News Flash

On Thursday, April 2, 2026, at approximately 10:42 p.m., the Lombard Fire Department was dispatched to the 2000 block of S. Finley Road for a reported activated fire alarm, which was quickly upgraded to a structure fire. 

The first Lombard Fire Department crews arrived on scene at 10:47 p.m. and found a two-story, eight-unit multi-family residential building with fire present in the chimney and attic. Firefighters quickly deployed hose lines and worked to contain and extinguish the fire, which was limited to the unit of origin. The remaining units sustained varying degrees of smoke and water damage.

There were no injuries to residents or responding personnel reported. As a result of the fire, residents of all eight units were displaced. The Lombard Fire Investigation Unit determined the cause of the fire to be a witnessed lightning strike.

The Lombard Fire Department was assisted by the Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oak Brook Terrace, and York Center Fire Departments. The Lombard Police provided traffic and crowd control throughout the response.

For more information, please contact Deputy Chief George Hyland at (630) 620-5736.

The Lombard Police Department is now participating in the Illinois “Blue Envelope” Program, an initiative designed to support positive interactions between law enforcement officers and drivers on the autism spectrum or individuals who may benefit from additional communication considerations during a traffic stop.

The Blue Envelope Program provides a clearly marked blue envelope for drivers to store important documents such as a driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance. The envelope also includes guidance for drivers and officers to help promote clear, calm communication during a traffic stop.

“This program is about awareness and safety,” said Police Chief Joe Grage. “The Blue Envelope helps officers recognize when a driver may benefit from additional time or clarity during an interaction. By increasing understanding on both sides, we can help make traffic stops safer and more respectful for everyone involved.”

Participation in the Blue Envelope Program is voluntary and free of charge. Residents interested in obtaining a blue envelope may pick one up at the Lombard Police Department or Lombard Village Hall during regular business hours.

The program does not exempt participants from lawful enforcement actions. Drivers are still expected to comply with all traffic laws and lawful instructions. Additionally, while awareness of the program continues to grow statewide, officers from other jurisdictions may not be familiar with the Blue Envelope.

The Lombard Police Department remains committed to strengthening community relationships and ensuring safe, professional interactions with all residents.

For more information about the Blue Envelope Program, please contact the Lombard Police Department at (630) 873-4400 or visit www.villageoflombard.org/BlueEnvelope.

The Village of Lombard is hosting a Spring Blood Drive on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, and is inviting residents to donate blood and make a meaningful impact in their community. 

The blood drive will take place at two locations: 

• Lower level of the Yorktown Shopping Center (outside Von Maur)  |  9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• First Church of Lombard Fellowship Hall (220 S. Main St)   |  1:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood. A single donation can help save up to three lives, providing critical support for patients undergoing cancer treatment, managing chronic conditions or recovering from serious injuries.

Residents who are feeling unwell are encouraged to stay home and reschedule their appointment. Healthy individuals are encouraged to keep their appointments and will complete a brief health screening prior to donating. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Blood Drive Coordinator Carol Bauer at (630) 620-5712 or visit www.villageoflombard.org/blooddrives. 

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Lombard Police Department is reminding motorists to stay focused behind the wheel. Throughout the month, officers will conduct increased enforcement targeting distracted driving violations as part of a statewide safety campaign.

“Distracted driving continues to be a serious safety concern on our roadways,” said Police Lieutenant Tom Balsitis. “Taking your attention away from driving for even a few seconds can have devastating consequences. We urge all drivers to stay alert and make safe driving their priority every time they get behind the wheel.”

The Lombard Police Department encourages drivers to take simple steps to prevent distracted driving:

• Put your phone away or use hands-free technology
• Set navigation and music before driving
• Keep your focus on the road at all times

Under Illinois law, it is illegal to use a handheld electronic device while driving. Violations may result in fines and other penalties.

The Lombard Police Department is partnering with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the Illinois State Police, and more than 200 law enforcement agencies statewide to reinforce the message: Put the phone away or pay. Drivers can expect to see increased patrols and enforcement throughout April.

The Illinois distracted driving campaign is funded with federal traffic safety funds administered by IDOT.                                  

The Lombard Fire Department will be offering another CPR training class on Saturday, April 18, and space is limited. Residents are encouraged to register soon, as only a few spots remain and the class is expected to fill quickly. The class will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Fire Station 45, 50 E. St. Charles Road, and will last approximately 3 to 4 hours.

