FROM THE SUPERVISOR MICHAEL J. LICCAR - "Life is What Happens When You're Busy Making Other Plans" - Crete Township
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FROM THE SU PE RVI S OR MIC HAEL J. LIC CAR
“Life is What Happens When You’re Busy Making Other Plans”
- John L e nnon
J ust as the seasons change,
we note many variations in our
area. Fall changes the landscapes
met with various operators and
has submitted its concerns to both
the operators and Will County,
as a partnership between Crete
Township and the Crete Park
District. A series of 4 free concerts
into vivid colors, crops are including requiring a funded were held which provided a variety
harvested, vacation-times end decommissioning plan, minimal of quality evening music venues in
and new school years begin and of effects on agricultural, enhanced the relaxing comfort of Crete Park.
course, the inevitable change in aesthetics and local employment One change that we are sad to
temperature. And so, things are preferences. However, the ultimate announce is that Rick Cobb, who
changing a bit in Crete Township as decisions and final rules rest with has served as Executive Director during the warm months, our
well. Will County and the State of Illinois and President of the Crete Chamber popular senior activities, dial-a-
First, is the change to the Crete who have authority over such of Commerce for many years, has ride services, marriage licenses,
Township Newsletter. We are now proposals. For more information, announced his retirement from the voter registration and General
self-publishing! Earlier in the year, please see the accompanying article Crete Chamber as he will be moving Assistance to those most in
we were informed by The Time contained in this issue. to be with family in Tennessee. need. And of course, the devoted
Media Company, former publisher As we go to press, we understand Many thanks to Rick for his fine volunteers of the Crete Food Pantry,
of the Crete Township Newsletter, that the fate of the proposed CSX service to the community. You will which operates in the Town Hall
that they had decided to leave that Intermodal project is still not finally be missed! building, continue to provide
particular business. Consequently, determined as it continues to be Though changes abound, there weekly nutrition to our Township
we are now handling all aspects evaluated by senior management of are a number of traditions that residents who need a helping hand.
of the Newsletter. So that the the company. They are considering continue. Now in its 27th year, Please continue to support their fine
Newsletter can be produced at no whether to proceed with the Crete Country Christmas, a town- work!
cost to the residents, it is funded construction of the intermodal wide holiday festival for the entire As always, please feel free to
through ads purchased by our facility or to pursue other uses for family, will be held from Friday, contact us if you should have any
patrons. Please do support the the property. We continue to be December 7th through Sunday,
questions or if we can be of service.
businesses advertised here as it in contact with CSX staff and will December 9th. The Crete F-Men
is through their support that the monitor the situation. will be hosting family activities and
Newsletter can be provided at no The Township established a of course, their famous Halloween Michael J. Liccar
cost to your Township. capital improvement fund and Haunted House in October. Crete Supervisor
Five applications for proposed as reported in our last issue, Creative, which has been an michael.liccar@cretetownship.com
solar farms have been submitted continues to study the feasibility excellent catalyst for promoting fine 708.672.8279
by solar operators looking for of constructing a new Town Hall arts in our area, will be celebrating
a strategic area within Crete Campus and Civic Facility. As part their one-year anniversary with a
Township, particularly around the of its studies, the Township formed Regional Art Showcase. And the
Goodenow Grove area. “Green” a focus group, comprised of various Crete Lions Club continues
initiatives such as these are civic and business leaders as well as to provide valuable recycling
mandated by the State of Illinois the full Township Board, which met services as well as providing
under the 2017 “Future Energy earlier this year. significant financial assistance
Jobs Act” which requires Illinois Members of the group were to our parks, schools and police
utilities to obtain 25% of their retail overwhelmingly positive on the and fire departments.
power from renewable sources overall concept and provided the Your Crete Township staff
by 2025. These projects are also Board with valuable insights. and officials continue to provide
provided tax incentives by the Another new item this year, was services, including road & bridge
Federal Government. The Crete the successful “Concert in the maintenance and repairs, assessor’s
Township Plan Commission has Park” series which was provided office services, mosquito abatement
Senior Picnic Finance Update fund of $465,000 which would be
used to partially fund the building
T he Senior
Picnic on
H ello, I
hope that
everyone in the
of a new facility that will not only
house the administrative and
June 9th was a Assessor’s Office but will provide
Township had space for a banquet hall, youth
huge success.
a wonderful center, senior center, food pantry,
It rained in the
and prosperous board room and ample parking
morning, but by WALTER GRADY, summer and for Township residents. The
FRANK ELTON, 10AM the sun TRUSTEE
TRUSTEE preparing for the square footage is estimated to be
was shining
fall season. approximately 22,000 to 25,000
and it was warm. The crete park
The Township continues to square feet. The new facility will
pavilion was an ideal location.
fiscally grow strong. As Trustees, certainly provide for an increase in
Over 80 senior where there
we have been very vigilant over our recreational, educational and
to enjoy the catered food and
the expenses and income for cultural programs which is vitally
handmade ice cream sundaes from
the Township. We have not only needed.
the Cone Cottage.
