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Ask the Historian

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1. I've noticed a very small cemetery on Poplar Ave, just south of St. Charles Rd. in Elmhurst. Who is buried there?

Early settlers Adam and Katharina Glos owned a farm in this area now known as Crescent Park. They are buried in this small plot of land, along with a few of their children. (Note: Adam and Katharina were parents of Henry Glos, original owner of the Glos Mansion and current home of Elmhurst Historical Museum. Henry and his wife Lucy, however, are not buried in the Poplar Ave. cemetery. Their final resting place is in the Glos Mausoleum located across from the Glos Mansion).

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Building Department

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1. What are the allowable construction hours in Elmhurst?

Construction is allowed Monday thru Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. If you are near a construction site and they are either working too early or too late, please call 9-1-1 and the Police Department will stop at the site and remind the contractors what these hours are.

2. Where can I get a Plat of Survey for my house?

You should have received a Plat of Survey when you closed on your house, or you can check with your Mortgage Holder to see if they have one. If you still can't locate it, consult the Yellow Pages for "Land Surveyor" and have another survey of your property done.

3. I would like to demolish my house and rebuild on the same lot. What steps should I take?

Contact the Public Works Department for demolition information. Consult with Planning & Zoning Department to determine the zoning on your lot which will provide information on allowable lot coverage and set backs.

4. What is J.U.L.I.E. and do I call?

Also known as the Illinois One-Call System, JULIE is a free message service for homeowners and contractors to notify utility owners of planned digging activities to help prevent damage to underground facilities. Within two working days of your call, representatives from each member utility will come out and mark the appropriate location of their buried line using color code. To contact JULIE, dial: 1-800-892-0123.

5. How do I know what township I live in and what are the phone numbers for the Assessor's Office?

If you live south of North Avenue you are in York Township. If you live north of North Avenue, you are in Addison Township. The phone numbers are: Addison Township - 630-530-8161, York Township - 630-627-3354.

6. Can I call the Building Department to get a referral for a contractor?

We cannot make any recommendations due to legal reasons. If you know of a contractor, we can verify that he is up-to-date on his/her registration with the City of Elmhurst.

7. How long is my building permit good for?

Residential permits are valid for 1 year from the date of issue. Commercial permits are valid for 18 months from the date of issue. Click on this link for additional information regarding permits: Permit Requirements

8. I am a senior looking for a reliable contractor, can the City of Elmhurst give me a reference on a contractor?

No, the City of Elmhurst cannot legally provide this service. However, the Contractor Referral Program provides the names of independent contractors, including licensed electricians, plumbers or other professionals, for jobs that are larger in scope than can be handled through the Minor Home Repair Program. These contractors are pre-screened, insured and in good standing with the DuPage Senior Citizens Council. Many offer senior discount rates. For more information on this service, contact the DuPage Senior Citizens Council at 630-620-0804 or visit their website at www.dupageseniorcouncil.org.

9. How long is my permit good for?

Permits are valid for one year from the date of issuance. To renew a new home permit for six (6) months after expiration date, the renewal fee is $3,000.

Additions, garages, decks, and interior remodels will be 1/2 of the original permit fee for a six (6) month extention. Contact the Building Department for additional information at 630-530-3030. Click this link for information regarding permits: Permit Requirements

10. I am putting a new roof and siding on my house. Do I need a permit?

You do not need a permit for either, however, click on this link to obtain additional helpful information and requirements: Roofing Requirements

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City Clerk

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1. What do I need to register to vote at City Hall?

In order to register to vote at City Hall you need to provide two forms of identification. You must present identification that shows your picture, signature, and current address. Your second form of identification must support one of those documents. Please note that billing statements issued by the City of Elmhurst cannot be used as one of your forms of identification.

2. How do I sign up for the RTA Seniors Ride Free Program?

Persons older than 65 are eligible to sign up for the RTA Seniors Ride Free Program. Sign up is available from 8:30 am – 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday in the Administration Office of City Hall. In order to sign up, eligible persons need to provide one of the following:

• Driver’s license
• State ID
• Passport
• U.S. Immigration Alien Registration Card

A recent, color, passport style photograph must also be submitted with the application. Photos may be taken at City Hall for a $5 charge. Applicants will be mailed their Seniors Ride Free Card directly from the RTA in approximately 4 weeks.

3. Do I need a permit for a garage sale?

A permit is not required for a garage sale, however, please note that no more than two garage sales are allowed to be conducted on any one residence each year.

4. How many pets (dogs and/or cats) am I allowed to have?

Residents are allowed to harbor or maintain no more than four dogs or four cats or any combination thereof upon any property within the City, provided that a litter may be kept for a period of time not exceeding four months from birth, and further provided that these provisions shall not apply to persons who are licensed to engage in the business of operating a kennel, pet shop, shelter, pound, animal hospital, carnival animal exhibit, circus, petting zoo, or animal ride.

