Village of
Westchester JULY 2017 Newsletter
FIRE DEPARTMENT
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PUBLIC WORKS
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Cub Scouts from Pack 1 help in laying a wreath at the Mayfair Park Veteran’s Memorial on May 29, 2017. Many veterans, residents and Village officials were on hand at the Annual Memorial Day Service to honor those who gave their all for our great country.
THE STORY OF THE FOURTH OF JULY
The Declaration of Independence We celebrate American Independence Day on the Fourth of July every year. We think of July 4, 1776, as a day that represents the Declaration of Independence and the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation. But July 4, 1776 wasn’t the day that the Continental Congress decided to declare independence (they did that on July 2, 1776). It wasn’t the day we started the American Revolution either (that had happened back in April 1775). And it wasn’t the day Thomas Jefferson wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence (that was in June 1776). Or the date on which the Declaration was delivered to Great Britain (that didn’t happen until November 1776). Or the date it was signed (that was August 2, 1776). So what did happen on July 4, 1776?
The Continental Congress approved the final wording of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. They’d been working on it for a couple of days after the draft was submitted on July 2nd and finally agreed on all of the edits and changes. July 4, 1776, became the date that was included on the Declaration of Independence, and the fancy handwritten copy that was signed in August (the copy now displayed at the National Archives in Washington, D.C.) It’s also the date that was printed on the Dunlap Broadsides, the original printed copies of the Declaration that were circulated throughout the new nation. So when people thought of the Declaration of Independence, July 4, 1776 was the date they remembered. How did the Fourth of July become a national holiday?
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For the first 15 or 20 years after the Declaration was written, people didn’t celebrate it much on any date. It was too new and too much else was happening in the young nation. By the 1790s, a time of bitter partisan conflicts, the Declaration had become controversial. One party, the Democratic-Republicans, admired Jefferson and the Declaration. But the other party, the Federalists, thought the Declaration was too French and too anti-British, which went against their current policies. By 1817, John Adams complained in a letter that America seemed uninterested in its past. But that would soon change. After the War of 1812, the Federalist party began to come apart and the new parties of the 1820s and 1830s all considered themselves inheritors of Jefferson and the DemocraticRepublicans. Printed copies of the Declaration began to circulate again, all with the date July 4, 1776, listed at the top. The deaths of Thomas Jefferson and John Adams on July 4, 1826, may even have helped to promote the idea of July 4 as an important date to be celebrated. July 4 wasn’t deemed a federal holiday until 1870, nearly 100 years after the nation was founded. Source//www.constitutionfacts. com/us-declaration-ofindependence/fourth-of-july/ Fun Facts About the Fourth of July: Three of the first five U.S. presidents died on July 4. John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died in 1826, the 50th anniversary of the country’s birth. Adams’ last words were “Thomas Jefferson still survives.” James Monroe, the fifth president, died five years later in 1831. The only American president to have been born on the 4th of July is Calvin Coolidge. The 30th president of the United States was born on July 4, 1872 in Plymouth Notch, Vermont. Thomas Jefferson drafted the Declaration of Independence on a “laptop,” which was a writing desk that could fit on one’s lap. The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 men from 13 colonies. Only two people actually signed the Declaration of Independence on July 4: John Hancock and Charles Thomson, secretary of Congress. Most of the others signed on August 2. The only two signers of the Declaration of Independence who later served as President of the United States were John Adams and Thomas Jefferson. The stars on the original American flag were in a circle so all the Colonies
would appear equal. Every 4th of July the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia is tapped (not actually rung) thirteen times in honor of the original thirteen colonies. Congress made Independence day a legal holiday in1941. It is one of only four holiday’s that are celebrated on the same day each year. The others are New Year’s Day, Veteran’s Day and Christmas Day. Barbecue is also big on Independence Day. Americans consume around 155 million hot dogs on the Fourth of July each year. They also spend $92 million on chips, $167.5 million on watermelon, and $341.4 million on beer. Congress first authorized the use of pyrotechnics for celebrating Independence Day in 1777. More than 14,000 fireworks displays go off in the Nation each year on the Fourth of July. The largest is the Macy’s Fourth of July Spectacular which is attended by approximately 2 million people. 75,000 pounds of fireworks go off in the Macy’s show in approximately ½ hour. Sources: http://biography. yourdictionary.com/articles/; h t t p : / / w w w. b u s i n e s s i n s i d e r. com/10-unusual-fourth-ofjuly-facts-2016-7/; http://list25. com/25-fun-facts-about-4th-ofjuly-that-will-make-you-want-tocelebrate/5/.
FOURTH OF JULY PARADE Come out and celebrate the Fourth of July with your friends and neighbors at the annual Fourth of July Parade. The Parade will step off at 9:30AM on Tuesday, July 4th. Lineup for participants begins at 8:30 am along Mayfair from Dorchester to Canterbury. The parade will travel down Dorchester across Mannheim Road where it winds around Balmoral to Canterbury. It will travel east on Canterbury to Newcastle where it will travel south to Bond Street and will end up at the Westchester Park District Community Park. FREE Popsicles and soft drinks will be available at the park.
VILLAGE BLOCK PARTY TO BE HELD JULY 14TH AND 15th On Friday, July 14th from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and again on Saturday, July 15th from 3pm to 10:00pm, we will be hosting our Village Block Party at Community Park. The bands on Friday night will be Shout Out and Infinity, a “Classic to Current: Ultimate Rock Experience”. Infinity is one of the top drawing cover bands in the Midwest. The headliner on Saturday Night will be Lance Lipinsky and the Lovers. Entertainer and songwriter Lance Lipinsky delivers an explosive
pumping piano performance showcasing his influences of the 1950’s and 60s in his original music. He and his Chicago based group “the Lovers,” take on a modern evolution of a timeless throwback style combining such sounds as Rockabilly, classic Country, and 60’s pop in an unforgettable live concert. Lance made his national television debut at the original Ryman Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Tennessee. He currently portrays his hero piano pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis in the Tony Award winning musical Million Dollar Quartet. Other featured bands are West End and Kickin’ Jimmy. There will be a variety of food vendors and activities for the kids. Hope to see you there!
