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Homewood, Illinois U.S.A. AUTUMN 2000
Looking Toward the Future of Homewood
In 1998, the Village Why did the Village goals that will positively objectives within
adopted a five-year strategic undertake this process of impact on the development Homewood and helps to
plan. This plan was devel- developing a strategic plan? of our community. The foster improved services,
oped over a period of sever- The answer is that the strategic planning process is economic development,
al months through meetings increased sources of rev-
with individuals from the enue, and reduced operating
police, fire, public works,
Village of Homewood costs.
community Mission Statement It is vitally important that
development, a community have a vision
The Village of Homewood is a vital, dynamic
finance and of its future. Our strategic
community committed to maintaining a high
is the theme for this administration departments, level of services within a framework of fiscal plan serves to establish a
issue of the Key. As the as well as individuals from responsibility and to fostering a successful vision for the future of
Village enters the 21st several of the Village’s 21 business environment. A safe, clean, beautiful, Homewood. Without such a
advisory boards, commit- progressive, friendly, neighborly community, vision, a community will
century, it is crucial that
tees, and commissions. the Village lives by its motto of struggle in its attempts to
it knows where it is Home, Sweet Homewood.
The outcome of these better itself. Instead of being
going and how we as
meetings was an ambitious proactive and in control of
a community plan to
strategic plan for the Village is committed to bet- an opportunity for Village its future, a community
get there. A five-year
Village that includes a tering our community. A officials to evaluate where without a vision will lan-
strategic plan sets a mission statement, six strategic plan helps to we are as a community, how guish and be controlled by
vision for the future of primary strategic issues fac- accomplish this by system- well we are performing, and external forces such as eco-
Homewood, guiding ing the Village, thirty one atically identifying, organiz- where we want to be in five nomic conditions, advance-
the Village into the objectives, and 176 specific ing, and documenting the years. It forces us to focus ments in technology, and
new century. action steps to be specific actions that must be on addressing the most societal changes, as well as
implemented. taken to accomplish the important issues, values and Continued On Page 8
Light Up Homewood for the Holidays
Thanks to those and diversity of residential Workshop is again offered be available for purchase.
who participate in displays that warm the through the Park District. For information, call the
this project, Homewood hearts and raise the spirits Create a renewed sense Park District at 957-0300 or
takes on a special glow of the entire community. of community, get your 957-7275.
during the holiday season. Our community spirit is also whole neighbor-
Using light as the universal evident in the wonderful hood involved.
symbol for celebration, resi- displays that greet shop- Creating a family’s
dents and merchants alike pers at the boutiques and holiday message Visit Homewood
continue to share their hol- shops in the downtown on these 4 foot by on the
iday traditions by lighting area, as well as the various 5 foot illuminated World Wide Web!
their homes and properties malls in the Village. cards is a great
for the holidays. Everyone For those who have family project for
who drives through admired the beautiful holi- adults and children www.village.
Homewood this time of day cards on display in alike. A limited homewood.il.us
the year can’t help but be the neighborhoods, a number of pre-
impressed by the number Holiday Yard Card painted boards will
Homewood’s 2001 Millennium Celebration
For the purists who look at 2001 as the viewing. As an added attraction, guests will
start of the “real” millennium, Homewood is be able to have their pictures taken with a
November 9 Voter Registration Re-opens planning a second millennium celebration. “2001” backdrop and be
Building on the popularity of last year’s able to
November 23, Thanksgiving Holiday Observance
event, this year’s program will once again purchase this
24 & 25 (Village Offices Closed)
be a family affair for residents of all ages to special keepsake for
December 1 Park Dist. Tree Lighting Ceremony enjoy. The party will be on Saturday, a nominal fee.
7 pm, Irwin Park December 30th, beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Proceeds will be
the Homewood Fire Station. Music will be donated to local char-
December 23, Christmas Holiday Observance
provided by Homewood’s favorite resident ities. Spread the word
25 & 26 (Village Offices Closed)
disc jockey Dennis Cappetta. Other enter- and make plans now
December 30 Millennium Celebration tainment is also planned. to bring your family,
Fire Station 11 am At noon, everyone will celebrate the com- friends and neighbors
December 31 Community Auction - Last Day to ing of the new year with balloons, hats and to Homewood’s very own 2001 Millennium
Save Receipts noisemakers. Refreshments and more enter- Celebration!
tainment will follow. In addition, Fire Volunteers are needed. Please contact
December 30 New Year’s Holiday Observance Department apparatus will be on display for Boni Otto at 206-3377.
& January 1 (Village Offices Closed)
January 21 Community Auction (James Hart)
Public Service Directory Homewood-Flossmoor Park District . 957-0300
Marie Irwin Community Center. . . . . 957-7275
Board - Commission - Committee Meetings Teach your children how to use 9-1-1 in an emergency
All meetings are held at the Village Hall, 2020 Chestnut Road, at the H-F Senior Activity Center. . . . . . . . . 957-7275
times and locations listed unless otherwise announced. A monthly Village of Homewood (main number) 798-3000 Racquet & Fitness Club . . . . . . . . . . . 799-1323
schedule of all meetings is posted in the lobby of the Village Hall. Police Emergency. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1 Ice Arena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 957-0100
Fire & Paramedic Emergency . . . . . . 9-1-1 Dolphin Lake Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 798-0085
• Appearance Commission: Nov. 1, Dec. 6, Jan. 21; Police Dept. non-emergency. . . . . . . . 798-2131 Lions Club Pool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 799-2223
7:30 pm, Council Chamber
Fire Dept. non-emergency . . . . . . . . . 206-3400
• Beautification Committee: 3rd Wednesday; 7:30 pm, School District 153. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 799-5661
Public Works Dept.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206-3470
West Conference Room School District 161. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 798-2651
Building Dept. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206-3470
• Committee of the Whole: 1st & 3rd Tues. as scheduled, Homewood Flossmoor High School. . 799-3000
Health & Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . 206-3479
7:30 pm, Council Chamber St. Joseph’s School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 798-0467
Community Development . . . . . . . . . 206-3385
• Community Relations Commission: 1st Monday; 7:30 pm, Homewood Christian Academy . . . . . 799-6912
West Conference Room Homewood Public Library. . . . . . . . . 798-0121 Homewood Area Chamber of Commerce 206-3384
• Economic Development Committee: 2nd Tuesday; 7:30 am,
West Conference Room
• Homewood Heritage Committee: 3rd Thursday; 7:30 pm,
West Conference Room
• Plan Commission: 2nd & 4th Wednesday; 7:30 pm
Council Chamber
• Seniors Advisory Committee: 3rd Monday; 7:00 pm,
West Conference Room
• Storm Water Committee: Nov. 13, Dec. 18, East/West
Conference Room
• Village Board of Trustees: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays; 7:30
pm, Council Chamber
• Zone Board of Appeals: 2nd & 4th Thursday; 7:30 pm,
Council Chamber
The Village Key is circulated quarterly to all residents
and businesses in the Village of Homewood, Illinois.
