Public Meetings - Park Ridge, Illinois

The Park Ridge Zoning Board of Appeals met on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The board approved the June 25, 2026 minutes, confirmed there were no appeals, and conducted public hearings on three variance cases. Consent Calendar - The June 25, 2026 meeting minutes were approved by roll call; one commissioner abstained. - No appeals were listed or heard. Public Comments & Testimony - 140 N. Northwest Highway: No members of the public testified. - 420 S. Lincoln Avenue: John Stevie of 434 S. Lincoln Avenue supported the variance, stating the shallow basement was not the owner's fault and the basement was not in good condition. - 245 Vine Avenue: Several residents from neighboring 249 S. Vine Avenue opposed the two requested variances. They argued that there was no undue hardship tied to the land, that the applicant created the need by choosing townhouses, and that the four proposed parking spaces would push existing and new cars onto Vine Avenue, increasing congestion. They asked the board to recommend denial or limit approval to a conforming two-unit project. One audience member spoke in favor, citing demand from people downsizing near transit; another long-time Vine Avenue resident raised parking as her only concern. Lynn Duffy of 249 Vine Unit C said the existing building has small apartments and predicted the redevelopment would put more cars on the street. An applicant representative disputed that the current building was a converted single-family home, calling it a legal four-unit building. Discussion Items - 140 N. Northwest Highway - VA-26-12 (Major): Staff said the five-story brick multi-use building contains a LensCrafters store and the applicant proposed replacing a rear wall sign facing the parking lot. The new sign would be 20.5 square feet, 4.5 square feet larger than the 16-square-foot maximum. Applicant Shane Batrelli argued that the corner and dual-frontage location created a hardship and that the sign was a like-for-like replacement of a previously approved sign with updated branding. Commissioners found the corner location unique, noted that many customers park in the Summit Avenue garage, and concluded the sign would not alter the character of the area. The board voted unanimously to recommend approval to the City Council, a major variance. - 420 S. Lincoln Avenue - VA-26-16 (Minor): Staff said the addition to the second floor would increase the floor area ratio to about 3,892.27 square feet, exceeding the permitted 3,552.48 square feet. Applicant Bill Peterson, representing Normandy Remodeling, testified that the 1920s house has an 81-inch basement without interior access that is counted toward FAR, and that the plan finishes the second floor within the existing roofline while placing the addition at the rear. A staff clarification noted that basements count toward gross floor area when more than half of their height is above grade. Commissioners regarded the FAR issue as a technicality and found the variance consistent with preserving older housing stock. The board voted unanimously to approve the minor variance; no City Council review is required. - 245 Vine Avenue - VA-26-14 (Major): Staff said the property contains an older four-unit multifamily building. The proposal would replace it with three two-story townhomes and a detached three-car garage. The R4 district requires 3,000 square feet of lot area per townhome, or 9,000 square feet for three units; the roughly 8,265-square-foot lot permits only 2.75 townhomes. The parking requirement is six spaces; the plan provides four. A third requested variance regarding the detached accessory building setback was withdrawn after plan revisions. Eight public comments were submitted: five in support and three in opposition; the board took a recess to read the opposition letters received that day. The applicant's representative argued the project is less dense than what could be built on the site, fits the townhome context, is close to the Metra station and uptown uses, and that a two-townhome project would not be viable. In deliberations, commissioners questioned why townhomes require more land than multifamily units; staff could not provide a definitive rationale. Staff noted a multifamily alternative could fit about four units and would require six to eight parking spaces depending on unit mix. Commissioners were split: some saw the walkable location and townhome context as supporting the parking variance, while others concluded the lot-area request did not meet the undue-hardship standard and that added parking pressure on Vine Avenue was a concern. The chair offered the applicant a chance to withdraw, but the applicant chose to proceed with the votes. Other Business - The City Council liaison was not present, so no liaison report was given. - There were no citizens wishing to speak on non-agenda items. - The next regular ZBA meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 27, 2026; staff expects two to three variance cases and will likely bring the proposed 2027 meeting calendar to the board in October. Key Outcomes - VA-26-12: The ZBA unanimously recommended that the City Council approve the major variance for the 20.5-square-foot rear sign at 140 N. Northwest Highway. The board adopted the standard findings of fact. - VA-26-16: The ZBA unanimously approved the minor floor-area-ratio variance at 420 S. Lincoln Avenue. This decision is final and does not go to the City Council. - VA-26-14 lot-area variance: The motion to recommend approval failed, 2 in favor and 4 opposed. The board did not adopt findings of fact for this request. The applicant can still seek City Council approval, but a negative ZBA recommendation raises the bar to a supermajority vote. - VA-26-14 parking variance: The motion to recommend approval passed, 5 in favor and 2 opposed. The board adopted the standard findings of fact for this request. - Next steps: The major variances forwarded to the City Council will be scheduled for Council consideration. Staff will provide applicants with the schedule.

