The West Peoria Township Relief Office has relocated to 2516 W. Rohmann Avenue. Their phone number is 674-0492.

The Street Department Manager asks that you please not shovel the end of your driveway until the plows have been down your street. This will save you the trouble of having to shovel again. It is against City Code to shovel your snow into the street. (Doing so only slows down the process of clearing the streets.)  This City Code also applies to raking leaves or landscape debris into the street because when it rains this causes the storm sewers to back up.

A parking ban on all West Peoria streets will be issued whenever two or more inches of snow is predicted, according to City Ordinance # 2006-17: All vehicles must be moved or it can result in a fine. Parking bans will be posted on all local television stations. Following is the snow route/parking code: SECTION 3-3-5 NO PARKING SNOW ROUTES – All streets within the corporate limits of the City of West Peoria are hereby designated as emergency snow routes. It shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on these streets at any time within twelve (12) hours after a snowfall of two (2) or more inches. Where there has been a snow forecast of two (2) or more inches for any calendar day, it shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on any of these streets for that calendar day.

The Street Department Manager shall be authorized to take the necessary actions to have those vehicles parked on streets designated as snow routes in violation of the provisions of this Section towed away in order to permit the clearing of snow from the snow routes. The payment of any and all charges incurred as a result of such towing shall be the responsibility of the vehicle’s owner. In addition to, or in lieu of towing the vehicle, the owner or lessor of the vehicle shall be fined $25.00 for first offense and $50.00 for second offense and for the third offense, the fine may be up to a maximum of $750.00. In all events, each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate offense.

WINTER STORM DAMAGE LIMB PICK UP – Please check the City website: www.cityofwestpeoria.com or contact City Hall for a copy of this policy.

Waste Management is the trash pickup provider for the City of West Peoria. Residents are responsible for establishing an account with them. Please call them at 1-800-796-9696 to set up your account. You will be billed for this service. Landscape Waste Pickup ends on the last Friday in December. It will begin again on the first Friday in April. This service is included in your Waste Management bill.

Illinois American Water partners with West Peoria to provide water service to the Stever District Improvement Association. The plans for transferring water service from the Stever District to Illinois American Water began many years ago. As of November 1st, the project was completed. The project involved the installation of 400 feet of new 8-inch water main, installing meters and transferring water service to approximately 62 customers. Mayor Dillon said, “This project will provide the residents in this neighborhood with better water quality, water pressure and water service.” He acknowledged several individuals for their commitment to the project. They are: Karla Teasley, Chris Johnson, Senator Koehler, and Rick Earley. Rick Early also noted the contributions of Don Neill, Gene Cooper, Bill Board and Sharon Woiwode. When asked about the start of the Stever District, Rick mentioned that he had a copy of bylaws for the District dated August 8, 1944. According to Mike Moler, operations manager for Illinois American Water, the project was necessary due to the age and condition of the current Stever water system. It will take three to five years for the upgrade of the entire system.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch meeting will be Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at West Peoria City Hall. The topic will be “Street Drugs.” Deputy Middlemas will give an up-date on any criminal activity in the area. The public is invited.

CityLink celebrated 2010’s excellent safety record at their Annual Safety Banquet. Among other awards 48 employees received the Great Performance Team Award. To win this award, the employee must work the entire fiscal year without any preventable accidents or incidents and have an outstanding attendance record. 97 employees were recognized for Great Safety. The criteria was no preventable accidents or incidents during the year. CityLink’s record speaks of the excellence of its employees and their care and concern for their customers and communities. These awards are presented to drivers and maintenance employees.

I wish all a successful, healthful and enjoyable 2011.

At the writing of this column, Haddad’s is a week away from re-opening. I know that many of us are ever so thankful to have them back as a vital part of our community and our lives. I know I missed them a lot and many people feel the same way.  Welcome back, everyone.

Christmas is just around the corner. Do you have a neighbor or loved one in West Peoria that needs a Christmas Food Basket? If so please call the West Peoria Lions Club at 673-6207 before December 12^th; the Club will see that they get a basket. Need a gift for that person who has everything? How about a Greater Peoria Dining Tour Book? They are still only $30.00 and the sale of these books helps the Lions fund needed programs for the visually and hearing Impaired. Call Emil @ 693-1191 or Jim @ 673-6207. The West Peoria Lions Club wishes everyone a Happy and healthy Holiday Season.

