Newly elected Board members were sworn in on Tuesday, May 6. Turn to page 3 to learn
Pictured from left, first row: Trustee Marryann Warda, Mayor George D. Alpogianis, Trustee Susan DeBartolo
Second row: Trustee Ajay Mody, Trustee Morgan Dubiel, Trustee Craig Niedermaier, Trustee Dean Strzelecki
Village Clerk Denise M. McCreery | (847) 588-8003
The Mayor and newly elected Trustees were sworn in at a special meeting on Tuesday, May 6. These officials were elected by the public at the Consolidated Election on April 1, 2025. George D. Alpogianis took his oath of office for a second term as the Mayor of Niles, while Morgan Dubiel, Susan J. DeBartolo and Ajay R. Mody were all sworn in for four-year terms as Trustees of the Village through 2029. They join Trustees Dean Strzelecki, Craig Niedermaier and Marryann Warda, whose terms continue until 2027. Members of the public are always welcome to watch or participate in public meetings of the Village Board. Visit our website at www.vniles.com for a list of upcoming meetings and information on how to participate. You can watch the swearing-in ceremony and past meetings at www.vniles.com/ntv.
Trustee Susan J. DeBartolo is a long-standing resident of Niles, with over 60 years in the Village. She has served for ten years on the Planning and Zoning Board. Trustee DeBartolo has participated in the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) and the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and has attended the Niles Fire Department Citizens Fire Academy for ten years.
See a photo of the full Board of Trustees on the front cover of this newsletter.
Trustee Ajay R. Mody and his wife moved to Niles 5 years ago, relocating from the city to surround their family in an environment that bolsters great schools and an engaged community. He holds a degree in Business Management, certification in Tableau Data Analytics and is a Professional Scrum Master. Trustee Mody’s professional career includes the management of call centers for companies, and he manages residential properties located in Niles and Chicago.
Danette O’Donovan Matyas
Trustee Matyas (left) and Trustee Jekot (right) served as members of the Village Board of Trustees from 2013 through 2025, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Niles.
Trustee Matyas has served as Chairperson of the Public Works Committee and Co-Chair of the Milwaukee Avenue Streetscape Committee, playing a pivotal role in infrastructure development and beautification projects.
Trustee Jekot served as Chairman of the Building and Zoning, Human Services and General Government/I.T. Committees and as an ex-officio member of the Community Relations Committee. He was also a Board Liaison of the Northwest Municipal Conference and Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County.
Both Trustee Matyas and Trustee Jekot expressed their gratitude to the residents of Niles, sharing that it has been a privilege and an honor to serve the community over the past 12 years.
John C. Jekot
1000 Civic Center Drive | (847) 588-8000
All vehicles registered in Niles, no matter where they are parked, must be registered and display a vehicle sticker by July 1. Vehicle stickers are valid from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. Business vehicles owned or operated for businesses licensed or located in the Village of Niles also need to purchase vehicle stickers.
The Village of Niles strongly encourages residents to purchase vehicle stickers online at www.vniles.com/ onlinebillpay. There are no added fees for using the online purchase system this year. Most renewals and purchases can be done online, and the sticker will arrive in the mail in a few days. Buying online is the best way to avoid lines.
BONUS: All residents who renew online in June will receive a free one-week pass to the Niles Family Fitness Center. This offer is for online purchases only.
In-person vehicle sticker purchases and renewals are also available at Village Hall during regular business hours (Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm). Renewal by mail is also available, using the form that was mailed to all vehicle owners in April. A drop box is also available at the east end of the Village Hall parking garage. Please note: There will be no Saturday hours for vehicle sticker sales at Village Hall this year.
For more information, residents can call the Administration Building at (847) 588-8000.
As previously announced, the Village of Niles has a new and improved online utility billing portal. This new portal, available at www.vniles.com/onlinebillpay, provides customized services that address some of the most frequent requests from water customers. Customers are now also able to pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, PayPal, eCheck, fully automated pay-by-phone (IVR), and American Express.
Other Benefits Include:
• Customers with multiple accounts can link them;
• Payments can be made via text;
• Bill pay reminders are available via email, text, or calendar;
• Bills can be emailed for faster delivery and less environmental impact;
• AutoPay is much easier to set up, so you save a stamp and never need to worry about forgetting to pay on time.
