News Flash

“Step Back into a 1950s Valentine's Day” Exhibit at 1950s Park Forest House Museum

The 1950s Park Forest House Museum, at 227 Monee Road (inside St. Mary’s Catholic Church), Park Forest, Illinois, invites you to "Step Back into a 1950s Valentine's Day," from Feb. 1 - March 8, 2023, open Wednesday and Saturda...

Park Forest remembers Alicia Rodman McCray

The memorial bunting is placed over the entry way of Village Hall as the Village of Park Forest mourns the passing of former Village Trustee Alicia Rodman McCray. Trustee Rodman McCray, her husband Robert, and son, Erik, lived and enjoyed life in Park For...

Candidate forums begin Jan. 29

The Park Forest Non-Partisan Committee's Candidate Forums, for those running for elected office in Park Forest in the April election, begin Jan. 29.The NPC serves Park Forest by hosting public forums to allow candidates to meet the public. It als...

Real estate values on the rise in Park Forest

The prices of houses have continued to rise steadily in Park Forest over the last several years. In 2022, the average selling price of the real estate transfer tax stamp was $129,960. 

Larrie Kerestes, the community development director, said this...

Department of Public Works accomplishments for 2022

The 2022 construction season is behind us, and the Department of Public Works has significantly improved streets and water mains throughout the Village of Park Forest. 

Here's a list of the completed project during last year:

• Ne...

Changes to upcoming Board Meetings due to COVID concern post-holidays

The Village Board Meeting scheduled for Jan. 17., is canceled. However, the meeting on Jan.23 will be held remotely via Zoom at 7 p.m. due to concerns about a post-holiday surge in COVID cases. 

Village Manager Tom Mick said despite the meetings g...

Join the Environment Commission

The Village of Park Forest has a legacy of living and growing sustainably. Since its founding in 1949, the Village has equally valued the three pillars of sustainability: environment, economy, and equity. In May 2012, Park Forest adopted the Growing Green...

Lottery drawing for village mayor and trustee positions

A lottery drawing for ballot placement for those candidates running for the office of Village Mayor and Village Trustee in the April 2023 election will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2022 at 10:00 a.m. 

A lottery drawing is required when more than...

Tennis & Health Club holds 2022 U.S. Open Crossminton Championships

The Park Forest Tennis and Health Club is hosting the 2022 U.S. Open Crossminton Championships later this month. It is the first time Park Forest is hosting the event, and it is an official International Crossminton Organization (ICO) 100-level event, mea...

Village prepared for blizzard-like conditions with first snowstorm of winter

The winter season is officially underway, and the Village of Park Forest Public Works Department is preparing for the season's first significant winter storm. Forecasters predict the region will see blizzard-like conditions starting on Thursday a...

Petition filing information for April, 4 2023 Consolidated Election

Petition filing dates and times are as follow:

Monday, Dec. 12, 2022               9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (first day to file)

Tuesday, Dec. 13, 2022         &nbs...

Honoring Larrie Kerestes on 40 years of service

The saying goes, "if you find a job that you love, you'll never work another day in your life." That rings true for Larrie Kerestes, who's worked for the Village of Park Forest for more than 40 years. Kerestes was honored at Monday night's Villa...

The Village of Park Forest receives the GFOA Award for the 28th consecutive year

The Village of Park Forest has received the Government Finance Officers Association’s (GFOA) Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for the 28th consecutive year.

The award was presented in front of the Village Board to Mark Pries, the Village's finance d...

Park Forest Village Board to discuss a zero percent tax levy increase

The Park Forest Village Board will discuss a zero percent tax levy increase for the upcoming fiscal year 2023/2024 budget. 

In November, Mark Pries, Park Forest's Finance Director, addressed the Village Board by providing an update on the village'...

'Tis the season of giving! Park Forest hosting Hat, Scarf, and Gloves Giveaway Saturday

The season of giving is in full swing in Park Forest. 

The village will host a hat, scarf, and gloves giveaway this Saturday at Village Hall. Additionally, the village is giving away any remaining in-stock coats that are on hand. There will also b...

Holiday Light & Tree Recyling

Old Holiday lights taking up space? Recycle them responsibly by participating in the Village of Park Forest Holiday Light recycling taking place Nov. 22 through Jan. 18, drop-off is at Village Hall. 

Recycle your real, undecorated Christmas trees ...

