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News & Highlights from the City of St. Charles, Ill. - February 2025 |
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 Early voting for April 1 Consolidated Election begins in March
All registered voters in St. Charles are eligible to participate in the April 1 Consolidated Election. As with the 2024 elections, you can vote at any polling location on Election Day. (Note: A list of polling places will be available on the Kane County Clerk's website after the Feb. 25 Consolidated Primary Election, which is exclusive to Aurora and Aurora Township voters.)
St. Charles voters will choose candidates for:
- Mayor
- Alderperson in Ward 1
- Alderperson in Ward 2
- Alderpersons in Ward 3
- Alderperson in Ward 4
- Alderperson in Ward 5
- Clerk
- Treasurer
Find out what Ward you're in using the City's interactive online map.
Early voting starts on March 7, giving St. Charles residents the chance to vote before Election Day, April 1. A list of early voting locations will be posted on the Kane County Clerk's website (following the Feb. 25 Primary Election).
If you prefer to vote by mail, you can apply now for a Vote-by-Mail (VBM) ballot.
The Kane County Clerk Elections Department, at 630.232.5990, may assist with questions about precincts or standard election inquiries.
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Police, Fire departments join forces for Polar Plunge on March 9
Ferson Creek Park event to benefit Special Olympics Illinois
The St. Charles Police and Fire departments’ annual Polar Plunge is back at Ferson Creek Park (Route 31) on March 9! Brave participants will take a chilly dip into the Fox River to raise funds for Special Olympics Illinois. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with police, fire, and community members jumping in icy waters to support athletes with intellectual disabilities.
Last year, the plunge raised more than $17,400, contributing to a total of $28,168 raised for 2024 (as of November).
The event is open to the public, and community members are encouraged to come cheer on participants. Parking will be limited, so carpooling is recommended. To support the St. Charles Polar Plunge team, visit support.soill.org.
Other upcoming law enforcement events to benefit Special Olympics Illinois include:
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Cool School Challenge – Feb. 12 at St. Charles East High School
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Cop on Rooftop – May (date TBD)
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Battle of the Badges Softball Tournament – Aug. 16
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Savor the Flavors: St. Charles Restaurant Week runs Feb. 3-7
 >>This year, nearly 45 eateries are participating St. Charles Restaurant Week, running Feb. 3-7. Enjoy 20% off your bill (excluding alcohol, tax, and gratuity) of $45 or more (dine-in only). To redeem, simply mention you're dining in for Restaurant Week or present a printed Restaurant Week flyer. For complete details and to download a flyer, visit stcalliance.org/restaurantweek.
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Upcoming meetings this month
City offices are open on Presidents' Day, Monday, Feb. 17, but there are no public meetings held. February's meetings schedule:
 >> All are welcome to attend meetings in person, join via Zoom, or watch recorded sessions on YouTube afterward. To join a meeting on Zoom, visit the Meetings page on the City website and click on the meeting you want to attend. Follow the instructions for joining the meeting and submitting public comments.
Special Notice
The next Fox River Dam Joint Task Force meeting is 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 6, at City Hall, Council Chambers (second floor), 2 East Main St., St. Charles.
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 >>Deputy Chief Jason Peterson (center) and Fox Valley Career Center's Fire Science Lead Instructor Gary Baum (right) coordinated the donation.
Fire Department donates gear to support fire science program
The St. Charles Fire Department recently donated firefighting gear and equipment to the Fox Valley Career Center's Fire Science Program to help teach the next generation of firefighters.
The equipment reached the end of its service life for active firefighting (as mandated by the National Fire Protection Association), but is still suitable for training purposes.
The donation included 39 bunker coats, 48 bunker pants, 25 bunker boots, 55 SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) masks, 26 SCBA harnesses, 17 air hoses, and numerous SCBA components and parts. The donation not only supports the Fire Science Program’s mission to provide real-world training, but also strengthens the community’s commitment to building a skilled and prepared firefighting workforce.
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Stay Warm, Stay Safe!
Maintenance, precautions, associated risks of space heaters
Winter often brings a reliance on space heaters, which can increase fire or carbon monoxide risks. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment is the second leading cause of house fires in the U.S. Here’s important heating device safety information from the Fire Department, covering carbon monoxide risks, essential furnace and HVAC maintenance, and fireplace and chimney safety tips.