Comments or questions can be directed to:
Village Key Editorial Staff
2020 Chestnut Road, Homewood, Illinois 60430
To place an advertisement in the
Village Key, please contact:
Midwest Suburban Publishing
(708) 633-4800
2
President’s Message
Before each issue of the “Village Key” is produced I am given the products are said to make our lives easier
central theme for that particular issue. In the past they have related to (which a great many of us will say is
Village activities such as Homewood Days or block parties, but now debatable!). But when all is said and
I have been given the more difficult theme of “A Vision for the done, it is still the basics that prevail.
Future.” I believe it was Harry Truman who once said “Nothing Whether it is the year 2000, 2010 or even
happens in the future that hasn’t happened in the past,” so let’s begin further into the future, family values and
by looking at the past. community are what really matter.
Having moved to Homewood over 30 years ago, raising our chil- Homewood affords, and will contin-
dren, and now seeing some of them doing the same, in town, I sup- ue to offer, activities for all people,
pose I can be considered a long-time resident. However, my thirty- young and old, that make our town so
plus years of residency pales by comparison whenever I listen to the livable. This continues to attract fami-
“real old-timers,” those who were born and raised here, who entertain lies seeking what we all wanted—a
me with stories of years ago. They recall when a brick and coal yard great place to live and raise our fami-
was at the site of the Flosswood condos (183rd Street, west of the lies, and a community where folks smile at, Richard A. Hofeld
Metra tracks); our Police Department had just one car; the first stop- wave to, and look out for one another. We Village President
light in town was at Ridge and Dixie; farm fields were south of and our families know the firefighter or
183rd Street, and Doepp’s pond was the favorite swimming hole. police officer by their name. Those hard-working folks in Public
Even I can remember the 4-way stop signs (not signals!) at 183rd Works take the time to explain what they are doing and how a partic-
Street and Kedzie, 183rd Street and Harwood, and Ridge and Riegel; ular piece of equipment works—where I walk down the street and
when Aurelio’s was on Ridge Road, Van Drunen Ford was at what is kids as well as seniors always greet me with “Hello Mayor!”
now Chuck’s House of Magic, and Al’s Deli was in Southgate. One of our local businesses has the corporate name “Mayberry”
The changes that have occurred over the past 30 years direct the (as was the neighborly, “down-home” town in the old Andy Griffith
community toward the future. The Village, like us and our lifestyles, show). And in so many ways we too are Mayberry.
is in a constant state of flux. Businesses that weren’t even thought of No, none of us know what the future will bring—we can’t predict
ten, five, or even two years ago, now appear to be the norm. it. But based upon our past, Homewood’s future is bright. Our
What is now the “cutting edge” of technology will soon be an Mayberry will always exist, not only in our memories, but now and
everyday experience. Electronic gadgets and computer-based into the future as well.
that Village bills (including our towns. Now it is the res- Advisory Appointments
water bills), real estate idents’ turn to support them. Village President Richard
Community transactions and receipts
from Park District pro-
grams are not eligible.
Please remember to shop
locally. An updated list of
prizes is available on the
Hofeld, with the approval of
the Board of Trustees,
appointed several residents
NEWS To assist residents in col- Community Auction website to boards, commissions and
lecting their receipts, www.1FastLink.com/Auction. committees that serve as
advisories to the Board of
Auction envelopes are
Trustees. Reappointments
Community Auction be held on January 21, available at the Homewood Volunteers Needed!
include Don Thomas,
2001. At the end of the Area Chamber office (locat- The Village is currently
The Villages of Homewood, Appearance Commission;
receipt collection period, ed in the Advance Bank seeking volunteers high
Flossmoor, and Glenwood, the Reverend David
building at 18300 Dixie school
and the Homewood Area locations for tallying the Speerbrecker and Charles
Highway, Homewood) and age or
Chamber of Commerce are receipts will be announced. Ranlett, Ethics Commission;
older to
sponsoring a Community At that time, participants at the Village offices in Murray Barr, Zone Board;
work as
Auction to encourage local will be provided a voucher Homewood, Flossmoor, and John Elashik, Sr., Fire and
for the amount of the Glenwood. Additional Police Commission; Bill
shopping and to reinforce to
receipts submitted indicat- locations to pick up these Edwards and Gene Olson,
the residents that strong
ing the participant’s total envelopes are Final Senior Advisory Committee;
local businesses equate to
bidding capacity. Touch, Homewood Glass Cheryl Redell and Julius
convenient shopping and
Volunteers Shawn Davenport, Community
services for all of us. Spend- Receipts from all busi- & Mirror, Lorenz Capporelli (top)
and Loretta Relations Commission.
ing money locally is a rein- nesses in the three villages Appliance, Nielsen’s Lipinski (left) tape New appointments include
(retail and service) are eligi- Bakery, Shaver Chevrolet, board meetings for
vestment in the community. re-broadcast. Linda Riley, Community
The ability to bid on items ble, provided the business and Suburban Electric in Relations Commission;
name and address are on the Homewood, the Flossmoor camera technicians for com-
at the Auction will be based Emmett Cassidy, Village
receipt. The total on the Station, Fresh Starts, Kluger munity service program-
on the receipts for purchases Treasurer. Residents inter-
ming. Volunteers film
in the three villages from receipt will be the value for Furs, and Marc Allen Spa in ested in serving on a Village
Village Board meetings and
October 1, 2000, through the auction, with the excep- Flossmoor and The Blue commission, committee or
other events for re-broadcast
December 31, 2000. The tion of individual purchases Bird, Byron’s Schwinn, board can obtain an applica-
on Homewood’s Cable
more receipts residents col- for amounts over $5,000 Signs Now, and Enterprise tion form at the Village
Channel 6. Previous experi-
(cars, furs, jewelry, etc). Rent-a-Car in Glenwood. In Hall.
lect, the more they will be ence is desirable, but not
able to bid on goods and These receipts will be the past, many of these local necessary. Training will be
services donated by local counted as $5,000. businesses have supported provided. Interested? Call
businesses at the Auction to Additionally, please note fundraisers and events in Boni Otto at 206-3377.
