 |
|
|
TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2012
Preparing for Spring Cleaning
Delivery of quality service at an affordable price is one of our top priorities.
Recently, the City Council renewed its contract with Groot Industries, Inc. as our single waste hauler, an action that will continue to benefit our citizens.
We are proud to continue to offer one of the cheapest garbage and recycling collection rates in comparison to our municipal competition, with our senior rate being the best around by far. The monthly rates you are paying today will not increase during the first year contract. Going forward, we are well-positioned. Increases in future years will be minimal. As an added benefit, this spring, all single-family and townhome customers will receive a 65-gallon covered recycling cart to replace the smaller bins you are now using.
Our yard waste/universal sticker price will remain relatively stable; and value-added benefits such as the annual citywide amnesty collection in May and free seasonal leaf collection will continue. Plus, the renewed contract provides for an annual shredding event, free of charge to our residents and incorporates a number of recommendations posed by our Environmental Commission including: public recycling bins, additional solid waste and recycling reporting requirements, an e-waste program, and a commitment to addressing a food waste program after more exploration.
For your convenience, the following is a list of spring services to help you plan for the upcoming season:
- Free leaf pick-up returns the week of April 23 – 27, 2012 on regularly scheduled garbage pick-up day. No stickers are required for leaves; however, no other yard waste may be mixed in. All leaves may be placed in a "Kraft" yard waste bag that does not exceed 50 pounds when full.
- Yard waste collection resumes April 1 – November 30, 2012. All yard waste must be placed in a 95-gallon yard waste cart or a "Kraft" biodegradable paper bag. Each bag of yard waste material must have one Universal "Refuse" sticker affixed for collection. The bag should not weigh more than 50 pounds. No plastic bags, boxes or metal containers may be used for yard waste collection.
- The Brush Pick-up Program runs May – November, 2012 on the first Monday of each month (beginning May 7, 2012) and continues for two weeks until all neighborhoods have been serviced. If there is a holiday on the first Monday pick-up will start on the next day after the holiday and continue for two weeks until all neighborhoods have been serviced. More guidelines may be found on this page.
- Spring Hydrant Flushing begins in April. Hydrant flushing maintains West Chicago's water distribution system and assures proper operation of hydrants in the event of an emergency.
As you prepare for the citywide collection event scheduled for May 7 – 11, 2012 on regularly scheduled garbage pick-up days, visit this page for a complete list of acceptable and unacceptable items.
TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2012
2012: An Exciting New Year
 Judging by the number of people who attended Frosty Fest last month, I have no doubt that a deeply felt appreciation for our historic downtown continues to grow.
There is no question that we have evolved and come a long way since the dusty days of our early beginnings when horse and carriage gave way to motorized transportation. But even more recently we have seen a change. Greater energy through the arts, façade improvements, and new businesses have caught the attention of the media, which has steadily been promoting our successes. Resident perception is evolving also, as a larger segment of the community is taking ownership of their downtown by shopping and dining locally and enjoying the full calendar of cultural attractions offered.
It's been said that in order to judge the health of a community, look to its downtown. A vibrant downtown means jobs, higher residential and commercial real estate values, attraction of creative talent pools, and community pride. We, as a community, get that.
Exciting times are ahead for downtown West Chicago with the prospect of the redevelopment of West Washington Street. Through a strategy of mixed-use development that incorporates a combination of residential, office and retail components, the City hopes to reinvigorate existing business and support a pedestrian-friendly
environment with the vision of a new City Hall and possibly a community center.
Last year, the City Council hired URS Corporation to prepare a concept plan for the West Washington Street Redevelopment area. A call for public input generated a great turnout for the first viewing of these plans at the November 14th Development Committee meeting. While most of the people attending listened more than commented, it was a good first round of public participation, and we will host more public forums in the near future.
The start of a new year is a great time to consider the possibilities. I encourage your involvement and welcome your suggestions and/or comments. Jump on the website, join me for coffee or plan on attending an upcoming public meeting. Together we'll create the vision that will serve generations to come.
Wishing you a happy, healthy New Year!
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2011
Road Construction: Project & Progress
 It's been said that Chicago has two seasons: winter and road construction. Certainly in West Chicago, construction projects have become part of the landscape. Many
people have asked about the status of the Washington Street Rehabilitation Project for good reason as it has been ongoing since early spring.
The pavement rehabilitation project has been stalled due to a number of issues beyond the City's control. This federally- funded project is administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), which awarded the contract to Plote
Construction, Inc. as the lowest responsible bidder. Since IDOT administers the project, the City is required to defer to that agency as situations arise. For this reason, the City could not be more aggressive in addressing Plote's stall tactics, and its refusal to take responsibility for poor workmanship.
