On Tuesday evening, I was deeply saddened to be informed of the passing of former Village Board President Maria Rodriguez. Maria’s deep love for the Village of Long Grove was second only to her love for her husband Ray, her children and grandchildren. Personally, though I will remember Maria as a woman of deep faith, courage and conviction, most of all I will always remember her kindness.

The Village Board and Staff are with heavy hearts. Our thoughts and prayers, as well as those of a grateful community, are with Ray and the entire Rodriguez Family.

Bill Jacob

Village President, Village of Long Grove

In addition to the Village Board - which guides decision-making for the management of Long Grove, there are three commissions and two committees that meet regularly and advise the Board on a variety of topics and issues. Commissions include the Plan Commission & Zoning Board of Appeals (PCZBA), the Economic Development Commission (EDC) and the Architectural Commission (AC). The two committees are the Conservancy/Scenic Corridor Committee (CSCC) and Pathway (ad hoc) Committee. While the Village does seek volunteers on occasion to serve in these longer-term commitments when there are openings, there are other, less frequent opportunities to volunteer as well. These opportunities could last for a day or a brief period of time. If you're interested in getting your name on the Village's volunteer list to be called upon when needed, please click here!

Some visitors to the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve (BCFP) have been parking illegally on Old Checker Road, and Old Hicks Road north of Checker Road. This has presented issues in the neighboring areas that need to be addressed. At the October 12 Village Board meeting, the Village approved an intergovernmental agreement with the Lake County Forest Preserve to provide BCFP user parking along the paved drive on Old Hicks Road extending south of Checker Road. As part of the agreement, the Village will be responsible for the cost of materials for installation of the parking areas in an amount not to exceed $10,000. For more information, visit this link.

The Village's Economic Development Commission (EDC) is continuing its partnership with Stevenson High School marketing classes to assist with economic development initiatives, while providing real-world problem-solving opportunities for students. Last spring, 13 local businesses participated in discussions about what they value about being in Long Grove, and provided ideas to enhance it as a place to do business. Building on the insights that were uncovered, students will focus on two themes this term: attracting a younger demographic to businesses, and increasing visitors during the week. Students will interview and collaborate with local business representatives and take a field trip to Long Grove in early November to tour and meet with business owners. Additional marketing ideas and goals will be explored in future semesters.

Pet owners are welcome to suit up their pups in their best Halloween costumes at the annual Pet Costume Parade and Best-Dressed Pet Contest! It’s free to enter or watch, but please remember to leash your dog. The event (weather permitting) starts at 11 a.m. on Sunday, October 24, the parade steps off at 12:30 p.m., and the contest will take place at 1:15 p.m. To register your pet, or for more information, click here.

Carriage rides in downtown Long Grove will again take place during Vintage Holidays this year, starting November 20 and ending December 19. This popular holiday attraction is sponsored by the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association (HDLGBA) and reservations fill up fast! Visit this link to make a reservation for groups, with a maximum of six or twelve passengers. Enjoy this, and other holiday events and activities coming up in the downtown area. As we head into the holiday season, please consider shopping local and supporting our Long Grove businesses! Visit longgrove.org for more information about downtown happenings.

Click the 'View Details' links below the meetings to view agendas and information on how to participate. To view all upcoming and past Village of Long Grove public meetings, agendas and minutes, please click here. Visit the new Get Connected web page to review the different ways you can connect with the Village.