Village of

WESTCHESTER IN PICTURES

Believe it or not today is Monday January 5, 2015. Where did 2014 go?? It seems only yesterday we were talking about 2013. Time marches on and there is nothing we can do to stop it.

Each year that I have written the Westchester Newsletter, I have talked about what “New Year’s Resolutions” each one of us will make and how long it will take to break it. If I recall my own, I remember talking about positivity and my lack of it. Unfortunately, I can honestly say mine did not last very long. Being a Type A person with high expectations is certainly taking a toll on the “Molly Keane Positivity Chart.” Molly, my former management assistant, provided all offi ce staff with a quote of “Negative Thinking, Negative Results – Positive Thinking, Positive Results!” I will try to make a fresh start of 2015 and hope for the best. I suggest those with the same mindset as me do the same. Even though we may have made resolutions that lasted a very short while, most are probably worth taking another stab at. I guess the old adage of “If at fi rst you don’t succeed, try…try…again” rings true.

If you have not thought about what resolutions you would like to make I have found a web site http://

veryhappynewyear.com that listed the following 50 ideas for you.

50 New Year Resolution Ideas for 2015: Resolution 1 I will go for a morning walk daily. Resolution 2 I will do exercise or workout daily. Resolution 3 I will lose weight. Resolution 4 I will quit smoking. Resolution 5 I will say no to alcohol. Resolution 6 I will get up early in the morning. Resolution 7 I will write a daily diary. Resolution 8 I will keep a check on my expenses. Resolution 9 I will not fi ght with my spouse. Resolution 10 I will not eat junk food. Resolution 11 I will follow a daily health chart. Resolution 12 I will spend more time with my family. Resolution 13 I will get married. Resolution 14 I will brush my teeth at night. Resolution 15 I will get enough sleep. Resolution 16 I will make new friends. Resolution 17 I will get rid of my old clothes. Resolution 18 I will revamp my home. Resolution 19 I will keep my room clean. Resolution 20 I will speak softly to others. Resolution 21 I will reach offi ce in time. Resolution 22 I will keep my mail inbox clean. Resolution 23 I will take my kids for a vacation. Resolution 24 I will

From the Desk of The President

POLICE DEPARTMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT

CALENDAR

PARK DISTRICT

PUBLICWORKS

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

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Happy New Year from the Village administrative staff! Our New Year’s resolution is excellent customer service. Pictured from left: Gayle Golz, Finance Director Maureen Potempa, Jessica Spencer, Val Smith, Katy Finn, Mary Détente, Village Manager Janet Matthys, Melissa Fecarotta, Community Development Director Melissa Headley, Argelia Garbacz, Amy Lawson.

WestchesterJanuary 2015 Newsletter

Westchester in Pictures2 JANUARY 2015

Police DePartmentJANUARY 2015 3

1) At 5:34am on November 15, 2014 a Criminal Damage to Propertywas reported at JD Food & Liquor located at 10147 Roosevelt Road. An unknown subject threw a brick through the front door window glass. The glass was damaged but entry was not gained. The subject walked away east through the parking lot.

2) At 10:28am on November 23, 2014 a Criminal Damage to Vehicle was reported in the parking lot at 2501 Wolf Road. It was reported that unknown person(s) caused damage by scratching the passenger side door while parked in the parking lot.

3) At 12:45pm on November 26, 2014 a Burglary was reported on the 2800 block of Brighton Court. The resident reported that unknown subject(s) removed items from the house and possibly gained entry through an open rear door.

3) At 12:12pm on November 27, 2014 a Theft was reported on the 9800

block of Roosevelt Road. A subject was arrested and charged with theft and criminal trespass to vehicle when he removed two ladders from a vehicle parked in the driveway of a business.

4) At 4:50pm on December 2, 2014 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 1300 block of Manchester. A citizen reported that unknown person(s) damaged a fence in the backyard by removing bricks.

5) At 4:52pm on December 2, 2014 a Theft from Auto was reported on the 900 block of Manchester. A citizen reported that their fender molding was removed from their vehicle while parked in front of their residence.

6) At 7:55am on December 10, 2014 a Criminal Damage to Property was reported on the 9900 block of Derby Lane. A business owner reported that sometime during the previous night, unknown person(s) damaged their rear door locks.

