Mayor’s Message June 19, 2026

Dear Residents,

As we celebrate Father’s Day, I want to take a moment to recognize and thank all the fathers, grandfathers, and father figures who help shape our families and our community.  On behalf of the Village of South Barrington, I wish you a very Happy Father’s Day and hope you enjoy a wonderful weekend with those you love.

OPUS DEVELOPMENT

The next step in the Opus Development project is a South Barrington Plan Commission public hearing on Wednesday, June 24, at 7:00 PM. The meeting will focus on the proposed Opus development at the Allstate property, and on making a recommendation to the Village Board.

This property sits between south of Route 72, East of Bartlett Rd. and north of the Toll Road.   As I have mentioned in past e-blasts, this project will be warehousing and potential light industrial. It was a project Hoffman Estates had been working on for months.

In January this year, we had the opportunity to demonstrate to them that South Barrington should be their home. It is important to note that the development already has this permitted zoning on the property regardless of which community houses the project. Having the project within South Barrington gives us the opportunity to help shape the development, ensure high-quality design standards, and benefit from the tax revenue generated by the project. The proposal includes extensive landscaping and setbacks that place the buildings farther from Route 72 than the previously proposed Hillwood development.

I encourage everyone who is able to make the meeting to please do so.

PLUM FARMS – HOFFMAN ESTATES UPDATE

Last week I attended the Hoffman Estates Village Board meeting on Monday to again express concerns regarding the proposed M-2 zoning designation for the Plum Farms property located at the intersection of Routes 72 and 59.

I emphasized the potential negative impacts this zoning change could have not only on residents of the Woods of South Barrington, but also on the neighboring commercial developments at this important gateway location. The property is currently designated for mixed-use development, including commercial and residential uses. Rezoning the property to M-2 would permit a variety of industrial uses, including data centers, which has become a primary concern and main topic of discussion among residents and stakeholders.

Some of our state legislators, Nabeel Sayed and Marty Mclaughlin spoke, urging the board to not to vote for this zoning change at their next board meeting.  Other speakers were Brian Cecola, Mayor of Barrington Hills, candidate Maria Peterson and Mike Gentile, who will soon assume the role of Barrington Township Assessor.

Public interest in this matter remains exceptionally high. The meeting drew a standing-room-only crowd, and when attendees were asked whether they opposed the proposed zoning change, it appeared that all attendees raised their hands in opposition.  No one raised their hand when asked if they were for the M-2 zoning.  The Hoffman Estates Plan Commission previously voted 4-2 against recommending the M-2 zoning designation. Although 30 minutes were allotted for public comment, the significant turnout resulted in many individuals leaving without the opportunity to speak.

The next Village Board meeting is presently scheduled for Monday, July 6, at 7:00 PM at the Hoffman Estates Municipal Building, 1900 Hassell Rd. I am hearing a vote on the project could be taken at this meeting. Stay tuned!

WELCOME COMMISSIONER LEN KLEINJAN

During Thursday evening’s Board Meeting, I proudly administered the oath of office to Len Kleinjan and officially welcomed him as the newest Commissioner of the Planning and Zoning Board of Appeals.

We are grateful for Len’s willingness to step forward and serve our community. A licensed engineer with a BS in Civil Engineering, Len brings a wealth of professional expertise, thoughtful perspective, and a deep commitment to South Barrington. We are confident his knowledge and dedication will make him a valuable asset to the Plan Commission and help support the Village’s continued growth and success.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Commissioner Kleinjan as he begins his service on the Planning and Zoning Board of Appeals. We look forward to his contributions, leadership, and perspective in the years ahead and are excited to have him as part of the team.

FIREWORKS SAFETY REMINDER

Independence Day is nearly here, but please remember fireworks are prohibited in South Barrington without the proper permits and authorization. Both Cook County and the State of Illinois prohibit the use of fireworks unless conducted by a certified pyrotechnician with the proper authorization. With communities across the country celebrating America’s 250th birthday, this year’s fireworks displays are expected to be bigger and louder than ever.

For the safety of our community, we encourage residents to leave fireworks displays to licensed professionals. Please be mindful of your neighbors, young children, veterans, and pets who may be sensitive to loud noises, and take steps to help keep them comfortable during holiday celebrations.

Local Firework Shows:
Frontier Days- Arlington Heights (Drone Show)                   July 2, 2026, 9:35pm
(500 E. Miner St.)

Northwest Fourth-Fest- Hoffman Estates- Now Arena        July 3, 2026, 9:30pm
(5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy)

Barrington High School                                                               July 4, 2026, 9:30pm
(616 W. Main St.)

Festival Park- Elgin                                                                     July 4, 2026, 9:30pm
(132 S. Grove Ave., Elgin)

Rotary Green-Elk Grove Village                                               July 4, 2026, 9:30pm
(164 Lions Dr.)

Additional shows can be found via the Daily Herald article HERE

LAST CHANCE TO SIGN SOUTH BARRINGTON’S AMERICA250 FLAG

Don’t forget to add your name to the history of South Barrington! Our America250 flag is on display in the Village Hall lobby and waiting for YOU to sign it.

This one-of-a-kind flag will serve as a community time capsule, preserving the names of residents and businesses who helped celebrate this historic milestone for generations to come.

HARPER COLLEGE CO-HOST “SHARING THE SPIRIT OF AMERICA”

Anyone wanting to know more about the history of our nation as we celebrate the 250^th birthday of our great nation, look no further than Harper College’s Political Science and History Departments, which are hosting an event on July 8 at 5:00 p.m. entitled “Sharing the Spirit of America.”

Held at the Outdoor Pavilion, the event will bring community members together to participate in a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, honoring the tradition of its first public reading in 1776. All are welcome to attend and reflect on the ideals that continue to shape our nation.

Please note that In the event of rain, the program will be held indoors in Building D, Room D195.

CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL YOGA DAY: JUNE 21, 2026

At our June Board Meeting, the Village of South Barrington passed a proclamation recognizing June 21, 2026, as International Yoga Day. This annual observance highlights the many physical, mental, and emotional benefits of yoga and encourages people of all ages to embrace healthy lifestyles and mindfulness.

Residents looking to celebrate are encouraged to support local wellness businesses, including Goat Yoga Chicago at The Arboretum of South Barrington and the International University of Vedic Wellness established by one of our own residents, Dr. Kumar.

Whether you’re a seasoned yogi or trying your first class, International Yoga Day is a great opportunity to stretch, relax, and focus on your well-being while connecting with our vibrant local community.

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