Village Cost-Share Program Helps Replace Private Lead Water Service Lines
As the Village prepares to expand replacement of lead water service lines in the coming years, residents are encouraged to share their interest in participating in an expanded Village cost-share program that limits the cost of private-side replacement.
State and federal regulations require all lead water service lines to be replaced over the next several decades. Water service lines – which connect homes to the public water distribution system – were commonly constructed of lead until 1986. Today, copper is the standard material.
About Skokie’s Cost-Share Program
The Village’s Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) Cost-Share Program caps a private property owner’s costs for private-side replacement at $3,090 (adjustable annually as costs rise). Currently, homeowners can finance this cost over 15 years at a very low interest rate through their water bill.
In December 2025, the Village Board approved expanding the cost-share program to include households that voluntarily choose to participate. Previously, participation was limited to replacements completed as part of emergency repairs (such as a leak) or projects coordinated with larger water main replacements.
Funding for the expanded program will be determined as part of the Village’s FY27 Budget, which begins in May 2026.
Continued on page 4
Share Your Input On Skokie Flag Finalists
The Village has announced finalist designs in its community-driven initiative to develop a new Skokie flag and is inviting community members to share their feedback.
Following a call for submissions this summer, the Village received 79 flag design entries from community members of all ages. A panel of Village staff, artists, graphic designers and art educators evaluated submissions and selected a short list of designs for further consideration
Buddy Boor - Skokie Spirit
Jasmine Dela Luna & Jeffrey Meyer - Prairie Flame
Richa Cordero - Skokie Spirit
What’s New? Skokie Businesses Update
Skokie’s business community continues to grow in 2026. New businesses include:
• BonBon Bakeshop, home to delicious scratch-baked cakes, gourmet chocolate and pastries on Oakton Street in Downtown Skokie.
• Blue Bottle Coffee, a specialty coffee shop, opened its first Chicago suburban location in Skokie at Westfield Old Orchard. Blue Bottle serves up single-origin coffee and curated merchandise.
• Clothing retailer Abercrombie and Fitch made its return to a refreshed retail space at Westfield Old Orchard.
• Sweetgreen, a popular fast-casual restaurant now open at Westfield Old Orchard, serves healthy salads, grain bowls, and warm plates using whole produce delivered each morning.
• A full-service LEGO Store opened at Westfield Old Orchard, offering a pick-andbuild wall, play tables and a community hub for LEGO builders.
• Zelda’s Table celebrated its grand opening on February 22 at 4018 Main St.
Hummingbird Hideaway restaurant, an acai bowl concept, also announced plans to open at 5118 Oakton St., located in the Highpoint at 8000 North. A Downtown TIF Rehab Program Grant will support buildout of the space.
New: 25 mph Speed Limit
Starting March 1, the speed limit on most residential streets in Skokie has been reduced from 30 miles per hour (mph) to 25 mph. This change, approved by the Village Board last summer, is part of a broader effort to create safer, more livable neighborhoods.
Why the Change?
Speed studies show that 96 percent of drivers on Skokie residential streets are traveling near or below 25 mph. Lowering the posted speed limit helps align signage with driving behavior while encouraging greater consistency and predictability on the road.
Slower speeds come with significant safety benefits:
• Increased driver peripheral vision
• Shorter stopping distances
• Fewer and less severe crashes
• Reduced risk of fatality for pedestrians and cyclists in the event of a collision
What Streets Are Affected?
The 25 mph limit applies to most residential streets. It does not apply to State- or Countyowned roadways, streets already posted at 20 mph, or select streets with unique traffic considerations.
Flag Finalists
Continued from page 1
Speed Limit Signage
Existing 30 mph speed limit signs on residential streets have been replaced with 25 mph signs. In addition, gateway signs at key entry points into Skokie communicate the Villagewide speed limit unless posted otherwise.
Enforcement and Education
The Skokie Police Department is focusing on education and voluntary compliance during the initial rollout of the new speed limit. Targeted enforcement will follow, with an emphasis on locations where speeding has historically been a concern.
Tracking Progress
The Village will continue to collect and review speed and traffic data on residential streets to assess the impact of the new speed limit and inform enforcement efforts.
and refinement. Designs were also shared with the North American Vexillological Association (NAVA) for expert review and feedback.
