2024-2028 Strategic Plan

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

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TABLE OF CONTENTS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE----------------------------------------------------------------------2 VISION + MISSION---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 CORE VALUES--------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4 GOALS------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS--------------------------------------------------------------------10

PLAN STRUCTURE VISION

GOAL 1

MISSION

GOAL 2

GOAL 3

OBJECTIVES

ACTIONS

VALUES

GOAL 4

GOAL 5

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

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DEAR BUFFALO GROVE COMMUNITY, It is with distinct pleasure and anticipation that I present the 2024-2028 Strategic Plan – a testament to the collective vision, dedication and spirit of our community. Crafting this strategic roadmap required collaboration, innovative thinking and commitment to building a brighter future for Buffalo Grove.

The importance of defining and clarifying the vision, mission and core values of our community and organization cannot be understated. These components serve as the bedrock upon which sustainable growth and community engagement are built. They guide our decisions, ensuring alignment with what we stand for and where we aim to go.

Our journey began on in November 2022, when the Village Board ratified our partnership with Lyle Sumek Associates. Through comprehensive interviews with the Village Board and senior staff, our community's strengths, assets and challenges were unearthed. These conversations provided the groundwork for crafting our mission and vision statements that echo the aspirations and values of Buffalo Grove.

A notable milestone was the Strategic Planning Citizen Summit held in May 2023 at the Alcott Center, where 34 devoted community members delved into deep discussions focused around the future of Buffalo Grove. Their insights and ideas were invaluable, shedding light on various facets of our prospective future. These perspectives were seamlessly integrated into the complimentary ‘Moving BG Forward’ initiatives, the comprehensive plan and community branding, underscoring the importance of collective input in shaping our path forward.

This Strategic Plan is more than a document. It’s our shared dream for Buffalo Grove. I deeply appreciate and thank everyone involved, from community members to the Village Board, Lyle Sumek Associates and our indefatigable Village staff. As we turn the page to the next chapter, we do so with clarity, purpose and a shared vision.

Warm regards,

Eric Smith, Village President

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

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In 2038, Buffalo Grove is...

VISION

a safe, beautiful and vibrant community. a community with outstanding public schools, great neighborhoods, leisure experiences and home to a strong and diverse local economy. an inclusive and welcoming community.

MISSION

In Buffalo Grove, our Village government... acts in a financially responsible and sound manner as we provide outstanding municipal services and plan for and invest in the future. is a high performing team who partners with local government districts. engages with and builds our Buffalo Grove community.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

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ORGANIZATIONAL CORE VALUES Core values are foundational elements that guide an the Village of Buffalo Grove’s organizational culture, behavior and decision-making, ultimately contributing to its long-term success and sustainability. Core values are rooted in the organization’s identity, aligning the its members and holding itself accountable.

An unwavering commitment to public service that is courteous, fair, friendly and timely, grounded in empathy and genuine concern for the community.

Individuals are efficient and serve as ambassadors for the Village.

SERVICE

RESULTS

PROFESSIONALISM Presentation of well-researched, objective and data-driven recommendations that consider alternative solutions.

Daily competence paired with a passion for service, a commitment to personal development and best practices and a persistent focus on achieving optimal results.

Collaboration, proactive problem solving and datadriven decision-making enhance outcomes.

Efficiency and effectiveness are the cornerstones of operational excellence.

Actions align with the Village's overarching vision, mission and goals.

INNOVATION

CORE VALUES INTEGRITY

Actions are consistently legal, ethical and transparent. Clear expectations are set, accountability held and promises are kept while respecting diverse opinions and acting in the community's best interest.

Reports and recommendations are always unbiased and merit based.

TEAMWORK

Discouraging isolated thinking or "silos," assisting peers, maintaining transparent communication and understanding roles.

Active participation and engagement with various units, departments and the broader community is essential.

Innovative and forward-thinking mindset that challenges the status quo and anticipates trends and potential issues.

Constantly seeks to learn from setbacks and add value. Openmindness allows Free share and acceptance of new ideas to benefit the greater community.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

GOAL 1

MAINTAIN EFFECTIVE VILLAGE GOVERNMENT: FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE AND PROVIDING OUTSTANDING, RESPONSIVE SERVICES OBJECTIVES Maintain the Village government “AAA” bond rating and capacity to borrow for future investments.

Recruit, develop and retain top-quality Village staff committed to serving the Buffalo Grove community and the Village core values.

Have sufficient resources to support defined Village services and investment in the future.

Deliver Village services in a cost-effective manner.

