Village of Westchester June 2023 Newsletter

FIRE DEPARTMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT CODE RED

Village of Westchester

From the desk of Village President Greg Hribal

Welcome to Summer

PUBLIC WORKS SCHOOL DISTRICT WPTC

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I would like to start by formally welcoming our newly elected officials, Trustees Gia Marie Benline, Peter Marzano, and Victoria Vann along with Clerk Sophia Collins. I look forward to working closely with them now and in the future. I also want to say thank you to outgoing Trustees Cathy Kuratko, Tracy Jennings, Tracy Markey, and Clerk Jennifer Hall for their service to the village over the past several years. It’s been a pleasure working with them in my previous capacity as acting village manager. I have worked closely with all of our elected officials over the past 20 years and intend on using what I’ve learned from each and every one of them to continue moving Westchester forward.

St. Joseph High School Update

Although the Village of Westchester was working with and discussing various options for the use of the St. Joseph High School property, the school moved forward in selling the property to West 40. West 40 services 40 school districts in Western Cook County funded by the State of Illinois and the districts that they serve. Due to various reasons, the school kept its negotiations with West 40 private and only advised the village upon completion of the sale. Various questions both from staff and the public remain regarding the future use of the property and look forward to building a relationship with West 40 to ensure the facilities complement the village and its neighbors. West 40 has announced that they intend on renovations to be complete by March of 2024, but exact plans for their project have not been provided to the village as of this writing. The school intends on hosting a town-hall meeting in June of 2023 at the school to detail its plans moving forward. The village will notify residents once a date for the meeting has been scheduled.

On Arbor Day this year, Westchester Middle School students were presented with a newly planted tree outside of the administrative offices replacing a recently storm-damaged one. Students were read a proclamation honoring Arbor Day and taught the importance of tree planting in the community. The Village of Westchester’s muti-year tree planting program has been budgeting the planting of new and replacement trees on parkways throughout town to increase and restore the urban forest canopy. Our village tree program began in 2020 with the goal of having a tree on every available parkway with the help of resident participation by splitting the tree cost and allowing homeowners the choice of tree type. If you wish to participate or learn more, please contact the Westchester Public Works Department at 708-

345-0041.

On May 10th I was invited to visit the Westchester Middle School to review an 8th grade art project and had several groups present their architectural work formally to me. Their projects included designing, budgeting, and ultimately creating models for land use that included costs and the environmental impact to the village. I was extremely impressed with the attention to detail and hard work put into this project and thank art teacher Rob Alajoki for his invitation to participate and observe the hard work put into this project.

On May 12th the trustees and I attended a formal groundbreaking of one of the largest single roadwork projects this village has ever taken on. The project includes the replacement of 2.7 miles of roadway, 14,500 feet of water main along with curb and sewer improvements. The work is being done on Mandel between Canterbury and Cermak Roads. This project was budgeted at $12,800,000 and is part of the 2020 referendum funding. In addition to this project, public works plan to complete 1.2 miles of roads in a resurfacing project in-house along with 2.4 miles of micro surfacing in a contract that was awarded recently.

On May 13th the village held a Spring Clean Up day which included 51 volunteers that participated in landscaping activities around the front of the village hall and cleaning up and landscaping various areas in town filling over 2 dumpsters with debris and garbage during their four-hour tour of the town. A special thanks to our Girl and Boy Scout troops who lent a hand that day.

The Westchester Park District recently hosted an intergovernmental meeting on June 1, 2023, that included the Village of Westchester, Park District, Library, and School District 92 1/2 to discuss how each entity could work closer together. We look forward to participating in various cooperative events this summer and fall. The village is currently discussing an increased partnership in the Wednesday Music in the Park events held in Mayfair Park, the possibility of a return to the Movies in the Park events previously held at the Community Center Park, and expanding the Winter Wonderland event held in December at the Westchester Community Park.

The Westchester Police Department recently hired Steven Schellhorn from our patrol officer candidate list and he began the police academy on Monday, May 1st. A formal swearing-in ceremony is being scheduled to occur at a future board meeting. He will be attending the police academy for 16 weeks and after graduating have 12 weeks of field training. Welcome Steven!

The Tornado Sirens Are Sounding

Westchester residents are familiar with tone of a tornado siren, but you may not be familiar with all of the situations that those sirens are activated, and how often they are tested. Here is a list of frequently asked questions about our warning system, and tips that you can use to protect in the event of severe weather.

When is a Tornado Warning Issued?

A tornado warning can be issued by the National Weather Service in two scenarios. The first is when there has been a tornado observed by trained weather spotters on the ground, and the other is when Doppler radar indicates rotation within a storm that could spawn a tornado at any time. The latter scenario is one that officials have made it a point to warn residents of, urging them not to wait until they see a tornado before seeking shelter.

A tornado watch is issued when conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes. Sirens do not sound when a watch is in effect, and residents don’t necessarily have to seek shelter during a watch.

Who Activates the Sirens and When are They Activated?