Between spring and summer, Plote constructed 299 concrete patches during Stage 1 in the eastbound lane of Washington Street, of which 84 cracked. With support from IDOT, the City directed Plote to remove and replace 39 patches, and epoxy inject the cracks of the remaining 45 patches. Plote initially replaced 11 of the 39 patches without additional cracks developing, however it balked at the idea of the removal and replacement of the remaining 28 patches with- out additional payment.
Following lengthy discussions and a six-week delay to the construction schedule, the City convinced Plote to proceed with replacement, though it will likely seek additional pament from IDOT at the conclusion of the project.
Stage 2 construction of the westbound lane has proven no easier. Midway through this stage, 60 of the 285 concrete patches cracked. Again, the City gained IDOT's support and Plote will be held accountable for removing and replacing or epoxy injecting those failed patches. While this will result in another delay, it's prudent for us to remain patient to ensure that the street is built to a quality standard that will not cost the taxpayers more in the long-run due to it deteriorating sooner than its expected life.
The contractor is admittedly behind schedule and is aware that IDOT may impose penalties. This is the City's best recourse in expediting the completion of the project. Concrete replacement in the westbound lane, together with inclement weather, will delay the completion date of this project until the middle of November.
We thank you for your patience.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2011
Remembering 9/11: A West
Chicago Observance
 As we approach the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, our hearts
and minds return to the events of the day that changed the
world as we knew it. What started out as an otherwise ordinary
morning, turned into one of America's darkest days and
was to become a defining moment in our history.
We went about the business of our lives, dressing our
kids for school, pouring that second cup of coffee, boarding a
train to work, or any number of daily routines, when a shocking
event unfolded live on national television.
Many of us can remember exactly where we were or what
we were doing when we first learned about the assault to our
nation. Is this for real? How could this be happening? We
made frantic calls to loved ones, held our children a little
tighter, and stayed glued to the reports of the surreal events
that were taking place in real time.
It was America's wake up call from a frame of reference
that defied the belief that an act of war could take place on
American soil, to a profoundly renewed and deeply felt
appreciation for the high cost of our freedom. It has been
said that our enemies underestimated the character and
strength of the American people that day. Their act of terrorism
was intended to bring us to our knees, provoke mass
chaos and crush the American spirit. What they found
instead, were countless acts of heroism, compassion and
unity; first responders working past the point of endurance,
and citizens helping citizens.
Please join us on Sunday, September 11, 2011 at 6:00
p.m. at Reed-Keppler Park for Remembering 9/11: A West
Chicago Observance, when we will pay tribute to those who
lost their lives or risked them to help others, memorialize the
events for future generations and celebrate America's
strength and unity. The Friends of West Chicago Parks
Foundation will be dedicating a bronze sculpture and presenting
the first Hometown Hero Award at the Observance.
May God bless the United States of America.
TUESDAY, JULY 5, 2011
2011 State of the City Address
 Topping the list of noteworthy successes included in the 2011 State of the City Address, which was delivered at the May 16, 2011 City Council meeting, were: a 27% drop in the overall crime rate from 2007 – 2010, with a 17% decrease in violent crime and a 20% decrease in the rate of property crime since 2009; and the City's strategy to retire the debt originally issued to fund the construction of the Water Treatment Plant, which saved its customers over $4.3 million. Additional notable highlights follow:
Community Development
- Identification of over-occupancy violations have nearly doubled.
- Higher compliance rate for property maintenance through in-house adjudication system.
- Annexation of approximately 45 areas of town led to improved service delivery and maintained equity amongst non-residents who were gaining the benefit of municipal services without paying for them.
Administrative Services
- 2011 Annual Budget totals approximately $54.4 million, which is a decrease of 6.85% from the previous year.
- City Council has decreased the General Fund Budget for five straight years.
- The Budget included no utility rate increases, no layoffs and no service reductions.
- Sales and income tax revenues are starting to increase for the first time in three years.
Public Works
- The City received over $1 million in grants which were spent on road improvements throughout the community; the City is continuing its aggressive street maintenance/ resurfacing program.
- The City is working towards attaining a Quiet Zone along the EJ&E railway.
Economic Development
- The downtown TIF district continues to boom, with assessed valuations growing at a record pace as compared to back in the early 2000s.
- Significant new development projects included: McCollister Trucking, the new Ball Horticultural building, US Plywood and Tampico Market.
- Many other existing businesses, including Jel Sert, Aspen Marketing and Clariant, are expanding, thereby maintaining and increasing the number of jobs in our community.