Properties Honored with Beautification Awards
Homewood’s residential and Howe, Craig Westlund at Niel family at 18420 Klimm, fronts, condominiums or
business Beautification Award 17618 Roosevelt, Don Weber and the Simon family at apartments, and public
winners were honored October & family at 2206 Spruce, the 18465 Palmer. Owners of 135 buildings were awarded
20 at a reception held in the Michael MacDonald family additional residential proper- Certificates of Appreciation
Marie Irwin Community at 1822 Sycamore, the ties will be mailed Certificates for showing an exemplary
Landmark Award: Poplar
Center. Thirty-seven resi- Zoellick family at 1662 Ridge of Appreciation for their beau- appearance in the overall
dences were recognized as Rd., Theresa Boyle & Al tification efforts. curb appeal. Certificates
Beautification Award winners, Piña at 1649 Cedar, Two years ago, the were awarded to Avant
and the owners received a cer- Margaret, Robert & Julian Committee selected the Garden, Inc., Balagio,
tificate featuring a photo of Gorman at 1724 Pine, the Homewood Beautification Bannon Floor Coverings,
their property. Honored this Quinones family at 1550 Landmark Award to be pre- Blackberry Harvest
year for exhibiting exemplary Burr Oak, Charles & sented to residential properties Dollhouse Museum &
property maintenance, and Guadalupe Shields at 18004 that continue to display excel- Shoppe, Cameo House,
excelling as attractive assets in Hood, the Seaton family at lence for at least five years Caribou Coffee, Carlson
their neighborhoods and the 1230 Ridge Rd., Diane Long after winning a beautification Wagonlit Travel, Cherry Landmark Award: Tarpon
community, were Jesse & at 18124 Aberdeen, Joseph award. Selected this year to Creek Enterprises, Elder Road Apts.), Audrey
Gaynell Moore at 3233 Weitzel at 1857 186th Pl., the receive this special one-time Cilantro, Ltd., Family Video, Ongman (2131 Ridge Rd.
Mallard, Bob & Audrey Kurstin family at 18455 award are: Duke & Arlene Heartland Health Care Apts.), 2136 Ridge Rd. Apts.,
Fischer at 18225 California, Homewood Ave., the Hartley- Mayer at 18021 Tarpon, Joan Center, Hollywood 2025 Maple Rd. Apts.,
Jim & Pat McGrath at Winterfeldt family at 18520 Lonstine at 1862 Olive, Entertainment, Homewood James Wehling (2047 Cedar
17950 Governors Hwy., the Homewood Ave., the Muncie Lillian & Ray Goodwin at Florist, Homewood Rd. Apts.), 1665 Ridge Rd.
Rarity family at 3051 family at 1753 Terrace Rd., Professional Bldg., Just Apts., 903 Elder Rd. Condo-
Hedgerow, Stanley R. the James Goldberg family Between Trends, Kingston minium Assoc., Martin Place
Holmstedt at 2046 Maple, at 1205 Heather Rd., Richard Cleaners, James J. Kreuz, Condominiums (18133-39
Bev & Bud Laxton at 17642 Alt at 18525 Hood, Wallace DDA & Gregory J. Duffner, Martin Ave.), Samuel Briones
Faust & Dawne Sulski-Faust DDS, Modern Tuxedo, (1910-1912 Ridge Rd. Office
at 1237 W. 183rd St., Nathalie Interiors & Gallery Bdg.). Les Hier, who has vol-
Jeffery
Charlene S. Bobek at 18305 Etc., Pop’s For Beef, The unteered as photographer for
Aberdeen, Manju & Bachu Rickshaw, Ryan Funeral many years, provided the
Patel at 1308 Jeffery, the Home, Savoia T’Go Shop, beautiful photos for the certifi-
Harrington family at 19028 Scandinavian Boutique, cates and slide presentation.
Pierce Court Loomis, Gail & Jerry Getz at Chicago Southland Awards are presented on
18755 Center, John & Chamber of Commerce, behalf of Homewood’s citizens
Kathleen Ladowicz at 19136 186th Place Starbucks Coffee Co., State by the Village President,
Pierce Ct., Charlotte & 18658 Ashland, Tom, Carol, Farm Insurance Co. (17700 Board of Trustees and the
George Johnson at 18333 Tom Jr., & Julie Wilmowski Dixie Hwy.), Manny Beautification Committee,
Argyle, Betty A. Brisk at at 1223 Heather Rd., Thomas Hoffman State Farm which includes retiring Chair-
person Andrea Hetzel, John
18549 Dundee, the Hevel & Charlene Rickhoff at Insurance Agency (920 W.
California Aleck, David Colby, Kim
family at 2400 Patricia, 18426 Poplar Ave., and Ray 175th), Tews Funeral Home,
Hamilton, Chester Michalowski,
Robert Comstock at 18510 & Sue Smith at 1922 Terrace Inc., Tin Ceiling Tavern, Van Boni Otto, Maggie Porzio,
Perth, the Coghlan family at Rd. This award is a green and Sipma Jewelers, The Village Lynn Sims, Sherele Tenclay,
18430 Gottschalk, Jerry & gold enameled watering can Door, Wilson Rental, Zoom and Roberta Wilson. Trustee
Nancy McCallum at 18646 adorned with a gold plaque. Clean, Ridgeview Jim Wright is Board liaison
Lexington, the Carlson fami- In the business property cat- Condominiums, John Urban and Public Works Director
W. 183rd Street ly at 1913 Birch Rd., the Van egory, 43 businesses, store & Joan Fredericks (950 John Schaefer is staff liaison.
