2018 OP Fall/Winter

A PUBLICATION FOR THE ORLAND PARK COMMUNITY FA L L /WI N T E R 2018 • VOL UME 36 • NUMB E R 3

VILLAGE BOARD

LETTER FROM THE VILLAGE BOARD

The board has worked with village staff to reduce expenditures for the 2019 budget with as little impact to programs as possible. The Village Board has considered the impact on residents with the discontinuance of PACE Bus Dial-a-Ride service and asked village staff to come up with alternative options. This has resulted in the village board decision to provide transportation services to those affected. Stay tuned for details of this new service. The Public Works Department oversaw the installation of the new LED street lights, improving the quality, efficiency and aesthetics of the light on village roads. The new roundabout at the corner of 147th Street and Ravinia Avenue is completed and open to traffic. The project, intended to prepare Ravinia Avenue for increased traffic flow, is 70 percent funded by federal grant. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to partnering with you as we continue to foster our great community in Orland Park in 2019. Sincerely,

While we were sad to see local long- time retailer Carson’s close its doors in August, it allowed for new opportunities for Orland Park. High end retailer Von Maur will occupy the former Carson’s space while bringing in over $25 million in investments and 225 new jobs. The new addition to the Orland Park business community wouldn’t have been possible without the cooperation between the village, Simon Properties, Von Maur, High School District 230 as well as Orland District 135, the Orland Fire Protection District and Orland Park Library District. In addition to Von Maur, in 2019 the village will welcome Andy’s Frozen Custard, Rock and Brew and Hobby Lobby to Orland Park. The village continues to be a destination of choice for businesses looking to expand, start up or change locations. Keep an eye out for more announcements of new businesses coming to the area. If you have not had the opportunity to join us for a board meeting, know that you can always hear the audio recording on the village website at orlandpark.org and watch the live video broadcast on the village’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ VillageofOrlandPark.

The winter season is upon us and the Orland Park community is abuzz with festive events, beautiful holiday decorations and plentiful options for shopping and dining. We hope you will take a moment to enjoy one (or many) of the happenings around town and celebrate the holiday season here in Orland Park. Thank you to those who were able to join us for the annual Village of Orland Park Veterans Day Ceremony at the civic center. It was wonderful to join the community in recognizing our heroes of today, as well as those of the past. This year’s Holiday Festival and Tree Lighting Ceremony was very enjoyable, even though the weather did not cooperate. It was great to see so many people gather at the village center to celebrate the holiday season. As we approach the new year, we can reflect upon all that has happened and the progress that has been made during the past year. Chicago-based Structured Development was chosen as the developer for the Downtown Main Street Triangle. The firm will create a mixed-use development on the approximately nine acres of remaining parcels at the location. Look for news regarding the progress of the property in the near future.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Pictured (l to r) Trustee Michael Carroll, Trustee Patricia Gira, Trustee James Dodge, Mayor Keith Pekau, Village Clerk John Mehalek, Trustee Carole Griffin Ruzich, Trustee Daniel Calandriello, Trustee Kathleen Fenton

Calendar

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Keith Pekau Mayor

John C. Mehalek Village Clerk

Around Town

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Veterans

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TRUSTEES Kathleen Fenton Public Works

Snow Removal

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Carole Griffin Ruzich Development Services, Planning and Engineering

Welcome to Orland Park

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Holiday Safety

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James Dodge Mayor Pro Tem;

Stay Connected

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Daniel Calandriello Parks and Recreation

Technology, Innovation and Performance Improvement

Winter Wonderland

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Finance

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Michael Carroll Finance

Patricia Gira Public Safety

Winter Fitness

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Community Partnerships

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BOARD MEETINGS

December 17 January 7

January 21 February 4

March 4 March 18

Orland Park Village Board

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Committee Meeting • January 7, 6PM • Village Hall

Committee Meeting • February 4, 6PM • Village Hall

Board of Trustees Meeting • February 4, 7PM • Village Hall

WINTER WONDERLAND ICE RINK • Ice Rink is open December 1, 2018 - February 24, 2019 • Centennial Park, 15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive • Bundle up and join us!

COFFEE WITH A COP • Friday, December 7, 8:30 -10:00 AM • McDonald’s (14445 S. LaGrange Road)

Board of Trustees Meeting • January 7, 7PM • Village Hall

THE ARTS COMMISSION PRESENTS: SOUTHWEST COMMUNITY CONCERT BAND • Sunday, February 17, 2:00 - 3:30 PM • Cultural Center, 14760 Park Lane

Committee Meeting • January 21, 6PM • Village Hall

Board of Trustees Meeting • January 21, 7PM • Village Hall

SANTA’S PIT STOP AT SPORTSPLEX • Saturday, December 8 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

• Sportsplex, 11351 W. 159th Street • Free to all ages. Bring your camera!

