Casual Conversation THIS Saturday, Open House Recap, Property Tax Bills Due December 15, and More!

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Dear River Forest residents,

Thank you to everyone who attended the Washington Boulevard Open House last week. We appreciate the thoughtful feedback shared by community members as we continue to explore cyclist and pedestrian improvements and ways to reduce speeding. You can learn more about information shared at the event and next steps in an article below.

Please consider joining me for the next “Casual Conversation” event this coming Saturday, November 15, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the River Forest Civic Center Authority Building. Myself and Village staff members will be available to answer any questions, discuss Village services, initiatives, and any other topics important to our residents. I hope to see you there!

Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President

Village of River Forest

Washington Boulevard Open House Recap

The Washington Boulevard Corridor Improvement Project Open House last week gave residents an opportunity to review proposed improvements along Washington Boulevard - from Thatcher to Lathrop avenues - and share valuable feedback with Village staff and engineering consultant Primera. For those unable to attend, meeting exhibits are available here, and a summary of questions and comments can be found here. In addition to potential cyclist and pedestrian safety changes, speed control measures are also being considered on the corridor. The public comment period will remain open through Thursday, November 20. Comments can be sent via email. For ongoing updates, visit the project webpage.

Casual Conversation THIS Saturday

Residents are encouraged to attend the next Casual Conversation with the Village President this Saturday, November 15, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the River Forest Civic Center Authority Building. This informal event provides a great opportunity to meet Village President Cathy Adduci and Village staff, ask questions, share ideas, and engage in meaningful discussions about current Village operations and future initiatives. It’s a chance to stay informed, build community connections, and have your voice heard in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Learn more here.

Property Tax Bills

Due December 15

Cook County officials have announced that second installment property tax bills for Tax Year 2024 should be mailed out tomorrow (Friday, November 14), with payments due by Monday, December 15. Tax bills have been mailed by the County later than normal over the last couple of years due to ongoing modernization of its property tax system, but officials state that targeted improvements will enhance accuracy and efficiency moving forward. Taxpayers can make online payments and view how their tax dollars are allocated by visiting the Cook County Treasurer’s website here.

Congratulations to our Deputy Fire Chief

The Fire Department is proud to announce that Deputy Fire Chief Dave Bochenek has graduated from the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal Chief Fire Officer Certification Program, the highest officer certification in Illinois. This rigorous, nearly 400 hour program is offered in three phases, and equips fire officers with essential skills in leadership, professional development, human resources, legal issues, intergovernmental relations, and budget management. Deputy Chief Bochenek’s completion demonstrates his dedication to excellence and professional growth, and will benefit the Village for years to come. Please join us in congratulating him on this outstanding achievement!

Are you Prepared?

It’s Winter Preparedness Week and a time to review your first-aid kits, winterize your home and vehicles, and gather any essential supplies for cold weather emergencies. Don’t forget to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, keep extra blankets and non-perishable food on hand and in your vehicle, and prepare a safety plan for your household. For a full list of winter health and safety tips, click here.

OPRF Museum

Holiday Open House

Celebrate the holidays at the Oak Park River Forest Museum’s Holiday Open House on Saturday, November 29, from noon to 4 p.m.! Enjoy festive games and activities for all ages, seasonal refreshments, and holiday decorations, including the Stars of Oak Park and River Forest Christmas Tree. Explore the Museum’s exhibits and take advantage of a 10% discount on all gift shop items in honor of Small Business Saturday. It’s the perfect place to find unique gift ideas while supporting our local economy. Learn more here.

Recycling & Collection for Plastic Caps and Lids

Some of the most commonly overlooked items in residential recycling are loose plastic bottles and lids. In River Forest, caps and lids still attached to bottles, jugs, or tubs can be recycled, while loose caps can be collected through special drives. The River Forest Civic Center Authority Building (RFCC) is currently accepting plastic lids and caps in a lobby receptacle, which will be repurposed into outdoor recreational equipment. This collection is part of a special Eagle Scout Merit Badge Project led by former RFCC preschooler Carter Cook to gather materials for the playground. To view a graphic for details on how you can support Carter’s project, click here. Thank you for helping make a difference in our community!

River Forest Business Spotlight

Gagliardo Group/Compass, a family-owned real estate firm since 1958, brings more than 30 licensed and highly respected agents to River Forest and greater Chicagoland. With deep personal roots in the areas they serve, their team combines unmatched local knowledge with the support of a tech-savvy staff, providing clients with an “at-home” advantage and exceptional service for every real estate transaction. Learn more here.

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.