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News & Highlights from the City of St. Charles, Ill. - October 2024 |
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New website is live!
Modern design, enhanced functionality a
culmination of community input, support
 After more than a year of careful planning and preparation, the City of St. Charles' redesigned website and revamped Economic Development portal are now LIVE! The City’s new website at stcharlesil.gov is part of a phased approach to improving the City’s engagement with the St. Charles community, a priority outlined in our 2023-27 Strategic Plan.
New Features:
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Top Tasks – Analytics identified the most frequently used features on the old website, from finding open job postings to locating leaf collection information, and we prioritized those as the new site’s 12 top task buttons on the homepage, making what you need more easily accessible.
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Service Finder - This intuitive tool on the homepage simplifies the search process, helping users quickly connect with what they need in fewer steps.
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Laserfiche Public Portal - Search for meeting minutes, ordinances and resolutions dating back to the late 1800s.
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News Alerts - Stay informed by signing up for alerts for the City newsletter, press releases, business procurement opportunities, public works project updates, and police and fire department recruitment.
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“My Property Info” - This enhanced application update, previously known as “My Neighborhood,” offers comprehensive property information by address, including zoning, landmark ordinances, flood data, assessments, and county records. Additionally, it provides insights into City services, such as trash removal and brush pickup, along with information on political jurisdictions and schools.
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Online Forms - Straightforward, step-by-step introductory guides let users know what information is needed upfront in order to complete a form or application quickly. The library of online forms will continue to expand in the future.
 Revamped Economic Development Portal
Formerly the Think St. Charles website, this portal is a hub of information and an essential tool for supporting existing businesses and attracting new ones looking for development opportunities in the St. Charles market.
New features include an Available Property Search for browsing an up-to-date database of properties for lease or sale downtown, a Data Center for access to economic analytics, and a News Center with articles on the City’s key development projects and initiatives.
 Community input and support
Community involvement was crucial to the success of our website redesign. Extensive prelaunch feedback from participants with varying levels of tech proficiency was collected through surveys, Zoom webinars and public meetings over the course of a year.
Before the launch date, residents, visitors and businessowners volunteered their time to test the website’s features by simulating tasks, such as searching for information, paying bills, and navigating links.
What do you think of the new website?
Share your thoughts...
To offer input on the new website's online experience, fill out the online feedback form found under the About menu on the homepage. Questions or assistance with navigating the new website should be directed to info@stcharlesil.gov or 630.377.4400.
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After nearly four decades of service, Fire Chief to retire Oct. 25
Deputy Fire Chief Jeremy Mauthe appointed chief
After nearly four decades of dedicated service, Fire Chief Scott Swanson is retiring from the St. Charles Fire Department, effective Oct. 25, 2024. Swanson, who has led the department since 2020, has been a pillar of the St. Charles community, overseeing major achievements, such as the successful handling of the largest fire in St. Charles history at the former Pheasant Run Resort, and maintaining top ratings for public safety and preparedness.
Deputy Fire Chief Jeremy Mauthe, who has served the St. Charles community for the past 20 years while working his way through department ranks, will step into the role of Fire Chief, effective Oct. 26. Read more at stcharles.gov.
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Save the Dates: Honoring Chief Swanson
Oct. 7: Join us as Chief Swanson is recognized during a public meeting in Council Chambers (2 E. Main Street, St. Charles).
Oct. 25: Celebrate Chief Swanson's incredible career at his farewell reception at 3 p.m. at Fire Station No. 1 (112 N. Riverside Ave). No RSVP required—everyone is welcome!
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Fall into the 39th annual Scarecrow Weekend
 >>The 39th annual Scarecrow Weekend is Oct. 11-13! Enjoy fall family fun with more than 110 handmade scarecrows on display around town, and vote for your favorites. Visit the Family and Activity zones for entertainment, photo ops, crafts and activities; 1st Street Plaza for live entertainment; and the Autumn on the Fox Craft Show in Pottawatomie Park.
