2015 SpringO BOBAK ROOKnewsQuarterly Newsletter I Volume 72 - Spring 2015
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 1 3/24/15 6:47 AM
2 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
2 TASTE/POLO
Looking forward to the 2015 Summer
3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Message from Dr. Gopal Lalmalani
4 FROM THE MANAGER’S DESK
Message from Riccardo F. Ginex
5 POLICE
In the News
6 FIRE
Put Fire Safety First This Spring!
7 PUBLIC WORKS
Spring 2015 & Spring Housekeeping
Reminders
8 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Development Update & Historical Permit
Summary
9 SPORTS CORE
Sports Core Activities & Upcoming
Calendar
10 LIBRARY
Spring Events, What’s Happening
11 FINANCE
2015 Budget Approved
12 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
GIS and the Village of Oak Brook
13 DOOR-TO-DOOR SOLICITORS
Free “No Solicitors” signs
14 EMPLOYEE MILESTONES ANNIVERSARIES & ELECTION INFORMATION
15 POLO
Events & Ticket Infomation
16 BACK COVER
Taste of Oak Brook & Polo
INSIDE THIS NEWSLETTER
VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK ELECTED OFFICIALS/
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Gopal Lalmalani, M.D., M.B.A | President
Charlotte K. Pruss | Clerk
Don Adler | Trustee
John Baar | Trustee
Michael Manzo | Trustee
Mark Moy, M.D. | Trustee
Gerald Wolin | Trustee
Asif Yusuf | Trustee
VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK
DEPARTMENTS
Police, Fire, EMS Emergency: 9-1-1
Butler Government Center General
Information: (630) 368-5000
Village Clerk: (630) 368-5052
Village Manager: (630) 368-5026
Community Development: (630) 368-5101
Engineering: (630) 368-5130
Fire Non-Emergency: (630) 368-5200
Library: (630) 368-7700
Police Non-Emergency: (630) 368-8700
Public Works: (630) 368-5270 Water Billing: (630) 368-5090
Sports Core Administration (630) 368-6400
Bath & Tennis (630) 368-6400
Oak Brook Golf Club (630) 368-6400
CONNECT WITH THE VILLAGE
Website | www.oak-brook.org
Facebook | “Village of Oak Brook”
Twitter | @OakBrookVillage
Regular meetings of the Village Board are held
on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month
at 7pm, except no fourth Tuesday meetings in
the months of June, August and December.
Live streaming of Village Board meetings now
available. Videotaped broadcasts of Village Board
meetings air on Comcast Cable Television,
Government Access Channel 6 or 110
Mondays at 7pm and online at
www.youtube.com/oakbrooktv
Questions or comments? Contact us.
Editor: Donna Bettin
dbettin@oak-brook.org
2015 Summer Events
Taste of Oak Brook
Fri. July 3, 2015, 4:00—9:00 PM
Spectacular Fireworks display at Dusk,
Live Entertainment & Children’s
Activities, Oak Brook area fine
restaurants & beverage tent. On-site
parking available for $10/vehicle
2015 Oak Brook Polo Season
Six Sundays for a total of 12 matches
July 12th, 19th & 26th
Aug. 9th, 16, & 23rd
1:00 PM & 3:00 PM Raindates: Aug. 2nd & Sept. 13th
OAK BROOK news
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 2 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 3
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Village President
(630) 368-5012
glalmalani@oak-brook.org
Gopal G. Lalmalani, M.D., M.B.A.
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
It is so nice to have longer daylight hours as we move into
spring and anxiously await the coming of warmer weather,
the appearance of blooming flowers and trees, and visiting
with our neighbors as we spend more time outdoors.
On the development front, the Village has been busy
reviewing plans, issuing permits, and conducting inspections.
The Oakbrook Center has had many improvements and
projects underway, including plans to build a $50-million
dollar project consisting of 12 new movie theaters, more
restaurants, and structured parking. The Duchossois Project
is in their final planning stages for the redevelopment of
the old Follett/DeAmertek sites and the Latisys Data Center
continues their major renovation project. We were also
pleased to see the new Real Urban Barbecue restaurant
open last November and welcome them to Oak Brook!
Finally, look for additional development updates included in
the Community Development section of this newsletter.
With warmer weather come outdoor activities and fun for
the whole family! Plans are underway for the Annual Taste of
Oak Brook and spectacular Fireworks display to be held on
Friday, July 3, 2015. We are working to bring Oak Brook’s fine
restaurants, great musical entertainment and a variety of
activities for children and adults as we celebrate our nation’s
birthday!
Last summer, the polo program grew in popularity and this
summer promises to bring more polo enthusiasts out to
enjoy the 2015 Oak Brook Polo season. The Polo Committee
together with Ravenswood Event Services is working hard
to prepare for this season. This year we have included
one additional date for 12 matches on six Sundays. Polo
Season dates are set for Sunday afternoons on: July 12, 19,
26, August 9, 16, & 23, (rainout dates: Aug. 2 and Sept. 13).
