Thursday, May 20, 2021
Dear River Forest Residents,

I am proud to announce that the Village has received the Government Finance Officers Association award for the 13th year in a row for excellence in financial reporting. This award provides added assurance for residents that the Village is in a strong financial position, and that the spirit of transparency and full disclosure are always a first priority. This award demonstrates accountability, and that the Village spends within its means. Click here to read the full press release.

Earlier this month, the Village Board approved a contract with Christopher Burke Engineering to complete a Stormwater Master Plan. The purpose of the plan is to get an idea for the next 20 years of how much protection and flood mitigation the Village can afford. This project will enable the Village to assess stormwater issues, identify areas for improvement and help minimize flooding impacts. Click here for more information about flooding and flood prevention.

I’d like to congratulate all of our D200, Trinity and Fenwick high school seniors who will be graduating next week after such a challenging year, and to wish them much success in their future endeavors. 

Memorial Day is fast approaching and is a day when we honor all of those who have selflessly served our country, while protecting our freedoms. Please visit this link to view a list of all the local veterans who will be saluted Monday, May 31 at 10 a.m. during a ceremony hosted by the Park District at the Memorial Parkway War Memorial.

Sincerely,
Cathy Adduci, Village President
Village of River Forest
Mask Guidance Update

On Tuesday, Governor Pritzker announced a new executive order regarding updated guidelines for face covers through the 'Bridge Phase' of the Restore Illinois Plan. This order rescinds the State’s previous face cover rules and replaces them with the CDC’s new guidance. Now, fully vaccinated individuals can resume a number of activities without wearing a face cover according to new guidelines. To learn more, click here. Please note that businesses may still require face masks upon entry.
COVID-19 Vaccine Update

The percentage of fully vaccinated people in Illinois continues to increase, as all adolescents ages 12 to 15 are now eligible to receive a free COVID-19 vaccine. Please note: anyone under 18 years of age can only receive the Pfizer vaccine and must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. For more information, click here. 

Walk-in appointments are available at a number of locations, or can be scheduled here. Suburban Cook County residents who are homebound due to medical reasons can receive the vaccine in their homes. To register, and for more information, click here. Residents can also text ‘AlertCook’ to 888-777 for text alerts about appointments at mass vaccination sites, or register here to receive text or email alerts.
River Forest Vaccine Rates

COVID-19 vaccinations throughout the Village continue to progress, with more than 60% of residents having received at least one dose. For the most current and up-to-date vaccine data, specific to River Forest, click here and click 'Data by Town'.
Memorial Day Ceremony
In lieu of the parade, the River Forest Park District will host a Memorial Day Ceremony to honor our veterans. The event will take place on Monday, May 31 at 10 a.m. at the Memorial Parkway War Memorial on Lake Street. To view the Memorial Day Honor Roll that includes a list of local veterans, and to download the event program, click here.
Be Aware of Aggressive Hawks
The Village is addressing concerns regarding a hawk defending its nest near the corner of Iowa Street and Clinton Place, and has added warning signs in this area. Additionally, the Department of Natural Resources has been contacted for assistance. In the meantime, please avoid the area when/if possible.
Business Forum

The Economic Development Commission, in cooperation with the Oak Park River Forest Chamber of Commerce, will host a business forum for all segments of River Forest businesses. Businesses will receive invitations, but remote and home-based businesses are also invited to register. Chamber membership is not required to participate.
Public Meeting:
Advisory Body
Volunteer Process

The Village will host a community conversation regarding the process of becoming a board, committee or commission member. This discussion will be hosted at Village Hall and can also be attended on Zoom - June 2 at 7 p.m. Click here for more information.
May is
Bike Safety Month

May has been officially declared as 'Bike Safety Month' in the Village of River Forest. To read the full proclamation, which includes information about the Village’s ‘Bicycle Plan’, click here. For additional information from the Fire Department about bike safety, including how to properly fit bike helmets, click here.
Native Plant Garden
As you continue gardening this spring, consider using native plants versus species not usually found in this area. Native plants provide beauty, as well as food and shelter for wildlife. They also require little-to-no watering, and are resistant to drought, insect damage and most diseases. To learn more, click here.
Did You Know?
Not only is River Forest a great place to live, but it is also an award-winning Village! Click here to read more about the Village’s awards and recognitions, from excellence in financial reporting, to awards for innovative projects, and recognition for the Village’s commitments.
Looking for More Information? Visit vrf.us and enter your topic into the search bar (top right of the page) or email info@vrf.us with any questions!
Bern Realty, LLC is a family-owned and operated, full-service real estate company and an Oak Park River Forest Chamber member. Bern Realty, LLC offers services in buying, selling or leasing a business or property, tenant representation, and property management. To learn more, click here.
Shop River Forest! Please support our local businesses whenever possible! You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s website. If you’d like your business to be featured in the weekly Business Spotlight, please send us an email.