Summer 2025 Access Point

ACCESS POINT

NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR RESIDENTS FROM THE CITY OF DES PLAINES

Contact Us: 847.391.5300 | Address: 1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines IL | Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

DESPL AINESIL .GOV

A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR

ANDREW GOCZKOWSKI Dear Residents, This spring, I was honored to be sworn in for a second term as Mayor of Des Plaines. Growing up here and now raising my family in Des Plaines makes serving as your Mayor truly the highest honor.

Des Plaines was recognized as one of the Top 10 Best Places to Live in Illinois

As we look at the months ahead, I am excited about our hometown's long-term economic development prospects.

The City Council is aligned in its focus on strategic development of both our downtown and all eight of our vibrant City wards.

In just the past few months, we’ve engaged with private developers on two major projects in our downtown: one in the white marble bank building and one on the site of the former Oliveti’s Ristorante. Both of these locations will have new restaurants and will help drive the downtown's economic development.

Outside of downtown, we have welcomed countless restaurants and businesses of all types while also engaging in development agreements with current businesses. Working with the City Council, Vetter Pharma International is expanding its business in Des Plaines with a $163 million expansion of its Des Plaines campus.

This expansion will bring new, good-paying jobs to the community.

People are taking note of our progress. Des Plaines was recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Top 10 Best Places to Live in Illinois. This recognition reflects the strong community we’ve built together. That same community spirit is on full display in our summer events lineup.

The Taste of Des Plaines was a fantastic way to kick off the season, and there’s much more to come. Mark your calendars for Community Fireworks on Sunday, June 29, our Independence Day Parade on July 4, and the Food Truck Round Up events on July 22, August 19, and September 9. These family-friendly events showcase the spirit of Des Plaines, and I hope to see you there.

As always, it remains my honor to serve each and every one of you. If you would like to contact me, please feel free to email me at agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov, or you can call my office at 847-391-5301.

Yours in service,

Andrew Goczkowski Mayor of Des Plaines

STAY CONNECTED Stay connected with the City of Des Plaines by signing up for emails regarding emergency information, City Council updates, general news, events, police bulletins, and more. Sign up at desplainesil.gov/social or by scanning this QR code.

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JAN

CITY SNAPSHOTS FEB DPFD Featured on “Cooking With Fire” “Clearopatha” Becomes Latest Resident-Named Plow

The third annual “Name A Snowplow” contest resulted in a royal addition to the City’s fleet. Clearopatha not only underscores our residents' creativity but also strengthens the community's connection to the vital services provided by our Public Works team. We’re proud to welcome her majesty to the team.

Several Des Plaines firefighters were featured on Fox 32’s Cooking with Fire, preparing tasty turkey burgers and sweet potato fries. While showcasing their culinary skills, they also promoted job openings within the department, highlighting the rewarding career opportunities and strong community spirit found in the Des Plaines Fire Department service.

APR

MAR Mayor’s Address to Businesses

MAY

During his annual address to local businesses, Mayor Andrew Goczkowski outlined Des Plaines’ recent economic developments, including the addition of over a dozen new businesses. He also discussed ongoing efforts to support local business growth through educational resources and targeted programs like Business Assistance Grants.

Des Plaines Goes Green for Earth Month

The Des Plaines forestry team hosted a Q&A at Devonshire Elementary School to educate students on sustainable practices, while the police department served as a drop site on prescription medication take-back day.

Additionally, the City partnered with local non-profit Clean Up-Give Back to clean up trash at Axehead Lake.

JUNE Taste of Des Plaines

2025 Community Garage Sale

The 2025 Community Garage Sale brought Des Plaines neighbors together the first weekend in May. With 121 households participating, the City’s interactive map made it easy for shoppers to explore local sales. This shared weekend of treasure hunting was a great example of true community connection.

The Taste of Des Plaines brought thousands of residents together over Father’s Day weekend, showcasing local restaurants, live music on two stages, and activities for all ages. Thanks to Rivers Gives for sponsoring the Main Stage, and Generations at Oakton Arms and Town and Country Distributors for supporting the World Stage and helping create a lively, welcoming atmosphere downtown.

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WELCOME TO OUR NEWLY

ELECTED CITY LEADERS

We Say Thank You to Outgoing Officials On behalf of the Des Plaines Community, the City Council expresses its sincere gratitude and appreciation for their service and commitment to the community.

On May 5, the City was thrilled to welcome two new members to the City Council, two current members for a second term, and introduce a new City Clerk.

