Arlington Heights appoints new village prosecutor after 48 years

After nearly a half century, a new lawyer will be representing the village of Arlington Heights at the Rolling Meadows courthouse.

Ernie Blomquist, the village prosecutor for the past 48 years, notified village officials he intends to reduce his professional practice, which has included prosecution of municipal ordinance violations, traffic offenses, misdemeanor cases and other matters on the village’s behalf in Cook County circuit court.

Blomquist’s successor is Elizabeth Hantzos, who has been the village’s associate prosecutor for 19 years.

Mayor Jim Tinaglia formally appointed Hantzos to the position Monday following a confirmation vote of the village board, though she technically serves at the will of Village Manager Randy Recklaus.

With the board’s unanimous approval, Recklaus inked an initial one-year agreement, retroactive to July 1, with the Arlington Heights-based Law Offices of Elizabeth Hantzos Finn, P.C. on a $4,170 monthly retainer. The agreement includes the possibility of annual renewals.

“There are a lot of things that this board has to do, and there’s a lot of things you have to do repetitively,” Recklaus told board members Monday night. “One thing you haven’t had to do for the past 48 years was appoint a new village prosecutor.”

Village officials planned to fete Blomquist at the board meeting, but scheduling differences will delay the recognition at least until the next meeting.

Blomquist has been responsible for prosecuting violations of state law and village code in areas including building, zoning, property maintenance, business licensing, animal control, traffic and parking. His role is different from Village Attorney Hart Passman, who attends board meetings and advises the board and staff on legal matters.

Village officials said Hantzos is qualified for the prosecutor role and will ensure continuity since she is familiar with the village’s ordinances, policies, court procedures and staff.