Mayor’s Message June 5, 2026

Dear Residents

This week, I participated in an important meeting of the Hoffman Estates Plan Commission regarding a proposed rezoning of the 186-acre Plum Farms property, located north of Route 72 and west of Route 59. This proposal has significant implications for South Barrington and the surrounding communities. The requested M-2 zoning classification would permit the development of a data center on the site, which was the primary concern raised during the meeting. More than 45 residents provided public comments, and every speaker expressed opposition to the proposed zoning change.

During the meeting, I addressed the Plan Commission to voice South Barrington’s opposition to the rezoning request. I emphasized that M-2 zoning for this highly visible corner property is inconsistent with the long-term economic development strategies pursued by both South Barrington and Hoffman Estates. Our communities have invested considerable effort in establishing this area as a destination for retail, dining, entertainment, and other complementary commercial uses. A data center does not align with that vision or with the character of our surrounding communities.

The meeting drew more than 400 attendees, and every speaker who addressed the Commission voiced objections to the proposed development. As a strategic partner with Hoffman Estates, it was my hope that the Plan Commission would recognize the shared objectives of our communities and decline to recommend the requested zoning change.

Ultimately, the Plan Commission voted 4-2 against the rezoning request. The matter will now be forwarded to the Hoffman Estates Village Board for final consideration, with the earliest possible hearing scheduled for June 15th.

I will continue to keep everyone informed as this process moves forward. Thank you to the many residents of South Barrington, Hoffman Estates, Barrington Hills, and neighboring communities who attended the meeting, submitted letters, and voiced their opposition. Your engagement and advocacy played an important role in ensuring that community perspectives were clearly heard throughout this process.

For more news articles related to this, see below:
Daily Herald: Hoffman Estates Plan Commission Rejects Rezoning Request for Possible Data Center
CBS News: Hoffman Estates Plan Commission Rejects Zoning Change for New Data Center Project
Hoffman Estates Plan Commission Rejects Rezoning Request for Possible Data Center

REMINDER: WATERING DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS

As we head into the warmer months, we’d like to remind residents about the Village’s outdoor watering regulations.
Per Village Ordinance #2025-1442, the use of the Village’s potable water supply for lawn watering and landscape irrigation systems is permitted only during the following hours:

• 5:00 AM – 9:00 AM
• 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Odd-numbered addresses may water on odd-numbered calendar days
• Even-numbered addresses may water on even-numbered calendar days

Please note that watering with a hose for home gardens, flowers, shrubs, trees, or other plants is not subject to these restrictions and may be done as needed.

Thank you for helping conserve water and maintain a reliable water supply for our community throughout the summer season.

SOUTH BARRINGTON RESIDENT APPOINTED TO HARPER COLLEGE BOARD

South Barrington resident and Harper College alumna Dr. Bijal Chaturvedi has been appointed to the Harper College Board of Trustees through April 2027. Selected from 24 applicants, Dr. Chaturvedi brings extensive experience in healthcare, higher education, and community service. A nurse anesthesiologist, educator, and business owner, she has remained closely connected to Harper College throughout her career and is committed to supporting student success and expanding access to educational opportunities.

The Village congratulates Dr. Chaturvedi on this appointment and looks forward to her continued service to education and the community.

STREETFEST AT THE ARB KICKS OFF SUMMER: JUNE 10th

Celebrate the start of summer at StreetFest at The Arboretum of South Barrington on June 10th! This exciting community event will take place throughout The Arboretum and feature live music, outdoor dining, shopping specials, and family-friendly activities.

Families can take advantage of balloon artists, face painting, glitter tattoos, craft stations, and $2 train rides benefiting the Will Heidrich Foundation.

Participating restaurants will offer patio dining, food, and drinks, while retailers including DSW, EVEREVE, Chico’s, Talbots, Soma, LOFT, and others will feature special event-only promotions.

Grab a drink, stroll the property, enjoy live entertainment, and shop your favorite stores as The Arboretum officially welcomes the summer season.

As always, I am here to listen to your thoughts and concerns. Feel free to email me at pmccombie@southbarrington.org, or use the anonymous comment boxes located in the lobbies of Village Hall and the Police Department. I review these messages privately and value your input.

Have an enjoyable weekend!

Paula McCombie

Mayor