Take it to the Streets with Marian Catholic High School & Becky's Warriors

Becky's Warriors Mission: To honor the memory of Rebecca Eaton Lopez by inspiring hope and courage to Marian Catholic families who are fighting cancer.

For more information, visit

City of Chicago Heights Hosts Rotary International District 9140 Nigeria

The Rotary Friendship Exchange Program provides a means through which Rotarians in one part of the world can experience life in another country or culture. Its goal is to advance international understanding and goodwill through person-to-person connection...

Special Olympics of Illinois Runs Through Chicago Heights

The Officer and the Olympian

 Detective Ryan Fitzgibbons, an eight-year law enforcement officer with the City of Chicago Heights Police Department, is a dedicated volunteer and fundraising coordinator for Special Olympics Illinois.

Detective Fitzgi...

Summertime Tips

Read the Chicago Heights Code of Ordinances to learn more about the guidelines that will keep summer events safe and compliant. 

The City of Chicago Heights Hosts Annual Fireworks Show Monday, July 3rd

The City of Chicago Heights will host its annual Fireworks Show on Monday, July 3rd. Each year, we focus our efforts on enhancing the experience for families and visitors joining us for this spectacular fireworks display. 

This year, the City will...

Street Closure--Scheduled to Re-Open Friday, June 23rd

The City of Chicago Heights is in the process of completing emergency infrastructure repairs in the vicinity of 23rd Street & Chicago Road that will require a temporary road closure. Traffic will be rerouted to a single lane on 23rd Street as the emer...

Torch Runs Through Chicago Heights

The Special Olympics of Illinois got off to a running start on Wednesday, June 7th with the Law Enforcement Torch Run in Chicago Heights.

Dozens of law enforcement officials and athletes came out to run for the event that helps raise money for Special Olym...

An Important Message from Mayor David A. Gonzalez

May 2017

Dear Resident:

On April 17, 2017, the City of Chicago Heights City Council approved a fee for residential customers for weekly curbside garbage pickup provided by Republic Disposal Services.  The fee will appear on your water billing state...

City of Chicago Heights Receives Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting

The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to City of Chicago Heights by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR).

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NEW!!! Images from Ribbon Cutting Event!

Barack Obama School of Leadership and STEM, 401 Concord Drive, Chicago Heights, held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new atrium, greenhouse and Horticulture Education Center at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 23.

The greenhouse and Horticulture Center will serve...

Mayor Gonzalez Fights for Revenue for City

Mayor David A. Gonzalez recently appeared at a joint legislative hearing in Chicago to advocate on behalf of the City and other local municipalities regarding municipal tax collections. The hearing, convened by the House Cities and Villages Committee chai...

Become a Community Tree Champion!

Make an Impact in your community!

Trees in our region have stressful lives! They need extra attention so they can provide shade, increase a neighborhood’s beauty, reduce flooding, and provide many other benefits. 

As a Champion, you may participate...

Bloom High School Artist Exhibit at South Shore Arts

A total of 14 Bloom High School students had their artwork accepted into the 43rd Annual Tri-County Jr/Sr High School Art Exhibition. This is always an impressive exhibition, showcasing the talent of high school art students in the tri-county area. The wo...

Chicago Heights Fire Department Swearing in at City Council Meeting

During the May 1st City Council meeting, eight firefighters were promoted to new positions in the Chicago Heights Fire Department.

Residents, CHFD personnel and family members attended the meeting and witnessed the swearing in ceremony for Lieutenant Dougl...

Earth Day 2017!

On April 22, Chicago Heights celebrated Earth Day with local organizations and civic groups collaborating on projects throughout the city. The City of Chicago Heights Lions Club was recognized at a special ceremony hosted by the CH Park District in recogn...

Mayor's Night Out

Over the past month, Mayor David A. Gonzalez hosted several Mayor’s Night Out events throughout the community. The sessions were held to share information on the city budget, capital projects and economic development initiatives. At the beginnin...

Warmer Weather Fun: Reminder

Consider Your Neighbors

 It is easy to forget how loud the speakers are playing when listening to our favorite songs, but residents playing music outdoors during cookouts or other events should not be audible from a distance of 30 feet or more fro...

Bloom High School Memorial 5k Event

Bloom High School hosted the 5th annual Jeff Woodham and Abrahan Cruz Memorial 5K event last month.The Event was founded in 2013 by members  of Bloom’s National Honors Society (NHS) to raise funds for a scholarship established in memory...

