🚗❄️ Winter Storm Safety for Travelers ❄️🚗
If you’re hitting the road this winter, be prepared for sudden snow and cold.
1️⃣ Keep your exhaust pipe clear.
A blocked exhaust pipe can cause deadly carbon monoxide to build up inside your vehicle. Always check before starting your car—especially after heavy snow or if you’re stranded.
2️⃣ Pack an emergency kit.
In case you get stuck, keep supplies such as blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, a phone charger, shovel, sand or kitty litter, and extra warm clothing in your car.
Stay alert, stay prepared, and stay safe this winter.
Learn more about winter weather safety at weather.gov/safety/winter
If you’re hitting the road this winter, be prepared for sudden snow and cold.
1️⃣ Keep your exhaust pipe clear.
A blocked exhaust pipe can cause deadly carbon monoxide to build up inside your vehicle. Always check before starting your car—especially after heavy snow or if you’re stranded.
2️⃣ Pack an emergency kit.
In case you get stuck, keep supplies such as blankets, a flashlight, water, snacks, a phone charger, shovel, sand or kitty litter, and extra warm clothing in your car.
Stay alert, stay prepared, and stay safe this winter.
Learn more about winter weather safety at weather.gov/safety/winter
The Batavia City Council will meet at 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17 at City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave.
Agenda items include presentations from the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry & Clothes Closet, the Tri-Cities Peace Vigil, and an update on the Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project. A proclamation recognizing Native American Heritage Month will also be issued, along with additional items of city business.
Community members are encouraged to attend or watch online to stay informed about decisions shaping Batavia’s future.
For a complete agenda, visit bataviail.gov/AgendaCenter.
Agenda items include presentations from the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry & Clothes Closet, the Tri-Cities Peace Vigil, and an update on the Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation Project. A proclamation recognizing Native American Heritage Month will also be issued, along with additional items of city business.
Community members are encouraged to attend or watch online to stay informed about decisions shaping Batavia’s future.
For a complete agenda, visit bataviail.gov/AgendaCenter.
A public hearing will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 18 to discuss the proposed City of Batavia Fiscal Year 2026 Budget and Tax Levy. The Batavia City Council will vote on the budget and levy after the hearing close.
The proposed budget outlines a financial plan to maintain high-quality police, fire, and municipal services, address rising costs, and support long-term community needs. Based on the 2024–2028 Strategic Action Plan, the proposal focuses on balancing fiscal responsibility with investments in public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life.
To maintain service levels as costs rise, the budget includes increases to the property tax rate and utility rates. Key staffing additions include two police officers and two firefighters to strengthen public safety and support the Fire Department’s transition to an Advanced Life Support Squad model, which responds to most emergency calls.
The budget also proposes setting aside funds for a future Police Department facility, supported in part by a 0.5% increase to the local home-rule sales tax to reduce future borrowing.
Proposed 2026 rate adjustments include:
• Property tax increase of 10 cents per $100 of EAV, with another 10-cent increase planned in 2027
• Electric rate increase of 3%, the first since 2015
• Water rate increase of 3% plus a small capital fee
• Sewer rate increase of 8% to support treatment plant upgrades
Residents are encouraged to attend the Nov. 18 public hearing at City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave. View the proposed budget at bataviail.gov/budget.
The proposed budget outlines a financial plan to maintain high-quality police, fire, and municipal services, address rising costs, and support long-term community needs. Based on the 2024–2028 Strategic Action Plan, the proposal focuses on balancing fiscal responsibility with investments in public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life.
To maintain service levels as costs rise, the budget includes increases to the property tax rate and utility rates. Key staffing additions include two police officers and two firefighters to strengthen public safety and support the Fire Department’s transition to an Advanced Life Support Squad model, which responds to most emergency calls.
The budget also proposes setting aside funds for a future Police Department facility, supported in part by a 0.5% increase to the local home-rule sales tax to reduce future borrowing.
Proposed 2026 rate adjustments include:
• Property tax increase of 10 cents per $100 of EAV, with another 10-cent increase planned in 2027
• Electric rate increase of 3%, the first since 2015
• Water rate increase of 3% plus a small capital fee
• Sewer rate increase of 8% to support treatment plant upgrades
Residents are encouraged to attend the Nov. 18 public hearing at City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave. View the proposed budget at bataviail.gov/budget.
❄️ Snow Shoveling Safety Tips ❄️
We’ve already seen signs of winter, so as snow season begins, here are some reminders on how to stay safe while clearing driveways and sidewalks.