5. Where do I obtain a marriage license?

Marriage licenses are available at the DuPage County Clerk’s Office at 421 N. County Farm Rd., Wheaton, IL. You can contact the DuPage County Clerk’s Office at (630) 407-5500 or for more information visit the County website.

6. How do I obtain a copy of a birth certificate or death certificate?

Birth certificates and death certificates are available at the DuPage County Clerk’s Office at 421 N. County Farm Rd., Wheaton, IL. You can contact the DuPage County Clerk’s Office at (630) 407-5500 for more information or visit the County website.

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City Council

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1. When does the City Council meet?

The first and third Mondays of each month.

2. When do the committees meet?

Committee meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month.

3. Where are Council or committee meetings held?

All Council and committee meetings take place at:
City Hall
209 N. York St.

The Council meets in the Council chambers on the second floor and the committees meet in conference rooms located on the first and second floors.

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Code Enforcement

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1. My neighbor's landscape service blows grass clippings into the street. Is this okay?

Elmhurst Municipal Code 5.03 prohibits any person to throw, place or deposit grass clippings, leaves, rubbish or brush into any street or alley.

2. What is the earliest I can place trash for pick up at the curb?

Code requires that garbage may not be placed on the parkway 24 hours before scheduled pick up. Containers must be removed from parkway within 12 hours after pick up.

3. My neighbor has a dead tree on his property and it looks like it may fall at anytime. Will the City take it down for my neighbor?

The City will not perform any tree maintenance on private residential property. Trees on private proprety are considered a civil matter and must be resolved between neighbors.

4. Now that the weather is getting colder, when should my landlord turn the heat on and how should it be set?

According to Elmhurst Municipal Code, it is the duty of every person owning or controlling any apartment, office or store in the City, in which heat is furnished from a heating plant in common, to furnish heat to such rooms, apartments, offices and stores from September 15th of each year to June 15 of the succeeding year, so that the occupants have a minimum temperature in lodging of 68 degrees from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. and 65 degrees from 10:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. and in offices and stores, a minimum of 68 degrees from 8:00 a.m. until closing time and a minimum of 60 degrees from closing time in the evening until 8:00 a.m.

5. We'd like to have a garage sale. What do I need to know?

No permits are necessary, however, you are limited to only 2 garage sales per year. Please remove signs promptly after your sale is closed.

6. How long can I keep a POD by my house?

A limit of 2 PODS may be located on your property for a maximum of 7 days within a 30-day period.

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Economic Development - Industrial Areas

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1. What financial programs are available to locate a business in Elmhurst?

Private Activity Bonds are available through the City of Elmhurst and the Illinois Development Finance Authority. For more information, please contact the City of Elmhurst or the Illinois Finance Authority.

The State of Illinois also offers numerous financial incentives such as tax credits, grants, and loans to businesses. More information is available at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. As well, the Elmhurst Economic Development Office has worked with local lending institutions and the City of Elmhurst to provide creative financing opportunities for new and existing businesses.

Please contact the Elmhurst Economic Development Office at (630) 530-6017 to determine what may be available.

2. What areas of the community can industrial businesses be located in?

The Elmhurst community features three primary concentrations of industrial activity in the community. These are: the area located north of Lake Street and primarily west of York Road, the area between Route 83 and Salt Creek (North of Butterfield Road), and along County Line road (south of Grand avenue).

3. How can I attract potential employees to my business?

A number of employment sources are available. One source, the Illinois Department of Employment Security, provides information about the state's labor market.

An additional agency is the Illinois Employment and Training Center (IETC) of DuPage County. The IETC provides workforce development services, including employment and training services for DuPage area residents and businesses. More information is available on the Illinois Employment and Training Center website.

4. What location and transportation advantages result from locating a business in Elmhurst?

The City of Elmhurst offers unparalleled advantages for businesses due to location and access. Interstates 290 and 294 are located within or adjacent to our community, while I-88 is a short distance away. As well, the City boasts a location within a few miles of O'Hare International Airport (15 minutes travel time to terminals), and approximately 18 miles directly west of downtown Chicago.

These benefits help local corporations make the connections they need down the street, the next town over, or around the world.

5. What other advantages are available in Elmhurst?

Elmhurst College's Center for Professional Excellence and Adult Education programs offer job training, internships, and other professional development programs to assist local businesses (and employees) with their training needs.

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Employment

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1. How do I apply for a job with the City of Elmhurst?

There are two steps to apply for a position with the City of Elmhurst. The first is to complete an on-line profile and the second is to complete an on-line application. You are welcome to create a profile at any time regardless of whether there is an open position. Applications can only be completed when an open position exists. City of Elmhurst Employment Opportunities

2. Do I need a resume?

It is not necessary that you provide a resume with your application. There is room on the application form to list your education and experience. However, a well-drafted, concise, current resume will set forth your background in the manner in which you have chosen. Your resume and cover letter may be added as optional attachments to your online application.

