NewSkokie Winter 2023

NewSkokie

Winter | 2023

2023 Skokie Year In Review Even though the year’s not quite over yet, there are already plenty of highlights from 2023!

Skokie Shines – Awards and Recognitions

Visionary Leadership – The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) presented Mayor Van Dusen with its Visionary Leader Award, which recognizes a person whose leadership has made northeastern Illinois more inclusive, resilient, and economically competitive.

Solar Smart – The Village received a Gold designation from the national SolSmart program for encouraging the growth of clean, affordable solar energy at the local level. (See page 5.)

Tech Savvy – The Village received awards from Government Technology and CivicPlus for its use of technology to make services more accessible, convenient and efficient. (See page 3.)

The Public Arts Advisory Committee spearheaded efforts to bring a new mural by local artist Jay Ryan to the exterior of Sketchbook Brewery.

curbside composting programs, more than 156 tons of methaneproducing food scraps have been diverted from the landfill through October.

Environmental Excellence – The Village’s Green Alley Program re- • Increasing funding for trees. The Village Board increased funding for ceived the American Public Works Association (APWA) Metro Chicago tree plantings by 75 percent as part of its Fiscal Year 2024 Budget, 2023 Suburban Project of the Year award in the Environmental category. and the Village received a $327,000 grant from the USDA Forest Service to plant hundreds of trees in the coming years. (See page 5.)

Sustainability • Supporting beautiful, sustainable properties. The Village’s The Village continued to make progress towards its Environmental Beautification and Improvement Commission updated its annual Sustainability Plan goals in 2023. awards program to recognize property owners using proven sustain• Composting up, landfill waste down. Following the transition to able landscaping practices. once-a-week refuse collection in May and the launch of drop-off and Continued on page 3

Referendum Implementation Progress The referendums changed Skokie Village Board elections to non-partisan, staggered terms for trustees, and established hybrid representation through the creation of a map with four geographic districts represented by one trustee each and two at-large trustee representatives. (Currently, all Skokie trustees are elected at-large.)

At the November 6, 2023 Village Board meeting, Village staff and outside experts presented the Board with a proposed implementation plan for three citizen-initiated binding referendums that were approved by voters in 2022.

Community members can view the proposed plan and map at skokie.org/electoralreferendums or by scanning the QR code on the next page.

At press time, the second reading of the proposed implementation plan was scheduled for the Monday, December 4 Village Board Meeting, which will take place at 7:30 p.m. at

Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St. Village Board meetings are streamed live to the Village’s YouTube channel and SkokieVision cable channels 17 (Comcast) and 25 (RCN).

Process to Date

The development of the proposed plan and district map follows the Village’s open solicitation of outside experts to assist with implementing the referendums in compliance with state election law, as well as gathering feedback from community members through a comprehensive public engagement process.

The Village and its experts held a series of three public meetings at the Skokie Public Library.

• On August 14, the Village’s implementation team provided community members

Continued on page 2 www.skokie.org

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Government Electoral Referendums Update (continued)

Soul Good Coffee Business of the Year Congratulations to Soul Good Coffee, the 2023 Skokie Business of the Year!

The Village’s Consumer Affairs Commission unanimously selected Soul Good as this year’s winner. Nominations highlighted its unique coffee and food offerings, excellent customer service, and support of the Skokie community through participation at events around town. The mobile coffee truck began operation in April 2022 and has become a fixture in Skokie ever since.

Where to find Soul Good: The mobile coffee truck primarily serves locations in Skokie during the spring, summer, and fall seasons. The truck heads south for the winter, but Soul Good Coffee is available this winter at a “pop-up” coffee shop inside Sketchbook Brewery, 4901 Main St. Visit soulgoodcoffee.com for hours and more information.

with an overview of state election laws and the district mapping process, and gathered initial input and ideas.

• On September 11, the Village’s mapping consultant and legal experts presented a draft implementation plan and three draft district maps for review and input.

• On October 10, after considering community input, the Village’s experts presented a proposed map and implementation plan for further review.

• Input was also gathered through an online survey, email and written comments.

For more information and updates on this process, visit skokie.org/electoralreferendums or scan the QR code.

What’s next: Owner and Skokie resident Kristina Perez Thomas has big expansion plans in the works and will be opening a brick-and-mortar location in 2024. Stay tuned for more information.