This session features Heartsaver CPR training, designed for non-medical individuals. Participants will receive hands-on instruction and practical guidance on how to respond in emergency situations, including:

• CPR and AED use
• Narcan administration
• Responding to choking emergencies

Registration & Cost

• Cost: $25 per participant
• Class size: Limited to 10 participants
• Eligibility: Open to the public with no residency or age restrictions

To register, call the Lombard Fire Department at (630) 620-5738 or email fire@villageoflombard.org. 

Future Class Dates

Additional CPR classes are tentatively scheduled for the following dates. Please note that dates are subject to change, and more details will be shared as each class approaches:

• June 6
• September 19
• November 14

Questions?

For more information about the CPR training program, contact Firefighter/Paramedic Kyle Straughn at straughnk@villageoflombard.org. 

Update (March 31): Today’s prescribed burn has been canceled due to weather conditions. Based on the forecast, the burn is now scheduled for April 6, weather permitting.

Update (March 30): Controlled burns are scheduled to take place tomorrow morning (March 31), weather permitting. Residents in the affected areas may notice smoke during this time.

The Village's Public Works Department, in partnership with Bedrock Earthscapes, LLC, will conduct controlled burns at several Village-maintained sites to promote healthy native vegetation and improve the long-term health of local natural areas. 

The burns are currently scheduled for Thursday, March 19, weather permitting. Because controlled burns rely heavily on favorable weather and site conditions, they may instead take place between March 30 and April 6.

Controlled burns are planned at the following locations:

• Terrace View Pond – behind Park View Elementary School
• Grace & Central Pond – northeast corner of East Central Avenue and South Grace Street
• Echo Pond – southeast corner of South Main Street and West Wilson Avenue
• Morris Pond – off Morris Avenue, west of South Main Street
• Surges Center – Village property near the Salt Dome at the end of Progress Avenue
• Parker/Kaplin Basin – near Parker Drive and Kramer Avenue
• Central Pressure Adjusting Station / Commuter Lot – north side of East St. Charles Road, west of the Fire Station
• Hammerschmidt Commuter Parking Lot – south side of East St. Charles Road, east of Main Street

Residents will receive one-day advance notice before burns take place. Updates will be posted on the Village website and social media channels. Residents may also sign up for email notifications at villageoflombard.org/notifyme.

For questions, please contact the Lombard Public Works Department at (630) 620-5740 or publicworks@villageoflombard.org.

Waste Management’s yard waste collection program in Lombard runs from the first full week of April through the second full week of December. This year, collection will begin the week of April 7th. 

Bundled brush, paper bags, and cans of leaves and grass must have a yard waste sticker attached. Bundles must be tied with non-plastic twine or string, cut no longer than six feet, no wider than 18 inches, and weigh less than 50 pounds. Limbs must be no more than six inches in diameter.

The price of yard waste stickers will increase by $0.13 (4.5%), bringing the new cost to $3.14 per sticker. Yard waste and refuse stickers are available at the following locations. Residents are encouraged to call ahead to confirm business hours and availability.

• Ace Hardware, 837 S. Westmore-Meyers, Lombard
• Ace Hardware, 46 S Villa Ave, Villa Park
• Jewel, 1177 S. Main Street, Lombard
• Jewel, 33 E. St. Charles Road, Villa Park
• Johnson’s Lighthouse BP, 1 W. St. Charles Road, Villa Park

Additionally, yard waste and refuse stickers may be purchased in groups of 25 by submitting a request to Waste Management at wm.com/us/en/support/customer-support/contact-us-form. 

To save money and enrich soil, residents may prefer to mulch grass clippings or to compost yard waste in a bin on their property. The Village’s Compost Bin Reimbursement Program is available at villageoflombard.org/yardwaste.  There is also an annual curbside collection program available for $160.85

The 4.5% fee adjustment increases the monthly cost of a standard 64-gallon refuse toter to $19.71 and raises the price of refuse stickers to $1.93 each. For more information, visit villageoflombard.org/solidwaste.

Contact the Village of Lombard’s Department of Public Works at publicworks@villageoflombard.org or (630) 620-5740 for any questions.

The Lombard Police Department has released the results of its recent St. Patrick’s Day traffic safety campaign, focused on reducing impaired driving and encouraging seat belt use during the holiday enforcement period. 

