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CITY NEWS
Go Cubs, Go! 
Congratulations Cubs on winning the National League Division Series.  Good Luck in the National League Championship Series!
Official Facebook, Twitter & Nixle Links 
There are several Facebook pages that come up when doing a search for our City page.  Please use this link to "Like" us for city contact information and current city news on the City of Darien Official Facebook Page 

 

The City of Darien Now "Tweets"!  Please follow us on twitter at  Cityofdarien. 

 

The Nixle text alert system provides for the City to send out urgent and emergency alerts via text messages.  This a FREE service.  To sign up for Nixle, visit our website and click on the nixle icon or visit the nixle website here.
Chief of Police Recruitment 
The City of Darien, Illinois, (residential population of 22,086), a Home-Rule suburban community located 20 miles west of downtown Chicago, on the eastern edge of DuPage County, is seeking to fill the position of Chief of Police. The Chief is appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the City Council. The Chief is a sworn, exempt position reporting directly to the City Administrator and is responsible for the administration and direction of the Police Department. The Department consists of 33 sworn police positions, 11 civilian positions, and a budget of $7,300,000. The next Police Chief will have significant experience and education in staffing allocation, police accountability models, community engagement, and data driven police operations.
 
The ideal candidate will be a graduate from an accredited college or university with a minimum of a Bachelors Degree and eight years of increasingly responsible managerial experience in a law enforcement agency. A Masters Degree, completion of F.B.I. Academy, Staff and Command, or similar institute or academy training is desirable.

For a detailed recruitment package please visit the City of Darien website at  www.darien.il.us
Tax Assessor Presentation at October 19
City Council Meeting 
Downers Grove Township Assessor Theresa Cockrell will be attendance at the October 19 City Council meeting, which begins at 7:30 p.m. Ms.Cockrell will answer questions about the property assessment process as it relates to property valuations for tax purposes.
Trick or Treat Hours
The City of Darien does not regulate Trick-or-Treat hours.  We recommend you Trick-or-Treat during daylight hours, and enjoy the Lions Club Halloween party at night. 
Free Fall Leaf Pickup 
The City of Darien will again be providing fall leaf pick-up FREE OF CHARGE to residents. The program will run from Thru Nov. 28 of this year, and will take place weekly on your normal garbage day.

 Leaves should be placed in brown kraft yard waste bags or in plastic garbage cans. If garbage cans are used they must have a permanent "YARD WASTE ONLY" label attached to the front of the can so the driver can identify it as leaf pickup. These labels are available free of charge at city hall.

Residents are not permitted to rake leaves into the street. Raking leaves into the street can cause serious local flooding for you and your neighbors. For more information please call 630-852-5000.
 City Administrator
(630) 353-8114
(630) 852-5000
(630) 971-3999
(630) 852-5000
Mayor
City Clerk
Treasurer
Ward 1
Ward 2
Ward 3
Ward 4
Thomas Chlystek
Ward 5
Joseph Marchese
Ward 6
Ward 7
City Council Meetings
 
Monday, October 19
7:30 p.m.

Monday, November 2
7:30 p.m.
Agendas for City and Committee Meetings

The following links will direct you to the City Meeting and Committee agendas and packet information on our website.  Stay informed on City issues and upcoming projects!    

All Agendas

View Darien Meetings on YouTube!

You may now view city meetings on YouTube by clickng here.

 

Our user name is DarienCableChannel.  You may still access meetings from the links on  our website.

Meet & Greet Mayor Weaver! The third Monday of every month at Darien City Hall from 6 - 7pm
 
Find out the latest city updates - Share your thoughts and suggestions. Get involved - Meet  other residents!
View Darien Police Department Weekly Incident Report
You may view the Darien Police Department weekly incident report by  clicking here

View Chief Brown's Monthly Police Report 

You may view the Police Chief's monthly press release by  
 clicking here 

Submit an article for Direct Connect 

You may submit an article for Direct Connect by emailing  mwintermute@darienil.gov
Carbon Monoxide FAQS  
State of Illinois requires single family and multiple family residences to have at least one approved and operating carbon monoxide alarm within 15 feet of each bedroom.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced during incomplete combustion of fuels - for example, natural gas, LP gas, kerosene, oil, wood, and charcoal. The gas is lethal to humans if it builds up in the home.