🧤 Listen to your body. If you feel tired or dizzy, stop, rest, and warm up. Let someone know before heading out to shovel.
❤️ Be heart-conscious. Those with heart conditions or limited activity should talk with a doctor before shoveling. Avoid shoveling right after eating, smoking, or consuming caffeine.
🧣 Dress for the weather. Layer clothing, wear a hat and scarf, and choose mittens for warmth. Keep hands, feet, and face protected from frostbite.
💧 Stay hydrated. Drink water or sports drinks before, during, and after shoveling—even if you don’t feel thirsty.
🤸 Warm up first. Stretch arms, legs, and back to prevent muscle strain.
🌨️ Shovel early and often. Fresh snow is lighter and easier to move.
🐧 Watch for ice. Hidden ice can cause slips and falls—walk like a penguin for better balance!
🚶 Take it slow. Work at a steady pace and take breaks.
🏋️ Protect your back. Bend at your knees, lift with your legs, and avoid overloading the shovel.
Stay safe, Batavia—clear snow responsibly and take care of yourself this winter.
We’ve already seen signs of winter, so as snow season begins, here are some reminders on how to stay safe while clearing driveways and sidewalks.
🧤 Listen to your body. If you feel tired or dizzy, stop, rest, and warm up. Let someone know before heading out to shovel.
❤️ Be heart-conscious. Those with heart conditions or limited activity should talk with a doctor before shoveling. Avoid shoveling right after eating, smoking, or consuming caffeine.
🧣 Dress for the weather. Layer clothing, wear a hat and scarf, and choose mittens for warmth. Keep hands, feet, and face protected from frostbite.
💧 Stay hydrated. Drink water or sports drinks before, during, and after shoveling—even if you don’t feel thirsty.
🤸 Warm up first. Stretch arms, legs, and back to prevent muscle strain.
🌨️ Shovel early and often. Fresh snow is lighter and easier to move.
🐧 Watch for ice. Hidden ice can cause slips and falls—walk like a penguin for better balance!
🚶 Take it slow. Work at a steady pace and take breaks.
🏋️ Protect your back. Bend at your knees, lift with your legs, and avoid overloading the shovel.
Stay safe, Batavia—clear snow responsibly and take care of yourself this winter.
We’ve already had a taste of winter this past weekend—and it’s a good reminder that November is Winter Preparedness Month in Illinois! ❄️
Winter weather poses many risks, from icy roads and power outages to fires caused by unsafe heating practices. Take time this month to prepare your home, vehicle, and family for the season ahead—and know the terms used in winter weather alerts:
Know the Terms:
🌨 Snow Squall – Short bursts of heavy snow and wind that cause sudden whiteout conditions and slick roads.
🌬 Blizzard – Blowing or falling snow with winds over 35 mph and visibility under a quarter mile for 3+ hours.
🌧 Freezing Rain – Rain that freezes on contact with cold surfaces, coating roads, trees, and power lines in ice.
🌨 Sleet – Ice pellets that make roads and sidewalks dangerously slippery.
🥶 Wind Chill – The “feels-like” temperature when cold air and wind combine.
Stay informed, stay warm, and stay safe this winter. For weather updates and safety resources, visit weather.gov/chicago or follow local emergency alerts.
Winter weather poses many risks, from icy roads and power outages to fires caused by unsafe heating practices. Take time this month to prepare your home, vehicle, and family for the season ahead—and know the terms used in winter weather alerts:
Know the Terms:
🌨 Snow Squall – Short bursts of heavy snow and wind that cause sudden whiteout conditions and slick roads.
🌬 Blizzard – Blowing or falling snow with winds over 35 mph and visibility under a quarter mile for 3+ hours.
🌧 Freezing Rain – Rain that freezes on contact with cold surfaces, coating roads, trees, and power lines in ice.
🌨 Sleet – Ice pellets that make roads and sidewalks dangerously slippery.
🥶 Wind Chill – The “feels-like” temperature when cold air and wind combine.
Stay informed, stay warm, and stay safe this winter. For weather updates and safety resources, visit weather.gov/chicago or follow local emergency alerts.
The City of Batavia is beginning the final review process to adopt the South River Street Corridor Plan as an official plan for the City. This plan outlines recommendations for future use and development of the South River Street area, including streetscape enhancements and other corridor improvements.
Residents and stakeholders are invited to learn more and share feedback at the upcoming South River Street Corridor Plan Open House:
📅 Wednesday, November 19, 2025
🕓 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Batavia City Hall, City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave.
