January 2016 Village of Westchester Newsletter

Village of

Westchester January 2016 Newsletter

From the Desk of The President POLICE DEPARTMENT

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FIRE DEPARTMENT

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

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LIBRARY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

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PARK DISTRICT

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CALENDAR

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Westchester Food Pantry directors Amanda Grant and Kathleen Franzwa and Village Trustee Carl Celestino received 25 food baskets from the 2015 CTA Holiday Food Basket Program. Santa and his elves arrived by the Holiday Train to deliver the food baskets to brighten the holidays for many.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! 2016 IS HERE!

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Another year has passed us by and the old adage that you cannot stop the clock has come true once again. Our year has been filled with both ups and downs; I guess similar to what happens in all of our lives. Hopefully during the week between Christmas and New Years you have had time to reflect what is important to you, and have taken some time to formulate a plan to make your 2016 better than any of the previous years. While searching the internet I came upon a list of 10 NEW YEARS Resolutions that are worth consideration.

2) QUIT SMOKING Smoking is a terrible habit that can have a major impact on your health. In 2016, pluck up courage to finally stop all that lighting and puffing. You’ll save money and clean up your lungs. It’s a great path to breathing a sigh of relief in 2016. I know it’s easier said than done, but if you work hard toward that goal, you will definitely reach it.

3) GET A BETTER JOB

January marks the beginning of a new year. It can also mark the start of a career When it comes to New Year’s resolutions, improvement. Check the job listings in your losing weight always tops the list. Almost field and send out some resumes. You just everyone wants to drop a few pounds. That’s might land the job of your dreams. This New especially true after the holiday season. Now Year’s resolution is particularly good for is your chance to join a gym and start eating people who hate their jobs and can’t find healthier. With a little hard work, you’ll slim their true calling. You live only once, so don’t down just in time for swimsuit season. If you waste your precious time on the things you are a busy mom, consider making a habit of don’t want to do. exercising at home with your kids. You will teach your little ones to lead an active lifestyle See PRESIDENT, page 6 and shed a few unwanted pounds at the same

1) LOSE WEIGHT

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Natural gas safety in the home Natural gas is great for heating, cooking and other uses in the home.

It has an excellent safety record due to the physical characteristics of the gas itself. Possessing a very narrow range of flammability, natural gas only allows for combustion in a concentration of 4 to 15 percent per volume of air.Above and below these amounts, it will not burn.

Natural gas is lighter than air, and thus, can dissipate into the air rapidly,making accidental combustion difficult. To further prevent accidents, natural gas has a very high ignition temperature, at about 1100 degrees Fahrenheit.This is almost twice the ignition temperature for gasoline. All together, these factors add up to making accidental ignition or combustion of natural gas an unlikely event.

Nonetheless, helping you learn how to use clean burning natural gas safely throughout your home is one of our top priorities.

If you smell gas...

Do not attempt to locate gas leaks.

Do not remain in the building when there is a strong gas odor. From a safe distance, be ready to let a gas utility representative into your home or business so he or she can investigate.

Do not turn any electrical switches, appliances or lights on or off or unplug electrical appliances when there is a strong gas odor.

Do not use telephones in the area of a strong gas odor.

Do not use elevators.

Do not position or operate vehicles and power equipment where leaking gas may be present.

Do not smoke or use lighters,matches or other open flames.

Keep Your Gas Appliances Operating Safely Keep forced-air furnace filters clean.

Clean the filter or replace them according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Avoid using or storing these products near the furnace: paint stripper, fabric or water softener, bleach, adhesives, or salt for melting ice. The chlorine or fluorine in these items can lead to furnace corrosion.

If your owner’s manual recommends it, oil the furnace fan, motor and bearings.

Keep your heat registers and coldair returns clean so the air can flow properly. Also, arrange your furniture and drapes so they don’t block the air flow.

Have a qualified heating contractor inspect your furnace or boiler annually.

A properly tuned furnace saves energy and helps avoid costly repairs.

Check the flue to make sure it is clean and open.Any fuel that does not burn completely can create harmful levels of carbon monoxide (CO). CO is a gas with no color, odor or taste. It can collect in your home if a fuel-burning appliance isn’t working properly or Keep all gas appliances operating safely to help prevent gas leaks. venting as it should.

Police blotter 1) At 1:17pm on November 17, 2015 a Theft was reported on the 1900 block of Sunnyside. A resident reported that unknown person(s) removed a package that was delivered to the rear door.

2) At 10:45am on November 25, 2015 a Criminal Damage to Vehicle was reported on the 1500 block of Mannheim. The vehicle owner reported that unknown person(s) damaged their vehicle with a brick by breaking the window and scratching the body of the vehicle.

3) At 11:00am on November 28, 2015 a Burglary to Auto was reported on the 2200 block of Mayfair. The vehicle owner reported that unknown person(s) entered the locked vehicle by breaking a window and removing tools from inside.

4) At 8:40pm on December 1, 2015 a Burglary to Auto was reported on the 800 block of Worchester.

The vehicle owner reported that unknown person(s) had gained entry to their unlocked vehicle and removed various items.

5) At 8:33am on December 9, 2015 a Stolen Vehicle was reported on the 600 block of Manchester.

The vehicle owner reported their vehicle stolen from their home.

6) At 5:35pm on December 9, 2015 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 1500 block of Hull. The homeowner reported that unknown person(s) had damaged Christmas decorations on several occasions.

7) At 8:06am on December 11, 2015 a Burglary to Auto was reported on the 10600 Block of Preston. The vehicle owner reported that unknown person(s) entered their unlocked vehicle and took money from inside the vehicle.

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9) GET MORE REST

old St. Joseph H.S. and adjacent convent building to accommodate a Senior Housing Development.

