West Peoria News: Decking the town with fun and folly

The highly anticipated new City Hall is taking shape at the corner of Rohmann and Sterling. Demolition looks to be complete, and construction is progressing steadily — the new building promises to offer a modern and efficient space for city staff and expanded space for community events. Residents can stay informed about the construction of the new City Hall and future banking services by attending city meetings. The City of West Peoria meetings are available online. Visit www.cityofwestpeoria.org. The meeting link is on the meeting agenda.

The Interactive Teller Machine (ITM) has been installed near City Hall, offering residents 24/7 access to a range of banking transactions and the assistance of a remote teller, available 8 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays and from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays.

HERE COME THE HOLIDAYS: West Peoria’s strong sense of community is evident in the events taking place this fall. Boy Scout Troop 11, a pillar of the community for 80 years, will be delivering Christmas wreaths and butter braids from the sale in October. Be on the lookout for the dates when the Scouts continue their annual tradition of spreading holiday cheer as they cruise the streets of West Peoria playing Christmas carols.

The Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, hosted by the City of West Peoria and the West Peoria Residents’ Association, is scheduled for 6 p.m. Dec. 2. The location for this year’s ceremony is still up in the air due to construction. West Peoria City Hall will post information on the event location on its website and Facebook page closer to the event date. Local businesses have donated door prizes. Children and adults alike can enjoy crafts and conversation with neighbors. The evening culminates with a visit from Santa Claus.

LIGHT MEAL: A special thank you to the West Peoria Lighting District for the generous donation of sandwiches and chips for families attending the event. John Walker, Lighting District President, shared, “Having a light meal for the event helps neighbors coming straight from work and have hungry mouths to feed.”

A spirit of volunteerism is at the heart of all these community events, from the Christmas Tree Lighting to the Boy Scout fundraisers. This legacy dates back to the founding of the West Peoria Fire Department in 1939, built on the motto “Neighbors serving neighbors.” Community organizations all rely on the participation of our community members. Opportunities are available to lend a hand at an event, join a local organization, or attend and show your support; every contribution makes a difference.