Village of Westchester May 2015 Newsletter

Village of

Westchester May 2015 Newsletter

FIRE DEPARTMENT

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POLICE DEPARTMENT

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CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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PARK DISTRICT

SCHOOL DISTRICT

From the Desk of The President

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

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PUBLIC WORKS

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Village President Sam Pulia, Trustee Elect Carl Celestino, Principal Greg Leban, Assistant Principal Stephanie DelFiacco, PW crew members Eric Détente and Scott Russell join students from the Westchester Middle School in an Arbor Day Celebration on April 24th. Thanks to Sinnott Tree Care for donating the tree to the School District.

Day after day while listening to the National News Stations, it is no secret that our world appears to be under siege.

There are four instances that stick out in my mind that have occurred on our soil. Two of which had anniversaries this past April. The Oklahoma City Bombing and the Boston Marathon Bombing. The four instances are listed below as listed in WIKIPEDIA. OnFebruary 26,1993,atruck bomb was detonatedbelowthe North Tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The 1,336 pounds (606 kg) urea nitrate–hydrogen gas enhanced device was intended to send the North Tower (Tower 1) crashing into the South Tower (Tower 2), bringing both towers down and killing tens of thousands of people. It failed to do so, but did kill six people and injured more than a thousand.

The attack was planned by a group of terrorists including Ramzi Yousef, Mahmud Abouhalima, Mohammad Salameh, Nidal A. Ayyad, Abdul Rahman Yasin and Ahmed Ajaj. They received financing from Khaled Sheikh Mohammed, Yousef’s uncle. In March 1994, four men were convicted of carrying out the bombing: Abouhalima, Ajaj, Ayyad and Salameh.

The charges included conspiracy, explosive destruction of property, and interstate transportation of explosives. In November 1997, two more were convicted: Ramzi Yousef, the mastermind behind the bombings, and Eyad Ismoil, who drove the truck carrying the bomb.

The Oklahoma City Bombing was a domestic terrorist

bomb attack on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City on April 19, 1995. Carried out by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, the bombing killed 168 people and injured more than 680 others. The blast destroyed or damaged 324 buildings within a 16-block radius, destroyed or burned 86 cars, and shattered glass in 258 nearby buildings, causing at least an estimated $652 million worth of damage.

Extensive rescue efforts were undertaken by local, state, federal, and worldwide agencies in the wake of the bombing, and substantial donations were received from across the country. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) activated eleven of its Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces, consisting of 665 rescue workers who assisted in rescue and recovery operations.

The September 11 attacks (also referred to as 9/11) were a series of four coordinated terrorist attacks by the Islamic terrorist group al-Qaeda on the United States in New York City and the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area on Tuesday, September 11, 2001.The attacks killed 2,996 people (including 19 hijackers) and caused at least $10 billion in property and infrastructure damage. Four passenger airliners were hijacked by 19 al-Qaeda terrorists to be flown into buildings in suicide attacks. Two of the planes, American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175, were crashed into the North and South towers, respectively, of the World Trade Center

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QUESTIONS? If you have any specific question(s) concerning our community and related police services please feel free to send me an email at: chief@westchesterpolice. com.

John M. Carpino Chief of Police

Police blotter 1) At 6:09pm on March 24, 2015 a Garage Burglary was reported on the1300 block of Boeger. The resident reported between 7:30am and 6:00pm unknown person(s) removed a bicycle valued at $300.

2) At 2:56pm on March 25, 2015 a Retail Theft was reported at the Shell Gas Station at 10200 Roosevelt Road. The manager reported that on the previous day a male subject walked into the store and removed a case of 5 Hour Energy drink valued at $42 and fled from the scene.

3) At 1:26pm on March 28, 2015 a Retail Theft was reported at the Jewel Foods located at 2128 Mannheim. Two female offenders exited the store without paying for over $200 in merchandise.

4) At 11:44am on April 9, 2015 a Theft was reported at Anytime 5) Fitness located at 3061 Wolf Road.

5) The business owners reported that unknown person(s) removed a 3 foot by 6 foot sign from the front of the business.

6) At 12:01am on April 9, 2015 a Burglary to Auto was reported in the parking lot of 31st and Wolf.

The vehicle owner reported unknown person(s) gained entry and removed money from their vehicle.

7) At 7:22pm on April 11, 2015 a Retail Theft was reported at the Goodwill Store located at 3054 Wolf Road.

A 55 year old female was arrested and charged with removing merchandise from the store without paying.

8) At 1:07pm on April 14, 2015 a Theft was reported on the 1400 block of Evers.

The resident reported that unknown person(s) removed a UPS delivery valued at $300 from their front door area.

PRESIDENT Continued from page 1 complex in New York City. Within two hours, both 110-story towers collapsed with debris and the resulting fires causing partial or complete collapse of all other buildings in the WTC complex, including the 47-story 7 World Trade Center tower, as well as significant damage to ten other large surrounding structures. A third plane, American Airlines Flight 77, was crashed into the Pentagon (the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense), leading to a partial collapse in its western side.

The fourth plane, United Airlines Flight 93, was targeted at Washington, D.C., but crashed into a field near Shanksville, Pennsylvania after its passengers tried to overcome the hijackers. In total, 2,977 victims and the 19 hijackers died in the attacks. It was also the deadliest incident for firefighters and law enforcement personnel in the history of the United States, with 343 and 72 killed respectively.

The Boston Marathon bombings and subsequent related shootings were a series of attacks and incidents which began on April 15, 2013, when two pressure cooker bombs exploded during the Boston Marathon at 2:49 pm EDT, killing 3 people and injuring an estimated 264 others. The bombs exploded about 12 seconds and 210 yards (190 m) apart, near the finish line on Boylston Street.

For the past 14 years the United States Military Forces of all branches have been fighting a War on Terror. The War on Terror (WoT), also known as the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT), refers to the international military campaign that started after the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States. The United States led a coalition of other NATO and non-NATO nations in the campaign to destroy al-Qaeda and other militant extremist organizations.

U.S. President George W. Bush first used the term “War on Terror” on September 20, 2001.

