W E D N E S D A Y
July 9, 2025 Vol. 46, No. 2
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JOURNAL @oakpark
of Oak Park and River Forest
Illinois Department of Public Health expresses concern after late notice By JESSICA MORDACQ
Some trustees want Monday meeting, but discussion could fall to Aug. 25
Staff Reporter
See WEST SUB on page 8
Page 13
When will River Forest board talk term limits?
West Sub closes obstetric and neonatal units without notice
The Illinois Department of Public Health said July 7 that the decision by West Suburban Medical Center to abruptly shutter its obstetric and neonatal units was “concerning” and said the agency would “be gathering more information about this action to ensure the hospital complies with its obligations under the Hospital Licensing Act.” A spokesman for IDPH told Wednesday Journal that it was notified on July 3 that West Sub was closing the unit temporarily due to a shortage of nurses. “Even if temporary, this closure is concerning,” said an IDPH spokesperson. Rumors are swirling around West Sub about this decision and its ongoing cooling issues during the recent heat wave. IDPH sent staff to the hospital last week to assess the status of its HVAC. (See sidebar on page 9) The hospital’s contracted communications firm told Wednesday Journal that
Sgt. Verge honored
By GREGG VOSS Contributing Reporter
JESSICA MORDACQ
Whether its village board will have term limits going forward has become a polarizing issue for River Forest, after an April 1 referendum that showed 52% of residents voted in favor of them. The exact wording used in a citizen group’s petition that placed the referendum for the matter on the election ballot has caused confusion about whether that referendum is binding or non-binding. A special committee of the whole board meeting to dissect the topic, including public comment, has proven challenging to schedule. According to a June 24 email provided to Wednesday Journal by Cathy Adduci, village president, and Village Administrator Matt See TERM LIMITS on page 14
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