ORLAND PARK COMEDY IMPROV PRESENTS:‘NO LIMIT LAUGHS’ • Fridays: January 25, February 22, March 29 • 8:00 - 10:00 PM • Location: Cultural Center, 14760 Park Lane

Committee Meeting • March 4, 6PM • Village Hall

MEET AUTHOR MATTHEW GALIK: THE 1926 ORLAND PARK

Board of Trustees Meeting • March 4, 7PM • Village Hall

MURDER MYSTERY • Saturday, December 15, 1:00 - 3:00 PM • Orland Park History Museum • Free

Committee Meeting • December 17, 6PM • Village Hall

THE ESSENTIAL GREAT CHICAGO FIRE • March 8, 6:30- 7:30 PM • Orland Park History Museum • Join presenter William Pack as he weaves together technical details of the fire with vivid firsthand accounts from those who lived through the disastrous event in 1871. • Member $10/Non-member $15

CINDERELLA’S BALL • Saturday, February 2, 2019 • 4:30 - 7:30 PM • Cultural Center, 14760 Park Lane

Board of Trustees Meeting • December 17, 7pm • Village Hall

THE ORLAND PARK THEATRE TROUPE PRESENTS: ‘THE CHRISTMAS EXPRESS’ BY PAT COOK | DIRECTED BY FRANN CARNIVELE • Friday and Saturday, December 7 & 8, 7:30 PM • Sunday, December 9, 2:00 PM • Orland Park Civic Center, 14750 Ravinia Avenue • Reserved seating is available at Recreation Administration, 14600 Ravinia Avenue • For more information: 708-403-7275 / 708-645-7529

Committee Meeting • March 18, 6PM • Village Hall

Board of Trustees Meeting • March 18, 7PM • Village Hall

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

AROUND TOWN

AROUND TOWN

Hoedown Harvest The Village of Orland Park introduced a new event this October of 2018, Harvest Hoedown. Held at Crescent Park,

the program offered guests a country barbecue dinner from City Barbeque, beer and wine, a live country band, country western-themed games and line dancing instruction. The event was sponsored by the University of Chicago Medicine and City Barbeque. Thank you to all who attended and we look forward to seeing you again next fall!

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HONORING OUR VETERANS

HONORING OUR VETERANS

Veterans Day

Orland Park’s Tom Dubelbeis Named Illinois Bicentennial Honor 200 Honoree

Hundreds of veterans, family members and friends gathered on Sunday, November 11 @ 11a.m. to honor and remember those who served. It is with tremendous gratitude and pride that the Village of Orland Park adds the names of the following veterans to the Orland Park Veterans Memorial, Ara Pace’ - Place of Peace.

wrote, “The Honor 200 nominations were evaluated on the achievements and the contributions made by each honoree that have aided, benefited and provided inspiration to your local communities and your fellow veterans.” Dubelbeis served as a village trustee for more than 10 years, retiring in August, 2001 to pursue a local business venture. During his tenure as a trustee, Dubelbeis donated his $600 monthly stipend to local veterans’ organizations, a domestic violence shelter and other not-for-profits. When he retired from the village board, Dubelbeis donated the $5000 from his campaign fund to the village’s Veterans Commission and the Orland Historical Society for the creation of a veterans’ museum. “We are very proud of Orland Park’s many veterans programs,” said Village Manager Joe La Margo whose son currently serves with the U.S. Navy. “Being named among 200 veterans statewide is a great honor for Tom Dubelbeis. We congratulate him and thank him for all that he does for veterans.” Dubelbeis chaired the village’s veterans’ commission from 2002 until 2010 returning in 2015 to serve as the group’s veterans’ liaison. During his time away from the commission, Dubelbeis worked with businesses to recycle electronics to raise funds for computer training for veterans. The Honor 200 recipients represent more than 50 counties across the state of Illinois. Nominees were evaluated based on their achievements, and on the extent to which their contributions have aided, benefited and provided inspiration to their community at large. In addition, nominees must have received an honorable discharge from the U.S. military and reside in Illinois. The Honor 200 recipients attended the state’s official 200th birthday celebration at Navy Pier in Chicago on December 3, 2018.

Tom Dubelbeis, veterans’ liaison for the Village of Orland Park Veterans Commission, has been added to an elite group. Dubelbeis has been named an Illinois Bicentennial Honor 200 Honoree, being

Dr. Dennis R. LaMonte, Sr.

1968 - 1974 1941 - 1945 1968 - 1972 2002 - 2006 1967 - 1969 1965 - 1969 1952 - 1955 1946 - 1947 1943 - 1945 1968 - 1969 1092 - 1954 1943 - 1946 1959 - 1965 1953 - 1955 1942 - 1945 1965 - 1972 1954 - 1956 1951 - 1953 1968 - 1973 1943 - 1945 1971 - 1973 1944 - 1946

US Air Force

Edward L. Kasper II

US Army Air Corps

Dr. Edward L. Kasper III

US Air Force

Yuriy Zmysly

US Marine Corps

James Kirkwood

US Army

George A. Kuczero John Sylvester Ponce Italo A. Quagliani Bruno G. Quagliani James Patrick Floyd Edward J. Pawlak Glenn Ohlquist Ronald B. Goff Leonard F. Brennan Charles Joseph Hadad Felipe Gonzalez, Jr. John W. McGonigal Stephen James Murphy Jr.