VILLAGE BOARD APPROVES WATER AND SEWER RATE INCREASE Contributed by Robert Lewis, Public Works Director An ordinance amending the village municipal code regarding the water and sewer rates was passed on June 13th. The rate change was recommended by the Public Works Department after an independent analysis of the existing rates. New rates will begin on July 1 of this year. The water rate is moving from $8.35 per 1,000 gallons to $9.02. The Water Infrastructure Fee (IF) is moving from $4 per month to $5. For an average user of 3,000 gallons this is an increase of $3.01 per month. The sewer rate increases from $1.22 to $1.26 with a $1 sewer IF increase. This is an increase of $1.12 per month. These increase amount are estimated at a total annual increase of $49.56 for the average 3,000 gallon per month user (about $50 per year). The main reasons for the necessary rate increase are: 1) increased water cost of water purchased from the City of Chicago, 2) funding of several critical infrastructure renewal projects and 3) increases in personnel costs negotiated in labor union agreements. The facts are that the cost of maintaining our infrastructure are increasing every year. Some additional facts to consider are: A) More than half (55%) of your current water bill is to pay the City of Chicago to get water, B) Labor costs have risen 2.5%, health benefits are up 6%, commodities 4% and construction cost are up 5%, C) 40% of the water & sewer mains are more than 90 years old and are at the end of their useful service life. We need to renew infrastructure before it fails. Planned infrastructure renewal projects include the Sunnyside Sewer relocation at a projected cost of $4 million. This is a 92 year old sewer main that services 33% of the
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village, servicing most homes south of Cermak Road. Another planned project is the rehabilitation of sewer basin 243 at an estimated cost of $1 million which services 12 % of the village bounded by Dorchester to Windsor and Mayfair to Mannheim. The water main along Roosevelt Road needs replacement to continue to serve this business district. The utilities on Balmoral Avenue need replacing to go along with the new roadway; which will be partially funded with a 70% federal grant funded from federal gasoline tax. Several smaller projects are needed to improve fire flow throughout the village. This year the purchase cost of our water from Chicago increased 1.87%. The percentage increase is tied directly to the cost of living adjustment requirement in the Chicago City Council’s ordinance, and was passed on to the Village of Westchester and other customers by the Broadview Westchester Joint Water Agency (BWJWA) .The increase translates to 7 cents per thousand gallons and is included in the proposed water rate increase. Our job is to ensure clean, drinkable water is available where and when you need it 365 days a year, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Your monthly utility payments are working to provide high quality, reliable and safe water in a manner that values the environment, community and economic interest and sustains the resources entrusted to our care. For more information on the scheduled utility projects, please contact Public Works Director Robert Lewis at (708) 345-0041.
VILLAGE DROP BOX For your convenience, the Village has installed a new drop box for after hours deposit of Village payments. The box is located in front of Village Hall. Please do not deposit cash payments in this dropbox. DO NOT DEPOSIT U.S. MAIL IN THIS DROPBOX. The dropbox will be emptied and payments applied on a daily basis Monday through Friday (excluding holidays). If you have any questions, please contact the Village offices at (708) 345-0020.
BOARD TO BEGIN SEARCH FOR A NEW VILLAGE MANAGER At a Special Board Meeting held on Tuesday, June 6th, the Village Board made a decision not to renew the contract of Village Manager Janet Matthys. Ms. Matthys has been the Village Manager since October 2011. She stated that “It has been my pleasure to work for the residents of the Village for these past six years. I
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have been committed to making the Village of Westchester the best it can be. I have been fortunate to work with a dedicated professional staff who give their all for this Village. I believe that there have been many positive changes in the operation of the Village during my tenure and would personally like to thank Former Village President Sam Pulia for being a great mentor. I wish you all the best!” Police Chief Steven Stelter was appointed as Acting Village Manager at the Village Board meeting on June 13, 2017, in order to perform the duties of Village Manager during the position vacancy.
ROAD CONSTRUCTION TO BEGIN JULY 24TH Construction is expected to begin on July 24, 2017 for the 2017 Road Rehabilitation Program. The Village will be rehabilitating four roadways this year. The Village has allocated approximately $750,000 in bond funds and $150,000 in Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds for rehabilitation of the four (4) roadways, including the professional engineering services related to the work. This work will be done as two projects. The first project will be the milling and resurfacing of Stratford Avenue, Belleview Drive, and Crestwood Lane officially known as the 2017 Street Resurfacing Program. The second project will consist of the reconstruction of Bristol Avenue and will be officially known as the Bristol Avenue Reconstruction Project. The improvements will generally consist of: Rehabilitation (Reconstruction) • Bristol Avenue (Roosevelt Road to Devonshire Avenue, approximately 600’) Rehabilitation (Resurfacing): • Stratford Avenue (Cermak Avenue to Windsor Drive, approximately 1,300’) • Belleview Drive (Cermak Avenue to Windsor Drive, approximately 1,300’) • Crestwood Lane (Mannheim Road to Westchester Boulevard, approximately 1,000’) Please call Public Works Director Robert Lewis at 708-345-0041 with any questions regarding the project. Construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of September. We appreciate your patience during construction.
FIRE DEPARTMENT WELCOMES NEW FIREFIGHTER Firefighter/Paramedic Matthew Rouleau joined the Westchester Fire Department on June 12, 2017.