Park Forest Hats, Scarfs, and Gloves Giveaway, Dec. 10

The Commission of Human Relations at Village of Park Forest will host a coats, hats, scarfs, gloves, and turkey giveaway at Village Hall on Dec. 10 at 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 

Donation of coats, hats, scarfs, and gloves are still being accepted. To don...

Petition packets available for residents interested in running for office

The next Park Forest election will be held on April 4, 2023. The mayor position is up for election, serving a four-year term. There will be three Village trustee positions up for election, each serving  four-year terms. Additionally, four Park Fo...

Nominate Your Park Forest Business Person of the Year by Nov. 30

Park Forest's Economic Development Advisory Group (EDAG) is seeking nominations for the EDAG 2022 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...

Last day for yard waste pick-up, Nov. 30

The last day Village disposal will pick-up yard waste is Nov. 30. 

Yard waste must be placed in brown paper bags with a yard waste sticker and cannot be placed in garbage bags. 

Yard waste sticker can be purchased at the Homewood Disposal ...

Final street sweeping Monday, Nov. 14

The Department of Public Works will conduct its fourth and final street sweep of the year beginning Monday. 

Residents are asked to remove their cars from the streets during the hours of 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. during the week so that crews can ...

Nicor natural gas meter relocation program

Heads up Park Foresters!

Some residents may have received a notice from Nicor Gas about their gas system improvement initiative. The gas company is working to move all natural gas meters currently located inside homes and businesses to the outside.

Not all ...

Early voting hours and locations

Early Voting at the Park Forest Village Hall                                       &...

Nominate someone for the Sustainability Award today

Nominate someone today for the Sustainability Award. Do you know someone who commits themselves to conscious sustainability practices.Do they collect water via rain barrels? Cycle to work to reduce carbon emissions? Recycle electronics responsibly? Do the...

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

If you walk into Village Hall this month, you'll notice a lot of pink throughout the lobby. That is because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The Village of Park Forest is putting this cause at the forefront to inform residents about the i...

Safe Halloween, Oct. 29

Join in the fun in Downtown Park Forest on Saturday, October 29th from 11am-3pm for Safe Halloween.

An afternoon of ghouls, ghosts and goblins for the bravest of souls. Please join us for a Safe and Fun Halloween celebration you will never forget!

Stop by t...

Mural of missing Park Forest women to be installed Sunday on Orchard Drive, traffic to be detoured

The installation of a mural to raise awareness of two missing Park Forest women will halt traffic on Orchard Drive Sunday. 

Chicago-based artist Damon Reed will paint likenesses of Jerrica Laws and Brenda Gonzalez-Jackson on the façade of the Old ...

Blood drive, Oct. 20

The Village of Park Forest is partnering with American Red Cross for a community blood drive. 

The blood drive will take place at Village Hall, 350 Victory Dr. on Thursday, Oct. 20 from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. 

For any questions or concerns c...

Fire Prevention Week, Oct. 9-15

As Fire Prevention Week approaches, the Park Forest Fire Department reminds residents that

“Fire won’t wait. Plan your escape”

The Park Forest Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) &...

Compost food waste with Urban Canopy

The Village of Park Forest is encouraging residents to compost food waste to help improve the environment. However, some people may have heard the term 'composting' but may not know what it entails.

Carrie Malfeo, the village's sustainability coordinator, ...

Main Street Market continues

The Main Street Market is having another successful year. The Market takes place on Main Street, just across from Victory Centre, and offers a variety of fresh flowers, fresh fruits, vegetables, bakery goods, herbs and dairy products. Local businesses are...

Pickleball tournament at the Park Forest Tennis & Health Club, Sept. 28-30

A tournament for the fastest sport in America is coming to Park Forest this week. The Park Forest Tennis & Health Club is hosting the DaFarm Singles Round Robin Pickleball Tournament on Sept. 28-30. It is the first time the club has ...

Kia and Hyundai thefts

Car thieves continue to target Kia and Hyundai vehicles across Chicagoland, including right here in Park Forest. Just recently, Park Forest police investigated two thefts involving those car makers.

With car thefts on the rise throughout the country, Park ...

Hydrant flushing, Sept. 6 - 23

The Department of Public Works is reminding residents that crews will be out in full force over the next several weeks flushing hydrants throughout the village.

 Flushing began on Tuesday, Sept. 6, and will continue through Sept. 23. Public Works ...

Village-wide Garage Sale, Sept. 24 - 25

It's that time of year again. Residents across Park Forest will get an opportunity to do some "spring cleaning" this fall during the village-wide garage sale on the last weekend of September.

James Guirguis, the village&apos...

