Message from the Mayor

It's been a rough few months for all of us as we have had to navigate through the pandemic, heavy rainfall and some civil unrest. The City of Oak Forest, like most cities, is following the guidelines that have been put forth ahead of us to help mitigate the threats of Covid-19. Illinois is set to enter Phase 4 next week and hopefully we will all be able to enjoy our summer activities as more restrictions are lifted and places are opened. However, we must not be complacent and still adhere to the guidelines and recommendations provided to us.

We could not predict back in March where we would be at the end of June. However, I believe we made the right decisions to cancel city events based on the information that was provided to us by the experts. I will say it again, HUGE thanks to our Police, Fire, Telecommunications, Public Works and EMA for always protecting and serving our city and residents. Thank you to all the essential workers in our community and elsewhere who work day in and day out.

This weekend is Father's Day, so I would like to send out best wishes for a Happy Father's Day to all the Oak Forest fathers.

Coronavirus Phase 4 Update

Gatherings: All gatherings of 50 people or fewer are allowed with this limit subject to change based on latest data & guidance
Travel: Travel should follow IDPH and CDC approved guidance
Health care: All health care providers are open
Education and child care: P-12 schools, higher education, all summer programs, and child care open with IDPH approved safety guidance
Outdoor recreation: All outdoor recreation allowed

Businesses:

Manufacturing: All manufacturing open with IDPH approved safety guidance
“Non-essential” businesses: All employees return to work with IDPH approved safety guidance; Employers are encouraged to provide accommodations for COVID-19-vulnerable employees
Bars and restaurants: Open with capacity limits and IDPH approved safety guidance
Personal care services and health clubs: All barbershops, salons, spas and health and fitness clubs open with capacity limits and IDPH approved safety guidance
Entertainment: Cinema and theaters open with capacity limits and IDPH approved safety guidance
Retail: Open with capacity limits and IDPH approved safety guidance

For more information: https://coronavirus.illinois.gov/s/restore-illinois-phase-4.

Shop Oak Forest Small Businesses

This weekend is the first day of summer (June 20) and also, Father’s Day (June 21). There is no better place to celebrate both events than in the City of Oak Forest. Give Dad a break from the barbecue and treat him to one of our many area restaurants to enjoy outdoor dining. Oliver’s (6150 W. 159th St.), The Park at Oak Forest Bowl (15240 Cicero Ave.) or Carriag Irish Pub at Chicago Gaelic Park (6119 W. 147th St.) are just a few choices.

If you’re looking for a present for Grandpa or a favorite Uncle, shop locally at JMD Sox Outlet (6220 W. 159th St.) or Michael’s Watch & Jewelry (15139 S. Cicero Ave.) or grab a treat from Tee’s Cakes and Confections (16150 S. Cicero Ave.).

Shopping locally helps these small business owners stay in business in Oak Forest. Please keep in mind that due to Covid-19, many places require wearing a mask and may have limited hours. We recommend calling ahead for hours.

Water Conservation Reminder

Water conservation measures are currently in effect. Outside water use is allowed from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on odd or even dates based on your property address.

If drought conditions occur or the Village of Oak Lawn's water distribution center encounters mechanical trouble, more stringent restrictions could be implemented.

Push-In Ceremony at Fire Station 2

This past week, the fire department held a "push-in" ceremony for engine 40. The "push-in" ceremony dates back more than 100 years to a time before fire trucks were motorized and operated with horse drawn equipment. In those days, firefighters had to actually push their trucks into the station. Click on the photo to watch a video of our Oak Forest City Firefighters pushing the truck into its new home.

Small Business Assistance

The Business Interruption Grants (BIG) program is a series of grants totaling over $540 million for shops, restaurants, salons, fitness centers and more to help them stay afloat through this time of crisis and ensure they have the resources to open safely in the coming months.

Applications for these programs will open Monday, June 22 on the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) website and will remain open for 7-14 days. One week after the application period closes, grant administration partners will begin reaching out to recipients.

DCEO will post a full list of eligible costs and covered losses alongside each grant application. Businesses that have not received other grants and loans will be given priority.

Next Scheduled City Council Meeting will be Teleconferenced on Tuesday, June 23, 2020

City Hall Council Chambers - TIME: 7:30 PM

Click here to watch live stream of CIC-TV.

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