The Illinois Department of Transportation plans to rebuild East State Street (Route 38) from Glengarry Drive to the Fox River. The multi-year project encompasses roadway widening, streetscape enhancements, bike lanes, traffic signal upgrades, new street lighting, and water main/storm drainage infrastructure improvements.

Before work can commence on the East State Street reconstruction project, several utility companies are relocating underground infrastructure.

March 6 Update

Archon (AT&T) crews will adjust their work zone from Kane to Kansas streets the week of March 9, which will require an eastbound lane to be shut down. The closure will remain in place overnight.NPL (Nicor) has been performing miscellaneous natural gas service work throughout the East State Street corridor, which may reduce traffic to one lane in each direction at any given point. Traffic control will be picked up at the end of each workday. The City is expecting Nicor to wrap up its utility relocation work by mid-March.HomeTowne Electric (a State subcontractor) has completed their temporary signal work and is scheduled to turn on those new signals Tuesday or Wednesday, March 10-11. The existing traffic signals will be removed from State Street the same day, and any remaining appurtenances will be taken down later in the week. Motorists should expect temporary lane closures at these intersections throughout the week.All construction activity is weather-dependent and subject to change.

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The full East State Street reconstruction project is now tentatively expected to start in spring 2026 and be completed in late 2027, with punch list items to be finished the following year. The timeline is dependent on how quickly the utility relocations are resolved.The public can subscribe to road construction updates via Notify Me on the City’s website. The City will provide updates when information is made available by IDOT or the utility companies.

Geneva residents can get a head start on their spring yard work with free collection available during the last two full weeks of March.The free yard waste disposal is included in the City’s refuse contract with LRS. Yard waste bags set out with garbage will be picked up free of charge – no waste sticker needed – during residents’ regular pickup days in the weeks of March 16 and 23.Yard waste should be placed in Kraft brown paper bags and should not exceed 50 pounds. While LRS prefers bags, residents who pay for a designated LRS yard waste cart can use it during the free collection period. Accepted yard waste includes grass clippings, vines, weeds, leaves, plants, pinecones, small branches, and garden waste.Starting in April, a refuse sticker must be attached to each bag as part of the City’s regular yard waste program, which runs weekly from April through November. Residents may also combine food scraps with yard waste beginning in April.Tree limbs wider than 1 inch in diameter should be disposed of through the City’s monthly brush pickup, which is scheduled to begin in April.More information about Geneva’s refuse and recycling services can be found on the City’s website.

A controlled burn of a Geneva Business Park wetlands area is scheduled for Monday, March 9, weather permitting.The burn would take place on the MWI Property Group's wetlands area between Route 38 and Fabyan Parkway along Kautz Road. The City is providing advanced notice to the community that no emergency is taking place, even though smoke may be visible.The Geneva Fire Department has been notified of the controlled burn. If the forecast is not suitable to conduct the burn, the activity will be rescheduled to the next day with favorable weather conditions.

The Illinois Department of Transportation plans to rebuild East State Street (Route 38) from Glengarry Drive to the Fox River. The multi-year project encompasses roadway widening, streetscape enhancements, bike lanes, traffic signal upgrades, new street lighting, and water main/storm drainage infrastructure improvements.

Before work can commence on the East State Street reconstruction project, several utility companies are relocating underground infrastructure.

Feb. 27 Update

Archon (AT&T) crews will continue working from Kane to Nebraska streets the week of March 2, which will require an eastbound lane to be shut down. The closure will remain in place overnight.NPL (Nicor) has been cutting and capping old gas service mains at various locations along the highway. Motorists should expect miscellaneous eastbound or westbound lane closures from Route 25 to Glengarry Drive for gas service work, which will occur in one-block increments. Traffic control will be picked up at the end of each workday.HomeTowne Electric (a State subcontractor) has completed their temporary signal work and is scheduled to turn on those new signals the week of March 9.All construction activity is weather-dependent and subject to change.

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The full East State Street reconstruction project is now tentatively expected to start in spring 2026 and be completed in late 2027, with punch list items to be finished the following year. The timeline is dependent on how quickly the utility relocations are resolved.The public can subscribe to road construction updates via Notify Me on the City’s website. The City will provide updates when information is made available by IDOT or the utility companies.

The Geneva Police Department will be taking the Law Enforcement Torch Run Polar Plunge challenge to raise money for Special Olympics Illinois. Police officers will be plunging on Sunday, March 1, at Silver Springs State Park's Loon Lake in Yorkville. The public is invited to watch the festivities. The Geneva Police Department is seeking donations from the community to meet its fundraising goal of $10,000. Donations can be made online by visiting the Police Department's Polar Plunge web page. All proceeds will go toward supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities, providing them with an opportunity to participate in Special Olympics Illinois programs.  Last year, the Geneva Police Department raised a record $72,518 during several Law Enforcement Torch Run events. Geneva is one of the top police departments in the state, regardless of size, when it comes to raising money for Special Olympics. For more information, visit the Illinois Torch Run Polar Plunge website. People also can contact Geneva Police Sgt. Brad Jerdee by calling 630-232-4736 or sending him an email.

The City’s Natural Resources Committee will dive into the world of fungi and their role in nature during its next lecture series presentation at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 7, at the Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St.Tom Knapp, Plant Chicago’s education manager, will discuss mushroom cultivation for home producers, along with mushroom anatomy, biology, aseptic technique, cultivation equipment, grain spawn, and liquid culture.Knapp will give the presentation via Zoom. The public may attend in person at the Library or participate virtually. Registration is required for those joining online to receive the meeting link. For more event information, visit the Geneva Public Library District’s website.

The Illinois Department of Transportation plans to rebuild East State Street (Route 38) from Glengarry Drive to the Fox River. The multi-year project encompasses roadway widening, streetscape enhancements, bike lanes, traffic signal upgrades, new street lighting, and water main/storm drainage infrastructure improvements.

Before work can commence on the East State Street reconstruction project, several utility companies are relocating underground infrastructure.

Feb. 13 Update

Archon (AT&T) completed duct adjustments on the south side of State Street this week. Crews will be working from Kane to Nebraska streets the week of Feb. 16, which will require an eastbound lane to be shut down. The closure will remain in place overnight.NPL (Nicor) will continue gas service work on the south side of State Street from Route 25 to Kansas Street. A second crew will be working in an eastbound lane from East Side to Glengarry drives as the new natural gas main undergoes testing. Both work sites may necessitate sporadic traffic lane closures, which, if implemented, would be picked up at the end of each workday.Dynasty Utility Services (Comcast) will continue to work in the parkway near Simpson Street. No major traffic disruptions are expected. This project is expected to be completed by mid to late February.HomeTowne Electric (a State subcontractor) will continue temporary traffic signal work that may require some intermittent lane closures at Route 25, East Side Drive, and Glengarry Drive.All construction activity is weather-dependent and subject to change.

Zipper Merge

Motorists should expect delays and may want to consider alternate routes. Drivers should use caution when driving through the work zone and allow extra time to reach their destination. Geneva Police are encouraging drivers to use the zipper merge system to help alleviate significant backups that are occurring along the state highway.

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The full East State Street reconstruction project is now tentatively expected to start in spring 2026 and be completed in late 2027, with punch list items to be finished the following year. The timeline is dependent on how quickly the utility relocations are resolved.The public can subscribe to road construction updates via Notify Me on the City’s website. The City will provide updates when information is made available by IDOT or the utility companies.

No one was injured after a townhome was damaged by a fire Feb. 12 in the 2000 block of Vanderbilt Drive on the west side of Geneva.The Geneva Fire Department was dispatched at 5:13 p.m. to a two-story, multi-unit townhome for a report of a garage fire.Upon arrival, Geneva fire companies found light smoke showing from the two-car attached garage. The garage sprinkler system had activated and helped hold the fire in check prior to the fire department’s arrival.Firefighters brought the fire under control in less than 20 minutes.All occupants of the townhome had self-evacuated before firefighters arrived.The fire originated in the garage, and the cause is under investigation. The rest of the townhome remains habitable.Firefighters from St. Charles, Batavia, and Elburn & Countryside assisted Geneva crews at the scene.The West Chicago Fire Protection District provided station coverage during the incident. Additional support was provided by the Geneva Police Department.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) will be making ADA pedestrian improvements at two State Street (Route 38) intersections in Geneva beginning in February.The IDOT project will include the installation of accessible pedestrian pushbuttons and/or leading pedestrian interval timing updates. Crews are scheduled to begin at Seventh Street during the week of Feb. 17, and, when finished, shift over to Anderson Boulevard. Modifications are planned for each corner of both intersections.Roadway signage has been posted along State Street alerting motorists of the upcoming work. The City expects State Street, Seventh Street, and Anderson Boulevard to remain open during the project, but there may be intermittent lane closures. Pedestrian access at the intersections may be limited when crews are on site.

The City has not received a full schedule from IDOT on when the improvements will be completed. The City will update this post if additional information is received from IDOT.

Geneva's City offices will be closed for business Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of Presidents' Day. Normal business operations will resume on Tuesday, Feb. 17. The holiday will not alter the City's garbage pickup, which will remain on the regular Thursday-Friday schedule the week of Feb. 16.For more information about Geneva's refuse services, visit the City's website.

An 18-year-old Geneva man died Feb. 8 after he was struck by an eastbound freight train near the Western Avenue grade crossing in Geneva.Geneva Police officers and firefighters were dispatched at 9:51 p.m. for a report of a train accident involving a pedestrian. Upon arrival, police officers met with the train conductor and located the teen near the Union Pacific-West railway tracks east of Western Avenue. He was pronounced dead on the scene.The teen was struck by the train on the northernmost track west of the Western Avenue crossing. He was reportedly alone at the time of the incident, and preliminary findings indicate no foul play is suspected.The stopped freight train blocked the Western Avenue crossing for several hours due to the emergency response. The incident remains under investigation by the Geneva Police Department and the Kane County Coroner’s Office. The teen’s family members are still being notified about this tragedy, and the Police Department will not be releasing his name at this time.The Geneva Police and Fire departments were assisted on the scene by the Metra Police Department, Geneva Emergency Management Agency, and Kane County Office of Emergency Management.