As a reminder, a new 3.50% fee ($2.50 minimum) is now being assessed to all online payments and all credit card
payments for utility billing. Those who pay with cash or check in person or who sign up for recurring AutoPay from their bank account will not be assessed the fee.
On April 28, 2025, the Village commenced demolition of the former YMCA building at 6300 W. Touhy Avenue in Niles (pictured below). In March 2024, the Village of Niles purchased the 6.6-acre YMCA property for $2.1 million, aiming to transform the site into a mixed-use development featuring retail, dining, and entertainment options. The plan includes creating a pedestrian-friendly plaza anchored by the Leaning Tower of Niles, aligning with the Village’s Comprehensive 2040 Plan to enhance community spaces and economic growth.
Mayor George D. Alpogianis operated the wrecking ball (pictured below) to initiate the demolition, which marks a significant step in the Village’s renaissance plan to revitalize the area surrounding the historic Leaning Tower of Niles.
Please note: For the week of Independence Day (July 4), Thursday garbage collections will take place on Thursday (July 3) as usual, while Friday garbage collections will be delayed until Saturday (July 5). For the week of Labor Day (September 1), all collections will be delayed by one day.
1000 Civic Center Drive | (847) 588-8040
Rodents—such as mice and rats—need food and shelter, and so they are attracted to leftover food residue in yards and alleys. Plentiful food supplies can cause rodent populations to increase dramatically. To avoid rodent infestations, it is important to keep your property in a clean condition to make it a rodent-free summer in the Village of Niles.
Here are some tips from the Centers for Disease Control to avoid rodent infestations:
• Remove the food sources, water, and items that provide shelter for rodents;
• Seal up holes inside and outside the home to prevent entry by rodents;
• Trap rodents around the home to help reduce the rodent population;
• Keep outside cooking areas and grills clean;
• Always put pet food away after use and do not leave pet food or water bowls out overnight;
• Don’t spread birdseed on the ground;
• Store birdseed and pet food in metal containers;
• Fill bird feeders in a place where you can clean up what spills;
• Keep grass cut short and shrubbery within 100 feet of the home well-trimmed;
• Actively remove dog waste from the yard.
Please make sure that your home address is visible to aid all municipal and emergency services. Section 86-98 of the Village code requires the numbers of your address to be placed in an easily visible place above or to the side of your front door. Each number must be at least three inches high and contrast with the background, and must be plainly legible and visible from the street.
Garage, yard and estate sale season is here! Please be aware that all signage—including yard, garage, and estate sale signs—is prohibited on public parkway areas and shall be kept within private property. Below are some key points to keep in mind when planning your next sale:
• You must obtain a permit to have a garage sale. The permit fee includes the cost of issuance of up to five garage sale signs and posting of your sale in the Village’s online Garage Sale map;
• ONLY Village-issued garage sale signs are permitted to be used to advertise your sale;
• Garage sales are only permitted Friday, Saturday and Sunday, between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M.
Estate Sales
• A permit is not required for an estate sale conducted by a professional estate sale company;
• All estate sale signs have to be removed the day after the estate sale ends;
Remember, permits are required for home swimming pools, both to ensure individuals’ safety, and to save money by ensuring work is done correctly. To obtain and submit a permit application online, visit the Village website at www.vniles. com. In the search bar, type “Swimming Pool Information.” There you will find all of the requirements for installing your pool. Please contact John Montejo, Building Inspector, at (847) 588-8067 or jpm@vniles.com for any questions regarding the installation of a swimming pool.
• Estate sale signs are not to exceed six square feet in size;
• Per Village Ordinance, estate sale signs cannot be attached to any fence, post, wall, tree, pole, or upon any other structure in any street, highway, alley, or public place in the Village.
For more information, please contact the Department of Community Development at (847) 588-8040 or visit www. vniles.com/832/Garage-Sale-Permits.
Tree trimming for Zone 5 is scheduled to begin this November and will continue into early 2026. The trimming is part of our ongoing efforts to maintain healthy trees and ensure public safety. Please refer to the map here to see if your property falls within Zone 5. Your cooperation in keeping streets and driveways accessible during this time is greatly appreciated.