Firefighter Matthew Rouleau has been working as a contract paramedic in North Riverside since 2014 and has been a paid on call firefighter with the Stickney Fire Dept. since 2011. Previously, he worked as a Police Service Aide and a Park Manager with the Village of North Riverside. FF Rouleau earned his Associate’s Degree in fire science at Triton College in 2009 and received his paramedic license through the Vista Health System in Waukegan in 2013. He is certifications include: Basic Fire Operator, Hazardous Materials Awareness, Technical Rescue Awareness, Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS), Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), and LEADS.
GET OUT AND PLAY DAY Contributed by Trustee Tom Yurkovich Thank you to all who came out to the 4th Annual Get Out and Play Day hosted on June 17th. It was another great event and luckily the weather cooperated with the event. The Citizens Advisory Board (CAB) did an excellent job in getting community organizations and other providers to participate in this annual event. Chaired by Abigail Martin, the board members are Stephanie Pederson, Mary Roberts, Dawn Belluomini, and Mike Peterson. These members did an excellent job in making this event another great success for Westchester. We were honored to have a very special guest, Ronald McDonald, who kept everyone entertained. A special thank you goes out to St Joseph High School for always being gracious enough to host our annual event. Without their generosity this event would never be what it is today. Another thank you goes out to our local Jewel and Mariano’s grocery stores for donating all the water and other treats that were on hand for all to enjoy throughout the day. This is just a friendly reminder for anyone who would like to get involved with the Citizens Advisory Board; we are currently looking for members. CAB typically meets the second Wednesday of every month in the Village Hall at 7pm. If you are interested in joining the CAB please contact Trustee Yurkovich at tyurkovich@westchester-il.org .
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY COMMISSION UPDATE Contributed by Trustee Carl Celestino The Village of Westchester’s Environmental Sustainability Commission’s monthly Electronic Recycling Events, a free service provided to the residents has come
to a close and at this time and there are a great number of people who are deserving of thanks. To all past and present members of the Village Board who gave of their time as well as the Village staff of Westchester for their logistical as well as physical assistance makes these events possible. Another reason why these events are successful is because of the dedicated group of volunteers. Over the years we have had everyday residents, parents and children, students from the various schools who took time out of their day to assist us. As Chairperson of the Commission I would like to give special recognition to our Village’s Boy Scout Troops, they have been the backbone of our volunteer corps. Besides all the other great things Troop 1 and Troop 73 do for the Village, their members have been at all of the ESC events providing a valuable service to our community. Lastly, I wish to personally thank all the past and present members of the Environmental Sustainability Commission who have given much more than just their time to all of the residents. As I stated, the monthly Electronic Recycling Collection Events has ended but electronic collection has not stopped. As of July 1st, residents now will be to call Waste Management directly at (800) 449-7587 to schedule collection of electronic and other unwanted materials that cannot be disposed of into the regular waste streams. Just because this program has ended it doesn’t mean the job of the ESC is concluded. I wish to invite anyone who is interested in not only developing new programs or with ideas and environmental topics that should be looked into to please attend our monthly meetings. Our monthly meetings are held at Village Hall in the Community Room at 7pm on the 2nd Thursday of the month. If you have any questions please contact me @ccelestino@ westchester-il.org. Once again my sincere thanks to everyone who has been involved, participated, and supported these events.
WASTE MANAGEMENT LAUNCHES “AT YOUR DOOR” RECYCLING PROGRAM
Do you have old electronics in your home? Used motor oil? Old cans of paint? Used batteries? Effective July 1, 2017, Waste Management’s At Your Door service is providing Village residents with a safe and easy alternative for removing electronics and unwanted household materials that are potentially hazardous to people,
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pets, and the environment. There is no additional fee to residents to participate in this program; it has been negotiated into our contract refuse rates with Waste Management. Residents can schedule an appointment to have the materials conveniently and safely collected from their home. Acceptable Materials: Automotive Products: antifreeze, batteries, brake fluid, motor oil and filters, fuels, and more Electronics: computers, laptops, printers, microwaves, TVs, DVD/ CD/tape players, cell phones, and monitors Garden Chemicals: fertilizers, insect sprays, herbicides, pesticides, and weed killers Household Cleaners: ammonia, heavy-duty cleansers, tile/shower cleaners, upholstery cleaner, and rust remover Mercury Containing Items: compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), thermometers, thermostats, and fluorescent tubes Paint Products: latex and oil-based paint, stain, caulk, and sealer Swimming Pool Chemicals: pool acid, stabilizer, and chlorine Other: batteries, hobby glue, and sharps/needles (in a sealed rigid container) Prohibited items include ammunition, asbestos, commercial/ business supplies, constructionrelated materials, explosives, medicine, tires, or any materials in unlabeled or leaking containers. Residents with questions should contact the At Your Door service center at (800) 449-7587. How To Schedule A Collection: Residents can schedule collection of their unwanted materials by contacting At Your Door at (800) 449-7587 during the hours7:00 am to 7:00pm, by visiting www. wmatyourdoor.com, or e-mailing atyourdoor@wm.com. Residents then receive a collection kit and detailed instructions in the mail on how to prepare materials for pickup. Information on the Waste Management Refuse/Recycling services is posted on the Village website. If you have any questions for Village staff, please do not hesitate to contact our Public Works Department at 708/345-0041. Please note that with the inception of the At Your Door program on July 1, 2017, the Village has discontinued its’ monthly recycling events.
MOVIE IN THE PARK FEATURES DISNEY’S MOANA ON JULY 22ND The Village will be hosting a movie in the park on July 20th featuring the blockbuster Disney hit Moana.
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The movie night will be held at Community Park at dusk. The Westchester Park District will host a concession stand selling popcorn and soda. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and come join the fun!
