News Flash

Park Forest Non-Partisan Committee announces candidate forum dates

The Park Forest Non-Partisan Committee (NPC) has announced dates for upcoming candidate forums for those running for elected offices in Park Forest in the April election. The NPC serves Park Forest by hosting public forums to provide an opportunity for ca...

Election Board Proceedings continue Friday morning to hear petition packet objections

Take a survey to improve transportation options in Park Forest, Matteson, and Richton Park

The Villages of Matteson, Park Forest, and Richton Park and working together to identify gaps in public transit accessibility for residents and find solutions. The project team wants to hear from you. Take a survey to help planners understand your transpo...

Election Board Proceedings to be held Friday morning to hear petition packet objections

Candidates set for April election, lottery for ballot placement to be held Dec. 30

 A lottery drawing for ballot placement for those candidates running for the office of Village Trustee and Library Trustee in the April 2021 election will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 30, 2020 at 11 a.m. A lottery drawing is required when more than...

Village seeks honorary street name suggestions by Jan. 15

Board to consider 2021 meeting schedule, dates close to being finalized

The Park Forest Board of Trustees will discuss the proposed board meeting schedule for 2021 at the next board meeting set for Monday, Dec. 7, being held via Zoom. If adopted, the 2021 board meeting schedule will be available on the village’s web...

Park Forest one of 88 cities in the world named as climate leader

The Village of Park Forest has been recognized by Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), an international non-profit organization that helps cities disclose their environmental impact, as one of 88 across the globe that continue to lead on environmental action ...

Pace route suspensions and schedule modifications to last through 2021

Pace is reducing service on Route 357 Lincoln Highway due to budget constraints and drops in ridership since the pandemic began.With its 2021 budget, Pace formalized 73 route suspensions and schedule modifications on 25 other routes which were temporarily...

Public hearing on water main project set for Dec. 1 at Village Hall

PUBLIC COMMENT NOTICE

IEPA FUNDING OF WATER MAIN IMPROVEMENTS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS AND ELEVATED TANK

 VILLAGE OF PARK FOREST, ILLINOIS

1.         Purpose of the Project  

The purpose of this project is to ...

School District 163 distributing food to 163 families

School District 163 is currently distributing meal packs to School District 163 families on Mondays and Wednesdays. Included on Wednesday are meal packs for Saturday and Sunday, if requested. On Wednesday afternoons, School District 163 families may pick ...

Petition packets available for residents interested in running for office

Petition packets are now available for residents interested in running for elected office in Park Forest. 

The next Park Forest election will be held on April 6, 2021. There will be three village trustee positions up for election, each for a four-...

Commission on Human Relations seeking donations, names of families in need until Dec. 10

Are you proud to be a Park Forester?  Show your pride for being part of the Park Forest community by participating in a collection drive taking place now through Dec. 10 to benefit area children. The Park Forest Commission on Human Relations is h...

Park Forest remembers Edwin J. Fizer

llinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation Restaurant Employee Relief Fund

Are you or someone you know employed by a restaurant?  Think of all our beloved cooks, mixologists, greeters, hostesses, and waitresses, to name a few whose lives have been upended by Covid-19. In response to the hardship caused by Covid-19, the ...

Nominate Your Park Forest Business Person of the Year by Oct. 31

Park Forest's Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) is seeking nominations for the EDAG 2020 Sam Montella Business Person of the Year. 

The EDAG Sam Montella Business Person of the Year award is an annual award to recognize Park Fore...

No village-sponsored Halloween events in 2020, but trick-or-treating to go on

No village-sponsored Halloween activities will take place in Park Forest this year due to COVID-19. The village has however established trick-or-treating hours in the community from to 2 to 5 p.m. Residents are encouraged to be mindful of the Illinois Dep...

Will County early voting locations

Though Cook County selected Village Hall as an early voting location for Cook County residents this year, Will County did not select any locations in Park Forest for early voting for Will County residents. . 

Park Forest residents located in the W...

Early voting for Cook County residents begins Oct. 19 in Park Forest

Park Forest is set to again have an early voting location.Early voting at Park Forest’s Village Hall is tentatively scheduled to begin Oct. 19 for residents of Cook County.Voters will be required to follow all COVID-19 precautions in place at Vi...