When using some heating equipment, it's important to be mindful of carbon monoxide (CO) — a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Taking these simple precautions can help protect you and your family from the dangers of carbon monoxide.
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Install CO detectors: Ensure CO detectors are placed on every level of your home, particularly near sleeping areas.
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Test monthly: Regularly test your detectors to make sure they are functioning properly.
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Never use portable generators indoors: Always operate generators outdoors, keeping them away from windows, doors, and vents to prevent CO buildup inside.
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Essential Furnace, HVAC system maintenance
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Schedule professional inspections: Have your furnace or HVAC system inspected and serviced annually by a licensed technician. Regular check-ups help spot issues before they become safety concerns.
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Keep vents clear: Avoid blocking heating vents or ducts with furniture, curtains, or other objects.
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Replace filters regularly: Dirty filters can restrict airflow and cause your system to overheat. Be sure to replace filters as recommended by the manufacture.
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8 Fireplace and chimney precautions
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2025 IMUA Scholarship Program applications available
Four $2,500 scholarships to be awarded; deadline is March 14
The City of St. Charles, in partnership with the Illinois Municipal Utilities Association (IMUA), is offering four $2,500 scholarships to eligible high school seniors whose parents or legal guardians are residential customers of City of St. Charles utilities. This is the 25th anniversary of the scholarship program. Applications, including a 500-word essay, are due by March 14, 2025,
Download the application, list of essay questions, and eligibility requirements at imea.org/services.
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Simple tips to boost wintertime energy efficiency
 As winter sets in, factors like increased heating demands, outdated systems, poor insulation, and shorter daylight hours can drive up energy use. Here are 8 simple tips to boost energy efficiency and save on heating costs this season.
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Adjust Your Thermostat. Lower it when you're asleep or away. Small changes equal big savings! Avoid extreme fluctuations.
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Use Curtains Wisely. Open on sunny days for warmth, close at night to keep the heat in.
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Skip Portable Heaters. They’re less efficient than central heating. Insulate your home by sealing drafts instead.
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Weatherstrip Doors and Windows. Prevent heat loss and keep your home cozy.
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Unblock Vents. Ensure airflow isn’t obstructed by furniture, rugs or curtains.
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Change Your Furnace Filter. Regularly replace it for better efficiency.
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Upgrade Appliances. Choose ENERGY STAR-rated appliances to save long-term.
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Bundle Up. Warm clothes help reduce thermostat reliance.
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 >>As temperatures drop or fluctuate, the risk of water main breaks increases. If you notice a water main break, please report it to the Public Works Department at 630.377.4405. If it's after hours, leave a voicemail in the Drinking Water mailbox with your phone number and address — an on-call staff member will get back to you.
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From the St. Charles Arts Council:
 Calling student artists (K-12) for SCAC Art Show; deadline is March 14
The St. Charles Arts Council's annual Student Art Show is April 12 through May 3 at the Art Council's new location, 121 N. 2nd St., Suite H, St. Charles. Fox River Valley students in kindergarten through 12th grade are invited to submit artwork by March 14. There’s no entry fee, and any medium except video is welcome. Last year, more than 145 student artists' works were featured. For more details and to submit artwork, visit stcharlesartscouncil.org or contact SCAC Executive Kathryn Hill via email at info@stcharlesartscouncil.org.
Arts Council to celebrate grand opening of new space Feb. 23
The St. Charles Arts Council recently announced the opening of its first brick-and-mortar location at 121 N. Second St., Suite H, in St. Charles! The space will allow the nonprofit to expand its programming, as well as offer workshops, exhibits, and artist talks. The public is invited to explore the new space and current member exhibit during its grand opening celebration from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 23.
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Get Red-y to show your heart some love Feb. 7
The first Friday in February is National Wear Red Day, a nationwide event that raises awareness about heart disease in women. Show your support Feb. 7 by donning red attire to help highlight the importance of heart health and encouraging others to take preventive action. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among women, but with awareness and education, we can make a difference.
Social Media Opportunity: Take a selfie while donning red attire on Feb. 7 and tag the City of St. Charles on Instagram @cityofstcharlesil and Facebook so that we can share your support with the community on our social media channels!
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Holiday Lights Recycling program sets new record
>>The St. Charles Natural Resources Commission, in partnership with the City’s Public Works Department, hosted another successful holiday lights collection this season. Thanks to the community’s support, we filled six full containers with holiday lights — amounting to approximately 1.5 tons of lights, a 33% increase from last year. These lights were diverted from landfills and carefully disassembled for recycling.
