Lobbyist Registration
Pursuant to Section 11.2 of the Illinois Lobbyist Registration Act, 25 ILCS 170/11.2 and Section 37.006 of the Highland Park Code of 1968, as amended, the City is authorized to regulate the lobbying of City officials and staff for the purpose of influencing City actions and decisions.
In accordance with City Ordinance No. 15-12, passed on February 13, 2012 (effective on March 15, 2012), all persons who are compensated for efforts to influence any legislative or employee action by the City of Highland Park are required to register as lobbyists not later than January 20th of each calendar year, or written five business days after engaging in any activity that requires registration as a Lobbyist pursuant to Section 37.006(A) of the Highland Park Code.
The registration must include the names and addresses of the lobbyist’s clients, and payment of an annual registration fee of $25. Lobbyists would be required to file amended registrations throughout the year as necessary, and to notify the City Clerk upon termination of their lobbyist activities. Lobbyist registration information is available through the City Clerk’s office for public inspection.
Ordinance No. 15-12 exempts certain activities from the definition of a lobbyist, including:
- Filing an application for City permit or license;
- Responding to Request for Proposal or formal bid solicitation;
- Representation by an employee, director or officer of a not-for-profit entity for that entity; and
- Unpaid representation.
Failure to register is punishable by a fine of $500.00, plus an additional $500.00 for failure to register within 10 days after receipt of a notice from the City Clerk.