Fine wine, local food, and live entertainment will come together for an evening dedicated to supporting tree planting and environmental enhancements throughout Geneva.The City’s Natural Resources Committee, Geneva Park District Foundation, and Geneva Library Foundation will host the 15th annual Wine, Cheese & Trees fundraiser from 7 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St.Five wines and three craft beers will be paired with cheese, appetizers, and desserts from local merchants and bakers. Guests can enjoy live music, silent and live auctions, raffles, a wine wall, and a finger sandwich demonstration.Live auction items include an instant wine cellar; Las Vegas and Wisconsin getaways; VIP wine tastings in Oregon and California; a bourbon tour in Louisville; a Northwoods fishing trip; Penrose Brewing Co. whiskey barrels; and more. Trips include overnight accommodations.Wine, Cheese & Trees tickets are $40 per person or four tickets for $140 and may be purchased online or at Geneva Wine Cellars and Tasting Room, at 227 S. Third St.The Natural Resources Committee has pledged to use the proceeds to bolster the City’s parkway tree canopy. To date, the committee has funded planting hundreds of trees in Geneva’s parkways, at City Hall, local parks, and Geneva Community Unit District 304 schools.The Park District Foundation will direct funds toward new trees, landscaping and wildlife education.  The Library Foundation will dedicate proceeds to support library programming and enhancements to library grounds, including plantings, art and other educational features.The organizations hope to raise $100,000 at the Feb. 28 event.For more information about Wine, Cheese & Trees, contact Natural Resources Committee Chairman Jay Womack at 630-299-9945 or by email. To learn more about the committee, visit the City’s website.For more information about the Geneva Park District Foundation and the Geneva Library Foundation, visit their respective websites.

Geneva residents interested in learning more about the City’s upcoming public safety referendum are invited to attend a series of open houses scheduled in February.The City’s Strategic Plan Advisory Committee will host the open houses on the following Wednesdays at the Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St.:

• 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 4
• 10 a.m. to noon Feb. 18
• 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Feb. 25

Residents will be able to speak with City staff at informational stations about the current Geneva Police Station and the proposed future facility. Representatives from the Geneva Police Department, along with subject matter experts in architecture, finance, and project management, will be available to answer questions.Residents are encouraged to RSVP online so the City can plan the open house space accordingly. The RSVP form may also be used to submit questions to the City in advance of the open house sessions.Voters will consider funding for the replacement of Geneva’s aging Police Station after the City Council approved adding a $59.4 million public safety referendum on the March primary election ballot. If approved, the City would build a new police station on City-owned property on South Street adjacent to the Public Works Facility.In addition to the open houses, the City continues to offer public tours of the current Police Station at 20 Police Plaza. Registration is required. For those who cannot attend in person, a virtual tour video has been posted on the City’s YouTube channel.The City’s website serves as the central hub for referendum information. Residents can learn about the need for a new police station, view preliminary architectural renderings, use an estimated referendum tax impact calculator, review the facilities master plan, read FAQs, and access additional information.

A resident sustained a minor injury after a home was significantly damaged by a fire Jan. 23 near the intersection of Kirk and Hill roads in unincorporated Geneva Township.The Geneva Fire Department was dispatched at midnight to a two-story, single-family home for a report of a structure fire.Upon arrival, Geneva fire companies found heavy fire coming from the rear of the home and a second-floor window. A Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) response was activated to request additional resources. Firefighters brought the fire under control in about one hour.All the occupants of the home had self-evacuated prior to the arrival of fire crews. One resident suffered a minor burn, was evaluated by paramedics, and then declined further medical attention after signing a medical release.The preliminary cause of the fire was determined to be the careless use of smoking materials in a first-floor bedroom. Fire, smoke and water damage were extensive, and the home was declared uninhabitable.Firefighters from St. Charles, Batavia, Elburn, West Chicago, Fermilab, North Aurora, South Elgin, Winfield, and Carol Stream assisted Geneva crews at the scene.The Elgin Fire Department and the Sugar Grove Fire Protection District provided coverage at Geneva’s fire stations during the incident.Additional support was provided by the Geneva Emergency Management Agency, Kane County Sheriff’s Office, Kane County Office of Emergency Management, Red Cross, ComEd, and Nicor Gas.

The Geneva Public Works Department is scheduled to repair a water main in early February near Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital.The City responded to a water leak this week at Keslinger Road and Delnor Drive on the south end of the hospital campus. Crews were able to isolate the water leak but need to finish the full water main repair when temperatures warm up.Public Works is planning to complete the project on Tuesday, Feb. 3, weather permitting. When work resumes, the southbound lane of Delnor Drive (leaving the hospital campus) to Keslinger Road will be closed to traffic beginning at 8 a.m. People looking to leave the hospital campus will need to use Fisher Drive or Williamsburg Avenue.The driveway from the parking lot at Tri-Cities Diaysis, 306 S. Randall Road, and Northwestern Medicine Ophthalmology Geneva, 308 S. Randall Road, to southbound Delnor Drive will be closed during the repair. The parking lot's north entrance/exit will remain open.Hospital staff and visitors will be able to enter the hospital campus on northbound Delnor Drive from Keslinger Road.The City has notified the hospital of the upcoming work. The water main repair is expected to be completed by the afternoon. If the weather is not ideal, the project will be pushed back to Wednesday, Feb. 4.For more information, call the Geneva Public Works Department Water Division at 630-232-1551.

The City of Geneva, in partnership with the Illinois Municipal Utilities Association (IMUA), is again offering a scholarship competition program for eligible high school seniors.Each applicant is asked to submit an application and an essay of 500 words or less addressing their choice of one of five utility-related questions. The top four vote-getters in this year’s essay competition will receive a finalist certificate and a $1,000 scholarship check from IMUA.Applicants must be high school seniors whose parents or legal guardians are residential customers of the City of Geneva electric utility. The deadline for submitting applications and essays is Friday, March 13.The program has a dual purpose: to promote and recognize scholastic achievement; and to create greater awareness among young adults of the many issues facing consumers and public power municipalities today.Since its inception, the program has awarded $78,000 to more than 112 students from various IMUA member communities statewide.Organized in 1948, IMUA is a statewide trade association that represents the unified interests of, and provides services to, nearly 50 municipalities that operate their own electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water and wastewater treatment systems.  Applicants may contact IMUA’s DeeDee Bunch at 217-789-4632 or send her an email for more information.

Geneva's City offices will be closed for business Monday, Jan. 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Normal business operations will resume on Tuesday, Jan. 20. The holiday will not alter the City's garbage pickup, which will remain on the regular Thursday-Friday schedule the week of Jan. 19.For more information about Geneva's refuse services, visit the City's website.

The City of Geneva announced tree trimming operations began this month in the downtown area.A City contractor, Asplundh Tree Service, will be trimming trees primarily west of the Fox River, south of State Street (Route 38) and east of Randall Road. Work will occur periodically throughout the year as needed.The pruning of trees is one of the most important maintenance practices to prevent power outages and help ensure reliable service for the City's electric utility.The City has notified affected residents about tree trimming taking place in their neighborhood. A project map and more information can be found on the City’s website.Residents who have questions or concerns can call the City's Public Works Department Electric Division at 630-232-1503.

The Geneva Police Department is warning residents of a scam in which the department’s phone number is being “spoofed,” making the calls appear legitimate.In the scam, the caller pretends to be a Geneva Police officer and tells people that a package containing drugs has been intercepted, a warrant for their arrest has been issued, and they may be victims of identity theft. The caller then requests financial information to resolve the matter.Geneva Police received reports of 11 such calls Jan. 8 after recipients contacted the department to verify the scam calls. When recipients questioned the caller, they were threatened with yelling and profanity. People reporting the phone scam are current or former residents with 630 area codes.The Geneva Police Department does not make unsolicited phone calls demanding financial information. Geneva Police officers also do not threaten people to gain cooperation during an investigation. These calls are a scam, and residents should not provide any confidential information.Geneva Police remind the community to remain alert to phone scams that may appear or sound convincing. As a general rule, residents should not provide financial or personal information over the phone, especially during unsolicited calls.Geneva residents who question the legitimacy of a call claiming to be from police should contact the Geneva Police Department directly at 630-232-4736 for verification.Anyone falling victim to a scam should report it to their local law enforcement agency. Victims can also file online reports with the Federal Trade Commission or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.

Geneva’s Kautz Road reconstruction has been selected as a Project of the Year by the American Public Works Association Fox Valley Branch (APWA).  The Kautz Road improvements won in the Transportation category for projects between $5 million and $25 million. APWA awards recognize excellence in safety, environmental impact, project management, community relations, performance under adverse conditions, and construction innovation.The Kautz Road project was a joint venture between the Cities of Geneva and St. Charles, with Geneva serving as the lead agency. Construction spanned from Swenson Avenue in St. Charles to just north of State Street (Route 38) in Geneva. Beginning in summer 2024, the $6.2 million project replaced failing pavement, improved drainage and safety, enhanced freight mobility, completed trail connections, and supported economic development in the area. Work concluded in spring 2025.“The Kautz Road project transformed a failing, flood-prone corridor into a safe, modern, multimodal roadway serving residents, businesses, and regional transportation needs,” Geneva Public Works Director Rich Babica said. “The project also will serve as a driver for economic development for Geneva’s southeast master plan development.”The Fox Valley Branch will submit the Kautz Road project for consideration at the APWA Chicago Metro Chapter level.The award marks the seventh time Geneva has earned the APWA’s Fox Valley Branch’s Project of the Year. The City was previously honored for the:

• Wastewater Treatment Plant update (2019)
• South Street bridge replacement (2019)
• Third Street Commuter Parking Deck expansion (2016)
• Water Treatment Facility construction (2009)
• Third Street improvements (2002)
• State Street improvements (1995)

APWA is an international association representing public agencies, private sector companies and individuals in public works. The Chicago Chapter includes 1,500 members in five branches throughout the region.