Following this process, the Village’s panel selected three finalist designs for public input:
• Buddy Boor – Skokie Spirit
• Jasmine Dela Luna and Jeffrey Meyer – Prairie Flame
• Richa Cordero – Skokie Spirit
Next Steps and Public Input
The Village has launched an online public survey available at skokie.org/flag to gather feedback on the finalist designs. The survey is available through Sunday, March 8.
Following public input, Village staff anticipate presenting a final recommended design to the Village Board for consideration later this spring.
Background
Skokie adopted a new Village seal in March 2025 following a comprehensive review and design process. The Village’s current flag contains the same imagery as the previous Village seal and must now be updated.
Hastings Appointed Public Works Director
The Village is pleased to welcome Patrick Hastings as Skokie’s new public works director. Hastings began his new role on February 23.
A lifelong Skokie resident and a graduate of Niles West High School, Hastings most recently served as the director of public works for the Village of Schiller Park. He brings 18 years of hands-on experience in municipal public works, strategic management and communityfocused service delivery to his new role.
“I’ve had the privilege of watching this community grow my entire life, and now I’m honored to help shape its future,” said Hastings. “I’m committed to bringing innovative solutions and strategic projects that improve quality of life and position Skokie for long-term success. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team to serve our wonderful community.”
As director of public works for Schiller Park, Hastings oversaw the department’s utilities, streets, vehicle maintenance, and administration divisions, as well as a contracted Village engineer. Prior to his service in Schiller Park, he served more than four years as the assistant public works director for the City of Wood Dale. Hastings began his public service career with the Village of Skokie in 2006 as a maintenance worker.
He holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from Northeastern Illinois University.
Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Hearings
Hearings for the Village’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget are scheduled for April 13, 16, 21 and 27 at Skokie Village Hall (Conference Rooms D&E), 5127 Oakton St. All hearings begin at 6:15 p.m.
Members of the public are invited to attend the meetings or tune in live on the Village’s YouTube channel.
A copy of the proposed FY27 Budget, which runs from May 1, 2026 through April 30, 2027, will be available on the Village’s Budget web page skokie.org/budget in late March.
Mayor Ann Tennes alongside Ellen Blum Barish, Chair of the Skokie Fine Arts Commission, present the Artistic Excellence Awards to artist Joe Folise (left) and Peter Seman of Seman Violins (right).
Skokie Honors Artistic Excellence
The Village of Skokie recently recognized two outstanding contributors to the local arts community with its Artistic Excellence Awards, presented by the Skokie Fine Arts Commission.
Group Award – Seman Violins
The Group Artistic Excellence Award was presented to Seman Violins, led by founder Peter Seman. Seman Violins, a Skokie-based violin shop, was recognized for its role in making Skokie a notable center for professional violin making and for its contributions to the arts through instrument crafting, repair, and a performance space that hosts community musical events.
Individual Award – Joe Folise
The Individual Artistic Excellence Award was given to Joe Folise, an artist and former Village staff member whose work has shaped Skokie’s visual environment. Folise was instrumental in the creation of the Northshore Sculpture Park and has contributed public art throughout the Village, including stained glass and mosaic work seen in Village Hall and other settings.
Prevent Motor Vehicle Burglaries
The Skokie Police Department reminds you to stay alert and take proactive steps to help prevent vehicle burglaries:
• Call 911 if you observe someone unlawfully entering your vehicle. Do not approach or confront them.
• Always lock your vehicle, even if it’s parked in your driveway, garage or in front of your home.
• Remove or hide valuables, including purses, keys, wallets, electronics, shopping bags, change, garage door openers or anything that may attract attention.
• Never leave a firearm in an unattended vehicle.
• Park in well-lit, visible areas. Motion-sensor lighting and security cameras can act as a deterrent.
• Close all windows, sunroofs and convertible tops.
• Stay alert to your surroundings and immediately report any suspicious activity.
• File a police report if you are a victim of a vehicle burglary to help Skokie Police track crime patterns and apprehend those responsible.
