2020 Spring NewsletterO BAK ROOKnewsQuarterly Newsletter I Volume 92 - Spring 2020
2 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
OAK BROOK news
3 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Message from Dr. Gopal Lalmalani
4 FROM THE MANAGER’S DESK
Message from Rick Ginex
5 POLICE
In The News
6 FIRE
SMART 911
7 CENSUS 2020
8-9 LIBRARY Calendar & Events
10 FINANCE INFORMATION
2020 Budget Approved
11 SPORTS CORE
Welcome 2020 Golf Season
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
Next Generation 911 (NG911) Arriving
Soon
12 DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
National Flood Insurance Program
13 PUBLIC WORKS
Spring 2020
14 VILLAGE CLERK
Election Information
15-16 BATH & TENNIS CLUB
Nicole & Adrian’s Sweet Summer
Wedding
17 BACK PAGE
Taste of Oak Brook 2020
INSIDE THIS NEWSLETTER
VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK
ELECTED OFFICIALS/BOARD OF TRUSTEES
President • Gopal Lalmalani, M.D., M.B.A | Clerk • Charlotte K. Pruss
Trustee • John Baar | Trustee • Philip Cuevas | Trustee • Michael Manzo
Trustee • Moin Saiyed | Trustee • Edward Tiesenga | Trustee • Asif Yusuf
VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK
DEPARTMENTS
Police, Fire, EMS Emergency: 9-1-1
Butler Government Center General Information: (630) 368-5000
Village President: (630) 368-5012
Village Clerk: (630) 368-5052
Village Manager: (630) 368-5026
Development Services: (630) 368-5101
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) 368-6426
Bath & Tennis (630) 368-6420
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.
Connie Reid • creid@oak-brook.org
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 3
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Even though this has been a mild winter, I am still longing for
the warmth and sunshine of Spring!
Recent uncovered corruption and several federal indictments
due to the installation of red light cameras on the corner of Rt.
83 and 22nd Street in Oakbrook Terrace have strengthened
the position of Village against their use. The Village of Oak
Brook has sent letters to Omer Osman, the Acting Secretary of
Transportation, the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference,
Brad Cole, the Executive Director of the Illinois Municipal League,
Senator Ram Villivalam, Chair of the Senate Transportation
Committee and Governor JB Pritzker seeking their support in
removing these cameras. The recent indictment of former Sen.
Martin Sandoval confirmed what we have always suspected,
that the permit was approved improperly and was part of an
influence peddling and bribery scheme.
In 2017, we adopted an ordinance that bans any use of red light
camera surveillance of motorists in Oak Brook. At our February
11th Board Meeting, we adopted another resolution seeking
support for HB 322, the bi-partisan bill sponsored by state
Representative David McSweeney, (R) of Barrington Hills, and
Jonathan Carroll, (D) of Buffalo Grove. This bill would outlaw
red light cameras in all non-home rule municipalities. More
recently, new legislation has been introduced to ban all red
light cameras statewide. We will continue to urge the Illinois
Department of Transportation to revoke the unlawfully issued
permit to Oakbrook Terrace that allowed them to install those
cameras. We are dedicated to keeping the roads safe and the
motorists free of unwarranted tickets.
As you may recall 2019’s Taste of Oak Brook was cancelled due
to inclement weather. I hope that we will have better luck this
year! Since the departure of the McDonald’s Corporation from
Oak Brook, the Village has lost a major co-sponsorship for our
annual Village event. As such, we have had to reevaluate the
event and make some adjustments. Some of the on-going
changes you will see, is the elimination of live entertainment,
and an increase the parking fees. In addition, the Village will
no longer allow event goers to bring in their own alcoholic
beverages. Beverages will be sold at the event. If you or
someone you know is willing to partner with the Village for
the Taste of Oak Brook event, there are many sponsorship
opportunities that will assist the Village in defraying some of
the expenses involved hosting this event. Please contact the
Village Manager’s office at 630-368-5026.
We are delighted to announce our arrangement with the Oak
Brook Park District to assume responsibility to operate aspects
of the of the Bath and Tennis Club including, Membership, Pool,
Tennis, Programming and Soccer for this season and possibly
for two additional years. Their expertise in the management of
recreational facilities along with the renovations and repairs
done by the Village will ensure an enjoyable summer for all
members. Membership information and the Program Guide
will be sent out shortly.
Pineoaks Partners is getting ready for the 2020 Polo season.
This exhilarating sport gains more popularity every year
and this season promises even more excitement. Visit
www.oakbrookpoloclub.com for a schedule of events and
ticketing information.
Lastly, coyotes have become a nuisance in the Oak
Brook area. We are asking that residents help in
developing a solution by reporting coyote sightings at
http://scientificwildlifemanagement.com/report-a-sighting/.
Thank you in advance for providing this invaluable information.
As always, the Trustees, staff and I are here to serve you. Please
contact us with your thoughts and concerns.
Kind Regards,
Gopal G. Lalmalani, M.D., M.B.A.
Village President
(630) 368-5012
glalmalani@oak-brook.org
Dear friends and residents;
I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season. We all look
forward to an early Spring!