Carbon monoxide alarms may be battery powered, plug-in with battery back-up, or AC hard wired with battery back-up. Batteries should be changed regularly to ensure proper operation.

Carbon monoxide alarms are widely available in hardware and home improvement stores. Prices start at approximately $20.

Additional information on carbon monoxide can be found http://www.solutions.uiuc.edu/ or http://www.healthyindoorair.org/
Furnace Safety Tips  
It's that time of year again - when the temperature drops and the furnace is put back into service. It's important to keep your furnace in working order to maximize its efficiency while ensuring the safety of your home and family. Here are a few tips for regular maintenance you should plan on with your furnace.
 
Service by a Technician
Have your furnace checked each year by a certified heating and cooling technician.
A regular maintenance visit might include a cleaning of the motor, blower (including belts and pulleys) and filter system as well as replacement of the oil filter, adjustments for the burner and other regulators and controls.
 
Replace Your Furnace Filters
Regular furnace maintenance should include replacing furnace filters on a monthly basis. A clogged filter can cause the furnace to work harder to move air which will then use more energy and raise your heating bill. An overtaxed furnace can also become a fire hazard in your home, which makes this simple maintenance project an absolute must.
If you are uncertain if your furnace filter actually needs to be changed, here is a good way to tell. Hold your filter up to a light bulb. Do you see a clear outline of the bulb or do you just see dirt and dust? If you can't see the bulb - change the filter. If you have pets in your home or smoke (or live with a smoker) you will probably need to change your filter more often. When in doubt - change it out. Replacement filters are a lot less expensive than a replacement blower motor in your furnace or worse yet, a whole new furnace.
 
Check for Obstructions
Make sure your return air vents and supply registers are not blocked. They should be free of obstructions by furniture, clothing or other items in your home. This should be a regular part of your maintenance routine and will only take a few minutes to do.
 
Check the Blower
Check the blower assembly in your furnace. The belt should not be loose or damaged. If your furnace doesn't have a sealed blower motor you should add a few drops of oil to the motor for smoother running and better efficiency.
 
Call a Professional
As with any home improvement project, if you don't feel experienced or comfortable in attempting to do more than simple maintenance (changing filters, checking for obstructions), call a professional.
DuPage County Residents Urged to be Mindful of Water Quality this Fall 
The fall season has begun, and it is time for football, cooler days and changing leaves. However, the changing season also brings the inevitable need for yard cleanup.

 
All Dupage County residents live in a watershed, meaning most everything entering storm drains eventually runs into rivers or streams. In autumn, leaves are oftentimes blown or swept into storm drains and waterways and can become a source of water pollution. Once they reach waterways, leaves decompose and release phosphorous into the water, which can result in algae blooms and decreased oxygen for fish.

However, pollutants are not the only problem. Leaves can also build up along curbs, gutters and storm drains, which blocks stormwater runoff from entering this drainage infrastructure. Should a major weather event occur, this can lead to localized flooding.
DuPage County residents can help to keep excess leaves out of storm sewers and waterways by engaging in a number of activities.
  • Start a compost pile or add leaves to an existing one. While the organic debris is not ideal for aquatic life, composted leaves and other organic materials are an excellent resource for fertilizing your garden in the summer months. It provides necessary nutrients, while also reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
  • Leaves can be chopped into small pieces using a mulching mower, which will decompose directly on lawns. The leaf pieces can also be collected and spread around flowerbeds and shrubs as mulch.
For more information, visit the website. 
City of Darien FREE Smart Phone App Now Available!  
The City of Darien smart phone app is now available!  The app will allow easy, mobile access to city information, services and request.  This FREE app is called Darien Connect, and is available in the Apple Store and the Google Play Store.
 