Develop new, innovative ways to deliver Village services and to invest in the maintenance and upgrade of Village infrastructure and facilities.

Maintain, upgrade and replace Village buildings, facilities and infrastructure.

TOP POLICY ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Comprehensive Village campus facilities: Current/future.

Needs assessment, report with findings and options, direction and funding mechanism.

Police and fire pensions: Update report and direction.

Stormwater management policy and plan: Review, direction and funding (Farrington Ditch).

TOP OPERATIONAL ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Fire management succession planning: Next steps.

New personnel policies update: Completion/adoption.

2024-2028 PROJECTS + PROGRAMS Internal Village government diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives: Definition, research, direction and initiatives.

Fleet asset management/software: Implementation.

Parking lot resurfacing: West lot completion.

Traffic trailers structure.

Flood Insurance Program: Analysis and direction.

Rolling Hills Street Resurfacing Project.

Aptakisic Creek Trail Project study and funding.

SCBA equipment replacement: Funding.

External CPR devices: Funding.

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VALUE TO RESIDENTS For residents of Buffalo Grove, the Village guarantees responsive services tailored to the community's unique needs, a forward-looking investment in our future and a responsible tax rate complemented by transparent fees.

Furthermore, we take pride in delivering outstanding customer service and consistently reliable Village services, ensuring an enhanced living experience for every member of our Buffalo Grove community.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

GOAL 2

ENHANCED BEAUTIFUL, SAFE AND SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS OBJECTIVES Have well-maintained lots, businesses and homes through proactive property maintenance codes and compliance program.

Have well-designed, attractive new developments and buildings and homes incorporating green, open spaces.

Have attractive, distinctive entrances and entrances signs.

Have well-designed, well-maintained Village facilities, infrastructure and properties.

Instill a proactive community policing culture throughout the Police Department.

TOP POLICY ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Mental health policy and strategy: Needs assessment, community partnerships, Village role, direction and funding (including Police’s Crisis Intervention Team).

TOP OPERATIONAL ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Police strategic direction and proactive community policing culture: Implementation actions and Board update report.

Command staff reorganization: Completion.

Community engagement actions.

Social work programming.

2024-2028 PROJECTS + PROGRAMS Village sustainability policy and plan: Goals, direction and development.

Electric Vehicles: Village government and community: Report with options, direction and Village actions.

Property maintenance codes and compliance refinement: Problem identifications, goals/outcomes, compliance/enforcement philosophy, direction and funding.

Neighborhood Watch Program Promotion: Direction and Village action.

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VALUE TO RESIDENTS Throughout Buffalo Grove, we prioritize a harmonious and consistent aesthetic that not only safeguards property values but also defines our unique character. Both residents and visitors can take solace in an environment that radiates safety. Our distinctive entrances seek to showcase Buffalo Grove's uniqueness, while our dedicated Police Officers remain accessible, fostering opportunities for community interaction and rapport.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

GOAL 3

STRENGTHENED BUFFALO GROVE COMMUNITY IDENTITY AND PRIDE OBJECTIVES Support strong community events and festivals – bringing Buffalo Grove together and attracting visitors.

Enhance Buffalo Grove as a welcoming and inclusive community.

Encourage, support and provide Buffalo Grove resident opportunities to contribute to our community.

Have diverse methods for involving residents in Village governance and civic affairs.

Expand Village outreach and communications programs with our residents and businesses – informing, involving and seeking feedback.

Have a dynamic, proactive marketing program for our Buffalo Grove community – sharing our community assets, uniqueness and value.

TOP POLICY ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Community Branding Initiative: Strategy and implementation plan, including brand standards guide.

TOP OPERATIONAL ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Welcome packet enhancements.

ChatBot with SMS texting feature.

2024-2028 PROJECTS + PROGRAMS Civic education program/academy development.

Inclusive community strategy: Best practices, direction and Village actions.

Block party program enhancements: Outcomes, best practices, report with options, direction, funding/actions.

Community events policies: Village Role and direction.

Community services project for students (with school districts): Concept, best practice, direction and actions.

Major signature community event: Outcomes, best practices, report with options, potential partners, direction, funding and actions.

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VALUE TO RESIDENTS In Buffalo Grove, residents enjoy seamless access to essential information, programs, and services. The community thrives on opportunities for involvement, allowing everyone to contribute to its betterment. The welcoming ambiance ensures everyone feels at home, fostering a deep-rooted pride in being an integral part of our community.

