Thursday, February 26, 2026 | | |
Dear River Forest residents,
I was honored to present the State of the Village at this past Monday’s Board meeting. This annual address is an opportunity to share updates and highlight the important work carried out each day by our Village staff, elected officials, and committee and commission members to keep River Forest moving forward. Find more information, including a link to view the full presentation, in an article below.
If you have questions, feedback, or ideas to share regarding Village services or initiatives, please join me for the quarterly “Casual Conversation with the Village President” event on Saturday, March 14, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at the River Forest Public Library (Barbara Hall Meeting Room). This gathering is purposefully informal to invite engagement from all community members. I also encourage everyone to attend the Neighbor Meeting on Thursday, March 5 for the proposed Madison Street Development. More information can be found in an article below.
Finally, congratulations to River Forest Heart of the Village Award recipients Laurel and Dennis McMahon. The McMahons were recognized with a proclamation at Monday’s Board meeting for their restoration of the historic William H. Hatch House, and for Laurel’s longstanding leadership in historic preservation efforts. Thank you to Laurel and Dennis for your valuable contributions to our community!
Sincerely,
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Cathy Adduci, Village President
Village of River Forest
| | Watch the State of the Village Address | | At the February 23 Village Board meeting, Village President Cathy Adduci delivered the State of the Village address, highlighting key accomplishments from 2025 and outlining priorities for the year ahead. Notable achievements included critical equipment upgrades for first responders, the Fire Department’s expanded partnership with Concordia University’s nursing program, the first-ever Business Bash and Older Adult BBQ and Bingo events, and recognition of the Village’s sustainability initiatives and efforts. Looking ahead to 2026, the Village remains focused on enhanced traffic and safety measures, stabilizing property taxes, and increased economic development to benefit the community. Residents can watch the full State of the Village presentation here. | |
Fire Lieutenant
Richard Powell, Sr.
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The Village is saddened to share the passing of retired Fire Lieutenant Richard Powell, Sr., who faithfully served our community for nearly 29 years, from September 1973 until his retirement in May 2002. Promoted to Lieutenant in 1984, Richard led with dedication, professionalism, and integrity throughout his distinguished career. He will be deeply missed by the many friends, and colleagues who had the honor of serving alongside him.
Visitation will be held Friday, February 27, from 3 to 8 p.m. at Humes Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place Saturday, February 28, at 10 a.m. at St. Bernadine Church, followed by a procession to Queen of Heaven Cemetery. The Village extends its condolences to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
| |  | The Village offers condolences to the family and friends of Robert W. Panton, M.D. (March 20, 1961 – February 22, 2026), who passed away after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. A graduate and valedictorian of Oak Park-River Forest High School and an accomplished physician, Robert dedicated 35 years to the Panton Eye Center and held leadership roles in numerous professional organizations, including serving as president of both the Chicago Medical Society and the Illinois State Medical Society during the COVID-19 pandemic. Deeply committed to education and community, he and his family supported endowed professorships and facilities at major universities - and were longtime supporters of River Forest youth sports, sponsoring Youth Baseball and Softball. Learn more about Robert’s life here. | | | Nine-Year-Old Author Proposes Little Library | | |
At just nine years old, Jack Drury brought an inspiring vision to Village Hall this week, submitting a request to install a Little Library in front of the building. Already a published author of the children’s book, “Elevated Adventures,” Jack hopes to create a welcoming space where children can share and discover books within the community.
During the February 23 Village Board meeting, Jack confidently presented his idea, speaking about the joy that reading and storytelling brings to young people. His creativity, initiative, and determination are a powerful reminder that even the youngest residents can have a meaningful impact. Jack's proposal beautifully demonstrates how imagination and civic engagement can come together to strengthen the community.
| | Madison Street Neighbor Meeting | Community members are encouraged to participate in the Madison Street Neighbor Meeting on Thursday, March 5, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Civic Center Dance Studio. The open house-style event will provide an opportunity to review plans for the proposed development at 7620 Madison Street, engage directly with the developer and Village staff, and ask questions in an informal setting. Created to foster early communication in the Planned Development process, this meeting is designed for residents who live in close proximity to the proposed project, although all interested residents are welcome to attend. Feedback gathered during this meeting will help shape the next steps in the review process. Residents are encouraged to stop by at any time during the event to learn more and share input. More information is available here. | | |
Climate Action
Plan Information
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As part of the Village’s ongoing Climate Action Plan spotlight, we’re highlighting Transit-Oriented Development (TOD), a smart approach to growth that brings homes closer to where life happens.
TOD focuses on creating housing near transit stations, shopping areas, restaurants, workplaces, and everyday services. When more people can live within walking distance of these destinations - and near bus or train routes - it becomes easier to get around without always needing a car.
Today, many shopping and business areas are separated from neighborhoods, which means driving is often the only option. By planning thoughtful development near transit and commercial centers, we can reduce traffic, expand transportation choices, and lower air pollution - while creating more convenient, connected neighborhoods for residents. To learn more, click here.
| | | Each February, communities nationwide celebrate National Engineers Week, founded by the National Society of Professional Engineers to promote STEM education and recognize the vital role engineers play in our daily lives. The Village proudly recognizes civil engineer Jack Bielak, who also serves as the Director of Public Works & Engineering - for his leadership in maintaining Village infrastructure and advancing critical projects that keep our community safe and strong. Learn more here. | | River Forest Business Spotlight | | |
For more than 110 years, Cassidy Tire & Service has provided trusted automotive care as a family-owned and operated business. The company offers comprehensive services for both passenger and commercial vehicles, including tires, wheel alignments, brakes, and more. With a longstanding commitment to quality service and community values, Cassidy Tire & Service continues to be a dependable resource for local drivers. For more information, click 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.
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