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Thursday, March 27, 2025

Dear River Forest residents,


I’d like to extend my congratulations to Deputy Chief James Greenwood on his well-earned promotion to Police Chief, effective May 1! With 28 years of law enforcement experience, James’ dedication to public service, ethics, and leadership reflects his commitment to our community. We look forward to all he will accomplish in this new role - you can learn more about him in the article below.


On Monday night, the Village was recognized as a B20 Club Fleet Partner by the American Lung Association and Illinois Soybean Association. This designation recognizes the Village’s recent conversion to using biodiesel for fire trucks and Public Works vehicles. The conversion has reduced fleet emissions and actually costs less than our previously used diesel fuel. 


With vehicle sticker applications going out soon, I want to remind active military members and veterans that they are eligible for a discounted rate. To receive the Military Discount, please stop by Village Hall and provide proof of status, such as a military pay stub, DD-214 form, military or veteran ID card, or other official documentation from a military or veteran office.


Now that we are in the midst of tax season, please be mindful of the many scams out there that attempt to take advantage of our residents. An article below provides tips on how to keep your finances secure.


Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President
Village of River Forest

Congratulations to Deputy Chief James Greenwood!

Deputy Chief James Greenwood has been promoted to Police Chief due to the retirement of Chief James O’Shea. Deputy Chief Greenwood began his law enforcement career with River Forest in 1997, starting as a patrol officer, where he was named Officer of the Year in 1999. He earned multiple certifications, including Truck Enforcement Officer, Child Passenger Safety Technician, and Rapid Deployment Instructor, before joining the Detective Unit in 2000. In that role, he managed high-profile investigations and implemented evidence management systems before his promotion to Patrol Sergeant in 2013.


In 2015, Deputy Chief Greenwood returned to the Detective Unit as Detective Sergeant, overseeing complex cases and earning certifications as a Lead Homicide Investigator, Firearms Instructor, and Taser Instructor. He completed the Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command in 2018, and received the Franklin Kreml Leadership Award. Later that year, he became Patrol Commander, managing patrol operations, budgets, and Department policies. In 2023, he was promoted to Deputy Chief, assisting in Department leadership, overseeing investigations, and serving as a Public Information Officer. Now, as Police Chief beginning May 1, he will bring decades of experience, leadership, and dedication to the River Forest community.

Tax Season Scams

Tax season is here and the Police Department wants to help our residents safeguard their financial information from potential scammers. It's important to note that the IRS does not communicate via phone to threaten individuals for unpaid taxes, which is just one of many scams. Also beware of odd or misspelled web links and tax scams on social media. Please click here to learn more.

Yard Waste Collection

From April 1 through December 2, yard waste and brush will be collected by Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS) every Tuesday, including grass, leaves, shrubbery cuttings, and bundled branches. Residents may set out yard waste as early as 6 p.m. on Monday evenings, but must have it placed by 7 a.m. on the collection day. Please ensure all yard waste is positioned in the parkway, immediately behind the curb - and not in the street. For more information about LRS services, click here.

Parent University

Empower yourself at Parent University! Join Thrive Counseling Center on Thursday, April 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Oak Park River Forest High School for this free event designed for parents and caregivers of students in Oak Park, River Forest, and surrounding area schools - both public and private. Gain valuable insights, resources, and practical tools to support your child’s mental health and well-being. Through expert-led sessions, you’ll learn how to navigate the challenges of adolescence and help guide your child on their mental wellness journey. A light dinner will be provided (while supplies last). Register here.

Commission Volunteers

You can make a difference by volunteering for a Village commission or committee to serve our community. Whether you're passionate about economic development, sustainability, or public safety, there’s a role where your skills and interests can make an impact! The volunteer form can be found by clicking here.

Triton Car Show

Save the date for the 5th annual Triton College Car Show on Sunday, April 27 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Check out hundreds of hot rods, classic cars, service vehicles, and big rigs - and then take a tour of Triton’s incredible Automotive Technology facilities. Admission and parking are free. Learn more here.

Village Recognized for Sustainable Efforts

In September 2024, River Forest took a bold step toward sustainability by switching to B20 Biodiesel for its fire trucks, snow plows, and other diesel-powered vehicles. This cleaner-burning, renewable fuel helps reduce the Village’s carbon footprint while supporting eco-friendly initiatives. Made from vegetable oils, animal fats, and recycled restaurant grease, biodiesel is a sustainable alternative to traditional diesel. In recognition of this commitment to a greener future, the American Lung Association and the Illinois Soybean Association proudly welcomed River Forest as an Affiliate Member of the B20 Club of Illinois.

River Forest Business Spotlight!

Capri Italian Foods is a family-owned Italian food store and deli and has been in River Forest for more than 50 years! The store prides itself on its homemade Italian sausage, meatballs, roast beef, pasta sauce, and more! Check out specialty items offered, or visit the deli for fresh submarine sandwiches. View the full menu here.



Please support local businesses whenever possible! If you have a business located in River Forest with a valid business license, it can be featured in the Village’s business spotlight. If you’d like your business to be featured, please send us an email. You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s Shop River Forest website.

What's Happening in River Forest?

Visit the River Forest Community Calendar at rfhappenings.com
to find out, today!

Village of River Forest


400 Park Avenue

River Forest, Illinois 60305

708-366-8500


vrf.us

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