The Village Board of Trustees is set to take up a full agenda Monday night, including a proclamation honoring late Park Forest Police Officer Tim Jones, approval of the 2026 paratransit service agreement with PACE, acceptance of a $25,000 energy-efficiency grant, and the purchase of an electric support vehicle for the Fire Department.
The meeting begins at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, 350 Victory Drive.
Proclamation for Officer Tim Jones
Trustees are expected to adopt a proclamation recognizing the service and legacy of Officer Jones, who died Dec. 3 after nearly a decade of medical challenges stemming from a 2016 line-of-duty shooting. The proclamation recounts Jones’ recovery, the “Tim Strong” movement that rallied support across the region, and the honorary standing he maintained within the department.
His story, village officials note, became a symbol of resilience and community unity. A section of Lakewood Boulevard was dedicated as Honorary Officer Tim Jones Way in 2018.
PACE Paratransit Agreement on Agenda
The Board will also consider a resolution authorizing the village to enter into the 2026 Paratransit Service Provider Agreement with PACE, which funds the Jolly Trolley Dial-A-Ride service.
Under the proposed agreement, Park Forest would continue to lease PACE vehicles at no cost and receive an operating subsidy of $45,102, plus a one-time $6,765 payment. Projected revenue for 2026 is expected to decrease slightly from $10,061 to $9,906, according to staff documents. No service changes are proposed.
Rich Township would continue to operate the service under a previously renewed contract that runs through 2027.
Village Expected to Accept $25,000 Energy-Efficiency Grant
Trustees are also scheduled to vote on accepting a $25,000 Low-income Energy Efficiency Outreach and Engagement (LIEEOE) grant funded by ComEd and administered by the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. The grant would support the village’s “Park Forest Energy Efficiency Education and Outreach” project.
If approved, the village would be reimbursed for eligible project expenses through the end of 2026.
Fire Department Seeking Approval for EV Support Vehicle
The Board is expected to consider a motion authorizing the purchase of an electric Ford F-150 Lightning for the Fire Department at a cost not to exceed $70,897.62, including emergency-response up-fitting.
Fire Chief Mark Cotrano said in briefing materials that purchasing the vehicle now, ahead of the expiration of certain electric-vehicle tax credits, would save the village more than $15,000 compared with delaying purchase until fiscal year 2029. The village is also eligible for a $7,500 ComEd rebate.
The truck would replace Car 5001 and serve multiple department functions, including fire prevention, public education, hazardous materials response, and towing small trailers.
Other Items
The consent agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes, the village’s 2026 holiday schedule, reappointments to various boards and commissions, and acceptance of the energy-efficiency grant.
The Board will also hold final readings on the 2026 tax levy ordinance and an ordinance abating a portion of the 2025 levy.