Editor's Note: For a complete transcript of the 2011 State of the City Address, visit this page.
SUNDAY, MAY 1, 2011
Railway Safety & Quiet Zone
 As expected, we have begun seeing changes in our community due to the acquisition of the EJ&E by the Canadian national railway Company (CN). Railway activity has increased, and with it associated noise. We have been working to address this issue, and I am pleased to report that the establishment of a quiet zone, one in which trains are not required to blow their horns on a regular basis, from Wilson Street, near Kress Creek Farms to Smith Road in unincorporated Wayne Township, is progressing.
Presently, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requires that all trains operating on the CN rail line must blow their horn as they approach and proceed through every public crossing to heighten awareness of the train's approach and pending danger, unless a quiet zone has been approved. The City has completed a risk analysis and has investigated Alternative Safety Measures (ASM) as part of this process to qualify for the designation of a quiet zone. A Notice of Intent (NOI) has been filed with the FRA, Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), CN and others. Three required improvements have been identified and are in the engineering design phase.
- Closure and relocation of Aurora Street. The City has purchased the single-family residence at 122 Wood Street and a roadway will be constructed on this property for residents on Aurora Street to gain access to the alley behind their homes. Aurora Street will be removed in its entirety.
- Construction of a raised barrier median on Ann Street at the CN at-grade crossing. This raised barrier will prohibit vehicles from jumping around the gates when a train is approaching.
- Construction of a raised barrier median on Smith Road, in unincorporated Wayne Township, at the CN at-grade crossing, similar to Hawthorne Lane. This raised barrier will also prohibit vehicles from jumping around the gates when a train is approaching.
Construction of all improvements is planned to start in summer 2011. Once completed, the City will then be able to officially apply for the quiet zone and will file a Notice of Establishment (NOE). When all steps are complete, hopefully by the end of 2011 or beginning of 2012, a quiet zone can take effect. It is important to note that a quiet zone does not mean that horns will never blow. Trains will still sound horns in emergency situations, such as when there is a car or pedestrian on the tracks, or if the at-grade crossing warning lights and gates are not working properly.
A quiet zone designation can only be accomplished after a very lengthy process dictated by the federal government. While the increase in railway noise has been a source of frustration, the City is working diligently through the federal process to secure relief.
TUESDAY, MARCH 1, 2011
Drop in Crime Rate
 West Chicago is down on crime. that's not only our philosophy, it's our reality. City leadership has made public safety a number one priority, evidenced by the addition of 10 – 15 officers to the force since the 1990s. While other communities are laying-off police officers, we are in the process of replacing two. Plus, we take a realistic approach to crime that acknowledges the issues and deals with them head-on.
Crime is tracked internally by our full-time Crime Analyst. Reports generated by this unit assist us in following crime patterns and in deploying the resources with which to combat them. I am proud to report that our overall crime rate dropped almost 27% from 2007 to 2010. The City experienced a 17% decrease in violent crime and a 20% decrease in the rate of property crime since 2009.
Over the last several years, we have seen a dramatic decrease in the number of gang incidents and graffiti. We have aggressively targeted gang crimes and are committed to continuing our efforts in that area.
Proactive measures and community involvement are responsible for much of our success.
The Police Department provides community youth with positive, interactive programs taught in our schools. Too Good for Drugs and Too Good for Violence are taught to fifth-graders by police officers in a classroom setting at every grammar school in our jurisdiction. The programs help the youth develop life skills, which hopefully assist them in staying away from drugs and violence.
There are several other venues for youth. One is the Open Gym recreation program, which is geared for youths in fifth through eighth grade, and another is an after school program at Pioneer School, which provides the students with homework assistance, exercise and a healthy snack. The department's part-time Youth Service Coordinator, in partnership with School District 33, administers these programs. Additionally, programs like National Night Out, Neighborhood Watch, and the Neighborhood Resource Centers con- tribute to the City's continuing decline in crime.
Most importantly, a citywide culture that prioritizes community relationship-building between residents, businesses and the police department is key to our success, and credit is owed to the joint efforts of many. We have successfully embraced the philosophy of 'community policing' which emphasizes open, honest and approach- able communication with community members. It's working, our crime stats are down. That's good news for our community!
Editor's note: An informational meeting for the Cornerstone Lakes Subdivision Neighborhood Watch is planned for Thursday, March 3, 2011 at 8:00 p.m. in the Community Room at Norton Creek School,
2033 Smith Road. Anyone interested in learning more about any of these programs should contact the Police Department at (630) 293-2222.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 5, 2011
The 2011 Annual Budget
 At its December 20th meeting, the City Council
approved the 2011 Annual Budget, which totals
$54,453,300 a decrease of 6.82% as compared to the 2010
Budget; specifically, the General Fund reflects a decrease
of 4.61% as compared to the 2010 Budget. This is the
sixth year in a row that operating costs in the General
Fund have decreased, maintaining the City's commitment
to continually strive towards providing the highest
quality services at one of the lowest costs.
