West Cook News

Diana Dominick, liaison for the Town of Cicero, opened a recent business owners meeting on behalf of Town President Larry Dominick and the Board of Trustees. “Your businesses are invaluable to Cicero’s growth and community spirit,” she said. “Today is about making connections. You’ll have the opportunity to meet licensing officers, ask questions, network with fellow business owners, and learn about programs that can help you thrive.”

Business License Director Ismael Vargas spoke after Dominick, highlighting the town’s ongoing efforts to support local businesses and streamline licensing processes. He expressed gratitude to President Dominick and other officials for their continued backing. “This is a blessing, to come together as a community and have these conversations,” he said. “Our goal is to make life easier for business owners and ensure you know where to turn for help.”

Officials from various departments introduced themselves at the event, including Superintendent of Police Tom Boyle; Deputy Superintendent Gene Talsma; Assistant Chief Steven Schwar; Lieutenant Bryan McDonald; Collector Fran Reitz; Priscilla Santiago from Environmental Health; Jose Arias from the Building Department; Superintendent Derek Dominick from Public Works; and Deputy Dominic Schullo from the Cicero Police Department. Each official committed to assisting local businesses.

A key part of the meeting was a presentation by Deputy Superintendent Dominic Schullo on Cicero Police Department’s new Real Time Crime Center. The system aims to improve public safety by providing real-time information such as vehicle identification and incident tracking directly to officers in the field. Attendees watched a video demonstration showing how it works. Superintendent Thomas Boyle encouraged businesses to connect their security cameras with the town’s system: “This program is already helping us solve cases faster and prevent crime,” Boyle explained. “By working together, we can keep Cicero safe for both residents and businesses.”

The agenda also included financial resources available through Huntington Bank’s Lift Local Business Program, presented by branch manager Julie Cavallero. The program offers loans, planning assistance, and funding opportunities focused especially on minority- and women-owned businesses. Cavallero stated: “Our goal is to be with you from start to finish,” she said. “We want to help you achieve your financial goals and grow your business.”

The meeting concluded with an open networking session between business owners and town officials.

President Larry Dominick closed the event by commending participants’ engagement while reaffirming his administration's commitment: “Our businesses are the backbone of Cicero,” he said. “Working together, we will continue to make this town safe, prosperous, and welcoming for all.”