Board approves Olmsted Society donation and installation of historic marker near water tower

The Village Board voted Thursday to accept and install a historic marker donated by the Olmsted Society of Riverside, approving the society’s proposed narrative and staff‑recommended location near the village water tower.

Manager Andrew Francis summarized the request, noting the marker dimensions (44 by 51 inches plus pole) and an estimated installed height of about seven feet; Francis said the Olmsted Society would purchase the marker and public works would install it, while the village would not maintain it in perpetuity. Kathy Maloney of the Olmsted Society told the board the society will apply to the State of Illinois historic marker program and that the state application had been discussed with agency staff; she warned that state approval is still required and “it’s not a done deal at this point.”

Trustees discussed lighting options with an emphasis on limiting light pollution. President Pollack and Trustee Evans recommended downlighting and referenced dark‑sky principles; staff noted there is electric service near the water tower and said low‑wattage illumination could be installed if desired.

The motion to accept and install the marker passed on roll call (Trustee Mateo, Trustee Marshaszka, Trustee Clarity, Trustee Evans and Trustee Gallegos voted Aye). The board’s action authorizes installation at the site recommended by staff; final placement and any lighting remain subject to review and compliance with the state marker approval process.

Ending: The Olmsted Society will submit the marker application to the state and work with staff on final placement and any lighting details.