Other highlights include:
- The proposed Budget does not reflect any personnel
increases and includes no layoffs.
- For the second year in a row, there are no utility
rate increases.
- No service reductions are proposed in the Budget.
- Partnering with the West Chicago Chamber of
Commerce and Industry, Railroad Days will continue
in 2011 at a reduced cost.
- The City will continue its aggressive street maintenance
program in 2011.
- Funds are included to design and construct the first of
two 1.5 million gallon elevated tanks at the northeast
corner of Prince Crossing Road and Geneva Road.
West Chicago has a proud history of providing exceptional
services to a diverse group of stakeholders. The
departments and staff are continuously challenged to
address the growth in West Chicago and develop new
and innovative ways of delivering the services that the
community expects. Through flexibility, adaptability,
the use of technology, innovative staffing methods, and
furthering intergovernmental and public/private partnerships,
the organization continues to rise to the
challenge to become one of the most efficient municipal
corporations in the Chicagoland area. In fact, through
challenging our senior management team and front line
employees, the City has been able to provide excellent
service with fewer employees and tightening budgets.
The Annual Budget is the outcome of a great deal of
hard work, dedication and effort of many people. The
City Council, Finance Committee, and all of the department
directors and their staff are to be commended for
their continued stewardship of the public dollar.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2010
A Great Example of Civic Engagement
 While homeownership is no longer gender specific, the old adage, “a man's home is his castle,” seems as relevant today in illustrating the principle of the right to individual privacy as it did in the late 16th century. Recently in response to concerns raised by residents, City officials took action on two distinct issues: solicitors leaving unwanted materials for products and services on the front door and unsubscribed-to periodicals being left on people's property.
For many citizens, both of these situations create a litter nuisance and represent an intrusion of privacy. Research was undertaken to locate an existing ordinance from another community which could serve as a
model. Unfortunately, no such ordinance could be found, leaving West Chicago to tackle the issue and blaze a new trail in this area.
The result was two ordinances that give residents the right to prohibit
unsubscribed-to periodicals being left at their homes (other than telephone directories and those periodicals delivered by the U.S. Mail or other common carriers), and another to regulate the ability
of registered or exempt (a person age 17 and under, who is participating in fundraising programs) solicitors, to leave unwanted promotional material for goods and services.
Residents who are interested in participating in either of these programs may create a weather-proof sign that conforms to the specifications contained in the ordinance (Anti-Solication Signage Ordinances - PDF - 1.26MB), or may visit City Hall to purchase such signage, which should then be posted to the front of the property. Additionally, residents who post such signs are required to submit their name and address to City Hall so that the address may be identified to those individuals and/or groups making the deliveries, as another way to prevent unwanted materials being left.
Thank you to those residents who took the time to speak to their elected representatives or to attend meetings relating to these issues. This is a great example of civic engagement and responsive government at work together.
WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2010
Volunteerism & Community
 Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of any community.
West Chicago is proud to recognize the many service
clubs and organizations that quietly strive to effect positive
change, lend a helping
hand and build a better,
stronger community for all.
These individuals and
groups are making a difference
every day, championing
missions that touch
lives around the corner or
around the world. Whether
they are protecting the
prairie, providing the labor
to build shelter for the less
fortunate, feeding the hungry,
volunteering at special
events, promoting the arts,
or working with our youth,
West Chicagoans continue
to rise to the occasion in
the name of community
service.
Our volunteers come
from all walks and stages
of life. They are life-long
residents who are committed
to moving the community
forward, retirees who
are anxious to contribute their diverse talents to something
personally meaningful, or new residents looking to
connect with like-minded neighbors and form new friendships
through service. Our young people are equally
involved through the many outlets for service that exist
through their schools, churches, or workplaces. Together
these groups have discovered the rewards of paying it
forward.
One of the most visible examples of volunteerism in
action is the senior leaf-raking event that takes place in
the fall. Coordinated through the West Chicago Youth
program which is administered through the Police
Department, children and teens "rake in the joys of service"
as they assist senior homeowners unable to tackle
the monumental task of raking the leaves in their yards. If
you are in need of this service, or if you would like to
offer a helping hand, please call (630) 293-2222
for more information.
I encourage you to visit
West Chicago.org/Community Links for a listing of active
service clubs.
