At the November 9 Village Board meeting, a review of the FY 2020-2021 state mandated financial audit was conducted. It was reported that the Village received the highest rating possible for a government organization. The recognition was attributed to the Village Board and staff’s careful managing of the Village’s finances through fiscally conservative revenue and expenditure forecasting, and strategic investments. Revenues fortunately remained stable during the pandemic while conservative budgeting continued to ensure required reserves were met. The audit found the Village’s financial reserves were in accordance with Government Finance Officers Association recommended levels.

The Village recently hired Natalie Benner as a management analyst, reporting to the Director of Operations. Ms. Benner was chief of staff for Illinois State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hiltonis and a voter field director and legislative aide for the Illinois State Senate. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Shippensburg University and is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Northern Illinois University, with plans to graduate in the fall of 2022. With her experience in policy, budgeting and strategic planning, Ms. Benner will be handling a variety of administrative, analytical and technical functions to advance the delivery of public services. Welcome to the Village, Ms. Benner!

The Village and the Long Grove Historical Society invite residents and local neighbors to the 1st annual Lighting of the Bridge Friday, November 19 from 5 - 7 p.m. This holiday kickoff event celebrates the community, in partnership with ComEd and Long Grove Confectionery Co. Village President Bill Jacob will ‘flip the switch’ for holiday lights at 6 p.m., and Santa Claus, along with Dog Mayor Lincoln, will make appearances, courtesy of the Long Grove Historical Society. The Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association will host a block party on Robert Parker Coffin Road between the bridge and Old McHenry Road from 5 - 7 p.m. to thank local community members for their ongoing support. The event also features a 'Bach To Rock' DJ and donuts and hot cider from Long Grove Confectionery - Apple Haus – Coffee Co., and Renee Clark Homes @properties is sponsoring free carriage rides from 6 - 9 p.m. Click here for more information.

The Long Grove Turkey Trot starts at 8 a.m. Thursday, November 25 in downtown Long Grove and continues through several Village residential streets and neighborhoods. You can view the 5K and 8K course routes here. The Lake County Sheriff, Long Grove Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and event volunteers will be positioned along the course at key intersections to assist with traffic control. Roads closed during portions of the event include Old McHenry Road, Robert Parker Coffin Road, Schaeffer Road, Sumter Drive, Chickamauga Lane, Holly Court, Checker Road, Country Club Drive and Tanager Way. Residents will be permitted to drive on roads when runners or walkers are not present. Event proceeds benefit the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association and Lake County Sheriff Reserves. For more information, visit this link or call 847-828-2084.