The campaign took place from March 13 through March 23, 2026, during which Lombard officers issued the following:

• 56 seat belt citations
• 4 child safety seat citations
• 10 speeding citations
• 10 distracted driving citations (cell phone use) 
• 21 other traffic citations (moving and non-moving)
• 3 traffic-related arrests (no valid, suspended or revoked driver’s licenses)
• 2 warrant arrests
• 1 criminal arrest
• 1 driving under the influence (DUI) arrest

“We enforce traffic laws with one goal in mind, and that is to keep people safe,” said Police Lieutenant Tom Balsitis. “Wearing your seat belt, staying focused behind the wheel and never driving impaired are simple steps that help prevent serious crashes.”

The Lombard Police Department joined forces with state and local law enforcement and highway safety partners for the St. Patrick’s Day enforcement campaign. 

This campaign was supported by federal highway safety funds administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation.

As spring and summer approach, the Village reminds residents that these seasons bring an increased risk of flooding due to factors such as frozen ground, snowmelt and heavy rainstorms. Significant flooding can occur even outside of designated floodplain areas, as experienced during past events in the community.

Residents can take simple steps to help reduce localized flooding:

• Do not alter grading or fill areas on your property without a Village permit
• Avoid placing items such as sheds or raised garden beds in drainage paths
• Keep storm drain lids clear of leaves and debris to ensure proper water flow
• Make sure downspouts direct water away from your home and neighboring properties

It is also important to understand that heavy or intense rainfall can overwhelm storm systems, leading to temporary street flooding or water buildup. Some areas of Lombard have older combined sewer systems that may be more susceptible to backups during large storm events.

The Village offers programs to help residents address drainage concerns, including an Overhead Sewer Grant and a Residential Drainage Program for qualifying properties. Residents are also encouraged to consider flood insurance, as standard policies do not cover flood damage and there is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect.

For questions or assistance:

• Private property concerns: 630-620-5972 or PES@villageoflombard.org
• Public property concerns: Public Works at 630-620-5740

For additional information, refer to the Spring and Summer Flooding Reminders (PDF) or visit the Drainage and Flooding Information webpage. 

Taking proactive steps now can help protect your property and reduce the impacts of future storms.

The Village encourages residents to participate in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Fix a Leak Week, taking place March 16 through 22, 2026. This annual initiative highlights the importance of finding and fixing household leaks to conserve water and reduce utility costs.

Household leaks can waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water nationwide each year. Common sources include dripping faucets, running toilets and outdoor irrigation systems. Taking a few minutes to check for leaks can make a meaningful difference for your home and the community.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Check faucets, toilets and showerheads for leaks
• Inspect outdoor spigots and irrigation systems
• Replace worn fixtures with WaterSense-labeled products
• Sign up for the Village's WaterSmart Portal to monitor water usage and set up leak alerts 

Fixing leaks is simple and can help save water and money year-round. By taking action, residents can support Lombard’s ongoing efforts to promote water conservation and sustainability.

Learn more at: www.epa.gov/watersense/fix-a-leak-week

On Friday, March 13, 2026, just after noon, the Lombard Fire Department responded to reports of a commercial contractor van on fire in the driveway of a home in the 1400 block of Oak Meadow Court. While fire and EMS units were responding, DuComm upgraded the call to a working fire response after receiving reports that the fire from the van had spread to the home.

The first Lombard Fire Department crews arrived on scene less than five minutes after the original dispatch. Firefighters found a commercial contractor van in the driveway fully involved in fire, with flames spreading to the nearby home and extending to the house next door.

Firefighters quickly deployed hose lines to extinguish the burning van and contain the fire spreading to both homes. Crews entered both residences and confirmed that fire damage was limited to the exterior of the homes and the van in the driveway.

The Lombard Fire Investigation Unit responded to the scene and began an investigation into the cause of the fire. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. Both homes remain habitable. Preliminary damage estimates are believed to exceed $60,000. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Lombard Fire Department received assistance from the Oak Brook Fire Department and the York Center, Lisle-Woodridge and Oak Brook Terrace Fire Protection Districts.

For additional information, please contact Deputy Chief George Hyland at (630) 620-5736.

The Village has begun construction on a new 1.5-million-gallon elevated water tower along Butterfield Road, just east of Yorktown Mall, as part of the Village’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and modernize its water system infrastructure.