COUNTY/STATE/FEDERAL NEWS
Pay Your Water Bill by Phone or Online! 
 You can now pay your DuPage County water bill online!  Visit DuPage Public Works website at  https://www.dupageco.org/publicworks/ for the link.

You can also check your balance and make a phone payment at 855-748-8523. 
Electronic Recycling Information 

The State of Illinois has banned computers, monitors, printers, televisions, and other electronics from landfills. If any of these items are left curbside, they will not be picked up.  There are many options to responsibly recycle your electronics throughout DuPage County. Residents are encouraged to visit the DuPage County  website or SCARCE for information on how to recycle electronics  

COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS
Shop Local - Shop Darien
The Darien Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce their Shop Local Shop Darien Campaign. We encourage residents to support Darien Chamber businesses that display the Shop Local Shop Darien decal posted in their window. Shop Darien Shop Local Preferred Cards are now on sale for $5 at the Darien Chamber of Commerce office in City Hall or at local Darien Chamber member businesses.  Visit the Chamber at www.darienchamber.com  for all the Shop Local Shop Darien Preferred Offers and Discounts! 
Darien Chamber of Commerce "Paint the Town Pink" 
Darien Chamber of Commerce Women in Business will be hosting "Paint the Town Pink" during the month of October in the City of Darien.

We are encouraging all businesses and residents to decorate their home or business in pink for the entire month of October to support Breast Cancer!   A Silent Auction was held at DarienFest for 6 beautiful Adirondack Chairs designed by local artist. 100% of the proceeds will provide meals for Women in Darien and the surrounding area going through Breast Cancer Treatment. If you are currently going through breast cancer treatment or aware of anyone, please call the Chamber office at 630-968-0004.   
New Kiwanis Club of Darien Formed 
There always has been a need for good fellowship and service. Since the beginning of time, there was a need for camaraderie and the desire to support communities. The history of Kiwanis and how it began is, in large part, the story of how fellowship and service developed within an organization. It is the special kind of service Kiwanis offers and which today crosses many national, cultural, and personal lines.

Kiwanis is a worldwide service organization of men and women who share the challenge of community and world improvement. Today, Kiwanis has adopted a new slogan: "Serving the Children of the World, One Child and One Community at a time."

The Kiwanis family includes organizations for young people, which are sponsored by clubs, and the Kiwanis International Foundation. K-Kids, at the elementary level, Builders Club, at the middle school level, Aktion Clubs, for people who are living with a disability, Key Clubs, at the high school level, and Circle K Clubs, at the college level, provide youth the opportunity to help others, become personally involved in their community, and build a positive future for themselves.

Being a Kiwanis member can be rewarding in many ways. The greatest gift you could ever give yourself as a person is the gratification in knowing you are contributing your help, time, and efforts to people in and out of your community who are in need.

Ready to help children and families in the Darien Community! Ready to change the world? Kiwanis is ready for you!   Join us - and become a part of changing children's lives!
Contact Clare Bongiovanni at 630-968-0004 and/or Mary Carlson at randmcarlson@comcast.net or 630-308-0805 for more information.
Sunny Patch Project - Sunny Saturday Open House  
Join us for our Sunny Saturday Open House at The Sunny Patch Community Garden starting Saturday, October 3rd and every Saturday through October! The event takes place at the garden patch located on the grounds of Safety Village of Darien, 7400 Cass Avenue

No fancy hayrides here, though we can run you around in our Radio Flyer wagon if that's what you like!  Visit our worm patch and marvel at our red wigglers! Take a casual walk through our garden patch to see what we're growing for our at risk families in Darien.  Cherry Tomatoes are free if you can snag one from the vine and we'll have tomato tasting stations and spontaneous salsa samplings!  If you're real good we may let you harvest a baby carrot of your very own. Our herb patches are free for the picking and stopping to smell the Lemon Verbena and Patchouli are strongly encouraged. You may be asked to plant a winter crop or two but we promise you won't get too dirty - garden gloves optional!
 
