Cops busy / Park survey / Early Voting

Your intrepid reporter is back at the keyboard after an economic development participation trip to the Caribbean.

Cops busy in early 2026

            Buffalo Grove police have been busy in the first six weeks of the year. Police listed 196 calls through Feb. 15, of which 134 were in the local code category that includes well-being checks, aid to other departments and non-criminal issues.

            Driving violations accounted for 26 reports while there were nine reports of theft, six reports of DUI, five cases of fraud, four reports of disorderly conduct, three cases of battery, two for criminal damage, and two reports of resisting arrest or obstructing a peace officer.

Recent reports include:

            ** Theft by deception: A resident told police she was scammed out of $1,500 by a phone caller posing as a bank representative.

            ** Disorderly conduct: A 58-year Arlington Heights man was charged with disorderly conduct after an incident in the 100 block of Dundee Road.

            ** Burglary: An undetermined amount of cash was stolen from a business in the 1200 block of west Dundee Road. Details about method of entry were not available.

            ** Battery: A 26-year-old Chicago man was charged with battery after an incident in the 300 block of north McHenry Road.

            ** Stolen car: Police report that a Lexus RX was stolen from the 0 – 100 block of Chestnut.

            ** Residential Burglary: Police say they are continuing to investigate a home burglary in the 500 block of Cherbourg Ct. South. Reports say the home was “ransacked” and undisclosed items were stolen.

In Other Community News…

Park District seeks residents’ opinions

            The Buffalo Grove Park District has launched a community survey to hear from residents about their experiences, perceptions, and priorities of parks, programs, and facilities.

            The survey asks participants to share what’s working well, what could be improved and how park district spaces and programs can better serve the community now and in the future.

            The feedback will help guide improvements that reflect the needs and voices of the public, officials say.

            The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and can be found online at this link. The survey will be available until the end of the month.

Blood drive Mar. 7

            The Buffalo Grove Health Commission is hosting a Community Blood Drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 7 at the Alcott Center, 530 Bernard Dr.

            Appointments are encouraged but not required. Donors can sign up at this link or by calling 877-258-4825.

Chamber sets women in business program

            The Buffalo Grove-Lincolnshire Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with the Deerfield-Bannockburn-Riverwoods (DBR) Chamber of Commerce to sponsor, Seen. Heard. Remembered., a Women in Business Event from 9 to 11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 20 at the DBR office, 570 Lake Cook Road, Deerfield.

            Seen. Heard. Remembered is a designed Women in Business experience focused on how women show up, communicate their value, and stay grounded - especially in moments of pressure.

            Speakers will include:

            ** Martha Abelson, a professional photographer specializing in business headshots and branding, will focus on how physical presence, posture, and visual cues shape first impressions.

Jesse Weiler, with more than 20 years in video production and digital marketing, will guide a session on clear, intentional messaging—how to talk about your work without overperforming or overselling.

            ** Nadia Flodstrom, an occupational therapist and registered yoga teacher, will lead a short, practical grounding reset designed for moments of stress or overstimulation.

            ** Aquelah Allen, a local real estate professional with a background in sales and marketing, will close the morning with a conversation on values, authenticity, and building confidence that lasts.

            Additional information and registration can be found at this link.

Box gone

            The Indian Trails Library District’s return drop box at 1160 W. Lake Cook Rd., Buffalo Grove is, as they would say at the bike shop, gone with the Schwinn. In other words, it’s no longer there.

            Items can be returned at the Alcott Community Center: 530 Bernard Dr., Buffalo Grove, the Indian Trails Main Library, 355 Schoenbeck Rd. or the branch at 99 E. Palatine Rd., Suite A, Prospect Heights.

            Materials can also be returned to the drop box owned by Vernon Area Public Library at The Grove plaza, 197 McHenry Rd., since that library is now part of the CCS shared library system catalog.

One Book, One Community author presentation Mar. 1

            Residents can celebrate the culmination of One Book, One Community's 10th anniversary at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 1 with novelist Ann Napolitano as she shares her inspiration and insights behind this year's selection, Hello Beautiful.

            The event is free; however, participation is limited to online attendance. Registration is still required and is available at this link.