The Bush administration and the western media have since used the term to argue a global military, political, legal, and conceptual struggle against both organizations designated terrorist and regimes accused of supporting them. It was originally used with a particular focus on Muslim countries associated with Islamic terrorism organizations including alQaeda and like-minded organizations.

In 2013, President Barack Obama announced the United States was no longer pursuing a War on Terror as the military focus should be specific enemies rather than a tactic. He stated “We must define our effort not as a boundless ‘Global War on Terror’, but rather as a series of persistent, targeted efforts to dismantle specific networks of violent extremists that threaten America.”

My reason for drawing attention to these terrible cowardly acts is to remember that our armed forces have been called into action as a result of these attacks. On Monday, May 25, 2015 we celebrate Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the people who died while serving in the country’s armed forces. The holiday, which is observed every year on the last Monday of May, was formerly known

MAY 2015 as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war. By the 20th century, Memorial Day had been extended to honor all Americans who died while in the military service. It typically marks the start of the summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.

Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who have died in military service. Many volunteers place an American flag on each grave in national cemeteries. Please take a moment to honor all of our service personnel for their service.

MEMORIAL DAY FLAG CEREMONY Monday, May 25, 2015 is Memorial Day. The Westchester Park District, the Village of Westchester, Westchester School District 92.5, and the Westchester Library Boards would like to cordially invite all residents, veterans and their families to attend our annual Memorial Day Flag Raising at the Westchester Park District Mayfair Building. The event will take place at 10AM sharp. I am told Westchester has over 1000 veterans residing in our town. Please attend and be recognized. Refreshments will be served. Please do your part to honor these brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice of giving up their lives for us. Fly the American Flag proudly in a window or on a flag pole this Memorial Day. Let’s put Westchester on the map by saying THANK YOU to all of the service men and women who are fighting for us.

EDWARD J. HINES, JR. VETERANS ADMINISTRATION HOSPITAL NEWS On Friday, April 17, 2015, Village Manager Janet Matthys and I were the invited guests to a ribbon cutting at the Edward J. Hines, Jr. Veterans Administration Hospital. The Hospital was celebrating the completion of the re-construction of the Front Lobby and outside circle driveway. Veterans, both young and old, who served and who are presently serving did the honors of raising their service affiliation flags to the song of their branch of service. As I sat there, I could not help but look at the age of the soldiers, some confined to wheelchairs, others standing tall, but all saluting their service flags with crisp hand salutes done with a purpose. Not having served myself, my thoughts of what those service persons sacrificed, how their families dealt with the potential visit from military personnel with a horrible message to convey, and how, like dad, never spoke about the horrors of war and what it was like to serve overseas in a foreign country. I envisioned the rows of white crosses placed in perfect synchronization from every vantage point at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, DC and what I saw watching “Saving Private Ryan.” For years we have all passed the flag marked graves in Glen Oaks Cemetery just south of Hursen’s Funeral Home and have seen the Stars and Stripes adorning the light poles along Roosevelt Rd. Fast forward to today with our men and women serving overseas in harm’s way from an enemy not so defined and certainly very, very lethal.

Edward J. Hines Jr. VA Hospital is located on a 147 acre campus 12 miles west of downtown

Chicago, just shy of 3 miles from Westchester.

Hines is the largestVA Hospital in Illinois, where more than 1 million Veterans live. On any given weekday, more than 2000 veterans come to the hospital’s main campus for outpatient services.

Hines has nearly 500 inpatient hospital beds and is one of the largest and most prestigious medical facilities in the VA system and in the Chicagoland area. The approximately 3500 employees who work at Hines are proud and honored to provide top quality healthcare to more than 57,000 Veterans annually. For more information and healthcare services visit www. hines.va.gov

ILLINOIS STATE ARCHIVES The Illinois Veterans’ History Project began in 2004 and seeks to honor those men and women from Illinois who have served their country by recording their stories. Veterans or their family members complete and submit Illinois Patriot Information Forms to the Illinois State Archives, which contain information about their service to their country. In addition to filling out the form, veterans and their family members are also encouraged to write down their remembrances and recollections of their service. The purpose of this database is to provide you with an index to the names of Illinois veterans whose stories have been preserved on Illinois Patriot Information Forms and submitted to the Illinois State Archives for permanent retention.

This database will allow you to search for persons who have Illinois Patriot Information Forms on file. You may search by name, branch of service or war fought. You also may visit the Illinois Digital Archives to see a copy of the form and read any remembrances or stories that have been attached.

MOODY’S ASSIGNS Aa2 RATING TO VILLAGE In order to continue our infrastructure repair/ replacement projects, the Village had to appear before Moody’s Investor Service for a bond rating call to explain our financial situation.

The Village Board approved an ordinance authorizing the issuance of up to $8,000,000 in General Obligation Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source) in 2012 to fund much needed infrastructure improvements.TheVillage Board authorized the issuance of $5,800,000 General Obligation Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source) Series 2013 Bonds in February 2013.

The Village Board authorized the issuance of the remaining $2.2 million dollars in General obligation Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source) Series 2015 at the April 27, 2015 Board Meeting.

Village Manager Janet Matthys, Finance Director Maureen Potempa and I answered questions about the Village finances and operations. Needless to say, the raters were interested on our spending , cash management, pension funding percentages and how we are proposing to handle the potential cuts that may be coming to local governments in the State’s 2015-2016 Budget. Although there are many unknowns to the questions posed we were able to indicate that recent community development including the new Mariano’s , the location of 2 Fortune 500 Companies (Ingredion and Follett Books) headquarters

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located in the Westbrook Corporate Center (Towers) in my opinion helped secure the same rating we were assigned in 2013. With the sale of these bonds on April 27th, the Village will have 13 million in general obligation bond debt outstanding. Without the bond sale we would not be able to continue our road and sewer improvements. Unfortunately, the cost of reconstructing roads from curb to curb is very costly. It costs somewhere in the neighborhood of $300k just to do a section of road with 24 houses on it including curb, apron, and sewer line sections that have to be replaced due to collapse or being in poor condition. We have been able to rebuild over 25 roads since 2011 with the proceeds of the Bonds.

