Why can't Homer TWP do a Parade ?

Homer Township's Annual Parade Faces New Challenges Amidst Village of Homer Glen's Decisions

The annual parade of Homer Township, a cherished tradition for over 25 years, is now facing unprecedented challenges due to recent decisions by the Village of Homer Glen. The series of events leading up to the potential cancellation of the 2024 parade highlights a complex and contentious situation between the two local government entities.
Timeline of Events:

1. June 26, 2023: The Village of Homer Glen’s Village Manager sends an application to Homer Township for the 2024 parade.
2. July 17, 2023: Homer Township requests the signed permits to begin preparations for the 2024 parade.
3. July 21, 2023: The Township amends the parade dates as requested by the Village.
4. July 24, 2023: The amended application is sent back to the Village of Homer Glen’s Manager.
5. July 26, 2023: The Village of Homer Glen responds, informing the Township that the Village intends to hold its own parade on June 29, 2024, and invites the Township to join them instead, stating they will not proceed with the Township’s event application.
6. August 3, 2023: The Township sends another application to the new Village Manager, Joe Baber, and also notifies Mayor Neitzke-Troike, urging a prompt response for permit approval to start planning the parade.
7. April 8, 2024: With no clear response from the Village, the Township, along with Heidi Pacella, plans a new parade route on Hadley Road, a county road, for June 22, 2024.
8. April 17, 2024: The Village of Homer Glen’s Manager cites safety concerns for not allowing the parade on Hadley Road, despite assurances from the Fire District and the Sheriff’s Department that they will provide necessary safety measures.
9. Subsequent Actions: The Township adjusts the parade route to avoid any Village of Homer Glen streets entirely.
10. Final Development: The County is prepared to issue the necessary permits for the new route, but the transfer of Hadley Road to the jurisdiction of Homer Glen complicates matters further, making the parade a non-issue once again for June 22, 2024.

The sequence of events has left many residents and community leaders of Homer Township frustrated and disappointed. The annual parade is more than just a festive event; it is a symbol of community unity, pride, and tradition.