Continued from page 1 Representatives of the Michaels Development Company presented WEATHER GOD 4) SAVE MONEY a general Application Packet

I’m not sure what is happening, containing their request to create a It may sound cliché, but saving but it appears all my prayers to Planned Unit Development for the money is another popular goal for hold back the snow has been site utilizing the existing building many families. You can cut back working, at least to now. The mild with some modifications. Landen on nonessential items and clip unseasonably warm weather has Bone Baker Architects submitted coupons to save some extra cash allowed our PW staff to focus on preliminary basic drawings, with on the stuff you really need. Put equipment maintenance which specifications not written in stone,as aside a little money each week and always saves more money from this is a concept plan. The drawings your savings account will grow sending items out for repair. PW call for 96 units to be built in the substantially over time. In 2016, 10) VOLUNTEER TO HELP sandblaster Michael Luciano and previous main school building and If you have a passion for spray painter Mike Otters have 23 in the old convent; 21 Studio, learn how to budget your money better and try to avoid running into something, 2016 is your time to made our 7 snow plows look like 77 1 bedroom, and 21 2 bedroom give it the attention it deserves. new. Each snow plow blade was apartments. debts.

An existing and Pet lovers can volunteer at a taken down to bare metal, and proposed site plan and conceptual 5) FIND TRUE LOVE local animal shelter. Those with painted bright yellow. Adorning the floor plans were submitted. The There are so many lonely people a love for children can help out plows is our village crest painted plans call for occupancy of seniors these days. You may not have at an after-school program. Find jet black and will stand out as the aged 55 and older. Discussions found the man or woman of your a cause you care about and start plows push snow down our streets. covered prospective funding from dreams yet, but you can’t give up volunteering today. You’ll feel a The price tag for the maintenance the Illinois Housing Development on yourself.This year could be your sense of accomplishment by doing was about $2K, far less than a Association and the possibility chance for true romance. Sign up something positive for someone in $13K replacement for each blade. of increasing the minimum age for an online dating site or start need.

Thank you to the guys for tackling requirement to 62 and older as asking your friends to set up some The above tips are compliments of this project. It should significantly well as the possibility of owning blind dates. You never know when Anna Johnson http://en.amerikanki. extend the useful life of the plow instead of renting. Those Items will you’ll end up meeting your soul com/author/anna-johnson/ . blades. be taken back to the developer for mate. Volunteering can also help further discussion.

ELECTRONIC SIGN DISCUSSION you find your true love.

REMAIN POSITIVE At our December 15th board LURIE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL 6) ORGANIZE YOUR HOME At a recent Christmas party I meeting, the board heard the TOY DRIVE If the clutter in your home is out hosted for the Village front office findings of the Plan Commission Our Citizen’s Advisory Board of control, you don’t have to wait staff, one of my invited guests, a giving a conditional approval for (CAB) conducted a Toy Drive to for spring to begin cleaning. Spend former Administrative Assistant and an LED sign for the Westchester benefit patients of Lurie Children’s January sorting through your the daughter I never had, reminded Community Church located at 1840 Hospital this holiday season. A belongings and getting rid of what me of the positive aspects that Westchester Blvd. The request was note of thanks was received by you don’t use anymore. Donate could be found in a glass half full, for a special use permit to erect President Pulia from Ron Ricchio old clothing and furniture to a or half empty as I called it. She a new sign encompassing a LED of Chicagoland Home Mortgage worthy cause. You’ll be helping an epitomizes how just one person lighted portion that would convey Services who helped coordinate organization by getting organized. could make a positive difference in messages. The Plan Commission’s the Toy Drive. Mr. Ricchio indicated It’s a win-win solution! our lives. I, in particular, need to recommendation followed a hearing that with the CAB’s help, the drive heed the advice more than anyone. held back on November 16th took in an estimated $4,000 in toys 7) TRY SOMETHING NEW It is very easy to go to the dark with additional recommendations. for the hospital. Thanks to all of Most of us tend to get stuck side, however it may not be the The proposed sign in total is 18 you who donated to brighten the in a pattern of doing the same best place to be. I promised her square feet in size (6 feet x3 feet). holidays for these children. old thing. Break out of that rut I would try to follow her edict of The LED portion is 12 5/8 inches by trying something new this “POSITIVE THINKING=POSITIVE by 63 inches or 5.5 square feet. THANK YOU FROM THE TROOPS The Village recently held a drive year. Visit a trendy restaurant and RESULTS” for 2016. We will see Their additional recommendations order an exotic dish. Learn to play a how successful I will be. consisted of having the LED portion for toiletries to be sent to the musical instrument or learn a new only operating from 7am to 8pm. squadron of Brian K. Maier, , language. No matter what activity Their recommendation also had you choose, you’re sure to enrich IF YOU SEE SOMETHING SAY the sign change messages every 15 a Westchester resident your life by shaking things up a SOMETHING seconds instead of every 10 seconds Watching the news every day as allowed in our Village Code. At We are happy to report that bit. has become very difficult to do. our December meeting, several the boxes of toiletries made it 8) SPEND MORE TIME WITH LOVED There seems to be quite a bit more people spoke both for and against safely . Jessica Spencer, ONES negative reports than there are the installation. The topic will be Management Assistant received an If you’re a workaholic, this is the positive ones which is becoming addressed on our active agenda e-mail of thanks year to finally shift your focus to mind numbing. The safety and at the Village Board meeting on your family and friends. Instead security of us all with all the recent Tuesday January 12, 2016 at 7pm.

Maier wrote of scheduling extra meetings and disastrous events in San Bernadino, “I would like to extend thanks shifts, start planning trips to see college campuses, shopping malls, ST. JOSEPH H.S. PRESENTS AFfrom everyone here . your folks. Make it a priority to see and in countries all around the FORDABLE HOUSING CONCEPT The toiletries and snacks will go a At our December 15th board long ways here and we appreciate your son’s soccer game or your world should have us concerned, daughter’s dance recital. Creating but not paralyzed. We all need meeting, Hume An, Vice President the effort and time it has taken memories is something that money to remain vigilant and report any of Acquisitions and Development to gather and make it happen. can’t buy. Work-life balance is and all suspicious incidents to the of the Michaels Development crucial for a happier, stress-free police. The accessibility of dialing Company presented a concept See PRESIDENT, page 7 life.