at most home-improvement detector. All fuel-burning Police Department •Restorative Justice:
stores. appliances produce CO, and “Future” Visions This program shapes the
if there is a problem with futures of both offenders
Home Heating your venting system, a Although most and victims. It attempts to
people think of a “restore” victims of crimes
Safety buildup can occur inside the
house. A colorless, odorless,
FIRE
Police Department as a & POLI E to their pre-victim status. As
Now that the heating sea-
FIRE AND
son is upon us, it’s time to
consider safety when main-
taining a comfortable envi-
tasteless gas, carbon monoxide
is deadly at higher concen-
trations. Look for a listed
“response-type” organiza-
tion which either addresses
an example: An offender
vandalizes the property of a
criminal activity after it hap- citizen. The Restorative
POLICE
pens or while it is occurring, Justice Program takes the
ronment in homes and busi- detector, and install at least
there are times when police approach that to incarcerate
nesses. Each year fires are one near sleeping areas.
work is geared toward the the offender might do noth-
NEWS caused due to inattention to
fundamental safety concerns. Keep Reddy’s “Relatives” future. The Homewood
department has several pro-
ing to restore the victim, but
having the offender repair
• Have your furnace, vent- Snow-Free this Winter grams geared toward the damaged property
Is Your Address Visible ing systems and chimney During snow season it improving the future of the restores the victim to their
from the Street? inspected by a qualified is very important that community: “pre-victim” status.
The Homewood contractor each year. the Fire Department •Juvenile Diversion: This This program allows the
Municipal Code requires • Higher fuel costs this is able to get to program positively shapes victim to see justice done,
that buildings and houses winter may prompt the use hydrants quickly in case of the futures of juvenile offend- while demonstrating to the
display address numbers for of portable electric heaters. a fire. Accumulations of ers who have committed offender the “error of
easy and rapid identifica- Be sure to use only appli- snow prevent rapid access to minor crimes or are new his/her ways,” and that
tion, particularly in an emer- ances listed by one of the hydrants and can delay fire offenders. Rather than auto- actions have consequences.
gency. Emergency person- major testing laboratories personnel from obtaining matically place the juvenile This program, in partner-
nel can save valuable such as UL, FM, etc. Follow water to extinguish a fire. offender into the court sys- ship with Bloom Township,
response time if numbers all instructions for assembly Reddy the Fire Hydrant tem, Homewood has trained took first place in the
are prominently displayed. and operation, and be sure asks everyone, when shovel- its Officers to “divert” these Governor’s Home Town
Pertinent language of the to maintain at least 36” ing their sidewalks and dri- offenders to the Criminal Award Program.
veways, to also shovel out Investigations Unit for after- • Residential & Business
Code is: “The numbers ... clearance from any com-
his “relatives,” the fire school counseling, court- Security Surveys: By sur-
shall be displayed on the bustibles, such as furniture,
hydrants along the streets of sponsored programs, reme- veying current residential
street side of each building... clothing, curtains, etc. Using
Homewood. dial educational programs, and business security sys-
The figures of such numbers liquid-fueled portable
and other possibilities. This tems, this free program
shall be not less than three heaters is not recommended.
will hopefully change the helps brighten the future.
inches in height and of such • Make sure your smoke Looking for a Few offenders’ course of con- Surveys can point out any
character as to be distinctly detectors are working. They Good Men & Women duct, and assist them in hav- deficiencies in the physical
and easily read, and shall are your early-warning sys- Paid-on-call (volunteer) ing a brighter future. condition of a property that
be placed in a conspicuous tem. If battery-powered, membership opportunities The department has might lead to future crime
place on the street side of make sure the battery is with the Homewood Fire received a grant for this pro- problems, such as a burglary
the premises ...” good. The Fire Department Department are currently gram through Bloom or vandalism. If maintained
Numbers can be internally recommends changing bat- open to any resident over Township. The Hon. Michael properly, items such as ade-
lighted, and must be visible teries each time you change the age of 18 years and high Stuttley, Chief Judge of the quate lighting, manicured
from the street at all times your clocks in the fall and school students age 16 to 6th Dist. and a Homewood shrubs, and functioning
of day and night. Numbers, spring. 18. Call 206-3400, or visit resident, is a great ally of the doors, windows or locks
number signs and lighted • An excellent investment the fire station for more department and an outstand- can provide a secure future
address signs are available is a carbon monoxide (CO) details. ing supporter of this program. for all.
Canadian National/Illinois Central Railroad
A V I S I O N F O R T H E F U T U R E
You may be surprised to years the CN grew and at one worked from this location. Community
Development
know that the single largest time employed over 100,000 The dispatch center is open 24
employer in the Village of employees. In 1995, the hours a day, seven days a
Homewood is the Canadian Canadian National Railroad week. There are multiple
National/ Illinois Central split off from the Canadian shifts working around the
Railroad (CN/IC). What is the Government and became a clock to make sure the trains Intermodal Terminal (MIT), Over the past ten years the IC,
CN/IC and how long have privately-owned company. On get to their destinations on with tracks reaching into and now the CN/IC, has
they been in Homewood? July 1, 1999, the merger of time. The Homewood admin- Harvey, was opened by the IC received six gold medals,
The CN/IC employs over the IC and the CN took place istration building also includes several years ago, and Gate- three silver medals and one
400 people in Homewood at after over 15 months of nego- marketing, accounting, engi- way Terminal, opened with bronze medal from the E. H.
two facilities, the administra- tiations. The combined CN/IC neering, operating, risk man- CN prior to their 1999 merger. Harriman Institute for having
tion building on Ashland line is 18,000 miles long and agement and communication Beginning in 1998, employ- the safest work environment
Avenue and the Woodcrest employs 23,000 people. functions. ees from the IC’s Chicago for its employees.
