Updated Tree Preservation Ordinance Approved
The Homer Glen Village Board has approved an updated tree preservation ordinance. This new regulation aims to protect mature trees on private properties. The approval coincided with the celebration of Big Tree Champion contest winners. The ordinance, considered outdated, had not seen revisions in 20 years.
The Environment Committee has been working on the update since February 2025. Feedback from the Village Board led to further changes that were incorporated after a special meeting on Aug. 20. The updated ordinance provides crucial tools to maintain Homer Glen’s character. It applies to residential properties of three acres starting January and will eventually cover smaller lots by 2031.
The goal is to prevent clear-cutting for development, preserving healthy trees. Permits are required for tree removal. Trees classified by size must be replaced or donations made to the village’s tree fund. No changes apply to commercial and industrial properties.
Big Tree Champion Contest Winners Recognized
The Village celebrated its Big Tree Champion contest winners as part of long-standing tradition since 2018, honoring trees for their size, age, or rarity. This year, a new kids category emerged, with winners identified for notable tree discoveries.
Among them, Bryce Hansen, aged three, was lauded for finding two eastern cottonwood trees in his backyard with 156-inch trunk circumferences. Other winners included Jesse Synoga, aged two, who found a silver maple measuring 145 inches, and Parnell O’Brien, who identified a pagoda dogwood. Another winner was Jason Arrigo with a discovery of a Swamp White Oak.
Suspension of Flock Camera License Plate Reader Program
The Village Board formally suspended its Flock camera license plate reader program following policy violation reports involving a Will County sheriff’s deputy. Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike called for the program’s halt pending investigation and protocol review.
Approved last December, the suspension vote was unanimous 6-0. Trustee Nick Muller highlighted that Flock cameras help in crime-solving nationwide, emphasizing the importance of using technology correctly. Trustee Robert Schaller, a former police chief, supported their suspension, citing prudence.
The Village installs 12 license plate readers, with four operational so far. Suspended operations affect existing cameras and delay the new installations. Data collection remains restricted within Illinois, retaining information for only seven days.
Additional Measures on Mosquito Abatement and Decorations
In other Village Board matters, authorization for additional mosquito treatment due to increased population followed heavy summer rains. An $11,000 mosquito abatement treatment was approved, responding to surveillance confirming West Nile virus presence.
A three-year contract for Halloween and Christmas light installations at Heritage Park has been sanctioned. The nearly $49,000 contract ensures seasonal decorations and maintenance.