The Appearance Commission of Park Ridge, Illinois met on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 at 7:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. All five commissioners were present: Acting Chair Mattingway, Commissioners Kelly, Droco, Langan, and Stewart. The meeting covered a consent agenda, two appearance review cases (one approved, one continued), a pre-submittal discussion, election of a permanent chair, and a briefing on a proposed mural ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 24, 2026): Unanimously approved. - Consent Agenda Items: Three cases were approved without discussion: - GA-26-03: New garage at 31 Berry Parkway - SA-26-14: Single-family alteration at 920 St James - SF-26-05: Single-family residence at 1118 Garden Motion to approve the consent agenda, seconded, all in favor. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on non-agenda items. Discussion Items - SA-26-13 – Single-Family Alteration at 626 Parkwood: The applicant addressed questions about material transitions on the left side elevation and window proportions on the front elevation. The commission clarified that the brick offset (2 feet) was sufficient and appreciated the applicant's response to prior feedback. Window alignment was confirmed as a rendering issue, not an intention. A motion to approve was made with a condition to restore landscape after construction; seconded and passed unanimously. - CI-26-11 – Commercial Project at 149 N Northwest Highway (Shutters): The applicant's representative, not the building owner, presented plans for exterior rolling shutters. Commissioners expressed concerns about the shutters' appearance, impact on the pedestrian environment, and consistency with commercial design guidelines. Suggestions included exploring interior shutters, awnings to hide the shutter boxes, and alternative security measures. The commission voted to continue the case to the next meeting, requiring additional information: attachment details, color verification, how the shutter engages with the ground, consideration of interior shutters, and written property owner endorsement. Motion seconded, all in favor. - Pre-Submittal – Single-Family Residence at 445 N Northwest Highway: The architect presented preliminary plans. Feedback from commissioners included: connecting a vertical element on the west elevation to the window sill, widening windows for better proportion, making the front door more prominent (possibly with a red color or lighting), and providing color renderings for all elevations. The architect agreed to incorporate these comments and return with full construction documents. No vote was taken. - Other Business – Election of Chair: Acting Chair Mattingway was nominated and unanimously elected as permanent chair. - Other Business – Mural Ordinance Update: Staff reported that a proposed ordinance allowing murals only on city-owned or public district facilities (e.g., schools, libraries) had passed first reading at City Council. Murals would be reviewed by the Appearance Commission for design, then go to City Council. Commissioners discussed the process (whether two readings are required) and noted that staff would clarify before the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved: Three cases released without further review. - SA-26-13 Approved: Subject to landscape restoration. - CI-26-11 Continued: To August 26, 2026 meeting with specific information requests. - Pre-Submittal Comments Provided: Applicant to incorporate feedback and resubmit with full construction documents. - Chair Elected: Commissioner Mattingway appointed as permanent chair. - Mural Ordinance: Staff to confirm review process before next meeting. - Meeting Adjourned: Unanimously.

