Council adopts two honorary street names recognizing long-time Evanston community leaders

The City Council unanimously approved two honorary street-name resolutions Wednesday honoring longtime community volunteers and public‑school leaders.

Resolution 60‑R‑25 designates Terrace between Barton Avenue and Ridge Avenue as “Patricia A. Vance Way.” Council member Rogers moved the resolution and it passed with nine votes in favor. Residents who knew Pat Vance praised her decades of service; Shontay Henderson said, “Patricia is just one of a kind,” and Anne Rainey recalled Vance’s work with Neighbors at Work, noting Vance led programs that distributed food and helped neighbors when utilities shut off.

Resolution 67‑R‑25 designates Oakton Street between Asbury Avenue and Wesley Avenue as “James ‘Jim’ McColland Way.” Council member Haddakares moved the resolution and the council adopted it with eight votes in favor. Speakers noted Jim McColland’s 26 years as principal at Chute Middle School and his close ties to families at the school; a council member said McColland gave his personal phone number to parents during orientation to remain accessible.

Both resolutions are honorary: the signs recognize service and do not change official street addresses or affect property records. Council invited family members and neighbors to speak after each vote; members of the public offered brief tributes reflecting long‑term local civic involvement and neighborhood leadership.