|
City Officials
Mayor
Jerry Smith
City Council
David Jacobson
Ward One
Bill Finucane
Ward Two
Michael Marquardt
Ward Three
Patrick Fagan
Ward Four
Kate Noreiko
Ward Five
Mike Verbic
Ward Six
Anthony Faivre
Ward Seven
City Clerk
Susanna Herrmann
City Manager
Anne Marie Gaura
|
|
|
Camp Power Fishing Derby Connects Cops and Kids
|
|
DeKalb Police Officers participated in another successful year of Camp Power this summer. Camp Power was first introduced in 2014 as a collaborative summer program for children living in the University Village housing development. The Kishwaukee Family YMCA manages the on-site program through joint efforts of various community groups and private and public partnerships. The Police Department has played a key role in Camp Power since its inception. Children participating in Camp Power are provided a healthy lunch and snack while participating in a variety of structured activities focusing on physical wellness, education, and life skills.
“Participating in Camp Power has proven to be a valuable experience for everyone involved,” said Police Chief Gene Lowery. “Building positive relationships throughout the community is essential to achieving our public safety goals. It is especially important to connect with our youth, who are the future of the DeKalb community.”
One of the highlights of Camp Power is the Fishing Derby organized by Sergeant Paul Mott. Campers are taught basic fishing techniques and compete for the most fish caught. An award is given to the best fisherman of the day. This year’s winner was awarded a new fishing pole not for the number of fish he caught, but for his excellent sportsmanship demonstrated by a willingness to help others throughout the derby.
In October, the Police Department will be recognized at the International City/County Management Association’s annual conference in San Antonio for excellence in community policing through their involvement in Camp Power.
|
|
|
In This Issue
Camp Power
Development Updates
Fall Leaf Collection
DeKalb 2-1-1
Fire Department Open House
New Street Sweeper
Alert DeKalb
|
|
Get DeKalb
e-News delivered straight to your inbox...
|
|
|
Project Updates from the Community
Development Department
|
|
Sonic recently opened its new restaurant at 1115 West Lincoln Highway. The are located in an existing 3,480 square foot building, which was previously the location of a Kentucky Fried Chicken/Long John Silver’s restaurant. The restaurant includes 70 interior seats, patio seating, a drive-through and four “drive-in” spaces.
Renovation of a Chili’s restaurant, located at 2370 Sycamore Road, is progressing. The 5,800 square foot building formerly contained a Ruby Tuesday restaurant and will have seating for approximately 192 people. Chili's plans to open this fall.
Construction of a new Casey’s General Store at the northwest corner of Lincoln Highway and Peace Road commenced in late July. The 4,300 square foot facility will contain 16 fuel dispensers and a convenience store. It is anticipated the store will open by the end of November.
|
|
|
Employment
Opportunities
Visit the City's
Employment
page on the website to view and apply for open positions. For more information, contact Human Resources at 815-748-2300.
|
|
|
Fall Leaf Collection Guidelines
|
The City of DeKalb’s Loose Leaf Collection Program will begin in mid-October. Leaf collection schedules will be finalized by the Public Works Department in the coming weeks. In preparation for the Loose Leaf Collection Program, the City wishes to provide residents with these important reminders.
- Residents should rake their leaves into a narrow row parallel to the curb. Vacuum trucks traveling curbside will pick up the leaves from the parkway.
- Please do not rake leaves directly into the street. Leaves raked into the street can accumulate and prevent storm sewers from properly draining, potentially leading to street flooding.
- Leaves must be free of foreign materials, sticks, and rocks.
- Off-street parking is encouraged throughout the collection cycle. The City’s trucks have a difficult time maneuvering around parked cars and this may delay collection.
Waste Management will also pick up your leaves on your regularly scheduled garbage day. Leaves must be placed in biodegradable yard-waste bags or open garbage cans.
Leaves placed in plastic bags will not be picked up.