Police blotter

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study hard to get good grades. Resolution 25 I will propose her/him. Resolution 26 I will improve my handwriting. Resolution 27 I will offer my prayers to God daily. Resolution 28 I will do yoga and meditation daily. Resolution 29 I will join fitness program. Resolution 30 I will complete an education course to enhance my skills. Resolution 31 I will improve my English. Resolution 32 I will work on my marriage. Resolution 33 I will spend time with my kids. Resolution 34 I will start a family. Resolution 35 I will save my pocket money. Resolution 36 I will find a new job. Resolution 37 I will pay off my debts. Resolution 38 I will apologize to all whom I have hurt in the previous year. Resolution 39 I will do at least one good task daily. Resolution 40 I will go for a complete medical checkup. Resolution 41 I will spend time with my parents/grandparents/elders. Resolution 42 I will learn cooking. Resolution 43 I will learn swimming. Resolution 44 I will join a computer course. Resolution 45 I will go for a world tour. Resolution 46 I will go for a second honeymoon. Resolution 47 I will maintain a daily record of my expenses. Resolution 48 I will not skip my meals. Resolution 49 I will drink at least 5 glasses of water daily. Resolution 50 I will start my own venture.

If you are really concerned about follow through and making your resolution successful, you can visit the Promise or Pay web site http://promiseorpay.com and make a promise to pay money to a favorite charity if you break your resolutions. You can also share your promise to others making them donate money if you keep your promise. The web site touts that when it comes to achieving goals, research shows that chance of success increases 33% if it is shared with others and up to 72% if money is put on the line…hmmmmm.

LOOKING AHEAD TO 2015

Looking ahead to 2015, the village board will be engaged in putting together the fiscal 2015-2016 Budget. All department heads will be actively working to provide the best service possible with the available finances received from property taxes, fees, and charges based on the history of the past year. The vast majority of the village employees are covered under negotiated collective bargaining agreements that have, in most circumstances, included a 2% cost of living increase. Most Westchester employees are covered by one of six different union contracts. Negotiations are currently under way for two expired

collective bargaining agreements and three more expire in 2015.

Pension funding, a hot topic throughout

the State of Illinois, is an issue for Westchester and other communities. Our current funding levels are 76% funded in the Fire Pension Fund and 68% funded for the Police Pension Fund. The average funding for Fire and Police Pension Funds in Illinois is 54% funded. Based on recent actuarial valuations, the Village will be chasing a $300k deficit in the pension funding level this year. Additional budgetary challenges include the increase in health insurance costs, the doubling of the purchase cost of rock salt from $55 per ton to $135 per ton (even through the State of Illinois Joint Purchasing co-operative), and continuing the street repair and replacement projects. We have been very successful in obtaining funding assistance from the State of Illinois through capital grants and low-interest loan programs. However, there is much uncertainty ahead with the change in our Governor and legislators. The leadership of the village is very conservative. I’m sure we will be tightening our belts once again. The village believes we have sufficient fund reserves to maintain our AA2 Moody’s Bond Rating which many surrounding communities have not achieved.

As President of the Village for the past 6 years, I am confident we are moving in the right direction. I just wish the goals I have, which always involve federal, state, and county partners, move at a faster pace.

DECEMBER 2014 EVENTS

Back on Wednesday, December 3rd and Thursday, December 4th, Santa and Mrs. Claus came to Westchester bringing Joy and Good Cheer, (and hot chocolate and cookies) for all of us to enjoy.

The Westchester Park District Staff, under the supervision of Director Gary Kasanders, provided rides on a tractor driven trailer, a train dubbed the “Polar Express”, and of course the horse drawn cart that klippety-klopped along Westchester Blvd. with kids and adults alike. Santa was quite busy inside the gymnasium listening attentively to the requests of all who made a special Christmas request.

I would like to thank Santa and Mrs. Claus for visiting, as well as all of the local businesses who sponsored the Christmas Trees along the park district path. I would also like to thank the volunteers who sponsored our 5 cultural trees from Guatemala, Italy, Ireland, Germany, and Mexico, and all of the village staff, especially our PW tree decorators, for their Holiday Spirit. Hopefully we can expand the number of cultural trees

next year and line the entire park from end to end.

SPECIAL EVENTS WANTS YOUR INPUT

During the month of January, our volunteer group of people representing the Park District, Village, Chamber and School District suggest what kind of special events we would like to have for the upcoming year. Ms. Katy Finn from the Village administrative staff is gathering suggestions and would like to hear from you. Monies garnered from the Village Hotel/Motel Tax is used to support special events throughout the year. The Hotel/Motel Tax is collected at a rate of 5% and is received quarterly from vendors in the Village.