All West Peoria residents are required to sign up for garbage service with Waste Management – 1-800-796-9696. You will be charged for this service. Landscape Waste pickup ends on the last Friday in December. It will begin again on the first Friday in April. This service is included in your Waste Management bill.

As the winter season approaches, here is some information that will be vital to the way our City keeps up with the season when the season dumps snow on us.

Snow routes /Parking Ban information is as follows: All streets within the corporate limits of the City of West Peoria are hereby designated as emergency snow routes. It shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on these streets at any time within twelve (12) hours after a snowfall of two (2) or more inches.  When there has been a snow forecast of two (2) or more inches for any calendar day, it shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on any of these streets for that calendar day. The Street Department Manager shall be authorized to take the necessary actions to have those vehicles which are parked on streets designated as snow routes in violation of the provisions towed away in order to permit the clearing of snow from the snow routes. The payment of any and all charges incurred as a result of such towing away shall be the responsibility of the vehicle’s owner. In addition to, or in lieu of towing the vehicle, the owner or lessor of the vehicle shall be fined $25.00 for first offense and $50.00 for second offense and for the third offense, the fine may be up to a maximum of $750.00. In all events, each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate offense. This can be found in the City Code.

For winter storm damage limb pick-up, – Please check the City website or contact City Hall for a copy of the policy. For more information visit the City website:

www.cityofwestpeoria.com.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will meet Wednesday, December 14th at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Deputy Middlemas will give a brief up-date on any criminal activities in the area. Holiday refreshments will be served. The public is welcome.

The new West Peoria Library has opened. It was organized and is being run by Emily Huff and is located in the former West Bluff Christian Church at the corner of Kellogg and Cedar. A calendar showing current times and days of operation can be found taped to the back door of the building in the parking lot.  The library is run by volunteers and if you have an interest in becoming involved, stop by the library or contact Emily atwestpeorialibrary@yahoo.com.  Library cards are available and can be gotten at the library.  Check the back of the Church for updated information.

Now that colder weather is coming, it’s time to visit the West Peoria Library! The room has over 4,000 titles to choose from, everyone is sure to find a book to enjoy.

The library strives to be open Tuesday and Thursday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. However, this is volunteer staffed so someone may not always be available.

The new library signs are gold and red, so if they are out, generally someone is in the library. The entrance in the back of the building is the closest to the library and will be open on library days. If you are interested in volunteering a few hours, please come by the library or call Emily Huff , 453-8139. Support is picking up and many residents have come in to get a card and check out books. This will be a very busy season for the library!

Several upcoming events are planned for the winter months. A Children’s Story Hour will be held at the library on Fridays once a month. The first will be a Christmas-themed book and related craft on Friday, Dec. 16th. Story Hour will also be held Fri., Jan. 6th and Fri. Feb. 3rd. Storytime begins at 10:15 a.m. Children up to age five are welcome to attend with their parents. Registration is necessary; sign up at the library or call Emily for further details.

While the library isn’t accepting donations at this time due to lack of shelf space; the West Peoria Food Pantry is always accepting non-perishable food items and personal hygiene
products for all family members. the food pantry will be open to any West Peoria resident in need on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. -noon as soon as the shelves can be stocked. Food donations can be brought  any time to the library.

Thank you for showing your support for the West Peoria Library and Food Pantry. I hope to meet many residents these upcoming winter months through these endeavors.

My best wishes to all of you for a healthy, pleasant and fun-filled holiday season!

The new West Peoria Library has opened. It was organized and is being run by Emily Huff and is located in the former West Bluff Christian Church at the corner of Kellogg and Cedar. A calendar showing current times and days of operation can be found taped to the back door of the building in the parking lot. The library is run by volunteers and if you have an interest in becoming involved, stop by the library or contact Emily at westpeorialibrary@yahoo.com. Library cards are available and can be gotten at the library.  Check the back of the Church for updated information.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will meet on Wednesday, November 9, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Deputy Middlemas will give an update on criminal activity in the area.  West Peoria Residents’ Association will meet Thursday, November 17, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Public Welcome

If you know of a West Peoria family in need of a Christmas Food Basket please call 673-6207 or let City Hall or Township know.  The West Peoria Lions Club oversees the distribution of these holiday baskets.