This past winter has been a very busy time for the Village. The
Village Board looked at enhanced options for working with the
Park District to reduce our operational expenses of our Sports
Core. Specifically, having them continue to manage our pool
operations and then taking on the additional responsibilities
of our tennis facility and our soccer fields. At our January 14th
Board meeting, the agreement was approved. This agreement
can be renewed for two additional years. Village staff has been
working closely with the Park District staff to make this season
a better experience for all our members.
Additionally, the Village has partnered with the Park District
on two other issues. We have entered into a long-term
lease agreement with them to lease the gravel parking lot
at the dead-end of Kensington Road. With the Park District
acquiring the old McDonald’s Soccer fields, the lease of the
unused area will provide an opportunity for an additional 70
parking spaces for the teams that play here. The lease is for
$1.00 per year for 20 years and can be renewed for consecutive
20 year terms. Finally, as part of their master plan renovation
to their baseball fields, the Park District intended to continue
to replace their old fields lights with new LED ones. While
the final replacement was not scheduled in their upcoming
capital program, the Village worked with them to provide a
$500,000 loan from our Hotel/Motel Fund so they can install
the remaining lights before the 2020 baseball season begins.
The loan which has a 2% interest rate, will be paid back over a
period of five years.
The renewed partnership and cooperation between both
municipal entities will only enhance the recreational
experience afforded our residents and visitors to Oak Brook.
If you visited our Golf Course “On the Patio” events last
year, you saw the wonderful new renovation to our outdoor
patio. Several of the events were held with very large
crowds enjoying the music and “al fresco” atmosphere in the
warm summer evenings. We are continuing to upgrade our
Golf Clubhouse with the addition of a new bar area inside.
Upgrades will be made to the flooring, furniture and interior,
also. These new enhancements will allow our Golf Course to
enrich the experience for those who play, shop or just want to
dine in our wonderful new Clubhouse.
Also, the Village has decided to continue their relationship
with Pineoak Partners for the 2020 Polo Season with ten polo
matches this year.
Summer is right around the corner. I am sure you remember
the torrential rains last year that cancelled our Taste of Oak
Brook. We are wishing for much better weather this year and
hope to see you there to enjoy our wonderful fireworks display
on Friday, July 3rd.
4 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
From the Manager’s Desk
BY RICCARDO F. GINEX
Riccardo F. Ginex
Village Manager
(630) 368-5026
villagemanager@oak-brook.org
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 5
Police
BY JAMES KRUGER
News
On Friday, January 31st, members of the Oak Brook Police
Department Torch Run of Special Olympics Committee traveled
down to Bloomington for the annual Kick Off conference. Every
year, Special Olympics Illinois holds a daylong conference to
recognize all of the great work police agencies across Illinois
did the past year and recognize the agencies for what they
were able to raise.
I am proud to say that due to the generosity of our community,
and the hard work of our staff, the Oak Brook Police Department
has been recognized as a “Gold Medal” level agency for raising
a minimum of $25,000. We have been featured on the back
of the statewide t-shirt as one of the top agencies in Illinois
for the past seven years. The department raised $38,503.75
in 2019.
This year proved to be a little different for us. Unbeknownst to
our staff, the state Torch Run committee selected the Oak Brook
Police Department to receive the highest award given to any
agency in a given year. We were selected to receive the Flame
of Hope Award. Many of our integral staff members were in
attendance to be recognized for all of the hard work they do
every year. ln August the Torch Run Committee sponsors our
annual golf outing. Thanks to the support of the golfers who
participate year after year, this very popular event has become
our biggest fundraiser.
Our committee is also active throughout the year with other
events such as our Tip A Cop event at Blueberry Hill that will be
March 14th from 9 AM to 1 PM. Everyone is invited to come,
have a great breakfast and be served by OBPD staff members.
Merchandise will also be available for purchase.
As Chief, I am incredibly proud of our officers and civilian staff
members who have made such an important contribution of
their time and talent for this cause. I firmly believe it is the
definition of community policing by demonstrating that there
are issues greater than one’s self and in working together with
the community, we can truly make a difference in the lives of
others and thereby in the very fabric of the community. Thank
all of you as well for your constant support and generosity in
our endeavors.
James Kruger
Police Chief
(630) 368-8710
jkruger@oak-brook.org
6 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
SMART 911
Over 80% of calls made to 9-1-1 come from wireless cellular
phones. When you dial 9-1-1 from a cellular phone, the 9-1-1
call takers have very little information to help you – only your
phone number and a very general sense of your location. This
is a serious problem in an emergency when seconds count,
particularly if you or your loved ones have medical conditions,
or are unable to safely speak.
The Solution is Smart 911
With Smart 911, you can provide 9-1-1 call takers and first
responders critical information you want them to know in any
kind of emergency.
Smart 911 allows first-responders to learn many important
details before arriving to a scene. Police can gain quick access
to photos of missing children, fire crews can arrive at a house
already knowing the floor plan of a home and EMS can be
advised of residents’ allergies or specific medical conditions.
When you call 9-1-1, your Smart 911 Safety Profile displays
on the 9-1-1 screen and the 9-1-1 call takers can view your
addresses, medical information, home information, description
of pets and vehicles, and emergency contacts. You can provide
as much or as little information as you like.
