid one- half of the purchase fee, the remaining was paid for by private donations). Comments: The piece was restored in the summer of 1991. The bronze surface had deteriorated and was treated with a black coating. Prepared by the Department of Community Development – January 2008 15 Page 17 of 62 Miss Nitro Info at a Glance • Sculptor: Peter Voulkos • Materials: Bronze* • Owner: City of HP • Installed: Summer 1973 • Location: Southeast corner of St. John’s Ave. & Hazel Ave., west side of the HP Library • Dimensions: (14 x 70 x 10 ft.) * The piece was restored in the summer of 1991. The bronze surface had deteriorated and was treated with a black coating 2 Page 18 of 62  About “Miss Nitro” Artist: Peter Voulkos Date: 1973 Materials: Bronze Dimensions: 14’ tall x 25’ wide x 70’ long Features of Note: • Composed of large industrial bronze pipe bolted together with 14 hex head bolts • Central element is a fabricated squared section • Original burnt oil patina was covered by high-gloss, smooth black paint in 1991 in consultation with the artist 4 Page 19 of 62 Conservation Assessment • Surface scratches and losses due to lawn maintenance • Heavy corrosion and jack rusting at connection points (may complicate deinstallation; will require refabrication and on-site welding) • Incised graffiti • Heavy dirt buildup • To be determined: underlying surface issues may be discovered once paint is removed • Whether “Miss Nitro remains at HPPL or is relocated, approximately $40,000 in conservation costs will be required. 5 Page 20 of 62 Brown Park (563 Washington Pl) Southeast corner of Roger Williams & Burton Avenues 3 Page 21 of 62 Brown Park (563 Washington Pl) Southeast corner of Roger Williams & Burton Avenues 4 Page 22 of 62 HP Public Library (494 Laurel Ave) 10 Page 23 of 62 HP Public Library (494 Laurel Ave) 11 Page 24 of 62 Lincoln Place Park • Located at the intersection of Lincoln Ave. & St. Johns Ave. • Existing home of Terrence Karpowicz’s “Solar Journey” (visible at right in the reaer of the park) • PDHP property 13 Page 25 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT June 26, 2025 Client: Amanda Bennett Communication Manager City of Highland Park 1707 St. Johns Ave Highland Park, IL 60035 Prepared by: Alison Leard, Director Lucinda Linderman, Sr. Conservator Pacific Coast Conservation 310-383-4710 Pacific Coast Conservation is pleased to submit this interim report for the conservation and relocation of Miss Nitro. During this phase of conservation, the sculpture was deinstalled and moved to storage on city-owned land. The sculpture was moved from the SE corner of St. Johns Ave. & Hazel Ave to 1180 Half Day Rd. This was performed May 13-15, 2025. Artist Peter Voulkos Title Miss Nitro Date 1973 Materials Bronze Dimensions ~14’ tall X 25’ wide X 50’ long Location SE corner of St. Johns Ave. & Hazel Ave. Deinstallation: Overall, the deinstallation was successful, and all the sections came apart. Each section of the sculpture was moved from the lawn, where it was disassembled, to a flatbed truck using an all- terrain telehandler. The sections were then transported to the facilities on a flatbed truck in three separate trips. All of the sections were secured during transport. A 40-foot shipping container was delivered to Facilities prior to the start of the deinstallation. The sections were offloaded and placed into the storage container using a telehandler. All but one of the sections were stored in a 40-foot container. The largest 13’ x 13’ L-shaped section was stored next to the storage container. The shipping container is behind a fenced in area. The area is open to people during the day as it is also the location of the recycling center. The disassembly, moving, and storage was performed by Chicago Fine Art Services and with oversight by Lucinda Linderman from Pacific Coast Conservation. Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 1 Page 26 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT Bronze Bolts Prior to deinstallation, Russel from Chicago Fine Art Services came on site and loosened all of the bolts. The bolts turned without any issues, and it appeared that they would come out easily. However, during extraction, several broke (~ 20). Two factors most likely caused the bolts to become stuck and break. The small round concrete slabs had shifted and sunk into the ground over time. This caused the sculpture to shift, creating pressure on the bolts, stopping them from being extracted. These bolts turned initially but the interior of each segment has a steel sleeve. With the shifted position, the bolts caught on the edge of the sleeve, keeping them from coming all the way out. The broken bolts will need to be removed during the conservation of the sculpture. The bronze bolts should be sourced and replaced. All of the holes need to be tapped to ensure that the new bolts go in smoothly. Concrete bases Concrete slabs were found under each of the areas of the sculpture that touched the ground. Several were not visible during the initial assessment of the sculpture. Small, round concrete tubes were used as anchor points for the sculpture. The anchor points are at varying levels across the field. It is likely when the sculpture was installed, these bases/anchor points were at the same level. It appears that several of the round concrete slabs sank into the ground. A survey of the concrete slabs was performed by the city. The new slabs will be poured with the same spacing as found underneath the sculpture, but should be poured to create a level surface. Threaded bronze rods were used to anchor the sculpture into the wet concrete. The threaded rod and nut were cut during deinstallation to remove the sections from the concrete. This system needs to be recreated in the footings. When the new footings are cast, they should be cast with a space left in the center to accommodate the threaded rod. Once the sculpture is set in place, if a 4 x 4 inch box is placed in the concrete as a place holder, concrete can be poured into the void and be allowed to set. If a better alternative for setting the anchors into concrete is presented, it could be considered. Attachment points (pins): Prior to deinstallation, it was unclear how each segment was attached. All of the arms were pinned to concrete slabs in the ground, which are bolted together, which connect to the curly- que piece, which sits over a pipe that is attached to the main rectangular structure. The main rectangular structure features an internal mechanism that slides over pipes embedded in the concrete slab. a. Tube arms: On the outside of each tube section of the sculpture where it attaches to its concrete base, a nut was welded onto the bottom of the sculpture and then a ¾” bronze threaded rod was screwed into the welded nut. The rod then went into wet concrete. It is not known how long each rod is, as it was cut through during the deinstallation. New nuts will need to be welded back in place, and the rods replaced for installation. The new replacement rod length should be set by an engineer. b. The main base is a rectangular slab. When the rectangular component of the sculpture was lifted off, it revealed that there are two 3.5” OD steel tubes that are set into the concrete slab. There are two 4” ID steel tubes built into the inside structure of the Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 2 Page 27 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT rectangular element. These 4” ID tubes slide over 3.5” OD tubes cast into the concrete base. This attachment method will need to be replicated for the installation of the sculpture. Two 3.5” OD tubes must be cast into the main rectangular slab when pouring the bases. c. The top curly-que section mounts onto the rectangular bottom section. There are two pipes (pipe wall is ¼”) that are welded onto the top of the rectangular section. The curly-que section has holes that line up with the pipes. The pipes are heavily corroded and exhibit jack rusting. The top and bottom sections were successfully separated without cutting through the pipes. As the pipes are steel with heavy corrosion, they will need to be cleaned and painted prior to installation. Painting the pipes should slow future oxidation. Registration Marks There were dots on some of the tubes where they are bolted together. Additional dots were drawn to indicate the orientation of each section, so they can be easily assembled during installation. Fabrication of internal structure The tubes and the main rectangular sculpture elements are fabricated with internal steel structures. a. Each bronze tube has a solid round steel flat plate that is approximately 2” thick welded into the inside edge of the end of the bronze tube. The steel plate has a tube welded into the middle of it. The steel plate is tapped and drilled to receive the bolts. All of the steel plates are in fair condition and will need to be cleaned, painted, and re-tapped prior to installation. In addition, the steel inserts need to be cleaned, primed with a zinc primer and then painted with an epoxy paint to slow corrosion. b. The large rectangular section has an internal steel structure fabricated out of angle iron (~3” x 3” with variable lengths) welded together to form an internal support. The support contains two long 4” ID tubes at equidistance from the center that serve as the attachment points to the base. The two steel tubes are around 3.5 feet long. These tubes slide over smaller steel tubes that are set into the concrete base. c. Many of the angle iron sections are rusted through and will need to be stabilized. Some sections will likely need to be cut out and replaced. The internal steel structure will also need to be primed with a zinc primer and then painted with an epoxy paint to slow down corrosion. Cracks Cracks were noted on all four corners of the bottom of the rectangular structure. These will need to be welded before the patination of the bronze and prior to installation. Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 3 Page 28 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT Weepholes: One large weephole was present on the bottom of one arm. It is approximately 2” in diameter. Some nesting grasses and small branches were noted inside. This hole should be reduced to prevent small animals from nesting inside the sculpture. No current additional weep holes were noted. However, additional weep holes need to be put in to allow moisture to drain out of the tube sections. Moisture and corrosion were present on the inside of the tubes on the steel inserts. The inserts were corroded from water buildup. Weepholes (1/4”) must be put at the lowest point above the insert. These were marked during de-installation. Testing Paint stripper was tested and worked well to remove the paint present on the sculpture. Below the paint is a textured surface that appears to be sandblasted, or glass bead blasted. Plan for conservation: Chicago Fine Art Services will move the sections out of the container so that we can work on them. They will also remove the broken bolts and tap the steel inserted plates in the tubes. Additionally, they will repair the internal angle iron structure on the rectangular section. They will weld new bronze nuts onto the arms of the sculpture to attach the bronze to the new concrete bases. Paint stripping and/or abrasive media blasting should be done to all sections. The interior steel structures (angle iron, plates, pipes) will be painted with the correct paint stack up to protect the steel. Once these items are completed, patination of the overall sculpture will be completed; then a tinted lacquer coating will be spray-applied to the surface. Once the sculpture is installed, minor touchups may be performed on the patina and lacquer. Finally, the sculpture will be waxed and buffed. Photographs: To access all of the photographic documentation please use the following link: Miss Nitro De- installation Updated Treatment Plan: The conservation will include structural repairs, interior rust removal, and protective painting of the interior structures that was not included in the original estimate. This may be covered by the contingency. 1. High-resolution digital images of the sculpture will be taken before, during, and after treatment. 2. PCC will source replacement bronze bolts and nuts for the sculpture. 3. PCC will clean corrosion from the internal structural elements and pipes of the sculpture. 4. Chicago Fine Art Services (CFAS) will remove broken bolts and clean out the receiving threads with a tap. 5. CFAS will weld the cracked seams on the bottom of the rectangular section. Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 4 Page 29 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT 6. CFAS will repair the outside attachment points by welding nuts back onto the tube arms of the sculpture. 7. PCC will chemically strip the sections. If this is insufficient, the paint will be abrasive media blasted to remove any paint remnants 8. The paint-free surface will be washed with Orvus, a conservation-grade detergent, and distilled water, and then fully rinsed with distilled water. It will be dried with microfiber cloths overall. 9. The bronze will be heated, and a new black patina applied. 10. A tinted lacquer (Permalac® or G.J. Nicholas) coating will be spray-applied to the surface to help maintain the new patina. This will also aid in creating a translucent, even black over the sculpture. 11. CFAS will transport the sculpture to its new location and install the sculpture. 12. Any scratches or patina damage that occurs during transport and installation will be addressed. 13. A protective wax coating will be applied to the bronze surface using gentle heat. The wax will be allowed to cool before being buffed. 14. Digital photographic documentation will be taken after the treatment is complete. 15. A final report will be provided, detailing the methods and materials used during the treatment, with recommendations for continued maintenance. Sunken Concrete Base Moving the Sections With the Telehandler Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 5 Page 30 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT Attachment Point on Bronze Tube Arm Attachment Point on Bronze Tube Arm Concrete Tube Base Sections Strapped Onto Flatbed Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 6 Page 31 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT Excessively Large Weep Hole Registration Marks Mounting Pipes Present in Concrete Slab Interior of Rectangular Section Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 7 Page 32 of 62  2025 INTERIM REPORT Steel Mounting Pipe on Rectangular Stucture Receiving Hole in Curly Que Section Jack Rusting on Interior Structure Rusted Angle Iron Interior Denver ~ Los Angeles 310 383 4710 www.pacificcoastconservation.com 8 Page 33 of 62 MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CULTURAL ARTS ADVISORY GROUP OF THE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK, ILLINOIS MEETING DATE: June 4, 2024 MEETING LOCATION: Pre-Session Conference Room – Highland Park City Hall 1707 St. Johns Avenue, Highland Park, Illinois CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL At 6:33 PM, Chair Eisenberg called the Cultural Arts Advisory Group (“CAAG”) regular meeting to order and ACM Jason called the roll. Advisors Present: Advisors Eisenberg (C), Rota (VC), Archambeau, Bautista, Bernstein, Blane, Lynch, Steiger Advisors Absent: Bruno, Kaufman, Rudy Staff Present: Erin K. Jason, Assistant City Manager Also Present: Councilmember Andrés Tapia, Student Advisor Heimgartner Councilmember Tapia briefly shared an update on the experiences he and his family have recently been undergoing and welcomed continued support. MINUTES a) Approval of the January 16, 2024 Meeting Minutes b) Approval of the March 19, 2024 Meeting Minutes Chair Eisenberg discussed there were several scrivener errors found, however the minutes do not need to be amended to approve as presented. Advisor Lynch moved to approve the minutes as presented. Advisor Bernstein seconded the motion. Voice vote, unanimous. Chair Eisenberg declared the motion passed. BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC None. Page 34 of 62 NEW BUSINESS a) Preliminary discussion of potential Library expansion impacts on Miss Nitro and role of CAAG in a potential relocation process Chair Eisenberg stated that the Highland Park Public Library is moving forward with next steps for a 20252026 expansion of the Library, based on a needs assessment, strategic planning, and resident feedback to better meet community demand for space and services. The proposed expansion project may require the temporary removal or possible relocation of the Miss Nitro sculpture. He stated tonight CAAG will begin the process of identifying potential sites should the sculpture need to be relocated. He reminded the Advisors that this is the first discussion on the topic; he anticipates additional conversations before any recommendations are made to Council. ACM Jason reviewed the Miss Nitro sculpture: • Sculptor: Peter Voulkos • Materials: Bronze* • Owner: City of HP • Installed: Summer 1973 • Location: Southeast corner of St. John’s Ave. & Hazel Ave., west side of the HP Library • Dimensions: (14 x 70 x 10 ft.) * The piece was restored in the summer of 1991. The bronze surface had deteriorated and was treated with a black coating Discussion ensued on the different types of bronze used in the sculpture, aging process and tonality of the sculpture, the decision to use painted black coating a less expensive approach than restoration of the bronze in the