DeKalb Police Working to Attract Diverse Recruits |
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The DeKalb Police Department is working to attract diverse recruits and is adding a second full-time social worker.
Delivering the department’s annual report on June 14, Police Chief David Byrd told the City Council that the department’s diversity is extremely important to him.
“When I walk into a roll call room, I want to see a picture of humanity,” said Byrd. “And I think we’re on our way to doing that.”
50 candidates were interviewed in the latest round of recruiting, and Byrd believes the top 10 candidates are “amazing.” They are made up of three women, three African Americans, two Hispanics and five Caucasians.
Byrd believes the candidates have been impressed with the attention that is being paid to them. The chief has done a shadow day with each of the top 10 candidates where they walk the beat together.
“It’s old school policing. I believe in that. I believe in walking the beat,” said Byrd. “I’ve had some of the most non-traditional conversations at the most non-traditional locations, and I think that’s the reason why this is important.”
The candidates also have lunch with the chief, talk with community members and have conversations with rank-and-file officers to get a better idea of the day-in-the-life of a DeKalb officer.
At the same time, the department continues to strengthen its community policing efforts.
Last year, the Police Department's first licensed social worker was embedded in daily responses to help individuals and families find resources for crisis management and connections to social and mental health services. The City Council approved adding a second social worker on June 28.
Between July 2020 and March 2021, the single social worker provided services 1,032 times to people who had contact with the police. First Ward Alderwoman Carolyn Morris says adding a second social worker will be an opportunity to help even more people.
“These numbers are phenomenal,” said Morris. “Adding a second social worker could mean, obviously, double the results, and that’s just fantastic.”
City Manager Bill Nicklas says the Police Department also continues to respond to the social justice movement.
“The social justice movement demanded our attention, and we gave our attention to it,” said Nicklas. “It affected the police department in a number of ways, including changes in procedures, accountability and transparency.”
Initiatives have included:
• Posting department policies and disciplinary records
• Changes to the use of force policy
• Emphasizing “duty to intervene”
• Implementation of body cameras
• No expungement of disciplinary action
• Adoption of the NAACP and Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police 10 shared principals
• New hiring and promotion process with increased education standards, rigorous background investigations and targeted recruitment efforts among diverse communities
• Cultural diversity, de-escalation and procedural justice training
DeKalb Police officers took part in 3,800 hours of training last year. Seventh Ward Alderman Tony Faivre notes that comes out to 55 hours per officer.
“It’s just amazing the amount of training that was undertaken this past year,” said Faivre.
The Council, City staff and Chief Byrd all thanked Commander Bob Redel and former Deputy Police Chief John Petragallo for leading the department in an interim role during challenging times that included the COVID-19 pandemic.
The full annual report can be viewed here.
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DeKalb Police Working to Attract Diverse Recruits
Community Celebrates Juneteenth
Fourth of July Festivities Resume
ComEd Taking Off at DeKalb Airport
Community Paints
Mural
Fire Dept. Offers Fireworks Safety Tips
Help Prevent Vehicle Burglaries
More Murals Encouraged
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Community Celebrates Juneteenth |
Congratulations to New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, the NIU Center for Black Studies, and B.L.L.A.C.K. Inc. NFP.
Their Juneteenth Celebration on June 19 in the Annie Glidden North neighborhood saw a great turnout!
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Facebook Photo Gallery
More photos from the Juneteenth Celebration can be seen here on the City of DeKalb Facebook page.
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Fourth of July Festivities Resume with Flying Colors |
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The annual Fourth of July celebration in DeKalb is synonymous with summer.
Families and friends alike have been attending the fireworks at Hopkins Park, at 1403 Sycamore Road, or locations throughout the city for decades as part of their holiday tradition. Bringing their blankets, chairs, and picnics to gather to listen to the Municipal Band perform and enjoy the fireworks, which are co-sponsored by the City of DeKalb and the DeKalb Park District.
“The Fourth of July is more than commemorating the signing of the Declaration of Independence or our freedom as a nation, it is a big part of memory-making in our community. After a hiatus in 2020 due to COVID-19, the City is excited to work with the Park District to bring these traditions back to DeKalb,” said City Manager Bill Nicklas.
