Village of
Westchester January 2014 Newsletter
From the Desk of The President FIRE DEPARTMENT
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POLICE DEPARTMENT
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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
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CALENDAR
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Mr. and Mrs. Claus greet residents at the Tree Lighting Ceremony held at the Park District on December 4th
HAPPY NEW YEAR…HAPPY NEW YEAR… HAPPY NEW YEAR
LIBRARY
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GOOD NEIGHBORS
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PUBLIC WORKS
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Everyone knows January 1st is New Year’s Day. The day represents the beginning of a new calendar year. We reflect on the past year remembering, or in some cases trying to forget, events and circumstances that have occurred over the prior 365 days. We consider January 1st a time to make a fresh start. New Year’s resolutions are made, but if you are like me, most go by the wayside as we slip back into the routine of daily life. I know last year I made a resolution to be more positive and look at the cup as half full rather than half empty. Staff at the Village tracked my positivity and new outlook only to be amazed that it lasted about two weeks. I’m sure most of you did the same thing, but I hope whatever those resolutions were they either came true or at the very least lasted well over two weeks. I will certainly make the same resolution about positivity again and pledge that it will last longer than 2 weeks. I pray that it will continue for many months after that, but I know
myself and sometimes 2 days, 2 minutes, or 2 seconds is a lot of time. I do hope each of you make some resolutions concerning your health and well being. Exercise, eating a little better, getting both medical and dental check-ups should be a priority. Even during inclemently cold weather you can go to several of the indoor shopping malls and take a few laps. Eating a little better might be a challenge. Being Italian, I like many of you “Like to Eat”. In fact, in my circle of family and friends eating could be considered an Olympic sport. To do so, we are going to have to eat a little bit less and force ourselves to push away from the table. Leave a meatball for someone else and instead of following the immortal words of Clemenza in the Godfather Movie to” leave the gun and take the cannoli” we have to leave the cannoli too!!! Getting regular check-ups to stay healthy is a must. I know this is a case of the pot calling the kettle black. I hate going to the doctor for anything.
See PRESIDENT, page 4
Fire Department 2
JANUARY 2014
Police Department JANUARY 2014
Profile Name: Michael Fellers Rank: Patrol Officer Years as Police Officer: 2 What made you choose police officer as a profession: I became a police officer because it involved community interaction along with the opportunity to help those in need. Describe a good day at work: A good day at work is every day that ends with the safety of my coworkers and community. What is the best part about your job? The best part if my job is seeing something new every day. What advice would you give to someone who wants to follow your career path. I would suggest potential officers get as much first hand experience as possible before making the final decision. What would occur on your perfect day off ? The perfect day off would be in the Caribbean with the beaches.
Seniors beware of scams and cons Here are some of the most common scams and con games. Many of these cons have been around for centuries yet still manage to find new victims. The Pigeon Drop A female, male or any combination of same will approach you and either show you a large amount of cash or tell you about the large sum of money that they just found. The con artist may explain that whoever lost the cash must have obtained it unlawfully. He will offer to share the wealth with you, but first you will need to put up some cash in order to show your good faith. The con artist will encourage you to make a withdrawal at your local bank. In most cases the con artist does not have any cash to show you on the spot, but has had a third party approach the scam and offer to bring you back your share as a responsible employer is holding on to the loot. If the con artist has shown you the found cash and offered to share with you on the spot, after you hand over your good faith money, then all you will find is a few small bills wrapped around a lot of nothing. The bottom line is not to fall for any story about any found cash and sharing in the wealth. Bank Examiner Scam A male or female purporting to be
Police blotter 1) At 3:48 pm on November 26, 2013, a Retail Theft was reported at the Walgreens located at 10345 Roosevelt Road. The store clerk reported that an unknown person removed a bottle of Bombay Saphire without paying. 2) At 1:10 pm on December 1, 2013, a Theft was reported on the 10300 block of Wight. A subject reported that an unknown person removed a wallet from a jacket pocket while at a party. 3) At 10:34 am on December 4, 2013, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 1400 block of Hull. A resident reported that between November 23rd and December 4th unknown person(s) made forced entry into her residence which is vacant. 4) At 3:42 pm on December 4, 2013, a Residential Burglary was reported on the 1900 block of Hawthorne. A resident reported that upon returning home an unknown person was in the driveway and stated they worked
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for a utility company and needed to check the house. While in the house the subject removed jewelry and money. 5) At 7:24 pm on December 7, 2013, a Theft was reported on the 2500 block of Wellington. The resident reported that there were two rings missing from the house after workers had been doing work there. 6) At 9:41 pm on December 10, 2013, a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 1400 block of Manchester. Resident reported that an unknown person had attempted to pry open the front door of the residence. 7) At 7:23 am on December 14, 2013, a Burglary to Motor Vehicle was reported at the Hampton Inn located at 2222 Enterprise Drive. It was reported that unknown person(s) broke out the passenger side window and removed computer equipment while the vehicle was parked in the parking lot.
a law enforcement officer complete with badge to get your attention will either phone or approach you and explain that they need your assistance to catch a corrupt bank employee. The con artist (fake cop) will inform you that the local bank teller at your bank is stealing your money every time you make a transaction. The con artist will further tell you that they need you to make a withdrawal and they will be able to prove to you that the suspect teller actually withdrew more cash than you requested and kept the difference. The con artist will inform you to keep this matter strictly confidential. The con artist may even meet you in a public place, such as a library, in order to go over the details of their investigation. You will feel a need to cooperate as this is your money and you don’t want to be deceived by the corrupt bank teller. You meet the fake cop at the bank and he may even arrange for a cab ride for you.The con artist will direct you to make a substantial withdrawal and ask you to turn it over to them in order to document the bills and complete the investigation. The only problem is soon after you turn over your cash to the fake cop/ con artist, the con and the cash will vanish in the parking lot. Real Cops don’t need you to withdraw
money to investigate these types of matters. Real Cops will either use loss prevention personnel at the bank, other bank employees, plain clothes police officers, or other sources. Please pass this information on to family members that may not be aware of these types of scams. Con artist scams occur throughout all neighborhoods. Just because someone appears to be legitimate and you feel a need to save or make money, don’t be fooled. SEE IT, HEAR IT, and REPORT IT! DIAL 911 If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU [Chicago] 1-312-832-0500 ILLINOIS ATTORNEY GENERAL: Consumer Fraud Hotline 1-800-3865438 DO NOT CALL REGISTRY Register your telephone by calling 1-888-382-1222 Recently seniors have received a telephone call from someone purporting to be a grandchild. The teen will act very upset or have a fake police officer call and explain they need cash and not to alert the parent(s). The victim is directed to send the money to Canada or Mexico.
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JANUARY 2014
PRESIDENT Continued from page 1
They always seem to find something. In 2004 I went to Dr. Augostino, whose office was across from the police station, for a cough. After being given and taking a Z-pack for a week my wife forced me to go back as the cough persisted. While there I told the nurse I had been coughing so much I had some chest discomfort. She asked, when I last had an EKG. I said probably never. Low and behold the EKG indicated I had had a recent silent heart attack approximately 10 days before. Immediate next day surgery probably saved my life. At that time I was 49 years old believing I was invincible and in good shape. Who would have thought? Believe it or not, your health and welfare as residents of this great town mean something to the employees and staff who are here to serve you the best way we can. Communicating and listening to what others say is another way we can improve ourselves this year. For those with the latest and greatest I-Phones, I-Pads and computer gadgets and applications I would suggest that a little more face to face time in the same room with your family and friends take place. We all have a finite time on this earth and spending some quality time talking to grandma and grandpa or even mom and dad will go along way on both sides. Believe it or not, there are many things to be learned from their past experiences. Chances are many of our current issues are the same with just a different slant to it.