In case you are wondering or think the money should be spent on infrastructure projects, it can’t. The Hotel/Motel Fund operates as a Special Revenue Fund. Special Revenue Funds are used when a dedicated revenue source has legal restrictions upon its use. In this case, the Hotel/Motel tax is restricted for the use of tourism related expenditures within the Village. Previously, these tourism expenses largely related to the Westchester Fun Fest expenses. The property that the Westchester Fun Fest was held on is not available and the Fun Fest was discontinued in 2013. This presents an exciting opportunity to host a variety of smaller events throughout the year designed to foster community spirit and cultivate a welcoming, entertaining, and inviting environment for residents and visitors of Westchester. These events are being planned and executed by the Special Events Committee.

Katy can be reached at the village hall 708-345-0020 or email kfinn@westchester-il.org.

SNOW RESTRICTIONS REMINDER

As of December 18th, the date this newsletter is being written, we have not seen any substantial snow- fall. The Village of Westchester does have restrictions on parking AFTER A 2 INCH SNOWFALL. Parking on designated SNOW ROUTES is prohibited after a 2 INCH SNOWFALL. The snow routes are generally the main thoroughfares throughout the village. All of the SNOW ROUTES are posted with signage.

Please familiarize yourself with the SNOW ROUTES. The last thing the police want to do is issue a $20 ticket or, worse yet, tow vehicles from the SNOW ROUTES that will cost in excess of $150.00 plus storage.

Westchester also has Alternate Side Parking on what I will call the side streets and non-designated SNOW

ROUTES. Please familiarize yourself with the posted signs usually at the end of each corner prohibiting parking either Monday-Wednesday-Friday or Tuesday-Thursday between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday, again after a 2 INCH SNOW FALL.

The plow trucks usually make several passes during the snow event especially if the snow fall continues. Tickets will be issued for those vehicles left on the street in violation of the signs. Again, the last thing the police want to do is write tickets for vehicles parked on the wrong side of the street.

The PW plow trucks goal is to clean the

street curb to curb; first on the SNOW ROUTES, secondly on the SIDE STREETS, and thirdly in the ALLEYS.

Please use common sense when using snow blowers. At a recent Village Board Meeting, a resident complained that a neighbor was using a snow blower at 3am last December. Our noise ordinance prohibits such activity between 10pm and 7am. The resident was advised to contact the police during the wee hours if such operation occurs.

As I mentioned last month, PW plows cannot lift their blades to avoid putting snow on driveway aprons. It is going to happen. Also, do not blow snow back onto the street from your driveway aprons. Side to side passes onto the parkway works best. Blowing snow onto the street is prohibited. The aformentioned village ordinances regarding SNOW ROUTES, ALTERNATE PARKING, and PUTTING SNOW IN THE STREET have been in place for many years. For your safety and the safety of others please make every effort to comply with the rules.

SNOW REMOVAL & YOUR HEALTHSpeaking of snow removal, every year

we unfortunately hear of someone having a heart attack while shoveling snow. I have attached some recommendations from the American Heart Association for your consideration.

The American Heart Association says that for most people, shoveling snow may not lead to any health problems. However, the association warns that the risk of a heart attack during snow shoveling may increase for some, stating that the combination of colder temperatures and physical exertion increases the workload on the heart. People who are outdoors in cold weather should avoid sudden exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel full of snow. Even walking through heavy, wet snow or snow drifts can strain a person’s

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heart. To help make snow removal safer,

the American Heart Association has compiled a list of practical tips.

Give yourself a break. Take frequent rest breaks during shoveling so you don’t overstress your heart. Pay attention to how your body feels during those breaks.

Don’t eat a heavy meal prior or soon after shoveling. Eating a large meal can put an extra load on your heart.

Use a small shovel or consider a snow thrower. The act of lifting heavy snow can raise blood pressure acutely during the lift. It is safer to lift smaller amounts more times, than to lug a few huge shovelfuls of snow. When possible, simply push the snow.

Learn the heart attack warning signs and listen to your body, but remember this: Even if you’re not sure it’s a heart attack, have it checked out (tell a doctor about your symptoms). Minutes matter! Fast action can save lives — maybe your own. Don’t wait more than five minutes to call 9-1-1

Don’t drink alcoholic beverages before or immediately after shoveling. Alcohol may increase a person’s sensation of warmth and may cause them to underestimate the extra strain their body is under in the cold.

Consult a doctor. If you have a medical condition, don’t exercise on a regular basis or are middle aged or older, meet with your doctor prior to the first anticipated snowfall.

Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia. Heart failure causes most deaths in hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, dress in layers of warm clothing, which traps air between layers forming a protective insulation. Wear a hat because much of your body’s heat can be lost through your head.

Heart Attack Warning Signs

Some heart attacks are sudden and intense — the “movie heart attack,” where no one doubts what’s happening. But most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Here are signs that can mean a heart attack is happening:

Chest discomfort. Most heart attacks involve discomfort in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or that goes away and comes back. It can feel like uncomfortable pressure, squeezing, fullness or pain.