9-1-1 from both inside and outside plan to develop the site of the In today’s fast-paced society, everyone is always busy. However, a hectic schedule can get in the way of getting the appropriate amount of rest. Starting in January, do your best to get in bed earlier and plan more time for relaxation. You’ll most likely feel rejuvenated and have fewer sick days. Make health your priority. If you’re already in your 30s, it’s crucial that you start developing healthy habits as earlier as possible.

our homes, from landlines and cell phones, wherever we may be, will make us stronger as a community. “If you see something, say something.”

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American Flag and a Westchester pin on her collar. Staff made her her own name tag and I handed her the gavel to keep order in the boardroom. As you can see from the picture on the Picture Page, Danielle is a beautiful young lady with lots of potential. Her smile and innocence make this job worth doing. Hopefully she will reach all of her goals and someday occupy the mayor’s seat.

PRESENT SNOW RESTRICTION REMINDER

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to do is write tickets for vehicles parked on the wrong side of the street. The goal of the PW plow Continued from page 6 The village of Westchester does trucks is to clean the street curb to have restrictions on parking AFTER curb first on the SNOW ROUTES, a 2 INCH SNOWFALL. Parking secondly on the SIDE STREETS, and on designated SNOW ROUTES thirdly in the ALLEYS. is prohibited after a 2 INCH Please use common sense when SNOWFALL. The snow routes are using Snow Blowers. At a recent generally the main thoroughfares Village Board Meeting, a resident Thank you all again and throughout the village. All of the complained that a neighbor’s thank Mayor Pulia for wanting to SNOW ROUTES are posted with service company was using a snow do something for us here.” multiple signs. blower at 3am in the morning. Our ALTERNATE SIDE STREET PARKING Please familiarize yourself with noise ordinance prohibits such MAYOR FOR THE DAY UPDATE the SNOW ROUTES. The last thing activity between 10pm and 7am.

While writing the newsletter on At our December 15, 2015 the police want to do is issue a The resident was advised to contact December 21st, I was pleasantly meeting, the Village Board discussed $20.00 ticket or tow vehicles from the police during the wee hours if interrupted by Ms. Katy Finn, expanding the Alternate Side, Non- the SNOW ROUTES that will cost such an operation occurs. who brought me a hand drawn Snow Route parking restrictions. in excess of $150.00 plus storage.

As I mentioned last month, PW picture from a very special young As a result of the discussion the Westchester also has Alternate plows cannot lift their blades to lady who I met at the Christmas board has, by consensus, agreed Side Parking on what I will call the avoid putting snow on driveway Tree lighting ceremony at the to add Saturday and Sunday to side streets and non-designated aprons. It is going to happen. Also do Westchester Park District. Danielle the restrictions. The Board will SNOW ROUTES. Please familiarize not blow snow back onto the street Rehder, a kindergartener from formally vote on the action at yourself with the posted signs from your driveway aprons. Side to WPS, had drawn a picture of me our January 12, 2016 meeting. usually at the end of each corner Side passes onto the parkway works and Santa Claus and the Christmas Although we have only had one prohibiting parking either Monday- best. Blowing snow onto the street Tree. She told me she wanted snowfall as of the writing of the Wednesday-Friday or Tuesday- is prohibited. The aforementioned to be the mayor of Westchester newsletter, over the past few years Thursday between 8:30 am and village ordinances regarding SNOW someday. She told me her issues PW has been called out to plow on 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, ROUTES,ALTERNATE PARKING, and were to make the environment the weekends on several occasions. again, after a 2 INCH SNOW FALL. PUTTING SNOW IN THE STREET better by stopping pollution and All of the signs will be stickered The plow trucks usually make have been in place for many years. to stop animal stuffing (taxidermy) with the additional days should the several passes during the snow For your safety and the safety of as she was against hurting animals. measure pass on January 12th. With event especially if the snow fall others please make every effort to After grabbing a cookie or two, I its passing, there will be additional continues. $20.00 tickets will be comply with the rules. asked Danielle and her mom and restrictions from 8:30 am to 4:30pm issued for those vehicles left on brother Billy if she would like to on Saturday and Sunday ONLY after the street in violation of the signs.

See PRESIDENT, page 10 be mayor for the day. I placed an 2 inches of snowfall.

Again the last thing the police want

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most deaths in hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, dress in layers of warm clothing, which Continued from page 7 traps air between layers forming a protective insulation. Wear a hat SNOW REMOVAL & YOUR HEALTH because much of your body’s heat Speaking of snow removal, every can be lost through your head. year we unfortunately hear of

someone having a heart attack while Heart Attack Warning Signs shoveling snow. I have attached Some heart attacks are sudden some recommendations from the and intense — the “movie heart American Heart Association for attack,” where no one doubts your consideration. what’s happening. But most heart The American Heart Association attacks start slowly, with mild says that for most people, shoveling pain or discomfort. Often, people snow may not lead to any health affected aren’t sure what’s wrong problems. However, the association and wait too long before getting warns that the risk of a heart help. Here are signs that can mean attack during snow shoveling a heart attack is happening: may increase for some, stating Chest discomfort. Most heart that the combination of colder attacks involve discomfort in temperatures and physical exertion the center of the chest that lasts increases the workload on the more than a few minutes, or that heart. People who are outdoors in goes away and comes back. It can cold weather should avoid sudden feel like uncomfortable pressure, exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel squeezing, fullness or pain. full of snow. Even walking through Discomfort in other areas of the heavy, wet snow or snow drifts can upper body. Symptoms can include strain a person’s heart. pain or discomfort in one or To help make snow removal safer, both arms, the back, neck, jaw or the American Heart Association has stomach. compiled a list of practical tips.

Shortness of breath with or Give yourself a break. Take frequent without chest discomfort. rest breaks during shoveling so you Other signs may include breaking don’t overstress your heart. Pay out in a cold sweat, nausea or attention to how your body feels lightheadedness during those breaks.

