Mayor’s Message April 3, 2026

Dear Residents,

At our most recent Board meeting, the Village approved the annexation of three contiguous properties along Algonquin Road from the County. These properties are surrounded on three sides by the Village of South Barrington, making this a natural and thoughtful expansion of our community boundaries. One of the properties is currently under contract and is planned to be developed in partnership with local residents as a modern Mosque and inclusive community and religious center.

Myself and two other staff members recently met with the group, some being residents, to learn more about their vision for a thoughtfully designed mosque that will serve as a modern, inclusive community gathering space, bringing people together and fostering connection, understanding, and a sense of belonging for all.

There was a shared understanding of the importance of preserving the character of our community. Emphasis was placed on incorporating enhanced landscaping, maintaining green space, and ensuring the project blends seamlessly with the surrounding neighborhood. These elements are essential in protecting the charm and quality of life that make South Barrington so special.

The project is expected to be introduced at the Village Board meeting on April 9th. Residents will have the opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and be part of the conversation. The Village remains committed to transparency and thoughtful collaboration every step of the way.

PARKWAY TREE PLANTING & ARBOR DAY

In previous emails, I have discussed the Parkway Tree Planting initiative.

Next week you will see stakes being put in the ground where these trees will be planted.   Please do not remove or relocate the stakes.

The tree planting is scheduled for April 13th and 14th, weather permitting. A total of 44 trees were identified for planting during the evaluation process. The work will be completed by St. Aubin Nursery and Landscape Company, a trusted partner the Village has worked with on previous projects. These new trees will be planted in locations where dead trees have been removed. Additionally, some of the trees will be planted in select new areas.

As you well know, South Barrington is a Tree City. Being a Tree City means we must meet four distinct standards and must be reevaluated annually. To that end, we have a number of events set for Arbor Day, which is April 24.

Save the Date: Arbor Day, April 24th. In keeping with our tradition, this year’s ceremonial Arbor Day tree will be planted during the parkway planting days on April 13th and 14^th and celebrated on April 24th This special tree will also honor the America250 initiative, serving as a living tribute to our nation’s history and a symbol of growth, resilience, and community for generations to come. More information on Arbor Day will be shared in next week’s newsletter.

Please contact Ryan Murphy at rmurphy@southbarrington.org with any questions.

BRUSH PICKUP

We know many of you are ready to get outside and start your spring yard work, and we’re here to help. The Village’s spring brush pickup will take place April 28th through May 1st.

We will provide some guidelines to ensure smooth pickup in the coming weeks.

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

We’re excited to introduce a few new faces at the Village. Please join me in welcoming Kristina and Kelsie to the South Barrington team!

Kristina joins the Building Department as our new Administrative Assistant taking the place of Marcia who is retiring after 23 years, and Kelsie has joined the Police Department as our new Records Clerk. We are thrilled to have them both on board and are confident they will be wonderful additions to our staff.

We know our South Barrington community will extend a warm welcome as they begin their roles serving our residents.

Pictured Above Left to Right: Kristina, Building & Engineering Admin Assistant & Kelsie, Police Records Clerk

As we welcome two new staff members, we are also preparing to say farewell to longtime employee Marcia who has served the Village for over 23 years. Please join us to say goodbye to Marcia at the start of this board meeting April 9th at 7pm where we will recognize her years of service.

CMAP CENTURY PLAN LOCAL INSIGHTS WORKSHOP
Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP)

I recently attended a regional workshop with Village Administrator Mike Dropka focused on long-term planning and development trends as part of The Century Plan initiative that will take us into 2050. The discussion highlighted the importance of stronger coordination between communities to streamline processes and maximize development opportunities.

We also discussed the growing financial pressures municipalities are facing, including the cost of maintaining aging infrastructure and investing in new equipment, and how regional collaboration can help manage these challenges. Conversations touched on the balance between creating walkable, connected communities and current preferences for parking and vehicle access.

Encouragingly, many communities are already seeing success using tools such as TIF districts and conservation easements, approaches that could serve as valuable models on a broader, regional level.

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