708-366-2323 - contact@forestpark.net

As we approach the end of the budget planning process, I want to share some important updates and invite residents to take part in the upcoming meetings on July 28 at Village Hall:

4:00 PM – Final Budget Meeting

This is the last formal opportunity to review and discuss the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

6:45 PM – Appropriation Hearing

This hearing is a required step in the budgeting process. It allows the public to comment on how the Village plans to legally allocate funds across departments. Appropriation ordinances set the legal spending limits for the year and should align with the budget we've developed.

7:00 PM – Regular Village Council Meeting

Our regularly scheduled meeting will follow the hearing.

Residents are encouraged to attend these meetings or follow the Forest Park Review for recent updates on the budget process.

Finalizing the budget is always a challenge, and this year is no exception. Since the beginning of 2025, I’ve been meeting regularly with department heads to assess the needs of each Village department. We’ve held budget workshops to bring department leaders and commissioners together to address our current deficit and explore revenue-generating ideas.

One of the hurdles we face is a recent change in how Illinois distributes local use tax. As of January 1, the state now distributes this tax based on the location of purchases, rather than the population of a municipality. This change has negatively impacted our revenue and added to our financial concerns.

Despite these challenges, I remain committed to working with our elected officials and department heads to provide transparent fiscal updates and pursue real, sustainable solutions for Forest Park.

Wall of Renown Unveiling

Between the budget meeting and the appropriation hearing on July 28, please join the Forest Park Historical Society outside Council Chambers for a special event. They will unveil the newly expanded Wall of Renown at 6pm, honoring 13 new Forest Parkers, past and present, who have made lasting contributions to our community. It’s a moment of pride and reflection on the people who’ve helped shape Forest Park.

We hope to see you there.

Rachell Entler

Village Administrator

Village Council News

The next meeting of the Forest Park Village Council will be held on Monday July 28, 2025, at 7pm in the lower level of Village Hall. As always, the public is welcome to join.

To view the meeting agenda and zoom link for the meeting, click here.

News from the Village Clerk's Office

Important Notice for All Residents: New Water Bill Format

Starting this billing cycle, water bills will no longer be mailed in a traditional letter and envelope. Instead, they will arrive as postcards.

This new postcard format is more efficient, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective—helping the village save on printing and mailing expenses while still keeping you informed.

Please keep an eye out for these postcards in your mailbox. Below is a sample of what the front and back will look like for your reference.

Thank you for your attention and cooperation!

News from the Mayor's Office

One of Forest Park’s greatest strengths is its vibrant, connected community. The Forest Park Arts Alliance (FPAA) continues to foster that sense of togetherness through creative and engaging events—most recently, the beloved summer Stoop Sessions.

Last week, the Mayor joined dozens of residents at a lively stoop session hosted by neighbors on the 1000 block of Lathrop. These neighborhood gatherings are a wonderful example of what makes Forest Park feel like home.

Mark your calendar for the next Stoop Session on Tuesday, July 22, from 7–8 PM at 505 Thomas Avenue, featuring the talented duo Kelvin & Gabi. More details can be found in the Community Events section below.

Looking ahead, keep an eye out for Sit and Savor, coming soon to Constitution Court. This exciting new FPAA initiative will bring hand-painted bistro tables to the heart of downtown. Each table—paired with two chairs—will feature original artwork by local artists, creating a welcoming outdoor space where residents and visitors can enjoy drinks, bites, and Forest Park’s creative spirit.

News from the Public Works Department

Tree Planting Program

In 2022, the Village of Forest Park completed a full GIS Tree Inventory and a Forestry Comprehensive Management Plan, which now serve as key tools in guiding future tree planting efforts. The Village is excited to begin implementing these resources, with most new plantings based on Arborist recommendations. The Public Works Department is currently tree requests for the fall season. To see if your location qualifies for a free tree, visit the Village’s GIS tree map “FP Trees.” Black circles with blue pins mark open planting spaces where the Village will provide and plant a tree at no cost, including a watering bag. Residents outside these designated areas may still request a tree but will be responsible for the full cost. To get started, email the Director of Public Works at sstella@forestpark.net to receive the current tree list. Once your location and tree selection are approved, you'll be added to the Fall 2025 planting schedule. Requests that can’t be fulfilled this fall will be considered for a future season based on the order received.

News from the Department of Public Health & Safety

Hot Pavement Hurts: Keep Pets Safe This Season

As summer temperatures climb, it's important to protect our furry friends from the dangers of extreme heat. Hot pavement can burn paw pads in seconds—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. Walk pets early in the morning or later in the evening when the ground is cooler. Watch for signs of overheating such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy, and always provide access to fresh water. Never leave pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes—temperatures can soar dangerously fast. A little caution goes a long way in keeping pets safe and healthy this season.

News from the Fire Department

Fire Department Safety Tip: Preventing Falls at Home

Falls are a leading cause of injury for older adults, but many can be prevented with simple changes around the home. The Fire Department encourages residents to ensure walkways are clear of clutter, secure loose rugs, and install grab bars in bathrooms. Good lighting, especially on stairs, is essential, and wearing sturdy, non-slip shoes can also help. Taking these steps can greatly reduce the risk of falls and help keep our older community members safe and independent.

News from the Police Department

Police Blotter: July 7 - July 17, 2025

The Police Department would like to extend a thank you to Starbucks on Madison for generously hosting this week’s Coffee with a Cop event. Their warm hospitality provided the perfect setting for meaningful conversations between officers and community members. Events like these are a vital part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships and promote open dialogue within our village. We look forward to more community engagement opportunities in the future.

