Hickory Hills city officials discussed winter challenges and infrastructure updates at last week’s city council meeting.
Public Works reported on January 23 dealing with 14 water main breaks over nine days, largely caused by extreme cold weather. Officials reminded residents to take precautions, such as insulating pipes and letting faucets drip during freezing temperatures, to prevent further damage.
“We’ve been working around the clock, but residents need to take precautions,” a department spokesman said. Additional maintenance tips were shared in the city’s newsletter.
City Engineer Mike Spolar briefed the council on several projects. He noted that bidding for the 2025 resurfacing project is nearly complete, with work expected to begin in late February or early March.
He also provided updates on the 83rd Court water project, which is scheduled to start in mid-to-late February and wrap up later this year.
“These updates are essential to improving our city’s infrastructure,” Spolar said.
Aldermen emphasized the importance of keeping these projects on schedule.
In other business, the council approved a $250 donation to the Hills Baseball and Softball Association, matching last year’s contribution. A liquor license request for the February 7 Ladies Night Out event at the St. Patricia Parish Center was also approved, with the fee waived as usual. The event will run from 6 to 11 p.m.
The council also approved a $5,300 contract for duct cleaning at City Hall, the police station, and the community center. The issue has been ongoing for over 20 years, and officials stressed the importance of improving air quality in these spaces. “Once this is done, everyone will notice the difference,” one official said.
City Treasurer Alan T. Vodicka presented the monthly treasurer’s report, covering financial activity through October 31, 2024. The council approved the report without discussion, along with $191,599.90 in bills for the second half of January. With no other business on the agenda, the meeting adjourned.
The next city council meeting is set for February 6.