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3rd Ward Residents Meeting set for Feb. 11
Ward 3 residents are invited to join Ald. Paul Lencioni and Ald. Bob Gehm from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, in the St. Charles Police Department Community Room (first floor), 1515 W. Main St., St Charles. Questions and ideas for discussion are welcome. Light refreshments will be provided. No RSVP required.
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Mental Health Board to Consider Funding Requests
Agency Applications Due March 10, 2025
The St. Charles 708 Community Mental Health Board will consider requests for funding for fiscal year 2025-2026 at its annual meeting April 16, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., in Council Chambers, 2 E. Main Street. Applications will be accepted through March 10, 2025. More information, including application guidelines, is on the City website.
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REAL ID requirement begins May 7
Illinois residents will need a REAL ID or U.S. passport to fly domestically or enter federal facilities starting May 7, 2025. Kane County residents can get certified birth certificates from the Clerk’s Office for applications — a key document required for REAL ID applications and/or also to apply for a U.S. passport.
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REEL City Moments videos
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.
Fire Prevention: Local firefighters offer Top 4 Safety Tips for winter
As winter brings cozy moments, it also introduces unique fire safety risks. From candles and space heaters to hidden fire hydrants, winter hazards are a real concern. In this video, Captain Jeff Tarro and Firefighter Paramedic Brandon Paus of the St. Charles Fire Department share essential winter fire safety tips to help keep you and your loved ones safe all season long.
>>Watch on YouTube.
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Take a wintry walk in Delnor Woods
The next reel in our Hidden Gems video series, where the City showcases the natural beauty of city parks, forest preserves and open spaces, is St. Charles Park District's Delnor Woods. This east side native oak-hickory woodland has a waterfall, pond, century-old trees and is home to the Timeless Tags Dog Memorial.
>>Watch on YouTube.
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Out & About features Fox Haven Square developers, GSI Family
In this episode of Out & About with Mayor Lora Vitek, she joins the father-and-son duo responsible for the Fox Haven Square development — St. Charles residents Eddie and Pat Greco of GSI Family Offices. They discuss why St. Charles is a prime spot for development and a great place to raise a family.
>>Watch on YouTube.
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Majestic birdwatching along Fox River
Bald eagles have returned to their winter home along the Fox River — and we have been spotting them just outside the Municipal Building! Keep an eye on the skies along the Fox River this winter for more majestic moments like these.
>>Watch on YouTube.
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From the Equity and Inclusion Commission
The Equity & Inclusion Commission makes recommendations to City Council to ensure the community is inclusive and welcoming to all individuals regardless of age, gender, race, culture, sexual orientation, religion, or abilities.
 February is National Black History Month. It was officially recognized in 1976 during the U.S. Bicentennial by President Gerald Ford. This month, we honor the generations of Black Americans who have contributed mightily to this country.
The St. Charles History Museum shares the story of Joanna Garner, who escaped slavery in the South through the Underground Railroad and settled in St. Charles. Two of Garner's great-grandchildren, William Luckett, a commercial artist, and Harriet Luckett Harris, are represented in the mural of the Municipal building lobby. Learn more about them on the St. Charles History Museum’s website: Seeking Freedom in St. Charles: The Garner Family Story — St. Charles History Museum.
Local Events
The St. Charles History Museum will host an art exhibition that will prominently feature the work of Luckett and his daughter, Yvonne Almo, beginning Tuesday, Feb. 11, and running through May.
The History Museum, in partnership with The Conservation Foundation, will present "A Road to Freedom: Kane County Anti-Slavery Society and the Underground Railroad" on March 19, as part of The Conservation Foundation's program series. This program will take place from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Baker Community Center, 101 S. 2nd St., St. Charles. To register for the free event, click here.
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Random Acts of Kindness Week | Feb. 17-23
In recognition of Random Acts of Kindness Day February 17, 2025, local group Random Acts Matter celebrates all week, Feb. 17-23, to encourage the entire community to act with kindness throughout our City. Visit their website for more details.
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Find relief at local Warming Centers this winter
Warming centers offer vital support during the cold winter months. St. Charles locations include:
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St. Charles Park District - Pottawatomie Community Center, 8 North Ave.;
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St. Charles Police Department, 1515 W. Main St.; and
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St. Charles Public Library, 1 S. Sixth Ave.
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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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