Comcast Business brings advanced network technology to Downtown Park Forest

Comcast Business announced last week that it has expanded its advanced network infrastructure in Downtown Park Forest, adding a half mile of fiber optic cable along Forest Blvd, Victory Drive, Main Street and Liberty Drive. The expansion, which will bring...

Park Forest ranks 13th in the nation in green power percentage of electric use

Park Forest is one of the top communities in the country in green power usage.Park Forest was officially recognized as a Green Power Community at the Sept. 6 board meeting held via Zoom.Green Power Communities are communities where the local government, b...

Growing Green Recycle Fest, Sept. 26

The Growing Green Recycle Fest, an event for the disposal of televisions, household batteries, used shoes, used eyeglasses, document destruction, and more, is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 26. Click below to view the flyer. 

Nominate someone for the Sustainability Award, deadline Sept. 25

The Park Forest Environment Commission is currently seeking nominations for the 2020 Park Forest Sustainability Award. 

Nominations are accepted for three possible awards: 

• Most Sustainable Resident• Most Sustainable Bu...

Vanderbilt urges residents to be counted before census deadline in CodeRed message

Late Thursday afternoon, residents enrolled in the CodeRed notification system received a recorded message from Park Forest Mayor Jonathan Vanderbilt. In Park Forest’s continued effort to urge every resident to be counted in the 2020 census, May...

Park Forest makes census push with three events this month to aid residents

With three weeks remaining before the deadline to Be Counted In 2020, Park Forest urges all residents who have yet to be counted to log-on today. Those in need of assistance may attend one of three upcoming census pop-up events where staff will be on hand...

After tornado sweeps through town nearly 600 remain without power, seek tree services

The Park Forest community is continuing clean-up efforts following Monday’s storms that produced an EF-0 tornado with winds in excess of 110 mile per hour and caused extensive damage to trees and power lines.Following the storm Monday evening, a...

Park Forest readies for clean-up following severe storms, some remain without power

Nearly six hours after severe storms swept through the area, an estimated 45% of Park Forest residents remain without power. ComEd crews continue to work on downed power lines in effort to restore service to area residents.Park Forest would like to make r...

Aug. 10 board meeting rescheduled following strong storms

Tonight’s meeting of the Park Forest Board of Trustees will be rescheduled for next Monday due to today’s severe weather which resulted in extensive damage, including multiple downed trees and power lines. An estimated 50 percent of Pa...

IHDA offering $5,000 Emergency Rental Assistance, applications accepted Aug. 10 - Aug. 21

IHDA Emergency Rental Assistance

Help is on the way! Keep reading to learn more.

Have you been having difficulty paying rent since the pandemic began earlier this year? You may qualify for one-time assistance of up to $5,000. 

The Illinois Housing D...

U.S. Census Bureau to end end counting Sept. 30, Park Forest currently at 67.2% counted

Yesterday the U.S. Census Bureau announced it would end census counting a month early on Sept. 30.

Park Forest is currently tracking at 67.2% counted. The state of Illinois by comparison is tracking at 67.8% counted.

In 2010, Park Forest finished with a res...

Park Forest launches Community Cares Fund

Park Forest residents having difficulty paying their water bill may be able to tap into a new village fund aimed at providing some relief during the coronavirus pandemic.The new Park Forest Community Cares fund allows residents recently unemployed or unde...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 66.2% of households counted as of July 13

Park Forest is currently at 66.2% counted in the 2020 census. Completion rates have increased by just four percent over the last two months. The areas of Park Forest with the lowest completion rates are:

• 44.5% - The Autumn Ridge area

• 6...

Crime Free Housing license and Alarm Permit deadline, Aug. 31

Two important deadlines are approaching for landlords and for residents with home security alarms. 

Crime Free Housing licenses due August 31

Rental property owners in Park Forest are required to submit an annual Crime Free Housing application. Thi...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 65.8% of households counted as of June 30

As of June 30, 65.8% of the Park Forest community has been counted in the 2020 census.

For those who still have yet to complete the census, it’s not too late. Park Forest encourages all residents to be counted today. Millions of dollars, which ca...

My Street Nights to begin four-week run on July 1

The Village of Park Forest’s Recreation, Parks, and Community Health Department is getting creative with bringing the arts to the community.From July 1 to July 22, the village will, literally, bring the arts to the neighborhood with a new mobile...

