River Forest, Illinois Development News
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07-20-26 VBOT Meeting
Published: Jul 20, 2026
Officers Neeman and Seldana Commended for Apprehending Repeat Burglary Offender
Officers Lane Neeman and Seldana were presented with commendation awards for their role in apprehending a repeat residential burglary offender. On May 23rd, 2026, units responded to reports of a subject attempting door handles on residences in the 1000 and 1100 blocks of Franklin Avenue. Detailed images linked the suspect to a burglary in Oak Park. The next day, Corporal Neeman observed the suspect, and coordinating with Officer Seldana, they conducted a stop and positively identified him. A search revealed stolen credit cards from multiple burglaries in Oak Park, River Forest, and Skokie. Their investigation successfully linked the suspect to two River Forest burglary cases, leading to multiple felony charges including residential burglary and possession of stolen credit cards. The commendation highlights their exceptional investigative work, coordination, and professionalism, reflecting credit upon themselves and the River Forest Police Department.
Village Designates 500 Block of Edgewood as 'David Reo Ogden Way' in Honor of Historic Preservation Commissioner
The Village Board recognized David Reo Ogden by designating the 500 block of Edgewood Place as 'David Reo Ogden Way'. David Reo Ogden was an original member of the village's Historic Preservation Commission, contributing significantly with his professional insight and commitment to preserving community character. He attended over 190 commission meetings and was known for his guidance, creative ideas, architectural sketches, and thoughtful suggestions, often with humor. The resolution extended condolences to his wife, Christine Reo Ogden, and daughters, Logan, Liza, and Meera. Ogden resided in the William E. Drummond House at 500 block of Edgewood Place, a recognized Prairie School style home listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The resolution honors his contributions to the village's architectural, cultural, and civic vitality.
River Forest Welcomes First Woman Firefighter Paramedic, Julia Massie
Julia Massie was sworn in as the first woman firefighter paramedic for the River Forest Fire Department. At 24 years old, Massie is a native of Elmwood Park and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Interdisciplinary Health Science from the University of Illinois, along with paramedic training from Lutheran General Hospital. She has prior experience as an EMT with Liberty Ambulance and at Resurrection Hospital. Massie will begin training at the Romeoville Fire Academy on August 2nd to be certified as a basic operations firefighter and hazardous materials operations responder.
Angus O'Neal Honored with Citizenship Award for Honesty and Kindness
Angus O'Neal received the citizenship award for an outstanding act of kindness and honesty. While leaving River Forest Chocolates, he found a $50 bill outside the store. Instead of keeping it, Angus brought the money inside to the owner, Donna Sepika, so it could be returned to its rightful owner. After a week with no claimant, Donna contacted Angus' family, who requested the money be donated to the Special Olympics of Illinois. The police department then donated the $50, turning Angus' good deed into another act of kindness. The certificate honors Angus for demonstrating honesty, responsibility, and generosity, qualities that make the community proud.
Village Board Approves New Liquor License Classifications for Salons and Catered Food Businesses
The Village Board discussed and approved amendments to the village's liquor control ordinance, introducing two new liquor license classifications: Class 7 'Salon Alcoholic Liquor' and Class 8 'Catered Food Alcoholic Liquor'. Class 7 allows licensed salons to serve adult beverages to clientele, with stipulations on age verification, prohibition of customer-brought alcohol, quantity limitations (initially proposed as one serving per visit, with discussion on two), and specific serving methods (e.g., 4 oz wine, 1 oz tequila mix, 187 ml champagne bottle). The classification is intended to be available to various salon types. Class 8 permits businesses operating from a commercial kitchen, like a bakery, to offer alcohol ancillary to food sales, specifically proposing a ratio of cupcakes to alcohol vials (e.g., 12 cupcakes with up to six 2-tablespoon vials of alcohol) to ensure it remains food-focused. Alcohol for Class 8 must be secured, and the business must undergo responsible vendor training. Fees were set at $1,500 annually for Class 7 and $500 annually for Class 8. The board approved the ordinance with amendments, including a clarification on the serving ratio for Class 8 and limiting Class 7 to one serving per visit, and confirming it applies to all salons, not just nail salons.
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The River Forest News archive
Special Meeting of the River Forest Development Review Board - 07-09-26
Historic Preservation Commission Meeting - audio/video
06-22-26 VBOT Meeting
06-22-26 VBOT Meeting
Economic Development Commission Meeting - audio/video
05-11-26 VBOT Meeting
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