The Park Ridge City Council met as a Committee of the Whole on Monday, July 20, 2026. A quorum was present; Alderpersons Moran and Leffler were absent. No residents spoke during the 'Citizens Who Wish to Be Heard' portion. Public Works and Finance had no action items, discussion items, or department head reports. The council approved a police training purchase order and two first readings, and referred the Farmers Market trademarking discussion back to the Farmers Market Committee. Administrative Services - The July Human Resources Report was filed as a discussion item. It covered routine items such as birthdays and new hires; staff directed questions to Joe Gilmore. No action was taken. Public Safety — Police - By voice vote, the council approved a purchase order for $20,662.40 to the College of DuPage for Suburban Law Enforcement Academy basic training for four Park Ridge police recruits, at $5,165.60 per recruit. Chief Campworth explained the cost required council approval because it exceeded $20,000; training funds were already budgeted. He said the department has used two academies in the past 10–15 years. - Chief Campworth's June 2026 report highlighted: collaboration among police, fire, and public works; National Night Out on August 4, 6:00–8:30 p.m. at Hodges Park; the new voluntary Blue Envelope traffic-stop program; meetings with bidders on a police department feasibility study; and participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. - The Volunteer Corps reported 75 hours in June and 285 total hours worked. - Council members asked for e-bike/e-scooter enforcement data, calling the issue a 'hot button' and requesting a future snapshot of citations/warnings. Chief Campworth said the department has created a new warning ticket and an officer education group and would provide data in a future report. - A council member asked about a decline in FOIA requests and whether staffing implications should be considered during the budget cycle. Chief Campworth said the department is monitoring the trend. Public Safety — School Resource Officer Report - The annual SRO report covered Maine East and Maine South. Maine East had a new SRO who shadowed for the first semester and started full-time in the second semester; Maine South's SRO is entering his sixth year. Public Safety — Fire - Chief Sorensen reported no action items. During Taste of Park Ridge, the Fire Department handled 6 EMS calls, 2 transports, and 49 first-aid contacts, none life-threatening. - He described a basement fire late Saturday night (11:30 p.m.) in the 2100 block of Parkside; no injuries, two pets rescued with oxygen masks, and mutual aid from North Maine arrived first, with Park Ridge on scene about 40 seconds later. - Fire Department Q2 2026 highlights: staffing is full; training was conducted at donated buildings, a Higgins strip mall, a Lutheran General building, and a Niles site; two new ambulances were delivered and are in service; and two additional vehicles (an ambulance and an engine squad) are expected in 2027. - Chief Sorensen noted the first six months of 2026 produced exactly the same number of calls as the first six months of 2025: 3,131. - In response to council questions, he discussed frequent leadership changes at residential health care facilities, high censuses, and a recent call spike; planned to return next month. He said ambulance life expectancy is generally 8 years, with a max of about 10. For Station 36, the department expects to issue an RFP around September and select a company later this year. Procedures and Regulations — Mural Program First Reading - The council approved the first reading of the Mural Program measure. The agenda labels it a resolution, while the discussion referred to code amendments establishing the program. - The program would apply to murals on publicly owned property in Park Ridge, including city, library, school district, and park district property. The city would own each mural upon installation and be responsible for its maintenance, repair, insurance, and removal; other agencies would grant the city a license or easement. - Staff and the city attorney explained that city ownership makes the mural 'government speech,' giving the council broader control over content and avoiding First Amendment issues that arise when regulating private expression. Murals would be reviewed by staff and the Appearance Commission, with final approval by the City Council. - The discussion distinguished murals from signs: imagery that advertises the business or activities inside a building would be regulated as a sign, not as a mural. - The first reading passed by voice vote with no opposition heard. Procedures and Regulations — Building Official and Deputy Building Official - The council approved the first reading of an ordinance amending the Municipal Code regarding the Building Official and Deputy Building Official. - The change would allow the Building Official to extend permits for large projects or projects with extenuating circumstances. Currently, a permit is valid for an initial 18 months and can be extended twice for six months, for a maximum of 2.5 years. After that, projects would otherwise need to reapply under current codes and pay new permit fees. - Staff cited a large ongoing project whose permits will expire before construction is complete as the impetus. Council members asked about the risk of delaying projects; staff said extensions would be evaluated based on the project's scope and progress. - The first reading passed by voice vote with no opposition heard. Discussion — Farmers Market Intellectual Property and Trademarking - The Farmers Market Committee asked the council for direction to pursue trademarking the market's logo because outside entities have used the logo and other materials without permission. - A Farmers Market Committee representative said the committee voted at its June meeting to approach the council, but the cost was not discussed. The memo estimated a not-to-exceed cost of $1,000; a committee member noted an Illinois trademark license can cost $5 for five years if the applicant does the work. - The city attorney said the Farmers Market Committee can already adopt rules controlling use of the logo by current vendors. A trademark would allow the city to pursue