Darien Direct Connect E-Newsletter: April 10, 2025

The following email provides timely information on news and services

from the City of Darien.

City of Darien Website

Weekly eNews - April 10, 2025

Mayor's Message

“Man gives you the award, but God gives you the reward.” - Denzel Washington

“The wise person doesn’t ask, ‘What have I achieved?” but rather, ‘What have I contributed?’” - Marianne Williamson

This last weekend, I had the opportunity to attend our annual Lions District 1J Convention in Carol Stream. I have been a Lion for the past 36 years, and I have attended this convention for over 30 years. This gathering is always a special event for me, in that I get an opportunity to meet my fellow Lions from over 50 clubs throughout the 1J district, as well as learning about the impact of Lionism throughout the state and at the national and international levels. There is also a secondary reason I attend, and that is to honor those who are noted for their outstanding contributions to their communities as well as their work with those in need throughout the state.

There are two major awards given at this event; the George Lazansky Humanitarian Award is named after District 1J’s first district governor, whose humanitarian contributions left a lasting impact on District 1J as well as the state of Illinois. The other award is titled the Jim and Joyce Davis Lifetime Achievement Award, and it is presented to Lions who have demonstrated their dedication to District 1J as well as to Lionism in general. This past weekend, I had the privilege of seeing our Darien Lion nominee, Lion Tony Gricus receive each of these rewards. Lion Tony has been a member of the Darien Lions Club for over 42 years, having served in all major positions, including club president. Lion Tony has dedicated himself to not only the success of our club but to enhancing the lives of residents in Darien and in the surrounding areas. Since I had the honor of nominating Lion Tony, it gave me great pleasure to see this very deserving Lion receive this recognition.

Individuals such as Lion Tony are driven by a sense of duty, a deep passion for what they do, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference. While recognition can be gratifying, to individuals like him, it is often secondary to the inherent pleasure of creating something lasting or enhancing the lives of others. For many, it is the intrinsic reward, the sense of fulfillment and purpose that drives their efforts. Moreover, each day, we are creating a legacy, whether we realize it or not. Our actions, decisions, and the way we engage with others will leave a lasting impression.

Authors James Kouzes and Barry Posner in the book “A Leader’s Legacy” state, “Your legacy is the life that you lead.” This succinctly captures the essence of how our legacies are shaped. Individuals such as Lion Tony don’t seek fame; for them, it is the way they live their lives, navigate challenges, and the mark they leave on others that truly matters. In the end, true achievement is found not in the applause we receive, but in the quiet satisfaction of knowing that we have done our best and live lives full of purpose. Congratulations Tony!

Scroll to the bottom to view Community Events

2025 Branch Pick-Up Schedule

Spring - April 21st

Summer - June 23rd

Summer - August 25th

Autumn - October 27th

The City of Darien is pleased to be able to offer FREE BRANCH PICKUP for all residents.

Stack the branches neatly by the curb on the Sunday before the pickup
Weather conditions, equipment failures and the like may result in delays. The chipping crew will make only one pass and may complete your street as soon as Monday morning.
The chipper can accept branches up to 6” in diameter. Please do not tie the branches or put in garbage cans. All other yard waste such as grass clippings and flowers should be disposed of through our yard waste program with LRS. City crews will only pick up branches.

WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT LOGS, STUMPS, ROOTS, GRASS CLIPPINGS, FLOWERS, WEEDS, PLANTS, LEAVES, LUMBER & ANYTHING IN BAGS OR OTHER CONTAINERS

If you have questions regarding branch pick up, contact Municipal Services at 630-353-8105.

Metronet Update

On Monday, April 7, 2025, the City Council approved the License Agreement with Metronet. Starting soon, you may see Metronet construction crews in your neighborhood as they prepare to bring 100% fiber-optic internet to Darien. To install their fiber-optic cable throughout the city, they may access rear easements on your property or be in front of your homes and businesses as they begin work. Crews are identifiable by ID tags and branded vehicles.