Census event hosted by Mike Love and Dizz set for June 27

Chicago media personalities Mike Love and Dizz host a special census event this Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. at Park Forest’s 7-11, located at 425 Sauk Trail.The live event, which will also stream on Park Forest’s Facebook page, aims to i...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 65.1% of households counted as of June 11

Census completion rates in Park Forest have begun to slow considerably over the past month. As of June 11, just over 65% of the community has been counted.

For those who still have yet to complete the census, it’s not too late. Park Forest encour...

Vehicle sticker, animal license, crime free housing license, and alarm permit deadlines approaching

Several deadlines extended in recent months due to the coronavirus pandemic are now approaching. Read more about each below.

Vehicle stickers and animal licenses due June 30

The 2020-21 Park Forest vehicle sticker must be purchased and properly displayed on...

Residents alerted to peaceful protest planned for June 4 at 4 p.m. in Chicago Heights

The following message was sent minutes ago via the CodeRed notification system:

The following is an important message from the Village of Park Forest: A peaceful protest is planned this afternoon, beginning at 4 p.m., in Chicago Heights. Traffic issues sho...

Curfew ends in Park Forest

The daily curfew instituted in the Village of Park Forest late Sunday has now expired. All residents may resume normal activities.

Rich Township offices and Jolly Trolley service to remain suspended thru June 29

Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, Rich Township offices will remain closed to the public thru June 29. Jolly Trolley service will also continue to be suspended until Rich Township resumes normal operations. 

Park Forest's Village Hall to reopen June 1, face masks to be required

After being closed just over two months due to the coronavirus pandemic, Park Forest’s Village Hall is set to reopen on Monday, June 1, beginning at 12 p.m.

The village will resume operations with a full complement of staff on site.

Park Forest wi...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 64.4% of households counted as of May 27

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?

Last week, 64% of Park Forest households had officially been counted. This week, 64.4% of Park Forest households are now counted. 

For those who still have yet to complete the census, it’s not...

Park Forest cuts $2.2 million from budget in response to coronavirus impact

The Village of Park Forest is implementing cost saving measures in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Park Forest will shave more than $2.2 million in expenses from its proposed $55 million dollar budget for the 2020-21 fiscal year.A combination of progra...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 64% of households counted as of May 19

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?

Last week, 63.2% of Park Forest households had officially been counted. This week, 64% of Park Forest households are now counted. Park Forest remains on pace with all communities in the state of Illinois.

For th...

Park Forest announces changes to summer offerings due to coronavirus pandemic

In accordance with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s five-phase plan to re-open Illinois, the Village of Park Forest is announcing significant changes to summer offerings for 2020. In a letter to Park Forest residents this week, Village Manager To...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 63.2% of households counted as of May 12

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?

Last week, 61.9% of Park Forest households had officially been counted. This week, 63.2% of Park Forest households are now counted. Park Forest remains on pace with all communities in the state of Illinois.

For ...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 61.9% of households counted as of May 5

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?

Last week, a total of 58.7% of Park Forest households had officially been counted. This week, 61.9% of Park Forest households are now counted. Park Forest remains on pace with all communities in the state of Il...

Village to hold budget review sessions beginning May 11

The Village of Park Forest will hold budget review sessions for the proposed 2020-2021 budget on the dates noted below. These meetings are not open to the public but will be broadcast live for transparency purposes. Residents may watch the meetin...

Free trees available to Park Forest residents

The Village of Park Forest has free trees available to residents.Pick up a free tree or two from Village of Park Forest Recreation and Parks yard located at 75 Park Street. The trees can be found along the outside fence line for a no-contact pick-up and a...

Village to continue to operate in reduced capacity through May 31

With Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s announcement of an extension to the stay-at-home order in place for most Illinois residents, the Village of Park Forest will continue to operate in a reduced capacity until at least May 31. Park Forest is c...

Village to distribute free masks to Park Forest residents in need on May 1

As part of the extension of Illinois’ stay-at-home order, a new requirement will take effect May 1 mandating that anyone over the age of 2 is required to wear a mask in public when unable to maintain a distance of six feet from others.

The Villag...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 58.7% of households counted as of April 27

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?

