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 Message from Mayor Goczkowski
As we settle into October, there is plenty happening throughout Des Plaines. From community events and local entertainment to important conversations about the City’s future, there are several ways to stay engaged this month.
The first meeting to discuss the proposed budget for the 2027 fiscal year will take place tonight (October 8). Additional meetings are scheduled for October 22 and, if needed, October 28. These meetings are open to the public, and residents can also watch the discussions online through the City’s livestream.
As the leaves start to change, the City’s bulk curbside leaf collection program will begin on Monday, October 19. Leaves can also be dropped off at the Public Works facility during the collection season. Collection schedules vary by zone, so be sure to visit the City’s leaf collection webpage for pickup dates and complete guidelines.
Fall also means it's time for the Harvest Hoot! The City’s annual festival is set for Saturday, October 17, from noon to 4 p.m. at Oakton College. The afternoon will feature more than 30 artisan vendors, live music on two stages, an inflatable corn maze, bounce house, pumpkin painting, Touch a Truck, and plenty of family-friendly activities. Admission and family activities are free, and costumes are encouraged.
If you’re looking for an affordable night out, the City’s $1 Film Series continues at the Des Plaines Theatre this month. O Brother, Where Art Thou? will be shown on October 13, followed by Contact on October 20.
I hope you’ll take advantage of these opportunities to stay informed, enjoy the season, and get involved in the community. There is always something happening in Des Plaines, and I look forward to seeing you around town.
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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2027 Budget Meetings Begin
Tonight (October 8)
The first special City Council meeting to discuss the proposed City of Des Plaines budget for the 2027 fiscal year is tonight (October 8).
All budget meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers and are open to the public. You can also livestream the meetings by visiting the City website.
Other meetings are scheduled for:
- Thursday, October 22
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If Needed: Wednesday, October 28
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$1 Film Series: October Movies
October 13 & October 20, 7 p.m. | Des Plaines Theatre (1476 Miner Street)
The City of Des Plaines and Des Plaines Theatre’s $1 Film Series continues this month, with two classic films coming to the big screen over the next few weeks.
October 13: Take a hilarious trip with O Brother, Where Art Thou?
October 20: Look to the stars with Contact
Please note that for all movies, doors open at 6 PM, while movies start right at 7 PM. Tickets are cash only, and concessions are available for purchase.
For more information, visit our website at desplainesil.gov/movies.
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City Offices Closed on October 12 for
Columbus Day
In observance of Columbus Day, all City of Des Plaines government offices will be closed on Monday, October 12.
Essential services such as police and fire will remain fully operational. There will be no impact on refuse collection.
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Who's Ready for Fall Fun? Harvest Hoot Coming Up October 17
Saturday, October 17 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. | Oakton College Lot A
It’s almost time to leave the nest and flock to Harvest Hoot! The City’s annual fall festival is set for noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, at Oakton College. Enjoy an artisan market with more than 30 vendors, live music on two stages, or family-friendly fun with an inflatable corn maze and bounce house.
The event will also feature a live demonstration from an expert pumpkin carver, a roaming scarecrow available for pictures from 1 to 3 p.m., and a variety of family activities, including a Touch a Truck area and pumpkin painting with the Des Plaines Youth Commission. Everyone in the community is invited to attend, and costumes are encouraged. Admission to the event and family activities is free.
NEW HIGHLIGHTS IN 2026: Visitors will be able to see the iconic Oscar Mayer Wienermobile when it rolls into Harvest Hoot this year! Stop by for photos, fun, and a chance to pick up a famous Wiener Whistle.
For more information, visit the event page on our website at desplainesil.gov/harvesthoot.
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Bulk Curbside Leaf Collection Begins
October 19
The City of Des Plaines’ bulk curbside leaf collection program begins Monday, October 19. This program is separate from LRS weekly pickup.
Residents should rake leaves into a neat, continuous row in the street by 6 a.m. on their scheduled collection day, about one foot from the curb and away from storm drains. On certain major streets, including Golf Road, Oakton Street, Dempster Street, River Road, and Northwest Highway, leaves should instead be placed in the parkway.
Leaves may also be dropped off at the Public Works facility at 1111 Joseph J. Schwab (Campground) Rd. starting on October 19. Drop-off hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday through Friday.
Collection schedules vary by zone. For pickup dates, drop-off information, maps, and complete leaf-collection guidelines, visit desplainesil.gov/leafcollection.
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Shred Event and DEA Take Back Day Both Set for October 24
On Saturday, October 24, take advantage of two important community events focused on responsible disposal. Help protect your privacy and keep harmful substances out of our environment.
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Community Paper Shredding Event
Join us for the City’s Fall Shred Event on Saturday, October 24, 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.
Visit desplainesil.gov/sustainability to learn more.
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DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
The Des Plaines Police Department is hosting a free prescription drug take-back event on Saturday, October 24, 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.
Visit dea.gov/takebackday to learn more.
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Chamber of Commerce Hosting Fall Career Fair on November 4
The Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry is hosting a fall career fair at the Des Plaines Public Library from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 4. Employers with job opportunities in fields including administration. customer service, manufacturing, and more will be in attendance. Attendees who pre-register will be entered in a drawing for gift cards and other prizes.
Visit the Chamber of Commerce website for more information or to register.
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Voicing Our Veterans' Stories Exhibit Now Open at Des Plaines History Center
A new exhibit at the Des Plaines History Center (781 Pearson St.), called Voicing Our Veterans’ Stories, explores pivotal moments in military service and the experiences of local Des Plaines veterans.
Spanning from the Civil War to the Global War on Terror, the exhibit highlights the common experiences that connect veterans across generations. Visitors can also take part in interactive activities, including making their own challenge coin, testing their strength with the Army fitness test, and honoring the service members in their lives by adding their names to the Wall of Honor.
The exhibit runs through December 30. Hours for the History Center are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, visit desplaineshistory.org
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Upcoming Meetings and Reminders
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10/08 - City Council Budget Meeting #1 | 6:30 p.m. at City Hall
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10/12 - City Offices Closed for Columbus Day | No impact on refuse collection
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10/13 - $1 Film Series: O Brother, Where Art Thou? | 7 p.m. at Des Plaines Theatre
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10/15 - Regular City Council Meeting | 6:30 p.m. at City Hall
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10/17 - Harvest Hoot | 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. at Oakton College
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10/19 - Bulk Curbside Leaf Collection Begins | Pick-up dates vary by zone
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10/20 - $1 Film Series: Contact | 7 p.m. at Des Plaines Theatre
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10/22 - City Council Budget Meeting #2 | 6:30 p.m. at City Hall
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10/24 - Community Paper Shredding Event | 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at Public Works
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10/24 - DEA Community Take Back Day | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Police Department
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IF NEEDED: 10/28 - City Council Budget Meeting #3 | 6:30 p.m. at City Hall
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City of Des Plaines
Phone 847.391.5300 |
1420 Miner Street
Des Plaines, IL 60016 |
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