Lincoln Heights council approves special-exception permit for Signal CDL Training after questions about local hiring

The Village of Lincoln Heights council voted unanimously Feb. 10 to approve Resolution 2025‑R‑4, granting a special‑exception permit to Signal CDL Training and Services Inc., owner Bridal Gill. The resolution, read by title, cites the village code and was passed after motions to suspend the rules and adopt the emergency clause.

Councilwoman Karen Hingston, who said she met the owner and manager, told the council she asked what the company would commit to the village beyond tax revenue. “I need to know exactly, besides tax, what were you going to commit to?” she said, pressing for assurances the business would prioritize Lincoln Heights residents for any hiring or scholarships it offers. Hingston said the company had applied for a grant that required hiring 40 students from ZIP code 45215, and she pointed out that 45215 is not Lincoln Heights.

Council members moved and seconded motions to suspend the rules and receive the resolution for passage; roll‑call votes recorded six ayes on passage and on adoption of the emergency clause. The council did not record any specific contractual commitments or quotas in the resolution text; it approved the permit as presented and declared the measure an emergency to allow immediate effect.

The permit approval follows earlier committee review and a second reading before the full council. Council members indicated they would follow up on community benefits and accountability as the business proceeds, but the text of Resolution 2025‑R‑4 itself does not specify hiring preferences or scholarship guarantees for Lincoln Heights residents.

The council adjourned following additional routine business and public comment.