3. Who reviews my application and who will interview me?

All applications are reviewed by Human Resources staff and the hiring department manager. Only applicants who meet the position qualifications are considered.

4. Will I be tested?

Applicants for positions which require particular knowledge and skills may be tested. For example, an applicant for a job which requires clerical skills such as typing and filing will be tested in those areas. Fire and police applicants are given special testing dates during the time that the City is actively recruiting. If you have a disability and require a reasonable accommodation in the testing process, please let us know your needs and accommodations will be made for you.

5. Does the City keep unsolicited resumes?

No, unsolicited resumes are not retained by the City of Elmhurst.

6. How are applications accepted by the City of Elmhurst?

Job applications are accepted electronically only through the City of Elmhurst website when a position is posted for recruitment.

7. May I send an application or resume to be kept on file for future use?

Unsolicited resumes and applications are not retained by the City of Elmhurst.

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Finance

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1. What is the sales tax rate in Elmhurst?

For general merchandise, the sales tax rate is 7.5%. For additional tax rates, please view Tax Information.

2. Does the City of Elmhurst have a food and beverage tax?

Yes, the 1% prepared food, beverage, and packaged liquor tax is placed upon the purchase of prepared food, beverage, or alcoholic liquor at a restaurant or liquor establishment and upon the purchase of packaged alcoholic liquor at retail. For more information on this tax, view Food and Beverage.

3. Does the City of Elmhurst have a real estate transfer tax?

Yes, the real estate transfer tax is $1.50 per $1,000 increment of value on the sale or transfer of real estate within the City. For further information, please view Real Estate Transfer Tax.

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Fire Department

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1. What are the sirens I hear once a month on Tuesday mornings around 10:00 am?

We are testing the outdoor warning sirens to make sure they are working properly.

2. We recently had a fire in our home. What do we do next?

Contact your insurance agent immediately. Your insurance company will see that your residence is properly boarded up and utilities are restored when possible. If you do not have insurance, or your insurance does not cover all losses, you can receive assistance from the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago at (312) 729-6258 or the Salvation Army at (630) 629-4948.

Three hotels in the area include:

• Spring Hill Suites (630) 782-6300
• Residence Inn (630) 571-1200
• Town Place Suites (630) 932-4400

If you have any questions or concerns that we might help you with, please contact the Elmhurst Fire Department.

3. We recently bought an outdoor fireplace or burn pit. Do I need a permit?

Yes. You can either download and complete the Burn Permit form or stop in at City Hall and the Fire / Building Department counter to fill one out. Upon completion, you will receive a copy of the ordinances that go along with this permit which state what can and cannot be burned. This is a one-time only permit that can be obtained at no charge. Burn Permit Form

4. We'd like to have a fire truck at our block party. How do I arrange this?

Call the Fire Department at (630) 530-3090 to make arrangements.

5. How do I make an appointment to have a technician inspect our child car seat to make sure it is installed properly?

Call the Fire Department at (630) 530-3090 to find out details and make an appointment.

6. I would like to get a copy of my fire or ambulance report. Who do I call?

To obtain this information, you will need to fill out a Freedom of Information Act Form - Request for Public Records or come into City Hall to fill out the form. Upon receipt of the original completed form with your signature, the Fire Department Administration will then be able to release this information.

7. Who do I speak to regarding my ambulance bill?

Call Metro Paramedics at (630) 530-2988.

8. I've heard that I can get a smoke detector from the fire stations. Is this true?

Yes. Smoke detectors are available for $5 and fire extinguishers are available for $10, each at both stations.

9. My Carbon Monoxide detector is beeping. What do I do now?

Call 9-1-1. A firetruck will be dispatched to your house with the appropriate equipment on board to test the air in your house to make sure that it is safe. It is very important to make sure that the air quality is not dangerous and the Fire Department is happy to carry out this function.

10. Does the Fire Department offer CPR classes?

Please check this website again after January 2009 because we are in the process of improving our CPR class offerings to include "Friends and Family", Heart Saver and Certification Classes for 2009. We have not determined a schedule at this time.

11. I would like to arrange a station tour for a group visit. How can I do this?

Please call Fire Department Administration at 630-530-3090 to get additional details and to make arrangments.

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Planning, Zoning, and Economic Development

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1. What should I do if I want to start a business in Elmhurst?

Go to the Economic Development section, where more information is available in several categories.

2. How can I find a location for a new retail business in Elmhurst?

All available retail/commercial properties are listed on the City website in the Economic Development section.

3. How do I apply for a zoning variation (or conditional use or rezoning)?

Go to the Zoning Information section. Each application includes a detailed description of the process for review of a variation (or conditional use, or rezoning, etc.).

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Police - Phone Harassment

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1. What makes a phone call harassing?

Calls that use obscene or threatening language, hang-up calls, or even heavy breathing or silence to intimidate you, are harassing calls. It is against the law in Illinois and other states to make obscene or threatening calls.