Geneva residents can get the latest information on the City's public safety referendum, winter parking restrictions, live Christmas tree disposal, holiday lights recycling, community events, and plenty more with the City’s Winter Newsletter, which was distributed to subscribers Jan. 7.Other stories include what you should know about riding e-bikes/e-scooters in Geneva, another record low property tax rate, how to apply to serve on the City's Planning & Zoning Commission, firefighter recruitment, and new businesses that now call Geneva home.For those interested in receiving our quarterly newsletter and/or GenevaMail news, people can subscribe with a few short clicks. Happy fall Geneva! We hope everyone enjoys reading the City’s latest newsletter.

The City is offering tours of the Geneva Police Station as part of its public education process for the upcoming public safety referendum.Residents can register to take a tour on weekdays (Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday), Wednesday evenings or select Saturdays this winter. A virtual tour video can be viewed on the City's YouTube channel.Police Chief Eric Passarelli will serve as tour guide along with the help of other Police staff members. Participants will meet in the lobby of the Police Station, 20 Police Plaza, to begin the 45-minute tour. Special requests will be accommodated on an as-needed basis by calling the Geneva Police Department at 630-232-4736.Voters will consider funding for the replacement of Geneva’s aging Police Station after the City Council approved adding a $59.4 million public safety referendum on the March primary election ballot.The Police Station is a conglomeration of three buildings built in 1915, 1953 and 1987. Despite multiple renovations, the facility no longer meets modern standards to provide high-level police services.The Police Station faces persistent operational problems, including frequent roof leaks and sewer backups that have resulted in flooding and a recent partial ceiling collapse. The building lacks adequate office space, secure parking, emergency medical access, and sufficient room for equipment. Employees have also reported rodent issues. The building is no longer cost-effective to repair and does not meet energy-efficiency standards.If voters approved the referendum, the City would build a new police station on City-owned property on South Street adjacent to the Public Works Facility.Residents can learn about the City’s need for a new police station, view preliminary architectural renderings, use an estimated referendum tax impact calculator, review the facilities master plan, read FAQs, and more on the City’s website.

A resident sustained a minor injury after a home was damaged by a fire Dec. 27 in the 300 block of Cheever Avenue near Geneva’s downtown district.The Geneva Fire Department was dispatched at 11:59 p.m. to a two-story, single-family residence for a report of a vehicle on fire inside the attached three-car garage.Upon arrival, Geneva fire companies found smoke showing from the garage and requested additional resources. Firefighters brought the fire under control in less than 30 minutes.One resident suffered a minor heat-related injury, was assessed by paramedics, and then declined further medical attention after signing a medical release.The preliminary origin of the fire was determined to be a car in the garage, but the cause remains under investigation. The fire damage was limited to the garage, but the home’s interior sustained smoke damage.Firefighters from St. Charles, Batavia, Elburn, West Chicago, Fermilab, and North Aurora assisted Geneva crews at the scene.The Winfield Fire Protection District and the South Elgin & Countryside Fire Protection District provided coverage at Geneva’s fire stations in case of additional emergency calls.Additional support was provided by the Geneva Police Department, Geneva Emergency Management Agency, the Geneva Public Works Department Electric Division, and Nicor Gas.

Update

The City's contractor finished the City's curbside leaf collection on Jan. 12 for homes that did not receive their third and final pickup in the fall.

The leaf program was halted Thanksgiving weekend after a significant snowfall during the third and final pickup. Crews attempted to restart operations in late December but had to stop again due to inclement weather. Work resumed Jan. 7 after another weather window opened up this winter.

Thank you for your patience as the City and contractor navigated a difficult start to the winter season.

Original Post

The City of Geneva’s curbside leaf program is scheduled to resume the week of Dec. 29 after a recent thaw has melted most of the early winter snow. However, operations will be weather-dependent with the forecast calling for rain this weekend, followed by temperatures dropping below freezing.The City and contractor will be monitoring weather conditions and may need to adjust the schedule accordingly. Updates will be posted on the program web page.The remaining curbside collection is limited to residents who did not receive their third pickup. The final sweep will not be broken out into zones, so residents should have their leaves raked to the parkway by 7 a.m. Monday, Dec. 29. The curbside program should be finished by Friday, Jan. 2, weather permitting.The City’s contractor completed two-thirds of the final pickup route when a 9-inch snowstorm buried leaf piles Nov. 29. Additional snowfall and colder temperatures originally prompted the City to suspend operations until spring. Given the recent stretch of milder weather, the City and contractor hope to restart operations this month.

Leaf Bag Program

All Geneva residents can bag any remaining leaves for free during the week of Dec. 22.Leaves should be placed in brown yard waste bags. Waste stickers are not required, but bags must only contain leaves. Yard waste, mulch or grass clippings mixed with leaves will not be accepted.Bags should be set outside with the garbage on residents’ refuse collection day, which will be one day later than usual due to the Christmas holiday.For more information, visit the City’s website or call the Geneva Public Works Department at 630-232-1501.

City of Geneva offices will be closed Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 24-25; and Thursday, Jan. 1, in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays.Geneva’s garbage and recycling collection will be delayed by one day during the holiday weeks. Refuse will be picked up as follows:

• Week of Dec. 22 – Friday-Saturday
• Week of Dec. 29 – Friday-Saturday
• Week of Jan. 5 – Thursday-Friday (regular schedule)

Christmas Tree Pickup

Geneva residents will have several opportunities to dispose of live Christmas trees in January.Trees will be picked up for free on residents’ garbage days during the weeks of Dec. 29 and Jan. 5 by LRS, the City’s waste hauler. No waste stickers are necessary during this period.Trees discarded after the first two weeks of January will require one Geneva waste sticker.Residents must place their live trees out with their garbage no later than 7 a.m. on their scheduled pickup day. Ornaments, hooks, nails, tinsel, garland, tree stands, and other hard materials should be removed prior to disposal. Trees placed in bags will not be accepted.All wreaths and roping must be discarded in the trash.For more information about Geneva’s refuse services, call the City’s Public Works Department at 630-232-1501 or visit the City’s website.

The Geneva City Council approved a property tax rate decrease at its Dec. 15 meeting, setting the City on course for the lowest municipal property tax rate in 45 years.The approved 2025 tax levy - covering property taxes paid in 2026 - reduces the City’s tax rate by 4.42%, from 0.4787 to 0.4575. This decrease comes even as property values continue to rise across Geneva.

What Does This Mean For Homeowners?

The lower tax rate is expected to result in approximately $30 in savings for the owner of a $450,000 home.This milestone reflects Geneva’s continued commitment to responsible financial management while maintaining the high-quality public services residents expect. Based on City records dating back to 1980, the approved levy establishes the lowest City property tax rate on record.For more information about Geneva’s budget and financial reports, visit the City’s website.

Want to make a difference in your community but not sure where to start? The City of Geneva is looking for a dedicated volunteer to fill a vacancy on the Planning & Zoning Commission.The Planning & Zoning Commission is a citizens' advisory group that makes recommendations to the City Council on a broad range of Geneva planning and zoning issues. The mission of the commission is to ensure the City's plans, goals, policies, land use ordinances, and regulations are promoting orderly and coordinated growth and development within Geneva. The commission typically meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.Residents interested in serving on the commission should submit an application along with a letter of interest to Mayor Kevin Burns, Geneva City Hall, 22 S. First St., Geneva, IL 60134. The envelope should include a reference to the Planning & Zoning Commission. The application deadline is 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16.Candidates must be residents living within the City's corporate boundary limits (see the City's Ward Map).Questions about the Planning & Zoning Commission can be directed to Community Development Director David DeGroot at 630-232-0814 or via email.

The City will turn to voters to consider funding for the replacement of Geneva’s aging Police Station after the City Council approved adding a $59.4 million public safety referendum on the March 2026 primary election ballot.Geneva continues to be recognized for its historic charm and quality of life. However, maintaining older municipal buildings does present ongoing challenges. After spending the past several years evaluating its buildings, the City Council approved a facilities master plan in July. The plan, along with resident feedback over the past year, identified the Police Station as the City’s top priority to address.The two-story Geneva Police Station at 20 Police Plaza is a conglomeration of three buildings built in 1915, 1953 and 1987. Over the years, the structure has been home to the Fire Department, the Public Works Department, Tri-Com Central Dispatch, and now the Police and Finance departments. Despite multiple renovations over the past 60 years, the facility no longer meets modern standards to provide high-level police services the community has come to expect or comply with current Illinois law.The police station faces persistent operational problems, including frequent roof leaks and sewer backups that have resulted in flooding and a recent partial ceiling collapse. The building lacks adequate office space, secure parking, medical emergency access, and room for equipment. Employees have also reported rodent issues. The building is no longer cost-effective to repair and does not meet energy-efficiency standards.If voters approved the referendum, the City would build a new police station on City-owned property on South Street adjacent to the Public Works Facility. The new building would provide adequate workspace, updated technology, and enhanced safety for officers and the public. The City would then sell the property at 20 Police Plaza following the completion of the new station.  Residents can learn about the City’s need for a new police station, view preliminary architectural renderings, use an estimated referendum tax impact calculator, and review the facilities master plan on the City’s website.

The City of Geneva flag has been lowered to half-staff at City Hall in memory of former Mayor Tom Coughlin.Mr. Coughlin served as mayor from 1997-2001 and was an alderman on the City Council during two separate occasions.The family has chose to hold a private ceremony to celebrate Mr. Coughlin's life.The City expresses its condolences to the Coughlin family for their loss.

With winter weather ahead, the City is reminding residents about Geneva's snow parking ordinances and plowing operations.Parking is prohibited when snowfall reaches:

2 Inches

Posted “Snow Routes,” which are highways and main collector streets with higher speed limits;

3 Inches

Residential roadways, including alleys, cul-de-sacs, and dead ends.The Geneva Public Works Department also can restrict parking based on the forecast from the National Weather Service or other weather agencies for snow, sleet or freezing rain. If weather conditions are predicted to be hazardous to motorists, a parking ban may be put into effect to promote public safety and welfare on the roadways. Access to snow routes and residential streets is important in providing emergency services to the community.With cooperation from residents and visitors, Public Works crews will be able to maximize the effectiveness of their snow removal operations. Cars left on the street during a parking ban risk being ticketed or towed.

