Highland Public Records Directory

All links go directly to official Highland, Illinois government websites.

  About Highland City Government
Annual Budget $8.1 million
Regular Meetings Public Sessions

The governing body of Highland, Illinois, is the Highland City Council, which consists of 6 elected members, including the Mayor. Council members are elected at-large for a term length of 4 years. The Mayor, currently Kevin H. Kuhl, serves a similar term and is also elected at-large.

For the fiscal year 2023, Highland's approximate annual operating budget is $8.1 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development initiatives.

The Highland City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Highland City Hall, located at 1115 Broadway, Highland, IL 62249. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.

  About Highland, Illinois

Nestled in the scenic expanse of Madison County, Highland, Illinois, boasts a captivating blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, with an estimated population of approximately 9,870 residents. Founded in 1850, the city is known for its rich German heritage, which is reflected in its vibrant community events and cultural celebrations. Major neighborhoods such as the historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops and eateries, contribute to Highland's unique character. The local economy thrives on a diverse mix of industries including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, with key employers such as the Highland Community School District and various healthcare facilities playing significant roles in providing jobs and supporting the local economy. Highland distinguishes itself with its commitment to community engagement, offering numerous recreational parks, sports leagues, and events like the annual Highland Oktoberfest, which celebrates the city's German roots and fosters a strong sense of community among residents.

The Highland Police Department is the primary law enforcement agency serving the city, dedicated to ensuring public safety and maintaining order. For those seeking information on criminal records, the process begins at the local level with the Highland Police Department, which can provide access to certain records and reports. Additionally, the Madison County Sheriff's Office plays a crucial role in law enforcement and oversees the Madison County Jail, where individuals are detained following arrests. To obtain arrest records, mugshots, booking records, and criminal history, individuals can start by contacting the Highland Police Department’s Records Unit. They may also reach out to the Madison County Sheriff's Office for further information regarding county-level records. For a comprehensive search, the Illinois State Police Bureau of Investigation maintains a state criminal repository, which can be accessed online for a fee. Many local law enforcement agencies also offer online lookup portals that facilitate access to certain arrest records and incident reports, streamlining the process for individuals seeking such information.

Highland falls under the jurisdiction of the Madison County Circuit Court, where various legal matters are adjudicated. Individuals looking to request court records can do so through the court's online portal or by visiting the office of the Circuit Clerk in person. For vital records, such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, requests can be made at the Madison County Clerk's Office or through the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Vital Records Division. Property records, which are essential for real estate transactions and ownership verification, are available through the Madison County Assessor and Recorder's offices, both of which provide online access to certain records. Additionally, residents can make general public records requests under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which typically yields responses within 5 to 10 business days. This commitment to transparency ensures that community members can access important information while promoting accountability within local government.

  Highland, Illinois Public Records & Government Resources

About Highland

The governing body of Highland, Illinois, is the Highland City Council, which consists of 6 elected members, including the Mayor. Council members are elected at-large for a term length of 4 years. The Mayor, currently Kevin H. Kuhl, serves a similar term and is also elected at-large. For the fiscal year 2023, Highland's approximate annual operating budget is $8.1 million. This budget supports various city services, including public safety, infrastructure, and community development initiatives. The Highland City Council holds regular meetings on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:00 PM.
These meetings take place at the Highland City Hall, located at 1115 Broadway, Highland, IL 62249. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.

Police Department & Arrest Records

In addition to the Highland, Madison County Sheriff's Office, several municipal police departments operate within the county, including the Alton Police Department, Granite City Police Department, and Edwardsville Police Department. Each department is responsible for law enforcement within its respective city limits. These agencies collaborate on major crimes and emergencies, sharing resources and information to enhance public safety. The coordination between the Sheriff's Office and municipal departments ensures comprehensive coverage and effective law enforcement throughout Madison County.

Jail & Inmate Records

The Madison County Jail, located in Edwardsville, is the primary detention facility for the county. It handles the booking process for individuals arrested within the county, where they are processed and held until they post bail or appear in court. The jail offers an inmate lookup service through its website, allowing the public to search for current detainees. Visitation rules are specific to the facility and typically require scheduling in advance. In Illinois, the bond process allows for the posting of bail to secure release, with specific conditions set by the court.

Court Records

The Madison County Circuit Court, located in Edwardsville, serves as the primary judicial body for the county. It handles a wide range of cases, including criminal, civil, probate, and family law matters. The court provides access to case filings, criminal dockets, and other court records through its clerk's office. Residents can access these records in person or through online portals, ensuring transparency and accessibility to the judicial process in Madison County.

Criminal Records

Madison County's criminal records system includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and the sex offender registry. The Madison County Circuit Clerk maintains these records, which are accessible to the public under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. Residents can conduct background checks through the Illinois State Police, which provides statewide criminal history information. The Illinois Bureau of Investigation offers additional resources for background checks, ensuring that residents have access to comprehensive criminal records for various purposes.