Community Resource Fair

This past week, the City of Chicago Heights hosted a Community Resources Fair at City Hall. The event was designed to give residents the opportunity to gain access and knowledge of services available  in the City of Chicago Heights. Members of th...

Crosstown Competition! Chicago Heights Ballers are Champions!!!

Crosstown Competition!

Chicago Heights Ballers are Champions!!!

City of Chicago Heights and Chicago Heights Park District staff and families volunteered during a fundraising event on behalf of the Chicago Heights Veterans.  In the spirit of March M...

Mayor's Night Out

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Spring Home Safety Tips

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Spring Tips and Guidelines

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City of Chicago Heights Joins National Mayor's Challenge for Water Conservation

Mayor David A. Gonzalez is joining mayors across the country in asking residents to make a long term commitment to manage water resources more wisely by taking part in the annual Wyland National Mayor’s Challenge for Water Conservation &mdas...

Economic Development Overview-- Industrial

Revitalizing the industrial corridors along the east side of the city remains a primary focus for Mayor David A. Gonzalez.

The history and growth of the City of Chicago Heights relied heavily on the industrialization of the east side due to its booming ind...

Mayor's Night Out

Mayor David A. Gonzalez is hosting a series of community evenings designed to share information with residents on the city budget, capital projects and programs.

All residents are encouraged to attend and join Mayor Gonzalez for an evening of updates, info...

Signs, Signs, Everywhere a Sign!

Spring is approaching and with the warm weather, residents in the city will be hosting garage sales, estate sales, or a special neighborhood event by posting outdoor signage. The City of Chicago Heights wants to ensure that residents have the information ...

Economic Development Overview

Maintaining an economically viable and sustainable community is a primary focus for Mayor David A. Gonzalez. Most recently, the creation of the nonprofit Chicago Heights Development Corporation continues the drive to encourage a strong local economy. The ...

The Origins of Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual observance in February, celebrating the past and present achievements of African Americans. In February 1926, Dr. Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, proposed t...

20th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Celebration

Talei Thompson, a local motivational speaker, took the podium as the keynote speaker, with additional guest speaker Richard Schwoegler III, founder and director of Surrender All Ministries. The morning program also included a performance by God’...

An Important Message from Mayor David A. Gonzalez

Get the News You Want in 2017

As we enter 2017, stay informed and up-to-date on current events and projects happening in Chicago Heights. The website allows us to share information immediately to those that have signed up to receive our news alerts or updates. Visit or revisit the &am...

Resident Services Department

The City of Chicago Heights Resident Services Department is the central intake center for resident questions, concerns, and requests for city services. Residents may call or visit Resident Services to voice a concern or make an inquiry. Resident Services ...

2nd Graders from Serena Hills Elementary Visit City Hall

On the morning of Tuesday, November 15th, it was not business as usual at Chicago Heights City Hall and the Police and Fire Stations. Second graders from Serena Hills School toured each facility to learn more about how different government departments fun...

City Celebrates the Holidays with Annual Tree Lighting and Visit from Santa Claus

Although the weather outside was frightful, Chicago Heights City Hall was delightful as the City celebrated the season with its annual tree lighting ceremony! Mayor Gonzalez and wife Carmen greeted families outside on Wednesday evening and introduced the ...

It's Christmas Time in the City

While City Hall was all dressed up in holiday style, the Serena Hills 4^th and 5^th Grade Student Choir added to the festive spirit, filling the air with the feeling of Christmas! The student choir caroled at various locations throughout Chicago Heights, sp...

Taco Bell has its Grand Opening Ribbon-Cutting Event

A new Taco Bell Restaurant has joined the retail landscape on the Halsted Street Corridor! Taco Bell's new location is at the busy southeast corner of Halsted Street and Vollmer Road. The popular Mexican restaurant held a grand opening this past ...

Colder Weather Ahead

As temperatures continue to drop over the next few days, please be observant and follow some simple safety guidelines.

--Remember to wear multiple layers of clothing. Hats, scarves, and gloves help to conserve body heat.

--Keep a close eye! Space heaters sh...

I-REFI Mortgage Assistance Program

The Illinois Housing Development Authority has announced its refinancing program for underwater homeowners.  I-REFI program offers up to $50,000 in federal assistance to buy down your mortgage and refinance you into an affordable loan. Click on l...

Giving Thanks

Alderman Vincent Zaranti and Park District Commissioner Curtis Strazcek pause for a moment for a photo at their annual Thanksgiving event in Ward 6 this past weekend.