Community Development Update
Stay Updated on Large Development Projects In Skokie
Curious about major projects happening in Skokie? The Village has launched Building Better Skokie (skokie.org/1635/Building-Better-Skokie), a new webpage for updates on major developments and infrastructure planning. Think of it as a one-stop shop for up-to-date information about projects and plans that impact our community.
Planned development at 4600 Main Street
Individual project pages offer detailed overviews, share current status, and — where applicable — list upcoming public meeting dates. Pages also include links to key documents, explain the project approval process, and give you a chance to share feedback with Village staff and elected officials.
Recent Updates
• Main Street Commercial Corridor — The Village and consultant MKSK, Inc. developed a planning study for Main Street between Crawford and Tripp Avenues, focused on activating safe and attractive public spaces, building identity, and identifying opportunities for new development. Draft design documents have been completed, and plaza improvements on the north and south sides of Main Street, between Crawford and Karlov Avenues, are planned for this year.
• 4930 Oakton St. (Downtown Hotel) — The Village has maintained ongoing communication with the project lender, contractors and subcontractors to expedite resolution of outstanding claims and allow for project completion by a new developer. With optimism that litigation between project parties could be resolved this year, the Village is actively seeking potential developers and has received inquiries from five hotel groups interested in the property.
• 4600 Main St. — The Village Board has advanced plans for a proposed planned development featuring 68 townhouse residences at the former site of Arie Crown Hebrew Day School. An ordinance for final approval will come before the Village Board at a future meeting.
Cost-share Program
Continued from page 1
Step One: Let Us Know You’re Interested
Skokie households with private lead water service lines should complete the Village’s LSLR Cost-Share Program interest form available at skokie.org/lead to indicate their interest in participating as funding becomes available.
• Due to the anticipated high demand, projects will be scheduled to maximize lead service line replacement throughout Skokie as funding and resources permit.
• Residents may choose to complete a private lead service line replacement on their own timeline; although these projects will not
be eligible for participation in the Village’s cost-share program, they may be eligible for a newly-approved paritial rebate program. Visit skokie.org/lead for more information.
Residents who are unable to access the online form may contact Skokie Public Works at 847-933-8427 to complete the interest form by phone. The Village will contact residents as funding becomes available to discuss next steps and project scheduling.
Not sure if your home has a lead service line? Learn how to identify your water service material and view an interactive map of water services at skokie.org/lead
Spring Greening – Sunday, April 12 from 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m.
Recycle and responsibly dispose of a wide variety of items at this annual event in collaboration with the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC) aand local partners. The event is free with the exception of paint recycling, which has a fee.
Update to event entry point and location
Enter both locations from Golf Road only; Old Orchard Road access will be closed. Please note the location change from last year for electronics recycling and document destruction.
Niles North High School – 9800 Lawler Avenue
• Document Destruction: Securely shred up to four boxes of bank documents, medical forms, tax documents and documents with personal information, such as account numbers or social security numbers.
- No magazines, newspapers or junk mail.
- No folders, clips, binders, covers, etc.
- No plastic bags
• Electronics: Recycle receivers, cell phones, computer monitors, computers, tablets and notebooks, converter boxes, fax machines, keyboards, mice, MP3 players, printers, scanners, televisions, video game consoles, video recorders and zip drives.
- No small household appliances (toasters, blenders, vacuum cleaners, lamps, stereo equipment, etc.)
Green Office Building Lot (across Lawler Avenue from Niles North High School)
Accepted materials include: Lithium or rechargeable batteries (tape batteries or place individually in sealable sandwich bags), car batteries, clothes and other textiles, latex and oil-based paint, fire extinguishers, American flags, prescription eyeglasses and holiday lights. A final list of accepted materials and pricing for paint will be available at skokiespringgreening.info a few weeks prior to the event. More recycling vendors will be added, so be sure to check the website.
Pro tip: Historically wait times are shortest after 10:30 a.m.
Spring Into Action – Clean Green Litter Pick-Up Program Returns
This flexible volunteer opportunity is open to all ages and group sizes. Here’s how to participate:
• Pick a location—choose your own or let Village staff suggest an area in need.
• Choose a date—any time from March 9 through April 17.
• Get your kit—free litter kits include trash bags, gloves and safety vests.
• Sign the waiver—each participant must complete a short online waiver (parents/ guardians must sign for minors).
