At its April 21 meeting, the Flossmoor village board approved an ordinance with regulations for film-making projects within the village, an effort to help filmmakers work in the village while reducing concerns among residents.
Assistant Village Manager Jonathan Bogue told the board that the village has been contacted by parties inquiring about filming in the town, but noted that no policies or regulations were in effect.
In the past, residents have complained about filming without proper notifications to neighbors.
Film makers Troy and Qadree Holmes, who own and operate Quriosity Productions, were recommending a more formal process for the projects that come to the village.
Both Troy and Qadree addressed the board about their experience in the film industry and about how to make Flossmoor a safer environment for film production.
“As someone who works behind the scenes in the film industry, I can personally attest to the importance of clear and thoughtful guidelines,” Troy Holmes said. “These regulations not only protect our residents and local businesses, but they also send a message that Flossmoor is open and ready to welcome film projects in our community.”
When speaking to the board, Qadree Holmes noted a recent press conference with Gov. JB Pritzker that highlighted the film industry’s spending over $653 million in the state in 2024. That was the second highest expenditure in the history of the state.
He also noted how much the village has benefitted when film projects have come to Flossmoor in the past.
“When a film production comes into town, not only do we purchase film permits, but the impact financially on the community is significant,” Qadree Holmes said. “We pay for parking spaces, catering, craft services … overnight stays if needed, food for the crews at local grocery stores.”
The draft for the regulations outlines how the village would approve film projects including an application fee, insurance certification, cost of repair if damage is done by the film makers, use of village personnel and village facilities, permits from affected parties, and notifying close neighbors.
The village may consider an expedited film request of 5 to 13 days before the production date.
One of the problems that could arise involves staffing restrictions because Flossmoor is a smaller village, Bogue said.
“If we’re doing different things, we’re thinking about what’s inconveniencing our residents, as well economic development, as well as can our staff do it?” Bogue said. “Do we have the police, fire, whatever available to make these accommodations work?”
Mayor Michelle Nelson spoke positively of the ordinance, highlighting the importance of not inconveniencing residents.
“While we do love seeing our village featured in film, it is important to keep in mind that it can be an inconvenience e to our residents,” Nelson said. “We have had some complaints so navigating that and balancing that, also giving people proper notice, they’re all important things to do.”
Trustee Brian Driscoll inquired about Intergovernmental Risk Management Agency (IRMA) guidelines. Bogue said he is looking into other villages’ IRMA guidelines for structure.
Trustee Rosalind Mustafa agreed with the ordinances and regulations and asked what happens if film crews failed to notify the village of repairs.
Village Manager Bridget Wachtel said along with the insurance policy the village will have to develop another policy to check things before the film crew is declared free of responsibilities set by Flossmoor.
Trustee Joni Bradley-Scott asked if this would allow residents to list their homes on websites for filming. Bogue said he did not have a firm answer because the regulations focuses on village property.
Trustee Gary Daggett inquired about the possibility of not being able to notify residents in a timely manner because residents might be away from home for long periods.
Bogue said residents will have a two-day window to respond to notifications on filming.
Trustees Jim Mitros and George Lofton also supported the ordinance.