US Marine Corps

US Army US Army

recognized for his contributions to his fellow veterans, service members and local community. He is one of 200 Illinois veterans to receive this honor during the state’s Bicentennial Celebration. The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Illinois Bicentennial Office announced the recipients of Bicentennial HONOR 200 on October 24, honoring the work of 200 veterans who continue to make extraordinary contributions to the people of Illinois. Dubelbeis was nominated by Orland Park Mayor Keith Pekau. “Tom Dubelbeis began his service to our country in 1970 when he joined the US Army,” Pekau said. “He has spent most of his life in service --- to our country, to the community, and most importantly to his beloved veterans.” Dubelbeis’s years of community involvement that began in 1984 when he coached for the Orland Youth Association Girls’ Program going onto serve as the group’s president. Dubelbeis served on the village’s Recreation Advisory Board from 1987 through 1991 when he was elected village trustee. In his letter to Dubelbeis, retired Brigadier General Stephen Curda, director of the Illinois Department of Veteran Affairs,

US Army Air Corps

US Army US Navy US Army US Army US Army US Navy US Army US Army US Army US Army US Navy US Army

US Marines

Michael Kosteczko

Frank C. Wic

Kenneth Robert Johnston Joseph Bernard Goldyn

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

SNOW REMOVAL

TOP 10 SNOW TIPS

Orland Park’s Top 10 Snow Tips

1. V illage ordinance prohibits parking on village streets once two inches of snow have fallen. 2. P arked vehicles must be kept off of the streets for eight hours after it has stopped snowing. 3. W hen clearing the driveway, residents should place snow on either side of the driveway---on the lawn---and never in the street. 4. R esidents should keep garbage cans and recycle bins from rolling into the street on garbage pick up day. 5. D esignate curbs with five free stakes available from the Public Works Department, 15600 South Ravinia Avenue. 6. D igging from the street, clear out hydrants so that fire personnel can easily access them if necessary. 7. D o not clear your driveway at the curbline until the snowplow driver has made his last curb pass in front of your residence. 8. B e patient. Every storm is different with many variables. Streets may have to be plowed more than once. 9. C ommunicate with the Public Works Department. Report any ice formations on the street so that they can be salted. Clear the snow from storm sewers in front of your home so melting snow can easily drain, preventing ice patches. 10. M ailboxes should be kept in good repair and be placed at least one foot behind the curb to avoid damage. It is the residents’ responsibility to clear a safe path around mailboxes to ensure delivery. Homeowners’ associations are responsible for clearing the area around cluster mailboxes.

Snow Removal

“Snow events are closely monitored and the Village of Orland Park Public Works crews are promptly mobilized and dispatched once a storm begins. Please be patient as the crews clear main roads first to ensure public safety.”

When heavy snowfall demands additional resources, the village will dispatch contractors to assist with clearing snow from elbows, courts and cul-de-sacs. Not all roads within Orland Park are maintained by the village. Some State, County and privately maintained roads and properties are maintained by other agencies. Please use the following phone numbers to find out about State and Cook County roads: • State Roads, 847-705-4161 • Cook County Roads, 708-448-8006 To clear our roads as quickly as possible and keep them safe for travel, we need the cooperation of all our residents. Those with questions regarding snow removal can contact the Public Works Department at 708-403-6350.

The Village of Orland Park Public Works Department has been gearing up for the upcoming season and is prepared to tackle whatever Mother Nature sends our way. When a storm begins, day or night, Public Works crews are promptly mobilized and dispatched. The type of storm, anticipated accumulation, expected duration and other variables such as wind, drifting and temperature dictates how our specific snow plowing operations will progress. The snow removal process includes a prioritized implementation schedule in order to ensure public safety. It is imperative to clear main roads first to provide mobility and access for police, fire and ambulatory activity. All village-owned streets will be plowed with main streets cleared first, followed by side-streets, and finally cul-de-sacs and dead ends.

Trustee Kathleen Fenton, Committee Chair PUBLIC WORKS

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WELCOME TO ORLAND PARK

WELCOME TO ORLAND PARK

Welcome to Orland Park

the estimated 225 jobs created at this location. It will enhance Orland Square, the region’s economic driver, and lead to further improvement and development of adjacent areas. “Thank you to the Orland Park Village Board, the boards of Consolidated High School District 230 and Orland School District 135, Orland Fire Protection District, the Village of Orland Park Library, Von Maur and Simon, all of whom worked together to make this a reality to benefit the region,” Pekau said. The mayor added, “I also commend village staff, in particular Assistant Village Manager Karie Friling, for all of their tireless efforts to get this major victory across the finish line.”

“This is a big win for Orland Park and a real shot in the arm for our economic future,” said Mayor Keith Pekau. “Von Maur is a great business, headquartered in the Midwest and I am impressed with their offerings, their corporate culture and the success they bring to our town and our region,” added Trustee Carole Griffin Ruzich. To bring Von Maur to Orland Park, the village and other taxing bodies are providing tax incentives with a potential total cost of $8.5 million based on Von Maur meeting certain obligations and performance criteria. The Village of Orland Park and the region will benefit from Von Maur’s expected investment of $25 million and

ROCK AND BREWS The petitioner proposes to construct a 6,500 square foot rock and roll themed restaurant on Lot 7 of the Orland Crossing Shopping Center. In 2007, the Village Board of Trustees approved this lot for an Ethan Allen Furniture Gallery that was never fully developed. Lot 7 is the last developable parcel available in Orland Crossing. The site is located directly west of the BP gas station located on the northeast corner of 143rd Street and LaGrange Road. The primary building material for the restaurant will be masonry. The design will imitate the branding and theme of existing Rock and Brews Restaurants, built in other parts of the USA. The petitioner plans an enhanced outdoor seating area that will encompass approximately 4,000 square feet. The use will bring great food, entertainment and one of a kind experience to Downtown Orland Park. Rock and Brews anticipates a spring 2019 opening.

