Spring 2024 Access Point

A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ANDREW GOCZKOWSKI

Friends, family, and neighbors:

Our city continues to grow and thrive, and I’m so excited to share some updates about what is happening in our community.

BUSINESS IS BOOMING

Over the past year, Des Plaines has welcomed 85 new businesses and over $105 million in investment in the

We expect many more businesses to open their doors in the months ahead. If you are interested in investing and opening a business here in the city, I encourage you to contact me directly.

ANOTHER BALANCED BUDGET

Our latest budget fully funds public safety and needed improvements to roads and other infrastructure without raising property taxes. These investments include flood relief efforts, business incentives, and events to help grow our sense of community.

STAY CONNECTED

I look forward to continuing to see the progress here in our city. It is because of you all that we continue to build a better Des Plaines together.

Sign up for my e-newsletter to stay updated. If you have questions or need help solving a problem, I am available to help.

Warm Regards,

Mayor Andrew Goczkowski 847-391-5301 agoczkowski@desplaines.org

CITY SNAPSHOTS

“I’m from Des Plaines, of course!”

Joining the wave of a popular social media trend, the city staff of Des Plaines has added their own spin with the slogan “I’m from Des Plaines ... of

course!” Through the engaging video, they showcased their pride in the city, highlighting local quirks. This initiative entertains and sheds light on what makes Des Plaines unique. Check out the reel!

Mayor’s Address to Business and Community Enhancement awards

On March 7, 2024, Mayor Goczkowski and local officials from Des Plaines, along with business representatives, chamber members, and stakeholders, gathered for the annual Mayor’s Address to Business and Community Enhancement Awards. Sponsored by the Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the event recognizes outstanding contributions by local businesses to the community. Congratulations to this year's award winners!

Jan

students visit Des Plaines

Plainfield Elementary students from Des Plaines Community Consolidated School District 62 visited Des Plaines City Hall for an educational session on local government. The students participated in a mock City Council Meeting led by Mayor Andrew Goczkowski, Maine Township Supervisor Karen Dimond, and Des Plaines staff. They learned about civic responsibility and community engagement. The visit provided a practical understanding of how local government functions and its impact on everyday life.

In March, the City Council appointed Dorothy Wisniewski to be the next City Manager for the City of Des Plaines. Previously, Dorothy served as Assistant City Manager/Director of Finance. She has worked for Des Plaines for almost 17 years and brings a wealth of experience to this important role. Under her leadership, Des Plaines has seen remarkable progress in financial management, with significant reductions in debt and a projected zero debt status by 2028.

Dorothy’s promotion comes after the retirement of Mike Bartholomew on March 31, 2024. Mike's dedicated service spanned 13 years in Des Plaines, during which he contributed immensely to our community's growth and development.

dorothy wisniewski began new role as city manager on april 1, 2024. APR

Dorothy's appointment is a historic moment for our city, as she is the first woman to be appointed to this role. This promotion underscores our commitment to diversity and fostering qualified leadership. Congratulations, Dorothy!

DP 311

DP 311 has been upgraded to empower the community with quick and convenient access to essential services, information, and a direct line to City services in one user-friendly platform.

With DP 311, you’ll be able to:

•Access Information: Access up-to-date information about City services, events, news, and more right at your fingertips.

•Submit Service Requests: Request City services with ease, from pothole repairs and streetlight outages to parkway tree maintenance and more.

•Report Issues: Report concerns, such as code violations, graffiti, or other non-emergency issues.

Visit desplaines.org/dp311 to submit your requests. Or, download the DP 311 mobile app from either the Android or Apple Store on your device to put the power of making requests to the City of Des Plaines right in your hand.

IMPORTANT NOTE: While DP 311 provides an efficient and convenient channel to connect with City services, please remember that requests are not monitored on a 24/7 basis. In case of emergencies, always dial 9-1-1 for immediate assistance.

Learn more at desplaines.org/dp311

CITY OF DES PLAINES CONTINUES TO ADVOCATE FOR ALGONQUIN ROAD GRADE SEPARATION PROJECT

In our efforts to improve transportation, the City conducted a feasibility study and determined Algonquin Rd. as the best location for grade separation. This project aims to reduce congestion and enhance safety on our roads.

With 31 at-grade railroad crossings causing traffic issues and delays for emergency vehicles in Des Plaines, the Algonquin Rd. site is the most effective solution, considering factors like cost and community impact.

We encourage residents and business owners to explore the comprehensive project details on the City's website at desplaines.org/algonquinbridge. This valuable resource provides a deeper understanding of the anticipated improvements and facilitates an informed community discussion.

WHY DO WE NEED A GRADE SEPARATION (BRIDGE)?

Provides an unimpeded route between the east and west sides of the City (there are currently zero).

Significantly reduces emergency response times for local first responders.

Increases safety with the elimination of a railroad crossing and potential accidents.

Mitigates congestion and improves air quality by reducing overall emissions.

WHY CAN’T WE BUILD AN UNDERPASS?

Building an underpass was considered but is not recommended due to significant increases in cost and duration.