non-vendors who misuse the logo and could make misuse a city code violation. - The city attorney also said there was no immediate risk of another party trademarking the logo because of the market's established use in commerce. - Council members expressed concern about spending money on a logo that might later be refreshed and wanted the committee to reconsider the decision knowing the actual cost. - The council reached consensus to refer the item back to the Farmers Market Committee for reconsideration with the cost information, and to bring it back as an action item if the committee remains supportive. Upcoming Procedures and Regulations Items and New Business - Staff reported that the EV readiness grant deadline was moved to the end of July and the city is applying ahead of schedule. Status updates on the affordable housing plan and the Comprehensive Plan are expected in August. - An alderperson, filling in for absent Alderperson Moran, raised resident concerns about the historic district establishment process. The city attorney advised letting the current Historic Preservation Commission application run its course before considering code changes; property on the boundary can be excluded by the commission or council. No action was taken on this item. Key Outcomes 1. Approved the $20,662.40 College of DuPage police recruit training purchase order by voice vote. 2. Approved the first reading of the Mural Program measure by voice vote, with no opposition heard. 3. Approved the first reading of the Building Official/Deputy Building Official ordinance by voice vote, with no opposition heard. 4. Referred the Farmers Market trademarking proposal back to the Farmers Market Committee to reconsider with cost information; final approval was not considered. 5. No action was taken on the historic district process discussion; the current HPC application will proceed first.

The Park Ridge City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Marty Maloney presided with five alderpersons present (Lawrence, Muno, Steinfels, Rapisand, Sanchez) and two absent (Moran, Lefler). The meeting included routine approvals, proclamations, public comments, and a contested vote on renewing Flock Safety camera equipment and software. Consent Calendar - Approved the draft City Council meeting minutes from July 6, 2026, and the draft Committee of the Whole minutes from July 6, 2026, both by voice vote with no opposition. - Approved the consent agenda en bloc by a roll-call vote of 5–0. Items included: - Budget amendment to the Water Supply Account for SCADA system upgrades ($27,600). - Purchase order increase for Phillips Edison d.b.a. Uptown Station LLC for common area maintenance fees ($28,500). - Final reading of an ordinance amending Article 5, Chapter 11 of the Municipal Code to define and abate specific weeds as a nuisance. - Ordinance amending 13-2-11 to establish a school zone speed limit on W. Talcott Road from S. Cumberland Avenue to S. Prospect Avenue. - One-year extension to the contract for the Water Leak Survey with M. E. Simpson ($39,300). Mayor's Report - Appointments: Approved appointments to boards and commissions (voice vote, no opposition): - Mary Louise Herrold to the Planning and Zoning Commission for an unexpired term ending September 30, 2026, and a four-year term October 1, 2026–September 30, 2030. - Anita De Frank, Sarah Cardillo, and Andy Han to the Library Board of Trustees for three-year terms expiring June 30, 2029. - Proclamation – Maine South Varsity Baseball: Mayor Maloney proclaimed July 20, 2026, as “Maine South Hawks Baseball Day” in Park Ridge, honoring the team’s 2026 season (26–16 record, IHSA Class 4A state championship game appearance). Head coach Brian Lorenz thanked the community and players. - Proclamation – Parks and Recreation Professionals Day: Mayor Maloney proclaimed July 17, 2026, as “Parks and Recreation Professionals Day,” recognizing the Park Ridge Park District’s 21 park sites (126.6 acres) and its employees. Park District representatives accepted the proclamation. Public Comments & Testimony - Cindy Grow (address not stated) raised two concerns: 1. Improperly placed lawn-care signs on parkways that she described as illegal and urged enforcement. 2. Called on the city and Sustainability Commission to strengthen carbon emission reduction goals, noting other communities’ substantial gains. - Eric Olinick (address not stated) spoke against the Flock camera system, citing nationwide reports of misuse by police (stalking, immigration enforcement, abortion tracking), criticism of the company’s CEO, and a local incident where a camera was allegedly misdirected at a private residence. He argued for removal of the surveillance network and called for freeing an individual arrested for vandalizing a camera. Discussion Items - Public Safety Committee – Flock Camera System Renewal: Police Chief Campworth requested a purchase order of $24,000 for Flock Safety Solutions equipment and software for a one-year service agreement. He explained the ALPR system’s public-safety benefits (tracking stolen vehicles, solving hit-and-run, domestic violence cases) and privacy protections: no tracking of individuals, no facial recognition, no recording conversations; data shared only with Illinois police departments; access requires a case report number; transparency portal available on the city website. Alderman Sanchez voted no, expressing concerns about potential privacy invasions and misuse. The item required a two-thirds supermajority vote (5 votes out of 6 present). Roll call: Lawrence (yes), Muno (yes), Steinfels (yes), Rapisand (yes), Sanchez (no), Mayor Maloney (yes) – motion passed 5–1. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved 5–0. - Appointments and proclamations approved without objection. - Flock camera renewal approved 5–1 (Sanchez dissenting). - No other action items; several committees provided oral reports (Community Health, Farmers Market, Library Board, Planning & Zoning, Youth Services, Zoning Board of Appeals). - New business: Alderperson Steinfels thanked staff for the successful Taste of Park Ridge event; Alderperson Muno announced the Market After Dark event on July 25, 2026 (4:30–9:30 p.m., Christmas in July theme). - Meeting adjourned by voice vote after a motion and second.