Discomfort in other areas of the upper body. Symptoms can include pain or discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw or stomach.

Shortness of breath with or without chest discomfort.

Other signs may include breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or lightheadedness

As with men, women’s most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort. But women are somewhat more likely than men to experience some of the other common symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, nausea/vomiting, and back or jaw pain.

Calling 9-1-1 is almost always the

fastest way to get lifesaving treatment. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive — up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car. EMS staff is also trained to revive someone whose heart has stopped. Patients with chest pain who arrive by ambulance usually receive faster treatment at the hospital, too. It is best to call EMS for rapid transport to the emergency room. If you can’t access EMS, have someone drive you to the hospital right away. If you’re the one having symptoms, don’t drive yourself, unless you have absolutely no other option.

Back in November 2004, I thought I was in pretty good shape shoveling a wet snow on Black Friday. I had several of the indicators listed above, however, being 49 years old, I thought I was just out of shape. Think again - after a forced visit to the doctor by my wife, I was told I suffered a heart attack. Can’t happen to you? Think again…

STATE OF ILLINOIS DEBT RECOVERY PROGRAM

Two years ago, the Village of Westchester joined a host of other communities in the State of Illinois Debt Recovery Program. Beginning January 2015, those individuals owing an unpaid debt to the Village of Westchester will be subject to the amount of the debt being offset (deducted) from their State Income Tax Return or other State of Illinois revenue payments (i.e. lottery winnings or state payroll). If you have an unpaid ticket or debt to the village please contact our Finance Director Maureen Potempa to rectify the situation .

I have attached a synopsis of the program for your review.

Effective January 1, 2012, Public Act 97-0632 established the “Local Debt Recovery Program” to allow units of local government to collect outstanding debt in coordination with the Illinois Comptroller’s Office. The Act modified the State Comptroller Act (15 ILCS 404/10.05), which currently allows for an offset or deduction from State proceeds to individuals in order to pay either all of or a portion of the claim or account to the State of Illinois or the

United States. The offset or deduction requested cannot exceed 25% of the net amount of the payment, and it cannot be put towards final compensation for payments with a value of accrued vacation, overtime or sick leave.

The recovery program is limited to

claims exceeding $50.00 for funds currently held by the State Treasurer, not anticipated funds. Exempt also from offset or deductions are the Senior Citizens’ and Disabled Persons’ Property Tax Relief and Pharmaceutical Assistant Act, as well as payments to the Illinois Prepaid Tuition Trust Fund. The Program would appear to allow local units of government, school districts and public universities to collect a wide variety of debts that may include parking tickets, fines, fees and other types of outstanding local obligations. The Comptroller’s Office can access a processing charge of up to $15 per transaction.

To initiate participation in the Local

Debt Recovery Program, the local unit of government must execute an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Comptroller’s Office. The Intergovernmental Agreement will establish responsibilities, duties and procedures to provide for the payments. The debts that the local units of government are seeking to collect must meet some initial procedural due process and notification requirements. For the local unit of government to meet the threshold of providing procedural due process and notification to the individual regarding the debt, they will need to provide the Comptroller’s Office with information, including but not limited to the following: the name and address of the debtor, amount of the claim, description of the claim, time period under which the claim falls, the local unit of government to which the debt is owed, information regarding the notification given to the debtor, information as to the opportunity to be heard and statement of any outcome of hearing or proceeding held to establish the debt, and any date of final determination.

When processing the requested

deduction, the person subject to the deduction shall receive written notice from the Comptroller’s Office and shall have the right to make a written protest within 60 days after notice is received. The written protest must include the reason for contesting the deduction and provide the opportunity to present relevant information to enable the Comptroller’s Office to determine the amount due and payable. The Intergovernmental Agreement will establish procedures through which the Comptroller will determine the validity of any protest and provide a final disposition regarding the deduction.

Failure on the part of the debtor to file a written protest within 60 days waives the right to contest the claim and the Comptroller shall pay the deduction to the unit of local government.

The cities of Chicago, Springfield and

Joliet have implemented this program. According to an NBC 5 Chicago report, the City of Chicago will go back as far as 22 years in an attempt to obtain payment toward outstanding parking tickets. The report indicates that Chicago may have already received $5.2 million in past due parking tickets and other debts by intercepting Illinois state tax returns. The City of Joliet, which is also implementing the same program, indicated that it would seek deduction of such debts only 5 years back.