Subscribe To Community Alerts

During major snow events, residents can find parking restrictions and plowing updates on the City website's Alert Center. People can subscribe to receive those updates by visiting “Notify Me” and selecting “Community Alerts.” Information also will be posted on the City’s Facebook and Twitter/X accounts.

Which Streets Are Plowed First

When road conditions become hazardous, “Snow Routes” are cleared of snow and ice first before crews transition to residential neighborhoods. Parking is not permitted on residential streets at any time within 12 hours following a snowfall of 3 inches or more or until a street has been plowed to the curb.During a major snowstorm, residential streets will receive one pass in each direction to provide access for motorists and emergency vehicles. After the snowfall has ended, all streets will be plowed curb-to-curb.Kane County is responsible for snow removal on Kirk Road, Fabyan Parkway, Randall Road, Keslinger Road, Peck Road, and the southwest section of Kaneville Road. The City plows all other local streets, including State Street (Route 38), Route 25, and Route 31 per an agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Mailboxes

Snowplow drivers are careful to avoid damaging mailboxes, however, with limited space to pile snow and hundreds of miles of roadway to plow during each snowstorm, drivers cannot avoid pushing snow against mailboxes.Residents should ensure their mailboxes are secured before winter weather hits. Check that your mailbox post is straight and that the box is not leaning over the curb. Replace damaged or rotting posts. Check the connection point between the box and the post to ensure that the box is securely fastened. The U.S. Postal Service offers guidelines for mailbox installation and placement. The City's curbside mailbox ordinance is available online.

Anti-Icing Program

In addition to plowing, Public Works crews use an anti-icing program that includes different applications of a liquid mixture of salt brine, calcium chloride and an agricultural byproduct (typically beet juice). Crews can custom blend the mixture for each snow event based on pavement/air temperatures and wind speeds to efficiently slow roadway icing.The mixture can be applied directly to the street (white lines may be noticeable on the pavement) up to 48 hours before a snow event, or added to the salt to jumpstart the activation process in cold weather.Anti-icing has several benefits. Most importantly, it helps crews remove snow and ice from the pavement faster. It also reduces the average amount of salt applied during snow events by 15 to 20% – saving money and helping protect the environment.

The Geneva Police Department is asking women to come forward if they recall interacting with a St. Charles man who allegedly took unauthorized upskirt or dress videos during the past eight years.  Jascent M. Harvey, 29, of the 1300 block of West Main St., (police photo) has been charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and one count of unauthorized video recording of intimate parts (Class 4 felony).Geneva Police detectives arrested Harvey Oct. 3 after an investigation found he allegedly used his phone to secretly record video up a woman’s skirt at a Geneva store.Harvey’s phone was forensically searched pursuant to a judicial warrant, and the review took several weeks. Investigators uncovered more than 400 unauthorized upskirt videos taken from 2017 to 2025 at various locations, including:

• Retail stores, banks, and office buildings in Algonquin, DeKalb, Geneva, Elgin, Naperville, South Elgin, St. Charles, and Wheaton;
• Public libraries in Batavia, DeKalb, Elburn, Geneva, St. Charles, North Aurora, West Chicago, Sycamore, and Wheaton; and
• Government buildings in DeKalb, Elgin and Aurora.

Geneva Police are asking women who may have interacted with Harvey and believe they could be victims to email PDInvestigations@geneva.il.us.Following his arrest, Harvey was transferred to Kane County Jail and had his first court appearance Oct. 4. He was subsequently released, and his next court date is scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 17.The charges against Harvey are not proof of guilt. Harvey is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial in which it is the State’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Geneva residents who have old, broken, or unwanted strands of holiday lights can recycle them for free from Monday, Nov. 24, to Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026, at three drop-off locations.The City is collaborating with eWorks to offer this recycling opportunity. Holiday lights can be dropped off during normal business hours at:

• Geneva City Hall, 22 S. First St.
• Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St.
• Geneva Park District Sunset Community Center, 710 Western Ave.

Residents can recycle mini lights (or Italian lights), C7 & C9 lights, rope lights, LED strands, and extension cords. Garland, wreaths and outdoor display pieces containing lights will not be accepted.More program information is available on the City’s website.

AT&T will begin a fiber cable installation project in mid-December for the northern section of the Fisher Farms subdivision in Geneva.Impacted streets will include, but are not limited to:

• Williamsburg Avenue
• Fisher Drive
• Border Drive
• Fieldstone Drive
• Nelson Drive

Construction will take place within existing public utility easements and the City’s right-of-way, as authorized per AT&T’s franchise agreement with the State of Illinois. AT&T’s contractor, PirTano, will notify impacted residents with door hangers of the upcoming project. The contractor will not need to enter any homes during construction, which will generate noise as crews bore into the ground.The conduit installation is expected to be completed in late February 2026, weather permitting. Following PirTano's work, AT&T crews will pull fiber cables through the conduits, a process anticipated to continue through July 2026.Residents should flag any electric fences, sprinklers, etc., and relocate any plants/bushes located within the installation footprint to help prevent construction damage.  PirTano will handle landscape restoration once the fiber installation is complete. The company has requested residents contact them directly regarding restoration concerns. PirTano will not reimburse residents who choose to perform their own restoration.For more information, visit the City’s fiber installation project web page.

The Geneva Police Department announced street closures will be implemented Friday and Saturday, Dec. 5-6, to accommodate the Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour.  The Christmas Walk tree lighting ceremony begins at 6 p.m. Dec. 5. To prepare for the event, the Geneva Police Department and Geneva Emergency Management Agency will close Third Street from State Street (Route 38) to South Street at 5 p.m. All intersections along South Third Street also will shut down.Temporary parking restrictions will be enacted at 3 p.m. Dec. 5 in downtown Geneva.The Police Department and Geneva Emergency Management Agency will be present throughout the downtown to assist festival patrons. A law enforcement drone may be used to support public safety by providing real-time aerial monitoring for police and emergency management personnel.The roadways will reopen to traffic following the conclusion of the Christmas Walk at 10 p.m.The Geneva Holiday House Tour (tickets required) runs from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 5 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 6 at the following homes:

• 511 Fargo Blvd.
• 1118 Fargo Blvd.
• 833 Sunset Road
• 318 N. Second St.
• 227 Ford St.

Parking restrictions will be applied to streets surrounding each House Tour location to provide safe walking conditions for pedestrians and adequate clearance for emergency vehicles.The City of Geneva is proud to be a presenting sponsor for both the Geneva Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour.The Police Department appreciates the public’s cooperation and hopes everyone has a festive holiday weekend. For more information about the Christmas Walk and the Holiday House Tour, visit the Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s website.

Construction crews will remove 47 parkway trees in November as part of the East State Street reconstruction project in Geneva.The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) plans to rebuild East State Street (Route 38) from Glengarry Drive to the Fox River. The multi-year project encompasses roadway widening, streetscape enhancements, bike lanes, traffic signal upgrades, new street lighting, and water main/storm drainage infrastructure improvements.The trees must be removed to accommodate the highway expansion. However, trees will play a prominent role in the corridor's future appearance. When the project is completed, 290 new trees featuring a diverse mix of species will be planted along East State Street.During the past few months, utility companies have been relocating underground infrastructure, resulting in lane closures in both directions on Route 38.The full East State Street reconstruction project is tentatively scheduled to start in spring 2026 and be completed in late 2027, with punch list items to be finished the following year. The timeline is dependent on how quickly the utility relocations are resolved.  More information, including project updates, can be found on the East State Street Reconstruction web page.

Instead of throwing away those old pumpkins after Halloween, residents can recycle them for free at Geneva’s Pumpkin Smash Saturday, Nov. 8.The event will be held from 9 a.m. to noon at the Community Gardens at Prairie Green, located at Peck and Bricher roads. The Pumpkin Smash, sponsored by the City’s Natural Resources Committee and the Geneva Park District, is designed to reduce the number of pumpkins ending up in landfills. Park District crews will till the smashed pumpkins into the garden plots to provide nutrients to the soil.All pumpkin decorations, such as candles, yarn hair, stickers, googly eyes, and plastic accessories, should be removed before recycling.Food and warm drinks will be available for purchase from local vendors during the event.The Community Gardens at Prairie Green is a cooperative partnership between the Geneva Park District, the City of Geneva, and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. The Park District offers 131 rental plots and gardening classes to the community.Garden plots are open from dawn until dusk between April and October. Each plot is 20 feet by 30 feet.Returning gardeners from the 2025 season can sign up for their same plot next year starting Monday, Dec. 1. New gardeners may register for available plots beginning Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026. More information is available on the Park District’s website.People can learn more about the Natural Resources Committee by visiting the City’s website.

The Ooh La La Chocolate half marathon, 10k and 5k run will take place Sunday, Nov. 2 in downtown Geneva.To accommodate the event, parking will be prohibited on portions of several downtown streets after midnight Nov. 2 and fully closed to traffic at 4 a.m., including:

• Third Street from James to Franklin streets
• Campbell Street from River Lane to Second Street, and from Fifth to Sixth streets
• Franklin Street from Second to Sixth streets
• Second, Fifth and Sixth streets from Campbell to Franklin streets
• River Lane from Campbell to South streets

Route 31 (South First Street) will remain open, but traffic will be stopped periodically at the Campbell Street intersection to allow runners to cross the state highway. A detour route will direct drivers around the race course using James, Seventh, Fulton, and Third streets.Geneva Police officers will provide traffic control, but motorists should use caution when traveling through downtown due to the large crowd anticipated to attend or participate in the race. All streets are expected to be reopened by 11 a.m.For more information, visit the Ooh La La Chocolate Run’s website.

The City of Geneva is seeking to clarify an advertising letter sent from a private plumbing company to residents about the City's sanitary sewer service lateral lining and grouting program.The City is not affiliated with the plumber, even though the City's logo was used in the letter.Residents interested in participating in our sanitary sewer lateral lining and grouting reimbursement program should contact the City's Public Works Department Water Division directly by calling 630-232-1551 or emailing Superintendent of Water & Wastewater Bob VanGyseghem.

