Volunteers needed for Memorial Day Ceremony 2025 at Oakwood Cemetery

Join Us for a Memorial Day Ceremony at Oakwood Cemetery, 1121 Cass Street/Route 30 (1121 Lincoln Hwy), Joliet, IL 60432.
Friday, May 23, 2025 at 10am:
Volunteers are needed to place flags on the civil war veterans’ headstones throughout Oakwood Cemetery. If you have any questions, please contact Linda M. Poole at 815-955-3750.
Sunday, May 25, 2025 at 10am:
Once again this year, Company H 10th Illinois Infantry and Company K 100th Illinois Infantry will be hosting a Memorial Day ceremony at Oakwood Cemetery. They will place flags on the Civil War soldiers’ headstones next to the Rotunda and present a 21-gun salute to honor all veterans. The Col. Frederick A. Bartleson Chapter, National Society Daughters of the Union 1861-1865, is honored to be part of the program.
Let’s honor our heroes together. See you there!
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Acompáñanos a una Ceremonia del Día de los Caídos en el Cementerio Oakwood
1121 Cass Street / Ruta 30 (1121 Lincoln Hwy), Joliet, IL 60432
Viernes, 23 de mayo de 2025 a las 10 a.m.:
Necesitamos voluntarios para poner banderas en las tumbas de los veteranos de la Guerra Civil en todo el cementerio Oakwood.
Si tienes preguntas, llama a Linda M. Poole al 815-955-3750.
Domingo, 25 de mayo de 2025 a las 10 a.m.:
Este día, el grupo “Compañía H del 10º Regimiento de Illinois” y la “Compañía K del 100º Regimiento de Illinois” harán una ceremonia especial.
Pondrán banderas junto a las tumbas de los soldados de la Guerra Civil y harán una salva de 21 disparos para honrar a todos los veteranos.
El grupo “Capítulo Col. Frederick A. Bartleson, Hijas de la Unión 1861–1865” también participará en el evento.
 
Vamos a honrar a nuestros héroes juntos. ¡Te esperamos!

A New Beginning at Forest Park Community Center: Community Garden Day

On Saturday, May 17, Joliet Township Government’s Forest Park Community Center welcomed a new season of growth and hope with a special Community Garden Day.

Led by Food Pantry Coordinator Skyler Reed and Head Gardener Stephen Rummel-Chadderdon, this event brought together wonderful volunteers from CrossRoads Church, Westbrook, and Gente Unida, along with support from Will County Land Use. Together, they cleaned, mulched, and planted over 240 vegetables, herbs, and flowers, turning the garden into a vibrant space full of life and possibility.

This garden is more than just a place to grow food; it is a place where neighbors connect, learn, and build community. It represents fresh starts, shared effort, and the promise of better days ahead for our local residents.

We are deeply grateful to Will County Land Use and our church partners for their generosity and hard work. Special thanks to CrossRoads Pastor Mick Murray, CrossRoads Pastor Jake Garcia, Margie Ramirez, and Will County Land Use Program Manager Brigette Roehr for their leadership and support in making this day a success.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who gave their time and heart to this meaningful effort. If you are interested in joining this growing community or learning more, please reach out to Skyler Reed, Joliet Township Government Food Pantry Coordinator, at sreed@joliettownship.net.

Día del Jardín Comunitario en el Centro Comunitario Forest Park

El sábado 17 de mayo, el Centro Comunitario Forest Park del Gobierno del Municipio de Joliet celebró una nueva temporada de crecimiento y esperanza con un Día Especial del Jardín Comunitario.

El evento fue dirigido por Skyler Reed, Coordinador de la Despensa de Comida, y Stephen Rummel-Chadderdon, Jardinero Principal. Se unieron voluntarios de las iglesias CrossRoads, Westbrook y Gente Unida, con el apoyo del Departamento de Uso de Suelo del Condado de Will. Juntos limpiaron, pusieron mantillo y plantaron más de 240 vegetales, hierbas y flores, transformando el jardín en un espacio lleno de vida y posibilidades.

Este jardín no es solo un lugar para cultivar comida, también es un lugar donde los vecinos se reúnen, aprenden y fortalecen la comunidad. Representa nuevos comienzos, trabajo en equipo y esperanza para un futuro mejor para los residentes de la zona.

Agradecemos sinceramente al Departamento de Uso de Suelo del Condado de Will y a nuestras iglesias colaboradoras por su generosidad y esfuerzo. Un agradecimiento especial al Pastor Mick Murray de CrossRoads, al Pastor Jake Garcia de CrossRoads, a Margie Ramírez y a Brigette Roehr, Gerente del Programa de Uso de Suelo del Condado de Will, por su liderazgo y apoyo para que este día fuera un éxito.

