|
News & Highlights from the City of St. Charles, Ill. - August 2026 |
|
The Fox River makes waves in Midwest Living article
 >>Midwest Living recently named the Fox River one of the best rivers for paddling trips in the Midwest. Flowing through the heart of St. Charles, the Fox River connects the city to neighboring towns, scenic parks and outdoor recreation. Part of the Fabulous Fox! Water Trail — designated a National Water Trail by the National Park Service — the Fox River offers a special way to experience the natural beauty of St. Charles.
|
|
Utility Billing Office to close Tuesday, Aug. 4
The City’s Utility Billing office will be closed and the Office's phone system will be temporarily unavailable, beginning at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 4, for phone and software updates. The Utility Billing office will reopen during normal business hours on Wednesday, Aug. 5.
Customers can still make utility payments or view bills online during this time through the City’s online bill payment system.
To contact the Utility Billing Department during this time, email utilitybilling@stcharlesil.gov.
We appreciate your patience as we complete these updates to improve our systems and services.
|
|
Mayor selected for prestigious 2026 Edgar Fellows Program
Mayor Clint Hull has been selected as one of 41 leaders from across Illinois to join the 2026 Edgar Fellows Class, a prestigious bipartisan leadership program that brings together emerging leaders from government, business, labor, nonprofit organizations and public policy.
The 2026 Edgar Fellows will participate in an intensive executive leadership program in August at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. During the program, Fellows will engage with distinguished leaders and public policy experts to explore many of the critical issues shaping the future of Illinois.
Selection for the Edgar Fellows Program is by nomination only. Candidates are evaluated and chosen by a selection committee.
|
|
|
Community generosity fills two squad cars with backpacks
Thanks to the generosity of the St. Charles community, Big Hearts of Fox Valley's Stuff the Squad school supply drive was a tremendous success. Donations filled two St. Charles Police squad cars with school supplies, helping ensure St. Charles District 303 students have the tools they need for a successful start to the new school year.
|
|
|
St. Charles invests $700K in community mental health services
On July 6, the St. Charles City Council approved $700,000 in funding for 21 local nonprofit organizations providing mental health, substance use and developmental disability services. For nearly 40 years, the City's 708 Mental Health Board has allocated funding to help support high-quality, community-based care for residents. View the full list of funded agencies and award amounts.
|
|
Sign up for STC Alerts! to stay informed on official City news
Receive important updates via text message, phone call or email
Whether it’s emergency alerts, service updates or community announcements, STC Alerts help you stay connected to official City notifications. Simply create an online account and choose your preferred notification method (text, phone call, email or all three) to stay informed when it matters most.
Sign Up
Visit stcharlesil.gov/News-Events/STC-Alerts to create your Everbridge Community Profile to register your phone number and/or email addresses to receive notifications.
Receive Alerts
When the City of St. Charles issues an alert, a notification will be sent to the contact method(s) you registered. The information you provide is secure and will only be used for City of St. Charles notifications.
Opt Out
Alerts are limited to services and events occurring within the City of St. Charles, and you can stop receiving messages any time by removing your contact information from your profile.
|
|
|
Upcoming City meetings in August
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.
|
|
Agenda Alert: Red Gate Bridge Railing update at Aug. 3 meeting
An update on the Red Gate Bridge Railing Project will be presented by the City's Public Works Director during the City Council meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 3. Residents who are unable to attend in person can watch the meeting live via Zoom or view the recording afterward on the City's YouTube channel.
About the Project
The City of St. Charles is evaluating options to replace or improve the Red Gate Bridge railings due to ongoing surface rust, with the project anticipated to be completed in 2027. Annual inspections by certified engineers have confirmed that the bridge and its railings are structurally sound and safe for vehicular traffic, and the rust does not compromise the bridge's structural integrity or safety.
|
|
Ward 5 Alderpersons present Spirit of St. Charles awards
 >>Alderpersons Ed Bessner and Steve Weber presented Spirit of St. Charles awards during a City Council meeting to Ward 5 recipients who have made a meaningful impact in the community. Recipients included La Huerta Grill and Market, a family-owned business that represents the values of hard work, dedication and a commitment to the community; and Jeff Hunt, founder of the St. Charles Singers ensemble, for remarkable musical excellence.
|
|
Reactivated City Commission gives St. Charles seniors a voice
The City has reactivated its Senior Services Commission. Now officially underway, the nine-member commission gives residents ages 60+ a voice in shaping the services, programs and resources that support the well-being of older adults.
