Fall 2019 City Of Geneva Newsletter

It comes as no surprise that most weekends in Geneva are replete with events to attend that are coordinated by the Chamber of Commerce and City as well as scores of events hosted by our local business community. In short, there is no reason to be bored in Geneva.

Take for instance the fall season that is now officially upon us. Autumn Fest; the downtown trick-or-treating; the Ooh, La, La Chocolate Run; Thriller on 38; Geneva Commons' Fall Fest and so on are all designed to engage, entertain and showcase the variety and vibrancy of our community, and to present opportunities to get-out-of-your-house to enjoy all that is going on close to home.

What began several years ago as encouragement to business owners in Geneva to create and orchestrate events to draw attention to their individual and collective brands has now become a large and growing dynamic of what makes Geneva's hospitality unique and enviable.

In fact, about 50 events take place annually in Geneva and are responsible for bringing more than 450,000 visitors to our little corner of the world.

So, here's to all the business owners, their staff and patrons who make coming to Geneva always a pleasure and always an adventure.

Enjoy the beauty of the fall season and, as always, the imagination of our businesses who, together, help define Geneva's welcoming spirit and eclectic environment.

My best,

Kevin Burns
Mayor

Ready, Set, Rake! City Announces Curbside Leaf Collection Schedule

New This Year

Residents will be able to track the progress of the City's leaf collection vendor this fall with map updates each weekday.

Geneva residents can mark their calendars for when the City's curbside leaf collection contractor will be in their neighborhood this fall.

The City's curbside leaf pickup is divided into three geographical zones, with each zone collected three times using vacuum truck equipment. Every street will be targeted one time during each of the three separate leaf pickups. Please note, the dates listed on the map are start dates, and each zone takes several days to complete.

Residents are required to rake their leaves to the parkway no later than 7 a.m. on the Monday of their scheduled pickup week. Leaves placed on the parkway after the crews have passed will not be collected until the next scheduled date.

If crews finish a zone early, they may jump to the next area to work ahead of schedule. However, the contractor will return on the designated start date to make sure every street has been collected.

Leaves should be raked to the parkway parallel to the street and about 12 inches behind the curb or edge of the pavement. Raking leaves into the street or curb/gutter can clog storm sewers, which can later result in street flooding.

For more information about the leaf collection program, including the leaf bag program in December, visit the City's website.

Union Pacific To Close Third Street Train Crossing For Repairs Oct. 11-13

The Third Street railroad crossing in downtown Geneva will be closed from 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 11 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 as Union Pacific makes repairs to the train tracks.

Construction crews will be pulling the railroad pads and replacing the rail throughout the crossing. The crossing will be shut down to cars, but flaggers will be present to direct pedestrians across the train tracks.

Motorists are encouraged to use the Route 31 underpass as an alternate route.

Any future project updates will be posted to the City's website.

Union Pacific performed similar repair work Sept. 28-29 on the Western Avenue crossing.

City Seeks Community Input On Strategic Plan With Online Survey

Do you have thoughts about Geneva's customer service and City programs? Residents, merchants, and stakeholders are invited to share their thoughts with the City's Strategic Plan Advisory Committee's online survey.

The deadline for the survey, which will take about 10 minutes to fill out, is Wednesday, Oct 9.

The survey, along with the Sept. 18 community forum, are part of the Strategic Plan Advisory Committee's ongoing efforts to gather important community feedback and educate the community about the plan and its implementation. Public input will help the committee identify priorities and make recommendations to the City Council.

The 2025 strategic plan was created with assistance from a broad cross-section of community stakeholders and focuses on five unique areas. We encourage you to check it out.

A strategic plan is a valuable tool used by City leaders to identify goals and prioritize resources. The City Council and City staff rely on the visions presented within the plan to guide development and design programs to ensure Geneva remains a vibrant and prosperous community.

For more information about the survey, call Geneva City Hall at 630-232-7494.

South Street Scheduled To Reopen In November

Construction on the South Street culvert crossing is anticipated to start the week of Oct. 7 pending contract approval by the Geneva City Council next week.

South Street between Southampton Drive and Burgess Road was closed in August for safety reasons after the City discovered a sinkhole in the roadway. Engineering work began in September, and the City expects construction will be finished by early November, weather permitting.

