City of O’Fallon Illinois

5 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 downtown. While introducing new attractions, preserving O’Fallon’s rich history remains crucial. Litteken emphasizes the city’s commitment to fostering community ties reminiscent of old times. Collaborations with the Historical Preservation Society led to a museum’s lasting success, and a facade improvement program now offers matching grants to downtown property owners, ensuring the city’s charm remains intact. Fostering Community Spirit In the heart of O’Fallon, community events, and initiatives are pivotal in bringing residents together and encouraging a sense of unity. These events, ranging from festive celebrations to parades, showcase the city’s vibrant culture and strengthen the bond among its residents. Justin Randall, the city’s Community Development Director, sheds light on the city’s focus on community events, emphasizing the mayor’s vision. “Our mayor has been instrumental in reviving the traditional city picnic concept, which has now taken the form of ‘City Fest.’” He shares that City Fest has been celebrated every August for the past six years and shows the town’s commitment to community bonding. O’Fallon’s calendar is brimming with community events. Randall mentions the Rotary-sponsored Children’s Halloween Parade, the significant Veteran’s Day parade due to the nearby Air Force base, and other events like the homecoming parade that amplify the city’s celebratory spirit. During the holiday season, the Vine Street Market, typically a summer farmers market, morphs into the ‘Tinsel Around Town’ marketplace. The city buzzes with festive activities like carriage rides and carolers. Residential Growth and Integration O’Fallon’s residential landscape is evolving, with a keen focus on accommodating both its long-standing residents and newcomers, including those from the nearby Scott Air Force Base. Litteken provides insights into the relationship between Scott Air Force Base and O’Fallon’s residential scene. CI T Y OF O ’ FALLON, I LL INOIS