Mr. Carl Celestino, Westchester’s Person of the Year, and family at the December 3rd Annual Chamber Christmas Luncheon.
ask a neighbor with a snow blower to assist you. Use a good snow shovel. A good shovel has a long handle to allow you to work with minimal bending and is wide at the bottom. It should be constructed for snow removal with a no-stick surface of lightweight construction. Ergonomic shovels have a bend in the handle and are excellent WINTER WEATHER BLUES for the job. Use garden or other shovels Winter in mid December struck like only in a pinch as snow will tend to a lion. I don’t think any of us were stick to these tools. A non-stick surface ready for the frigid cold and snow can be produced at home. Simply coat we experienced. Over the next few the blade of the shovel with shortening months it appears we will be getting or vegetable oil. This will also help to hit more frequently than years past. As make shoveling less tiring. a reminder, if you have health issues Pick the correct shovel for the task. that preclude you from shoveling. There are 2 basic types.One is a digging DON’T. We constantly hear stories like shovel for high amounts of snow, and the one I heard from a co-worker after the other a pushing shovel for pushing the first snow fall in December that a low amounts of snow off of driveways, 58 year old man had a heart attack and and sidewalks. died while shoveling. Most of us think Dress appropriately. You need to it can’t happen to us but in reality it dress warmly, and gloves or mittens are can and it does. Use common sense a must. Dress in light layers. Be sure to and know your limitations. remove clothing as you heat up while I have come across some shoveling, as sweat can turn clammy on straightforward steps and tips regarding your skin and actually cause problems. snow shoveling. Your skin should remain warm, not Consider any Health Risks. If you are hot, and dry. out of shape, have back problems, or Begin shoveling. If you need to dig to heart conditions, it may be actually get to your car, dig using a steady, easy dangerous for you to shovel snow. After motion. If you are pushing such as a snowfall,hospitals are inundated with clearing a driveway hold your shovel at heart attack victims and patients with a slight angle and begin making passes wrenched backs. Hire a local teen or back and forth width-wise along your
driveway. You should rarely need to move your shovel above waist high. Have a plan. You will need to consider what is the most efficient snow removal plan. You will also have to avoid piling snow where you’ll have to just remove it again. Take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water. Shoveling is extremely hard physical work and you need to pace yourself to avoid ill effects. In the cold, you are not as likely to feel thirsty, but dehydration can set in after so much physical work. Take your time. Don’t forget your mail carrier. Make sure you clear the area, steps, and platforms around where your mailbox is located every time it snows. If the mail carrier can’t get to the mailbox they cannot deliver your mail. Adopt any fire hydrants on the front parkway. Keeping them free from being buried in snow will assist in the event emergency crews need to access the fire hydrant. Salt and sand as needed. Be careful with salt as some brands can hurt your lawn and landscaping, as well as infiltrate the ground and damage the watershed. Have a cup of hot chocolate. Although optional, it’s traditional in most snowy locations, and helps replenish your fluids. If you don’t like hot cocoa, help yourself to some tea, broth, or even just water.
VILLAGE SNOW PLOWING Please accept this as a reminder that Westchester does have parking restrictions in place for snow accumulation 2 inches and above. If you live on one of the village snow routes you must remove your car from the street after a 2 inch snow fall. If you live on a non-snow route there are posted signs indicating alternate side parking between 8:30am-4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Please take a look and follow the restrictions not only so you don’t get a ticket, but we really want to clear the road for everyone’s benefit.
KEEP YOUR GARBAGE CANS OFF THE STREET This office receives many complaints regarding residents placing their garbage and recycling cans in the street, as well as placing them out way too early before garbage day. Last year we revised the ordinance mostly as a request from senior citizens who would rather not put their cans out in the dark after 7pm. Hearing that plea, we allowed the cans to be put out no earlier than 3pm the day before the collection. They must also be removed before 8am the morning after the collection. Police and code enforcement officers can issue tickets for this violation of our municipal code.
See PRESIDENT, page 11
Community Develpoment JANUARY 2014
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Community Development Reminders • Keep Your Water Pipes From Freezing Inside water pipes could be more susceptible to freezing this time of year when the air temperature outside is below freezing for more than a few days. To avoid frozen
pipes you should make sure your basement is heated where the water meter and water pipes are located. Also insulate water pipes which are against outside walls. Make sure all windows or cracks which allow cold outside air in are
sealed. • Remember to Take Down Your Holiday Lighting Temporary electrical power and lighting installations shall be permitted for a period not to exceed 90 days for Christmas decorative
lighting and similar purposes. • Snow Removal Reminders It is illegal to blow, plow, or shovel snow from private property onto the street. Snow shall be removed from public walkways following a storm.
Prepare for Winter Storms and Extreme Cold With winter upon us, the Village wants to remind residents to be prepared for winter storms and extreme cold. To prepare for a winter storm you should do the following: Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit: Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways. Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for a complete list of recommended products. Sand to improve traction. Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment. Sufficient heating fuel. You may become isolated in your home and regular fuel sources may be cut off. Store a good supply of dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or woodburning stove. Adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm. Make a Family Communications Plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency. Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio or other local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS). Be alert to changing weather conditions. Minimize travel. If travel is necessary, keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle. Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather. Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water. Winterize Your Vehicle Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your car: Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing. Battery and ignition system - should be in top condition and battery terminals should be clean. Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels. Exhaust system - check for leaks and crimped pipes and repair or replace
as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning. Fuel and air filters - replace and keep water out of the system by using additives and maintaining a full tank of gas. A full tank will keep the fuel line from freezing. Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly. Lights and flashing hazard lights check for serviceability. Oil - check for level and weight. Heavier oils congeal more at low temperatures and do not lubricate as well. Thermostat - ensure it works properly. Windshield wiper equipment repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level. Install good winter tires - Make sure the tires have adequate tread. Allweather radials are usually adequate for most winter conditions. However, some jurisdictions require that to drive on their roads, vehicles must be equipped with chains or snow tires with studs. Update the emergency kits in your vehicles with: a shovel windshield scraper and small broom flashlight battery powered radio extra batteries water snack food matches extra hats, socks and mittens first aid kit with pocket knife necessary medications blanket(s) tow chain or rope road salt and sand booster cables emergency flares fluorescent distress flag Winterize Your Home Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics,caulking and weatherstripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic. Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide
shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment. Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm. Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year. Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing. Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear. Keep fire extinguishers on hand, and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them. House fires pose an additional risk, as more people turn to alternate heating sources without taking the necessary safety precautions. Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts). Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out. Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow - or water,
if drains on flat roofs do not work. Carbon Monoxide Caution: Carbon Monoxide Kills Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal¬ burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire. Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide. If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door. Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you. For more tips on what to do during and after winter storms, check the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s website at http://m.fema. gov/winter-storms-extreme-cold
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JANUARY 2014
This is an important message regarding Chicago’s water rate increase and the it impact on your water bill This is an important message regarding Chicago’s water rate increase and the it impact on your water bill The Village of Westchester purchases its water from the Broadview Westchester Joint Water Agency (BWJWA). BWJWA purchases the water supply from the City of Chicago. The City of Chicago will increase its water rates 15% as of January 1, 2014. Based on the increase in the City of Chicago water charges, BWJWA has approved an increase in its water rate of 15% of the existing rate or $.52 per 1000 gallons of water consumed effective January 1, 2014. Based on the increase in the Village’s cost of purchased water, the Village water rate per 1000 gallons will be raised by the $.52 increase in the Village’s purchase price of the water to cover our increased costs. This will result in a water rate increase charged to consumers from $7.23 to $7.75 per 1000 gallons effective January 1, 2014; this represents a 7.2% increase in the Village’s water rate. Because of the billing cycle, and this raise being retroactive to January 1st, 2014, this raise will come in increments over the next three billings. The Increase for February’s billing will be .17 cents, making the rate $7.40 per thousand gallons. The increase for March’s billing will be .17 cents, making the rate $7.57 per thousand gallons. The increase for April’s billing will be .18 cents, bringing the rate to $7.75 per thousand gallons.
CALENDAR JANUARY 2014
January: Registration continues for Youth Department’s Winter Reading Club at Library. Contact Youth Dept or call 708-562-3573.
Monday, January 6
60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. org
Friday, January 10
School resumes at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Classes Resume at Westchester Public Schools Westchester Community Church Fish/Chicken Fry, from 4:30 - 7:30 pm. All are welcome, bring a friend - tickets are available at the door. For further information please call the church office 708/865-1282
All-School Christmas Season Mass, 9:00 AM, Divine Providence Church 2600 Mayfair Affordable Care Act: Information Session, 10:00 – 11:00 AM at Library. Staff from Health Coverage 4U will explain health insurance marketplace. Contact Adult Dept or call 708-5623573. Reformer’s Unanimous – RU at 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org
Tuesday, January 7
Saturday, January 11
Divine Infant Jesus School Advisory Board Meeting at 7:00 pm at the Rectory, 1601 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Board of Education Committee of the Whole at WMS at 6:30 PM
Village Hall front office open from 8:30 AM -12:30 PM
Wednesday, January 8 Table Grace, 11:30 AM, Divine Providence and Grace Lutheran Church at Grace Lutheran Church, 1101 Manchester Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Mayfair Divine Providence Over 50 Club meeting will be held at 1:30 p.m. Membership is now open for 2014. If you have not renewed please do so.At our Christmas Luncheon in December Father Tom Unz installed our new officers. President, Corrine Popelka; Vice-President, Paul McCloskey; Secretary, Kathy Warno;Treasurer, Ruth Haas and Assistant Treasurer, Elaine Walczak. Last Chance to sign up for the Diamond Tours Motor coach trip planned for May 18-23, 2014 to the Biltmore Estates and Ashville, NC. The trip includes 5 nights lodging, 5 breakfasts, 3 dinners, tour of Ashville, full day at the Biltmore Estates and Gardens along with the Antler Village and Winery, St. Lawrence Bascilica and the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway. Cost is $529 based on double occupancy. A deposit of $75 will hold your seat. Call Marianne @ 708-562-3766 for more information. All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting at 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. org BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) at 6:45 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL
Sunday, January 12 Sunday School – “Experiencing God” Series from 9:30 – 10:30 AM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Morning Worship Service/Evening Worship Service at10:45 AM/6:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org
Monday, January 13 8th Grade Graduation pictures will be taken at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. The Divine Infant Jesus School student body will be Praying the Rosary - 2:10 pm at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.