Come join the West Peoria Lions Club on Sunday November 6^th for a bus trip to Catfish Bend Casino. This fundraiser trip will help raise money for Camp Lions. Just call 673-6207 to make your reservations for this fun event. Sadly the West Peoria Lions Club announces that they had to give up cleaning Rt. 8 due to the lack of volunteers to assist with that community project. It is hoped that in the future they can once again take on this project. The Club has some interesting speakers lined up for their meetings on the 4^th. Mondays of each month, everyone is welcome. For more details just call 673-6207.

Boy Scout Troop 11 started selling Christmas wreaths & butter braids on October 24th continuing until November 15th. Please contact any Troop 11 Boy Scout or call Bob DeSutter at 674-6668 to place an order. Delivery of wreaths & butter braids will be Nov. 19th.

All West Peoria residents are required to sign up for garbage service with Waste Management at 1-800-796-9696. You will be charged for this service. Landscape waste pick up is included. No open burning of trash or landscape waste is permitted. To report a violation of this policy, please call: Peoria County Sheriff at 672-6011. Please do not rake or blow leaves into the street as it causes the storm sewers to back up. Landscape waste pick up is available until the last Friday in December. For more information visit the City website:

www.cityofwestpeoria.com. Please contact City Hall 674-1993 with any additional questions or concerns.

The Friendship House, CityLink and Kroger Stuff-a-Bus campaign runs for the month of November. This campaign collects non-perishable food items for the food pantry at Friendship House. This 24^th annual campaign aims to fill a CityLink bus with donated food items from the community. Krogers has bags of prepackaged food that can be purchased as you go through their check-out lines. You can either pick up already filled bags for varying amounts or donate dollars. You can also bring canned goods to CityLink administration building, the transit center or leave with one of the drivers when you ride a bus. The 2^nd and 9^th of November will allow riders to travel free on CityLink buses for the donation of non-perishable food items. Take a ride, help others, donate food and see parts of your community on those dates. It affords an opportunity to you to do all of the above.

Friendship House provided 54,000 meals to our community this past year. The need for assistance grows greatly each year within the current economy. If you are employed, take the time to remember those less fortunate. Barbara Hartnett, Friendship House Director, states that individuals who were donors in the past, now come to them for food. Our community needs to care for all its members so that they in turn, can become healthier contributing members of our society. If you provide items for Stuff-a-Bus your contributions are very visible. It is very exciting and satisfying to see a bus loaded from front to back, floor to ceiling with donations to help others. It is a very visible part of the holiday season. Bring a spirit of caring, love and giving to your community. Let others know West Peoria as we know it, a community that cares.

November is a month for reflection and thinking about the past year as well as planning for the holiday season that is rapidly approaching. I wish all West Peorians a healthy, satisfying season and in the spirit of Thanksgiving, thank all our community leaders for their efforts, time, and hard work this past year.

The Annual West Peoria Memorial Day Service in honor of veterans is scheduled for Saturday, May 28^th at 10:00 a.m. at the Franciscan Park. This is an opportunity for all of us to celebrate and honor our veterans within our community. Plan on attending to celebrate this extended weekend with area veterans and scouts who participate in this event.

Property taxes may be paid during the month of May to the Township Tax Collector, Imelda Kelch at her residence at 2206 West Barker from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

All West Peoria properties are required to have garbage pickup. To sign up for garbage service with Waste Management – 1-800-796-9696. You will be charged for this service. Landscape waste pick up is included in the price. Landscape waste collection began the first Friday in April, and is picked up every Friday at the curb until the last Friday in December.

City Hall recently sent letters to all residents reminding them of garbage pickup regulations. Pay attention to that letter and keep our community safer, healthier, and attractive.

West Peoria Clean up Day is Saturday April 30: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Automobile tires will be taken for $3.00/ea and truck and tractor tires will be taken for $5.00 ea. The following items will not be taken: Food garbage, hazardous waste, paints, varnishes, oil, cleaning agents, chemicals, antifreeze, batteries, yard waste or brush. Volunteers are always needed to help at this event.  Please call Kelly Abraham at 673-6919 to volunteer.  Remember this clean up is for West Peorians only.

The thirteenth annual Jamboree Run is scheduled for June 4^th at 7:00 a.m.  It is a 4-mile run through a portion of West Peoria. All runners must register by 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 4^th.  Applications can be picked up at West Peoria City Hall. Race information will be available on the West Peoria Residents’ Association website at www.westpeoriaresidents.org.