Arrest Records

Arrest records in Madison County are maintained by the Madison County Sheriff's Office. These records provide details of arrests made within the county, including the charges and booking information. Residents and attorneys can request arrest records through the Sheriff's Office, often requiring a formal request under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. Arrest records typically include the individual's name, date of arrest, charges, and booking details, providing a comprehensive overview of the individual's interaction with law enforcement.

Public Records Access

Public records in Madison County are accessible under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. The County Clerk's Office, Circuit Clerk, and other governmental offices provide access to various records, including property records, marriage licenses, and court documents. The Circuit Clerk's Office offers online portals for easier access to court records, while the County Clerk's Office handles requests for vital records and other official documents. Turnaround times for records requests can vary, but many offices offer expedited services for urgent needs.

Economy & Demographics

Madison County's economy is diverse, with significant contributions from manufacturing, healthcare, and education sectors. Major employers include U.S. Steel in Granite City and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, which provides educational opportunities and drives economic growth. The county's proximity to St. Louis also influences its economic landscape, offering residents access to a broader job market and commercial activities. The blend of industrial and service sectors makes Madison County's economy distinct, providing stability and growth opportunities for its residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

1 What is the process for someone who is arrested in Highland, Madison County, Illinois to go through the jail and court system?
If you are arrested in the City of Highland, Illinois, you will be transported to the Madison County Jail for booking and processing. During booking, officers will record your personal information, take fingerprints and photographs, and log personal belongings. After booking, you may be held pending arraignment before the Madison County Court. Under Illinois law, you have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney; if you cannot afford legal representation, a public defender will be appointed. Bail may be set at arraignment depending on the charges, your criminal history, and flight risk. Criminal history records are maintained by the Illinois State Police. The Madison County Sheriff's Office maintains an online inmate roster at https://www.idoc.state.il.us/subsections/search/inms.asp where you can look up current detainees.
The Highland Community Unit School District #5 serves the city of Highland, Madison County, Illinois. According to the Illinois State Board of Education, the district's overall performance rating for the 2018-2019 school year was "Commendable." The district's graduation rate was 97.3%, and the average ACT score was 22.1.
According to the Illinois State Police, the crime rate in Highland, Madison County, Illinois for 2019 was 1,845.7 per 100,000 people. This is higher than the national average of 2,036.5 per 100,000 people. The most common crimes in Highland were larceny/theft (1,039.3 per 100,000 people), burglary (541.2 per 100,000 people), and motor vehicle theft (265.2 per 100,000 people).
The Highland Public Library in Madison County, Illinois provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Illinois government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which governs access to government documents in Illinois. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Highland Illinois Archives and Genealogy at https://www.ilsos.gov/departments/archives/home.html. Contact the Highland Public Library reference desk at (618) for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
The Highland, Madison County, Illinois Library is located at 603 Chestnut Street, Highland, IL 62249.
Fingerprinting services for Highland, Illinois residents are provided at the Highland Police Department, which serves Madison County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Highland Police Department at (618) or visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Illinois State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Illinois State Police at https://www.isp.state.il.us/crimhistory/chri.cfm.
To obtain vital records for Highland, Madison County, Illinois, you must contact the Madison County Clerk's Office.

The vital records available from the Madison County Clerk's Office include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees. To obtain any of these records, you must provide a valid photo ID and proof of your relationship to the person named on the record. You must also provide a fee for each record requested.
Police reports from Highland, Illinois can be obtained from the Highland Police Department, located in Madison County. To request a police report, visit the Records Division in person or submit a written request by mail. You will typically need the report number, date of incident, and your valid photo ID. A fee may be charged per page for copies. Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), most police reports are public records in Illinois, though portions related to active investigations, juvenile records, or sensitive personal information may be redacted. Contact the Highland Police Department Records Division at (618) for information on fees, hours, and online request options. For statewide criminal records, visit https://www.isp.state.il.us/crimhistory/chri.cfm.
A background check in Highland, Madison County, Illinois typically includes a review of criminal history, driving records, credit history, employment verification, education verification, and sex offender registry status. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards commonly request background checks in Illinois. Criminal background checks are processed through the Illinois State Police, which maintains arrest records, convictions, and disposition data for Illinois residents. The Illinois State Police provides official criminal history checks at https://www.isp.state.il.us/crimhistory/chri.cfm. Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), individuals have the right to request their own records. Federal background checks are available through the FBI's Identity History Summary program. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) governs how background check information may be used by employers and landlords.
  Nearby Cities in Madison County, Illinois

Search public records in neighboring cities within the same county:

Bethalto East Alton Glen Carbon Alton Collinsville Edwardsville