past, and the history of the blue ribbon panel choosing the current site for this esteemed sculpture. Discussion began on the City’s RFP for restoration services; point of order by ACM the topic for this evening is the identification of sites for Miss Nitro not contracted services. ACM Jason gave a brief overview of the roles of CAAG and Staff in this process; stating that similar to the review of nominations for the HP Arts Award winner, CAAG will ultimately offer feedback individually on each of the proposed locations that they as a group choose to move forward to Council for final review and consideration. A summary of roles and process is as follows: CAAG Role • Suggest & Evaluate Potential Locations for Miss Nitro o Advisors are not limited in suggesting locations however for any locations identified that are not City property, it is the responsibility and role of City staff to engage with the property owners. o Advisors should not approach or discuss the potential for relocation of Miss Nitro with property owners directly. • CAAG to individually offer feedback on proposed locations pros/cons Staff Role • Evaluation of “short-list” top 2-3 locations for feasibility • Present CAAG recommendations & evaluations to Council for consideration Page 35 of 62  • Engage property owners if suggested location is not City owned • Continue to work with Voulkos Estate for relocation best practices • Budget and plan for relocation • Budget and plan for restoration after relocation with conservator ACM Jason reviewed two sites supplied by CAAG Advisors for consideration prior to the meeting: Brown Park (563 Washington Pl): southeast corner of Roger Williams & Burton Avenues and Central Ave & Deerfield Rd: Triangle property north of intersection. Discussion ensued as to the interest in the Park District or private property owners in hosting Miss Nitro in the future. ACM Jason stated that staff would address those asks; the request is that we are asking for specific locations for consideration not general “Park District property” for example. ACM Jason asked that discussion be open to ideation and not centered on “why nots” in this part of the process. Chair Eisenberg, liaisons, and the Advisors entered into discussion on the following: • Consideration of sites that include a view of the water or a grand setting • Proximity to the lakefront and the potential for damage from the elements and exposure • Need for a gateway sculpture • Want to honor the prominence of the sculpture • Want to maintain easy public access to the sculpture • Consideration of The Preserve as a site • Potential for Brown Park to host a sculpture walk • The Lot should the site be built out in the future as a potential site • Previous conversation with TAC and ownership of Central & Deerfield on their openness to having a gateway sculpture located on site • What is the ideal site: no clutter, open space, clear visual and access to the sculpture • Consideration of how people interact with art work • A gateway approach v a destination approach • Desire to leave Miss Nitro in place where it is now • East side of Library as a potential location • Community House as a potential location; proximity to TAC and easy accessibility • Creation of a cultural campus with TAC and Community House proximity; potential sculpture walk • Boy on a Swing’s relocation not considered as prominent now • Idea of Miss Nitro as intentional interactive playground v not encouraging that interaction • Exposure at Brown Park from Metra riders and Ravinia Festival patrons • The need for Miss Nitro to be seen so her identity is not lost • Peter Voulkos’ enjoyment when people would interact and play with his sculpture • Ravinia Festival as a potential location; not enough easy public access • Finding somewhere with unobstructed views as is currently enjoyed • Potential of The Preserve as destination gathering space associated with the arts in the future • The mood of the site and its effect on how patrons will interact with the sculpture in the future Chair Eisenberg stated prior to the next meeting Advisors are to review the following identified locations in earnest either virtually or in-person; they may likewise choose to bring additional locations forward for discussion at that time: Page 36 of 62 • Brown Park (563 Washington Pl): southeast corner of Roger Williams & Burton Avenues • Central Ave & Deerfield Rd: Triangle property north of intersection • The Preserve (1207 Park Ave. West): location tbd • Central Park (125 Central Ave): location tbd • HP Community House (1991 Sheridan Rd): location tbd • HP Public Library (494 Laurel Ave): east of the Library Chair Eisenberg once again reiterated that tonight’s discussion was the start of the conversation not the end. OTHER BUSINESS a) Poet Laureate Committee Report Chair Eisenberg stated that he recently spoke with Laura Joyce Hubbard and she is interested in extending the option to continue as the Highland Park Poet Laureate in 2025. Chair Eisenberg announced that at the next meeting of CAAG they will discuss the program, review feedback, and evaluate if they wish to recommend renewal of contract with the Poet Laureate into 2025 or proceed otherwise. CAAG briefly reviewed “top shelf” events that PL Joyce Hubbard has either arranged or participated in over the past few months including celebration of Poetry Month, programming with former US Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey, and participation at the Memorial Day program. b) Chair Report Chair Eisenberg reported on the progress of recording the audio for the public sculptures project. He noted that the Library advised they are happy to work on this project with the Cultural Arts Advisory Group and believe they will be ready to start working with the group on this project in September. They will schedule a meeting in early September with the working group and Amanda to finalize details with the plan to begin recording after Labor Day. Chair Eisenberg reminded Advisors that the next meeting of CAAG will be July 16, 2024. c) City Staff Report ACM Jason announced staff have completed duplicating the Public Art Map on Enjoy Highland Park, which will allow the City to place QR codes adjacent to sculptures. As a next step, staff will be reaching out to IC Signs of Highwood, which has produced many of the plaques for City-owned sculptures, to have them review how this would be possible and provide a quote. ACM Jason extended thank yous to Chair Eisenberg & VC Rota for participating in the HP Awards on April 11th and likewise thanked all of the members of CAAG who were in attendance. The addition of the HP Photo contest winners was much appreciated and enjoyed. Staff is working out some of the logistics for next year in regards to this portion of the recognition. The winning and honorable mentions from 2024 are now on display at City Hall. Page 37 of 62 d) Advisor Comments Advisor Bernstein shared information on the Uptown Music Theater Highland Park in relation to their upcoming performances of Les Miserables July 26 – August 11, 2024. Advisor Lynch shared information on the International Mural Fest in Highwood June 6 – June 9, 2024. ADJOURNMENT Advisor Blane moved to adjourn. Advisor Steiger seconded the motion. Voice vote, unanimous. Chair Eisenberg declared the meeting adjourned at 7:52 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Erin K. Jason, Assistant City Manager ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MINUTES APPROVED BY THE CULTURAL ARTS ADVISORY GROUP ON: July 16, 2024 Page 38 of 62 MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CULTURAL ARTS ADVISORY GROUP OF THE CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK, ILLINOIS MEETING DATE: July 16, 2024 MEETING LOCATION: Pre-Session Conference Room – Highland Park City Hall 1707 St. Johns Avenue, Highland Park, Illinois CALL TO ORDER/ROLL CALL At 6:31 PM, Chair Eisenberg called the Cultural Arts Advisory Group (“CAAG”) regular meeting to order and Staff Liaison Bennett called the roll. Advisors Present: Advisors Eisenberg (C), Archambeau, Bautista, Bernstein, Blane, Bruno, Lynch, Steiger Advisors Absent: Advisors Rota (VC), Kaufman, Rudy; Student Representative Heimgartner Staff Present: Amanda Bennett, Communications Manager/Staff Liaison Also Present: Councilmember Andrés Tapia (arr. 7:15); Dr. Aaron Greenberg (member of the public); Laura Joyce-Hubbard, City Poet Laureate Chair Eisenberg welcomed Dr. Greenberg and requested all in attendance introduce themselves. MINUTES a) Approval of the June 4, 2024 Meeting Minutes Advisor Lynch moved to approve the minutes as presented. Advisor Blane seconded the motion. Voice vote, unanimous. Chair Eisenberg declared the motion passed. BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC Dr. Greenberg thanked members for the warm welcome. NEW BUSINESS a) Discussion of Extension of Poet Laureate Chair Eisenberg introduced the City’s Poet Laureate program, a CAAG initiative that launched in 2023. As per the terms of the program as approved in 2022, the tenure of the Poet Laureate may be extended for an additional two-year term upon the recommendation of CAAG and affirmation of the City Council. A formal recommendation from CAAG is requested to refer the matter to the City Council. Chair Eisenberg invited Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard to review a summary of activities undertaken in 2023/2024. Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard expressed appreciation for the support of the group, especially Advisor Bruno, who has provided ongoing updates to CAAG. She shared that events have been well attended and positively received. Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard reviewed a number of activities she organized during her first term, including: Page 1 of 7 Page 39 of 62   Instructional workshop at Heller Nature Center  Favorite Poem Project Community Reading at HPPL  National Poetry Month Discussion with former US Poet Laureate Natasha Trethewey at Trinity Episcopal Church  Occasional poems recited and/or written and recited for specific City-sponsored events, including: o Memorial Day 2023 & 2024 o Highland Park Remembrance Ceremony 2023 & 2024 o Veterans Day 2023 & 2024  Interviews with Highland Park Neighbors, North Shore Weekend, Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard also summarized activities with community partnerships in Highland Park, including:  Highland Park Poetry (reading and Q&A, video interview)  Midwest Young Artists Conservatory reading  Highland Park/Highwood Rotary Club presentation  East on Central reading In addition, Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard highlighted other activities undertaken as a working writer, including:  Promoting the Poet Laureate program at a Ragdale poetry reading and online workshop  Networking and discussing her role at an out-of-state awards ceremony  Programming at the Evanston Public Library Lastly, Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard, reviewed upcoming events, including future programs she will be proposing to or discussing with Chair Eisenberg and Advisor Bruno in greater detail as appropriate:  Reginald Gibbons @ HP Poetry w/ Kira Tucker; Prof Holland Pope, will intro & host Q&A  Veterans Day  Visiting Highland Park’s veterans’ groups  Potential semi-annual or quarterly Favorite Poems Project programs, given expressed community interest  Possible future partnerships with The Art Center and Secret World Books in Highland Park  Future collaboration with Ragdale in schools & Kids Rank (focused on supporting military families)  Possible programming event at Ravinia (fall/spring – ekphrastic poetry workshop)  Write-ins at Rosewood Interpretive Center to support  Programming for April as National Poetry Month (inviting a writer to speak) With respect to the program budget, Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard requested that the City allocate additional funding to support programmatic funding for visiting writers. In light of the still-new program, Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard requested an extension of one year, with the possibility of extending an additional year as allowed. Chair Eisenberg expressed appreciation for Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s enthusiasm and thoughtful approach to defining the first two years of her tenure as Poet Laureate, noting that he found the poetry month programs to be particularly moving. Advisor Steiger congratulated Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard on her activities to date, and suggested she reach out to the Brushwood Center regarding events for veterans and children in military families. Advisor Lynch indicated that Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard had brought so much more to the role than was anticipated. Advisor Lynch recommended supporting Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s request to extend her tenure one year at this time, and commended her for expanding awareness of the program beyond Highland Park’s own literary community. Advisor Lynch confirmed that The Art Center would be interested in pursuing Page 2 of 7 Page 40 of 62 a future collaborative program, and expressed appreciation for Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s use of various spaces throughout Highland Park (especially natural spaces) as locations for programs. Advisor Bernstein expressed great appreciation and admiration for Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s work to develop the role. Advisor Bernstein also supported the extension of Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s tenure. Advisor Archambeau echoed Advisor Lynch’s feedback and shared appreciation for Poet Laureate Joyce- Hubbard’s work to define the role and create a program that is replicable over time. Advisor Archambeau encouraged Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard to review writers already booked for venues in the Chicago area as a way to engage speakers who otherwise would not be within budget. Advisor Bautista shared appreciation for the digital video series that was spearheaded by Poet Laureate Joyce- Hubbard in advance of the community poetry reading event in April. Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard thanked Advisor Bernstein, Advisor Bruno, Advisor Bautista, Chair Eisenberg, and Staff Liaison Bennett for their work in supporting the programming. Advisor Lynch asked Staff Liaison Bennett to confirm timing for approval of CAAG’s FY 2025 workplan. Staff Liaison Bennett stated that a draft workplan would be presented to CAAG for discussion and approval in October, and that the intention for this meeting was to obtain a formal decision regarding the possible extension of Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s tenure as this would be a foundational element of the FY 2025 workplan. Advisor Lynch asked if public art fund dollars could be directed to support this program; Staff Liaison Bennett explained that the Poet Laureate Program was funded through operating dollars in the general fund allocated specifically to this program. Staff Liaison Bennett reviewed the budgeting schedule and stated that CM Neukirch and ACM Jason had already been apprised of an anticipated budget increase request for the program from the existing $1,500 annually (inclusive of the honorarium and programming fees of $500.) Advisor Lynch and Advisor Archambeau asked Staff Liaison Bennett to review the current balance of the Public Art Fund and ascertain if any additional funding for the Poet Laureate Program may be possible via the Public Art Fund. Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard stated that she did not have a specific budget amount in mind, but that she recommended identifying a sustainable annual budget as this would be critical to the long-term success of the program. Advisor Bautista asked Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard about transitional needs, and a recommendation for a designated transition period. Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard explained that her goal for 2025 would be to lay a strong foundation for the future of the program, and that she would envision a transition period of approximately a month (not a year.) Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard stated that she would be open to further extending her tenure to ensure a smooth transition if required. Advisor Lynch recommended that Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard discuss funding opportunities for programming when approaching partner organizations about hosting events. Advisor Bernstein asked Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard when she anticipated making a decision regarding a request for a second year extension. Advisor Bernstein explained that it was a long and intensive process to compose a jury, develop the application requirements, request and review submissions, and interview finalists. Advisor Bernstein estimated the timeline at approximately five-six months; Staff Liaison Bennett concurred. Advisor Bernstein reminded the group that a key aspect of the selection process was an independent jury recommending an appointment to CAAG, of which only two members were CAAG Advisors; as there is no guarantee the previous jury panel would be able to return, it would be important to allow sufficient time for jury recruitment. Page 3 of 7 Page 41 of 62 Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard asked the group for feedback as to whether September 2025 would be sufficient notice; concurrence from