South Holland Living March / April 2026

FROM YOUR MAYOR

Dear South Holland

Residents and Friends,

Spring certainly has a wonderful way of stirring up a whole new set of emotions. Without a doubt it’s that time of the year when we eagerly anticipate new beginnings, feel renewed hope, and also witness well-planned progress throughout the village.

Mayor De Graff and Clerk Penman with South Suburban College Chairman Terry Wells and President Lynette Stokes at the dedication of the South Holland historical wall at the college

It’s definitely hard to see progress when traveling down South Park Avenue between Veterans Park and Route 6. One might even think a tornado had touched down on our Town Center district. In actuality, the currently messy and congested construction area is in the process of becoming something very special! Streets have been torn up, heavy equipment is seen everywhere, and what can sometimes appear chaotic will soon become a beautiful “phoenix rising up from the ashes.”

Our Village Board and Administration have been seeking to create quality “significant spaces and places,” and it’s becoming a reality in our historic Town Center district. A unique sense of “Place” is being created, which will include attractive new venues, products, and services. For months, and even years, our Village leaders have been engaged in thoughtful strategic planning, innovative property development, and responsible management of resources.

This issue of South Holland Living has so much to share, most notably the opening of our innovative SoHo Shops at Town Center. In fact, the planning and progression of our new Town Center development will bring together a variety of new venues, including the Family Athletic Center (currently under construction) and an art gallery. Each of these new venues, and more, will offer a variety of quality products and services, creating a wonderful atmosphere where family, friends, and neighbors can connect and where relationships can further strengthen the vitality of our Village.

Also in this issue, we see that Coming Together 2030 is working well to further unite us as a community. As we reflect upon Pastor Corey’s message, we can feel the historical and continuing commitment to our heritage of Faith. We witness the ongoing promotion of Family values, for we seek to serve each other, to preserve and protect fairness and equality for all, and to intentionally reach out in Christ’s love to lift up the marginalized. In the context of these shared values, our Future is undeniably bright, as we create more significant spaces, places, and opportunities for us to “Come Together” as the community of South Holland, Illinois.

VILLAGE BOARD

President

Don A. De Graff

Clerk

Dr. Sallie Penman

Trustees

Larry De Young

Andrew Johnson, Jr.

Cynthia Nylen

Vickie Perkins

Prince Reed

John Russell

ADMINISTRATION

Village Administrator J. Wynsma

Deputy Village Administrator

Pat Mahon

EDITORIAL STAFF

Director of Communications

Julia Huisman

Contributing Writers

Josh Bootsma

Carrie Steinweg

Ronda Williams

Photographers

Josh Bootsma

Manuel Corazzari

Angela Jackson

Michael McGee

Designer

Jenni Hoekstra

Printed in South Holland at Park Press 930 E 162nd Street

©2026 Village of South Holland

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND SOUTH HOLLAND VILLAGE NEWS

GROWTH OF TOWN CENTER DISTRICT

You may have noticed increased construction activity in the Town Center area along South Park Avenue, just north of Route 6. The Village is currently developing several exciting additions to the community, including the Family Athletic Center, SoHo Shops at Town Center, an art gallery, and two new municipal parking lots. To learn more and view images of these upcoming projects, visit southholland.org/towncenter.

BLOCK PARTY TRAILER

Block party season is right around the corner! The Village encourages residents to host and attend block parties so neighbors can get to know each other better. From these block parties, many relationships have been forged and neighborhoods strengthened. Block party organizers can begin reserving the Block Party Trailer for the 2026 summer season (April 1-Oct 31). The trailer comes with tables, chairs, road blocks, coolers, games, and more. Hosts can also request a visit from the Police and/or Fire Department. Reservations for the trailer fill up quickly; visit southholland.org/blockparty to reserve one for your neighborhood block party!

VEHICLE STICKERS

Any vehicle registered to a South Holland address is required to have a South Holland vehicle sticker. This applies whether the vehicle is parked on the street, in a driveway, or garage. The 2026-27 vehicle stickers are available starting May 1 and must be displayed before July 1.

Sticker Prices

Passenger Car: $40 ($20 seniors)

Truck C and higher: $95 Truck and motor home: $55 ($27.50 seniors) Motorcycle: $30

Stickers are available at the Customer Service Center, 16220 Wausau Ave, beginning May 1. You can also purchase your tickets online at southholland.org/vehiclestickers.

WATER RATE UPDATE

The following rates will be effective on the water bill issued in May.