The 25^th annual west Peoria Jamboree and Scout Carnival, sponsored by Boy Scout troop 11 will be the afternoon of June 4^th at Franciscan Park. Food and drink will be sold all day by the Jamboree sponsors: the West Peoria Fire Department, Ladies’ Auxiliary, West Peoria Lions and the West Peoria Residents Association. Music will be provided in the evening for all West Peorians and their families who wish to gather there. Flyers will be distributed with more information.

The 4^th of July Parade will again step-off this year at 10:00 a.m. on the morning of the 4^th.  It is hosted by the community of West Peoria, Troop and Pack 11 and the West Peoria Lions Club.  This is the 42^nd annual event which culminates with a flag raising ceremony following the end of the parade. Once again, we can expect thousands of outsiders to visit our community for this event, the longest running 4^th of July patriotic event in central Illinois. If you wish more information or questions, please contact Jim McCarter at:

jmmcarter@sbcglobal.net

or Mark Wrhel at:

mwrhel@comcast.net

The West Peoria Lions Club is selling 50/50 tickets to help with the expenses of the parade.  The drawing will be at the Flag Raising July 4^th.  Lions members will be out and about on the parade route as well so tuck a few bucks in your pocket that day. Selling will stop at the end of the parade.

A reminder: the Lions Club also sells Really Large coloring books, 100% soy candles and soaps. They make great gifts.Call 673-6207 to get yours.

April showers may bring May flowers but it does not bring highway clean-up, at least at the time of submitting this article. Rain has hindered the West Peoria Lions Club who has a two mile stretch to clean. They need your help, even an hour will help. Call 673-6207 to help.  Due to a conflict the June date published last time had to be changed to the 18^th. The Lions Club meets at Champs West 515 N. Western on the second and fourth Mondays of the month.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will meet on Wednesday, May 11, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Guest speaker is Beth Bernard with the Peoria County TRIAD. Please plan to attend and bring a friend. The West Peoria Residents Association will meet Thursday, May 19th, at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Guest speaker is Dave Schwab, from Waste Management. The public is welcome.

It is important to point out that this is the first time West Peoria has ever proposed a sales tax increase. In addition, the State income tax revenue received by West Peoria decreased significantly last year. The increase in taxes will be used to help pay for public safety – police protection. The additional tax will add 5 cents to a $10 purchase or 50 cents to a $100 purchase. The tax increase would affect most tangible personal property including sales of soft drinks, alcohol, prepared food purchased at restaurants and repair parts. Groceries, prescription, and non-prescription drugs are exempt from the tax increase.

West Peoria students from Calvin Coolidge Middle School and St. Marks Grade School, Manual and Notre Dame will attend Local Government Day on April 15th. It is from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. The City will have grade school students from 9:00 – 11:30 and the Township will have the high school students from 9:00 to ll:30. After lunch the students will switch and go to the other local government. The City will have a mock City Council Meeting with the students representing the elected officials choosing topics to discuss and to vote on. Mayor Dillon talks to the student and explains how the City functions. This will acquaint students with their local governments. Lunch is provided. The students can register to vote if they are 18.

The Annual West Peoria Clean Up Day is Saturday, April 30th and runs from 8:00 a.m. until mid-afternoon. Take this opportunity to clean up your property and bring the items to the city garage on N Hillside Ave. Tell your neighbors. No hazardous or landscape waste will be accepted. This is an opportunity for all with volunteers assisting during the day. Volunteers are needed. You can volunteer by calling township supervisor Robert DeSutter at 674-6668 or stopping by the office at 2516 W Rohmann Ave.

On April 12th, the Township will hold its Annual Town Meeting which is mandated by the state in order to have township residents become familiar with their township government and officials. It is held each year on the second Tuesday in April and is an opportunity for residents to ask questions of their officials as well as to learn what has happened in the past year. It will be held in the new township offices, located next to city hall at 2516 W Rohmann at 7:30 p.m. The April 12th, City Council Meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall. It is one of the oldest meetings in the country.

A West Peoria home will be included in the Rebuilding Together Peoria program this April. The West Peoria City Council, West Peoria Township, and West Peoria Residents Association have agreed to jointly sponsor a house this year. The home is located at 2515 W. Downs Circle. Rebuilding Together Peoria has been repairing homes in Peoria for 17 years: in East Peoria for 13 years; and in Richwoods Township for 5 years. A partnership with Peoria County began in 2010. Rebuilding Together is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization working to preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize communities. Rebuilding Together believes it can preserve affordable homeownership and revitalize communities by providing free home modifications and repairs, making homes safer, more accessible, and more energy efficient. This is a great opportunity for local government, businesses, and volunteers to team up together in order to fill a pressing need in our community. To volunteer please call 674-1993.