Tuesday, January 14 Village Board Meeting at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall Court Room with the Committee of the Whole Meeting immediately following. The Divine Infant Jesus School student body will be Praying the Rosary - 2:10 pm at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122.
Wednesday, January 15 All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Table Grace, 11:30 AM, Grace Lutheran and Divine Providence Churches, Divine Providence Ministry Center, 2540 Mayfair Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine
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available at the Library. Contact Library or call 708-562-3573. Sunday School – “Experiencing Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting at God” Series from 9:30 – 10:30 AM at 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. www.westchesterbiblechurch.org org Morning Worship Service/Evening BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & Worship Service at10:45 AM/6:00 AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) at PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 6:45 PM at Westchester Bible Church, W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL www.westchesterbiblechurch.org 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. org Monday, January 20 Village of Westchester will host two Martin Luther King Jr. Day – No FREE BASSET Trainings (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education School for Westchester Public Schools Documentary Film Night featuring and Training) at the Village Hall, 10300 W. Roosevelt Rd. First course from “China’s Terracotta Warriors” 7:00 PM 9:30-11:30 AM and second course at Library. Contact Adult Dept or call from 2:00 PM-4:00 PM. Call Argelia at 708-562-3573. 708-345-0020 ext 590 to sign up by Wednesday, January 22 Tuesday, January 14th. All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine Thursday, January 16 Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Westchester Chamber Networking Avenue. Come join us. For more Breakfast hosted by Westchester information, contact the school office Community Church from 7:30-9:00 at 865-0122 AM. Go to www.WestchesterChamber. Market Day pick-up from 5:30 – 6:30 org or contact Mary (708) 240-8400 pm in Langan Hall at Divine Infant for more information. Jesus. Contact Toni Podock at 708-8658071 for more information. Friday, January 17 Table Grace, 11:30 AM, Divine All School Prayer Service in honor Providence and Grace Lutheran of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Divine Churches at Grace Lutheran Church, Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair 1101 Manchester Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine Taize Prayer, 7:30 PM, Divine Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Mayfair Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting at Preschool Open House from 8 am – 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 11 am Immanuel Christian Academy, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 2329 S. Wolf Road Hillside, IL 60162, 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. 708-562-5580. org BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & Westchester Baseball Registration for AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) at boys and girls ages 5-18 to participate 6:45 PM at Westchester Bible Church, in one of Westchester’s many youth 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL baseball leagues and travel teams. 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. On-line registration can be found at org www.westchesterbaseballinc.com. All Thursday, January 23 on-line registrants signed up before WIS Smile Illinois Mobile Dentist January 17, 2014 will be entered into Board of Education Meeting at WMS a raffle for one free registration for the 2014 season. If registering in person, at 7:00 PM official registration will be held on Friday, January 24 Friday, January 17, 2014 from 6:00 – WMS Smile Illinois Mobile Dentist 9:30 at the Westchester Park District Reformer’s Unanimous – RU at 7:00 Community Center, 10201 Bond St., PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 Westchester, IL 60154. Reformer’s Unanimous – RU at 7:00 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Saturday, January 25 Providence Church Narthex, 2600 Mayfair
Sunday, January 19 Friends of the Library Annual Meeting featuring “Birds In and Around Westchester” talk by Douglas Stotz of the Field Museum 2:00 PM at Library. Membership in the Friends of the Library required – applications
Celebrate Westchester-A chamber event for the entire community begins at 6:00 PM at Alpine Banquet Hause. Registration is required, tickets $65 per person. Log on to www. WestchesterChamber.org or contact
See CALENDAR, page 8
Calendar 8
JANUARY 2014
CALENDAR Continued from page 7
Mary (708) 240-8400 for more information. Confirmation Retreat for 8th graders at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the Sr. Susan Majcen at 708-865-8086.
Sunday, January 26 Beginning of Catholic School’s Week. Family mass at 9:30 am. School Open House to follow from 10:30 until 12:00 at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. A buffet style Pancake Breakfast will be held from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. Cost is $7:00 for adults, $5:00 seniors, $3:00 students. DI athletes are free. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Catholic Schools Week Mass, 10:30 AM, Divine Providence Church, 2600 Mayfair Sunday School – “Experiencing God” Series from 9:30 – 10:30 AM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org Morning Worship Service/Evening Worship Service at10:45 AM/6:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org
Monday, January 27 Faith Jeopardy competition for students at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. WPS Smile Illinois Mobile Dentist Preschool Open House Night from 6:30 pm – 8 pm Immanuel Christian Academy, 2329 S.Wolf Road Hillside, IL 60162, 708-562-5580.
Tuesday, January 28 Village Board Meeting at 7:00 PM in the Village Hall Court Room with the Committee of the Whole Meeting immediately following. WPS Smile Illinois Mobile Dentist
Wednesday, January 29 A Grandparent Breakfast, sponsored by the Divine Infant School Advisory Board will be held for grandparents of children attending Divine Infant Jesus at 7:00 am in Langan Hall at 1640 Newcastle Avenue. Cost: free. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. All School mass at 8:00 am at Divine
National Champs! Congratulations to the Westchester 13U Raiders Cheerleaders who took First Place at the National Competition in Tampa, Florida! This is history breaking as this is the first time the team has taken First at the National Championship. The Village of Westchester would like to congratulate the entire team on their outstanding achievement!
Infant Jesus Church, 1600 Newcastle Avenue. Come join us. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Student Appreciation Day consisting of an Ice Cream Social and Bingo Party at 12:30 pm. for students at Divine Infant Jesus School, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Westchester Public Schools Half Day Inservice (see schedule for dismissal times). No A.M. Early Childhood / Pre-K, Kindergarten Table Grace, Divine Providence and Grace Lutheran Churches, 11:30 AM at Divine Providence Ministry Center, 2540 Mayfair Tai Chi Class, 4:30 PM, Divine Providence Church Narthex Adult Bible Study/Pray Meeting at
7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. org BAR-W (Grades 1ST-6TH) & AMBASSADORS (Grades 7th–12th) at 6:45 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch. org
pm in Church at 1600 Newcastle Avenue. For more information, contact the Sr. Susan Majcen at 708-865-8086. Reformer’s Unanimous – RU at 7:00 PM at Westchester Bible Church, 10600 W. Cermak Rd., Westchester, IL 60154 www.westchesterbiblechurch.org
Tuesday, February 4
Eucharist Meeting for Parents of 2nd graders at 7:00 pm. at Divine Infant Thursday, January 30 Jesus, 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For Pep Rally in the Gym at 12:30 more information, contact the Sr. Susan pm with a “Knockout Contest” to Majcen at 708-865-8086. follow at Divine Infant Jesus School, Divine Infant Jesus School Advisory 1640 Newcastle Avenue. For more Board Meeting at 7:00 pm at the information, contact the school office Rectory, 1601 Newcastle Avenue. For at 865-0122 more information, contact the school office at 865-0122. Friday, January 31 Board of Education Committee of the Divine Infant Jesus 2nd graders will Whole at WMS at 6:30 PM have their First Reconciliation at 7:00
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Trust me, we have better things to do but I am not a fan of passing ordinances that we have no intention of enforcing. Don’t be surprised if you receive a ticket for violating this ordinance. Placing the cans in the street is also against the code. Especially during the winter snow months when plowing is occurring. The plows are unable to clear curb to curb with the cans in the way. Removing an extra 4 foot area on the parkway behind the curb line or putting the cans at the end of the driveway also behind the curb line will make their job just a little bit easier. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
NEW LAWS FOR 2014 New laws taking effect in Illinois effective January 1,touch on a variety of issues ranging from cigarette litterbugs to breast cancer detection and from younger voters to elder abuse. CIGARETTE LITTERING FINESThose who toss cigarette butts out of car windows could pay a steep price under a new law taking effect in January. Residents caught flicking cigarette butts from car windows or onto the ground may be fined as much as $1,500 under the new law, which adds cigarette butts to the long list of items categorized as “litter,” such as garbage, grass clippings, construction materials,and others.An environmental study by Keep America Beautiful in 2009 showed cigarette butts were the single “most littered item” in populated areas. According to the study, about 57 percent of smokers throw butts on the ground outdoors, while just 43 percent dispose of them properly. YOUNGER VOTERS-When voters go to the polls this March to cast their ballots in the 2014 primary elections, 17-year-olds who will be eligible to vote by the November general election will be allowed to cast their votes as well. The law allows a 17-year-old who will be 18 years old by the general election to vote in the preceding primary election. It gives young voters an opportunity to get more engaged in the political process by giving them the chance to help choose the candidates in the primary that they choose from in the general election. Illinois will join 18 other states that allow 17-year-olds to vote in primaries. ELDER ABUSE-Last spring, Illinois lawmakers decided to target elder abuse by prohibiting individuals with a history of violence against those least able to protect themselves from acting as the guardian of an elderly person or their estate. Currently, an individual who has been convicted of a felony
President Pulia and Westchester Chamber of Commerce members supporting the new State Farm Agent Ms. Simmons at the ribbon cutting ceremony on December 13th.
