This column is composed of items which you bring to our attention, ask us to investigate and/or want to be made public.
Once again, we hear from concerned citizens about a shooting, this one in the afternoon (7/13) at Highland and Collins. It is obvious that in this community we need more surveillance and less denial.
No, we are not at all apologetic about our last issue which discussed bridges that are closed in Blue Island. And for all of you who conveyed your thanks to us stating en masse “thank you for saying something” we also thank you.
There is a heavy impact on emergency services, businesses in the area as well as our citizens. As we all know, gas prices are high, so when we wait for trains, or make detours around town to try to get around the inconvenience caused by closed bridges, well…Everyone knows that the bridges have needed repair for a mighty long time, period. We repeat, they are owned by the City who is responsible for their maintenance.
Kentucky Fried Chicken – closed and gone.
Welcome to Blue Island! Look at the Montell building and the next door abandoned-for-years plastics factory on Vincennes.
Deer Pointe: Well that’s another problem, isn’t it? Picketing at First Midwest Bank (7/7/2011) charged that the bank stopped the project. In the meantime, those that suffer are residents. Complaints (more than once, see City Council) have been charged at council meetings regarding those half-completed homes being occupied by vagrants as well as theft of copper tubing and whatever else looks good—and this does a disservice to our community.(Nolan, southtown/star, 7/11))
These are not cheap and shabby homes. They approach the $300,000 level, California Gardens has some beautiful homes, manicured lawns…indeed, just a few years ago, they were a winner for a Best Block award in our Cavalcade of Pride.
Let the banks, the developer, and the mayor get together, but right now police should be policing for theft and vagrancy, and the building department should be helping to alleviate problems.
July 20,2011
We know we said it once already, but it bears repeating. The new addition to BEGGARS on 127th & Western is so well designed and so appropriate to the original structure. Colors and lantern fixtures are simple, matching and attractive. Now that they have added landscaping and wrought iron fencing–it improves the entire intersection.
BE CAREFUL! In no way are we against those who try to earn a little extra money shoveling snow, mowing lawns, do little jobs that help homeowners, etc. Especially young people. However, remember to use a certain amount of caution—for example have your money ready, do not display a purse etc., and of course ask how much in advance and pay after work is done.
Anyone reluctant to at least tell you their name could be suspect. The City keeps information on licensed, insured tradesman.
Yes, we know, STREETS are deplorable. We are truly happy to see that a section of Union Street (west of Western) is being repaired; however, its previous condition was awful. Ditto on the bridges or lack of access to the bridges—and yes, we at least hear your complaints. A rather cavalier approach by the administration just adds to the frustration when it was stated in a council meeting that no real inconvenience seems apparent. Huh?
Now let’s take it from the top—with accuracy. The BRIDGES (on Chatham and Division) are owned by the City of Blue Island and they were and are responsible for their maintenance, Period. It’s not the state, it’s not IDOT, it’s not any one else that some folks seem to conjure up and blame. Maintenance should have been done before deterioration occurred to this level—indeed, inspection services were also required and not done. And, yes we spoke to IDOT who advised that bridges in their present condition cannot be re-opened.
Now on the other end of the coin, and no–this is not political—IT simply IS–a press release from Governor Quinn by State Representative Bob Rita’s offices announced that Illinois capital construction money for local road repairs and other infrastructure projects for southland suburban areas had been enacted. The money allocated is $101,892 for Blue Island—not a windfall, but certainly something. It is the latest capital construction money for projects around Chicago southland. There have been numerous others.
So, please instead of allocating blame, let us give credit where credit is due and make certain our information is accurate.
In addition, as citizens, we very much need to watch how and where monies are spent.
What ever happened (once again!) to the plan for SOCCER FIELDS promised before the election?
Once again our FIREFIGHTERS become victims – great hullabaloo about them not showing up at a patriotic event, when they had one engine, few on staff, and then received an emergency call.
It is rare that we receive criticism for them–indeed the FORUM has receive more accolades for the firefighters than we have for any city organization—and it goes back years.
A ST. DONATUS video on our access channel is interesting and informative. Gives a bit of history, talks about their great and famous pizza and shows some of our local folk.
KABOOM GRANT – try to help out if you can. Our park district is very excited about this grant; however, it does need actual volunteers to help with the Kiddie Koral. See our last FORUM issue, City Council Minutes and call 388-6421 to volunteer on July 30th! Yes, You!
CITY STICKER—Citing a violation of the separation of church and sate, a filing against the city was instituted and handled in a Judiciary sub-committee meeting held on July 7th. This pertains to a church anniversary which appears on the sticker.
Now because paying and displaying a vehicle tax sticker is not optional the US Constitutions does provide that items of this nature must have a secular primary purpose—neither advancing nor inhibiting religion. This will again be discussed in the July 28th City Council meeting. Charges were levied by the Rob Sherman Advocacy, who was contacted by a resident of Blue Island who e-mailed “Hey Bob, Thanks for doing what you do. Any advice on the attached? I really don’t feel like driving around with this on my car.” We will let you know results.
STEFANELLI – rumors that they are closing are unfounded. At some point, the building may be up for sale. In the meantime, as a long standing business they deserve our support and patronage. Examples: lunchmeats are great, economical, fresh and well – you get it. There are wonderful Italian deli items as well as frozen entrees. Go there, shop there, show concern for one of our most attractive businesses.