Highfill Highlights
March 18, 2026
The Highfill Parks Advisory Committee (HPAC) met on Tuesday, March 17 to discuss upcoming events, park improvements, and ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing our community spaces.
✔️ Approval of Minutes
The Committee reviewed the minutes from the February 5, 2026 Special HPAC Meeting. A motion was made to approve the minutes, seconded, and passed unanimously by all members present.
💬 Public Comment
During public comment, a community member raised a concern regarding holes left in the park following recent tree removals, noting potential safety issues for mowing equipment. The Committee clarified that the affected area near the parking lot is scheduled to be graded and improved as part of upcoming parking lot enhancements, which will address the issue. Other areas with removed trees were noted to currently contain mulch and will continue to be monitored.
Additionally, a representative from a local business, Pulse Community Agency, offered support for upcoming city events and encouraged the Committee to utilize their resources for event planning and execution. The Committee expressed appreciation for the partnership and interest in collaboration.
👥 HPAC Applicants
The Committee reviewed current interest in serving on the Highfill Parks Advisory Committee. It was noted that two individuals had initially expressed interest; however, one applicant withdrew prior to the meeting.
The remaining applicant, James Thomas, introduced himself and shared his enthusiasm for the community and local parks, noting his regular use of park facilities and desire to become more involved.
Following discussion, a motion was made and seconded to recommend James Thomas for appointment to the Committee. The motion passed unanimously. His appointment will be forwarded to the City Council for formal consideration at an upcoming meeting.
The Committee expressed appreciation for his willingness to serve and emphasized the important role the HPAC plays in supporting Highfill’s parks and community initiatives.
🌳 2026 City Events Planning
Free Tree Friday
The Committee discussed planning for Free Tree Friday, scheduled for April 10, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
This annual event provides community members with free tree seedlings, featuring a variety of species native to the area. Residents are encouraged to participate by picking up a seedling to plant and help support local beautification and environmental efforts.
🌳 Spring Tree Giveaway
The Committee reviewed details for the Spring Tree Giveaway, scheduled for April 2, 2026, from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, or until supplies run out.
This event is separate from Free Tree Friday and will offer larger trees to residents. Distribution will take place at the City Park, with setup typically located near the basketball court.
Staff and volunteers will assist with unloading and distributing trees, and additional coordination details will be shared as they become available. Community members are encouraged to arrive early, as trees are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
🎆 Freedom Fest
The Committee discussed planning for Freedom Fest, scheduled for June 27, 2026, to be held at the City Park.
Event preparations are already underway, including vendor coordination and application tracking. The Committee noted that vendor interest has begun, and staff will continue managing approvals and communications.
A representative from Hogwild Pyrotechnics attended the meeting to present proposals for the event’s fireworks display. The Committee reviewed multiple options, including variations based on launch location and safety requirements. Discussion included show duration, shell size, safety zones, and customization options such as a finale sequence and specialty effects.
Following discussion, a motion was made and seconded to move forward with Hogwild Pyrotechnics for the 2026 Freedom Fest fireworks show, pending minor adjustments and final logistical confirmation. The motion passed unanimously.
The Committee also briefly discussed the possibility of multi-year agreements for fireworks services but expressed interest in evaluating this year’s show before making any long-term commitments.
🧹 Annual Community Clean-Up
The Committee began planning for the Annual Community Clean-Up, an event that provides dumpsters and support for residents to dispose of yard waste and other debris.
While a firm date has not yet been set, the event is typically scheduled in April. The City coordinates with service providers to determine availability, and final dates will be shared once confirmed. Residents are encouraged to participate and help keep Highfill’s neighborhoods clean and well-maintained.
🎉 Spring Fest & Chicago Ball Tournament
The Committee discussed planning for Spring Fest and the Chicago Ball Tournament, scheduled for May 2, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at City Park.
At this time, a secondary rain date has not been set. In the event of severe weather, Spring Fest activities may be canceled or postponed, and the City will notify residents via email with updated information. Chicago Ball tournament scheduling may be adjusted separately if needed.
Vendor planning is underway, including food trucks, inflatables, and event activities. Downtown Dogs has confirmed participation, and additional food and beverage vendors are being coordinated.
The Committee also discussed the taco eating contest, to be hosted by El Pueblito. Updates include:
- Only soft tacos will be used for safety and practicality.
- Entries may be limited by age group and heat times to ensure participant safety and event flow.
- Sign-ups will be available in-person at El Pueblito, with a cutoff one week before the event.
- The approach is intended to give organizers a better estimate of participants while driving local business participation.