Shredding and Drug-take Back event, Sept. 24

Do you have documents you'll like to shred? Or do you have prescription medicine you want to discard, but you don't know where to go?  Two events are happening that'll help you with these issues.

 The Village of...

Registration deadline approaching for Village-wide Garage Sale

It's that time of year again. Residents across Park Forest will get an opportunity to do some "spring cleaning" this fall during the village-wide garage sale on the last weekend of September.

James Guirguis, the village's communication specialist...

Solar and Water Treatment Plant ribbon cutting, Sept. 19

The Village of Park Forest is hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Monday, Sept. 19 to celebrate the unveiling of the roof and ground-mounted solar arrays at the water treatment plant. The event takes place at Park Forest’s Water Treatment Plant, located ...

Solar project unveiling, Sept. 19

The Village of Park Forest is leading the way by installing roof and ground-mounted solar arrays at the water treatment plant to reduce its carbon footprint.  

Village officials are hosting a ribbon-cutting ceremony in mid-September to celebrate t...

66th Annual Park Forest Art Fair, Sept. 17 - 18

The Park Forest Art Fair, slated for Sept. 17 and 18, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., is the second oldest juried art fair in the Chicago area. The finest artists in the Midwest show a variety of artworks including paintings, prints, photographs, ceramics, glass,...

Quarterly Business Breakfast, Sept. 15

• FREE to attend
• Complimentary Light Breakfast 
• Networking

Thursday, September 15, 2022 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Doors open at 7:45 a.m.

To RSVP: Call 708-283-5617 or visit the link below:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/399116978627

Senior resource book launching, Sept. 1

Join the the Park Forest Senior Advisory Commission Introduction for the Senior Resource book launching on Thursday, Sept. 1 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event will take place at Rich Township Shirley Green Senior Center located at 297 Liberty Dr., Park Fore...

Main Street Fest ft. CeCe Peniston, Aug. 20

Join the Village of Park Forest for the Main Street Fest, Saturday, Aug. 20, from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. Join the village at 349 Main Street, Park Forest IL, 60466. The event is free as is parking, but registration is a MUST. VIP tickets are available as well ...

Main Street Fest, Paint n' Sip, Aug. 20

Join the Village of Park Forest for an afternoon of painting n' sipping on Saturday, Aug. 20, from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m at 349 Main Street, Park Forest IL, 60466 .  No painting experience needed, just bring your creativity. All supplies will be provi...

Nominate someone for the Sustainability Award

Do you know someone who makes a great use of rain barrels, rain gardens, raised planter beds, solar panels, minimal use of lawn chemicals, bikes to work, or one of a host of other sustainable practices? Nominate someone today by completing the nomination ...

Grow Solar Power Hour event, Aug. 17

The Village of Park Forest and Park Forest Public Library in conjunction with Grow Solar Chicagoland are co-hosting a Solar Power Hour on Wednesday, Aug. 17, from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The event will include all the basics you need to know to c...

Park Forest Veterans’ Commission raising funds for November program

The Park Forest Veterans’ Commission is currently raising funds for their annual Veterans Day program. The program is slated for Thursday, Nov. 10, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Park Forest’s Freedom Hall, 410 Lakewood Blvd. The fundraiser aims to of...

Volunteers needed for Night on the Town!

Volunteers are needed for the Village of Park Forest's Night on the Town on Aug. 6, 2022!

Volunteer's will work 3:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Please bring a bottle of water!

Can be Counted as Volunteer Hours!

Questions?

Please contact Evelyn Randle, Community Relation...

Unity Day canceled

Due to inclement weather, the Park Forest Police Department's Unity Day celebration has been cancelled. There is no reschedule date for the event. Since its debut in 2016, Unity Day has grown to a community staple in Park Forest however ...

Western Avenue resurfacing begins today

The Illinois Department of Transportation is alerting residents that patching and resurfacing of Western Avenue, from Lincoln Highway (U.S. 30), in Chicago Heights, to Steger Road, in Park Forest, will require daytime, intermittent lane closures beginning...

Volunteers Needed for RecycleFest!

Volunteers are needed for the Village of Park Forest's RecycleFest on July 30, 2022.

Volunteer's will work 7:30 a.m. -12:15 p.m.

Please Bring:

• Reusable Water Bottle
• Gloves
• Safety Glasses Recommended
• Masks Optional

Can be Counted as Volunteer Hours!

Please meet in...

Park Forest remembers Bonita Dillard

Former Park Forest Trustee Bonita Dillard, who served from 1999 to 2013, has passed. 

