Mayor’s Column – October 2025
As Mayor, the safety and health of our community is my primary concern. What happened in Franklin Park recently, during an attempted ICE apprehension, shook our community to the core.
This was a tragedy, and to avoid future devastating incidents we ask for transparency and accountability. ICE agents, and all local, state, and federal officers must act responsibly and be fully aware of possible collateral damage that could occur.
I pledge to work with all elected officials and community leaders to find ways to increase safety and end reckless apprehensions.
I am asking everyone to remain calm in light of this tragedy. I urge all to act peacefully, lawfully, respectfully and with the concern we have always shown to our neighbors and neighborhoods.
On behalf of the Village, we offer our condolences to the family of the deceased and wish a speedy and full recovery for the injured officer.
For those of you who have asked, Illinois law strictly prohibits local law enforcement from cooperating or interfering with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on immigration enforcement matters and acting on federal immigration detainers. Our Franklin Park officers cannot assist or interfere in these situations.
Our Police and Fire Departments will continue to safeguard our community, residents, and our businesses.
Annual Health and Resource Fair
Please plan to attend the Village’s Senior Health and Resource Fair on Friday, October 31 from 10 AM until 2 PM in the Community Room at the Police Station. You can get your flu and Covid booster vaccines and will also be able to visit with healthcare providers and local agencies, register to vote, and turn in unused and expired medications for safe disposal. Watch this site for updates on vendors who will be participating.
Climate Resiliency Plan Open House
Join the Village and its partners at an open house to gather feedback on planned improvements to the Grand Avenue Corridor on Wednesday, October 29, at 5 PM at the Police Station. Learn more about the effort to design and deliver innovative climate resiliency infrastructure projects that will reduce flooding and lessen the impact of extreme heat and air pollution in the corridor.
Mayor Barrett Pedersen