I am pleased to write to you with the good news of a successful year past and a positive vision of the future. From processing over 400 building permits, 30,000 water bills, and participating in innumerable interactions between staff and the community, I believe the Village has upheld the community’s motto of “A Very Special Place.”

Thank you for reading this annual edition of the Oak Leaf as we explore the highlights from the past year! The Village Board approved a budget that tells a story of recovery and investment. The budget carries a $350,000 General Fund surplus while becoming debt-free (read the Mayor’s Message for more on this!)  while investing $4 million in critical infrastructure and public safety improvements. More information is available in our Budget in Brief.  Additionally, the Village returned to a new normal with our community events, including the new Car Show & Taste of Burr Ridge. Turn to page  4 to see and learn more about these terrific offerings — all of which return in 2022! Did you interact with the Village over the past year? You may have noticed changes in the look and feel of our communications platforms, including the all-new Village website and the monthly Oak  Leaf newsletter. We have made an effort to modernize our community engagement platforms for your betterment.

We’re always looking for ways to help our residents and had several chances to demonstrate our preparedness this past year. On Father’s Day  2021, the Village was hit by an F3 tornado around 83rd Street, which resulted in significant damage to the urban forest and homes in this area.  In partnership with several external public and private agencies, Public  Works performed exemplary work cleaning up the damage. We also saw the need for well-trained Police officers during several notable public safety incidents, including a shooting at Oakbrook Center (our officers were among the first on the scene to aid our neighbors) and a shooting at a business on South Frontage Road. Thank you to our brave and dedicated public servants who do not hesitate to assist the community! 

It is my privilege to serve as your Village Administrator. I look forward to working with staff and the Board to maintain and strengthen our community’s standing, and I look forward to meeting you!