If you have questions for City Hall call 674-1993. Following is some information that may help you this spring. All residents are required to sign up for garbage service with Waste Management – 1-800-796-9696. You will be charged for this service. Landscape Waste Pick Up is included in the price. Landscape Waste Pick up begins on the first Friday in April, and is picked up every Friday at the curb until the last Friday in December. Garage Sales are permitted once each quarter for no more than three days. Building Permits are needed for several projects: porches, decks, sheds, garages, new driveways or sidewalks and new homes. Most residential permits are $25.00 and can be obtained by filling out the application at City Hall. Any questions, please call Code Officer Bill O’Neill at 674-1993 or 370-1142. It is residents’ responsibility to keep their section of the alleyway free of trash, their grass mowed and weeds trimmed at all times. Your section of the alleyway is from your property line to the center of the alley. There are still funds available in the Paint reimbursement Program. Please call City Hall for more information.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will meet Wednesday, April 13, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Guest speak is Captain Dan Kerns from the West Peoria Fire Department. His topic will be about Fire Safety in the Home. The public is invited. The West Peoria Residents’ Association will meet on Thursday, April 21, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. Guest speaker will be Mr. Thomas Blumer, Principal, Calvin Coolidge Middle School.

West Peoria Lions Club will be hosting a Fundraiser Sunday April 17th noon to 4:00 p.m. at Champs West 515 N. Western. “One Stop Shopping” will be available; buy a gift for Easter, Mothers Day, or a birthday. Vendors from Tupperware, Miche Purses, Pampered Chef, Watkins Products, Mary Kay, Soy Candles & Soaps, Fused Glass Pendants, Beaded Jewelry, & Really Large Coloring Books will be on hand to help you pick that special gift. Please come and support this worthy fundraiser.

Spring is in the air and West Peoria Highway Clean-up is starting for 2011 and the Lions Club needs your help keeping our community beautiful. Volunteer Saturday April 9th at the city garage at 8:00 a.m. and lend a hand. We work 8:00 a.m. until noon and then serve lunch to the hard working crew. Call for more info @ 673-6207 We sure can use your help.

The WPLC welcomes you to stop in and visit at one of their meetings on the second Monday for the Board Meeting and the fourth Monday for general meeting with a speaker at 6:00 PM, dinner 6:30 meeting. They meet in the side room at Champs at 515 N. Western. Any questions call 673-6207. The Club recycles old keys, glasses, hearing aids, tabs, cell phones, ink cartridges. There are boxes at Alwan’s Pharmacy for you to drop off or call 673-6207 and we can make arrangements to pick up.

This past weekend, I had my first party without Haddad’s as my backup. It was not easy and much discussion was held about how we all miss Haddad’s every day.

You will likely run into people you haven’t seen since January 1, 2011. There also is an account established at SouthSide Bank on Rohmann for donations to also assist the employees during their long time without employment. These are people who cheerfully and conscientiously assisted us whenever we attended the store. Donations may also be taken to City Hall. Any extra funds not used by the employees will be turned over to the West Peoria Fire Department. Plan on seeing some of your friends on February 13^th and show the depth of respect we have for our missing friends and colleagues who made Haddad’s so special for all of us.

The West Peoria Residents’ Association will meet Thursday February 17, 2011, at 6:30 at City Hall. Bill Woodard, superintendent Madison Park Golf, will be the guest speaker at the WPRA February meeting speaking about the history of Madison Park and a planned hike  in Madison Park on Saturday 19th, 2011.  On Saturday, February 19, 2011, beginning at 11:00 am, David Pittman, WPRA, will lead a hike into Madison Park to view some of the history and beauty it offers. In the first half hour the group will walk around the 100 year old clubhouse, examine the foundations of the former ‘swinging’ suspension bridge and offer a close up look at some of the largest trees in Peoria County. This part of the walk will be completely level. The remainder of the hike will be more physically demanding and take approximately one hour. The walkers will traverse hilly terrain to examine the Madison Park hillside year-round spring and hike into Horseshoe Bottoms, a former oxbow lake. The hike will look closely at several 10,000 year old glacial hill prairie sites and return to Madison Park through St Mary’s Cemetery. The hike is open to children if they are accompanied by a parent or guardian and will occur no matter the weather so dress accordingly. If you want to join the fun please plan to meet in the parking lot of the clubhouse accessed from Martin Luther King Drive. You need to arrive a few minutes before 11:00 a.m.

