University Park swears in new police officer, donates to Lions; residents raise traffic concerns on University Parkway

The Village of University Park board ceremonially swore in Lionel Smith as a police officer during its Dec. 2 meeting and presented a donation to the University Park Lions.

Mayor Rudez administered the oath and the newly sworn officer recited the pledge to support the U.S. and Illinois constitutions and to faithfully discharge the duties of the office. Several trustees and attendees offered congratulatory remarks.

Following the swearing-in, the board presented cards and an early holiday donation to the University Park Lions. Bridget Simmons, speaking on behalf of the Lions, thanked the board and noted the organization served about 140 children this season, announced spring ball and a 50-year celebration next year and asked the village to help publicize events.

During public comment Simmons also raised longstanding traffic backups on University Parkway in the morning and evening that she said extend to Cicero Avenue and create difficulty getting to the expressway. The mayor and staff said they were aware of the backups and had deployed officers to direct traffic; the village manager and mayor said they would continue to look for longer-term options such as traffic signals or improved traffic control.

Other residents thanked Public Works for recent snow removal and urged clearer advance distribution of meeting materials so the public can better understand agenda items.