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Week Ending - May 24, 2025
Welcome to the Village of Forest Park's weekly e-newsletter! Please use this e-newsletter as a resource to provide you with the latest news, events, and resources in and around Forest Park!
Joke of the week: Why don't scientists trust atoms?
Because they make up everything!
| Today, we hosted an important workshop at Village Hall to discuss the future of the Village-owned Altenheim property. The session brought together Village Commissioners, Public Works, the Building Department, and our Village Engineers for a collaborative discussion. We also welcomed questions and feedback from the public at the end of the meeting. There was a great turnout from our residents, and it’s clear that ongoing dialogue is essential as we move forward. This is just the beginning of a series of conversations aimed at keeping our residents informed and involved as we explore the best use of the Altenheim property—especially in light of our aging water reservoir and the infrastructure challenges ahead. Stay tuned for future meeting announcements as we continue planning for the future of our Village. | |
Rachell Entler
Village Administrator
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Village Council News
The next meeting of the Forest Park Village Council will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 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 | |
Village-Wide Water Meter Replacement Project Begins This June
Starting in June 2025 and continuing through December 2025, the Village of Forest Park will begin replacing water meters in all residential, commercial, and industrial buildings as part of a system-wide upgrade. Many of the existing meters have exceeded their recommended 20-year lifespan. Replacing them will improve the accuracy of water usage readings and enhance billing efficiency for everyone.
To learn more about the project and what to expect, please watch our informational video.
Thank you for your cooperation as we work to improve our community’s infrastructure.
| News from the Mayor's Office | |
Memorial Day weekend is here — a time to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. Let’s take a moment to remember their sacrifice and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of them.
Our neighbors in River Forest are celebrating a big milestone this year — the 100th anniversary of their Memorial Day Parade. The parade kicks off at 9:30 a.m. on Monday, May 26, at Iowa and Ashland. Afterward, head over to the Park District’s grand opening of Remembrance Park (7341 Randolph). Starting at 11 a.m., you can check out the new splash pad, playground, and bocce ball court — fun for all ages!
On Monday, May 26, Woodlawn Funeral Home & Memorial Park (7750 W. Cermak) will host a Memorial Day Service beginning at 1:00 PM.
Mayor Hoskins will be the guest speaker for this special event honoring the men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.
All are welcome to attend and pay tribute.
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News from the Public Works Department
Public Works Open House - TOMORROW, May 24, 10 am - 2pm
The Public Works Department is excited to host a special Touch-a-Truck Open House. Bring the whole family out for a fun and educational experience! In addition to exploring various Public Works vehicles, residents can visit informational booths to learn about the village’s water replacement project, as well as resources from the Recreation and Environmental Boards.
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News from the Department of Public Health & Safety
With Memorial Day weekend marking the unofficial start of the outdoor swimming season, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) is highlighting the CDC’s Healthy and Safe Swimming Week. This year’s theme, “Splash into Fun, Not Germs,” encourages everyone to enjoy pools, lakes, and splash pads safely. IDPH reminds residents to take simple precautions to reduce the risk of drowning, injuries, and the spread of germs. Always supervise children around water, make sure young swimmers learn basic water safety skills, and be extra cautious if you're not a confident swimmer—especially in open water. A quick rinse before entering public water areas and staying alert can go a long way in keeping swimming fun and safe for everyone this season.
| | News from the Fire Department | | With May ushering in warmer weather and more time outdoors, the Fire Department would like to remind residents to stay safe this season. When grilling or using fire pits, always keep a close eye on flames, have water nearby, and make sure fires are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended. Let’s all do our part to keep the community safe as we head into summer. | | News from the Police Department | | |
For more information about the Forest Park Police Department, visit their website by clicking here.
Police Blotter: 05/16/2025 - 05/25/2025
Last week several officers traveled to Washington, D.C. to take part in National Police Week. They joined thousands from across the country to honor fallen officers, attend memorial events, and proudly represent our village in this important tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.
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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.
May 27, Village Council Meeting, 7pm
May 28, Environmental Control Commission. 7pm
June 4, Board of Health, 7pm
June 9, Village Council Meeting, 7pm
June 12, Recreation Board, 7pm
June 16, Planning & Zoning, 7pm
June 17, Neighborhood Watch, 7pm
June 18, Traffic & Safety, 7pm
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Recreation Board
The 5th Annual Forest Park Community Clean-Up was our biggest and best yet — and it’s all thanks to YOU! Over 80 volunteers showed up ready to work, and together we made a visible impact across the village.
Thank you to our sponsors:
☕ U3 Coffee
🍪 Twisted Cookie
🖨️ Printing Plus of Roselle
🏞️ The Park District of Forest Park
And of course — thank you to every single volunteer who picked up a bag, lent a hand, or brought great energy. Your time and care help make Forest Park a cleaner, more connected community.