The Village is proactively addressing state and federal mandates to eliminate lead water services through a pilot project set to break ground in the coming weeks. Funded by a no-interest loan from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), this pilot will help test and inform the Village’s long-term lead service line replacement strategy. The Lead Service Line Replacement Pilot Project is launching in early summer. To learn more about the project area and find out if your property is included, visit www. vniles.com/leadsafety.
If your property is in the pilot area and you haven’t signed up yet, please contact the Village as soon as possible to take advantage of this FREE program. Visit www.vniles. com/leadsafety to sign up! Important: Sign up before construction is underway, as the FREE work cannot be offered after construction is completed in your area
We’re prepared for the winter! The Salt Dome Project has been completed, and the Village has taken full advantage of last year’s low salt prices. The Dome is now stocked with over 5,000 tons of salt, ensuring we are ready to keep roads safe during snowy conditions.
With the arrival of warmer weather, mosquito season is back. Residents are encouraged to inspect their properties for items that may collect stagnant water, such as buckets, flowerpots, and gutters. These areas can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, increasing the risk of mosquitoborne illnesses. Refer to the illustration below for examples of common items to check.
Please go to www.vniles.com/CCR2025 to view your 2025 Annual Water Quality Report (Consumer Confidence Report). This report contains important information about the source and quality of your drinking water during 2024. To obtain a paper copy of the report, please call (847) 588-7900.
The Village Hall Plaza Project has been completed! The stunning new plaza is now open to the public, providing a welcoming space for community gatherings and events. Come and enjoy this beautiful addition to our Village. This project received a $1.8-million grant from the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). Before After
7000 W. Touhy Avenue - (847) 588-6500
Summer months in Niles mean warmer weather and more time spent outside with our pets. The summer months are also when the Niles Police Department receives the highest number of animal-related calls, such as pets left in vehicles outside of stores, pets getting out of their yard, and pets being allowed off-leash in public areas. Unless otherwise specified, Niles’ animal ordinances apply to all species of pets. While it is permitted to leave animals in vehicles, doing so must not place that animal in a life- or health-threatening situation from extreme heat or cold exposure. Even on a 75-degree day, the internal temperature of a vehicle can reach 100 degrees in just 10 minutes, and cracking your windows offers little to no relief. When in doubt, leaving your pet at home when out running errands is recommended.
Back at home, double-check that your fencing and any gates around your property are secure and free from large gaps your pets might be able to fit through. The 4th of July is the time of year when most pets go missing. Ensure your pets wear a collar with an ID tag whenever they are outside and are microchipped. If you do not have a fenced-in yard or your pet is on an unfenced portion of your property, your pet must always be on a leash. These ordinances are in place for the safety of you and your pet, your neighbors, and even your neighbors’ pets. If you have any questions regarding Niles’ animal ordinances or observe a possible violation of Niles’ animal ordinances, please contact Niles Animal Control Officer Allison Cole at (847) 588-6508.
Protect Yourself from Post-Tax Season Phone
The Niles Police Department is reminding residents to be cautious of phone scams, especially those that spike after tax season. Scammers are impersonating IRS agents or government officials, using fear tactics to pressure victims into sending money immediately.
One common scam involves a caller claiming you owe back taxes. The caller may threaten arrest or legal action if you don’t pay right away. These scammers often “spoof” official phone numbers to make the call appear legitimate. They may demand payment in the form of Bitcoin, wire transfers, or even gift cards—methods no real government agency would ever request.
Another scam involves a caller pretending to be from law enforcement or a government agency, telling you that your identity has been compromised and must be verified or “unlocked” by sending Bitcoin. These callers are often aggressive and convincing.
Remember:
• The IRS will never call to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest;
• Government agencies do not accept payment via Bitcoin or gift cards;
• You always have the right to question or appeal any charges.
If you receive a suspicious call:
• Hang up—do not engage;
• Do not share personal or financial information;
• Report the call to the Niles Police Department and the Federal Trade Commission at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
Talk to your family, especially older relatives, about these scams. Awareness is the first step to prevention. If you’re ever unsure, contact the Niles Police Department directly for guidance at (847) 588-6500.