SAVE THE DATE FOR NATIONAL NIGHT OUT ON AUGUST 1, 2017 Contributed by Officer Rob Verber On Tuesday, August 1st, the Westchester Police Department will host the annual National Night Out campaign. What is National Night Out? It’s America’s Night Out Against Crime! The “33rd Annual National Night Out” (NNO), a unique crime/ drug prevention event, has been scheduled for that evening. The night will start with a Community Walk stepping off at 6:30 pm from the Faith Lutheran Church campus, 1124 Westchester Blvd The walk will head south to the Westchester Community Park, 10201 Bond, where residents will have an hour of free swim in the community pool while listening to local musical entertainment. Additional activities planned at the park include, but are not limited to, an area for residents to gather information from various business and organizations, refreshments, a ‘Meet & Greet’ with Ronald McDonald, giveaways, entertainment, etc. We will then have a screening of The LEGO Batman Movie in the park at sunset on an outdoor screen. The purpose of NNO is to develop relationships between the residents and community in a partnership to further reduce crime in our neighborhoods.
MUSIC FESTIVAL TO BE HELD ON AUGUST 12TH The 2017 Music Fest will take place at High Ridge Park, 10900 Canterbury on Saturday, August 12, 2017. We will be featuring Jam Band from 3:30PM – 5:00PM, High Noon from 6:00PM to 7:30PM and ARRA from 8:30PM to 10:00PM. ARRA is one of the best and largest drawing classic rock cover bands in the Chicagoland area, and has been for the past 2 decades! They were also voted BEST CLASSIC ROCK BAND in the Nitelife Best of the Burbs Contest for the 5th year in a row! Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets and enjoy a great day of music in the park. Liquid refreshments and limited food offerings will be available for purchase.
FORMER VILLAGE PRESIDENT SAM PULIA RECOGNIZED On June 1, 2017, the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD)
passed Resolution 17-0607, sponsored by the MWRD Board of Commissioners, recognizing Sam D. Pulia’s 20 years of service to the Village of Westchester and congratulating him on his wellearned retirement. The resolution read as follows: WHEREAS, Sam D. Pulia has over 20 years of administrative leadership as President of the Village of Westchester and Westchester School District 92.5, Deputy Chief of the Westchester Police Department and Chief of the Willow Springs Police Department; and WHEREAS, in these positions, he accomplished many things, including but not limited to: creating and implementing short and long term strategic plans; creating and implementing fiscally responsible budgets; securing various grant monies; and service on a multijurisdictional civil disturbance/mobile field force team; and WHEREAS, Sam’s leadership success is attributed in some part to his academic success, having obtained his Associates Degree from Triton College, both his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science Degrees from Lewis University and attendance at the prestigious Northwestern Staff and Command School, where he was elected and served as class president; and WHEREAS, his service to the community extends past the village limits and includes his work as an Adjunct Faculty Member at the College of DuPage and his voluntary assignment as first responder to Ground Zero in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001; and WHEREAS, his loving and loved family, including his wife Maureen Masterson-Pulia, his sons Joe and Steve, his daughters-in-law Melissa and Gianna, and his grandchildren Caprice, Sammy, Brooklyn, Gia, Milania and Romey have graciously shared Sam with the community for long enough, and WHEREAS, the Board of Commissioners and staff of the District extend their heartfelt wishes for as much success in his retirement as Sam has enjoyed throughout his career and express our sincere gratitude to his family for allowing Sam to share his outstanding commitment and unparalleled talents; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that we, the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, on behalf of ourselves and staff, do hereby recognize Sam D. Pulia’s dedicated service to the residents of Westchester and express
our gratitude and appreciation for his work on behalf of the taxpayers of the District; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Resolution be spread upon the permanent Record of Proceedings of the Board of Commissioners of the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago, and that a copy of same, suitably embossed, be presented to Sam D. Pulia. Former Village President Sam Pulia was also recognized and presented with the 2017 Donald E. Stephens Award of Excellence by the West Central Municipal Conference (WCMC) on Friday, June 9th for his contributions to local government over the past 20 years. Congratulations, Sam!
WESTCHESTER FOOD PANTRY NEWS Contributed by Trustee Carl Celestino The Westchester Food Pantry has been going through changes that will be more beneficial to the residents. In addition to becoming certified with the Greater Chicago Food Depository the organization is now an incorporated Illinois NonProfit Corporation which now allows for tax deductible donations. The organization held its first meeting to formally to elect its Officers and Board Members. Kathleen Franzwa and Amanda Grant are the Organization’s Co-Directors. Carol Kratky is Pantry Manager. Kathleen White will be serving as President, James Gabel as Treasurer and Ellen Alamilla as Secretary. Members of the Board are Lee and Don Bence, Carl Celestino and Claudia Gabel. Many items were discussed that included client services and outreach, public events, fundraising and corporate sponsorship. For more information or to donate/ volunteer please check their Facebook Page or www.westchesterfoodpantry.org.
SPRING CLEANING OF THE VILLAGE GATEWAY SIGNS Contributed by Trustee Carl Celestino On the hottest weekend of the Summer so far, the members of the Grassroots Garden Club of Westchester volunteered their time and their backs to spruce up the Village Gateway Signs. Last Spring, the members donated plants from their own gardens and planted them in the Gateways areas around the Village as well as around the Village Memorial Fountain. These items will continue to flourish and provide a lasting benefit with no cost to the Village. In the Fall, one thousand Daffodils were planted at these locations, as well as Village Hall, to welcome the Spring and will bloom year after year. This volunteer group
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of residents has made it their goal to help promote the Village and show the invaluable benefits of landscaping. WESTCHESTER ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Contributed by Trustee Frank Perry The Westchester Economic Development Committee (EDC) consists of resident and non-resident business owner/managers that meet bi-monthly to talk, discuss, plan, and execute events designed to support, build, develop, and inform in town commerce. Our mission statement is to “Provide the Village Board with viable economic development strategies to promote responsible, sustainable development, resulting in business retention and growth, as well as a desirable quality of life”. The Economic Development Committee will focus on business retention, business development and civic pride. The committee members are Pastor Joe Mills (Chairman), Lori-Jo Fergle (Vice-Chairwoman), Krista Brazel, Doug Hilton and Darlene Barber (Secretary). Immediate past members Brian Doruff and Allison Muzal still contribute actively. We are currently looking for two additional members. Frank Perry is active liaison to the Village Board for the EDC. Some recent lunch and learn topics that have been offered to the business community are “Quick Books – Get it right from the Start”; “Breaking Bad – Book Keeping Habits that can sink your Business. On July 18Th we will feature “Sticky Fingers – YES, Fraud can happen to You” at the Westchester Library Community Room from 11:30am -1:00pm. Lunch is provided. For reservations, contact Melissa Headley at 708-3450199 or by e-mail at mheadley@ westchester-il.org. All meetings are open to the public and attendance is strongly encouraged. EDC meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 7:30am at Village Hall in the Community Room. Anyone interested in joining the Economic Development Committee should contact Frank Perry at fperry@ westchester-il.org.
