News and Updates

Below is an overview of what was approved. Full ordinance language is available through the hyperlinked documents provided.

Public Right‑of‑Way Ordinance Updates

This chapter already exists within the General Code; however, the approved amendments add clarifying language regarding how public rights‑of‑way may be used and maintained.

Purpose of the update:

• Provide clearer standards for consistent enforcement

These changes help ensure streets, sidewalks, and other public spaces remain accessible and safe for all users.

033 2_Right of Way Official Proposal

Animals Ordinance – Comprehensive Rewrite

One of the most significant actions taken by Council was the near‑complete rewrite of the Animals Ordinance. The revised chapter reflects current community needs and strengthens enforceability.

Key highlights include:

• Stronger provisions addressing dangerous animals, providing the Village with better tools to act when public safety is at risk
• Clearer regulations regarding stray animals, helping staff address recurring issues more consistently
• Most existing animal limits remain largely unchanged, with the changes being to the number of poultry and the item in the next bullet point.
• New: A defined limit of four cats per household. Previously, no limit existed. This change helps prevent overcrowding and nuisance concerns while maintaining reasonable flexibility for residents

035 5_Animals Official Proposal

Smoking in Public Parks

Council approved an ordinance adding smoking in public parks to the Village’s existing disorderly conduct regulations.

The goal:
To support healthier, family‑friendly public spaces—particularly in areas frequently used by children—while giving the Village a clear enforcement mechanism.

036 6_Smoking Official Proposal

Sidewalk Operations: Scooters & Getty Park Use

This section of the Code also already exists, but has been updated to better reflect modern use and address safety concerns.

Updates include:

• Adding scooters to the list of regulated devices
• Clarifying rules to reduce conflicts between pedestrians and recreational users

These changes respond to ongoing issues at Getty Park involving skateboards, bicycles, and other devices that have created safety concerns for pedestrians.

037 7_Sidewalk Operations Official Proposal (1)

Burning Ordinance – New Chapter

While some burning regulations currently exist through the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC), Council approved a standalone Burning Ordinance to clearly establish locally tailored rules.

Focus of the ordinance:

• Defining what types of open burning are permitted and prohibited
• Establishing safety standards to protect neighboring properties and residents
• Strengthening the Village’s authority to address hazardous burning or nuisance situations

038 8_Recreational Burning Official Proposal