In most cases, our public safety dispatch center in Hillside will activate warning sirens upon notification from the National Weather Service of a tornado warning. In some cases, Westchester public safety officials may request activation due to dangerous weather approaching the village, such as winds in excess of 70 mph, dangerous lightning, and very large hail.

The sirens can also be used in the event of a national emergency, including a military attack or a chemical attack, and those alerts will use a different tone, which can be heard on the Illinois Department of Homeland Security’s website.

What if I Did Not Hear the Warning

Sirens Inside My Home?

Warning sirens are only designed to be heard outdoors to warn residents outside that they should take cover inside and monitor weather reports. They ARE NOT designed to be heard inside the home. The insulation of homes and modern windows, coupled with wind and other storm noise, will completely muffle the sound of the siren.

It is critical to have other means of warnings, including a NOAA weather radio, smart phone apps, or Westchester’s Code Red System. FEMA offers a free mobile app that provides fast and reliable weather alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS).

The app can be tailored to offer alerts for up to five different locations nationwide. The mobile app can also help you locate open shelters and critical disaster resources near you in the event of an emergency.

We also recommend that residents put together a storm preparedness kit that includes essentials like flashlights,

batteries, blankets and clothing. Items like waterproof matches, a paper and pencil, cash, and extra water can also be included in the kit.

For a full list of suggestions, residents can visit https://ready.illinois.gov/

How Often Are Sirens Tested?

Sirens in Illinois are tested on the first Tuesday of each month at approximately 10 a.m. If the possibility of severe weather exists on that date, then the test can be moved at the discretion of local officials.

Do Communities Still Use the Sirens to Signal an “All-Clear” Situation?

Most communities in Illinois no longer use sirens to signal an “allclear,” but it varies by area, so check with local emergency management officials for more information.

Westchester does not issue an allclear signal, because of the confusion another siren activation causes.

What is the Westchester Code Red Notification System?

The CodeRED® Emergency Notification System is a high-speed

telephone communication service the village uses to notify residents and businesses of an emergency, urgent situation, or village events that require attention.

Residents and businesses are urged to complete the CodeRED Community Notification Enrollment. Required information includes first and last name, street address (physical address, no P.O. boxes), city, state, zip code, and primary phone number. Additional phone numbers, email address and text messaging are optional.

All businesses should register, as well as all individuals who have an unlisted phone number, have changed their phone number or address within the last year, or use a cellular phone as their primary telephone number. The information you provide is used by the Village of Westchester for notification purposes only. Your information will be kept confidential and will never be sold or disclosed to others.

Code Red Registration Link: https://www.westchester-il.org/

2023 Summer Has Arrived, So Has Crime

As the trees and flowers began to bloom so does the level of crime within our society along with many new types of crimes. As our world revolves around us, we must always be aware of our surroundings be it at home, at work, at school, or at the area mall. I never thought I would come to see in my lifetime, members of my church carrying guns and watch all entrance ways for any threats as we all pray and listen to God’s word. Most victims of crimes happen because of our kindness and trust for others we meet along the way and sometimes this can put us in a situation of becoming vulnerable. I treat everyone like family but even with family we all know there are times when someone in the family can become very difficult depending on the situation involved. I have lived my entire life on my guard and by using my six senses after serving as a Marine, Prison Guard, 34 years of law enforcement.

My daughters would say I might be paranoid but I tell them no I am a survivalist and I am always thinking three steps ahead, “What If”. Just last week in a Western suburb of Illinois subjects were going to homes telling seniors they needed for them to come out of their homes too show them their property boundary lines because they were working on a major restructuring project in the area. As the seniors stepped out to show the property lines three criminal offenders went into their home. They stole property and money then left the scene. When criminals do these types of crimes, I really take it to heart and personal because they are taking advantage of my seniors and residents. In closing, no matter the situation never let anyone in your home, never leave outside your home with a stranger, never give money under any circumstance to those you don’t know and always call 911 first and let the police find out who they

WESTCHESTER POLICE BLOTTER

SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES

WPD Officer spoke with a resident who stated on 4/21/2023 on her Ring camera footage an unknown male went to the front door, tried to open her door and then walk around to the back of the home. The resident thru the Ring speaker told the male to leave her property or she was going to let her dog out. The male took off running into the forest preserve. No entry to the home was made.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

INCIDENT # 23-00800

DATE/TIME: 04/25/2023 2:58AM

LOCATION: 700 BLK NEW CASTLE AVE

BURGLARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

WPD Officers responded for a report of burglary to motor vehicle and garage. Police spoke with the victim regarding the incident and confirmed that nothing of value was taken from the vehicle, but she believes the offenders made entry to the garage by pushing it open forcefully due to damage to the lock.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

INCIDENT # 23-00803

DATE/TIME: 04/25/2023 9:03AM

LOCATION: 700 BLK HULL AVE

BURGLARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

WPD Officer responded reference a burglary to motor vehicle. Police spoke with the victim who advised she got into her family members BMW around 0800 hours and discovered that it had been rummaged through. Victim confirmed nothing of value was taken and Officer noted no signs of forced entry.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

truly are. Always keep your storm doors, garage doors, car doors, and property locked and secured. I always become concerned when driving through the

community and residents have left their garage doors and front doors wide open. “Never let the fox into the henhouse” as we say back home on the farm.

