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 Message from Mayor Goczkowski
Here in Des Plaines, we’re always seeking ways to enhance our community. Whether it’s through upgraded services, better communication, or more engaging events, our goal is to improve the quality of life for all residents.
One exciting example is this weekend’s Harvest Hoot festival. This year, the autumn celebration features several new additions, including two stages of live entertainment for the first time. We’re ready for some fall fun at Oakton College on Saturday, October 18, from noon to 4 p.m.
We’re also pleased to offer the Community Shred Event on Saturday, October 25. This free service gives residents a safe and secure way to dispose of personal documents. It’s an easy way to protect your information while clearing out clutter at home.
Beyond events, we’re also focused on digital improvements. City staff have begun the process of a website redesign, and at this early stage, we’re asking residents to share their feedback. Take the short survey linked below and let us know how we can make the City’s website more helpful, accessible, and user-friendly.
You can read about other city developments in the Fall 2025 edition of the Access Point resident newsletter. Hard copies were mailed recently, and a digital version is now available on the City website.
In the meantime, please share this e-news with your family, friends, and neighbors, and encourage them to subscribe. If I can be of assistance to you, please feel free to contact me at 847-391-5301 or agoczkowski@desplainesil.gov.
Yours in service,
Andrew Goczkowski
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Help Shape the Future of the City’s Website
The City of Des Plaines is in the process of redesigning its website to enhance user experience, improve accessibility, and stay ahead of evolving digital trends. As part of this effort, we are seeking input from residents, community members, and other stakeholders.
We invite you to complete a brief survey about your experience with our current website. Your feedback is important and will help guide future improvements.
Visit desplainesil.gov/websurvey to access the survey. Responses will be accepted through Wednesday, October 22. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
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Harvest Hoot Is Almost Here
Oakton College | Saturday, October 18 - Noon to 4 p.m.
Des Plaines’ annual fall festival is back at Oakton College this Saturday, October 18, from noon to 4 p.m. The free, family-friendly event features live entertainment, hands-on activities, food trucks, artisan vendors, and more.
Please Note: While the weather forecast suggests a chance of rain, the event is currently planned to proceed as scheduled. There will be a tented dining area, and many activities and booths will be under cover. We’re prepared for a little rain and ready to have a hoot, no matter the weather! Be sure to check the event page at desplainesil.gov/harvesthoot as well as the City's social media channels for any updates.
Community Paper Shredding Event
1111 Joseph J. Schwab Road | Saturday, October 25 - 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Clear out your clutter the eco-friendly way! Join us for the City’s Fall Shred Event on Saturday, October 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Public Works facility (1111 Joseph J. Schwab Road). Safely dispose of sensitive documents and help reduce landfill waste.
This event is open to Des Plaines residents only. For full guidelines and details, visit:
desplainesil.gov/sustainability
DEA National Prescription Drug Takeback Day
The Des Plaines Police Department is hosting a free prescription drug take-back event on Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the link between City Hall and the Police Department as part of DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. For more information visit dea.gov/takebackday.
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Canadian National Railway Crossing Repairs
at Pratt Avenue
Pratt Avenue Road Closure October 24 through October 30
The Canadian National Railway Company is making repairs to the railroad crossing at Pratt Avenue. In order to replace the tracks and adjacent pavement, Pratt Avenue will be closed between Mannheim Road and Greco Avenue. Work will start at 9:00 am on Friday, October 24, and conclude by 6:00 pm on Thursday, October 30.
A posted detour will encourage eastbound motorists to use Mannheim Road, Touhy Avenue, and Maple Street. Westbound motorists will also be directed to take Mannheim Road, Touhy Avenue, and Maple Street.
Motorists should anticipate delays and allow additional time for trips through the area. Drivers are encouraged to pay close attention to detour signs in the work zones, obey posted speed limits, and remain alert for workers and equipment.
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Curbside Leaf Collection
The City's leaf collection (separate from the LRS weekly pick-up) begins October 20. Leaves must be raked by 6 a.m. on the scheduled pick-up date. The leaf pick-up zone numbers are the same as the refuse pick-up. Please position the leaves into one neat, continuous row, one foot (12") from the curb. Visit desplainesil.gov/leafcollection for more details.
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Explore the Fall 2025 Edition of Access Point
The latest edition of the Access Point resident newsletter is here, featuring updates on City services, upcoming events, community highlights, and more. While printed copies have been distributed throughout Des Plaines, a digital version is also available on the City’s website for added convenience.
Spanish and Polish translations are also accessible online to help keep all residents informed and connected.
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October Community Connection
Catch the latest episode of Community Connection with Mayor Andrew Goczkowski, where we highlight good news from around Des Plaines!
In this edition:
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A New Dog Park Opens for Des Plaines’ Four-Legged Residents
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Ribbon Cutting Welcomes New Mexican Restaurant
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Cyclists Hit the Trail for the 10th Annual Community Bike Ride & Walk
Watch the full episode below and see what’s happening in your hometown.
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Upcoming Meetings and Reminders
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10/18 - Harvest Hoot | Noon - 4 p.m. at Oakton College
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10/20 - Curbside Leaf Collection Begins | Check website for zone details
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10/20 - City Council Meeting | 7 p.m. at City Hall
- 10/22 - Special City Council Budget Meeting | Canceled
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10/25 - Community Shred Event | 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Public Works facility
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10/25 - DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at City Hall
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11/03 - City Council Meeting | 7 p.m. at City Hall
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11/08 - Pumpkin Smash | 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Prairie Lakes Community Center
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11/11 - Veterans Day Holiday | City Offices Closed
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City of Des Plaines
Phone 847.391.5300 |
1420 Miner Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016 |
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