Following the Open House, the Plan Commission will hold a Public Hearing to gather formal public input on the Draft South River Street Corridor Plan:
🕖 7:00 p.m.
📍 Batavia City Hall, City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave.
For more information and to view the Draft Plan, visit bataviail.gov/southriver.
Residents and stakeholders are invited to learn more and share feedback at the upcoming South River Street Corridor Plan Open House:
📅 Wednesday, November 19, 2025
🕓 4:30–6:30 p.m.
📍 Batavia City Hall, City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave.
Following the Open House, the Plan Commission will hold a Public Hearing to gather formal public input on the Draft South River Street Corridor Plan:
🕖 7:00 p.m.
📍 Batavia City Hall, City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave.
For more information and to view the Draft Plan, visit bataviail.gov/southriver.
🎀 Ribbon Cutting & Open House: Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry & Clothes Closet 🎀
The Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry & Clothes Closet is celebrating the opening of its new, permanent home at 916 First Street with a Ribbon Cutting and Open House on Friday, Nov. 21, from 3–7 p.m. — and everyone is invited!
📍 Ribbon Cutting: 3 p.m. with Congresswoman Lauren Underwood
🏠 New Location: 916 First Street, Batavia
🅿️ Parking: Limited on-site; additional parking available on the 900 block of W. Wilson St.
This new 14,000-square-foot facility—made possible through a $3 million Community Project Funding Grant—offers expanded shopping, storage, and office space to better serve local families.
Guests are encouraged to help “pack the pantry” for the holidays by bringing shelf-stable food donations or gently used Batavia spirit wear.
Learn more about how you can donate or volunteer at bataviafoodpantry.org
The Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry & Clothes Closet is celebrating the opening of its new, permanent home at 916 First Street with a Ribbon Cutting and Open House on Friday, Nov. 21, from 3–7 p.m. — and everyone is invited!
📍 Ribbon Cutting: 3 p.m. with Congresswoman Lauren Underwood
🏠 New Location: 916 First Street, Batavia
🅿️ Parking: Limited on-site; additional parking available on the 900 block of W. Wilson St.
This new 14,000-square-foot facility—made possible through a $3 million Community Project Funding Grant—offers expanded shopping, storage, and office space to better serve local families.
Guests are encouraged to help “pack the pantry” for the holidays by bringing shelf-stable food donations or gently used Batavia spirit wear.
Learn more about how you can donate or volunteer at bataviafoodpantry.org
All are invited to honor our veterns at a wreath laying ceremony at the Flag Day Monument at 10:30 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11. The monument is west of the Batavia Government Center, 100 N. Island Ave.
Two special City Council meetings will take place Monday, Nov. 10 at City Hall.
• 7 p.m. — Special Committee of the Whole
Agenda includes resolutions authorizing emergency well repairs.
• Immediately Following — Special City Council Meeting
Agenda includes potential action on an ordinance regarding civil immigration enforcement on city property, and ordinances related to 2026 water, sanitary sewer, and electric rates.
Both meetings take place in City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave., and are open to the public.
For complete agendas, visit bataviail.gov/agendacenter.
• 7 p.m. — Special Committee of the Whole
Agenda includes resolutions authorizing emergency well repairs.
• Immediately Following — Special City Council Meeting
Agenda includes potential action on an ordinance regarding civil immigration enforcement on city property, and ordinances related to 2026 water, sanitary sewer, and electric rates.
Both meetings take place in City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave., and are open to the public.
For complete agendas, visit bataviail.gov/agendacenter.
Investigators are seeking to identify victims of Batavia chiropractor David Hanson, owner of Hanson Family Chiropractic. Hanson has been charged with multiple felony counts including producing and disseminating child pornography, possessing child pornography, and unauthorized video recording of a minor.
According to authorities, more than 180 patients were secretly recorded while undressed or unclothed at the chiropractic office. Victims range from young children to adults, and most are believed to be female. The recordings were allegedly captured using hidden cameras in treatment areas, including a red light therapy room.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone who believes they or their minor dependent may have been affected, or who has information relevant to the case, is asked to call 630-444-3322 or email SAOVictimHotline@KaneCountyIL.gov
.
Read the full media release here: https://www.bataviail.gov/o/cob/page/news-releases
According to authorities, more than 180 patients were secretly recorded while undressed or unclothed at the chiropractic office. Victims range from young children to adults, and most are believed to be female. The recordings were allegedly captured using hidden cameras in treatment areas, including a red light therapy room.
Investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone who believes they or their minor dependent may have been affected, or who has information relevant to the case, is asked to call 630-444-3322 or email SAOVictimHotline@KaneCountyIL.gov
.
Read the full media release here: https://www.bataviail.gov/o/cob/page/news-releases
🍂 Leaf Collection Underway
Batavia’s leaf collection second round has begun:
📍 Schedule
• East side: Begins Monday, Nov. 3
• West side: Begins Monday, Nov. 10
• Weather permitting, a third pickup will occur Nov. 17 (east side) and Nov. 24 (west side)
🧹 How to Prepare
• Rake leaves to the parkway by 6 a.m. on your scheduled Monday
• Keep piles within 6 feet of the curb
• Arrange leaves in a long row for efficient pickup
🚫 What Not to Do
• Do not rake leaves into the street (blocks storm drains)
• Do not mix leaves with brush
🌧️ Collection occurs rain or shine
🔗 Track progress: bataviail.gov/leafcollection
📞 Questions? Call 630-454-2400
Batavia’s leaf collection second round has begun:
📍 Schedule
• East side: Begins Monday, Nov. 3
• West side: Begins Monday, Nov. 10
• Weather permitting, a third pickup will occur Nov. 17 (east side) and Nov. 24 (west side)
🧹 How to Prepare
• Rake leaves to the parkway by 6 a.m. on your scheduled Monday
• Keep piles within 6 feet of the curb
• Arrange leaves in a long row for efficient pickup
🚫 What Not to Do
• Do not rake leaves into the street (blocks storm drains)
• Do not mix leaves with brush
🌧️ Collection occurs rain or shine
🔗 Track progress: bataviail.gov/leafcollection
📞 Questions? Call 630-454-2400
At the Monday, Nov. 3 Batavia City Council meeting, Mayor Jeffery D. Schielke presented a proclamation honoring the life, legacy, and joyful spirit of Brice Worley.
Brice courageously battled an inoperable brain tumor for six years, all while spreading humor, kindness, and gratitude to everyone he met. A 2023 graduate of Batavia High School, Brice lived every moment fully—working, exploring nature, connecting with friends and family, and reminding others to stay open to the world.
Brice passed away on October 4, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. His legacy continues through the Brice Worley Foundation, which will support students who embody his compassion, courage, and positivity.
We thank the Worley and Wilson families for joining us at City Hall and for sharing Brice’s remarkable light with our community. May we all strive to Be Like Brice.
Brice courageously battled an inoperable brain tumor for six years, all while spreading humor, kindness, and gratitude to everyone he met. A 2023 graduate of Batavia High School, Brice lived every moment fully—working, exploring nature, connecting with friends and family, and reminding others to stay open to the world.
Brice passed away on October 4, 2025, surrounded by those who loved him most. His legacy continues through the Brice Worley Foundation, which will support students who embody his compassion, courage, and positivity.
We thank the Worley and Wilson families for joining us at City Hall and for sharing Brice’s remarkable light with our community. May we all strive to Be Like Brice.
Heads up, Batavia drivers:
Roadwork is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 4:
• East Wilson St. & South River St.
Final asphalt patching will take place from 9:30 AM–2 PM. The westbound lane will be closed with intermittent access. Expect significant delays and plan extra time for travel.
• N. Washington Ave. & Logan St.
Watermain repair work will also take place Tuesday. Flaggers will be on site to direct traffic. Delays are expected in the area.
Thank you for your patience while crews make these improvements!
📅 The Batavia City Council has three public meetings next week, Nov. 3 and 4:
Monday, Nov. 3
• 🏛️ 7 p.m. Regular City Council Meeting
– Proclamation honoring the memory of Brice Worley
– Presentations from Batavia United Way and Batavia Chamber of Commerce
• 🏘️ Immediately following: Special Committee of the Whole meeting focused on housing
Tuesday, Nov. 4
• 💼 Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss the proposed 2026 City Budget
📍 All meetings take place at Batavia City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave., and are open to the public.
📺 Watch live on BATV or online.
🔗 Full agendas: bataviail.gov/AgendaCenter
Monday, Nov. 3
• 🏛️ 7 p.m. Regular City Council Meeting
– Proclamation honoring the memory of Brice Worley
– Presentations from Batavia United Way and Batavia Chamber of Commerce
• 🏘️ Immediately following: Special Committee of the Whole meeting focused on housing
Tuesday, Nov. 4
• 💼 Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss the proposed 2026 City Budget
📍 All meetings take place at Batavia City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave., and are open to the public.
