The following email provides timely information on news and services
from the City of Darien.
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Weekly eNews - October 26, 2023 |
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Mayor's Message
Last week, I had an opportunity to speak to a Government class at Downers Grove South High School. I get an invitation at least once a semester from one of our local schools to sit in on a panel discussion as a representative of a local governmental body. On my most recent panel at DGS, we had a city administrator, school board president and a state representative which gave students a chance to measure the similarities and differences of state government versus local government. As a former Government instructor, I always enjoy the opportunity to be in a classroom, whether it’s a junior or senior high school, and this latest visit proved to be one of my most memorable visits.
I always go into these visits with the idea of not just speaking about the structure of local government; my goal is to move young people to become participants in their local government and in their local community. During this recent visit, a student’s question provided me with an opportunity to explain why I became involved in my community. He asked why I ran for office; what motivated me to not only take on the responsibility of running a city government but to also expose myself to all the negative aspects of elective office. I responded to his question by explaining that throughout my career as a high school teacher and administrator, and now as a public official, my motivation always came from my knowing that I was in a position to possibly touch a life in a positive way. I also mentioned that if we each look at our community and see how it has enriched our lives, that we have a responsibility to give something back to our community.
I explained to the class that as difficult as my mayoral role might be, and the challenges that I face, I believe as Ken Poirot states, “Success is to wake up each morning and consciously decide that today will be the best day of your life.” While there will be days and weeks with more challenges, being positive about the potential for success, the “glass half full” attitude makes meeting those challenges much easier to accept and oftentimes leads to a more successful conclusion. That same student also asked how I deal with all the naysayers, those who chose to be critical of the city and how I conduct our city’s business. To that question, I simply answered with the quote from Dr. Seuss, “Be who you are and say what you feel, for those who mind don’t matter and those that matter don’t mind.” I hope that this simple quote conveyed to those students, that you should never let those who choose to criticize you impact how you feel about yourself, and you should look at those around you who really matter in your life. I hope I gave each of those students something to ponder regarding themselves and their role in society
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National First Responders Day
October 28 is National First Responders Day! Let's recognize the people who are first to respond during emergencies and those who provide aid when disaster strikes. Thank you for serving communities across the country with dedication and bravery!
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Municipal Services Committee Special Meetings - October 30 and November 1
The Municipal Services Committee will meet on October 30 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall regarding the development proposal for the vacant CVS site at Lemont and Plainfield Roads.
The committee will also meet on Wednesday, November 1 at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall regarding the Woodland Glen Development. Committee agendas will be posted here. |
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EV Readiness
In late 2022, ComEd and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus announced an inaugural cohort of communities participating in an EV Readiness Program, a unique initiative launched to help local governments prepare to meet the growing demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and charging infrastructure. The City of Darien was selected to be part of the EV Readiness Cohort Program. The Cohort’s goal was to assist and develop streamlined policies and implement best practices for safe and effective regional transportation electrification.
With the City being an inaugural cohort community, a focus on policy development related to EV infrastructure, permitting/zoning, safety, and community engagement is paramount. The City's website contains many facets regarding Rebates, Vehicles, Charging Stations, General Guidelines and Statistics. Learn more.
Should you have any questions please feel free to contact us at 630-353-8115 or via email mbelmonte@darienil.gov. |
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Trick-or-Treating
The City does not have established trick-or-treating hours but recommends trick-of-treating during daylight hours. Follow these tips for a safe Halloween:
- If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags or give them glow sticks.
- Opt for nontoxic Halloween makeup over masks, which can obscure vision; always test makeup in a small area first to see if any irritation develops.
- A responsible adult should accompany young children on the neighborhood rounds.
- Children and adults are reminded to put electronic devices down, keep their heads up and walk, don't run across the street.
- Watch for children walking on roadways, medians and curbs.
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Darien Lions Club/Darien Park District
Halloween Event
The Darien Lions Club and Darien Park District will host a Halloween Party on Halloween Night, Tuesday, October 31 from 6 - 8 p.m. at Darien Sportsplex, 451 Plainfield Road. There will be games with prizes, ice skating and an ice cream social. Admission is free, courtesy of the Lions Club. View Flyer
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Faith and Blue Fall Fest
On October 7, Our Lady of Peace Catholic Parish and the Darien Police Department participated in the first Faith & Blue Fall Fest. It was a great event with almost 200 attendees! Attendees enjoyed music, food, pumpkin decorating, K9 demonstrations and more. Find more pictures from the event here. |
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Fall Tips - Prepare Spring Blooms
It may be getting colder, but now is the perfect time to think about your fall garden. Many spring flowers come from bulbs that need to be planted now, before the ground freezes. So, pick your favorite tulips, daffodils, and crocus and get digging. Then, you can enjoy warm tea and cozy blankets for a few months while your garden prepares to impress the neighbors come Spring!
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Fall Yard Waste Reminders
The leaves are falling! All those leaves, combined with other fall clean-up activities, can produce a lot of extra yard waste. Please remember that leaves cannot be swept into the street. They can block storm drains and cause other issues.
Be sure to dispose of all yard waste through LRS or leave the leaves in your garden to protect plants and improve the soil as they decompose. Follow these guidelines from LRS to properly dispose of your yard waste. |
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Economic Development Commission Meeting - Rescheduled
The Economic Development Commission meeting scheduled for November 2 has been rescheduled for November 9. The agenda and packet will be posted here. |
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Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting Cancelled
Due to no agenda items, the Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting for Wednesday, November 1 has been cancelled. A public hearing is scheduled for November 15.
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Be in the Know - Help Spread the Word
Darien’s Direct Connect E-Newsletter (DC) is the City’s primary source of information for residents and businesses. Please tell your friends and neighbors about DC, forward this email to them, and ask them to sign up. Signing up is simple and can be done here. |
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
Click on the links below for more information on these upcoming community events! |
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Oct. 23 - 29 - Dine to Donate - Darien Arts Council @ Country House (Clarendon Hills location): link
October 25 - DGC Sprouts Gardening with Three Sisters Gardening: link
October 26 - Halloween for Ghouls and Goblins: link
October 31 - Darien Lions Club and Park District Halloween Party: link
November 6 - Darien Garden Club Meeting: link
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Darien Police Weekly Press Release
The Darien Police Department issues a press release each week.
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Darien Events and Happenings |
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Check out the City Calendar for information on upcoming meetings and events
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Check out the Community Calendar for the news on events from Darien community organizations!
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(630) 353-8114
City Hall (630) 852-5000
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Visit the City of Darien's website for information on City services.
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