Last week, a total of 53.9% of Park Forest households had officially been counted. This week, as of April 27, 58.7% of Park Forest households are now counted. Park Forest is now on pace with all communities in ...

Pritzker extends stay-at-home order through May 30, masks to be required beginning May 1

Illinois Governor JB Prtizker has release the following information regarding an extension of the stay-at-home order currently in place for all Illinois residents:Based on data from scientists and health experts and after consulting with stakeholders acro...

Park Forest cautions residents on energy supplier letters

The Village of Park Forest is aware of letters residents have recently received from alternative electricity supply companies. These letters are not associated with Park Forest’s recent electrical aggregation program. MC Squared, Park Forest&...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 53.9% of households counted as of April 20

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?Last week, a total of 51.1% of Park Forest households had officially been counted in the 2020 census, 1.9% behind all residents of the state of Illinois at 53% counted.This week, as of April 20, 53.9% of Park F...

Park Forest using estimated usage for April water billing

Due to issues resulting from the impact of the coronavirus and Illinois’ stay-at-home order, Park Forest’s water billing is undergoing temporary changes. Park Forest usually utilizes meter readers who travel throughout the community to...

Village manager updates residents on Park Forest's coronavirus response

Dear Park Forest residents,

On behalf of the Mayor and Board of Trustees, I hope this message finds each of you well and continuing to do all that you can to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors against the coronavirus which has claimed th...

Park Forest Census Tracker: 51% of residents counted as of April 13

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?Last week, a total of 48.1% of Park Forest households had officially been counted in the 2020 census, 1.7% behind all residents of the state of Illinois at 49.8.% counted.This week, as of April 13, 51.1.% of Pa...

Homewood Disposal asks for resident assistance in helping stop coronavirus spread

The following update is being shared on behalf of the village’s waste collection partner, Homewood Disposal. For questions, please contact Homewood Disposal at 708-798-1004.

Dear Valued Municipal Customers:

As of today, Homewood Disposal Services ...

Park Forest Census Tracker: Community currently stands at 48.1% counted

Have you been counted in the 2020 census yet?Last week, a total of 37.7% of Park Forest households had officially been counted in the 2020 census, 1.7% behind all residents of the state of Illinois at 39.4% counted.This week, 48.1% of Park Forest househol...

COVID-19 Community & Business Resources

While we don’t know what the economic impact will have in the next several months due to COVID-19, we do know that there are ways to help local businesses and community now. With the current COVID-19 pandemic, many are facing information overloa...

Coronavirus update for week of March 30: Village continues scaled back services with order extension

With Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s announcement of an extension to the stay-at-home order in place for most Illinois residents, the Village of Park Forest will continue to operate in a reduced capacity until April 30, at minimum.Park Forest ...

Park Forest celebrates Census Day, residents urged to be counted today

Today, April 1, is Census Day. Have you been counted yet? Now’s the time to #BECOUNTEDIN2020

Park Forest is encouraging all residents to be counted today. With most indoors as part of a stay-at-home order, the time is ideal to fill out your censu...

Services to be maintained despite Village Hall temporarily closed to public starting March 18

In response to rising concerns related to the coronavirus, Park Forest leaders today announced that Village Hall will temporarily close to the public beginning March 18.The decision was made by Park Forest Mayor Jonathan Vanderbilt, the Park Forest Board ...

Recreation facilities to close, programs canceled through March 30

Park Forest’s Recreation, Parks, and Community Health Department has released the following statement related to upcoming facility closures and programming cancellations in response to the coronavirus.As a public health precaution, Park Forest&a...

Park Forest taking precautions as coronavirus concerns rise

The Village of Park Forest is taking action to help reduce the spread of the coronavirus.Based on new information from the World Health Organization and the Center for Disease Control, the Village of Park Forest will be canceling the following programs an...

Village begins strategic planning process, residents needed for important April 7 meeting

Park Forest residents are needed to help create a new road map for the future of the community. 

Every five years, village leaders develop new strategic planning goals. These goals are created through a series of strategic planning sessions facili...

Vehicle stickers on sale now, rates increase May 1

Sales of the Village of Park Forest vehicle sticker begin each year on March 1. The 2020-21 vehicle sticker may be purchased now at Village Hall or online.Vehicle stickers must be purchased and properly displayed on all vehicles registered in the Village ...

