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News & Highlights from the City of St. Charles, Ill. - April 2026 |
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 SAVE THE DATE: State of the City on May 6 at Arcada Theatre
Join the City of St. Charles and Chamber of Commerce for the 2026 State of the City from 6 to 7:30 p.m. May 6, 2026, at the Arcada Theatre (main stage, ground floor), 105 E. Main St., St. Charles.
This year’s program will highlight the city’s progress, challenges and vision for the future. The State of the City will be emceed by Mayor Hull and will feature insights from community partners, including the St. Charles Public Library District, St. Charles Park District, and St. Charles Community Unit School District 303.
A Q-and-A with Mayor Hull, and City Council members and staff will follow in the theater’s adjacent reception area, Rock 'N Ravioli.
This event is free and open to the public.
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Utility bills to reflect rate changes for water, wastewater, electric
Changes effective on utility bills issued in June 2026
Utility rate adjustments for City of St. Charles water, wastewater, and electric utility customers were approved during the April 6, 2026, City Council meeting and become effective on the utility bills issued in June 2026.
The City is enacting a series of annual rate increases for water and wastewater over the next four years. To help offset the rate increases, the City is implementing a 5% reduction in all electric rates.
These adjustments are necessary to meet required unfunded federal mandates and also will fund needed improvements. Three critical priorities have been identified from Utility Master Plans to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality services to the community:
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Replace lead water service lines – The EPA requires communities to replace all lead water service lines within 10 years — a shortened deadline from the original 30-year requirement. The new 10-year requirement is an unfunded mandate, meaning no state or federal funding is provided. As a result, the City must implement the program using its own financial resources. City Council approved the lead line Replacement Policy in March of 2024.
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Replace aging infrastructure - Water main breaks lead to service disruptions and boil orders. More breaks also increase maintenance and staff costs. Over the past three years, the average number of water main breaks has doubled, climbing to more than 200 in 2025.
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Increase water and wastewater system capacity to support long-term community growth and development - The City has experienced significant growth over the past five years, with continued expansion expected in the near term. Enhancing capacity and treatment infrastructure will be critical to supporting long-term development needs, including redevelopment sites such as the former Charlestowne Mall.
The City has funded the first year from its reserves to help minimize the impact to residents and businesses. Over the past three years, the City has used $11 million from reserves to support water projects. The City also has looked at other ways to pay for these improvements.
The City will continue exploring other funding options — like grants and loans — but it also needs a reliable funding source now so the City can properly plan for and complete these required projects.
For more information, including an example four-year rate change schedule for typical residential customers, visit the Utility Rates and Infrastructure Funding page on the City website.
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City invites public feedback during Phase 2 workshop April 8
Open House, Survey top results inform former police station site planning
The City of St. Charles will begin Phase 2 planning for the future of the former Police Station site with a public workshop Wednesday, April 8, and short online survey.
Residents, business owners and community members are invited to take the survey and attend the drop-in event from 4 to 6 p.m. at City Hall (Council Chambers), 2 E. Main St., St. Charles, to provide input on the leading development concepts for the prime riverfront site.
The second workshop will build on input gathered from a previous online survey and the community open house Feb. 19 that drew responses from hundreds of participants, who shared overwhelming support for programmed open space with community gathering opportunities. The next phase of engagement will focus on more detailed input, including potential amenities, programming, food and entertainment options, as well as future uses for the existing building — the former police station.
No RSVP is required to attend. Parking is available on site.
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 Don't miss City's first Public Works Open House on May 2
The City of St. Charles will host its first Public Works Open House from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 2, at the Public Works facility, 1405 S. 7th Ave., St. Charles. The event will highlight the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the community running smoothly. Activities for the whole family include facility tours, touch-a-truck, an electric pole climbing demonstration, wastewater laboratory and treatment plant tours, children’s activities, and refreshments.
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April 2026 Meetings
Meeting information and agendas are available at stcharlesil.gov/meetings. Agendas are posted 48 hours prior to the meeting. 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.
Stay up to date with the City’s 'Meeting Minutes Archive'
>>Stay informed by viewing minutes from past City Council, Commission, and other official meetings using the City's Meeting Minutes Archive. You can search by meeting type, date, or keyword to review discussions, decisions and updates at your convenience.
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 Ward 2 Alderpersons present Spirit Awards on March 16
During the March 16 St. Charles City Council meeting, Alderpersons Jayme Muenz and Ryan Bongard proudly presented Spirit of St. Charles awards to Ward 2 recipients who have made a meaningful impact in the community.
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Bob Walters has quietly made a lasting impact in St. Charles, supporting D303 students as a resident expert with the St. Charles Education Foundation while also voluntarily helping transform a neglected, overgrown area into a vibrant, welcoming space through the Fox Chase Median Foundation. Whether investing in students or beautifying the place he calls home, his work makes the community stronger in ways both seen and behind-the-scenes.
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Brighton Gardens (Sunrise Senior Living), a valued Ward 2 business, has played an essential role in supporting residents and their families by helping older adults remain in the community they’ve built their lives. Brighton Gardens provides essential services and fosters a welcoming environment, enabling residents to age with dignity, stability and connection.
