The City of Wood Dale is a northwest suburban community of approximately 13,000 residents. Incorporated in 1928, it became a city in 1970. Wood Dale has a daytime population of over 35,000. The City is surrounded by three golf courses and many acres of forest preserves. The City's proximity to Chicago, O'Hare Airport and several major interstate highways, as well as numerous shopping areas and restaurants make Wood Dale an ideal place for families and businesses alike. The City has a history of economic progress and is highly desirable because of its large acres of open space, outstanding Park District and School District facilities, award winning Police Department and customer focused city services. The City of Wood Dale offers all the benefits of a modern urbanized city, while also keeping some of it’s small town charm. The City has operated under the council-manager form of government for the past 30+ years. Eight aldermen elected from four wards and a mayor elected at large see to the needs of Wood Dale residents while a professional city manager and staff see to day to day operations. The City is currently involved in numerous projects to improve the look, safety and quality of life in and around town.