Wheaton Weekly Header - Street in the Fall

Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025

Family with Sparky the Fire Dog
Firefighter with Child
Firefighter with Children

Thank You for Attending the Fire Department Open House

Thank you to everyone who attended the Wheaton Fire Department’s Open House this past weekend. Wheaton's firefighters and paramedics enjoyed welcoming the community, sharing safety information, and giving everyone a behind-the-scenes look at the department.

First Human West Nile Virus Death Reported in DuPage County; Mosquito Bite Prevention Tips

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) has recently reported the first human death related to West Nile virus (WNV) in DuPage County for 2025. There have been 11 human WNV cases reported in DuPage County this year.

Individuals can take the following steps to protect themselves against WNV:

  • If outdoors when mosquitoes are active, dress in light-colored, long-sleeved clothing, long pants and socks.
  • Use mosquito repellent, in accordance with label directions.
  • Empty outdoor containers that collect standing water, such as wading pools and birdbaths.
  • Keep grass cut short and shrubbery well-trimmed.
  • Report neglected pools to Clarke: 1-800-942-2555.
  • Report dead birds on your property to the DCHD by using the online Citizen Reporter tool.

Visit the DCHD's website for more information.

Suspect Arrested in Identity Theft Investigation

The Wheaton Police Department announces the arrest of a suspect in an identity theft investigation that targeted multiple victims in Wheaton and the DuPage County area. Mark Wrendina, 56 years old, of Lombard, Ill., was taken into custody following an extensive investigation conducted by the Wheaton Police Department. The suspect is alleged to have used stolen personal information to open fraudulent accounts, make unauthorized purchases, and access sensitive financial data of more than 30 victims. For more information, visit the City's website.

Notice to Public: The public is reminded that a complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt. Constitutionally, a defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove his or her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Earthquake Preparedness

Be Prepared: Creating an Earthquake Plan

Illinois is at risk from two major seismic zones, the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone (WVSZ) and the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ). According to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency, there is a 25% to 40% chance of a magnitude 6.0 or greater earthquake in the NMSZ seismic zone during a 50-year time span.

Whether in Illinois or traveling to areas prone to earthquakes, a prepardeness plan is essential for protecting yourself, your family, and your pets. Being ready includes preparing supplies, identifying safe spaces, and having a recovery plan. Below are key considerations in your preparedness planning.

  • Gather Supplies: Keep at least a 14-day supply of food, water, and essentials. Have a first aid kit, emergency tools, and a disaster supply kit in an accessible location.
  • Identify Safe Spaces: Identify areas in your home that are safe spaces to take shelter in the event of an earthquake.
  • Plan Escape Routes: Decide on escape routes and a designated meeting place outside your home.
  • Pets: Have an emergency supply kit prepared to care for your pets during and after an earthquake.
  • Backup Plans: Know where to stay if your home is unsafe and how to temporarily relocate if needed.

For additional safety tips, visit the IEMA website.

Chili Cookoff Logo

Downtown Wheaton Chili Cookoff to Take Place this Saturday

The Downtown Wheaton Association's Chili Cookoff returns on Saturday, Oct. 4, 1-5 p.m. Your favorite Downtown eateries compete for your vote with their unique spin on this fan-favorite dish. Ticketholders will enjoy unlimited chili tastings before voting on the tastiest recipe. For more information and tickets, visit DWA's website.

DuPage County Accepting Applications for Energy Assistance Program

DuPage County is now accepting applications for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP provides one-time benefits to income-eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnection of energy service.

Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis through Aug. 15, 2026, or until the funding runs out. For more information, visit www.dupagecounty.gov/liheap or www.liheapillinois.com.



City of Wheaton Videos

  • Wheaton Block Party 2025


Upcoming Library Events

To learn more, please visit www.wheatonlibrary.org/calendar.

Library Card Design Contest
Now-Wednesday, Oct. 15

Enter our Library Card Design Contest for the chance to have your design featured on the next Wheaton Public Library card. Participation is limited to WPL cardholders and winners will be chosen from three age groups (Youth, Teen, and Adult).

Parenting: Being Your Child's Academic Advocate
Tuesday, Oct. 7, In-person
7 p.m.
Wheaton Public Library
225 N. Cross St.

Matthew Patton, LPC, from New Day Counseling will discuss all the ins and outs of navigating an IEP/504 plan for your child, including parent and student rights, legal information, and strategies for ensuring an effective implementation of an IEP/504 plan. Registration required.




Upcoming Meetings

Community Relations Commission
Wednesday, Oct. 1, 7 p.m.
Wheaton City Hall
303 W. Wesley St.

Coffee with Council
Saturday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m.
Wheaton City Hall
303 W. Wesley St.

City Council Meeting
Monday, Oct. 6, 7 p.m.
Wheaton City Hall
303 W. Wesley St.

city hall

Contact Us


To contact us, please send an email to: 
communications@wheaton.il.us. 

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303 W. Wesley St., Wheaton, IL 60187

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