Program Details

The City's sanitary sewer system has more than adequate capacity to convey sanitary flow. However, during intense rains, stormwater can enter the sanitary sewer system through private and public stormwater sources. The City's reimbursement program has been developed to reduce infiltration of groundwater from private sewer services by lining or grouting the private sewer service lateral.For more information about the City program, please visit our website. The program is based on a first-come, first-served basis and contingent upon budgetary authority and budget fund availability.

Geneva Public Works will begin flushing fire hydrants citywide starting the week of Oct. 27 as part of an ongoing maintenance program.Hydrants will be flushed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday to Friday. The water is safe to drink, but residents are encouraged to let their faucets run for a few minutes if they notice any discoloration.When crews are in their neighborhood, residents should:

• Limit water use, if possible
• Refrain from doing laundry to prevent staining due to rusty water
• Keep their laundry wet if it becomes discolored and purchase a rust-removing solution packet from a local retailer

Signs will be posted in neighborhoods to alert residents when flushing is underway. A hydrant flushing progress map will be available on the City’s website. Hydrant flushing is expected to be finished in about three weeks, weather permitting.Hydrant flushing improves the water quality by clearing rust and sediment from water mains while ensuring the hydrants are working properly.For more information, contact James Childress, Geneva Public Works System Maintenance and Customer Service Supervisor, at 630-232-1551 or via email.

Geneva residents interested in learning how police officers keep the community safe are invited to register for the City’s 2025 Citizen Police Academy.The free program will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. on Thursdays, Nov. 6 to Dec. 11, at the Geneva Police Department. The academy provides participants with an overview of the department and a behind-the-scenes look at police operations.During previous sessions, participants learned about the police hiring process, crime scene investigations, use of force, technology crime, traffic enforcement, crime prevention, drug education, and active shooter response.Applicants must be 21 years old and be a resident or business owner in the City of Geneva. Applications are available on the City’s website or the Geneva Police Department. Space is limited.Completed applications can be dropped off or mailed to the Geneva Police Department, 20 Police Plaza, Geneva, IL 60134. The deadline is Monday, Oct. 27.For more information, call Geneva Police Sgt. Brad Jerdee at 630-232-4736 or send him an email.

As the calendar turns to fall, Geneva’s curbside leaf collection program will roll out in late October and continue throughout November.Kramer Tree Specialists, the City’s contractor, will complete three collection cycles in each of the City’s three leaf pickup zones this fall. A zone map, schedule and full program details are available on the City’s website.The schedule is subject to change in case of inclement weather, leaf volume or equipment failure. Each zone pickup takes several days to complete.Residents can track the contractor’s progress on the City's curbside leaf map, which will be updated weekday mornings. People are encouraged to check the City’s website frequently for any schedule changes.Residents must rake their leaves to the parkway parallel to the street and about 12 inches behind the curb or edge of the pavement by 7 a.m. on the Monday of their scheduled week. Raking leaves into the street or curb/gutter can clog storm sewers, which can later result in street flooding.Leaves placed on the parkway after the crews have passed will not be collected until the next scheduled date.

Leaf Bag Program

After the curbside pickup concludes, residents may use the City's leaf bag collection program in December.Leaves should be placed in brown yard waste bags. Waste stickers are not required, but bags must only contain leaves. Yard waste, mulch or grass clippings mixed with leaves will not be accepted.Bags should be set outside with the garbage on residents' refuse collection day. LRS crews will make the final pickup during the week of Dec. 22.Full curbside and leaf bag program details can be found on the City's website. Questions can be directed to the City's Public Works Department by calling 630-232-1501.

The Geneva Police Department, in partnership with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), will collect expired or unwanted prescription medications from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, during National Drug Take-Back Day.The public can drop off medications with the front desk records specialist at the Police Department, 20 Police Plaza. Accepted items include:

• Prescription medications
• Medication samples
• Over-the-counter medications
• Vitamins
• Pet medications
• Non-controlled DEA drugs

Pills should be removed from their original container by pouring them directly into a plastic bag. Pills in blister packs can remain in the plastic but should be taken out of their boxes. Liquids will must remain sealed in their original container. People should take home any empty prescription bottles and boxes that display personal information.Police will also accept vape pens, but only with the batteries removed from the device beforehand.The Police Department will not accept any ointments, illegal substances/narcotics, thermometers, IV bags, sharps/needles, bloody or infectious waste, or empty containers.The collection service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. After 2 p.m. Oct. 25, the Police Department will return to its regular policy of accepting unused medication from Geneva residents only.Launched in 2010, National Drug Take-Back Day provides a safe, convenient and responsible way to dispose of prescription drugs. Flushing medications down the toilet or sink can end up in local drinking water supplies, while improper storage increases the risk of abuse.For more information about the disposal of prescription drugs, visit the DEA’s website.  

Geneva businesses looking for lunch ideas Thursday, Sept. 25, can participate in the Geneva Police Department's 17th annual Josef's BBQ for Special Olympics.The lunch includes a BBQ pork sandwich, cole slaw, chips, and cookie that will be delivered by a Geneva police officer at 11 a.m., 11:30 a.m. or noon Sept. 25 to a Geneva business address. Orders, which cost $11 per person, can be placed by Tuesday, Sept. 23, with Geneva Police Sgt. Mark Russo by calling 630-232-4736 or sending him an email.While deliveries cannot be made to individual homes, residents interested in supporting this cause can purchase this lunch option in person Sept. 25 at Josef's Meats & Deli, 716 W. State St., Suite A.All proceeds from the event will benefit Special Olympics Illinois.The lunch also honors the memory of former Geneva Police Officer Keith Koza, who started an annual pig roast in 2008 to raise money for Special Olympics. Koza continued the tradition the following year while fighting cancer that ultimately took his life shortly after the fundraiser.The lunch is one of the fundraising platforms for the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which is a collaborative effort from officers across the nation to raise money for Special Olympics.The Geneva Police Department appreciates the public’s support for this worthy mission.

The Geneva Police Department continues to investigate a two-car crash that claimed the lives of a Geneva couple at 1:40 p.m. Sept. 5 at the intersection of Bricher Road and Fisher Drive.Preliminary findings indicate a 2005 Toyota Corolla was initiating a westbound turn onto Bricher Road from Fisher Drive when it was struck by a 2020 BMW X3 traveling eastbound on Bricher Road. The collision sent the BMW off the roadway into a wooded area north of the intersection, where it caught fire. Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames.Geneva Police and firefighters from the Geneva Fire Department, the Batavia Fire Department and the Elburn and Countryside Fire Protection District responded to the scene. The Kane County Coroner’s Office was notified of the fatal crash at 2:47 p.m.The two occupants of the Toyota Corolla, a married couple from Geneva, did not survive. The driver has been identified as Dennis White, 85. He was transported to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva, where he was later pronounced deceased. His wife, Ritsuko White, 88, was pronounced deceased at the scene.Both were transported to the Kane County Morgue for further examination. External examinations, including X-rays, were completed Sept. 5, and forensic autopsies were performed Sept. 8. Toxicology samples were collected and submitted to a forensic laboratory for analysis.  Autopsy results from the couple indicate the preliminary cause of their deaths is consistent with multiple traumatic injuries due to a motor vehicle crash.  The BMW was driven by a 19-year-old man, who had three passengers, ages 18 to 20, in the vehicle. The driver and two passengers were medically released at the scene. One passenger was transported by paramedics to Delnor Hospital.No charges have been filed. The case remains under investigation by the Geneva Police Department, Kane County Coroner’s Office and the Kane County Accident Reconstruction Team.The Geneva Police Department and the Kane County Coroner’s Office extend heartfelt condolences to the White family and others impacted by this tragic crash.            

Source: Joint News Release From The Geneva Police Department & Kane County Coroner's Office  

Downtown Geneva will be filled with Viking pride as Geneva High School celebrates homecoming with its annual parade Friday, Sept. 26.State Street (Route 38) between Third and Ninth streets will be shut down at 2 p.m. to accommodate the event. All streets listed on the parade route also will be closed to traffic:

• Geneva High School/Stevens Street east to Anderson Boulevard
• Anderson Boulevard south to State Street
• State Street east to Third Street
• Third Street north to Hamilton Street

A marked detour route will guide eastbound motorists on State Street to turn south on Ninth Street, east on James Street, north on Third Street, and then back east on State Street. Westbound traffic will follow the same route in reverse.  As students march back to school, traffic also will be impacted on Third Street from State to Stevens streets, and Stevens Street from Third Street to McKinley Avenue.Police officers will provide traffic control, but motorists are urged to use caution due to the large crowd anticipated to attend the parade. All streets are scheduled to reopen by 3:30 p.m.

A Geneva couple died following a two-vehicle crash that occurred at 1:40 p.m. Sept. 5 at the intersection of Bricher Road and Fisher Drive.The preliminary investigation indicates a dark blue, 2020 BMW X3 was traveling eastbound on Bricher Road approaching Fisher Drive. A blue, 2005 Toyota Corolla was attempting to turn westbound onto Bricher Road from Fisher Drive. The BMW struck the Toyota, pushing the Toyota east of the intersection.The collision sent the BMW off the roadway into a wooded brush area north of the intersection. The BMW sparked with fire, which was quickly extinguished by firefighters. The Geneva Police and Fire departments, along with the Batavia Fire Department and Elburn & Countryside Fire Protection District, responded to the scene.An 85-year-old Geneva man, who was driving the Toyota, and his wife, 88, were killed in the crash. Their names are being withheld pending notification of family members.The BMW was driven by an 18-year-old man, who had three passengers, ages 18 to 19, in the vehicle. The driver and two passengers were medically released at the scene. One passenger was transported by paramedics to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital in Geneva.No charges have been filed, but the crash remains under investigation. Geneva Police, the Kane County Accident Reconstruction Team, and the Kane County Coroner’s Office are working collaboratively to investigate the crash.  Bricher Road was shut down from Peck to Camden roads while law enforcement personnel remained on the scene. The roadway reopened around 7:40 p.m. The Geneva Emergency Management Agency and Kane County Office of Emergency Management provided traffic assistance during the closure.