Information on ticket prices, sponsorships or advertisement
opportunities can be found at www.oakbrookpoloclub.com.
Mark the dates on your calendar, and come out and enjoy
this great sport with friends new and old!
In other news, recently in his State Budget Address, Governor
Rauner made a proposal for a fifty percent reduction in
Local Governmental Distributive Fund (LGDF) payments to
municipalities. If this were to occur, Oak Brook would see a
revenue reduction near $390,208. This reduction of funding
would result in the need for modification or deferral of some
of our planned projects.
In addition to dramatically cutting LGDF revenues, the
Governor has proposed exempting police officers and
firefighters from pension reform. This restriction on local
government will take away the ability to fund the rising costs
of public safety pensions which have been well documented
as unsustainable.
Oak Brook has been diligent in funding our pension
obligations. In the last four years, the Village has contributed
$8.7 million in police and fire pensions, which is $2.6 million
more than the previous four-year contribution of $6.1 million.
The $8.7 million contributed during the last four years equals
51% of the last 10-year funding obligation for the pensions.
This clearly illustrates the Village is meeting and exceeding
its obligation to the pension funding. We even added an
additional $350,000 to the fire pension in 2014.
As your Village President, I am working closely with the
DuPage Mayors and Managers Caucus, the Metropolitan
Mayors Caucus and the Illinois Municipal League to strategize
the best options in preserving our funding share. We are
willing and eager to work with the legislative leadership and
the Governor to find a solution.
We are fortunate in Oak Brook to be so fiscally secure. Our
principal source of income, the General Sales Tax, is at an all
time high. Over the last four years, our revenues exceeded
expenditures by $5.5 million. Additionally, the 2014-ending
reserve, our most important General Fund is $12.4 million,
which equals 7.5 months of our annual Operating Fund
requirements and a 35% increase over 2010, before I took
office as your President. This reserve is $2.4 million above
what the Village requires. Our total cash balance in all our
funds as of 12/31/14 was $28.5 million, which is 14% higher
than four years ago. Suffice it to say that our financial
condition is sound and robust.
As always, the Trustees, the staff, and I are available to you at
all times. Feel free to call, email or meet any of us if you have
any thoughts and concerns. We are here to serve you. As Dr.
Jonas Salk so aptly said, “I feel the greatest reward for doing
is the opportunity to do more.”
Kind regards,
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 3 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Dear Friends and Residents;
I have had the pleasure of being part of the Oak Brook family
for just over six months. I cannot tell you how much I have
been impressed with the professionalism, character, integrity
and friendship I witness from the staff on a daily basis. They
all make me proud to lead this wonderful group of employees.
During the past few months, I have had the ability to observe
operations throughout the organization. Overall, we operate
very efficiently on a very lean staff which is a credit to their
work ethic. In retrospect, I felt there are some areas that
needed to be enhanced allowing us a greater ability to move
forward and continue to deliver the exceptional service we
do on a daily basis.
Therefore, in an effort to assist the organization accomplish
its goals I made the following personnel promotions in the
organization, which became effective Sunday, February 1,
2015: Sharon Dangles was promoted to the new position
of Assistant Village Manager/Finance Director, Jim Fox was
promoted to the new position of Information Technology
Director, and Kathy Vonachen was promoted to the new
position of Administrative Payroll Coordinator/Deputy Clerk.
All these individuals display an excellent work ethic, are great
role models and have a great rapport with the employees.
Additionally, I believe it is important to plan for those
unforeseen circumstances that may arise at any moment. In
my assessment our biggest and most concerning vulnerability
in the organization, is in the area of Finance. There was no
succession plan in our Finance Department. The Village would
be severely limited in our operations if we were to lose our
Finance Director. In recognition of that, I used the funding
budgeted for the Assistant Village Manager and hired an
Assistant Finance Director instead. The combination of the
Assistant Village Manager and Finance Director positions will
result in a savings in the area of $56,000 and could possibly
exceed $71,000. The selection process is in progress and we
hope to have the position filled by April 1st.
During this past year, Cathy Doczekalski has served as the
Interim Assistant Village Manager and did a great job. I want
to personally thank Cathy for all her work as her time with us
came to an end on Friday, January 30th. Cathy came into the
organization under a difficult transition period and had to
fill a large void. She did so with incredible professionalism
and character. I wish her nothing but the best in her future
endeavors.
Finally, as we come out of the winter season, I want to
personally thank our Public Works Department for all their
hard work during the blizzard and the frigid temperatures.
They worked long hours and kept our streets open and safe
for our residents and visitors alike.
