The Hoffman Estates Public Works Department opened its facility to residents for the department's annual open house and pumpkin smash, offering demonstrations, equipment displays and hands-on activities. "I'm the public works director for Hoffman Estates," said Joe Neville, who welcomed attendees to the 2025 event and described activities including a pumpkin drop from a grapple truck.

Neville said visitors could take snowplow rides to see the operator's view, climb on loaders and backhoes, and tour a Vactor truck and water-main simulation. The event is held each November and is intended to familiarize residents — particularly children — with public works operations and the equipment used to maintain roads and utilities.

Attendees praised the giveaways and the event's family-friendly programming. Organizers invited residents to return next year and thanked staff for hosting the community outreach event.