Congratulations are also in order for Qahwah House, 5238 Touhy Ave.; Take Flight Spirits, 8038 Lincoln Ave.; and Charcoal Oven, 4400 Golf Rd., who were awarded honorable mention.

Celebrating Our Public Health Partners in Excellence Each year, the Skokie Health and Human Services (HHS) Department and Board of Health recognize individuals and organizations that have provided exceptional support for public health initiatives in Skokie. This year, two extraordinary entities were honored with “Public Health Partners in Excellence Awards.”

Skokie Community Foundation: Uniting for Positive Change Since 2014, the Skokie Community Foundation has been a catalyst for positive change in our community through meaningful giving, collaboration, and community programs. Initiated in 2015, the Foundation’s grant program has injected over $225,000 of funding into diverse community concerns, supporting projects that include housing security, workforce development and student healthcare vouchers.

Dr. Namratha Kandula and the South Asian Healthy Lifestyle Initiative (SAHELI): A Beacon of Health Recognizing the higher risk of heart disease among South Asians in the U.S., Dr. Kandula of Northwestern University, in collaboration with Skokie Health and Human Services, developed a culturally adapted program aimed at improving the health of South Asian American adults at risk of heart disease. Over five years, 549 participants benefited from culturally relevant interventions focused on healthy eating, physical activity, and stress management, all tailored to South Asian values. Participants reported positive changes, including improved diet quality, heightened physical activity levels, better overall health, and new social connections.

Government Year in Review (continued) Infrastructure

• Replacing lead water service lines. The

Village launched a new cost-sharing program to limit expenses for property owners as it removes lead services from the water distribution system over the next several decades. In March, Rep. Jan Schakowsky presented Mayor Van Dusen with a $2 million check to support this work.

• Improving bike infrastructure. The Village announced ongoing and planned bike infrastructure improvements, including extension of the Skokie Valley Trail between Dempster and Golf, extension of the Old Orchard Multi-Use Path, and new bike lanes on Gross Point Road, Church Street and Oakton Street in the coming years.

Economic Vitality

• Welcoming new businesses. Will’s Place

opened on Lincoln Avenue, while Ascione Skokie and Don Julio announced plans to open soon. Following the Village Board’s designation of Old Orchard as an official Business District, Westfield announced transformational investments and new public amenities over the next several years as well as exciting new businesses coming soon, including tech-infused mini-golf destination Puttshack, home furnishings brand Arhaus, and fashion brand ZARA.

Community members can experience Downton Abbey as part of a new, temporary immersive exhibit now on display in the former Bloomingdale’s space.

• Improving Main Street. The Village Board

approved a grant-funded study for future improvements to the Main Street Commercial Corridor. (See page 8.)

Public Health

• Fighting flu. The Village’s Health and

Human Services Department administered

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Update

What is CDBG? The Village receives CDBG funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development each year to use for a variety of capital improvements, housing rehabilitation, and social services that principally benefit low- and moderate-income residents.

The total budget for the current CDBG program

• Exploring Skokie. The Village launched the

@exploreskokie Facebook and Instagram accounts to share retail, cultural and entertainment experiences in Skokie.

• Finding treasure. In June, the Village hosted its first-ever Community Garage Sale, with more than 250 households participating.

• Designing a new Village seal. Following a

• Retaining our ISO Class 1 rating. The

In late 2023, the Village will begin developing its Annual Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects for the 202425 Program Year.

Arts, Culture and More

Plans and Policies

Public Safety

Skokie Fire Department once again achieved the highest possible rating for fire protection services from Insurance Services Office, Inc., placing it in the top 1 percent of departments nationwide.

• Prioritizing Life, Partnership, Excellence, and Respect. The Skokie Police Department completed a collaborative community review of its Mission and Values Statement.

• Training future firefighters. The Skokie Fire Department launched its Fire Explorer Program, familiarizing more than a dozen young adults with fire service career opportunities.

more than 1,300 flu shots – half of which were senior high-dose vaccines – at clinics in October.

• Planning for the future. The Health and Human Services Department established a five-year strategic plan to address public health priorities.

comprehensive yearlong review, the Village initiated a process to design a new Village seal. Learn more at skokie.org/seal.

• Preserving affordability. In May, the Village Board affirmed its commitment to affordable housing, adopting five policy goals and several actions recommended by the Plan Commission.

• Preventing hate crimes. The Human Relations Commission and Skokie Police Department announced plans to track bias and hate-related incidents to guide deployment of resources and programs.