Super Hero & Princess Party set

            The Park District is hosting a “Super Hero & Princess Party” from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 27 at the Community Arts Center, 225 McHenry Rd.

            Attendees will be able to meet their favorite superheroes and princesses, take photos in addition to playing games, and take part in interactive entertainment designed for all ages. Participants are encouraged to wear costumes. Parents must accompany children during the entire event.

            Admission is $16 for in-district residents and $20 for nonresidents. Adult admission is free. Advanced registration is required and can be completed at this link. For more information, contact Mike Pfeiffer at 847-850-2108.

2026-2027 kindergarten and new student registration available

            Registration for kindergarten and new students for the 2026-2027 school year in School District 21 is now open. Children who will be 5 years old on or before Sept. 1, 2026, are eligible to join the district’s kindergarten program.

            Complete information about registration can be found here.

            Parents who are unsure what school their child will attend, can check the School Boundary Map and enter their address

            Additional assistance is available by email at registration@ccsd21.org.

Park District job fair set

            Teens looking for a summer job can learn about opportunities offered by the Park District at a job fair from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 26 at the Community Arts Center, 225 McHenry Rd. Interviews may be conducted on-site. Applicants must be 15 to apply. For more information, visit this link.

Expanded early voting starts March 2

            Expanded vote-by-mail and limited early voting for the March 17 primary begins Monday, March 2.

            Voter information and resources, including how to register or update your registration, early voting locations and additional information is available at this link for Cook County residents and this link for Lake County residents.

D21 Map Design Committee seeks members

            Community Consolidated School District 21 is inviting parents, guardians, and community members to apply to serve on the D21 Map Design Committee.

            The Map Design Committee was formed to study the district's current school map and evaluate whether it continues to serve today's students as well as it can. This work is grounded in D21's mission to maximize achievement and honor the uniqueness of every student, every day. This is a community-led design process. The committee will research data, learn about guiding principles, gather community feedback, evaluate options, and help shape potential solutions. There are no predetermined outcomes; the work and direction will be guided by the committee's learning and collaboration, and supported by experts at Woolpert, an independent infrastructure and geospatial firm.

            D21 residents interested in serving on this committee should complete one of the following applications:

            ** Map Design Committee Application (English) 
            ** Map Design Committee Application (Spanish) 
            ** Map Design Committee Application (Russian) 
            ** Map Design Committee Application (Ukrainian)

            Additional information about the Map Design Committee is at this link.

 

Looking For A Reason To Celebrate?

Feb. 25

Let's All Eat Right Day

National Chocolate Covered Nut Day

Quiet Day

Feb. 26

International Tongue Twister Contest Day

National Pistachio Day

Tell a Fairy Tale Day

Feb. 27

International Polar Bear Day

National Chili Day

National Kahlua Day

Feb. 28

International Sword Swallowers Day

National Chocolate Souffle Day

National Pancake Day

National Vegan Lipstick Day

Mar. 1

National Fruit Compote Day

National Peanut Butter Lover's Day

Plan a Solo Vacation Day

Mar. 2

National Banana Cream Pie Day

National Butchers Week

National Cheerleading Week

Newspaper in Education Week

Mar. 3

Caregiver Appreciation Day

International Irish Whiskey Day

National Cold Cuts Day

National I Want You to be Happy Day

Mar. 4

Discover What Your Name Means Day

Hug a G.I. Day

Learn What Your Name Means Day

National Grammar Day

 

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The usual stuff…

Got News?-- If you have news about your club, school, church, synagogue or other community organization, please submit news, information and story ideas to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.Articles should include a contact name, email and phone number. Commentary articles are also welcome. They should be limited to 350 words and should include contact information as noted above. All submissions may be edited for style, spelling, and libelous content.

Subscribe by email -- If you want to receive the Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News & Information) by email, send your email address to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.

If you didn’t know -- The Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News and Info), is locally and independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime print journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. The Buffalo Grove Report is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club.

Retail thefts / Amazon leaves Clove hole / Farmers Market Committee

 

Retail Theft -- A female shopper reportedly stole various food items from Woodman’s, 1550 E. Deerfield Pkwy., and left the store without paying. An adjudication citation for retail theft and trespass warning was issued. Details of what was taken and the estimated amount were not made available.