Participants will be recognized in The Scoop enewsletter and entered into a drawing to have a tree planted in their honor at a public location in Skokie.
The sign-up form, waiver and more info is available at skokie.org and can be found by searching Clean Green Skokie, or by calling Public Works at 847-933-8427.
Members of Girl Scout Troop 47535
MARCH EVENTS
SOAR Student Art Exhibit
March 1-31, See page 7.
Village Board Meetings
March 2 and 16, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.
CPR Skills Testing
Saturday, March 7 and Tuesday, March 17 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Ave. Fees apply and advance registration is required at skokie.org/cpr
Clean Green Skokie
March 9 - April 17. See page 5.
Winter Market on Main
March 15 and 29 at 4051 and 4022 Main St. This indoor/outdoor market brings together more than 40 vendors, live entertainment and fun for all ages. Visit skokie.org/farmersmarket for more information.
Get Emergency Alerts by Signing Up for Smart 911!
Learn more and sign up for phone, text and/or email alerts at skokie.org/ Smart911 or by scanning the QR code.
APRIL EVENTS
Yard Waste Collection Resumes
April 1. See page 9.
Village Board Meetings
April 6 and 20, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.
Winter Market on Main
April 12 and 26 at 4051 and 4022 Main St. This indoor/outdoor market brings together more than 40 vendors, live entertainment and fun for all ages. Visit skokie.org/farmersmarket for more information.
Skokie Spring Greening
April 12, 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. See page 5.
Energy and Home Repair Resource Fair
April 13 and 21. See page 7.
Arbor Day
Friday, April 24. See page 7.
Beat Meetings
The Skokie Police Department invites you to Beat Meetings—held throughout the year in each of the Village’s nine neighborhoods.
Why attend?
• Meet your dedicated beat officer and Crime Prevention team
• Share your concerns and collaborate on solutions
• Learn about crime trends and safety tips
• Connect with neighbors and local organizations
Find your beat and view the 2026 meeting schedule at skokie.org/beat
MAY EVENTS
Village Board Meetings
May 4 and 18, 7:30 p.m. See page 8.
CPR Skills Testing
Saturday, May 2 and Tuesday, May 19 at Fire Station 17, 8157 Central Park Ave. Fees apply and advance registration is required at skokie. org/cpr.
Festival of Cultures
May 16 & 17 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. at Oakton Park, 4701 Oakton Street. Enjoy live music, dance performances, and interactive cultural showcases all weekend, plus food, drinks, vendors, and a kids’ activity area.
Community-wide Garage Sale
May 29 - 31., 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Households can register for this year’s event at skokie.org/ garagesale, and will be added to an interactive map with properties, dates and times of participation and an overview of items for sale. There is no fee to participate.
Memorial Day
The Village’s Memorial Day ceremony will take place at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 25, at the Village Green (5155 Oakton Street).
Holiday Schedule:
Village Hall:
• Closed on Monday, May 25
Trash & Recycling Collection:
• Monday’s collection will occur on Tuesday, May 26.
• Tuesday’s collection will occur on Wednesday, May 27.
• Thursday & Friday collections as usual.
• Yard waste collection will occur on Saturday, May 30.
Celebrate Arbor Day – Plant a Tree!
Celebrate Arbor Day and Earth Day by planting a tree! It’s one of the best ways to fight climate change.
Free Parkway Tree Program
Request a tree at skokie.org/parkwaytree or call 847-933-8427.
How it works: After a quick site inspection to ensure there’s adequate space free of utility conflicts, approved trees are planted this spring or next fall and you’ll get to choose from several attractive options.
Plant a Tree in your Yard
A tree planted to the south or west of your house could save you 20 percent in summer electricity costs! The Morton Arboretum offers tips to help you pick a tree at mortonarb.org
The Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) will again offer free native shade trees at the O’Brien Water Reclamation Plant, 3500 Howard St., beginning in April on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon. Visit mwrd.org
Skokie Energy & Home Repair Resource Fair
Learn about low- and no-cost renewable energy and efficiency programs to upgrade your home and lower your utility bills!
Two Resource Fair Dates
• Monday, April 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Tuesday, April 21, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Drop in anytime to browse resources, speak with experts and neighbors, and enjoy free giveaways. Admission is free; refreshments will be provided.