Tech-savvy Skokie The Village of Skokie has won two national awards for its innovative use of technology to make municipal services more accessible, convenient and efficient.

In September, the Village received the Center for Digital Government’s City Government Experience Award and the Silver Civic Experience Award from technology company How are funds allocated? CDBG funds that CivicPlus. To date: are allocated to non-profit and social service • 950 customers have used the Village’s agencies are determined by a rigorous aponline portal to renew False Alarm security plication and review process that will begin in system permits late 2023, with presentations and hearings at • 36 percent of residents have purchased their several Village Board meetings. At press time, pet license online these dates have not yet been determined.

• More than $50,000 has been donated electronically to the Village’s Emergency Stay informed. For further overall information Financial Assistance program online. regarding the Village’s CDBG program, visit skokie.org/cdbg or email CDBG@skokie.org.

Visit skokie.org for more information. www.skokie.org year for construction projects, public services, and grant administration is $552,656.

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Village Notes Checking in with ‘Pawwficer’ Meri On July 4, the Skokie Police Department came into possession of an abandoned female pit bull. Officers named her “America” – or “Meri” for short – and temporarily housed her at the police station while working to find her a permanent home.

10 Holiday Safety In September, Meri was accepted into the SIT Reminders (Supporting Independence Through Teamwork) Service Dogs comfort-dog training program in southern Illinois, with her “tuition” paid for by asset forfeiture awarded funds. (No taxpayer funds were used.)

Franklin Appointed Deputy Chief of Police

The Skokie Fire Department wishes you a safe and happy holiday season! Celebrate safely by reviewing these winter reminders: • Plug space heaters into wall receptacles only • Remove all combustible materials from in

Meri’s lovable demeanor was on display during front of space heaters her first field training experience, with SIT staff • Never use extension cords with portable members reporting that Meri loves children. heating appliances • Do not use your stove to warm your home The Skokie Police Department looks forward • Never leave burning candles unattended to further updates on Pawwficer Meri as she • Use clips to hang any holiday lights continues training with SIT – we hope it will be • Water any live trees regularly a walk in the park!

• Keep candles away from kids and pets • Ensure holiday light strings and plugged-in decorations are off when you leave home • Recycle your used, dried out Christmas tree

Denise Franklin, a 20-year veteran of the Skokie Police Department, was sworn in as deputy chief of police at the Village Board meeting on November 6.

Franklin began her career with the Skokie Police Department in 2003 as a police officer, rising through the ranks to become patrol sergeant in 2014, supervisor of support services in 2019, and patrol commander in 2021.

“Deputy Chief Franklin brings more than two decades of law enforcement experience to this important role, and has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to strengthening Skokie’s police-community partnership,” said Skokie Police Chief Brian Baker.

Be Winter Ready: Keep These Items in Your Car As winter approaches, the Skokie Fire Department reminds you to keep a few essential items in your vehicle this season so that you’re prepared in the event that you experience car trouble or encounter severe weather.

Recommended items include: • Medications • Extra warm clothing items, such as a jacket, Franklin is a member of the department’s Crisis Intervention Team, is certified as a juvenile sweatshirt, hat and gloves specialist, and has served as a youth mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters – Bigs in Blue • Window scraper and small snow shovel mentoring program.

• Portable charging device for your cell phone • Emergency warning devices As deputy chief of police, Franklin will oversee the department’s Administrative Services Division • Non-perishable food items, such as canned comprised of the Records Department, Communications Division, Support Services Unit and juice, bottled water, and trail mix Professional Standards.

• Flashlight with batteries • Blankets

Village Notes Village Wins Grant to Increase Tree Planting The Village has been awarded over $327,000 in grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Urban and Community Forestry Grant program under the Inflation Reduction Act to plant trees on private and public properties in disadvantaged areas of Skokie.

Why it’s important: A single mature tree can intercept over 12,000 gallons of rainwater annually and save homeowners up to 56 percent in air conditioning costs. There are intangible community benefits of trees – shaded streets increase pedestrian activity, which improves physical and mental health, creates more sociable and safer neighborhoods, and enhances economic vitality.

Skokie has a longstanding commitment to its urban forest, achieving the Tree City USA designation every year since 1985. The Village’s Environmental Sustainability Plan calls for increasing tree canopy coverage due to their significant community and climate benefits.

