Early voting locations across Kane County are now open for the Nov. 3 General Election. READ MORE

The Kane County Board Chairman got a firsthand look at the unpredictable nature of police work during a recent ride-along with a Kane County Sheriff’s Deputy. READ MORE

Fall is peak mushroom season, but the Forest Preserve District of Kane County reminds visitors that mushroom foraging is prohibited on District property. Violations can result in fines ranging from $75 to $500 and may require a court appearance. READ MORE 

Kane County will use a federal grant to expand a program that helps local farmers grow their businesses. The County’s Food & Farm Technical Assistance Program provides small and midsize farms with help developing business plans, marketing their products, finding funding and expanding their operations. READ MORE

Public Meeting Scheduled for Tyrrell Road Improvements in Gilberts

The Kane County Division of Transportation will host a public information meeting on proposed improvements to Tyrrell Road between Mason Road and Raymond Road in Gilberts from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, at the Gilberts Eagles Club, 325 Raymond Road.

East Dundee Depot to Host Annual Pumpkin Contest

The Depot Market’s 27th Annual Pumpkin Carving and Decorating Contest is set for Oct. 24, at The East Dundee Depot. Pumpkins must be real and can be carved or decorated. The contest features two divisions: adults and children younger than 16, with prizes awarded for first, second and third place in each division.

Don't Toss Those Plant Pots

Kane DuPage Soil and Water Conservation District is extending its collection of used plastic nursery pots through the end of October.

Bring empty plug cells, pints, quarts, gallons and trays from any nursery. Drop-off: 2315 Dean Street, Suite 100, St. Charles. Collection continues through Oct. 31

Pumpkin Patch Pool Party Set in Aurora

The Fox Valley Park District will host a Pumpkin Patch Pool Party on Oct. 24 at the Vaughan Athletic Center in Aurora. Expect pumpkin decorating, water slides, splash zones, an inflatable obstacle course, music and more. Registration is required. 

Kane County Government to Host Community Blood Drive Nov. 3

Kane County Government will host a community blood drive benefiting the American Red Cross from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Nov. 3 at the Government Center Campus in Geneva. Community members are encouraged to donate and help support patients in need. To schedule an appointment, visit the American Red Cross website and enter ZIP code 60134.

Village of Gilberts Appoints New Police Chief

The Village of Gilberts officially appointed Jeff Hill as chief of police on Oct. 13, 2026. Hill brings more than 20 years of service to the community and has held numerous roles within the department, including detective, sergeant, deputy chief and interim chief.

2026 Community Survey Mailed to Residents

The Village of Algonquin has mailed its 2026 Community Survey to 2,200 randomly selected households throughout the community. The survey gives residents an opportunity to share feedback. Residents who received a survey are encouraged to take a few minutes to complete it and share their input by October 30.

St. Charles Earns Statewide Award for Bike-Friendly Initiatives

The St. Charles Park District and City of St. Charles have received a statewide Intergovernmental Award recognizing more than 30 years of partnership to improve bicycle safety, trails and community connectivity. Their joint efforts include infrastructure improvements, safety education, trail maintenance and community events that make bicycling more accessible to residents.

Batavia Chamber Increases Scholarships to $1,500 Each

The Batavia Chamber of Commerce has increased the amount of its four Inspire Scholarships to $1,500 each, providing up to $6,000 for graduating Batavia Public School District 101 seniors pursuing further education. Applications are due by April 2, 2027.

Kane County Company Powering Illinois’ Energy Future

ComEd and Richardson Electronics, headquartered in La Fox, have announced expanded manufacturing of locally produced battery energy storage systems, along with plans to install Illinois’ largest commercial battery energy storage system. The initiative supports Illinois’ clean energy goals by strengthening grid reliability, integrating renewable energy, and helping manage rising electricity demand from data centers and advanced manufacturing.

Kane County Connects | Website

Kane County Connects

719 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva, IL 60134

kanecountyconnects@kanecountyil.gov