Highland Park Voters To Decide Mayor, Council Term Limits In November

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Highland Park voters will be asked in November whether to set term limits for the city’s mayor and councilmembers after the City Council unanimously voted to place the question on the ballot.

The public question would ask whether to establish term limits for local elected offices, specifically mayor and councilmember. Under the proposal, the limits would cap service at two terms plus under 25 months, up to 10 years.

The proposal would not apply retroactively; it would apply prospectively based on the election that will happen in April 2027.

At the June 29 City Council meeting, Mayor Nancy Rottering said while she does not have a favorable view of term limits, she would rather leave the decision to voters.

“I find term limits to not be in support of the democratic process,” Rotering said. “But I feel strongly that the voters should be establishing term limits. By supporting the resolution this evening, I'm indicating my interest in hearing from our citizen voters.”

Councilmember Annette Lidawer disagreed, saying term limits are important for ensuring new voices and broader participation in public life. At the meeting, Lidawer argued that term limits encourage a healthy cycle of leadership and allow for continuous community engagement.

She also pointed to possible drawbacks of long tenures, including reduced candidate diversity and stagnation in governance.

The council’s action does not itself create term limits. It sets up a citywide referendum so voters can decide whether the change should be made. If approved, the limits would affect future service under the timeline described by the city, not terms already served before that point.

The midterm election is scheduled for Nov. 3. Voter registration information is available at Vote.gov.