The City of Geneva will replace a water main on Division Street this fall, with construction stretching from Route 25 to East Side Drive.In 2023, the City completed a water main crossing at Route 25 and Division Street in preparation for the full replacement project, which is scheduled to start the week of Sept. 22 with equipment mobilization and marking utility locations. Construction is anticipated to be finished in late November, weather permitting.The existing water main, located on the north side of Division Street, will be replaced with new infrastructure on the south side. Construction will primarily take place on the south side of the roadway, which will likely require a traffic lane closure to accommodate the project. Drivers also may encounter minor traffic disruptions at East Side Drive and Division Street. Route 25 is not expected to be impacted.Water service will remain on for residents during most of the construction. The lone exception will be when homes are connected to the new water main. The City will provide at least two days’ advanced notice before the scheduled outages, which are expected to last less than four hours.The City will send letters to area residents about the upcoming construction. The City's engineering consultant, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick (HLR), will provide inspection services and keep neighbors informed about the scheduled water connections.A project map, construction updates and more information can be found on the Division Street Water Main project page on the City’s website.

The City of Geneva’s Natural Resources Committee is seeking volunteers for its annual Fox River Clean Up Day from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20.Participants willing to get muddy and wet in the Fox River will meet at the Fabyan Forest Preserve parking lot, accessible from Route 25 just south of the Fabyan Windmill. Volunteers who prefer to stay dry on land can join a second group at Island Park, 2 E. State St., on the spillway near the playground.The committee has provided maps detailing work locations and nearby parking options.Volunteers should wear old clothes, gloves and boots to help remove debris from the park and river. Garbage bags, water, snacks, washing stations, and canoes will be provided.To RSVP or for more information, email Natural Resources Committee member Kelvin Limbrick.

Several downtown Geneva streets will be closed early Sunday, Sept. 21, to accommodate the annual Fox Valley Marathon.The marathon begins in St. Charles and heads south into Geneva, impacting downtown streets and main arterial roads from 7 to 9 a.m., including:

• Route 31 – Roosevelt Street in St. Charles to Fabyan Parkway
• Stevens Street – Route 31 to Fifth Street
• Ford Street – Route 31 to Fifth Street
• North Fifth Street – Stevens to Peyton streets
• Peyton Street – Fifth Street to Route 31
• State Street (Route 38) – Route 25 to Seventh Street
• James Street – Route 31 to Fifth Street
• South Fifth Street – James to Campbell streets
• Campbell Street – Fifth to Third streets
• Third Street – Campbell to Fulton streets
• Fulton Street – Third Street to Route 31

Detour Routes

Route 38 

Eastbound traffic will detour south on Seventh Street, east on Franklin Street, south on Third Street to south on Route 31, east on Fabyan Parkway, and north on Route 25. Westbound traffic will follow the same route in reverse.  

Route 31

Southbound motorists will detour west on Roosevelt Street, south on Third Street (St. Charles)/Anderson Boulevard (Geneva), east on State Street, south on Seventh Street, east on Franklin Street, south on Third Street to south on Route 31. Northbound traffic will use the same route in reverse.

Alternate Route

Drivers seeking to avoid the road closures should use Route 25, Fabyan Parkway and Randall Road. Trucks should use this route and avoid downtown if possible.Marathon officials and police officers will provide traffic control during the morning. Officials will be available to assist motorists to and from their residences if they live within the designated race course.  For more information about the race, visit the Fox Valley Marathon’s website.

The City of Geneva, in collaboration with Geneva Community Unit School District 304, Geneva Park District, and Geneva Public Library District, is launching the second annual “YOU MATTER” campaign to raise awareness about suicide prevention this September.The campaign highlights the impact, prevalence, and ways to prevent suicide in our community. Key initiatives include:

Geneva Police Department

Since 2020, the Geneva Police has partnered with the Association for Individual Development (AID) to provide an on-site social worker. Residents can schedule an appointment with AID social worker Allison Bader by calling 630-966-9393 or sending her an email. The department’s Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) supports residents with mental health challenges, with 94% of officers CIT-trained.

City's Mental Health Board

The board continues to support community mental health through funding, advocacy, and education. In 2024, the board awarded $200,000 in grants to 17 organizations serving Geneva residents. Grant applications for 2025 will open in October.

District 304

Geneva High School’s Peer Leadership Program and Students Against Destructive Decisions will host a “Chalk Talk” event on Tuesday, Sept. 9. Students will decorate sidewalks in support of Suicide Awareness Day. Additional events are planned throughout the school year.

Park District

During September, the Geneva Park District is posting information & resources in its park kiosks related to the You Matter campaign.  

Library District

The Library will offer a workshop on Sunday, Sept. 14, entitled “Hope and Resilience: Suicide Prevention Training” and will share mental health resources online and within the building. Residents are encouraged to participate in the “Messages of Hope” display in the library lobby, where visitors can share a message of hope with the community and take one for themselves.

“This campaign shows what is possible when organizations unite for a common purpose,” Library Director Christine Lazaris said. “Together, we are sending a clear message that support is here and that every person in our community truly matters.”For immediate assistance, call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988. Remember, YOU MATTER, and your community is here for you.

The Geneva Police Department announced downtown street closures and parking restrictions will be implemented to accommodate the Festival of the Vine, which takes place Friday to Sunday, Sept. 5-7.The City of Geneva is serving as a presenting sponsor for Festival of the Vine. The event is centered around the historic Kane County Courthouse, 100 S. Third St. The Flavor Fare/Entertainment stage will be situated on James Street, while the Arts & Crafts show will occur on Campbell Street.The following roadways will be closed to through traffic starting on the following mornings:

Wednesday, Sept. 3

• James Street (middle of the 300 block to Fifth Street)
• Fourth Street (middle of the 0 to 100 block to James Street)
• Parking restrictions on James and Fourth streets begin at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 2.

Saturday, Sept. 6

• Campbell Street from Third to Fourth streets
• Parking restrictions on Campbell Street begin at 11:59 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5.

Parking lot access to local businesses will remain open on James and Fourth streets.Additional parking restrictions beginning late Thursday, Sept. 4 are:

• Fifth Street – both sides of the roadway from State (Route 38) to Campbell streets, plus the west side of the 200 and 300 blocks;
• James Street – six spots on the south side west of Third Street;
• 400 & 600 blocks of Campbell Street; and
• 200 & 300 blocks of Fourth Street (west side only).

Parking restrictions will be lifted after the conclusion of Festival of the Vine on Sept. 7. Road closures will remain in place until 3 p.m. Monday, Sept. 8.“No Parking” signs posted on wooden stakes should not be removed since the restrictions are meant to provide a safe environment for festival patrons. Vehicles parked in restricted areas may be ticketed and/or towed. Parking within 20 feet of an intersection or crosswalk is prohibited.Patrons interested in biking to Festival of the Vine can view a map of routes and parking options provided by the City’s Bike & Pedestrian Committee.A law enforcement drone may be in use at times during the festival to support public safety by providing real-time aerial monitoring.The Geneva Police Department thanks the public for its cooperation and wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable festival experience. For more information about Festival of the Vine, visit the Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s website.

Car enthusiasts can enjoy a showcase of antique, classic, and modern automobiles during the Concours d’Elegance from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, in downtown Geneva.To accommodate the event, the Geneva Police Department will implement temporary parking restrictions starting at 11:59 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23. Parking will be prohibited on:

• Third Street from State (Route 38) to South streets
• The 200 and 300 blocks of all cross streets with South Third Street
• The 100 block of Fulton Street

Parking will be limited to one side of the street only for the 400, 500 and 600 blocks of all cross streets with South Third Street.Several downtown roadways will close to traffic beginning at 3 a.m. Aug. 24, including:

• Third Street from State to South streets
• Fourth Street from State to Franklin streets
• James and Campbell streets from Second to Fifth streets
• Franklin and Fulton streets from Second to Fourth streets
• 100 block of Fulton Street (4 to 9 a.m. only)

Motorists should use Route 31 as an alternate route during the event.“No Parking” signage will be posted during the morning Aug. 23 to notify downtown residents and visitors of the event restrictions. Vehicles remaining on the posted streets after the parking ban begins will be towed.All streets are expected to reopen by 6:30 p.m. Aug. 24.For more information about the Concours d’Elegance, visit the show’s website.

Two Geneva commuter parking lots will reopen Friday, Aug. 15, following substantial completion of Union Pacific’s Third Main Line project.The Route 31 overflow parking lot, located south of the railroad overpass, will be available for daily fee parking. The rate will be $1.75 per day, and customers can use the Passport mobile app to make payments.The Geneva Train Depot parking lot, south of the tracks and west of Third Street, will be reopened for quarterly commuter parking permit holders. A three-month permit costs $100 for Geneva residents and $125 for non-residents.The parking lots have been closed since 2022 during the construction of a third railroad track on the UP/Metra West Line from Kress Road in West Chicago through Geneva. The track was completed this summer, and trains have been operating on the new line for the past month.Union Pacific crews may still be working along the railway as they close out minor punch list items related to the project.For more information about commuter parking in Geneva, visit the City’s website.