ELECTION RESULTS The Cook County Clerk’s office indicates Westchester has 11090 Registered Voters. Of that number 1070 or 9.6% voted on April 7, 2015.

As a result of the April 7, 2015 Consolidated Election, you the voters elected the following to represent your interests for the next 4 years.

These results are unofficial at this time until certified by the County Clerk.

VILLAGE of WESTCHESTER Trustees: Carl C. Celestino, Frank Perry, Thomas Yurkovich Westchester Park District: Commissioners: Steven M. Busa, Matthew J. Martin, Joseph Christopher Westchester School District 92.5: School Board Members: Carolyn R. Wilhight, Bryan Voegtle, Molly Quiroz, Otis Randle Westchester Library Board: Trustees: Demitrus Evans, John C Lamberti, Gerald Chenski, Heather A Susnik Proviso Township: District 209 High School Board: Nathan‘’Ned’’ Wagner, Theresa L. Kelly, Claudia Medina Triton College: Trustees: Luke Casson, Mark R. Stephens, Glover ‘’Tres’’ Johnson III

STUMP REMOVALS TO BEGIN Last fall we decided as a result of our watering ban that we would start removing tree stumps in the spring. Village crews cut down close to 250 Ash trees infected with the Emerald Ash Borer, while our contract tree service, Sinnott Tree Care, cut down about 100 trees including Ash, Oaks, and Siberians that were too large for our crews to take down safely. The trees taken down were identified as safety hazards that could damage property should the large branches fall. Unfortunately, we cut more trees down than we had budgeted for due to the safety concerns mentioned above. We had to utilize dollars from our new 2015-2016 budget to complete the stump grinding from last year’s tree removals . Our plan is to have Sinnott grind the stumps and have our PW crews remove the spoils, fill the void with black dirt and seed the parkways. The stumping will begin the week of May 4th. It is estimated that it will take at least four weeks to remove the 350 stumps throughout town.

TREE REPLACEMENTS As a result of some tight budgetary

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 5 restrictions, we are formulating our plans for the fall replacement of some of the more than 300+ trees we have removed over the past few years as a result of the Emerald Ash Borer, or other diseases. The parkway trees to be replaced can’t be replaced all at one time, but will be staggered over several years to provide differing growth patterns and sizes. We are committed to planting as many trees as we can afford. Spacing and differing styles, types, and varieties will be planted to avoid any future issues or diseases that may affect trees in the future.

NICOR RESTORATION NEWS I have been asked by residents residing North of Roosevelt Road and East of Westchester Blvd. about when the parkways dug up by NICOR will be restored. I had a face to face meeting with Mr. Darade Collins from NICOR Community Relations and was told the following:

“My Restoration Coordinator has informed me that the Landscapers will be in Westchester next week (April 27) to begin the restoration.

The contact number to our Landscaping & Paving department is (800) 730-6114 ext 4.”

Rod stated that weather has been a factor in getting the restoration underway.

ARBOR DAY CEREMONY At our April 14th Board Meeting, I read a Proclamation declaring April 24, 2015 as ARBOR DAY in the Village of Westchester. In keeping with the tradition for the past 6 years, the Village celebrated ARBOR DAY by planting a Green Mountain Sugar Maple tree at the Westchester Middle School on Friday, April 24th at 1:30 pm. The tree was provided free of charge by our contract tree service SINNOTT TREE CARE. I re-read the proclamation and urged all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and support the effort to protect our trees and woodlands, and further urged all citizens to plant and care for trees to gladden the heart and promote the well being of this and future generations.

The Social, Economic, & Environmental Benefits of Trees 1 tree reduces storm water runoff by over 4,000 gallons per year.

Healthy trees can increase property values by an average of 10%.

Trees provide habitat for birds, mammals, & insects.

The roots of trees help reduce soil erosion by holding soil in place.

“If you plant a tree today on the west side of your home, in 5 years your energy bills should be 3% less. In 15 years the savings will be nearly 12%.” —Dr. E. Greg McPherson, Center for Urban Forest Research “Trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and can save 20 - 50 percent in energy used for heating.”—USDA Forest Service Through photosynthesis, in 1 day an average

tree can provide enough oxygen for a family of 4 for that day.

Trees planted along highways & city streets have been shown to help reduce drivers’ stress & reduce speeds.

Mature trees in business districts have been shown to positively affect shoppers’ behaviors.

Neighborhoods with more trees have been shown to have a lower crime rate.

Trees help people feel better – both mentally & physically.

One acre of forest absorbs six tons of carbon dioxide and puts out four tons of oxygen. This is enough to meet the annual needs of 18 people.”—U.S. Department of Agriculture “There are about 60 to 200 million spaces along our city streets where trees could be planted. This translates to the potential to absorb 33 million more tons of CO2 every year, and saving $4 billion in energy costs.”— National Wildlife Federation Information provided by SPRING GROVE NURSERY, 1255 W. Spring Road, Mazon, IL .

SANITARY AND STORM SEWER SERVICE LINE The village receives many calls throughout the year regarding whose responsibility it is to fix/maintain/replace Storm or Sanitary Sewer Lines. I have attached the village ordinances regarding the most prevalent questions regarding the issue. As you can see, the ordinances have been in effect for some-time.

15.08.010 - Responsibility for sanitary and storm sewers.

MAINTRUNKANDLATERALSANITARYAND STORM SEWERS. The Village of Westchester shall be responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the main trunk and lateral sanitary and storm sewers wherever located within the village limits. (b) SANITARY AND STORM SEWER SERVICE LINE. (1) Where the main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer is located under the street pavement, theVillage ofWestchester shall be responsible for the maintenance (excluding simple maintenance such as rodding and cleaning) and proper operation of the sanitary and storm sewer service line from the point where it connects with the village main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer to the street curb line. The property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the street curb line to his building.

(2) Where the main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer is located between the public sidewalk and the street curb line in the parkway abutting the property where there is an obstruction in the sanitary or storm sewer service line, the property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the street curb line to his building.