Safety Profiles can fill in the gaps when the callers cannot. Along
with providing important emergency contact information,
Smart 911 allows you to choose to link your cellular phone to
your home address – giving the 911 call center a starting point
for an emergency call initiated from a cellular phone.
With Smart 911, citizens can choose to provide such information
as pets in the home, vehicle details in the event of an accident,
and even emergency contacts can be included in a Safety
Profile. All information is optional, and the citizen has the ability
to choose what details they would like to include.
Residents of Oak Brook are encouraged to create their Safety
Profile by going to SMART 911 today to have their information
immediately available to 9-1-1 and to receive emergency
notifications. Smart 911 is private and secure, is only used for
emergency responses, and it is only made available to the 9-1-1
system in the event of an emergency call. Smart 911 is a national
service meaning your Smart 911 Safety Profile travels with you
and is visible to any participating 9-1-1- center nationwide.
The Village of Oak Brook is proud to be an active member and
user of Smart 911. Smart 911 is currently available in 40 states
and more than 1,500 municipalities across the country, and has
been credited with positively impacting emergency outcomes.
Safety & InformationFire
BY BARRY LISS
Fire
BY BARRY LISS
Barry Liss
Fire Chief
(630) 368-5200
bliss@oak-brook.org
Smart 911 can save lives and increase response time.
Join and create your Smart 911 Safety Profile today.
SAFETY PROFILES C AN INCLUDE:
People living in your household
Phone numbers associated with your family
Pets, service animals, and livestock
Medical conditions and allergies
Medications and medical equipment
Property details, layout, and utility information
Vehicle descriptions
Emergency contacts
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 7
Oak Brook Counts
' I /-$-/ I '
The Federal Government distributes money based on a Village's population per the
Census count. Our Village will receive money to support many government
funded programs based on the Census. The 2020 Census will be the basis for this
funding for the next ten years 2021 - 2030. Our Constitution requires that all
residents of the United States are to be counted in the Census every ten years .
The Census Count is also
used to determine how
many representatives we
have in congress.
• Historically the under-counted
people who did not participate
in the Census are children under 5,
immigrants, & low income people.
The 2020 Census begins in mid-March 2020 with a mailing from the Census people and goes until July
31, 2020. You can complete the questionnaire (Census Form) on the internet, on paper and mail it in,
or for some persons with disability by telephone.
Oak Brook Counts
' I /-$-/ I '
The Federal Government distributes money based on a Village's population per the
Census count. Our Village will receive money to support many government
funded programs based on the Census. The 2020 Census will be the basis for this
funding for the next ten years 2021 - 2030. Our Constitution requires that all
residents of the United States are to be counted in the Census every ten years .
The Census Count is also
used to determine how
many representatives we
have in congress.
• Historically the under-counted
people who did not participate
in the Census are children under 5,
immigrants, & low income people.
The 2020 Census begins in mid-March 2020 with a mailing from the Census people and goes until July
31, 2020. You can complete the questionnaire (Census Form) on the internet, on paper and mail it in,
or for some persons with disability by telephone.
Oak Brook Counts
' I /-$-/ I '
The Federal Government distributes money based on a Village's population per the
Census count. Our Village will receive money to support many government
funded programs based on the Census. The 2020 Census will be the basis for this
funding for the next ten years 2021 - 2030. Our Constitution requires that all
residents of the United States are to be counted in the Census every ten years .
The Census Count is also
used to determine how
many representatives we
have in congress.
• Historically the under-counted
people who did not participate
in the Census are children under 5,
immigrants, & low income people.
The 2020 Census begins in mid-March 2020 with a mailing from the Census people and goes until July
31, 2020. You can complete the questionnaire (Census Form) on the internet, on paper and mail it in,
or for some persons with disability by telephone.
LIBRARY CALENDAR
APRIL
Illinois Watercolor Society: Meeting
and Demonstration
Featured artist: Bob Holmes
Saturday, April 4 @ 10 am
Illinois Watercolor Society returns in 2020 with quarterly meetings and
demonstrations open to everyone. Join featured artist Bob Holmes as he
discusses and demonstrates his artwork depicting the rural life of small
towns and farms and invokes feelings of the serenity and happiness felt
from those times.
Creative Cartooning Workshop for
Kids: Shark vs Truck
Saturday, April 4 @ 1 pm
Ages 8 - 12
Back by popular demand! Professional cartoonist Mark Anderson has
created another wonderful workshop. Kids will learn how to draw Mark’s
two most requested things; sharks and trucks! What happens next? Who
knows, but you know it’s going to be fun! Registration required.
Coin & Currency Appraisals
Wednesday, April 8 @ 7 pm
Dave Ekstrom has given over 100 library
presentations in the Chicago area. He will
explain what determines the value of coins
and currency (including both gold and silver). Bring in your coins for a
fun “Antique Roadshow” appraisal at the end of the program!
Fullersburg Historic Foundation
Sunday, April 26 @ 2 pm
The Foundation’s mission is to raise funds to
restore the Ben Fuller Farmhouse, built in 1843,
and develop educational programs and exhibits.