You will receive notification from Metronet via letter and postcard approximately 30 days before construction begins in your neighborhood. You will also see large construction signs in your neighborhood’s entrance and smaller signs near your mailbox. You will likely notice pink flags and temporary paint marking existing utilities. Learn more.

If you have questions or would like additional information, contact the following Metronet staff:

Shana Brocket – Community Relations Manager – (812) 305-1000
John McGraw – Construction Manager - (870) 395-1130

Summer Employment Opportunities

The City of Darien is accepting applications for summer employment for its Public Works Department. Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a valid driver’s license. Work involves manual labor and is primarily outdoors. Learn more.

Download an application here. Applications can be sent to the City of Darien at 1702 Plainfield Rd; Darien, IL 60561 or emailed to lklemm@darienil.gov.

Recycle Your Election Yard Signs

Keep your yard signs out of the landfill by recycling them! The DuPage County Environmental Committee is offering the opportunity to recycle political and other corrugated plastic and cardboard signs. LRS will collect signs and metal stands at no cost. Only corrugated plastic and cardboard will be accepted. Metal stands must be separated from signs prior to drop off. View event flyer.

Bring your signs to the DuPage County Campus Main Entrance at 421 N County Farm Rd in Wheaton on Friday, April 11 (3:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.) or on Saturday, April 12 (9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.).

Earth Month - Recycling

Landfills receive a huge amount of waste that could have been recycled. Challenge yourself this month to send as little to the landfill as possible! Review all the items you can recycle each week in your LRS cart using their handy guide below or by checking their website.

Do you have items that aren't on the LRS list, such as: electronics, clothing, latex paint, or other items? DuPage County has a Drop-Off Recycling Guide to help you find the closest location to dispose of your recyclable items!

Cass School District 63 Multicultural Celebration

On the evening of April 11, District 63 will be hosting a Multicultural Celebration at Cass Junior High School. Here is an event flyer with more details. Our purpose is simply to celebrate and learn about the diverse backgrounds of the families in our school district, and to foster an appreciation for the different cultures that make up our local community. Our families representing approximately 20 countries will showcase their heritage through clothing, dance, art, music and foods.

We are very excited to make this happen, and would love to have you attend! This wonderful event is free of charge and the entire community is invited to attend anytime on Friday, April 11, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. We hope to see you there!

SIX: The Musical at Hinsdale South High School - April 11-13

Experience history like never before as Hinsdale South's award-winning drama team presents SIX: The Musical (Teen Edition)! The cast brings Henry VIII’s six wives to life in a high-energy pop concert that reclaims their stories. With powerhouse vocals, dynamic choreography, and a modern twist, this electrifying show will have you dancing in your seat!

Tickets are sold at the door one hour before each show (Adults: $20, Students K-12: $10). View the flyer.

National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week

Every year, during the second week of April, we take time to recognize and celebrate our public safety telecommunicators for the work they do to keep our community safe! Thank you for your hard work and dedication. Learn more about National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week here.

Downers Grove Senior Services

Find useful services and referrals for yourself or your loved ones through Senior Services in Downers Grove. With offerings that range from computer classes to musical jam sessions, there is something for everyone! Check out their full calendar here.

IDOT Construction Update

Frontage Road North and South Between Cass Ave and Clarendon Hills Rd.

Weather-permitting, the contractor has worked through the winter on the I-55 North and South Frontage Roads, removing and installing new culverts. On the S. Frontage Rd. they are currently backfilling and work is estimated at 70% complete. Due to additional utility relocations, the contractor is still working on culvert installation on N. Frontage Rd. and work is estimated at 25% complete. Pending suitable weather conditions and no additional conflicts, project completion is anticipated early June 2025.

Multi-Connections After Hours Event

May 22, 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Delta Hotels; 7800 Kingery Hwy; Willowbrook, IL

Connect, collaborate, and create new business opportunities at the upcoming Multichambered Networking Event co-sponsored by the Darien Business Alliance.

Planning, Zoning & Economic Development Meeting - April 16

The Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development Commission will meet on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 1702 Plainfield Road. The agenda will be posted here.

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