Mayor’s Message July 10, 2026

Dear Residents,

I hope everyone had a wonderful Independence Day weekend and was able to celebrate America’s 250th birthday with family and friends. Celebrations like this bring our community, our state and nation together in a way few things are able to do. There are plenty of things to divide us, but America 250 was a great way to bring us together to celebrate our nation’s history and the freedoms we cherish.

Opus at the Allstate Property on Rt. 72

Last night the board met and approved the amendments within the present zoning on the Allstate property to bring the OPUS project one step further. It was a unanimous vote from the board who agreed the OPUS team gave a good presentation. This project is moving in the right direction and will be a great partner for our growing community.

RECOGNITION OF SERVICE: DAVE GILLIS

We were proud to recognize Dave Gillis at last nights board meeting for his 25 years of dedicated service on the South Barrington Plan Commission.

Dave has faithfully served the Village of South Barrington and its residents for 25 years and during which period of time numerous projects were developed through his guidance and dedication which will continue to have a lasting impact on the Village.

Thank you Dave!

SOUTH BARRINGTON GARDEN CLUB: THANK YOU!

The South Barrington Garden Club continues to go above and beyond for our community.

Last week, we were happy to open the doors of Rose Hall to give the South Barrington Garden Club space for their floral workshops. As a thoughtful thank you, they left behind several of the beautiful arrangements they created (red, white, and blue theme for the 4^th of July) filling Village Hall with vibrant colors and fresh blooms that we’re still enjoying today.

To the South Barrington Garden Club, thank you not only for this kind gesture, but for the time, talent, and care you pour into our community all year long. From the stunning seasonal planters that welcome residents and visitors to the beautiful touches that make South Barrington feel like home, your dedication never goes unnoticed.

SGT. DOYLE: HOMETOWN HERO 

You may or may not have seen our Facebook post about Sgt. Doyle saving a turtle attempting to cross the road, but if you haven’t, it’s worth checking out, it’s getting quite a bit of attention! (Link HERE)

After receiving reports of a large turtle making its way across the roadway, Sgt. Doyle responded and safely relocated the determined traveler to a nearby pond.

Believe it or not, we’ve had a few “Save the Turtle” moments here in South Barrington! If you ever come across a turtle that appears to need help, please give the South Barrington Police Department a call rather than trying to handle it yourself. Our officers are happy to lend a hand (or a shell).

Thanks, Sgt. Doyle, for once again proving that no call is too small. A true hometown hero!

THE ARBORETUM: WHAT’S HAPPENING IN JULY

It’s summertime in South Barrington and that means a full slate of fun activities at the Arboretum. Some upcoming can’t miss events include:

810 Entertainment July Events

• Trivia: July 16^th from 6pm-8pm
• Line Dancing: Saturday, July 18^th, lessons at 8pm and 9pm
• Bingo: Tuesday, July 21^st from 6pm-8pm
• Live Music: Friday, July 24^th, Erik Donner on the Patio from 6pm-9pm

Giostra

• Sunday Family Supper is a great value and the perfect way for families and friends to gather around the table and enjoy a traditional Italian dining experience. Designed for sharing, it’s an opportunity to slow down, connect, and enjoy a generous meal together, just like Sunday dinner in Italy. Learn more and make a reservation HERE.
• Mangia Mondays is a great way to kick off the week. When you don’t feel like cooking after a busy weekend, order your choice of salad, pasta and wine for $33. Learn more and make a reservation HERE.

Sip, Shop & Summer Fun at The Arboretum!

The weather may be hot but sipping a cold cocktail will cool you down while you shop the Arboretum.

Pick up a craft beer, wine, cocktail, or mocktail from Tangled Roots Craft Beer & Kitchen, The Hampton Social, Sim Racing, The Greggory, Georgios and Star Cinema Grill, ask for a Sip & Shop cup with a lid, and enjoy your beverage as you explore participating shops.

Concert Series: Beyond the Blonde

I had the opportunity to attend Wednesday’s concert at the Arboretum, and it was wonderful to see such a great crowd after all the rainy weather that has forced so many events to be canceled. Beyond the Blonde brought incredible energy, and it was clear everyone was having a fantastic time.

If you missed it, don’t worry, there’s another great show coming up! Be sure to join next Wednesday when 7th Heaven takes the stage.

A special thank you to Rick Heidner for your continued dedication to bringing fun, entertainment, and memorable experiences to the South Barrington community.

Here is a link to upcoming events at the Arb: https://www.shopthearb.com/events

EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM FOR SOUTH BARRINGTON

If you’d like to receive emergency notifications from the Village and South Barrington Police Department, be sure to register for our new Everbridge Emergency Notification System. Everbridge has replaced CodeRED and requires residents to create a new account.

While some CodeRED users may have been automatically migrated, previous login credentials cannot be verified. Creating a new account is the easiest way to ensure your information is accurate and that you have access to your account in the future.

Need help registering? Makayla Terfehn is available to assist residents in person at Village Hall or over the phone. To schedule a time, email mterfehn@southbarrington.org or call 847-381-7510.

Link to register for Everbridge: https://southbarrington.org/emergency-notification-system/

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