708-366-2323 - contact@forestpark.net

Just a friendly reminder that Daylight Savings Time begins this Sunday, March 9th! Don’t forget to set your clocks forward one hour before you go to bed. Enjoy the extra daylight in the evenings!

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, it is a time reflect on the powerful and often-overlooked contributions women have made to the fabric of our nation’s history. From Abigail Adams advocating for women’s rights in the 18th century to the tireless activism of Rosa Parks and Sojourner Truth, women have always been at the forefront of social change and progress. This month reminds us not only of these remarkable historical figures but also of the countless women in our own communities who continue to lead, inspire, and shape the future. Tonight, I’m excited to hear our own Fire Chief, Lt. Lindsey Hankus, speak at the “Celebrating Women's Leadership” event at Robert's Westside right here in Forest Park. I want to thank Commissioner Melin-Rogovin for organizing this important event, with all proceeds benefiting Sarah’s Inn, an organization dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence. As we honor the achievements of women, I am reminded of Maya Angelou’s words: “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value.” I look forward to being there to celebrate the amazing women in our community and beyond.

Pictured below are Fire Chief Hankus, along with other women who should be celebrated, including elected officials and village staff.

This past Friday evening, I had the honor of attending the Housing Forward "Have a Heart" Gala alongside Mayor Hoskins and Commissioner Melin-Rogovin. Housing Forward is an outstanding organization committed to transitioning individuals from housing crises to permanent, stable homes within our community. Their vision to end homelessness is both inspiring and essential. It was a privilege to witness the impact of their work firsthand and hear the powerful stories of those whose lives have been transformed. 

Rachell Entler

Village Administrator

Village Council News

Village Council Meeting Information

The next meeting of the Forest Park Village Council will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at 7pm in the lower level of Village Hall. As always, the public is welcome to join.

If you cannot attend and want to join via zoom, click here.

News from the Village Clerk's Office

Important Reminder for All Residents!

Vehicle stickers will expire on March 31st. To avoid late fees, make sure to renew your sticker before the deadline. 

You can easily renew online, in person, or by mail—whatever is most convenient for you.

Last week, Mayor Hoskins shared some throwback photos from past St. Patrick's Day parades. Pictured below is a snapshot from Saturday's parade. Who knows, maybe the Historical Society will one day look back on 2025 as "old"! Pictured are Clerk Belmonte, Commissioner Nero, Mayor Hoskins, Commissioner Melin-Rogovin, Commissioner Maxham, Commissioner Voogd, and Village Administrator Entler.

News from the Mayor's Office

The Mayor, Commissioners, and Village Staff had a wonderful time at the annual St. Patrick's Day parade, enjoying the lively atmosphere and seeing so many families out celebrating. A special thank you goes to the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce for organizing this amazing event, and to the always generous Ferrera Candy, who ensure all our Village events are sweet-filled—Nerds gummy clusters were a big hit with parade-goers!

Pictured below are Mayor Hoskins, Illinois House Speaker Chris Welch, Illinois Senate President Don Harmon, and members of Laborers' Local One who participated in the parade.

On Sunday, the Mayor attended the Congressman Danny Davis Trailblazers Award event, where Forest Park Middle School student Zoie Joseph was recognized. Zoie, an award-winning author at such a young age, was invited to speak about her book Confident Girls: A Journal Activity Book, which is now available on Amazon. It’s inspiring to see such young talent making a difference in our community. We look forward to supporting more incredible achievements from our local youth in the future!

Pictured below: Mayor Hoskins, Zoie Joseph and her parents. Zoie and Congressman Danny Davis.

News from the Public Works Department

New Water Meters

We want to inform residents about an upcoming village project that will begin this summer. The Village will start replacing all water meters throughout the community, which is separate from the Lead Service Line replacement project. The aim of this initiative is to update critical infrastructure. The new water meters will feature digital technology that will streamline the billing process, offering a portal where residents can track their water consumption, check bill due dates, and access other useful features. Additionally, the new meters will ensure more accurate readings and help reduce water loss. More details will be shared soon, and contractors from PMI will be reaching out to residents with additional information about the process. The project is set to begin in early summer and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

News from the Department of Public Health & Safety

Opioid deaths in Illinois have decreased for the first time since 2018. Governor JB Pritzker’s administration recently announced an 8.3% drop in overall drug overdose deaths in 2023, surpassing the national decline of 4%. Specifically, opioid overdose deaths in Illinois fell by 9.7%, compared to a 3% decrease nationwide. The state recorded 3,502 overdose deaths from all causes in 2023, 317 fewer than the previous year. State officials attribute this positive trend to several key factors, including ongoing efforts to increase naloxone distribution, community outreach by harm reduction organizations, access to fentanyl test strips and other drug checking technologies, updates to the statewide standing order for opioid reversal agents, and expanded access to treatment and medication-assisted recovery. More information can be found here.

News from the Fire Department

This week, the Forest Park Fire Department had the pleasure of welcoming Morton East students for a tour. As part of their Civics studies, the students began their visit at the Fire Department, where they engaged with firefighters and learned about their roles in the community. Afterward, the group continued on to Village Hall to gain a deeper understanding of local government operations. Throughout the visit, the students were curious, asking a variety of questions, from the types of injuries firefighters have experienced to the rigorous training at the Academy. The tour concluded with a stop at the Police Department, giving the students a well-rounded perspective on public safety. This educational experience not only enhanced their knowledge of local government and first responders but also sparked a greater appreciation for the hardworking individuals who serve their community.

