Cook County briefs

Plane noise reduction sought

The O'Hare Noise Compatibility Commission has appealed to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration to reduce noise for residents living near O'Hare International Airport. Air traffic on the airport's new north runway, opened in November, has resulted in a surge of resident complaints as flight tracks shift, according to a statement released by Arlene Mulder, Arlington Heights mayor and commission chairwoman. The commission wants noise standards to be updated to take into account things like the frequency of flights. Mulder also requested that the FAA document all nighttime events that occur after 10 p.m. on the new runway. Official reports on aircraft noise levels from the new runway are available on the Department of Aviation Web site at flychicago.com, and on oharenoise.org. The commission's Technical Committee will review these reports at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 27, at Mount Prospect's Village Board Room, 50 S. Emerson St. A formal presentation will be held at ONCC's monthly meeting at 8 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6 at Rosewood Banquets, 9421 W. Higgins Rd., Rosemont. These meetings are open to the public.

Deer Park OK's hotel tax

Deer Park has adopted a 5 percent hotel tax in anticipation of a new hotel set to open later this year. A Hampton Inn is under construction along Lake-Cook Road that village officials said it on schedule to open this spring. Five percent was the highest tax a non-home-rule community like Deer Park can implement without having to seek voter approval. Village Administrator Jim Connors said there was an old, 4-percent hotel tax on the books but it had been inactive since there are no hotels currently operating in town. That was repealed and replaced with the new tax ordinance.

Jaycees provide financial aid

The Palatine Jaycees are accepting applications from Palatine residents and local community organizations in need of financial assistance. Awards through the Jaycees' community donations program have in the past ranged from $100 to $5,000. Past requests from individuals include money for bills, clothing and housing. Proposals are due Friday, Feb. 13. For more information, go to palatinejaycees.org or call (847) 604-0288.

Hoffman update breakfast

The Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce will host the 2009 Mayor's Update Breakfast from 8-9:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, at the Stonegate Conference and Banquet Centre, 2401 W. Higgins Road in Hoffman Estates. Hoffman Estates Mayor William D. McLeod will be the speaker of honor, and a full, hot breakfast will be served. Tickets are $20 for chamber members; $30 for nonmembers. Register by Tuesday, Feb. 3. Advanced registration strongly recommended. Call the chamber for tickets at (847) 781-9100.