The new tower will support the Village’s high-pressure water system serving areas south of Roosevelt Road. Lombard’s water system currently serves more than 15,000 customers and a population of over 45,000 residents, distributing approximately 3.6 million gallons of water each day.

Water towers play a critical role in maintaining a reliable water system. By storing water at an elevated height, the tower uses gravity to help maintain consistent water pressure throughout the distribution system. Stored water also helps meet peak daily demand and provides a reserve supply during emergencies or system maintenance.

The need for additional water storage was identified through previous Village water system studies and incorporated into Lombard’s long-term Capital Improvement Plan. The added storage will also help meet DuPage Water Commission storage requirements and support continued growth in the southern portion of Lombard.

The Village selected a design-build team of Baxter & Woodman Engineering/Boller Construction in partnership with CB&I to design and construct the tower. This strategy allows design and construction to be coordinated under a single contract, improving project efficiency and coordination. Construction of the water tower and the pressure adjusting station is expected to be completed in fall 2027, with the tower anticipated to become operational in early 2028.

The project is funded through a combination of sources, including a $4 million Rebuild Illinois grant, Butterfield TIF funds and the Village’s Water and Sewer Capital Reserve Fund.

Investments like this help Lombard’s water system continue to provide reliable service, stable water pressure and safe drinking water for residents and businesses for years to come.

Residents are invited to attend the next Coffee with the Village President on Saturday, April 11, from 8:30  to 10:00 a.m. at Lombard Village Hall, 255 E. Wilson Ave.  

This event provides residents the opportunity to speak directly with Village President Anthony Puccio and District 5 Trustee Dan Militello about Village initiatives, development projects and other community topics. Attendees are encouraged to ask questions and learn more about what is happening in Lombard.

Coffee and light refreshments will be provided. This series supports one of the Village’s strategic plan goals to expand opportunities for community engagement and provides a casual setting for residents to speak directly with elected officials. 

Future Coffee with the Village President events will be held at various locations throughout the Village and will include opportunities to connect with different members of the Village Board.

For more information, please contact Executive Coordinator Carol Bauer at bauerc@villageoflombard.org  or call (630) 620-5712.

The Lombard Police Department, in partnership with the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office, Glen Ellyn Police Department and Wheaton Police Department, is recruiting participants for DuPage Metro Police Explorer Post #644. 

The Police Explorer Program provides students ages 14 to 20 with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn about careers in law enforcement. Participants work alongside local officers and take part in educational sessions, training exercises and other activities designed to provide insight into the responsibilities and day-to-day operations of police work. Through the program, Explorers develop leadership, teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills while learning more about public safety and community service.

Students who are interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement or gaining a better understanding of the profession are encouraged to apply. 

For additional information about participating, contact Lombard Police Officer Loh at lohe@villageoflombard.org

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at approximately 7:25 p.m., the Lombard Fire Department responded to reports of a house fire in the 2S100 block of Lloyd Avenue. Dispatch advised that a neighbor had reported seeing smoke and flames coming from the home.

The first Lombard Fire Department crews arrived on scene at 7:29 p.m., four minutes after being dispatched. Firefighters reported flames visible on the exterior of the home and heavy smoke coming from the roof.

Firefighters quickly deployed hose lines to contain and extinguish the fire. Search crews forced entry into the residence and located an adult male inside the home, who was safely removed from the structure. The fire was brought under control within 10 minutes.

Fire damage was limited to the area of origin and a portion of the attic. No injuries to civilians or firefighters were reported. The Lombard Fire Investigation Unit is conducting an investigation into the cause of the fire. 

The Lombard Fire Department received assistance from the Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oak Brook Terrace, Downers Grove and York Center Fire Departments. The DuPage County Sheriff’s Office assisted with traffic and crowd control during the incident.

For additional information, please contact Deputy Chief George Hyland at (630) 620-5736.

The Village of Lombard’s Large-Diameter Combined Sewer Lining Project has been recognized with a Special Achievement Award in the Waste and Storm Water category by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC Illinois) as part of its annual Engineering Excellence Awards.

The award was presented to Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd., the Village’s consulting engineer for the project, and recognizes projects that demonstrate exceptional skill, innovation and value to the community. The honor highlights Lombard’s continued commitment to strengthening critical wastewater infrastructure while protecting public health and the environment.