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St. Charles East High School's Aricin Bigda received an award for notable athletic achievement.
About the Awards
The Spirit of St. Charles awards celebrate students, individuals, businesses and organizations that help make St. Charles a vibrant place to live. Awards are presented monthly at City Council meetings through June 2026.
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Visitors Cultural Commission soliciting requests for funding
Deadline is April 24, 2026
The City of St. Charles Visitors Cultural Commission is now accepting funding requests from organizations that promote tourism, culture, history and the arts in St. Charles. Funding requests are due to the Finance Department at City Hall by 4 p.m. Friday, April 24, 2026.
To learn more and review the eligibility guidelines, click here.
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Lou Malnati’s signs lease for St. Charles location
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria has signed a lease for a new location in St. Charles. The restaurant will be located at 3050 E. Main St., in the outlot of the new Fox Haven Square development, near Kirk Road and East Main Street, with an anticipated opening in fall 2026.
The space will feature a full-service restaurant and bar with indoor and outdoor seating for approximately 200 guests, along with carryout and delivery options.
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REEL City Moments video
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.
Community turns out for Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics
The Fox River was the place to be on a cool March morning as members of the St. Charles Police and Fire departments joined roughly 175 fearless participants, including first-time plunger Mayor Clint Hull, for the 2026 Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics Illinois. Thanks to the incredible generosity of the community, the event raised more than $84,000, including more than $16,000 contributed by the St. Charles team of first responders.
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Safety Tips from the St. Charles Fire Department:
Laundry may be part of the daily routine of many, but maintaining the clothes dryer is key to keeping the home safe. Follow these simple tips to help prevent dryer fires.
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City warns residents of potential utility scam
The City of St. Charles is alerting residents to a potential scam involving individuals falsely claiming to represent ComEd. ALL electric service inspections or meter-related issues are managed through the City of St. Charles Community Development (Building Inspector) or Public Works Electric Services departments. Residents should not need to schedule or coordinate ANY electric meter work directly with ComEd or third-party companies.
The City’s Public Works Department has been made aware of at least one report of a resident receiving multiple calls from individuals claiming to be ComEd representatives. The callers stated that a new meter needed to be installed at the home but indicated the work would be performed by a third-party company. This has raised concerns that the calls may be an attempt to gain access to private property under false pretenses.
Residents are encouraged to take the following precautions:
- Be cautious of unsolicited calls regarding utility work
- Do not allow unknown individuals onto your property without proper verification
- Contact ComEd directly to confirm any service requests
For questions or concerns, residents may contact the City of St. Charles Public Works Department at 630.377.4407.
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 City installs first Honorary Street Sign as part of new program
On March 27, the Public Works Department installed the first honorary street sign as part of a new nomination program recognizing the legacy of individuals who have made a lasting impact on St. Charles.
The stretch of 4th Ave. between E. Main St. and Cedar Ave. (near Baker Memorial United Methodist Church) has also been designated as Col. Edward J. Baker Way, honoring a legacy reflected in several notable community landmarks, including the Hotel Baker and Baker Community Center.
About the program
Each of the five City Wards may nominate one honorary street sign per year. Nominations must meet set criteria and are approved by City Council. These signs do not change a street’s legal name and remain in place for 20 years.
Requests can be made using the Honorary Street Sign application, here.
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Free bagged yard waste collection continues this month
Brush collections begin in April
Residents will enjoy free bagged yard waste collection the weeks of April 6 and 13 on your regular refuse pickup day. Stickers will be required once the free pickup program ends.
Brush Collection
Brush collection will begin on the East Side on April 20 and on the West Side on April 27.
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Public Works staff named national Public Service Champions
 >>The City of St. Charles Public Works Department celebrated a major achievement in March: Adam Szalkowski, Assistant Fleet Division Manager, and Nina Westhoff, Meter Reader, have been named among America’s 250 Public Service Champions. This is a national honor recognizing standout local government leaders ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. They’re among 14 total honorees from Illinois, joining public servants across the country who are making a real difference in their communities.
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 Photo: Car partially submerged in a swale on North 8th Avenue as floodwaters obscure the pavement edge, April 18, 2013.
Flood Safety Reminders
Flooding can happen quickly and pose serious risks. Even just a few inches of fast-moving water can be dangerous, and standing water can hide hazards like sewage or sharp objects. The following tips can help you stay safe, protect your home, and respond effectively if flooding occurs.
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown – 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult over.
- Do not drive through a flooded road. No one will be impressed that your car needs repairs due to water damage and the waves could flood nearby homes.
- Avoid floodwaters: Standing water can be contaminated with sewage, contain sharp objects, or hide manhole covers that may be dislodged.
- Stay away from downed power lines, poles, and wires.
- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Do not use generators indoors.
- If water enters your home, clean or dispose of everything that has been exposed to flooding. Wear protective equipment, like boots and gloves, and dry your home as quickly as you can within 24 to 48 hours to limit potential mold growth.
For more flood information, visit the City’s “Floodplain Information” page at stcharlesil.gov, or contact the Public Works Engineering Division at 630-377-4405 or 1405 S. 7th Ave.