that involved harming or threatening to harm an elderly person cannot be appointed an elder guardian. The new law extends those protections and,as of January 1st, will prohibit any individual convicted of felony harm or threat to a minor from assuming the role of an elderly guardian. This prohibition also includes those convicted of a felony sexual offense against a minor. WOMENS HEALTH-State Representative Barbara Wheeler, R-Crystal Lake, led an effort to pass a new law to protect women who may have hard-to-detect breast cancer. Wheeler said the diagnosis and death of her sister-in-law directly led to her leadership on the legislation, which was recently signed to law.Women with dense breast tissue are four to six times more likely to develop breast cancer, yet mammograms have a hard time detecting cancer in this type of tissue. In response, Wheeler passed Senate Bill 2314, which will require doctors to explain, in layman’s terms, the meaning and consequences of “dense breast tissue”.“This is a growing concern for women. Early detection is the most effective way to survive breast cancer, yet doctors do not have clear standards to explain what ‘dense breast tissue’ is,” said Wheeler. “We need to be giving women every tool to save their lives from this awful disease.” She said there are many reasons why doctors are not currently explaining this common, yet risk-filled problem. The most effective way to detect breast cancer in dense
tissue is through an MRI or ultrasound, which can add significant cost to cancer screening. These tests are typically reserved for a woman with a high risk of breast cancer, which can cause a sense of fear among those who are recommended to have additional testing. Regardless, Wheeler believes lifesaving information trumps the potential fear and cost.“My bill simply requires doctors to explain to women the risks and consequences of dense tissue,leaving the option of further tests up to the patient,” said Wheeler. “The more information women have about their potential risks, the better chances they have at lifesaving treatment.” WOMEN VETERANS-Wheeler also sponsored legislation aimed at improving services provided for Illinois women exiting the military. It was signed to law by Governor Pat Quinn before a large crowd at this year’s Illinois State Fair. “Every day, women veterans are leaving the armed forces to re-enter civilian life, and up until this point many of our veteran services are targeted toward men,” Wheeler said. “This law will now identify what our veteran women need in terms of support and create a legislative agenda to address these deficiencies.” The law focuses on issues such as future employment, level of compensation, access to rehabilitation, health care, and other issues facing women leaving the armed services. Recommendations are to be put forward in the task force’s annual report for 2014.
DOG FIGHTING EDUCATIONAnother law taking effect on Jan. 1 is a continuation of efforts to combat animal fighting in Illinois, specifically dog fighting. The new law establishes a training program focused on animal fighting awareness for law enforcement officers. The aim of this law is to help police identify animal fighting operations and instruct them on how to respond to situations involving abuse and neglect. This would include being better equipped to manage aggressive canine behavior and non-lethal ways to subdue the animal. The Illinois Law Enforcement Training Standards Board is currently working with animal welfare groups to create the training program. The new law builds upon a recently enacted law from 2012 which makes it easier to prosecute leaders of dog-fighting networks under the Illinois anti-racketeering laws originally passed to fight organized crime. HUMAN TRAFFICKING-Attorney General Lisa Madigan has applauded a new law to assist victims of human trafficking who have been “branded”. Criminal offenders who engage in human trafficking subject their victims to horrific abuse, according to law enforcement authorities. There has been an increase of incidents, in which these offenders forcibly tattoo, or brand, their victims, so the tattoo can serve as a sign of ownership. The legislation, sponsored by Senator
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William Delgado and crafted in conjunction with Madigan’s office, will allow victims of human trafficking who have been branded by their trafficker to be reimbursed out of the Illinois Crime Victims Compensation Fund for the cost of removing the tattoo. “Human trafficking victims are subjected to horrific physical and psychological abuse,” Madigan said. “Providing assistance that allows them to eliminate the physical reminders of their enslavement is vital to helping these individuals recover and rebuild their lives.” The bill will add branding to the list of expenses for which a crime victim may be compensated under the Illinois Crime Victims Compensation Act. It requires the victim seek removal of the tattoo with an authorized or licensed tattoo remover. TRAFFIC-Two new laws initiated this year by Secretary of State Jesse White will strengthen the state’s Graduated Driver Licensing program and further restrict violations that qualify for the issuance of court supervision. Legislation that prohibits the issuance of a driver’s license to a driver under 18 who has an unresolved traffic citation will become law January 1st. The new law also allows White’s office to cancel a graduated driver’s license if it is determined that the minor had an unresolved violation at the time of issuance. Under current law, a new license applicant is not required to report any pending traffic citations. “One of my top priorities as Secretary of State has been to continually strengthen our state’s heralded Graduated Driver Licensing program,” White said.“Since we implemented one of the nation’s most comprehensive GDL laws in the nation in 2008, teen driving fatalities have dropped by 60 percent. But even the best programs can be made better, and this legislation will help strengthen our state’s GDL program, and hopefully save even more lives.” The measure is named Kelsey’s Law in honor of Kelsey Little who in 2011 was seriously injured in an automobile crash by a young driver operating on a learner’s permit.The driver was issued a traffic citation for the incident, of which the Secretary of State’s office was unaware due to the lack of a reporting requirement. Three days later the teen driver applied for and was issued a driver’s license. A second new traffic law will ensure that drivers involved in fatal crashes are ineligible for court supervision unless they have maintained a clean driving history. The legislation, named Patricia’s Law, in honor of Patricia
Rob Flanner of Tetra Tech presents to a packed room at the Multi Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation meeting hosted at the Village of Westchester on December 12th
McNamara, who was killed in an automobile crash in which the driver received court supervision, originated from White’s Advisory Committee on Traffic Safety, which unanimously supported the measure at a meeting in September 2012.“Since I took office in 1999, I have continually worked to improve traffic safety laws, particularly those laws involving court supervision,” White said. “This is an important next step, and one that makes sense.” Over the last decade, White’s office has initiated legislation to limit the issuance of court supervision and to establish a central database to help judges and court personnel better track the dispositions of court supervision from county to county across the state. CELL PHONE USE-On August 16, 2013, Governor Quinn signed two new distracted driving laws attempting to make Illinois roads safer for drivers. Eleven other states have banned the use of hand-held devices while driving including; California, Connecticut, Delaware, D.C., Hawaii, Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Washington, West Virginia. Effective January 1, 2014, Illinois will become the twelfth state to ban the use of all hand-held mobile devices while driving. In addition, effective January 1, 2014, drivers who cause an accident while using an electronic device may be sentenced to jail time. Currently drivers who cause an accident while using such a device are only subject to traffic violations. Thirty-seven states and the District of Columbia ban all cell phone use for novice drivers, or those under the age of eighteen. In Illinois, drivers under the age of nineteen are banned from all cell phone use while
behind the wheel. Make sure your children are complying with this law when they’re behind the wheel.