Completed during the 2024 and 2025 construction seasons, the Large-Diameter Combined Sewer Lining Project rehabilitated a significant portion of Lombard’s combined sewer system using advanced trenchless technology. This innovative approach restored the structural integrity of aging infrastructure, improved system reliability, reduced groundwater infiltration and minimized disruption to residents and businesses by maintaining continuous service throughout construction.

“This recognition reflects the Village’s proactive investment in infrastructure that protects our community and environment,” said Public Works Director Carl Goldsmith. “We are proud of the collaboration and technical expertise that made this complex project a great success.”

The project required extensive coordination between the Lombard Public Works Department, Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd., Seeco Consultants, Inc., the Glenbard Wastewater Authority, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, and the general contractor, Vortex Lining Systems, LLC, along with its subcontractors Comprehensive Construction Solutions, LLC, Hoerr Construction, Inc. and Airy’s Inc.

The Village remains committed to responsible infrastructure management and sustainable solutions that serve residents and businesses today and for generations to come. 

For more information about the ACEC Illinois Engineering Excellence Awards, visit www.acecil.org.

The Lombard Public Works Department is pleased to announce its 8th annual Public Works Citizens Academy (PWCA), which will provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the operations and services provided by the department. Residents interested in the program are invited to sign up on the Village website, as class size is limited.  

The free program is open to Lombard residents 18 and older and provides hands-on activities, facility tours, and presentations from Public Works staff. The Academy will be held on Monday evenings from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., April 20 through May 11. A recognition ceremony will take place on Thursday, May 21, prior to the regularly scheduled Village Board meeting.

Throughout the program, participants will gain a better understanding of the department’s day-to-day responsibilities through interactive demonstrations and tours. Topics include streets, electrical and forestry operations, underground utilities, budgeting, and capital planning. Participants will also have the option to tour the Glenbard Wastewater Authority.

“The Public Works Citizens Academy is a great way for residents to learn about the critical role Public Works plays in enhancing the quality of life in our community,” said Public Works Director Carl Goldsmith. “We’re excited to welcome another group of residents and encourage anyone interested to apply.”

Class size is limited, and registration is required. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 13, 2026, or until the class is filled.

For more information or to register, visit www.villageoflombard.org/PWCA. Questions may be directed to the Public Works Department at 630-620-5740 or publicworks@villageoflombard.org.

On February 19, 2026, the Lombard Village Board of Trustees formally approved the Village’s 2026–2029 Strategic Plan, setting a clear direction for the organization over the next three years.

The Strategic Plan outlines the Village’s vision, mission, and guiding principles, and identifies key priorities that will shape decision-making and resource allocation. It serves as a roadmap to align the annual budget, capital improvement planning, policy initiatives, economic development efforts, and public safety goals.

The five strategic priorities for 2026–2029 are:

1. Increase Fiscal Strength
2. Improve Operational Effectiveness
3. Broaden Communication and Engagement
4. Expand Economic Development
5. Modernize Infrastructure Systems

To review the full Strategic Plan and learn more, visit www.villageoflombard.org/214/Strategic-Plan. 

After more than 12 years of service to the Lombard community and more than 32 years in local government management, Village Manager Scott Niehaus has announced his retirement, effective June 19, 2026.

During his tenure, Niehaus has provided steady leadership and guided the Village of Lombard through various projects that will leave a lasting impact on the community. These include major infrastructure improvements such as the Metra Pedestrian Underpass, the Roosevelt Road water main replacement, stormwater management projects, and downtown enhancements including Park Avenue Plaza and related sidewalk improvements.

Niehaus also advanced Lombard’s economic development efforts. He led the adoption of a formal economic incentive policy and implementation of the Yorktown Tax Increment Financing district, supporting redevelopment in the downtown business district and the ongoing revitalization of Yorktown Center. He also oversaw the development of an online permitting system to streamline processes for residential and commercial projects.

Under his leadership, Lombard adopted updated fiscal policies focused on the responsible use of surplus funds, allowing the Village to reduce pension liabilities and set aside more than $25 million for future public safety facility needs. This approach contributed to an improved bond rating and strengthened the Village’s long-term financial position.

“Scott’s leadership has helped position Lombard for long-term success,” said Village President Anthony Puccio. “The Board has truly appreciated his dedication to our community and the way he has led this organization forward. He has been a trusted advisor and an invaluable resource to the Board, and I am personally grateful for his counsel and friendship.”