For your convenience, the City’s landscape waste dumpsters will remain in place through November.
Plastic bags are strictly prohibited
from being placed in the dumpsters
. Landscape waste dumpsters can be found at the following locations:
- Southeast corner of North Seventh Street and Oak Street
- Fire Station #2 – 1154 South Seventh Street
- City Garden Plots – 950 West Dresser Road
|
|
|
2-1-1: A New Resource for DeKalb County
|
|
This summer, the Kishwaukee United Way launched a new service to connect those in need of assistance with available community services. DeKalb County 2-1-1 is a non-emergency resource to find health and social services throughout DeKalb County. Calling 2-1-1 connects residents with a trained call taker 24 hours a day, 7 days a week who can provide information on a variety of issues. The service is free and all calls are strictly confidential. Some examples of what 2-1-1 might be used for include help for those in abusive relationships, homelessness or battling addiction, guidance for assistance with rent, utility bills, health care and housing, and information on transportation, education and job training.
Operators in the 2-1-1 call center will provide callers with information about services from nonprofit agencies, local and county government, local educational institutions, and other low-cost program providers. Residents can also access this service online by visiting
www.findhelp211.org or calling 888-865-9903 when outside the 2-1-1 service area.
|
|
|
Kishwaukee-Kiwanis Multiuse Path Construction Update
|
|
|
In August, contractors began construction of the Kishwaukee-Kiwanis Multiuse Path (KKMP). Once completed, the KKMP will connect Prairie Park south of Lincoln Highway to the Northern Illinois University campus on the north side of Lincoln Highway. This provides a continuous off-street path from Devonaire Farms Subdivision to the Hopkins Park Pool, which links to the DeKalb Nature Trail.
In 2011, the DeKalb Sycamore Area Transportation Study (DSATS) published a bicycle and pedestrian plan to enhance the regional connectivity of the DeKalb-Sycamore-Cortland trail system. This plan identified the KKMP as a critical component necessary to complete
DeKalb County’s Greenway and Trails Master Plan.
Looking to capitalize on available grant funding, the City and DSATS applied for the highly coveted Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) grant. The application was successful, and the City received $732,000 for construction, $95,200 for engineering, $90,000 for right-of-way and $80,500 for construction inspection assistance. ITEP is a Federal grant administered by the State of Illinois.
Project construction began with the clearing of trees and brush. Contractors will then begin installation of a prefabricated structure that will secure the Union Pacific Railroad Bridge and stabilize the west bank of the Kishwaukee River. Once secure, contractors will construct a 10-foot asphalt path along the west bank for pedestrians and bicyclists.
The KKMP is scheduled for completion in late winter with landscaping restorations to take place in early spring of 2018. Weather may affect the projected completion date. The recently lifted Illinois budget impasse delayed construction for one month. However, the recent favorable weather has allowed the project to progress quickly.
The City will update residents as the project nears completion.
|
|
|
Fire Department to Host Pancake Breakfast and Open House
|
|
The Fire Department will once again host its Annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House on Sunday, October 15, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. This event coincides with National Fire Prevention Week, which is observed every year during the week in which October 9 falls. President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the first National Fire Prevention Week in 1925, choosing the October date in remembrance of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
In observance of National Fire Prevention Week, the public is invited to Fire Station #1, 700 Pine Street, where Fire Department personnel will be providing tours of the fire station. Station tours are an excellent way to familiarize members of the community with the Fire Department and help the community learn its role in fire safety. Current and antique firefighting apparatus will be on display and there will be a slideshow displaying historical photos of the Fire Department. A small donation allows visitors to enjoy a breakfast that includes pancakes, sausage, and an assortment of hot and cold beverages. The money raised by this event will help fund the DeKalb Firefighters Historical Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit organization committed to preserving the history of the DeKalb Fire Department. Additional details are still being finalized. Follow the DeKalb Fire Department on Facebook for the latest updates.
|
|
|
City Purchases New Street Sweeper
|
Public Works staff is now able to more quickly and effectively remove debris from DeKalb neighborhoods with the purchase of a new Johnston RT655 Regenerative Air Street Sweeper. The vehicle replaces a 1999 Elgin Pelican mechanical sweeper, which has incurred significant maintenance and repair cost over the past five years.