Learn about the upcoming gorgeous multimedia Light Show coming this
summer, in which massive projectors light up the facade of the Benjamin
Fuller Home as the story of Fullersburg, Graue Mill, Salt Creek and the
brave pioneers who settled here are brought to life in front of you.
MAY
Evergreen Concert: The Sons of the
Never Wrong
Sunday, May 3 @ 3 pm
The Friends of the Library presents Sons of the
Never Wrong, a turbo-charged Altfolk trio from
Chicago that delivers witty, whimsical songs with their signature soaring
vocal harmonies and gorgeous arrangements. Seating begins at 2:30 pm
and fills up fast. Refreshments will be served afterwards.
LIBRARY NOTES
Each April, the Oak Brook Public Library is honored to join libraries
all across the country in celebrating National Library Week. This
event aims to highlight the many ways libraries transform their
communities through the services and expertise they offer. This
year, National Library Week takes place from April 19 to April 25.
Stop in that week for special activities and programs.
April is also the month the Friends of the Oak Brook Public Library
hold their annual Used Book Sale. This sale has over 7,500 gently
used items that are carefully selected from generous donations.
The items are organized by genre and include a wide array of
DVDs and CDs. Do not miss this wonderful opportunity to find
treasured titles at low prices. The sale runs from Thursday, April
16 to Saturday, April 18. There is an early entrance fee of $5 per
person to enter the sale on Thursday from 10 am to 2 pm. After
2 pm, there is no entry fee for the remainder of the sale. There
is an additional $5 charge for those wishing to use an electronic
scanning device within the book sale. Cash or check will be
accepted. Members of the Friends are permitted free early
entry. If you want first crack at the books and want to save $5,
become a member of the Friends today! We are also looking for
volunteers to help set up and assist with the sale. If interested,
please contact the Library.
New this year is what the Friends are calling a “Prequel.” It is a
sale before the book sale and it takes place in the display cases
of the Library’s lobby from March 23 to April 18. Items available
for immediate purchase include a variety of Great Courses (DVDs
and workbooks), signed editions, and other special selections.
The selections will change as items are sold, so be sure to check
out the display cases every time you are at the Library. Cash or
check will be accepted.
If the programs listed don’t draw you to the Library this Spring,
how about taking advantage of the Library numerous free
databases. A few highlights include ConsumerReports, Kanopy,
Lynda, Morningstar and Mango Languages. All these services
are available at the Library or can be viewed from home with an
Oak Brook library card. Visit the Library’s website for a complete
list of databases or reach out to one of the Library’s reference
librarians for more information. Staff will be happy to answer
any questions or provide a demostration.
And last but not least, remember that the Library has close
to 100,000 informative and entertaining items awaiting your
perusal and checkout! Don’t be a stranger this Spring. We hope
to see you soon.
Library
BY JACOB POST
Calendar and Events
Jacob Post
Head Librarian
(630) 368-7706
jpost@oak-brook.org
8 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
Piano Concert with Terry Andrew
Saturday, May 9 @ 2 pm
Pianist Terry Andrew has been performing in the
Chicago area for over 30 years as a solo artist and
band member. Enjoy his wide variety of styles
including the great jazz standards, blues, Latin,
Dixieland and, yes, rock-and-roll!
Emerson: A Mind on Fire
Tuesday, May 12 @ 7 pm
Tom Mackey, a resident of Oak Brook with an
M.A. in English, is an enthusiast and student of
Emerson and Thoreau. Join him as he brings to
life the Transcendentalist writer of “Self-Reliance.”
Take a Meditation Vacation
Saturday, May 16 @ 10 am
Just as a vacation helps us take a break from
the stress of daily life, so does meditation.
Through meditation, we can tap into this inner
retreat anytime we wish. Join longtime meditator Zelma Chamberlain to
learn how to tap into an internal state of calm and joy.
Ladies of Laughter: Great
Comediennes
Saturday, May 30 @ 2 pm
Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek as she
presents the funny women of film, television,
and radio, including Gracie Allen, Lucille Ball,
Eve Arden and more. The program will include a multimedia presentation
consisting of photos, video clips and captivating stories.
JUNE
Illinois Watercolor Society: Meeting and
Demonstration
Saturday, June 6 @ 10 am
Featured artist: TBD
Chris Fascione: Juggling Funny
Stories
Saturday, June 6 @ 1 pm
You’ll be laughing out loud as nationally-known
family entertainer Chris Fascione brings children’s
stories to life. With his unique combination of
acting, storytelling, comedy and juggling, Chris
brings out the kid in everyone. Adults and children alike will have fun
participating in the show. Registration is required. Sponsored by the
Friends of the Library.
WWII: Spy vs Spy
Saturday, June 13 @ 2 pm
Total war led to total espionage as each major
participant in the Second World War attempted
to fathom the actions of the opposition – and in
some cases even of its allies. The results ranged from the sublime to the
ridiculous, but there was nothing humorous about this deadly game. Like
chess, each move engendered a countermove. This program reviews
some most famous and some little remembered espionage efforts of
the war including German saboteurs landing on America’s East Coast,
Japanese efforts against Pearl Harbor, Soviet penetration into the atomic
bomb’s Manhattan Project, British Enigma decrypts of German radio
transmissions and other actions.