(3) Where the sanitary or storm sewer service line is connected to the village main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer located in the center parkway or in the parkway on the opposite side of the street from the property where there is an obstruction in the sanitary or storm sewer service line, the Village of Westchester shall be responsible for the

maintenance (excluding simple maintenance such as rodding and cleaning) and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the point where it connects with the main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer to the street curb line which fronts upon the parkways abutting the property where there is an obstruction in the sanitary or storm sewer service line. The property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the street curb line to his building.

(4) Where the main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer is located in an unpaved public alley, vacated alley, or easement in the rear of the property where there is an obstruction in the sanitary or storm sewer service line, the property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the point where it connects with the village main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer to his building.

(5) Where the main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer is located in a paved public alley, the Village of Westchester shall be responsible for the maintenance (excluding simple maintenance such as rodding and cleaning) and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the point where it connects with the village main trunk or lateral sanitary or storm sewer to the rear property line of the property where there is an obstruction in the sanitary or storm sewer service line. The property owner shall be responsible for the maintenance and proper operation of the sanitary or storm sewer service line from the rear property line to his building.

(Ord. 04-1646 § 1, 2004; Ord. 78-913 § 1, 1978: Ord. 63-675 § 1, 1963: Ord. 56-513 § 1, 1956) 15.14.130 - Repair of laterals.

The repair of laterals (pipes running from the sewer main to the premises served after the wye) shall be the responsibility of the owner.

All repairs and maintenance to laterals to premises, other than single-family detached dwellings, shall be made by and at the expense of the owners or occupants of the premises served. The village may, in the case of an emergency, repair any lateral and the reasonable cost of such work shall be repaid to the village by the owner of the premises served.

In the event the owner of the premises served does not repay to the village the expense of any emergency repair on the owner’s or occupant’s premises, the village shall have a lien against said property for the amount of said repairs or maintenance.

(Ord. 90-1290 § 13, 1990)

SANITARY SEWER LINE REPAIR INSURANCE This is just another reminder that it is highly recommendedthathomeownerssignupforthe National League of Cities Sewer Line Warranty Program. We had an instance recently where the homeowner was faced with a huge charge as a result of a broken clay lateral sewer line.

By Ordinance, the Village responsibility is with the main sanitary sewer line and not with the lateral line from your home connecting to the main. I have not had to use the service myself, however I have been told of several success

stories where the insurance helped immensely.

The Village receives no financial gain regarding the service. The service is provided voluntarily through the SEWER LINE WARRANTY PROGRAM through UTILITY PARNERS, INC. For more information visit www.utilitysp.net or call 1-866-974-4801.

MAY IS OLDER AMERICANS MONTH At our April 14, 2015 board meeting, I proclaimed May 2015 as Older Americans Month in the Village. Westchester census revealed that we have over 5 thousand citizens age 60 and older. Older adults are amongst our most treasured resources united by historical experiences, strengthened by diversity, and have interpreted events through varied perspectives and backgrounds to bring wisdom and insight in our community. May 14th through May 21st has been designated as “CELEBRATING SENIORS WEEK.” I am urging every citizen to take time this month to honor our older adults and the professionals, family members, and volunteers who care for many of them. Our recognition and involvement of older Americans can enrich our entire community’s quality of life.

ST. JOSEPH H.S. BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM In addition to the previously mentioned Board Proclamations it was an honor and a privilege to read a proclamation honoring the 2014-2015 St. Joe’s Basketball team for winning the IHSA Class 3A Basketball Championship.

Present at our April 14, 2015 meeting were all of the players and coaching staff including Athletic Director Bruce DeSanto and Coach Gene Pingatore. The Board was pleased to present a sign indicating the accomplishment of not only this year’s team but that of the 1999 team who also won the Illinois State Basketball Championship in 1999. The signs were placed at several of the entrances of the Village along with a posting right in front of St. Joe’s High School. The sign was placed above this year’s Runner-Up 2nd place finish for the boy’s varsity soccer team back in October 2014.

Congratulations to the students, staff, parents and coaches for their hard work dedication!

HONORARY SIGN REVEALED While at the April 14th Board Meeting, we pulled off a surprise on Coach Pingatore by honoring his coaching achievement, being the State’s highest game winner at 962 Basketball games in his 40 year career of coaching at St. Joe’s. Gene was very humble in being handed an honorary sign with his name on it. For all of you that have either known Gene or have had any contact with him over the years, you know he is a CHARGER through and through.

Sherwood Avenue has an added moniker of “Honorary Gene Pingatore Way.” Gene joins the likes of Mayor John Sinde, Mayor Fred Wedinger, Trustee Angelo Luciano, and George Zanoni who have received honorary street signs for their well deserved hard work and dedication to this village.

WESTCHESTER EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION On Friday, May 1, 2015, the Westchester EducationalFoundationhelditsSecondAnnual Foundation Night Out. The event was held at

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 8 Brixie’s Grill on Ogden Avenue in Brookfield.

Friends of the foundation and supporters of the public school children were welcomed.

Parents, teachers, staff, families, sponsors, colleagues, and community members were all welcomed guests. The goal of the foundation is to raise funds for the children of our School District 92.5. Even if you were not able to attend the event please consider donating to this worthwhile cause. Our children are our future, and our schools mold that child to succeed in the future. More information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ WestchesterEducationalFoundation

CONGRESSMAN QUIGLEY VISITS LA GRANGE PARK On Friday, April 10th, I was invited by LaGrange Park Village President Dr. James Discipio to attend a luncheon meeting with our Congressman Michael Quigley. I, along with Mayors from Western Springs, the City Manager from Elmhurst, and administrative staff were in attendance. Congressman Quigley, a former Cook County Commissioner, is very down to earth and personable. We were able to speak frankly with the congressman about issues affecting our residents. Of course flood relief for our residents and the FEMA Funding formula affecting government losses was a topic I jumped at the chance to comment on. I mentioned that I was ready, willing, and able to fly toWashington DC to address the topic before any subcommittee he would put together. He asked his staff to look into getting together with other federal representatives of the state to conduct what he called field discussions on the topic. I mentioned that Westchester and other Illinois communities are struggling to replace/ repair and fix our aging infrastructure. I asked him about the status of the highway trust fund and the real possibility that it is close to running out of money and is there any possibility of a Federal Gas Tax increase on the horizon to help fund the infrastructure improvements we need. He indicated all of those issues are being discussed, and that he understands the difficulties our cities are dealing with. He said he is the only Illinois member of the House Committee on Appropriations and that he is using his position to prioritize investments in innovation and Chicago-area infrastructure, which will grow the local economy and spur job creation. He currently serves on the Subcommittee on Financial Services and the Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development.