For the Chicago Ball Tournament, NO registration fees will be collected this year.
The Committee emphasized planning flexibility and clear communication with residents to ensure a safe, well-organized, and fun event for the community.
National Night Out – October 6
About National Night Out in Highfill
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes neighborhood safety, police-community partnerships, and community engagement. The City of Highfill hosts this event each year to bring residents together for fun, safety education, and celebration of our local community.
Date: October 6
Location & Time: coming soon
Highlights:
- Community activities and games
- Opportunities to meet local police and city staff
- Food, music, and neighborhood celebration
Purpose: Strengthen community ties, foster safety awareness, and celebrate the spirit of Highfill.
📢 Friends of Highfill – 501(c)(3) Status Update
The City is establishing a new 501(c)(3) nonprofit, named Friends of Highfill, to support community programs, parks, events, and other city initiatives. This new organization replaces previous structures and is being set up to allow for grants, donations, and funding opportunities that require nonprofit status.
Key points from the update:
- Incorporation: Paperwork is nearly complete, with minor feedback being addressed.
- Filing costs: Online filing is approximately $45, plus a $50 service fee. Funds from 2026 park budget will be used to cover initial costs.
- Board of Directors: Initial directors will include the organizer and two additional members. Positions include President, Vice President, and Secretary. Meetings are expected quarterly and may be held electronically.
- Purpose and scope: Funds raised can support city services, such as parks, events, public infrastructure, and the police department. This includes facilitating grants that are only available to 501(c)(3) organizations.
- Donations: Citizens and businesses will have the opportunity to donate via electronic methods, including QR codes at city parks.
- Short-term plan: Registration fees for events like Chicago Ball will be waived for 2026 while the 501(c)(3) is fully established, with city funding supporting National Night Out and other programs.
This initiative ensures a transparent, accountable, and legally compliant structure for handling grants and donations in support of Highfill community programs.
🎄 Christmas in the Park – Save the Date!
The annual Christmas in the Park event will take place on December 5th, 2026 at the city park.
Details about activities, vendors, and entertainment will be shared closer to the event.
Stay tuned for more information as planning continues!
🏞️ Park Maintenance Review & Recommendations
Fence Repairs
- Contractors have been contacted regarding the playground fence.
- New caps are being installed for damaged areas, and adjustments to the gate will be made.
- Fence settling after recent rains will be monitored over the next year.
- Recommended maintenance: targeted weeding along the playground border; minor mulch adjustments may be needed in the future.
Power Washing & Painting
- Multiple bids were reviewed for power washing and repainting covered areas, picnic tables, and benches.
- Advanced Outdoor Solutions was selected due to comprehensive services, reliability, and communication.
- Scope includes:
- Power washing all covered areas and concrete surfaces.
- Sealing or painting wooden picnic tables and benches.
- No torching of plastic surfaces; alternatives will be painted as needed.
- Scope includes:
- Budget approved; work scheduled to begin soon.
Basketball Court Extension & Maintenance
- Concrete work approved with Advanced Outdoor Solutions for $7,244.56.
- Deposit of $3,570 required.
- Ongoing maintenance plan includes:
- Cleaning and repainting backboards and poles.
- Replacing hoops and ball storage boxes as needed.
- Applying exterior metal paint to rust-prone areas.
- New Chicago ball and bases will be purchased to replace worn equipment.
Tree Planting & Landscaping
- Three trees previously removed will be replaced.
- City staff and volunteers are invited to assist with planting.
- Four additional trees have already been planted.
Budget & Staff Reports
- Maintenance budget remains in good standing.
- Recent expense: JC Bunting paid for trigger movement work.
- No additional significant expenditures at this time.
📅 Next Meeting & Special Meeting
Special Meeting Before Chicago Event:
- Proposed to ensure everyone is on the same page ahead of the Chicago event.
- Date: Monday, April 27th
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Purpose: Quick, focused “mini” meeting to review items prior to the event.
- Attendance: All members encouraged; flexibility acknowledged if schedules conflict.
Next Regular Meeting:
- Date: Monday, May 19th
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Will follow standard agenda; future adjustments will not affect regular scheduling.
Community Feedback Requested: Future Land Use Plan & Master Street Plan
The City of Highfill is currently collecting online feedback from residents as part of the planning process for the Future Land Use Plan and Master Street Plan. Community input is an important part of shaping how Highfill grows and develops in the future.
Residents are encouraged to take a few minutes to review the information and submit feedback online.
Learn more and submit feedback:
Plan Your City
Your input helps guide future planning decisions for the community.
It’s My Town!