Emergency Notification System

Mayor’s Message July 25, 2025

  • Posted by Chrissie Mena
  • On July 25, 2025

Dear Residents,

Last week, I wrote about the Sip and Shop at the Arboretum. Unfortunately, there was some information that was not correct. Sip and Shop is available any day of the week, not just on Friday and Saturday. 

Sorry for the error. I am putting the correction at the beginning of the email instead of burying it. To see the rules that apply to the Arboretum’s Sip and Shop experience go HERE.

Assessor Outreach Appeals Event – Monday, August 4th 

If you have received your reassessment notice, you are aware of the probable increase in the tax burden.

On Monday, August 4th, we are partnering with Barrington Township and the Cook County Assessor’s office on an event to discuss the real estate reassessment increases.

Take a look at your reassessment notice and bring it with you to the event which will be on Monday, August 4th   from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Village in Rose Hall. The event will feature representatives from Cook County, who will be available to answer your questions and talk about the reassessment.

This event is focused on property assessment appeals which affect how much you will pay for your property on your tax bill. Please note: Property taxes cannot be appealed, but property assessments can. If you believe your property has been over-assessed, this is your opportunity to learn more about the appeals process. I will share additional information as it becomes available.

Finally, please note the deadline for filing an appeal is Friday, August 15th.

Drought Monitor

Recent rainfall has not changed the overall drought conditions in Illinois. The Midwest, and particularly Illinois, is seeing abnormally dry to drought like conditions. 

The below images can be found by visiting US Drought Monitor.

Drought Maps of Illinois and the United States

Why doesn’t a drought end when it rains?

According to the USGS, United States Geological Survey, “a single rainstorm will not break the drought, but it might provide temporary relief.” Much of the rain that we have had has not soaked into the ground but has run off the ground’s hard surface

The heat combined with the lack of rainfall is having an impact on plant life in our community. All trees, young and old, should be watered to ensure that they continue to thrive. Below are recommendations on tree watering during a drought with temperatures in the 90’s.

Key Watering Tips:

  • Water deeply, not frequently: the goal is to moisten soil to 12-18 inches deep. Avoid shallow sprinkling as it leads to weak, surface roots. 
  • Optimal timing: Water early in the morning or after sunset to reduce losses from evaporation.
  • Method: Use a soaker hose, slow-release bag or trickle hose spread across the root zone-ideally from halfway between the trunk and the edge of the 

canopy (“drip line”).

Basic watering frequency by tree age: 

  • New/Young Trees (1-3 years): 10-15 gallons every 3-4 days when temps are in the 90’s.
  • Established Trees: Deep soak every 2-4 weeks or every 2 weeks if it is extremely hot and dry.

These guidelines help prioritize tree health while conserving water during high heat and drought. Your assistance in watering your trees will help ensure the beauty and aesthetics that have become a hallmark of our community.

Sunday Summer Concert

The summer concert series rolls on with a special Sunday show. Come out this Sunday, July 27th from 1-3 p.m. to the Main Street Plaza to hear the Wilson River Band.  Wilson River Band brings a high-quality, harmony-driven mix of classic rock, pop, and country hits. played with precision and the perfect sound balance.

And if you can’t get enough live music, come on out on July 30th, starting at 6:30 p.m. as the Wickstrom concert series presents Bon Journeyed.  From Bon Jovi to Journey, Bon Journeyed will take you back in time with some of the greatest classic rock hits of all time. From the soaring highs of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” to the anthemic power of Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer,” Bon Journeyed delivers a high-energy, authentic rock experience you won’t want to miss.

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