Water: $11.25 per 1,000 gallons for first 25,000 gallons

$10.33 per 1,000 gallons for next 100,000 gallons

$10.18 per 1,000 gallons for gallons over 125,000

Sewer: $1.41 per 1,000 gallons used

Sewer flat: $0.42 per month

Garbage: $34.56 per month

Minimum charge for water is $22.50; minimum total bill is $57.48.

For any questions, please contact the Clerk’s office at 708.210.2900.

FACES FROM EVENTS AROUND THE VILLAGE

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. TRIBUTE

The South Holland Ministerial Association and the Village of South Holland partnered to present this year’s Martin Luther King Tribute, held at Spirit of God Fellowship Church. The lively event featured uplifting music, spoken word by Eron Evans, and a keynote message by Pastor Ray Bady of Kingdom Valley Ministries International. Light refreshments were served following the service.

FACES FROM EVENTS AROUND THE VILLAGE

FIRE STATION RIBBON CUTTING

The Village celebrated the ribbon cutting for the new addition to Fire Station 43, located at the Municipal Complex on Wausau Ave. This marks the first major update to the facility in more than 20 years. The approximately 3,000-square-foot addition includes additional living and office areas for personnel and administrative staff, new bathrooms and showers, expanded kitchen space, a dedicated workout room to support firefighter health and safety, a community room for outreach programs, and added garage space for equipment storage.

FACES FROM EVENTS AROUND THE VILLAGE

THE YUMMY BISTRO RIBBON CUTTING

Mayor De Graff and the Village Board welcomed South Holland’s newest dining location, called “The Yummy Bistro,” with a ribbon cutting in February. Located at 514 E 162nd St, the take-out restaurant is known for its extensive menu of fresh food options and its unique interior design.

Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast

Thursday, May 7 • 7:30am

Spirit of God Fellowship (Fellowship Hall)

16350 State Street, South Holland

Fee: $10 per person at the door

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

April 4

COFFEE WITH FIREFIGHTERS

9am, Fire Station 1, 16230 Wausau Ave

Residents can meet and talk with members of the South Holland Fire Department on the first Saturday of every month.

April 10

ARTISTS’ GALLERY

12-8pm, South Holland Community Center, 501 E 170th St

Come view the amazing works of art by South Holland artists at the annual Artists’ Gallery! The gallery features all forms of artwork including paintings, photography, digital art, woodcarving, and more.

April 14

COMMUNITY POLICING MEETING

10am, South Holland Community Center, 501 E 170th St

The South Holland Police Department hosts a Community Policing Meeting on the second Tuesday of every month, alternating mornings and evenings. This is an opportunity to address any questions or concerns for the Police Department.

April 18

KEITH RUCKER FOOTBALL CAMP

12-2:30pm, Paarlberg Park, 17234 Paxton Ave

In this non-contact football camp, learn great football skills from the team of former NFL player and Harvey native, Keith Rucker. The camp will include fun and exciting drills, challenging campers to achieve greatness. The camp is for boys and girls ages 6-14. There is no cost to attend but registration is required. Register at recservices.southholland.org.

April 20-May 1

PERMIT FEE VACATION

Looking to do a home project this spring/summer? From April 20-May 1, the South Holland Community Development Department is offering a Permit Fee Vacation! While you will still be required to obtain a permit, the permit fee is waived for qualifying home projects submitted during that time frame.

April

25

FLOWERS ON THE PORCH GIVEAWAY

9am, Veterans Memorial Park, 500 E 160th Pl

The Village is giving South Holland residents free flower pots, encouraging everyone to add a touch of color to their porches this spring. Every flower pot comes with a small South Holland flag as well. Residents must submit a valid driver’s license or state ID; limit one flower pot per household. Flowers will be distributed while supplies last .

AT THE LIBRARY

The following programs are held at the South Holland Public Library, 16250 Wausau Ave, unless otherwise indicated. Visit shlibrary.org for a list of all upcoming events.

April 1-May 2

DIAPER DRIVE

Benefiting the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Xi Mu Zeta Chapter Stork’s Nest, the South Holland Public Library will be taking diaper donations starting April 1.

April 22

NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK: OUTREACH DAY

On National Outreach Day, the Library wants to thank you for your support. Drop in for a sweet treat, while supplies last. Limit one per person.

April 25

EVERYTHING DOPE BRONZEVILLE BUS TOUR 10am-1pm

You may have seen his show You Don’t Know Chi . Now, take a tour through Bronzeville with the host himself, Chicago Historian Sherman Dilla Thomas. Learn about the rich history of this historic neighborhood by visiting the sites and the people who made it prominent. In-person registration $25 per person (cash only, no refunds).

April 30

¡DIA DEL NIÑO DANCE PARTY!