Ruse burglaries happen when criminals pretend to be utility workers, contractors, or government employees. They distract you while someone else sneaks in to steal valuables. To stay safe:
• Always ask for ID;
• Call the company to confirm (use a number you find, not one they give you);
• Keep your door locked while talking through a screen or storm door;
• Don’t leave your home to check something outside while they’re at your door;
• Be suspicious of surprise repairs or emergencies;
• If something feels off, call the police right away.
Share these tips with elderly family, friends, and neighbors— they’re often targeted. Staying alert and cautious can help keep everyone safe.
We’re excited to announce that our most popular community programs are returning this year:
• Junior Police Academy – Starting this July!
• National Night Out – August 5, location TBD
• Police Dept. Open House – September 13 at the Niles Police Department (7000 W Touhy Ave, Niles, IL 60714)
• Citizens Police Academy – Back by popular demand starting Thursdays in September!
These programs offer a unique, behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement and provide hands-on experiences designed to educate and engage our community.
Stay tuned for registration details! Follow us on social media for the latest updates about signing up—spots fill up quickly!
Station #2 8360 W. Dempster Street - (847) 588-6800
Visitors explore Fire Station #3 at the 2024 Open House and Pancake Breakfast.
The NFD is excited to invite everyone to our 8th Annual Open House and Pancake Breakfast, scheduled to take place Saturday, September 27, 2025. Admission will be free and there will be activities for children, live demonstrations, raffle prizes, breakfast, and attendees can even win a chance to ride in a Fire Engine! Event details and parking information will be shared closer to the event via the NFD’s Facebook Page, which can be found at https://www.facebook. com/NilesFireDepartment/.
registering, be sure to opt in to emergency notifications from the Village of Niles. For more information about this program please feel free to contact District Chief Schachtel at (847) 588-6800 or by email at ess@vniles.com.
Are you a Niles resident planning to have a Block Party this summer? If so, would you like a NFD Fire Engine or Fire Truck to attend? We would love to attend your Block Party and give your friends and family an up-close look at the inside of a Fire Engine or Fire Truck. For information outlining how you can request a Fire Engine for your Block Party, please contact District Chief Schachtel at (847) 588-6800 or by email at ess@vniles. com. Please note, while we enjoy attending Block Parties, we must be able to respond to emergencies which means we cannot guarantee a lengthy visit and may have to leave at a moment’s notice.
Earlier this spring, NFD companies responded to a medical emergency where a man went into cardiac arrest at a Niles Park District facility. Facility staff, along with a helpful bystander, recognized the situation and immediately sprang into action. They simultaneously called 9-1-1, initiated CPR, and retrieved an AED. When NFD companies arrived on scene the patient was breathing, had regained a pulse, but was still unconscious. NFD companies began providing additional care and quickly transported him to a local hospital. By the time the ambulance arrived at the hospital, the man was awake, alert, and talking to the Firefighter/Paramedics. The early interventions and pre-hospital care this gentleman received likely saved his life. Furthermore, we are proud to report that he was discharged from the hospital several days later in excellent condition.
Propane and charcoal grills should only be used outdoors and should never be left unattended. Please keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grill and always ensure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
The NFD encourages residents to create a Smart911 profile. Smart911 is a free service that allows residents to create a safety profile which is visible to the 9-1-1 Alarm Operator. Residents can create a safety profile where they can list relevant medical information, emergency contacts, medications and/ or allergies, utility shutoff locations, etc., which is then linked to their phone number(s). This important information will then be relayed to the Fire Department in real-time so that we may provide the best possible care when responding to your emergency. The information listed in your safety profile will remain secure and will not be shared with anyone but first responders. Creating a Smart911 Safety Profile is quick, easy, and free and can be completed through their website, www.smart911.com, or via their mobile app. While you’re
In anticipation of this year’s July 4th festivities, please leave fireworks to the professionals. Each year, fireworks mishaps are responsible for a variety of injuries, burns, accidental fires, and more. According to the National Fire Protection Association, sparklers account for the greatest number of fireworks-related injuries, often affecting the youngest victims. Please consider safe alternatives to fireworks such as glow sticks, party poppers, bubbles, or silly string.