GOVERNOR RAUNER’S PROPOSED REDUCTION OF
LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUNDS
As you know, Governor Bruce Rauner delivered his first
budget address on February 18th. In the days leading up to
the speech it became clear that local government revenues
would be included in the significant cuts he was going to
propose. The Governor’s Budget Address confirmed this to be
true. The Governor proposes to help fund the State’s budget
problem with funding previously given to local governments.
Additionally, the Governor appeared to exclude public safety
personnel from future pension reform efforts pursued by the
Administration.
The local share of income tax has been an important revenue
stream for all municipalities since it was first instituted in
Illinois in 1969. Local communities have counted on it for 45
years to help fund key public services like police and fire. The
Governor’s proposed 50 percent reduction could lead to more
layoffs, additional delays and cancellations of more capital
projects, and increased taxes and user fees. Oak Brook and
other municipalities across Illinois are still feeling the effects
of the 2009 recession. We have acted in a fiscally responsible
manner during the economic downturn and have reduced
personnel, cut services and controlled our spending to balance
our budgets over the last several years.
The Village is working closely with the DuPage Mayor’s and
Manager’s Caucus, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and
the Illinois Municipal League to strategize the best options
in preserving our funding share. We are willing and eager to
work with the legislative leadership and the Governor to find
a solution.
Village staff is proactively taking steps to reduce expenditures
if the 50 percent reduction becomes law.
Oak Brook would stand to lose approximately $390,208 in
funding going forward annually. We realize this is going to be
a long process and expect the negotiations to last through the
entire Spring legislative session.
4 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
From the Manager’s DeskBY RICCARDO F. GINEX
Riccardo F. Ginex
Village Manager
(630) 368-5026
villagemanager@oak-brook.org
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 4 3/24/15 6:47 AM
IN THE NEWS
Finally, people focus on cues that communicate information
about the intentions and character of the legal authorities
with whom they are dealing (their “trustworthiness”). People
react favorably when they believe that the authorities with
whom they are interacting are benevolent and caring, and
are sincerely trying to do what is best for the people with
whom they are dealing.
Over the past three years the Oak Brook Police Department
has embarked on a very robust program of community
collaboration and communication. We have sponsored two
Citizen Police Academies per year, began the Coffee with a
Cop Program in 2014, opened up communication channels
with our HALO Program the last three years, and now have
enhanced our social media presence with a Facebook and
Twitter page to ensure we are reaching every generation
that we serve. While this is a work in progress, I am very
proud of our staff and the strides we have made in instilling
public trust. I hope that you feel the same way. However
this is a work in progress that is always in need of continuous
improvement.
I want to thank many of you who sent notes of well wishes
to us and thanking us for our service over these many
months. While the media was jumping on the police
bashing bandwagon, it meant a lot to our officers and staff
that their call to duty was not unnoticed. We know that the
national dialogue will continue and we assure you that we
will continue to meet the needs of our community and live
up to our mission and values.
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 5
PoliceBY JAMES KRUGERNews
The law enforcement community has been faced with
several challenges over the past year. They include grand
jury decisions that some segments of the population
did not agree with, the question of race relations with
law enforcement, and the very foundation of what the
community expects from its police department. There
has been much dialogue at the national level centered on
what those expectations are and how the law enforcement
community should adapt.
One of the main concerns that surfaced through this
national dialogue has been the relationship the police
department has with its citizens. Is there a collaborative
environment between the police and the public and is
the police department responsive to the needs of the
community? Other areas of discussion have centered on
the concepts of police legitimacy and procedural justice.
Police Legitimacy reflects the belief that the police ought
to be allowed to exercise their authority to maintain
social order, manage conflicts and solve problems in their
communities. Legitimacy is reflected in three judgments.
The first is public trust and confidence in the police. Such
confidence involves the belief that the police are honest,
that they try to do their jobs well, and that they are trying
to protect the community against crime and violence.
Second, legitimacy reflects the willingness of residents to
defer to the law and to police authority, i.e. their sense of
obligation and responsibility to accept police authority.
Finally, legitimacy involves the belief that police actions are
morally justified and appropriate to the circumstances.
Procedural justice can be viewed as a means to attaining
legitimacy. First, people want to have an opportunity to
explain their situation or tell their side of the story to a
police officer. Second, people react to evidence that the
authorities with whom they are dealing are neutral. Third,
people are sensitive to whether they are treated with dignity
and politeness, and to whether their rights are respected.
Follow me on Twitter: @chiefkruger
Follow us on Twitter: @oakbrookpolice
Follow us on FaceBook:
@oakbrookpolicedepartment
James Kruger
Police Chief
(630) 368-8710
jkruger@oak-brook.org
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 5 3/24/15 6:47 AM
6 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
FireBY BARRY LISSSafety & InformationPUT FIRE SAFETY FIRST THIS SPRING!