PROVISO TOWNSHIP SCHOOLS COMMUNITY LEADERS BANQUET On Wednesday, December 3rd, I, along with Village Manager Janet Matthys, and Village Trustee Celestine Reda, attended an event at the Proviso Math and Science Academy to District 209’s State of the District Community Leaders Banquet in Forest Park. Superintendent Dr. Nettie CollinsHart brought together community leaders and supporters of education in Proviso Township to acknowledge the achievements of Proviso West H.S., Proviso East H.S., and Proviso Math and Science Academy. Although the weather impacted attendance,we broke into small groups led by administrative staff to discuss issues and brainstorm positive improvements that could be made. Staff recognized that test scores needed vast improvement. Most of the discussion surrounded the need for more parental involvement, and the unacceptable chronic truancy rate that the district is facing. The documents presented contained graphed data for Proviso East, West, and blended with the scores of PMSA. PROVISO TOWNSHIP 209 ACHIEVEMENTS ‘’PROVISO RISING’’ At Proviso East, 73 percent of the Class of 2013 graduated, up by nearly 16 percent from 2012.At Proviso West, 77 percent of its seniors graduated, up by 8 percent from the previous year, while 100 percent of the seniors at PMSA graduated. Proviso East and Proviso West have continued to see their graduation rates increase since state officials changed the way it
reported graduation rates in 2011. The number of students taking Advanced Placement, Honors, or Dual Enrollment classes is up 15 percent at Proviso West High School and 29 percent at Proviso East High School, with the number of courses in these areas also increasing. On both the English Language Arts and Mathematics Benchmark Assessment, the average percentage correct and the percentage of students scoring above the 60th percentile is higher than last year in nearly instance through building or class. The total monetary amounts of scholarships and grant offers totaled nearly $20 million and are up at all three schools: 57 percent at Proviso West, 34 percent at Proviso East, and 10 percent at PMSA. The number of students receiving scholarships and grant offers is up at all three schools: 33 percent at Proviso East, 90 percent at Proviso West, and 147 percent at PMSA. The percentage of students who showed improvements between the eighth and ninth grade Explore tests rose from 19 percent to 49 percent this year. Proviso East High School boosted the percentage of students who met or exceeded state standards on the reading portion of the state tests by 10 percentage points from 2012, the school’s highest rate since 2007. Proviso West High School juniors raised the percentage of students who met or exceeded state standards on the reading portion of the state tests by 5 percentage points, as well as seeing a slight increase in the percentage of
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students who met or exceeded state standards on the math portion of the test. Proviso East also saw the percentage of its students who took the test jump by 7.6 percent to 94 percent, while Proviso Math and Science Academy again had 100 percent of its juniors take the exams. The state requires schools have 95 percent participation for AYP. Almost 500 parents participated in Bring Your Parents to School Day on October 1, 2013. PTHS 209 added several new administrators. They include Mrs. Kim Echols, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction; Dr. Bessie Karvelas, Principal at PMSA; Mr. Oscar Hawthorne, Principal at Proviso West; Mr. Calvin Davis, Proviso West Assistant Principal for Athletics and Activities; Mr. Joseph Kosina, Proviso West Assistant Principal for Educational Services; Mrs. Vanessa Schmitt, Director of Special Programs and Special Education; Mr. Todd Drafall, Business Manager/Chief Financial Officer; and Mr. Dan Johnson, Administrator for Special Projects. The District held a successful Freshman Transition program at all three schools, with 585 students in attendance on August 12 and 13. More than 120 people attended the District’s first Parent University on August 10. Another Parent University will take place on Saturday, February 1, 2014. 120 students at Proviso East and Proviso West were inducted into the National Honor Society during the 2012-13 school year. The Society of Women Engineers and the American Association of Physics Teachers honored 30 students from across the District for outstanding math and science achievement. Proviso West: Proviso West High School celebrated the grand opening of its new schoolbased health clinic with Circle Family Health Care on October 9. Proviso West students Chantine Adams, a senior, and Shavona Brown, a junior, won first place at the Des Plaines Valley Region Culinary CookOff at Triton College in May. It was the second straight year a team from Proviso West won the competition. Proviso West students Joseph Lazenby, Jerluane Jenkins, and Divontae Buchanan took part in the Goodman Theatre SummerYouth Program during the summer of 2013. Proviso West graduating senior Ashlee Wright won fourth place for her art work at the 33rd annual 7th Congressional District Danny K. Davis
High School Art Competition at the United Center in May. The Proviso West NJROTC was named a Distinguished Unit in 2012 and received Unit Achievement recognition in 2013. Proviso Math and Science Academy: About 450 students displayed and presented the processes and the end results of research projects that covered a broad range of subjects at the sixth annual PMSA Research Symposium on Monday, May 13, at PMSA. Sterling Brown, a PMSA graduating senior and member of the Proviso East basketball team, was named to the Chicago Sun-Times’ All-Area Boys’ Basketball Team and the Chicago Tribune’s All-State Third Team. PMSA had perfect attendance as all 591 freshmen,sophomores,and juniors took their standardized exams on All School Testing Day on October 16th. PMSA students Kiya Riley and Meagan Hughes spent their summer working on a biomedical internship at the Hektoen Institute of Medicine at Stroger Hospital. Proviso East: Proviso East science teacher Ed Beidas has been nominated for an Golden Apple for Excellence in Teaching Award, the second straight year he has been nominated. Proviso East science teacher and baseball coach Glenn Lid was named to the Illinois High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. He also was featured as a top teacher in the book, “American Teacher: Hero in the Classroom.” About 650 Proviso East students participated in the school’s second annual Service Learning Day on May 9th. The Proviso East boys’ basketball team finished fourth in the state for the 2012-13 season. On October 19th, the Proviso East Marching Band won first place for show bands in Class 3A at the Rich Central High School Marching Band Competition in Olympia Fields. The band also was awarded first place for best horn line and best percussion in Class 3A, and second place overall in percussion. On October 12th, the East marching band placed third out of 15 competing marching bands at the Circle City Classic in Indianapolis. Proviso East had won first place in the contest when it competed in 2012. As a reward for its first place finish last year, the marching band also performed a complete field show at Lucas Oil Stadium as part of the pregame festivities of the annual college football game that this year featured Grambling State University and Alcorn State University. 28 Proviso East NJROTC cadets received exemplary appearance ribbons at their annual inspection in March.
CITIZENS ADVISORY BOARD Last October, I was approached by our Citizen’s Advisory Committee and asked to speak about Westchester’s unsuccessful attempt to create our own Unit School District having a K-12 grade school back in 1997. The CAB members had been approached by a parent group wishing to re-visit the topic due to their dissatisfaction with School District 209. I explained what the committee of 10 had done and the decision by the State Superintendent of School not to allow Westchester to create a Unit District. Coincidently, I received an email of a recent article from the Forest Park Review outlying the steps Westchester School District 92.5 actually tried back in 1997 that was NOT approved after a hearing before the Regional Superintendent of Schools, and an appeal to the State Superintendent. The article, based on correspondence from an attorney representing the Forest Park Elementary School District 91, written by the editor Jean Lotus appeared as an informational piece on November 12, 2013. The article can be found below. The information is being offered to answer questions regarding the topic only. [As the Village of Forest Park updates its comprehensive plan, the curious relationship between the village and Proviso Township High School District 209 is once again being examined. Mayor Anthony Calderone described the district as “ridiculously underperforming” at an October comprehensive plan workshop. “Despite the fact that we had a ridiculously underperforming high school, until the crash, our real estate kept pace with our neighbors in Oak Park and River Forest,” Calderone said.
municipality must take to alter a school district’s boundaries. D91 Superintendent Lou Cavallo requested the reports, saying they were for informational purposes only. He said the information would not be presented to the D91 school board but was of interest to the community. “No recommendation is being made by me or by District 91 regarding these options,” Cavallo said in a memo. D91 lawyers from Scariano, Himes and Petrarca in Chicago investigated two options.The first was how a district can withdraw from another district and develop its own K-12 or “unit” district. In this hypothetical instance, a Forest Park-only high school would be created as part of D91. The second report explains the procedure for a municipality detaching from one school district and annexing withaneighboring(contiguous)district. The report said possible annexing districts for Forest Park would include Oak Park and River Forest High School (District 200), Morton High School (District 201) or Riverside-Brookfield High School (District 208). “Either option, if successful, would compel a higher tax rate for the citizens of Forest Park,” Cavallo cautioned. Creating a ‘Unit District’ What are the steps involved with creating a K-12 Forest Park school district (called a “unit district”)?