THURSDAY, JULY 1, 2010
Our Highest Priority: Health & Safety
 The highest priority of the Mayor and City Council is to protect the health and safety of residents, which is accomplished through a variety of City programs. The Police Department patrols the City to prevent crime; Public Works plows the streets to make driving safe and ensures quality drinking water; and the Community Development Department enforces City codes to protect property values and keep City residents safe.
In addition to enforcing regulations that prohibit high grass, construction without a permit and other property maintenance regulations, the Community Development Department pursues complaints of over-occupancy.
The maximum number of residents who can live in a house in West Chicago is determined by national building codes. The number is based on the minimum square footage that a person needs to live in a safe and sanitary condition. If more people live in a home than is permitted by the national standards, they risk spreading disease and infection and jeopardize their safety because they may not be able to get out of the house in the event of a fire. Additionally, over-occupancy drains school resources by having higher number of children in the system than planned and adversely impacts neighborhoods with too many cars.
The City's emergency response system was tested this winter when a single family home in West Chicago caught fire. The property owner had rented the home to 14 people, when the maximum occupancy
was 7 people. Thanks to the quick response of the City of West
Chicago Police Department and West Chicago Fire Protection District, all of the residents got out of the home safely. If not for the quick response, the end result could have been tragic. This incident high- lights the significant safety risk associated with over-occupancy. After the fire, the Community Development Department staff cited the landlord, who was fined $4,750 for the violations on his property.
The number of over-occupancy violations that the City has found has nearly doubled in the last several years. Of those in violation, a majority are rental properties, where landlords knowingly rent to more people than are allowed by the code, which jeopardizes residents' safety strictly for financial gain. The City will not tolerate this and takes a firm stance against over-occupancy.
I would like to take this opportunity to ask residents to report homes that are over-occupied. You may be saving lives by reporting instances where too many people live in one home.
Contact the Community Development Department at (630) 293-2200 x141.
MONDAY, MAY 3, 2010
2010 Street Improvement Program
 While most towns are delaying or deferring capital improvement
projects in order to balance budgets, I am pleased to report
that through careful planning and fiscally responsible management,
we are well positioned to address such needs. Our solid financial
planning and proactive measures to secure federal funding for infrastructure
improvements, allows us to proceed with a roadway construction
schedule this spring, summer and fall that includes resurfacing,
sidewalk replacement and crack-sealing. The following chart
outlines the 2010 Street Improvement Program:
| Type of Construction: |
Location: |
From: |
|
To: |
| Resurfacing |
Illinois Route 59 (IDOT Project) |
Entire length through West Chicago (Bartlett thru Warrenville) |
| Resurfacing |
Old Heidelberg Project Area (CDBG Funding) |
|
| |
Pearl Street |
Ann Street |
to |
George Street |
| George Street |
Pearl Street |
to |
Vine Street |
| Vine Street |
George Street |
to |
Church Street |
| Sherman Street |
Ann Street |
to |
Washington Street |
| Clara Street |
Church Street |
to |
Washington Street |
| Harrison Street |
Clara Street |
to |
Cul-de-sac west of Norris Street |
| Milo Court |
Harrison Street |
to |
Milo Court Cul-de-sac |
| Resurfacing |
Joliet Street (ARRA Funding) |
Geneva Road |
to |
Illinois Route 59 |
| Resurfacing |
Powis Road (ARRA Funding) |
Illinois Route 64 |
to |
Smith Road |
| Resurfacing |
Arbor Avenue (ARRA Funding) |
Washington Street |
to |
Hawthorne Lane |
| Resurfacing |
City of West Chicago 2010 Street Improvement Program |
|
| |
Main Street |
Illinois Route 59 |
to |
Prince Crossing Road |
| Hawthorne Lane |
Illinois Route 59 |
to |
Prince Crossing Road |
| Willow Creek Drive |
Hawthorne Lane |
to |
Woodside Drive |
| Marcella Lane |
Woodside Drive |
to |
Natalie Drive |
| Woodside Drive |
Hawthorne Lane |
to |
Willow Creek Drive |
| Natalie Drive |
Marcella Lane |
to |
Woodside Drive |
| Oakwood Avenue |
Chicago Street |
to |
York Avenue |
| Gavin Court |
Natalie Drive |
to |
Gavin Court Cul-de-sac |
| Woodside Court |
Woodside Drive |
to |
Woodside Court Cul-de-sac |
| Resurfacing |
North Oak Street Rehabilitation Project |
|
| |
North Oak Street |
Washington Street |
to |
Grand Lake Boulevard |
| Pine Street |
North Oak Street |
to |
Illinois Route 59 |
| Plymouth Court |
North Oak Street |
to |
Illinois Route 59 |
| Resurfacing |
Galena Street |
Main Street |
to |
High Street |
| Sidewalk Replacement |
Various Locations In City |
|
| Crack Sealing |
Various Locations In City |
That brings us to a related and very timely topic - Census return
rates. The City's ability to take its fair share from funding sources,
which contribute to roadway improvement, depends upon our citizens'
active participation in the U.S. Census. Hopefully, you have
already mailed back the 2010 Census to ensure future infrastructure
improvements in West Chicago. If not, a census taker will visit your
residence to record your household's confidential answers for submission
to the Census Bureau. Ask to see their ID. Please note that
the census taker will never ask to enter your home. You may contact
the Regional Census Center at (866) 861-2010 if you wish to
confirm their identity.
