HIGHLAND PARK, Ill. - eTradeWire -- Highland Park, once a beacon of beauty and prosperity, was highly coveted for its vibrant community and picturesque charm.

However, it has recently encountered a phase of stagnation, a result of actions and policies reminiscent of much larger political landscapes such as Chicago, implemented by local governance.

The voters of Highland Park elected Jeff Hoobler to the City Council in April 2023, knowing he owns a local restaurant with a liquor license. Interestingly, he was the only candidate NOT endorsed by Mayor Nancy Rotering.

Mayor Rotering, acting as Liquor Commissioner, renewed Hoobler's liquor license as of January 2024, knowing that he is a member of the City Council.

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Then, in February, 2024, someone noticed an arcane local ordinance, Section 119.320, that prohibits issuance or renewal of a liquor license to a member of the City Council.

The Council was asked to amend the ordinance on February 12, 2024. However, 3  Council members (Rotering, Blumberg, Stone) voted against and effectively blocked the amendment, knowing that without passage, Jeff Hoobler – the largest vote-getter in the last election -- will be forced to either resign or lose his business.

Three other Council members (Tapia, Lidawer, Ross) voted for the amendment. Hoobler recused himself from the discussion and vote. The result was a 3-3 stalemate, so the ordinance stands for now.

Jeff Hoobler was forced to submit his resignation from the Highland Park city council effective April 30, 2024.

Mayor Rotering, and councilmembers Stone, and Blumberg, have been inundated with hundreds of emails and countless public comments at City Council meetings: all advocating for the amendment of the outdated prohibition-era liquor laws. Despite this overwhelming public support,  and the voters' election of Jeff Hoobler, the 3 council members continue to maintain these archaic regulations without any justifiable reasons.

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One must question whether these elected officials are acting in the best interests of their constituents or merely serving their own agendas.

The community will make their voices heard by attending the rally at 6:30 pm on Highland Park City Hall grounds and the subsequent City Hall meeting at 7:30 pm on April 24th. It is imperative that we put an end to this unreasonable persistence in upholding outdated laws and ensure the Highland Park City Council is open to all residents who wish to serve.

Visit www.amendhp.com for more details