Update (March 18, 2025, 6:56 PM):
This article has been updated to add an image from Nextdoor App.
Update (March 28, 2025, 4:18 PM): I have contacted Village Clerk Ms. Becky Hume via email and phone, requesting clarification on the criteria required for a business to achieve official recognition as press by the Village of Arlington Heights. I will provide further updates upon receiving a response.
Arlington Heights, IL – Randall Recklaus, Village Manager of Arlington Heights, has officially denied a request from local news outlet AH Town Square to be included in the Village’s press release distribution list. The request, which asked to receive all future press releases and official communications, was met with the Village’s response asserting that AH Town Square is not recognized as a member of the press.
The Village’s official stance, as outlined by Recklaus, is that there is no obligation to add AH Town Square to any specific mailing list. Instead, press releases are made publicly available through the Village’s General and Police Department Facebook pages, and residents can subscribe to the Village’s E-News Service for updates. Recklaus also pointed out that police arrest records and other public records are accessible at the Police Records Counter.
Listed on Village of Arlington Height: https://www.vah.com/government/departments/integrated_services_department/communications/index.php
However, AH Town Square has raised concerns that this decision creates an unfair advantage for other media outlets, many of which are behind paywalls, while potentially discriminating against a local news source that remains accessible to the public. By excluding AH Town Square from the distribution list, the argument can be made that the Village is not providing equal access to public information, which could be viewed as a form of discrimination. Unlike many other local media outlets that require subscriptions, AH Town Square offers its coverage for free, ensuring that all residents can stay informed about local issues without having to pay.
If the matter does proceed to court, it could become costly for taxpayers. Legal fees, potential settlement payouts, and the expense of defending the Village’s decision could quickly add up, possibly amounting to tens of thousands of dollars.
This situation has ignited a broader conversation about government transparency and the accessibility of public information to local media outlets. Withholding press materials from a local news source could hinder the public’s ability to stay informed on key issues within the Village.
While AH Town Square has not issued an official statement yet, it is reportedly considering its legal options, including the possibility of pursuing legal action against the Village.
As the situation continues to develop, it could have long-lasting implications for the relationship between the Village of Arlington Heights and local media. If you want to help prevent this from going to court and avoid further taxpayer costs, you can reach out to Randy Recklaus at 847-368-5122 and voice your concerns.