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Mayor on the Move:
Springfield Drive Down Days & Adventure Club visit
 >>St. Charles Mayor Clint Hull (from right), Alderperson Jayme Muenz and City Administrator Heather McGuire, attended the Metro West Council of Government's Springfield Drive Down Days this week, where they spent two days meeting with state legislators to advocate for revenue support for local issues.
 >>Mayor Hull visits with Adventure Club StC — a local homeschool group that gathers weekly for educational outings and community-based learning experiences — in Council Chambers at City Hall on March 19 to help students understand how local government works and foster civic engagement.
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Quick Code Check: Weeds, Grass and Garden TLC
Did you know that the City has adopted minimum property maintenance standards for how tall your grass can grow, prior to having to cut it? Per City code the following are a few of the maintenance standards referring to weeds, grass and planting areas:
- Premises and exterior property shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 8 inches. Noxious weeds shall be prohibited. Weeds shall be defined as all grasses, annual plants and vegetation, other than trees or shrubs provided; however, this term shall not include cultivated flowers and gardens.
- All planting areas, such as landscape beds, gardens and other similar areas, shall be cultivated and maintained free of weeds.
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From the Natural Resources Commission:
Celebrate Arbor and Earth days
By Jeff Mengler, Natural Resources Commissioner
This year, Earth Day will be celebrated on April 22 and Arbor Day on April 24. Both are annual observances and are often a time when people do ceremonial plantings and other things to celebrate these days.
A popular Arbor Day tradition is to plant a tree in honor or memory of a loved one. The Morton Arboretum is the home of something called the Chicago Region Trees Initiative (CRTI). CRTI offers many resources to help communities celebrate trees and better care for our urban forest.
St. Charles will observe Earth Day and Arbor Day with a touch-a-tree-truck event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 25 at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles. There will be giveaways and activities for all ages.
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Library hosts Spring Used Book Sale, April 17-19
The Friends of the St. Charles Public Library are hosting a Spring Used Book Sale in the Huntley Community Room from April 17-19. Hours are Friday from 2:30 to 7:30 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 3 p.m. Don’t miss this chance to find great books, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, and more.
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From the St. Charles Arts Council:
Artist applications due April 24 for 2026 Plein Air event in August
Artist applications for the St. Charles Arts Council’s third annual Plein Air Event are due April 24. The weeklong outdoor painting event will take place Aug. 17–23 throughout the Tri-Cities and is open to the public to view and attend. Up to 70 artists, both local and national, will be selected to participate.
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Kane Forest Preserve Foundation’s plant sale set for April 25
The Kane Forest Preserve Foundation is hosting its annual native plant sale from 9 a.m. to noon April 25 at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St. in St. Charles. The event is aimed at promoting biodiversity and encouraging sustainable gardening. Plants can be preordered online through April 12.
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From the St. Charles Business Alliance:
 St. Charles Spring Shop Crawl is back April 25-26
The St. Charles Spring Shop Crawl is back April 25 and 26! Explore 25 incredible stores with exclusive discounts and promotions all weekend long. Make a purchase at any participating shop for a chance to win a prize valued at over $300. Each purchase earns you an entry, and two prizes will be awarded.
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Community Garage Sale, May 1-2
 >>The St. Charles Park District will host its Community Garage Sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 1 and 2. The Garage Sale is open to all park district residents and households with a St. Charles address. Participants keep all of the profits from the sale.
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 Celebrate nation's 250th by sharing your Fourth of July memories with us!
As the nation prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. in 2026, the City of St. Charles is creating a special Fourth of July social media feature — and the community is invited to be part of it.
Submit your favorite Fourth of July photos taken in St. Charles over the years by May 15. Older photos are especially encouraged, but recent memories and “now and then” comparisons are welcome, too. You do not need to be a St. Charles resident to participate — anyone who has celebrated the Fourth of July in St. Charles may submit.
Please email photos to info@stcharlesil.gov and include your name.
Selected images may be featured as part of the City’s communitywide celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
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Community Clean Up
June 6 for east side and June 13 for west side
The City of St. Charles Community Clean Up program is back for 2026, giving residents a convenient way to clear out unwanted items.
Collection will take place:
This service is available to residents within St. Charles city limits only.
LRS (Lakeshore Recycling) will collect items placed at the curb — not in the street — by 7 a.m. on your scheduled date. Please note that crews will not return once they’ve passed through an area, and items should not be set out more than 48 hours in advance.
For a list of items that will NOT be picked up, visit stcharlesil.gov.
For more information about Community Clean Up, contact the Public Works Department at
630.377.4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov.
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From the Equity and Inclusion Commission:
 Second annual St. Charles Pride Fest set for June 7 in new location
Celebrate pride and community during the second annual St. Charles PrideFest event, sponsored by the City of St. Charles Equity and Inclusion Commission.
The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, June 7, at Mt. St. Mary Park (Prairie Street, east of Route 31) in St. Charles. The free celebration is open to all ages, and everyone is welcome to attend. The event will feature resource tables from local businesses and nonprofits, pride-themed giveaways, crafts and activities, live music, karaoke, food trucks and more.
June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the LGBTQIA+ community.
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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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