Highland Park is a unique and spectacular City! We have over 150 years of tradition, extraordinary natural resources and beauty, historical homes, ravines and a lakefront that spans our entire eastern border. Recognized as a tree city, Highland Park also has a culture of sustainability that is literally homegrown. To enhance these very special community features, Highland Park’s leaders must come together to help modernize local laws and regulations so that they do not impede the continued growth and vitality of Highland Park as a vibrant destination for families, shoppers and businesses.
- POSO – Elimination of the POSO (pedestrian oriented shopping overlay), a formerly useful zoning restriction, in favor of less restrictions on potential merchants in the core retail area of Downtown Highland Park.
- Changing permitted uses in neighborhoods or business districts to infuse new businesses with support
- Sustaining and maintaining current businesses with incentives, advice and streamed processes
- Permitting those with liquor licenses to serve on the Council like all other residents
There is much to be done in reviewing the City’s code. Old laws which should be updated. It makes as much sense as Highland Park laws creating a citywide horse speed limit, prohibiting snowball fights, or requiring swimsuit coverups that reach “from the shoulders to the knees. While the above may be amusing – there is serious work to be done!