HOW WILL THE PROJECT BE FUNDED?

The project funding will be a continuous effort with stakeholders, including federal, state, and local government agencies. As of February 2024, $18M has been secured. The total project cost is expected to be approximately $35M.

BUDGET IN BRIEF

WHERE THE MONEY COMES FROM

For a $6,000 total property tax bill, $52.97 a month goes to the City of Des Plaines for the following services. The graphics below shows what residents receive in the form of City services each month and the cost of those services.

CITY SUMMER EVENTS

COMMUNITY FIREWORKS

Sunday, June 30

events are free to attend. Learn more at desplaines.org/events.

FOOD TRUCK ROUND UP

Tuesdays, May 21, Aug. 20, Sept. 17

We are excited to bring back our successful Food Truck Round Up event series! Join us on May 21 at the grounds of Forest Elementary School, Aug. 20 at Library Plaza, and Sept. 17 at Rosemary S. Argus Friendship Park and Conservatory for live entertainment and various food truck offerings. Bring a chair or picnic blanket to sit back, relax, and soak up the summer!

TASTE OF DES PLAINES

Friday, June 14, and Saturday, June 15

Experience a meal from local food vendors, listen to live music, and enjoy family entertainment with your friends and neighbors near the Downtown Des Plaines Metra Station. Rock out with Sixteen Candles and Semple on our Main Stage, and visit desplaines.org/taste to see the full lineup.

New! Taste of Des Plaines Going Cashless in 2024. Please note that food and alcohol purchases will require a debit card, credit card, or a cashless mobile payment application (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Taste of Des Plaines will NOT sell or require tickets to purchase food and alcohol.

Kick off the holiday week by dancing to the DJ and playing yard games with family and friends before the fireworks extravaganza. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs to watch the fireworks show illuminate the sky at Oakton College on Sunday, June 30! More information can be found at desplaines.org/july4.

INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE

Thursday, July 4

The annual Independence Day Parade begins at the intersection of Center and Wicke Streets at 10 a.m. on Thursday, July 4. Our theme, “Planting the Seeds of Happiness,” will showcase Des Plaines’ growth and joyful memories. Visit desplaines.org/july4 for details.

Save the date for Harvest Hoot on Oct. 19 at Oakton College!

All event updates will be posted on our website and will be communicated through our Facebook page at facebook.com/cityofdesplaines.

WELCOME OUR NEW DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

This past winter, Jeff Rogers joined the City of Des Plaines as the Director of Community and Economic Development. Prior to joining the team, Jeff served as Deputy Director of Community Development in the Village of Glenview and brings over two decades of experience in planning and community development.

Throughout his career, Jeff has demonstrated remarkable leadership, a deep commitment to fostering sustainable growth within communities, and significant expertise in process improvement.

In his leadership role, Jeff will manage Des Plaines’ Community and Economic Development department, overseeing strategic initiatives and aligning them with the City’s development objectives. community-driven development. His skill and dedication to advancing economic growth make him a valuable addition to the leadership team. Jeff’s appointment signifies the City’s commitment to fostering innovation, strategic planning, and

Watch the video to learn more about Jeff!

CITY COUNCIL RESPONDS TO COMMUNITY NEEDS WITH INCREASED SUPPORT FUNDING SOCIAL SERVICES

In recognition of the growing demand for mental health and social services in our community, the Des Plaines City Council is taking steps to address these needs in our community. Each year during the budget process, the Council dedicates funds through the social service grant program to support organizations providing crucial services locally.

As part of the FY2024 Budget, City Council allocated $250,000 for disbursement to social service agencies that provide services to Des Plaines’ residents in need.

The City of Des Plaines recently implemented a new online customer self-service portal for building permits. Through the Customer Self Service (CSS) portal, residents, contractors, and business owners will be able to search for an address or parcel, apply for permits, pay invoices and more.

DES PLAINES IS NOW

PLAN REVIEWS PERMITS REGISTRATIONS

desplaines.org/permits

Visit desplaines.org/permits to find out what projects need permits and how to get started online.

The Human Services Division (HS) has solicited and evaluated grant requests from social service agencies that serve the Des Plaines community, and 36 will be granted awards. A list of grant recipients is available on the City’s website at desplaines.org/ssfunding.

To further underscore their commitment to supporting our neighbors in need, the Council took the additional step of authorizing the transition of our part-time social worker role to a full-time Police and Community Social Worker. Angelika Danek was hired in the summer of 2023 to make a meaningful impact in addressing the diverse needs of our community. To find out more about Angelika’s role in Des Plaines, watch this video or visit desplaines.org/humanservices.

Watch the video to learn more about Angelika!

FLOOD INFORMATION

Heavy rain can result in flooding, which often creates dangerous circumstances both indoors and outdoors. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your safety and minimize damage:

Do not walk through flowing water or drive through flooded areas.

Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.

Look out for animals that have been flooded out of their homes.

Be alert for gas leaks and turn off electricity and gas in your home.

Unplug sanitary sewer ejector pits (typically in basements).