The Consolidated Election for the City of West Peoria will be April 5, 2011. Offices up for Election are: mayor, city clerk, treasurer, and one alderman in each of the four wards. Candidates are: Mayor – Incumbent – James R. Dillon, City Clerk – Incumbent – Carole Stephens, Treasurer – Incumbent – Jennifer Main, Ward 1 – Incumbent – Hazel Thomas, Ward 2 – Incumbent -  Write In, Vote for one in Ward 3 – Incumbent – John Venzon Jr. or Candidate -   Gus Mason Jr., Ward -4  Incumbent Thomas S. Dwyer. A referendum is also included in the voting on April 5^th.  Following is the referendum included on the ballot: Question: Shall the City of West Peoria impose a retailers’ occupation tax of up to one-half percent (1/2%), on the gross receipts from sales at retail of tangible personal property excluding the sale of food for human consumption that is to be consumed off the premises where it is sold (other than alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, and food that has been prepared for immediate consumption) and prescription and non-prescription medicines, drugs, medical appliances, and insulin, urine testing materials, syringes, and needles used by diabetics and on the gross receipts from  the selling of all tangible personal property transferred by such servicemen either in the form of tangible personal property or in the form of real estate as an incident to a sale of service as provided by Illinois law, to wit: 65 ILCS 5/8-11-1.3 and 8-11-1.4, as may be amended from time to time.

West Peoria TIF District I Expansion: In 2005 the City of West Peoria established a Tax Increment Financing District (TIF I). The TIF District enables the City to apply TIF revenues for public infrastructure and other eligible improvements within the TIF I Project Area.  Since the establishment of the TIF I District, the City has made commitments of time and money to address its goals and to encourage conservation and redevelopment of the area. The proposed expansion will enable the City to make additional public improvements to further enhance the redevelopment of the area throughout the remaining life of TIF District I. The proposed timeline for the TIF I Amendment is available at City Hall. The Public Hearing is scheduled for March 1^st at City Hall at 6:00 p.m. A map showing the existing TIF I properties and the properties to be added is available at City Hall.

West Peoria TIF District II:  The City proposes to establish West Peoria TIF District II by redeveloping property that is currently underutilized for commercial, residential and light industrial types of development in order to increase its population, increase employment opportunities, expand and diversify the local tax base, manage growth and increase the overall value and quality of life of the community for its residents. The properties to be included in the TIF II District were annexed to the City in 2010. The proposed timeline for the establishment of TIF District II is available at City Hall. The Public Hearing is scheduled for March 1^st at City Hall at 6:00 p.m. A map showing the existing TIF II properties is available at City Hall.

The Street Department Manager asks that you please not shovel the end of your driveway until the plows have been down your street. This will save you the trouble of having to shovel again. It is against City Code to shovel your snow into the street.  (Doing so only slows down the process of clearing the streets.)  This City Code also applies to raking leaves or landscape debris into the street because when it rains this causes the storm sewers to back up.

A parking ban on all West Peoria streets will be issued whenever 2 or more inches of snow is predicted, according to City Ordinance # 2006-17: All vehicles must be moved or it can result in a fine. Parking bans will be posted on all local television stations. Following is the snow route/parking code: SECTION 3-3-5NO PARKING SNOW ROUTES  All streets within the corporate limits of the City of West Peoria are hereby designated as emergency snow routes. It shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on these streets at any time within twelve (12) hours after a snowfall of two (2) or more inches. Where there has been a snow forecast of two (2) or more inches for any calendar day, it shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on any of these streets for that calendar day.

The Street Department Manager shall be authorized to take the necessary actions to have those vehicles parked on streets designated as snow routes in violation of the provisions of this Section towed away in order to permit the clearing of snow from the snow routes. The payment of any and all charges incurred as a result of such towing shall be the responsibility of the vehicle’s owner. In addition to, or in lieu of towing the vehicle, the owner or lessor of the vehicle shall be fined $25.00 for first offense and $50.00 for second offense and for the third offense, the fine may be up to a maximum of $750.00. In all events, each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate offense.

The West Peoria Lions as well as all of the community are reeling from the loss of Haddad’s Market. It really hits this Club as Mark and Erika and one of their employee’s, Dorothy, are all members. The Club will be there to lend support in any way needed to help rebuild the heart of our community, “Haddad’s Market” Our prayers go out to all of Haddad’s employees.