Shop, across the street. A third The Homewood administra- Woodcrest Shop is also offices located in the NBC With all their past accom-
facility, with an additional tion building is the headquar- staffed around the clock, and Tower began moving to plishments, CN/IC will not
150-200 employees, is at the ters of the Midwest Division, includes the locomotive repair Homewood to consolidate rest on their laurels and will
Markham Yard in Hazel Crest. one of five divisions of the shop. All Midwest Division departments and improve effi- continue to strive to maintain
In 1851, the U.S. gave a company. The Midwest locomotive maintenance is ciency. This reassignment their excellent work record.
land grant of 2.5 million acres Region includes the CN/IC done at this CN/IC shop, brought an increase of 75 As technology improves, so
to the Illinois Central Railroad lines from Centralia, Illinois which is the largest shop in employees to the Homewood does the railroad industry. In
to aid in the promotion of the north to the Canadian border, the U.S. Following the merger facility, and benefitted many order to stay ahead of the
land development. This was and from Sioux City, Iowa, in 1999, the Grand Trunk employees living in the south competition, CN/IC maintains
the first land grant awarded and Omaha, Nebraska, east to Western locomotive shop in suburbs, resulting in less trav- a vision for the future. CN/IC
for railroad development. By Chicago. The Homewood Battle Creek, Michigan was el time to work. will continue to grow in
1856, IC grew and was the office contains the U. S opera- closed, and the employees The IC has traditionally Homewood with a planned
longest railroad in the world. tions center, which, with the were transferred to been the most efficient rail- sustained growth.
In 1919 the Canadian exception of traffic handled Homewood. Woodcrest Shop road in its class, and with the
National was established by by the former Grand Trunk facility includes the Midwest merger, the CN/IC has Staff would like to thank Mr.
the Canadian government and Western, dispatches CN/IC Division’s environmental, sig- become the most efficient Robert Keane, General
incorporated many of trains throughout the U.S. nal, engineering, and mechan- large railroad in the country. Director Risk Management -
Canada’s railroad systems, CN/IC freight, as well as ical functions. The IC has also been one of U.S. Operations, who sup-
including the Grand Trunk Amtrak rail traffic from New There are two terminals in the safest railroads in the plied much of the information
Western in the U.S. Over the Orleans to Chicago, is net- the Homewood area. Moyers industry on which to work. used for this article.
must be a working docu- action step has been deleted pleted so far, and 43% (73 and continue from year
ment that is implemented, because it is no longer rele- total) are either in progress, to year.
not just placed on a shelf for vant. The status of each partially completed, or On the next page is a brief
decoration. The implemen- action step is identified as ongoing. Ongoing action explanation of each issue and
tation must be monitored on being in one of six cate- steps are those that do not examples of some of the
Continued from Page 1 a continuous basis to ensure gories—completed, in have a specific end date corresponding action steps.
internal forces such as per- that it is being followed. progress, partially complet-
sonnel productivity, effec- The plan should also be ed, ongoing, not started, or Strategic Plan Performance
tiveness and morale, and evaluated annually to deter- cancelled. for the Years 1999 & 2000
Status of 168 Action Steps by Percent & Quantity
outdated policies and proce- mine what changes, if any, As the pie chart shows,
dures. Such a community are required to meet the the greatest percentage,
will be reactive to these changing needs and 34% (56 total) of action
forces and unprepared to resources of the community. steps have not been started.
make good decisions and The plan is a flexible docu- This is due to the fact that
effectively deal with issues ment that can be modified we are only in the second
affecting the community. as circumstances demand. year of the five year plan,
All successful businesses Action steps can be added, and many action steps are
and public sector entities removed, or consolidated as not scheduled for imple-
acutely know where they appropriate. mentation until years 2001,
are, where they want to be, The total number of 2002, and 2003. A great
and how to get there. action steps in the strategic majority of action steps
Certainly, simply having a plan has been reduced from (64%) are either completed
document called a strategic 176 to 168. Seven related or in the process of being
plan will not guarantee suc- action steps pertaining to completed, which amounts
To view the entire strategic plan, visit the Village of
cess, nor is it a panacea for computerization and tech- to 108 out of 168 action
Homewood website at www.village.homewood.il.us or
all the issues facing a com- nology have been combined steps. Twenty one percent contact the Village at 798-3000 to request a copy.
munity. The strategic plan into one action step. One (35 total) have been com-
STRATEGIC ISSUE 1 How do we improve communications? addresses the STRATEGIC ISSUE 4 How do we maintain quality of life while meeting the
need to improve communications with established and potential residents challenges and opportunities of diversity? strives to continue to make
and businesses, and internally between staff, the Village board, and Homewood an attractive housing market for all races, promote retention of
advisory boards. These action steps include: existing residents, address diversity issues positively, and improve commu-
nity standards. Action steps include:
s Redesigning the Village Key into a more magazine type layout. This
has made the Key more informative and readable. s Promote the value of multi-culturalism by offering educational pro-
grams, promoting block parties, and other events that bring people
s Televise board meetings. Televising board meetings provides every-
together. This is an ongoing effort that over the past two years has
one in the community with the opportunity to better understand the
seen over forty block parties each year, a family oriented millennium
issues and decisions that will directly affect them.
celebration, and participation in south suburban Unity Day activities.
s Create a comment card system for rating Village services. This pro-
s Promote an adopt-a-street program. This program was initiated this
gram will allow residents to comment on the services the Village pro-
year with the hope that groups of people would take on the responsi-
vides and help the Village make service improvements accordingly.
bility for cleaning and beautifying our roadsides and thus improving
STRATEGIC ISSUE 2 How do we provide a balanced and affordable rev- our community standards and keeping Homewood an attractive com-
enue stream and also provide quality Village services? is a goal of all munity.
municipalities, but one that is a challenge to accomplish. This issue strives
s Conduct realtor information meetings. This initiative attempts to
to maintain existing and develop new sources of revenue with which to
develop a positive rapport with local realtors and educate them on
finance quality services that the Village provides to the community. This
the many amenities that Homewood has to offer new residents. The
issue has eighty-three action steps, by far the most action steps of the six
Village participated in a regional meeting between municipalities
strategic issues. These action steps include:
and realtors and plans to conduct its own such meetings with realtors
s Development of a combined training site for fire, police, and public on a regular basis.
works departments. A portion of the training site is completed and is
STRATEGIC ISSUE 5 How do we instill community pride? recognizes the
in use with the remainder under construction. By having our own
value of community pride and the central role it plays in the success of a
training facility, the Village can ensure that its police, fire and public
community. This issue attempts to develop meaningful citizen involvement
works personnel are highly trained to perform their job at a cost that
in the community, promote neighborhood cooperation and cohesiveness,
is more controllable than if training had to be provided at facilities
and initiate events and programs that bring positive recognition and pride
outside of Homewood.