As with men, women’s most Don’t eat a heavy meal prior or common heart attack symptom soon after shoveling. Eating a large is chest pain or discomfort. But meal can put an extra load on your women are somewhat more likely heart. than men to experience some of Use a small shovel or consider the other common symptoms, a snow thrower. The act of lifting particularly shortness of breath, heavy snow can raise blood nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pressure acutely during the lift. It pain. is safer to lift smaller amounts Calling 9-1-1 is almost always more times, than to lug a few huge the fastest way to get lifesaving shovelfuls of snow. When possible, treatment. Emergency medical simply push the snow. services (EMS) staff can begin Learn the heart attack warning treatment when they arrive — up signs and listen to your body, but to an hour sooner than if someone remember this: Even if you’re not gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff sure it’s a heart attack, have it is also trained to revive someone checked out (tell a doctor about whose heart has stopped. Patients your symptoms). Minutes matter! with chest pain who arrive by Fast action can save lives — maybe ambulance usually receive faster your own. Don’t wait more than treatment at the hospital, too. It is five minutes to call 9-1-1 best to call EMS for rapid transport Don’t drink alcoholic beverages to the emergency room before or immediately after shoveling. Alcohol may increase a MONTHLY WATER BILLING TO person’s sensation of warmth and START IN JANUARY 2016 Part of our strategic planning may cause them to underestimate the extra strain their body is under process was to begin monthly billing for potable (drinking) water in the cold.

Consult a doctor. If you have a use. For the past several months, medical condition, don’t exercise UMI, a private contractor has been on a regular basis or are middle attaching radio read appliances aged or older, meet with your over the black touch pads on our doctor prior to the first anticipated individual meters. Staff has been converting all 7.5K residential and snowfall.

Be aware of the dangers of commercial water accounts to the hypothermia. Heart failure causes new metering system. All of the

accounts have been converted and monthly bills will be sent out the last week of each month and will be due on the third Monday of the following month. As with any new improved system there are bound to be some issues that arise and will be addressed. Staff will be available to answer any specific questions regarding your bill.

WATER RATE STUDY The Village Board hired consultants from the Municipal & Financial Services Group to prepare a Water and Sewer Rate Study based on the usage data available for the past few years. The rate study was done to assess the financial health of the village’s utility fund. The study involved projecting future operating expenses and capital needed to maintain the aging utility system and projecting future usage rates that will generate revenues sufficient to cover operating and capital expenses and assure a minimum level of cash reserves.

The Village has a fund balance policy which requires maintaining 15% of the Utility Fund annual operating expenses.

Rate increases have historically been driven by any increase that is passed on by the City of Chicago to the Broadview Westchester Joint Water Agency. The usage rates have not been increased to reflect the annual increases in operating costs which have approximated 2.5% per year. Presently our current projected revenues do not cover our projected budgeted expenses.

The alternative rate structure being proposed provides for customers to be billed for only the water they use at a rate of $8.35 per thousand gallons (the current rate, as the City of Chicago has not passed any rate increase on as of this time). Previous practice provide for a minimum bill of 9,000 gallons per quarter for a residential customer.

Sewer charges will continue to be assessed at $1.22 per 1,000 gallons of water consumed. Under the proposed rate structure each metered account (residential and commercial) would be charged a fixed water infrastructure fee of $4.00 per month and a fixed sewer infrastructure fee of $4.00 per month.

The board will be voting on staff’s proposal at our January 12, 2016 meeting. As with every community our infrastructure that is underground and not seen has exceeded its life expectancy and it is necessary to provide funds for the necessary replacement of the aging water and sewer mains.

CEDA OFFERS WATER BILL ASSISTANCE I have received information from the Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County (CEDA) that there may be assistance available for qualifying families to receive help in paying water bills. Qualifying residents with low incomes who are delinquent with their water bills can receive up to $400 toward their delinquent bill by demonstrating their ability to make 4 consecutive payments on the account first. The mission of CEDA is to work in partnerships with communities members. For more information please contact Ms. Kimberly O’Banion at 312636-6673 or kobanion@cedaorg. net. The program will run through February 15, 2016 or until funds are exhausted.

CTA DONATES HOLIDAY FOOD BASKETS Back in August 2015 we were contacted by the CTA and invited to submit a request to receive Holiday Food Baskets from the CTA’s 2015 Holiday Food Basket Program.

This program is lead by dedicated CTA employees interested in giving a hand-up to organizations/ communities serving individuals facing hard times, by presenting them with a donation of holiday food baskets.Ms.Jessica Spencer,our management assistant, completed the application and we were notified that Westchester would receive 25 of the Holiday Baskets.

The Westchester Food Pantry was contacted and graciously offered to distribute the baskets over the Christmas Holiday. Amanda Grant and Kathleen Franzwa, the food pantry directors, along with village trustee Carl Celestino and Jessica met Santa at the Holiday Train at the Green Line Conservatory in Chicago on Sunday, December 20, 2015 to accept the generous donation. The CTA Holiday Baskets contained non-perishable ingredients for an American holiday dinner, which included a canned ham, a box of potatoes, a box of stuffing, canned vegetables and a dessert. A big thank you to the CTA for selecting us this year.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE HOSTS EVENT On January 12th from 11:30am to 1:00pm,the Economic Development Committee will be hosting an event for businesses entitled “2016 Tax Laws; What Every Business Needs to Know”. The event will be held

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School District JANUARY 2016

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at the Westchester Public Library (lower level) located at 10700 Canterbury.

For reservations, please contact Melissa Headley, Community Development Director at 708-345-0199. Lunch will be provided.

a Dream.” He won the Nobel Peace prize in 1964. Martin Luther King was assassinated on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee.

PERSON OF THE YEAR

Each January, the Westchester Chamber of Commerce hosts its Celebrate Westchester event. At this event, a Person of the Year is named and recognized by the Chamber of Commerce, the Village, and the Westchester School District 92-1/2.