Westbound South Street motorists are being detoured to head north on Burgess Road, west on Kaneville Road and south on Southampton Drive. The detour is reversed for motorists heading eastbound on South Street.

For more project information, visit the South Street project construction page on the City's website.

Geneva Library Depicted On City's Pewter Ornament

As the Geneva Public Library prepares to open its new facility in the coming months, the City's newest pewter ornament honors the current building the library has called home for more than a century.

The 2019 ornament, which depicts the library on the front and history of the building on the back, is now on sale for $12. The ornament can be purchased from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday at City Hall, 22 S. First St., or online at the " Shop The Geneva Store."

After a referendum passed in 1894, construction on the library began two years later. However, due to a lack of funding, the structure stood with half-finished walls for several years. In 1906, the women of the Geneva Improvement Association took over the structure "as a free gift" on the condition they see the library endeavor to completion. A $7,500 gift from Andrew Carnegie in 1907 also supported the library effort.

The original library building, located at the corner of Second and James Streets, opened in 1908, with additions following in 1938, 1986 and 1998. The Craftsman architectural style is enhanced by stone exterior chimneys and Tudor half-timbering with stucco. Stone for the original part of the building is from the Batavia quarry. More information about the Geneva Public Library District can be found on the library's website.

This is the 10th year Geneva has sold its traditional pewter ornament to the community. Previous editions still available to purchase are City Hall, Patten House, Moore House (The Little Traveler), Peck Farm and the Fabyan Windmill.

The City's "Shop The Geneva Store" also sells refuse stickers and other Geneva-themed merchandise, including silicone bands, coffee mugs, tote bags and more at City Hall and online. Shipping charges will apply to online orders. For more information, call Geneva City Hall at 630-232-7494.

Come Connect With Us: City Approaching 10,000 "Likes" On Facebook

We know many of you connect with the City on Facebook for news and happenings in your favorite community. In fact, that number is now approaching a grand milestone: 10,000 "likes."

With only 43 more likes needed to reach our goal, the City will be offering a small gift basket with a complimentary 2019 pewter ornament and other Geneva swag to follower number 10,000. If you do not follow us yet, click the graphic in this story and select the "like" button on the page. It is that simple.

The City would like to thank all our followers who have helped grow our social media presence throughout the years. Besides Facebook, people who live in or love Geneva can also connect with the City on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

City To Conduct Public Hearing This Fall

Learn More

Residents can view the Sept. 23 City Council Policy discussion presentation and watch the meeting on the City's YouTube channel

After the Geneva City Council held a policy discussion Sept. 23 regarding the City's options in regulating adult-use recreational cannabis business establishments, the process will move to a public hearing later this fall.

The state legislature has enacted the Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act that pertains to the possession, use, cultivation, transportation and dispensing of cannabis. The Act provides the City with various options as it relates to the local regulation of adult-use cannabis business establishments.

The City Council did not take a formal action Sept. 23 on whether to allow these businesses to be able to operate in Geneva. However, the City Council did determine the process should move to the Planning & Zoning Commission for a public hearing, a date for which has not yet been determined.

The Commission will be tasked with recommending:

What zoning districts may be appropriate for the various cannabis business uses (there are seven - see the staff presentation);
Operational conditions such as restrictions on hours of operation, requirements for off-street parking, and separation distances from schools, churches, parks, daycares, etc.

To stay connected to the public hearing details, subscribe to the City's Development Projects Map updates on the City's website.

Following the conclusion of the public hearing and deliberation, the matter will return to the City Council for a formal vote on recommendations provided by the Planning & Zoning Commission.

During a separate meeting this fall, the City Council will consider a cannabis sales tax ordinance, which is permitted under state statute, that would be enacted if the City proceeds with permitting adult-use cannabis business establishments.

Public, Private Partnership Helps Beautify Downtown Geneva

A northern gateway into downtown Geneva has received a landscaping upgrade this summer thanks to a public-private partnership between the City and Ashland Center.

After approval from the City Council in July, beautification efforts began along the City's right-of-way on the southwest corner of Third and Hamilton streets. The right-of-way runs along the north side of Ashland's private parking lot.

The improvements create a more pedestrian-friendly environment with additional green space, benches and permeable pavers. Ashland was responsible for funding the installation and maintenance of the landscaping, and the City extended its irrigation system from the nearby garden knuckle on the corner.