remained within the current The Board of Trustees meet
After lunch the Royal
budget, but we remained within the every 2nd Wednesday at 7:00PM at
Polynesian Review entertained the
budget for the past fiscal year. the Township Hall. Located at 1367
group. Prizes were raffled off and
We have approved and Wood Street, Crete, Illinois 60417
everyone had a great time. This
established a Capital Improvement
year the Senior Christmas Party
will be held on December 7th at
Lincolnshire Country Club. We’ll
have music and dancing. Crete News From The Clerk
Township residents please call
Town Hall for reservations (708)
672-8279
T he summer went faster than
some of us would like. The
children are back in school, the
- 9:00AM to Noon, 1:00PM to
3:00PM
A high voter attendance is
weather has expected, please bring a pocket
cooled, and it’s full of patience as unlike voting
almost time at your regular polling place
From the Building and Grounds again for another where there are 5 judges to assist
election. The you, when you vote early at Town
Committee date of the Hall, there is 1 clerk to assist you.
W
election will be Although we never intentionally
ow! It’s For example, you may have
KATHIE HOLUBEK, November 6, expect problems with computers
hard to noticed the new Planters in the
TOWNSHIP CLERK 2018 and Early or printers, when you early vote,
believe we are front of the Town Hall. These will
Voting will again be available at all paperwork is printed on the
sending out the help prevent a minor accident from
Town Hall. Please note the dates spot. Voting at your regular polling
first “Fall & becoming a major issue.
and times for Early Voting have place, your applications and ballots
Winter” issue Another way to stay informed
BOB HODGE, changed. are already printed, which saves
of our Crete is by attending our monthly Town
TRUSTEE EARLY VOTING AT TOWN time. I will do whatever it takes to
Township Board Meetings held on the second
HALL make your experience as pleasant
Newsletter. We will attempt to keep Wednesday of each month at 7:00
- October 29th - November 2nd and as quick as possible.
Crete Township Residents up to PM.
date with what’s going on around We hope to see you there!
the Township.
Update from the Mosquito Task
CRETE TOWNSHIP
1367 WOOD STREET, CRETE, IL 60417
Force PHONE: (708) 672.8279 FAX: (708) 672.3327
EMAIL: INFO@CRETETOWNSHIP.COM
T he season wasn’t bad.
We were able to get out
two to three days a week.
TOWNSHIP DIRECTORY
The new machine will be SUPERVISOR ASSESSOR TRUSTEES
Michael J. Liccar Mary Margaret Tamez Frank Elton
put away and get ready for
Walter Grady
next year. A new truck is on HIGHWAY CLERK Bob Hodge
the way and will arrive in time COMMISSIONER
Kathie Holubek Jim Piacentini
JIM PIACENTINI, for next season. Just remember the mosquitoes will be Anthony Recupito
TRUSTEE (708) 672-7732
out until the first heavy frost. Also, when you’re outside arecupito@ OFFICE MANAGER COLLECTOR
be sure to wear repellent and long sleeves. Have a great year and we’ll see cretetownship.com Patty Hanus Lau
Laura Elton
you next season!
2 CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018
The Crete in firefighting and the Illinois
Department of Public Health to
no cost to the applicant.
Training
Township Fire emergency medical technician
basic.
Training requirements include
getting certified as a Basic
Protection The Crete Township Fire Operation Firefighter with the
Office of the State Fire Marshall
Protection District is in need of Paid
District Needs on Call members that live within and Emergency Medical Technician
our fire district. The district would Basic with the Illinois Department
YOU! like to extend an opportunity of a of Public Health. The courses are
entry level college courses held at
T
lifetime to any resident that would
he Crete Township Fire like a chance of becoming a member Prairie State College in Chicago
Protection District is a of a great organization. This Heights.
combination fire department opportunity is open to residents Membership Requirements
that serves the unincorporated greater than 18 years of age and Membership requirements require
area of Crete which encompasses older, with a high school diploma or member to be an active member
an area of approximately thirty two equivalent, a valid driver’s license, of the organization. This includes
square miles. dependable, and has strong decision completing minimal certification
The department making skills. The paid-on -call level training, participating in our
responds to an position within the fire department in-house training program nine
average of 1500 is a hybrid of a volunteer and paid hours per month, and responding to
calls for service position that offers an individual emergency incidents.
per year. with no firefighting experience an If you are an interested resident
The opportunity to fulfill the need as a looking to fulfill a need within
combination department is led by volunteer in your community or to our organization please apply by
one full-time Fire Chief, six paid- start a career in the fire service. contacting Assistant Chief Donald
on -call / part time Fire Officers, Application Process Radtke at 708-672-3111 or Apply in
six full-time contract firefighter The application process for person at:
paramedic’s, fourteen paid on call membership includes completing
firefighters and seventeen part an application, participating in an Crete Township Fire Protection
time firefighters. All members oral interview, passing a physical District
are certified through the Office of ability test, a department physical 26730 S. Stoney Island
the State Of Illinois Fire Marshal and criminal background check. At Crete, IL 60417
Serving you in
CRETE
Since 1991
WALT’S CERTIFICATE
FOOD
$
5.00 OFF
A $50.00 OR MORE PURCHASE.