Criminal Damage to Property -- A male customer damaged a gas pump at the Woodman’s gas station, 1550 E. Deerfield Pkwy. An adjudication citation for damage to property and trespass warning was issued. The nature of damages was not made available.

Fleeing/Eluding a Peace Officer -- A black Chevrolet sedan did not stop for a traffic violation and continued to drive away at a high rate of speed, at the intersection of Buffalo Grove and Dundee roads. Police say this investigation is ongoing.

Retail Theft -- A male subject has been stealing merchandise on multiple occasions from the Speedway 201 N Milwaukee Ave. Police say this investigation is ongoing.

Battery -- A 25-year-old Buffalo Grove man is due in court on battery charges after a Jan. 10 incident in the 1500 block of Deerfield Parkway.

Theft of Motor Vehicle Part -- A catalytic converter was stolen from a 2017 Honda CRV at 55 W Dundee Rd. This investigation is ongoing

Porch Theft -- 2100 block of Brandywyn Two packages were stolen off the front porch. This investigation is ongoing

In Other Community News

Amazon Fresh closing leaves Clove hole

            The closing of Amazon’s “Amazon Fresh” and “Amazon Go” stores is raising a question for developers of The Clove as well as village officials – what’s next? Amazon Fresh was scheduled to open in The Clove.

            While postings on social media have listed a litany of desires, the reality is there are specific guidelines for the space.

            According to village officials, the Redevelopment Agreement (RDA) stipulates there “has to be a “Retail Grocery Anchor” defined as “a national credit grocery tenant within the Retail Project occupying space that is at least forty-three thousand (43,000) gross square feet.”

            More definitively, officials say it has to be a “true grocery store, typically with a national presence per the definition.”

            The village can, however, review a proposed business plan of the grocer to ensure compliance with the agreement.”

            Amazon Fresh stores were scheduled to close Feb. 1.

Board meets Monday, Feb. 2

            The Village Board meets at 7 p.m. Monday night. This meeting was originally planned to be a Committee of the Whole meeting, but was switched to a regular board meeting. The regular board meeting scheduled for Feb. 17 has been canceled. The agenda for the Feb. 2 meeting can be found here.

Register for police academy

            Residents can get a first-hand look at law enforcement at the Citizens Police Academy, a nine-week, hands-on program. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about crime scene processing, traffic enforcement, first aid, self defense and more alongside members of the Buffalo Grove Police Department. The program meets on Wednesday nights, from March 4 - May 6. Additional information and applications can be found here.

Say it ain’t so…

            The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting scheduled for Wednesday, February 4, 2026, has been canceled.

‘President’s Pick’ Feb. 10

            ‘President's Pick’ a quarterly event featuring Buffalo Grove Village Board President Eric Smith, is scheduled from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 10 at Lazy Dog, 51 McHenry Rd. Smith, along with Community Development Director Nicole Woods will discuss development of the Lake-Cook Road corridor. Small bites and refreshments will be provided.

Prom dresses being collected

            Have an old prom dress taking up space? The Vernon Area Public Library is accepting donations of lightly worn formal dresses and shoes from Feb. 6 through Mar. 6 to support the Mothers Trust Foundation Pop Up Prom Shop. Find more information by using this link.

Farmers Market Committee to meet

            The Buffalo Grove Farmers Market will begin planning its 2026 season, at a meeting at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 4. The meeting will be in the Beverly Sussman Conference Room at Village Hall, 50 Raupp Blvd.

            Volunteers are needed to help plan the market by selecting and vetting vendors and setting up and tearing down the market each week. Volunteers must be available most Sundays from June to October between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

            For more information, contact Greg Sauser, Farmers Market Liaison at gsauser@vbg.org.

Game swap set

            Have any old games you don’t know what to do with? The Indian Trails Library District can help as it is collecting used games (no missing pieces) to trade with other enthusiasts. Games may be dropped off from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5 outside the Cook Room at the Library, 355 Schoenbeck Rd., Wheeling. More information is at this link.

DPW cited

            Buffalo Grove’s 2025 Northwood Neighborhood Utility & Streets Improvement Project was awarded the American Public Works Association’s Lake Branch Project of the Year in the Environment $5M-$25M category, while Buffalo Grove Maintenance Superintendent Bryan Beitzel was presented with the Samuel A. Greely Public Service Award, recognizing long-term municipal service and substantial contributions to the field of Public Works.