Learn more by scanning the QR code or visiting skokie.org/1662/ Energy-Efficiency
SOAR Highlights Student Art
The SOAR (Student Outstanding Artist Recognition) Art Exhibit returns this March, celebrating the creativity of PreK–8th grade students from 21 Skokie-area schools.
Organized by the Skokie Fine Arts Commission, SOAR recognizes outstanding student artwork and highlights the importance of arts education in Skokie.
The public is invited to view the free exhibit in the atrium lobby at Oakton College, 7701 Lincoln Avenue, through March 31.
Exhibition Hours:
Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–10:30 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to stop by and support Skokie’s young artists.
Village Board Meetings
The Village Board meets on the first and third Mondays of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Skokie Village Hall (5127 Oakton St.).
Upcoming Meetings:
• March 2 & 16
• April 6 & 20
• May 4 & 18
Agendas:
Posted at skokie.org the Thursday before each meeting.
Public Comments:
• Email: publiccomments@skokie.org
• Mail/Deliver: Skokie Village Hall, Attn: Village Manager’s Office, 5127 Oakton St., Skokie, Illinois, 60077
• Drop Box: West side of Village Hall
Comments received before or during the meeting are shared with the Board but not read aloud. To speak at a meeting, individuals have three minutes per the agenda.
Watch Live or Later:
• Village of Skokie YouTube Channel
• SkokieVision Cable: Channel 25 (RCN) or Channel 17 (Comcast)
• Rebroadcasts available after meetings
For full calendars and details, visit skokie.org
The Village Board recently approved:
• Expansion of the Village’s Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) costshare program to include households that voluntarily choose to participate. See page 1. The Board also approved a rebate program for LSLR projects completed in 2022 or later. Learn more at skokie.org/lead
• Appointment of Elrod Friedman LLP to serve as the Village’s Corporation Counsel following an extensive recruitment process. Elrod Friedman LLP will work in conjunction with existing Corporation Counsel staff to serve the Village.
• A Downtown TIF Rehab Program Grant to support buildout of 5118 Oakton St. as the new home of Hummingbird Hideaway, an acai bowl concept. Funds are provided on a rebate basis following completion of work and operation of the business.
• Modifications to a planned office-to-residential conversion at 5202 and 5250 Old Orchard Rd. Modified plans call for converting two mostly vacant sevenstory office buildings to include office space and 245 residential units. The developer will also provide a $1 million contribution to the Village’s Housing Fund to support affordable housing initiatives in Skokie.
• An ordinance establishing an 18-month pilot program to regulate short-term rentals (STRs). The pilot program is intended to balance the need to preserve housing availability and neighborhood quality of life, while recognizing STR’s community-serving uses, such as accommodating family visits or others seeking extended stay options.
• Plans by Mar Sargis Church to expand and renovate its property at 5050 Church St. to construct a dedicated worship space and remodel existing spaces.
• Amendment of the Class G Liquor License to expand offerings at brewing and distilling pubs. The action allows Class G license holders, including Sketchbook Brewing and Take Flight Spirits, to serve beer, cider, wine and spirits on site in addition to their own products.
• Establishment of a Skokie Youth Commission to amplify youth voices, promote civic engagement, and strengthen connections between youth and Village government.
Members of the Skokie Village Board, from right to left: Trustees Alison Pure Slovin, Kimani Levy and Keith Robinson; Mayor Ann Tennes; Village Clerk Minal Desai; and Trustees Lissa Levy, Gail Schechter and Jim Iverson.
Yard Waste Collection Begins April 1
Seasonal yard waste collection resumes on Wednesdays starting April 1.
On holiday weeks, including Memorial Day, Juneteenth and Labor Day, collection will shift to the Saturday following the holiday.
• Yard waste should be placed in 32-gallon paper bags and set out at your regular refuse or recycling pickup location by 7 a.m. on collection day. Yard waste collection is included in your service—no yard waste stickers or extra fees are required.
• Branches up to 1 inch in diameter should be bundled and tied into manageable sizes. Grass clippings are not accepted—consider mulching them for natural lawn fertilization.
• There is a 10-bag or bundle limit per collection.