The Village of Orland Park has completed the economic incentive package that was instrumental in bringing Von Maur Department Store to Orland Square. Von Maur, which operates 32 stores in 15 states, including three in Illinois, will occupy the 160,000 square feet space vacated by Carson’s, which ceased all operations August 31st.

“The Village of Orland Park continues to be a top destination for new and expanding businesses. As a village, we continue to support local businesses, encourage investment as well as reinvestment in the community and recognize the importance of a strong commercial presence in Orland Park.” Trustee Carole Griffin Ruzich, Committee Chair DEVELOPMENT SERVICES, PLANNING AND ENGINEERING

HOBBY LOBBY Hobby Lobby will soon fill the space previously occupied by HHGregg at

ANDY’S FROZEN CUSTARD The former Wendy’s Restaurant at 14555 LaGrange Road is being developed as an Andy’s Frozen Custard. The 2,131 square foot building is under construction and will have a drive thru. This project is another example of re-investment into the LaGrange Road Corridor, with new construction replacing a formerly vacant restaurant. Andy’s Frozen Custard anticipates an opening in early 2019.

Orland Park Place. Hobby Lobby is currently completing a remodel of the 45,080 square foot space. The remodel is estimated at nearly $1 million private investment into the property. The store anticipates an early 2019 opening.

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

HOLIDAY SAFETY

HOLIDAY SAFETY

“We want everyone to have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season. The Village of Orland Park has one of the best police forces in the country, making sure residents and visitors are safe every single day. No one can deter those who want to take advantage of the abundance of “easy targets” such as gifts under a tree, presents in a car or packages sitting at a front door. Taking a few, simple precautions can help deter the possible thefts and break-ins this holiday season.”

Trustee Patricia Gira, Committee Chair PUBLIC SAFETY

SHOP SMART When holiday shopping this season, avoid showcasing any large amounts of cash when paying for goods. Doing so may attract the wrong kind of attention. Keep shopping bags out of view when leaving already purchased goods in vehicles while shopping. Park in well-lit areas and be aware of your surroundings when going to and from your car. THINK BEFORE YOU POST If you are planning to be away this holiday season, keep travel plans off social media networks. Never post where you are going, when you are leaving, or when you will return. This is prime information for thieves who benefit from knowing when your house will be unattended. Share vacation photos and posts when you return.

NOTIFY A NEIGHBOR Notify a trusted neighbor of your travel plans Ask the neighbor to keep an eye on your house and report any suspicious activity. You’ll also want this neighbor to keep your walks cleared of snow and to pick up your mail and newspapers while you are away. Make sure your house looks like somebody is home to deter a burglar. A simple timer can be added to lights in your home to make it appear as if someone if home and turning them on/off as different times during the evening. Curtains should be left the way they normally are kept so that nothing seems different to anyone who may be watching. Also, it is hard for neighbors to notice any movement indoors and notify the police if curtains are closed. IT SHOULD APPEAR THAT SOMEONE IS HOME

KEEP VALUABLES HIDDEN Ask a neighbor to take in any packages that are delivered in your absence. Pretty wrapped gifts under the Christmas tree looks nice, but is also an open invitation for a burglar. Try to keep your Christmas tree, with gifts underneath, away from windows. When you aren’t home, it’s easy to break through a window and grab all of your gifts. Put valuables away and out of sight. REMOVE YOUR SPARE KEY That plastic rock isn’t fooling anyone. If criminals figure out you’re away on vacation, it’s likely that he or she will check your porch for a spare key. So reach under the mat, into the mailbox, above the door frame or into the flower pot and remove your spare key before you leave on your vacation.

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

STAY CONNECTED

STAY CONNECTED

“We want to hear from you and encourage residents of Orland Park to reach out to village staff as well as your elected officials with any questions and/or concerns. There are so many ways to connect to your local government whether it be by phone, via social media or email or even in person. We hope to hear from you soon.”

Trustee James Dodge, Committee Chair MAYOR PRO TEM; TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION AND PERFORMANCE IMPROVEMENT

Stay Connected

Instagram | Capturing fun and light-hearted sights around Orland Park, as well as keeping the community up-to-date on village happenings is what you will find on the Village of Orland Park Instagram feed. Follow us at @villageoforlandpark today! YouTube | Check out the many videos on YouTube featuring local events, cable shows and more at youtube.com/VillageofOrlandPark. Be sure to subscribe for timely updates. E-Newsletter | Go to orlandpark.org to sign up to have our monthly e-newsletter sent right to your email. Highlights for the upcoming month are featured along with reminders of important deadlines and upcoming events. Notify Me | The village’s Notify Me notification system can alert you via e-mail and/or text about village events, newsletter releases and more. Go to orlandpark.org and click the green “How Do I?” link and then “Notify Me” to be taken to the sign up page. Simply enter your e-mail and/or cell phone number and choose which notifications to receive.