Early voting locations for Park Forest residents

Early voting has begun for the primary elections at the state and national levels. Routinely over the past decade, Cook County selected Park Forest’s Village Hall as an early voting location. Unfortunately, Park Forest was not selected as an ear...

Park Forest goes green with renewable energy

Park Forest is looking to go green with renewable energy.Residents this week are receiving letters in the mail alerting them to an electric aggregation switch approved by village board members last month.  Residents will continue to receive their...

Metra releases proposed changes to Metra Electric schedule

Metra today unveiled proposed revisions to its Metra Electric Line schedule and has asked its riders for feedback in an online survey. The new schedule includes changes made necessary by the implementation of the new Positive Train Control (PTC) ...

Residents near Dogwood Street and Western Avenue asked for feedback on 2021 water main replacement

Residents in the area of Dogwood Street, Cedar Street, and Western Avenue are being asked for there feedback as part of an environmental study related to an upcoming water main replacement project.The Village of Park Forest is currently working with the U...

Park Forest wins Distinguished Budget Award a 25th consecutive time

The Village of Park Forest for the 25th consecutive year has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award.

The award represents a significant achievement for Park Forest. It reflects the co...

Billy Branch & the Sons of Blues with Dee Alexander LIVE at Freedom Hall, Feb. 14

Alligator Records Recording Artist, Billy Branch, was discovered by Willie Dixon, the "father of modern Chicago Blues” and began touring with the Willie Dixon Chicago All-Stars. Billy has played on over 150 different recordings, including 1...

Park Forest religious leaders come together for census meeting

Park Forest welcomed in 2020 by holding a meeting of local clergy at Village Hall on the 2020 Census.Park Forest Mayor Jonathan Vanderbilt coordinated the Jan. 4 information session to enlist the help of Park Forest churches in outreaching to community me...

Fiorenzo is 2019's Park Forest Business Person of the Year

Ten years after becoming the first-ever recipient of the Park Forest Business Person of the Year Award, Janet Fiorenzo is now the first ever two-time recipient of the award.Fiorenzo was officially recognized as the 2019 Sam Montella Park Forest Business P...

Park Forest offers holiday lights, Christmas tree recycling

This holiday season, don't let your broken string lights and dead trees go to waste. Drop off holiday lights in the marked bins at Village Hall and at the Park Forest Public Library through January 10. Christmas trees can be dropped off in the Aqua Center...

Public hearing for proposed property tax levy, Dec. 2

NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX LEVY FOR THE VILLAGE OF PARK FOREST

I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy for the Village of Park Forest shall be held on Monday, December 2, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. at the Village Hall, Board Room, 350 Victo...

Park Forest lands Governor’s Hometown Award for service to veterans

Park Forest is one of 21 communities in Illinois to receive a 2019 Governor’s Hometown Award.The Governor’s Hometown Awards program gives formal recognition to those who contributed to their community’s quality of life throug...

Street sweeping begins Nov. 18

Street sweeping begins Monday, Nov. 18, in Park Forest.  

How Street Sweeping WorksThe street sweeper normally begins in the north part of Park Forest and continues south. The number of streets cleaned each day depends on the amount of leaves and/...

Park Forest remembers Steve Campbell

Former Park Forest trustee Steve Campbell has passed.Campbell was a local businessman who owned Campbell Furniture and Bingo City in the Norwood Square Shopping Center on Western Avenue in Park Forest for several years. Subsequent to that, Campbell served...

Park Forest remembers Harold Brown

Former Park Forest trustee Harold Brown has passed.

Brown served as village trustee from 2001 to 2006 before relocating to Arizona. Prior to the move, Brown and his wife, Rose Carol, were residents of Park Forest for over 50 years.

In addition to his servic...

November is Resident Appreciation Month

Several resident appreciation events are slated to take place this month. The events include:• Community Raffle | November 1 - 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive• Experience the Flavors of Park Forest food tasting | November 9 from...

Grocery store expected to open after new year now hiring

An estimated 80-plus jobs will be filled in the coming months as a new Park Forest grocer prepares to open just after the new year.Jet Foods, to be located at 120 Orchard Drive, will anchor Orchard Park Plaza which was recently purchased by Freedom Develo...