Plan Ahead for Summer Projects — Apply for Permits Early
Warm weather may still feel a little way off, but summer project season will be here before you know it. If you’re planning home improvements, additions, fences, decks, sheds, driveways, or other exterior work this summer, now is the perfect time to start planning and submit your permit application.
Pro tip: Each year, permit activity increases significantly during the late spring and summer months. Submitting your application early helps ensure there’s adequate time for review, revisions if needed, and approvals—keeping your project on schedule once construction season begins.
Did you know: Online permit applications save you two days in review time. Apply at skokie permits.org
Get started: Review your project plans now and contact the Community Development Department with any questions about permit requirements. Our team is happy to assist you in understanding what approvals may be needed and how to submit a complete application.
For more information or to begin the permit process, please visit skokie.org/permitprocess or call 847-933-8223.
Review These Tips for Dryer Fire Safety
Dryer fires are more common than many people realize, causing an estimated $200 million in property damage each year. The most frequent causes are lint buildup and improper venting, which can allow fires to start unnoticed and spread smoke throughout a home. To reduce your risk:
• Make sure your dryer is installed and serviced by a professional
• Be sure to clean the lint trap after every use
• Regularly check that dryer vents are clear, unobstructed by debris or snow, and the vent flap opens properly
• Use rigid or flexible metal venting to ensure proper air flow and drying time
• Make sure the right plug and outlet are used and the machine is connected properly
• Turn the dryer off when you’re not at home, or when you go to sleep
• Keep the area around your dryer clear of things that can burn, such as boxes and cleaning supplies
Keeping Rats Under Control
Winter is one of the most effective times for rat control, and Village staff took advantage of the cold weather to target burrows before spring.
Putting Rats Out In the Cold
During the winter months, staff used smoke devices to treat active burrows and applied a sand and gravel mixture with water to freeze rats out. These methods disrupt nesting areas and help prevent population increases.
Making an Impact
Rat cases are down approximately 24 percent compared to the same time last year, showing that consistent and proactive control makes a real difference.
Spring Into Action
Warmer weather and new vegetation can create ideal conditions for rats if areas are not properly maintained. Overgrown alleys, dense vegetation and clutter provide shelter and food that allow rats to return quickly. Don’t let it happen on your property.
How you can help: Rats are an issue impacting communities across the region.
Village staff continue to develop and implement new programs to further reduce rat activity, but long term success depends on you. Property maintenance, especially in alleys, is one of the most effective ways to prevent infestations.
• Remove overgrown vegetation, weeds and grass regularly
• Properly dispose of yard waste
• Avoid piling debris and items in alleys
• Promptly report any signs of rat activity at www.nomorerats.org.
Working together, we can continue to reduce rat activity and build a cleaner community.
Notice: Rat Control Enforcement Initiative
The Village will enhance enforcement of trash storage requirements in areas experiencing high rat activity. Village Code requires all garbage to be securely bagged and placed inside an approved trash cart with the lid fully closed. Garbage may not be stored on the ground or next to carts.
Staff will conduct inspections prior to scheduled trash pickup days. Violations may result in citations and fines.
Assist-A-Family Program Supports Over 300 Skokie Families
The Village is grateful to have 228 donors who contributed $38,314 to support the 2025 Assist-A-Family (AAF) Program, making a meaningful difference in the lives of Skokie residents facing financial challenges. A full list of donors can be found at skokie.org/aafdonorlist
Real impact: Community support made it possible for over 300 eligible Skokie families to receive assistance during the winter holidays, helping them celebrate the season with warmth and joy. The AAF Program provides holiday gift cards and also funds emergency financial assistance throughout the year.
Donate today: Donations for the Assist A-Family Program are accepted yearround. Scan the QR code or visit skokie. org/assist.
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie
Conveniently located off the Edens Expressway near Westfield Old Orchard Mall, the North Shore Center makes seeing a show easy. And with over 1,500 free parking spaces, parking is never a problem.
North Shore Center Presents
Funny Women of a Certain Age with Special Guest Ana Belaval
March 7 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Peppa Pig – My First Concert
March 15 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Joanne Shaw Taylor
March 18 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Gregorian – Pure Chants World Tour
March 19 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Craig Ferguson – Pants on Fire
March 20 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Heart of a Dog
March 24 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Talib Kweli
March 28 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Tiffany
April 21 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Michael Feinstein & Linda Eder
April 22 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
MJ Live!