This year while doing your spring cleaning, make it a priority
to also conduct a spring fire safety check of your home to
ensure that you and your home are as safe as possible. These
are some of the common hazards found throughout a home.
Electrical Wiring & Outlets
Overloaded circuits and extension cords pose a real fire threat.
Misusing electrical cords (such as running them under rugs, or
putting them in high traffic areas) or overuse of power strips
can result in electrical fires, which account for thousands of
fires each year. Replace frayed wires or cords immediately. If
you see overloaded wall sockets, remove some of the items
and find a new outlet for them. Remove any cords running
under carpeting or rugs. Do a quick check of all rooms in your
home to make sure no cords are trapped against walls (where
heat can build up.)
Electrical Appliances
The common most electrical appliances that cause electrical
fires in homes are electrical stoves, ovens, dryers, heating units,
stereos and televisions. Always unplug electrical appliances
when not in use for extended periods of time. Confirm that
no flammable materials are within three feet of an electrical
heater. Pay particular attention to stored items in basements
and attics by making sure they are far away from heaters.
Make sure all electrical appliances, including but not limited
to coffee pots, microwaves, toasters, etc. are plugged directly
into a wall outlet and unplugged after each use.
Kids and Matches/Lighters
Children playing with matches or lighters are responsible for
more than 35,000 fires annually in the United States. You may
learn of your children’s curiosity with fire while you’re spring
cleaning. Look under all beds, and in “secret places” such as
closets or basements, where your children may leave evidence
that they have played with matches or lighters. Lock up all
lighters or matches and reiterate to your children that fire is
absolutely not a toy.
Add Smoke Alarm Maintenance
to your Spring Cleaning List
Smoke alarms are very easy to care for. Smoke alarms save
thousands of lives each year. The likelihood that they will save
your life greatly increases when you: Install smoke alarms on
every floor of your home, including the basement and/or attic.
Move to the Right
for Sirens and Lights!
Below are simple rules to follow when you are on the road and
encounter an emergency vehicle:
DO:
• Drive at once to the right side of the road and stop until the
emergency vehicle has passed as traffic in the right lane
allows.
• Be careful when driving by or around a motor vehicle
accident or any situation where emergency vehicles are
parked and firefighters are working.
• Drivers should stay at least 500 feet behind emergency
vehicles.
DON’T:
• Don’t stop in the middle lane when there is room to pull to
the right.
• Don’t pull to the left in the center lane or left turn lane.
• Don’t race ahead to make the green light or turn before the
emergency vehicle gets there.
Install smoke alarms both inside your sleeping area, and outside of it. Install the smoke alarm 6-8” from the ceiling on side walls,
to allow for earliest possible smoke detection. Smoke alarms
require only two minor scheduled tasks: Replace the batteries
and keep them clean. Just as you dust your bookshelves, make
sure that your smoke alarm is free from dust and debris, as it
may interfere with proper functioning. A quick vacuum around
the smoke alarm regularly will do the trick.
Emergency Warning Siren
The Village of Oak Brook triggers an
Emergency Warning Siren or outdoor
warning siren when dangerous weather
conditions are favorable to tornadoes
and/or one has been spotted in the
surrounding towns. Emergency Warning Sirens are also used
when severe conditions from storms are causing damage
to property in Oak Brook. These sirens are loud enough to
be heard by those who are outdoors, warning them to seek
shelter immediately. Sirens are tested on the first Tuesday of
the month anytime between 10:00-10:30 AM.
Do not try and outrun a tornado. Although many movies show
storm chasers doing this, a tornado can change directions and
the winds will increase as more debris is gathered inside the
center of the funnel. Do not take the time to open windows.
This does not accomplish anything and does not affect the
tornado or its momentum. Staying under an overpass might
keep you away from debris, however an overpass creates a
tunnel effect and tornadoes have pulled cars out and carried
them away.
When the siren goes off, immediately get you and your family
to safety. The basement of a strong, secure building or your
home is the safest place to be. Interior parts of the home, away
from windows, are a secondary option.
Barry Liss
Fire Chief
(630) 368-5200
bliss@oak-brook.org
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 6 3/24/15 6:47 AM
NewsSPRING 2015
As the weather warms Public Works and Engineering
are gearing up for an active construction season. Road
improvements include repaving Commerce Drive along
with installation of a sidewalk. Golf Drive, and 35th
Street will also be resurfaced. We will also be continuing
pedestrian access projects around the Oakbrook Center.
We will be installing a new crosswalk across 22nd Street
in the vicinity of the Marriott and Regency Towers. Our
water system will also receive some attention. The water
main replacement for York Woods will be completed and
the designs for Brook Forest water main replacement will
be prepared.