70 Years of the Park Forest Police Department program, Nov. 10

On, Sunday Nov. 10, the Park Forest Historical Society will host retired Chief Cliff Butz and current Park Forest Chief of Police Christopher Mannino to discuss 70 Years of the Park Forest Police Department.  Park Forest's Public Safety Departmen...

Village to hold financial update meeting, Nov. 2

The Park Forest Board of Trustees will meet with village department heads Saturday, Nov. 2, to discuss village finances.The meeting will cover several areas including:

• Preliminary Fiscal Year 2019 Year End Results
• Current Year Trends
• Tax Levy Projections
• Depa...

Village to hold Halloween, fall fest events

Several events sponsored by the Village of Park Forest are schedule over the final week of October.  View details on each below. 

Please note: Trick or Treating hours in Park Forest this year are from 3 to 8 p.m. 

Haunted House

Oct...

Village seeks applicants for trustee vacancy, application deadline Oct. 25

The Village of Park Forest Board of Trustees seeks qualified candidates for the position of Trustee to fill a vacancy for an 18 month term.  It is anticipated that the process will unfold to seat the new trustee no later than the Nov. 25, 2019 bo...

Nominate Your Park Forest Business Person of the Year by Oct. 31

Park Forest's Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) is seeking nominations for the EDAG 2019 Sam Montella Business Person of the Year. 

The EDAG Sam Montella Business Person of the Year award is an annual award to recognize Park Forest busine...

Park Forest Complete Count Committee aims to boost census participation, population numbers

Park Forest's newly formed Complete Count Committee met Tuesday evening at Village Hall to lay the groundwork for maximum Park Forest participation in the 2020 Census.The group of nearly 40 Park Forest stakeholders – comprised of village employe...

Public hearing on cannabis sales in Park Forest set for Oct. 8 at Freedom Hall

On January 1, 2020, the State of Illinois will permit licensed businesses to sell, grow, and process adult use recreational cannabis. The Village of Park Forest is currently in the process of determining whether or not to permit these businesses to operat...

68th Annual Pancake Day Oct. 5 at Rich East High School

The Kiwanis Club of Park Forest’s 68th Annual Pancake Day takes place on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Rich East High School, 300 Sauk Trail.Pancake Day has been a proud community tradition for decades. Attendees enjoy all-you-can-eat golden ...

Park Forest teens pursuing careers in fire service awarded scholarships

Three Park Forest teens aspiring to careers in the fire service are the recipients of a new Rich East High School Fire and EMS Scholarship. Marshon Baines, David Palmer, and Kyle Young will each receive a share of $1,700 raised last year as part of a fund...

Congresswoman Kelly to Host 7th Annual Hiring Event and Job Readiness Bootcamp

Congresswoman Robin Kelly will host her 7^th Annual Hiring Event for residents of the 2^nd Congressional District on Friday, October 4, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., at the Lan-Oak Park District, 2550 178^th St., Lansing. More than 50 employers with active job ope...

Park Forest remembers Robert McCray

A public memorial gathering for Park Forest Trustee Robert McCray has been scheduled for Thursday, September 26, from 2 to 4:30 p.m., at Dining on the Green, 349 Main Street, in Park Forest.McCray, a resident of Park Forest for over 40 years, was first el...

Village-wide Garage Sale, Sept. 21-22

Park Forest’s Village-wide Garage Sale takes place on September 21 and 22 with over 70 homes participating.

Click on the link below to view a listing. 

Park Forest Art Fair returns for 64th year, features Music Fest and Plaque Dedication

The 64th Annual Park Forest Art Fair takes place on Saturday, Sept. 21 and Sunday, Sept. 22, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. 

The Park Forest Art Fair is the second oldest juried art fair in the Chicago area. The finest artists in the Midwest...

Village encourages resident participation at upcoming District 227 board meetings

Residents in Park Forest this week will receive a mailing from the Village of Park Forest encouraging resident participation at upcoming School District 227 board meetings following months of discussion and speculation on the future of the district which ...

Park Forest Police set to hire new officers, accepting applications through Oct. 10

The Park Forest Police Department is looking to add new officers.The 55-member police force with 41 sworn officers began a new recruitment period Monday and will accept applications through Oct. 10.The department is encouraging those in pursuit of an exci...