CONGRESSMAN QUIGLEY ADDRESSES AIRPORT NOISE On Tuesday, April 21, 2015, I attended a meeting at the Bensenville Village Hall with Congressman Michael Quigley and Mayors from Bensenville, Rosemont, Schiller Park, Harwood Heights, Northlake and staff from River Grove, Norridge and Wood Dale along with Cook County Commissioner Pete Silvestri regarding the O’Hare Airport Noise issue affecting our region. Each official went around

MAY 2015 the table expressing concern about the noise associated with the high decibel level, the oily residue left on roofs, and outdoor equipment, the inability to have any windows open, and the sheer number of passing planes banking and turning right overhead. I have to admit I was glad not to have those issues facingWestchester.

I guess you are asking why I would attend such a meeting as the airport is far enough away from Westchester where we really do not feel the full affect of the take-offs and landings that occur right next to the villages right next door.

As I told the Congressman, as a member of the West Central Municipal Conference I believe it is my duty to be well versed in as many issues affecting all Villages of our region. I would like to think I have their support for Westchester especially when it comes to our issues. I have found that the more you meet with other governmental officials, the more they remember your name and possibly are more likely to assist you when you call. I consider the 50 members of the West Central Municipal Conference as a group of elected officials that speak with “Many Voices One Vision.”

I did suggest to the Congressman and my colleagues that in addition to all the data collection and public hearings that are planned to air these problems that I would invite FAA officials and other representatives to a Bar-B-Que at an affected home and let them see first-hand what we in the neighborhoods are experiencing every day. I would not point anything out and just try to have a good time.

At the end of the day I would ask them how they would feel or what they would do if they lived here and what steps or improvements they would suggest.

WEST CENTRAL MUNICIPAL CONFERENCE LEGISLATIVE DRIVE DOWN On April 28, 2015, I along withVillage Manager Janet Matthys, Trustee Nick Steker, Trustee Elect Carl Celestino and Village Clerk Sherby Miller attended Legislative Day in Springfield. Our goal was to get face time with not only our State Senators and Representatives, but to meet with department heads from IDNR, IEPA, and other officials to express our concerns in person about what our legislature is doing on our behalf. The show of strength from West Central Municipal Conference members along with the Illinois Municipal League expressed how a reduction of LDGF funding would cripple our community and certainly reduce service to our residents. Sending emails and letters just go so far. Face to face meetings with our group lets them know we are serious.

ELECTRONICS RECYCLING On Saturday, April 11, 2015, we held the first electronic recycling event at our new location.

I, along with Trustee Angelo Calcagno, Trustee Elect Carl Celestino, and Management Assistant Jessica Spencer assisted Boy Scout Troop #1 led by Troop Leader Edward Colliani and volunteers from the Village’s Environmental Sustainability Committee in collecting old outdated electronic devices. Having done this for about 4 years, I thought we had collected all of the huge and heavy Sony televisions.

Boy, was I wrong! We were able to fill a large truck provided by our recycling contractor Credential Wholesalers with over 10 pallets of

televisions within the first 2 hours. The new venue is working out very well, however the volunteer pool diminished substantially over the 4 hours we were collecting.

As a result, we have decided to change the time of operation to 9AM to 11:30 AM. We will be shutting down our operation promptly at 11:30AM. If you bring anything after that time, you will be asked to bring it back the following month. The next collection date will be Saturday, May 9th. As an added bonus, we will also be offering to our semi-annual shredding event, where we shred your personal papers on site. Remember, we are holding the event at the water tower grounds near Cermak Road and Enterprise Drive.

ELECTRONICS PROHIBITED Illinois state law does not allow electronic equipment such as televisions, VCRS, radios, etc. to be placed in your garbage or out at the curb for pick-up on garbage day. We have seen many of these items left at the curb. Please DO NOT place these items at the curb. Public Works will NOT be picking them up and you will be visited by Code Enforcement and asked to remove them from the parkway. They can be recycled properly by bringing them to the electronic recycling location mentioned above on the second Saturday of the month throughout the summer and fall.

GARBAGE DAY COLLECTION Speaking of garbage collection, it appears that there are some residents placing their garbage containers, recycling bins, leaf bags, yard waste cans, carpeting and general refuse out at the curb way before their collection day. This is in violation of our village code.

The village garbage collection has been broken down in 4 sections for Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday pick-ups. Our Municipal Code requires placement of all items BEHIND THE CURB AND NOT IN THE STREET beginning at 3PM the day before your garbage day and removed before 8AM the day following the pickup.

Again, please adhere to the rules. I believe we would all want the Police to be patrolling and preventing as much crime as possible instead of writing ordinance violations, knocking on your door and asking you to remove the items until the proper time. I recently saw a huge pile of carpeting, padding, a television, an old VCR and a wooden hutch placed out on the parkway on Sunday for a Thursday pick-up.

Please follow the ordinance.

BRANCH PICK-UP SCHEDULE Branch pick-up began the week of April 6-10. Our PW crews have many jobs to do weekly such as water leak repairs, pot hole filling, parkway restoration, Ash tree removals, alley grading, and other matters of concern.

There is a defined schedule for the chipping of branches. Branches are picked-up the FIRST FULL WEEK OF THE MONTH. Brush/branch pick-up also has scheduled Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday pick-ups with logs and large stumps picked up on Friday, called open loading. Please read the Public Works page of this newsletter for specific details. The next branch pick-up will be the week of May 4-8, 2015.