9-1-1- Emergency and Non-Emergencies

Anyone requiring immediate assistance from the Forest Park Police and Fire Departments should call 9-1-1; this also includes non-emergency situations which require a response. The Village’s 9-1-1 dispatch center will route your call to the appropriate personnel to assist with the matter at hand. The Village’s 708-366-2425 number is not to be used to request service for public safety personnel.

News from the Police Department

For more information about the Forest Park Police Department, visit their website by clicking here.

Police Blotter 02/28/2025 - 03/06/2025

St. Patrick’s Day is a time for fun, but the Luck O’ the Irish won’t save you from a DUI. The Forest Park Police Department is teaming up with Illinois State Police and IDOT for a stepped-up traffic safety campaign to keep our streets safe.

Boards & Commissions

Upcoming Board and Commission Meetings



All meetings are held at Village Hall unless otherwise noted.

Dates and Times are subject to change- check the village website for the most up-to-date information.



March 10, Village Council Meeting, 7pm

March 13, Recreation Board, 7pm

March 17, Planning & Zoning, 7pm

March 18, Neighborhood Watch, 7pm

Community News & Events

Teen Internship

The Forest Park Public Library is hiring a teen intern for the summer! This job opportunity is available for teens aged 16-19, or 15 with an Illinois work permit. Please click here for details on how to apply click here.

Forest Park D91 hosting 2nd annual Education Summit on March 22

Join Forest Park D91 for our 2nd annual Education Summit on Saturday, March 22 from 8:00am - 1:00pm at Forest Park Middle School (925 Beloit Avenue). This year’s theme, Empowering All: Unlocking Student Potential Through Collaborative Learning, highlights our dedication to creating a supportive learning environment for every child. This FREE event includes:

• A Resource Fair with 30 exhibitors offering mental health support, summer programs, healthcare, academic help, and more.
• Workshops for parents, educators, community members, and for the first time, youth in grades 5-8. Topics include executive functioning, bully prevention, and stress management. Workshops are first come, first serve with a 20-person limit.
• Keynote speaker Kisa Marx, founder of KidCrew Adventures, will share insights on early childhood education.
• Breakfast, lunch, and childcare for children ages 4-9.

Register here to reserve your spot!   

*NEW* to this year's Education Summit - F.A.C.E. (Family & Community Engagement) Awards! Nominate and celebrate those who embody LEAD91 and make a real impact in our district and community. Nominate here by March 5th. 

Questions? Email Latoya McRae at lmcrae@fpsd91.org or visit our website.

Forest Theatre Company presents On the Verge, or

The Geography of Yearning

Forest Theatre Company (formerly Forest Park Theatre) presents Eric Overmyer’s classic comedy On the Verge, or The Geography of Yearning from March 14-23 at Madison Street Theater, 1010 Madison Street, Oak Park.

On the Verge, or the Geography of Yearning is the imaginative story of three Victorian lady explorers who set out for Terra Incognita and discover the future. One of the most imaginative and verbally brilliant American plays of the 20th century, On the Verge has been produced all over the world since its premiere in the 1980’s.

Tickets: Evening Performances - $35 general admission / $30 seniors, AAFP members/ $15 students 

Matinee Performances - $30 general admission / $25 seniors, AAFP members/ $15 students

We would love to see you there. Purchase tickets here.

Get Your Tickets for the 48-Hour Film Festival Gala!

Saturday, March 22 | 7 p.m.

Fearon Hall, 815 Elgin Ave, Forest Park

After rave reviews of the first two events, don't miss your chance to attend this year’s Gala! Competing teams will create short films in just 48 hours, incorporating a specific line of dialogue, prop, and genre. The Gala is the world premiere of these films, and YOU can vote for the People’s Choice Award!

Join the filmmakers for an insightful Q&A about their films, inspiration, and techniques. Cocktail attire is encouraged, but all are welcome to enjoy the evening. Popcorn, soft drinks, beer, and wine will be available for purchase.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets available at the door or at a special advance price, purchase here.

Library to host Digital Resilience Training

In partnership with Growing Community Media and Wright to Learn, the Forest Park Public Library is one of ten Cook County Digital Equity Empowerment Grant awardees.  

The $15,000 grant will fund a variety of activities including a six week workshop series using trauma-informed curriculum created by Xandi Wright of Wright to Learn on the theme of Digital Resilience. Each group of 8-12 participants will receive a device to learn with that they can keep. If you are interested in participating, please click here.



Proviso Handyman February News

Proviso Handyman department is here to serve the needs of our senior residents over the age of 60 and /or disabled residents who are homeowners in our community.

Local Hiring Opportunities

The Village of Forest Park and several community partners are hiring. Please see the links below for more information and to apply:



• Forest Park Public Library
• Forest Park School District 91
• Village of Forest Park
• Park District of Forest Park

Important Phone Numbers

Police, Fire and Medical Needs 

Emergency and Non-Emergency - 911

24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support - 988

Text to 911 Now Available

West Suburban Consolidated Dispatch Center which provides emergency response services to Forest Park, along with Oak Park and River Forest can now receive 911 texts from a cell phone to report an emergency.

While calls to 911 will best assist emergency responders in being able to locate a caller, texting is an option for those who may need it. Text should only be used when some is unable to voice call to 911.

A text to 911 cannot include any other recipients. Texts to 911 may also take longer to reach the dispatch center.

Texts to 911 should be brief. Please include the type of help needed and the location where help is needed. Be prepared to respond to follow-up questions via text to better assist emergency responders.

Village Hall/Clerk's Office - 708-366-2323

Police Department - 708-366-2425

Parking/Records - 708-366-7272

Fire Department - 708-366-1234

Community Center - 708-771-7737

Forest Park Public Library - 708-366-7171

Park District of Forest Park 708-366-7500 

School District 91 - 708-366-5700

Proviso Township High School - 708- 338-5900