Village Website | With just a few clicks, visitors can access a wide range of information online. Looking for meeting dates and times? Want to know about events happening around town? Need a permit for construction or tree removal? Need updates on road construction? All of this information and more is readily available online at orlandpark.org. Village Publications | The Village of Orland Park publishes three newsletters a year. Two issues of the Orland Park Public and the annual report are made available online for viewing. The publications provide a snapshot of village happenings, report on important dates and programs, as well as highlight members of our community. Twitter | Follow @VillageOrlandPk on Twitter for real-time updates on community happenings, village announcements and more. Facebook | Visit the village’s page at facebook.com/ villageoforlandpark and “like” the page to stay up-to-date on community-wide events and communicate one-on-one with the Public Information Department regarding village-related topics. Pinterest | Are you a “pinner” on Pinterest? We are too! Follow our boards at pinterest.com/vlgoforlandpark for a variety of interesting facts, events and public announcements pertaining to the Village of Orland Park.

THERE ARE MANY WAYS THAT THE VILLAGE ENCOURAGES COMMUNICATION WITH RESIDENTS. STAY INFORMED, GET UPDATES AND BE THE FIRST TO KNOW ABOUT VILLAGE EVENTS AND MORE THROUGH THE FOLLOWING METHODS. { }

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL & TREE LIGHTING

HOLIDAY FESTIVAL & TREE LIGHTING

Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting

The Village of Orland Park officially welcomed the holiday season on the Sunday after Thanksgiving with the community’s annual Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting Ceremony. “Coming together as a community to welcome the holiday season is a long- standing Orland Park tradition,” said Trustee Dan Calandriello, chair of the village’s Recreation and Parks Committee. “It’s fun to see the many families come to see Santa, enjoy the holiday music and be a part of our annual tree lighting.” The holiday market which offered food, crafts and holiday items was held in the Orland Park Civic Center away form the elements. Attendees were able to shop for festive decor, holiday gifts and grab a snack after visiting with Santa, The event features the Carl Sandburg High School Chamber Choir, the Jerling Junior High School Choir, the Orland Park Comedy Improv Team, the village’s Junior and Senior Dance Companies, Orland Park Library Story Telling and “Beyond the Nutcracker” performance by Ballet 5:8. Attendees also enjoyed visits with Santa, sleigh rides, seeing live reindeer, make and take crafts and more. Scout troops, churches, athletic organizations, youth groups and local clubs adopted community trees to decorate on the village green. the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who! The festivities began with the tree lighting outside of village hall.

“The community trees are not only beautiful to look at,” said Trustee Calandriello, “but very meaningful as well as they represent an integral part of the community as they make their mark on this year’s holiday gathering.” The festival continues to grow in popularity on a yearly basis and draws crowds from Orland Park as well as many of the outlying suburbs. For more information about other upcoming events, visit www.orlandpark.org or call 708/645-7529.

“Coming together as a community to welcome the holiday season is a long-standing Orland Park tradition.” Trustee Daniel Calandriello, Committee Chair PARKS AND RECREATION

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

WINTER WONDERLAND

WINTER WONDERLAND

Winter Wonderland ICE RINK

ICE RINK HOURS Open December 1, 2018 to February 24, 2019, (weather permitting) sunrise until the warming house closes. However, during resurfacing the rink will be closed.

MODIFIED WARMING HOUSE HOURS Monday, December 24 – 11 AM to 2 PM Tuesday, December 25 – Closed Wednesday & Thursday, December 26 & 27 – 12 PM to 8 PM Friday, December 28 – 12 PM to 8 PM Monday & Tuesday, December 31 & January 1 – 11 AM to 4 PM Wednesday & Thursday, January 2 & 3 – 12 PM to 8 PM Friday, January 4 – 12 PM to 8 PM Monday, January 7 & 21 – 12 PM to 7 PM

WARMING HOUSE HOURS Monday – Thursday: 4 PM – 7 PM Friday: 4 PM – 8 PM

Saturday: 12 PM – 8 PM Sunday, 12 PM – 7 PM

OPEN DECEMBER 1 - FEBRUARY 24, 2019 weather permitting LOCATED IN CENTENNIAL PARK 15600 WEST AVENUE & FUN DRIVE

RENTALS Skates: $3.00 Helmet: Free Photo ID required for rentals

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WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

PUBLIC SAFETY

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Conversion of Residential Street Lights

The Orland Park Public Works Department is converting residential streets lights to LED, light emitting diode lighting. “The village has been working on the conversion from high pressure sodium vapor street lights to LED lights for a number of years,” said Trustee Kathy Fenton, chair of the village’s Public Works Committee. “The ComEd rebates of more than $231,000 will help offset the cost of the project.” LED lights are more durable than current lights and depreciate at a slower rate. LEDs do not contain toxic chemicals and they reduce overall maintenance costs. “Our plan is to convert every residential street light to an LED fixture,” said Director of Public Works John Ingram. “Cities across the country have converted to LED because it’s energy efficient, environmentally friendly and delivers a significant electrical cost savings. Those savings are estimated to be more than $95,000 annually.” Ingram continued, “In subsequent years, we will begin replacing village owned light fixtures on streets maintained by the state and county. Special review and permits are required to make changes at these locations. We are also looking at decorative lighting at a number of locations including the historic area and parking lot lights at different village and Metra parking lots.”