Alex Voigt has been named Geneva’s next City Administrator, bringing 15 years of municipal experience serving in a variety of leadership positions with the City of Aurora.The Geneva City Council tonight approved the appointment of Voigt to replace City Administrator Stephanie Dawkins, who announced her retirement effective Friday, Aug. 15. The City Administrator supervises all department heads, manages the day-to-day operations of the City government, and serves as budget officer, overseeing the preparation of the annual budget for City Council approval.Voigt is expected to start her new job in early September.“Ms. Voigt’s professional and interpersonal skills are exactly what our community deserves to help advance the principles of Geneva’s 2030 Strategic Plan and beyond,” Mayor Kevin Burns said. “Her highly respected team building, communications, collaboration, and fidelity to good governance make her the perfect chief administrative officer to help guide Geneva’s future and elevate our promise and potential.”Voigt has more than 10 years of experience in government administration, most recently serving as Deputy Chief of Staff for Illinois’ second-largest city. She worked closely with elected officials (city, state and federal), city staff, municipal advisory boards, and residents.  Voigt’s experience includes daily operations for the Mayor’s Office, supervision of seven different city departments, Aurora’s 30+ boards and commissions, and assisting with budget planning. She also provided direction on the role of Aurora’s Emergency Management Division and led modernization efforts for several of the city’s online platforms.Voigt has a strong background in research, development and implementation of municipal policies and community engagement. Her accomplishments include:

• Establishing a new structure for Aurora’s boards and commissions, adding 10 new advisory groups
• Leading Aurora’s special census efforts
• Creating a special event ordinance with an online permitting process
• Drafting Aurora’s first mobile food unit ordinance
• Revamping Aurora’s liquor code to streamline licensing and encourage economic development

“I am thrilled to join the City of Geneva and honored to step into the role of City Administrator,” Voigt said. “Geneva's vibrant community, strong civic values, and commitment to thoughtful growth make it a truly special place. I look forward to working with the City Council, City staff and the residents to contribute to the continued success of this great city.”Before being named Deputy Chief of Staff, Voigt earned promotions with the City of Aurora, serving as Assistant to the Mayor, Management Analyst, Interim Emergency Management Coordinator, and twice as Interim City Clerk.Voigt holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio and will soon receive her certificate of Executive Education from the Harvard Kennedy School.

Before work can commence on the East State Street reconstruction project in Geneva, several utility companies must first relocate underground infrastructure.The Illinois Department of Transportation awarded a contract in the spring to R.W. Dunteman to rebuild East State Street (Route 38) from Glengarry Drive to the Fox River. The multi-year project encompasses roadway widening, streetscape enhancements, bike lanes, traffic signal upgrades, new street lighting, and water main/storm drainage infrastructure improvements.Construction will not begin until utility relocations are complete, a process that could take six to eight months, potentially longer. Utility work will require both intermittent short-term and possibly long-term traffic lane closures along various stretches of the highway in 2025 and early 2026.AT&T is scheduled to begin relocating utilities the week of Aug. 4 near Nebraska Street. Eastbound traffic will be reduced to one lane from Kane to Woodlawn streets for about one week. Electronic message boards have been placed along East State Street this week to notify drivers of the upcoming road work, which is weather-dependent.AT&T also will relocate underground utilities near the following intersections (with estimated construction timeframes):

• Harrison Street – two to three weeks
• Sandholm Street – two weeks
• Crissey Avenue to Kansas Street – three months
• Miscellaneous locations – one to two months

Nicor also must complete utility relocations and is working with IDOT to develop a construction plan. Other companies may need to perform similar work in the coming months.While the City is working with the utility companies to obtain work schedules and associated lane closures, construction may occur with little to no advanced notice. Residents can subscribe to receive road construction updates, which the City will distribute as information becomes available.The full East State Street reconstruction project is now tentatively expected to start in spring 2026 and be completed in late 2027, with punch list items to be finished the following year. The timeline is dependent on how quickly the utility relocations are resolved.

Before work can commence on the East State Street reconstruction project in Geneva, several utility companies must first relocate underground infrastructure.The Illinois Department of Transportation awarded a contract in the spring to R.W. Dunteman to rebuild East State Street (Route 38) from Glengarry Drive to the Fox River. The multi-year project encompasses roadway widening, streetscape enhancements, bike lanes, traffic signal upgrades, new street lighting, and water main/storm drainage infrastructure improvements.Construction will not begin until utility relocations are complete, a process that could take six to eight months, potentially longer. Utility work will require both intermittent short-term and possibly long-term traffic lane closures along various stretches of the highway in 2025 and early 2026.AT&T is scheduled to begin relocating utilities the week of Aug. 4 near Nebraska Street. Eastbound traffic will be reduced to one lane from Kane to Woodlawn streets for about one week. Electronic message boards have been placed along East State Street this week to notify drivers of the upcoming road work, which is weather-dependent.AT&T also will relocate underground utilities near the following intersections (with estimated construction timeframes):

• Harrison Street – two to three weeks
• Sandholm Street – two weeks
• Crissey Avenue to Kansas Street – three months
• Miscellaneous locations – one to two months

Nicor also must complete utility relocations and is working with IDOT to develop a construction plan. Other companies may need to perform similar work in the coming months.While the City is working with the utility companies to obtain work schedules and associated lane closures, construction may occur with little to no advanced notice. Residents can subscribe to receive road construction updates, which the City will distribute as information becomes available.The full East State Street reconstruction project is now tentatively expected to start in spring 2026 and be completed in late 2027, with punch list items to be finished the following year. The timeline is dependent on how quickly the utility relocations are resolved.

The Geneva Police Department is inviting residents to an evening of fun and community connection on Tuesday, Aug. 5, to celebrate National Night Out.The National Night Out campaign strengthens police-community partnerships and promotes public safety by fostering neighborhood camaraderie. Geneva’s festivities will run from 5 to 9 p.m. at Geneva High School’s Burgess Field, 1482 Gray St.The event will feature a full lineup of entertainment, including:

• Touch-A-Truck: Get up close with emergency vehicles and public works equipment.
• Squad Car Painting: Help transform a patrol car with colorful handprints.
• Children’s Activities: The football field and track will be full of fun, courtesy of the Geneva Park District.
• Meet Tommy: Visit Geneva’s new police comfort dog.
• Live Drone Demonstrations: See the Police Department technology in action.
• Music, Food & Giveaways: All free while supplies last.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to chat with Geneva Police officers and meet representatives from various community organizations.Event parking will be available in the Burgess Field and baseball field parking lots.For more information about Geneva’s National Night Out, contact Police Sgt. Brad Jerdee at 630-232-4736 or via email.

The Geneva Police Department is joining law enforcement agencies across Illinois for “Speed Awareness Day” on Wednesday, July 23, as part of a statewide effort to reduce speed-related crashes.In partnership with the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police and more than 300 law enforcement agencies, Geneva Police will increase patrols throughout the day to target speeding and other traffic violations. Geneva Police urge drivers to slow down and make the safe choice.Speeding is involved in 45% of all motor vehicle fatalities, 36% of all injury crashes, and 31% of all roadway crashes, according to the Illinois Department of Transportation’s 2023 Illinois Crash Facts and Statistics.Speeding is a choice that puts everyone at risk. It reduces a driver’s ability to steer safely around other vehicles, increases stopping distance, and can lead to more severe crashes.The Illinois Speed Awareness Day campaign has a two-fold approach: public education on the risks of speeding and an increased zero-tolerance enforcement effort. The ultimate goal of the campaign is to raise awareness and save lives.  This speed education and enforcement effort is part of the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police's “Speeding Catches Up with You” awareness campaign and aligns with IDOT’s broader “It’s Not a Game” media campaign.For additional information, visit the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police’s Speed Awareness Day campaign web page.

With thousands of visitors expected to attend the Geneva Arts Fair later this month, the Geneva Police Department announced a portion of South Third Street will be closed during the festival.The City of Geneva is serving as the presenting sponsor of this year’s Arts Fair, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 26-27, in the downtown.To accommodate the event, parking on Third Street from James to South streets will be prohibited starting at 3 p.m. Friday, July 25. Parking also will be restricted on portions of the 200 and 300 blocks of Franklin Street nearest to Third Street. “No Parking” signage will be posted earlier in the day to notify downtown visitors. Vehicles remaining in the restricted area after 3 p.m. will be towed.At 5 p.m., Third Street from James to South streets will be closed to traffic to allow artists to set up their tents.A law enforcement drone may used during the fair to support to assist police and emergency management personnel with public safety through aerial monitoring.South Third Street is expected to reopen to motorists by 8:30 p.m. July 27.For more information about the Geneva Arts Fair, visit the Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s website

The Geneva Fire Department is inviting residents, businesses and community stakeholders to participate in a survey to help shape the department’s future.As part of an update to its strategic plan, the Fire Department is seeking input to better understand public expectations and priorities. The plan outlines the department’s short and long-term goals and promotes continuous improvement during the next three to five years.The first step in the strategic plan update process is to gather public feedback through the community survey, which will take less than 10 minutes to complete. All responses are confidential and voluntary. The deadline to submit feedback is Friday, Aug. 15.Questions can be directed to Fire Department Administrative Analyst Jennifer Helmrich at 630-232-2530 or by email.

A 39-year-old Sycamore man died July 13 in a single-vehicle motorcycle crash on Fabyan Parkway on Geneva’s far west side.Geneva Police, the Kane County Sheriff’s Office, and the Geneva and Batavia fire departments responded to the crash, which was discovered at 6:37 a.m. by passing motorists.The preliminary investigation indicated a motorcycle traveling west on Fabyan Parkway between Wenmoth and Kaneville roads veered across the eastbound lanes of traffic and struck an embankment on the south side of the road.The driver was pronounced dead on the scene at 6:58 a.m. His identity is being withheld pending notification to his family.Fabyan Parkway has been reopened to traffic. Geneva Police, the Kane County Accident Reconstruction Team and the Kane County Coroner’s Office continue to investigate the accident. The Geneva Emergency Management Agency and the Kane County Office of Emergency Management provided traffic assistance during the investigation.

Geneva Middle School North sustained minor damage following an early morning fire July 11 on the City’s far west side.The Geneva Fire Department was dispatched at 4:15 a.m. to an activated fire alarm at the two-story school, 1357 Viking Drive. The building was unoccupied, and no injuries were reported.Upon arrival, firefighters found several activated smoke detectors and moderate smoke on the first floor during their initial investigation. The incident was upgraded to a General Alarm to bring in additional resources. Fire crews then discovered a small fire in a first-floor common/instructional area in the school’s northeast section.The building’s sprinkler system suppressed the flames before firefighters completed extinguishment, search, salvage, and overhaul operations. The fire was brought under control in less than 30 minutes.The preliminary cause of the fire was determined to be a malfunctioning carpet drying fan, which ignited with flames extending to a janitorial cart. Surrounding areas sustained fire, heat, smoke, and water damage. Damage estimates are not currently available.Firefighters and paramedics from Elburn, Batavia, St. Charles and Fermilab assisted Geneva at the scene. The West Chicago, North Aurora Fire and South Elgin protection districts covered both Geneva’s fire stations and stood by for additional calls.The Geneva Police Department also assisted with the response.

