The Rockdale Review
NEWS & EVENTS, 1999-4

Reminder: 2000 Village Vehicle Stickers went on sale on December 1st and can be purchased at the Village Hall at a cost of $7.50 (cars), however, after January 1st, the cost goes up. If purchased after March 1st, an additional $25 is added and if you receive a ticket the cost increases another $6. Please avoid the additional costs – buy now.

In the spring of 1999, Village Attorney, James Babcock resigned from the Village due to a serious illness. We are sad to report that on November 12, 1999, Jim lost his battle with cancer. Representing our Village for over 20 years, he was an integral part of the growth of our Village and made many significant contributions during his tenure. Our condolences go out to his wife Mary, his children and other family members. May he rest in peace.

Year 2000 - The Village has upgraded its computer systems and is fully compliant and prepared for the new Millenium. We have been in contact with the Utility companies and are confident that there will be no significant disruptions to services due to the date change that will occur on January 1st, 2000. Have a safe, happy and worry-free New Years Day.

"The History of Rockdale" scrapbook, which was started months ago, is in the village hall for all to see. If you have anything which to leave in the book for the future generations, please contact Nancy at 725-1434 or call the Clerk at the Village Hall.

A Rockdale web page is currently being designed and will be constructed over the next several months. Anyone wishing to contribute time, talent or suggestions is encouraged to send an email to Pete@Rockdale-IL.com. To view the page during its construction, navigate to www.Rockdale-IL.com. If you would like to sign up for the electronic Rockdale mailing list, send an email to LIST@Rockdale-IL.com.

A new firm was hired to address skunk removal in the Village this year. Mr. Dan Dolan will handle all calls himself and has the same humane concern for the animals, both wild and domestic, that our former firm had. The Village apologizes to any resident who didn't get prompt response this spring and summer due to the transition between firms.

Lakeview Avenue Improvement Project - residents gathered at a Village Board meeting in September to express their concerns, opinions and gratitude regarding the upcoming roadwork. The project will bring about a beautiful new road, parkway and sidewalks for the main thoroughfare on the hill. Due to the onset of winter weather, the Board decided to delay the project start until Spring of 2000.

The Larkin Avenue roadwork project has begun. The State of Illinois project has been designed in multiple phases and will continue for many months to come. Please use extra caution when using Larkin Avenue or use Midland Avenue as an alternate route during the construction.

Trustee Fred Kelly has moved from the Village and resigned from the Village Board. We wish to thank Fred for his commitment and dedication during his tenure. Fred's spot on the Village Board, which would have come up for election in 2003 will be moved up to 2001. The Village President and the Village Board are considering an interim appointment.

The video surveillance camera that the Rockdale Police Department won in a drawing from the Taylor Pirc Foundation has been installed in the police car and is working great. In November, the Village Board voted to match the amount donated by Village Businesses and contributed $150.00 to the "Taylor Pirc Video Camera Project".

The 1999 Christmas Decorations Contest will be officially judged on Monday, December 20th. Please have your lights on by 5:45pm -- all houses will be judged - no entry form is required. Winners will be contacted and presentations will be made at the first Village Board meeting in January. Thank You to all who decorated this year - the Village looks splendid.

The Village is considering assignment of a new Building Inspector. Anyone with background in the building trades who is interested in taking this position is encouraged to contact the Village Clerk at 725-8937 to learn more.

Winter is approaching, please care for pets in a humane way by supplying pets with continuous, fresh water, a good food supply for fat buildup, and adequate shelter from severe weather conditions with bedding material in the shelter. Remember that if you feel the cold, so does your pet. Please contact the Police, or Nancy at 725-1434, if you suspect any abuse/neglect to an animal in the Village.

Also, remember, if your pet is lost and has an identification tag an Officer can return him/her to the owner. Please get an I.D. tag so that we can bring your pets home to you quickly and without cost.

On behalf of the Mayor, the Village Officials, the Police Department, the Fire Protection District and all Village Employees and Representatives...

We wish you all

A Merry and Joyous Christmas &

A Happy and Healthy New Year !!!