INCIDENT # 23-00805

DATE/TIME: 04/25/2023 9:30AM

LOCATION: 700 BLK HULL AVE

BURGLARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

WPD Officer responded for a report of burglary to motor vehicle. Police spoke with victim who related that construction equipment was removed from the vehicle value of $2,300.00 USC.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

INCIDENT # 23-00808

DATE/TIME: 04/25/2023 12:13PM

LOCATION: 700 BLK HULL AVE

BURGLARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

WPD Officer responded for a burglary from motor vehicle report. Police spoke with victim, who related that her Toyota was broken into during the overnight hours. Victim discovered that all the contents of the van and glove box had been disturbed and her purse was missing. Police learned that the purse was found by a neighbor in the nearby area and was returned.

- UNDER INVESTIGSATION

INCIDENT # 23-00813

DATE/TIME: 04/25/2023 7:39PM

LOCATION: 600 BLK HULL AVE

BURGLARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

WPD Officer responded for a burglary to motor vehicle report. Officer spoke to the victim who related his vehicle was burglarized during the overnight hours. Victim discovered that his trunk on his vehicle was ajar. Victim advised he had nothing else of value in the vehicle and found nothing else to be missing at this time.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

INCIDENT # 23-00845

DATE/TIME: 05/01/2023 12:26PM

LOCATION: 1 WESTBROOK CORPORATE CENTER DR

THEFT OF MOTOR VEHICLE PARTS

WPD Officer responded to the Corporate Center for a theft from her motor vehicle. Officer spoke to the victim who related that on 04/28/2023 she parked her Hyundai in the northeast lot of Building one. On 04/29/2023 the victim discovered that her Catalytic Converter had been removed from her vehicle.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

INCIDENT # 23-00866

DATE/TIME: 05/04/2023 3:24PM

LOCATION: 700 BLK MANCHESTER AVE

RECOVERED STOLEN VEHICLE

WPD responded for a trespassing incident, per Central Dispatch caller stated that subjects had entered his yard and that the vehicle they were in was still parked in front of the property. The vehicle was checked and was reported stolen out of Aurora, IL. The caller reported that they were sitting outside of her house when a white Kia parked in front of her house occupied by four subjects. All subjected exited the Kia and walked southbound on Manchester and then westbound on Devonshire. Video footages has been obtained from the area and the incident is being investigated by Westchester and Aurora Detectives.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

INCIDENT # 23-00881

DATE/TIME: 05/05/2023 9:07PM

LOCATION: 10200 BLK ROOSEVELT RD

TRAFFIC ARREST

WPD Officer on patrol in the area of Roosevelt and Westchester BLVD when a gray in color SUV performed a traffic infracation. Darryl Hill from Berkeley was charged with Failing to Dim Headlights and Driving while License Revoked. Hill was released on an iBond and provided a court date of June 9, 2023 at the 4th District Cook County Courthouse

INCIDENT # 23-00882

DATE/TIME: 05/05/2023 9:52PM

LOCATION: DICKENS STREET

WARRANT ARREST

WPD responded for a disturbance on Dickens St. Crystal Izaguirre from Stickney was charged with Resisting a Peace Officer. Izaguirre also had a Warrant out of McHenry County for Failure Appear. Izaguirre was released on an iBond and taken to a bond hearing the following day for the Warrant out of McHenery County.

INCIDENT # 23-00908

DATE/TIME: 05/10/2023 6:35AM

LOCATION: NORFOLK / MANCHESTER / BRISTOL

BURGLARY FROM MOTOR VEHICLE

WPD Officers were dispatched to multiple addresses on the 700 blocks of Norfolk, Manchester and Bristol for subject entering garages and vehicles. Westchester Detectives have been gathering evidence and reviewing camera footage in total of eight incidents that occured on May 10th.

- UNDER INVESTIGATION

PUBLIC WORKS

Village branch collection for June will be the week of Monday, June 5th - 9th

July’s collection will be the week of the 10th – 14th

August’s collection will be the week of the 7th – 11th

The Public Works Department will collect branches the first full working week of every month. (April-November)

• All brush must be put out on the front parkway by 7:00 a.m. on the designated pickup day. Branches can be up to 7 feet in length and stacked with the butt ends facing the street in the same direction. If not stacked properly, a “restack” notice will be left.

• Again, please put ALL brush out on your designated pickup day and Public Works crews will determine what constitutes an open load, which will be picked up later in the week.

• An open load would include any brush that will not fit through the chipper such as logs, stumps, and large limbs. These must be cut for one man to lift. Dirt must be removed from any root balls for pickup.