advisors was that this would be sufficient. Advisor Bernstein also recommended that CAAG take into consideration advisor terms in determining the point person for the Poet Laureate program. Advisor Bernstein moved to recommend the extension of Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s tenure by one year as requested, with great pleasure; seconded by Advisor Steiger; upon a voice vote, the recommendation was unanimously approved. Chair Eisenberg declared the motion passed and asked Staff Liaison Bennett to provide an overview of next steps. Staff Liaison Bennett advised that as part of the City’s budgeting process, she would be working with Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard, Chair Eisenberg, and Advisor Bruno to develop a budget request for the scope of Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s anticipated programming for the 2025 fiscal year. These initiatives and the budget allocation will be approved as part of the CAAG FY 2025 workplan, which is slated for discussion at the October regular meeting. On behalf of the City, Staff Liaison Bennett thanked Poet Laureate Joyce- Hubbard for her outstanding contributions. Councilmember Tapia expressed appreciation for the successful first two years of the program as proof of concept, and encouraged Chair Eisenberg, Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard, and Staff Liaison Bennett to prepare a budget request reflective of the cost of the scope of programming. Chair Eisenberg thanked Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard for her work and participation at the meeting. Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard thanked Councilmember Tapia, Chair Eisenberg, and the group, and departed the meeting at 7:25 PM. Councilmember Tapia expressed appreciation for the kind words and support of community members, particularly CAAG members, during the difficult time for his family. CAAG members reiterated their support for Councilmember Tapia and his family. OLD BUSINESS a) Continuation of Discussion Regarding “Miss Nitro” Chair Eisenberg reviewed past discussion regarding the potential relocation of “Miss Nitro,” including the sites identified for further discussion and review by CAAG at the June 4, 2024 meeting. Chair Eisenberg invited Staff Liaison Bennett to review the locations previously discussed and requested feedback from the group on each. Advisor Lynch reported visiting each of the sites, and recommended withdrawal of his prior suggestion of consideration of the Highland Park Community House. Advisor Steiger concurred. Advisor Lynch noted that the Brown Park site offers multiple benefits: a great location with high visibility from Metra; active and engaged arts-minded neighborhood; fills the need for a focal point in the Ravinia District. Advisor Lynch also recommended withdrawing the Deerfield Rd./Laurel Ave. green space location, due to difficulties accessing the space for enjoyment of the sculpture. Advisor Steiger expressed similar concerns. Advisor Blane noted accessibility issues to the Deerfield Rd. location. With respect to Central Park, Advisor Lynch observed that the space is underutilized. Advisor Bruno expressed that the space is difficult to find and not conducive to individuals coming upon the sculpture. Advisor Bernstein explained several considerations pertaining to the Library expansion, including logistical constraints that prevent the Library from expanding east. Advisor Bernstein provided a brief overview of discussions with the Library’s Board President and Executive Director in this regard. Advisor Bernstein also Page 4 of 7 Page 42 of 62 reviewed considerations pertaining to the Library/City Hall lawn/setback space, and discussed the provenance of “Miss Nitro,” highlighting the role of the National Endowment for the Arts and a blue ribbon committee in identifying an ideal location for the space. Advisor Bernstein noted that she and several community members, including Dr. Greenberg in attendance this evening, advocated for “Miss Nitro” to remain in place for the ideal enjoyment and display of this significant sculpture and for the preservation of the HPPL/City Hall lawn. Staff Liaison Bennett stated that these comments would be reflected in the minutes and in the summary provided to the City Council, although the goal is still to provide a recommendation for a new site for the sculpture in the event that the Library expansion project does necessitate its relocation. Advisor Blane expressed concerns regarding the suggestion of placing the sculpture on the east side of the Library; Advisors Bernstein and Steiger concurred. Chair Eisenberg noted that in prior discussion, the group considered whether the sculpture’s potential new siting should be viewed as a gateway or a destination, and stated that there were benefits to each approach. Advisor Steiger suggested that the Brown Park location could be viewed as both a destination and as a gateway to the Ravinia District. Advisor Archambeau noted several considerations pertaining to the current location of the sculpture that would be beneficial to replicate in a new location: it is presently highly visible, with clear lines of sight and open to engagement and interaction, and it is also visible and enjoyable when it’s not sought out. Advisor Archambeau suggested that several potential locations do not meet this test: Central Park, east side of the Library, the Preserve, and the Deerfield/Laurel location. With respect to Brown Park, Advisor Archambeau noted that this is a busy street offering a very visible location complemented by a high number of events, and recommended Brown Park as the leading candidate. Advisor Bautista discussed considerations specific to the Preserve as a programmed space by the Park District of Highland Park; although not centrally located, given the Park District’s interest in further developing programming and services, this might bring art to a location where people currently go. Additionally, Advisor Bautista suggested that the Preserve had the potential to be developed into a destination, perhaps a sculpture garden that could further beautify the space. Advisor Bautista recommended that sites be reviewed through an equity lens as well, and that advisors take into consideration access needs such as parking. Advisor Steiger suggested the Preserve could benefit from a sculpture walk. Advisor Lynch suggested that the Preserve may be in consideration as a potential location for the permanent place of remembrance, noting that Newtown, CT had created a peace garden and that the advantages Advisor Bautista identified for the Preserve would apply equally to considerations regarding the permanent place of remembrance. Advisor Lynch expressed support for Advisor Steiger’s characterization of Brown Park as both a destination and a gateway. Advisor Bernstein concurred, noting the high foot traffic generated by the Ravinia Business District, playground, and tennis courts. Chair Eisenberg invited a motion to recommend the City proceed with evaluating Brown Park as the group’s consensus for a possible relocation of “Miss Nitro.” Advisor Archambeau asked whether it was beneficial to be more precise in describing the recommended location within the park. Councilmember Tapia recommended that the motion reflect the way the site was described in the presentation for consistency. Staff Liaison Bennett reviewed the next steps in the process: draft minutes of the June and July meetings and a discussion summary would be provided to City staff to explain the group recommendation; individual, anonymous surveys would be solicited from CAAG members to provide further detail on all six potential locations, with responses to be provided in their entirety to staff, Council, and other commission members as appropriate; staff would proceed with formal analysis of the top site(s) as indicated by the group and individual responses. Staff Liaison Bennett explained that because site analysis had not yet occurred, it would be advisable to keep the motion less specific. Page 5 of 7 Page 43 of 62 Advisor Lynch recommended that an artist be involved in determining the siting of the sculpture in a potential new location; Advisor Bernstein concurred and recommended CAAG members be involved as well. Staff Liaison Bennett stated that she expected the relocation plan, if needed, would return to CAAG for feedback. Advisor Steiger moved to recommend the City proceed with evaluating the southeast corner of Brown Park as the group’s consensus for a possible relocation of “Miss Nitro;” seconded by Advisor Bruno; voice vote, unanimous. Chair Eisenberg declared the motion passed. Councilmember Tapia expressed appreciation for the thoughtful and detailed discussion of CAAG members, and expressed that this thorough review of various