Dispatch Center

The City of Oak Forest's dispatch center is a liaison between residents and the Oak Forest Police Department. The dispatch center's goal is to provide effective and compassionate service in what can be difficult, trying and confusing times. It is located at 15440 S. Central Avenue in the same building as City Hall on the Police Department side. Dispatchers are on duty 24 hours a day – answering emergency (911) and non-emergency (708-687-1376) calls.

Role of the Dispatcher

The city's 12 dispatchers answer approximately 30,000 to 50,000 emergency and non-emergency calls annually. While answering calls is their primary responsibility, the dispatchers also handle walk-ins at the police station, take payments for parking and local ordinance tickets (when City Hall is closed), coordinate tow releases, record maintenance and, in case of a storm, operate the tornado alarm. All of the city's dispatchers have been extensively trained in emergency medical dispatch and LEADS. All female dispatchers are qualified matrons.

Role of the Court Clerk

A trained dispatcher, the court clerk's responsibilities include processing tickets for parking, ordinance and moving violations. The clerk maintains records of arrest and keeps track of court dates and disposition of those hearings. The court clerk also attends court hearings at the city's adjudication court to provide all documents related to each case. Typically, the clerk works Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.