Star atop Island Lake water tower getting refurbished
With financial help from private supporters, Island Lake officials are refurbishing the large, decorative star that tops a village water tower.
The 150-pound, steel-and-iron star was installed in December 1965 atop the tower on Janet Drive west of Route 176.
Built and donated to the village by a local business, the star is illuminated every Christmas season. It hasn't been removed from the tower since it was installed.
But after so many years of service, the star needed a little work, and it's been brought down for repairs.
Village employees and volunteers are rewiring the star and replacing its bulbs with lower-energy LED lights.
The frame is in great shape, though.
"We found that it is quite structurally sound (and is) built to last," Public Works Director Brian Bartnick said. "We had trouble loosening the bolts because it was up there so securely."
The work is expected to cost about $1,800. Private donations are covering the cost.
Connie Mascillino, president of the Historical Society of Island Lake, said she's thrilled about the project. She called the star "a piece of Island Lake history."
"It will be a symbol of the holiday season for years to come," Mascillino said.
A rededication ceremony will be held Nov. 17, after the star is returned to its traditional spot, Mascillino said. The historical society has ordered a plaque for the occasion.