CENTERS
Purchase Total:
(FOR CASHIER USE ONLY)
Valid at time of purchase only. One Coupon per family per visit.
Not valid with any other offer.
Hurry, certificate expires 11/6/18.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!
CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018 3
From the Crete Township Assessor senior homestead exemptions, 46
disabled person’s exemptions, and
There are many
“The real servant of the people must live among them, think with 24 disabled veteran’s exemptions – exemptions that you
them, feel for them, and die for them.” - Carter G. Woodson all here in our office. Many of these may qualify for!
exemptions must be renewed every
General Homestead
T he assessed value to give you your year, and because of that, we have
built relationships with so many
Exemption
above total assessment.
quote is Your assessment is then that we now know on a personal Do you live on the property, a
level. We hear the stories of their
named owner on the deed, and it
something multiplied by the tax rate the
is your principal residence?
that is so taxing bodies levy for to create youth, current struggles they are
You qualify! This exemption is
important your tax bill. Please take the facing, at times consoling those
added and removed by our office,
to me as time to make sure that the that have lost their spouses over
there is no form. ALWAYS check
a local amenity information for your the last year, the happiness in the
your property tax bill to make
elected property is correct, as this is the eyes of a grandparent bragging of sure you have it if you qualify.
official I responsibility of the taxpayer. It their grandchild; I could go on and
am here is as simple as getting in touch on. Being a part of so many lives is Disabled Person
with you. with our office and requesting the something that we value. We look
Exemption
As the property record card which has forward to the updates every year
Are you collecting disability? You
Assessor all of the detailed information and have a bond… we feel for them.
MARY MARGARET TAMEZ
qualify! Please bring in the proof
in the listed. There have been many In the transition into the position
ASSESSOR of disability or come to the office
small town instances where an amenity was over the last few months, I have to get the form for the doctor to
that I grew up in, the position never damaged and removed and we experienced growth, change, and fill out for the proof and we will
stops. From working in my yard were not notified. This can be the hardest part letting my position assist you with the exemption
and talking to my neighbors about quite frustrating as a taxpayer to as deputy assessor fade away. I form.
neighborhood issues to having hear that you have been paying loved working with everyone that
dinner with my family and seeing for something that was removed walked through the door for the Senior Homestead
someone our office has helped years ago. Get your property record last eleven years and have moved Exemption
and hearing about the issue being card… this is how we can think on to helping on the bigger issues.
Do you turn 65 this year and
resolved… I live among you. together. It has been a learning experience. a named owner on the deed?
One of my goals since taking Our property tax bill is (in In the last year, Sarah and Paige You qualify! Bring in your drivers
office has been to help you in most cases) the largest expense have also been transitioning and license or ID for proof of age
understanding the purpose of your annually that we as homeowners learning the deputy position. I am and we will assist you in the
assessment as well as the tax cycle. are responsible for. To help ease excited to say they are officially application.
With the exception of farmland, the burden, exemptions are Certified Illinois Assessing Officers
our office places the value on all of available for property owners. As and have taken the deputy position! Senior Freeze
the property in Crete Township. you may know, there are multiple It has been rewarding to watch Exemption
Assessed values are to be set at exemptions that you may qualify them grow and hear so many tell
Are you 65 and have a total
33.33% of the current market, based for as a homeowner. You will see me how helpful they have been. household income of less than
on all of the amenities in and on the exemption information in the There is a new member of our $65,000? You qualify! The
the property. We start with the box following this message. team, Leigh. Leigh is also taking income level was increased from
exterior construction, number Please take the time to make the courses and training to become $55,000 to $65,000 for the 2018
of fixtures, fireplaces, pools, sure all exemptions you may a deputy. Many of you may have met assessment year! Bring in your
total square foot, sheds, patios, qualify for are applied for. We are Sandy, Tiffany, and Theresa over federal income tax form or any
decks, and the list goes on. These here to help you fill those forms out the last few years. They make up forms you would normally take
amenities are what we use to find and enjoy meeting everyone. For our field staff team who visit the to have your income taxes done
your building assessed value. That the 2018 year, we have filled out 622 properties to photo and measure if you no longer meet the filing
value is then included with the land senior assessment freeze forms, 58 all of the amenities for assessment requirements.We will have the
purposes. They are the beginning forms in our office after April 1st
of the assessment process and I
and we can assist you in filling out
appreciate the helpfulness you,
the form.
as the property owner have given
them. Disabled Veteran
Remember to take the time Are you a Veteran with at least
to watch the leaves fall, this is 30% service-connected disability
the last smile of the year. Enjoy through the Department of
the moments and appreciate the
Veterans Affairs and a named
owner on the deed? You qualify!
change… it leads us to growth of a
Bring in a copy of your DD 214 as
new year.
well as the proof of disability for
the current year you are applying
Mary Margaret Tamez for that lists your percentage of
disability and we will assist you in
filling out the form.