Niehaus’s calm and steady leadership proved especially valuable during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the Village continued delivering high-quality essential services under challenging conditions. In addition, he played a key role in cultivating a positive and collaborative working relationship with other local governmental agencies and key stakeholders throughout the community.

“I’ve been very fortunate to serve a community that means so much to me and my family,” said Niehaus. “Working alongside our dedicated staff, elected officials and residents has been the highlight of my career. I’m grateful for my time here and proud of what we’ve accomplished together.”

Prior to his service in Lombard, Niehaus served as Village Manager in Tinley Park and as Assistant to the Village Manager in Elk Grove Village. He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Northern Illinois University and is a Credentialed Manager and long-time member of the International City/County Management Association.

At its February 19, 2026 meeting, the Lombard Village Board of Trustees selected Deputy Village Manager Nicole Aranas to serve as the next Village Manager, effective upon Niehaus’s retirement.

Aranas has served the Village of Lombard for more than 13 years, most recently as Deputy Village Manager and previously as Assistant Village Manager. During her tenure, she has worked closely with Niehaus on day-to-day operations and overseen key management functions, including administrative services, risk management, special events, and communications. Her background in public service, including urban planning and municipal law, has strengthened both internal operations and external partnerships.

“We’re very fortunate to have someone of Nicole’s caliber ready to step into this role,” said Village President Anthony Puccio. “She knows our organization, our priorities, and our community, and she is well prepared to continue the important work ahead.”

Aranas brings more than 25 years of public sector experience. Before joining the Lombard senior management team, she served as Community Development Director for the Village of Itasca and began her career as a municipal attorney representing public entities.

“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Lombard community,” said Aranas. “With deep respect for this organization, our employees, and our residents, I am committed to building on the strong foundation established under Scott’s leadership and carrying forward that work with stability and purpose.”

She holds undergraduate and master’s degrees in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and earned her Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois College of Law. She is also a member of the International City/County Management Association.

The Village Board is confident in Nicole Aranas’s ability to guide Lombard forward and looks forward to a smooth transition in the months ahead. 

Escape Plans

When a fire occurs, there is no time to waste. In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can turn into a major fire. That is why it is important to sit down with your family and make an escape plan to get out of your home quickly in a fire emergency. Practice E.D.I.T.H. - Exit Drills in the Home — with your family.

Creating Your Home Fire Escape Plan

• Draw your home floor plan using a home escape plan template.
• Label all the rooms and identify the doors and windows.  
• Plan 2 escape routes from every room.
• Provide alternatives for anyone with a disability.
• Agree on a meeting place where everyone will gather after you have escaped.
• Consider buying an Underwriter’s Laboratory (UL)-approved collapsible ladder to escape from upper-story windows and an approved window well escape ladder from a basement area.

Practice Your Home Fire Escape Plan

• Review your escape plan with everyone who stays in the house, including children.
• Sound the smoke alarm.
• Practice crawling low beneath the smoke.
• Remember to check doors for heat with your hand; if a door is hot, do not open it.
• Close the doors as you leave.
• Practice with a collapsible ladder, if you have one.
• Go directly to your meeting place; do not stop to find your pets or valuables.
• Remember to GET OUT FIRST, then call 9-1-1 for help.
• Practice your plan at least twice a year.

If You Live in an Apartment Building

• Learn and practice your building’s evacuation plan.
• Know primary and secondary exits.
• If you hear the fire alarm, leave immediately.
• Use the stairs.
• NEVER use elevators during a fire.

Additional Tips

• If your clothes catch fire, stop, drop and roll until the flames are extinguished.
• Replace smoke alarms older than 10 years.
• Change the batteries in the smoke alarms every 6 months (when you change your clocks).
  • NOTE: As of January 1, 2023, the Illinois’ Smoke Detector Act requires single and multi-family homes to install new smoke detectors with 10-year sealed batteries. 
• Test alarms monthly by pushing the “test” button for 3-5 seconds.

ComEd will begin tree trimming and vegetation maintenance in the Lombard area within the next few months as part of its routine efforts to improve electric reliability and public safety. Residents in affected areas have received or will receive postcard notifications from ComEd in advance of any scheduled work.

Tree trimming is necessary to remove branches and vines that interfere with power lines, which can create safety hazards and contribute to power outages. In some cases, tree removal may be required to maintain proper clearance around electrical equipment. When trees are removed, remaining stumps are treated with an approved herbicide to prevent regrowth.

