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July 21, 2026

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Roadway construction to add dedicated bike lanes on Church Street, from Linder Avenue to McCormick Boulevard, is still wrapping up, but the bike lanes are open! 

Why it matters: The project enhances safety and mobility for all users through:

Construction included curb and sidewalk replacement, signage installation, thermoplastic pavement markings, landscape restoration and traffic signal modifications.

Turning Point Executive Director Ann Raney and Mayor Ann Tennes

At its meeting on July 20, 2026, the Village Board: 

Watch the recording of the meeting for a discussion of these items and more. 

Got a noisy Airbnb next door? Skokie now has a 24/7 hotline to report it.

Why this matters: Skokie's Short-Term Rental Pilot Program requires every short-term rental (STR) in the village to register with the Village and follow specific rules. Owners who skip registration or break the rules can face enforcement, fines or other penalties.

The new hotline gives you a direct way to flag a problem property, whenever it comes up.

What you can do: To report an STR issue any time, day or night:

There’s more exciting news for Main Street! On Monday, the Village Board approved plans for Main Street Streetscape Improvements from Crawford to Karlov Avenues.

The project includes new hardscape materials, space for gateway and public art elements, new planters and landscaping, site furnishings, lighting enhancements, improved pedestrian walkways, curb extensions and enhanced crosswalks.

MAKING A VISION REALITY

The Board’s action builds on the Village’s 2023-24 Main Street Commercial Corridor study, which outlined a vision for creating safe and attractive public spaces, strengthening the corridor’s identity, and identifying opportunities for future development. Since completing the study, the Village has been putting those recommendations into action by: 

These investments continue to build momentum toward the Village’s long-term vision for Main Street, creating a vibrant destination for residents, businesses and visitors alike. 

Photo by Joerg Metzner Photography.

On Monday, the Village Board approved a Storefront Enhancement Program grant of up to $50,000 to support renovations at the historic Skokie Theatre, which was recently purchased by new owners with an ambitious vision for the venue.

Coming attractions: Led by two locally based families with deep ties to the performing arts, the new ownership team plans to transform the Theatre into a vibrant, year-round destination featuring live theater, comedy, improv, live music, storytelling events, film screenings and educational classes. The expanded programming is expected to draw more visitors to Downtown Skokie while supporting nearby restaurants, shops and businesses.

Setting the stage: Renovations will preserve the theater's historic character while modernizing the space. Planned improvements include restoring the marquee and ticket window, repairing the building's exterior, refreshing the lobby, improving seating, adding a bar and concession area, and creating a more flexible performance space to accommodate a wide variety of events.

The new owners are investing approximately $1.2 million in the project, including the purchase of the building, and expect to reopen the theater later this year. 

As you plan your summer celebrations, don’t let rats in on the party!

Past trends: Summer and early fall are historically the most active time of the year for rats, as the weather warms and outdoor food sources become more plentiful. Stay vigilant to help our community continue to make progress towards a rat-free Skokie.

Do your part: Don’t be a gracious host for rats – take the following actions to clean up before and after your getogether and all summer long.

No matter what time of year, it’s critical that you report any rat issues promptly.

Photo by Joerg Metzner Photography.

Meet Skokie beat officers at the next Community Roll Call event this Thursday, July 23, at 6 p.m. in Tecumseh Park, 4810 Hull St. 

As part of efforts to help all residents feel welcome and safe enjoying Skokie parks and amenities, the Skokie Police Department is hosting community roll call events at a number of park locations this summer.  

Skokie youth ages 10–14 have a chance to learn basketball skills from Chicago Bulls staff, meet Benny the Bull and enjoy bounce houses, food trucks and games.

📅 Monday, July 27, 6–8 p.m. 
📍 Central Park, 9350 Central Park Ave.* 

What's happening: The Village of Skokie, the Skokie Park District, the Chicago Bulls and several community and faith-based organizations are teaming up to host this two-hour free event. The goal is simple: bring together kids from different backgrounds and experiences to build unity through sports.

Bulls staff will lead skills instruction for the full two hours. Benny the Bull will stop by, and families can enjoy bounce houses, food trucks and games throughout the evening.

Space is limited: Spots are limited and registration is first come, first served. Email vicky.varga@skokie.org now to register.

Once you're confirmed, you'll get a separate registration link with waivers from the Bulls and the park district. Waivers must be signed to take part in both the clinic and the bounce houses.

* If there is inclement weather, the event will be moved indoors to Niles North High School located at 9800 Lawler Ave. Participants will be notified of the decision to move the event via the email they provided during registration. 

Cook County residents can register for free car light repairs as part of the Cook County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) LightSaver Program. The event will take place on Thursday, July 30, 9 a.m. to noon, at 6001 Oakton St. 

Why it matters: CCSO mechanics will provide the expertise necessary to replace defective and missing light bulbs on vehicles. Replacing broken bulbs reduces the number of traffic-related stops, removes some auto repair costs, and increases roadway safety. It also eliminates court costs and associated fees. 

Plan ahead: Registration for this event is required.

Dogs are the guests of honor downtown this week. The Downtown Skokie Merchants Collaborative is hosting the 2nd Annual Pups & Purrs Pet Picnic on Thursday, July 23, from 5–9 PM.

What to expect: Grab a picnic meal from Downtown Skokie restaurants and settle in for a summer evening built for you and your dog. Local vendors will be on hand, along with pet-friendly activities, giveaways and a community raffle packed with prizes.

Doing doggone good: Every admission and Picnic Pack you buy helps homeless animals find loving homes. A portion of the proceeds benefits Community Animal Rescue Effort (C.A.R.E.), a local group dedicated to animal rescue.

EVENTS

PUBLIC MEETINGS

Unless otherwise indicated, all meetings are held at Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St.