25 Years of Farmland Preservation, Prom Season at Fabyan West Forest Preserve, Popular Blood Drive Location Change, Swedish Day Parade Back On, More Storms Ahead

KANE

COUNTY

CONNECTS

Engaged Citizens,

Involved Communities,

Open Government.

A twice a week (Tuesday/Thursday) newsletter for residents of Kane County.

Thursday April 16, 2026

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25 Years of Farmland Protection in Kane County

Kane County is marking the 25th anniversary of its Farmland Protection Program, recognizing decades of efforts to preserve farmland and support the region’s agricultural heritage. READ MORE

Prom Season Brings Traffic/Parking Delays to

Fabyan West Forest Preserve

Heads up if you are planning to visit the Fabyan West Forest Preserve in Geneva over the next several weeks. It's high school prom season and the Kane County Forest Preserve cautions visitors of parking congestion and larger crowds, as couples seek scenic spots to capture photos and share memories. READ MORE

Kane County Government Blood Drive May 6 - Location CHANGE

Take Note: The location for this very important blood drive on May 6, to support the American Red Cross, has been changed from the County building to the Geneva Park District's Sunset Community Center, 710 Western Ave in Geneva. Make an appointment here. (use zip code 60134) Every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood.

Recognizing the Work of KaneComm - 911 Telecommunicators

The Kane County Board has issued a proclamation recognizing the vital work of 911 telecommunicators and their role as the first point of contact in emergencies for National Telecommunicators Week. Often unseen but always essential, telecommunicator's quick thinking, training and dedication help save lives and keep both residents and first responders safe. READ MORE

Merchants March Ahead with Plans for

Swedish Days Parade

After an announcement cancelling the Swedish Days parade in Geneva, downtown merchants quickly rallied to keep the tradition alive by planning a smaller, community-driven event. The parade will step off at 12:30 p.m. June 28, during the upcoming Swedish Days Festival. While scaled down, organizers say it will feature the same hometown spirit. READ MORE

EVENTS / COMMUNITIES

Explore Elgin Area Launches New Pizza Trail

Explore Elgin Area has launched a new Pizza Trail, highlighting 17 pizzerias across the Elgin area. Participants can visit featured locations, collect digital stamps and earn prizes through an interactive passport.

Kane County Expungement Clinic Set

Kane County residents seeking help with clearing or sealing their criminal court records are invited to attend an upcoming expungement clinic in Aurora. The clinic is set for April 25 at the Aurora Santori Public Library. Join the waitlist at www.aurorapubliclibrary.org.

CASA Kane County to Host Thrive Conference

CASA Kane County invites the public to a free Thrive Summit on May 1, in South Elgin. The resource fair brings together parents, educators and community members to support families through prevention and early intervention.

Sounds of the Earth Concert Series Comes to Aurora & St. Charles

As part of its “Snapshots in Sound” season, Chamber Music on the Fox is highlighting local nonprofits through music. Sounds of the Earth: Music and Nature in Harmony celebrates nature and the Fox River. Concerts are set for April 19 in Aurora and April 20 in St. Charles Tickets are available at chambermusiconthefox.org.

Volunteer Fair in Batavia

A free Volunteer Fair is set for April 28 at the Batavia Public Library. More than 30 nonprofit organizations will be on site, offering a wide range of opportunities for individuals to get involved and give back to the community.

Earth Day Celebration & Recycling Event This Saturday in Geneva

The Geneva Park District will host its annual Earth Day Celebration at Peck Farm Park (4038 Kaneville Rd.) on April 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Recycling drop-off for electronics, clothing, books, and batteries begins early at 9 a.m. and runs through 1 p.m. (fees apply for TVs and monitors).

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Trees Available for New Kane County Homeowners

Kane County, in partnership with The Conservation Foundation, is offering native trees and shrubs to new homeowners. Additional trees are now available and interested homeowners can contact Kane County's Sustainability Manager Sarra Hinshaw by April 25 at 630-208-8665 or hinshawsarra@kanecountyil.gov.

Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestras to Mark 50 Years With Anniversary Concert

The Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestras will celebrate its 50th anniversary with a concert featuring more than 400 student musicians on April 18, at the McAninch Arts Center. The milestone performance will bring together all ensembles for the first time since its founding in 1976.

Aurora Fire Museum Wins Statewide Awards

The Aurora Regional Fire Museum has earned two top honors from the Illinois Association of Museums, including 2026 Small Institution of the Year and the Award of Super Achievement (Exhibits). The recognition highlights the museum's ability to teach fire safety through interactive learning.

Hampshire Police Share Outdoor Safety Reminder

The Hampshire Police Department is encouraging residents to stay safe as warmer weather brings more people outdoors by understanding the key rules for operating bikes, scooters, golf carts and other recreational vehicles. For a complete overview of the rules, residents can review the village code online.

BUSINESS

Elgin Community College Hosts Spring Job Fair

Elgin Community College is hosting its Spring Job Fair on April 22, at the Main Campus, Building J, Events Center. Attendees can meet face-to-face with hiring managers, explore a variety of career options and build professional connections.