In short, the Local Debt Recovery

Program may provide units of local government with a new and inexpensive collection tool against debtors who are anticipating funds from the State of Illinois.

The Village of Westchester is poised to go back 7 years in our collection efforts.

NAZARETH ACADEMY - IHSA CLASS 6A FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS

One of the difficulties in writing a monthly paper is that after the submission deadline important events occur that unfortunately do not get coverage until the following issue. This important event is one of them. Many Westchester students attend Nazareth Academy located in LaGrange Park, Illinois. We want to congratulate the Nazareth Academy Varsity Football team on their first State of Illinois IHSA Class 6A Football Championship. The 2014 Varsity Football Team, players, coaches and parents deserve recognition for this outstanding and record-breaking season. The Roadrunners’ quest to remain undefeated culminated on Saturday, November 29th in Memorial Stadium at the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. The Roadrunners defeated Lemont High School by a score of 26 to 7 capping a record setting event in Nazareth history. The stadium was full of families, students, alumni and friends. With any sports team, the support of fans including students, parents, and staff alike make the team a “Family Affair.” This is the case for Nazareth Academy. Following the award celebration in Champaign, a packed gymnasium awaited the arrival of the team where the team was greeted by more supporters. The team was recognized and presented the State Championship Trophy to the school. A special pep rally - award ceremony was held on Wednesday, December 3rd in

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the Rooney Center culminating this special season.

ST. JOE VARSITY SOCCER FINISHES SECOND IN STATE

Congratulations also go out to the St. Joe Varsity Soccer Team for finishing second in State in the IHSA Class 2A Tournament. The team’s season record was an impressive 23-1-1; outscoring opponents during the season 101 to 18; achieving a seventh consecutive Regional Title; remaining undefeated in the Chicago Catholic League (7-0); and finishing the season ranked tenth in all of Illinois. “This was one of the most enjoyable seasons I have had the chance to coach,” commented Head Coach Stan Niemiec. What a season!

WESTCHESTER RECEIVES NEW VACU-UM TRUCK

On December 17, 2014, the village received delivery of a brand new vacuum truck that will be used extensively to maintain our sewer system. The vacuum truck purchased from Standard Equipment for $324,247 and will replace the vacuum truck we purchased used at auction back in 2010. The retired truck, a 1996 model, was a godsend at the time we received it and was utilized constantly in cleaning and jetting sewers that, in some cases, had never been maintained by the village, especially after the flood events the village had experienced. The old vacuum truck has outlived its useful life and is in the process of being sold to a neighboring community. The purchase of our new vacuum truck was done in conjunction with a cooperative government purchase with the City of Northlake and the City of Berwyn who also purchased new trucks from Standard Equipment. As you may recall, the village expended close to a million dollars to clean and jet the sanitary sewer mains in 2009. We will continue our sewer maintenance program with the help of this new equipment. Money that we all pay from the collection of sewer fees on our water bills is used to pay for the maintenance of our sewers, including the purchase of the new vacuum truck.

DECEMBER 17, AN INTERESTING DATE FOR WESTCHESTER

For those of you who have a birthday on December 17th, like our Police Chief John M. Carpino, it is a very important date. While doing flood related research, I came upon a very important fact about a certain December 17th back in 1925. On that date, the first meeting of the President and Board of Trustees for the Village of Westchester was held at the northeast corner of Roosevelt

Road and Mannheim Road in a building temporarily used and designated as the Village Hall.

Then President Otto J. Taeterow reported that pursuant to a court order entered in the County Court of Cook County, that an election was held on the 3rd day of October, 1925 for the purpose of voting upon the question of the organization of certain territory into a village, to be known as the Village of Westchester; that on the 30th day of October, 1925 a statement of the result of the election and order was entered in said County Court finding that a majority of the votes cast were in favor of the organization of said Village of Westchester. The order number was 54736. The Order was signed by Judge Edmund K. Jarecki.

For your information, President Otto J. Taeterow received the highest vote total of 44 electing him the 1st Village President.

POLICE CHIEF JOHN M. CARPINO REC-OGNIZES OFFICERS

At a dinner meeting in December, Chief Carpino recognized several officers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty during 2014. Several of the officers were able to apprehend suspects burglarizing homes and factories in both the Village of Westchester and the Village of Broadview. Officer Fellers was named by the Chief, with the input of his peers, as the Officer of the Year. Congratulations to the fine officers who serve our community 24/7. See Chief Carpino’s article on the Police Page for details.

