Brian McDonald

This Urban Forestry Management Plan for the Town of Cicero outlines goals, budgets, and arboricultural best management practices for the urban forest. The plan aims to increase canopy cover, maximize the environmental and economic benefits of trees, and minimize associated costs and risks. Key strategic pillars include enhancing urban tree canopy through planting and proper care, increasing public awareness, implementing best management practices in tree care operations, improving species diversity, decreasing potential risks from tree failure, and establishing a sustainable budget for equipment and personnel. The plan focuses on creating a healthy, vibrant, and resilient tree population for the community.

The 2025-2029 Strategic Plan for the Town of Cicero is a comprehensive roadmap required by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for federal funding. It focuses on five key priorities: expanding the supply of safe, decent, and affordable housing; providing housing free from lead hazards; improving services for low-to-moderate income and special needs non-homeless residents; strengthening the community's living environment through public facility improvements, including green infrastructure; and enhancing services for the homeless community. The plan aims to improve the overall quality of life for residents by addressing critical housing, social service, and infrastructure needs.

The Homes for a Changing Region initiative in the Town of Cicero focuses on addressing key housing challenges through market and evidence-based solutions. The plan emphasizes the need for comprehensive rehabilitation of existing housing stock, support for health and safety in accessory dwelling units, and the addition of affordable rental housing at infill locations. It outlines strategies such as linking properties to available rehabilitation programs, conducting outreach to improve safety in basement and attic units, and pursuing new multifamily development on municipally owned land to meet the needs of lower-income residents.

The Transit Area Implementation Plan for the Town of Cicero focuses on revitalizing the Cicero Transit Area by providing a vision and framework for guiding investment decisions related to land use, transportation, open space, redevelopment, commercial district enhancements, and infrastructure improvements. The plan outlines key opportunity sites and recommends transportation improvements, character enhancements, and priority actions to achieve its objectives. It also emphasizes communication, coordination, and potential funding sources to facilitate implementation over the next 10 to 20 years, with regular reviews and updates to address local issues and opportunities.

The Board of Trustees meeting included presentations, approval of bills and payroll, and the approval of multiple block party permits. Permissions were granted for various events including a religious procession, car washes/rummage sales, and a back-to-school fair. Several ordinances were approved, including agreements related to the School Crossing Guard Program, a Collective Bargaining Agreement for Community Service Officers, extended Town Hall hours for vehicle sticker renewals, disposal of obsolete personal property, purchase of vehicles, lease of real property, and a parking variance. The board also approved resolutions appointing members to various committees and positions within the town. Additionally, the board concurred with recommendations to promote multiple individuals within the Cicero Fire Department.