sites in Highland Park that could benefit from public art might be helpful for future projects. Staff Liaison Bennett noted that the City does currently have one sculpture in storage requiring relocation. In light of discussion points concerning the permanent place of remembrance, Staff Liaison Bennett provided an update regarding the planning process. Staff Liaison Bennett noted that the next stage in the planning process is to conduct a city-wide survey (including formal survey as well as facilitated focus groups), for which the City recently went to RFP. Experts have shared that site selection is critical and feedback from the community will be very important to the working group; an update is anticipated in September. OTHER BUSINESS a) Chair Report Chair Eisenberg reported on the progress of recording the audio for the public sculptures project. Advisors Lynch and Bruno are coordinating times with Peter Sagal; Chair Eisenberg and Staff Liaison Bennett are working to schedule with the Library. Advisor Steiger reported that she prepared a sculpture walk route to add to the map. b) City Staff Report Staff Liaison Bennett shared information from Marketing Coordinator Diane Larson regarding plans for a pop- up from The Art Center at the upcoming Vintage Car Show on August 11. Staff Liaison Bennett expressed appreciation on the City’s behalf for the partnership with The Art Center. c) Advisor Comments Advisor Bernstein suggested CAAG revisit the honorarium afforded to the Poet Laureate, noting that it was not appropriate to discuss when Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard was present earlier in the meeting. Advisor Bernstein expressed sincere appreciation for all of Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s work, and suggested the City allocate additional funds commensurate with her work and contributions to increase the honorarium. Councilmember Tapia suggested that the budget request be viewed in a holistic manner and also include a funding request specific to programming, in light of the potential programs outlined by Poet Laureate Joyce- Hubbard during the earlier part of the meeting. Councilmember Tapia explained that budget requests should reflect the costs of presenting a high-quality, comprehensive program. Councilmember Tapia asked Staff Liaison Bennett to include detail for programming needs in the budget memorandum regarding the program. Staff Liaison Bennett confirmed that the budget request would incorporate feedback from Poet Laureate Joyce- Hubbard as well as comparative information regarding budgeted expenses for the Poet Laureate Program. Advisor Archambeau noted that Poet Laureate positions do not typically involve the same level of involvement from the Poet Laureate and concurred with Advisor Bernstein that Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard’s honorarium should be increased. Page 6 of 7 Page 44 of 62 Councilmember Tapia reiterated the importance of telling a compelling story around the impact of this initiative as the program continues to grow during the budgeting process year-to-year to ensure the program’s continued development is on the City Council’s radar. CAAG Advisors concurred that the Poet Laureate Program budget request should incorporate increases to the honorarium and programming budgets. Chair Eisenberg advised the group that he would coordinate a meeting with Poet Laureate Joyce-Hubbard, Advisor Bruno, and Staff Liaison Bennett to further discuss plans for 2025 in greater detail and assist in preparing a holistic budget reflective of the Program’s goals, in line with Councilmember Tapia’s recommendations. With respect to planning for the audio recordings of the public art map, Advisor Lynch updated the group that Peter Sagal remains excited about the prospect of recording the narration for the City’s public art map, and should be available in early fall. ADJOURNMENT Advisor Archambeau moved to adjourn. Advisor Lynch seconded the motion. Voice vote, unanimous. Chair Eisenberg declared the meeting adjourned at 8:15 PM. Respectfully Submitted, Amanda Bennett, Communications Manager/Staff Liaison ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- MINUTES APPROVED BY THE CULTURAL ARTS ADVISORY GROUP ON: October 15, 2024 Page 7 of 7 Page 45 of 62  CAAG Advisor Feedback Response 1: Do you recommend Brown Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 5 (Highly Recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Brown Park? This park area is open and free from visual obstruction. Miss Nitro seems to fit the 'vibe' of this neighborhood and would be seen from the Metra trains, attendees at the Thursday Food Truck Nights, the Wednesday Farmer's Market, and many of the people headed to Ravinia. This might even be a better choice than leaving it at the library! In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Brown Park? The area around the sculpture might need a little extra landscaping to 'define' the visual impact of the sculpture. Do you have any other feedback to share about Brown Park? There is another sculpture, the Large Narrow Horse- Jozef Sumichrist, sculptor. B- Hobart, and it would be a nice counter-balance Do you recommend Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd. for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 3 (Neutral) In your opinion, what are potential positive or attractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? While this would be a great gateway sculpture for HP, this would take some time to put together and include a new parking area to make it accessible. Still a good choice for a gateway sculpture, but possibly one that would be more modern. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? It is a busy intersection and it may not provide the optimal viewing situation for a piece like this. Do you have any other feedback regarding Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Page 46 of 62 This is still a potentially viable site for a gateway sculpture letting people know about HP's dedication to arts and culture but it should be one that's planned and executed specifically with all of the considerations in mind. Do you recommend The Preserve for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 4 In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of The Preserve? This could go anywhere in the Preserve and the mass and scale of the park itself calls for large sculptural pieces. This could be our sculpture walk in much the way that other cities who proclaim an identity as an 'arts city' have established. It could be the 'heart' of this area and bring more people to this preserve as a destination. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? This piece would not be as evident as in other locations and people would have to seek it out to view it. That's good and bad, but it really is a remarkable piece and we'd like to show it off. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? I have not seen people adapt to The Preserve in large numbers, like Sunset Park, for example, and it would be good to make it more of a destination and 'prize' place for HP. The better use for it would be to include one 'peace garden' or something similar for the memorial of the mass shooting. That would definitely make it a destination for people to come to HP and visit. Do you recommend Central Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 4 In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Central Park? This is a lovely park and is underutilized. This addition would be a great surprise for anyone intentionally visiting the park or just happening on it while walking around the city. The view of the lake is great and it is one of my favorite places in HP In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Park? Because of the many trees this piece may need to be fit in and amongst the trees and that wouldn't serve the piece well. It might need to go in the northeast corner and that would mean clearing away the rock structure there to give the best viewing access. It is a little too far off the beaten path for people to see it in larger numbers. Page 47 of 62 Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Park? This would be a better option if the stairs to the lakefront could be rebuilt. Do you recommend Highland Park Community House as a potential site for "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HP Community House? There is plenty of room on their lawn, and the combination of artwork at the art center plus this would make for a nice art walk corridor. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HP Community House? The Community House landscaping is fairly random in plan and is not as well kept as this piece deserves. It would only work if they would commit to framing the piece in a more sophisticated landscape design. Do you have any other feedback to share about HP Community House? This would also be a little of the path and make the sculpture further removed from the public eye. Do you recommend HP Public Library (east side) for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 4 In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? A good option for those who feel that Miss Nitro and the library are linked to each other in concept and context. It could be the anchor for using the land surrounding the library and attract more visitors, especially if there was some other aspect like a playground to attract people to that side of the library. The HP library is a gem and keeping Miss Nitro near it could seem more palatable to those who don't want to see the sculpture moved at all. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? Page 48 of 62 It's hard to say without knowing that the library would create some sort of strategy to activate that area of their property including, possibly, an amphitheater or some other public use space that would host events. Do you have any other feedback to share about HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? This would move it a little further out of the public eye - especially those visiting HP - but it would help assuage those who don't like change. Page 49 of 62 Response 2: Do you recommend Brown Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 5 (Highly Recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Brown Park? This is a highly visible location with unobstructed views and does not have trees interfering with the space the sculpture requires. It is visible from Roger Williams, which is highly traveled, and from passing Metra trains. It is also a great pedestrian location for people going into the park for the playground or tennis, for people visiting local businesses and restaurants, and for people going to the Ravinia Festival. It is easily accessible for people who want to touch it or kids who want to climb on it, which is something Peter Voulkos wanted to see happen regularly. The Ravinia Business District is a second downtown for Highland Park and, when not a destination, it is frequently passed when people go to or from the Central Business District. It is also close to Ravinia School, which means that schoolchildren can enjoy it right in their own neighborhood. There is plenty of room at this intersection for Miss Nitro to have a generous setting. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Brown Park? None. Do you have any other feedback to share about Brown Park? Brown Park is second only to Miss Nitro's long-standing location west of the library. It is not only my first choice; it is my only choice. Do you recommend Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd. for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are potential positive or attractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? None. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? People drive by this location frequently and do so quickly. There is no time to pause to enjoy the sculpture and virtually no adjacent parking if people want to stop and visit it. The City tried to manage that issue with the similar location issue for Ingress by placing two benches in the small Page 50 of 62 park surrounding the sculpture. I drive by there at least a couple of times a day. I have never seen anyone in the park, much less sitting on a bench there. I stopped to visit it once and had to park temporarily about a block away. This type of situation is not conducive to enjoying a great work of art. Furthermore, the shape of this plot of land may not accommodate the sculpture well. Do you have any other feedback regarding Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Do you recommend The Preserve for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of The Preserve? In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? It can be enjoyed by the relatively small number of people who visit The Preserve. Most people who go there are adults walking their dogs. This eliminates youth and the elderly. It is a remote location that requires it be a destination to be viewed. As with Miss Nitro's current location, the sculpture deserves a prominent location that is readily viewed and visited by multitudes. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Do you recommend Central Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Central Park? In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Park? Similar concerns as I had for Central and Deerfield Rd location. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Park? Do you recommend Highland Park Community House as a potential site for "Miss Nitro"? Page 51 of 62 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HP Community House? In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HP Community House? Inadequate space. Too many trees interfering. Not a prominent location. Do you have any other feedback to share about HP Community House? Do you recommend HP Public Library (east side) for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? The empty lots to the east of the library may be close to the current location of the sculpture, yet being off St Johns Ave and tucked behind the library's parking lot on a small street is far from ideal. In this location, Miss Nitro loses all her prominence and is not valued as important. Do you have any other feedback to share about HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? Page 52 of 62 Response 3: Do you recommend Brown Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 5 (Highly Recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Brown Park? Moves an important and engaging sculpture to an important, but more peripheral commercial and cultural area. Lots of exposure via Metro, Ravinia patrons, and commercial patrons of the Ravinia area. Heavy pedestrian traffic with good potential for engaging with Ms. Nitro from many different angles. I think this location is an ideal extension of Highland Park's commitment to the arts and brings this message to a different part of town with many visitors, commuters, students, etc. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Brown Park? The sculpture in this location will be in close proximity to visitors. This increases the possibility of damage, either accidental or intentional. I hate thinking in these terms, but I believe it's a realistic concern. Do you have any other feedback to share about Brown Park? The layout of the park space is nicely suited to the geometry of the sculpture. There would ultimately be more space for other sculptures, should a sculpture "walk" be considered. Do you recommend Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd. for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 5 (Highly recommended) In your opinion, what are potential positive or attractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? This site is the premier "gateway" location for this prominent sculpture. The site is primarily longitudinal which suits the piece very well. It would be seen by visitors approaching and leaving the downtown HP area, and, thus, have much wider exposure than its current situation. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? The main negative of this location is the relative lack of good pedestrian approaches. Thus, it would not offer the same degree of proximal engagement as some of the other suggested sites. Page 53 of 62 This site is clearly a "gateway" site, rather than a "destination" site. Nevertheless, as a gateway, it's hard to deny the appeal. Do you have any other feedback regarding Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Likely the most frequented potential location for Ms. Nitro, but by auto only (mainly?) Do you recommend The Preserve for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 4 In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of The Preserve? The Preserve is a magnificent natural setting for almost any type of municipal sculpture. I can certainly envision it as the first installment in a sculpture walk through the rest of the park. The location of The Preserve is quite different from the other locations which are in the downtown or other heavily trafficked areas. The likelihood of younger people or younger families strolling through The Preserve opens up the possibility of attracting a different audience of young families and young adults, especially if consideration of the development of a sculpture walk in The Preserve is seriously pursued. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? The Preserve is somewhat off the beaten path of more popular and more populated areas of Highland Park. Ms. Nitro in this location would certainly represent a new destination for the community and the City's cultural interests. This would require a longer term development of the area. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Placing Ms Nitro in The Preserve would be a major statement by the City that there is commitment to the cultural development of many areas in town, and that we are interested in attracting a new, possibly younger, audience to this cultural attraction. Do you recommend Central Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 2 In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Central Park? Central Park is a marvelous natural site, but placing a sculpture piece in the area, overlooking the lake, might make Ms. Nitro pale in comparison. Page 54 of 62 In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Park? I'd be concerned about damage to the piece, as the location is somewhat out of the way of normal pedestrian flow. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Park? Ms. Nitro is a great piece of art, which is likely to continue to grow in value over time. It needs a prominent site and the City's commitment to develop a true destination for this piece (and others to follow). Do you recommend Highland Park Community House as a potential site for "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HP Community House? In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HP Community House? Not much to recommend this site, in my opinion. Upkeep and landscaping are not good. The space is small for a sculpture of this size. Do you have any other feedback to share about HP Community House? I feel that this is the least desirable of all the potential sites for Ms. Nitro. Do you recommend HP Public Library (east side) for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? The geography east of the Library wouldn't seem appropriate for a "longitudinal" piece like Ms. Nitro. Although we've all grown accustomed to the west lawn of the Library as Ms Nitro's home, I think that several of the proposed new sites enhance the piece's visibility and importance. Page 55 of 62 In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? Do you have any other feedback to share about HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? I'm not sure it's worth the expense to consider the type of landscaping that would be necessary to prepare the site for a sculpture of Ms Nitro's size and shape. Page 56 of 62 Response 4: Do you recommend Brown Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 5 (Highly Recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Brown Park? near the train, in Ravinia, popular place where lots of people will walk by and see it. Brown Park is also a nice park. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Brown Park? Do you have any other feedback to share about Brown Park? My only concerns are that Miss Nitro is moving away from downtown and that Ravinia already has many attractions. Also, not everyone in HP can afford to go to places in Ravnia and there is a concern about making Miss Nitro less accessible to those who do not typically go to Ravinia. Do you recommend Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd. for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 3 (Neutral) In your opinion, what are potential positive or attractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Ideal place for a "gateway" piece and will be seen by many people. In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? High traffic area, not safe for pedestrians. Do you have any other feedback regarding Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Do you recommend The Preserve for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 3 (Neutral) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of The Preserve? Page 57 of 62 The Preserve is a wide open spot where many people go for different reasons - play with kids, walk dogs, and walking for exercise. The concrete space east of the Rec center could be transformed into a plaza that could be landscaped around art placed there. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? It would take lots of work to remove the concrete and build a place. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? The Preserve may be a good spot for a sculpture garden. It would still be a good idea to remove the concrete, create a plaza, with engraved bricks provided by donors, add landscaping, and create a beautiful place for the community to see art and nature. Do you recommend Central Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Central Park? It is in a park near the lake. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Park? Being by the lake exposes Miss Nitro to natural elements that might degrade it. The park is at the end of Central Ave. and Miss Nitro would not get as much exposure as she would in other locations. Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Park? Do you recommend Highland Park Community House as a potential site for "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HP Community House? It is near the Arts Center. Miss Nitro would be a great attraction for the HP Community House. Page 58 of 62 In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HP Community House? Small plot of land, not center of town, Miss Nitro would not be seen very much. Do you have any other feedback to share about HP Community House? Someone also mentioned that the grounds are not kept well at HP Community House. Do you recommend HP Public Library (east side) for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? It would be nice to keep Miss Nitro near the library. In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? But the east side is not ideal. The land is uneven and there is a house that is in the background. It is also not that open due to the line of trees east of the library garage. It is a hidden spot and Miss Nitro would not be as visible to public. Do you have any other feedback to share about HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? Page 59 of 62 Response 5: Do you recommend Brown Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 5 (Highly Recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Brown Park? Nice, family - friendly area plus close to the Farmers Market - there is plenty of space to chose from :) In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Brown Park? None Do you have any other feedback to share about Brown Park? No Do you recommend Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd. for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"?: 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are potential positive or attractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? The only positive is that it's a "gateway" to the city In your opinion, what are potential negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Isolated - no one can actually get close to it without going through busy traffic Do you have any other feedback regarding Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Not recommended Do you recommend The Preserve for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) Page 60 of 62 In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of The Preserve? Enough space In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? Too isolated - Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Ave. & Deerfield Rd.? No Do you recommend Central Park for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of Central Park? There's enough space and there isn't public art here In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of Central Park? Not enough traffic - too isolated. Wouldn't do the sculpture justice Do you have any other feedback to share about Central Park? No Do you recommend Highland Park Community House as a potential site for "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HP Community House? It's very visible location In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HP Community House? The area isn't as well maintained as it should be and this needs to be in a location that looks good all the time Page 61 of 62 Do you have any other feedback to share about HP Community House? No Do you recommend HP Public Library (east side) for the potential relocation of "Miss Nitro"? 1 (Not recommended) In your opinion, what are positive or attractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? At least people would be familiar w/ the sculpture and the library location In your opinion, what are negative or unattractive aspects of HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? Not enough space to properly display it on the east side - plus, not enough auto/pedestrian traffic as there is now on St. John's Do you have any other feedback to share about HPPL (east side) (specific to the relocation of "Miss Nitro")? No Page 62 of 62