PROPERTY MAINTENANCE There are municipal code in place designed to keep the Village looking well kept and manicured; something that we can all be proud of. The Police Department is responsible for documenting violations for long grass/weeds complaints. B&F Technical Code Enforcement (B&F) inspectors concentrate on other
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code violations. Customer Service Officers (CSOs) check for grass/weed violations daily when available, however, citations can be issued by any officer viewing a violation or responding to a complaint when CSO is unavailable or off. The first violation for long grass will be a $50.00 citation for 7.56.020 “Long Grass, must be cut within 5 days” AND A PHOTO OF ANY PROPERTY receiving a long grass/ weeds citation will need to be taken. Photos can be emailed with the address in the subject line to me for adjudication court. After 5 days, CSOs will follow up with inspections and issue a citation for double any previous fine (Maximum fine is $750). PW will then be notified to cut the lawn and invoice the property owner for the cost. For any future on-view violations or complaints at the same location this year the ticket fine will be double the fine from last ticket at that location (Maximum fine is $750). Village records will be checked for previous long grass tickets to determine the fine amount. For those receiving a citation you can contest the citation by contacting the Police Record Division at 708345-0060. You will be registered for the village Adjudication Call held at the Village Hall Court Room on the 2nd Saturday of the month. You must contact the records division to be assigned a court date - you cannot just show up without a prescheduled hearing.
GRASS IN THE STREET Our Village code prohibits grass to be left in the street. If you contract a landscaper to maintain your residential/commercial lawns, please make sure they are sweeping the curb line and removing the grass from the curb. Similarly, if you are cutting your own grass, please take an extra minute to sweep the curb. The Village incurred costs in excess of $40,000 in Fiscal 2016 to vacuum out many years of accumulated waste from the storm sewers throughout the Village. Keeping our 2100 storm sewers free from accumulation and blockages benefits the whole village. Violators will be cited. Thank you for your cooperation!
SUMMER IS HERE, PRACTICE SAFE DIGGING! The warmer air means more time for outdoor work, which increases the chance of damaging underground utility lines, including natural gas lines. To protect underground utilities and to help
ensure that communities stay safe and connected, please encourage your residents to follow the safe digging guidelines: Call 8-1-1 Before You Dig: When starting an outdoor project involving digging, customers are advised to contact JULIE at 8-1-1 or 1-800-892-0123. Calls to the free locating service can be made up to 14 days in advance. Requests to have utility operators mark underground facilities, including natural gas, water, cable, telephone and electric lines, can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Allow the Required Time for Marking: Before doing any digging, customers are urged to call 8-1-1 and wait the required time to have underground utility lines marked. The color used for natural gas is yellow. Respect the Marks: Once the lines are marked, use the appropriate digging methods, which may include hand tools, and dig no closer than 18 inches from the marked utility lines. Excavate Carefully: Make sure the marks remain visible during the project. If lines are damaged or removed, customers are encouraged to call 8-1-1 to have lines remarked. If a natural gas line is damaged accidentally or the distinct odor of gas is present, call 9-1-1 or Nicor Gas 24-hour emergency phone line at 888.Nicor4U (888.642.6748) from a safe location. Do not operate any machinery or any equipment that might cause a spark. Source: ng@email. southerncompgas.com
9 TIPS FOR FAMILY ROAD TRIPS Summer is here and chances are you’ll be going on least one road trip this season. Taking children with you on a road trip can be a challenge. However, a little planning and preparation can make the difference between a fun-filled trip or a holiday nightmare. So let’s take a look at the steps you can take to make your road trip with the kids memorable, safe and fun… 1. Plan Your Route Ahead of Time The first thing you need to do when planning your route is to decide what’s most important: distance, destination or dollars. Roadtrippers. com is a great website to start with. You can use the site to customize a route that fits your interests, lifestyle and budget. This site also includes a wide diversity from nightclubs to child friendly campgrounds so be sure to include a list of attractions you want to see along the way. It also helps you estimate the gas cost of your trip, which is a real bonus. 2. Lodging Reservations
Planning ahead to book your lodging, hotel or campsite reservations can also help make your trip run more smoothly. If you love nature and want to camp overnight, visit Recreation.gov to book campsites along your route. If you want a hotel or motel, try Priceline.com, Hotels.com, Hotwire. com, or Expedia.com. You may also prefer bed and breakfasts or try AirBnb for more unique and memorable lodging. 3. Car Safety Before you head out on your trip make sure your car seat is installed properly. According to Parenting. com, car seats are misused 95 percent of the time and this can have tragic results. You should also have a first aid kit, cell phone and charger and be sure your road side assistance is up to date. You may also want to have a flashlight stored in your vehicle or download a free flashlight app on your phone. An extra blanket is a good idea in case you get stranded at night and the temperature falls. If you’re going on a longer trip, have a mechanic inspect your vehicle before you go (i.e., oil, tire pressure, brakes, etc). Lastly, don’t forget to leave an itinerary and expected time of arrival with friends or family back home. 4. Roadtrips! There’s an App for That! Yes, there really does appear to be an app for everything, including taking the family on a road trip. Apps can save you aggravation and be a godsend in certain situations. You may want to consider downloading some of these prior to embarking on your adventure. The Tripit app automatically generates a customized itinerary for you that includes your location stops, lodging and confirmation numbers. In addition it creates a driving map for you. Other great apps include Alongtheway, an app helps you locate bathrooms, food, shopping and anything else you need that’s nearby; and GasBuddy, which you guessed it, provides you with the locations of the nearest gas station plus it includes their most recent prices so you can get the cheapest gas. Don’t forget dining apps, like OpenTable, which helps you find nearby restaurants and provides reviews and photos as well. While WiFiFinder helps you find both free and paid Wi-Fi spots near you. Invaluable if you need to send email or access the internet. 5. Packing and Planning Ahead Taking some time to plan ahead can save a lot of frustration later on. Be sure to plan your trip along with