The holiday will kick off with the annual Independence Day 5K, bright and early at 7:30 a.m. to beat the summer heat. This chip-timed race starts and finishes at Hopkins Park. Results and medals will be administered after the last runner returns, or no later than 10:00 am, and will be distributed electronically. The fee is $25 to participate. Register online at dekalbparkdistrict.com or runsignup.com by July 1 for race participation. Staff will also be accepting on-site race day registration. Participants are encouraged to come dressed to support the festivities in red, white, and blue!
“The last year has been challenging for many and we are very excited to host the 5K as a fun and healthy event to kick off the annual 4th of July celebration!” said Recreation Supervisor, Andrea Juricic, who coordinates the annual 5K.
Once the 5K race barricades are cleared, the public is welcome to claim their favorite spot and enjoy a day in the park. There will be on-site DJ entertainment from 3:00-7:00 p.m., food vendors from 3:00-9:00 p.m. outside the Hopkins Park Shelter, and the Municipal Band Concert at the Bandshell from 7:30-9:00 p.m. The fireworks start approximately 30 minutes after sunset.
“This year’s holiday means so much more because we can celebrate everything we overcame throughout the last 18 months and I am honored to be celebrating our nation’s birthday with the residents of DeKalb. Speaking with residents and learning about the traditions associated with the event, makes me proud to be working collaboratively with the City of DeKalb to implement this year’s festivities. Staff has been working hard to ensure the event runs smoothly and are excited to see everyone returning to Hopkins Park,” stated Executive Director, John Shea, Jr.
For more information about the Independence Day 5K or Fourth of July Fireworks, please visit DeKalb Park District website or call (815) 758-7756. |
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Hopkins Park in DeKalb is a busy place on the Fourth of July. This map shows how the activities will be laid out. |
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Visit the City's Employment Page to view and apply for open positions. For more info, contact Human Resources at 815-748-2398.
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The City of DeKalb is currently accepting applications for the following positions:
Video Evidence Technician: The Video Evidence Technician in the DeKalb Police Department will perform digital media processing of Body Worn Camera and Patrol Vehicle (Dash) videos and other digital evidence. This role will be responsible for the collection, handling, preservation, and release of digital and physical evidence. Initial review of applications will begin Thursday, July 8, 2021. Position will remain open until filled.
To view the full job description, hiring requirements and application instructions, click here.
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ComEd Taking Off from DeKalb Airport |
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ComEd has started operating out of its new home at the DeKalb Airport.
At their June 14 meeting, the DeKalb City Council unanimously approved a three-year agreement to lease a 9,000-square-foot hangar to the utility. ComEd will use it to house contractor helicopters used for surveillance of its powerlines.
The annual base rent for the hangar is $29,700, which will increase by three percent each subsequent year. The tenant also pays utilities and real estate taxes.
Along with the revenue boost, City Manager Bill Nicklas says the new tenant will bring visibility to the airport.
“This is a major corporation,” said Nicklas. “The visibility of the lease I think will lead to some other interest that could only be good for the airport.”
ComEd helicopters had already been stopping in DeKalb to refuel. Seventh Ward Alderman Tony Faivre says that helped lead to the lease.
“The courtship with ComEd began with their helicopters stopping and refueling in DeKalb because of the reduced fuel prices the City Council had enacted years ago as a way of attracting corporate jets and other businesses into our airport so they can see DeKalb,” said Faivre.
After the first three years, the lease allows for a two-year extension.
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Thank you to the 150 community members who turned out June 22 to create a colorful mural in the Hopkins Park pedestrian underpass below Sycamore Road.
After DeKalb Public Works created a geometric pattern in the underpass, community members painted in the shapes and added a personal touch – their handprints!
Public Works will cover the mural in a protective coating that will make clean up of any graffiti simple.
Thank you to Gordon’s Hardware for their generous donation in support of the project.
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Facebook Photo Gallery
A gallery of photos from the community mural painting can be seen here on the City of DeKalb Facebook page. |
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Fire Department Offers Fireworks Safety Tips |
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Here are some tips from the DeKalb Fire Department to prevent fires and injuries from fireworks this Fourth of July.
• Do not allow young children to play with fireworks. Sparklers, a firework often considered by many to be the ideal "safe" device for the young, burn at very high temperatures and should be not be handled by young children.
• Older children should be permitted to use fireworks only under close adult supervision. Do not allow any running or horseplay.
• Set off fireworks outdoors in a clear area, away from houses, dry leaves, or grass and other flammable materials.
• Keep a bucket of water nearby for emergencies and for pouring on fireworks that fail to ignite or explode.