Dillard, a resident of Park Forest for over 50 years, was one of the first African-American women to serve on the Park Forest Board of Trustees when she was appo...

Fiorenzo lands Park Forest Business Person of the Year Award a third time

Park Forest's Sam Montella Business Person of the Year Award recipient for 2021 is Janet Fiorenzo of Tower Cleaners. 

View the award presentation below.

Read on...

Non-Partisan Committee to hold important meeting, April 30

The Park Forest Non-Partisan Committee will hold a meeting on Saturday, April 30, at 1 p.m. for the purpose of ending the terms of current board members, and potentially welcoming new board members. A new meeting location has been announced. The meeting h...

Resident attendance sought at March 16 planning meeting for future of downtown

Park Forest is creating a blueprint for the future of the Village's DownTown. The new plan, created by the community, will result in a set of policies and programs that direct future growth and development in the area. 

The Village is ask...

Video: Park Forest Community Oscar Awards 2022

On January 28, 2022, Park Forest held the Park Forest Community Oscar Awards at Freedom Hall. Click below to view the video now!

Video: Park Forest celebrates Black History Month

Did you miss Park Forest's Black History Month Celebration? Click below to watch it now. 

Park Forest vehicle stickers for 2022-23 on sale March 1

Historical Society to present program on African-American pioneers in Park Forest

Park Forest Historical Society will be launching a program on YouTube on Sunday, Feb. 27, at 2:30 p.m. "Reflections and Accomplishments of African Americans," part of the 50th Anniversary of Park Forest programming, was originally filme...

Park Forest police chief announces plans to retire in March

Park Forest Police Chief Christopher Mannino is closing the chapter on his law enforcement career.

Mannino will retire next month following 25 years of service with the Park Forest Police Department.

“I’ve spent my entire adult life serv...

Police issue reminder regarding street parking after 2" of snowfall

Non-Partisan Committee seeks new members

The Committee for Non-Partisan Local government in Park Forest is presently seeking additional members of the Board of Directors.The Committee bylaws provide for nine Board of Director members. The Committee presently has five Board members. The Non-Part...

Veterans Day Celebration at Freedom Hall, Nov. 6

The Park Forest Veterans Commission will host their annual Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 6 at 11 a.m. at Freedom Hall. The event features a live performance from the 144th Army Band and a display of current and antique military vehic...

Veterans Commission to sponsor book sale, Sept. 18 - 19

The Park Forest Veterans Commission will be sponsoring a “Gently Used Book and CD Sale” fundraiser in the lobby of Village Hall on Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 18-19. Proceeds will benefit the ongoing operation of the Veterans Closet and Resource Center, th...

65th Annual Park Forest Art Fair, Sept. 18 and 19

The Park Forest Art Fair returns for its 65th year, Sept. 18-19, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Park Forest Art Fair is the second oldest juried art fair in the Chicago area. The finest artists in the Midwest show a variety of artworks including paintings, pr...

Aging in a Changing Region event, Sept.2

The Village of Park Forest has received a technical assistance award from the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus to participate in their “Aging in a Changing Region” program. The goal of this program is to undertake a planning process that wil...

Park Forest celebrates Halloween

Park Forest’s Safe Halloween festivities in the Village’s Downtown are back this year! To view the flyer, click here.

Trick-or-Treating hours in Park Forest this year are from 1 to 5 p.m.

Newly formed Fire and Police Advisory Council seeking applicants

Earlier this year, the Park Forest Board of Trustees unanimously approved a measure to form a new commission in the village to study matters pertaining to community relations, including community engagement efforts, the reporting of public safety data, an...

Park Forest Growing Green Recycle Fest set for July 31

Park Forest will host its annual Growing Green Recycle Fest on Saturday, July 31, from, 8 a.m. to noon. Recycle Fest allows residents to dispose of a host of items in an environmentally friendly way. View the flyer here. 

Read on...

Water Quality Report for 2020 now available

Park Forest's Annual Water Quality Report for 2020 is now available. To view the report now click here. 

Village assures residents of no duplicate charges after vendor mistakenly mails duplicate bills

The Village of Park Forest is aware that some residents have received duplicate water bills this month.The vendor responsible for mailing the duplicate bills is investigating the matter. Residents who received duplicate water bills this month sho...

Public Notice: Village to present proposed 2021-22 budget at June 7 meeting

Park Forest residents are invited to attend a Public Hearing, Monday, June 7, 2021 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, on the Board of Trustees’ proposed 2021/2022 budget.