Moreover, our Village partners play a pivotal role in continually enhancing Buffalo Grove's community spirit.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

GOAL 4

BUFFALO GROVE IS A VIBRANT AND INNOVATIVE COMMUNITY: LEADING EDGE OBJECTIVES Develop variety of housing options including rental homes, apartments and townhomes.

Have mixed-use developments with green, open spaces.

Complete ‘The Clove” development consistent with vision, plans and development standards.

Revitalize the Dundee Road, Lake-Cook Road and Milwaukee Avenue corridors to be vibrant destinations for our Buffalo Grove residents and attracting visitors from the region.

Have a regional reputation as a vibrant and innovative community.

TOP POLICY ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Comprehensive Plan update: Review, revision and adoption.

Housing: Gap analysis, market reality and policy direction.

Public transportation: Needs assessment, options, direction and funding.

The Clove development: Next Steps including open space design, programming and funding for Clove Park.

TOP OPERATIONAL ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Lake-Cook Corridor Plan: Implementation.

Lazy Dog Restaurant: Opening.

NCH outlot development completion.

2024-2028 PROJECTS + PROGRAMS Senior/empty nester housing development.

Milwaukee Road business redevelopment (developerdriven).

Cambridge Commons development.

Diversified Housing Policy and Plan: Definition, goals, Village role, best practices and direction.

Older commercial/retail renovation: Goals, direction, incentives and Village action.

Village code update: Review and revision.

Retail Development Attraction Plan: Direction and development.

Annexation: Policy direction and Village actions.

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VALUE TO RESIDENTS In Buffalo Grove, we offer diverse housing options catering to every generation. The town boasts a plethora of dining and entertainment destinations for residents to relish. Our community takes immense pride in its vibrant and innovative spirit. The commitment from the private sector and developers reinforces the town's growth and potential. Furthermore, we continually focus on bolstering our commercial tax base, ensuring a prosperous future for the Village.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

GOAL 5

MORE LIVABLE BUFFALO GROVE COMMUNITY WITH LEISURE EXPERIENCES FOR ALL OBJECTIVES Attract quality restaurants for families, for parents on their night out and seniors.

Maintain and enhance recreational areas, including golf, open space and/or other leisure activities.

Have entertainment options with our Buffalo Grove community.

Expand leisure and recreational programs for all including diverse cultures and all generations.

TOP POLICY ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) The Clove Park Plan: Vision, plan development, funding and programming.

TOP OPERATIONAL ACTIONS (18-24 MONTHS) Business development/attraction approach: Update report related to restaurants and experience-based businesses.

Economic Development Policy: Review.

2024-2028 PROJECTS + PROGRAMS Food truck venue/events: Concepts/outcomes, best practices, Village role, report with options, direction and Village actions.

Golf Course: Review, enhancements and next steps.

Children/family venues and programming development: Concept/outcomes, best practices, potential partners, report with options, direction, funding and Village actions.

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VALUE TO RESIDENTS In Buffalo Grove, residents have ample choices for leisure, eliminating the need to venture outside the community. We prioritize offering experiences suitable for all generations, fostering both family and intergenerational bonds. Our community places a strong emphasis on mental health and wellness for both individuals and families. Moreover, we provide numerous spaces where residents can come together, meet neighbors and cherish moments with friends.

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The 2024-2028 Strategic Plan was crafted thanks to the collective efforts and invaluable contributions of numerous individuals in the organization and greater Buffalo Grove community. The visionary Village Board, Village Manager Dane Bragg and senior staff shared their unwavering commitment and tireless work to shape the vision and goals outlined herein. Appreciation is also extended to Village stakeholders, partners and supporters, whose collaboration and insights have enriched the plan’s guiding principles. Special recognition is offered to Lyle Sumac Associates and Assistant to the Village Manager Evan Michel for leading this initiative, from the in-depth research and engagement efforts, to drafting, development and refinement of this final document. Village leadership looks forward to implementing this plan with the same unity and determination that brought about its fruition.

PRESIDENT Eric Smith

CLERK Janet Sirabian

TRUSTEE Andy Stein

TRUSTEE Joanne Johnson

TRUSTEE TRUSTEE Les Ottenheimer Dave Weidenfeld

TRUSTEE Frank Cesario

TRUSTEE Denice Bocek

2024-2028 STRATEGIC PLAN ADOPTED DECEMBER 4, 2023

VILLAGE OF BUFFALO GROVE 50 RAUPP BLVD, BUFFALO GROVE, IL 60089 VBG.ORG • 847-459-2500