This Christmas the Lions Club delivered a record number of food baskets in West Peoria.  Because of this met demand, the Club will be looking at new avenues to fund this program for 2011 as they believe the need will only continue to increase.  One very successful fundraiser, Really Large Coloring Books, has been sold at Haddad’s over the last couple of years and now that outlet is lost until they rebuild. The Club is open to any ideas to help continue to sell these books. Please contact any WPLC member with any suggestions or ideas you have. The 2011 Lions Club Highway clean-up schedule is: April 9^th, June 11^th, Aug 13^th, and Oct 8^th. 8 a.m. to noon. Please consider giving an hour or two to help in this important and needed effort.  Remember the Club recycles: eye glasses, hearing aids, cell phones, ink cartridges, keys, and tabs. Boxes at Alwan’s Pharmacy are available to donations of  any of these items or call 208-3815. Check out the West Peoria Lions Club web site, WPLions.org, to learn what a great difference you can make by becoming a Lion or ask a current member who will be happy to talk to you.

The West Peoria Township Relief Office has relocated to 2516 W. Rohmann Avenue.  Their phone number is: 674-0492

 The West Peoria Township Relief Office has relocated to 2516 W. Rohmann Avenue. Their phone number is: 674-0492.

 The Street Department Manager asks that you please not shovel the end of your driveway until the plows have been down your street. This will save you the trouble of having to shovel again. It is against City Code to shovel your snow into the street. (Doing so only slows down the process of clearing the streets.)  This City Code also applies to raking leaves or landscape debris into the street because when it rains this causes the storm sewers to back up.

 A parking ban on all West Peoria streets will be issued whenever two or more inches of snow is predicted, according to City Ordinance # 2006-17: All vehicles must be moved or it can result in a fine. Parking bans will be posted on all local television stations. Following is the snow route/parking code: SECTION 3-3-5 NO PARKING SNOW ROUTES – All streets within the corporate limits of the City of West Peoria are hereby designated as emergency snow routes. It shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on these streets at any time within twelve (12) hours after a snowfall of two (2) or more inches. Where there has been a snow forecast of two (2) or more inches for any calendar day, it shall be unlawful to park any vehicles on any of these streets for that calendar day.

 The Street Department Manager shall be authorized to take the necessary actions to have those vehicles parked on streets designated as snow routes in violation of the provisions of this Section towed away in order to permit the clearing of snow from the snow routes. The payment of any and all charges incurred as a result of such towing shall be the responsibility of the vehicle’s owner. In addition to, or in lieu of towing the vehicle, the owner or lessor of the vehicle shall be fined $25.00 for first offense and $50.00 for second offense and for the third offense, the fine may be up to a maximum of $750.00. In all events, each day the violation exists shall constitute a separate offense. 

 WINTER STORM DAMAGE LIMB PICK UP – Please check the City website: www.cityofwestpeoria.com  or contact City Hall for a copy of this policy.

 Waste Management is the trash pickup provider for the City of West Peoria. Residents are responsible for establishing an account with them. Please call them at 1-800-796-9696 to set up your account. You will be billed for this service. Landscape Waste Pickup ends on the last Friday in December. It will begin again on the first Friday in April. This service is included in your Waste Management bill.

 Illinois American Water partners with West Peoria to provide water service to the Stever District Improvement Association. The plans for transferring water service from the Stever District to Illinois American Water began many years ago. As of November 1^st, the project was completed.  The project involved the installation of 400 feet of new 8-inch water main, installing meters and transferring water service to approximately 62 customers. Mayor Dillon said, “This project will provide the residents in this neighborhood with better water quality, water pressure and water service.” He acknowledged several individuals for their commitment to the project. They are: Karla Teasley, Chris Johnson, Senator Koehler, and Rick Earley. Rick Early also noted the contributions of Don Neill, Gene Cooper, Bill Board and Sharon Woiwode. When asked about the start of the Stever District, Rick mentioned that he had a copy of bylaws for the District dated August 8, 1944. According to Mike Moler, operations manager for Illinois American Water, the project was necessary due to the age and condition of the current Stever water system. It will take 3 to 5 years for the upgrade of the entire system.

 The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch meeting will be Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at 6:30 p.m. at West Peoria City Hall. The topic will be “Street Drugs.” Deputy Middlemas will give an up-date on any criminal activity in the area. The public is invited.