Registration open for Village-wide Garage Sale happening Sept. 21 & 22

Do you have items you no longer need that could be sold for a few dollars? Do you love discovering a great deal at a garage sale? Park Forest’s Village-wide Garage Sale is back in 2019. The sale takes place the weekend of the Park Forest Art Fai...

20th Annual Youth Day Celebration to be held on August 17

Click to view the flyer for complete details.

Take a stand against crime on August 6 for National Night Out

The Park Forest Police Department invites you to join them, along with 16,000 other communities across the country, in celebrating National Night Out Against Crime on August 6.Organize a gathering on your block, invite your neighbors to take part, and joi...

Park Forest Growing Green Recycle Fest July 27th

Park Forest's annual recycle event allows residents to recycle televisions (for a fee), document shredding, eyeglasses, books, and much more. See flyer for full details.

Park Forest welcomes AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps volunteers

An AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) team is again set for service in the Village of Park Forest this summer.The NCCC team this week begins its first of an eight-week stay in the community.“The Village of Park Forest is very ha...

Mandatory boil order lifted, residents may resume normal water usage

Park  Forest is no longer under a boil order.The boil order, which began Friday afternoon, was lifted Monday at 1:50 p.m. after village water samples taken over the weekend all came back clear.Residents may now resume normal water usage.Village o...

Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy seeks applicants for fall program

The Park Forest Civic Leadership Academy is currently accepting applications for the fall program.The program helps area residents further their understanding of the community and its leadership by:• Exposing participants to a host of current and...

District 227 considering closure of Rich East, other options to address deterioration, student body

Park Forest’s Rich East High School could be closing.  

Tuesday evening, District 227 board members considered options for remedying the district’s deteriorating buildings and a student body district officials say no longer war...

Park Forest board members affirm support for village manager

Park Forest Village Manager Tom Mick will remain in his post.Following the Village’s regular meeting Monday night, board members, Mick, and Village Attorney Burt Odelson met in a two and a half hour executive session. Mick and Park Forest Mayor ...

What to know about solicitors going door-to-door in Park Forest

With warmer weather here, numerous residents have reported solicitors going door-to-door to engage residents on natural gas or electrical services. It has been reported that representatives claiming to be partners of the Village ask to view resident's bil...

June is Resident Appreciation Month

Several resident appreciation events are slated to take place this month. The events include: • Paint 'n' Sip | June 7 at 7 p.m. | Artistic Flow, 200 Main Street• Community BBQ | June 12 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. | Village Green, Main Street a...

Village to hold public hearing on proposed budget on Monday, June 3

Park Forest residents are invited to attend a Public Hearing, Monday, June 3, 2019 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, on the Park Forest Board of Trustees’ proposed 2019/2020 Budget.The Public Hearing follows budget meetings held throughout the...

Memorial Day program on May 27 remembers those lost while serving

The Park Forest American Legion hosts its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on May 27 at 11 a.m. The program takes place at the corner of Main Street and Cunningham Drive in Downtown Park Forest and includes placement of remembrance wreaths in solemn honor of ...

Park Forest Aqua Center opens for 67th season on June 1

The Park Forest Aqua Center opens for the season on Saturday, June 1.Since 1959, the Park Forest Aqua Center has been one of the region's most popular aquatic facilities. Amenities Include:

• Lap pools
• Lanes available for open swim
• Swim Lessons
• Water Fitness&am...

Park Forest budget review sessions set for May and June

The Village of Park Forest has approved the budget review schedule for the proposed 2019-20 budget. Residents are welcome to attend any or all of the upcoming budget review sessions at Village Hall.

Monday, May 6 at 7 p.m.

Board/Public Introduction of Budge...

Park Forest election results official, applicants sought for trustee vacancy

Park Forest officially has new elected leaders set to be sworn into their posts with the sunset of the current board in May.Voting results from the April 4 election became official Tuesday with current Park Forest trustee Jonathan Vanderbilt defeating cur...

April 2, 2019 election results

Below are unofficial election results for the April 2, 2019 races for Park Forest village president, Park Forest trustee, and Park Forest Public Library trustee.