to residents. Action steps for this issue include:
s Develop a program to provide Homewood seniors with medical iden-
s Attain Tree City designation. The Village achieved national recogni-
tification bracelets. This program was started in 1999 and is very suc-
tion as a Tree City last year, which reflects its pride in the many trees
cessful. Use of these medical ID bracelets allows the Village to pro-
that beautify our community.
vide even better services when responding to an emergency call
involving a senior. The bracelet allows paramedics and police officers s Consider applying for the All-American City designation. This task,
to quickly access vital medical and contact information, thus allowing scheduled for 2002/03, is an effort to receive national recognition for
the senior to be treated more rapidly and accurately. Bracelets have the outstanding people, services and quality of life Homewood has
been utilized several times since the program’s inception. always been known for having.
s Consider an increase in the 911 surcharge. This surcharge is paid by s Create a sister city relationship. In 1999, the Village initiated a sister
all Homewood residents and businesses to help finance the cost of city relationship with Homewood Alabama. Such a relationship will
personnel and equipment necessary to provide 911 service to the provide every facet of our community with the opportunity to share
community. An increase in the surcharge needed to be considered as experiences and ideas with their counterparts in another Homewood
a means to offset increasing personnel and equipment upgrade costs. that is very similar to our own Homewood.
Upon evaluating an increase, it was determined that an increase in the
STRATEGIC ISSUE 6 How do we improve management/staff relations?
surcharge was unnecessary at this time, since the Village could contin-
strives to constantly improve relations between the people employed to
ue to provide high quality emergency response with existing revenues.
provide the community with the high quality services that Homewood has
STRATEGIC ISSUE 3 How do we keep pace with technological changes that always been known for - Village management and employees of the
will benefit the community? recognizes the important and pervasive role Village. Activities in this area include:
technology plays in providing Village services and strives to improve the
s Homewood would not be what it is today without employees who
Village’s information system and implement new technologies.
work hard and take pride in their work. The Village will continue to
Technology related action steps include:
recognize the contributions exemplary employees provide to the
s Improve the Village’s website. Efforts to improve the Village’s web- community.
site are underway and include providing more information about
s Develop a thank-you letter display. The Village gets several letters
Village services, updating the information more frequently, and
each year from residents expressing their gratitude for and satisfaction
redesigning the layout.
with the outstanding service provided by our police officers, firefight-
s Install report writing software for use by police officers. Technology ers, paramedics, and public works crews. The Village takes pride in
will be used to aid police officers in writing their incident reports these letters of recognition and feels they should be shared with
more quickly and from their vehicles, thus allowing officers to spend everyone. Thus, these letters are framed and displayed in the lobby
more time on patrol and less time on paperwork. of the Village Hall.
9
ble of operating on an week period, beginning the
PUBLIC WORKS OFFICE 17755 S. Ashland • 206-3470 • Hours Mon.-Fri. 8 to 5 alternate fuel—compressed week of October 30 and
natural gas. These two continuing through the
Street Division Paves the existing pavement, Homewood—Doing Its vehicles are in compliance week ending November 29.
the Way re-grading and leveling it Part to Help Clean Up with another program being Only leaves will be picked
The Public Works Street with new stone, and paving the Environment! spearheaded by the U.S. up, and residents will not
Division employees are it with new asphalt. Crews In 1998, the Village was Environmental Protection have to purchase landscape
pleased to announce that the also re-surfaced their first required to register the vehi- Agency. Under the USEPA stickers to dispose of their
new asphalt paving machine street, Klimm Avenue from cles in their fleet with the program, which is still in its bags of leaves.
that was purchased this past Harwood Avenue to Birch Illinois Environmental infant stages, fleets will be The program requires that
year has exceeded their Road. Protection Agency under the mandated to purchase a cer- leaves be collected in the
expecta- Clean Fuel Fleet Program tain percentage of alternate usual “kraft” brown paper
tions. “We mandated by the IEPA. This fuel operated vehicles. bags or in scavenger
knew it program requires that a per- The Village will continue approved “toter” carts.
would be centage of new vehicles pur- to stay informed of these Leaves will be disposed of
better chased for the fleet meet a changes, and future plans by the scavenger service at
than the Federal low emission stan- include continuing to pur- an IEPA-approved compost-
paver that dard. Emergency and law chase certified low emission ing facility, so it is important
we used enforcement vehicles are engines to meet the Clean that residents use only the
to have, exempt from this program. Fuel Fleet Program require- bio-degradable paper bags
but it has really improved An up and coming project The Village began comply- ments and continuing to or the wheeled toter cards
the quantity and quality of for the Street Division will ing with the Clean Fuel comply with the USEPA provided by the scavenger
our work,” said crew leader be the re-surfacing of the Fleet Program in 1999. program as it develops. company. Grass clippings,
Dennis Giometti. parking lot at the Landscape Of the vehicles the Village brush, branches, etc. will
Over the past couple of and Maintenance building purchased in the 1999 and Sticker-Free Leaf not be collected by the scav-
years, the Street Division on Pierce Avenue. The 2000 model years, eight of Pickup Program enger unless the necessary
has paved alleys that previ- department will also be the vehicles were exempt Due to the popularity of landscape stickers are
ously did not have any looking at some streets that and six of the vehicles met the Fall Leaf Pickup affixed to the bags. “Kraft”
asphalt on them. Also, this can be re-surfaced by the certified low emission stan- Program, Homewood will bags can be purchased at
year a total re-construction Street Division crew. “These dards, exceeding the per- again fund the program this most local hardware, gro-
was done to the alley streets will be in addition to centage required by the fall, at an estimated cost of cery and retail stores.
between Martin Avenue and the annual street improve- IEPA. Not only do these six $24,637. The free leaf col- Leaves in bags or carts for
Morris Avenue south of ment program,” said Street vehicles meet the certified lection will be provided pickup should be placed at
183rd Street. This project Division Supervisor Brian low emission standards, but once a week by Homewood the curb the same day as
consisted of fully removing Long. of the six, two also are capa- Disposal Service for a five regular garbage pickup.
Fall Street Sweeping which communities in the Tree Topping New Assistant Public Works Director
Residential areas of the South Suburban area have In this Jerry Hellinga has joined the
Village will be swept a total the largest diameter and the progressive age Village of Homewood as the
of three times this fall. The oldest recorded street trees. of high technolo- Assistant Director of Public Works.