The O'Hare Airport Commission met on July 16, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in Park Ridge City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was chaired by a temporary chair in the absence of regular chair Ian Wright. The commission addressed noise complaints from residents, reviewed the April 2026 Airport Noise Management System (ANMS) report, and discussed the residential sound insulation program, construction updates, and FAA operational changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Randy Swillow (resident of 471 North Northwest Highway, 53-year resident) testified that airplane noise has become unbearable: planes fly over his house every three minutes, including at 4 a.m., shaking his house. He noted an increase in large cargo planes over the last six months. Commission members advised him to file complaints via the 311 Chicago website (311.chicago.gov) and to contact the O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission (ONCC) and Congressman Quigley. - Another resident (from Carpenter near D and Sibley) echoed the noise complaints, noting that east-flow departures (takeoffs toward the suburbs) have been more frequent this spring and summer, and that quiet hours (11 p.m.–7 a.m.) are not respected. - A commissioner (Barbara Sever) reported that the use of the northeast runway (paralleling Irving Park) has funneled noise over homes on Bell Plain and Carpenter areas, consistent with earlier predictions by Ian Wright. Discussion Items - Approval of Minutes (January 15, 2026): The minutes were not available in sufficient copies, so the commission voted unanimously to defer approval until the next quorum-based meeting. - O’Hare Construction Updates: No formal update was provided. The new Terminal 5 was described as very nice but not affecting noise patterns. - Airport Noise Management System (ANMS) Report – April 2026: The report (available via flychicago.com or oharenoise.org) showed: - 61% of operations were in west flow (winds from west, arrivals from east) and 39% in east flow. - A 50/50 split between the three north runways and three south runways. - The northernmost runway (9L/27R) handled all north-field arrivals; departures were split between 9C and 9R. - Park Ridge received about twice as many complaints as the previous month, ranking second among suburbs behind Lawrence/Cumberland. - Residential Sound Insulation Program: Park Ridge residents generally do not qualify, except for a small area two blocks north of Higgins near Mary Seat of Wisdom. Some residents reported receiving property tax assessment reductions every three years due to noise impacts, but this requires reapplication each reassessment cycle. The commission agreed to prepare a public communication to inform residents about the tax appeal option. - News & Updates: - Boeing is close to certifying the 737 MAX 7; newer planes tend to be quieter, but commissioners noted that airframe noise (brakes, flaps) remains significant. - The FAA has extended its 10% operational reduction at O’Hare through October 2027. In response, United Airlines plans to use larger aircraft, which may be older and louder. - The Park Ridge website’s O’Hare Commission page was criticized as outdated (maps and information from 20–30 years ago). Commissioners committed to reviewing and updating the page. Key Outcomes - Deferred approval of the January 15, 2026 minutes until the next meeting. - No formal votes were taken on substantive items. - Next steps: - Prepare a public notice about property tax appeals for noise-affected homeowners. - Review and update the Park Ridge O’Hare Commission webpage with current information and complaint resources. - Encourage residents to file noise complaints via 311.chicago.gov and to attend ONCC meetings (next general meeting: September 11, 2026 at 9 a.m. in Schiller Park). - The meeting was adjourned with a motion and vote.