11am

Celebrate Día del Niño with music, movement, and fun! Join us for a joyful dance party honoring children and childhood. Families will enjoy lively music, dance activities, and a welcoming space to move, laugh, and celebrate together at the library. Registration required.

FAITH IN

Motion

REACHING OUT

Continuing the Mission of Jesus in South Holland

By Pastor Corey Buchanan of First Reformed Church and Chicagoland Prison Outreach

This spring, First Reformed Church is focused on a simple but powerful theme: Reaching Out. At the heart of this emphasis is Jesus Himself. When we talk about reaching out, we are not talking about a new idea or a passing initiative— we are talking about the very mission of Christ.

In Luke 4:18–19, Jesus publicly announces His mission: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

These words were not symbolic or abstract. Jesus was declaring why He came and what His life would be about. And that mission continues today through His people.

For me, this mission has been deeply connected to the Village of South Holland for more than two decades. I have been serving professionally in this community for nearly 22 years through a nonprofit organization called Chicagoland Prison Outreach (CPO). Yet the roots of this work go back even further.

In 1994, a small group of South Holland businessmen noticed a man named Dan Swets, our founder, who carried a unique

Pastor Corey Buchanan

calling. Dan felt compelled to reach those who were incarcerated by going into jails, preaching the gospel, and providing assistance for those returning to society, walking alongside men and women who were often forgotten. But his concern did not stop at jail walls. He also reached out to families across the Chicagoland area who were affected by incarceration.

Those businessmen rallied around Dan, offering prayer, encouragement, and tangible support. What began as a calling placed on one man’s heart grew into a ministry that has now been based in South Holland for 32 years. For more than three decades, CPO has sought to reach people in need of hope, healing, and liberation—right from this community.

This year, we are looking to widen CPO’s footprint in the community by offering vocational and career training programs here in South Holland. These programs are designed to equip individuals with practical skills, dignity through work,

and pathways toward meaningful employment as another tangible way of proclaiming good news and helping people move toward freedom and stability.

In 2010, I joined the staff at First Reformed Church, initially focusing on mercy and justice ministries. Our desire was simple: to empower, energize, and mobilize the congregation to engage the community with the love of Christ. Over the years, I have seen how God has uniquely positioned South Holland. While it can feel like an island at times, it is a community deeply shaped by faith, family, and future.

I am convinced that God has intentionally placed a community of faith here not to turn inward, but to reach out.

When we consider what Christ came to do, several truths stand out:

1. He came to give His life as a ransom for many. Through His death on the cross, Jesus purchased our freedom, including the forgiveness of our sins.

2. He came to reconcile us to the Father and to one another. The gospel restores broken relationships—with God and with people.

3. He came to make disciples. Jesus did not simply gather crowds; He formed people who would carry His mission forward.

This list could continue, but these truths remind us that the mission of Jesus did not end with His resurrection and ascension. He calls His followers to continue what He started.

To make disciples, we must go. We must engage the world around us. We must open our mouths to speak the truth of the gospel. We must do good deeds that allow our light to shine. We must build authentic relationships marked by love, humility, and compassion.

But this kind of mission never happens in isolation.

Just as Dan Swets did not walk alone, supported by four businessmen who believed in this work, the mission continues today through many people standing together. Churches, organizations, volunteers, neighbors, and partners all play a role. Reaching out requires community.

As spring arrives and the flowers begin reaching up out of the ground, may we also be a people who are reaching out—with the love of Christ—to those around us. Our prayer is that God would use His church in South Holland to bring hope, healing, and new life, both now and for generations to come.

Get to know your neighbors by hosting a block party!

The Village of South Holland will provide a trailer with the following items:

Folding tables • Chairs • Road blocks

Garbage cans • Two 60-quart coolers

Games/Activities: Bean bags, Connect 4, Jenga, and more

Reserve the Block Party Trailer today!

SOHO SHOPS AT TOWN CENTER SMALL BUSINESS

INTRODUCING

Big Dreams

This May, South Holland will officially open the doors to one of the most exciting new destinations in the South Suburbs—the SoHo Shops at Town Center. Located at 16114 South Park Ave, this innovative retail incubator is the product of careful planning, community investment, and a bold vision for what downtown South Holland can become.

Administered by the Village of South Holland, the SoHo Shops is a seasonal retail incubator designed to support entrepreneurs, artisans, and makers who are ready to take their businesses

to the next level. Featuring 10 custom-built mini storefronts, the Shops offer a one-of-a-kind opportunity for small business owners to test out a physical retail space, without the overwhelming costs and risks of committing to a full storefront lease.

BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN POP-UP AND PERMANENT

For many entrepreneurs, the journey from online sales or weekend pop-up markets to a full brickand-mortar operation can feel like a giant leap. The SoHo Shops were created specifically to close that gap. Running from May through December (open every weekend), the program gives vendors an 8-month runway to gain real, hands-on experience running a retail business while benefiting from affordable leasing, tailored business education, and ongoing marketing support.

Vendors accepted into the program don’t just get a space, they get the training needed to launch a brick-and-mortar business. Participants receive mentorship, marketing guidance, and access to a collaborative community of fellow business owners.

A VILLAGE LIKE NO OTHER

The SoHo Shops are more than a retail experiment — they are a cornerstone of South Holland’s Town Center redevelopment initiative. As the only retail incubator of its kind in the South Suburbs, the Shops embody South Holland’s long-held identity as “A Village Like No Other.” By investing in creative entrepreneurs and small businesses, the Village is setting itself apart as a place where progress is made.

For residents and visitors, the Shops promise to transform the Town Center into a vibrant weekend destination. With 10 unique mini storefronts showcasing handmade products, specialty goods, and one-of-a-kind finds, shoppers will be able to browse, discover, and connect with the makers behind the merchandise. On-site events will round out the experience, making each visit to the Shops feel fresh and engaging throughout the season.

“We are thrilled to bring the SoHo Shops to our up-and-coming Town Center this spring,” says South Holland Mayor Don De Graff. “This exciting concept is exactly what makes South Holland great. We value our entrepreneurs, and we are creating a regional shopping destination right in the heart of our community.”

MEET THE VENDORS!

After reviewing 115 applications and hosting 20 in-person interviews, we have selected the final 10 vendors for the inaugural SoHo Shops season! Each of the 10 vendors will offer a unique shopping experience, and there will be products for everyone. From flowers and pickles to candles and BBQ sauces, the SoHo Shops will quickly become your favorite shopping destination.

SOHO SHOPS AT TOWN CENTER

16114 South Park Ave, South Holland

Open weekends, May-December

southhollandshops.com

Follow @southhollandshops on Facebook and Instagram

JOIN US IN WELCOMING THE SOHO SHOPS 2026 COHORT:

Black Amor Handcrafted Candle Boutique

Cristallo

I Do Pretty 365

Johnny Bs BBQ & Grill

LaBelleFleurr.2

Monarch Paperie

Polly Ann Cakes

Skin Privilege

Thaxton White Boutique

Wanna Pickle Gourmet Foods

To stay up to date with the vendors, visit southhollandshops.com/vendors. We cannot wait for you to meet, shop, and support them this upcoming season.

HOME, YARD, THE NEXT BIG RAIN and

A SPRING MAINTENANCE GUIDE FOR SOUTH HOLLAND RESIDENTS

Spring is upon us, and it’s a good time to take stock of your property before the warm-weather months get underway. It’s also the season when rain picks up and flood risk deserves a second look. Here’s what to work through.

WALK YOUR PROPERTY FIRST

A slow lap around your home in early spring will reveal most of what needs attention. On the roof and drainage side, look for missing or worn shingles, gutters that are sagging or clogged from last fall, and downspouts that empty too close to the foundation or send water onto neighboring property. For exterior walls and trim, watch for holes, rotting sections, or peeling paint—especially around window frames and soffits. Check windows and screens to make sure they seal properly and that hardware holds panes open without propping. Confirm exterior door locks are functional and hardware is in solid shape.

YARD AND GROUNDS: VILLAGE REQUIREMENTS

Village ordinances set basic standards that become relevant again each spring:

• Grass and weeds must stay at 6 inches or shorter. Once the ground warms up, growth can get ahead of you quickly.

• Trim back any shrubs or tree branches that hang over the sidewalk or extend into the street.

• Check fences, sheds, decks, handrails, and other accessory structures to make sure they’re structurally sound after winter.

• House numbers should be clearly visible from the street at a minimum height of 4 inches.

• Pick up dog waste daily to prevent odors from drifting onto neighboring property.

PLANNING A PROJECT? GET THE PERMIT FIRST

Before any work begins, contact the Community Development department at 708.210.2900, Option 2, to find out whether a building permit is required. Skipping this step can backfire—work done without a

required permit may not meet code, which can cost significantly more to correct. Permitted work also creates a permanent record, ensures certified inspections, and confirms your contractor carries proper insurance. On April 20-May 1, permits are free of charge! Learn more at southholland.org.

TRASH, PICKUP, AND SANITATION

A few reminders for the season:

• Trash containers should not go to the curb before 4pm the day before scheduled pickup, and should be brought back in by 8pm the day of.

• Keep lids on at all times and store containers behind the front setback of the house.