Public Works crews will be busy with drainage issues, street
signs, pavement markings, as well as a good amount of
forestry work. As Ash trees are lost to the Emerald Ash
Borer, we will be replacing them with a variety of trees. The
objective is to increase the species diversity and reduce the
risk of future tree blights.
SPRING HOUSEKEEPING
REMINDERS
With the weather warming (finally) it is time to take care
of some simple, yet important, housekeeping issues. With
the large accumulations of snow and ice over the winter
many drainage features have been affected. Homeowners
should do a “walk around” inspection of yards. Make sure
that drainage pathways taking water away from the house
foundation are clear of debris and pitched away from the
house. During Spring gardening keep in mind the drainage
and avoid trapping water against the house foundation with
soil or mulch. Gutters, downspouts, and area drains have a
tendency to collect debris over the Winter. Now is a great
time to insure that all these drainage features are clog-free
and running freely. This Winter snow and ice build-ups on
roofs were quite common. It is worth the time and effort
to inspect the underside of roofs from your attic or crawl
space. Pay particular attention to the section closest to the
eaves (bottom section). Water staining is an indication that
ice shielding under shingles needs repair/replacement. This
is also an excellent time to have fireplaces, chimneys, and
flues cleaned to prevent fire hazards. In the course of all
these inspections you may notice items which are good
candidates for recycling.
Public Works did a great deal of snow removal over the
Winter, but unfortunately, some parkway areas were plowed
along with the snow and ice. We will be restoring these areas
as soon as weather permits. Similarly, some mailboxes were
damaged during the snow events. We will also be repairing
these as weather permits. Should you choose to repair
the mailboxes, please keep in mind clearance from the
road. Placing the front of the box 12” behind the curb face/
edge of pavement will minimize the chances of damages
in the future. Should you have any questions about these
maintenance subjects or others, please feel free to give us a
call at 630-368-5270.
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 7
Public WorksBY MICHAEL HULLIHAN
Michael Hullihan
Director of Public Works &
Engineering
(630) 368-5270
mhullihan@oak-brook.org
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 7 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Community DevelopmentBY ROBERT KALLIEN InformationDEVELOPMENT UPDATE
• Oakbrook Center – There are many improvements/
projects underway at Oakbrook Center.
• The first two glass pavilions and the 500+ sq.ft. digital
video screen have been completed. The digital video
screen is currently in use and one of the glass pavilions is
now home to Argo Tea. The second glass building is home
to Avastars.
• Porsche has completed its $250,000 interior alteration
project.
• The Coach store has completed its $400,000 interior
renovation project.
• Athleta has completed its $500,000+ interior alteration
project.
• The Blackhawks Store now occupies the space at 703
Oakbrook Center. The only other such store exists on
Michigan Avenue.
• Brooks Brothers store has completed its $562,000
renovation project.
• Z Gallerie has completed its $418,000 interior alteration
project.
• Zara clothing store completed its $500,000 interior
alteration project.
• Tory Burch completed its $174,000 completed interior
alteration project.
• Neiman Marcus continues with its $3.7 million renovation
project.
• The Gap has submitted plans for a $700,000 renovation
project.
• The plans to construct a new building to house 12 new
movie theaters, multiple restaurants and structured
parking for approximately 475 cars has been approved by
the Village Board. Completion of this project is expected to
take place in 2017. In addition, General Growth Properties
is working to open the four (4) old theaters that have been
vacant for some time.
• The Labriola Pizza Bar is under review for a portion of
the former Grotto restaurant space in the Oak Brook
Promenade.
• Latisys Data Center located on Swift Drive continues
with its $10 million renovation project.
• The new 4,700 sq.ft. Real Urban Barbecue restaurant
opened to the public during the week of November 17th.
• Duchossois Redevelopment Project – Planning is in final
stages for the much anticipated redevelopment of the
Follett/DeAmertek sites located at 1818 Swift Road and 300-
306 Windsor Road in order to construct a new 225,000+ sq.ft.
corporate facility for the Duchossois Group. Demolition of
the existing buildings is underway. Building permits for
the new building should be submitted in April 2015 with
construction being completed by the end of 2016.
Some historical data that may be of interest … Economic Development – Oak Brook – 2008 to Present
Permit Summary:
House New Comm. Comm. Value of New Fees
Year # Permits New Homes Demo’s Buildings Build-outs Construction Collected
2008 742 10 10 6 454 $64,459,313 $850,641
2009 606 13 9 3 312 $51,776,407 $782,452
2010 696 8 10 0 375 $51,559,533 $824,792
2011 705 6 9 0 331 $58,775,804 $905,041
2012 770 12 10 4 409 $76,987,646 $1,203,223
2013 811 19 18 1 390 $131,935,998 $1,756,525
2014 837 20 13 2 391 $110,922,495 $1,481,479
8 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
Robert Kallien
Director of Community
Development
(630) 368-5101
rkallien@oak-brook.org
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 8 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Sports CoreBY TREY VANDYKE Information
Spring is coming. And we are wishing for a very slow
melt of all this snow. When the grass reappears we
will begin the Sports Core outdoor activities. In the
meantime, our staff is busy developing plans for
summer fun. We are happy to announce that all of our
top sports coaches will be returning: Cindy Jones, Head
Swim Coach, Greg Spencer, Head Tennis Professional,
and PGA instructors Claudine Boettger, Ian Grant, Jeff
Kawucha, Dan Kochevar, and Gary Pinns.