“The reduced maintenance costs are significant with LED lights,” Fenton added. “LEDs don’t have filaments that burn out quickly. They last a long time.” Orland Park subdivisions already converted to LED lights include Greystone Ridge, Deer Haven Estates II, Parkside Square, and El Cameno Terrace. Nearly 2500 high pressure sodium fixture heads will be replaced with LED heads between October and December, 2018. Existing light poles will remain the same. All of the ComEd lights, typically on wooden poles in Orland Park have been converted to LED.

Orland Park is working with the CTS Group on its conversion, a company that specializes in reducing energy consumption and project management. Using information provided by Public Works, CTS Group will audit each light pole to verify the location and current wattage to ensure an appropriate replacement is obtained. “Because of their energy efficiency and long lifespan, LED streetlights are advocated as a means for reducing carbon emissions. According to one estimate, converting all American light fixtures to LEDs would halve the amount of energy used for lighting in the country [source: Rosenthal and Barringer],” wrote Jacob Silverman for “How Things Work.” Light levels can be controlled with LED lights and not being ultraviolet, they do not attract bugs.

Follow OPPD on Social Media

such as burglary to motor vehicle and crimes of opportunity. The Orland Park Police Department has joined its counterparts across the country with this national initiative. Follow the Orland Park Police Department: @OrlandParkPolice @OrlandParkpd @orlandparkpolice

Residents can count on regular features, such as “Wanted Wednesday.” The weekly post asks the public to help identify a person of interest wanted in a crime or to help locate a person with an outstanding warrant. The first “Wanted Another initiative is called #9PMroutine, encouraging residents to set their alarms on their phones or inside their homes for 9 p.m. as a reminder to remove valuables from their cars, to lock vehicles and house doors, and turn on outdoor lights. These steps will help deter crime Wednesday” posted Jan. 31 has reached over 12,000 people.

The Orland Park Police Department uses social media to keep the community informed. The department regularly posts on its Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. The police department uses social media as an investigative tool when seeking evidence or information about missing persons, fugitives or knowledge about a particular crime. The public will be notified with time-sensitive notifications, such as major traffic incidents, weather emergencies, or police action in a specific area that poses a potential threat to the community.

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FINANCE NEWS

FINANCE NEWS

Budget Process

The Board of Trustees has a set policy of maintaining at least 20 percent financial reserves (or fund balance policy) at all times. Keeping healthy reserves has allowed the village to consistently earn high bond ratings, enabling the village to borrow money at lower interest rates and keep insurance premiums lower. The diversified tax base we enjoy in Orland Park has a mixture of residential, commercial and light industrial, along with a significant retail sales tax source in our stores, restaurants and other sales oriented businesses. This has allowed the Village Board to continuously offer the same services, year after year, without depleting its fund balance policy, and – more importantly – without raising the tax levy. The tax levy is the amount of money the village requests Cook County to collect on our behalf. The village has not asked the county to raise its levy for eight years in a row. As you may have read, retail sales have been slumping over the past few years. Known to some as the “Amazon Effect” – online sales hurting brick and

mortar stores. The overall trend seems to indicate that we should expect less revenue from retail sales taxes than we were once accustomed to receiving. With the closing of Sears, Carson Pirie Scott, Toys ‘R Us and Babies ‘R Us, that decrease is magnified. While we are very excited about the recent announcement that Von Maur will be soon occupying the former Carson’s spot, it will be some time before we see that revenue coming in to the village. Realistically, we have to plan for the possibility that retail stores may not provide the same revenue that they once did. Just as families create household budgets based on the income you expect to make for the year, our Board of Trustees goes through a similar process each year, beginning in late summer or early fall. The Village of Orland Park Finance Department projects anticipated revenues for the following year, and then the board decides whether to raise any new revenue (i.e. increasing taxes). Finally, our village departments are then asked to bring a budget to the board that fits within those guidelines.

This year, it was obvious that the village could not spend the same amount of money it spent last year without raising new revenue or depleting its reserves below the established fund balance policy. Despite the fact that the village portion of a resident’s taxes accounts for less than 7% of the total bill, the majority of the Village Board was not comfortable in raising the tax levy. Therefore, the only way to maintain the fund balance policy was to cut spending. We directed the village manager to bring to the board cuts that would not impact public safety or core village services. The current proposed budget maintains our fund balance policy, does not raise taxes and maintains public safety and core services. Unfortunately, some programs and services had to be cut. Other services may take longer to deliver, but will still be offered. The Village Board is committed to providing the best quality of life possible to residents of Orland Park, while doing so in an efficient and economically responsible way. Every year, we welcome your input during the entire budget process.

IN DECEMBER OF EACH YEAR, THE VILLAGE BOARD FORMALLY APPROVES BALANCED OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGETS FOR THE FOLLOWING YEAR.

The village utilizes the target based budget method for operating funds; therefore, the budget process begins with the calculation of available sources. Fixed costs are applied against these available sources and the net amount available is allocated to the Village’s operating departments to fund variable operating costs. Available sources include fund balance remaining after setting aside Board authorized reserve amounts, as well as revenue projected for the new fiscal year. The village’s budget policy is to estimate revenues conservatively and to maintain a spending level less than or equal to current year resources. The issuance of short or long term debt will only occur if needed to fund long-term capital projects and will not be utilized to fund the village’s operating budget. The village continues to maintain reserves in its operating funds that

meet or exceed Board approved fund balance and reserve policy levels. For more information about the Village of Orland Park budget process, please visit www.orlandpark.org.