We've spent the summer working to grow hundreds of vegetables to share with some of our neighbors.  We're working to raise awareness about the food gaps here in Darien and surrounding communities and the fact that over 43% of families here in Darien struggle with food insecurity.
 
This event is FREE though donations are always welcome.  See you Saturday - Rain or Shine!
Fall Childrens Clothing Sale
Darien Woman's Club (DWC) Fall Childrens Clothing Resale is set for Saturday, October 17 from 9am - 2pm.  Please note the new location at Lace School on the corner of 75th and Cass.
 
Purchase fall/winter boys & girls clothes, infant-size 16; uniforms, costumes, outerwear, maternity, baby/child equipment, shoes, skates, and boots.
 
At the sale, credit card or cash accepted.  Some items half-price after 12PM.  NO CHILDREN ALLOWED ON SELLING FLOOR BEFORE 12PM.  Shoppers may not have strollers/backpacks on selling floor.

Contact Debbie Uhlar 630-215-4942 or Joanna Petersen 630-689-6754 or visit resale@darienwomansclub.org 
Darien Youth Club Sports Registration
Darien Youth Club Basketball & Vollebyall Registration Now Open!
 
Are you looking for exciting activities for your kids to enjoy during the fall and winter months? Darien Youth Club has open registration for the following sports...
 
Instructional basketball k-2nd grade - NEW to DYC this year!!
Co-ed basketball 3-12th grade
Co-ed volleyball 3rd-8th grade
 
All play, no tryouts and no outside residence fees. Registration closes October 19. For more information or to register visit www.DarienYouthClub.org
Indian Prairie Public Library Foundation Fundraiser: Dancing in the Spooky Stacks
It's not too late to get your tickets for Dancing in the Spooky Stacks, the Indian Prairie Public Library Foundation's unique fundraising event featuring an after-hours library performance by The Neverly Brothers, on Saturday, Oct. 24, 7-10 p.m.

A costume contest, cash bar, and light snacks will be available. Wine is being provided by Whole Foods Market Willowbrook, and beer is being provided by Darien's very own Miskatonic Brewing Company. (Must be 21 or older to attend.) Tickets are available for purchase at the library or by calling the Checkout Desk at (630) 887-8760. Tickets are $20 each and 25% off if you buy four or more (while supplies last). VIP tickets (limited quantity) are $50 and include a meet and greet with the band, reserved seating with a full view of the stage, an autographed event poster signed by the band, and two beverage tickets.

Proceeds will be used to support children's literacy and learning. Visit www.spookystacks.ippl.info for information.
Darien Chamber of Commerce Health & Wellness Fair 
The Darien Chamber of Commerce will host a health and wellness fair on Wednesday, October 28 from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Chuck's Cafe, 8025 South Cass Avenue.  Admission is FREE.  Nothing feels as good as healthy - Come and get your health on!  For more information visit the Chamber website. 
Electronic Recycling Event & Coat Drive 
Christ the Servant will be hosting an electronic recycling event and coat drive  on Saturday, October 31 from 9:00 a.m. to noon, located at 8700 Havens Drive in Woodridge.

They will be taking computers, printers, fax machines, medical equipment, copy machines, hard drives, extension cords, and more. Please note: there will be a charge of .20 cents per pound for TVs and CRT's.