Boards & Commissions

Upcoming Board and Commission Meetings



All meetings are held at Village Hall unless otherwise noted.

Dates and Times are subject to change- check the village website for the most up-to-date information.

July 21, Planning & Zoning, 7pm

July 23, Environmental Control, 7pm

July 28, Village Council Meeting, 7pm

August 6, Board of Heath, 7pm

August 11, Village Council Meeting, 7pm

August 14, Recreation Board, 7pm

August 18, Planning & Zoning, 7pm

August 19, Neighborhood Watch, 7pm

Environmental Control Commission

July 19 - 25 events from the Environmental Control Commission

Morning Bird Walk - Free!

Enjoy a casual guided walk to look for birds and bird behavior. Led by John Elliott of Chicago Bird Alliance. Binoculars available.

Saturday, July 19

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

8 a.m.

Kayak the Des Plaines - Free, but registration required.

Kayak nine miles on the Des Plaines River, from Irving Park Road to Schuth’s Grove. Equipment and shuttle provided. Ages 12 and up.

Saturday, July 19

Irving Park Road Canoe Landing, Des Plaines River Road north of Irving Park Road in Schiller Park

9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

GPS Mystery Adventure

A murder most “fowl” has occurred in our woods! Solve the case by using handheld GPS units to locate hidden clues and discover the mystery! All instruction and materials provided. Adults & Ages 10-17 w/ adult.

Saturday, July 19

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

1:30 p.m.

Restoration Workday - Free, but registration required.

Help us restore our natural communities of woodland and prairie. Gloves, tools and light refreshment provided. Adults & 12 & up w/ adult.

Sunday, July 20

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

9 a.m. to noon

Stories in the Forest Drop-in - Free!

Join the River Forest Public Library and the Trailside Museum for our free “Stories in the Forest” programs! We will read children’s stories and then engage in a simple nature activity. Ages 0 to 5, accompanied by an adult. Meet at the gazebo in the outdoor nature play area. Will be canceled in the event of rain.

Thursday, July 24

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

10 a.m.

National Moth Week – Evening Mothing - Free, but registration required.

Learn about and see our elusive night-time pollinators – Moths, through a short indoor program, followed by observing live moths attracted to our luminous outdoor “moth traps”. For adults and children 8+ w/adult.

Friday, July 25

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

8 to 9:30 p.m.

Community News & Events

Made in Forest Park - Business Spotlight

This week, we're shining a light on Nadeau’s Ice Sculptures. Nadeua is proud to be the oldest and largest full-time ice sculpting operation in the Midwest. With a talented team of designers and sculptors, along with state-of-the-art CNC technology, Nadeau’s is uniquely qualified to handle any and all ice-related projects. As summer and fall weddings continue to bloom, now is the perfect time to elevate your event with one of their stunning custom sculptures. Check out the breathtaking example below and see how Nadeau’s brings unforgettable elegance to every occasion! yes! That is a vase made out of ice!

July 22, 2025 7-8pm Stoop Session!

505 Thomas Ave

Kelvin & Gabi

Join Arts Alliance Forest Park for our third Stoop Sessions of the season featuring the music of Kelvin & Gabi. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chair and a picnic. Stoop Sessions is sponsored by the Mark Hanson State Farm Agency.

Kelvin and Gabi have played music together since the 4th grade. Their musical relationship has been founded on all sorts of genres, such as 40s jazz, 70s songwriter and rock, and pop sensibility. Their catalogue includes a bunch of blasts from the past, interpreted through a lens of minimal instrumentation – a raw, organic spin on songs new and old. They will also showcase original music, which collects these influences to create a beautiful blend of harmonies and textures that we know you’ll love.

Proviso Handyman July News

Proviso Handyman department is here to serve the needs of our senior residents over the age of 60 and /or disabled residents who are homeowners in our community.

Local Hiring Opportunities

The Village of Forest Park and several community partners are hiring. Please see the links below for more information and to apply:



• Forest Park Public Library
• Forest Park School District 91
• Village of Forest Park
• Park District of Forest Park

The CY 2024 Village of Forest Park Quality Report has now been updated and posted to the Village website. To review this report, please click here. Questions regarding this report can be directed to Water Operator Rick Barger at rbarger@forestpark.net or 708-366-4876.

Important Phone Numbers

Police, Fire and Medical Needs 

Emergency and Non-Emergency - 911

24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support - 988

Text to 911 Now Available

West Suburban Consolidated Dispatch Center which provides emergency response services to Forest Park, along with Oak Park and River Forest can now receive 911 texts from a cell phone to report an emergency.

While calls to 911 will best assist emergency responders in being able to locate a caller, texting is an option for those who may need it. Text should only be used when some is unable to voice call to 911.

A text to 911 cannot include any other recipients. Texts to 911 may also take longer to reach the dispatch center.

Texts to 911 should be brief. Please include the type of help needed and the location where help is needed. Be prepared to respond to follow-up questions via text to better assist emergency responders.

Village Hall/Clerk's Office - 708-366-2323

Police Department - 708-366-2425

Parking/Records - 708-366-7272

Fire Department - 708-366-1234

Community Center - 708-771-7737

Forest Park Public Library - 708-366-7171

Park District of Forest Park 708-366-7500 

School District 91 - 708-366-5700

Proviso Township High School - 708- 338-5900