• Public Works Crews will only pass through a designated collection area once due to time schedule and other workload responsibilities.

Landscapers & tree services are responsible for their own brush disposal. Please note the following schedule for branch pickup:

MONDAY: From Mannheim Road west to Wolf Road and from Canterbury south to Windsor-including both sides of Windsor Drive. Also Waterford, Waverly, Camelot and Concord.

TUESDAY: Roosevelt Road south to Cermak Road-from Gardner Road west to Mannheim Road.

WEDNESDAY: From Roosevelt Road north to the expressway and from Gardner Road west to Mannheim Road. Also, Roosevelt Road south to Canterbury from Haase west to Heidorn.

THURSDAY: From Belleview west to Wolf Road, Martindale Drive to 31st Street.

Remember… Waste Management will also pick up your branches if they are tied in bundles & no more than 4 feet in length, or cut up into “Yard Waste Only” containers. These will be picked up on your regular garbage day every week.

Waste Management – 1-800-796-9696

• If your garbage, recycling, or yard waste was not picked up on your regular day, please call Waste Management directly.

• If you would like to request a new garbage or recycling receptacle, please call Waste Management directly.

• If you have large items that will not fit in you receptacle (couch, chair, table, etc.,) please call Waste Management directly to schedule this collection.

The Waste Management’s “At Your Door Special Collection” service will pick up electronics, unwanted-potentially hazardous, and hard-to-recycle items from your home.

That number is 1-800-449-7587.

The full list of items may be found at www.wmatyourdoor.com/residential.

Notes from Public Works

1. Street maintenance parking restrictions have gone into effect. Please look at the signs, check the Village website, and pay attention to the CodeRed notification so you don’t receive a ticket!!

2. Restoration of parkways that have been damaged by sewer/ water excavations and snow plow damage will continue, as weather permits.

3. The vac and jet machine will be cleaning out storm sewer inlets, as weather permits. Please help us to keep the storm drains clear of debris, little by little, so they don’t become a huge issue and result in flooding.

4. The 2022 Water Quality Report is available in this newsletter, and may also be found online at www.westchester-il. org/departments/public-works/watersewer under Water Quality Reports.

5. Construction Notices & Signs are appearing all around the village. Please read notices if you receive them, and remember to obey all signs, permanent or temporary.

DRIVE CAREFULLY IN ALL CONSTRUCTION AREAS!!

Village Watering Restrictions

We have water use restrictions in effect every year, May 15th to September 15th, from

12 p.m. to 6 p.m. This includes:

(1) Outdoor Watering

(2) Cleaning Outdoor Surfaces

(3) Cleaning Buildings

(4) Pool Filling

(5) Sprinkling/ sprinklers

Outdoor water use during unrestricted hours (before noon, after 6 p.m.) is allowed on even numbered days for residents with even numbered addresses, and on odd numbered days for residents with odd numbered addresses. If we have a dry summer, further restrictions may be necessary.

Westchester Tree Replacement Program

A Village ordinance amendment passed in October 2021 is allowing the

Village to replant trees on parkways where tree removal has taken place, due to disease, storm damage, or premature death. As such, the Village has been doing this on eligible parkways for three plantings now, at no cost to the resident. This replacement program does not allow for residents to choose the species of tree planted, the location, the amount of trees planted, nor are residents able to opt-out of having a tree planted in the Village parkway in front and/or side of their residence.

If you would prefer to choose the species of the tree to be planted, this can be achieved through our 50/50 program. The resident can choose the tree from a list provided by the Village, and will share half of the cost of the tree and planting with the Village. To request a 50/50 tree, please call the Public Works Department at 708.345.0041.

Westchester Sidewalk Replacement Program

The Village will replace public sidewalk trip hazards this fall. We also offer a 50/50 shared cost sidewalk replacement program if the public sidewalk in front and/or on the side of your residence is in poor condition, but does not qualify as a hazard. If you would like to replace it for any reason the Village will share the cost with you.

Please call Public Works at 708.345.0041 to have an evaluation done, and to register for squares. Both programs are first come, first served.

As always, residents are asked to call Public Works at 708.345.0041 or the Police (after 3:30pm M-F & on weekends) if an unusual amount of water is visible in the street or parkway. This could be a main break or water leak that requires our immediate attention.

UTILITY BILLING INFORMATION

Attention Village Residents!

The Village’s Water and Sewer rates changed on May 1, 2023 per Village Ordinance No. 20172237.

This will affect the June 2023 billings that are due in July. Please note the new rates for water usage are $12.36 per thousand gallons.

The water infrastructure fee will remain at $6.00 per month. The sewer rate will be $1.50 per thousand gallons of water.

The sewer infrastructure fee will be $6.00 per month.

The Village does charge a minimum bill amount for the base charges of the rates above and includes both infrastructure fees of $12.00 for both water and sewer for every two-month billing cycle.