Five parkway trees in Jerry brings a great deal of experi-
first sweep was done gy and easy access to infor-
ence managing utilities operations
between October 15–31. Homewood won awards. mation, it is quite possible to his new position. He was previ-
The next two residential To commemorate this that we may soon see the ously employed by Citizens Utilities
sweeps are scheduled honor the Village purchased practice of tree topping dis- and UtiliQuest Locating Services
between November 1–15, signs to place in the park- appear. It has been scientifi- Company, a company responsible
ways of the properties with for locating about half of all Commonwealth Edison
and November 16–30. cally proven, and it is
underground facilities in response to J.U.L.I.E. requests.
Residents are asked to winning trees. becoming common knowl- In his position as general manager at UtiliQuest, he
remove their vehicles from Congratulations to the resi- edge, that topping is detri- managed 75 employees from three separate loca-
the street when the sweeper dents at 1520 West 186th mental to a tree’s health, tions. His duties included budgeting, managing the
is in the area to allow the Place for a 15” Redbud, and often has the opposite fleet, developing safety and training programs and
sweeper to clean more thor- 17744 Howe for a 57” Silver effect of what a working with customers. At Citizens Utilities, a private
Maple, 1824 Evergreen for a water/wastewater company providing services to 27
oughly along the curb. homeowner is
districts in northeastern Illinois, he managed both the
Residents are reminded 27” Red Maple, and 18512 attempting to field operations and customer service office.
not to rake or deposit leaves Stewart for a 27” Dawn achieve. Jerry has a BS in Education from Valparaiso
in any of the Village’s Redwood and an 18” Tree topping University, and is licensed as a Class A Public Water
streets or watercourses. Chinese Elm. is the misguided practice of Supply Operator, a Class 4 Wastewater Treatment
Plant Operator, and is certified in Principles of Public
Doing so makes it difficult heading back limbs in an Utilities Operations and Management, and Water
for the sweeper to complete Snowfall attempt to reduce the tree’s Utility Management through the University of Illinois.
the routes on schedule, pre- Parking Ban natural production of twigs Jerry resides in Tinley Park with his wife Mary Beth
vents the streets from It’s the time of and their two sons, Chris and Andy.
and leaves in order to lessen
draining properly, and is year again to remind
yard maintenance, control a do survive such treatment with proper pruning tech-
also a violation of Village residents of the “No
tree’s overall size, reduce (and many species rejuve- niques, such as drop crotch-
ordinances. Parking” on Village streets
the danger of large over- nate quite quickly) return to ing, but never to
ordinance after an accumu-
hanging limbs and often, their original size, but have exceed 25% of the
“Big Street lation of two or more inches
sadly enough, to incorrectly tree’s food pro-
Tree” of snow, effective until the more and smaller limbs
Contest snow has been removed. care for an aging and with weaker branch attach- ducing mass. A
The Suburban Branch of There are no exceptions to beloved vertical landscape. ments, resulting in increased trained arborist will leave an
the American Public Works this ordinance. Vehicles The negative effects of leaf and twig production. old tree looking as if it has a
Association recently spon- granted overnight parking topping include the decay of The proper procedure to healthy manicure, not its
sored a “Big Street Tree” ban exemptions are also large unhealed wounds, insect reduce leaf and twig pro- hands removed.
contest in cooperation with required to comply with the infestation, sunscald to the duction, as well as to restrict For more information, call
the Municipal Foresters. snow removal parking bark, and in some cases, a tree’s size (wind-sail the Village’s forester, Jim
The contest was held to find restrictions. death of the tree. Trees that appearance), is to thin it Tresouthick, at 206-3470.
Economic Dorband-Howe House Exhibited in
Development Exquisite Quilted Wall-Hanging
Fiber Solutions Locates in
The Village of Homewood chosen was watercolor,
? ? DID
?
recently acquired an origi- which means that fabric is
Prairie Lakes Business Park nal quilted wall-hanging cut into 2 inch squares and YOU
The Village of Homewood is pleased to announce that
Fiber Solutions will be the third tenant to occupy space in
from the Quilters Plus
Quilt Guild. The Village
KNOW?
Prairie Lakes Business Park. Fiber Solutions is a distributor approached the Guild Burke. These fabric
of fiber optic cable. They will locate their corporate offices almost two years ago to artists have provided a
and warehouse in a portion of their building and lease out ask if the members wonderful example of
the remaining space. They will be locating on a 2.5 acre would consider making their love of quilting
parcel at the south end of Hoffman Way, on the west side of and their willingness to
a quilt that could be
the street. Their building will be 32,000 square feet in size, share their talents with
placed in the new addi-
with the capability of adding a 15,000 square foot addition. their community.
tion of the Village Hall.
Members of Quilters Please stop in to view
SHOP HOMEWOOD Plus quickly agreed that this beautiful piece of
We welcome the following businesses, which have this would be a wonder- American art which is
recently opened in Homewood: ful challenge for their located outside the
Exhibit Source - 1000 Maple Avenue; members. After much dis- arranged to form a new Council Chambers in
Pride Cleaners - 18330 Governors Highway; cussion, the committee design. The adaptation for the west lobby.
Life Designs - 18855 Dixie Highway
decided to use the this quilt was designed,
Ticor Title Insurance - 1147 175th Street
Dorband-Howe house as a assembled and completed
Art 4 Soul - 18205 Dixie Highway
By Shear Design - 17538 Dixie Highway model for the wall-hanging. by Nancy Benson, Mary
OfficeMax - 17825 Halsted Street The technique that was McLaughlin, and Lynn
Alphabet Campus Child Day Care Center - 742
Ridge Road
Briones, Harvey, Trevino, & Cruz - 1910-12 Ridge
Road
Cathy’s Creature Comforts has relocated to
18675-77 Dixie Highway
12
The Cost of
Village Village Services
Finance handle an aver- indicate that 9,920 miles of
NEWS age call. Many situa-
tions require the response
Village roads were plowed
and salted with 2,155 man-
Have you
of multiple officers, so the hours of Public Works labor.
ever wondered what
cost increases for each addi- Applying salary, fringe ben-
it costs the Village of
tional police officer needed efits, and overhead to these
Homewood, and therefore
at the scene. numbers results in a cost of
the taxpayers, for a police
Each ambulance run $9.30 per storm to plow and
officer to handle a call for
requires at least two para- salt each mile of road.