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POSTAL WORKERS FOOD DRIVE Postal carriers throughout the region will be dropping off cards announcing their annual May food drive. During the week ending Saturday, May 9th, the postal workers will be delivering large post cards with info about the food drive to our homes. The card asks us to leave donations on the front porch beneath your mailbox on Saturday, May 9th. As they deliver the mail, the postal workers move donations to the curb and then drive their route to pick up the food. Westchester Boy Scout Troop 1 scouts are going to help by driving the town and picking up food from the houses or curbs. The Scouts will make one pass a little after 9 AM, then again before Noon.

All of the collected food goes to the post office, and then a few days later the postal workers will deliver it to the Westchester Food Pantry at the Village Hall. All of your generous donations will stay local to assist those in need right here in Westchester.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS Maureen and I attended the opening night of the Westchester Civic Theatre production of STEEL MAGNOLIAS and could not have been more impressed with the production. I’m guessing everyone but me knew the story line as I had never seen the movie when it came out or knew who starred in it. I thought the opening day show was just great. To me, all of the actors had way too many lines to remember but they were just perfect. The Westchester Civic Theatre group needs to be commended for bringing live theater to Westchester. For those who remember the “Showcase Productions” that were held at Divine Providence and the live shows held at Divine Infant can appreciate all the time, effort and energy that goes into the sets, props, advertisement and all aspects of doing a show. I hope that these productions continue to be held at St. Joseph’s Sirus Auditorium for years to come and residents of Westchester and other communities continue to support live theater. Break a leg! You can learn more about theWestchester Civic Theater at www.westchesterplays.com.

WESTCHESTER MIDDLE SCHOOL PRESENTS “HAIRSPRAY JR.” Speaking about live theater, the Westchester Middle School will be performing their own Broadway style production of “HAIRSPRAY JR” at 7PM on Thursday and Friday, May 7th and 8th and 2PM on Saturday, May 9, 2015.

The production will be held at the Westchester Middle School (old Nixon School) located at 1620 Norfolk Ave. Tickets are $7 each and can be purchased at the door. For more information about the play call 708-450-2735.

WESTCHESTER POLICE TO HOST OPEN HOUSE The Westchester Police Department will host its annual open house on Saturday, May 16th from 10AM to 2PM. The Open House culminates National Police Week. The family event includes many activities such as a behind the scene tour of the Police Department, mug shots for children under 10, a Police K9 demonstration, a DUI experience with “beer

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 9 goggles”, a demonstration of equipment and more. Hope to see you there!

POLICE MEMORIAL WEEK Having been a 40+ year police officer from a law enforcement family which has served the public before me as well as currently, Police MemorialWeek is very special to me and should be very special to you. I can honestly say that reflecting on my career, based on what I know now, I probably would have handled many situations differently. Many of the decisions I made were a result of not having the luxury of weighing my decisions over a long period of time; something the police officers of today are still faced with. Police officers, as you are well aware, are under much more scrutiny today than ever before. There are times when we are our own worst enemy in the things we do both on and off duty. Standards for police education and training have increased dramatically since my 7 weeks at the Chicago Police Academy. For far too many, all the education, training, time on the job, and experience did not stop them from being victims themselves and being killed in the line of duty. Police officers are human beings and have the same life issues as nonpolice officer families with wives, kids, school, payments and other stresses. They are charged by sworn oath to enforce the law that someone else, whether it be the Federal Government, State Legislature, or local ordinance directs them to do. There will be 273 names added to the police memorial wall in Washington DC this year. 116 names are officers from across the USA and Puerto Rico, a U.S. territory, that were killed in the line of duty. The remaining names represent those identified from as far back as 1858 who were sadly omitted in prior years, but who will take their place on the wall.

During the period from January 1, 2015 to April 22, 2015, there have been 36 law enforcement fatalities.

Just like it is unacceptable for any person to lose their life as a result of violence and poor decisions, it is just as unacceptable that the protectors lose their lives as well. On average, one law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty somewhere in the United States every 58 hours. Since the first known line-ofduty death in 1791, more than 20,000 U.S. law enforcement officers have made the ultimate sacrifice.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15th as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls is designated as Police Week. Currently, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world converge on Washington, DC to participate in a number of planned events which honor those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice.

The Memorial Service began in 1982 as a gathering in Senate Park of approximately 120 survivors and supporters of law enforcement.

Decades later, the event, more commonly known as National Police Week, has grown to

a series of events which attracts thousands of survivors and law enforcement officers to our Nation’s Capital each year.

country to encourage a large and diverse group of participants in the hope it will broaden children’s appreciation for nature and the outdoors.

The National Peace Officers’ Memorial Service, which is sponsored by the Grand Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, is one in a series of events which includes the Candlelight Vigil, which is sponsored by the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) and seminars sponsored by Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.).

COOK COUNTY FOREST PRESERVE DISTRICT

National PoliceWeek draws in between 25,000 to 40,000 attendees. The attendees come from police departments throughout the United States as well as from agencies throughout the world. This provides a unique opportunity to meet others that share a common brotherhood.

In that spirit, the Fraternal Order of Police DC Lodge #1 sponsors receptions each afternoon and evening during Police Week. These events are open to all law enforcement personnel and are an experience unlike any other.

MAYOR’S BICYCLE SAFETY QUIZ May is National Bike Month. I recently was sent some information by a resident asking me to promote safety for cyclists. The resident is a member of the League of Illinois Bicyclists dedicated to improving bicycling conditions in Illinois. Their goal is to advocate for all Illinois bicyclists, promoting bicycle access, education and safety. The information contained a web address to take the Illinois Bicycle Safety Quiz Challenge. There are 3 parts to the quiz; a Bronze, Silver, and Gold Level. I went on the web site and actually took all three levels. I can’t say I got all of the answers right the first time, however the explanations that accompanied the correct answers made sense when I reviewed them.

The Secretary of State website “CYBERDRIVE ILLINOIS” does have a BICYCLE RULES OF THE ROAD BOOKLET, just as he has produced a RULES OF THE ROAD for vehicles.

Safety of all users of the road is a primary focus of all police departments across the land.