Volunteers please send any photos from the clean up to recboard@forestpark.net - Thank you!
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Environmental Control Commission
May 23-31 events from the Environmental Control Commission
Before we get to this week’s environmental and outdoors events, we’d like to invite ecologically minded Forest Parkers to apply to be members of the Environmental Control Commission. We meet once a month to work on projects that improve the sustainability of our village, from eliminating plastic waste to promoting composting and bikeability. You can help influence the future of our village! If you are interested, please contact commission chair Scott Whitebone and also fill out this application. We hope to hear from you!
Bone Appetit! - Free!
Join us during feeding time to learn about Trailside’s outdoor resident animals.
Saturday, May 24
Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest
3 p.m.
Weaving with Weeds - Free!
Learn about the history of basketry/weaving techniques and create a small project with weedy plant species. Ages 18 & up.
Saturday, May 31
Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest
1 p.m.
Get a Rain Barrel - $21.50 ($10.75 for age 65+) including delivery!
Reduce flooding and save water for later use! The barrels come in four colors (black, blue, terra cotta and gray) and include instructions, a leaf and mosquito filter screen, a flexible downspout connector, a spigot/tap, and an overflow hose.
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District for more information.
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Board of Health
Greetings from the Forest Park Board of Health:
Mental Health Awareness Month
Did you know that it is estimated that 1 in 5 adults in the United States live with mental illness? Unlike physical illness, the symptoms are not always apparent and can be invisible. Some people use substances to manage anxiety, pressure and expectations. It is important not to stigmatize people who are suffering, or stop yourself from getting the help you need. Become an advocate and use all the resources available whether it is a support group, a trusted adult, a trained peer or a therapist to support them. Those living with a mental illness deserve our support and respect.
Local Resources: Ascension-Presence Behavioral Health, Westchester: www.ascension.org, Counseling, 708-786-2032.
National Association of Mental Illness: Nami.org Support groups, education and advocacy; 800-950-6264, 708-524-2582.
Thrive Counseling Center, Oak Park: Thrivecc.org Counseling, Psychiatry, Groups, Advocacy, 708-383-7500.
Riveredge Hospital: Riveredgehospital.com; outpatient and inpatient care for adults and children, 708-209-4181.
Rush Oak Park Hospital: Rush.edu; Psychology and Psychiatry, 888-352-7874.
Psychologytoday.com: Searchable list of mental health providers
988 Lifeline: 24-hour text, call or chat helpline.
211: United Way sponsored resource line, 24 hours.
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Juneteenth Flag-Raising Ceremony
You're invited! Join us for the Juneteenth-Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, June 2 at 11:30 AM at Village Hall. Let's come together as a community to honor freedom, reflect on history, and celebrate Juneteenth. All are welcome!
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Forest Park Pride – Friday, June 6 at Constitution Court
Get ready for an unforgettable evening of celebration and community at Forest Park Pride 2025!
Join us at Constitution Court for live music, local entertainment, a fabulous drag stroll through town, and so much more. Bring your friends, your family, and let’s celebrate right here in Forest Park.
Event Schedule:
DJ ASTRO — 5:00–5:30 PM & 6:30–7:00 PM
Drag Stroll — 5:00–6:30 PM
Featuring stops at: BABS Comedy Club, Jimmy’s Place, Play It Again Sports, Bobby’s Eastside, Schauer’s Hardware, Scratch Public House, Team Blonde, and U3 Coffee
I.V. Collective — 5:30–6:30 PM
Drag Show — 7:00–8:30 PM
Free, open to all ages, and packed with pride. Let’s fill the Court with color and community!
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Bike Safety Carnival!!
Thank you Commissioner Melin-Rogovin for hosting the Bike Safety Carnival at the Roos Center Outdoor Pavilion on May 31, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM! This fun-filled event is perfect for all ages and free to attend. Register to receive a free bike helmet and enjoy exciting activities, including bike decorating and a bike parade through the park at 11:00 AM. Test your skills with Ride Illinois, get a bike safety check from Play It Again Sports, and explore local biking opportunities with the Illinois Prairie Path. Enjoy a snack with Cool Truck Treats. Registration is not required but is necessary to receive a helmet. Sponsored by: Park District of Forest Park, Village of Forest Park, Cardinal Advancement Services, American Legion, Kiwanis Club of Forest Park, and Play It Again Sports.
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Proviso Handyman May 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:
| | The CY 2024 Village of Forest Park Quality Report has now been posted to the Village website. To review this report, please click here. Questions regarding this report can be directed to Water Operator Rick Barger at rbarger@forestpark.net or 708-366-4876. | | |
Important Phone Numbers
Police, Fire and Medical Needs
Emergency and Non-Emergency - 911
24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support - 988
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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.
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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
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