2. How often do I have to get these calls to make it harassment?

Just one unwelcome call can be harassing, but usually your local phone company will not take action unless the calls are frequent. However, if a call specifically threatens you or your family with bodily harm, the phone company will generally take immediate action.

3. Who should I contact when I get harassing calls?

Local phone companies have varying policies on whether to call the phone company or the police first. Some recommend that you first call the phone company's business office and explain the problem. A representative will connect you with the annoyance desk. Other phone companies may require you to file a formal complaint with local law enforcement before they will deal with the matter. To find out what your phone company's policy is, contact your carrier and ask for assistance.

For serious threats, if life or property is threatened, or if calls are obscene, you should call the Elmhurst Police and file a report. Provide as much information as you can. Indicate the gender of the caller and describe the caller's voice. Note the time and date of the call(s). What did the caller say? How old did he/she sound? Did the caller seem intoxicated? Did he/she have an accent or speech impediment? Was there any background noise? Was a phone number/name displayed on the caller ID device?

4. What can my local phone company do if I am receiving harassing calls?

A phone company service called Call Trace may help track down harassing calls. Immediately after receiving a harassing call, hang up, wait for dial tone, enter the code *57 on your phone and the call will automatically be traced back to the last incoming call. (NOTE: Activate *57 before you make a phone call or receive another incoming call or the trace will not work.) Call Trace technology works only within the local service area and with your home phone, not cellular phones. Contact your local service provider for a description of your local service area. With Call Trace your phone conversations are not listened to or recorded by the phone company.

The information collected from Call Trace is only turned over to law enforcement personnel, not the customer. Your phone carrier may require a Customer Consent form be signed before they will release information to the police department.

5. Can Law Enforcement always solve harassing phone calls?

No, if the caller uses a prepaid phone, the phone company and law enforcement officials may never get enough identification to take further action. In cases like these, changing your phone number might help. Also, you might want to get an unlisted or unpublished number.

The police department will arrest the offenders of the harassing calls. The customer needs to be prepared to follow through with their complaint and appear in court.

6. What can I do to stop harassing calls without going to the Phone Company or police?

First, simply hang up on the caller. Do not engage in conversation. Typical crank callers are seeking attention. You have made their day if you say something to them or express shock or anger.

If the silent treatment does not work, you might try putting a message like this on your voice mail system:
"I'm sorry I/we can't come to the phone right now, but you must leave a message. I/we are receiving annoyance calls and the phone company has a trap on this line. If you do not leave a message, I/we will assume that you are the annoyance caller and this call will be traced."

If you answer the phone and the harassing caller is on the line, another suggestion is to say: "Operator, this is the call.” Then hang up. Or say the word "trace," what time it is, and the date, then hang up.

7. How can I register on the National Do Not Call list?

To restrict telemarketer calls, register your home and cellular telephone numbers with the National Do Not Call Registry

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Police Department

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1. Will the Elmhurst Police Department provide extra patrols while I am away on vacation?

Unfortunately, due to the high volume of people who go on vacation, the Police Department cannot make special patrols while you are out of town. When you are out of town, it is best to make your house appear lived in. Cancel the newspaper and mail or have somebody pick them up. Leave your lights on timers and leave your itinerary with a trusted neighbor or friend. If a neighbor or friend notices anything amiss at your home while you are gone, tell them to call 9-1-1 and the Elmhurst Police will respond.

2. When should I call to report suspicious activity?

If you see some activity that you feel is suspicious in nature, please call 9-1-1 as soon as possible, explain the problem, the location, and the description of individuals or vehicles. You do not have to leave your name. If you feel it is suspicious activity, it probably is. You are the one who is familiar with your neighborhood. The Elmhurst Police will respond as soon as possible and check out the suspicious people in a professional and courteous manner.

3. Should I lock my doors on my car or my house?

Many people do not lock their cars or their homes, feeling that it is a very safe community. Elmhurst is an exceptionally safe community, however, many times we find car burglars who will go from car to car and just enter the unlocked cars. Many times people leave money and valuables in the car and, if they had locked the car, the offender would have just move on without taking anything.
You should also lock your house. Often times a burglar will just reach inside the house and grab a purse by the back door or a set of car keys. So, to deter this type of thievery, you should lock your doors.

4. Where is the Elmhurst Police Department located?

The Elmhurst Police Department is located at 125 E. First Street, just east of York Road and just north of the Union Pacific Railroad Tracks.

5. Will the Elmhurst Police Department take my fingerprints for a job application or professional license?

The Elmhurst Police Department will take fingerprints for job applications, a professional license or for immigration purposes for residents of Elmhurst or for people who are being fingerprinted because of a business or profession located in Elmhurst. Fingerprinting is done by appointment only and there is a minimal fee. For fingerprinting appointments or further information, contact the Elmhurst Police Dept. at 630-530-3050.

6. Can officers search vehicles and people on the street for no reason?

Police officers can search individuals and vehicles without a warrant for a number of reasons. Different types of searches are governed by constitutional law and must be reasonable according to the circumstances of the encounter. Elmhurst Police officers are trained and updated on the latest search and seizure case law.