Prior to receiving grant funding, the Village Board of Trustees budgeted $147,000 to increase parkway tree planting in Skokie by 75 percent in Fiscal Year 2024. A portion of those funds will be used to match grant funding to plant parkway trees in priority areas.

What’s next?

Village staff will begin surveying and notifying eligible property owners in 2024. Trees will be planted by a contractor of the Village and most trees will be eligible for free watering for one year.

Areas that meet the federal government’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool (CEJST) criteria will be prioritized, followed by other areas of Skokie with a high percentage of low- and moderate-income households. Businesses, schools, condominium and apartment complexes, and religious institutions are eligible for free trees if they are within a CEJST area.

Skokie’s Beautification and Improvement Commission is celebrating this initiative with a new campaign called “Skokie Roots for Trees,” aiming to educate residents and encourage tree planting.

Skokie Earns Solar Energy Recognition The Village of Skokie received a Gold designation from the national SolSmart program for encouraging the growth of clean, affordable solar energy at the local level.

Local governments achieve SolSmart designation by meeting established criteria for building solar-friendly communities. To achieve SolSmart Gold designation, Skokie has: • Demonstrated a turnaround time for residential solar permits of three days or less • Codified its zoning language to ensure there are no unnecessary barriers to solar energy use • Established a Solar Energy web page providing community members with helpful resources to streamline their transition to solar, including a solar panel checklist and requirements, financing options and incentives, certified contractors, and more Through 2022, the Village has issued more than 400 building permits for solar energy installation. For more information about solar energy in Skokie, visit skokie.org/1336/Solar-Energy

Safely Dispose of Medications Expired or unwanted medications should not be flushed down the toilet or poured into the sink. Instead, you can safely dispose of them at several convenient collection locations around Skokie: • Cook County Courthouse, 5600 Old Orchard Rd., Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• MWRD O’Brien Water Reclamation Plant, 3500 Howard St., Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (see security guard at the gate) • Walgreens, 3945 Dempster St., Daily, 8 a.m. to midnight (this Walgreens location only) • Skokie Police Department, 7300 Niles Center Rd., Daily, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

All locations accept controlled and non-controlled substances, but do not accept liquids, powders, or sharps/needles.

Medications disposal no longer available at Village Hall: Effective December 1, the Health and Human Services Department located at Skokie Village Hall will no longer accept medications for disposal due to the Drug Take Back Act, which requires that medications be disposed of at locations that can accept both controlled and non-controlled substances, such as police stations and pharmacies. The Health and Human Services Department will continue to accept sharps.

Additional resources

The annual Skokie Spring Greening event is expected to once again offer medications recycling in April 2024. Liquid prescriptions are accepted at household hazardous waste sites.

Visit epa.illinois.gov for drop-off locations and events. www.skokie.org

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Village Calendar JANUARY EVENTS

DECEMBER EVENTS

Holiday Cookie Walk Saturday, December 2. See page 11.

Village Board Meetings December 4 and 18, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.

Free Rules of the Road Course Monday, December 4, 9:30 a.m. at Skokie Village Hall. Partnering with the Illinois Secretary of State, the Health and Human Services Department offers a course designed to give drivers — especially senior citizens — the knowledge and confidence needed to renew or obtain a driver’s license.

To register, call 847-933-8208. Courses are limited to the first 10 registrants.

Village Hall Closed for Christmas Holiday Skokie Village Hall will be closed on Monday, December 25. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See skokie.org and the Access Skokie app for online Village services.

Recycle Your Holiday Lights Skokie Public Works is offering its popular holiday lights recycling program in partnership with Elgin Recycling.

Where to bring holiday lighting: Through January 31, 2024, residents can drop off holiday lights in the container located outside Skokie Public Works at 9050 Gross Point Rd. Dropoffs are accepted Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

What materials are accepted?

Accepted materials include mini-lights, C7 and C9 lights, rope lights, LED lights and extension cords. No ornaments, garland, or other decorations are accepted.

Get the Scoop on Skokie!

Stay informed about what’s happening in your community!

Get the latest Village news, find out about new businesses, learn about upcoming construction projects, and much more.

• Sign up for the Village’s weekly eNewsletter at skokie.org/enews • Follow Village of Skokie on Facebook and Instagram (@villageofskokie) • Follow Explore Skokie on Facebook and Instagram (@exploreskokie)

Village Hall Closed for New Year’s Holiday Skokie Village Hall will be closed on Monday, January 1. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See skokie.org and the Access Skokie app for online Village services.

