Orland Park Invests in Public Safety and Future Development
Orland Park is actively bolstering its public safety resources and exploring potential redevelopment opportunities, signaling a commitment to both immediate community needs and long-term growth. Recent Village Board decisions reflect a proactive approach to policing and a forward-looking vision for land utilize.
Expanding Police Presence: A Trend Across Suburbs
The Orland Park Village Board recently approved the purchase of six utility vehicles, including a Ford Bronco Sport, for $286,524. This investment, coupled with the recent shift to 12-hour police shifts and the hiring of seven new officers last September, demonstrates a clear emphasis on enhancing public safety. Another round of officer hiring is anticipated soon.
This trend of increased investment in local law enforcement isn’t unique to Orland Park. Many suburban communities are responding to evolving safety concerns by increasing police presence and modernizing equipment. The adoption of specialized vehicles, like the Ford Bronco Sport, suggests a focus on adaptability and responding to a wider range of situations.
The Shift to 12-Hour Shifts: Benefits and Challenges
The police department’s transition to 12-hour shifts aims to provide officers with more days off and reduce overtime costs. While potentially beneficial for officer well-being and budget management, the effectiveness of this shift structure will depend on careful monitoring of response times and community feedback.
Riviera Property: A Potential Catalyst for Redevelopment
The Village Board has approved a $33,000 contract with Christopher R. Burke Engineering Ltd. To assess the former Riviera Country Club property at 8801 W. 143rd Street. The Riviera closed in 2021 and has remained vacant since. The village intends to subdivide the property and create privately-owned parcels.
This move aligns with a broader trend of repurposing underutilized land in established suburban areas. Redevelopment projects like this can revitalize communities, increase property values, and provide new amenities for residents. The assessment phase, including hazardous materials evaluation, is a crucial step in ensuring responsible and sustainable development.
Other Village News
In other recent news, the village recognized Peace Marketplace as Business of the Month and the Cancer Support Center as Organization of the Month, highlighting its commitment to supporting local businesses and community organizations. The board voted to secure electricity from the lowest-cost provider through the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative, demonstrating a focus on fiscal responsibility.
Did you understand?
The Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative (NIMEC) helps municipalities secure competitive electricity rates through collective bargaining.
FAQ
- Why is Orland Park investing in more police vehicles? The village is expanding its police force and equipping them with the tools needed to respond to a variety of situations.
- What are the plans for the former Riviera Country Club property? The village intends to subdivide the property and create privately-owned parcels.
- What is NIMEC? The Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative is a group of communities that work together to secure competitive electricity rates.
Explore more local news and community updates on the Orland Park village website. Learn more here.
