Mayor’s Message October 16, 2026
- Posted by Makayla Terfehn
- On October 20, 2026
Dear Residents,
Last week’s newsletter highlighted the story of five puppies found abandoned in South Barrington in need of a new home. I am pleased to announce the Animal House Shelter in Huntley has taken in the puppies where they will have the opportunity to find their forever homes.
Anyone interested in the adoption process can contact the shelter directly at 847-961-5541.
Thank you to everyone who reached out, shared their concern, and offered support. I am confident these puppies will find great homes in the near future!
READY, SET, SMASH!
The second annual Pumpkin Smash returns November 7th and it promises to be even bigger and better than last year’s festivities.
The Village is excited to welcome residents back for our 2nd Annual Pumpkin Smash on Saturday, November 7th, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the South Barrington Conservancy!
This fun-filled event is more than just an excuse to smash a pumpkin (although that’s certainly part of the fun!). But it is also an opportunity to make a positive impact on our environment. When pumpkins end up in landfills, they decompose without sufficient oxygen and release methane, a powerful greenhouse gas. By composting them instead, we can reduce waste, return valuable nutrients to the soil, and give those jack-o’-lanterns a second purpose!
We’re thrilled to partner once again with SCARCE and Goebbert’s, along with our friends from the East Dundee Fire District and Barrington Countryside Fire Protection District, who will have fire engines on display for families to explore. And of course, Goebbert’s will be bringing their delicious apple cider donuts, hot cider and new this year, their candy cannon!
So, don’t trash your pumpkins. Instead, save them and gather the family, and get ready to make a smashing difference! Whether you’re dropping off a pumpkin or joining in the smashing fun with the pumpkins on the site, it’s a great way to come together as a community while doing something good for the environment.
This event is open to the public. Registration is requested to help plan for supplies needed. Please register with Makayla at mterfehn@southbarrington.org
MAKE YOUR PLAN TO VOTE: NOVEMBER 3, 2026
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, but voters have several options to skip the lines and vote early.
Residents can visit the Cook County Clerk’s website to check their voter registration, find their assigned polling place, review their sample ballot, and access early voting locations and vote-by-mail information.
Important dates to remember:
- October 18: Last day to register to vote online.
- October 19: Expanded early voting begins at additional suburban Cook County locations.
- October 29: Deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot.
- November 2: Last day for early voting.
- November 3: Election Day. Polls are open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
For additional official election information, visit:
Please note that voting locations and hours may vary. Residents are encouraged to verify details with the Cook County Clerk before heading out to vote.
RECYCLE SMART: DISCOVER THE NEW RECYCLE COACH TOOL FOR SOUTH BARRINGTON
I previously mentioned a new recycling tool in – the Recycle Coach – which is now available directly on the Village Website!
Provided through our partnership with SWANCC, this convenient, easy-to-use tool helps residents make informed decisions about recycling and waste disposal.
Wondering where to recycle paint, batteries, or electronics? Simply enter your address to receive helpful recycling tips and find nearby drop-off locations for specific items. You can also access a personalized calendar with upcoming garbage and recycling collection dates and events near your home.
The tool goes beyond recycling information. Residents can report service issues directly through Recycle Coach, including missed pickups, damaged carts, or problems receiving collection reminders.
I encourage all residents to explore this new resource on the Village website and make recycling a regular part of their household routine. Before visiting a drop-off location, please remember to call ahead to confirm accepted materials, hours, and any updated requirements.
Thank you for doing your part to keep our community clean, reduce waste, and support a more sustainable future! The Recycle Coach Tool can be found on the Village Website by following the link below https://southbarrington.org/recycling/
GOEBBERT’S THANKSGIVING PRE-ORDERS
One of the great traditions in South Barrington is Goebbert’s holiday desserts.
Make sure to get your order in before it is too late. Take advantage of Goebbert’s delicious holiday dessert pre-orders and have fresh pies ready just in time for your holiday gatherings. Place your order by November 21st for pick-up on November 24th or 25th and let Goebbert’s help make your Thanksgiving holiday table extra special!
There’s still time to enjoy fall fun, too! Goebbert’s Fall Festival is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM through November 1st. If you haven’t visited yet, don’t miss the opportunity to experience this South Barrington gem, with seasonal attractions and family fun for all ages. Make the most of the fall season and support one of our community’s favorite local destinations!
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
