Mayor’s Message September 18, 2026

Dear Residents,

Fall is finally here. Fall is truly one of the most beautiful times of year in the Chicagoland area. The cooler temperatures and scenic color changes in the leaves make Fall a truly special time of year. I hope everyone is able to take some time to be outside and enjoy this short but wonderful season.

WATER TESTING KITS AVAILABLE MONDAY SEPTEMBER 21ST
Residents who are on private well water can now for a limited time get their water tested and give their families the peace of mind that their water is safe. Water testing kits are available starting Monday for purchase at Village Hall through October 6th.

The price is $20 per kit. Regular testing can help identify potential concerns and ensure the water entering your home is safe.

Bring your water sample to Barrington Area Library on October 6^th between 11am-630pm.

PROPERTY TAX ASSESSMENT: APPEAL DEADLINE APPROACHING
Cook County has sent out property tax assessments in the mail and as we approach the appeal deadlines, I want to remind residents that there is still time to appeal your assessment if you believe an adjustment is warranted.

Appeals can be submitted online through the Cook County Assessor’s Office:
https://www.cookcountyassessoril.gov/online-appeals

If you have questions or need assistance understanding the appeal process, please contact the Barrington Township Assessor’s Office at 847-381-5632. Their office can provide guidance and answer questions regarding the appeal process.

LEGISLATIVE PANEL
On Wednesday, I had the opportunity to serve as one of the moderators for the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast, bringing together state legislators from both sides of the aisle for an important discussion on various issues affecting our communities.

The conversation covered children’s mental health and the impact of technology and social media, as well as the growing discussion surrounding data centers, infrastructure, and the role of local governments in decisions that directly impact our residents.

These conversations are an important part of keeping local leaders informed and ensuring our communities have a voice. Strong communities are built through collaboration, thoughtful dialogue, and a commitment to putting residents at the center of the decisions that shape our future.

Photo credit: Daily Herald
For the full story, please click HERE

EAST DUNDEE & COUNTRYSIDE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT: OPEN HOUSE

The East Dundee Fire District is giving residents an opportunity to see their station and meet the individuals charged with keeping us safe from fires.

The East Dundee Fire District Open House is on Saturday, September 26, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

As one of the fire districts serving South Barrington, the East Dundee Fire District plays an important role in keeping our community safe. The Open House is a great opportunity to meet the firefighters who serve our area and strengthen the connection between our residents and local first responders.

Bring the family and enjoy good food, entertainment, fire trucks, and hands-on activities, along with an exciting vehicle extrication demonstration showcasing the skills and equipment firefighters use during emergency situations.

Community events like this are a wonderful way to get to know the people behind the uniform, ask questions, learn about fire safety, and show our appreciation to the brave men and women who are always ready to run toward a fire instead of away from it.

2026 General Election: Important Dates
The November 3rd General Election is approaching, and residents are encouraged to make a plan to vote. Whether you choose to vote early, by mail, or on Election Day, knowing the key dates and available options can help make the process easier.

For voters in Cook County, early voting begins September 24th, with additional early voting locations and hours to be published by the election authority. Vote-by-mail ballots may also be requested, providing another option for residents who prefer to cast their ballot before Election Day.

Key Dates to Remember:

• September 24: Early voting begins at election-authority offices and designated temporary locations; vote-by-mail ballots may begin being mailed
• October 19: County-wide early voting begins
• October 29: Final day to submit a vote-by-mail application
• November 2: Final day for early voting
• November 3: Election Day, polls are scheduled to be open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Residents can check their registration status, find early voting locations, locate their polling place, and access additional voter information through the Cook County Clerk’s Office.

For your convenience, here are the closest polling locations for South Barrington residents:

• Barrington Hills Village Hall: 112 Algonquin Road, Barrington IL
• Hoffman Estates Village Hall: 1900 Hassell Road, Hoffman Estates, IL

NEW RESTURANT AT THE ARBORETUM: BUNDOO KHAN
The Arboretum continues to attract new and innovative chefs providing our community with some of the best culinary experiences in the region.

Bundoo Khan Express, located at route 72/Higgins entrance next to Pearle Vision, is now open. The restaurant held their soft opening over Labor Day weekend and will soon hold a grand opening but in the meantime, please stop by to try some authentic Pakistani BBQ!

Here is a brief explanation of the origin of the restaurant’s name from the owner.

THE LEGACY OF BUNDOO KHAN
By Irfan Maniya

The legacy of Bundoo Khan originates in the early 1980s. I immigrated to Chicago from the busy metropolitan city of Karachi in Pakistan. As an ardent foodie, I noticed there were multiple Pakistani restaurants in the city, yet none of them served the authentic grill cuisine Pakistanis prided themselves on.

I discussed this with my brother, a professional chef in Karachi who owns and operates his restaurant with the best chefs and techniques. I took it upon myself to deliver to the people of this city the genuine taste of authentic Pakistani grill and barbecue they not only needed but deserved.
After years of training, and perfecting, we opened Bundoo Khan in 2015; with our exquisite menu and savory flavors, the people of Chicago were delivered “a Taste of Pakistani Tradition”.

These tremendous entrepreneurs continue to add to our community. Please join me in welcoming Bundoo Khan to South Barrington!

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