4 CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018
News from The Illinois Department of Transportation cordially invites you to attend the open house public meeting
the Highway
concerning the preliminary engineering and environmental study (Phase I) for the improvement of
Illinois Route 394 at Burville Road in Crete Township in Will County. The general scope of work for this
improvement consists of intersection improvements through the introduction of a Restricted Crossing U-Turn
Commissioner (RCUT). The RCUT is an innovative and proven solution that will improve safety and operations by changing
how Burville Road traffic crosses or turns left at Illinois Route 394. The RCUT will not change any of the
I hope everyone had a great summer movements that are possible from Illinois Route 394. The details of the meeting are as follows:
and are ready for the change in
Date: Thursday, October 25, 2018
season. At The Road District this Time: 4:00 to 7:00 p.m.
summer, we were faced several times Location: Crete Township Office
with heavy rains and flash flooding 1367 Wood Street
that resulted Crete, IL 60417
in closed Purpose of the meeting:
roads. One • To discuss the purpose and need for the improvement
• To present the proposed improvement plans
of our top
• To obtain public input
priorities
throughout Interested persons may attend anytime between 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Exhibits will be on display and
the year is PUBLIC MEETING an audio-visual presentation will be shown continuously during the meeting. Project team members will be
present to discuss the project and answer questions.
keeping all
our culvert This meeting will be accessible to people with disabilities. Anyone needing special assistance should contact
pipes open to Mike Phan, Project Manager, at (847) 705-4634. Persons planning to attend who will need a sign language
ANTHONY “TONY” eliminate and/ interpreter or other similar accommodations should notify the Department’s TTY/TTD number (800) 526-
RECUPITO, HIGHWAY or minimize 0844/or 711; TTY users (Spanish) (800) 501-0864/or 711; and Telebraille (877) 526-6670 at least five (5)
COMMISSIONER days prior to the meeting.
any road
flooding. During heavy downpours, All correspondence regarding this project should be sent to:
downed trees and branches along the
creek system sometimes find their Illinois Department of Transportation
way to our culverts causing blockages 201 W. Center Court
and backing up the system. Beaver Schaumburg, IL 60196-1096
Attn: Bureau of Programming
dams are also making the problem
Carlos A. Feliciano
worse. Blockages throughout the
system, other than those in the or submitted through the project email: DOT.IL394atBurville@illinois.gov
road right of way, are located on
either private property or forest In the past few years we denied because it did not meet the
preserve property. The maintenance have completed the removal warrants set forth by IDOT. The
of these areas is the responsibility and replacement of bridges on current proposal calls for a restricted
of the property owner, which can Richton and Klemme Roads and crossing u-turn (RCUT) intersection.
be a huge undertaking. Driveway are approaching the construction Although these types of intersections
culverts are also prone to getting phase for the Danne Road bridge are more common in surrounding
blocked with branches, leaves, and replacement which has a target states, if approved, according to
many interesting items that we construction date of 2019. IDOT, this would be the first of its
have found, including basketballs, Over the next few weeks, we will kind in The State of Illinois.
soccer balls, 2 liter pop bottles and be prepping our trucks for winter IDOT and Crete Township has
rubber dog toys. We ask that you and fitting them with plows and scheduled a public meeting to show
help us help you by not putting raked salt spreaders. Please remember the plans and answer any questions
leaves and branches in the ditch, that there is a 2” snowfall parking you might have regarding this
and periodically inspect the ends of ordinance in effect on the roads in project. The meeting will be held at
your driveway culvert pipe for any the unincorporated areas of The The Crete Town Hall located at 1367
obstructions. Township. Also, when approaching Wood Street on Thursday October
This year our pavement our plow trucks, please slow down 25th from 4pm to 7pm. All interested
maintenance program included and keep a safe distance between parties are invited to attend anytime
asphalt patching and paving your vehicle and ours. during those hours.( Please see
approximately 3.77 miles of roadway. One final note, I am pleased to corresponding press release).
In our ongoing effort to enhance announce that after many years If you have any questions or
public safety, new “no passing” center of effort, there is some movement comments regarding our road
lines were installed on Klemme towards improving the dangerous system, you can reach us at
Road between Exchange Street and intersection of Burrville Road (which cretetownship.com and click on the
Bemes Road and existing striping in is maintained by The Township) and road district tab and I also can be
other areas were refreshed with new IL RTE 394 (which is maintained reached at 672-7732 or via email at
paint. Storm sewer projects were also by the Illinois Department of arecupito@cretetownship.com.
completed on Stoney Island Avenue Transportation, IDOT). My initial
and on Linden Lane in The Dixie request several years back for a
Stay safe this winter!
Dells Subdivision. traffic signal at that location was Anthony "Tony" Recupito
CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018 5
“WILL-RIDE”
PIPP
(Percentage of income payment plan)
DIAL-A-RIDE
PROGRAM
Serving Crete Township Senior Citizens
and Residents with Disabilities who
need transportation to doctor visits,
Located at Crete Township 1367 Wood St., Crete, IL 60417 therapy, medical treatments and
Administered by Will County Center for Community Concerns shopping for medicine.
the first Friday of each month from
September through May, 9:00 AM - 11:30 PM WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM?