Estamos muy agradecidos con todos los que ofrecieron su tiempo y corazón en este esfuerzo tan especial. Si estás interesado en unirte a esta comunidad o deseas más información, por favor contacta a Skyler Reed, Coordinador de la Despensa de Comida del Gobierno del Municipio de Joliet, al correo sreed@joliettownship.net.

Joliet Township Government Honors Trustee Raymond Slattery Upon His Retirement

On behalf of Supervisor Alicia Morales, the Joliet Township Government Board formally recognized longtime Trustee Raymond Slattery for two decades of dedicated service during the May 13, 2025, board meeting. Slattery, who is retiring this year, was honored with an honorary resolution adopted unanimously by the Board of Trustees. 

First elected in 2005, Slattery served five consecutive terms as Trustee. Over two decades, he played an essential role in guiding Township policies, supporting core services, and promoting transparent and accountable governance. 

Known for his attention to detail and collaborative spirit, Slattery earned the respect of fellow board members, Township staff, and residents. His leadership helped strengthen the Township’s foundation and uphold its mission of serving the public with fairness and respect. 

Slattery is a Certified Public Accountant with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Business Administration from Benedictine University. He also served in the U.S. Army Reserve and was honorably discharged with the rank of E-5. 

A lifelong resident of Joliet, Slattery has been deeply involved in the community. His leadership includes serving as President of the Fox River Valley Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants, Treasurer for Easterseals Joliet Region, President of the Joliet Evening Lions Club, President of the Joliet Historical Museum, and President of the Irish American Society of County Will. He also previously served on the board of a rehabilitation center in Rockford and is currently the financial secretary for the Joliet Knights of Columbus Council #382. 

The resolution adopted by the Board extends appreciation for his exemplary service and best wishes for a fulfilling retirement. Raymond Slattery leaves behind a legacy of commitment, integrity, and meaningful contributions to the Joliet Township community. 

En nombre de la Supervisora Alicia Morales, la Junta del Municipio de Joliet reconoció oficialmente al miembro de la junta Raymond Slattery por sus 20 años de servicio durante la reunión del 13 de mayo de 2025. Slattery, quien se retira este año, fue honrado con una resolución especial aprobada por todos los miembros de la junta.

Slattery fue elegido por primera vez en 2005 y sirvió cinco mandatos seguidos como miembro de la junta. Durante esos años, ayudó a mejorar las políticas del Municipio, apoyó servicios importantes y trabajó por un gobierno justo y transparente.

Conocido por su dedicación y su buen trabajo en equipo, Slattery fue respetado por sus compañeros, el personal del Municipio y la comunidad. Su trabajo ayudó a fortalecer al Municipio y a cumplir su misión de servir con respeto y justicia.

Slattery es Contador Público Certificado. Estudió en la Universidad de Illinois en Urbana-Champaign y obtuvo una maestría en administración de empresas en Benedictine University. También sirvió en la Reserva del Ejército de los Estados Unidos y fue dado de baja con el rango de E-5.

Ha vivido toda su vida en Joliet y ha participado activamente en la comunidad. Ha sido presidente o miembro de varias organizaciones, como el Club de Leones de Joliet, el Museo Histórico de Joliet, Easterseals de la Región de Joliet y la Sociedad Irlandesa Americana del Condado de Will. También fue parte de la junta de un centro de rehabilitación en Rockford y ahora es el secretario financiero de los Caballeros de Colón en Joliet.

La resolución de la Junta agradece su gran servicio y le desea una feliz jubilación. Raymond Slattery deja un legado de compromiso, honestidad y servicio a la comunidad del Municipio de Joliet.

Joliet Township Hosts Ribbon-Cutting at Renovated Forest Park Community Center Food Pantry

Ceremony Celebrates Investment in Community Services and Food Access 

JOLIET, IL – April 21, 2025 – Joliet Township hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Forest Park Community Center Food Pantry, located at 1017 Woodruff Road, on Monday, April 21, 2025.  

Plans are underway to open the food pantry in May to address food insecurity in the area. The new food pantry will be accessible to all residents by filling out an application. Micro pantries are already available at the Township’s administrative office and the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Center.  

The Forest Park neighborhood is home to nearly 3,000 residents, over a quarter of whom are children. With a poverty rate 1.5 times higher than Joliet’s, it is estimated that 1,758 individuals will benefit from the pantry’s services. A majority of local residents are expected to qualify for the Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), which provides emergency food to those with low incomes 

According to United Way’s ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) data, 37% of households in Illinois are below the ALICE threshold, further highlighting the need for food security services in the community. 

“Our community has a real and growing need for food access. Too many of our neighbors are facing food insecurity, and opening this food pantry became not just a goal but a responsibility,” said Supervisor Alicia Morales. “Today we cut a ribbon not just on a building, but on hope, on dignity, and on the belief that when we invest in our community, we all rise. This space represents so much more than food on shelves. It represents care and neighbors refusing to let one another go hungry in silence.”

