708-366-2323 - contact@forestpark.net

Little Caesars, located at 1215 S Harlem, celebrated its grand opening last weekend, and the Village couldn’t be more excited to welcome them to our community. As part of their celebration, Little Caesars made a generous donation to local schools, awarding a $500 check to Betsy Ross Elementary School and offering Proviso East High School a year’s worth of free pizza! To add to the festivities, the Proviso East Marching Pirates Band performed, bringing extra energy to the event. This new pizza spot is not just a great addition to our town, but a wonderful bonus for residents looking to enjoy delicious, affordable meals. We’re grateful for their commitment to the community and look forward to their continued success here in our Village!

Pictured below Clerk Belmonte, Village Administrator Entler, Commissioner Maxham, and Commissioner Nero.

After the success of last weekend's parade, the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for an exciting spring season! Mark your calendars for the Spring Wine & Art Walk!

Explore the charming shops and restaurants along Madison Street. Enjoy a curated "taste" of three wines at 16 unique locations, savor locally prepared small bites, and immerse yourself in local art. It's the perfect way to celebrate the season!

Save the Date: April 12 from 1 PM to 5 PM.

For more details and to register, click here.

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 24, 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

Circle Avenue Closure

Starting Monday, March 17, 2025, Joel Kennedy Construction will close Circle Ave from Roosevelt to Harrison to traffic from 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This closure is part of the Lead Service Line Replacement project. Closing the street will help ensure safety for workers, as this is a busy area with high-speed traffic. The road will remain open to emergency vehicles if needed. Detour signs will be posted to guide drivers on alternate routes. The closure is expected to last 3 to 4 weeks while the work is completed. Thank you for your patience and cooperation.

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.

News from the Mayor's Office

This week, Mayor Hoskins participated in a Senate Transportation Committee hearing to discuss an issue that’s important to all of us: local transit in the Chicago area. He shared the concerns of Forest Park residents, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in our public transportation system.

One key piece of legislation being discussed is the Metropolitan Mobility Authority (MMA) Act. If passed, this bill would combine the four agencies responsible for public transit in Northeast Illinois – the RTA, CTA, Pace, and Metra – into one unified organization. This change could make our transit system more efficient and improve service across the region, eliminating competition between agencies for limited funding.

Throughout the hearing, Mayor Hoskins emphasized the importance of ensuring that our transit system is not only reliable but also safe. He made it clear that Forest Park residents deserve a transportation system they can count on, whether they’re commuting to work, getting to school, or heading out for leisure.

By participating in this hearing, the Mayor is once again showing his commitment to staying on top of important legislation that affects our community. We’ll continue to keep you updated as this bill moves forward.

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.

Yard Waste Pickup Resumes April 1

Starting April 1, yard waste pickup will resume on a weekly basis. To ensure proper collection, please follow these guidelines:

• Place your yard waste in a separate container clearly marked "YARD WASTE" or in brown yard waste bags.
• Containers should be positioned next to your regular trash cans for pickup.
• YARD WASTE stickers are available for free at Village Hall. (Please note: stickers are not required for yard waste bags.)

Homeowners are responsible for disposing of all yard waste and leaves. Please do not place any debris in the street, as it can block water flow and cause flooding or obstruction of catch basins.

As spring approaches, heavy rainfall is a concern. The Village’s street sweeper is actively cleaning curb lines to maintain proper water flow into catch basins. Additionally, our Vac truck is out daily to clear catch basins, ensuring effective stormwater management.

Help us keep the streets clean and prevent flooding by properly disposing of your yard waste and avoiding street obstructions.

Thank you for your cooperation!

News from the Department of Public Health & Safety

Spring is in the air which means it is a great time to start property maintenance and remodel projects. Be sure to check with the Building Department when considering home improvement projects to determine if a permit is required. Roofing, electrical, concrete and window projects are just a few that require a permit to be displayed. Don't delay and call today 708-366-2323!

News from the Community Center

Hop on Over to the Easter Fun Fair!

The Howard Mohr Community Center is hosting an Easter Fun Fair on Saturday, April 5th, from 11 AM to 1 PM. Join us for a day of family fun with activities, games, and plenty of Easter cheer.

Don't miss out—Call 708-771-7737 for more details and to register

News from the Fire Department

Last week, daylight savings began, and it’s a great reminder for all residents to check their smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Take a moment to make sure the batteries are fresh and that the devices are working properly. This simple step can save lives in an emergency, so don’t wait—test them today!