Questions? Please contact Nancy Roche via e-mail 
Lions Club Halloween Party 
The Darien Lions Club will host its annual Halloween Part for area children on Saturday, October 31 at the Sportsplex, 451 Plainfield Road, from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

The event features many fun games and prizes for all children attending along with a graveyard photo booth, magic shows and other attractions. A Sportsplex ice rink is also available for use by older children. As always-admission is free courtesy of the Darien Lions Club.
St. John "Trunk or Treat" 
St. John Lutheran Early Learning Center will again host a safe and fun-packed Trunk-or-Treat community event in their parking lot located at 7214 South Cass Avenue on Saturday, October 31 from 12:00 noon to 2:00 p.m. weather permitting. Everyone is invited. There is no admission fee.
Trunk-or-Treat is an event at which people gather and park their vehicle with the back ends opened and decorated in a variety of themes complete with games and treats. Children are then free to stroll from place to place in a traffic-free and supervised area that offers a more secure and convenient alternative to trick or treating.
 
If you would like more information about this event visit the website at www.sjlcdarien.org or  call 630-324-6582.
Senior Technology Workshop 
State Representative Ron Sandack is holding a technology workshop for senior citizens on Wednesday, November 4 at 11am at the Downers Grove Public Library, 1050 Curtiss Street.  Learn about smartphones, smartphone apps and how to use Skpe and FaceTime. 

Space is limited and registration is required.  Please call 630-737-0504 to register. 
Hinsdale South Posy Prom Committee Craft Sale  
Hinsdale South High School Post Prom Committee will be holding a Fall Craft and Vendor Sale in the high school cafeteria at 7401 Clarendon Hills Road on Saturday November 7 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.  Admission is $1.00 per adult, under 18 is free.  Come and find unique gifts and treats.
VFW Vacation Raffle
VFW post 2838 is holding a raffle for a 7 day vacation for 2 with Air to Barcelo Bavaro Palace Resort, an all inclusive resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.  Drawing will be on Veterans Day, November 11, 2015.  Winner need not be present to win - some restrictions apply.  Tickets are $10.00 for 1 ticket, $20.00 for 3 tickets, $50.00 for 7 tickets, and $100.00 for 15 tickets.  For more info / ticket purchase contact david.dea@darienvfw.org, or call Nick at 630-910-8552. 
DYC Celebrates 55 Years!
The Darien Youth Club (DYC) is a recreational sports club that has served the youth of Darien and surrounding towns since 1960. DYC programs are 100% volunteer run, there are no tryouts, every child plays and every child has fun. DYC is a club for every child and it will remain that way as long as it is in existence. Without the vision of the founders of the DYC we would not have the historical club we have today. Thank you to the thousands of volunteers and supporters over the last 55 years for all the hard work and dedication you've put in on the fields, courts and behind the scenes.
 
Volunteer With Us!
The volunteer spirit of DYC was created by design. With all the effort that goes into running this club there are a myriad of benefits to be had along the way. Our sense of community grows and stays tighter; life-long adult and childhood friendships are made; children's skills and character improve and outstanding memories are created. If you are interested in learning about various volunteering opportunities available visit us at www.DarienYouthClub.org 
 
Celebrate with Us!
Submit your DYC photos or fun memories from the last 55 years with the year taken on DYC's Facebook Page at https://www.facebook.com/darienyouthclub?fref=ts and tag #DYC55years. Or email them to dycmembership1@gmail.com
 
Fun Facts About the Darien Youth Club From 55 Years Ago!
- All started with a group of fathers who wanted to start a baseball team for their kids
- DYC was originally named Lace Marion Hills Youth Club until 1972
- DYC is older than Darien itself
- First game was on a donated field built by Marion Hills homeowners where the S.E. Hinsdale South parking lot is now
- First girls activity were baseball cheerleaders
- Started out with only volunteers and support from the community and continues that same tradition today 
Join the Darien Senior Club!
Doing - Sharing - Caring!  The Darien Seniors Club was founded in 1975, to serve Darien and surrounding communities Senior Citizens.   If you are age 55 or older please join!  Darien residency is not required.  The club meets at noon on the second Tuesday of each month at the Darien Sportsplex, 451 Plainfield Road.  For more information please call 630-852-6482 

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