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 »The City's Brush Pickup program continues through November. Please place your branches out by 7 a.m. on the Monday of your designated pickup week. Keep in mind that it may take the entire week to complete the pickup.
Important notice: Fall hydrant flushing begins this month
The City’s Public Works Water Division will conduct its regular fall hydrant flushing from Oct. 14 to Nov. 15. Flushing may begin as early as 5 a.m. and continue until 4 p.m. This maintenance helps improve water quality and minimize mineral build-up in the distribution system, while also ensuring hydrants are ready for emergencies.
During this time, you may notice temporary rusty-colored water; however, it is safe to use. To minimize any inconvenience, we recommend limiting water use when possible. If you notice rusty water, let the cold tap run in the bathtub or utility sink until it clears, typically within 10 minutes.
Rusty water can stain laundry. If this occurs, keep clothes wet and treat them with stain remover. The City offers a stain removal product at no cost at Public Works (1405 S. 7th Ave.) and the reception desk at City Hall (2 E. Main St.).
For questions, contact the Public Works Department at 630.377.4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov.
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Leaf Collection kicks off at end of month
Leaf collection starts on the east side of the river on Oct. 30 and on the west side on Nov. 5. The City’s contractor, Kramer Tree Specialists, aims to complete the collection by Dec. 5. A progress map will be updated daily, showing which neighborhoods have been serviced and what remains for the month. Additionally, Lakeshore Recycling Systems will offer free bagged leaf collection from Dec.2-27 (with a one-day delay for the Christmas holiday) on regular refuse collection days.
Keep leaves, lawn debris away from streams for better drainage
With cooler weather expected, remember to keep smaller ditches and streams free of debris — fallen trees, leaves and beaver dams. This can significantly improve water flow from low-lying areas. Dumping materials into waterways is illegal and can result in fines. If you’re facing drainage or flooding issues and would like to schedule a site visit, please contact the Public Works Engineering Office at 630.377.4405. (Note: The City has photos and flood data that may assist in assessing your drainage concerns.)
Shared roads, shared responsibility
Introducing new bicycle symbols, 'sharrows'
 >> Have you spotted the new bicycle symbols on our streets? These "sharrows" are shared lane arrow markings designed to alert drivers that they are on designated bike routes also used by cyclists. Sharrows don’t indicate a separate bike lane or alter traffic patterns. Instead, they serve as a reminder for motorists to stay vigilant that cyclist are using that road. St. Charles strives to be bike-friendly city, and these markings enhance existing signage to help cyclists navigate popular routes. We’ve painted more than 300 sharrows to promote safer driving along these roads, all in line with our Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan shaped by your valuable feedback.
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City celebrates lift station opening
>>Take a virtual tour of the facility and find out what the lift station does!
The City celebrated the opening of its new Riverside Lift Station at Riverside Avenue (IL Rt. 25) and Devereaux Way last month. Mayor Lora Vitek (far left), Alderpersons, City staff, and representatives from Trotter Associates and Whittaker Construction were there to officially cut the ribbon. While not the most glamorous of projects, the new lift station plays a crucial role in the City's wastewater (sewage) management system, serving more than 50% of St. Charles households. The project also included a public space, drinking fountain and restrooms.
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Kautz Road project underway; traffic detours in effect
 The Kautz Road detour is currently in effect as part of the Kautz Road Reconstruction and Widening Project — a collaborative effort between the cities of Geneva and St. Charles. All traffic is limited to southbound travel only between Commerce Drive and Averill Road. For northbound travel, please use the posted detour route via Kirk Road to Stern Avenue. Roadwork is expected to continue until at least the end of October.
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Offices OPEN Oct. 14: Indigenous Peoples' Day/Columbus Day
City offices will be open on Monday, Oct. 14, for Indigenous Peoples' Day/Columbus Day. All public meetings scheduled for that day will proceed as planned.
This month's schedule is as follows:
 »All are welcome to attend meetings in person, join via Zoom, or watch the recorded session on YouTube afterward.
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Welcome to Reel City Moments! This video series brings you the vibrant spirit of our community through short, engaging social media reels. Discover local events, hidden gems, and the incredible people that make our city special.
