Structures on the move
A lecture and video presentation on the relocation of houses, train depots, bridges and other structures in Illinois will be offered at the River Forest Public Library this month. “Houses to Go,” by Lee Brooke and Marcy Kubat is based on the presenters’ research of the subject in the central and northern regions of the state. The pair has also edited and published many books and videos chronicling the people and events of Oak Park and River Forest.
The lecture begins at 7 p.m. March 27 at the library, 735 Lathrop Ave. Refreshments will be served. Call 366-5205 for additional information.
Investigators open tip hotlines
The Forest Park Police Department has established an anonymous tip line for anyone wishing to report a crime or information related to an investigation. According to the department, callers are free to leave whatever information they feel comfortable providing and may do so without identifying themselves. Specific details and information that officers can follow up on are most helpful. To leave information on the hotline, dial (708) 615-6239.
Also, a cooperative of law enforcement agencies targeting gangs and drug activity in the area has opened up its own hotline. The West Suburban Directed Gang Enforcement Task Force, of which Forest Park is a member, is now accepting investigative tips via an anonymous phone line and e-mail address. Callers are not required to identify themselves, according to a statement from WEDGE officials. Information will be kept confidential. The WEDGE hotline is (708) 780-5277. Tips can be e-mailed to wedge@ci.berwyn.il.us.
Talks reduce village’s debt
It appears that Forest Park’s debt to the West Suburban Consolidated Dispatch Center is on the way to being resolved following a 90 minute discussion between Village Administrator Michael Sturino and officials from those groups looking to collect.
West Suburban Dispatch Center had claimed that Forest Park owed approximately $70,000 for work done some six years ago to upgrade police communications in Forest Park, Oak Park and River Forest. After discussing the issue with leaders from the police service and the village of Oak Park, it was agreed that each community will be billed in proportion to its population. Under this approach, Forest Park’s share of the cost would be reduced from 29 percent to 20 percent, which will save Forest Park approximately $6,300 on the outstanding tab.
Any payment by Forest Park must ultimately be approved by the village council, according to Sturino.