No appointment required! Senior Citizens (60 years of age and older), Residents with a disability.
The Low Income Assistance Program and Percentage of Income Payment Plan helps income-eligible
households pay home energy bills whose 30 day gross income is at 150% of the poverty level. You will REGISTRATION FOR “WILL-RIDE”
have a choice depending on your household situation. If you would like to enroll in LIHEAP or the PIPP In order to become eligible for the program, you must sign up with your Township. Contact Patty
program, both programs will be explained to you at the time of registration Hanus at the Crete Township Office at 1367 Wood Street, Crete, IL 60417, (708) 672-8279.
Applications will be taken at Crete Township on the following dates
ARRANGING FOR YOUR RIDE
from 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM Contact the call center at least 24 hours in advance with the following information:
• October 05, 2018 • February 08, 2019 1.) Home Address.
2.) Address of Destination.
• November 09, 2018 • March 08, 2019 3.) The TIME of your appointment.
• December 14, 2018 • April 12, 2019 4.) Approximate time for return trip pickup.
5.) If you are on Medicaid, please have your number available.
• January 11, 2019 • May 10, 2019
6.) Alert the Call Center to any special mobility needs you may have, i.e.: wheelchair assistance,
Listed below is the basic information that is needed to take an application help from your door, etc.
(this may not be all the documentation that is needed, so this does not guarantee that your 7.) Let the Call Center know if you will have a caretaker with you. (Caretakers ride at no charge.)
application will be taken.)
CALL CENTER HOURS FOR SCHEDULING A RIDE (800) 244-4410
1.) Social Security Card for everyone in household Monday - Friday 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Please call at least 24 hours in advance
2.) ID or Drivers License
BUSES OPERATE
3.) 30 Days proof of income for all household members Monday - Friday 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
4.) Any household member age 18 or over need proof they are not Weekend & Holiday hours are not available
receiving benefits from DHS (Public AID) and IDES (Unemployment) RIDES WITHIN YOUR TOWNSHIP: $2 one way or $4 round trip
5.) Gas and Electric Bill RIDES OUTSIDE YOUR TOWNSHIP: $4 one way or $8 round trip
6.) Printout of benefits received from agencies (ex: Food Stamps,
Medical Card, TANF, General Assistance, Veterans Assistance,
Social Security, etc.)
7.) Mortgage statement and tax bill or Deed and tax bill needed if
applying for Furnace assistance.
Crete Township Honors Plan
Commission Member George
Gribbons
G eorge Gribbins, a 10-year
member of the Crete Township
Plan Commission, passed away
was model railroading and he
was active in railroading clubs in
Illinois, Known and liked by many
this last April. A resident of the his contributions will be missed.
Township since the early ‘70’s, he
built his home on Goodenow Road
and remained actively aware of
developments in the Township.
George received a Bachelor of
Science in education in 1962 from
ISU and a Master of Science in 1970,
also from ISU. He taught industrial
arts, including graphic arts and
photography, in the Thornton
School District for 30 years.
He also was the sponsor of
the Camera Club and was the
photographer for the school
Mrs. Mary Gribbons and Crete Township
dances. George’s main hobby Supervisor Michael Liccar
6 CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018
CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018 7
Crete F-Men shooting events. Club sponsored
concealed carry classes are also
News - by Aaron DaCorte available.
For more information, please
T he Crete F-Men would like to
thank our community partners
for your continued support of our
contact Howard at (708) 279-7131
organization. Thank you to all the
local businesses and members of
the community for your financial
The Crete
support and assistance to make our Pantry - by Donna Allen
events possible!
FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT -
OCTOBER 13TH
The Crete F-Men will return this
A s we approach the holiday
season, the Crete Pantry
is reminding Crete Township
fall with some Spooky-Spectacular residents of an opportunity to
events! On October 13th, 2018, we share the holidays with those less
will host our 2nd annual Family fortunate.
Movie Night at Nightmare in Crete The Crete Pantry served
Haunted House! Come out for a Township residents for over 40
FREE family friendly double feature years. The program has been
of Halloween favorites on the big providing food and other basic
screen starting at 7PM. Movies to necessities to those facing difficult
be announced on Facebook and free times. The community has
Popcorn will be provided by Old supported this with food drives
Plank Trail Bank. Warm up by the through schools and churches,
bonfire, have a jump in the bounce Crete Library food for fines, and
house and bring a lawn chair and monetary donations. All work done
blanket for lawn seating! at the Pantry is done by volunteers.
CRETE HAUNTED HOUSE – The foods given out each week
OCTOBER 26TH & 27TH to qualified recipients are soup,
On October 26th, and 27th at 7PM, canned vegetables, tuna fish, pasta,
The 29th annual Nightmare in Crete
Haunted House returns for your
tomato products, canned fruit,
peanut butter, eggs, margarine, and
Township Looks are not responsible for the local
creek system and that under Illinois
annual dose of frightful fun! In the basics such as laundry and bar soap. to Address State law, it is the property owners
adjacent to the creeks, that are
summer of 1847, Cecil F. Mancy’s Donations of cash or food are
macabre killing spree terrorized welcomed at the Crete Township Flooding responsible for clearing debris.