Village Board Meetings January 2 and 16, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.

Village Hall Closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Skokie Village Hall will be closed on Monday, January 15. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See skokie.org and the Access Skokie app for online Village services.

Awards for Artistic Excellence January 16, 7:30 p.m., Skokie Village Board meeting. The Fine Arts Commission will present group and individual awards for contributions to the Arts in Skokie. Watch live on the Village’s YouTube channel or see SkokieNews for information.

CPR Skills Testing Saturday, January 20 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Avenue. Fees apply and advance registration is required at skokie.org.

Village Calendar

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FEBRUARY EVENTS

Support Public Safety in Your Neighborhood The Skokie Police Department holds quarterly meetings in each of the Village’s geographic beats to provide an opportunity for community members to meet with officers who patrol their neighborhoods, exchange information, identify problems and develop solutions.

What to expect: Meetings typically last about an hour and include introductions, discussion of current crime conditions and any new issues, and updates on issues discussed at prior meetings.

Who should attend: Residents, business owners and representatives of schools, houses of worship, and neighborhood organizations are invited to attend.

Winter 2024 Meeting Schedule

All beat meetings begin at 6 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Meeting locations will be available soon. Visit skokie. org/1257/Quarterly-Beat-MeetingSchedule for updates: • Beat 310: January 4 • Beat 311: January 8 • Beat 312: January 9 • Beat 313: January 11 • Beat 314: January 16 • Beat 315: January 17 • Beat 316: January 23 • Beat 317: January 25

Village Board Meetings February 5 and 20, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.

CPR Skills Testing Saturday, February 17 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Avenue. Fees apply and registration is required at skokie.org.

Village Hall Closed for Presidents’ Day Skokie Village Hall will be closed on Monday, February 19. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See skokie.org and the Access Skokie app for online Village services.

Winter Holiday Refuse & Recycling Collection Schedule Thanksgiving Thursday, November 23 Refuse and recycling: Monday and Tuesday collections as normal Thursday collection on Wednesday Friday collection as normal Christmas Day Monday, December 25 Refuse and recycling: Monday collections on Tuesday Tuesday collections on Wednesday Thursday and Friday collections as normal New Year’s Day Monday, January 1 Refuse and recycling: Monday collections on Tuesday Tuesday collections on Wednesday Thursday and Friday collections as normal

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Monday, January 15 Refuse: Monday collection on Tuesday Tuesday collection on Wednesday Thursday and Friday collections as normal Recycling: All collections will occur as normal Presidents’ Day Monday, February 19 Refuse: Monday collection on Tuesday Tuesday collection on Wednesday Thursday and Friday collections as normal Recycling: All collections will occur as normal www.skokie.org

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Village Board Action

The Village Board meets on the first and third Mondays of each month in the Council Chambers of Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m.

Upcoming Village Board Meetings December 4 and 18 January 2* and 16* February 5 and 20* March 4 and 18 Meeting agendas are published at skokie.org on the Thursday prior to the meeting date.

Public comments may be: • Submitted to publiccomments@skokie.org • Mailed or hand-delivered to Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, Illinois, 60077, Attention: Village Manager’s Office; or • Placed in the exterior drop box on the west side of Skokie Village Hall.

Comments received prior to or during the meeting will be provided to the Village Board and will not be read aloud. Individuals wishing to speak at a Village Board meeting will be allocated three minutes to do so according to the meeting agenda.

The Village Board recently approved: • Appointments to the Housing Subcommittee of the Plan Commission. While

originally stemming from discussions around affordable housing in Skokie, this subcommittee will be responsible for a more wide-ranging review and update of the entire housing chapter of the Village’s Comprehensive Plan.

• A study to guide the future of the Main Street Commercial Corridor. The

five-month, grant-funded study, to be completed by MKSK Inc., will develop a set of recommendations for future improvements to the corridor, between Crawford and Kildare Avenues, building on existing Village infrastructure enhancements and recent community-led outreach efforts to make the area more desirable and attractive to new businesses.

• Refurbishment of a Skokie Fire Department ambulance. Renovating and

equipping an existing ambulance with advanced safety technology will result in expedited delivery and a cost savings of approximately $260,000.

• Adoption of the 2023 Skokie Community Health Plan. The comprehensive five-

year plan is designed to address three critical public health priorities: access to healthcare, access to behavioral health, and affordable housing.