all your pit stops ahead of time. If you’re going to the beach, make sure to pack towels, bathing suits, sun tan lotion and toys like shovels and buckets are easily accessible. If you have a toddler or young nonswimmer you may want to bring along a life jacket as well. Be sure to plan for inclement weather as not every day of your trip may be sunny. If it’s raining you may want to go to the mall, shopping, or sightseeing. Plan in advance where you will stop for the night. Whether you’ll be staying in a five star hotel or setting up camp, it saves aggravation and frazzled nerves to plan ahead. 6. Working Around the Kids’ Sleep Schedule With younger children you may want to plan your driving time and pit stops around their sleep and meal schedule. Children thrive on routine and a road trip will disrupt that. Try to eat at the same time as you normally would at home and don’t forget to stop every few hours for bathroom breaks. When stopping for the night remember that the children will need time to let off some steam after being in a car all day and will need to eat dinner and then wind down. Your best bet is to stop at a reasonable time at a child friendly hotel, motel, or campground. When travelling with a child who naps you may want to make sure you’re on the road at about the same time they usually go down. The motion of the vehicle itself will lull them to sleep, so why not take advantage of this while on vacation? 7. Split Driving Time Driving for long periods can be exhausting. You should decide in advance how many hours you want to spend behind the wheel. Trading off with another licensed driver is a great way to take a break. It gives you a chance to rest and interact with the children. Remember this is your vacation too. The adult who isn’t driving can act as referee, entertainer, and navigator or just relax and read a book or take a nap. Having another driver can decrease your stress levels and make the trip more enjoyable. 8. Bring Healthy Snacks and Drinks Along for the Ride You might not always have the opportunity to stop at restaurants or stores depending on where you’re headed. Children (and adults) become cranky when they’re hungry. Be sure to pack some healthy, nutritious snacks and drinks. You may want to have something non-perishable with you inside the vehicle like nuts, trail
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mix, apples, carrots or granola bars. Bottled water or juice boxes are ideal drinks. Having these items handy inside your vehicle makes for less stops, which means you get to your destination that much sooner. You may also want to pack a cooler with sandwiches and lunch item. This will also save you time and money as you make your way to your destination. You can stop almost anywhere to eat plus you don’t have to stand in line. There are many roadside picnic areas designed specifically for travelers to stop and eat. Most include toilet facilities of one sort or another as well. 9. Challenges of Travelling with Kids There are many challenges associated with travelling with children. For instance, kids have a limited attention spans, become easily bored, have smaller bladders (need to go the bathroom more often), need to eat more often, and when cranky, tend to squabble with their siblings. Frequent bathroom stops every 3-4 hours solves the bladder issue. Carrying snacks solves the hunger issue and you may want to separate siblings if they start to argue or tease too much. This can be as simple as putting one in the front seat and an adult beside the one in the back. Other strategies you may wish to employ are bringing a portable DVD player and putting on a movie. Electronic devices such as an IPod, DS, or tablet can be good time fillers as well. Be sure your child has a set of headphones as this allows some quiet time for others. http://www.activebeat.co/yourhealth/children/born-to-be-wild-9road-trip-tips-for-families/9/
CAN’T GET OUT OF TOWN? PLAN A STAYCATION! Spectacular Sightseeing in Chicago The Second Tallest Building in North America at the Willis Tower and step out onto The Ledge, a suspended glass box at the Skydeck Chicago observatory that is more than 1,000 feet in the sky. Or brace yourself for the newest thrill experience TILT! at 360CHICAGO (formerly the John Hancock Observatory). The moving glass enclosure leans you over the edge of the John Hancock Center and is the First of its Kind in the World. Take a stroll around Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park and enjoy the colorful light and music display as it glows against the backdrop of Chicago’s skyline and lakefront. Inspired by the Latona Basin at
Versailles, but twice the size as its counterpart, it is One of the Largest Fountains in the World and one of the city’s favorite icons. Ford the Chicago River by boat tour and explore Chicago’s architectural wonders on the Only River in the World that Flows Backwards. The reversal of the Chicago River was a pioneering, massive public works effort that saved the Chicago region from waterborne diseases in the early 1900s. Ride on the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier. It’s modeled after the very first Ferris wheel built for Chicago’s 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. Rides, shops, restaurants and boat tours abound at the Midwest’s Number One Attraction. Loop up and around on an architecture tour. Chicago was home to The World’s First Skyscraper and while it no longer stands (the ironand-steel-framed Home Insurance Building stood downtown from 1884-1931), the city’s skyline is one of the most recognizable and is filled with architectural treasures of the past and present. Roar with the lions at one of the country’s Oldest Public Zoos, which is also one of the Last Free Zoos in the nation. Offering an unforgettable wildlife experience amid a stunning urban skyline, the scenic Lincoln Park Zoo is open to the public for free every day of the year. Explore Innovative Park Spaces Snap a selfie in front of “the Bean,” the famous sculpture known officially as Cloud Gate, at its home in Millennium Park. Also check out the Jay Pritzker Pavilion for a free performance, connect with nature in Lurie Garden, and cool off in Crown Fountain, the glass towers that spout water from its digital faces. Millennium Park is constructed on top of a railroad yard and expansive parking garages — making it One of the Largest Green Roofs in the World. Runners, bikers, strollers: join the fun on The 606. A 2.7-mile long railway that was newly converted into a stunning path set above neighborhood streets, it is The Nation’s Longest Elevated Park System. Combining elements of whimsy reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Maggie Daley Park (located just west of Millennium Park) is one of the newest kid-approved attractions in Chicago. This super playground can’t be missed with it’s towering play bridges, sky-high slides and a rock climbing wall that is One of the Largest Outdoor Climbing Structures in the World. While most cities build industrially all the way up to their respective