We are considering requesting
the residents of Crete, IL. This office located at 1367 Wood Street, - by Michael J. Liccaar grants for funding a study, but at
Halloween, relive those terrors Crete, IL 60417. All donations are tax this time are uncertain as to their
as you traverse the halls of one
of Will County’s oldest buildings.
deductible!
The Crete Pantry has been
T he Spring thaw of 2018 brought
with it flooding in certain areas
of Crete Township. In particular,
availability.
After the severe flooding in
Northwest Indiana, in 2008, the
Volunteers are always needed. successful for so many years it was noted that drainage through Township had commissioned an
Please contact Aaron at (708) 363- because the Crete community cares the creek system continues to engineering study addressing
1332 for more information. for its residents. deteriorate in what appears to be Plum Creek Flood Control. That
FAMILY FUN FEST – OCTOBER If your family has a tradition downed trees and beaver dams. study recommended the purchase
This Spring, Crete Township of various tracks of land and the
27TH of sharing with others at holiday
hired AirScout, an agricultural establishment of water retention/
Families are invited to attend our times, remember the Crete Pantry aviation service which provides flood control storage areas. At that
annual Fun Fest at Nightmare in and its outreach locally. high resolution digital and thermal time, the costs were considered to
Crete Haunted House on October land images, to fly over the creek be overly prohibitive and no further
27th. from 2PM-4PM. Children ages system in the Township, in an action had been taken.
0-12 are invited to trick or treat effort begin to identify sources of A longer-term solution may to
blockages, particularly in areas form “drainage districts”, if the
with the monsters and enjoy tons of
that are difficult to access. The residents so desire. A drainage
FREE candy, prizes, face painting, digital image survey has been district is a separately established
bounce house, and more! Adult completed. governmental entity which would
supervision required. We are now in the process of be responsible for the maintenance
CRETE GUN CLUB interviewing engineering firms of the respective creek system.
The Crete Gun Club meets at the with “Certified Flood Plain However, the establishment of a
Managers” to provide proposals on drainage district is not an easy
Crete F-Men Hall on the first
a study of the drainage issues with process. There are a couple of
Monday of every month at 7:30PM. our creek system. As of press time, methods which could be used,
The public is always welcome to we are still awaiting the remaining however, each requires the filing
attend as we discuss firearm safety, proposals. of various legal petitions by the
legislation, skill development, and We understand that the Federal, landowners, public hearings and
State and County governments eventually a court order.
8 CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018
The Crete Lions Recycling Center
– Where Garbage Is Turned to
Gold - by Chris Manola
Y our recyclable garbage really
can be turned to gold when you
bring it to the Crete Lions Recycling
and hearing-impaired individuals.
Your participation in the Lions
Club recycling program is key to
Center. helping these efforts.
The Crete Lions Club operates Where to bring your recyclable
the oldest recycling program in materials and donations
the State of IL. Club members The Crete Lions Recycling Center
and community volunteers work is located at 1215 Douglas Lane, WE’RE PROUD TO SUPPORT
CRETE
six days a week to recycle plastic, next to the Public Works garage
cardboard, glass, aluminum and in Crete. The Recycling Center
more to raise funds for the Lions accepts plastic, cardboard, paper,
Club. Proceeds from the sale newspaper, magazines, glass,
of recycled materials go to help aluminum and steel. Donations of
TOWNSHIP
wherever help is needed in the used eye glasses and hearing aids
Crete community and beyond. are also gratefully accepted.
Doing What Lions Do The Recycling Center is open
The Club’s first project was to Monday through Friday from 7:00
promote a four-year high school a.m. – 9:00 a.m., and Saturdays.
for Crete Township in 1940. Since from 7:00 a.m. – Noon. Bins are
then the club has helped the Crete located in front of the building for
community in countless ways, after-hours drop off.
including improving Crete parks, Individuals or groups looking for
donating to public and school community service hours or just
libraries, providing equipment to to help can stop by the center or
police and fire departments and call (708) 672-4575. The Lions Club
making improvements to school always welcomes new members who
athletic fields. In 2014, the Lions would like to be of service.
partnered with the Crete Park The Crete Lions would like
District to open Lions Park in Crete, to thank the community for its
donating half the cost to develop continued support of its long
the site. running volunteer recycling
The Lions take part in program.
community events such as Acorn
Fest, Park-A-Palooza, and Crete
Country Christmas. Annually, a Together we make What do we love the most about this community?
Candy Day Fundraiser is held, and
The people we share it with! That’s why we support the
donations are used to help visually Crete better.
families here, the local businesses and the charitable
organizations, too. Instead of just providing banking
Crete Creative to Celebrate One solutions, we also take pride in giving back to the people
Year Aniversary with a Regional who work to make this area so great. Why? Because this
isn’t just home to us; it’s home to all of us. And, as a true
Art Showcase - by Timothy Brennan community bank, we know that when we all do our part,
we can help make Crete better for everyone.