Movie Music Romance
Saturday, June 20 @ 2 pm
“Movie Music Romance” is a compilation of 23
classic songs and dances from among the finest
in film history. In this uplifting presentation
by John LeGear, familiar faces abound, among them Fred Astaire, Judy
Garland, Julie Andrews and John Travolta. And yet it’s fresh. It’s different.
Most scenes are cast in a new light, from a different perspective, often
re-edited to blend with accompanying music in a new way.
Todd Downing Music Show: Tall
Tales & Silly Songs
Thursday, June 25 @ 11 am
Ages 2-8
Singer, songwriter and comedian Todd Downing
has been entertaining and educating kids for many
years. With his guitar, puppets and unexpected
quips, he keeps audiences surprised and delighted.
Registration is required. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
Solving Common Behavior
Problems in Dogs
Saturday, June 27 @ 2 pm
Andy Salis from DuPage County Animal
Services returns for her popular workshop to
help pet owners understand why their dog
(mis)behaves, and how to identify and solve
unwanted behaviors.
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 9
Jason Paprocki
Finance Director
(630) 368-5070
jpaprocki@oak-brook.org
Finance Department
BY JASON PAPROCKI
2020 Budget Approved
The Village Board approved the 2020 Municipal Budget on
December 10, 2019. The 2020 Budget continues to be 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.
There are a number of internal and external factors taken into
account when compiling the municipal budget. Some of the
issues the Village faces include long-term stability of its sales
tax base, increasing pension obligations, rising health care
costs, and the funding for equipment, infrastructure, and
building capital improvements. The 2020 annual budget was
developed in a way to balance and address these factors.
The Village’s General Fund cash reserve balance deserves
special mention, as it continues to be an important aspect
in the Village’s position of fiscal strength. One of the Village’s
financial policies is to maintain a cash balance reserve of at least
six months of operating expenditures in the General Fund. The
projected ending cash balance for 2020 in the General Fund
is $20.8 million, which is equal to 10.7 months of operating
expenses. This is $9.1 million above the Village’s six-month
operating reserve requirement. In total, the Village projects to
end 2020 with a healthy cash balance of $29.7 million across
all funds. It’s common practice for certain funds to accumulate
and reserve money over a period of time before expending it
on major capital projects. In most cases, this accounts for any
budgeted losses you will see in individual funds.
The total Village-wide 2019 budgeted revenues are $56.4
million, which is up $2.0 million, or 3.7%, compared to the 2019
Budget. This is mainly due to increases in projected building
permit revenue, sales and non-home rule sales tax, utility/
telecommunications tax, interest income, Interfund transfers,
and water rates. The General Fund, which is the Village’s main
operating fund, includes total 2020 budgeted revenues of
$26.1 million. The General Fund houses many key functions
of the Village, including police, fire, public works, library, and
general administration. Sales tax revenue accounts for nearly
half of the budgeted General Fund revenues. General Fund
sales tax revenue is projected to be $12.5 million in 2020, or
1.4% higher than last year’s budget. The Village collected
nearly $12.6 million in general sales tax for 2019, which was up
1.8% from 2018.
The total Village-wide 2020 budgeted expenditures are $66.6
million, which is a decrease of $2.1 million, or 3.1%, compared
to the 2019 budget. This is primarily due to a decrease in major
capital improvements in the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund. Some of
the major capital projects for 2020 are:
• Salt Storage Facility Construction, $1.9 million
• Windsor Street/Bridge Widening, $2.6 million
• York Road/Harger Road Intersection Reconstruction,
$2.3 million
• Brook Forest Water Main Replacement Phase 2, $2.9 million
Contributions to the Village’s public safety pension plans
are budgeted at $4.4 million in 2020, which is an increase of
approximately $187,000 from 2019 contributions. The Village
has been committed to paying 100% of the recommended
actuarial contribution in order to have the pension funds
completely funded by 2040.
We will continue to evaluate our operations to make certain we
are providing services to our citizens and corporate business
partners as efficiently and economically as possible. Thank
you to everyone for their continued commitment in making
Oak Brook a great community to live and work.
Budget In Brief Document
The Village is excited to release its second Budget in Brief
document for fiscal year 2020. This document presents a high-
level summary of the Village’s 2020 annual budget that some
users may find easier to read and understand. The full 2020
budget document spans over 300 pages in length and details
over $66 million in spending. We hope you find this document
both informative and useful and encourage those who want to
learn more about the Village’s finances to review the full 2020
budget document.
These reports, along with other financial documents, are
available on the Village’s website at http://www.oak-brook.
org/180/Finance.
Water Rate Increase
Water rates increased 7% effective January 1, 2020. The
residential rate increased from $10.50 to $11.24 per 1,000
gallons and the non-resident rate increased from $12.40 to
$13.27 per 1,000 gallons. The monthly fixed charge of $10 per
account remains unchanged.
The rate increases were recommended as part of a water rate
study that was performed in 2018. Water rates are determined
at an amount to pay for current operations and fund future
capital projects. A copy of the full study can be found on the
Village website at: http://www.oak-brook.org/186/Water-
Rates.