REMEMBERING MARTIN LUTHER This year, the Village of Westchester KING, JR. nominated Coach Gene Pingatore Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is as our unanimous selection. As you a federal holiday observed on the may be aware, Coach Pingatore is a third Monday of January this year long time resident and has coached which is Monday, January 18th. Dr. at St. Joseph H.S. since 1960. He King’s birthday is Friday, January led the Chargers to the 2015 Class 15th. Martin Luther King, Jr. fought 3A IHSA Boys Basketball state for equal civil rights for African championship. He has over 900 Americans. Each year, on the 3rd victories, the highest in the State of Monday of January, we celebrate Illinois. Coach Pingatore received his life and his dream. The day was his nomination at the Chamber of made a national holiday in 1986. Commerce Christmas luncheon Martin Luther King, Jr. was born on on December 4, 2015 and was January 15, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia. very appreciative of the award.

He was a minister who participated Unfortunately, Coach Pingatore in many peaceful demonstrations will not be able to attend the in regard to unfair treatment of Chamber of Commerce “Celebrate African Americans. He is famous Westchester event on Sunday for his meaningful speech “I Have January 23, 2016 at the Alpine

Banquet Haus on Roosevelt Road due to coaching the team at a game in Batavia Illinois.

THANK YOU TO STORINO, RAMELLO, AND DURKIN Every year since 2010, our Law Firm of Storino, Ramello, and Durkin has made a holiday donation to a charity with ties to Westchester.

This year, ASPIRE was the recipient of their donation. Aspire is helping make our communities better by redefining what is possible for people with disabilities. Aspire operates offices out of Hillside and Westchester as well as group homes throughout town. Recipients in prior years have been the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, and the Westchester Food Pantry. Donald, Richard and Michael, thank you for your generosity to Westchester!

DEBT RECOVERY PROGRAM Three years ago, the village of Westchester joined a host of other communities in applying to participate in the State of Illinois Debt Recovery Program. Beginning in January 2015, the Village was

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a report regarding video gaming.

Westchester has 4 establishments that have 5 video gaming machines Continued from page 12 in each establishment. The total the village is to receive as a result able to recover unpaid debt from of the 5% gaming revenue is individuals through offsets of the $67,531.62 from December 2014 amount of the debt taken from their through November 2015. The State income tax return or other municipal share from Anna’s Café State of Illinois revenue payments. located across from the Westchester Over the past year, Westchester has Village Hall is approximately $25K. collected $162K as a result of the The municipal share from the program. There have been only a other video gaming locations are handful of reversals where those Stella’s located at Mannheim & debts have been contested. If you Roosevelt Rd. plaza, approximately have an unpaid ticket or debt to the $8K, Christopher’s Speakeasy village please contact our Finance located at Mannheim & Balmoral, Director Ms. Maureen Potempa at approximately $10K and Betty’s 708-345-0020 extension 223 to located in the 31st and Wolf Rd. rectify the situation. plaza, approximately $23K. There In case you were wondering how have been absolutely no problems Westchester and other communities at any of the locations involving are given authority to participate any violations of the Westchester I have included the following Liquor Code or village ordinances. synopsis of the program for your review. Effective January 1, 2012, POLICE CHIEF SEARCH With the retirement of Chief John Public Act 97-0632 established the “Local Debt Recovery Program” to M. Carpino on December 31, 2015, allow units of local government Village Manager Janet Matthys has to collect outstanding debt in initiated a search for his replacement. coordination with the Illinois She received over 30 applications Comptroller’s Office.

The Act for the position. Our consultant, police chief Daniel modified the State Comptroller retired Act (15 ILCS 404/10.05), which McCollum, President of the Illinois currently allows for an offset or Association of Law Enforcement deduction from State proceeds to Executives (IALEE) assisted in individuals in order to pay either selecting the top 8 candidates who all of or a portion of the claim or were interviewed by a panel of account to the State of Illinois or three former police executives, all the United States. This modification with chief credentials, over 2 days added units of local government, the week of December 14, 2015. school districts, and public The Village Manager and I were institutions of higher education to present for all of the interviews. the entities available to utilize such The top three candidates, based on the rating scores prepared by a procedure.

When processing the requested the panel, will be advancing in deduction, the person subject to the interview process and will be the deduction shall receive written making a presentation to the Board notice from the Comptroller’s Office of Trustees for them to evaluate and shall have the right to make a and make recommendations of the written protest within 60 days after candidates. The final selection will notice is received. The written be made by the Village Manager, protest must include the reason per state and local code based for contesting the deduction and on the village manager form of provide the opportunity to present government which Westchester relevant information to enable the has adopted many years ago. We Comptroller’s Office to determine are hopeful our new chief will be the amount due and payable. The named and sworn in before the end Intergovernmental Agreement will of the month. establish procedures through which the Comptroller will determine the validity of any protest and provide 237 NEW LAWS IN ILLINOIS a final disposition regarding the BEGINNING JANUARY 1, 2016 Each year new laws are put on the deduction. Failure on the part of the debtor to file a written books. Many of which we never hear protest within 60 days waives the about until we unknowingly violate right to contest the claim and the them. On Jan. 1, 2016, 237 new laws Comptroller shall pay the deduction go into effect in Illinois, including measures that impact fighting to the unit of local government. crime, government transparency, VIDEO GAMING business, hunting, health, and family.

At our December 15th Board I found a complete list of new laws Meeting, Village Manager Janet compliments of FOX NEWS which Matthys provided the board with has been included on the Village

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website. I have included several of the new laws which impact a greater amount of our citizens in this article.

When it comes to fighting crime, several news laws are making public safety a top priority. For example, individuals who continue to endanger citizens on Illinois roadways by repeatedly driving under the influence of alcohol, will have another barrier that can prevent them from getting back behind the wheel. Sen. Jason Barickman’s SB 627/PA 99-0467 requires individuals convicted of two or more DUIs or reckless homicide convictions to install a Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device as a condition of a Restricted Driving Permit.

Another new law taking effect Jan. 1, spearheaded by Sen. Kyle McCarter, goes after designer drug manufacturers. SB 1129/PA 99-0371 combats dangerous synthetic or designer street drugs by targeting how they are made and allowing prosecutors to not have to wait as long for lab tests to show if the synthetic drug involved was illegal.

In addition, the sale of powdered caffeine to anyone younger than 18 and the sale of products consisting of or containing powdered alcohol will be prohibited under two new laws (SB 9/PA 99-0050 and SB 67/ PA 99-0051).