All work is performed by qualified line-clearance professionals, and herbicide applications are handled by state-licensed applicators in accordance with safety and environmental regulations.

Residents can view the notification letter, map, and postcard for additional details. 

For questions about the tree trimming process or vegetation maintenance near power lines, visit www.ComEd.com/Trees or contact ComEd at 800-334-7661 (800-Edison-1).

This winter, the Village of Lombard will be pruning parkway trees on the south side of town. The area includes parkway trees south of Roosevelt Road, as well as an area north of Roosevelt Road bordered by W. Finley Road, E. Wilson Avenue, and S. Edgewood Avenue. The pruning work will be performed by Village personnel and a private tree maintenance firm contracted by the Village. Trees will be pruned according to professional standards set forth by the tree care industry. The pruning is scheduled for completion by the end of April 2026.

Trees will be pruned to a minimum height of 15 feet above the roadway to ensure safe clearance for vehicles and pedestrians, as well as to eliminate sight obstructions for signs. Additionally, limbs will be removed if they are broken, hanging, dead, structurally unsound, in contact with other limbs, interfering with utility lines or streetlights or interfering with other trees on private property. 

Public safety is the Village’s first priority, followed by tree health and aesthetics.  Parkway trees have different maintenance requirements compared to decorative landscape trees and will be pruned accordingly. Typically, no more than one-quarter of the live crown will be removed at one time on mature trees. The determination of how much to remove depends on the tree species, size and condition of the tree, as well as the duration between pruning cycles. The determination of how much of the crown is to be removed will be made by Village personnel.  

The Village maintains a 6-year pruning cycle for parkway trees greater than 6 inches in diameter and a 3-year cycle for trees less than 6 inches. A shorter pruning cycle means less live material needs to be removed each time, allowing the tree to maintain a more natural form, with growth directed upward and outward. Throughout the year, the Village’s in-house forestry personnel will continue pruning other parkway trees. This proactive pruning allows a gradual raising of the crown, correcting defects early in the tree’s life, and smaller pruning wounds that close more rapidly.

For more information, please visit www.villageoflombard.org/treetrimming or contact the Public Works Department, Forestry Division, at publicworks@villageoflombard.org or (630) 620-5740.

The Lombard Village Board approved the 2026 Budget Ordinance, totaling $123,379,037, along with the 2025 Tax Levy Ordinance in the amount of $12,474,037, at their meeting on Dec. 4, 2025. As part of the approval, the Board amended the tax levy so that the increase applies only to new construction.

As a result of this action, the Village’s portion of the property tax levy for existing homeowners will remain the same as last year. Only newly built or newly added construction will see an increase in the Village portion of their tax bill. Residents are reminded that overall property tax bills may still change based on assessments or tax rates from other taxing bodies in the community.

The Board’s decision demonstrates the Village’s focus on careful budgeting, efficient operations, and reducing impacts on residents where possible. For more information about the Village’s budget process or tax levy, visit www.villageoflombard.org/budget or www.villageoflombard.org/propertytax.

The Village of Lombard is aware of recent immigration enforcement activity in nearby communities conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and other federal law enforcement agencies.

In accordance with the Illinois Trust Act, the Lombard Police Department (LPD) does not participate in or assist with federal immigration enforcement operations. Additionally, the Department will not interfere with federal agencies carrying out their lawful duties within Lombard. All Lombard Police Officers are trained in the requirements of the TRUST Act.

The Illinois Trust Act outlines that while local police do not engage in federal immigration enforcement, officers continue to have full authority to enforce state laws and local ordinances. This includes investigating crimes against individuals or property and taking appropriate action to maintain public safety during demonstrations or other events. These responsibilities are an essential part of the LPD’s mission to serve and protect the community and should not be mistaken for immigration enforcement activities.

As a reminder, when residents call 911, Lombard officers respond independently and are not accompanied by ICE. Officers will not ask about a person’s immigration status, and the Department does not detain anyone based solely on immigration status or provide assistance to immigration agents in conducting immigration investigations.

Questions about immigration activity should be directed to the appropriate federal agencies, as the Lombard Police Department does not have information about these operations. Community members with other questions may contact the Lombard Police Department at the non-emergency number 630-873-4400 or by email at police@villageoflombard.org.

Additional information about the Illinois Trust Act and how it guides local law enforcement can be found in the Illinois Attorney General’s guidance: Immigration Law Guidance for Law Enforcement (PDF).