A Message from Mayor Shapiro

As we look back at 2023, we have had a year full of successes and challenges. Our Board of Trustees approved several measures to foster economic growth within our community, resulting in substantial private investments. For example, the redevelopment of the former Barnes & Noble space will bring new residential apartment units and retail spaces in Deerfield Square. In addition, we established a new Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District to incentivize new life into our downtown area. There is ongoing deliberation on the creation of another TIF district along Lake Cook Road which could bring mixed uses to the 35 acres that currently has several empty buildings. This year we welcomed several new businesses to the Village including:

• Walgreens – 95 S Waukegan
• Briarwood Park Dental – 95 S Waukegan
• Athleta – 720 Waukegan
• The Coder School – 827 Waukegan
• Top Issue Sports – 829 Waukegan
• Kids Empire – 405 Lake Cook
• Garfield’s Beverage – 57 Waukegan
• Brunch Café – 250 Lake Cook
• Brick & Mortar- 807 Waukegan
• Julie Morrison State Senator Office – 400 Lake Cook 
• Fixer – 405 Lake Cook Rd
• Doctors of Physical Therapy – 190 Waukegan

Our financial position remains very strong, and our Village taxes are relatively unchanged from last year, with most residents seeing a minimal increase of only about $20. We approved a $59 million budget for 2024, with no new debt, that invests in our community’s capital infrastructure and ensures that we continue to provide the level of service that our residents and businesses expect. Similar to past years, we have achieved a Aaa bond rating and we pride ourselves on being good financial stewards of taxpayer money. 

Our kids are thriving at our excellent schools, and we remain one of the safest communities in the State. We recognize the value great schools bring to attracting new residents and retaining our current population. This has a direct impact on our strong housing demand. As a result, we expect to see possible new residential projects in 2024 including a senior housing development, an affordable housing development, and more new businesses. 

Yet this year was not without its challenges. Our community's awareness has been sharpened by the conflict in Israel and Gaza, along with the accompanying violence, affecting numerous residents. We stand as a community in solidarity against evil and bigotry. We will always take these and all of our challenges head on, and will continue to be resilient against the specter of darker days. We are a welcoming community and in doing so, we call out hate and support each other to make our community stronger. 

I look forward to 2024 and what it will have in store for all of us. As we spend time with those we love over this holiday season, embrace the spirit of giving. Pay it forward, give back, recommit to doing your part to build a community and a world that is a little more generous, tolerant and kind. It’s my honor to represent the Village of Deerfield as Mayor. I wish all of you a wonderful and safe holiday season.