Step 1: Petition for referendum. According to Illinois school code, a petition to put the issue of detaching from a larger school district to a voter “Quality education is a priority for referendum must be filed with the every Forest Parker,” added Calderone, local regional office of education. who attended Proviso East High School. Since the Cook County regional office At the same workshop, Commissioner was closed in November 2009, the Mark Hosty said a goal of the plan petition would have to be filed with should be to “find a way out of Proviso.” the West Suburban Cook Intermediate Hosty, a Realtor, said perceptions of the Service Center. At least 50 voters from high school were making it harder to west suburban Cook County would sell housing in Forest Park, keeping the be required to sign the petition. The housing values low in the village. petition could also be brought by the school boards of D91 and Proviso The issue of changing high school Township D209. The petition can also district boundaries was researched in — but does not have to — include 2001, Calderone said, with the village candidates for school board of the new paying a consultant $70,000 to look district and bond issuance for the new into whether it was feasible or even district. possible. Since then, the Illinois State Board of Education has changed the The petition must state the maximum rules on modifying a school district tax rates for the new district and boundary. how assets and liabilities from D209 would be allocated. Ten petitioners Last week, attorneys for Forest must be named who would serve as Park Elementary School District 91 representatives of the petitioners. presented two reports outlining See PRESIDENT, page 17 the legal and procedural steps a
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lawyers is that detaching students have a “community of interest” in common 2) If more than 8 percent of D209’s with the potential annexing school. Continued from page 16 enrollment comes from Forest Park, Petitioners must show that“non-school (212 students, or 4 percent according activities” such as Girl/Boy Scouts, to November 2012 district numbers). sports teams, music lessons, church Step 2: Notice published. If the services, etc., put students from Forest petition is correctly submitted, the 3) If more than 8 percent of D 209’s Park in social settings with students West Suburban Service Center must equalized assessed valuation (EAV) at the potential annexing school. publish a notice in a newspaper for comes from Forest Park. Forest Park Petitioners must show that activities or three consecutive weeks that the contributes 15 percent of the total EAV interests of Forest Park students are not petition has been filed and note the to D209, Cavallo said. available locally because of the school date of a hearing. Joining another district Forest Park students must attend (i.e. D209). Petitioners need to show that Step 3: Hearing. The West Suburban What is the process by which Forest Park students would participate Service Center would conduct a Forest Park could detach from D209 in those activities with the annexinghearing within 15 days of when the and become annexed by another school students if they attend the last newspaper notice was published. contiguous district? annexing district. The petition representatives would present the following information at D91’s lawyers said the entire Step 3: Appeal of decision. If either the hearing: Maps of proposed new detachment process from gathering the Proviso School Trustees or the district boundaries, evidence of school petitions to getting a decision to a annexing school board denies the needs and conditions and the ability of possible appeal with the Cook County decision, it can be appealed by any the proposed unit district to meet state Circuit Court takes approximately two resident of Forest Park who appears certification standards. years. at the hearing, any petitioner, or the boards of education of D209 or the The group must also present a Step 1: Petition for detachment/ potential annexing district. proposal to divvy up funds and assets annextion.The petition would have to of the detached district (D209) and be signed by Appeals can be filed with the Cook the maximum tax rates the proposed County Circuit Court. If that appeal is district would be authorized to levy. a) a majority of voters in D200 and denied, an appeal can be made to the D209 – which is unlikely, or appellate court, which might add a Any resident can testify at the year and a half to the timeline, D91’s hearing. b) a petition could be signed by two- lawyers said.] thirds of the registered voters of Forest The West Suburban Service Center Park. The petition would have to be MY COMMENTARY As you can see, the process can be would consider the following in filed with the Proviso Board of Trustees making a ruling to create a unit district: and the annexing high school district quite arduous, costly, and at the end The best interests of the schools of — for example the Oak Park and River of the day may not be successful. the area, school needs, conditions of Forest High School D200 school board. The advice I gave to the CAB was to affected schools, division of funds and Again, 10 petitioners would represent get together with other like minded parents from across the District and assets and how that will affect the the class of petitioners. attend the Proviso Township Board education welfare of pupils of both districts. A decision would be made Step 2: Grounds for granting petition. Meetings and request answers to your within 14 days of the hearing. The standard for granting a petition questions and concerns. Westchester is whether the overall benefit to the is represented by two board members, Step 4: State superintendent approval. annexing district and the territory will Brian Cross and Kevin McDermot, The state superintendent must either outweigh the detriment to the existing who certainly want the best for all approve or deny the petition within 21 district (in this case, D209). According students regardless of where they Westchester’s property tax days. He/she must state the basis for a to the school lawyers, typically the live. denial in writing. detaching district argues it will be contribution to Proviso District 209 is harmed by loss of revenue from the quite substantial. As reported above the Step 5: Appeal process. The school detaching territory. This argument good things coming out of the district boards of D209, D91 or any petitioner carries weight, the lawyers said, if can continue but it will take support or any resident who appeared at the loss of Forest Park revenue was and effort from all of the stakeholders the hearing may appeal the state significant in the total D209 tax levy. to make it happen. superintendent’s decision within 35 Also, the withdrawn-from district (209) COOK COUNTY HAZARD MITIGATION calendar days to the Circuit Court of must be levying at its maximum rate. PLAN Cook County.The filing of a complaint The Cook County Hazard Mitigation will halt the proceedings to form a unit According to the report, the biggest district until the appeal is resolved. argument for detachment hearings is Steering Committee hosted three thatthestudentswillreceiveeducational community meetings in Cook County Step 6: Referendum. If the petition benefits from attending the annexing during the week of December 9th. is granted, a referendum may be held. school district currently unavailable Meetings were held in the Village A referendum may be approved if the to them. Traditionally, petitioning of Homewood, Northbrook, and majority of the registered voters from territories often compare state test Westchester. All of the meetings were Forest Park approve it. However, three scores as evidence. The D91 lawyers well attended but, if I may brag a bit, factors would extend the referendum warned that unless the detaching Westchester had the most attendees. to a majority of registered voters for all and annexing school populations are The Steering Committee, of which I am of D209: demographically similar, it is hard to the Chairman, with the help of Mayor Sandy Flum from Northbrook, has make that argument. developed goals and mission statements 1) If Forest Park (2.4 square miles) is at least 25 percent of the total land The third argument presented by to be used in the most comprehensive
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multi-jurisdictional plan in the United States. Mr. Rob Flanner from TetraTech, the consultant hired by the Cook County Board, presented the plans objectives encompassing not only floods, but earthquakes, tornados, extreme weather, and other natural hazards. Many municipal officials from around the county representing 115 municipalities and townships were in attendance as well as members of the public. The plan will encompass two sections: one section will deal with the global plan affecting the entire region, and the second will be separate annexes with each municipality’s plan attached. Planning partners will be getting together in late January 2014 to complete their municipal annexes.
HOLIDAY PARTY AND TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY I would be remiss not to compliment the special committee who put together our Holiday Christmas Tree Lighting at the Westchester Park District. The event on Wednesday and Thursday December 4th and 5th was well attended. Maria Gamino from the Westchester Chamber of Commerce needs to have special recognition for getting the 18 decorated trees sponsored by the Westchester businesses and clubs. I certainly want this to become an annual feature at the event and see the number of sponsored trees lining the path increase next year. My goal is to rival the tree display at the Brookfield Zoo. I know we can do it. The Westchester Park District sponsored a train ride and tractor ride which were equally a hit with all of the children. The Village sponsored the horse drawn sleigh ride to Mrs. Claus’ kitchen. The addition of having Santa in the gymnasium and Mrs. Claus along the decorated path this year was just wonderful. To get them both here I had to go through my wish list I sent to the North Pole and give up one of my wishes. I guess I’m not going to get the new 2014 Z06 Corvette Stingray I asked for. Oh, well!
PERSON OF THE YEAR This year, the Village Board selected Mr. Carl Celestino as the Village of Westchester’s Person of the Year. The announcement was made at the Westchester Chamber of Commerce Christmas Luncheon. Carl is an extraordinary volunteer who has dedicated many hours of time and sweat equity maintaining the Westchester Blvd. gardens and the Westchester electronic recycling events throughout the year as Chairperson of the Environmental Sustainability Committee. The Village Board was unanimous in its selection of Carl. At the luncheon, Carl’s mother,
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father, and wife Tracy as well as former Westchester Trustee Gene Belmonte, a family friend, were present to hear and support the announcement. We thank Carl for his dedication to the Village of Westchester and congratulate him on his nomination.
ANNUAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CELEBRATE WESTCHESTER EVENT Please mark your calendar for the Westchester Chamber of Commerce “Celebrate Westchester” event to be held Saturday, January 25, 2014 at 6:00 pm. The event will again be held at the Alpine Banquet Haus located at Roosevelt and Wolf Road. The event will feature presentation of the Person of the Year Awards as well as the recognition of the newly elected Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. This annual event is a chance for officials from all of the governmental agencies, our business community, and the public who supports these groups, to get together and enjoy each other’s company as we embark on what we hope to be another productive year for the village. Registration required and tickets are $65 per person. Log on to www.WestchesterChamber.org or contact Mary (708) 240-8400 for more information.
