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Dear River Forest residents,
Thank you to all who attended and shared feedback at the Development Review Board (DRB) Public Hearing on July 9 regarding the proposed development at 7620 Madison Street. The DRB unanimously recommended the proposal move forward to be considered by the Village Board. A meeting date has not yet been scheduled. Once a date is finalized, the Village will announce it through all official communication channels. I want to thank the DRB members for their time, dedication, and thoughtful review of this proposal. Public comments will continue to be accepted here.
The most recent hearing on July 9 regarding the Lake & Lathrop property was encouraging. The judge in this case is holding the parties accountable, and our hope is that this case can come to a positive resolution as soon as possible, so that this important commercial property can ultimately be developed to serve our community. Click here for more information about the hearing.
Finally, I encourage parents and caregivers to remind our young bicyclists to wear a properly fitted helmet every time they ride, which can reduce the risk of serious head injuries in the event of an accident or crash. For those observed wearing helmets, our police officers will be giving out free Slurpee coupons as part of the 7-Eleven Operation Chill program - a fun way to promote and reward safe biking habits.
Sincerely,
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Cathy Adduci, Village President
Village of River Forest
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The Illinois EPA has declared an Air Pollution Action Day through this evening (July 16). Residents are encouraged to remain indoors, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and keep windows closed whenever possible. To help improve local air quality, limit unnecessary driving, reduce vehicle idling, conserve electricity, and avoid using gas-powered lawn equipment. Air quality forecasts are based on current weather and environmental conditions and are updated as needed. For real-time air quality information, visit AIRNow.gov.
| | Safe Lithium-Ion Battery Use | | The Fire Department encourages residents to practice safe lithium-ion battery use after a recent incident where a battery ignited while being handled. Lithium-ion batteries found in electric bicycles, electric scooters, and other mobility devices can pose a serious fire risk if they are damaged, improperly charged, or paired with incompatible chargers. Residents should use only certified batteries and chargers, avoid charging batteries while sleeping or away from home, and replace any battery showing signs of damage or overheating. If a lithium-ion battery catches fire, leave the area immediately and call 911. | | Join the Community Safety Meeting | Residents are invited to attend the Police Department's next Quarterly Community Safety Meeting on Wednesday, July 29, at 6 p.m. in the first-floor Community Room at Village Hall. The meeting will provide updates on local public safety initiatives, offer an opportunity to connect with police officers and community partners, and discuss ways residents can help to prevent crime. An open question-and-answer session will conclude the meeting and give attendees the opportunity to share feedback and ask questions. | |  |
Donate Blood:
Save a Life
| Help save lives by donating blood at the Fire Department’s Community Blood Drive on Saturday, July 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 400 Park Avenue. Your donation can provide critical support for patients undergoing surgery, cancer treatment, and other medical situations and emergencies. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged. To schedule your donation, click here and enter Blood Drive Code: 100558885. As an added incentive, blood donors will also have a chance to win a car valued up to $30,000! Click here to learn more about the car giveaway. | | | The League of Women Voters invites community members to participate in "Unite & Rise for Voting Rights" on Saturday, August 8 - a nationwide day of action commemorating the 61st anniversary of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. Communities across the country will host locally organized events that celebrate the landmark legislation, encourage civic engagement, and highlight the importance of protecting the freedom and the right to vote. Residents are encouraged to attend an event, learn more about voting rights, and explore ways to stay engaged in the democratic process. To find a participating event near you, click here. | | Speed Enforcement Campaign | The Police Department is participating in a Statewide speed enforcement campaign throughout July in partnership with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police, and more than 200 local law enforcement agencies. Residents can expect increased patrols focused on preventing speeding and other traffic violations as officers work to reduce crashes and promote safer roadways. Speeding can significantly limit a driver’s ability to react to changing conditions and avoid unexpected hazards, putting drivers, passengers, and others on the road at risk. The Department encourages all motorists to slow down, follow posted speed limits, and do their part to help keep River Forest’s streets safe for everyone. | | | 2026 Chamber Spotlight Awards | The Oak Park River Forest (OPRF) Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for the 2026 OPRF Chamber Spotlight Awards, which recognize outstanding businesses, nonprofits, organizations, and community leaders that are making a positive impact in Oak Park and River Forest. Winners will be celebrated during the annual awards event on Tuesday, October 13, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association. Community members are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals and organizations and help celebrate those whose leadership, innovation, and dedication strengthen the local business community. Submit your nomination here. | | | Looking for ways to lower your energy bills while helping the environment? Residents are encouraged to take advantage of ComEd's energy efficiency programs, which offer home energy assessments, rebates, and other tools to reduce use. Since 2018, more than 800 rebates have been issued to River Forest residents, and 52 energy efficiency projects have been completed for local businesses. To learn more, click here, and explore the Village's Guide to Sustainable Living for additional energy-saving tips. | | River Forest Business Spotlight | | |
For more than 45 years, the Chicago Christian Counseling Center has provided compassionate, professional, outpatient counseling services to individuals, couples, and families throughout the Chicagoland area. The center offers accessible mental health care close to home, and helps individuals and families navigate life's challenges with confidence and support. To learn more or schedule an appointment, click here or call 708-845-5500.
Please support local businesses whenever possible! If you have a business located in River Forest with a valid business license, it can be featured in the Village’s business spotlight. If you’d like your business to be featured, please send us an email. You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s Shop River Forest website.
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