The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch has included 20 years of watching and reporting for all West Peorians. Thanks for those years and go for another 20. Maggie Moore has been the person coordinating and guiding this watch that makes our community a safer place to live for us all.

If you are having packages delivered when you are not at home, ask a neighbor to watch so your deliveries get to you safely. Also, stay alert when you are out shopping.

The last landscape waste pickup of 2020 is in December.

The referendum to dissolve West Peoria Township that appeared on the Nov. 3 ballot was approved by a vote of 1,159 yes to 817 no. Dissolution of township government will take place in spring of 2021. The City of West Peoria will take over responsibilities for processing general assistance grants to needy residents who qualify for assistance with rent, utility bills, food or transportation. The result is a savings for all West Peoria taxpayers. All current properties and assets belonging to the Township will be transferred to the City of West Peoria.

Township officials are: Sharon Kennedy, supervisor; Matthew Dillon, clerk; and trustees Cindy Volk, Clark Abraham, Keith Morrell and Sue Roos.

As you pass City Hall, enjoy the decorated City Christmas tree. This is the second year for this holiday tradition that is sponsored by the Residents Association. This year’s tree was introduced to us in a ceremony on Nov. 30.
Once again in 2020, many meetings have been cancelled due to pandemic restrictions, some at the last minute. If you are in doubt, check the City web page: CityofWestPeoria.org.

When two or more inches of snow are predicted, cars should be moved off the streets. Otherwise, vehicles will be fined or towed. Parking ban alerts will have been posted with other snow ban notices. Streets can safely be cleared quickly when there are no vehicles parked on them.

There is a Neighborhood Safety Program for when residents install outside security cameras with recording capabilities. The City will be able to reimburse 50% up to $300. It is critical that a resident who wishes to participate visit City Hall or the city’s website first.

The Stuff-a-Bus food drive is different this year but is still directed to Friendship House. For the 33rd year it will be able to feed many families for a significant amount of time. Once again, Kroger stores are partnering with CityLink. This year, monies instead of non-perishable food items are requested and the food items are being purchased. This change to monetary donations is due to pandemic restrictions. You can make your donation if you shop at a Kroger store or send your donation to Friendship House. All locations to donate can be found on the CityLink website; the formal food drive ends Dec. 1 but donations are gratefully accepted after that date.

Peorians are always very generous and caring of their neighbors in difficult times. 2020 has certainly been difficult for more individuals than prior years.

Wishing you all good health and a return to activities. It should help us all appreciate the many good things we have been missing. Blessings to you and yours.