Effective July 1, 2023, a garbage fee of either $55.04 for nonseniors, or the senior discount rate of $47.19 will be charged on the utility bill on a bi-monthly basis through June 30, 2024.

Please contact the Utility Billing Department at the Village Hall at (708) 345-0020 with any questions.

CONSUMER CONFIDENCE REORT

ANNUAL DRINKING WATER QUALITY REPORT

Bicycle Safety for Fun

& Transportation

By: Lee Kaufman, Commissioner Green Residents of Westchester (GROW) Ecological Commission

Our roadways are generally designed for cars and trucks. Bicyclists are allowed to use all non-highway traffic lanes, including the shoulder, when available. Bicyclists can use sidewalks, too; however, pedestrians have the right of way. I have been a bike enthusiast for over 50 years. I use my bike to get to work, to get to meetings, to go shopping, to visit friends, and family, and sometimes just for the joy of riding a bicycle.

Rules of the Road

Be Seen: It is critically important to be where drivers will be looking for other vehicles. It is also helpful to wear bright colors as well as have lights and reflectors on your bike.

Be Predictable: Always ride with the flow (direction) of traffic. Use hand signals and position yourself in the proper lane when traveling, stopping, or making a turn. Obey traffic signs and signals.

Ride Defensively: Always be aware of what is happening around you and keep track of your escape options. Be sure you have a clear route through an intersection, before entering. Be aware of other traffic as you are crossing the intersection. Wear a helmet to protect yourself and set a good example for others.

Be Considerate: We all need to share the roads. It is far more comfortable and pleasant to be on the road, when we are nice to other users. Park and lock your bike in a way that will keep walkways clear and safe for all users.

Bikes are efficient and ecological: Riding a bicycle is more efficient than walking the same distance and uses less of your energy. Walking is great and almost everyone can and needs to walk more. If you have time constraints and places to be within Westchester, riding a bike is a great way to go. Having a rack, a basket, or a trailer makes doing

errands like grocery shopping, or banking fun and quick. I look forward to seeing more smiling faces around town on their bicycles, having fun and getting where they need to be. Enjoy your rides and be safe.

rideIllinois.ORG

Offers bicycle safety quizzes in English and Spanish for adults, children, motorists and truck drivers. Find all the quizzes here: rideillinois. org/safety/bike-safety-quiz/

A few Illinois’ Bike Laws: Bicyclist’s Status: Traffic laws apply to persons riding bicycles. Bicyclists riding on a highway are granted all of the rights (including right-of-way Article IX) and are subject to all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle, with certain exceptions. [5/111502]

Lane Positioning: When riding on roadways and bicycle paths at less than normal traffic speed, ride as close as practicable and safe to the right-hand curb or edge of roadway except:

1. When overtaking and passing another bicycle or vehicle proceeding in the same direction.

2. When preparing for a left turn.

3.When reasonably necessary to avoid fixed or moving objects, parked or moving vehicles, bicycles, motorized pedal cycles, pedestrians, animals, surface hazards or substandard width lanes that make it unsafe to continue along the right-hand curb or edge. A “substandard width lane” means a lane that is too narrow for a bicycle and a vehicle to travel safely side by side within the lane.

4.When approaching a place where a right turn is authorized. When riding on a one-way highway with two or more marked traffic lanes. Here, bicyclists may ride as near the left-hand curb or edge of such roadway as practicable. [5/11-1505]

Riding Side-by-Side: Riding two abreast is permitted, if the normal and reasonable movement of traffic is not impeded. Riding more than two abreast is prohibited except on paths or parts of roadways set aside for the exclusive use of bicycles. [5/11-1505.1]

Riding on a Shoulder: The law restricting driving on a shoulder shall not apply to any bicycle. [5/11-709.1]

Left Turns: Bicyclists may choose between a vehicular-style left turn or a pedestrian-style left turn. [5/11-1510]

For vehicular style left turns, proceed as if driving a vehicle, moving to the left lane or the left side of a single lane prior to the intersection. [5/11-801]

For pedestrian-style left-turns, ride near the right side of the roadway, cross the intersecting roadway, stop (as

much as practicable out of the way of traffic), yield to any traffic and proceed in the new direction, while obeying any official traffic control device or police officer. [5/11-1510]

Hand Signals: Signals shall be given from the left side as follows: Left turn— hand and arm extended horizontally. Right turn—hand and arm extended upward, except bicyclists may extend the right hand and arm horizontally and to the right side of the bike. Stop or decrease of speed—hand and arm extended downward. [5/11-806] Signal not less than the last 100 feet before the turn, and while the bicycle is stopped waiting to turn. Signals need not be given continuously if the hand is needed in the control or operation of the bicycle. [5/11-1511]

Find more about Bike Laws here: rideillinois.org/safety/bike-laws/

Be part of the conversation, GROW meetings are the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 PM in the Court room of Westchester Village Hall. Please join us.

Interested in Joining the GROW Commission?

The Green Residents of Westchester (GROW) Ecological Commission will have two 3-year terms open beginning immediately.