Jason Paprocki
Finance Director
(630) 368-5070
jpaprocki@oak-brook.org
10 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
BY SEAN CREED
Sports Core
WELCOME 2020 GOLF SEASON!
Welcome everyone to spring.
The staff at the golf course have been very busy this
winter making interior upgrades to both the lounge area
and adding a new bar at our food and beverage area. We
are hoping after each round of golf you will be able to
enjoy are outside patio or our newly decorated interior.
The new interior includes a relaxing conversation area,
complete with a fireplace. We have added all new seating
and tables as well as new lighting throughout.
In the food and beverage area we have added a bar and
new style seating as well as new flooring throughout.
We are all excited for everyone to enjoy the new golf
improvements either after golf or if you are planning
a party or just want to enjoy some good food and
conversation at our new bar, everyone is welcome.
Please keep your calendar open for our very popular
summer patio parties planned again this year, live music
and great camaraderie are on the menu.
So, hopefully by the time you read this the golf season
will be already in full swing and what was supposed to be
a “mild winter” was a mild winter.
Jeff Kawucha our Head Golf Professional and Claudine
Boettger our Assistant Golf Professional and the rest
of the staff are ready to make your 2020 golf season at
OBGC one of the best.
As the year progresses we hope to see everyone enjoy the
sports core in whatever capacity suits you don’t forget
the polo season starts in June and runs thru September
with ten polo Sundays planned. Please see the village
web site for details
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 11
Sean Creed
Golf Club Manager
(630) 368-6460
screed@oak-brook.org
Information Technology Department
BY JIM FOX
Next Generation 911 (NG911)
Arriving Soon
For more than 40 years, 911 systems have served the
needs of the public in emergencies. As communication
technologies have evolved to include wireless phones, text
and picture messaging, video chat, social media, and Voice
over Internet Protocol (VoIP) devices, the public expects that
911 services will also be able to accept information from
these communication methods. While efforts are underway
across the nation to enable call centers to accept text
messages, the future success of 911 in serving the public’s
needs will only be possible when Public Safety Answering
Points (PSAPs) have transitioned to an Internet Protocol (IP)-
based 911 system, commonly referred to as Next Generation
911 or NG911.
Because most 911 systems were originally built using analog
rather than digital technologies, public safety answering
points (PSAPs) across the country need to be upgraded to a
digital or Internet Protocol (IP)-based 911 system, commonly
referred to as Next Generation 911 (NG911).
The success and reliability of 911 will be greatly improved with
the implementation of NG911, as it will enhance emergency
number services to create a faster, more resilient system to
flow seamlessly from the public to the 911 network.
NG911 will also improve PSAP ability to help manage call
overload, natural disasters, and transferring of 911 calls and
proper jurisdictional responses based on location tracking.
While the technology to implement these new IP-based
911 systems is available now, the transition to NG911 will
involve much more than just new computer hardware
and software. Implementing NG911 in states and counties
nationwide will require the coordination of a variety of
emergency communication, public safety, legislative and
governing entities.
NG911 will enhance emergency number services by
creating a faster, more resilient system that allows digital
information (e.g., voice, photos, videos, text messages) to
flow seamlessly from the public, through the 911 network
and eventually, directly to first responders. It will also enable
911 call centers to transfer 911 calls to other call centers, and
help them deal with call overload, disasters, and day-to-day
transfer of 911 calls to other jurisdictions.
Jim Fox
Director of Information
Technology
(630) 368-5174
jfox@oak-brook.org
Development Services
BY TONY BUDZIKOWSKI
Information
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM
Community Rating System (CRS) Outreach
The best time to prepare for a flood is before it happens. Village
of Oak Brook residents have experienced flooding from creeks
and sewer backups in the past. As homeowners, there are a few
things that you should know about flood safety, preventing flood
damage, flood plain regulation, and insurance.
Flood Safety
A number of precautions should be taken in the event of a
flood. Electricity and gas should be turned off if your home is
being flooded. Walking through flood water should be avoided
especially if the flood water is moving rapidly as drowning is the
number one cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods.
Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock
you off of your feet. If you walk in standing water, use a pole or
stick to ensure that the ground is still there. Do not drive through
a flooded area as more people drown in their cars than anywhere
else. Don’t drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be
washed out. After exposure to flood water, residents are advised
to contact their health practitioner regarding a tetanus shot if
they have not received one in a while.
Preventing Flood Damage
The Village provides advice on how to retrofit buildings to
prevent flood damage. There are generally five approaches to
retrofitting: elevation, barriers, dry flood proofing, wet flood
proofing and basement protection. Other property protection
measures include grading, ditch cleaning, moving furniture
and sandbagging. The Village has adopted the DuPage County
Stormwater Ordinance. As such, all changes in impermeable
surfaces within the village, i.e. driveways, patios, sports courts,
slabs, sidewalks, etc. require the approval of a building permit to
ensure compliance with applicable ordinance requirements. For
information on these and other flood protection issues, please
contact the Village Engineer at 630-368-5144.
