Lake County Gazette

At a recent meeting on August 27, the working group tasked with planning a Permanent Place of Remembrance reviewed conceptual designs and conducted interviews with four design firms shortlisted through an earlier Request for Qualifications. The group emphasized that these sample designs are not final but provided important perspectives on how each firm would approach the project. Key considerations included each firm's strategy for trauma-informed community engagement, especially in connecting with victims' families, survivors, and the broader community.

The firms under consideration were Gordon Huether Studio, Site Design, studioSTIGSGAARD, and SWA. After discussion and feedback from attendees, the working group selected SWA as its recommended firm. According to the group, "SWA's response reflected the strongest understanding of the project scope, stakeholder groups, and the importance of trauma-informed community engagement." Members also noted that "SWA's package best articulated the relationship between the primary site at the Rose Garden and the secondary site at Port Clinton, and seemed most inclusive of seasonality needs specific to our area, ensuring that the final design would remain a meaningful tribute throughout the year, even during winter."

The recommendation will be documented in a staff report for City Council review. The Council is set to discuss this recommendation during its Committee of the Whole meeting on October 8.

Public input remains a key part of this process. Community members can review proposals and provide feedback via hpremembrance.org or by emailing remembrance@cityhpil.com. All responses will be acknowledged and incorporated into materials presented to Council.

The meeting began with a moment of silence in recognition of those affected by a recent school shooting in Minneapolis. The City’s Resiliency Division offers support services for those impacted by gun violence; more information is available at resilienthpil.org. Additionally, residents can access multilingual support services around-the-clock through 211 Lake County by calling 211 or visiting 211LakeCounty.org.

Further details about the working group are available at hpremembrance.org.