708-366-2323 - contact@forestpark.net

April showers bring May flowers, and after all the rain we've had this past week, I’m hoping we’ll be seeing a lot of beautiful blooms come May! With warmer weather just around the corner, I’m already thinking about gardening. If you’re like me and ready to get started, there are some fantastic botanical nurseries right here in the village that can help. Empowering Gardens offers a great selection of plants—everything from perennials and annuals to vegetables, plus garden décor and supplies. McAdam, a family-owned business that's been serving Forest Park for over 50 years, is the perfect place to go if you need help selecting the best plants for your garden. Radical Botanical is another local gem, specializing in indoor plants. They really take pride in being plant doctors, helping their customers care for their greenery and grow their plant knowledge. And if you’re looking to add some flowers or plants to your space, don’t forget to check out Moss. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these local spots are the perfect places to get your garden ready for the season!

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, April 14, 2025, at 7pm in the lower level of Village Hall. As always, the public is welcome to join.

To view the meeting agenda and zoom link for the meeting, click here.

News from the Village Clerk's Office

Important Reminder for All Residents!

Vehicle stickers expired on March 31st. To avoid additional late fees, pay as soon as possible.

You can easily renew online, or in person.

News from the Mayor's Office

This week, Commissioners Melin-Rogovin and Voogd represented Forest Park at Illinois Municipal League (IML) Day in Springfield. IML Day is a key event where local leaders come together to discuss and learn about legislative issues that affect municipalities across the state.

During their time at the event, our commissioners attended several informative workshops focused on the legislative topics that directly impact our village. These sessions provided valuable insights on important matters, including local government funding, public safety, infrastructure, and community development.

Beyond the workshops, Commissioners Melin-Rogovin and Voogd met with Senator Lightford to discuss specific priorities for Forest Park. They worked diligently to advocate for our village’s needs, building stronger relationships with state leaders and ensuring that our voices are heard at the Capitol.

Although the Mayor was unable to attend this year’s event, he is grateful to the commissioners for their commitment to representing Forest Park. Their hard work and dedication are essential in bringing our community’s concerns to the forefront. We look forward to further opportunities to engage with our state leaders and are hopeful for another trip to Springfield during the first week of May.

Pictured below Commissioner Melin-Rogovin, Senator Lightford, Commissioner Voogd.

Senate President Harmon speaking at IML.

The Mayor’s Office is proud to congratulate Forest Park resident William Fischer on his recent election to the District 209 School Board. As a father of two, William has a deep personal connection to the well-being and success of Proviso Township High School District. With his own children set to attend Proviso, he is fully invested in ensuring the district thrives and continues to provide an excellent education for all students.

News from the Public Works Department

As we welcome the Spring season, it's the perfect time to focus on tree care, an essential aspect of maintaining a healthy and sustainable environment. Trees are vital to our planet—they purify the air, regulate the climate, provide habitats, and offer valuable resources while combating climate change. Whether you’re caring for a tree in your yard or one on a public parkway, proper maintenance is key to ensuring their longevity and health. Click here for some simple dos and don’ts to help you take the best care of your trees this season.

Thank you for your cooperation!

News from the Department of Public Health & Safety

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is celebrating 30 Days of Public Health throughout April for the second year in a row. Governor JB Pritzker kicked off the month with a message honoring the state's "Public Health Heroes." This observance extends National Public Health Week (April 7-13) and aligns with National Minority Health Month, which highlights health disparities affecting racial and ethnic minorities. A key focus of IDPH’s Healthy Illinois 2028 plan is addressing health inequities as one of the department’s main priorities.

News from the Fire Department

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: 03/21/2025 - 03/28/2025

Distracted Driving Awareness Month Enforcement Efforts

The Forest Park Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the Illinois State Police, and over 200 local law enforcement agencies to increase enforcement efforts in recognition of Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

“Distracted driving is dangerous and claimed 58 lives in Illinois in 2024 alone. We need everyone’s support in making our roads safer, which includes staying focused behind the wheel,” said Chief Ken Gross. “We’re proud to support IDOT’s efforts to educate all road users about the importance of putting your phone away, setting your navigation before starting your trip, and driving distraction-free.” More information can be found here.

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.



April 10, Recreation Board, 7pm

April 14, Village Council Meeting, 7pm

April 15, Neighborhood Watch, 7pm

April 16, Safety & Traffic Commission, 7pm

April 23, Environmental Control, 7pm

April 28, Village Council Meeting, 7pm

Environmental Control Commission

April Showers Will Bring May Flowers... But April is the Perfect Time to Explore Outdoors!

Whether it's sunny or rainy, April is the ideal month to enjoy the great outdoors. The Environmental Control Commission has done all the research for you, curating a list of exciting local events and opportunities throughout the month. From group walks and birdwatching to hands-on crafts and even virtual activities, there's something for everyone.

Hosted by wonderful places like Thatcher Woods, Trailside Museum, and local libraries, these events are the perfect way to get outside, learn something new, and connect with your community.

Click here to discover all the amazing events happening in your area this April – no matter what your interests are, this is your go-to resource!

Community News & Events

Join Us for The Answer Inc’s Annual Autism & Developmental Disabilities Walk-A-Thon!

We’re excited to invite you to The Answer Inc’s 20th Annual Autism & Developmental Disabilities Walk-A-Thon, happening on Saturday, April 26 from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM at Proviso West High School.

For nearly two decades, The Answer Inc. has been dedicated to empowering parents to become their children’s strongest advocates. Through our events, we create a supportive space where parents can learn, connect, and have fun together while contributing to the community. We’re proud to provide opportunities for education and empowerment that transcend socio-economic and cultural barriers, ensuring every family can access the resources and support they need.

Come walk with us, raise awareness, and be part of a vibrant community working toward positive change! More information can be found here.

Forest Park Spring Wine & Art Walk is back!

April 12 - 1pm - 5pm

Explore the unique shops and restaurants on Madison at our Spring Wine & Art Walk. Enjoy a 'taste' of 3 wines at 16 locations, locally prepared small bites and local art.

The cost of $50 per person includes all tastings plus a free bottle of wine of your choice (to be picked up from Famous Liquors within 30 days). Choose from a 12:30 pm or 1:30 pm registration time…then meet us at Forest Park Bank (7348 Madison) on the day of the event where you’ll receive your wine glass and itinerary.  Get your tickets here.

The Wine Walk will be held rain or shine. Tickets are transferable but not refundable. Registration details will be sent to the purchaser’s email two weeks prior to the event.

Hosted by Forest Park Chamber of Commerce and Famous Liquors Forest Park



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