People can learn more about the enhancements, including renderings of what the area will look like when the landscaping has matured, by watching the July 1 Committee of the Whole meeting.

Mark Your Calendars For Fun In Geneva This Fall

For those looking to get a jump start on that Halloween candy collection, the Geneva downtown trick-or-treating event provides a fun and safe environment for families. Just look for the sign (above) for participating downtown merchants.

The holidays will be here before you know it. Mark your calendars for the Geneva Christmas Walk, Holiday House Tour and Steeple Walk coming in December. Visit the City's website for more events and details.

Volunteers Welcome: Fox River Clean Up Day Rescheduled To Oct. 26

Geneva Chamber Of Commerce Plants New Downtown Christmas Tree

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce has planted a new blue spruce tree at the historic Kane County Courthouse in August that will be used to celebrate the holiday season for years to come.

The tree stands more than 20 feet tall on the front lawn on the north side of the building.

Several bad weather situations in late fall and early winter severely damaged the 50-foot Christmas tree that had been there since the 1980s. For safety reasons, the tree had to be removed.

The tree will be officially lit for the first time during the Christmas Walk scheduled for 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6. A full schedule of events will be posted later this fall on the chamber's website.

Lakeshore Recycling Announces New Way To Dispose Of Mattresses

Need to dispose of an old mattress? Lakeshore Recycling Systems is now requiring residents to wrap or enclose an mattress in plastic before setting it out at the curb on their normal garbage day.

An unwrapped mattress will not be collected by Lakeshore. One refuse sticker per item will be required for disposal.

For more information about Geneva's refuse and recycling services, visit the City's website.

Additional Legionella Case Confirmed In Batavia

The Kane County Health Department has been informed of another case of Legionnaires disease at Covenant Living at the Holmstad in Batavia.

The Illinois Department of Public Health reports another confirmed case at Covenant Living at the Holmstad as of Sept. 30. There have been 15 total confirmed cases: 13 at Covenant Living and two additional cases - one resident of Geneva and one resident of Batavia, within one-half mile of the facility.

The City has posted the Kane County Health Department news release in its entirety on our website.

State Reopens Fox River To Recreational Boating This Week

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has lifted restrictions Oct. 1 for boating and other water-related recreational activities on the Fox River in Kane County.

The river had been closed since mid-September due to high water levels, which have since receded.

To view the latest river closure information, visit the Illinois Department of Natural Resources website.

Festival Of The Vine Ushered In The Fall Season

Festival of the Vine brought plenty of fun, food, wine, music and more to downtown Geneva in September. Relive the memories by viewing our photo gallery on Facebook.

Kudos to the Geneva Chamber of Commerce for organizing another fantastic festival for our community.

Economic Development News: Check Out The Blog For Autumn Fest Details

If you love all that our City has to offer, you need to subscribe to the Shop, Dine, Experience Geneva blog.

Our latest blog entry highlights the upcoming Autumn Fest, which takes place this weekend in the downtown. Come celebrate all things fall at this inaugural event coordinated by local Geneva merchants.

Check Out New Geneva Businesses

Find the latest businesses that now call Geneva home with our interactive New Business Map. Thank you for supporting our local merchants and commercial outlets.

Police Department News: Halloween Safety Reminders

The Geneva Police Department would like to take this opportunity to provide some safety reminders for those who plan on trick-or-treating this year.

The police department recommends Halloween trick-or-treating be conducted between 3 and 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31. Police also would like to pass along the following safety guidelines to families:

Wear light-colored clothing or some type of reflective material for better visibility;
Ensure costumes fit and are worn in a manner that prevents tripping;
If children wear masks, make sure they can see clearly and their visibility is not obstructed;
Small children should always be accompanied by an adult;
It is best to trick-or-treat in groups;
Go out in daylight when possible and carry a flashlight for use if out after dark;
Only give and accept wrapped candy;
Examine all candy before allowing children to eat it;
Avoid carrying hard props such as swords and daggers. Substitute with foam rubber materials;
Stay within familiar neighborhoods. Only visit homes where you know the residents;
Take your treats at the front door. Do not enter a stranger's home without a trusted adult;
Look both ways prior to crossing the street and utilize a marked crosswalk whenever possible; and
Only walk on sidewalks when possible.