• Do not try to relight or handle malfunctioning fireworks. Soak them with water and throw them away.
• Be sure other people are out of range before lighting fireworks.
• Never light fireworks in a container, especially a glass or metal container.
• Keep unused fireworks away from firing areas.
• Store fireworks in a cool, dry place.
• Check instructions for special storage directions.
• Observe local laws.
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting.
• Do not experiment with homemade fireworks.
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Receive important notifications from the City by signing up for ALERT DeKalb. Text, email, and phone messages are used to alert the public to emergency situations, severe weather, and traffic disruptions.
Users can also text ALERTDEKALB to 67283 to report criminal or suspicious activity and quality of life concerns.
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Help Prevent Vehicle Burglaries |
In the summer months, we often seen an increase in vehicle burglaries. Warm weather brings more foot traffic to both the downtown area and residential areas.
The DeKalb Police Department recommends the following Vehicle Burglary prevention tips:
• Lock your car, even in your driveway.
• Do not leave your electronic devices, wallets, purses, cash, or keys visible from outside your vehicle.
• Do not leave vehicles unattended if the keys are inside.
• Keep outside lights on after dark.
• See Something / Say Something / Safe Neighborhoods are Everyone’s Business!
Please report any suspicious activity or persons immediately to the DeKalb Police Department.
If you have information on any of these crimes, you can contact the DeKalb Police Department at 815-748-8400 or contact Crime Stoppers at 815-895-3272. You can also text ALERTDEKALB to 67282 and provide an anonymous tip.
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Leave Fireworks to the Professionals |
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With the Fourth of July celebration this weekend, the DeKalb Police Department wants to remind the community that fireworks are illegal and that safer alternatives such as glow sticks or confetti poppers are recommended.
One of the main reasons that fireworks are illegal is the risk of firework-related injuries in both adults and children.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission conducted a special study of consumer-related fireworks injuries that occurred between June 21 and July 21, 2019, and found that 7,300 fireworks-related injuries were treated in U.S.
Fireworks produce loud sounds and lights that can cause distress for veterans, children on the spectrum, pets, etc.
Community members can notify the department of firework violations by calling our non-emergency line at 815-748-8400. For fireworks-related issues that pose life safety threats or fire hazards, residents should call 911, and police, fire, or medical help will be dispatched.
For those interested in seeing a firework display, we recommend the DeKalb firework display at Hopkins Park. Fireworks will start approximately 30 minutes after sunset, but visitors can enjoy music and food starting at 3 p.m. on the Fourth!
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The City of DeKalb and its Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) are launching a new webpage to encourage the creation of more public murals and to solicit mural sites.
The initiative comes on the heels of the completion of DeKalb’s newest public mural.
A ribbon cutting was held June 18 for the Unity mural in the Lincoln Highway underpass. The artists are Aaron Robertson, Ivy Vargas, Jordan Jacob and Shannon Gallagher.
“Last summer after the walls of the underpass were tagged by vandals, a group of talented artists within our community immediately took action,” said CCEC Chair Brad Hoey. “Taking advantage of the city’s recently implemented mural policy, these artists were able to quickly begin transforming the site of an unfortunate incident into a creative and inspirational work of art.”
To inspire more mural projects, the CCEC has created a webpage to put all the information needed to create a public mural in DeKalb in one, convenient location on the City’s website. It contains:
• DeKalb’s Public Mural Policy, which guides artists through the approval process.
• The public mural application.
• City-owned properties which may be used in mural applications.
Along with a comprehensive list of City-owned buildings, the webpage includes photos of some City buildings that may make ideal mural sites. These include: the DeKalb Community Center on Grove Street, hangars at DeKalb Airport and the Streets and Water Division buildings on Market Street.
“Not only has this team of artists created a beautiful piece of art, but the powerful message associated with their work has generated positive feedback throughout the community,” said Hoey. “Our hope is that other local artists will be inspired to utilize the public canvases within the City of DeKalb to create their own unique artistic vision.”
The CCEC is also soliciting privately-owned buildings to be considered for mural sites. Contact information can be found on the new webpage so building owners can have their property suggested to local artists.
The mural webpage can be found here.