• Replacement of the Oakton Street Bridge at I-94. Replacement will be funded by

IDOT, and will include creation of a new 10-foot-wide multi-use path on the south side of the bridge. The project also includes the installation of a multi-use path east and west of the bridge within the project limits.

• Extension of the Village’s property tax freeze for the 33rd consecutive year.

The Village’s $15.5 million levy has remained the same since 1990, while the Village’s share of an average Skokie property tax bill has dropped from 16 percent to less than 6 percent.

* Meeting is moved to a Tuesday night due to a holiday observance on Monday.

More information and an online application can be found at www.skokie.org. Village Board Meeting agendas are published at www.skokie.org on the Thursday prior to the meeting date. Each meeting includes a period for public comments. All residents are invited to watch Village Board meetings live-streamed on the Village of Skokie YouTube channel or on SkokieVision cable channel 25 (RCN) or channel 17 (Comcast). Meetings also are rebroadcast on both cable channels during the weeks following each meeting. See www.skokie.org for a full calendar of meetings.

Village Services Weathering Winter in SNOWkie Parking

Alternate-Side Parking The Village’s alternate-side parking regulations go into effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week, when two inches or more of snow falls.

• On even-numbered dates (such as January 24), after a snowfall of two inches or more, all vehicles must be moved to the side of the street with even-numbered addresses between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

• On odd-numbered dates (such as January 25), after a snowfall of two inches or more, all vehicles must be moved to the side of the street with odd-numbered addresses between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Vehicles not in compliance with alternate-side parking regulations are subject to a $50 citation and, in emergency situations, towing.

Some Village streets are exempt from alternate-side parking on Saturday, Sunday and some holidays; visit skokie.org for a list of exempt streets.

Stay Informed There are a number of ways to find out if alternate-side parking is in effect: • Sign up for Smart911 text alerts at skokie.org • Call the Village’s 24-hour Snow Hotline at 847-675-SNOW (7669) • Visit skokie.org and look for a notice on the home page • Sign up for SkokieNews at skokie.org to receive an email alert on the first morning that alternate-side parking is in effect • Tune to SkokieVision cable and look for the crawl message (Channel 25 on RCN systems, Channel 17 on Comcast systems) • Listen to 1660 AM Skokie Radio • Listen for the emergency siren that sounds at 7 a.m. to signal that the program is in effect from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. that day Additional Parking Options Available During Snow Emergencies To support snow removal operations, the Village provides parking for residents until 6:01 p.m. on the last day of alternate-side parking in three Village-owned lots: • Parking lot on the north side of Oakton Street, between Walgreens and Crafty Beaver

• Skokie Swift parking lot on the north side of

Dempster Street, accessed from Gross Point Road; please park close to entrance • Skokie Swift parking lot on the northwest corner of Skokie Boulevard and Searle Parkway FAQ: Why does the Village use alternate-side parking?

Alternate-side parking allows crews to clear streets from curb to curb to ensure that emergency vehicles can access all areas of the community.

Roadway Jurisdictions Most major roads in Skokie, including Church Street, Crawford Avenue, Old Orchard Road, and Touhy Avenue and more, are under the jurisdiction of the Illinois Department of Transportation or Cook County, and these entities are responsible for snow removal and pothole repairs.

For a complete list of Skokie thoroughfare jurisdictions, please visit skokie.org.

FAQ: My neighbor doesn’t move their car. Can the police ticket them?

Concerns about noncompliance should be reported to the Skokie Police non-emergency number at 847-982-5900.

FAQ: I just shoveled and the plow piled snow in front of my driveway again.

How can this be avoided?

Efficient plowing may unintentionally move snow in front of driveways. When shoveling, move snow to the left side of your driveway when facing the driveway from the street.

Snow Removal

Shoveling

Plowing Operations In general, Skokie snow removal operations progress as follows: • Major thoroughfares over which the Village has jurisdiction are cleared first. This includes sections of Oakton Street and Niles Center Road, Main Street, Howard Street, Dempster Street, and more.

• Crews then turn their attention to streets and sidewalks around schools, followed by other community streets under Village jurisdiction.

After four inches or more of snow, the Village removes snow from public sidewalks in residential areas. (Note: Residents and property owners should keep public sidewalks and walkways adjacent to their property clear of snow and ice at all times to prevent hazardous conditions. Be a good neighbor!)

