Wednesday, July 20, 2022

Welcome New Firefighters

The Wheaton Fire Department welcomed two new firefighters and celebrated the promotion of a current firefighter. Sworn in by Mayor Suess this week are new firefighters Matthew Villegas and Bryan Kuhter. In addition, firefighter Jason Skilondz was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in the Wheaton Fire Department. Please help us welcome and congratulate these members of the Wheaton Fire Department.

Film Shoot on Friday Night to Include Simulated Gunfire

Residents in the area of Northside Park should be aware that on Friday, July 22, an NBC Universal film shoot has been authorized that includes simulated gunfire for a short period of time. We are alerting the community of this planned activity so that neighbors are not alarmed if they hear what sounds like gunfire. The filming is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. and will continue overnight.
 
The production company received permission to use a scout cabin at Northside Park during evening hours for their project. The filming includes an action sequence with fake gunfire, using weapons loaded with what are commonly known as “blanks.” No real ammunition will be used. The production company will have security on site and will have a portion of the park blocked off during filming. The production company will also be providing notices to residents who live in the immediate area to inform them of this activity.

City Honors Retiring Director of Information Technology

During the July 18 City Council meeting, the City Council honored Director of Information Technology Chad Michaelis, who is retiring after serving the City for 18 years in this capacity. Under his leadership, Michaelis created significant advancements in the City’s use of technology. Among these are the City’s early transition to cloud services to securely streamline the City’s data storage needs, and creating solutions to allow City business to continue during COVID-19 shutdowns. The City extends its appreciation to Michaelis for his 18 years of dedicated service to the City and the community.

Apply for Citizens Fire Academy

The Citizens Fire Academy is an 8-week course offered exclusively to Wheaton residents. The academy runs from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 6 through Oct. 25, 2022. The program covers everything from day-to-day fire station operations, breathing apparatus, vehicle extrication, and much more. The academy will culminate with the opportunity to extinguish a fire at the Carol Stream burn tower.

To take part in the Citizens Fire Academy, you must be a Wheaton resident who is at least 18 years old. Participants should plan on attending all eight weeks of the academy, as the information and skills learned will build upon prior sessions. Find out more and apply on the City’s website.

City Council to Vote on Proposed Apartment Complex Aug. 1

On Monday, July 18, the Wheaton City Council voted 6-1 in favor of directing the City Attorney to create an ordinance for their formal consideration approving the proposed apartment complex on the block bounded by Liberty Drive, Hale Street, Willow Avenue, and Wheaton Avenue. You can see a video of Monday’s meeting, which includes the developer’s presentation and City Council discussion on the City’s website. The ordinance for the Council’s formal review will appear on the Monday, Aug. 1 City Council meeting agenda, which will be posted on this page of the City’s website by the end of the day Friday, July 29.

Police Investigating Felony Vandalism to Park District Properties

Over the past week, multiple Wheaton Park District facilities have been vandalized with red spray paint depicting inappropriate language and images on structures, walkways, porta potties, trees and other areas. This Criminal Damage to Government Supported Property has damages exceeding $5,000, which is a Class 3 Felony. 

The Wheaton Police Department is currently investigating these incidents. Anyone with information about these incidents should contact Lieutenant Ryan Conway at 630-260-2079 or rconway@wheaton.il.us. We encourage residents using the parks to remain vigilant and call 9-1-1 if you observe any suspicious individuals or activity. 

Employment Opportunities with the City of Wheaton

The City of Wheaton has several opportunities for employment in which you can make a difference in our community. Current opportunities include:

• Administrative Secretary – Water Division, Public Works Department
• Facilities Maintenance Technician
• Maintenance Worker – Water Division, Public Works Department
• Management Analyst
• Part-time Customer Services Representative
• Public Relations Coordinator

Check out details on the City’s website and find out how to apply at https://www.wheaton.il.us/Jobs.aspx

Overnight Parking Reminder

As a reminder, on-street parking is not permitted on City streets between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. each day. If you have an overnight visitor or some other circumstance in which you would like to request overnight parking, you must submit your request online using the City’s website or call 630-260-2161 before 1 a.m. You do not need to request overnight parking permission if your driveway is being repaired/replaced, but we ask that you park directly in front of your home, leave markings to show your driveway is being repaired (i.e. ropes or barricades), and leave a note on the vehicle’s dashboard. 

Each household is limited to a maximum of 3 requests for overnight parking within a 30-day period.

Downtown Businesses Celebrating “Christmas in July” Starting Tomorrow

Fa-la-la-la-let’s go shopping! The countdown to Christmas is on… Get into the holiday spirit early with Christmas in July Downtown Wheaton.
 
Visit your favorite Downtown Wheaton businesses July 21 – 25 for sidewalk sales, holiday-themed offers – and even some decked halls! See the Downtown Wheaton Association's website for more information. 

City of Wheaton Videos

• Fourth of July Parade
  
  
• July 18 City Council Meeting
  
  
• History of the Chicago, Aurora and Elgin Railway
  
  

Upcoming Meetings

Bicycle Advisory Commission Meeting

City Council Planning Session

Planning & Zoning Board Public Hearing and Meeting

Fine & Cultural Arts Commission Meeting