Geneva residents now have an upgraded way to report non-emergency service concerns thanks to the City’s new SeeClickFix online portal.The enhanced system allows residents to submit requests for tree trimming, streetlight outages, potholes and dozens of other categories seamlessly from a computer or mobile device.Users can choose their request type, pinpoint a location on an interactive map, attach photos, and track the progress of their case from submission to completion. The system also notifies users if a similar request has been submitted, allowing them to follow the existing case.The portal can be accessed in several ways:

• Click the “Report A Concern” button on the City’s website
• Visit the portal directly at www.geneva.il.us/scf
• Download the SeeClickFix mobile app and select Geneva, IL as the destination

Mobile app users will be directed to City’s customized “Go Geneva” interface, which becomes the default screen for future visits. In addition to reporting concerns, app users can access the City’s most popular website features, including community alerts, City news, utility bill payments, community events, road work updates, local business directory, job postings and much more.

Reminder

Online requests will be routed directly to the appropriate City departments for review. Residents should note SeeClickFix is intended for non-emergency requests and is not monitored 24 hours a day.People should always call 911 for emergencies. The best way to report power outages, water main breaks and other matters requiring a more urgent response from the City after-hours, weekends and holidays is to call the Geneva Police Department non-emergency number at 630-232-4736. Police will then dispatch the on-call City staff personnel to investigate the problem.

The Geneva Police Department will partner with Metra and Operation Lifesaver for a coordinated passenger safety blitz campaign from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at the Geneva Train Depot, 328 Crescent Place.This community outreach is designed to raise awareness about rail safety and educate passengers on making smart decisions around the railroad tracks, especially in busy commuter environments with increased rail traffic.Representatives from Metra, Operation Lifesaver, and the Geneva Police Department will be on hand to promote safe rail practices, distribute educational materials, answer questions, and enforce pedestrian laws near the Third Street railroad crossing. Passengers will receive helpful tips and information on how to remain vigilant while commuting via train.“We want every passenger to be safe and informed,” Geneva Deputy Police Chief Brian Maduzia said. “The Passenger Safety Blitz is about creating awareness and responsibility when it comes to rail safety.”Passengers are encouraged to stop by the train depot during the event to learn more about train safety and meet rail officials and police officers working to keep the community safe.

Jennifer Milewski has been named Geneva’s new Finance Director, bringing more than 19 years of municipal experience and a strong connection to the community.Milewski officially started earlier this month managing the City’s Finance Department, which includes accounting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and utility billing operations. The department is also responsible for maintaining the City’s financial assets and investments, assisting with the annual budget process, and preparing the annual comprehensive financial report.  Milewski was appointed Finance Director in May. She most recently worked for the Village of Montgomery, first as an Accounting Manager (2020-22) and later being promoted to Finance Director, a role she held for the past three years.Milewski certainly is familiar with Geneva, where she resides with her family. She returns to the City’s Finance Department after working as an Accounting Supervisor from 2016-20.“As a former member of our team, Jennifer brings a strong familiarity with the City organization and a wealth of experience and financial expertise,” City Administrator Stephanie Dawkins said.  “We are confident that her return will provide strategic leadership and continuity as we move forward in achieving our long-term goals.”Throughout her career, Milewski has a proven record in strategic planning, budgeting/financial forecasting, fiscal policy development, grant management, financial software implementation, tax levy preparations, and project management.  “I’m excited and honored to step into the role of Finance Director for the City of Geneva — a place that has meant a great deal to me both personally and professionally,” Milewski said. “Having previously worked for the City, I’ve had the privilege of seeing how committed this organization is to serving the community. I look forward to working with the team to continue building a strong financial foundation to support the services and projects that matter to our community.”Earlier in her career, Milewski served as a Senior Accountant for the Village of Sugar Grove from 2008-16 and as a Senior Accounting Clerk for the Unified City of Yorkville from 2006-08.

Geneva’s financial reporting and transparency efforts continue to garner acclaim, earning a new round of national awards.The Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada honored the City’s accomplishments, representing the highest form of achievement in governmental accounting and financial reporting. The association is a nonprofit organization serving more than 20,000 government finance professionals.The City has received the following accolades based on fiscal year 2023-24, the most recent year evaluated by the association:

Annual Comprehensive Financial Report

For the 12th straight year, the City was recognized for exceeding standards with its Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. The City’s audit report contains financial statements and records from the past decade, property tax and debt data, and general statistical information about Geneva. The award reflects the City’s commitment to full disclosure in communicating its financial picture to the public.

Popular Annual Financial Report

For those not inclined to read the nearly 200-page audit report, the City’s Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) offers a nice alternative. This 20-page, visually friendly audit summary filled with photos and graphs helps readers better understand the complexities of municipal finance and other related information. The association presented Geneva with the PAFR award for the ninth consecutive year. 

The City also received the following association recognition for fiscal year 2025-26:

Distinguished Budget Award

The City's budget practices have earned national acclaim for 15 consecutive years. To receive the award, Geneva had to meet best practice standards, including how well the budget functions as a policy document, a financial plan, an operations guide, and a communications device. Budget documents must be rated “proficient” in all four categories, as well as the 14 mandatory criteria within those categories, to earn the award.

Geneva’s budget and financial reports can be found on the City’s website.

The Geneva Police Department has welcomed its newest member to the force: Tommy, a 20-month-old Golden Retriever who will serve as the centerpiece of the City’s new comfort dog program.Partnering with Healing Hearts, Geneva Police officially introduced and swore in Tommy during the June 23 Special Committee of the Whole meeting. Tommy’s primary mission will be to provide a calming presence and emotional support to those in need.His responsibilities will include:

• Attending local events and presentations
• Enhancing a positive relationship between police and residents
• Participating in employee wellness events
• Visiting schools and educational institutions
• Providing comfort to those experiencing a crisis

Police regularly respond to incidents and events that have a profound effect on residents and officers. A comfort dog can help open lines of communication and offer a calming influence in difficult situations.“I am thankful to everyone who has made this program a possibility,” Geneva Police Chief Eric Passarelli said. “I truly believe that Tommy will have a significant impact, provide valuable assistance, and comfort those who need help.”Tommy’s primary handler will be Geneva Community Services Officer Brad Koontz.Geneva’s comfort dog program is for support and will not be used for apprehension, narcotics or other enforcement-related activity. The public can request a visit from Tommy by filling out an application form available on the City’s website.

The City of Geneva will be enhancing electric service reliability by replacing underground utility cable in four areas throughout the community starting in July.The 2025-26 underground electric replacement program areas include: 

• South Harrison Street near Spring Street – July 14 to Sept. 15
• James Street west of Ninth Street – Sept. 15 to Oct. 3
• 2000 South Batavia Avenue – To Be Announced
• James Street from Third to Fifth streets – To Be Announced

Construction dates are estimates and may be subject to change due to weather or other unforeseen factors. Landscape restoration will commence once construction is completed.The City’s contractor, Utility Dynamics, will be installing conduit through utility easements and public right-of-way. Electrical transformers, pedestals and street lights also will be replaced.During the latter part of each project, the contractor will energize and connect homes to the new equipment. Scheduled power outages will be required as part of this process. The City will be sending notifications in advance of any service disruption.A project map and more details are available on the City’s website. Questions can be directed to Jennifer Hilkemann, the City’s Electric Division Manager of Distribution, Construction & Maintenance, by calling 630-232-1503 or sending an email.

Geneva’s garbage collection rates will be adjusted Tuesday, July 1, as part of the City’s contract with LRS.A refuse sticker will rise to $4.32. Residents who purchased stickers at the current rate of $4.13 can use their remaining supply without paying the difference. Prices for optional garbage cart subscriptions will also increase by about $1 per billing cycle, according to the contract.Other optional refuse products and collection services with updated prices effective in July include:

• 20-gallon bags – $2.73; and
• 65-gallon yard waste carts – $174.72 annually

The City of Geneva sells waste stickers online through a secure payment portal to complete transactions. Residents may buy stickers in person at the Geneva Finance Department, 15 S. First St., or at participating local retailers.During the week of June 30, refuse collection will be delayed one day for Friday customers only due to the Independence Day holiday. The regular schedule will resume the following week.For more information about Geneva’s refuse and recycling services, visit the City’s website.  

Geneva’s Swedish Days will celebrate its 75th anniversary with plenty of food, music and entertainment from Wednesday to Sunday, June 18-22. The City of Geneva is serving as the presenting sponsor of this year’s Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s Swedish Days festival.To accommodate this signature event, parking restrictions will be implemented, and two downtown streets will be closed throughout the festival.Temporary parking will be posted in certain areas during the week, and Swedish Days visitors should be mindful of the restrictions when parking downtown. The primary festival areas that will be impacted are:

• Third Street from State to South streets
• James Street from Second to Fifth streets
• Campbell Street from Second to Fifth streets

People should not remove posted signage since the parking restrictions are meant to provide a safe environment for festival patrons.

Street Closures

The following streets will be closed to vehicular traffic beginning: 

June 17

James Street from Third to Fourth streets

June 18

Third Street from James to Campbell streetsThe 300 block of James Street will remain closed through the conclusion of the festival. The Third Street block near the Kane County Courthouse will be shut down through Saturday, June 21, and will reopen the following day, except for the Swedish Days Parade.  

Parade Detours

Prior to the parade stepping off at 1 p.m. June 22, a detour will be established with police officers directing traffic along the parade route. The following streets will be closed during the parade:

• State Street (Route 38) from Second Street to Logan Avenue (west side of the Fox River)
• Third Street from State Street to Route 31
• Anderson Boulevard from State to Union streets

State Street Detour Route

Westbound motorists should head north on Second Street, west on Stevens Street, north on Edison Street, west on Union Street, and south on Logan Avenue to resume westbound travel on Route 38. The detour will be reversed for eastbound State Street traffic.The Geneva Police Department appreciates the public’s cooperation and wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable festival experience. A law enforcement drone will be in operation at various times during the event to provide real-time aerial monitoring for police and emergency management personnel.For a schedule and general Swedish Days information, visit the Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s website.