Those who call 9-1-1 in 2016 better be sure it’s a legitimate emergency. Individuals convicted of making false or prank calls to 9-11 call centers or making other false reports to emergency responders could be held responsible for reimbursing the costs incurred by the responding emergency agency under HB 3988/PA 99-0160.

As more police officers start to use body cameras, SB 1304/ PA 99-0352 establishes new rules and regulations for officers who use the technology. The new law requires police officers who wear a body camera, to keep it on when conducting any law enforcement activities, among other rules.

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Speaker Michael Madigan did not attend. Without offering many specifics, Rauner said the December 17th meeting was productive and focused on term limits, redistricting and fixing the state’s $111 billion pension debt. Rauner says the next meeting will likely be the first week of January.”We’re making progress. This is just going to take persistence.”

The State of Illinois is 6 months without a state budget.

Municipalities received word December 8th that monies were going to be released for Motor Fuel Tax allotments, E9-1-1 monies from cell phone tax collections, Police and Fire Training and video gaming revenue as well as those lucky winners of the Illinois Lottery. For a complete list of appropriation visit http:// www.ilga.gov/legislation/99/SB/ PDF/09900SB2039ham004.pdf.

At a recent Meeting of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Senate President Cullerton, Senate Minority Leader Christine Rodogno, and House Minority Leader James Durkin addressed the Mayors presenting their views listed below regarding the budget crisis.

Senate President Cullerton • Indicated that Democrat leadership is willing to work with Governor Rauner on workers compensation reform and a property tax freeze in order to resolve the impasse over the FY 2016 budget.

• Dem leaders remain opposed, however, to the notion of tying prevailing wage and collective bargaining to a property tax freeze.

• Democrat leadership is opposed to reducing the local share of the income tax (LGDF).

• Democrats are open to making reasonable cuts to Medicare and higher education. Senator Cullerton also believes some cuts could be achieved by making moderate cuts to the State pension systems that would be in keeping with the Supreme Court decision issued last STILL NO BUDGET spring.

If you have been following our • With regard to revenue, the Illinois State Legislators you would Senate President stated that he know that there was one meeting believes several options ought held on December 1st to discuss to be explored. He is open to the budget impasse, a second discussing an income tax increase; meeting held on December 8th and expanding the income tax to a third meeting held on December retirement income above some 17th. Due to a scheduling problem, threshold to protect individuals on Speaker of the House Michael fixed incomes; and broadening the Madigan was unable to attend the sales tax to include services.

3rd meeting. Gov. Bruce Rauner • Senator Cullerton did not said that the final meeting of the suggest what the retirement year with legislative leaders about income threshold should be or the state budget impasse was See PRESIDENT, page 24 productive, even though House

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PRESIDENT

have to come away with something from the negotiations. She did not elaborate.

Continued from page 23 • The Senator stated that everything needs to be on the what services should be taxed. He table. This includes the local share was, however, quick to point out of the income tax. She suggested that while the Democrats may have that anyone who tells us otherwise supermajorities in the Senate and is not being truthful.

House, there is not a supermajority • The three Republican leaders are of Democrats in either chamber unified in requiring that meaningful willing to support tax increases. reforms are needed before there In his view, any revenue increases can be any discussion of increasing would have to have bi-partisan taxes. Leader Radogno said that a support in both chambers as well property tax freeze is one reform as be supported by the Governor. they have to have. They realize that • When asked when he expected a freeze by itself could harm local the budget impasse to end,the Senate governments. They believe it ought President would not speculate on a to be paired up with collective specific date. He instead suggested bargaining and prevailing wage that it would likely occur when reforms which will help reduce the Governor realizes there will local government costs. no longer be enough revenue to • Leader Radogno speculated pay for the programs the State has that the budget impasse will not been required to support either be resolved until after the March via court orders or legislation the primary.

She noted that the Governor has signed into law like members of her Caucus do not the elementary and secondary have any primary challengers, but appropriation bill. members of other Caucuses do, • Once the FY 2016 budget particularly the House Democrats. stalemate is resolved, Senator Cullerton believes a capital bill will House Republican Leader Durkin be passed quickly. He also said the • Leader Durkin stated that the 47 Senate Democrat Caucus would members of his Caucus are unified be open in the spring session to and stand firmly with Governor looking at a fair way of doing re- Rauner. districting and reforming the • While he was frustrated and school-ad formula. embarrassed by how the spring • Cullerton also suggested that the session ended and what occurred General Assembly ought to look at over the summer, he is cautiously replacing the State’s current motor optimistic about the progress in fuel tax with a mileage-based user discussions between the Governor fee. The purpose of it would be to and the four tops in recent weeks. capture revenue from vehicles that • Leader Durkin said he stands are more fuel efficient for their use behind the Governor’s call for of state and local roads. meaningful reforms. Only after there is agreement on reform will Senate Republican Leader the Republicans be willing to Radogno discuss revenue increases.

• Leader Radogno started off by • Representative Durkin reinforced saying she is concerned about the Senator Radogno’s comment that exodus of people and jobs from the everything needs to be on the table State. She agrees with the Governor in negotiations. He understands that State government is badly in how important LGDF funds are to need of reform. municipalities, but indicated that • The Senator did indicate that they have to be part of the budget there has been some minimal negotiations. progress in leadership meetings • When asked about what over the last few weeks. There’s constitutes meaningful reforms, more discussion on issues now Leader Durkin suggested something than there was during the spring needs to be done on workers session and over the summer when compensation and on a property some leaders were “dug in”. She tax freeze. He agrees with the attributed this to the fact that Governor that causation needs to be legislative staff has been included addressed with regard to workers in the last few meetings. They have comp and that prevailing wage and facts and figures available to aid collective bargaining included with discussions and also are assigned a property tax freeze. research tasks between meetings.

• Representative Durkin believes • Leader Radogno said she has consensus is starting to gel on gotten the sense at recent meetings pension reform legislation. At this that all participants are coming point, the focus has been on the around to the notion that they each State systems.