Join the Niles Teen Center for a summer bash! The Teen Center will be hosting "NTC at the Parks" events for students in 6th through 12th grade and their parents at parks throughout Niles this summer. Students can enjoy grilled hot dogs, pop, chips, ice cream, and more. There will be an inflatable obstacle course, a water balloon toss, and many sports to play.
NTC at the Park takes place from 4–7 P.M. on the following dates:
• Wednesday, June 11 – Washington Terrace Park
• Wednesday, July 9 – Culver School Field and Park
• Wednesday, August 6 – Golf Mill Park
On August 6 at Golf Mill Park, parents of teens will be encouraged to connect with each other and tour the “Hidden In Plain Sight” trailer. It is presented by HERO—Heroin Epidemic Relief Organization. Parents can tour the trailer and learn about current drugs, what types to look for and where students hide them.
The Niles Teen Center is hosting a raffle for all new members for a chance to win various prizes when they sign up in the month of May and June for a new membership. Current members that refer a friend that signs up for a new membership will also be entered into the raffle for various gift cards to local businesses. Details can be found at www.nilesteencenter.com.
Saturday,
Niles families are invited to join us as we get your child ready for school! This family fun event will include services and supplies that ready your child for the classroom. Eligible families can get their students free haircuts, immunizations, dental cleanings, and vision screenings along with needed school supplies. To see if your child is eligible, please call (847) 5888460.
Along with services, families can come and enjoy all kinds of entertainment, bounce houses, food and giveaways. Visit www.vniles.com closer to the event and check the Community Calendar for event hours. We hope to see you there!
including:
and
Cultural Center & Museum nileshistoricalandculturalcenter.org
Help Us With Our Upcoming Golf Mill Exhibit!
Do you have anything linked to Golf Mill? If you are willing to loan or donate anything pertaining to Golf Mill for our upcoming exhibit, contact our curator, Brianna, at ban@vniles.com or call (847) 972-4122.
Have you ever wondered what it was like growing up in Niles? Maybe you did grow up here!
This new exhibit goes through the history of Niles parks, schools and youth activities, while featuring toys from 1899 (when the Village was incorporated) until the 1990s.
The exhibit is now open at the Niles Historical Society! Stop in during open hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday – 11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Admission is free with any donation. Advance reservations are required for groups of six people or more. Otherwise, appointments are not necessary.
The Village of Niles hosts a growing number of special events throughout the year, giving families and friends and chance to celebrate together! Here are just a few of the marquee events that will be hosted by the Village of Niles this summer:
Independence Day Parade
Friday, July 4
8:45 A.M.
Step Off at Notre Dame
College Prep
This year’s parade will serve as a patriotic tribute honoring the bravery, dedication, and sacrifices of veterans, military personnel, and first responders who devote their lives to serving the community and protecting the nation. Participants are encouraged to embrace the 2025 theme, Home of the Brave, as the event highlights why Niles continues to be a place where people count.
Niles Cruise Nights & Summer Concerts
June 18, July 16, August 20 & September 24
5:00–8:00 P.M.
Golf Mill Park
The classic car show returns for another season at Golf Mill Park. Residents and visitors are invited to enjoy a community-driven event featuring classic cars, food, music, and more.
Founders Day Celebration
Saturday, August 16
3:00–8:00 P.M.
Golf Mill Park
Mayor George D. Alpogianis
& the Board of Trustees will celebrate the inaugural Founders Day with a community event at Golf Mill Park. Residents are invited to attend and enjoy food, drinks, live music, entertainment, children’s activities, and more.
• SWANCC Document Destruction Event at Niles Public Works (June 28)
• Concerts in the Park (Fridays at Oak Park through early August. Presented in partnership with the Niles Park District.)
For even more events from the Village of Niles and community groups, visit the Community Calendar on the home page of www.vniles.com.
Niles, Illinois 60714
Summertime in Niles is full of fun community events! From carnivals to car shows, find something for everyone in Niles this summer! Learn about upcoming events on page 11 of this newsletter and visit our website for the latest community calendar. For more details, visit www.vniles.com or email specialevents@vniles.com.