• Budget Adoption (December 4, 2018)

• Operating Budget Hearings • Capital Budget Hearings • Revenue Hearing

NOV./ DEC.

• Budget Team reviews budget priorities with officials. This is the point at which village-wide priorities of officials are captured and included in the discussions

SEPT./ OCT.

“Just as families create household budgets based on the income you expect to make for the year, our Board of Trustees goes through a similar process each year.... The Village Board is committed to providing the best quality of life possible to residents of Orland Park, while doing so in an efficient and economically responsible way.”

• Budget Team reviews results with departments

AUGUST

• Pre-budget committee meetings with Budget Team,

department directors and village officials

JULY

2019

Trustee Michael Carroll, Chair FINANCE COMMITTEE

MAY/ JUNE

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| FALL/WINTER 2018 | WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG |

WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

WINTER FITNESS

WINTER FITNESS

It’s cold out there! It can be difficult to reach those step goals when snow and ice cover the sidewalks and walking trails. Luckily for those in Orland Park, there are many options for continuing your exercise routine indoors. Winter Fitness

VILLAGE OF ORLAND PARK SPORTSPLEX 11351 W. 159th St. | 708-645-7529 FACILITY HOURS Monday - Friday | 5:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. The Sportsplex is a state-of-the-art fitness facility with much to offer for all ages and interests. Spanning over 90,000 square feet, the Sportsplex offers an array of fitness and recreational opportunities. • Fitness • Rock climbing • Yoga • Exercise classes • Pilates • Birthday parties • Weight lifting • Hitting & pitching lessons • Cardio • Golf cages • Running • Open gym time • Basketball • Childcare • Volleyball • Special events • Soccer FRANKLIN E. LOEBE RECREATION CENTER 14650 S. Ravinia Ave. | 708-403-7275 Another option for indoor fitness is the indoor track at the Franklin E. Loebe Recreation Center, located in the Orland Park Village Center Complex, 14650 S. Ravinia Avenue. This center offers an indoor playroom for kids and meeting rooms are available for rent. Saturday | 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday | 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

ORLAND PARK HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER 15430 West Ave. | 708-226-0555

As the only certified Medical Fitness Association (MFA) facility in the area, we focus on health benefits and preventative care along with transformational exercise. We believe that both a healthy mind and body are essential to healthy living. That’s why we approach health and wellness from a medically integrated perspective. Want to get in shape, lose weight or just unwind? It’s all here for you at Orland Park Health & Fitness Center.

CENTER HOURS Monday - Friday | 5:00 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday | 6 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Orland Park residents, receive FREE enrollment when you commit to a 12-month membership! Your 13th month is FREE when you prepay 12 months!

MONTHLY DUES

ENROLLMENT FEES

RESIDENTS Individual

$72

$100 $150 $175 N/A

Couple Family

$126 $161 $15*

Kids Club

Senior Individual Senior Couple

$66

$50 $75

$116

MONTHLY DUES

ENROLLMENT FEES

NON-RESIDENTS

Individual

$80

$200 $300 $350 N/A $100 $150

Couple Family

$138 $188 $15*

Kids Club

Senior Individual Senior Couple

$74

$128

BUILDING HOURS Monday through Friday | 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

* 15 per child, ages 6 weeks to 11 years, not to exceed $161/$188 dues † To qualify as a senior, must be age 62 or older

Saturday | 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sunday | 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

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| FALL/WINTER 2018 | WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG |

WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

lake to better understand where to place this next round of fish cribs,” Bartgen said. “Kids aren’t just learning how to fish --- they are being exposed to many potential career paths available to those who enjoy fishing and being outdoors.” Corcoran added, “So far, we have had great success and we will continue our efforts of conservation education and restoration alongside the Village of Orland Park.” Arndt said, “The project also allows us to study Lake Sedgwick for many years and watch the positive changes that take place --- this isn’t just a once a year thing. We want the community, our schools, and our students to return to Lake Sedgwick with their families and friends having a sense of pride and appreciation for this beautiful lake.”

“We are very happy with all that the fishing teams have done for the village,” Beaudry said. “They’ve help build up the structure of the lake. They brought out two agencies --- the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and a private lake management company --- to shock the lake to help the kids identify what fish we have and to help all of us learn about the health of the fish population.” Beaudry thanked Orland Park’s Lowe’s and Home Depot Stores for donating the supplies for the most recent fish crib project. Bartgen noted the many learning opportunities the Andrew and Sandburg students have enjoyed. “This ongoing project has enabled our students to be actively engaged in math, science, research and the history of the

Coach Jim Corcoran said, “The fish cribs act as fish habitat and become a complete mini reef ecosystem to grow plankton and attract minnows and other food sources for the game fish in Lake Sedgwick. This is the third round of crib building the clubs have completed.” “Orland Park is grateful to the teams from Andrew and Sandburg for all they’ve done for the past five years,” said village Parks Director Gary Couch. “We’ve enjoyed working with the coaches and the kids who have come through and we thank our own Ron Beaudry for facilitating everything on the village’s end. Ron took ownership of the program and it’s a great cooperative effort.” “Anglers should be able to reap the benefits of these cribs by next summer,” Corcoran said, adding, “Our efforts to enhance the lake ecosystem have helped both the lake and its users as well as the students from our clubs.” “This is a way to get students to connect with the real world and learn outside of the classroom as they learn about fish ecology and fisheries management,” the science teacher said. The bass fishing teams have created fish cribs for the village’s man-made lake three times over the past five years. They’ve installed brush piles and brought in other agencies to help with the lake. “Helping students better understand how to preserve our community resources such as Lake Sedgwick has brought our students in contact with local officials, lake management officers and a host of other people in the field of conservation,” Bartgen said. An avid angler, Ron Beaudry, of the village’s Building Maintenance Division, has been the village’s liaison with the school district for each of the lake projects. professionals, marine biologists, Department of Natural Resources