WESTCHESTER WELCOMES NEW BUSINESS On Friday, December 13th, I, along with members of the Chamber of Commerce, met at 1933 S. Mannheim Road to welcome one of the newest businesses to Westchester. A ribbon cutting was held to welcome the new State Farm Office at that location. The bright red awning and festive decorative windows certainly attract your eye to this new business location. Ms. Simmons is the manager of the office and she and her staff are ready to assist you with all the insurance needs you may have. Please stop in and say hello, and welcome the new business.
MARIANO’S COMING TO WESTCHESTER In mid December, I, along with Village Manager Janet Matthys, received a phone call from Bob Mariano who told us that the Mariano’s Supermarket was coming to Westchester. He indicated he was in negotiations with Regency Partners, the owner of the 31st and Wolf Road Plaza where the Dominick’s grocery store is currently located. Mr. Mariano stated his Milwaukee based Roundys’ Company is in the process of purchasing 11 of the Dominick’s stores in the Chicagoland area and that the Westchester store was one
of them. I thanked Mr. Mariano for selecting Westchester as I believed that Westchester could be a prime market for area shoppers who have been traveling to Elmhurst to frequent his store. The Village will be meeting with representatives from Regency to determine the scope, timeline and incentives available to secure the Mariano’s store at the location.
SMART METERS COMING TO WESTCHESTER I have received information not only at my home but officially from ComEd that Smart Meters are going to be installed in Westchester early this year. Within the next 45 days, ComEd will be upgrading the existing meter at your home with a new smart meter. A smart meter will give you access to more information on your home’s electricity use. You will be able to see how much energy you use and make changes that can save you money on your monthly electric bills. What to expect during installation • You will not need to be home if we can access the meter. • One week prior to meter installation, we will call you at <phone# on file> to let you know when your home is scheduled for installation. If this is not the correct number, please call ComEd immediately at 866-368-8326. • Installations will take place between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. A uniformed ComEd meter installer with appropriate identification will attempt to knock on your door when we arrive at your home and the installation will occur at no cost to you. • During the week of your scheduled installation, please make sure there is nothing blocking access to the meter, such as locked gates,locked doors,dogs or lawn furniture. If you normally have to be present to allow a meter reader access to the meter at your home, you will need to be home to allow the installer access to the meter. – Based on past experience, installation will take about 10 minutes. – Expect a brief interruption to your electric service. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. • If we cannot access the meter, we will contact you to schedule an appointment. If you operate life support medical equipment at this address or have questions regarding the new electric meter installation, please call ComEd at 866-368-8326. P.S. We have attached Frequently Asked Questions to help address your immediate questions. For additional information, visit ComEd.com/ SmartMeter or call 866-368-8326. What is a smart meter?
A smart meter is a digital electric meter that collects energy-usage information and securely sends it to ComEd. This helps eliminate estimated bills. Smart meters are important building blocks of the smart grid. With a smart meter, you can see how much energy you use so you can make changes that can save you money on your monthly electric bills. What is a smart grid? In the same way that today’s smart phone technology merged the power of computers with cellular phones, smart grid technology merges the power of computers with the electric grid. “The grid” is the electric infrastructure – made up of poles, wires and substations – that provides your electricity. Why is ComEd upgrading the electric grid? Technology has transformed our way of life, but the nation’s electric grid hasn’t kept up with this transformation. With a smart grid,you can expect fewer and shorter outages because ComEd can better monitor the electric grid and respond to potential problems and interruptions.These are known as operational efficiencies which result in lower costs that are passed on to all customers. How will smart meters benefit me? You can securely access more information on your electricity use through the Internet, and then develop smarter energy habits to better manage your monthly electric bills. Smart meters also will provide access to optional pricing programs that help you save money when you voluntarily shift electricity use to times when it costs less to produce. Where will the smart meter be installed? ComEd will install the smart meter in the same location of the existing meter. What do I need to do? Please make sure there is nothing blocking access to the meter, such as locked gates, locked doors, dogs or lawn furniture. • As long as ComEd can safely access the meter at your home,you don’t need to be home at the time of installation. • If you normally have to be present to allow a meter reader access to the meter at your home, you will need to be home to allow the installer access to the meter. What will it cost and who’s paying for this? The cost to each ComEd customer for all smart grid improvements is about $3 per month. In addition to the reduction in ComEd’s operational costs that we pass on to our customers, you can more than offset the increase by taking advantage of online energymanagement tips and participating in optional pricing programs that will be
available through ComEd. Do smart meters keep energy usage data secure? Yes. ComEd uses state-of-the-art cryptographic technologies, similar to those used by international banks and the U.S. Department of Defense to protect against hackers seeking access to its customers’ personal information. ComEd encrypts all customer-related, energy-use data transmitted by its smart meters using methods similar to those used for online banking and ATMs. Where can I find additional information? Visit ComEd.com/SmartMeter or call 866-368-8326.
MARTIN LUTHER KING HOLIDAY On Monday January 20 2014 we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. The Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. is an American federal holiday marking the birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr. It is observed on the third Monday of January each year, which is around the time of King’s birthday, January 15.The floating holiday is similar to holidays set under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, though the act predated the establishment of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day by 15 years. King was the chief spokesman for nonviolent activism in the civil rights movement, which successfully protested racial discrimination in federal and state law.The campaign for a federal holiday in King’s honor began soon after his assassination in 1968. President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law in 1983, and it was first observed three years later.At first, some states resisted observing the holiday as such, giving it alternative names or combining it with other holidays. It was officially observed in all 50 states for the first time in 2000.
FROM THE BOARD 12-10-13 Consent Agenda. The Board approved the following items: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 12-6-2013 in the amount not to exceed $ 1,357,669.47. Approval of Monthly Department Reports for November 2013 including, Public Works Department, Fire Department, Police Department, and Community Development. Approval of Minutes : Minutes of the October 22, 2013 Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes of the November 12, 2013 Village Board Meeting Minutes of the November 12, 2013 Committee of the Whole Meeting Ordinance Providing for the Levy, Assessment, and Collection of Taxes for the Fiscal Year Beginning May 1, 2013 and Ending April 30, 2013 for the
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Boy Scout Food Drive
Troop 73 Scouts Patrick Gundry & Alex Majors unload donations.
Pack 73 Cub Scout Alex Wutzke and dad, Greg unload collected donations. On Saturday, Nov. 23, Boy Scout Troop 73 and Cub Scout Pack 73, both chartered by Westchester Community Church, held their annual Scouting for Food Drive. More than 50 Westchester youths from Troop 73, Pack 73, Boy Scout Troop 1, Girl Scout Troops 51518, 20685, 51815 and the Indian Guides canvassed the village to collect donations of nonperishable food from village residences. In existence for more than 25 years, the drive supports food pantries at the Village Hall, Divine Infant Parish and St John’s Church in Chicago. Troop 73 and Pack 73 would like to extend a thank you to village residents who donated items for the drive. Also, Troop 73 held its first Rake-a-thon fundraiser in October. Boy scouts raked leaves at 20 Westchester homes.Thank you to those residents who used the boys’ services.
West Suburban Senior Services Counseling Programs January is often a time of reflection, resolutions, changes, and fresh starts. It can also be a time of loneliness, isolation and depression.The holidays are over and we still have a few more months of cold, snowy weather ahead. Whether you view January as new beginnings or a difficult time, know that the West Suburban Senior Services counseling program is available. If you have been thinking about having someone to talk with
or receiving extra support with concerns, know that West Suburban Senior Services offers free counseling to Proviso residents age 60 and over. As a reminder, we are also starting two groups in January. We will be offering a grief group the first and third Thursdays and a friendship group the second and third Thursdays. Both of these groups will begin at 1pm in our Bellwood location. For more details about these programs, please call Janet at 708-234-1817.
Thanks to blood donors, volunteers As we begin a new year, we want to thank the hundreds of donors who gave whole blood or red cells – the Gifts of Life -- at the six community drives we sponsored during 2013. Once again, the Westchester Blood Program reached its annual goal of 500 units (pints) for Chicago area hospitals. And, for the 10th consecutive year, we were honored by LifeSource Blood Services as the most productive community donor organization in northeastern Illinois. In 2013, we collected more than enough blood to serve the needs of 1,500 patients. Since our founding in 1974, we have garnered nearly 25,000 units. Next summer, we will celebrate the 40th birthday of the WBP.
Our loyal, generous donors come from across the western suburbs – from Berwyn and Brookfield to Elgin and Lemont -- to take part in our drives. They deserve our thanks, as well as the thanks of the many patients whose lives were saved or sustained. A special word of gratitude goes to the many Westchester citizens who took part, either as donors or volunteers. We could not have been so successful without the time and energy they contribute. Finally: Our first drive of the new year will be on Saturday, Jan. 18, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Divine Providence School, 2500 Mayfair.