 In addition to Joliet Township Government Supervisor Alicia Morales, elected officials in attendance at the ribbon cutting included City of Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy, City Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra, Senator Rachel Ventura, Plainfield Township Clerk-Elect David Lozano, District 86 At-Large Board Member Sandra Aguirre, Joliet Township Clerk Estefany Bonilla, and Joliet Township Trustees Tanya Arias and Antione J. Edwards. Local residents also attended to celebrate the reopening and learn more about the upcoming food pantry. 

For questions, please email contact@joliettownship.net. 

Joliet Township Government hosts 175th Annual Town Meeting

The 175th Annual Town Meeting of Joliet Township Government was a success. From beginning to end, the evening was marked by thoughtful dialogue, strong voter turnout, and a deep sense of civic duty demonstrated by both Electors and attendees.
The Joliet Township Clerk, Estefany Bonilla, expressed heartfelt pride in seeing many Electors come together in a true democratic spirit, asking questions, offering insights, and shaping the future of the Joliet community with care.
Special recognition goes to Ms. LeShae Hudson, who served as the nominated Moderator by the Electors and did an outstanding job presenting each item on the 175th Annual Town Meeting agenda with clarity and professionalism. Sincere gratitude to the Joliet Township Government staff for their unwavering support in managing check-in, recording, and overall coordination. Their dedication behind the scenes ensured a smooth and successful event.
This 175th Annual Town Meeting of Joliet Township Government stands as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when Joliet residents come together in service of their community.
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La 175ª Asamblea Anual del Gobierno del Municipio de Joliet fue todo un éxito. Desde el principio hasta el final, la noche estuvo llena de diálogo respetuoso, buena participación de votantes y un fuerte sentido de responsabilidad cívica por parte de los Electores y asistentes.
La Secretaria del Municipio de Joliet, Estefany Bonilla, expresó con mucho orgullo lo significativo que fue ver a tantos Electores reunidos con verdadero espíritu democrático, haciendo preguntas, compartiendo ideas y ayudando a construir un mejor futuro para la comunidad de Joliet.
Un reconocimiento especial para la Sra. LeShae Hudson, quien fue elegida por los Electores como Moderadora. Ella hizo un excelente trabajo presentando cada punto de la agenda de la 175ª Asamblea Anual con claridad y profesionalismo.
También agradecemos sinceramente al personal del Municipio de Joliet por su gran apoyo en el registro, la grabación y toda la organización del evento. Su trabajo hizo posible que todo saliera bien.
Esta 175ª Asamblea Anual es un gran recordatorio de lo que se puede lograr cuando los residentes de Joliet se unen para servir a su comunidad.

Joliet Township Animal Control to Host “Hogs & Dogs” Community Event 

Event to Feature Pet Adoptions, Motorcycle Displays, Live Demonstrations, and Local Vendors 

Get ready for a day of fun, food, and furry friends at Joliet Township Animal Control’s Hogs & Dogs event on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 12 PM to 3 PM at 2807 McDonough Street, Joliet, IL 60436. This exciting community gathering brings together motorcycle enthusiasts, pet lovers, and local vendors for an unforgettable experience that supports animal welfare. 

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet adoptable pets from Joliet Township Animal Control and learn about responsible pet ownership. The event will also feature a stunning motorcycle display by the Chicago Viclero Motorcycle Club, as well as live demonstrations from Mallard Point Vet Clinic, Ty Ty the Reptile Guy, and Furiends of Manhattan Pet Pantry. 

In addition to the entertainment, attendees can browse various vendors, including Scentsy, Intermode (pet-friendly plants), and Best in Show Pet Grooming, which will be offering $5 nail trims. Food lovers can enjoy delicious eats from Hectic Tacos Taco Truck and sweet treats from Brook Bakes, with 10% of proceeds donated to JTAC. 

As part of its commitment to pet safety and well-being, JTAC is offering free microchips for the first 10 pets and $10 microchips all day. Guests can also support the shelter by donating $10 or a bag of dog food in exchange for two hot dogs and a drink. 

“This event is a fantastic way for the community to come together, enjoy great food and entertainment, and support local animals in need,” said Director of Joliet Township Animal Control Whitney McGill. “Whether you’re a motorcycle enthusiast, an animal lover, or just looking for a fun afternoon, Hogs & Dogs has something for everyone.” 

For more information, contact Joliet Township Animal Control at 815-725-0333 or animalcontrol@joliettownship.net. Follow JTAC on social media for event updates and sneak peeks of adoptable pets. 