"Thanksgiving, after all, is a word of action"

W.J. Cameron

Happy Thanksgiving

November is the time to be thankful, a time to remember and to embrace the people who enrich our lives. May you enjoy a plentiful feast of good food and makelifelong memories with family and friends.

Wishing you a safe holiday weekend...Happy Thanksgiving!...

City of Chicago Heights Pays Tribute Veterans Day 2016

The City of Chicago Heights hosted Morning of Reflection this past Friday, November 11th at the Chicago Heights Park District. Local veterans groups, family, friends and residents gathered to pay tribute to the men and woman of our armed forces.Bloom High...

Grand Opening of the Chicago Heights Economic Development Corp

The Chicago Heights Economic Development Corporation hosted a grand opening event November 15th at their new offices at 365 W 14th Street. Representatives from local businesses, area schools, churches, agencies, and non-profit organization were in attenda...

Emergency Repairs

The City of Chicago Heights Water and Sewer Department has completed emergency repairs to a manhole in the vicinity of Greenbriar Avenue and Arquilla Drive.

Chief Thomas Rogers Honored by Cook County Crime Stoppers

Last Thursday, Chicago Heights Police Chief Thomas Rogers was the recipient of the Excellence in Law Enforcement Award from Cook County Crime-Stoppers. In 2006, in his capacity as a detective, Rogers worked alongside fellow detectives from the South Subu...Read on...

Veterans Day 2016

On November 11th, the nation celebrates Veterans Day to honor all who have served in the military for the United States. Across America, various parades and ceremonies are held to celebrate the loyal services of our country’s armed forces.
The date was c...Read on...

Newsletter Schedule Change

The new website is designed to keep residents informed and up-to-date on current events and projects happening in and around the City of Chicago Heights. The site allows us to share relevant and useful information with residents immediately who have signe...Read on...

Rain Barrel Program Ending

Please be aware that the Rain Barrel Initiative is coming to an end. The City of Chicago Heights will continue to accept applications until November 18th, 2016. Rain barrels will still be available for purchase from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation Dist...Read on...

Repairs Complete

Emergency infrastructure repairs in the area of 23rd Street & Euclid Avenue are complete and road access has been returned.

7 Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips

For young children, Halloween night is one of the best of the year. However, trick-or-treating can be dangerous if kids and parents aren’t careful. Take a look at some vital trick-or-treating tips before you accompany your child.

1. Plan a route in ad...Read on...

Resurfacing Project Moving Forward

The City has over 90 miles of streets and roadways, and each year, through CDBG and capital improvement funds major resurfacing work is completed on our streets and roadways. The City applies for CDBG funds a year in advance, with the actual construction ...Read on...

Another New Arrival

The City will welcome a new business to one of our commercial districts that will offer residents an exciting new shopping opportunity. Furniture Depot purchased the warehouse location at 375 North Halsted Street. The 30,000 square foot space sits at the ...Read on...

Chicago Road Parkway Tree Partnership

The City of Chicago Heights, the Lions Club and the Chicago Heights Park District, partnered and planted 27 trees along Chicago Road through the Parkway Tree Partnership program.

The partners on this project gathered to assist with the planting of the...Read on...

50/50 Sidewalk Program Deadline Extended until October 19th

The City's 50/50 Sidewalk Program deadline has been extended until Wednesday, October 19, 2016. Residents who were on the current list and are participating should complete the Contract for Participation available at the link below and return the form alo...Read on...

Leaf Pick-up and Street Sweeping Map and Schedule Available Now!!!

View the Street Sweeping Schedule and Map along with the guide and dates of the City's supplemental leaf pick-up program under Public Works.

Mayor Addresses Teens at Bloom Township High School's National Manufacturing Day

The purpose of National Manufacturing Day is to inspire students to explore careers in the manufacturing field. Mayor Gonzalez’s opening address at Bloom's manufacturing day event highlighted exciting opportunities in manufacturing. Over 300 student part...Read on...

Street Resurfacing Updates!

For updates on current projects, visit Construction Updates.

Festival of Sister Cities Video!

Click here to watch a video recap of this year's Festival of Sister Cities!

Street Sweeping Schedule Coming Soon!

Visit the City of Chicago Heights Public Works Department page for upcoming street sweeping schedules and maps.

Taco Bell Coming Soon!

The City of Chicago Heights is welcoming a new Taco Bell currently under construction on Halsted, joining another perennial favorite being built down the street, Dunkin' Donuts! These new restaurants are part of the revitalization of our commercial corrid...Read on...

