West Peoria News: City Hall is open for business

The new West Peoria City Hall has been dedicated and is open for business at the northeast corner of Rohmann and Sterling.
BRIAN LUDWIG

West Peoria officially ushered in a new chapter on Monday, July 21st, as the new City Hall celebrated its grand opening. The air was filled with a sense of community pride as residents explored the modern facility, a testament to years of careful planning and dedication. The building, designed to enhance efficiency and provide ample community space, felt like a welcoming hub for West Peoria’s future. This grand opening marked a significant milestone, symbolizing the city’s growth.

APRIL SILVER

SOCIABLE: The opening was just the beginning of a busy community calendar, too. Looking ahead to August, there’s a lineup of events designed to bring West Peorians together. One perennial favorite, the Boy Scout Troop 11 Ice Cream Social, is set for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 21, at the West Peoria Firehouse. For just a $3 donation per person, everyone is welcome to enjoy delicious treats, with all proceeds directly supporting our local Boy Scouts. It’s a wonderful way to beat the summer heat and support a cherished West Peoria institution.

WATCH PARTY: Safety and community spirit will intertwine from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, with the Neighborhood Watch “Going Away Party for Crime & Drugs” at the new City Hall. This engaging event will feature hot dogs and sno-cones served up by Mayor Dillon and Deputy Drake Hart, creating a friendly atmosphere for important community engagement. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to interact with the West Peoria Fire Department and the County Sheriff’s Department, which will be showcasing its armored vehicle, the “Bear Cat.” The evening promises family fun with face painting by Carol Reid and entertainment from the lively Flynn’s Irish Dancers. The next Neighborhood Watch meeting will be held at 2 p.m. Sept. 2, featuring speaker Sharon Kennedy.

SUNDAY MASS: Another beloved tradition, the 20th annual Mass for the residents of West Peoria, hosted by the Sisters of St. Francis of the Immaculate Conception, will take place at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 10 at the Motherhouse, located at 2408 W. Heading Avenue.

SANDWICHES! For those looking for a delicious way to support local heroes, the West Peoria Fire Department’s summer fundraiser continues its popular sandwich sales at the Owl’s Nest, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mark your calendars for upcoming dates: Aug. 16, Sept. 27, and Oct. 18.

Keep an eye out for the signs and treat yourself to a great Saturday lunch while supporting the dedicated men and women of our Fire Department.

ANNUAL MEETING: Finally, all residents are invited to attend the West Peoria Residents Association Annual Meeting at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8 at the new City Hall. This is a crucial opportunity for residents to voice opinions, offer feedback, make suggestions, and even express interest in assisting with any of the association’s projects. With meetings never lasting more than an hour, it’s a convenient way to stay involved and help shape the future of West Peoria.