Incorporated in 1869 with a population of 500, Highland Park has grown to be a thriving community of 29,515 residents in 2019, diverse in its population and abundant in its educational, recreational and business opportunities. Twenty-three miles north of the Chicago's Loop, the City of Highland Park is nestled along beautiful Lake Michigan for nearly five miles. Highland Park's neighborhoods are filled with a mix of housing, ranging from historic colonials, to award-winning contemporary homes and comfortable downtown condominiums. The City is accessible to one of Chicago's major expressways, Interstate 94, with the Illinois Tollway just minutes away and O'Hare International Airport only 18 miles away. At the southern end of the City, on more than 36 acres of beautifully landscaped and wooded land, lies Ravinia Festival - Highland Park's world-class summer venue of the performing arts. The City is governed by the council-manager form of government. The City Council consists of seven members, including an elected mayor and six councilmembers. A professional city manager and staff who are experienced in city management handle the day-to-day operations of the City. The City has a number of commissions comprised of citizen volunteers who take an active role in City policy making. The mission of the City of Highland Park municipal government is to provide excellent services to all citizens of and visitors to Highland Park with the highest degree of fairness and equity.