• When asked to speculate on when the budget impasse will be resolved, Representative Durkin stated that he would prefer it end now, but can see how some think it will continue until after the March primaries.

• Once the impasse ends, Leader Durkin, like Senate President Cullerton, believes there will be quick action on a capital bill.

MWRD NEWS Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) President Mariyana Spyropoulos provided a wide-ranging presentation that encapsulated the MWRD’s work to date, present focus and exciting future to come before the City Club of Chicago on December 15, 2015.

“Thank you to the City Club of Chicago and sponsors for hosting the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago and allowing us the forum to share our important message,” said MWRD President Mariyana Spyropoulos.

“We have an obligation to serve our residents and taxpayers and tell our story of how we strive each day to protect our water environment and serve as global leaders in improving our planet.

Over the last year, we have made excellent strides in improving district finances, upgrading water treatment, addressing stormwater management and initiating resource recovery projects, and we are delighted to share our progress.”

President Spyropoulos’ speech touched on MWRD’s history, beginning with the reversal of the Chicago River, followed by a century of growth and ambitious engineering feats, including the latest MWRD marvel-the Thornton Composite Reservoir-which is the largest of its kind in the world, preventing flooding and pollution in area waterways. Other key findings in the president’s speech included: Spending for MWRD’s overall operations, including capital costs and pension has decreased $100 million from $1.023 billion in 2010 to a projected final expenditure of $921 million for 2015.

The General Corporate Fund, which covers the MWRD’s general operating expenses, decreased slightly from $330.9 million to $326.7 million over that same period.

At the same time, the fund’s reserves have increased by 82%from $142 million to $259 million.

The MWRD is working toward becoming energy-neutral by 2023 by using a reverse auction to

manage electricity costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions through renewable/clean energy initiatives and capturing renewable energy from its own systems.

The MWRD’s bond rating is AAA by S&P and Fitch and Aa2 by Moody’s, keeping bond fees low.

After working with legislators in Springfield to pass pension reform legislation in 2012, the pension’s unfunded liability saw a marked improvement in 2014, increasing to 55 percent in 2014, up from 50.4 percent in 2012, due to increased employee and employer contributions and higher investment returns.

The cost of MWRD services falls under the industry norm by more than half; in 2014, the average cost for MWRD services was approximately $204 for a house valued at $200,000. The average cost for services in the Midwest region was $439.

Based on demand for recreation, the MWRD opened disinfection procedure at the Calumet WRP with O’Brien WRP following next spring.

As part of the Tunnel and Reservoir Plan, the MWRD opened the Thornton Composite Reservoir to contain up to 7.9 billion gallons of stormwater and sewage, benefiting 14 communities and protecting against about $40 million a year in flood damage.

The MWRD has more than 72 stormwater projects moving forward that span immediate construction, preliminary design and design stages.

In 2015, the MWRD signed agreements with 62 communities and non-government organizations to deliver more than 25,000 rain barrels at no cost to residents.

Partnering with the Chicago Public Schools, the Healthy Schools Campaign, Openlands and the Chicago Department of Water Management, six school yards across the city were converted into sustainable playgrounds, and 30 more are to come over the next five years.

By conducting pilot studies on five select local communities, the MWRD is in the process of creating a stormwater master plan that will analyze existing flooding problems and develop a comprehensive approach to address those problems on a regional level.

Through the MWRD’s flood-prone property buyout program and Watershed Management Ordinance, the MWRD is utilizing new tools to tackle flooding issues and ensure

See PRESIDENT, page 25

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PRESIDENT Continued from page 24

future stormwater management are addressed and mitigated.

Part of MWRD’s plan to become energy neutral by 2023, the agency is converting organic material at treatment plants into biogas to be used to heat and cool facilities and sold on the market.

The MWRD is harvesting phosphorous from waste and selling it through a partnership in the private sector, making it the largest such plant in the world.

By recovering this phosphorus, the MWRD can preserve a vital resource that is expected to run out over the next 100 years and reduce the algae blooms that affect the Gulf of Mexico.

Another recovered resource following the MWRD treatment process, biosolids are a safe product that meets the most stringent standards set by the EPA, and a product that is already used by parks and golf courses around Cook County to help maintain beautiful landscapes.

Over the next five years, resource recovery will produce an annual revenue stream of $10 million per year, and that figure is expected to grow as more possibilities are explored.

The President invited all participants and the public to tour the Stickney Water Reclamation Plant, the largest wastewater treatment facility in the world.

Please contact 312-751-6633 to schedule a tour.

To view the president’s remarks, visit www.vimeo.com/149078913 or visit www.cityclub-chicago.org/ videos.

TRITON COLLEGE NEWS

(708) 456-0300, Ext. 3603 or e-mail kayfrey@triton.edu.

Volunteers Being Sought to Offer Free Tax Help Tax time is almost right around the corner, and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of West Suburban Cook and Southern DuPage Counties located at Triton College will provide free tax assistance to individuals 60 years of age and older. To make the program a success and provide service to those in need, RSVP is looking for individuals interested in volunteering to participate in this free Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Program. TCE is a community-based partnership managed by the IRS that provides free tax preparation assistance to low-to-moderate income taxpayers who are 60 and older, particularly those with disabilities and nonEnglish speakers. If individuals are looking for a way to help in the community, then consider becoming a volunteer with the TCE program! Here are five things the IRS wants individuals to know about becoming a TCE volunteer: No previous experience is required.

Volunteers receive specialized training from certified TCE volunteers and can serve as greeters, reviewers or tax preparers.

IRS provides free tax law training, e-file training and all the materials needed to prepare basic individual income tax returns.

The hours are flexible. Volunteers are asked to serve an average of three to four hours per week from February through April 13 in 2016.

Volunteer sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools and other convenient locations.

RSVP’s TCE sites also offer free electronic filing of federal and state tax returns.

Anyone interested in volunteering to provide this service can attend the free training sessions, which will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, Jan. 9, 16, 23, 30 and Feb. 6, 2016, in Room R-221 of Triton’s Robert M. Collins Center.