We want everyone whether traveling on foot, bike, car, or truck to get where they are going safely. Please make every attempt to take the quiz. I dare you. I think you will be surprised on what you did not know. I know I did. The Quiz can be taken at www.bikesafetyquiz.com.

NATIONAL PARK TRUST With Earth Day and Arbor Day behind us, I have been asked by the National Park Trust to proclaim May 16, 2015 as “KIDS TO PARKS DAY.” The goal of the organization is to get as many kids and their families out into their local, state, and national parks. Kids to Parks Day empowers kids and encourages families to get outdoors and visit America’s parks. It was developed to introduce a new generation to our nation’s parks because of the decline in Park attendance over the last decades and to encourage children to lead a more active lifestyle to combat the issues of childhood obesity, diabetes, hypertension and hypercholesterolemia. Kids to Parks Day is open to all children and adults across the

The Cook County Forest Preserve District is all around Westchester. We really have no excuse not to Bike to the Brookfield Zoo, have a picnic at Westchester Woods, Brezina Woods, Bemis Woods, and enjoy the outdoors right at our fingertips or should I say footsteps. Please log onto the Forest Preserve Web site http:// fpdcc.com/events for many events not too far from Westchester. Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle and FPD Superintendent Arnold Randall invite all resident to take full advantage of any of the groves and events they have planned.

BASSET LIQUOR SERVERS TRAINING Effective July 1, 2015 Public Act 098-939 amends the Liquor Control Act to add section 6-27.1 which requires all servers in COOK COUNTY to receive BEVERAGE ALCOHOL SELLERS/SERVERS EDUCATION & TRAINING (BASSETT) certification by July 1, 2015 or within 120 days of their employment, whichever is later. The Village or a Westchester for the past several years had its own village ordinance requiring BASSETT training, and have conducted compliance checks of those establishments that serve, sell, or touch alcoholic beverages; even non-profit establishments. On May 21st, Westchester will be hosting FREE BASSETT TRAINING at our Village Hall. Two classes will be offered in both English and Spanish. Class times are 9AM – 1PM and 2PM - 6PM. Preregistration is required. You can register at www.ILCC.Illinois.

Gov. Preventing people from being over-served and identifying intoxicated individuals and preventing them from driving under the influence has always been our goal. Driving while Intoxicated is preventable.

For more information and additional class locations visit www.ILCC.illinois.gov and click on the “Calendar Tab”.

IN YOUR PRAYERS On Tuesday evening at 9pm, I drove down to Holy Name Cathedral to the wake of Cardinal Francis George. I remember meeting Cardinal George on two occasions, both in Westchester.

The line for those paying their last respects was about a block long. The cardinal was lying in his coffin in his full white vestments with two dressed guards standing on each side. The two lines on either side took turns making the sign of the cross and saying a momentary prayer.

There were people in line from all walks of life, races and creeds. It was certainly an emotional moment for all. The Cardinal, from my prior meetings, was a quiet man who was dedicated to people. Not just Catholics, but to everyone.

Not all of his stances were popular or accepted by all. However, just like us, he was a human being with frailties, conflict and was called upon to make difficult decisions. In my opinion, God picked a great humble man to serve mankind.

Rest In Peace and Thank You.

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DIVINE PROVIDENCE HOSTS MULTICHAMBER EVENT On Thursday, April 16th, the Westchester, Bellwood, Hillside-Berkeley, and LaGrange Park Chambers of Commerce participated in a Multi-Chamber Business Expo. The Expo was held at the Divine Providence Gymnasium and was well attended by many businesses and the public. The economic engine that drives our economy is small businesses. There were plenty of diverse businesses displaying their wares from our region. I would like to thank all the businesses that participated, their Chambers of Commerce boards and all of the people who walked through the 2 hour event.

I’m hoping that the Chambers will continue to hold these types of events to help the small businesses thrive.

KIWANIS CLUB NEEDS YOUR HELP While at the Business Expo, I had the opportunity to speak to John Lorenzo, the Westchester contact for the Kiwanis Club of Westchester. John mentioned that the club is always looking for new members. The Kiwanis Club’s global mission is “TO SERVE THE CHILDREN OF THE WORLD.” Each year the Kiwanis Clubs sponsor 150,000 service projects, raise more than $100 million dollars and devote 6 million hours of service. The Kiwanis meeting is held the 1st Thursday of each month at Q’s Pizza, 4801 Butterfield Road, Hillside (a Westchester Chamber of Commerce Member), at 6:30PM. For more information, please contact John at 312-816-6748 or by e-mail at johnlhitme@yahoo.com.

CANINE INFLUENZA Recently in the news, it was reported that there was what could be identified as an epidemic of Canine Flu affecting our pets. The canine influenza is a relatively new disease caused by a “flu” virus. It causes respiratory infection and only affects dogs. It spreads quickly and may cause serious illness such as pneumonia. It is very contagious. The canine flu was first reported in 2003 and reached 30 states, including Illinois, by 2009. Today, a total of 40 states have had indentified cases. The flu is spread 3 ways: through direct contact between dogs; through the air by coughing and sneezing; and through contaminated surfaces.

Sounds similar to how we humans get the flu.

There is an effective vaccine available at your veterinarian. If your dog has these symptoms, you probably should take it to the vet for an examination. More information is available at www.doginfluenza.com.

MAY 2015 HOLIDAYS As I search the internet for entertaining tidbits I search the Apples ForThe Teacher Site’s Holiday Calendar which is quite expansive.

Among the holidays listed I usually pick some of the notable ones. Here are a few I would like to share with some historical facts attached.

Cinco de mayo is celebrated on the 5th of May. Contrary to what many people believe, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s independence day from Spain. Rather, it’s a remembrance of a David and Goliath-like fight. In 1862, as the

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 17 French invasion of Mexico began, Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza’s force of 4,000 soldiers defeated twice as many French soldiers in the Battle of Puebla. The French occupation would continue until 1866. But the Mexican soldiers’ courage and determination inspired Mexican Americans. Even back then, historians say, California’s Mexican Americans celebrated the win. Later, in the 1960s and 1970s, Chicanos involved in the civil rights movement related the Cinco de Mayo story to their quest for respect in the United States. They identified with the Mexican Indian and Mestizo (people of Mexican Indian and European descent) soldiers’ triumph over European conquest attempts. Chicano activists publicized it and made it a popular holiday in the United States.

