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News & Highlights from the City of St. Charles, Ill. - July 2026 |
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 City celebrates America’s 250th on the Fourth of July
The City of St. Charles is joining communities across the nation in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary on the Fourth of July. Don't miss these upcoming opportunities to celebrate:
Free Band Concert
As part of the nation's semi-quincentennial, the City will host a free patriotic band concert featuring the Fox Valley Concert Band from noon to 1 p.m. Saturday, July 4, at the 1st Street Plaza in downtown St. Charles. Attendees can enjoy patriotic favorites along the scenic Fox River and are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, as seating is limited.
Fourth of July fireworks
This year's Fourth of July fireworks display at Langum Park will include an even bigger-than-usual finale. Also enjoy a deejay, food trucks, photo spots, giveaways and more. Not sure where to view the fireworks display? At 1 p.m. July 4, the St. Charles Park District will release a big red balloon above Langum Park. If you can see the balloon, you will have a great view of the fireworks at dark.
Submit your Fourth of July photos
If you are planning to attend Fourth of July festivities in St. Charles this year, we'd love to see your pics! Share your favorite St. Charles 2026 Fourth of July photos featuring your friends and family enjoying festivities. Email photos to info@stcharlesil.gov with your name and town of residence by July 10.
Traffic Reminder
Motorists attending the fireworks display should plan for heavy traffic before and after the event. Delays are expected, so please allow extra travel time and consider using alternate routes. More information on affected roadways and parking restrictions is available on the City's website.
Bicycle Safety Reminder
Bicycle riding is prohibited on sidewalks within the Downtown Overlay (Business) District, including 1st Street Plaza. This restriction applies to both traditional and motorizes bicycles (e-bikes) and scooters. Cyclists must dismount and walk their bicycles where "Dismount" signs are posted or where sidewalk riding is prohibited. Violations of the City's bicycle ordinance may result in fines and enforcement action. Learn more: City's Bike Policy.
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City Insider Episode 5 goes inside the St. Charles Crime Lab
Police Chief, Commander discuss how investigations take shape in a digital age
City Insider podcast hosts Lisa Garhan and Kara Silva go inside the St. Charles Police Crime Lab with Police Chief Dan Likens and Commander of Special Services Joe Dony to explore the anatomy of a modern investigation, offering a rare look at how cases are built, evidence is processed and fragments become facts. Plus, meet St. Charles Ward 4 alderpersons David Pietryla and Bryan Wirball in Inside City Hall.
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Upcoming meetings in July
City offices are closed Friday, July 3, in observance of the Independence Day holiday. As always, police, fire and emergency services will remain available 24/7.
Meeting information and agendas are available at stcharlesil.gov/meetings. Agendas are posted 48 hours prior to the meeting. This month's meetings 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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New Ward 3 Alderperson appointed
 >>Please join us in welcoming David Petschke as St. Charles' new Ward 3 alderperson. Appointed by Mayor Hull with City Council approval, Petschke fills the vacancy created by Robert Gehm's retirement and will serve through April 2027. A 12-year St. Charles resident, Ald. Petschke brings public sector leadership and financial experience with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.
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Ward 4 Alderpersons present Spirit of St. Charles awards
 >>Alderpersons David Pietryla and Bryan Wirball presented Spirit of St. Charles awards during City Council meetings in May and June to Ward 4 recipients who have made a meaningful impact in the community. Recipients included Jim DiCiaula, founder of Random Acts Matter and Executive Director of CASA Kane County; the Arcada Theatre for its landmark status and support of local nonprofit organizations; and St. Charles East High School student Avery Andelman for excellence in academics, athletics, the arts and community service.
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 City releases FY2026–27 Budget-in-Brief document for easy-to-read overview of City finances, services
Interested in gaining a basic understanding of the annual budget for the City of St. Charles? The City approved its FY 2026–27 Budget in April and has published a Budget-in-Brief document that summarizes key information from the full budget. The Budget-in-Brief offers a clear, easy-to-understand snapshot of City services (many operating 24/7), infrastructure investments, revenue sources and spending priorities.
For more detailed financial information, including the full budget and annual financial reports, visit the City’s Finance Document hub.
Questions? Email the Finance Department at finance@stcharlesil.gov.
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City's financial reporting earns award for 40th consecutive year
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New businesses!
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Soksay Kitchen
2400 E Main St. #107A
(Quick-service Laos, Thai and Vietnamese restaurant)
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OS Salon
400 N. Kirk Road
(Full-service hair salon)
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St. Charles Dive Team assists in Elgin water search
 >>On June 26, the St. Charles Fire Department assisted in a water search operation in Elgin. The response included two connector boats and three divers from the department’s dive team, working alongside divers from more than 10 departments on scene.
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Tree gets stuck, firefighters log a training opportunity
 >>On June 2, fire crews responded to the Fox River dam after a tree became lodged on the structure. Two swift water technicians were deployed to help dislodge and move the log. The incident also served as a training exercise, with on-duty companies providing shore support in case a rescue was needed above or below the dam.
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Safety Tips from the St. Charles Fire Department:
Fireworks Safety
 >>Fireworks are often used to mark special events and holidays. However, they are not safe in the hands of consumers. Fireworks cause thousands of injuries each year. People can enjoy fireworks safely if they follow a few simple safety tips.