Volunteers will be taught how to assist adults in completing the 1040EZ, 1040A and 1040 federal and state tax forms. Materials are provided free of charge.

The tax counseling service is sponsored annually by RSVP. For more information or to register for the training session, call (708) 4560300, Ext. 3835 or 3603.

RSVP to Offer Technology Workshops In partnership with the Triton College Library, the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of West Suburban Cook and Southern DuPage Counties will offer a series of free RSVP Technology Workshops beginning in January.The first RSVP Technology Workshop, “Medicine on the Internet: How to Search and Find Good and Reliable Answers,” will be held at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, January 12th in the Triton College Library. Not all sources on the Internet are credible. How do you determine which ones provide you reliable answers to your health related questions? For more information or to reserve your place, please call the RSVP Office at SPECIAL EVENTS WORKING GROUP

Each January the Village, Park, Schools, and Chamber of Commerce get together and try to plan what activities the Village can schedule throughout the year. The group, led by Ms. Katy Finn, makes sure the collective group stays on track. If you have any suggestions of events you would like to see, please contact Katy at the village hall at 708-345-0020 extension 294.

She is ready to start the New Year 2016 off right.

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hills.

Forest Preserves staff reserves the right to refuse admittance to sledding hills anyone who fails to comply with the documented and posted Sledding Hills Rules and Regulations.

Ice Fishing Ice Fishing is permitted during the winter season at 22 designated lakes and sloughs throughout the County. Ice fishermen should check ice thickness before going out on any frozen body of water.

COOK COUNTY FOREST PRESERVE A minimum of four inches of WINTER EVENTS solid ice over the entire lake is Although we have little snow recommended before individuals to enjoy the outdoors I’m sure it attempt ice fishing. Hours are 8amwill be coming over the next few sunset. Ice fishing is permitted months. Below is a list of locations on an approved list of lakes and to enjoy activities that the CCFPD sloughs only. For information, has to offer. Sledding hills are please call (708) 771-1335. open when the ground is frozen Public safety requires the closing and covered with a minimum of of many Forest Preserve parking lots three inches of snow. Public safety and driveways during the winter requires the temporary closing of season. However, parking facilities some Forest Preserves parking areas involved with winter sports will be during the winter season. However, open daily. its maintenance department prioritizes the clearing of parking FROM THE BOARD At the December 15th Village areas serving winter activities.

Always call ahead to make sure Board Meeting, the following items sledding hills and parking areas are were approved under the Consent open. Sledding hills with lighting Agenda: Approval of the Record of Bills are staffed and open 10 am to 9 pm daily when conditions allow. ending 12-10-15 in the amount not The closest location is Westchester to exceed $866,159.53 Approval of Minutes of the Woods located on Cermak Road, east of LaGrange November 24, 2015 Village Board Road, in Westchester. Please call 708- Meeting, of the November 24, 2015 Committee of the Whole Meeting, 447-0090 for more information. and of the November 24, 2015 Sledding Hill Rules and Executive Session Approval of Departmental Monthly Regulations Forest Preserves of Cook County Reports from the Community sledding hills are open when there Development Department, the is a minimum of 3″ of snow and the Police Department, the Fire Department, and the Public Works ground is frozen.

Use of Forest Preserves of Cook Department An Ordinance Amending Chapter County sledding hills is at visitor’s 5.36, Entitled “Liquor Sale,” of Title own risk.

Proper use of appropriate 5, Entitled “Business Licenses and sledding devices which are in good Regulations,” of the Westchester repair and have no sharp edges is Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending required.

Use of skis, non-winter style tubes, Title18. entitled “Zoning”, of the carpets, snowboards, toboggans Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending Section and metal-railed sleds is strictly 14.01.110, entitled “Fees” of Article prohibited.

Unauthorized building of ramps, II, entitled “Permits” of Chapter bumps, moguls, hills or jumps out 14.01, entitled “Administration” of of a material or substance is strictly Title 14, entitled “Buildings and Construction” of the Westchester prohibited.

Children under the age of 12 Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending Section should wear a bicycle or multi-sport entitled “Village helmet and must be supervised by 14.52.020, Inspection of Real Estate – Certificate an adult.

Sledding hills may be closed due of Compliance Required”, of to a lack of snow cover or for any Chapter 14.52, entitled “Certificates other safety or environmental- of Compliance”, of Title 14, entitled “Buildings and Construction”, of related reason.

Pets and alcoholic beverages are See PRESIDENT, page 26 strictly prohibited on sledding

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the Westchester Municipal Code An Ordinance Amending the Municipal Code of the Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois,

by Amending Title 7, Entitled “Public Peace, Safety and Morals,” and by Adding Thereto Chapter 7.128, Entitled“Rental Residential Property,” and Section 7.132, Entitled “Crime Free Rental Residential Property” and Section 7.136 Entitled “Chronic Nuisance Property/Abatement” An Ordinance Amending Section 14.16.020, entitled “Modifications – Insertions, Additions, Deletions and Modifications”, of Chapter 14.16, entitled “International Property Maintenance Code 2012”, of Title 14, entitled“Buildings and Construction” of the Westchester Municipal Code A Resolution Approving the 2016 Schedule of Meetings of the Village President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois A Resolution Regarding the Periodic Review of the Closed Meeting Minutes and the Destruction of the Verbatim Recordings of Certain Closed Meetings of the Village of

Westchester At the December 15th Village Board Meeting, the following items discussed under Active Agenda: Board Action Regarding the Interest Arbitration Award Issued in Illinois Labor Relations Board Case No.SMA-12-159 (Police Sergeants) At the December 15th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under New Business: Concept Plan – St. Joseph Property Policy on Shared Sanitary Sewer Connections Proposed Amendment To Municipal Code – Alternate Parking Restrictions Planning Commission Recommendation – Petition 150001 – Community Church, 1840 Westchester Blvd.

At the December 15th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Old Business: Water & Sewer Rate Study Proposed Change Order – Mayfair Phase II At the December 15th Village Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items discussed under Information Only: Preliminary Development Plan – 10261 Roosevelt Road

Public Works JANUARY 2016

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