Thank you for your support of the
2010 Census, and for your cooperation
and patience during the 2010 Street
Improvement Program as we continue to
maintain our commitment to safe, drivable
roads.
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27, 2010
Ongoing Challenges
As municipalities strive to meet the ongoing
challenges of balancing allocations to meet community
needs, the process of budgeting in a tough
economy becomes paramount to maintaining expectations
of quality services and affordability.
Through strategic planning, communication and
citizen outreach, the City of West Chicago has achieved
this goal with the adoption of its 2010 Annual
Budget, which was approved on December
21, 2009. The budget reflects a continued
customer-centric philosophy which prioritizes
its commitment to provide
quality services at the lowest possible cost.
Most significant are the facts that the budget
contains no tax or water/sewer rate
increases; it totals 2.3% below the 2009
budget; and the City's operating costs are
7.1% lower than last year.
West Chicago prides itself on being an
increasingly progressive community, willing
to challenge the status quo and moving
toward the cutting edge. The City accepted
the challenge of continually searching for
creative solutions for the delivery of services.
The budget will emphasize policy and
procedure reviews to improve the productivity and
effectiveness of service delivery to its citizens.
One of the ways this has been accomplished is by a
reduction in the City's workforce by approximately 15%
since 2006 through privatization and streamlining operations
which have enhanced service delivery to the
customer and resulted in cost savings. While a total of
12 positions remain vacant, no personnel additions are
included in the approved budget.
The most notable increase in the 2010 budget is
pension costs for City employees, due to the significant
decline in investments. As a way to offset these costs
and to help balance its budget, the City plans to defer
the purchase of anticipated equipment and vehicles.
The overriding goals of our fiscal planning must be
to support the high standards set by the community
and provide long-term value at reasonable cost. We
will strive for continuous improvement that ensures the
City's mission for fostering a safe, cohesive and
dynamic community that is responsive to the needs of
both citizens and businesses.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2009
Forward Thinking
Despite these tough economic times, the City of West Chicago continues to be forward thinking, anticipating the return of economic development opportunities and continued growth within the City. One vital component to attracting developers to the City is our ability to provide an adequate supply of safe and affordable water. For 2009, the City operated and maintained pumping facilities that produced over 1.24 billion gallons of water, meeting all IEPA and USEPA required sampling and monitoring requirements with no violations. In addition, the City performed lead
and copper monitoring on the distribution system as required by the USEPA with favorable results, which have placed the City on a reduced (3-year) monitoring schedule.
Continued growth means increased demand on City utilities. To address both present and anticipated demands for all businesses and residents of West Chicago, and to ensure proper volumes of water for fire protection purposes, the City is committed to expanding its water production capabilities and water storage facilities over the next five years.
Presently the City operates eight well stations, and we have begun drilling another deep well for water production, which is expected to be operational by September 2010. Additionally in 2011, the City plans to
drill a tenth well, boosting total water production capabilities from 7.992 million gallons per day to 11.22 million gallons per day.
Currently the City owns, operates, and maintains two elevated storage tanks (water towers) which house 750,000 gallons of water. To meet existing demands, the City has plans to construct two additional elevated storage tanks before 2014, boosting storage capabilities to nearly 3,000,000 gallons. With continued growth, a one million gallon elevated storage tank would be considered.
Other improvements related to the maintenance of the City's existing water distribution system are planned and will be implemented as necessary to continue to meet the demands of our customers and to remain in compliance with USEPA regulations.
The City of West Chicago is committed to providing excellent water to its customers and we are striving to provide the best quality of water in all of DuPage County, while remaining competitive with our water rates.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2009
Pursuing Opportunities
 As we approach the end of what has
been a "tough at best" financial year,
and plan conservatively and with purpose to
sustain the level of quality services for our
community in the future, we will remain vigilant
for any and all opportunities that 2010
may present.