📺 Watch live on BATV or online.
🔗 Full agendas: bataviail.gov/AgendaCenter
📊 Batavia’s Proposed 2026 Budget is Now Available
The City of Batavia has released its proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, focused on maintaining excellent police, fire, and municipal services while planning for future growth.
The proposal aligns with the community-driven 2024–2028 Strategic Action Plan, ensuring responsible investment in infrastructure, safety, technology, and quality of life.
As service demands and costs continue to rise, the budget includes necessary increases to property taxes and utility rates to keep Batavia’s services strong and reliable.
🗓 City Council will discuss the proposed budget on Tuesday, Nov. 4 at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave. Residents are encouraged to attend or follow along online.
📌 View the proposed budget and learn more ➜ bataviail.gov/budget
🚧 Construction Alert 🚧
Concrete restoration is scheduled for the 1100 block of S. Batavia Avenue on October 30th. Lane shifts and delays are expected.
Thank you for your patience.
🗓 City Council Committee of the Whole Meeting
The Batavia City Council Committee of the Whole meets at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28 at City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave.
Agenda items include:
• A presentation on a downtown occupancy report
• A resolution to purchase park benches made from recycled windmills
• Discussion on an ordinance regarding civil immigration enforcement on City property
• And more
The meeting is open to the public.
View the full agenda here 👉 bataviail.gov/agendacenter
The Batavia City Council Committee of the Whole meets at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28 at City Hall, 100 N. Island Ave.
Agenda items include:
• A presentation on a downtown occupancy report
• A resolution to purchase park benches made from recycled windmills
• Discussion on an ordinance regarding civil immigration enforcement on City property
• And more
The meeting is open to the public.
View the full agenda here 👉 bataviail.gov/agendacenter
City crews will be patching asphalt patching on the 400 to 500 blocks of south Batavia Avenue the week of October 27. Lane shifts and delays are expected. Please use caution while traveling through the area. Thank you for your patience.
Honoring Heroic Actions 🚒💙
At last night’s Batavia City Council meeting, officials recognized Firefighter Ben Williams and Paramedic Mark Webb for their extraordinary courage and life-saving actions.
On the morning of Sept.11, 2025, while off-duty and on their way to work, Firefighter Williams and Paramedic Webb came upon a serious crash at Randall Road and Main Street. When one of the vehicles caught fire with the driver trapped inside, they—along with two bystanders—acted immediately, freeing the driver just moments before the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames.
Their quick thinking, professionalism, and bravery exemplify the very best of public service. Please join us in thanking Firefighter Williams and Paramedic Webb for their heroism and dedication to protecting our community.
At last night’s Batavia City Council meeting, officials recognized Firefighter Ben Williams and Paramedic Mark Webb for their extraordinary courage and life-saving actions.
On the morning of Sept.11, 2025, while off-duty and on their way to work, Firefighter Williams and Paramedic Webb came upon a serious crash at Randall Road and Main Street. When one of the vehicles caught fire with the driver trapped inside, they—along with two bystanders—acted immediately, freeing the driver just moments before the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames.
Their quick thinking, professionalism, and bravery exemplify the very best of public service. Please join us in thanking Firefighter Williams and Paramedic Webb for their heroism and dedication to protecting our community.
The Batavia City Council meets at 7 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20.
Agenda items include:
• A proclamation recognizing the life-saving efforts of a Batavia firefighter and a paramedic
• Recognition of the 20th anniversary of DS Containers
• A wastewater treatment plant project update
• Approvals for two annexation agreements
…and more.
Following the regular meeting, a special City Council Committee of the Whole meeting will be held to discuss the Brattle Group Draft Integrated Resource Plan.
📍 City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave.
📄 View both complete agendas: bataviail.gov/AgendaCenter
Agenda items include:
• A proclamation recognizing the life-saving efforts of a Batavia firefighter and a paramedic
• Recognition of the 20th anniversary of DS Containers
• A wastewater treatment plant project update
• Approvals for two annexation agreements
…and more.
Following the regular meeting, a special City Council Committee of the Whole meeting will be held to discuss the Brattle Group Draft Integrated Resource Plan.
📍 City Council Chambers, 100 N. Island Ave.
📄 View both complete agendas: bataviail.gov/AgendaCenter
