Board adopts consolidated special-events policy and code amendments

Trustee Gail presented code amendments and a new special-event policy developed by the Community and Economic Development Commission (CEDC) to consolidate scattered provisions governing events and to streamline administration. The board voted to adopt the ordinance amending the La Grange code of ordinances regarding special events.

Why it matters: Special events in the downtown and other parts of La Grange have been administered under disparate code provisions; the new policy consolidates guidance, clarifies permit processes and fee schedules (including liquor code and fireworks provisions), and will use the village’s licensing and permitting software to speed processing and improve organizer communication.

What happened at the meeting: Trustee Gail described the CEDC’s process beginning in 2023, work with a consultant to draft a consolidated policy, and recommendations from the Plan Commission and Liquor Commission. “Working closely with a consultant and staff, the CEDC developed a new special event policy to replace current policy that did not provide sufficient detailed guidance for event organizers,” Gail said. The ordinance includes updates to the fee schedule intended to offset staff processing costs. Trustee Gail moved adoption; the motion was seconded and the board approved the ordinance by roll call.

Impacts and next steps: Staff will implement permit processing through the licensing software, publish the consolidated policy, and apply the revised fees to offset administrative expenses. Organizers should expect updated application steps and a single point of guidance for special-event requirements.

Vote: The ordinance was approved by roll-call vote at the March meeting.