We hope you will be pleased to see the many
improvements the staff has been working on over
the winter months: new drainage and pumping
capacity added to the 9th hole and driving range,
a handicap accessible lift added to the main pool,
painting of the main pool, additional shade features
for the pool deck, and new benches for the tennis
courts.
SPORTS CORE ACTIVITIES
Giant Golf Demo Day Expected Date Wednesday, May 6
Bath & Tennis Club Discount Deadline Expected Date Friday, May 8
Bath & Tennis Club Pool Opens Expected Date Saturday, May 23
Taste of Oak Brook Friday, July 3
2015 Oak Brook Polo Season July 12- August 23
“Top Sports Coaches will be
returning this spring.”UPCOMING CALENDAR
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 9
Trey VanDyke
Sports Core Director
(630) 368-6420
tvandyke@oak-brook.org
Golf Course Opening Day Expected Date Wednesday, April 1
Golf Club Driving Range Opens Expected Date Wednesday, April 1
Bath and Tennis Club Courts Open Expected Date Saturday, April 18
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 9 3/24/15 6:47 AM
LibraryBY SUE MADORINCalendar and Events
LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S
MESSAGE APRIL 2015
Oak Brook Public Library joins supporters nationwide in
celebrating National Library Week, a time to highlight the value
of libraries. From April 12-18, 2015, libraries are promoting the
theme of “Unlimited Possibilities at Your Library.” Every day
your library presents countless opportunities to learn, grow,
and achieve dreams. We provide a place to create and share
resources. Our staff is here to provide guidance and help our
users expand their minds. We do all this in an atmosphere
where our patrons can relax, play, discuss, connect, engage,
learn, and research. We encourage everyone to ask what our
library can offer you.
We start off National Library Week with Robbie Malkowski
singing Richard Rogers greatest hits. On Thursday this week,
the Friends Annual Used Book Sale commences. The following
Sunday, April 19, James Finn Garner will explore baseball and
popular culture.
On Sunday, May 3, the Friends’ Evergreen Concert will feature
the Shindig! Other May programs will be on the men of Omaha
Beach, great American composers and the golden age of radio.
Of course, this is only a small sampling of what the library offers.
SPRING CALENDAR
10 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
Sue Madorin
Library Director
(630) 368-7706
smadorin@oak-brook.org
Sunday, April 12 at 2:00 pmRobbie Malkowski Presents: Robbie Sings the Greatest Hits - Richard Rodgers
Richard Rodgers was an American composer of 43 musicals
and 900 songs in partnership with Lorenz Hart and Oscar
Hammerstein. Rodgers worked with Hart from 1925 till his
death in 1943 and then built the greatest partnership in
musical history with Oscar Hammerstein II. Songs from “Pal
Joey”, “The Boys from Syracuse”, “Oklahoma”, “King and I”,
“State Fair”, and “South Pacific” will be performed. Join us in
celebrating these songs and the stories.
Sunday, April 19 at 2:00 pmAmerican Diamond: Baseball, Pop Culture and Our National Myths
Baseball is the National Pastime, not only on the field, but
in all forms of entertainment. Join James Finn Garner as
he explores the historic and literary reasons that drive this
American phenomenon and how the internet continues the
tradition today.
Saturday, May 23 at 2:00 pm
The Men of Omaha Beach
Robert Mueller paints the picture of Omaha Beach and
provides insight into the how and where the invasion
took place. He focuses upon the men responsible for the
success of that risky endeavor. The ongoing interest in
these stories and locations is demonstrated by the over one
million people each year who visit the Normandy American
Cemetery – situated directly along the deadliest of combat
sectors, Easy Red Beach.
Thursday, May 28 at 7:00 pmShirlee Todd Presents:Greatest American Composers
Through song and narration, Shirlee Todd presents the
lives of Irving Berlin, George Gershwin, and other American
greats. Join Shirlee as she explores the composers’ lives and
their impact on music.
Saturday, May 16 at 2:00 pmThose Were the Days: Radio Players West with Phil Tomzik
Re-live or experience for the first time, the laughter, mystery,
intrigue, and dramatic endings from the great writings of the
Golden Age of Radio! Enjoy drama and comedy programs
based on original scripts from the 1930s to 1950s, with
sound effects and original music.