Pre-school open house Feb. 7

            The Park District is holding a preschool open house from 10 to 1:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7.

            The program will give parents a chance to learn about the Park District’s Preschool programs for Two-, Pre-Three, Three- and Four-year old children.

            Attendees will be able to meet the teachers, learn about the curriculums, and see classrooms.

            For more information, visit this link, or contact Keri Isacovici at 847-850-2111.

Development a go

            Buffalo Grove trustees Jan. 19 unanimously approved a residential development that will transform the former Schwaben Center property into a 33-home community called the Highbury Club.

Daily Herald reports say M/I Homes, the contract purchaser, will develop the approximately 9.5-acre site into single-family homes ranging from 2,360 to 2,732 square feet. More details can be found in the Daily Herald’s coverage found here.

 

Need to Celebrate?

Feb. 2

California Kiwifruit Day

Crepe Day

National Tater Tot Day

Feb. 3

Doggy Date Night

Feed the Birds Day

National Carrot Cake Day

Feb. 4

Farmer's Day

National Girls and Women in Sports Day

National Homemade Soup Day

Feb. 5

National Chocolate Fondue Day

National Shower with a Friend Day

World Nutella Day

Feb. 6

National Frozen Yogurt Day

Pay a Compliment Day

Time to Talk Day

Feb. 7

National Ballet Day

National Bubble Gum Day

National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day

Feb. 8

National Kite-Flying Day

Propose Day

Molasses Bar Day

Feb. 9

Chocolate Day

National Bagel and Lox Day

National Pizza Day

 

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 The usual stuff…

·         Got News?--  If you have news about your club, school, church, synagogue or other community organization, please submit news, information and story ideas to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.Articles should include a contact name, email and phone number. Commentary articles are also welcome. They should be limited to 350 words and should include contact information as noted above. All submissions may be edited for style, spelling, and libelous content.

·         Subscribe by email -- If you want to receive the Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News & Information) by email, send your email address to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.

·         If you didn’t know -- The Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News and Info), is locally and independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime print journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. The Buffalo Grove Report is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club. 

Chase Plaza redevelopment OK'd / Reid Award presented / New sergeant

 Monthly activity: Police reported 130 incidents during December. Included in the reported activity were two cases of aggravated assault, one battery case, one case of controlled substance violation, two cases of criminal damage to property, seven disorderly conduct cases that include harassment by telephone or other electronic devices, nine driving violations, which do not include moving violations such as speeding, one DUI, four reported thefts, three reports of fraud by deception, two reports listed under “other crime”, which included a report of “Abuse/Criminal Neglect of Long Term Care Facility Resident, Elderly, or Disabled Person.”  The largest category are incidents labeled under “local code” that includes reports relating to well-being checks, assistance to other agencies, reports of sick or dead animals and other incidents that are generally non-criminal in nature, although there were two reports of “Theft of vehicle essential parts”.

Recent reports:

**  When push comes to shove: Police report they were summoned to settle a dispute between two subjects that led to one “shoving” the other in the 1500 block of Deerfield Parkway. This investigation is ongoing.

**  Parking space spat: Police say they were summoned to the 1500 block of Deerfield Parkway to intervene in a dispute between two subjects over a parking space that resulted in one subject grabbing the other subject’s iPhone and throwing it against the pavement. This subject was issued an adjudication citation for damage to property. There is no further investigation.

** Damage to vehicle:  A subject found the back window to his vehicle broken. This investigation is ongoing.

** Unwanted: Police were summoned to the Extended Stay motel in the 1500 block of east Busch Parkway in response to a complaint about “A male subject that was visiting another subject (sic) was asked to leave and trespassed from the property.” There is no further investigation.

** Driving ‘altercation’: Police report that two individuals were involved in a driving altercation where one person, who police say “was not the aggressor”, displayed a gun. A thorough investigation was conducted, and both parties were sent on their way with no charges. There is no further investigation.

In Other Community News

Board OKs Chase Plaza plan

            The Village Board Monday approved a redevelopment plan for Chase Plaza at the intersection of Arlington Heights and Lake-Cook Roads.