The commission collaborates with City departments and community partners to help strengthen and align efforts related to transportation, housing and overall quality of life for seniors in St. Charles.
Shout out! Thank you to the the St. Charles Park District’s 50+ Adult Activity Center for participating in this video.
|
|
|
New businesses in Fox Haven Square!
-
Rosebud Steakhouse (Opening soon!)
300 N. Kirk Road, Unit 300 D
(Premium steak and seafood restaurant)
|
|
Property maintenance concerns? Code Enforcement can help
Not sure who to contact at the City about an issue or concern? Whether you have a property maintenance concern or a question about City services, you can visit the City of St. Charles homepage or the Public Services page to find information about City departments and the services they provide. If it's a Code Enforcement issue, call 630.377.4406.
The Code Enforcement Division works with residents to address a variety of concerns on private property, including:
- Tall weeds and grass
- Excessive rubbish or trash
- Abandoned or inoperable vehicles on private property
- Exterior building maintenance issues, such as peeling paint, deteriorated siding, rotten wood, damaged porches, or roofs in need of repair
Code Enforcement also investigates tenant complaints when property owners or management companies have failed to address required maintenance issues, including:
- No heat or hot water
- Electrical, plumbing or mechanical problems
- Inoperable smoke detectors
- Other minimum property maintenance concerns
Need to Report an Issue?
You can report a concern in any of the following ways:
|
|
Save the date!
Fire Department's popular community Open House returns Sept. 12
 >>The St. Charles Fire Department will host its annual Open House community event from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at Fire Station No. 1, 112 N. Riverside Ave., St. Charles. Families will have an opportunity to interact with firefighters and paramedics in fun, interactive ways, while gaining valuable information regarding fire safety.
|
|
Slow down, stay alert: School is back in session Aug. 12
 >> The St. Charles Fire Department will be out and about on Aug. 12 reminding motorists to slow down — school is officially back in session in D303. As we ease into a busy new school year, let’s keep everyone safe!
|
|
Safety Tips from the St. Charles Fire Department:
Home Fire Extinguisher Basics
 >>Portable fire extinguishers can be an important tool for protecting your home when used properly. Residents are encouraged to learn how to safely operate an extinguisher, understand when a fire is manageable and when evacuation is the safest option, and perform routine inspections and maintenance to ensure extinguishers are ready when needed.
|
|
Police promote safe driving on Speed Awareness Day
 >>The St. Charles Police Department participated in Illinois Speed Awareness Day on July 22 in an effort to reduce speeding and promote safer roadways. The Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (ILACP) coordinated this statewide initiative with support from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and hundreds of law enforcement agencies across Illinois. The enforcement initiative, partially funded through a traffic safety grant, resulted in officers conducting 75 traffic stops.
|
|
 Battle of the Badges softball tournament set for Aug. 15
Join us for the sixth annual Battle of the Badges softball tournament for Special Olympics Illinois beginning at 10 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 15, at the East Side Sports Complex, 3565 Legacy Blvd., in St. Charles. Cheer on the St. Charles police and fire departments as they compete against other local law enforcement agencies and enjoy food trucks, raffle baskets, and more.
|
|
Your Questions Answered: Mosquito Control in St. Charles
For more than 35 years, the City of St. Charles has partnered with Clarke to monitor mosquito activity and reduce the risk mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus, with community-wide spraying conducted only when necessary and based on mosquito activity. The Environmental Protection Agency thoroughly evaluates the registered mosquito control products Clarke uses to ensure there is no significant risk to humans, animals and the environment. To learn more, visit City's Mosquito Control Program Frequently Asked Questions page.
|
|
August Brush Collection Schedule
The Brush Pick Up on the East Side is Aug 17 and on the West Side is Aug 24. Please note, it can take the entire week for pick up to be completed.
|
|
Why should residents care about floodplains?
Floodplains play an important role in protecting people, homes, roads and other community infrastructure during heavy rainfall and flooding.
