Annual State of the Village

Retiring Village Board President Sandy Frum will share reflections on her long career in public service, as well as a look at changes to come, in her final State of the Village Address to the Chamber on Wednesday, January 27.  The annual event, taking place this year via Zoom, gives members a unique opportunity to hear personal insight from the Village’s leadership and to ask questions about local issues of interest to the business community.

As President since 2009, and a Board member since 1987, Sandy Frum has been deeply involved in Village governance through periods of vibrant growth as well as difficulty.  Of course, 2020 has stood out as an especially challenging year due to the enormous social, economic, and public health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.  President Frum is expected to reflect on how the Village’s strong foundation has carried it through last year’s tests, and the next steps that will be essential to sustaining Village services and the local economy.  In particular, she will discuss how to ensure a smooth transition as retirements lead to new individuals filling several senior staff positions.

The past year has also been notable for new policies and initiatives that were targeted by the Village Board as high priorities at the start of 2020.  In particular, the Board, Plan Commission, and Village staff devoted significant effort to developing new affordable housing ordinances that were approved in December.  The Village also undertook a climate change study and established a community task force to examine sustainability opportunities.  President Frum will elaborate on these strategies during the address, to help members understand their intended goals and practical application.

The State of the Village Address will take place at noon and will allow time for questions from attendees.  The event is free of charge to Chamber members and registered guests.