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF LAW EN-FORCEMENT EXECUTIVES

Retired Police Chief Daniel McCollum, IALEE President, with the assistance of Westchester Police Chief John M. Carpino, Retired Chief and Justice Department Federal Monitor Charles Gruber, Rockford Police Chief Chet Epperson, Oak Brook Police Chief James Kruger and State Representative Emanuel “Chris” Welch have engaged in a meaningful conversation regarding the Mandatory Use of Force Reporting and Review following recent use of force by police officers. Over the past few months the issue surrounding the police use of force has taken center stage all across our country. The association is asking that the Governor and State Legislature consider forming a blue ribbon committee to study the issue of reporting and reviewing of all incidents of force by law enforcement officer in Illinois. Representative Welch, who has worked closely with local law enforcement, supports the concept and is looking forward to sponsoring legislation in the 99th General Assembly this Spring.

HAPPY 100TH BIRTHDAY!

Lucille Jefferies celebrated her 100th birthday on Wednesday, December 3rd. Lucille resided in Westchester for 63 years. She is currently living at the Cantata Assisted Living Center in Brookfield. Mayor Pulia, Village Manager Janet Matthys, Finance Director Maureen Potempa and Management Assistant Jessica Spencer made a special visit to personally wish Lucille a very happy 100th birthday. She celebrated with friends and family at a party including her sons Jerry and Rick and daughter-in-law Ann. Happy Birthday, Lucille!

VILLAGE HONORS PERSONS OF THE YEAR

Each year in January, the Westchester Chamber of Commerce hosts a Person of the Year event where the Chamber of Commerce, Village, and Westchester School District select a Person/s of the Year. This year, the Village of Westchester selected three persons who really are dedicated to helping others. The three are a group who manage, organize, and make available basic assistance to those in need through volunteering at the Westchester Food Pantry. The Food Pantry volunteers selected to receive the award are Bridget Rowan and Aque and Rick Harris. They have each been volunteering at the Food Pantry on a regular basis for over five years. I have seen the trio, without being asked, making sure there is enough donated food available for the asking. These unsung residents, in my estimation, certainly epitomize the good works the village enjoys through their residents. Thank You for all you do. An award will be presented to Bridget, Aque and Rick at the Chamber of Commerce “Celebrate Westchester” event on Saturday, January 24, 2015 at the Alpine Banquet Haus on Roosevelt Road.

WESTCHESTER SCHOOL DISTRICT 92.5 PERSON OF THE YEAR

Westchester School District President Claire Thompson announced that their board nominated Police Officer Rob Verber as the District’s Person of the Year. Rob has been serving the village as a Patrol Officer since August of 1989. Most recently Rob’s assignment is School Resource Officer. He has served in this position for the past few years and has been instrumental in the planning and implementation of our National Night Out and police open house. Officer Verber, a long time resident of the community, is very enthusiastic about this assignment and dedicates a good portion of his time both on and off duty to making a difference in the community. Recently, he has been constructing an internet email page to better communicate with those seeking information. Rob has been instrumental in identifying drivers who create a severe safety hazard for our children by

passing stopped school buses. Rob’s presence at the school district enhances the interaction between the students, parents and staff and is what Community Policing is all about. Great choice, School District!

CONGRATULATIONS TO TRUSTEE NICK STEKER

Trustee Nick Steker earned his Master’s degree in Public Safety Administration from Lewis University on December 13th. Congratulations, Nick!

ST. JOSEPH HIGH SCHOOL IN THE NEWS

The 2015 NICHE RANKING is in and Saint Joseph H.S. in Westchester was identified as the Most Diverse Private High School in the country. Niche ranked 532 high schools based on diversity statistics and more than 54,000 opinions from 13,000 students and parents. A high ranking indicates that the school is extremely diverse and fosters a community that accepts and promotes a diversity of formation, click on the link to see the scoring process. Read the full methodology.

SHERWIN WILLIAMS RIBBON CUTTING On Thursday January 8th at 4:30 pm, a

ribbon cutting will take place at the new Sherwin Williams Paint Store located just east of Sunnyside Ave. on Cermak Rd. Members of the village staff and Chamber of Commerce representatives will formally welcome Sherwin Williams to the village. We wish them much success!

VIDEO GAMINGRegency Partners, the owners of

Westbrook Commons Shopping Plaza at 31st and Wolf Road has signed a lease with Blackhawk Gaming Group, dba “Betty’s Bistro”, to lease a spot on the southeast end of their plaza. Betty’s Bistro is a casual, upscale eatery which will also include state approved video gaming terminals. A liquor license was granted to the Blackhawk Group by the Village Board in November and an application is pending before the Illinois Gaming Board to approve the video gaming operation. The group will also have to appear before our liquor commissioner and village board for approval of a municipal video gaming license.

