Mike Hynek

The meeting featured a presentation by the County Assessor, Cassandra Elston, regarding property taxes. Key discussion points included the reassessment process occurring every three years, how sales activity impacts property values, and explanations of the second installment tax bill components, including levies for governmental agencies like the Mosquito Abatement district and the School District. The Assessor detailed various tax relief options available to residents, such as the Homeowners Exemption, Senior Exemption, Senior Freeze exemption, Disabled Homeowners Exemption, and Disabled Veteran Exemption. Residents were informed about the ongoing appeal process with the Cook County Assessor's office, which had a deadline of October 21st, and the subsequent appeal process through the Board of Review. Concerns were raised regarding increased assessments, the impact of decreased tax rates on exemption deductions, and the effect of high property taxes on first-time homebuyers. Additionally, unrelated discussion occurred involving the Mayor and Village Administrator regarding economic development efforts, including the use of the Class 8 tax incentive program for commercial properties.

The meeting celebrated the launch of the 11th on-demand service in the Lansing area, which is a reservation-based, share service designed to enhance transportation options, particularly for first and last-mile connections. Discussions highlighted the flexibility and convenience of the service for riders needing access to stores or medical appointments. Several key partners and officials were recognized for their support, including Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle, State Representative Marcus Evans, and Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore. Pace's ongoing investments in the Southland were noted, such as the $25 million safety and training building in Markham, planned C-Line extensions, and the $70 million Harvey Transit Center project. Speakers emphasized that public transit requires citizen participation to ensure the success and potential expansion of such innovative programs to other villages and towns.

The Planning and Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing to discuss two primary agenda items. The first involved a request by Makowski's Real Sausage Company for variances related to sign ordinances at 16700/16710 Chicago Avenue, seeking an increase in total allowable sign area and the total number of wall signs. The board voted to recommend approval for both variance requests after considering hardship standards. The second item concerned a request from Melt N Dip Dessert Cafe for a special use permit for a drive-thru facility and outdoor seating at 17350 Torrence Avenue. The board recommended approval for both special use requests, subject to specific conditions including compliance with zoning sections, building department review of safety devices, and staff approval of parking improvements.

The event marked the dedication of the new Lansing Municipal Center. Discussions included the history of the previous Village Hall locations and the property where the new center stands, which once housed a former mayor. A significant portion of the event involved the presentation of colors by the Lansing Fire Department Honor Guard and the dedication prayer for the new building. A major highlight was the unveiling of the new official Lansing Village flag, which resulted from a design contest sponsored by the Lansing Historical Society, referencing the village's three original districts and a historical sandy ridge. The Mayor expressed gratitude to past and present village officials, the Historical Society, the architects (Lynden Group), and contractors (Pulos Construction) for their roles in realizing this capital improvement project, noting substantial cost savings compared to building new.

The Village of Lansing is undertaking a comprehensive plan update designed to guide land use decisions for the next 10 to 15 years. This initiative, funded through a CMAP grant, involves external consultants and focuses on economic development by identifying niche markets, cataloging vacant properties, and attracting new businesses. Key focus areas include the Torrance Avenue Corridor, Ridge Road Corridor, and the airport, with an overall strategy to build upon community strengths and address challenges to foster future positive growth and branding for the Village.