C rete Creative Gallery and
School, located in the Old
Town Mall complex in downtown
to welcome our neighboring
communities to join our annual
Showcase show”.
Crete, will celebrate their one-year The second annual Regional
anniversary by launching a regional Art Showcase will be open this
art showcase in November. year to residents of Crete, Monee,
Since it began as a start-up Beecher, Chicago Heights, Park
non-profit organization last Forest, University Park and St.
fall, the organization has hosted John, Indiana. The show will be , . .
eight art shows, including the juried this year, and all entries will
Congressional Art Competition, and be handled electronically. More CRETE’S COMMUNITY BANK
four professional shows. They have information about the show and
also held over fifty different classes entry instructions are available at 700 W. Exchange | Crete, IL 60417
for the community ranging from cretecreative.com. 708-672-6161 | www.oldplanktrailbank.com
beginning drawing, to painting for The Regional Showcase will open
children, to a variety of fiber-art on Friday, November 22, 2018, the
classes. day after Thanksgiving and will
“Crete Creative Gallery remain up until after the holidays.
and School has exceeded our If you would like more Proud to be part of the family
expectations on every level” says information about Crete Creative
Timothy Brennan, president of or our Reginal Showcase, please
the organization. We can think contact Timothy Brennan
of no better way to celebrate at (331) 472-6398 or email at
our incredible first year than timothybrenn@gmail.com.
CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018 9
Crete’s Underground Railroad SSSRA departments. It is organized
to provide individuals with
Sites - by Phyllis Monks Recognizes disabilities or special needs, the
Crete Township
opportunity to be involved in year-
round recreation.
for it’s Support During the past couple of years,
Crete Township has provided more
of Crete than $15,000 in support to provide
various athletic, recreational and
Township cultural programs, operated by
Residents with SSSRA, for our Crete residents
with disabilities, many of whom
Special Needs attended the Township Board
Meeting on July 11th.
- by Michael Liccar
O n July 11th, Janet Porter,
Executive Director of the
South Suburban Special Recreation
Association (“SSSRA”) presented
an award to Crete Township in
Holding the Certificate are Crete Historical Society members, Ryan Martin, Tim
appreciation for its support of
Piepenbrink and Phyllis Monks
Crete residents with disabilities.
T he U.S National Park Service
certified in May 2018 the
Congregational Church (now the
in the National Underground
Railroad Network to Freedom.
A second application will be
The mission of SSSRA is: “To
promote the power of choice and
to enhance the quality of life of
Marketplace Antique Store) and submitted for the three farm sites individuals of all abilities, by
the adjacent Crete Cemetery “as where Crete families hid escaped providing accessible recreation
making a significant contribution slaves and then, in the darkness of in an environment that promotes
to the understanding of the night, transported them to the next dignity, success, and fun.”
Underground Railroad in American stop on the Underground Railroad. SSSRA is a therapeutic
history.” These sites are now online recreation program that is an
extension of seven park districts SSSRA Executive Director Janet Porter &
Crete Township Benefits at Crete and three recreation and parks Crete Township Supervisor Michael Liccar
Park District - by Therese Hale
T his month, Crete Township
residents are invited to attend
the Trick-Or-Treat Trail on the
be completed by NOON. Enter at
the Douglas Street entrance of
the Crete Park Bike Trail. (Kids
Crete Bike Trail, Douglas Lane are usually lining up by NOON
in Crete. Trick or Treat Trail is and traffic needs to be clear by
a cherished Halloween tradition then.) We had approximately
in Crete. Children ages 16 and 1000 children participate in the
under, dressed in costume and program last year and look forward
accompanied by an adult, can to a great turnout again this year.
trick or treat down the bike trail. It’s a great way to advertise your
Pre-register at the Willard Wood business. Remember the children
Park Center, 515 First St and then are all accompanied by parents
when you check in on the day of the and grandparents. Where else can
event, each child will receive a bag you contact approximately 2000+
that they will use to trick or treat. people, meet them in person for the
Area businesses will be on hand to cost of some candy? Hope to see
pass out treats and goodies. This is you there!
a FREE event for Crete Village and All Township Residents are
Township Residents IF you register encouraged to attend our Fall
before the October 20th deadline. Family Date Night on Nov 16 from
THE FEE IS $5 FOR ANYONE WHO 7-9 PM. Parents, Grandparents or
REGISTERS AFTER THE OCTOBER Aunts, and Uncles can bring kids
20th DEADLINE. (This helps our ages 3 and up to the Willard Wood
volunteer businesses know how Park Center, 515 First Street in
much candy to buy. We appreciate Crete. The fee is $7 per person and
you registering early!) If you have includes carnival games, contests,
any questions, please call us at bingo, dancing, and fun snacks.