Residents may review Park Forest's proposed budget loca...

Memorial Day Program to be held on May 31

A Memorial Day Ceremony has been scheduled by the Park Forest American Legion with support from the Veterans Commission. It is scheduled for 11 a.m. on Monday, May 31, on the Village Green in Downtown Park Forest. Social distancing and face masks required...

Village adopts resolution urging state leaders to reject proposed LGDF cuts

On May 24, Park Forest board members adopted a resolution objecting to proposed cuts to the Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF).Just over $200,000 dollars in Park Forest taxpayer funds could be lost should state lawmakers move forward on a proposal ...

Scholarships available for graduating high school seniors

The Village of Park Forest is currently seeking applicants for several scholarships available to graduating high school seniors. Park Forest residency required. The application deadline is June 30. For more information visit villageofparkforest.com/schola...

Park Forest remembers F. Patrick Kelly

Paper shredding event in DownTown Park Forest, May 8

A free paper shredding event will be held on Saturday, May 8, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Downtown Park Forest.Residents may bring 2 boxes of paper per person. No molded paper will be accepted. Paper clips and plastic sleeves must also be removed from all p...

Somonauk Park ground breaking ceremony set for May 1

New Landlord Incentive Program offers signing bonus to property owners

The Housing Authority of Park Forest (HAPF) has implemented a new Landlord Incentive Program beginning May 1, 2021.The HAPF will offer a one-time $500 signing bonus for units leased to new and current Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participants. Th...

Park Forest Aqua Center passes on sale now

After a year off due to the coronavirus pandemic, The Park Forest Aqua Center is planning highly anticipated return this summer. The facility opens for the season on Saturday, May 29. Season passes are on sale now at a special reduced rate.Since 1959, the...

Park Forest Police to hold two community events this month

The Park Forest Police Department will host two special events this month in recognition of Youth Violence Prevention Week and Autism Awareness Month.This Saturday, April 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Park Forest’s Village Hall, Park Forest Poli...

Early voting for Park Forest residents in Cook and Will County begins March 22

Early voting for residents in the Cook County section of Park Forest begins March 22 at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive, Park Forest, IL  

Hours of operation are:

March 22 - March 279 a.m. to 5 p.m.

March 2810 a.m. to 4 p.m.

March 29 - April...

Final look at candidates running for office in April to be held March 21

The final candidate forum for those running for village trustee in the April 6 election will be held on Sunday, March 21, beginning at 1 p.m. The forum is sponsored by the Park Forest Cooperatives. The forum will stream live on the village's web...

Park Forest vehicle stickers for 2021-22 on sale March 1

Park Forest Historical Society to air special program on community integration, Feb. 28

On Sunday, Feb. 28, 2021 at 2:30 p.m., the Park Forest Historical Society will air on its YouTube channel a program, “Early Integration and the History of the Commission on Human Relations.       Former Village President, Ronald...

Water main break email alerts coming March 1

The Village of Park Forest will begin alerting residents of water main breaks in their area via the CodeRed Notification System beginning March 1.Residents enrolled in the CodeRed notification system will start to receive emails when a water main break oc...

Village six-month financial update session set for Feb. 27

Park Forest department heads and elected officials will review and discuss village finances for the midway point of the 2020-21 fiscal year on Saturday, Feb. 27, beginning at 9 a.m. at Village Hall. The session will cover how revenues and expenditures of ...

League of Women Voters to host next Candidate Forum via Zoom on Feb. 21

The League of Women Voters Park Forest Area will sponsor the next Candidate Forum on Sunday, Feb. 21, beginning at 2:30 p.m., being held via Zoom. Those who would like to participate must request access to the meeting by emailing deborahorr@sbcglobal.net....

Homewood Disposal alerts village residents of garbage collection delayed one day due to weather

Library trustee candidate forum to be held Sunday, Feb. 7, will air live on cable and stream online

Park Forest Non Partisan Committee's first candidate forum set for Sunday at 1 p.m. via Zoom

Parks director offers update on village offerings in response to COVID restrictions eased

Park Forest Director of Recreation, Parks and Community Health Rob Gunther last week released the following statement related to Illinois' COVID mitigation efforts:With the latest easing of restrictions announced yesterday (1/18/21) by Governor P...

Vehicle sticker late fee to increase and tickets possible beginning Feb. 1

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

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 ...

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 ...

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

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 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...

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 ...

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 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...

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...

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...

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...

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...