Homer Glen Village Board Approves Updated Tree Ordinance and Suspends License Plate Reader Program

Updated Tree Preservation Ordinance Approved

The Homer Glen Village Board has approved a revised tree preservation ordinance to safeguard mature trees on private properties. This update, coinciding with the celebration of the village’s Big Tree Champion contest winners, addresses the need for modern regulations. The last revision was two decades ago. The Environment Committee, in collaboration with the Village Board, incorporated feedback into the ordinance, resulting in its approval.

Andy Panelli, from the Environment Committee, emphasized the importance of these updates. He remarked that the new tools would help maintain Homer Glen’s unique character. Effective from January 1, these regulations initially apply to properties of 3 acres and will extend to one-acre lots by 2031.

The ordinance aims to prevent clear-cutting for development while preserving healthy trees. Residential properties must obtain permits for tree removal. Trees cleared for new housing construction footprints and a 40-foot buffer zone are exempt from mitigation. Homeowners have the option to replace removed trees or contribute to the village’s tree fund, promoting new plantings and arborist services.

Celebrating Big Tree Champion Contest Winners

The village recognized Bryce Hansen, aged 3, as a winner in the Big Tree Champion contest. His discovery of two eastern cottonwood trees with a trunk circumference of 156 inches exceeded the previous record. Other winners included Jesse Synoga, for identifying a silver maple, and Parnell O’Brien, for a pagoda dogwood. Jason Arrigo found a Swamp White Oak with a 160-inch circumference.

Flock License Plate Reader Program Suspended

Homer Glen Village Board has temporarily halted its Flock camera license plate reader program. This decision followed reports of a Will County sheriff’s deputy being placed on administrative leave for policy violations. Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike wants the program paused as the investigation unfolds.

The board, which approved the suspension 6-0, had initially supported the camera installation in December. They had begun installing 12 cameras, with only four functioning thus far. The pause includes delaying the remaining installations until the concerns are addressed. Information from the cameras was previously confined to Illinois and retained for seven days.

Additional Mosquito Abatement Treatment

The board approved an additional mosquito abatement treatment costing nearly $11,000. It followed substantial rainfall that created breeding grounds. The Will County Health Department identified the presence of the West Nile virus in Homer Glen. Village officials reported complaints about increased mosquito activity.

Holiday Lighting Contract

The board also secured a three-year contract with Twinkle Lights Installation for nearly $49,000. This agreement covers the installation and maintenance of holiday lights and decorations in Heritage Park, behind Village Hall.