The Geneva Police Department hopes everyone has a fun and safe Halloween.

Community Development News: New Planning & Zoning Commission

The City's newly created Planning & Zoning Commission officially held its first meeting last month. While branded with a new name, the group will be handling many of its previous duties but doing it more efficiently.

The Planning & Zoning Commission has combined the roles of the Plan Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals. The new panel will serve as a recommending body to the Geneva City Council regarding proposed developments, zoning matters and more.

One of the goals of the City's Downtown Zoning Update earlier this year was to streamline review processes without compromising quality. For example, providing the ability to request a variation and site plan review at the same meeting is more efficient and cost-effective for both the applicant and the City. Having a combined Planning & Zoning Commission also is a growing common practice with 41 of 63 municipalities surveyed having already switched to this format.

Geneva residents wanting to stay on top of the latest local residential, commercial and industrial projects can subscribe to receive Development Projects Map updates from the City. To learn more about the Planning & Zoning Commission, visit the City's website.

Fire Department News: Annual Report Presentation

Geneva Fire Chief Mike Antenore provided a detailed overview of the department during his 2018 annual report to the City Council in August.

The discussion highlighted response times/challenges, accomplishments during the past year and future goals among other topics. Follow along in the video and with the Chief's presentation.

Public Works Department News: Downtown Brick Repair Work Starts Next Week

Portions of South Third Street in downtown Geneva will be temporarily reduced to one lane the week of Oct. 7 as construction crews replace bricks at various crosswalks and intersections.

The spot repair project will take place from James to South streets during daytime hours with flaggers directing traffic. Third Street will be fully reopened each night before construction activities resume the following day.

On State Street (Route 38), spot brick replacement along the sidewalk ribbons will occur from Fourth to Sixth streets. All traffic lanes will remain open, but a few parking spaces may be temporarily closed each day to accommodate crews in the area.

The brick projects on both streets are expected to be completed by Friday, Oct. 11, weather permitting.

For more information, call the Geneva Public Works Department Street Division at 630-232-1501.

Fall Fire Hydrant Flushing Program Winding Down

The City of Geneva's fall fire hydrant flushing maintenance program is nearing completion for the season.

Hydrants are being flushed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday. The water is safe to drink, but residents are encouraged to let their faucets run for a few minutes if they notice any discoloration.

People are urged to limit their water use if possible and refrain from washing their clothes during this time period to avoid staining from rusty water. In the event rusty water discolors clothing, residents should keep their laundry wet and purchase a rust-removing solution packet from a local retailer.

Signs will be placed in neighborhoods to remind residents that the program is underway in their area. Residents also can view a hydrant flushing progress map on the City's website or on Twitter.

The City flushes its hydrants twice a year to improve the overall quality of the water by cleaning the water mains of rust and corrosion and to ensure that all fire hydrants are working properly. The fall program began Sept. 24.

For more information, contact James Childress, Geneva Public Works System Maintenance and Customer Service Supervisor, at 630-232-1551 or via email.

Residents Can Now Track City's Monthly Brush Collection Program Online

Curious to know if the City's brush collection crews have been down your block yet? Residents can now track the progress of the monthly pickup program with a new online map.

Kramer Tree Specialists, the City's brush contractor, will update the map weekdays during the first two full weeks of each month.

Brush pickup is intended for the disposal of tree limbs and branches that are removed by the property owner for normal maintenance and upkeep, not for lot clearing. Kramer's crews will not collect material produced by a private contractor.

The brush program divides the City into two zones, with each zone taking several days to complete. Crews will be picking up brush the weeks of:

Zone 1	Zone 2
Oct. 7	Oct. 14
Nov. 4	Nov. 11

For more information about Geneva's refuse and recycling services, visit the City's website or call the Public Works Department at 630-232-1501.

About Geneva

Located 40 miles west of Chicago along the Fox River, Geneva is home to 21,495 residents and serves as the seat of Kane County government. The City's character is found in its distinct architecture, historic buildings and picturesque natural areas. With festivals and events year-round, Geneva is a special destination for unique and award-winning shopping, restaurants, galleries and more. Home to excellent schools, library, parks and a vibrant cultural arts scene, Geneva continues to be one of the premier cities in the Chicago area to live, work, play and raise a family. For the latest news, visit the City's website.