A floodplain is any land area susceptible to being inundated by floodwaters from any source. When left in a natural state, floodplain systems store and dissipate floods without adverse impacts to residents, buildings, roads and other infrastructure. Natural floodplains provide multiple benefits for the community including flood protection, erosion control, improved water quality, recharged aquifers, enhanced wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities.
|
|
'American Pickers' TV hosts seeking Illinois collectors
The History Channel's American Pickers is returning to Illinois and is looking for unique private collections and interesting items to feature on the show. The TV show does not feature stores, flea markets, malls, museums or anything open to the public. If you have a collection with a story to tell and are interested in selling, email photos and details to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 646-493-2184.
|
|
County's Smart Sprinkler Timer pilot program now open
Kane County is launching a Smart Sprinkler Timer pilot program to help residents lower high water bills and conserve water. Kane County Residents with high monthly water usage who are willing to share data as part of the conservation study may receive a free Smart Sprinkler Timer, which can reduce water usage by 47%. Eligible residents interested in participating in the program should contact Sarra Hinshaw at 630.208.8665 or hinshawsarra@kanecountyil.gov.
|
|
Kane County Courts launch educational video series
The Kane County Court System has launched a new educational video series designed to make the court process more accessible, transparent and easier to understand. Bridging Kane County Courts to the Community features short, informative videos covering topics such as what to expect in court, how to find court information, teen traffic tickets, getting married at a Kane County courthouse, and more. Check the series out on YouTube!
|
|
|
Help reduce food waste in Illinois
The University of Illinois is conducting a statewide survey to better understand household food waste and is seeking input from Illinois residents. Adults ages 18 and older who regularly help with grocery shopping, meal planning, cooking or kitchen cleanup are encouraged to participate in the 10-minute survey. Responses will help guide food waste prevention efforts that support cost savings, stronger communities and a healthier environment.
|
|
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.
|
|
From the St. Charles Arts Council:
Plein Air welcomes outdoor artists Aug. 17-23
The St. Charles Arts Council's annual Plein Air event will take place Aug. 17–23. Throughout the week, 65 artists from across the country will set up their easels throughout St. Charles, capturing on canvas the beauty of the city's parks, neighborhoods, riverfront and surrounding landscapes.
|
|
From the St. Charles Public Library
Voter Registration at the Library on Aug. 9
Kane County residents age 18 and older can register to vote at the Library from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 9. Bring two forms of identification, including one with your current address.
|
|
Homeschool Resource Fair set for Aug. 26
Homeschool families are invited to the Library's Homeschool Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to noon on Aug. 26. Meet local clubs and organizations offering programs, events, and resources to support your homeschooling curriculum.
|
|
From the St. Charles Business Alliance:
Be You Rock Hunt returns Aug. 7
The St. Charles Business Alliance's Be You Rock Hunt returns at 9 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 7. Twenty painted Be You rocks will be hidden throughout downtown St. Charles. Find one for a chance to win a St. Charles tote bag filled with local gifts, coupons, and more.
|
|
|
Final Unwind Wednesdays of the season set for Aug. 12 and 26
Unwind Wednesdays will take place the second and fourth Wednesdays in August at 1st Street Plaza in downtown St. Charles. 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.
|
|
STC Live! winds down with Summer's Last Spin on Aug. 28
Enjoy free live music from 6 to 7:30 p.m. every Wednesday and Friday through Aug. 28 at the 1st Street Plaza and select locations throughout downtown St. Charles. The STC Live! season concludes with Summer's Last Spin on Aug. 28, a bike-friendly celebration with giveaways. Attendees who ride their bikes to the event will be eligible to receive a free water bottle.
|
|
Arcada Theatre celebrates 100th anniversary with parade Sept. 6
The Arcada Theatre will celebrate its remarkable 100-year legacy with a commemorative parade through downtown St. Charles on Sunday, Sept. 6, beginning at 3 p.m.
|
|
From the St. Charles Park District:
Rusty Rodeo returns Aug. 15
Help remove the invasive rusty crayfish during this free event from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 15, at Mt. St. Mary Park. Participants should dress to get wet and muddy, and bring a net and bucket.
End of Summer & Labor Day Celebration fireworks display Sept. 3
The St. Charles Park District will present its America 250th fireworks display Thursday, Sept. 3. The End of Summer and Labor Day Celebration will begin at 4 p.m. with food, live music and festivities, followed by fireworks. The fireworks display was originally planned for the Fourth of July holiday weekend but was canceled due to weather.
|
|
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!
|
|
|
|
|