Spring Into Adoption: Reduced Fees All April & Special Saturday Hours at JTAC

Joliet Township Animal Control (JTAC) is making it easier for residents to welcome a new pet this spring. Throughout April, adoption fees are reduced to $40 for dogs and $20 for cats to help more animals find loving homes. Medical fees still apply.  

As part of its “Spring Into Adoption Saturdays” initiative, JTAC is extending its hours on select Saturdays—April 5, April 12, April 26, and May 3—from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to accommodate families who may not be able to visit during the week.  

Please note, office staff will not be available to assist with other services on these Saturdays, including trap rentals, redemptions, and owner surrenders. For these services, please contact JTAC during regular business hours Monday through Friday. 

Joliet Township Animal Control is normally open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM and Wednesdays from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM. Joliet Township Animal Control is located at 2807 McDonough Street, Joliet, IL 60436. 

“We are thrilled to offer this opportunity to connect more pets with loving families,” said Whitney McGill, Director of Joliet Township Animal Control. “Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start, and we hope these Saturday adoption events will help more animals find the homes they deserve.” 

To help streamline the adoption process, potential adopters are encouraged to visit the JTAC website www.joliettownshipanimalcontrol.net to print and complete an application before attending. Families with current dogs should also bring them for a meet-and-greet with prospective pets, as these introductions are required before finalizing adoptions. 

For more information, email animalcontrol@joliettownship.net or call 815-725-0333. 

Transportation Department Celebrates One Year of Service

Our Transportation Department is celebrating one year of service! March 15 marked one year since the Joliet Township Government’s Transportation Department completed its very first trip!
What started with a single passenger to Family Guidance has now grown into a service completing 200 trips a week, totaling 5,839 completed trips and 72,254.93 miles logged in just one year!
Lead Transportation Coordinator Jacqueline Smith shares:”This incredible growth would not have been possible without the dedication of our staff, the support of township leadership, and the trust of the community we serve. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has played a role in making this program a success. It has been an amazing year, and I’m excited to see how much more we can grow in the future!”
Thank you to our riders and supporters for making this milestone possible! Here’s to another year of service and growth!

Joliet Township Government Proclaims African American History Month 2025

Joliet, Illinois – February 18, 2025 – Joliet Township Government proudly proclaimed February 1-28, 2025, as African American History Month in Joliet Township at the January 14, 2025 Board Meeting. This proclamation honors the significant contributions of African Americans to U.S. history and culture and acknowledges the valuable role of African American residents of Joliet Township Government. 

In addition, Joliet Township Government demonstrates its commitment to honoring African American history through its support for the Joliet Area African American Historic Context Study since February 2024. This important initiative, made possible through an intergovernmental agreement with the City of Joliet, as well as funds from Lockport Township, Will County, and the State of Illinois, is focused on preserving and documenting Black history in the region. 

Supervisor Alicia Morales stated, “This month, we celebrate the important contributions of African Americans to our community and country. Our support of the African American Context Study shows our commitment to preserving and sharing the history of Joliet’s Black community for future generations.” 

Currently, the Joliet Area African American Historic Context Study is seeking input from community members on places, people, and events significant to the history of the region’s Black community. Share your memories and contribute to the study by visiting www.joliet.gov/blackhistory, or contact us at (708) 683-9121 or blackhistory@joliet.gov. 

Additionally, the Joliet Area African American Historic Context Study, Joliet Area Historical Museum, and History on Wheels Museum are collecting photos, artifacts, and archival material on Joliet’s Black history. Attend the Community Collections Scan on Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 10:30 am – 1:30 pm at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, 204 N. Ottawa St. For more details, contact collections@jolietmuseum.org or call 815-723-5201. 

Joliet Township Government partners with American Red Cross to host community blood drive

Joliet, IL — January 23, 2025 — Joliet Township Government, in partnership with the American Red Cross, invites the community to participate in a blood drive on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM at the Ozzie & Peggy Mitchell Building, 172 S Chicago Street, Joliet, IL 60433. To schedule an appointment or learn more about the donation process, visit redcrossblood.org and use the sponsor code: joliettown, or call 1-800-RED CROSS. 

“By hosting this blood drive, Joliet Township continues its commitment to supporting our community’s health and well-being,” said Keshia Ellis, Violence Prevention Director of Joliet Township Government. “This event offers a chance for neighbors, staff, and friends to make a real difference by donating blood and helping to save lives.” 

Blood is a life-saving resource that can only be replenished through volunteer donations. The American Red Cross emphasizes the importance of maintaining a steady supply, with someone in the U.S. requiring blood every two seconds. 

“Donating blood is an act of kindness that can directly impact local hospitals and patients in need,” added Ellis. “We encourage all eligible individuals to come forward, knowing that their contribution could provide a second chance for someone else.” 

The Red Cross is seeking donations from all blood types, with special urgency for those with O negative, A negative, and B negative blood types.