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Police, Fire squeeze in a visit to local lemonade stand
 >>The St. Charles Police and Fire Departments join students for an end-of-the-school-year lemonade stand to kick off the summer season.
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St. Charles Police host Youth Academy for local teens
>>The St. Charles Police Department conducted its annual, week-long Youth Police Academy recently. Students ages 13 to 16 attending CUSD 303 schools who were accepted into the summer program learned about various law enforcement topics in a fun, hands-on environment.
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St. Charles Police attend Illinois Police Memorial in Springfield
>>St. Charles Police Chief Likens (from right), Officer Morales and Sgt. Runkle attend the Kane County Chiefs of Police Association Law Enforcement Appreciation Ceremony at Mooseheart in May.
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Police Department welcomes annual Torch Run Relay
 >>The St. Charles Police Department hosted its leg of the Illinois Law Enforcement Torch Run on June 6 with participants beginning and ending their route at the police department. The annual relay brings together law enforcement officers who carry the Flame of Hope through communities across Illinois before arriving at the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games Opening Ceremony in Normal.
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Brush Collection Schedule in July
The Brush Pick Up program begins on the East Side on July 20 and on the West Side on July 27. Please note, it can take the entire week for pick up to be completed.
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St. Charles tap water meets all EPA safety standards
Annual Water Quality Report now available
Every year, the City of St. Charles tap water is tested in accordance with strict Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) drinking water regulations. Test results show City water meets or exceeds all water quality standards as listed in the Safe Drinking Act.
Questions? Contact:
📞Illinois EPA: 217-785-4787
📞St. Charles Public Works: 630-377-4405 or pw@stcharlesil.gov
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Annual Infrared Thermography Inspections underway
 >>The City of St. Charles Electric Division is conducting its annual thermography inspection program from June 15 through July 1 as part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining a safe, reliable, and efficient electric distribution system. Thermography, also known as infrared inspection, utilizes specialized thermal imaging equipment to identify abnormal heat patterns in electrical equipment. These inspections allow staff to detect potential issues before they result in equipment failures, service interruptions, or safety hazards.
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City's 2026 Roadway Resurfacing Project underway
Building improvements and floodplain management standards
Did you know that there are specific requirements for buildings located in the floodplain? The National Flood Insurance Program requires that if the cost of improvements to a building or the cost to repair damages (from any cause) to a building exceeds 50% of the market value of the building (excluding land value), the entire building must be brought up to current floodplain management standards. Building improvement projects include exterior and interior remodeling, rehabilitation, additions, repairs and reconstruction projects.
Please contact the Public Works Engineering Division at 630.377.4405 for more information.
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 Phase 1 of Lead Service Line Replacement Program Underway
The Lead Service Line Replacement Program is underway. The City is required by Illinois EPA and U.S. EPA regulations to verify service line materials and develop a replacement plan for lead service lines. Visit the City's website for Lead Service Line Replacement Program Frequently Asked Questions.
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Seasonal home maintenance tips for St. Charles residents
>>With summer finally here, it’s time to tackle those exterior property maintenance chores. Remember, addressing these issues now can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars down the road. Here’s a list of home maintenance items to consider. (If you are unsure if the work you are performing requires a permit, contact the City of St. Charles at 630.377.4406.)
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Escape the heat at Kane County cooling centers
Local cooling centers offer a safe place to escape the intense heat in summer. If you're facing harsh weather conditions, consider using one of these centers for your safety.
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 Dogs find forever homes during annual Rover Rescue event
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>>Thank you to everyone who attended, donated and helped Rover Rescue of Illinois dogs find loving forever homes during the 2026 Dog Days at City Hall on June 24 at Fire Station No. 1. |
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Mayor on the Move
 >>TOP: Sons of the American Revolution Liberty Tree Planting on June 27 at the St. Charles Police Department. BOTTOM: Kayla's Hope Foundation ribbon cutting for a downtown Mural created in honor of Kayla Brooke Lehmann.
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St. Charles Blood Drive – July 10
Help save lives this summer by donating blood. The Versiti Blood Donation Bus will be at the City of St. Charles Parking Lot, 1405 S. 7th Ave., from 10:20 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.
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The 157th annual Kane County Fair set for July 15-19
Mark your calendars for the 157th annual Kane County Fair from July 15-19 at 525 S. Randall Road in St. Charles. Enjoy family-friendly fun, including live music, carnival rides and games, magic shows, bull riders, barrel racing, a demolition derby, petting zoo, car show, pig races, the 4-H sale, and more.
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From the St. Charles Business Alliance:
Unwind Wednesdays continue July 8 and 22
Unwind Wednesdays take place every second and fourth Wednesday in July and August at 1st Street Plaza. Enjoy drinks from five of the plaza businesses while taking in live music from 6 to 8 p.m. Guests of all ages are welcome, and adults ages 21 and older can enjoy alcoholic beverages until 8:30 p.m.
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STC Live! music series continues all summer long
The STC Live! music series returns with free live performances every Wednesday and Friday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on 1st Street Plaza and at local businesses throughout St. Charles. For a full schedule of STC Live! music events, visit the Business Alliance's website.
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From the St. Charles Park District:
Summer Concerts in the Park on Thursdays at 7 p.m.
Come out for Summer Concerts in the Park every Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Lincoln Park Gazebo on Main Street between 4th and 5th streets. Enjoy music from local bands all summer long (through Aug. 6). Bring your blanket and chairs!
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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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