waterfronts, Chicago’s lakefront has been preserved as a playground Forever Open, Clear and Free to the public. Chicago boasts 26 miles of shoreline, 33 sandy beaches and an 18-mile long bike/running path along Lake Michigan to explore during the warmer weather months. Arts and Culture Aplenty Take pleasure in one of the World’s Finest and Largest Collections of French Impressionist Paintings at The Art Institute of Chicago. And while you’re there, explore the architecturally stunning Modern Wing, which allows the Art Institute to house great collections of modern and contemporary art. Feel the power of Chicago’s dazzling theater scene. As the nation’s Only City with Five Regional Tony Award-Winning Theater Companies — including Goodman Theatre, Victory Gardens Theater, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Lookingglass Theatre Company and Steppenwolf Theatre Company — Chicago delivers unforgettable performances every day of the week. Submerge yourself in the U-505 German Submarine at the Museum of Science & Industry, the Largest Science Museum in the Western Hemisphere. Find yourself Deep in Space at the Adler Planetarium’s Grainger Sky Theater. As the World’s Most Advanced Digital Theater, the Grainger boasts images that are eight times sharper than your digital cinema. Dive in to a coastal environment of Beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, and seals at the Shedd Aquarium’s 3-million-gallon saltwater Oceanarium, the Largest Indoor Marine Mammal Habitat in the World. Pay a visit to the Largest, Most Complete, Best Preserved T. Rex ever discovered. You can meet the T. Rex named Sue at The Field Museum. Don’t worry, she doesn’t bite. https://www.choosechicago.com/ plan-your-trip/trip-ideas-anditineraries/classic-and-uniquechicago/chicago-sightseeing/ Dinos and Dragons Do you have a future paleontologist in your home? Dinosaurs have roared back to life at Brookfield Zoo! They’re bigger and better than ever and they’ve brought some of their mythical dragon friends. The zoo’s new Dinos & Dragons features 17 animatronic creatures, including the Stegosaurus, Apatosaurus, Tyrannosaurus Rex, and Chinese dragon. Along the winding outdoor path, guests of all ages can explore the origins of myths and legends through culture, literature, and paleontology that is illustrated on
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engaging signage. Inside a tented area, zoogoers can get up-close views of live reptiles, including a Komodo dragon, seen for the first time at Brookfield Zoo! The temporary exhibit will also have hands-on activities, as well as a dinosaur dissection lab, dino dig boxes, and an excavation site. The Exhibit is open through September 17th. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children (member receive ½ off). To show appreciation for the hard work and dedication of the men and women in the United States Armed Forces, the Chicago Zoological Society is offering free admission to Brookfield Zoo to all active, reservist, and retired members of the military. Qualified personnel who present a valid ID at one of the zoo’s admission booths will be admitted free of charge. h t t p s : / / w w w. c z s. o r g / dinosdragons Go Ape at Bemis Woods! The Forest Preserve District of Cook County is offering a Zipline and Treetop Adventure at Bemis Woods. See the Preserves from the Treetops! The seven-acre course, built and operated by Go Ape, offers guests a unique two to three hour trek through the forest canopy. The course includes: • 5 zip lines for a total of 2,837 feet of exhilaration • A “double Tarzan swing” that allows 2 participants to simultaneously swing from 30 feet and safely land in a cargo net • A series of rope ladders and bridges, spider’s webs and trapezes • 40 obstacles situated 40+ feet up in the forest canopy A junior course is available for all ages for those looking for a little less adventure. Children must be at least 10 years of age. The course is open from April 1 – November 30. Book your adventure by visiting http:// fpdcc.com/recreation/zip-line/ or by calling 800-971-8271. Bemis Woods is located at 1100 Ogden Ave. in Western Springs.
DVMAD REPORTS FIRST POSITIVE TEST FOR WEST NILE VIRUS The DesPlaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District is in the midst of its annual battle against osquitoes. The first positive mosquito samples for West Nile Virus (WNV) have been found within the District during the past week. While this is not unusual for this time of year, it does mark the start of the WNV amplification cycle within the mosquito population. Residents are encouraged to use a
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common sense approach in avoiding exposure to adult mosquitoes and any potential mosquito-borne diseases. Window screens should be inspected and repaired if damaged to prevent mosquitoes from entering the home. In addition, any openings around window air conditioners, clothes dryer vents, etc. should be eliminated for the same reason. If possible, avoid outdoor activities around dusk. If not possible, wear shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Loose fitting, light colored clothing is best. Appropriate use of insect repellents per manufacturer’s instructions is recommended. Residents should look for potential mosquito breeding sources around the home and take the following simple steps: 1) Throw away all trash that can hold water as cans, jars, bottles, etc. 2) Clean rain gutters/downspouts to prevent water from standing in gutters or on flat roofs. 3) Change water in bird baths, wading pools, etc. at least once a week. 4) Maintain swimming pools properly. 5) Remove or turn over containers, buckets, wheel barrows, etc. which may accumulate water. 6) Screen rain barrels to prevent adult mosquitoes from depositing eggs on the water’s surface. 7) Aerate ornamental ponds and stock with goldfish or other surfacefeeding fish to control mosquito production. 8) Dispose of any used tires without rims to prevent water accumulation. Source: DesPlaines Valley Mosquito Abatement District Press Release June 13, 2017
COOK COUNTY MEDS DISPOSAL INITIATIVE In June, a new public education campaign launched in Cook County featuring Sheriff Tom Dart and nearly 30 local and national partners aimed at raising awareness of the proper disposal of unused medications. The Cook County MEDS Disposal Initiative and its partners want residents to be aware of the nearly 200 collection sites around the county that allow residents to drop-off unused prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications with no questions asked. The group introduced a new Cook County specific website www. CookCountyMEDS.org where a search function conveniently located the nearest collection sites from a database of both public
and private collection sites. This is the only website the group is aware of that contains a clearing house of all sites that are available during regular business hours with some even being accessible on the weekends or around the clock. Local sites include: the Maywood Courthouse, the Forest Park Police Department, the Oak Park Police Department, and Westchester Village Hall. “This is one of those unique times where the private and public sector are working in unison on something that is incredibly significant.” – Sheriff Tom Dart To learn more about proper medication disposal and to locate a convenient drop site near you, visit www.CookCountyMEDS.org.