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Alderman Mark Lysakowski 2017-2025

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Alderman Carla Brookman 1997-2009 and 2017-2025

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City Clerk Jessica Mastalski 2021-2025

Congratulations to 1st Ward Alderman Margaret Chlebek 2025-2029 3rd Ward Alderman Sean Oskerka 2021-2029 5th Ward Alderman Thomas Merlin 2025-2029 7th Ward Alderman Patsy Smith 2021-2029 City Clerk Dominik Bronakowski 2025-2029

Margaret Chlebek

Mayor Andrew Goczkowski 847.391.5301

City Clerk Dominik Bronakowski 847.391.5511

First Ward Margaret Chlebek 847.514.8526

Second Ward Colt Moylan 847.530.3345

Third Ward Sean Oskerka 847.514.6318

agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov

dbronakowski@desplainesil.gov

mchlebek@desplainesil.gov

cmoylan@desplainesil.gov

soskerka@desplainesil.gov

Fourth Ward Dick Sayad 847.894.4719

Fifth Ward Thomas Merlin 847.812.6463

Sixth Ward Mark Walsten 847.372.1097

Seventh Ward Patsy Smith 847.878.5289

Eighth Ward Mike Charewicz 847.878.5291

dsayad@desplainesil.gov Access Point | 3

tmerlin@desplainesil.gov

mwalsten@desplainesil.gov

psmith@desplainesil.gov

mcharewicz@desplainesil.gov

BUDGET OVERVIEW ABOUT THE BUDGET • • • •

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Adopting the annual budget is one of the City Council’s most significant responsibilities.

Sets the City's financial direction and policy framework, guiding and influencing activities within the City.

Determines the scope of capital projects, program sizes, and service levels based on community needs and priorities.

The budget’s core goals are to maintain long-term financial stability while ensuring City services remain accessible and financially sustainable for the community.

Balanced budget of $198M. Licenses, Permits & Fines 1%

Taxes 43%

Inter-Governmental 21% Charges for Transfers In Other Service 10% Revenues 15% 10%

Where the Money Comes From

PROPERTY TAX SUMMARY Over the last 10 years the City has collected only 12 cents for every $1 of property tax dollar paid.

Where Do Your Property Taxes Go? Library - 2% Other - 3% Water Reclamation District - 4% Park District - 5% Cook County - 7%

City of Des Plaines -10%

BUDGET TAKEAWAYS • •

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About a 1.8% increase over FY24. $43.5M in capital improvements/investments (street, alley, water, sewer, facilities, IT and equipment enhancements, etc.) with no bond issues planned for 2025.

Debt has been reduced from $102.3M in 2005 to $4.9M in 2025.

The City is expected to be debt free in 2028.

No increase in the amount of money the City collects from taxpayers. $22.6M dedicated to reserves. The City has maintained a 25% Fund Balance for 15 consecutive years.

Commodities 6%

Contractual Services 24% Salaries & Benefits 33%

Capital Outlay 19%

Where the Money Goes

Other Expenses 9%

Transfers Out 8%

School Districts - 69%

Based on a 2023 Tax Bill (payable in 2024) for a Maine Township property owner.

Debt Service 1%

View the FY2025 Budget: desplainesil.gov/budget Access Point | 4

CITY SUMMER EVENTS SUMMER EVENT UPDATE Taste of Des Plaines was a delicious start to the City’s summer event season, and just the appetizer for a full plate of fun still to come. Community Fireworks, the Independence Day Parade, and three Food Truck Round Up events are all on the menu.

From live music and great food to community celebrations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we wrap up the summer with more fun, entertainment, and local pride.

FOOD TRUCK ROUND UP Get ready for a full season of tasty eats and great tunes at our 2025 Food Truck Round Up series. The fun kicks off Tuesday, July 22, in Metropolitan Square in Downtown Des Plaines, followed by events on Monday, August 19, and the newly rescheduled date of Tuesday, September 9, at Rosemary S. Argus Friendship Park and Conservatory.

(The event originally set for May 20 needed to be postponed due to inclement weather.)

For the full list of upcoming events and updates, visit desplainesil.gov/events.

Come hungry for good food, good music, and great company. There’s plenty on the menu this summer, and we’re saving you a seat!

COMMUNITY FIREWORKS

Here’s the updated calendar:

Sunday, June 29

July 22 5-8 p.m.