Earlier this year, proactive measures resulted
in the City of West Chicago gaining a share
of $16,000,000 provided through the Federal
stimulus package, the American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for infrastructure projects.
Application was made for six highway
projects, two of which were approved; the
resurfacing of Joliet Street from Geneva Road
to Illinois Route 38, and the resurfacing of Powis
Road from Illinois Route 64 to Smith Road.
The combined total dollar amount being
funded for this work is $735,600. Time was
spent this year completing design and
obtaining design approval from IDOT, with
the spring of 2010 designated to begin construction.
The four other applications made by the
City have been placed on a project "B-list"
and are being considered, should additional
dollars become available.
We have also applied to the Illinois
Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) for
recovery funds related to water improvement
projects, and have received $200,000
from DuPage County in a Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) for transportation
related improvements that will be
used for street resurfacing. The grant will
be used for the Old Heidelberg Minor
Arterial Street Area Improvement Project,
which includes Clara Street, George Street,
Harrison Street, Milo Court, Pearl Street,
Sherman Street and Vine Street.
We will continue to aggressively pursue
available State and Federal dollars to
improve our community and maintain the
quality of life we have all come to appreciate
and expect in West Chicago.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27, 2009
“It's in Our Hands” - the 2010 Census
 The countdown to the 2010 Census, which will
define who we are as a nation, has begun. The U.S.
Census Bureau is depending on local officials and community
leaders to ensure an accurate count. With
Census Day less than a year
away (April 1, 2010) the
Census Bureau has already
launched a critical national
awareness campaign called,
IT'S IN OUR HANDS.
The need for such a
campaign emphasizes the
impact and importance an
accurate census has in shaping
our community. Every year, more than $400 billion in
state and federal funds is awarded to states and communities
based on census data ~ data which lives with
the community for a full ten years until the next census
is taken. Therefore, an accurate count is vital to our community's
and residents' well-being from a fiscal standpoint.
But that's not all. Census data guides local decision-
makers in important community planning efforts
such as where to build new roads and schools; and planning
for future water and sewer utility improvements.
Census data also affects your voice in Congress by determining
how many seats each state will have in the U.S.
House of Representatives.
The City of West Chicago has begun preparing for
the 2010 census by forming a Complete Count
Committee (CCC), which will bring together a cross-section
of community members to ensure resident awareness
of the importance of an accurate census count.
Members will represent other local government agencies,
media, education, business, and religious organizations.
These key communicators will speak the unique
language of their own community, while conveying the
singular message to "be counted".
The 2010 census will have one of the shortest census
questionnaires since the inception of a national census
in 1790. It will ask for name, gender, age, race, ethnicity,
relationship and whether the householder owns
or rents their home. The form should take only about 10
minutes on average to complete, and the responses are
protected by law and are strictly confidential.
The months ahead should bring a census "buzz" in
West Chicago, as our local complete
count committee begins the job of
reaching out into the community to
spread the word, "it's in our hands".Respectfully,
Michael B. Kwasman, Mayor
WEDNESDAY, MAY 6, 2009
The Financial Crisis
 As we all struggle to cope with the current
financial crisis, the City of West Chicago is also planning
and implementing creative strategies to maximize
resources and reduce expenditures that would help it
maintain economic solvency. Constant monitoring of
the global financial forecast, combined with proactive
planning for its anticipated decline, enabled the City to
undertake forward-thinking measures like the privatization
of the wastewater treatment, building inspection
and IT functions, all of which have resulted in cost savings
and increased quality of service.
Through fiscally responsible management and a
commitment to a core philosophy which prioritizes
delivery of the highest level of services at the lowest
possible cost to its citizens, West Chicago remains one
of the leanest and most efficient municipal corporations
within the suburban Chicago area. Our 2009
Annual Budget reflects a 5.74% decrease from the previous
year. Worthy of note is the fact that the City's
anticipated reliance on the property tax to fund its daily
operations has, for the fifth straight year, decreased
and comprises a smaller portion of the Budget. This is
no small feat considering that sales tax and income tax
revenue are expected to decline further in 2009 due to
the poor economy, while expenses for fuel and electricity
are projected to increase. Also significant is the fact
that the proposed budget does not reflect any personnel
increases, as we continue to explore and leverage
innovative approaches to staffing.