FROM THE BOARD At the May 23rd Board Meeting, the following items were presented: • Commendation for Excellence – Westchester Police Officers and Elmhurst Police Officers At the May 23rd Board Meeting, the following items were discussed on the Consent Agenda: • Approval of the Record of Bills ending 05-17-17 in the amount not to exceed $443,436.12 • Approval of Minutes of the May 9, 2017 Village Board Meeting and Minutes of the May 9, 2017 Committee of the Whole Meeting • An Ordinance Rejecting and Waiving Bids and Approving a Contract Between the Village of Westchester and Genco Industries, Inc. for Mayfair Reservoir Pump Station Improvements • A Resolution Advising and Consenting to the Appointment of Certain Officers At the May 23rd Board Meeting, the following items were discussed on the Active Agenda: • An Ordinance Amending Section 2.60.140 and 15.14.040 of the Westchester Municipal Code Regarding the Water and Sewer Rates Charged in the Village of Westchester • A Resolution Appointing Barbara Brandt to the Position of Treasurer of the Village of Westchester, Illinois • A Resolution Approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Village of Westchester and the Metropolitan Alliance of Police, Westchester Sergeants Chapter #504 • A Resolution Advising and Consenting to the Appointment of Certain Officers At the May 23rd COW Meeting, the following items were discussed under New Business: • Consideration of Additional
Gaming Establishments • Consideration of Alley License/Vacation – West Plaza • Purchase of Three Police Squads from Currie Motors • Financing of Police Squads and Fire Command Vehicles through PNC Capital • COPS Grant Availability • Consideration of Replacement of Andover Control System for HVAC System • Amendment to Municipal Code Section 11.32.160 – Street Sweeping • Clarification to Municipal Code Section 11.32.155 – Paved Surfaces in Residential Areas • 2017 Street Rehabilitation Program & Bristol Ave. Reconstruction Project At the May 23rd COW Meeting, the following items were discussed under Old Business: • T-Mobile Lease • Utility Rate Increase • Fats Oils Grease (FOG) Compliance Ordinance • Comcast Franchise Renewal • Emergency Street Lighting Repair Contract • Website Update At the May 23rd COW Meeting, the following items were discussed under Old Business: • T-Mobile Lease At the June 13th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: • Approval of the Record of Bills ending 06-08-17 in the amount not to exceed $1,194,648.68 • Approval of Minutes of the May 9, 2017 Village Board Meeting, Minutes of the May 23, 2017 Village Board Meeting, Minutes of the May 23, 2017 Committee of the Whole Meeting, and Minutes of the May 23, 2017 Executive Session • Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports: Community Development Department, Police Department, Fire Department, and Public Works Department • A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement with Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. for Design and Construction Observation Services Related to the 2017 Street Resurfacing Program and Bristol Avenue Reconstruction Project • An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of a Contract Renewal Between Omega Sign & Lighting, Inc. and the Village of Westchester for Street Light Emergency Work • An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement Between the Village of Westchester and CivicPlus for the Redesign of the Village of Westchester Website At the June 13th Village Board
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Meeting, the following items were approved under the Active Agenda: • An Ordinance Authorizing the Appointment of Andrea M. Harty as a Deputy Village Clerk of the Village of Westchester, Illinois • A Resolution Designating Andrea M. Harty as an Additional Open Meetings Act Compliance Officer for the Village of Westchester • A Resolution Designating Andrea M. Harty as an Additional Freedom of Information Act Officer for the Village of Westchester • A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of a Contract with Fox Valley Fire and Safety Company, Inc. for Services Related to the Fire Station 25 and 26 Fire Protection System Improvement Project, in the Amount of $71,400.00 • An Ordinance Amending Section 2.60.140 and 15.14.040 of the Westchester Municipal Code Regarding the Water and Sewer Rates to be Charged in the Village of Westchester • A Resolution Regarding the Appointment of a Member of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners • An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of a Consulting Agreement Between Westbrook Strategic Consultants, Inc. and the Village of Westchester and Designating an Acting Village Manager At the June 13th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: • Community Alert System • GW & Associates – Accounting Consultant Services • Periodic Review of Closed Meeting Minutes and Destruction of Recordings of Closed Meetings • Intergovernmental Agreement with Homeland Security Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 37-08 • Opt Out by Municipalities from Cook County Minimum Wage & Paid Sick Leave Ordinances • Prevailing Wage Ordinance • Surplus Property – Computer Parts • 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program – Bid Results • No Parking Sign Purchase – Bid Results • Firefighter Staffing At the June 13th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: • T-Mobile Contract Update • Relocation of Parkway Sign At the June 13th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: • DCEO Grant 14-203494 Date Extension
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