Flood Plain Development
Development in or near a flood plain is allowed only upon
application and issuance of the appropriate Village permits. Flood
plain map information is available through the Development
Services Department. If you are planning to add, remodel, build,
fill, or otherwise develop in a flood plain or if you witness what
you believe to be illegal flood plain construction, please contact
the Village Engineer at 630-368-5144.
Village code states that existing structures shall not be enlarged,
replaced or structurally altered unless the changes meet the
applicable code requirements. If the changes constitute
substantial improvement to a building in a flood plain, then the
entire building will need to meet these requirements. Substantial
improvement is when the cost of reconstruction, rehabilitation,
addition, or other improvements to a building equals or exceeds
50% of the market value. Substantially damaged buildings must
also be brought up to the same standards. Enforcement of this
requirement is achieved through the permitting process.
Flood Insurance
The Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 helps to ensure that
you will be protected from financial loss caused by flooding.
Backed by the Federal Government, flood insurance is available
to residents across the country that participate in the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). It provides coverage that most
homeowners insurance does not (e.g. coverage for damage to
structures and contents from flooding, flood-related erosion, etc.).
In all of these communities, you can purchase flood insurance
from any licensed property or casualty insurance agent, broker
or company.
You must have flood insurance to get secured financing to buy,
build or improve structures in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA’s).
Lending institutions that are federally regulated and insured must
determine if the building is in a SFHA and require flood insurance
on conventional home mortgage loans, FHA loans, VA loans,
second mortgages, home equity loans, home improvement loans,
construction loans and commercial loans.
Flood insurance coverage is an asset to you as a borrower. It
reimburses you for financial losses from flood damage. The law
protects you from being uninsured and having to rely on a costly
federal disaster loan after a flood. This loan is the same as another
mortgage that must be paid back with interest.
Flood insurance protects your most important investment. It
is considerably less expensive than federal disaster loans and is
100% backed by the federal government. Call the National Flood
Insurance Program at 1-800-427-4661 for specific questions
related to flood insurance.
For More Information
If you have question about the information in this article, please
contact the Village’s CRS Coordinator at 630-368-5101. In addition,
the Village maintains a selection of publications pertaining to
the National Flood Insurance Program at the Oak Brook Library.
Please take advantage of these resources by visiting the Oak
Brook Library at 600 Oak Brook Road. Finally, you may also
visit the Federal Emergency Management Agencies website at
www.FEMA.gov for additional flood related information.
12 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
Tony Budzikowski
Director of Development Services
(630) 368-5104
Tbudzikowski@oak-brook.org
SPRING 2020
Once again, we have made it through another Chicago
winter, some of which, shockingly enough, occurred in
October on Halloween. Public Works staff has been busy
plowing, salting and filling potholes. We are continuing
to work with contractors on water main projects and
removing the invasive Buckthorn from the areas west of
the Bath & Tennis swimming pool and along Salt Creek.
With the late fall of the Autumn leaves and the early
snow in October, Village crews were able to pick up 6,427
cubic yards of raked leaves and closeout the program on
schedule. Yard waste collection will resume April 1st on
the same day as refuse and recycling collection. Yard waste
must be placed in waterproof plastic or metal containers
with a tight cover or biodegradable Kraft bags, no larger
than 35 gallons and not exceeding 50 lbs. All units set
out must have an affixed yard waste sticker. Stickers are
available from Flood Brothers, Village Hall and local Jewel
stores for $2.25 per sticker. Please remember the Village
does not offer brush pickup. This must be disposed
of through a tree service, landscape contractor or the
Village’s refuse service, Flood Brothers. Bundles of brush
or limbs will be accepted providing that the bundles do
not exceed 50 lbs per bundle, are not more than 4 feet
long, are not more than two feet in diameter, do not
contain limbs greater than 3 inches in diameter and are
tied with a material that is compostable. Please remember
you can always refer to the Village’s website for additional
information on refuse and yard waste collection.
With the warmer Spring weather arriving, it’s time to
take care of some simple yet important housekeeping
tasks. Homeowners should perform an inspection of
their property ensuring drainage pathways that take
water away from foundations are pitched from the home
and clear of debris. Keep drainage in mind during the
upcoming garden and spring clean up season. Avoid
trapping water against your home’s foundation with too
much soil or mulch. Gutters, downspouts and area drains
have a tendency to collect debris over the winter. Now is a
great time to ensure these drainage features are clog-free
and functioning properly.
Spring is also a good time to check timers and scheduling
of your home’s irrigation system. As a water conservation
reminder, outdoor watering is permitted as follows:
Odd-Numbered Street Addresses
Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
Even-Numbered Street Addresses
Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
6:00 AM until 10:00 AM & 6:00 PM until 10:00 PM
WATERING IS PROHIBITED ON MONDAY
Watering cans or hand-held watering devices may be used
at any time on any day. Customers with private wells are
encouraged to utilize their wells for all outside watering
purposes. Newly planted sod or seed may be watered
for a maximum period of two (2) weeks from the date of
installation. Please notify the Village’s Water Department
at 630-368-5270.
2020 marks another year of capital projects. Some worthy of
mention are the Windsor Drive widening and beautification,
York and Harger Roads intersection improvements, Harger
Road multi-use path and water main extensions, phase I
Brook Forest street improvements, phase II Brook Forest
water main replacement, and the list goes on.