            The redevelopment of plaza, anchored by a now shuttered Dominick’s store, will include, according to a memo to the Board, “two primary components under a unified site plan: a 34,500 square foot state of the art fitness and wellness center, Club Studio, and 24,000 square feet of general retail space designed to accommodate local and national tenants.”

            According to village staff, Club Studio, will feature traditional fitness features and operations as well as ancillary services (physical therapy, smoothie bar, etc.), and will operate on a membership-based model.

            The hours of operation are anticipated to be Monday – Friday from 5:00am – 10:00pm and Saturday – Sunday 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Staffing is anticipated to be 15-25 full- and part-time staff members.

            The first phase of redevelopment is scheduled to begin within 45 to 90 days of the closing of the property. This phase will mostly be on the reconstruction of the facade of the old Dominick’s.

            Redevelopment of out lots, including the one which houses the now shuttered Buffalo restaurants, is not included in the first phase.

            The plan, presented by the Shorewood Development Group, was unanimously approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission at its Dec. 17 meeting. Shorewood Development has coordinated several projects in the village including Bison Crossing and the Tesla dealership on Dundee Road  and The Shops of Buffalo Grove at the intersection of Milwaukee Avenue and Deerfield Parkway.

Bill Reid Award presented

            Carolyn Lewis a longtime volunteer in the village received the 2024 Bill Reid presented by The Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove.  The award, which  honors outstanding individuals in the community who have demonstrated long-term commitments to enhancing the spirit and betterment of Buffalo Grove, was presented at the Jan. 5 Village Board meeting.

            Lewis, a social worker at Aptakisic Junior High School, was cited for “providing services to the community in many capacities”. Lewis was cited for her work with the BG Singers and Vernon Area Mental Health Board. She has also delivered food to families in need during Thanksgiving while also being a resource for families that have relocated to the area from Ukraine.

            In recognition of her award, The Rotary Club will donate $250 to the charity of Lewis’ choice, which is the Pinta Pride Project and will also make a $250 donation to a Rotary charity fund.

            The Bill Reid Award is named after Reid, a longtime village official.

Above:  Bill Reid Award winner Carolyn Lewis (center)

Nominations open for new award

            Nominations are now open for the village’s first of two 2026 Caring Community Program The Caring Community Program recognizes individuals, groups, organizations, and programs in Buffalo Grove that embody the community’s “Smart. With Heart” brand.

            This initiative recognizes outstanding contributions that enhance the quality of life, demonstrate leadership, and reflect the values of collaboration, compassion and innovation within Buffalo Grove and beyond.

            Award recipients will be recognized at the Feb. 2 Village Board and have their contributions shared on the Village’s website and social media. Nominations are due by Jan. 18 by filling out the form at this link.

            The second Caring Community Program recognition will be in August.

New sergeant on the beat

            Veteran Buffalo Grove Police Officer Michael Carlson was promoted to the rank of Sergeant during the Jan. 5 Village Board meeting. Carlson has served as a Buffalo Grove Police Officer since 2012 and as a BGPD Traffic Specialist since 2014. He was named BGPD Officer of the Year in 2020, and earned Outstanding Achievement awards in 2020 and 2023

Book sale Saturday

            The Indian Trails Public Library Foundation’s Used Book Sale is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Saturday, Jan. 10 Indian Trails Public Library, 355 Schoenbeck Road in Wheeling. Find more information at this site.

Say it ain’t so

            The Planning and Zoning Commission  meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 7, has been canceled.

Tune in on YouTube

            Now that Monday Night Football is over for the year, residents can replace the docile tones of Joe Buck and Troy Aikman with those of Eric Smith, Joanne Johnson, Dave Weidenfeld and others on YouTube as live streaming of Village Board meetings is now on the village’s YouTube channel.

            Meetings can be streamed from your desktop, laptop or mobile browser, and through YouTube mobile and smart TV apps. There’s no need to have a YouTube account to access all the excitement and thrills of a Village Board meeting. And if you miss it, all meetings can be watched on-demand afterwards.

            And - as longtime MNF fans would say – That’s telling it like it is.

Need a Reason to Celebrate?