7. Can a minor go into a bar such as Doc Ryan's and have lunch?

According to Elmhurst ordinance, minors cannot go into bars, even if they are not drinking. A minor can only go into a bar with a parent or guardian.

8. What is bond?

When a person receives a traffic ticket or is arrested, they have to post bail or a bond. This is a surety that the person will come to court. For a traffic ticket, a person can post $75.00 cash bond ($100.00 cash bond for more serious violations) or a bail bond card. Bond for misdemeanors is $100.00 and a judge must set the bond for felony charges. If you are found innocent, the bond will be refunded.

9. What is the difference between an ordinance violation and a criminal violation?

The City of Elmhurst is allowed to enact ordinances to cover building codes, traffic offenses and liquor offenses. If a person is arrested for an ordinance offense, they cannot go to jail for that offense. It is considered a "fine only" and it is not a permanent mark on their record.

10. When do Miranda Rights apply?

Miranda Rights are most often seen given on TV. It is an individual's Constitutional Right to remain silent and an individual's Constitutional Right to have an attorney present during any questioning. These rights apply when a person is in the custody of the police and under arrest. They do not apply if officers are merely asking general questions to find out what happened at an incident.

11. What is court supervision?

Court Supervision is the finding of the court, which allows a person to plead guilty to a traffic ticket or minor offense and not receive a conviction on their driving record or criminal record. It is a form of probation where the person must report to the judge and stay out of trouble for a specified period of time. When a person successfully completes court supervision, they will have to pay a fine, but they will not have a mark on their criminal record.

12. What about all of the solicitors, who want money for the police department, are they legitimate?

All of us receive phone calls and fliers from different organizations saying they represent the Elmhurst Police Department in fundraisers. Many of these organizations are shadowy solicitors, not authorized by the Elmhurst Police Department. The Elmhurst Police Department does have an organization, the Elmhurst Police Benevolent and Athletic Association (E.P.B.A.A.) that has a solicitation once a year that is hand-delivered to your house or business. The Elmhurst Police Benevolent and Athletic Association uses these funds for various charitable organizations and re-distributes them into the community, sponsoring baseball and hockey teams, scholarships and other charitable works in the community.

13. Can I call the police on my cellular phone?

In DuPage County, if you dial 911 on your cell phone, the call will be routed to the sheriff's office and that, in turn, will be re-routed to an Elmhurst dispatcher. The Elmhurst Police will eventually get the call, although it may take an extra minute or two because of the call transfer.

14. When and how can I participate in an Elmhurst Police Property Auction?

All Elmhurst Police Property Auctions are now held on-line. Visit www.PropertyRoom.com to see all items available at any time. More...

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Police Recruitment

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1. What if an applicant does not have 45 hours of college credit completed at time of testing?

They will not be allowed to test.

2. Does military service or experience substitute for the college requirement?

There are no substitutions for the college requirement; all applicants must have 45 credit hours. You may receive five additional points on your written score for military service by submitting a DD214 after the written exam. Further information will be provided in writing after the exam.

3. I have college credit from a school out of the country, does that count?

College credit must be from an accredited institution and you must submit a transcript to verify hours. You must contact your college and inquire if they are accredited.

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Public Works - Building Maintenance

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1. What is the scope of work of the Building Maintenance Division?

To maintain City Hall, the Police Station, two Fire Stations, the Metra Station, the Historical Museum and the Municipal Garage Complex at a high standard.

2. What type of maintenance activities does the division perform?

Primarily the day-to-day services required to keep the buildings operating smoothly. The staff repairs locks, sets up for special events (voting, meetings), performs routine filter changes, removes refuse, cleans the City Centre fountain, etc.

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Public Works - Electrical Division

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1. What is the scope of work of the Electrical Division?

To maintain all streetlights and traffic signals throughout the City of Elmhurst. This includes bulb changing, fixture and pole repair and replacement, and the installation of new streetlights and traffic signals.

2. How many streetlights are maintained?

The number is continually changing due to the relighting program, but over 6,300 lights have been installed since 1972

3. How many traffic signals are maintained by the Electrical Division?

The division maintains the traffic signals at 22 intersections throughout Elmhurst. In addition, 9 flashing lights are maintained.

4. What other functions is the division responsible for?

The Electrical Division, along with the Building Maintenance Division, is responsible for the snow removal program in Business Districts. This includes the Central Business District, the York St. Business District, and the Spring Road Business District. The Electrical Division also installs and removes the seasonal decorations and the banners that are located in the downtown area. The division also installs and repairs the portable two-way radios that are located in all City, Police and Fire Vehicles.

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Public Works - Engineering Division

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1. What are the daily functions of the Engineering Staff?

