'Fixing' Oak Forest: What Would You Do?

Everyone has a grand plan of how to solve 's problems.

As news breaks about a  and , many people offer up their take on how to take on the city's problems—and solve them. It's often a reactive gesture; residents speak up only when something big goes down. 

But, why wait?

Oak Forest Patch would like to offer readers and residents a chance to interact on a specific topic each week. We'll feature this post on a recurring basis, and change out the topic each time. Before this, we've previously talked ,  and . 

The idea is to keep this civil, constructive and positive. Remember you're all in it for the same reasons—you want the best for Oak Forest. Just add your opinion by commenting below the story. You can reply directly to other users, or ask each other questions. Consider it a forum, and you have the floor.

We've come up with a few simple guidelines to keep in mind as you contribute. 

1. Talk to each other; don't yell. This is meant to foster healthy conversation about life in Oak Forest. This is a place open to brainstorming and collaborating. Be respectful of each other and your opinions.
2. Keep it civil. (Ties right in with number 1.) 
3. Keep it constructive. We know the problems. Let's talk solutions. Want a say in the future of your community? We're handing it to you on a silver platter.
4. Do your homework. Before you jump into the conversation, read around a bit on the site. We'll only suggest topics that we've done the legwork on. So check out all the "related stories" before throwing your opinion into the mix. You'll learn something and get something off your chest, all at once.
5. Don't make me suspend you. Follow our Terms of Use, and no one gets suspended. Piece of cake, right? 

AND NOW THAT WE'VE GOTTEN THE RULES OUT OF THE WAY ...

This week's question: What would you suggest to help the city recover from a $4.2 million shortfall in tax revenue? How would you bring business back to Oak Forest?

It's all yours, folks. Looking forward to what you have to say.