assistance, or the cost of
medics. An hour of time per Stated another way, the
paramedics to save lives at
call is considered average. average total cost is $5,125
an accident, or the cost to
Applying salary, fringe ben- per snowstorm. Total yearly
plow snow off the streets in
efits, and overhead figures hours available for Public
winter? These services must
results in a cost of $77.15 Works labor are fixed, so
be available when the situa-
incurred for the Fire Depart- more time spent on plowing
tion demands it. They come
ment to respond to an emer- snow means less time avail-
with a price, but when they
gency with two paramedics. able to spend on other
will be needed and by who
Costs will increase as the Public Works services.
is unknown. Because it is
number of Fire Department The Village will soon
not known who is going to
personnel needed expands if enter into discussions and
need what services and
the emergency becomes make decisions on a budget
when, these services are
more severe. for 2001-02. Understanding
provided for by a portion of
Plowing snow is also a these costs is necessary to
each property tax bill,
critical service that the balance service expectations
where about 17% of the
Village provides. Statistics with the amount of tax dol-
total tax bill goes to fund
from last winter’s eighteen lars needed to fund Village
Village of Homewood ser-
classified snowstorms services.
vices. Elected officials must
balance what level of ser-
vice to provide, along with
Correction
The editorial staff apologizes for an error on the 1998
an acceptable tax burden. Property Tax Bill pie chart percentages in the Village
A recent sampling of Year-end Financial Report featured in the July Village
police calls resulted in an Key. The corrected figures are as follows:
average time of 66 minutes Homewood Elementary: 34.0%,
spent by an officer handling Homewood-Flossmoor H.S.: 27.1%,
all aspects of a call for Village of Homewood: 16.6%,
assistance. Applying salary, Cook County: 4.7%,
fringe benefits, and over- Homewood-Flossmoor Park Dist.: 5.4%,
head figures results in a cost Homewood Public Library: 5.2%
All others: 7.0%
of $57.65 for an officer to
QUOTE OF THE
QUARTER
“Make no little plans. They
have no magic to stir men’s
blood and probably them-
selves will not be realized.
Make big plans. Aim high
in hope and work.
Remembering that a noble,
logical diagram once
recorded will not die.”
—Daniel H. Burnham
13
SENIOR NEWS Calling all
Centenarians
If you are a Homewood
Outstanding Senior . . . resident 100 years old or
better, the editorial staff of
During the “dog days” of summer 2000, we heard and read the Village Key would like to
about one of our Chicago-area baseball teams on the road to know about you. Please
success. A Homewood senior played a critical role in promoting contact Boni Otto at
sports right here in Homewood. Combine his commitment to 206-3377 to arrange for an
sports opportunities for the Village’s youth over the last half cen- interview and a photo session
(or you may provide a
tury with his participation in a variety of other community activi-
favorite). These distinctive
ties, and you will see why Marvin “Marv” Austin is a deserving
people will be featured in
recipient of the Outstanding Senior honor.
Born in Harvey, Marv married his wife, Marilyn, in 1947 and Marvin Austin upcoming issues of the
Village Key.
moved to Homewood that same year. He built a home, in which they
still live, 48 years ago where they raised their son, Danny, and
their daughter, Becky.
Marv’s involvement with Homewood sports began in the late 1940s
when he played for the Homewood AC’s. In 1951, he and three other
managers started the Homewood Little League. He also helped organize
the Pony League and was one of its first managers. Marv extended his
involvement with community sports to the Homewood-Flossmoor Park
District, where he founded the youth basketball program for both boys
and girls. Some of you may remember playing in the Homewood
Auditorium between 1950 and 1969 under Marv’s watchful supervision.
Marv’s professional life included a distinguished career with the
Insurance Services Office of the Illinois Fire Protection Service, from
which he retired as Assistant Manager in 1984. He also served as a
Homewood volunteer firefighter from 1954-1971, retiring as
Assistant Chief.
Marv served as a Homewood Village Trustee from 1961-65.
His community service continues through his involvement in
Habitat for Humanity, serving as a director of
the Homewood Historical Society, and as a vol-
unteer at First Presbyterian Church, where he
and Marilyn have been members for 50 years.
Despite bypass surgery a year ago, Marv still
makes time for gardening, one of his first loves.
Marv Austin is a remarkable role model for
Homewood seniors in particular, and the com-
munity in general. His commitment to public
service and his dedication to Homewood’s
youth sporting programs reaffirm the old base-
ball analogy that Homewood “hit one out of
the park” when the Austins made our Village
their home.
14
Need Something Special for the Holidays?
Support your Homewood Historical Society with a purchase of one of its
fundraising items that will surely be a keepsake that family members and
friends will treasure.
The Homewood Historical Society will have a supply of its very popular
custom-designed, 100% cotton, “Homewood” coverlets and its custom
designed tapestry pillows, tote bags and framed tapestries available for deliv-
ery in December. Anyone interested in placing an order for any of the items should contact
Elaine Egdorf at 798-9535. A coverlet is currently on display at the Homewood Library.
Village Board Meetings Richard A. Hofeld
Board meetings are held on the Village President
second and fourth Tuesday of each
Judi Rangel
month at 7:30 pm in the Village Hall
Village Clerk
Council Chambers, 2020 Chestnut
Road. Committee of the Whole Board of Trustees
meetings are the first and third Trustee Jack Edwards
Tuesdays, as announced.The public Trustee Bill Frank
is invited to all meetings and may
Trustee Joan Gettings
introduce appropriate items not
Trustee Tony Kernagis
listed on the agenda.
Trustee Judith Mostovoy
Trustee James Wright
Homewood Channel 6
Your source for news, information, village board David Niemeyer
meeting broadcasts and other community Village Manager
access programming.
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Permit No. 33
Homewood, IL
60430
VILLAGE OF HOMEWOOD
2020 Chestnut Road
Homewood, IL 60430-1776
INSIDE
Community Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Community News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Fire & Police News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Did You Know? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
ECRWSS
Public Works News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Village Finance News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 POSTAL CUSTOMER
Senior News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
HOMEWOOD, IL 60430
Printed on recycled paper