The Engineering Division is involved in a number of projects which range from annual programs to Capital Improvement Projects. All construction within the Public Right-of-Way is inspected and City utilities located through this division. The Engineering Division also reviews all site plans for private development within the corporate limits. Other daily functions are to assist the public works crews, the general public, and elected officials in engineering related activities.

2. What types of annual projects is the Engineering Division involved in?

Such projects as the contract paving, watermain replacement, sewer lining and sewer point repairs, 50/50 Sidewalk Replacement Program, Pavement Patching and Rear Yard Drain Programs.

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Public Works - Equipment Maintenance

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1. What is the scope of work of the Equipment Maintenance Division?

To perform repair work and preventative maintenance for all city equipment including maintenance of all Park District equipment.

2. How many pieces of city equipment does the division maintain?

Approximately 330 including lift stations and stand-by generator sets.

3. Does the city do its own towing?

Yes, the division maintains its own tow truck.

4. Are designs and installations on new vehicles performed in-house?

Yes, for example, police vehicle changeovers are performed. Plow frames and salt spreaders are also installed.

5. Where does the city equipment fuel up?

The City maintains EPA approved unleaded and diesel underground storage tanks. These tanks recently underwent improvements which included leak detection and fuel monitoring. The Park District and School District also utilize the city's fuel system.

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Public Works - Forestry Division

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1. Does the City have a brush pick-up program?

Yes, beginning in 1992 it allowed for two free bundles per week to be picked up on normal refuse collection days between April 1st and November 30th each year. Brush must be in bundles no heavier than 50 lbs., 4' in length, and should not include branches more than 4 " in diameter.

2. Does the City recycle any of the wood waste material?

Brush chips from chipper units which are suitable to be used for mulch are regularly stockpiled at Butterfield Park for residents to pick up at their convenience. The pile is located at the base of the water tower on the west end of the parking lot. The chips come from parkway trees, branch removals, and stump removals. Logs are routinely picked up from a City log storage site by a saw mill and utilized for pallets and lumber. There is no charge to the City for this service.

3. What is the scope of the work done by the Forestry Division?

Maintenance of all parkway trees and City owned properties.

4. What does this include?

Tree triming, tree removal, and tree maintenance. Dutch Elm Disease control, tree planting, landscaping parkway restoration, grounds maintenance, mowing, waste wood recycling, stump removal, creek log jam clearance, etc.

5. How many parkway trees are there in Elmhurst?

Approximately 21,000.

6. How many species?

Approximately 141

7. Does the City have a tree planting program?

Yes. 90% of the plantings are replacements and 10% are new trees.

8. How many trees are planted annually?

About 300 to 400.

9. What is the avarage cost per tree?

$110.00 for the 2" diameter.

10. Who bears the cost of the tree planting?

If the tree is a replacement the City pays the entire cost.

11. How many parkway trees are removed annually?

250 to 300.

12. What percent of these losses is due to Dutch Elm Disease?

15 to 20%.

13. How many trees are trimmed annually?

3,500 to 4,000.

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Public Works - Street Maintenance

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1. Does the Street Division provide barricades for block parties?

Yes. To arrange this, submit Block Party Form

2. What is the scope of work done by Street Division?

Maintenance and repairs to City roadways, parking lots, guardrails, storm water inlets, traffic signs, and pavement markings, (with the exception of roads that are the responsibility of the state or county). Maintenance and repairs to brick-paver sidewalks within the Central Business District and City sidewalk trash containers. Traffic control signage and barricades for special events.

3. How many miles of streets are in Elmhurst?

About 145 miles of streets are maintained by the City: 105 miles are asphalt or chip seal, and 40 miles are concrete. An additional 24 miles of streets in the City are maintained by the state or county.

4. What is the general condition of streets in Elmhurst?

Generally fair to good do to perpetual repaving, patching, and maintenance programs.

5. How often is resurfacing done?

The lifespan of an asphalt street can vary greatly depending on traffic loads and other environmental factors. If the City resurfaces five miles of asphalt roadway annually, a street can be repaved about every twenty years on the average. Concrete streets are repaired as necessary.

6. How many potholes are filled annually?

10,000 to 30,000, depending on the severity of a winter season.

7. What is the purpose of sealing cracks in pavement?

Sealing cracks in asphalt or concrete pavement deters water from reaching the base which can shorten the lifespan of the pavement.

8. What is the purpose of applying rejuvenating agents and sealcoats to asphalt pavement?

Rejuvenating agents are applied on asphalt streets to enhance the durability and deter cracking which prolongs the life of the pavement. Sealcoats are applied to parking lot pavement.

9. How many asphalt street patches are done annually?

150 to 300 depending on the number of utility excavations.

10. When are the residential streets swept?

Residential streets are swept periodically beginning mid-March, weather permitting, and continuing through mid-October, and two additional times late October through November to sweep leaves.

11. How often are the Business District's swept?

The Central Business District, Spring Road and South York Business Districts are swept weekly during the sweeping season. City parking lots are swept monthly.