The Farmers Market Committee met on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Finance Conference Room. The meeting covered routine business, updates on market operations, and several marketing and event planning items for the upcoming Market Week in August. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: The committee approved the minutes from the June 17, 2026, meeting by unanimous vote (motion by member, seconded). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present to address non-agenda items. Discussion Items - Purchase of Branded Canopy Tents: A member proposed purchasing branded canopy tents for the Market Tent, Community Tent, and Kids Activity Tent to replace current signage that is difficult to attach. The member noted that some vendors use a company charging $400 per tent, but the legs are too large for existing weights. The member suggested investigating Easy Up tents, which may be cheaper. The committee agreed it is a worthwhile use of available funds and will aim to purchase by year-end. No formal vote was taken; further research was directed. Sub-Committee Reports - Finance: The committee noted that the market has spent approximately $8,000 of its budget. Five new tables have been ordered at a total cost of about $6,000, with delivery expected by the end of August. The Park District will handle ordering and the city will pay from the market budget. It was recommended to make any additional purchases this year due to the upcoming 2027 budget process. - Marketing & Communications (Brenda Holcomb absent, report relayed): - Market Week Passport: A passport promotion for two Saturdays in August is being finalized. Brenda plans to submit the layout to FedEx (King Kosts) for printing; she requested input on quantity. The committee agreed on 2,800 copies, noting it can be reused next year if successful. Stickers (10,000) have already been ordered for vendors to stamp passports. - Distribution: Passports will be available at the market tent. Suggestions to also place them at City Hall and possibly the library were discussed; the committee preferred City Hall to avoid burdening other organizations. - Marketing Outreach: A member raised the need to assess the effectiveness of Constant Contact email newsletters and Facebook. Instagram access issues are being resolved. - Operations: - Sinkhole: A small sinkhole at Prairie and Garden may alter the market footprint this Saturday; public works will address it. - Truck Departure: A vendor complained that barricade trucks left 20 minutes late on July 4. The practice is to move two trucks at a time for safety, causing slight delays. The committee will explain this to vendors. - First Aid Kit: The committee decided to stock only basic supplies (band-aids) and refer more serious injuries to 911 to avoid liability. The market manager’s request for ice packs was denied. - Lost Cart: A children's cart went missing; a member may donate a replacement. - Special Events: - A face painter is booked for the final market of the year. The committee discussed also booking a balloon artist ("boom guy") and will reach out to confirm availability. - A member purchased four baskets from Hobby Lobby for a raffle; items from a previous order will be added. Old Business - Buy Two, Give One Promotion: The committee finalized plans for a promotion during both Market Week Saturdays (August). Shoppers who buy two items can donate one to New Hope, which collects at the market. A blue donation bin will be placed at the New Hope table. The committee sees this as beneficial for vendors and the community. Signage will be prepared. - Market Logo Trademark: The proposed trademark for the Farmers Market logo will be presented to the Park Ridge City Council on Monday, July 20, 2026. The city already holds trademarks, and the committee is requesting inclusion under the city's umbrella. New Business - Community Time Slots: The committee noted that community group slots are open for both upcoming Saturdays. Members will reach out to previous participants (Garden Club, Lions Club) to encourage attendance. The Lions Club did not participate last year, and the Garden Club was absent this year. - Market Manager Apparel: The market manager's newly ordered shirts were incorrectly printed with the city logo instead of the market logo. A reorder has been placed with the correct design. - SNAP Participation: The committee reported a good number of new SNAP users at the market recently. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes of June 17, 2026. - Directed further research into branded canopy tents for potential year-end purchase. - Approved printing of 2,800 Market Week passports; distribution to include market tent and City Hall. - Confirmed tables ordered; budget spent to date $8,000. - Decided to limit first aid supplies to basics only. - Promoted Buy Two, Give One for both August market Saturdays. - Market logo trademark to be presented to city council on July 20. - Adjourned by unanimous consent.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were available for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussions, decisions, or public comments can be provided.