A Successful Tree Giveaway

Thanks to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District's Restore the Canopy Project, the City of Chicago Heights' first Great Tree Giveaway was a success. Exactly 100 Pin Oak saplings found new homes today. Visit our website for news and updates on events ...Read on...

Festival of Sister Cities Gallery

This year marked the 5th annual celebration of the Festival of Sister Cities. Visit the festival gallery to see the celebration in action.

News Around Town

For news and events around town and outdoor activities, visit our website for information and updates.

Restoring the Canopy

Remember to pick up your free oak sapling between 2:00 PM-5:00 PM on Friday, September 23rd. For more information, contact Kelli Merrick at 708-755-3038.

Festival of Sister Cities Schedule

A sample of the weekend festivities for the 5th annual Festival of the Sister Cities is available at

Free Historic Bus Tour starts at Festival of Sister Cities September 10th

Hop on for an hour-long tour of historic points of interest throughout Chicago Heights led by members of the Chicago Heights Historic Preservation Committee. While on the tour, the group will stop at the historic First Presbyterian Cemetery in homage to o...Read on...

The Great Tree Giveaway Update

Note the update to the date of the Great Tree Giveaway:

100 free oak saplings will be available at City Hall September 23, 2016 from 2:00 PM-5:00 PM.

For more information, contact Jessica Mancina at 708-755-3106.

Festival of Sister Cities--New on Stage

The streets of Chicago Heights will be filled with music during the upcoming Festival of Sister Cities! As the City embraces our wonderfully diverse culture, you can expect to hear a variety of different sounds such as Rock, Pop, Disco, R&B, Hip-Hop ...Read on...

Rain Barrel Program Update

The requests for rain barrels under the Rain Barrel Initiative are still rolling in as we enter the last few months of the summer. To date, Chicago Heights residents have ordered 1400 rain barrels!

Please note that MWRD released a recent statement iden...Read on...

The Great Tree Giveaway!

The City of Chicago Heights is excited to announce the Great Tree Giveaway. Through a partnership with MWRD and their Restore a Canopy Project, 100 free oak saplings will be available for pick up at City Hall on Friday, September 23rd from 2:00 pm – 5:00 ...Read on...

New at the Festival of Sister Cities

In just over 3 weeks, the city will celebrate our diverse cultural heritage with the Festival of Sister Cities. Chicago Heights boasts a number of new attractions, including a bike show and a Kool & the Gang tribute band on Saturday, September 10th. ...Read on...

The City Hosts Industrial Roundtable Event at Prairie State College

Last month, Jack Hynes, City of Chicago Heights Economic Development, hosted an Industrial Roundtable Event at Prairie State College. The meeting centered on engaging local businesses and making them aware of the economic opportunities available. Sevente...Read on...

ComEd and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Partner to Advance Public Safety Initiatives

Chicago Heights Police Chief Thomas Rogers is pleased to announce the Police Department is the recipient of a ComEd Powering Safe Communities grant. ComEd and the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus have awarded $170,000 in grants to fund projects in 24 municipali...Read on...

The Festival of Sister Cities

The Chicago Heights Sister City Festival will bring cultures together again this year Sept. 10 and 11 at Bloom High School, 10th Street and Chicago Road. This annual celebration of cultural heritage will include an assortment of ethnic foods, crafts, and ...Read on...

Thornwood Apartments Back-to-School Event

Another exciting back to school event was held at Thornwood Apartments yesterday. Over 120 children received school supplies for a great start to the school year. Alderman Vincent Zaranti and Park District Commissioner Curtis Straczek provided refreshment...Read on...

Zarlengo’s Reveals Expansion Plans

Zarlengo’s Italian Ice began over 30 years ago with a family dream of an ice cream shop rooted in Chicago Heights. Since then, the local shop off Ashland and Joe Orr Road has remained a staple in the community while distributing Zarlengo’s Italian Ice, Za...Read on...

City Enters Next Phase of Quiet Zone Project

The City is moving forward with a proposed railroad quiet zone for the corridor through Chicago Heights to reduce train horn noise.
Earlier this year, the City completed a study in collaboration with Union Pacific and Canadian National Railroads, whose r...Read on...

City to Rezone as Part of Comprehensive Plan

The Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning [CMAP], the organization that assisted in the development of the city’s comprehensive plan, will collaborate with the city to review the city’s current downtown zoning ordinances. Under CMAP's Local Technical A...Read on...