 CityLink celebrated 2010’s excellent safety record at their Annual Safety Banquet. Among other awards 48 employees received the Great Performance Team Award. To win this award, the employee must work the entire fiscal year without any preventable accidents or incidents and have an outstanding attendance record. 97 employees were recognized for Great Safety. The criteria was no preventable accidents or incidents during the year. CityLink’s record speaks of the excellence of its employees and their care and concern for their customers and communities. These awards are presented to drivers and maintenance employees.

 I wish all a successful, healthful and enjoyable 2011.

The West Peoria Neighborhood Watch will not meet in December. The next Neighborhood Watch meeting is January 12, 2011, 6:30 p.m. at City Hall. The topic is “Street Drugs.”  Deputy Middlemas will give an up-date on any criminal activity in the area.

The holiday season is just around the corner! The West Peoria Lions Club wants to make sure that everyone has a happy holiday season. They will again be giving back to the community by having their Annual Christmas Food Basket Program for families or individuals who could use a little extra help during this special time of year. If you know of someone in the West Peoria, Bellevue, or the Norwood area, please contact Lion Erika by December 10^th at 453-4274 or email her at eboundy2002@yahoo.com.  Please provide the name and addresses of those families, also include if children are in the home as the Club likes to do a little something extra in for them.

Illinois American Water is partnering with West Peoria to provide water service to the Stever District Improvement Association. The plans for transferring water service from the Stever District to Illinois American Water began many years ago. As of November 1^st, the project was completed. The project involved the installation of 400 feet of new 8-inch water main, installing meters and transferring water service to approximately 62 customers. Mayor Dillon said, “This project will provide the residents in this neighborhood with better water quality, water pressure and water service.” He acknowledged several individuals for their commitment to the project: Karla Teasley, Chris Johnson, Senator Koehler, and Rick Earley. The Mayor and Rick Early both made a special comment about Pat Roedell. They wished that she had been able to see the transfer completed. Rick Early also noted the contributions of Don Neill, Gene Cooper, Bill Board and Sharon Woiwode.  When asked about the start of the Stever District, Rick mentioned that he had a copy of bylaws for the District dated August 8, 1944.  According to Mike Moler, operations manager for Illinois American Water, the project was necessary due to the age and condition.

Daryl Klusendorf, owner of Sky Harbor Steakhouse, came up with the idea for FRED, Farmington Road Entertainment District. FRED is being formed to remind our neighbors, newcomers and guests to the area of the many entertainment opportunities along the two mile stretch of Farmington Road. The goals for FRED are to enhance and maximize the business we already have by working together and to invite and welcome new customers to the area. The first order of business for FRED is the creation of a logo. Again, Daryl notes that all great ideas begin on a cocktail napkin. So, all logo suggestions for FRED have been submitted on cocktail napkins.

A new business has opened in West Peoria. The business is Karma – the Hookah Lounge. Hookah lounges are mostly found in college towns and urban areas and are a great way to socialize and embrace multiculturalism. The lounge does not serve alcohol, instead serves flavored tobacco and offers about 50 different flavors of tobacco. To comply with the state’s smoking ban, the business must derive 80 percent of its income from the sale of tobacco products.

Road construction is complete on Ashland Avenue. Thank you to everyone for your patience and cooperation during this project.

West Peoria City Hall will be closed for the Christmas and New Year Holidays on: Friday, December 24^th and Friday, December 31^st.

Waste Management is the trash pickup provider for the City of West Peoria. Residents are responsible for establishing an account with them. Please call them at 1-800-796-9696 to set up your account. You will be billed for this service. Landscape Waste Pickup ends on the last Friday in December. It will begin again on the first Friday in April. This service is included in your Waste Management bill.

A Parking Ban on all West Peoria streets will be issued whenever two or more inches of snow is predicted, according to City Ordinance # 2006-17. All vehicles must be moved or it could result in a fine. The following information is provided regarding snow routes and right-of-way obstructions. The Street Department Manager asks that you please not shovel the end of your driveway until the plows have been down your street. This will save you the trouble of having to shovel again. It is against City Code to shovel your snow into the street.because this only slows the process of clearing the streets.This City Code also applies to raking leaves or landscape debris into the street; when it rains because this causes the storm sewers to back up. Winter storm damage limb pickup information can be learned at the City website or by contacting City Hall.

My sincere wishes for a healthy, happy, productive 2011 following a happy holiday season. Take care.