Board adopts 2026–27 strategic priorities, adds arts and clarifies preservation language

On Sept. 2 the Village Board approved its 2026–27 strategic priorities, a two‑year agenda that will guide staff business planning and budget development. The board’s opening statement, emphasized at the meeting, affirms public safety, provision of core services and fiscal responsibility as the village’s highest priorities. The board approved priorities that include collaborative redevelopment of Arlington Park, expanding housing affordability and attainability, promoting economic development and timely progress on approved projects, improving street safety for all users, strengthening historic preservation (“determine what further regulations and resources should be implemented”), advancing environmental sustainability, and—added back by board action—supporting arts, entertainment and community identity. Village Manager Randy Reklaus said staff will translate the priorities into a business plan with tasks, deadlines and departmental assignments and that implementation will be tempered by budget and staffing realities. Trustee Dunnington and others urged stronger language on historic preservation; Trustee Dunnington successfully proposed replacing “if” with “what” to reflect the board’s intent to pursue preservation measures. Trustee Zick moved adoption of the priorities as amended; the motion passed unanimously.