PLAN COMMISSION RECOMMENDS DIGITAL BILLBOARD

After a Public Hearing on December 8, 2014, the Westchester Plan Commission recommended approval of a text amendment to allow a new digital billboard at the BP Amoco Service Station located at 701 N. Mannheim Road. Testimony was presented from Digital Green Signs to the commission as to the

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Congratulations Officer Robert Verber

We are pleased to announce that Officer Verber has been named Westchester School District 92 1/2’s “Person of the Year” for 2014. He will be honored at the annual Chamber of Commerce event “Celebrate Westchester,” on Saturday, January 24, 2015. Officer Verber is a twenty-five year veteran of the Westchester Police Department in addition to being a life-long resident of the community. He currently serves in the Patrol Division with additional responsibilities as the Departments Crime Prevention/Public Education Officer and is in his second year as the Districts School Resource Officer. Officer Verber has received certification through the Illinois Attorney General as an “Elderly Service Officer” and certification through the National Sheriffs’ Association as a “Neighborhood Watch Liaison”. Officer Verber is also a member of the Illinois Crime Prevention Council and the National Crime Prevention Council. We are pleased to call Officer Verber our co-worker and friend. Please join us in offering our congratulation’s to Officer Robert Verber.

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Westchester News and Notes

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size, height and construction of the digital sign that is presently allowed under our village code on locations adjacent to I-294 and I-290. The Plan Commission recommendation to the Village Board, the final authorizing authority, was presented at the Committee of the Whole Meeting on December 17, 2014. Presently, construction of a drive-through Burger King is underway at the site.

SORROW IN OUR MIDST

The month of December saw the passing of several prominent friends of Westchester. First was the passing of Mr. Thomas Durkin on November 28th. Tom was the father of the minority leader of the Illinois House of Representatives James Durkin. Mr. Durkin was a Korean War Veteran and was preceded in death by his wife Colette on December 31, 2013. Tom and Colette had 8 children, all boys, who attended Divine Infant School, Fenwick High School and various colleges. Tom was a former Chairman of the Westchester Zoning Board of Appeals and very active in supporting Catholic Charities, Misericordia and Mercy Home.

Mr. Edward A. Matuga Sr. passed away on December 4, 2014. Mr. Matuga was a long time resident of Westchester Boulevard and served as village prosecutor for the Villages of Westchester, Bellwood, and Broadview. He was the attorney for the Westchester Park District and for the 1st Federal Bank of Westchester (now the PNC Bank) at Mannheim and Crestwood Lane. Mr. Matuga was preceded in death by his wife Pearl in 2005. Mr. Matuga was well known and respected by the judges serving the Maywood 4th Municipal District.

State Comptroller Judy Barr Topinka, although not a resident of Westchester, passed away suddenly on December 10, 2014. Ms. Topinka was a feisty “tell it like it is” personality who attended many functions involving the Village of Westchester and other villages she represented over her many years spent as our State Representative, State Senator, and as our State Treasurer and Comptroller. As you may recall from a prior newsletter, I found an old photograph of myself and then patrol officer Robert Smith teaching her how to shoot a revolver at our police open house. Ms. Topinka’s shoes will be very hard to fill.

Please keep the aforementioned and all of our departed residents and friends of Westchester in your prayers.

WESTCHESTER CHAMBER HONORS

PARAMEDICS The Westchester Chamber of

Commerce has honored the Westchester Fire Department Paramedics with its 2014 Community Service Award. The award will be presented at the Celebrate Westchester event on Saturday, January 24th. The Chamber also donated a Reeves Sleeve patient transport device to the Westchester Paramedics. Jeannie Helgeson, owner of Jeannie’s Hair Company, generously donated a second stretcher to the department. Thank you all for your support of the Westchester Fire Department.

PALMER FLORIST RECEIVES IMAGE AWARD

The Westchester Chamber of

Commerce selected Palmer Florist as the recipient of its 2014 Image Award. If you have not visited Palmer Florist, located at 1926 Roosevelt Road, you are missing out on a special shopping experience. Please stop in and say hello to proprietors John Kowalczyk and Tamara Church. Congratulations!

