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The Chicago Ridge Village Board approved three new license plate readers and plans for a farmers market at its Jan. 14 meeting.
The Chicago Ridge Police Department is adding to its crime-fighting arsenal with three license plate reader cameras.
Police Chief Jim Jarolimek discussed the cameras with Mayor Jack Lind and trustees, noting the $29,000 cost was covered by a $32,000 state Organized Retail Theft grant, requiring no taxpayer money.
Two cameras will monitor Chicago Ridge Mall and the Commons at 95th and Ridgeland Avenue, while a third will be placed on Harlem Avenue.
The department will also spend $9,000 on the Osprey Cloud platform, funded through the asset forfeiture program, for managing data.
“This preserves photographic evidence, showing where vehicles were and are heading,” Jarolimek said. The trial program will help coordinate with other departments.
Trustee Ed Kowalski said the cameras were essential for addressing “no-chase policies” that limit police pursuits for safety reasons.
Additionally, the board approved licenses for King of Falafel & Shawarma, a restaurant offering gluten- and dairy-free Mediterranean food, and two related food trucks. The business will open soon at 6058 W. 111th St.
Trustee Elaine Davenport announced a farmers market will be held at Chicago Ridge Mall starting May 31, running two Saturdays a month through October. Vendors, including King of Falafel food trucks, are welcome to participate.
Those interested in the farmers market can contact the village at 708-425-7700.
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