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 13
NewsPublic Works
BY DOUG PATCHIN
Doug Patchin
Director of Public
Works & Engineering
(630) 368-5272
dpatchin@oak-brook.org
Village Clerk
BY CHARLOTTE PRUSS
14 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
Charlotte Pruss
Village Clerk
(630) 368-5052
ELECTION INFORMATION
This is just a reminder to our residents that the 2020 United States presidential
election will occur on Tuesday, November 3, 2020. Be sure to register to
vote before the deadline prior to the election. Voter registration occurs from
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday in the Village Hall; the Village
Library from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Please
contact the Library at 990-2222 to ensure that a Deputy Registrar is on duty
for voter registration.
In-person absentee voting will be available to Village residents prior to election day. Applications for
absentee ballots will also be available for those residents who will not be available to vote in person.
LIVE STREAMING — VILLAGE BOARD MEETINGS
Live streaming of Village Board meetings is now available.
The Village Board typically meets the second and fourth
Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. Live streaming can be viewed via the Village’s website at www.oak-brook.org under the Government heading, then go to Village Board, and then to
Live Stream. If you have questions regarding this, please
contact Charlotte Pruss, Village Clerk, at 630/368-5052.
LIVE STREAMING — VILLAGE BOARD MEETINGS
Live streaming of Village Board meetings is now available. The Village Board
typically meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m., with
exception of the fourth Tuesday of the months of June, August, and December.
Live streaming can beviewed via the Village’s website at www.oak-brook.org
under the Government heading, then go to Village Board, and then to Live
Stream. If you have questions regarding this, please contact Charlotte Pruss,
Village Clerk, at 630-368-5052.
Warm Weather Encourages Door-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.
BATH & TENNIS CLUB
Nicole & Adrian’s Sweet Summer Wedding
On a beautiful June evening, Nicole and Adrian professed their
love for each other at Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Club. They
invited 144 family members and friends to share their special day.
A SWEET CEREMONY BY THE POND
At 5:30 p.m., the guests took their seats on the patio in front of our
pond and a gorgeous honeycomb-shaped trellis adorned with
white roses. The entire bridal party wore white to match them.
Of course it was Nicole and Adrian who were absolutely glowing,
Nicole in a stunning gown and floral crown and Adrian in a sharp
blue suit. All the bouquets and floral arrangements on the trellis
and at the reception were provided by Diana Zepeda of Diana’s
Florals.
SMALL BITES AND MINGLING
After a moving ceremony, guests dispersed for a lively cocktail
hour.
A FEW WORDS, CHICAGO - STYLE EATS AND A MEMORABLE CELEBRATION
After a few drinks and a hearty hour of mingling, everyone took
their seats in the Clubhouse for introductions and toasts, as well
as the cake cutting. The Clubhouse was pristinely dressed in white
linens, centerpieces of flowers and candles as well as photos and
other details that were important to the couple.
The couple wanted their guests
to enjoy a Chicago-style menu
complete with hot dogs and
pizza!
After dinner came the dancing!
The first dances were truly a sight
to behold. Afterward, guests
made their way to the dance
floor, where Luigi from Forever
Young DJs was ready to get the
party started. Friends and family
let loose for an epic dance-off.
ALL KINDS OF SWEETS
Dessert had a little bit of everything—cupcakes, brownies,
cookies and A DONUT WALL. There were certainly enough treats
and joy to go around for everyone. What a sweet ending to a love-
filled affair.
Kind Words from the Bride: Marianne at Oak Brook Bath & Tennis
Club is truly amazing. The venue itself is breath taking with an
inside/ outside ceremony option. There is a pond area or you can
get married on the patio which overlooks the beautiful pond.
The inside is amazing with a huge brick fireplace and gorgeous
chandeliers hanging from the ceiling I got so many compliments
after my wedding day. It was truly a dream wedding. I would highly
recommend this venue to anyone in the process of planning a
wedding or special event! -Nicole, via the Knot
If you’re looking to create a personalized wedding like Nicole and
Adrian, we’d love to discuss your vision and how you can make
Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club yours for the day. Reach out today!
BY BRIAN OTTOSEN
Spring 2020 | WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG 15
Kristen Cloyd Photography
Kristen Cloyd Photography
Kristen Cloyd Photography
Kristen Cloyd Photography
16 WWW.OAK-BROOK.ORG | Spring 2020
FRIDAY JULY 3, 2020
Enjoy cuisine from some of the finest restaurants in Oak Brook!
Need more info? www.oak-brook.org/taste
Relax on the grounds beginning at 4:00 pmFood & Beverages will be available for purchase*
*No outside alcohol permitted • Parking $20 (cash only)
*Fireworks-Only Raindate Saturday July 4 at dusk*
SPECTACULARSPECTACULARFIREWORKSFIREWORKSSHOWSHOW
TASTE OF OAK BROOK
BEGINS AT DUSK [AROUND 9:15 PM]
ENTERTAINMENT
ACTIVITIES FOR THE KIDDOS
Gates Open at 4:00 pm
Village of Oak Brook
1200 Oak Brook Road
Oak Brook, IL 60523-2255