Habitat Highland Park, an initiative of Go Green Highland Park, accepted a proclamation recognizing the City's renewed commitment to the Mayors' Monarch Pledge. As part of this effort, Highland Park joins other communities across the country in taking action to create habitat for the monarch butterfly and other pollinators. Director of Public Works Ron Bannon accepted a proclamation honoring March 18-24, 2024 as Fix-a-Leak Week, highlighting how finding and fixing residential leaks can support the City's water conservation efforts. City Council also recognized April 2-8, 2024 as International Dark Sky Week, an opportunity to learn about the harmful effects of light pollution.
Councilmember Annette Lidawer presented reports on behalf of the Business and Economic Development Advisory Group and the Highland Park Community Foundation, for which she serves as alternate liaison and liaison, respectively.
City Council approved a lease agreement for the temporary home of the Highland Park Senior Center. While the facility at 1201 Park Ave. W. is being renovated to better support Senior Center activities as well as private event rentals, various Senior Center operations including classes, activities, and administrative offices have been relocated to 770 Deerfield Rd. (Christ Our Hope Parish School, formerly Immaculate Conception). Learn more about the Senior Center's temporary relocation.
City Council approved agreements pertaining to infrastructure investment projects as well as clarifications to the City's Art Murals program. The program, which was approved in September 2023, has been officially launched and staff are working with applicants for new and existing murals to enhance vibrancy. City Council also approved additional off-street parking modifications for the first-floor commercial spaces of 555 Roger Williams Ave., intended to support the tenancy of this space.
During the Committee of the Whole meeting, City staff presented information regarding a proposed new incentive program for restaurants and food/drink establishments planning to enhance their interior spaces. Councilmembers provided policy feedback on the scope of the program, which will next be shared with business owners for feedback in April. A draft proposal will then be presented to the City Council for formal consideration in Q2. If approved, this incentive program would join several others for existing Highland Park businesses, including the recently expanded Exterior Improvement Grant Program.