12. What does the Street Division do during the winter months?

The Street and Forestry Divisions operate the main salt trucks during snow and ice storms and maintain the snow fighting equipment. A great deal of time is also spent patching potholes and repairing utility excavations.

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Public Works - Utility System Maintenance

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1. Who would I call for an emergency call during non-working hours?

Call 630-530-3050.

2. Is there a charge for an emergency call?

No.

3. If I have a non-emergency problem who should I call?

Call the Public Works Department at 530-3020 and they will write up a service order which service personnel will respond to.

4. What is the scope of work of the Utility System Maintenance Division?

Maintenance of all watermains, storm and sanitary sewers and water meter reading.

5. How many miles of watermain / storm and sanitary sewers does Elmhurst maintain?

Approximately 150 miles.

6. How many water customers does the City of Elmhurst have?

About 14,000 water billing customers.

7. What might cause my water bill to be higher than normal?

Water sprinkling in the summer, leaky faucets or flush tanks and water softener programs.
Leaving water run to prevent pipes from freezing inside properties.
Broken pipes or outside leak sillcock, which may have frozen during winter.
Extra people living at residence, guests from out of town or family members moving in.

There is an added charge for excess use.

8. Why do I sometimes have low water pressure?

It could be a problem in the water softener, a plugged faucet screen, cartridge, or shower head. In addition older homes may have galvanized steel piping that have restrictions on the inside from a build up of mineral deposits.

9. What might cause a resident not to have any water?

Non-payment of a water bill, frozen pipes in water, a plugged meter or plugged faucet aerator.

10. How many storm water inlets (curb drains) are there in Elmhurst?

Approximately 3,500.

11. What is the general condition of these structures?

40% - Good to excellent
50% - Fair
10% - Poor to hazardous (1%+)

12. How many inlets are repaired annually?

30 - 50 receive general repairs.

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Storm & Flooding FAQ's

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1. Are there loans available to storm victims whose property has sustained weather-related damage?

Yes, go to the State of IL Treasurer's Website for more information. IL Treasurer's Disaster Recovery Loan Program

2. Can I receive weather alerts via email or text messages?

Please visit the Weather Channel's website for information. Weather Channel Website.

3. Is there any property assessment relief for Elmhurst Property Owners affected by the 2010 Storm/Flood?

For residents living in Addison Township please call the Addison Township Assessor's Office at (630) 530-8161.
For residents living in York Township, please visit the York Township Assessor's Website for information regarding the 2010 Storm Damage Assessment Relief Request Form.

York Township Assessor

4. What about Storm Debris that was not placed on the parkway for pickup this week 7/28 to 7/30?

Storm Damage debris will be picked up the week of 8/2 to 8/6 without the need of garbage stickers.

5. Did the Saylor and Jackson sanitary lift station pumps stop pumping in the storm?

See attached memorandum for answer and information. Saylor and Jackson Lift Station (PDF)

6. Could there be pump and generator indicator lights at Saylor and Jackson Sanitary Lift Station?

Yes, the indicator lights have been installed and are operating as of 11 AM on Friday 7/30/10.

7. Why did the storm sewers not do their job and why did streets and houses flood?

The rainfall of 6/23/2010 was recorded as 4.5” in 30 minutes time and the 7/23/10 rainfall was recorded as 7.35” in 8 hours time. Based on the Illinois State Water Survey current rainfall chart both storms were well in excess of 100 year rain event level. Both of theses storms resulted in storm water that significantly exceeds the Elmhurst storm sewer collection system. Elmhurst’s design is for storms from 5-10 year frequency. Storms above this frequency will result in system capacity being exceeded and water back ups. The Elmhurst design capacity is a typical design for sewers in Illinois.

8. How does the Quarry work and did it do its job? Shouldn’t it have eased sewer back ups in Elmhurst?

The Quarry has an automatic overflow feature. For creek flood control in the Elmhurst region of the creek the automatic overflow is all that is necessary. The County can, at their option, control a lower level 8’ diameter gate that allows the county some regional Salt Creek flow control, but is not necessary to control the critical height of the creek thru Elmhurst.
Elmhurst Quarry Flood Control Facility

9. When will garbage be picked up and do I have to put stickers on everything?

Your trash and recycling will be picked up on your normal day. In addition, the City has additional Allied Waste crews currently picking up flood damaged goods. Also, City crews are loading City trucks with garbage and hauling it to the Allied Waste transfer station in Northlake.The City is doing everything it can to remove garbage but due to the extreme volume it will take some time.

10. How does the lift station at Saylor and Jackson work?

The Saylor and Jackson lift station receives the sanitary flows from the homes in the immediate area. The sanitary flows dump into a large wet well located within the station. The submersible pumps at the station then pump the sanitary flow through a force main (pipe under pressure) north to McKinley Street where it is dumped into a junction chamber on the main sanitary sewer line . From there it flows by gravity west to the Elmhurst Wastewater Treatment Plant for treatment. No stormwater flows into or through the lift station.