Jan. 6

National Cuddle Day

National Take a Poet to Lunch Day

National Walker’s Shortbread Day

Jan. 7

I’m Not Going To Take It Anymore Day

National Bobblehead Day

National Pass Gas Day

Jan. 8

National Bubble Bath Day

National Snuggle a Chicken Day

Show And Tell At Work Day

Jan. 9

National Law Enforcement Day

National Apricot Day

National Word Nerd Day

Jan. 10

National Bittersweet Chocolate Day

National Oysters Rockefeller Day

Peculiar People Day

Jan. 11

International Parity at Work Day

International Thank-You Day

National Girl Hug Boy Day

Jan. 12

National Hot Tea Day

National Pharmacist Day

Stick to Your New Year's Resolution Day

Jan. 13

Make Your Dream Come True Day

National Rubber Ducky Day

Public Radio Broadcasting Day

 

 

 

 

The usual stuff…

·         Got News?--  If you have news about your club, school, church, synagogue or other community organization, please submit news, information and story ideas to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.Articles should include a contact name, email and phone number. Commentary articles are also welcome. They should be limited to 350 words and should include contact information as noted above. All submissions may be edited for style, spelling, and libelous content.

·         Subscribe by email -- If you want to receive the Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News & Information) by email, send your email address to BuffaloGroveNews@Gmail.com.

·         If you didn’t know -- The Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News and Info), is locally and independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime print journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. The Buffalo Grove Report is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club.

Cops have busy month / New village hall? / Chase Plaza redevelopment

 Cops post November activity

            Buffalo Grove Police listed 132 incidents for November on its transparency site where many interactions are listed.

            Of the incidents reported during November, there were two reports of battery including one that, a report summary noted, was “Aggravated Battery - Peace Officer, Policing Volunteer, Fireman, Security Officer”, four reports of criminal damage to property, two reports of criminal trespassing, two reports of disorderly conduct, which includes harassment by electronic devices, 13 assorted driving violations, five reports of DUI, 10 reported thefts, and one report of a vehicle theft. The largest category are calls listed under “local codes” which includes dog bites, public service calls and well-being checks. The department’s “incident map” reported 88 local code calls during November.

            The listed November activity does not include special holiday enforcements that the department participates in. During the “Click It or Ticket” enforcement from Nov. 12to Dec. 2, the department reported 77 traffic citations including 8 speeding citations, 27 occupant restraint citations, five electronic device use citations, 37 other traffic citations and three traffic arrests.

Recently police activity

            Buffalo Grove police listed these incidents:

·         Package thefts. Police report the following thefts of delivered packages:

o   The theft of one package from the common area at an apartment on Oak Creek Dive.

o   Three packages from the front door of a residence in the 600 block of Grove Drive.

o   Two packages were stolen from the vestibule area of a housing complex in the 100 block of south Buffalo Grove Rd.

o   A man reportedly stole worth of merchandise from Woodman’s Market, 1550 E Deerfield Pkwy

·         A 23-year-old man is due in court on Dec. 19 facing domestic battery charges after a November incident in the 800 block of Trace Drive

·         The theft of a catalytic converter was removed from the victim’s Hyundai, in the 1100 block of Johnson Drive.

·         A 27-year-old Kenosha man was due in court Dec. 3 to face charges of Aggravated DUI, Unlawful possession of a controlled substance, Disobeyed a traffic control device, Improper lane usage, Failure to signal when required.

·         A 40-year-old man from Seattle is due in court Dec. 17 to face charges of fleeing or attempting to elude a peace officer, leaving the scene of an accident, unsafe backing on a roadway, operating an uninsured motor vehicle after an incident Nov. 30 at the intersection of Dundee Road and Ellen Drive.

·         A 48-year-old Wheeling man was arrested and charged with domestic battery and criminal damage to property after an incident in the 0-10 block of University Drive on Dec. .

·         A box truck in the 1300 block of N. Barclay Boulevard was vandalized and the steering column was damaged.

·         Police report that “a subject” stole a can of Red Bull from a store in the 700 block of east Lake-Cook Road without paying. Police report that this investigation is ongoing. No bull.

News in Review

Board OKs first step for new facilities

            The Village Board last week approved a “Purchase and Sale Agreement” (PSA) for the building and property at 1100 Lake-Cook Rd. which could possibly be the site of a new village hall and police station. The 8.3-acre site includes a 96,731-square-foot building.

