Hinsdale Gate Skeptic Weighs In On Proposal

HINSDALE, IL – Hinsdale trustees are likely to approve an electronic gate for a subdivision near Hinsdale Central High School. Even a skeptic who says gates play into the village's "elitist" image says he's for it.

On Tuesday, the Village Board discussed a proposed gate for the Foxgate Lane subdivision, which consists of 16 townhomes. The street is a cul-de-sac that connects to 57th Street, south of the school.

The subdivision wants to shut the gate after school and during school events because students often use the neighborhood to turn around or park.

Village President Tom Cauley said he did not fear setting a precedent because the village can always reject other gates based on their merits.

Earlier this year, he noted, Trustee Scott Banke voted against a gate for a planned subdivision, warning that it could lead to others. Cauley asked for the trustee's opinion this time around.

Banke said he had no issue with it.

"My son played baseball at Hinsdale Central, so I'm fully aware of the situation," Banke said. "Because of the proximity to the baseball field, it's not uncommon for people to park in that development. I think this is more for the safety of residents. It's really more of a public courtesy and something that's needed. I am in full support of this."

In January, the Village Board approved a gate for a planned subdivision just south of Kensington School, which is on Ogden Avenue.

One of Banke's objections was philosophical.

"I'm just concerned that the development plan plays into the negative perception of Hinsdale as an elitist town," Banke said at the time. "I think we need to be wary of adding another line item to this negative perception."

The Village Board plans to vote on the Foxgate Lane gate next month.