Zarlengo's to Expand

The City is pleased to announce Zarlengo's Italian Ice is expanding in Chicago Heights. Please watch the website for a full article on the exciting expansion plans!

Free Home Energy Assessments

ComEd is offering free home energy assessments as part of its Energy Efficiency Program. View the flyer below for more information.

Community Event: Back-to-School Outreach Fair

The first day of school is rapidly approaching! With that in mind, the Chicago Heights Park District’s Back-to-School Outreach Fair returns on Sunday, August 7th.
Residents are invited to attend the fair and receive free school supplies and health care s...Read on...

Illinois Housing Development Authority Re-Opens Mortgage Assistance Program

The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) was joined today by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin and Mark Kirk and Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer to announce the re-opening of the Illinois Hardest Hit program (HHF) on August 1, a mortgage assistan...Read on...

Save the Date: 2016 Fall Festival of Sister Cities

The fun begins with an evening carnival on September 9th, where visitors can enjoy the rides and games that will be available throughout the weekend. The Festival of Sister Cities officially kicks off on Saturday, September 10th, and continues through Sun...Read on...

Open Streets Returns July 31st

Open Streets is an inclusive community event that offers residents a chance to have fun on the street. This year, Joe Orr Road will be closed during the event to vehicle traffic, and residents will have the opportunity to hike, roller skate, exercise and...Read on...

Notice of Public Hearing

Public notice is hereby given that on Monday, the 18th day of July, 2016, Mayor David A. Gonzalez and the City Council of the City of Chicago Heights, Cook County, Illinois will hold a public hearing at 6:45 p.m. at City Hall, 1601 Chicago Road, Chicago H...Read on...

Residents Enjoy Coffee with the Cops!

The Chicago Heights Police Department held the third Coffee with a Cop event, with this coffee chat hosted by our local Burger King restaurant on Joe Orr Road.
On Friday, June 24th, officers spent the morning greeting visitors and serving up coffee in th...Read on...

Bloom Township Finishes Food Pantry Construction!

The Bloom Township Food Pantry will serve area residents from its newly constructed site and will celebrate its Grand Opening on Saturday, June 25th.
Please take note of the following events that support the Township Food Pantry and look for additional d...Read on...

Vehicle Sticker Deadline

City Clerk Lori Wilcox is encouraging residents to purchase their vehicle stickers early to avoid the inconvenience of long lines and facing late penalties. City vehicle stickers may be purchased at City Hall in the Clerk’s Office, Monday through Friday ...Read on...

Ultra Foods Celebrates Grand Re-Opening

Ultra Foods in Chicago Heights celebrated a grand re-opening after an extensive remodeling project that not only drastically changed its layout but added new food options for customers.
Among Ultra’s new food options are freshly prepared entrees, a sushi...Read on...

City Submits Proposal for ITEP Grant

Chicago Heights recently submitted a grant application to take part in the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program.
The ITEP is a federally funded program for community based projects that expand travel choices and enhance the transportation experien...Read on...

State-of-the-Art Sewer Lining Project Underway

Work is underway on a manhole rehabilitation, point repair and pipe lining project to protect City sewer lines from damage and intrusion.
Using a state-of-the-art “no dig” process, contractors will install new lining in a portion of the city’s sanitary s...Read on...

Police Take Part in Special Olympics Torch Run

This week the Chicago Heights Police Department took part in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the Special Olympics.
On Wednesday, June 11, Chicago Heights police officers ran with the Special Olympics torch from the intersection of Joe Orr Road and Dixi...Read on...

Another Successful Citywide Cleanup!

On Saturday, May 21st, the Mayor joined a large group of volunteers who gathered to spend the morning sprucing up neighborhoods all over the city. Among the volunteers were students and staff from Bloom, community groups, residents, and the Street Departm...Read on...

Police Get Dunked at Dunkin’ Donuts for Special Olympics

Chicago Heights police officers took to the roof once again at the Dunkin' Donuts at 431 West 14th Street to raise funds for the Illinois Special Olympics Torch Run.
The police department had officers greeting customers from the roof, while officers at ...Read on...

Memorial Day Moments in Chicago Heights

On Monday May 30th, the City of Chicago Heights hosted its annual Memorial Day ceremony. The ceremony is a time to pause and reflect, to honor the memory of those who served and lost their lives, and to remember the families and loved ones who were left b...Read on...

City of Chicago Heights Receives Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting

The Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting has been awarded to City of Chicago Heights by Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR).

Read on...