Purpose of the GROW Commission:

Our mission is to work to advise the Village and help educate the community in environmental programs and practices to improve the quality of our air, water and land, to reduce greenhouse gases, minimize waste, and

reduce energy consumption. We work to be critical partners in beautification and ecological decisions. The commission shall also prepare, maintain, achieve objectives of, and sustain Westchester’s Climate Action Plan.

Responsibilities of GROW Commissioners:

Candidates must have ability and availability to participate in commission meetings, community education/outreach via local events, and contribute to the Village newsletter. Relevant knowledge, education or experience is helpful, but not required. Commission meetings are generally held the first Thursday of each month from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm. Key to the commission being able to educate and engage residents for action on environmental issues/practices, individuals that have some availability outside of our monthly meetings are preferred. Westchester residents 21 years or older are welcome to apply. If you are interested in becoming a member of the GROW Commission, submit a copy of your resume/bio along with a cover letter/statement about your background and interests to:

Evie Slavic (eslavic@westchester-il. org)

Upcoming GROW Event:

Join the GROW Committee as an ECO Ally for the Fourth of July Parade on Tuesday the 4th of July

Decorate your bicycles, helmets or trailers, and let’s ride the parade route together…

S C hool D i S tri C t

Westchester Welcomes New Board Members

Congratulations to Village President Greg Hribal, Village Clerk Sophia Collins, and incoming Village Trustee members Gia Marie Benline, Peter Marzano, and Victoria Vann on their inauguration to the Westchester Village Board on May 9, 2023. They join Trustee Nick Steker, Robert Morales, and Evie Slavic on the Board.

After the swearing in of the newly elected Trustee, President Hribal presented Proclamations to outgoing Trustees Cathy Kuratko, Tracy Jennings, Tracy Markey and Clerk Jennifer Hall for their contributions for serving on the Village Board.

Thank You to the Outgoing Board Members

Trustees; Gia Marie Benline, Robert Morales, Evie Slavic, Victoria M. Vann, Village President Greg Hribal, Trustees; Peter Marzano, Nick Steker, Village Clerk Sophia Collins.

VILLAGE OF WESTCHESTER FAQs — Water Meter Replacement Program

In 2022, the Village of Westchester approved a contract with Core & Main for the replacement of its aging water meters. This project replaces roughly 6,400 of the 7,000 residential water meters within a new Sensus iPERL water meter. Here are some common questions regarding a meter replacement.

1. Why is the Village replacing water meters?

Most of the current water meters are over 20 years old and have exceeded their life expectancy. Over time water meters lose accuracy with age resulting in unaccounted water usage, loss from waste, and lost revenue to sustain the water utility system.

2. Is there a cost to the resident for the new water meter?

There is NO COST to the resident to install the new Sensus iPERL smart water meter. However, if your main shut off valve is inoperable the contractor will change the valve, IF YOU CHOSE, for a fee of $250.00.

3. Am I required to replace my main shut off valve?

NO, you are not required to replace the main shut off valve but it is highly recommend that the resident replace the main shut off valve if it is found to be inoperable.

4. Why is it recommended to replace my main shut off valve?

Your main shut off valve is used to turn the water off in your home in case a

water issue occurs. If a pipe was to break in your home this valve is the only way to stop the water from leaking until the Public Works Department can get to your home and shut the water off from the Buffalo Box located in the parkway.

5. Can I have my own plumber change the main shut off valve?

Yes, as long as they are a licensed Illinois plumber registered in Westchester.

6. Do I need a permit to change the main shut off valve?

Yes, if you use your own plumber the permit fee will be waived but the contractor must provide proof to the Building Department that he/she is a licensed plumber.

7. What is a bonded jumper cable?

The bonded jumper cable is actually a grounding wire, a short section of large gauge wire that “jumps” or goes across the water meter and is securely attached to the water pipe. A missing jumper cable can be a safety issue should an electrical fault occur where no ground path is present. The water pipes could become energized and deliver an electrical shock to anyone who touches the pipes.

If there is NO bonded jumper cable is present, the contractor will install one, IF YOU CHOSE, for a fee of $50.00. Because this is a safety measure against possible electrocution, the Village will be notified is the bonded jumper cable is not present.

8. Who is responsible for the main shut off valve and bonded jumper cable?

The Village is only responsible for the meter. The main shut off valve and jumper cable is the responsibility of the homeowner.

9. Who is installing the new water meters?

Core & Main has contracted with United Meters Inc. (UMI) from Morris, Illinois. All UMI installers are Illinois licensed plumbers and have completed background checks performed by the Westchester Police Department.

10. Will the installer need to come inside my home?

Yes, since the water meter is located inside your home the installer will need access to the meter. The replacement of the water meter will take about 20 – 30 minutes.

11. Do I need to be home for the installation?

Yes, someone 18 years or older must be present during the installation.