The Park Ridge City Council held a Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. The council addressed a range of items including public safety equipment renewal, school zone speed limit, water leak survey extension, parking policy revisions, common area maintenance fees, and a weed nuisance ordinance amendment. Votes were taken on multiple action items, and the council discussed a proposed revision to residential parking permit policy without reaching consensus. Consent Calendar - School Zone Speed Limit Ordinance (Action Item): Approved an ordinance amending 13-2-11 to establish a school zone speed limit on W. Talcott Road from S. Cumberland Avenue to S. Prospect Avenue near Roosevelt Elementary School. Signs had been installed with IDOT approval. Motion passed 7-0. - Water Leak Survey Contract Extension (Action Item): Approved a one-year extension to the contract with M.E. Simpson for water leak detection of 139 miles of water main, at a cost of $39,300, with no change in pricing. Motion passed 7-0. - Common Area Maintenance Purchase Order Increase (Action Item): Approved a $28,500 purchase order increase for Phillips Edison (dba Uptown Station LLC) for common area maintenance (CAM) fees, covering a true-up for charges above the monthly fee. Motion passed 7-0. - Budget Transfer for CAM Charges (Action Item): Approved a budget transfer within the FY2026 General Fund from Administrative Services Contingency to Public Works Parking General Contractual Services to fund the CAM payments. Motion passed 7-0. - Weed Nuisance Ordinance First Reading (Action Item): Approved the first reading of an ordinance amending Article 5, Chapter 11 of the Municipal Code to define and abate specific weeds as a nuisance, aligning with state law and allowing native prairie plantings. Motion passed 7-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Camille Soble (resident of 916 North Greenwood) addressed traffic congestion on Greenwood Street, citing increased development (Golf Mill redevelopment, Advocate Cancer Care Center) and expressing concern that arterial streets will not handle additional traffic. Discussion Items - Flock Camera Equipment and Software Renewal (Action Item): Chief Campworth presented a request to approve a $24,000 purchase order (renewal of service agreement) for Flock Safety Solutions automated license plate reader (ALPR) system. The system allows communication among surrounding departments and uses solar-powered cameras. Alderperson Moran questioned the return on investment due to apps that avoid cameras and requested data on arrests and stolen vehicle hits. Chief Campworth noted that cameras had helped solve cases (e.g., a Glenview shooting suspect located within an hour) and that stolen cars are detected daily. Alderperson Sanchez voted no. The council requested more data before the second reading. Motion passed 6-1. - Fire Department Report: Chief Sorensen thanked staff for July 3rd fireworks, noted hydrant testing progress, and mentioned acquired structure training at Lutheran General and a house on Prospect. - Revision to Council Policy Statement 19 – Residential Permit Parking Exceptions (Discussion Item): Director Mitchell presented a recommendation from the Uptown Parking Study to allow residents of townhomes on Morris Street and Meacham Avenue (between Northwest Highway and Busse Highway) to obtain one residential parking permit per address, overriding the current three-hour limit. Alderperson Moran opposed, arguing that residents have two-car garages and that granting permits sets a precedent. Alderperson Steinfelds supported the exception, citing increased pressure from park use, changes to Summit entrance, and elimination of parking along Busse. The council discussed alternatives such as overnight-only permits or three-hour parking until 8 p.m. Mayor Maloney cautioned about unintended consequences, referencing past commuter parking issues. No consensus was reached to bring the measure back as an action item; staff was asked to investigate current enforcement hours and report back. - Public Works Department Head Report: Director Mitchell responded to questions about storm damage cleanup, noting that residents can call for tree limb pickup and that public works will address safety concerns on private trees if notified. - Finance and Budget Department Head Report: The annual audit will be presented on August 3rd or 17th, with the city in a sound financial position. Key Outcomes - Flock Camera Renewal Approved (6-1) with a request for additional data before the second reading. - Five action items approved unanimously (7-0): school zone speed limit, water leak survey extension, CAM fee increase, budget transfer, and weed ordinance first reading. - Parking permit revision was discussed but not advanced; staff will provide information on current enforcement hours for further deliberation. - The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time following a unanimous vote (7-0).