Today, it’s become much like St. Patrick’s Day. You don’t have to be Mexican to celebrate it.

In the United States, Teacher Appreciation Day is celebrated on theTuesday duringTeacher Appreciation Week. Teacher Appreciation Week takes place the first full week of May. This year it is May 4th through May 8th. An exception to this is the state of Massachusetts.

Massachusetts set the first Sunday in June as it’s own Teacher Day. Students, parents, and local businesses sometimes show appreciation for teachers by giving them gifts or recognizing them with awards. Teacher Appreciation Day is a time to honor teachers for the contributions they make to learning, child development and to the community. I think all of us have remembered a special teacher that has made a difference in our lives. Hopefully you will remember the positive difference and not any negative experiences. I have mentioned in past articles the teachers that made a difference for me. From Dr. Ray Albert, principal at the Mary Jane Kennedy School, to PTHS Wrestling Coach Al Lipper and all in between and after; thank you for your guidance, patience, and benevolence.

HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY Mother’s Day this year is Sunday, May 10, 2015. Mother’s Day is intended to be a day to celebrate motherhood. Many churches and families in the United States recognize

the second Sunday in May to honor mothers.

The first known suggestion of Mother’s Day in the United States was in 1872 by Julia Ward Howe. She suggested that people observe the day on June 2 as a day dedicated to peace.

Others around the country campaigned for a Mother’s Day including Mary Towles Sasseen, Frank E. Hering, and Anna Jarvis. In 1908, Anna Jarvis of West Virginia began a campaign for a nationwide observance of Mother’s Day. She chose the second Sunday in May and started the custom of wearing a carnation. If a person wears a colored carnation, their mother is living. A white carnation signifies that their mother has passed away. In 1914, President Woodrow Wilson signed a joint resolution of Congress recommending that Congress and the executive branch of government recognize the observance of Mother’s Day. Now that you know the facts, let’s put everything in clear perspective. Mom, if it wasn’t for your gentle touch, your nurturing spirit, and your ability to hide the truth about things I did from Dad, it would have been far worse for me. I miss you, I love you and wish you were still here with me.

The 3rd Saturday in May is celebrated in the United States as Armed Forces Day to honor Americans serving in all divisions of the military. This year the 3rd Saturday in May is May 16th. Previous to the establishment of Armed Forces Day, there were separate days to celebrate the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard. Armed Forces Week begins on the second Saturday of May, May 9th and ends on the third Sunday of May, May 17th. National Guard and Reserve units may celebrate Armed Forces Day/Week over any period in May because of their unique training schedules.

FROM THE BOARD At the March 24th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 03-192015 in the amount not to exceed $705,074.77 Approval of Minutes of the March 3, 2015 Special Meeting, the March 10, 2015 Village Board and Committee of the Whole Meetings, and the March 17, 2015 Special Meeting A Resolution Approving a Change Order (“Contract Modification No. 1”) of a Contract between the Village of Westchester and Copenhaver Construction, Inc. for services

related to the Mayfair Reservoir Expansion Project At the March 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Sale of Surplus Property Draft Bond Ordinance – $2,200,000 General Obligation Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source) Series 2015 Contract for Salt Procurement through Department of Central Management Services Proposal for Audit Services 2015-2017 At the March 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following item was discussed under Old Business: LED Lighting Investigation Update At the March 24th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following item was discussed under Information Only: Gaming License – Blackhawk Restaurant (d/b/a Betty’s Bistro) At the April 6th Special Board Meeting, the following (budget) items were discussed: Revenue Administration & Finance Department Planning Commission & Zoning Board of Appeals Community Development Department Fire & Police Commission Police Department Emergency Management Fire Department Public Works Department At the April 14th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills ending 04-092015 in the amount not to exceed $933,630.72 Approval of Minutes of the March 24, 2015 Village Board and Committee of the Whole Meetings, and the Special Budget Meeting of April 6, 2015 Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports: Community Development Department, Fire Department, Police Department, and Public Works Department An Ordinance Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Property of the Village of Westchester An Ordinance Amending Chapter 11.68, Entitled “Honorary Streets,” of Title 11, Entitled

“Vehicles and Traffic,” of the Westchester Municipal Code in order to designate “Coach Gene Pingatore Way” An Ordinance Amending Section 5.102.220, Entitled “Number of Licenses,” of Chapter 5.102, Entitled “Video Gaming” of Title 5, Entitled “Business Licenses and Regulations,” of the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Ratifying the Execution of a Joint Purchasing Requisition for the Purchase of Rock Salt for the Village of Westchester, Illinois An Ordinance Waiving Competitive Bidding and Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement with Sinnott Tree Service, Inc. At the April 14th Board Meeting, the following item was discussed under Active Agenda: An Ordinance Waiving the Requirements of the Village of Westchester Purchasing Policies and Procedures Manual and Ratifying the Execution of a Premiere Lease Agreement between the Village of Westchester and Konica Minolta At the April 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Contract for Emergency Street Light Repair/ Street Light Maintenance Mariano’s – Outdoor Grilling Leak Detection Services – Renewal of Contract Parkway Infrastructure Reappointment of Boards/Commissions Reimbursement for Trustee Expenses Intergovernmental Agreement with Cook County Sheriff’s Department SWAP Program Contract Renewal with Schneider Electric At the April 14th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items were discussed under Old Business: LED Lighting Investigation Update Recommendation to approve Petition PC14-0002 Text Amendments to Chapters 18.04, 18.12, 18.28, 18.32, 18.40 and 18.58 of Title 18 of the Village of Westchester Zoning Ordinance (Village of Westchester, Petitioner) Budget Discussion Proposed Utility Easement Agreement with Save the Prairie Society Proposed Adoption of the 2012 International Building Codes

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