12. Will my water bill increase due to the new meter?

Possibly. Your water bill may increase depending on how inaccurate your old water meter was reading and functioning. The new Sensus iPERL smart meters are very accurate and will account for all water that your household is using. It is ESTIMATED that there a potential cost increase of $6.00 each bi-monthly water bill or $12.00 per water bill for a senior

and a potential cost increase of $11.00 per month for a family or $22.00 each bi-monthly water bill. This is dependent upon individual home water usage.

13. Can the Village tell me how inaccurate my old water meter is?

Unfortunately, no, the Village cannot determine the inaccuracy unless the water meter is specifically sent out to be tested.

14. Will I be charged for past unaccounted water from my old water meter?

NO, you will not be charged for any water that was unaccounted for from the old meter.

15. Why didn’t I receive a letter about new meter installation?

In the last several years, the Village has replaced 600 meters. If your meter was one of those 600, your meter WILL NOT need to be changed.

16. What is the best way to have additional questions I have answered?

Please contact the Village of Westchester Public Works Department at (708) 3450041.

Please use your QR code to review the video on the replacement program. If you are unable to use the QR code, please view the Village Board video from the May 23, 2023 Meeting. Public Works Supervisor Steve Crowley provides an explanation of the program and answers questions from the audience.

Serving Westchester’s Seniors –A Citizen’s Advisory Board Priority

Mike Finelli, Member of the Westchester Citizen’s Advisory Board

The US Census Bureau predicts that in 2034 people 65 and older will, for the first time in history, outnumber children under 18. This unprecedented demographic shift, which is also occurring in other developed countries across the globe, will require significant government attention and a restructuring of public policy emphasis. A review of the data pertaining to our own community reveals that the Village of Westchester is, in fact, ahead of this disturbing trend. US Census Quick Facts, as of July 1, 2022, reports that 28.7% of Westchester residents are 65 years and over, while children under 18 account for 19.9% of the village population. It is also interesting to note that similar data sources indicate that Westchester’s population is generally older than that of neighboring Cook County villages.

The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Public Policy Institute states “Communities must prepare for the housing and service needs of older adults…. acting now to put policies in place that will address challenges that community members may face as they age.” Significant among the challenges referenced by AARP is addressing the needs required for seniors to Age in Place. Aging in Place is the concept of older adults living independently in their own homes for as long as possible. Aging in the comfort of a familiar neighborhood is the overwhelming choice of older adults and much preferred over relocation to age segregated accommodations, such as a retirement center or senior care facility. The data supports their preference. Numerous studies demonstrate that aging in place can lead to better health outcomes, improved life satisfaction, and greater self-esteem.

Coordinating critical services is necessary for seniors to age well, live safely and thrive in their current community. The Village of Westchester is fortunate that a number of suburban Non-Profits and Government Agencies support our seniors with a comprehensive offering of home and community-based services; services such as socialization activities, transportation, meals on wheels, counseling, care coordination, handy man services, and much more.

Even when a wealth of senior services is available, a common refrain among seniors and their caregivers is “I wish I had known about these services sooner.” To that end, it is the intent of Westchester’s Citizen’s Advisory Board (CAB) to bring the services of these organizations to the attention of Westchester’s seniors and their caregivers. Beginning this month with AgeOptions and for the next several months, we will profile in Village newsletter organizations dedicated

to helping Westchester seniors remain active members of their community while creating purposeful paths for aging.

AgeOptions People thriving as they age is the vision of AgeOptions, is the Area Agency on Aging serving suburban Cook County, Illinois. Founded in 1974, the nonprofit organization creates and sustains a variety of innovative programs and services that respond to the rich diversity of our communities and older adults, caregivers and adults with disabilities.

AgeOptions is part of a national network of Area Agencies on Aging established by the federal Older Americans Act of 1965. In 1974, the Illinois Department on Aging designated it as the Suburban Cook County Area Agency on Aging, one of 13 in the state. Area Agencies have the primary task of planning and coordinating services and programs for older people in their respective areas.

AgeOptions administers almost $22 million annually in federal and state funding, with more than 75 percent of these resources supporting services through grants to more than 95 community-based organizations serving older adults. AgeOptions also receives and administers grants for special programs from organizations across the country. In 2022, AgeOptions and its partners reached 177,173 older adults, caregivers and adults with disabilities.

Programs and services provided by AgeOptions and the community partners it funds include:

• Home-delivered and group dining meals

• Information and assistance providing local, reliable and knowledgeable sources of information on benefits, services and programs for older adults, their families and friends

• Assistance navigating benefits applications and enrollment

• Culturally appropriate services and supports for limited-English-speaking and newly arrived residents

• Support and resources for caregivers

• Health promotion programs for people living with chronic health conditions

• Elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation services to support older persons through local senior service agencies

• Legal assistance

• In-home care

• Housing assistance

• Transportation

• Home Options Path to Empowerment (H.O.P.E.) by AgeOptions, funded by the Department of Human Services under the Colbert and Williams Consent decrees to help eligible nursing facility residents

move into the community and live as independently as possible.

