February 5, 2025 Meeting Summary
Treasurer’s Report
$240 collected from last month’s dues.
Heather Hill Civic Association is now officially a nonprofit!
Filing costs: $51.13 for Articles of Incorporation, $6 for Certificate of Good Standing.
Current bank balance: $182.87
Police Department Report
Presenter: Carl Estell, Director of Police Services
Incident at 3111 Poly Lane:
On Christmas Eve, 10–11 shots were fired; residents were uncooperative.
The individuals involved were illegally occupying the property.
Due to persistent reports from neighbors, police increased patrols and ultimately witnessed the group vacating the property around 2–3 AM.
The property was managed by Invitation Homes, which had previously used a lockbox system for showings. Following this incident, an agent must now be physically present for all showings.
A related vehicle was later involved in a burglary, confirming concerns about criminal activity.
The police are still working with the management company to address the situation.
ICE/Homeland Security:
The police will not participate in immigration enforcement.
Officers will not detain, question, or arrest anyone based on immigration status.
They will assist only when federal warrants are issued for non-immigration-related crimes.
Community Questions & Concerns:
Squatters’ Rights: These are complex and often fall under the State’s Attorney’s discretion. Evictions can take up to a year, especially if utilities are active.
License Plate Readers: Yes, they exist at entrances/exits and more are being installed.
Dog Waste: Community Service Officers (Sue, Doug, and Matthew) are addressing complaints.
Drive-by Shooting: Investigation ongoing. Residents in the affected house are not cooperating.
Police Staffing: Flossmoor has 19 officers, with authorization for 21. Recruiting challenges remain post-COVID.
School-Renter Communication: This falls under the Building Department, not the police.
Vacant Homes in Flossmoor: 87, including foreclosures.
Village Updates – Mayor Nelson
Celebrating Black Leaders: The village is recognizing Black leaders in the nonprofit space.
MLK Day of Service: Thank you to all who participated—event was a success.
Stormwater Basin Project (Heather Hill Elementary):
Phase 1 completed (Berry Lane).
Phase 3 (connecting to Lawrence Crescent) scheduled for April/May, lasting 3–4 months.
Coordination will take place with schools and residents.
Future phases:
Phase 4: Hawthorn to Maryland (Army Corps grant, starts June).
Phase 5: Viaduct to Maryland & Sterling Ave (fall bid; work before cold weather sets in).
Total grant funding: $4 million.
Remaining funds (~$1.3M) to be used for road repairs post-construction.
Safety & Surveillance Around the Basin:
6-ft fence and 3:1 slope for safety.
Some residents expressed concern over children accessing the area and requested cameras.
Installing cameras may cost up to $60K and is being considered.
In the meantime, residents are urged to call 911 if they see children in unsafe areas.
Construction Coordination:
Heather Hill school construction (Pulaski Day–August).
Concerns raised about impact on children—less green space, ongoing disruption.
Douglas and Scott Crescent roads are high priorities for repair.
Security Cameras at School Entrances/Exits:
Not currently in place. Installation would fall under school district responsibility.
Art vs. Practicality Debate:
Art installations at the school are funded through donations, not the village budget.
Dr. Jennifer Norrell – Incoming Superintendent, HF District 233
Former Superintendent of East Aurora (PreK–12; 13,000 students).
Long-time resident of the South Suburbs; lived in Heather Hill for 10 years.
Proud graduate of Hillcrest High School, SD 144, an HBCU, and Loyola.
Former science teacher and Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction.
Vision & Priorities:
Committed to academic achievement and accountability.
Emphasis on college/career readiness, increased AP/IB enrollment, and dual-language education.
Plans to raise rigor while supporting all students.
Implementing a 90-Day Entry Plan: engaging small groups of staff and community to assess strengths and opportunities.
Key Accomplishments in East Aurora:
Increased AP participation from 100 to 1,800 students.
Graduation rate increased to 90%.
Created Illinois' only dual-language K–5 program.
Recognized by Education Week for AP success.
Resident Questions:
10-Year Reunion: HF has a dedicated alumni coordinator.
Low Test Scores: Plan in place to provide academic supports and raise rigor.
Immediate Priorities: Listening, learning, and gathering feedback; final report due to the Board after 90 days.
Junior College Partnerships: Strong advocate for dual enrollment and removing gatekeeping barriers.
Support for Involved Students: Recognizes need for structured homework/study support around extracurriculars.
Counselor Engagement: Has already begun meeting with counselors, psychologists, deans, and other key staff.
Community Announcements
HeatherHillCivic.org is now live! Visit for updates and meeting notes.
Kedzie Avenue Bike Path Project: Community requested a concrete sidewalk rather than asphalt.
T-Shirt Samples Available: Heather Hill Votes gear on display—thanks, Barbara!
Next Meeting – Candidate Forum:
Date: March [insert date]
Time: 6:30–8:30 PM
Open only to Heather Hill residents.
Candidates for Mayor, Trustees, School Board, and Park District will speak.
Early Voting Begins: March 17
Next Meeting Discussion: Continued focus on goals for 2025.
