Mayor Elizabeth Davies - The Glass Factory Plans

Dave sits down with Mayor Elizabeth Davies to discuss the future of the iconic "glass building." Mayor Davies shares insights into the property’s sale, the village’s role in redevelopment, and the importance of community input. She emphasizes transparency, fiscal responsibility, and realistic expectations as Grayslake plans for downtown’s future. 

Redeveloping Grayslake’s Glass Building: A Blueprint for Community-Driven Growth

Grayslake’s downtown is at a pivotal moment. The recent sale of the iconic “glass building” (also known as the TNT glass building) has sparked excitement, curiosity, and a flurry of conversation among residents. In a recent episode of the “Discovering Grayslake” podcast, host Dave sat down with Mayor Elizabeth Davies to discuss the future of this landmark property, the village’s approach to redevelopment, and the vital role of community engagement in shaping Grayslake’s next chapter.

This blog post dives deep into the main themes and actionable insights from their conversation, offering a comprehensive guide for residents, business owners, and anyone invested in Grayslake’s future.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Village’s Role in Redevelopment
Zoning: Setting the Stage, Not Picking the Players
Balancing Vision with Realism: The Mayor’s Approach
Community Engagement: Turning Passion into Progress
Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Planning
Transparency, Communication, and Building Trust
Actionable Takeaways for Residents and Stakeholders
Conclusion: A Shared Vision for Grayslake’s Future

Understanding the Village’s Role in Redevelopment

Key Insight:  
The village is not a developer or a landlord—it’s a steward of the community’s vision.

Mayor Davies clarified a common misconception: the village does not handpick which businesses move into specific properties. Instead, its role is to:

Establish Zoning Regulations:** These define what types of businesses are allowed in certain areas.
Guide, Not Dictate:** The village “sets the table” for private investment, ensuring that new developments align with the community’s character and needs.
Facilitate, Not Control:** While the village can influence the process, especially for high-profile properties like the glass building, it cannot guarantee specific outcomes.

Actionable Advice:  
If you’re a resident or business owner, understand that your local government’s power is in creating a welcoming environment and clear guidelines—not in micromanaging every storefront.

Zoning: Setting the Stage, Not Picking the Players

Key Insight:  
Zoning is about creating a framework, not choosing tenants.

Mayor Davies explained that zoning laws are designed to:

Encourage Diversity:** Any business that fits within the zoning category (e.g., general business) can open, as long as it meets the requirements.
Prevent Overreach:** The village cannot (and should not) prevent similar businesses (like multiple coffee shops or salons) from opening if they comply with zoning.
Support Vibrancy:** A healthy mix of businesses contributes to a lively downtown.

Nuanced Considerations:

Market Forces Matter:** Even with zoning, the ultimate mix of businesses is shaped by market demand and private investment.
Community Input:** While the village can’t pick winners, it can use community feedback to inform future zoning updates and strategic planning.

Expert Tip:  
If you want to influence the types of businesses in your community, support local entrepreneurs, participate in public forums, and share your ideas with village officials.

Balancing Vision with Realism: The Mayor’s Approach

Key Insight:  
Aim high, but appreciate incremental progress.

Mayor Davies is enthusiastic about the glass building’s potential, drawing inspiration from iconic markets like Pike Place (Seattle) and Faneuil Hall (Boston). However, she’s also realistic:

Grayslake’s Scale:** With a population of 21,000, Grayslake faces different opportunities and constraints than major cities.
Measured Expectations:** The goal is a “home run,” but even a solid “RBI” (a baseball metaphor for a positive, if not spectacular, outcome) is a win for the community.
Redevelopment Takes Time:** The process is in its early stages, with at least two years expected before major changes.

Actionable Advice:

Stay Patient:** Redevelopment is a marathon, not a sprint. Expect thorough assessments, community input, and careful planning.
Celebrate Small Wins:** Every step forward—whether it’s a new business, a community event, or a beautification project—adds up to long-term vitality.

Community Engagement: Turning Passion into Progress

Key Insight:  
Community input is not just welcomed—it’s essential.

Mayor Davies and Dave both emphasized the importance of:

Active Listening:** The village values comments, ideas, and concerns shared on social media and in public meetings.
Direct Communication:** Residents are encouraged to reach out via email or attend board meetings for more effective dialogue.
Shared Vision:** Community conversations help shape the village’s approach and ensure that redevelopment reflects local values.

Best Practices for Engagement:

Be Constructive:** Share your ideas respectfully and thoughtfully.
Get Involved:** Attend meetings, join advisory committees, or volunteer for local initiatives.
Stay Informed:** Subscribe to local newsletters and podcasts like “Discovering Grayslake” to stay up-to-date.

Expert Tip:  
Effective engagement is a two-way street. Officials need to listen, but residents also need to participate actively and positively.

Fiscal Responsibility and Long-Term Planning

Key Insight:  
Sound financial management creates opportunities for bold action.

Mayor Davies highlighted that:

No New Debt:** The village’s strong financial position allowed it to purchase the glass building outright.
Prudent Planning:** Before making major investments (like demolition or redevelopment), the village will conduct thorough assessments and cost analyses.
Private Partnerships:** The focus is on attracting private investment to maximize the property’s potential and minimize taxpayer risk.

Actionable Advice:

Ask Questions:** If you’re curious about village finances, attend budget meetings or review public documents.
Support Responsible Growth:** Advocate for projects that balance ambition with fiscal prudence.

Transparency, Communication, and Building Trust

Key Insight:  
Open, honest communication builds community trust.

Mayor Davies is committed to:

Transparency:** Sharing updates, answering questions, and clarifying misconceptions.
Education:** Helping residents understand complex issues like zoning, redevelopment, and municipal finance.
Accessibility:** Inviting direct contact and encouraging participation in public processes.

How You Can Help:

Stay Curious:** Don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification.
Spread the Word:** Share accurate information with neighbors and friends.
Practice Kindness:** As Dave reminded listeners, simple acts of courtesy and understanding go a long way in building a stronger community.

Actionable Takeaways for Residents and Stakeholders

Engage Early and Often:** Your input matters—get involved in public discussions and share your vision for Grayslake.
Understand the Process:** Redevelopment is complex and takes time. Stay patient and informed.
Support Local Businesses:** A vibrant downtown depends on thriving local enterprises—shop local and spread the word.
Advocate for Transparency:** Encourage open communication between officials and residents.
Celebrate Community Spirit:** Grayslake’s greatest asset is its people. Foster unity through kindness, respect, and shared purpose.

Conclusion: A Shared Vision for Grayslake’s Future

The redevelopment of the glass building is more than a real estate project—it’s a reflection of Grayslake’s values, aspirations, and community spirit. As Mayor Davies and Dave discussed, the path forward will require patience, collaboration, and a willingness to dream big while staying grounded in reality.

By embracing transparency, fiscal responsibility, and robust community engagement, Grayslake is poised to turn this opportunity into a lasting legacy. Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a new neighbor, or a local business owner, your voice and your actions will help shape the next chapter of downtown Grayslake.

Stay tuned, stay involved, and let’s build a future we can all be proud of—together.

Want to stay connected?  
Subscribe to the “Discovering Grayslake” podcast for more stories, updates, and opportunities to get involved in your hometown’s journey.

If you have questions, ideas, or want to share your thoughts on the glass building’s future, reach out to Mayor Elizabeth Davies or attend the next village board meeting. Your hometown is listening!