• Technology support and other programming through 37 libraries in suburban Cook County

Additional AgeOptions Programs - While AgeOptions programs are concentrated in suburban Cook County, it also leads coalitions and has direct responsibility for several programs that serve metropolitan Chicago and the entire state.

• Illinois Pathways to Health - Illinois Pathways to Health connects people who are interested in bettering their health and wellbeing with evidence-based programs that promote self-management of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and chronic pain, cancer and risk or fear of falling. Smallgroup interactive workshops are offered in-person and virtually for individuals. Special programs for caregivers help them manage stress and difficult emotions and learn to better manage their role as a caregiver. For more information go to www. illinoispathwaystohealth.org.

• Illinois Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP), empowers older adults to prevent, detect and report Medicare fraud and also provides useful information on other types of frauds and scams. For more information go to www.illinoissmp.org.

• Social isolation and lonelinessOlder people can be especially vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness, and several AgeOptions programs focus on creating opportunities to connect and socialize. These include group dining at senior centers and other locations, programs for caregivers, health promotion programs and Thrive with Pride, which provides a social gathering place for LGBT+ older adults. Additional programs addressing social isolation include partnerships with local libraries, Memory Cafes for people living with memory loss and their care partners and Uniper, an interactive, online senior center.

• Avisery by AgeOptions - Avisery by AgeOptions educates health care and financial professionals so they can better serve their clients’ and patients’ needs through informed decision-making on health care coverage. Avisery also provides training for community-based agencies in providing free, unbiased and trusted health care information to low-income, vulnerable older adults in Illinois. For more information go to https://www.avisery.org/.

• Vaccinations - AgeOptions began offering COVID-19 vaccinations early in the

pandemic and is continuing to provide both COVID and flu shots for people who have difficulty leaving their homes.

Agencies Serving Westchester - AgeOptions provides funding, training and technical services to its partner agencies in the community. These agencies have specific grants for South Proviso Township, including Westchester:

• Aging Care Connections

• Community Nutrition Network

• Solutions for Care

These funded agencies serve all of suburban Cook County, including Westchester:

• Alivio Medical Center

• Arab American Family Services

• Center for Disability & Elder Law

• Hanul Family Alliance

• Legal Aid Chicago

• Metropolitan Asian Family Services

• White Crane Wellness Center

• Xilin Association

How to Get Assistance from AgeOptions and Community Agencies - Older adults, their families and friends are encouraged to contact the agencies in their area listed above, or they can start by calling AgeOptions at (708)383-0258. You will get help determining which benefits, services and programs best meet your needs, and AgeOptions will assist you directly or refer you to an agency near you that can help. For more information about AgeOptions and programs and services for older adults and caregivers, go to https://www.ageoptions. org/.

The needs and interests of Westchester’s seniors are, indeed, priorities of CAB. The Senior Services Awareness Initiative, represented by the AgeOption’s profile and those profiles that will follow in the coming months, is but an introduction to CAB’s developing Senior Priorities. CAB pledges to work closely and intentionally with Westchester’s seniors, Village officials and other community stakeholders to identify programs and fill service gaps that will provide the opportunity for Westchester’s most tenured residents to live independent, dignified, and fulfilled lives.

If you have questions or comments regarding the Citizens Advisory Board’s Senior Priority or the content of this article, please contact Mike Finelli (CAB member) at mfinelli@westchester-il.gov or Dawn Wucki-Rossbach (Acting Village Manager) at dwrossbach@westchester-il.gov.

Westchester Parents & Teachers for Children

What a wonderful school year! Thank you for all the generosity and support shown throughout the year!

We have had many exciting events the past month and are wrapping up the last days of school with WPS, WIS and WMS Field Days! Students at all three schools will be treated to Kona Ice as we finish out the year! What a cool and delicious way to celebrate!

May held Teacher Appreciation week and it was phenomenal!

Donations of treats as well as monetary donations were plentiful and greatly appreciated.

Thank you so much.

There was a WPTC Board Meeting on May 3rd at which time election results were read. Thank you to all who voted.

Plant pick up went well. All the hard work by the volunteers was appreciated. The end of May also held our teacher appreciation lunch, catered from Starship; as well as the bus driver

appreciation breakfast. The WPTC had information available and Spirit Wear on sale at all schools for incoming student orientation. We look forward to working with all the new and returning families next school year!

We finished out this school year’s restaurant fundraisers at Wendy’s and McDonald’s. As always, the WMS McTeacher night was an enjoyable experience. We are so happy to continue this tradition. In this last month of school, students enjoyed their 2nd and 5th grade celebrations as well as the 8th grade dinner-dance and all school dance. Have a wonderful summer! We look forward to the next school year.

Please continue to check our Facebook page and website for any updates!

www.wptc.membershiptoolkit.com

https://www.facebook.com/WPTC92.5 You can also reach the WPTC via email at wptc925@gmail.com.

Wednesday June 14, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Westchester Community Church 1840 Westchester Blvd.