Development News for Elmwood Park, Illinois

Elmwood Park Firefighters Honored for Valor and Excellence

Firefighters Derek DeRose, Nick Morning, Jeff Jonka, and Kellen Kamisik were recognized by the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and Mabus Division 20 for their actions during a structure fire on August 24th, 2025. Firefighter DeRose received the State Fire Marshal Medal of Valor. Firefighters Morning and Jonka received the State Fire Marshal Firefighter Excellence Award and Mabus Division 20 Achievement Award. Firefighter Kamisik received the Office of the State Fire Marshal Firefighter Excellence Award and Mabus Division 20 Achievement Award. Captain Kevin Ferraro also received the Mabus Division 20 Achievement Award. Paramedics Keith Langley, Jake Mazer, Ivy Merrill, and Marcus Shields received the Elmwood Park Fire Department Merit Award for their service during the incident.

Village Board Considers Service Agreements, Dispatch System Changes, and Tax Ordinances

The Village Board is considering several ordinances and resolutions that impact governance and operational procedures. These include approving various proposals and agreements for services and equipment, such as SBE Consulting for strategic planning, SESG for a stage roof, Eagle Advertising Company for transit shelters, and Proven IT for office equipment. The board is also addressing the village's intergovernmental agreements, including terminating membership in the Proviso Leiden Joint 911 Authority and establishing a new agreement for the West Suburban Consolidated Dispatch 911 system (WESCOM) with surrounding villages. This transition is expected to begin in late 2026. Additionally, the board is considering a streaming amusement tax and approving the acquisition of property and a land exchange. The board also approved a resolution to recognize the actions of firefighters Derek DeRose, Nick Morning, Jeff Jonka, Kellen Kamisik, Captain Kevin Ferraro, and paramedics Keith Langley, Jake Mazer, Ivy Merrill, and Marcus Shields for their bravery and professionalism during a structure fire.

Village Board Approves May Bills, Considers Insurance Increases and New Amusement Tax

The Village Board reviewed and approved bills and vouchers for May 2026 totaling $4,592,979.33. They also considered proposals related to employee benefits insurance, with the current contract expiring June 30th. The recommended renewal of health and prescription drug coverage with Blue Cross Blue Shield comes with a 13.5% increase, totaling $4,798,308, attributed to a high number of large claims. Dental insurance premiums are increasing by 3%, while other ancillary lines have no premium increase. The board also considered a 5% streaming amusement tax, which is being adopted by other municipalities to offset reductions in telecom and cable fees. The entity receiving streaming fees will collect the tax from consumers. Additionally, the board approved the purchase of two pieces of equipment for Public Works, reflected in the proposed 2026 budget. They also considered an agreement with GW and Associates for accounting and audit preparation services at $150 per hour.

Village Board Reviews Property Acquisition, Land Exchange, Demolition, and Parking Designations

The Village Board considered several zoning and land use matters, including the purchase of property at 3135 North 77th Avenue for $415,000, with plans to develop a public parking lot. They also considered an ordinance approving a 5% streaming amusement tax. A significant land exchange was proposed with Gottlieb Community Health Services Corp. involving parcels on Grand Avenue. The village would acquire Gottlieb's parking lot to assemble with adjacent village-owned land. Additionally, the board considered ordinances for the demolition of structures at 7243-45 and 7315 West Grand Avenue, and a project to replace water meters at Wabansia and Harlem, which will involve temporary street closures. The board also approved the designation of diagonal parking spots on 76th Avenue and 76th Court for staff parking at John Mills School during school days.