After six inches or more of snow, the Village removes snow from alleys.

Lend a Helping Hand If you have neighbors who are elderly, are busy caring for a new baby, or are just unable to clear snow, please consider shoveling a path on their sidewalk.

Need Shoveling Assistance?

The Village’s TeenLink program connects residents who need shoveling assistance with teens who are available for hire to do the work. This program is only available to Skokie residents. Residents are responsible for contacting a TeenLink participant and for making financial and scheduling arrangements.

Contact 847-933-8208 or info@skokie.org to participate or request the list.

Reminder for Businesses Village ordinance requires businesses to clear snow from sidewalks adjacent to their property. www.skokie.org

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Health & Human Services Stay Up to Date with COVID-19 Vaccines Vaccination remains the very best protection against COVID-19-related illness, hospitalization and death, and also reduces your chance of suffering the effects of Long COVID. Make sure you’re protected by staying up to date with your COVID-19 vaccines. The updated 2023-24 vaccines are expected to provide better protection against variants currently making people sick.

Most people can still get a COVID-19 vaccine for free • If you have health insurance, most plans

will cover the COVID-19 vaccine at no cost • If you don’t have health insurance or your plan doesn’t cover the cost, you can get a free vaccine from your local health center or pharmacy

What to know

CDC recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get an updated 2023-24 COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, or Novavax).

• Everyone 5 years and older should get one

dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine

• Children 6 months to 4 years need multiple

doses to be up to date, including at least one dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine • People who are moderately or severely immunocompromised may get additional doses of an updated COVID-19 vaccine

Where to get the updated vaccine

• Visit vaccines.gov, text your ZIP code to

438829, or call 1-800-232-0233

• Contact your primary care provider directly • Skokie Health and Human Services located

at Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St., offers vaccine clinics for Skokie residents who are uninsured or under-insured, or who are 18 and under and enrolled in Medicaid. Call 847-933-8252 to schedule an appointment.

Treatment

Illinoisans who experience COVID-19 symptoms can access telehealth services at no cost through the SIU School of Medicine COVID Test to Treat services. To schedule a telehealth appointment, call 217-545-5100.

Illinois has more than 200,000 courses of effective therapeutic medications, including Paxlovid and Molnupiravir, available through providers and pharmacies that will continue to be provided free of charge until supplies run out.

Additional resources and COVID-19 data can be found at https://dph.illinois.gov/covid19.html.

provides them with gift cards for area businesses to purchase food, household necessities and other items specific to their needs.

The year-round Emergency Financial Assistance program assists families who have fallen behind on rent or utility bills due to a hardship.

Real impact

Monica, a 2022 holiday program recipient, writes, “The gift cards allowed me to purchase winter clothes, coats and household items for my family. The program has helped me and my family so much.”

How to donate

Help Skokie Families In Need Looking for a way to give back? Donate to the Village’s Assist-A-Family Campaign!

The program, which relies on community donations, includes the Village’s annual winter holiday season gift program and year-round emergency financial assistance.

How it works

During the winter holiday season, the Skokie Health and Human Services (HHS) Department identifies eligible Skokie families and

There are three easy ways to donate: • Scan the QR code • Donate online at skokie.org (search “family services”) • Send a check made payable to the Village of Skokie, with Skokie Assist-A-Family Program noted on the memo line. Mail checks to: Village of Skokie, Health and Human Services Department, 5127 Oakton Street, Skokie, Illinois, 60077 For more information, contact 847-933-8208 or visit skokie.org.

Entertainment & Leisure North Shore Center’s Feature Series

Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus – The Big 4-0, Ho, Ho! December 10 in the Center Theatre Elvis Tribute Artist Spectacular January 5 in the Center Theatre Branford Marsalis January 23 in the Center Theatre Capitol Fools February 3 - 4 in the Center Theatre

Salt Creek Ballet’s The Nutcracker December 1 – 2 in the Center Theatre

Piaf! The Show March 26 in the Center Theatre Music Theater Works Shrek: The Musical December 21 - 31 in the Center Theatre The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee March 7 - 31 in the North Theatre Northlight Theatre

Leo Kottke December 3 in the Center Theatre

Dial M for Murder November 30 - January 7 in the North Theatre

Robert Glasper December 4 - 5 in the Center Theatre

Selling Kabul January 25 - February 25 in the North Theatre

Livingston Taylor & Karla Bonoff December 6 in the Center Theatre

Music of the Baroque

Jake Shimabukuro – Holidays in Hawai’i December 7 in the Center Theatre Preservation Hall Jazz Band: Creole Christmas December 8 in the Center Theatre Jenny Oaks Baker & Family Four in Joy to the World!