The new regenerative air sweeper is a significant upgrade in that it sweeps at nearly twice the speed, picks up fine particles left behind by a mechanical sweeper, and provides a more ergonomic operator platform aimed at reducing operator fatigue and injury. This new vehicle is equipped with a rear-attached vacuum system making it a dual purpose vehicle that will also replace the City’s 1990 Vac All vehicle. Street sweeping is an essential City service that prevents road debris from entering storm sewers which create the potential for flooding during heavy rain.
|
|
The City encourages residents to register for Alert DeKalb, the City's new emergency notification system. The system will be used to notify the public of severe weather, public safety emergencies, and traffic disruptions. Residents can also submit crime tips and complaints to DeKalb Police through this service by texting "alertdekalb (followed by a message)" to 67283. As a reminder, CodeRED and iWatch are no longer utilized by the City. To receive future notifications, residents must register for Alert DeKalb.
|
|
|
Citizens' Enviromental Commission Meeting
September 7, 4 p.m. at City Hall
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 11, 5 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
City Council Meeting
September 11, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Citizens' Community Enhancement Commission Meeting
September 18, 4 p.m. at City Hall - Haish Conference Room
Committee of the Whole Special Meeting
September 19, 5 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
September 20, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Finance Advisory
Committee Meeting
September 21, 5 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 25, 5 p.m. at
City Hall - Council Chambers
City Council Meeting
September 25, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Airport Advisory Board Meeting
September 26, 7 p.m. at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport - Maintenance Facility
|
|
|
Human Relations Commission Meeting
October 3, 6:30 p.m.. at City Hall
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
October 4, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Citizens' Environmental Commission Meeting
October 5, 4 p.m. at City Hall
Economic Development Commission Meeting
October 6, 8 a.m. at City Hall
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 9, 5 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
City Council Meeting
October 9, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
DeKalb Firefighters Pension Board
October 12, 8 a.m. at City Hall - Ellwood Conference Room
Citizens' Community Enhancement Commission Meeting
October 16, 4 p.m. at City Hall - Haish Conference Room
Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting
October 18, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 23, 5 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
City Council Meeting
October 23, 6 p.m. at City Hall - Council Chambers
Airport Advisory Board Meeting
October 24, 7 p.m. at DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport - Maintenance Facility
|
|
|
To view agendas for City meetings, please go to the City's Agenda Center
here
.
To check for meeting cancellations and locations updates, please check the City Website
here
.
|
|
|
DeKalb Farmers' Market
Every Thursday of September, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The DeKalb Farmers’ Market will be held in Van Buer Plaza, at North Second and Locust Street, and will be open every Thursday through September. The DeKalb Farmers’ Market features more than 30 vendors and provides the community with fresh locally grown produce, bread, baked goods, coffee, flowers, food trucks and more!
DeKalb Kite Festival
September 10, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The DeKalb Kite Fest is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and see amazing kites! The fest is held at NIU - North 40, at Lucinda Ave. and Kishwaukee Dr. Everyone will enjoy seeing the giant inflatable kites, dancing kites, and fighting kites high up in the sky. Kite Fest is free and parking is available for only $3. Bring your own: sunscreen, chairs, blankets, food, non-alcoholic beverages, and kites. Free Kite candy drop and kite making craft for the kids. Food, beverages and kites will be available for purchase.
Finding the Right College and Tips on How to Pay for It
September 12, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
My College Planning Team is hosting a free seminar for families with high school students at the DeKalb Public Library! This workshop takes you through the complex world of admissions and financial aid. The workshop will also unveil important strategies you can use to get into—and afford—the college of your choice. Please register online, in person, or by telephone for this program, as space is limited.