FROM THE BOARDAt the November 25th Village Board

Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda:

Approval of the Record of Bills ending 11-20-2014 in the amount not to exceed $999,490.88

Approval of Minutes of the November 11, 2014 Village Board Meeting and the November 11, 2014 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.36, Entitled “Liquor Sale” of Title 5, Entitled “Business Licenses and Regulations” of the Westchester Municipal Code

Resolution Determining the Estimated Property Taxes to be Levied for the 2014 Tax Year for the Village of Westchester

Resolution Adopting the Watershed Management Ordinance Resolution

Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago for Authorization to Administer the Watershed Management Ordinance

Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement by and Between the Village of Westchester and Paramedic Billing Services, INC

Resolution regarding the Periodic Review of Closed Meeting Minutes of the Village of Westchester

At the November 25th Committee of the Whole Meeting, the following items were discussed under new business:

Abating the 2013 Tax Levy for the $3,500,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Motor Fuel Tax

Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2010A

Abating the 2013 Tax Levy for the $1,610,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (water and Sewer Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2010B Bonds

Abating the 2013 Tax Levy for the $5,800,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Non-Home Rule Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2013 Bonds

Resolution Directing the County Clerk to Calculate Separate Limiting Rates for the Tax Levy of the Village of Westchester for the 2013 Tax Year

E-Mail and Electronic Devices Policy 2015 Village Board and COW Meeting

Schedule Landscaping Contract RenewalPotential Elimination of Class E Liquor

License Disposal of Surplus Property Amendment to EDC Bylaws Plan Commission recommendation to

approve Petition PC-14-0005 to approve a special use for a medical marijuana dispensary at 10031 W. Roosevelt Rd, Westchester (MMRE, LLC, Petitioner)

Proposed Utility Easement Agreement with Save the Prairie Society

Fire Department Improvements – Apparatus Floor Coating

The following item was discussed under old business:

Proposed Amendment to 14.01.110 to add Permit Fee and Annual Renewal Fees for billboards

The following item was discussed for information only:

Presentation of Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the Fiscal Year ended April 30, 2014

At the December 16th Village Board Meeting, the following items were approved under the Consent Agenda:

Approval of the Record of Bills ending 12-11-2014 in the amount not to exceed $1,817,663.67

Approval of Minutes the November 25, 2014 Village Board Meeting and the November 25, 2014 Committee of the Whole Meeting

Approval of Departmental Monthly Reports including the Community Development Department, the Fire Department, the Police Department, and the Public Works Department

An Ordinance Providing for the Levy, Assessment and Collection of Taxes for the Fiscal Year Beginning May 1, 2014 and ending April 30, 2015 for the Village of Westchester, County of Cook, State of Illinois in the amount of $7,617,377.00

An Ordinance Abating the 2014 Tax Levy for the $3,500,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Motor Fuel Tax Alternate Revenue Source), Series

2010A An Ordinance Abating the 2014

Tax Levy for the $1,610,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Water and Sewer Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2010B

An Ordinance Abating the 2014 Tax Levy for the $5,800,000 Village of Westchester, Cook County, Illinois Taxable General Obligation Bonds (Sales Tax Alternate Revenue Source), Series 2013

A Resolution Directing the County Clerk to Calculate Separate Limiting Rates for the Tax Levy of the Village of Westchester, Illinois for the 2014 Tax Levy Year

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 5.36, Entitled “Liquor Sale” of Title 5, Entitled “Business Licenses and Regulations,” of the Village of Westchester Municipal Code

An Ordinance to Approve and Authorize a Special Use Permit for Medical Marijuana Dispensary Facility at 10031 W. Roosevelt Rd within the Village of Westchester, Illinois

An Ordinance Amending Chapter 14.01.110, Entitled “Fees” of Article II, Entitled “Permits” of Chapter 14.01, Entitled “Administration”, of Title 14, Entitled “Buildings and Construction,” of the Village of Westchester Municipal Code

An Ordinance of the Village of Westchester Waiving Competitive Bidding and Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement with Alliance Turf Management in the Amount of $36,000

A Resolution Approving the 2015 Schedule of Meetings of the Village President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Westchester Cook County IL

An Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of an Agreement between the Village of Westchester and McGrath Consulting Group, Inc. for the Performance of a Fire/EMS Department Service Appraisal in the Amount of $24,950

Motion to Receive and File Amended EDC Bylaws

An Ordinance Authorizing the Sale of Surplus Property of the Village (1996 Vactor Truck, 2001 Dodge Neon and 1997 Chevy Pick-Up Truck)

At the December 16th Committee of the Whole, the following items were discussed under new business:

Plan Commission recommendation to approve Petition PC-14-0004 Text amendments to Chapter 18.58 and amend the site plan approved by Ordinance 13-2027 to allow a new billboard at 701 Mannheim Rd, Westchester (Digital Green Signs, Petitioner)

Meter Flow Study – Crestwood Pumping Station

Change Order in Amount of $1,972.00 – Fire Alarm System

Engineering Intern – Public WorksQuarterly Financial Report – Fiscal

Quarter Ended October 31, 2014

PRESIDENTContinued from page 11

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