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Facebook Video
View a video of the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Unity mural here on the City of DeKalb Facebook page. |
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Artist Aaron Robertson is joined by DeKalb city officials and members of the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission as he cuts the ribbon on the Unity mural in the Lincoln Highway underpass. Standing beside Robertson are two of the other artists who worked on the mural, Ivy Vargas and Jordan Jacob. |
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Citizens' Environmental Commission
July 1, 4 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Training Room at the DeKalb Police Department
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 6, 6 p.m. in the Yusunas Room at the DeKalb Public Library
Human Relations Commission
July 6, 6:30 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Training Room at the DeKalb Police Department
Fire Pension Board
July 8, 8 a.m. in the 2nd Floor Training Room at the DeKalb Police Department
City Council
July 12, 6 p.m. in the Yusunas Room at the DeKalb Public Library
DeKalb Public Library Board
July 14, 7 p.m. in the Bilder Family Room at the DeKalb Public Library
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Citizens' Community Enhancement Commission
July 19, 4 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Training Room at the DeKalb Police Department
Planning and Zoning Commission
July 19, 6 p.m. in the Yusunas Room at the DeKalb Public Library
TIF Joint Review Board
July 23, 1 p.m. in the 2nd Floor Training Room at the DeKalb Police Department
City Council
July 26, 6 p.m. in the Yusunas Room at the DeKalb Public Library
Airport Advisory Board
July 27, 7 p.m. in the West Community Hanger at the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport
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To view agendas for City meetings, please go to the City's Agenda Center here.
To check for meeting cancellations and location updates, please check the City Website here.
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Fourth of July Festivities
Hopkins Park
Sunday, July 4
Independence Day 5K, 7:30 a.m.
DJ entertainment, 3-7 p.m.
Food vendors, 3-9 p.m.
Municipal Band Concert, 7:30-9 p.m.
Fireworks, about 30 minutes after sunset
DeKalb Municipal Band
Hopkins Park
Enjoy weekly concerts at the Dee Palmer Band Shell.
July 4, 13, 20 & 27, 7:30 p.m.
See the band's full schedule here.
Downtown Merchants
2nd Fridays
Most Downtown Merchants are joining together to offer extended hours for an extra shopping opportunity in Downtown DeKalb for you. Merchants will be staying late until 8 p.m. the 2nd Friday of the month.
Friday, July 9 & the second Friday of the month
For more information on events by the Downtown Merchants, visit their Facebook page.
Stagecoach Players
126 South Fifth Street
When I Grow Up: A Musical Cabaret
Join Stage Coach Players for When I Grow up: a Musical Cabaret as 30+ performers explore the universally shared experience of journeying from adolescence to adulthood – relatable and relevant regardless of age.
July 9-11 & July 16-18
For tickets, click here or call 815-748-1940, and see the full schedule of shows here. |
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DeKalb Public Library
309 Oak Street
Virtual Event: African American Composers
This program will look at composers such as Chris Smith and Shelton Brooks, and also some leaders in the field such as W.C. Handy, “father of the blues,” and Ernest Hogan, “father of ragtime” and the star of the first all-Black Broadway show in 1898. From there we’ll head over to share music by some of the contributors to Handy’s groundbreaking “Blues Anthology.”
Saturday, July 10, 2 p.m.-3 p.m.
Register for the event here, and see all of the library's programs on its calendar.
Music at the Mansion
Ellwood House Mansion, 509 North First Street
Spend summer evenings relaxing and enjoying the sounds of live music on the front lawn of the beautiful Ellwood House Mansion.
July 14, 21 & 28, pre-show events at 6:30 p.m. & main show at 7 p.m.
Egyptian Theatre
135 North Second Street
Summer Family Movie Series: The Sandlot
The Egyptian Theatre is thrilled to present a summer family movie series now that the Theatre has air conditioning for the first time since 1929! Join us for these classic family films.
Tuesday, July 20, 6:30 p.m.
Send an e-mail to submit your event to possibly be included in our calendar!
Please note that due to the ongoing COVID-19 health concerns, these events are subject to cancellation.
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City Hall
164 E. Lincoln Highway
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Police Station
700 West Lincoln Highway
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Public Works
1216 Market Street
Monday - Friday
7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport
3232 Pleasant Street
Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
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City Clerk 815-748-2095
City Manager's Office 815-748-2090
Community Development Department 815-748-2070
DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport 815-748-8102
Finance Department 815-748-2000
Fire/Police Emergency 911
Fire Non-Emergency 815-748-8460
Mayor's Office 815-748-2099
Police Non-Emergency 815-748-8400
Public Works Department 815-748-2040
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