Families enjoy fire safety fun during Fire Department Open House
The Fire Department Open House on Sept. 28 was as fun as it was informative! A big thank you to all the families who joined us for an afternoon of fire safety fun and learning. Here’s a glimpse of the day’s activities, including vehicle extraction and live firefighting demonstrations:
>> Watch the Fire Department Open House recap on YouTube.
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Pottawatomie Garden Club beautifies city with autumn blooms
Members of the Pottawatomie Garden Club gathered at the Municipal Building for their annual fall planting last month, brightening up the surrounding area as well as Main Street and Illinois bridges with vibrant autumn blooms.
>>Watch the video on YouTube.
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 >>Founders of St. Charles Urban Design Advocates Calvin Reed (left) and James Bryner.
Fox Valley Transportation Survey aims to assess community need
D303 student-led nonprofit collaborates
with City of St. Charles to conduct survey
St. Charles high school students Calvin Reed and James Bryner, founders of Saint Charles Urban Design Advocates, have a true passion for making a difference in the community. The student-led nonprofit champions bike-friendly, pedestrian-friendly, and public transit initiatives, as well as urbanist concepts.
One of their recent projects is the Fox Valley Transportation Survey, which aims to assess the demand for public transportation in the area and evaluate potential transit solutions for the future of St. Charles.
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The River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles is seeking volunteers of all ages for the annual Project Daffodil community planting event taking place at 9 a.m. Oct. 19 at Mount St. Mary Park. Come out to help plant 5,000 mixed daffodil bulbs and 150 Virginia blue bell plants near the Mr. Eggwards sculpture.
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Municipal Building designated as drop-off site for Coat Drive
New, gently used coats for all
ages accepted through Oct. 16
This month, Senator Don DeWitte is hosting his annual coat drive, benefiting KIN (Kids in Need, McHenry County), Lazarus House, Elgin Wayside Center, and Salvation Army in St. Charles. Through Oct. 16, a donation box will be in the reception area of the City's Municipal Building, 2 E. Main Street. Donations of new and gently used coats for people of all ages will be accepted during normal City operating hours (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday).
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Early voting open for Nov. 5 election
 >>Early voting for the Nov. 5, 2024, General Election is currently underway at the Kane County Clerk's offices in Geneva and Aurora. Additional locations will be available starting in October. The ballot is the same whether you vote by mail, early, or at the polling place on election day.
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Electric Christmas Parade entry forms now available
>>The Electric Christmas Parade, presented by St. Charles Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, will take place Nov. 30 along Main Street in downtown St. Charles. The parade will start at 6th Street and conclude at 4th Avenue. The St. Charles Business Alliance is currently accepting entry forms from local businesses, community groups, and nonprofits interested in participating in this juried event.
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From the Equity & Inclusion Commission
The Equity & Inclusion Commission makes recommendations to City Council to ensure the community is open, inclusive, and welcoming to all individuals regardless of age, gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, religion, or abilities.
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Hispanic Heritage Month runs through Oct. 15
 >>National Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 and celebrates the contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community. The City’s Equity & Inclusion Commission honors federal recognition months like this as a way to foster a culture of inclusivity so all can thrive here.
Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley seeks support
Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley, a local nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals develop essential literacy skills, is actively seeking volunteers. The organization provides one-on-one tutoring in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English. It serves adult learners residing or working in St. Charles and the surrounding communities.
>>Learn more and how to get involved.
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Trick-or-Treat Hours and Safety Tips
 >> If you are driving on Halloween, please be extra careful and watch for children walking. Here are some safety tips for a fun and safe Oct. 31.
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Stride for Change | Oct. 13
 »Click image for more information.
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Gallery of Ghoulish
Homes Tour | Oct. 17-31
 »Click image for more information.
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Kane County among top state spots for pumpkin farms, patches
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We're Hiring!
We’ve assembled a remarkable team of dependable service providers, skilled first responders, and innovative leaders who drive St. Charles to be its best. We invite you to become a part of our team!
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