Also, remember to replace any detectors that are over 10 years old, and if you hear a chirping sound, it’s time to change the batteries.

In other news, last week Fire Chief Lt. Hankus was the guest speaker at the Celebrating Women's Leadership event, hosted by Commissioner Melin-Rogovin. Chief Hankus has made a real impact in our community, working hard to improve public safety and create an environment where everyone feels welcome and supported. Her leadership and dedication continue to inspire, especially encouraging women to pursue careers in public safety. We’re proud to have such a strong and inspiring leader guiding our fire department.

Pictured below Commissioner Melin-Rogovin, Chief Hankus, Commissioner Voogd, Commissioner Maxham.

Photo by: glitterguts

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

Severe Weather Preparedness: Stay Safe Year-Round

Severe weather can strike at any time, whether it's a flood, tornado, or severe thunderstorm. Being proactive and preparing for these events before they happen is key to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. To assist residents in their preparedness efforts, the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and the National Weather Service (NWS) have developed a comprehensive Severe Weather Preparedness Guide. This guide provides valuable information to help Illinois residents understand and prepare for a wide range of weather-related hazards.

In Cook County, common severe weather hazards include thunderstorms, lightning, tornadoes, high winds, flooding, and power outages. No matter the type of weather emergency, taking steps ahead of time can make a significant difference.

To ensure your safety during any weather event or disaster, it’s essential to have a well-thought-out plan and emergency supplies in place. Being prepared not only enhances your personal safety but also helps speed up recovery after the event. Stay informed, stay prepared, and make sure you and your family are ready for whatever Mother Nature may bring.

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 18, Neighborhood Watch, 7pm

March 24, Village Council Meeting, 7pm

March 26, Environmental Control Commission, 7pm

April 2, Board of Health, 7pm

April 10, Recreation Board, 7pm

Environmental Control Commission

March is the perfect time to embrace the outdoors! Explore nearby adventures that not only connect you to the area's fascinating history and natural beauty but also offer opportunities to engage with sustainability-focused events and initiatives:

Battery Recycling at the Forest Park Public Library - Free!

Bring your batteries to be recycled through this partnership with Scouting America. Please check link for details on battery types accepted

Monday, March 10 through Saturday, March 15 

Forest Park Public Library

9 a.m. March 10 to 1 p.m. March 15

Scouting America Tips on Waste Disposal- Free but registration required.

Finish up the week of battery recycling with some tips on disposal of other kinds of waste.

Register in advance at the hyperlink above.

Saturday, March 15

Forest Park Public LIbrary Austin Room

1 p.m.

Celtic Mythology Walk - Free!

Hear stories from Celtic Mythology about our connections to nature as you walk through Bemis Woods Grove 7.

Saturday, March 15

Bemis Woods-South, Ogden Avenue west of Wolf Road

1 p.m.

Restoration Workday - Free, but registration required.

Help restore our woodlands, savannas and prairies. Gloves, tools and light refreshments provided. Ages 12 and up (adult needed with ages 12 to 17).

Sunday, March 16

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

Register in advance

9 a.m.

Senior Fitness Walk - Free!

Enjoy a gentle, moderately-paced 1-mile walk in Thatcher Woods

Wednesday, March 19 

Thatcher Woods, Chicago Avenue west of Thatcher Avenue

9 a.m.

Walk and Talk Hike - Free!

Learn more about the Chicago Portage National Historic site on a 1.5-mile walk.

Wednesday, March 19

Chicago Portage National Historic Site, Harlem Avenue south of 47th Street

10 a.m.

Toddler Exploration Time - Free but registration required

Children and their caregivers will be delighted with stories, lessons, and hands-on crafts led by our Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory education volunteers. (Ages 18 mos-5 yrs)

Friday, March 21

Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park

9:30 a.m. - 10:15

Morning Bird Walk - Free!

Enjoy a casual guided walk to look for birds and bird behavior. Led by John Elliott of Chicago Bird Alliance. Binoculars available.

Saturday, March 22

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

8 a.m.

Stroll Intro Spring - Free!

Walk a 1.7-mile loop, paved trail with resting points throughout. Perfect for strollers, wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. 

Saturday, March 22

Miller Meadow-South,1st Avenue south of Roosevelt Road. Meet at Grove 6.

10 a.m.

“Bone” Appétit - Free!

Learn about the Trailside Museum’s outdoor resident animals and watch as they are fed.

Saturday, March 22

Trailside Museum of Natural History, 738 Thatcher Ave., River Forest

3 p.m.

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 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.

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!    

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



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