Saturday, June 6 at 2:00 pm
Anthony Abbatacola
Join Vocalist Anthony Abbatacola and accompanist Todd
Scott as they perform a mix of Big Band, Jazz and Traditional
Pop Standards. Anthony has performed in nightclubs
around the area and his music has been featured on WDCB’s
90.9fm.
Sunday, April 12 at 2:00 pmRobbie Malkowski Presents: Robbie Sings theGreatest Hits - Richard Rodgers
Richard Rodgers was an American composer of 43 of 43 of musicals
and 900 songs in partnership with Lorenz Hart and Oscar
Hammerstein. Rodgers worked with Hart from 1925 till his
death in 1943 and then built the greatest partnership in
musical history with Oscar Hammerstein II. Songs from “Pal
Joey”, “The Boys from Syracuse”, “Oklahoma”, “King and I”,
“State Fair”, and “South Pacific” will Pacific” will Pacific” be performed. Join us in
celebrating these songs and the stories.
Saturday, May 16 at 2:00 pmThose Were the Days: Radio Players West with PhilTomzik
Re-live or experience for the first time, the laughter, mystery,
intrigue, and dramatic endings from the great writings of the of the of
Golden Age of Radio! of Radio! of Enjoy drama and comedy programs
based on original scripts from the 1930s to 1950s, with
sound effects and original music.
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 10 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Sharon Dangles
Finance Director/
Assistant Village Manager
(630) 368-5072
sdangles@oak-brook.org
FinanceBY SHARON DANGLESInformationFINANCE REPORT
2015 Budget Approved
The Village is very conservative when issuing any type
of debt. When possible, the Village tries to save money
for large purchases rather than issuing debt. General
obligation bonds have been issued only once in the
history of the Village. Bonds were authorized and issued
in 1977 for the acquisition and improvement of the Oak
Brook Sports Core. The final payment on those bonds
was made in 1994.
The 2015 Municipal Budget was approved by the Village
Board on December 9, 2014. The 2015 Budget is a fiscally
responsible financial plan that will enable the Village to
continue to provide the community with high quality
municipal services and special events that enhance the
quality of life of all residents and meet the needs of the
business community.
The Village’s General Corporate cash reserve balance
deserves some special mention as it continues to be
an important aspect in the Village’s position of fiscal
strength. The financial policy of the Village is to maintain
a cash balance reserve of at least six months of operating
expenditures in the General Corporate Fund. The
projected ending cash balance for 2015 in the General
Corporate Fund of $11,637,944 is equal to 6.9 months of
operating expenses, which is $1.5 million above the six
month operating reserve requirement.
2015 budgeted revenues are $48 million, including $22.6
million in the General Fund, which is where many of the
Village’s day-to-day operations are funded. Sales taxes
for the General Fund account for more than half of the
General Fund revenues. They are projected to be $12.4
million or 3% higher than last year. The Village collected
over $12 million in general sales tax for 2014, which was
the highest received in history dating back to the 1990’s.
Total Expenditures for 2015 are $53.1 million. This is
10.7% higher than last year due to more capital projects
as compared to last year. These capital improvements
are paid through reserves (savings) over the years to pay
for these items. Major capital improvements for 2015 are:
• Improvements to 22nd St. (Salt Creek – I294) for $2.5
million, which is offset by a grant for $849,800.
• Annual paving program, $5.1 million.
• Water main replacements, water meter replacements,
and system improvements for $1.6 million.
With vision and direction provided by the Village
Board, and with the valuable work of each of the Village
Departments, Oak Brook will further its brand as a vibrant
community comprised of people and businesses who
seek the appeal of a natural setting with open fields and
an upscale town with the best restaurants and shopping
around.
The 2015 approved Budget and Five Year Plan are
available on the Village’s website. Please feel free to
contact me with any questions.
E-Billing
The Village of Oak Brook is pleased to announce that
water customers can sign up to receive their water bill
electronically by email. The electronic bill generated
looks just like the bill a customer would receive in the
mail. Customers will receive their bill one to two days
earlier since the bill does not have to be forwarded
and processed for mailing. Delinquent Notices will still
be processed, printed and mailed. If you would like to
participate in this program, please email waterbilling@
oak-brook.org and include the following information:
• Service Address
• Water Account Number
• Telephone Number
• Email Address
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 11
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 11 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Information Technology DepartmentBY JIM FOXGIS AND THE VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK
Since 2008, the Village of Oak Brook has been a member of
the GIS Consortium, a collection of 29 local government
communities that works collectively to achieve the
benefits of a Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
program. Through collaboration and cost sharing
the community is able to create value by identifying
opportunities while minimizing cost and risk through
shared services and staffing. To provide residents with
increased information transparency, the Village of Oak
Brook’s GIS staff updates and maintains two powerful
village information tools, MapOffice™ and Community
Portal. Both applications are available on-line through
the Village website.