(708)672-6969. Please register by Nov 12 so we can
To participate in the Trick purchase supplies. We look forward
or Treat Trail, businesses only to seeing you there for some quality
need to call (708) 672-6969. Set family time!
up will begin at 11 am and must
10 CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018Annual Crete approved solar farms is an
interconnection agreement with
adopted an ordinance similar to the
Illinois Farm Bureau’s Agricultural
Country ComEd and then approval from Impact Mitigation Agreement.
the State of Illinois. Successful • Electrical Transmission:
Christmas applicants anticipate starting Electro-magnetic radiation, noise
Festival to be construction in spring 2019. from equipment.
If all applications are successful, • Tax considerations/revenue:
held December the five solar farms will produce
10MW of electricity, enough to
There will be a substantial increase
in property tax revenue from
7th, 8th, and 9th power a minimum of 1,500 homes.
This electricity will be used directly
the solar farms. Property tax
assessments for solar farms will
- by Michael J. Liccaar Crete Public Library.
by ComEd customers in Crete be based upon uniform criteria
On Saturday morning at
Township. The photovoltaic solar developed by the State of Illinois.
N ow in its 27th year, the annual 10:30am, there will be the Annual
arrays will cover approximately 80 Property Values do not appear to
Crete Country Christmas Reindog Contest at Main & Cass
acres in total. have been adversely affected where
festival will be held from Friday, Streets. Various prizes will be
The Crete Township Plan solar farms have been constructed.
December 7st through Sunday, awarded for the best costumed
“reindogs” and their owners. On Commission addressed the • Aesthetic qualities: Evergreen
December 9th.
This town-wide holiday tradition Saturday afternoon, there will following topics when interviewing tree plantings, shrub plantings,
is chocked full of free events for be entertainment in the heated the three firms seeking to obtain setbacks from roads and houses.
the entire family. The festivities Christmas Lodge. a Special Use Permit for the • Employment opportunities:
include free activities including At around 6:00pm, the fabulous construction of community solar Consideration being given to local
crafts and games for children, Parade of Lights will promenade farms in Crete Township: labor in the construction and
hayrides, visits with Santa, through downtown Crete. After • Decommissioning: The County maintenance of the solar farms.
bonfires, music and entertainment the Parade on Saturday night, the has adopted language that protects The Plan Commission was aided
in the “Christmas Lodge” (large Christmas Lodge will feature some landowners, the Township and the in these interviews by the Crete
heated tent at the corner of Cass & fabulous bands and other free County should a company fail. Township Board of Trustees,
Wood Streets) and the Christmas entertainment. the Township Assessors office,
• Agricultural considerations:
Village (Main & Cass Streets) Crete Country Christmas is
including drainage and drain Will County Board members,
featuring delicacies from local food the perfect way to kick-off the
tiles, methods of construction, citizens, and staff at the Land Use
vendors. Christmas season and create
maintenance (cleaning, dust, weeds, Department of Will County.
There will also be House wonderful holiday memories for
kids of all ages. snow, reliability). The county has
Decorating with prizes awarded
for the best holiday decorations. A calendar of events will be
Also, a Gingerbread House Contest available in November at the Crete
open to all. Many Crete businesses Village Hall at 524 West Exchange
and local organizations will offer Street, the Crete Township Hall
specials or free events. at 1367 Wood Street, the Crete
At 6:30pm on Friday night, Library, the Crete Park District
there will be free music shows and online at the Crete Chamber
on the Main Stage located in the of Commerce website at http://
Christmas Lodge featuring a www.cretecountrychristmas.
variety of venues. com and the on the Crete Country
Saturday begins with a 5K Run at Christmas Facebook page.
8:00am at followed by professional The Crete Country Christmas
ice sculptors, free trolley rides to Planning Committee is always
the Kris Kringle Market and Craft in need of volunteers. If you
Show as well as transportation to are interested in serving on
many holiday craft projects for the committee, please contact
children hosted by various local Michael Liccar at michael.liccar@
businesses, civic organizations as cretetownship.com or call 708-
well as the Crete Park District and 672-8279.
Solar Farms coming to Crete
Township - by John Rzymski,
Chairman, Crete Township Plan Commission
C rete Township has received
a total of five solar farm
applications from three firms:
of Cypress Creek and Borrego Solar
have been approved by the Will
County Board which has primary
Cypress Creek, Borrego Solar and authority over the approval of such
Soltage. The proposed solar farm projects. The Soltage solar farms
sites are located near Goodenow will have public hearings at Will
Grove. County this Fall.
Thus far, the solar farm proposals The next step for County-
CRETE TOWNSHIP NEWS // FALL & WINTER 2018 11PRSRT STD
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CRETE, IL 60417 CRETE, IL 60417
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Crete Township Newsletter is circulated to all residents and businesses in Crete Township, reaching all of
Video Gaming, L I V E E N T E RTA I N M E N T M A N Y EV E N I N GS Crete, as well as those in Steger that are in Crete Township.
Comments or questions can be directed to: Crete Township Office (708) 672.8279.
We welcome you to also visit our website: www.cretetownship.com
To place an ad with Crete Township, please contact Pam at (708) 672-8279,
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