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Residents interested in helping shape Village policy are invited to participate in one of the many volunteer citizen boards, commissions and committees that advise the Village Board of Trustees. The range of issues examined is varied, as are the time and citizen expertise required to participate. Most bodies meet monthly in Village Hall, 123 Madison St. To receive a volunteer application form, contact the Office of the Village Clerk at 358.5670 or email clerk@oak-park.us. Here's a brief overview of the boards, commissions and committees and their regularly scheduled meeting dates and times:
Advises on public health issues, and provides community education. Second Monday, 7:30 p.m.
The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), the agency that oversees PACE, METRA and the CTA, has agreed to help the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) formulate plans for the I-290 corridor. RTA involvement came at the request of both the North Central Council of Mayors, of which Oak Park is a member, and IDOT. The RTA will review transit alternatives in the I-290 and I-88 corridors, such as extending the CTA Blue Line to Lisle and concepts for high-speed bus transit along I-88. Meanwhile, citizens who were unable to attend the recent Chicago Area Transportation Study (CATS) public meeting on Shared Path 2030, the latest long range transportation plan for the region, may offer comments via the CATS website, http://www.catsmpo.com/sp2030/2030%20Email%20Form.html. Projects under review include the I-290 high-occupancy vehicle (HOV) proposal, extension of the CTA Blue line westward from Forest Park, bike and pedestrian improvements, METRA rail expansions and the Village's proposed cap over the expressway. The Village is seeking grant funds to study the cap concept, which could include bike facilities, parks, open space, rebuilt transit stations and pedestrian, bike and bus connections intended to reduce highway traffic demand. For more information, call 358.5770 or email village@oak-park.us. Information also is available on the Village website, oak-park.us.
Lead Poisoning Prevention Efforts Earn National Award
The Health Department's childhood lead poisoning prevention program has earned a "Best Practices Award" from the United States Conference of Mayors. Working with Village housing code inspectors, homes with children who are at risk for exposure are identified, educational materials provided, medical screenings recommended and ways to reduce environmental lead exposure discussed. Information about childhood lead poisoning prevention also is distributed to new residents through the New Resident Packet, pointing out that since more than 90 percent of Oak Park homes were built before 1970 they could contain lead paint. In addition, educational materials are provided to daycare homes and centers at each inspection. For more information, call 358.5480 or email health@oak-park.us.
Affordable Health Insurance
Two low-cost or free health care plans are now enrolling residents who meet financial eligibility guidelines. KidCare offers health care coverage to children and pregnant women and help in paying premiums of employer-sponsored or private insurance plans. Access to Care covers doctor's visits, lab tests, x-rays and prescriptions, with participants responsible for modest co-pay. For more information about either program call 358.5484.
Smoking Cessation Program Returns
"Freedom From Smoking", a free comprehensive six-week, seven-session smoking cessation program will be offered again. Orientation classes will be at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 10 at Village Hall, 123 Madison St. For more information or to register call 358.5484.
Hearing and Vision Screening Schedule
Hearing and vision screening for children 3 to 5 years old is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to noon, Fri., Sept. 27 at the Health Department Clinic, 320 Lake St. A parent or guardian must accompany the children. For more information or to make an appointment call 358.5491.
Immunization Clinic Set
Free immunizations will be given from 9 a.m. until noon, Sat., Sept. 21 at the Health Department Clinic, 320 Lake St. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. No appointment is necessary. Call 358.5486 for more information.
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