Talk of the Town

How about you?

Yes, we are happy to be your voice; however, we ask you, as citizens and voters, to take a public stand and express your views. Please see our notes on the Judicial Committee remember-the worst thing you can do is Nothing.

We want you to communicate with us, but we are tired of hearing…I'm afraid I'll be intimidated. This is our town-let your voice be heard!

Water Bills

Again this is an issue. So many of you called…you say they follow no pattern, we agree. Standard lines-you must have a leak, your toilet is running (where is my toilet running to, we ask). The recent increase is certainly suspicious, we wrote about this when the rate was first raised-at that point, Chicago had not yet raised their rate…Now that they have, we now face more increases, indeed it is to be calculated over a 3- year period at 50%.

Another aspect: Those who are late paying their water bills have their door residences decorated with a fluorescent Pink turn-off notice. Written notices come after this embarrassment. How unfortunate not to contact first. And what a negative image this gives to our city.

We hear a rumor that there is a payment plan/contract set up for these residents- who knew? Elimination of the high late payment percentage charge would also help? When most people fall behind, it's because they are having financial problems. Isn't local government supposed to ease our burdens? Isn't local government supposed to help?

SENIORS, Take advantage of Whatever Discount the City is offering. Go to City Hall and bring identification.

No right turn on Red

Okay folks, that what it means. Obey the law. Think safety.

TV coverage-City Council

To the many, many of you who have called-no, we don't know why this is no longer on cable TV. After updating video/computer equipment which took over a year, answers now vary from “ask Mary” to-“we need additional equipment” in the $20,.000 range-and approved by aldermen. Why? Call City Hall, let your voice be heard! The FORUM has written about this issue several times in the past-no resolution, folks. Meetings should be televised.

New Law, help with taxes

A dedicated reader sent us the following information on new property tax relief. Passed on 10/17/2007 three new homestead exemptions will take effect for the 2007 tax year.

*for returning veterans'- a 1-time $5000 reduction

*for disabled person - a $2000 reduction should you qualify, an annual application must be filed.

*for disabled veterans - a reduction in property EAV and a $2500 homestead exemption available (at least 50% but less than $75) requires annual application by due date.

Here's where you need to call for details, filing date deadlines and specific information (Markham) 210- 4100. Preserver, even some government agencies did not have up-to-date information and were unaware of the new law. Let us know.

MVCC - from March 12-18 (closed 3/16) is hosting a High School Art Exhibit where students showcase their work! These exhibits are great-one could say inspiring. At DeCaprio Gallery and Oremus Theatre-more information is available by calling (708) 974-5281.

CEDA is announcing that applications for their 2008 Scholarship program are now being taken. You must be income-eligible and a resident of suburban Cook County-deadline is April 18, 2008. This is for high school seniors and graduates aspiring to higher education. Call (312) 795-8890 or Southeast CEDA at (708) 371-1247.