A weekly summary of Skokie news sent from the Village right to your inbox.
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With more than 90 languages spoken, Skokie has long been a community that welcomes, respects and values all residents.
Know your rights: In 2017, the Village Board amended the Human Relations chapter of Skokie Village Code to codify the rights of all community members to access Village services. It affirmed specifically that immigrant rights are human rights. As a reminder, our Village Code assures:
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You’re entitled to access all Village services and benefits – including police and fire emergency and non-emergency services – regardless of your citizenship or immigration status.
- Village staff or officials will not ask for your citizenship or immigration status for any reason.
- The Village will not support immigration enforcement operations or detain individuals based on their citizenship or immigration status.
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Skokie Environmental Health Officer Derek Walker implements rat control measures.
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Positive Trend: Rat Control Efforts Show Progress
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Rat control cases served by the Village’s pest control contractor are down by over 50 percent compared to this time last year, according to the Skokie Health and Human Services Department (HHS).
The numbers: For the week of January 27, 2025, there were 199 active rat cases in Skokie, compared to 411 cases during the same week in 2024, continuing a downward trend that began in September.
Our strategies: Communities across Chicagoland have experienced an uptick in rat activity over the last several years. The Village has added resources and adopted a collaborative and innovative approach to rat control, including adding a second full-time environmental health officer position, expanding contracted rat control services, piloting new treatment methods, and enhancing public education.
Your responsibilities: Getting rid of rats takes a Village-wide effort. Please do your part:
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Report rat activity so that our team can address issues promptly and effectively
- Eliminate food sources and keep garbage securely covered and inaccessible
- Trim overgrown vegetation to reduce potential rodent shelter
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Pick up animal waste, which can attract rodents
- Remove bird feeders if rats are observed, and never allow birdseed to accumulate on the ground
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Open flags on display along Lincoln Avenue in Downtown Skokie.
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Downtown Skokie is Open for Business!
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Look for eye-catching new “Open” flags adorning Downtown businesses as you shop and dine in Skokie!
Walk with us: The Village’s Explore Skokie account highlighted the new Downtown displays supporting our local business community on Instagram and Facebook. Follow Explore Skokie to stay updated on dining, retail, culture and entertainment options in Skokie!
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Downtown Skokie’s Illinois Science + Technology Park.
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Life Sciences, Quantum Computing and Biotech Leaders to Visit Downtown Skokie
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On Wednesday, February 5, Bisnow will host an event at Downtown Skokie’s Illinois Science + Technology Park focusing on Chicagoland's role in advancing technology and innovation. The event will bring together those in quantum computing, biotech, life sciences, and real estate to discuss trends and opportunities shaping the region.
Join us: Use code SKOKIEVIP when registering and receive a 20 percent discount.
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CMAP Survey: Help Improve Traffic Safety In Cook County
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Roadway deaths in northeastern Illinois have been increasing over the past decade, and an increasing number of those killed are people walking or riding a bike.
Make a difference: Participate in the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) regionwide Safe Travel for All initiative to reduce — and ultimately eliminate — fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.
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- Drop pins on the safety hotspots map
- Take the traffic safety survey (and get entered to win a $100 Visa gift card)
- Get event and open house details
- Sign up for project updates
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Coyote Sightings In Skokie
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Coyotes have become increasingly visible across the Chicago area this January, drawing both curiosity and concern.
Why you may see coyotes: The winter months push coyotes to seek out food as their natural prey, including rodents and other small animals, becomes more scarce. January also marks the beginning of coyote mating season, which runs through March.
What to do (and not do):
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Avoid leaving food outside for wildlife, such as birdseed or food for feral cats, as this can attract coyotes.
- Keep your yard free of debris piles where coyotes could potentially hide or establish dens.
- Supervise pets on a leash when outdoors, especially during coyote mating season.
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Never run from a coyote. If one approaches, make loud noises—shake a can filled with pebbles, rattle keys, or yell. Make yourself appear larger by waving your arms.
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Skokie animal control does not relocate coyotes, as they are considered free-roaming, native wildlife.
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Serve Your Community, Join Our Team!
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Want to “be the difference” in the Skokie community? Start your career with the Skokie Police Department! The entry-level police officer application process is now open.
Apply now: Submit your application online by Monday, March 3. The test date for the entry-level police officer position is Saturday, March 29.
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Photo 1 (from left): Police Chief Jesse Barnes, Officer Daniel Knight, Officer Yoseph Abdelqawi, Deputy Chief Denise Franklin, Mayor George Van Dusen. Photo 2 (from left): Deputy Chief Nicholas Eschner, Firefighter Cody Carpenter, Firefighter Nicholas Russo, Firefighter Jared Knightly, Firefighter Zane McCartney, Firefighter Jack Conway, and Chief Jeffrey Hoeflich
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Skokie Welcomes New Police Officers and Firefighters
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At last week’s Village Board meeting, Skokie celebrated the swearing in of two new police officers and five new firefighters. Welcome to Skokie!
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Bird flu (H5N1) primarily affects poultry and wild birds, but can also infect mammals, including humans. The current U.S. outbreak in dairy cattle has led to more human cases than previous poultry outbreaks.
How to Protect Yourself
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Stick to Pasteurized Dairy: Avoid raw milk, unpasteurized cheese, or any raw dairy products.
- Cook and Refrigerate Properly: Ensure eggs, meat, and poultry are cooked to safe temperatures.
- Get the Flu Vaccine: Reducing flu infections helps free up resources for bird flu concerns.
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Care for Pets: Keep pets away from sick birds and consult a vet for vaccinations.
- Avoid Sick or Dead Birds: Contact local wildlife authorities and avoid direct contact.
- Wash Hands Frequently: Diligent hand hygiene helps prevent virus spread.
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Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held at Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton Street.
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5127 Oakton St. | Skokie, IL 60077 US
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