Hazel Crest Experiences Two Deaths on Valentine’s Day
Hazel Crest Experiences Two Deaths on Valentine’s Day (Hazel Crest, IL) — Hazel Crest held its final village council meeting for February on February 22. Two residents died in separate incidents.
During Mayor Vernard Alsberry’s report, he recognized the death of Wilma McKinney. McKinney died on February 14. McKinney’s involvement included the Hazel Crest’s senior commission.
“She was one of the first people that helped open up the senior center,” said Alsberry.
Police Report
Deputy Chief Dale Mitchell highlighted several items during the police report.
A junior a Thornwood High School was a victim in a recent homicide. The victim, 16-year-old D’Edward Phillips, was near his residence at the intersection of 171st and Head. The incident took place on February 14.
“The major crimes task force was activated. Detectives were able to track the defendant’s vehicles throughout the cameras in Markham and Harvey. No suspects are believed at this time,” said Mitchell.
Members of Hazel Crest’s police department have received updated CPR certifications. Officers are preparing for the purchase and implementation of Axon body cameras and Quicket software. Both technologies will help the department more efficient.
On April 2, 21 officers in the department are eligible for the Sergeants Exam. In addition, the department is still recruiting for officers until the May 21 application deadline.
Clerk Isaac Wiseman thanked Officer Robert Milligan for his role in supporting a local funeral.
Public Works Report
Director of Public Works Charles Dryer warned residents not to dispose of grease by pouring down drains. The Public Works Department responded to a sewer backup on February 21 that took six hours to clear. According to Dryer, the grease buildup was nine inches thick.
“That’s a situation that could have been avoided. No one wants to experience that or be on the bad end of that,” said Dryer.
Dryer advised residents to put grease into a separate container and dispose of the container.
Inspectional Services Report
Sheri Brand was recognized as outstanding employee for the fourth quarter of 2021 by Hazel Crest. She has served with the department for 15 years.
The Inspectional Services Department and the Economic Development Tselane Hatter attended a one-day inspectional and special events training class on February 15. The class focused on site safety and marketing special events.
Other items on the agenda included:
- A motion to approve board meeting minutes of February 8, 2022
- Motion to approve accounts payable No. 22-20 dated February 22, 2022 in the amount of $499,890.60.
- Motion to approve Ordinance 05-2022, an Ordinance amending Chapter 20 of the Hazel Crest Village Code, “Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions,” by adding a new Article IX, “Fireworks”
- A reminder of the village’s Black History Month arts event on Saturday, February 26, 2022, at 11:00 AM. The location is 3000 W. 170th Pl.
Hazel Crest Experiences Two Deaths on Valentine’s Day
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