A plan to add a new angel to Palos Heights’ “Lights in the Heights” holiday display was approved by the City Council on Oct. 7 after some discussion about its $10,000 price tag.
During public comment, Linda Scappa, representing the Public Arts Committee, spoke ahead of the vote to answer questions and explain the process.
The committee requested approval to purchase a refurbished, 6.5-foot-tall illuminated angel from Artistic Holiday Designs for $10,175.26. The project had been under discussion since April and already had support from the Beautification Committee and funding set aside in the city budget.
Scappa said the committee first looked into a lease-to-own program, but that option was discontinued, leaving an outright purchase as the only path forward. She told the council she was disappointed that the committee was being asked at the last minute to find new funding, especially after months of work and coordination with other city groups.
“I’m just a little upset because I don’t think it’s right that at the last second, this shouldn’t be saying, ‘eh, just go out and raise the money,’” Scappa said. “I would challenge anybody sitting as an alderman to help us raise money, help connect us with people that have deep pockets. The well is dry for me. I don’t have any more people.”
After public comment closed, Ald. Heather Begley said she recognized that the Finance Committee and Beautification Committee had already approved funding for the purchase but still felt the price was high.
“I just found that the price of this particular six-foot angel is remarkably high,” Begley said. “We can vote, everyone can support it, but I personally just think it’s an astronomical price.”
Ald. Jack Clifford asked if the piece was refurbished and if it came with a warranty. Ald. Jeffrey Key confirmed it was a restored, commercial-grade sculpture with a two-year warranty.
Key also spoke in support of the purchase, saying the funding was in place and the piece would enhance the display many residents look forward to each year.
“The Beautification Committee has really supported this idea of the whole Lights in the Heights,” Key said. “It’s an industrial application and a nice addition to the light show.”
Before the vote, Clifford said he respected Begley’s concerns about the cost and hoped future holiday purchases would receive closer review.
After confirming the refurbished angel includes a two-year warranty, the council voted 7–1 to approve the purchase. Begley cast the lone “no” vote.
The new angel is expected to join the city’s holiday display later this year.