The Park Ridge City Council held its regular meeting on Monday, July 6, 2026, at 7:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine approvals, a proclamation for the Illinois America 250 Commemoration, public comments on traffic safety and rental property concerns, and a major action item approving the expansion of Advocate Health's campus at 1700 Luther Lane. All votes were conducted by roll call with a quorum of seven alderpersons present (Alderperson Muno participated remotely). Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (June 15, 2026): City Council and Committee of the Whole minutes approved unanimously (7-0). - Administrative Services: Approved the final reading of a resolution appointing a director and alternate director to the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (passed 7-0). - Finance & Budget: Approved a purchase order increase to Gasvoda & Associates, Inc. in the amount of $27,600 for SCADA system upgrades (passed 7-0). - Warrant Reports: Finance Director presented two warrant reports reviewed by Alderperson Rapisand: C062526 for $2,076,102.04 (period ending June 25, 2026) and C070126 for $117,693.01 (period ending July 1, 2026). No questions were raised. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Foss (1200 block of South Vine Avenue) requested making South Vine one-way (preferably northbound) citing safety and parking congestion. He noted that the Vine Avenue apartments have only 21 indoor parking spots and 6 outdoor spots (1 handicapped) for 150 feet of street parking. He provided accident statistics obtained via FOIA: 8 accidents at Talcott and Vine, and 5 at Devon and Vine, for the period July 2024 to July 2026. He also recounted a hit-and-run incident involving a motorcyclist in December 2025, which was not reported to police. - Camille Soble (916 North Greenwood Avenue) expressed concerns about rental properties in her neighborhood, citing absentee landlords and lack of property maintenance (e.g., uncut grass, health hazards). She suggested a landlord registry to document complaints. Her second topic was deferred to the Committee of the Whole meeting later that evening. Discussion Items Mayor's Report: Proclamation for Illinois America 250 Commemoration - Mayor Maloney read a proclamation recognizing the upcoming 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The proclamation expressed support for the Illinois America 250 Commission and encouraged local commemoration events. John Prochaska of the American Legion accepted the proclamation. Mayor noted that fewer than six million World War II veterans remain alive. Reports of Boards, Commissions, and Committees - Community Health Commission (Alderperson Rapisand): Announced a free 90-minute bike safety instruction course for children ages 8-14 on Saturday, July 18, from 9:00 to 10:30 AM, at the Park Ridge Park District. Registration and waivers required on-site at 8:30 AM; parent/guardian must accompany the child. - Farmers Market Committee (Alderperson Muno): Reported that the market is going well; next meeting is July 15 at 6:30 PM. - Historic Preservation Commission (Alderperson Sanchez): Recognized the 100th anniversary of the William H. Malone Fountain (donated by the second mayor), with a ceremony on Friday attended by multiple clergy and the Historical Society. - Library Board (Alderperson Rapisand): Reminded that the Taste of Park Ridge event is this weekend, with a pop-up book sale hosted by the Library Friends. - Planning & Zoning Commission (Alderperson Steinfels): Detailed action item on the hospital expansion (see Key Outcomes). - Youth Services Commission (Alderperson Lawrence): Announced selection of a Golden Apple Award winner, to be presented at a future council meeting; encouraged youth with leadership skills to join the commission. - New Business: Alderperson Sanchez promoted the Taste of Park Ridge (Thursday, July 9 through Saturday, July 11) and encouraged volunteering. Key Outcomes - Hospital Expansion at 1700 Luther Lane (MA-26-03 / SU-26-07 / VA-26-13): The council approved a final reading of an ordinance granting a map amendment (rezoning the block to Hospital Transition Zone 2), an amendment to the existing special use permit, and two zoning variances (relief from perimeter landscaping and parking lot island requirements) for the construction of a two-story, approximately 78,000 square foot comprehensive cancer center with adjacent surface parking. Staff identified and corrected two scrivener's errors in the ordinance (fifth whereas clause and section four) via a friendly amendment. The Planning & Zoning Commission had recommended approval 8-0 on May 26, and the Zoning Board of Appeals recommended approval 6-0 on June 25, both without public comment. Applicant attorney Kate Duncan confirmed that sufficient parking exists, including the recently expanded hospital garage. The motion passed 7-0. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:50 PM (motion passed 7-0). The next council meeting date (July 14) may be canceled; the continued hotel proposal hearing is scheduled for July 28. Next Steps - The Illinois America 250 proclamation will be filed and publicized. - The Community Health Commission's bike safety course will proceed on July 18. - Staff will issue official notice regarding the July 14 meeting cancellation. - The Golden Apple Award will be presented at a future council meeting.