MapOffice™ was introduced to the Village in 2008 and
can be easily accessed by selecting the “Maps” option on
the home page of the village website and then selecting
“Click here for GIS consortium MapOffice”. Through
MapOffice™, residents can explore the community
through a map environment, accessing information like
zoning, property boundaries parcel, and even regional
information. One of the most popular tasks used by
residents is the Parcel Summary tool, which aggregates
information from county property records, village
services, and various regional sources into a consolidated
list of information related to a specific property. The data
that is accessed through this tool is maintained by the
Village’s GIS staff in conjunction with DuPage County
and other related organizations.
2014 marked the arrival of a new application, called
Community Portal; this new tool allows the retrieval of
content specific to an individual address location. In
contrast to MapOffice™, which is heavily map focused,
these information pages are presented in an easily
digestible, text based display. While a map is good for
referencing where a property is located in the village,
Community Portal focuses more on the information
related to that property, making it a nice complementary
tool to the existing MapOffice™ application. This tool
can also be found by selecting the “Maps” option on the
home page of the village website and then providing a
Village of Oak Brook address in the “Property Address”
box.
As the use of these tools expands, the Village of Oak Brook
continues to look for new opportunities to meet the
needs of the community and to provide additional data
that would be of use to residents. For more information
about this product, please look for the Village of Oak
Brook booth at the 2015 Taste of Oak Brook, where
demonstrations of both of these tools will be provided
throughout the day.
Jim Fox
Director of Information
Technology
(630) 368-5174
jfox@oak-brook.org
12 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 12 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 13
Warm Weather EncouragesDoor-to-door Solicitors
The season of door-to-door sales people is upon us. The Village of Oak Brook requires that
all Commercial Solicitors must apply for a permit from the Village. A background check for
local violations is completed for each individual that has requested permission to solicit
door-to-door in the Village of Oak Brook with the intent to protect the residents of the
Village.
Non-Commercial Solicitors must register with the Village for the purpose of identification.
Federal litigation has specified that religious organizations and political parties are exempt
from any Village requirements of licensing or registration. Many religious organizations
do cooperate and at least provide us with information and are willing to wear our badges.
The Village does not regulate solicitors distributing handbills as long as they do not
participate in personal contact with residents unless the resident pursues contact.
Further information can be found at our Village of Oak Brook website at www.oak-brook.
org or you can contact the Village Clerk’s office at 630-368-5052.
Free “No Solicitors” signs are available at the
Village Hall and solicitors must honor those
signs and not attempt to contact you.
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 13 3/24/15 6:47 AM
14 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2015
This year the Village is pleased to announce the following
employees who have reached anniversary milestones in 2014.
• Diane Ross – 25 years – Public Works
• Thomas Russell – 25 years – Police Department
• Norman Nemec – 25 years – Police Department
• Mark King – 20 years – Police Department
• Susan Madorin – 20 years – Library
• Claudine Boettger – 20 years - Sports Core
• Michael Pavlovic – 15 years – Fire Department
• Rosemarie Douglas – 15 years – Fire Department
• David Corkey – 15 years – Fire Department
• Robin Crook – 15 years – Police Department
• Robert Kallien – 15 years – Community Development
• Marc Johnson – 10 years – Fire Department
• Garrett Church – 10 years - Police Department
• Marcelino Garcia – 10 years – Public Works
We are fortunate to have such dedicated and knowledgeable people who have
been involved with the Village for many years. Thank you for your service!
ELECTION INFORMATION
There will be a Consolidated Election on April 7, 2015. If you have
recently moved, be sure to Register to Vote. Voter registration
occurs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at the
Butler Government Center. The last day to register to vote or to
transfer registration for the April 7, 2015 election at the Village
Hall was March 10, 2015. Residents may now register to vote or
transfer their registration and vote at the same time at DuPage
County or Cook County Election Offices. The final registration deadline is April 4, 2015.
Early Voting will begin Monday, March 23, 2015 thru Saturday, April 4, 2015. Early Voting sites and
information is posted on the Village of Oak Brook website www.oak-brook.org or you may go the DuPage
County Election Commission site www.dupageelections.com or Cook County Election Commission www.
cookctyclerk.com to confirm the location where you should vote.
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 14 3/24/15 6:47 AM
Spring 2015 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 15
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 15 3/24/15 6:47 AM
PRESORTEDFIRST CLASS MAILU.S. POSTAGEPAID
OAK BROOK, IL
PERMIT NO. 19
Village of Oak Brook1200 Oak Brook RoadOak Brook, IL 60523-2255
165804 Spring Newsletter r5.indd 16 3/24/15 6:47 AM