            The keyword is could. While the Board approved the PSA along with $140,000 in consultant fees, the actions do not commit the village to purchasing and developing the site. The purchase price tag is $6.25 million.

            According to a background memo to the Board, Village Manager Dane Bragg emphasized that “The PSA authorizes a 90-day due diligence period, allowing the Village to evaluate the site’s physical, structural, environmental, and operational suitability before determining whether to proceed to closing.”

            The village is eyeing updated and upgraded facilities because both the village hall and police station are older facilities, village hall being built in 1970 and the police station in 1988, and need, according to staff, substantial renovations.

            Plans for a revamped or new village hall and police station would fit into the village’s facility upgrade program. A new public works building, renovating fire stations (Nos. 25 and 26) have all dotted the village’s facility landscape recently. The public works building on Leider Lane opened last year while work on fire station No. 25 on Dundee Road also began in 2024. Work on fire station No. 26 on Highland Grove is expected to start in 2026.

            The projects, along with plans for a new village hall and police station, were identified in 2017 space needs study, which was updated earlier this year, and according to a village press release, identified a need for a “minimum of 75,000 square feet to support a combined municipal facility, offering the flexibility required for modern collaborative workspaces, public meeting areas, and secure police operations.”

            The focus of the plan right now, besides a $100,000 initial earnest deposit, is a 90-day due diligence period during which, according to reporting in the Daily Herald, will be used “…The agreement calls for a 90-day due diligence period to evaluate the site’s physical, structural, environmental, and operational suitability, after which the village board will decide on whether to close.”

            And while staff and some made passionate statements in favor of new facilities, not all Village Board Members share their enthusiasm. The most vocal opponent to the project is Trustee Dave Weidenfeld who said the contract presented to the Board is “not a good deal at all.” Weidenfeld questioned the plan saying he is “Not sure we need all the grandiose stuff.”

            Weidenfeld said he is concerned about the overall benefits to residents. He said the village needs to look at “infrastructure improvements that are more of a benefit to our residents.” He also warned of future financial implications. “Everyone who sits up here, myself included, and talks about keeping taxes low shouldn’t be voting for this,” adding that “You can’t claim to be protecting residents financially when you breech your fiduciary duties.”

            Joining Weidenfeld in his opposition to the purchase was Denise Bocek. While both village hall and existing police station “are in need of substantial grades or replacement,” she said she wasn’t sure how well the property at 1100 Lake-Cook Road would function as a village hall and police station. She expressed concern that the “uncertainty of the cost” since the village hall and police station are not “typical office spaces and have specific construction needs.”

            Comments from other trustees cited the need for improved facilities for village administration and the police department and emphasized that the approval of the PSA was not the approval for the project by a long shot.

            Trustee Joanne Johnson said the reality is “we need to invest millions of dollars in this building (village hall). There is no commitment for purchase.” She said the PSA was “fiscally the most responsible next step to take, before we invest millions on repairs, or consider new construction which will be probably double the cost of adapting this building (1100 Lake-Cook). I think we need to get solid information to see if 1100 Lake-Cook is a better long-term solution.”

            Trustees did not discuss what would happen to the existing village hall property if the village decides to purchase the property at 1100 Lake-Cook Road. One village official told the Buffalo Grove Report that the future development or reuse of the existing village hall property would be consistent with plans of the Lake-Cook corridor.

            The 90-day due diligence period will run through, noted Bragg’s memo March 10, 2026 after which the Board has 45 days, or, notes the memo “or until its next regular meeting to authorize action.” The Board memo also notes that “If the Board takes no action, the contract automatically terminates with all earnest money refunded.”

            If the Board decides to proceed, closing would take, as indicated in the memo “shortly after Board authorization.” The purchase is “anticipated to be funded through existing revenues.”

            Additional reporting can be found in this Daily Herald report.

Plan commissioners scheduled to consider proposed Chase Plaza redevelopment

 The Planning and Zoning Commission is expected to learn about plans to redevelop the Chase Plaza, 1160 Lake-Cook Rd., at a scheduled meeting at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 17.

            The plaza has been largely vacant since Dominick’s Food Stores closed in 2013.

