Village of Oak Park announcements - Dec. 11, 2012

Free Saturday garage parking continues

Free Saturday parking in business district garages continues through December 24. Parking in Oak Park always is free on Sundays. Free parking is available in the Holley Court and Lake & Forest garages downtown, and the Avenue Garage just east of Oak Park Avenue on North Boulevard. Click here for links to information about shopping and dining in Oak Park. For more information on parking in Oak Park, visit www.oak-park.us/parking or e-mail parking@oak-park.us.

Police urge shoppers to stay alert during holiday season

Oak Park Police are urging shoppers to keep a careful watch on personal possessions and packages, since thefts tend to increase during the holiday season. Bags and purses left unattended in shopping carts or hanging from the corner of a restaurant chair are among the favorite targets of thieves. Items left clearly visible in vehicles also are prime targets, police say. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity to the Police non-emergency number, 708..386.3800. And if you see a crime taking place, or about to take place, always call 911. More information on the Police Department is posted at www.oak-park.us/police.

Shopping locally important to Village economy

Residents who take advantage of retailing and dining opportunities in Oak Park play a key role in maintaining businesses and important sales tax revenues essential to funding vital public services. For every retail dollar spent in the Village, 2 percent goes to help fund public services and projects such as vital infrastructure improvements. Shopping at home should be easy for Oak Parkers. Among its nearly many retail businesses, the Village boasts scores of restaurants, an auto dealership, several supermarkets, a wide range of specialty shops and art galleries, and a mix of both national chains and local stores. Click here for links to information about shopping and dining in Oak Park.