For additional information, please contact Samantha at
samanthah@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.
Unity March
September 19, 5 p.m.
For the fourth consecutive year, members of the NIU and DeKalb communities will join together in a Unity March to signify their shared desire to bring about positive change. Participants will gather at 5 p.m. in the MLK Commons and then depart for a walk at 5:30 p.m. The walk will leave from MLK Commons and go up Normal Drive to Lucinda through Greenbriar and back to MLK Commons.
All are welcome to join. This event is being sponsored by organizations across NIU and the DeKalb community.
Local Lore: Our House is your House! 160 Years at 205 Pine Street
September 20, 12 p.m.
Local Lore is a series of adult lecture programs. Once a month, a knowledgeable speaker will present an hour-long program about history relevant to DeKalb County. All programs are free of charge and take place in the Ellwood House Museum Visitor Center, unless otherwise stated. Participants are welcome to bring a sack lunch to each program. This month, learn the history of the Gurler family in DeKalb, the unique role of the Gurler Heritage Association within our community, and how you can be a part of the Gurler House's pioneer legacy.
|
|
|
Senior Citizen Vehicle Safety Check
October 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Kishwaukee College Automotive Technology instructors and students will conduct a free 25-point vehicle safety check for seniors (60 years and older) at the DeKalb Township Building, 2323 S. Fourth St. Find out if your car is in tip top shape or if it needs a little bit of attention. Check list includes fluids, lights, belts, hoses, tire pressure, and more! No repairs will be conducted, but a free car wash is included. Space is limited.
Please call Officer Kelly Sullivan of the DeKalb Police Dept. at 815-748-8446 to reserve your time slot.
Local Lore: History of the DeKalb Fire Department
October 20, 12 p.m.
This installment of the Local Lore adult lecture series discusses the history of our very own DeKalb Fire Department! I
n honor of Fire Prevention Month, join Firefighter Luke Howieson for a presentation on the history of our local Fire Department and a glimpse into the unique treasures preserved by the DeKalb Firefighters Historical Foundation. The program is free of charge and takes place in the Ellwood House Museum Visitor Center. Participants are welcome to bring a sack lunch to each program.
Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra Halloween Concert
October 30, 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
The Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra will present its annual free concert at NIU's Boutell Memorial Concert Hall. The concert features a theme appropriate for children and adults. The 5:30 p.m. concert will be repeated at 7:30 p.m., and there will be trick-or-treating in the building a half hour before the 5:30 p.m. concert.
Stage Coach Players Events
126 South Fifth Street, DeKalb, IL
Performances of
$38,000 for a Friendly Face and
The New Mel Brooks Musical: Young Frankenstein are scheduled for September and October.
Egyptian Theatre Events
135 North Second Street, DeKalb, IL
Check out one of the many great shows scheduled for September and October at the Egyptian Theatre including
Rocky Horror Picture Show, Joe Nichols "Never Gets Old" Tour, Mike Super - Magic & Illusion, The Manhatten Transfer - 45th Anniversary Tour, and many more.
|
|
|
City Hall
200 South Fourth Street
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Police Station
700 West Lincoln Highway
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Public Works
1216 Market Street
Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport
3232 Pleasant Street
Monday - Friday
7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.
|
|
|
Police/Fire Emergency
911
Police Non-Emergency
815-748-8400
Parking Ticket Inquiries
815-748-8412
City Clerk
815-748-2095
City Manager's Office
815-748-2090
Finance Department
815-748-2000
Fire Department
815-748-8460
Mayor's Office
815-748-2099
DeKalb-Sycamore Area
815-748-2367
Transportation Study
DeKalb Taylor Municipal
815-748-8102
Airport
Public Works - Street Division
815-748-2040
Public Works - Utility Division
8
15-748-2050
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
