Commercial Vehicle Parking - Open Your Mouth - GET RECRUITED

Two citizens and myself did just that a few weeks back and now we are all on a committee to investigate how to best approach the Commercial Vehicle Parking situation in Lake in the Hills.

Essentially, we have had three citizens in a three month period come before the board regarding commercial vehicle parking.

The first citizen, a few months back, came to us because of his D plated licensed truck getting ticketed for overnight parking in his driveway. At the time, I was uneasy with the thought that we could be limiting employment options for anyone based on the plate of their truck. I read the ordinance and offered a suggestion to the citizen but really left this issue alone. I will stress that while I felt uneasy, it did not occur to me, then, that this could be a bigger problem.

Fast forward to the November 9 Committtee of the Whole meeting...

On this night, two citizens came before the board. One with a similar issue to the previously covered issue of a D plated truck and citations and then an opposing view - about the lack of limitations on commercial vehicle parking. The citizen cited trailers, snow plows and other commercial vehicles or accessories that were being stored in driveways.

On this night - it hit me. We have a problem.

You see, in my view - one person is probably representative of a broader issue that may or may not be chronic. Three people within 10 weeks is definitely a bigger issue.

We don't see very many citizens at Committee of the Whole or Board meetings. I can probably tell you each citizen who has been before us since I was sworn in in May and their concern WITHOUT looking at the minutes because it has been so few.

With three people in ten weeks on the same issue, it is apparent that is much bigger than we realize and must be investigated. So I am glad I opened my mouth.

Check out an article covering the Nov 9 meeting: First Electric Newspaper

Here is where you come in... We will meet on Dec 14 at 6:00pm at Village Hall and I want to know if you or someone you know in Lake in the Hills has an opinion on Commercial Vehicle Parking.

Are you a contractor who has had to park elsewhere due to tickets on you D-plated vehicle?

Do you just get sick and tired of seeing commercial vehicles parked on your block?

Leave a comment.

Email me at dbarreto@lith.org

Speak up. The committee is formed so you have no fear of being recruited :)

Wind Energy Part Two - Dec 14

After a lively discussion and productive meeting on Monday night, the Planning and Zoning Commission tabled the Small Wind Energy system ordinance until the next meeting on Monday Dec 14, 7:00 pm at Village Hall.

I was impressed that we had three citizens join the discussion and was encouraged by each of their comments. It is interesting, one of the citizens apologized for not being part of the discussion before now. From my point of view - we accept that apology heartily and are glad you are part of the discussion now. I also received feedback from citizens who could not make it. This is local government at its best - when we collaborate to come up with the best solution for the greater good. This is why I ran for office and I am glad to be part of this so soon in my term.

Here are the links to articles related to the issue for your review:

First Electric Newspaper - actual meeting coverage
Northwest Herald - meeting day coverage


So once again - I ask - if this issue is one that you hold a strong opinion on,  one way or another, please come out on Dec 14 and make your voice heard.

See you on the 14th!

Eco-conscious Lake in the Hills Residents Wanted - Nov 16

If you are an eco-friendly  Lake in the Hills resident interested in making your voice heard - please come to the Public Hearing Scheduled Monday November 16 at 7:30 at Village Hall.

Details about the meeting can be seen here.

Essentially, our board is being asked to amend text to our local zoning ordinance related to Small Wind Energy Systems and this is the public forum to give us your views.

It is the 9th anniversary of my 29th birthday and I will be there to hear your views! Come and join me!