Results reflect votes received in Cook County, Will County, and total votes in Cook and Will C...

Elections in Park Forest to be held April 2, information for voters

Election Day in Park Forest is Tuesday, April 2. Park Forest residents will vote for candidates in mayoral, Village trustee, school board, and library board races in the Village.

For Cook County residents with questions about their voting location, visit C...

Park Forest Aqua Center offers pre-sale discounted rates on 2019 passes

Season passes to the Park Forest Aqua Center are currently on sale for a discounted rate. Specials are taking place throughout the months of March and April.

March Into Summer Special

From March 1 to March 31, season passes for a Park Forest family of three...

Hydrant flushing begins April 8

Hydrant flushing will be conducted April 8 through May 8. Flushing takes place on weekdays at 8:30 a.m. No flushing is done on weekends. Hydrants are flushed to ensure that water does not stagnate in the system. During flushing, your water may become disc...

Village adopts resolution signaling race, equity and leadership plan in the works

Close to three years after launching a comprehensive review of the village’s policies, procedures, and practices, Park Forest is now taking official action to establish and implement a race, equity, and leadership plan.A resolution passed by Par...

Congresswoman Kelly, Park Forest Youth Commission to hold youth job fairs

Congresswoman Robin Kelly will host a Youth Job Expo for young men and women between the ages of 16 and 23 on Saturday, April 13, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, in the Media Center of Rich South High School, 5000 Sauk Trail, Richton Park.More than 50 employers w...

Will County early voting locations

Early voting in Will County is from March 18 to April 1. Park Forest's Village Hall is no longer an early voting site for Will County residents. This decision was made by Will County. The below information is being provided for Will County residents inter...

Vehicle stickers on sale now, rates increase May 1

Sales of the Village of Park Forest vehicle sticker begin each year on March 1. The 2019-20 vehicle sticker may be purchased now at Village Hall or online.Vehicle stickers must be purchased and properly displayed on all vehicles registered in the Village ...

Upcoming forums allow residents to hear from candidates running for P.F. office

Several forums will be held over the coming months for candidates running in the April 2 election. The forums are sponsored by various community organizations and allow residents to learn more about the candidates and where they stand on various issues.Up...

Village adopts new Climate Action and Resilience Plan

Park Forest is taking action to prepare the community for the future impacts of climate change.Park Forest board members Monday night unanimously approved a Climate Action and Resilience Plan.The new plan builds on Park Forest’s Sustainability Plan adopte...

Parking ticket rate increases to $50

After nearly 30 years, the $25 parking ticket rate in Park Forest is going up.The move comes after an analysis conducted by Park Forest Police found the village at the bottom of a list that compared fines levied by 12 area municipalities. Eight of the 12 ...

Village amends ordinance to include anti-nepotism language

Park Forest is hoping to eliminate any possibility of improper hires.Village board members voted unanimously Monday night to adopt an amendment that adds anti-nepotism language to an already existing ordinance outlining the responsibilities of the Village...

Ostenburg named chair of Metropolitan Mayors Caucus

Mayor John A. Ostenburg of Park Forest has been elected to serve as chairperson for the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. The decision was made by members of the MMC Executive Board at its November 19 meeting. Mayor Ostenburg will serve in the post through the ...

Nominate Your Favorite Business Person of the Year by Oct. 31

The Park Forest Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) seeks nominees from residents, civic groups, and businesses to recognize a Park Forest business owner who is committed to community service. Do you know a Park Forest business owner who has made a...

Officer Tim Jones stars in police lip sync video

Earlier this year, videos of police departments across the country putting on their best lip-syncing faces began to surface on the internet. The craze, dubbed the #lipsyncchallenge, showed the lighter side of policing as officers provided entertaining vis...

Village welcomes new deputy police chief

The Park Forest Police Department’s Brian Rzyski, who since October has assumed the role of deputy chief following the promotion of former deputy chief Christopher Mannino to police chief, was officially sworn in Monday evening.Rzyski is in this...

Czupryn is 2017's Park Forest Business Person of the Year

Ed Czupryn of the Park Forest Currency Exchange is Park Forest’s Business Person of the Year for 2017.

Czupryn was presented the Sam Montella Business Person of the Year Award Monday at Village Hall during Park Forest’s Board of Trustee...