            According to village officials, Shorewood Development Group has the former Dominick’s property and the adjacent out lot parcel in Chase Plaza under contract

            The plan, notes reporting in the Daily Herald, is anchored by a “Club Studio,” a 34,000 square foot “fitness and wellness center and 27,000 square feet of what village officials say will be “..flexible retail space designed to accommodate local and national tenants.”

            Club Studio is based in Irvine, California and is planning clubs in Chicago’s Streeterville neighborhood and Wilmette. Club Studio’s parent company is Fitness International, LLC, which also owns L.A. Fitness.

            The redevelopment is being spearheaded by the Shorewood Development Group, which is developing Bison Crossing adjacent to the Tesla dealership on Dundee Road. The focus of its proposal is the existing structure that housed Dominick’s and other retail venues.

            Shorewood’s main focus is to revamp the plaza’s facade and other improvements to enhance the plaza. Redevelopment of the out lot that is the site of the shuttered Buffalo restaurant is not part of the plans set to be presented to the PZC at the scheduled Dec. 17 meeting.

In Brief

Survey: Residents are safe and like the cops

A survey mailed to 1,500 residents and business owners found that most feel safe walking in their neighborhoods and the police department does a good job. -- Coverage from the Daily Herald.

Lake water coming soon

            Residents in the Pekara, Inverrary and Horatio Gardens areas will start getting Lake Michigan water soon as the Lake County Department of Public Works has started the process of transitioning the water supply.

            The water changeover process involves operational adjustments and flushing the water system to remove the remaining well water, ensuring a clean transition to Lake Michigan water.

Another holiday, another crackdown

            Buffalo Grove police officers are taking part in the statewide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High. Get a DUI,” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns through Jan. 5, 2026. These enforcement efforts are supported by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT)’s statewide outreach media program, “It’s Not a Game,” which reminds motorists that driving is serious business.

Park District gets kudos

            The Buffalo Grove Park District has been recognized as an Illinois Distinguished Accredited Agency by the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) and the Illinois Park and Recreation Association (IPRA).

            The two statewide associations administer the Illinois Distinguished Accreditation program with the goal of improving the delivery of park and recreation services to Illinois residents.

Discover ‘Winter Around the World’

            The Raupp Museum will be featuring free walk-in activities during winter vacation to give children a chance to learn about holiday celebrations around the world. The program is from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 22-23, Dec. 29-31 and Jan. 2 at the Raupp Museum, 901 Dunham Lane.

            Preregistration is not required. All children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver. For more information, visit the Raupp Museum page at bgparks.org.

D21 principals honored

            Two District 21 principals have been named North Cook Region award recipients by the Illinois Principals Association (IPA).

            Frost Elementary School Principal Catherine Joy was selected as the North Cook Elementary School Principal of the Year, and London Middle School Principal Anastasia Netzel was honored with the region’s Herman Graves Award.

            The Elementary School Principal of the Year Award recognizes a school leader who exemplifies outstanding instructional leadership, dedication to students, and a commitment to cultivating a positive school environment.

            The Herman Graves Award, named for former IPA Executive Director Herman Graves, recognizes principals whose passion, energy and commitment elevate those around them.

Need a Reason To Celebrate?

Dec. 16

Barbie And Barney Backlash Day

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day

Stupid Toy Day

Dec. 17

Festival of Winter Walks

National Device Appreciation Day

National Maple Syrup Day

Dec. 18

Answer The Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day

Bake Cookies Day

Wear a Plunger on Your Head Day

Dec. 19

National Hard Candy Day

National Oatmeal Muffin Day

National Heroes and Heroines Day

Dec. 20

Go Caroling Day

National Sangria Day

Ugly Sweater Day

Dec. 21

Don’t Make Your Bed Day

Humbug Day

Look On The Bright Side Day

 

 

The usual stuff…

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· If you didn’t know -- The Buffalo Grove Report (Buffalo Grove News and Info), is locally and independently produced by Buffalo Grove resident Stan Zoller. A longtime print journalist and journalism educator, Zoller covers Buffalo Grove and monitors news and information about the village, its schools, park district and community events. The Buffalo Grove Report is not affiliated with any municipal body. Zoller is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and the Chicago Headline Club. He is also on the Board of the Citizen Advocacy Center.