Metropolitan Square, Downtown Des Plaines (Intersection of Metropolitan Way and Market St)

Aug. 19 5-8 p.m.

Des Plaines Public Library Plaza (1501 Ellinwood Ave)

Sept. 9 5-8 p.m.

Rosemary S. Argus Friendship Park and Conservatory (395 W Algonquin Ave)

Grab your blankets and lawn chairs, celebrate the holiday, and watch the extravaganza fireworks at Oakton College on Sunday, June 29! Dance to the DJ and play yard games with family and friends before the fireworks show illuminates the sky. More information can be found at desplainesil.gov/july4.

INDEPENDENCE DAY PARADE Friday, July 4 The annual Independence Day Parade steps off at the intersection of Center Street and Wicke Avenue at 10 a.m. on Friday, July 4. This year's theme is "Hometown Happiness" to showcase our hometown pride and community spirit that makes Des Plaines so unique.

Visit desplainesil.gov/july4 for details.

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

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Food Truck Round Ups are the perfect opportunity to connect with neighbors, enjoy delicious food truck fare, and unwind with live music starting at 5:30 p.m. Don’t forget your lawn chair or picnic blanket. Everyone is welcome.

Summer fun isn’t the only thing on the horizon. Save the date for Harvest Hoot on Oct. 18. with mazes, markets, music, and more!

PUBLIC SAFETY Summer Safety Tips from Des Plaines Fire Department There’s nothing like a summer evening around a fire pit.

Whether roasting marshmallows or enjoying the flicker of flames under the stars, it’s one of the season’s most cherished traditions. To keep those moments safe and enjoyable, the Des Plaines Fire Department encourages residents to follow a few key safety practices.

As required by City code, fire pits must be at least 15 feet from any structures to reduce the risk of spreading flames.

Police Department Launches Speed Enforcement Campaign In response to community feedback, the Des Plaines Police Department recently launched a Spring Speed Enforcement Campaign to enhance roadway safety.

The initiative centers on weekly high-visibility patrols targeting speeding and stop sign violations. Enforcement areas were selected based on resident reports and officer observations, ensuring efforts were focused where concerns were greatest. While officers are always alert to reckless driving, this campaign underscores a firm commitment to addressing speeding across the city.

The Fire Department also advises using a spark screen to contain embers, keeping a garden hose or fire extinguisher nearby, and burning only seasoned firewood.

Never leave a fire unattended. When going inside, let the fire burn down naturally, then soak the embers thoroughly with water.

Wait 24 hours before disposing of ashes to ensure they are completely cool and safe.

Summer Improvements Underway Across the City You may have noticed signs of progress popping up across Des Plaines this summer. These projects mark ongoing efforts to upgrade roads, alleys, and critical infrastructure like stormwater and sewer systems as part of the City’s Five-Year Capital Improvement Program. It’s all about building a safer and better-connected community. A full list of planned City projects is available at desplainesil.gov/capitalprojects. If work is scheduled near you, we’ll share updates and timelines in advance to help minimize disruption. Thank you for your patience as we work to improve the city we all call home.

Sign up for construction updates at desplainesil.gov/MyCity.

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PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

DES PLAINES, IL PERMIT #5

PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY & POSSESSIONS

Have a home improvement project planned? Remember: You might need a permit!

Des Plaines participates in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), making flood insurance available for any property within City limits. Flood insurance is required for properties located within regulatory floodplains that have a mortgage from a federally regulated or insured lender (such as a bank or credit union). There are three types of flood insurance coverage that can be purchased:

The City provides a Customer Self-Service (CSS) online application portal for residents, contractors, and business owners to apply for a permit or license, pay an invoice, review info guides summarizing requirements for different project types, or search for permits associated with an address or parcel.

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Structural coverage for everything that stays with the house when it is sold. This is required by a lender for properties located within the regulatory floodplain.

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Contents coverage for possessions excluding money, valuable papers, etc.

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Sump pump failure or sewer backup coverage could be an add-on to your policy, helping mitigate common types of water damage.

Visit desplainesil.gov/permits for more information regarding what projects need permits and how to get started online.

If you have a flood insurance policy, check if you have contents and sewer backup coverage. During the kind of flooding that happens in Des Plaines, there is usually more damage to the furniture and contents than there is to the building structure. For more information, please visit Floodsmart.gov.

Phone: 847.391.5300

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Web: desplainesil.gov

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Address: 1420 Miner Street, Des Plaines IL

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Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.