Partnering with the Community ANDREW & SANDBURG BASS FISHING TEAMS CONTINUE LAKE SEDGWICK TRADITION

studies teacher, has been involved since the beginning. “Lake Sedgwick has been our ‘home field’ for years now and it’s been a blessing for the Andrew and Sandburg Bass Fishing Programs,” Arndt said. “Over the years, both programs have had quite a few students move on to take what they’ve learned from this project to the next level in bass fishing. An important part of getting to that next level requires a deeper understanding of different species of fish and their habitats. That’s where this project with Lake Sedgwick comes in and as coaches, we think its vital. It gives all of us the opportunity to understand things in a larger way than simply catching fish.” Explaining the purpose of fish cribs, Sandburg High School Bass Fishing

Fish cribs provide shelter for fish populations. They are created with gallon buckets of cement holding long pieces of plastic pipes. Aquatic vegetation eventually attaches to the cribs and further helps the shelters, improving oxygen levels in the water. “We are grateful for the opportunity that the Village of Orland Park has given our high school fishing clubs again this year,” said Andrew Bass Fishing Coach John Bartgen, the social studies teacher who first proposed the cooperative effort five years ago. “Allowing our kids and clubs to use Lake Sedgwick as our outdoor classroom has given D230 students a hands-on approach to see the ‘bigger picture’ of fishing, which is conservation.” Andrew High School Bass Fishing Coach David Arndt, also a social

The bass fishing teams from Victor J. Andrew and Carl Sandburg High Schools have again created fish cribs for the Village of Orland Park’s 75-acre Lake Sedgwick at Centennial Park, 15600 West Avenue. “This cooperative project between the village and District 230 began five years ago,” said Trustee Dan Calandriello, chair of the village’s Recreation and Parks Committee. “We appreciate all that the coaches and kids from Andrew and Sandburg have done to help Lake Sedgwick. I think it’s great that years of kids now have vested interests in their community.” On Monday, November 12, members of the two schools’ teams gathered to create cribs that will be installed in the spring.

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| FALL/WINTER 2018 | WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG |

WWW.ORLANDPARK.ORG | FALL/WINTER 2018 |

VILLAGE FACILITIES

Yard Waste Collection Extended The Village of Orland Park’s waste and recycling contractor, Waste Management, is extending yard waste collection through the second week of December. Yard waste collection was previously scheduled to end on November 30, 2018. All yard waste materials must be separate from normal household garbage. Residents may use the green yard waste carts or Kraft biodegradable bags for yard waste. Yard waste in other containers will not be collected. For more information about yard waste disposal or to buy or rent a waste wheeler cart, please call Waste Management of the South Suburbs at 800-964-8988.

FREDERICK T. OWENS VILLAGE HALL 14700 South Ravinia Avenue • (708) 403-6100 Monday thru Friday • 8am to 5pm Cashier • Open until 7pm 1st & 3rd Monday ORLAND PARK POLICE DEPARTMENT 15100 South Ravinia Avenue • (708) 349-4111 non-emergency Dial 9-1-1 for police, fire or ambulance service

in the Village of Orland Park. PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT 15655 South Ravinia Avenue • (708) 403-6350 PACE Bus Service • (708) 403-6355

ORLAND PARK CIVIC CENTER William R. Vogel Memorial

14750 South Ravinia Avenue • (708) 403-6200 ORLAND PARK HEALTH AND FITNESS CENTER 15430 West Avenue • (708) 226-0555 RECREATION DEPARTMENT Recreation Administration 14600 South Ravinia Avenue • (708) 645-7529 Franklin E. Loebe Recreation Center 14650 South Ravinia Avenue Village of Orland Park Sportsplex 11351 West 159th Street • (708) 645-PLAY Centennial Park Aquatic Center 15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive • (708) 349-4386 Cultural Center 14760 Park Lane • (708) 349-1402 Rainout Line (708) 401-0043

VILLAGE MANAGER Joseph S. La Margo ASSISTANT VILLAGE MANAGER/ DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES Karie Friling ASSISTANT VILLAGE MANAGER/ PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER John Keating EDITING AND DESIGN Nabeha Zegar GRAPHIC DESIGN Kristin Klinger TELEPHONE 708.403.6150 EMAIL publicinfooffice@orlandpark.org

ILLINOIS SECRETARY OF STATE SATELLITE DRIVER’S LICENSE FACILITY Board Room of the Village Hall (800) 252-8980 Monday thru Friday • 9am to 5pm Address/Name Changes • Vision Tests State Identification Cards • Plate Stickers

FREDERICK T. OWENS VILLAGE HALL 14700 SOUTH RAVINIA AVENUE ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 orlandpark.org

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