11. Where does the stormwater that falls around the Saylor and Jackson area go?

The rainwater that falls in the Saylor and Jackson area is collected via inlets in curbs and conveyed into the City’s storm sewer system. The water flows west down Jackson to Salt Creek and the Jackson Street Stormwater lift station. If Salt Creek elevations are not up, the water flows by gravity through the station and to the creek. If Salt Creek is in an elevated condition the a gate is closed and the stormwater spills into a wet well and is pumped out to the Creek via a 60,000 gallon per minute pump.

12. How come sometimes I can hear the pumps at the Saylor and Jackson Sanitary lift station running and other times not?

The pumps at the Saylor and Jackson Sanitary lift station are powered by electric motors. These motors make almost no noise. The impellers of the pumps are located at the bottom of the wet well approximately 20 feet down and are submerged in sanitary water, the impellers make no audible noise. The noise that is sometimes heard at the Saylor and Jackson sanitary lift station comes from the emergency generator located there. In the event of a power outage at the Saylor and Jackson Sanitary lift station a generator automatically comes on to power the station. The generator is a natural gas powered generator and it does make noise.

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Visitors & Tourism

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1. Where is the Visitor & Tourism Department located?

The Visitor & Tourism Department is located at 120 E. Park Ave next to the Historical Museum. More...

2. Are there any local business associations?

There are 5 organizations. More...

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Water / Wastewater

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1. What is the scope of work done by the Water/Wastewater Department?

Services to the public include sampling of potable water supply to satisfy the requirements of the Safe Drinking Water Act. This sampling involves various bacteriological, mineral, metal, and organic sampling of the public water supply.

The department is also responsible for receiving and treating Lake Michigan water from the DuPage Water Commission, then repumping that water to the Elmhurst system to satisfy demand and maintain system pressures.

The department is also responsible for the operation and maintenance of the 12-storm water pumping stations and retention reservoirs. This involves equipment and facilities capable to various water retention reservoirs located throughout the City. The tasks of the department also include overseeing and design of the upgrades to the storm water pumping system as outlined by the goals set after the 1987 flooding.

The department responsibilities continue with the operation and maintenance of the sanitary lift stations and wastewater treatment plant. The City operates ten sanitary lift stations to collect wastewater from various areas within the City and transport it to the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The Plant itself has a capability of pumping 60 MGD per day and is operated under a permit from the Illinois EPA. The permit places restrictions on the plant and requires a minimal level of quality for the water treated before it is discharged to Salt Creek.

2. What are the capabilities of the individual systems at Elmhurst?

The average quantity of water pumped here is approximately 4.9 MGD per day on an average annual basis. The minimum day may be as low as 3.9 MGD. The maximum day has been as high as 9.9 MGD. The department is capable of pumping over 20 million gallons to the system per day.

The Wastewater Treatment Plant treats an average of 7.5 million gallons of wastewater per day. Historical high flows have been as high as 75 million gallons when the City experiences rain and snow runoff simultaneously.

3. How many people work in this department?

Currently, the department has 16 full-time and one part-time person covering three shifts seven days a week. The public water supply is monitored continuously by a computer controlled supervisory system, which both monitors and operates various aspects of the public water supply. This system is capable of responding to changes in demand within the system adjusting chemical feeds and alerting operators when conditions may change causing an operational problem within the system. This computer-controlled system is being expanded for both the storm, water pumping and sanitary water pumping responsibilities within the department.

4. How is the department regulated?

The department is regulated by several USEPA and Illinois EPA regulations in both the potable water supply and the wastewater treatment arenas. Illinois EPA in conjunction with Illinois Department of Public Health monitor the quality of water sold to the customers of Elmhurst. The department is responsible for a variety of water quality tests that are performed on an almost daily basis with results sent to Illinois EPA monthly. The Wastewater Treatment Plant is also regulated by Illinois EPA and is monitored closely by both onsite inspections and regular monthly reports on the quality of discharge to Salt Creek

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Water Distribution

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1. What is the hardness of Elmhurst water?

Hardness is about 144 mg/L as CaCO or about 8 gr/gal.

2. What is the source of water for the public water supply?

Elmhurst is now 100 percent Lake Michigan water. No well water is blended with the lake water; however, three standby wells are still in service and are kept operational as emergency backup sources of water. The DuPage Water Commission has recently completed a second water main to the Commission headquarters and has a looped system within the county that can provide water to Elmhurst in the event of water main breaks within the system.

3. Does the City use the old wells?

No, the City public water supply is 100% Lake Michigan water. The wells will be used in emergencies only.

4. Why is my water sometimes cloudy or 'milky' looking?

Water, especially cold water, can dissolve a significant amount of air. As water warms up that dissolved gas will be released in the form of tiny, almost microscopic bubbles. Those bubbles will make the water look cloudy. To test this, fill a clear glass container with water. Place the glass on the table and watch. Slowly the cloudiness will rise to the top as the bubbles float and disperse.