December 9 in the Center Theatre

Celebrate the Holidays and Spend Locally

Ireland With Michael March 22 in the Center Theatre

My Grandson Benjamin March 12 in the Center Theatre Semyon Slepakov March 17 in the Center Theatre Dmitry Gordon March 18 in the Center Theatre

Mullova Plays Bach January 28 in the Center Theatre The St. John Passion March 10 in the Center Theatre

The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts is located at 9501 Skokie Boulevard.

Ticket prices vary. For information and tickets, visit NorthShoreCenter.org.

Kick off the season with coffee!

Start your holiday shopping on Small Business Saturday, November 25 with a great gift option that supports the Skokie Community Foundation! Purchase a “Start Your Day in Skokie” coffee travel mug, which can be used for a free cup of coffee or tea every day for the month of January 2024!

Mugs will be available while supplies last at Will’s Place (7927 Lincoln Ave.), Kneads and Wants Bakery (8042 Lincoln Ave.), Qahwah House (5238 Touhy St.), Soul Good Coffee (soulgoodcoffee.com), and Pressed Sandwich Café (4845 Oakton St.). Mugs can be purchased at all locations for $45 each, with a portion of the sale donated to the Skokie Community Foundation.

Continue the season with cookies!

Explore Downtown Skokie businesses as they host their first Holiday Cookie Walk on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Visit participating businesses and enjoy a unique holiday cookie at each stop. All proceeds will benefit the Skokie Community Foundation. To purchase tickets, please visit skokie.org/cookie.

Our charitable partner, Skokie Community Foundation, works to improve the lives of Skokie residents. The SCF funds innovative programming in healthcare, social services, education and the arts in Skokie.

Need local gift ideas?

What a gift it is to have such great local businesses to support during the holidays! Follow us on Instagram @ExploreSkokie and learn about all the ways you can shop local in Skokie.

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Village of Skokie 5127 Oakton Street Skokie, Illinois 60077

Skokie Council/Manager Government Since 1957 www.skokie.org Officials

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Departments

Mayor George Van Dusen Clerk Pramod C. Shah Trustees James H. Johnson Khem Khoeun Ralph Klein Alison Pure Slovin Keith A. Robinson Edie Sue Sutker Manager John T. Lockerby Counsel Michael M. Lorge

Civil Engineering 847/933-8231 Clerk’s Office 847/933-8203 Community Development • Permits and Inspections 847/933-8223 • Economic Vitality 847/933-8446 • Planning 847/933-8447 Health and Human Services • Community Health Phone Numbers 847/933-8252 • Environmental Emergency Health 9-1-1 847/933-8484 Crime Tip Hotline • Human Services 847/933-TIPS (8477) 847/933-8208 Information Public Works 847/673-0500 847/933-8427 Fire Non-Emergency Signs and Street 847/982-5300 Lights 847/933-8232 Police Non-Emergency Village Manager’s 847/982-5900 Office 847/933-8210 Animal Control 847/982-5970 Water Billing 847/933-8418 Village Hall 847/673-0500 Citizens Assistance 847/933-8480

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is printed on environmentally sustainable paper and published four times a year Managing Editor/Layout Meredith Gioia info@skokie.org ©2023 Village of Skokie

Please recycle

Apply to Be Skokie Village Clerk Skokie Village Clerk Pramod Shah recently announced his retirement after 14 years of service as a member of the Village Board of Trustees.

“Pramod embodies the phrase, ‘Skokie Welcomes Everyone,’ and has dedicated his time in office to ensuring that Skokie Village Hall is a welcoming environment offering best-in-class municipal services to all who visit,” said Mayor George Van Dusen.

As Village Clerk, Shah has served as the Village’s local election official, overseeing voter registration and election services, as well as public records, passport services, real estate transfer stamp services, public service referrals, temporary handicap parking applications, and more.

How to apply

Community members interested in being considered for the vacant position of Village Clerk are encouraged to complete the online application by December 15, 2023 at skokie.org.

Upon review of all applications, Mayor Van Dusen and the Board of Trustees will appoint a successor. The Village Clerk is an elected position that will be up for election in April 2025.