Westchester Baseball Registration is now open for boys and girls ages 5-18 to participate in one of Westchester’s many youth baseball leagues and travel teams. On-line registration can be found at www. westchesterbaseballinc.com. All on-line registrants signed up before January 17, 2014 will be entered into a raffle for one free registration for the 2014 season. If registering in person, official registration will be held on Friday, January 17, 2014 from 6:00 – 9:30 at the Westchester Park District Community Center, 10201 Bond St., Westchester, IL 60154. A proud member of the Westchester
community, Westchester Baseball Inc., was organized on April 2, 1957. Now celebrating its 56th year of continual service to the community of Westchester, WBI hails as one of the most successful and established programs in theVillage ofWestchester. Recently, WBI has opened its outstanding program to residents of surrounding communities. While supporting an inclusive in-house program and a robust part-time travel program, WBI remains driven to service our residents by teaching and promoting our national pastime. For more information, visit www. westchesterbaseballinc.com or call Aaron Airhart at 773-369-1606
Joan Steinhauer, chairman Carl J. Panek, director of donor relations
Westchester Baseball Registration In Now Open
Public Works
Snow Season Has Arrived! The Public Works Department’s snow plan is in effect and plows and spreaders are ready to go on a moment’s notice. Please assist us by observing these suggestions: Place garbage cans and bins behind the curb line- do not place them in the street Observe “ NO PARKING” and “SNOW ROUTE” signs Do not throw or blow snow back into the cleared streets The following parking restrictions WILL be enforced: After a two-inch snowfall and except as otherwise posted, it is unlawful to park any vehicle, or to permit any vehicle to remain parked, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., on odd-numbered sides of the street (south and east sides of streets) on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and on evennumbered sides of the street (north and west sides of the streets) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Odd sides of the street are defined as the south side of east and west streets, and the east side of the north and south streets. Even sides of the street are defined as
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the north side of east and west streets and the west side of north and south streets. Public Works crews work hard to keep the Village streets clear and safe during these long winter months. We need and appreciate your cooperation! Please drive carefully!!!
2014 ParkwayTree Trimming Sinnott Tree Service, the Village tree contractor, will begin parkway tree trimming in February 2014. The north section of town will be trimmed-from Mannheim Road to Gardner Road and from Roosevelt Road north to the Expressway.This tree trimming project will insure public safety and vehicle safety.
whether a replacement tree will be placed in the same or nearby location; tree replacement species will also be determined by the Village forester. In some instances, tree replacement will not occur at all, due to proximity of existing trees in the parkway. Please note that the Ash tree removal and replacement is determined by the Village and not offered to the residents as part the of the 50/50 Parkway Tree Replacement Program. Questions can be directed to the Public Works Department at 708-3450041.
Additional Public Works Information
• Branch pickup and yard waste pickup will resume in April 2014. • The Public Works Department has Ash Tree Removal been filling potholes with cold patch If the parkway tree is marked with throughout the winter months,weather a green dot, it indicates the tree permitting. Please call Public Works at will not be trimmed due to it being 708-345-0041 to report a pothole. scheduled for removal at a later date. • Restoration of parkways that have If the parkway tree is marked with a been damaged by sewer and water pink X, the tree will be removed in excavations and/or snow plow damage the near future. The Village forester will resume next spring, as weather will determine, on a case by case basis, permits.
businesses not renewing their business licenses by January 31st. Ordinance of the Village of Continued from page 18 Westchester Waiving Competitive Bidding and Authorizing the Village of Westchester, Cook County, Execution of an Agreement with Illinois Ordinance Abating the 2013 Alliance Turf Management . The Tax Levy for the $3,500,000 Village Board voted unanimously to continue of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois the relationship with Alliance Turf Taxable General Obligation Bonds Management for grass cutting services (Motor Fuel Tax Alternate Revenue with the same price as prior years. Source), Series 2010A. Submitting Resolution Directing the County payment for the 2010 A bonds due for Clerk to Calculate Separate Limiting the initial street replacement of 2011. Rates for the Tax Levy of the Village Ordinance Abating the 2013 Tax of Westchester for the 2013 Tax Year. Levy for the $1,610,000 Village of This directs the Cook County Clerk Westchester, Cook County, Illinois to establish separate property tax Taxable General Obligation Bonds rate limitations on the Westchester (water and Sewer Alternate Revenue Public Library which is included in the Source),Series 2010B Bonds.Submitting Village’s tax levy ordinance; and the payment for the 2010 bonds for the aggregate of the other Village funds. relining of sewers in the High Ridge Resolution Approving the 2014 Area in 2011. Annual Meeting Schedule of the Ordinance Abating the 2013 Tax Village Board of Trustees.The regularly Levy for the $5,800,000 Village of scheduled 2014 meetings will be Westchester, Cook County, Illinois as follows; January 14, January 28, Taxable General Obligation Bonds February 11, February 25, March 11, (Non-Home Rule Sales Tax Alternate March 25, April 8, April 22, May 13, Revenue Source), Series 2013 Bonds. May 27, June 10, June 24, July 8, July Submitting payment for the 2013 bonds 22, August 12, August 26, September to continue the street replacement 9, September 23, October 14, October project of 2012. 28, November 11, November 25, and Ordinance Amending Section December 9. Unless otherwise posted, 5.04.080, Entitled “Fees”. Of Chapter each meeting will be held in the Village 5.04, Entitled “General Licensing Hall Board Room at 7:00 PM with the and Regulation of Businesses of Committee of the Whole meetings Title 5, Entitled “Business Licenses immediately following. and Regulations,” of the Village Active Agenda of Westchester Municipal Code. Ordinance Amending the Annual Instituting a financial penalty for Budget for the 2014 Fiscal Year in the
Village of Westchester. This ordinance provided for an increase in the police and fire pension contributions based on recent actuarial valuations. Resolution of the Governing Body of the Village of Westchester Authorizing the Execution and Delivery of a Master Equipment Lease-Purchase Agreement with PNC Equipment Finance, LLC, as Lessor, and Separate Lease Schedules thereto for the Acquisition, Purchase, Refinancing, and Leasing of Certain Software within the Terms Herein Provided; Authorizing the Execution and Delivery of Other Documents Required in Connection Therewith; and Authorizing all other Actions Necessary to the Consummation of the Transactions Contemplated by this Resolution. This is the lease for our new village wide software. Resolution Amending Resolution 12-299, “A Resolution Approving and Authorizing the Execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Illinois Office of the Comptroller Regarding Access to Comptroller’s Local Debt Recovery Program.” The village will be sending all of the unpaid debts including water bills, code, and parking type violations to be collected by the State of Illinois. The funds due will be taken through the reduction of Income Tax Refunds as provided by law. Please make sure you do not owe any water type debts or parking violations to the village. We will be sending those items due for the past 7 years to be collected. Please contact the Finance department if you have
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The cold weather has arrived so please make sure the outside water spigots are turned off in the basement during the winter months to prevent pipes from cracking or freezing. Also, consider disconnecting any garden hoses that are left outside. If you are leaving town for warmer weather, please inform the Public Works Department so the crews can shut off the water at the buffalo box while you are away to avoid frozen pipes and potential water damage. Adopt a Fire Hydrant this Winter Season! Help keep the hydrant clear of snow so that the Fire Department can easily access the hydrant in case of an emergency and so that the snow plows can easily identify the hydrants while plowing snow. As always, Village residents are asked to call Public Works at 708-3450041 or the Police non-emergency number (after hours) at 708-3450060 if an unusual amount of water is visible in the street or parkway. This could be a main break or water leak that requires our immediate attention. any questions. Motion Authorizing the Appointment of the Law Firm of Storino, Ramello & Durkin to Serve as Adjudicators on Behalf of the Village of Westchester . Ordinance Amending the Westchester Municipal Code Regarding Parking Fines . This was a clean- up of our existing Handicapped Parking fines of $250.00
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 12-102013 New Business Economic Incentives for Prospective Tenants of the Former Dominick’s Property at 31st/Wolf (Discussion Only) – President Pulia/Trustee Gattuso/Ms. Matthys. The Board began preliminary discussion on incentives that may be considered for the Mariano’s development discussed above. Vactor Truck Replacement/Repair – Mr. Stoiser: Discussed was the request to either replace or continue to repair the used vactor truck we purchased in 2010 used to clean and jet both storm and sanitary sewer connections and for digging where conventional excavation may harm fiber optic cables. Information Only Electric Aggregation Program Report – Ms. Matthys: Presented was a report from NIMEC indicating the savings Westchester residents have received since our partnering with municipal aggregation. The average Westchester household has enjoyed a savings of $197 through the aggregation program.
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