• Yard waste—grass clippings, bush trimmings, and similar material—belongs in yard waste toters or recyclable paper bags, not mixed with regular garbage.

• Branch pickup resumes April 1. Trim branches to 4 feet or shorter before putting them out. Pickup happens the day after your regular garbage day; no need to call ahead.

• For questions about service or toter replacement, call Homewood Disposal at 708.385.8252.

FLOODING: WHAT TO KNOW THIS SPRING

South Holland is subject to flooding from three sources—the Little Calumet River, Thorn Creek, and the Calumet Union Drainage Ditch—as well as local drainage issues and sewer backup. Your level

of risk depends on where you live in the Village. To find out whether your property is in a mapped floodplain, visit southholland.org or call Community Development at 708.210.2900, Option 2.

The Village’s Flood Prevention Program offers residents a 25% rebate (up to $2,500) on qualifying floodproofing projects, and a 50% cost-share (up to $5,000) for larger sewer backup prevention work. It’s also worth checking with your insurance agent—most standard homeowner’s policies don’t cover flood damage. Because South Holland is a Class 5 community in the National Flood Insurance Program, floodplain residents qualify for a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums; all other residents are eligible for a 10% discount.

STAY INFORMED DURING A STORM

• Monitor weather.gov for flood watches (flooding possible) and flood warnings (flooding imminent or occurring).

• Visit southholland.org for a link to the NWS river gauge for the Little Calumet River.

• Sign up for free Smart911 community alerts at southholland.org/smart911.

• Residents near waterways may want a NOAA weather radio ($20–$30 at most electronics stores) for direct National Weather Service monitoring.

VacationPERMIT FEE

IN SpringSOUTH HOLLAND

3 WAYS TO ENJOY SOUTH HOLLAND THIS SPRING

As the weather warms and the days grow longer, South Holland’s parks and outdoor spaces begin to come alive again. From new walking paths to updated playgrounds and peaceful picnic spots, spring is the perfect time to get outside and enjoy what the Village has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a quiet walk, a place for the kids to play, or a spot to gather with family and friends, there are plenty of options right here in South Holland.

1. NEW WILDFLOWERS ALONG THE WALKING TRAIL AT VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK

Visitors to Veterans Memorial Park this spring will notice something new along the stream: native prairie grasses and wildflowers beginning to grow along the banks of the Little Calumet River. The new plantings are part of the Village’s Stream Bank Naturalization Project, supported by a $10,000 grant from the ComEd Green Region Open Lands program.

The project focused on improving the health of the stream corridor in both Veterans Memorial Park and Gouwens Park. Crews first removed invasive vegetation that had been crowding the banks. In its place, native Illinois prairie grasses were planted to help stabilize the soil and reduce erosion along the water’s edge.

Along with the grasses, a mix of perennial Illinois wildflowers was added during the planting process. As the plants establish themselves over the coming seasons, they will provide habitat for pollinators such as bees and butterflies, along with birds and other wildlife that depend on native plant life.

The project also created a new way for visitors to experience the area. A gravel trail now runs along the top of the stream bank at Veterans Memorial Park, between the river and the nearby stormwater detention pond. As the grasses and flowers grow taller, the path will create a natural corridor for walkers, with plants and pollinators surrounding the trail.

2. NEW PLAYGROUND AT ROOSEVELT PARK

Roosevelt Park is also getting a fresh look this year that includes a new parking lot and an upgraded playground.

As part of improvements in the Town Center area, the Village is building a parking lot at Roosevelt Park to better serve both park visitors and nearby businesses. The lot will be located just behind the new SoHo Shops at Town Center.

New playground equipment is being installed at the southwest corner of Louis Avenue and 161st Street. Families who visit the park this spring will find brand-new equipment designed

3. PICNIC AREAS THROUGHOUT SOUTH HOLLAND

South Holland is home to 30 parks, offering a wide range of places to relax, play, and gather outdoors. Some are small neighborhood parks designed for quick visits, while others provide larger open spaces and sports facilities. Together, they offer plenty of options for enjoying a spring afternoon.

For families planning a picnic or gathering, several parks include covered picnic pavilions that can be reserved for larger groups. Parks with picnic pavilions include Veterans Memorial Park, Paarlberg Park, Hollandale Park, Maicach Park, and Van’O Park.

If you plan to reserve a pavilion for an event with 30 people or more, a park permit is required. Permits can be obtained online at recservices.southholland.org or in person at the South Holland Community Center. A permit is only required when reserving a structure within a park. Casual activities such as walking groups, pickup games, or small family picnics do not require a permit.

For a full list of parks throughout the Village, visit southholland.org/parks.