April 24 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Capitol Fools
April 25-26 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
The Psychology of Serial Killers
April 28 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Hannibal Buress
April 29 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Tom Papa: The Grateful Bread Tour
April 30 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Jake Shimaburkuro
May 5 at the George Van Dusen Theatre
Music Theater Works
Cats
March 4-29 at the North Theatre
Northlight Theatre
The Angel Next Door
April 9 - May 10 at the North Theatre
The North Shore Center for the Performing Arts in Skokie is located at 9501 Skokie Blvd. For more information and tickets to the above performances, visit NorthShoreCenter.org.
New Fine Arts Grant Program Supports Creativity in Skokie
The Village of Skokie has updated its Fine Arts Grant program to focus existing funding on larger, high-impact projects that bring new artistic experiences to the community. Administered by the Skokie Fine Arts Commission, the updated program continues Skokie’s long-standing commitment to the arts while focusing on innovative, communitycentered projects.
Fine Arts Grant: New Programming
The Fine Arts Grant for New Programming awards up to $5,000 to support original arts programming that takes place in Skokie. Funding is intended for projects that go above and beyond an organization’s regular operations, including new or expanded performances, exhibits, workshops, or events that have not been previously funded or implemented.
Eligible applicants include not-for-profit arts organizations and Skokie not-for-profit organizations presenting programming in Skokie. For-profit organizations and governing bodies with taxing powers are not eligible.
Funded projects are intended to strengthen cultural vitality and introduce residents to fresh artistic experiences across disciplines such as visual art, music, dance, theater, and film.
Key Dates
Applications are due April 1, 2026, with the grant recipient announced by the end of April. All funded projects must take place between May 1, 2026 and April 30, 2027.
Investing in Skokie’s Creative Community
Since 1966, the Skokie Fine Arts Commission has worked to encourage, support and promote the arts throughout the Village. This updated grant program reflects that ongoing commitment by investing in new ideas, supporting local organizations, and ensuring the arts remain an active and accessible part of community life.
Members of the Fine Arts Commission at the 2nd Annual Skokie Art Exhibit. Photo: REP3 Photo Studio
Skokie Council/Manager
Government Since 1957 www.skokie.org
Officials
Mayor Ann Tennes
Clerk
Minal Desai
Trustees
Jim Iverson
Kimani Levy
Lissa Levy
Alison Pure Slovin
Keith A. Robinson
Gail Schechter
Manager
John T. Lockerby
Phone Numbers
Emergency 9-1-1
Crime Tip Hotline
847/933-TIPS (8477)
Information
847/673-0500
Fire Non-Emergency
847/982-5300
Police Non-Emergency
847/982-5900
Animal Control
847/982-5970
Village Hall
847/673-0500
Citizens Assistance
847/933-8480
Departments
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
847/933-8252
• Environmental Health
847/933-8484
• Human Services
847/933-8208
Public Works
847/933-8427
• Signs and Street Lights
847/933-8232
Village Manager’s Office
847/933-8210
Water Billing
847/933-8418
Village of Skokie
5127 Oakton Street
Skokie, Illinois 60077
NewSkokie is printed on environmentally sustainable paper and published four times a year
Managing Editor/Layout
Meredith Gioia info@skokie.org
©2026 Village of Skokie
Please recycle
Presorted Standard
US Postage PAID
Skokie, IL
Permit No. 307
Strategic Plan on the Horizon
Following a comprehensive public engagement process this past fall — including a community survey, 12 focus groups, and a community visioning session — the Village is preparing to finalize its Strategic Plan for Board review and adoption this spring.
A strategic plan outlines a community’s vision, goals and priorities, and guides decision-making and resource allocation. It helps align Village services, infrastructure and policies with community needs and future growth.
The Village hosted a Strategic Plan Open House on December 11 at Skokie Public Library to share updates and gather feedback on community priorities. Meeting materials — including draft plan goals and outcomes – as well as plan consultant CP2’s February 2 update to the Village Board, are available on the Village website at skokie.org/ strategicplan