With an eye on the future, it also strives for dedicated
revenues to support our long-term infrastructure
and equipment needs. Senior management and frontline
staff continue to provide consistently superior service
to the increased demands of a diverse population of
stakeholders; and through flexible, adaptable strategies
that include the creative use of technology and intergovernmental
and public/private partnerships, the City
of West Chicago will continue to rise to the challenges
inherent in responsible government operations. I wish
to acknowledge the dedicated efforts of our City
Council, Finance Committee, City Treasurer and staff
for their exemplary public stewardship on behalf of the
taxpayers of our community.
Respectfully,
Michael B. Kwasman, Mayor
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2009
Residual Thorium Issues
As Mayor of West Chicago, I am gratified to report that
any lingering questions related to the residual thorium issues
raised at some homes within our community should be satisfied
this year. I established a joint team with the EPA, the State
of Illinois and Tronox, to encourage and track responses to
our concerns. That team has remained committed to the goal
of ensuring that those 32 properties initially cleaned up in the
1980s when standards were less strict, be re-tested to meet
new Agency guidelines. This is being accomplished by a procedure
developed by the EPA.
Since late in 2007 and 2008, 23 of the 32 properties have
been tested through surface gamma scans, downhole gamma
logging and soil sampling. The EPA has recently obtained
access to four of the remaining nine identified properties, and
testing at those properties will take place this spring. Efforts to
obtain access to the last five properties continue. I have
offered the City's assistance to the EPA with those efforts.
Additionally, files from both the original clean-ups in the
1980s and the 1990s/2000 were reviewed to confirm that the
correct areas were targeted for this additional testing.
The EPA has completed a thorough evaluation of each of
the 23 properties tested so far to address the serious concerns
I have raised on behalf of our community. To date, they have
done more than 1,100 boreholes, and found only 11 with any
elevated reading at all. While those readings may be due to
residual thorium, they may also be due to substances like fertilizers,
bricks or other common materials. Those 11 boreholes
were located on 8 properties, two of which are owned by
Tronox and which were unoccupied houses. The EPA collected
at least one soil sample from each borehole with an elevated
reading and found only 5 (less than one-half percent) that
had a reading above 7.2 pCi/g, which is the current clean-up
standard. Those five readings were located on four properties,
again two of which are owned by Tronox.
It is important to note that every elevated reading, whether
from a surface scan, or downhole logging, does not mean that
thorium above the clean-up standard is present. Based on the
work done by EPA to date, it is clear that very little residual
thorium in excess of the clean-up standard is present on the
tested properties, and then only on a very few properties.
The EPA will continue its testing program until all of the
questioned properties are evaluated. For those few isolated
spots found to have residual thorium, the EPA will provide
that information to Tronox, who has already agreed
to address the findings.
I am committed to pressing the EPA and
Tronox to continue to understand the City's
concerns and address them quickly, so that
our community can be assured that the residual
thorium question is finally behind us.
Respectfully,
Michael B. Kwasman, Mayor
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2009
Inter-Governmental Partnerships
 Welcome 2009!
Intergovernmental partnerships are
making a difference in our community. Just look at some
of the programs and initiatives of the past year for proof.
Working with Pace, West Chicago was able to introduce
bus service. When gas prices were at their highest,
Pace Route 747 offered an alternative for many who
needed to get to work, the store or college. Pace is
pleased with the routes' performance thus far. Current ridership
levels are encouraging, and it is hopeful that ridership
will continue to increase over time. Service will continue
in 2009 and schedules may be obtained at City Hall.
A First-Time Homebuyer Program has proven to be
a grand-slam for reinvigorating a soft real estate market
in West Chicago. As of press time, 15 people are at various
stages in the process of making the dream of their
first home a reality. Is it any wonder the Chicago Tribune
featured our program in the December 12, 2008 Real
Estate section? Other communities are now following our
example and introducing programs of their own.
Collaboration between the West Chicago Park District,
Fire District, School Districts, and Public Library, with the
help of other community members and volunteers, resulted
in a holiday event that captured all the magic of the
season. Frosty Fest brought out hundreds of families to
share the warmth of community fellowship and provided
lifelong memories in the heart of their hometown.
The Fitness Station, an activity and fitness center for
all ages, has resulted from an agreement between the City
of West Chicago and the West Chicago Park District to
lease 103 W. Washington Street. The rental agreement provided
an opportunity to expand programming and generate
more pedestrian traffic in the historic district. Classes
will include aerobics, Zumba, Silver Sneakers, tumbling,
gymnastics and more. A grand opening is scheduled for
Saturday, January 3, 2009 from 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.
My commitment to working with intergovernmental
agencies will continue in the new year as we strive to find
collective ways to improve the quality of life we enjoy in
West Chicago.
Best wishes for a happy, healthy
and sustainable New Year!
Respectfully,
Michael B. Kwasman, Mayor
|
|
|
|
