Brian Bennett

The proceedings included an interview with police candidate Matthew Britton prior to the commencement of the regular meeting. During the executive session, the board discussed personnel matters, specifically noting that Cesar Chaidez declined employment with the Winfield Police Department. The commissioners reviewed the results of background investigations and decided to send letters to candidates who failed the background interview and/or psychological exam. The board expressed support for extending a conditional offer of employment to Matthew Britton, contingent upon passing the medical, psychological, polygraph, and POWER tests.

The Commission reviewed and approved the agenda and minutes for the meeting. Key discussions focused on the upcoming Winfield Winter Wonderful Fest, including scheduling activities such as snacks with Santa, ice sculpting, and a tree lighting ceremony, as well as the need for volunteers and a photographer. The Commission also began preparations for Winfield's Riverwalk Music Night 2025, identifying potential dates while avoiding conflicts with other local events. Discussions on the music night included the budget for bands (anticipated at $40,000) and sound/lighting (anticipated at $10,000), as well as requirements for food truck vendors. A survey regarding band selection is scheduled to be distributed.

The meeting included correspondence and audience participation concerning TIF 2 Updates, where the Village is preparing a response brief against School District 34's submission. The Board held an Executive Session to discuss the Employment Agreement for the Village Manager. Key actions on the Consent Agenda included the approval of bills and appointments to the Public Works Committee. In non-consent agenda items, the Board approved a resolution appointing Evan K. Summers as Village Manager and subsequently approved the resolution approving the Manager's Employment Agreement. An ordinance was passed to increase the number of Class C-2 Liquor Licenses and issue one to Nala Mart, Inc., with conditions including electronic ID scanning. Furthermore, the Board authorized the use of $2.5 million from Capital Funds to purchase property at 27W353 and 27W375 Jewell Road, to be reimbursed by TIF District No. 2 increment, and approved the Agreement of Purchase and Sale for these properties. The Board also adopted an ordinance amending Village Code to substitute the State's 1% grocery sales tax, effective January 1, 2026, and approved an ordinance increasing the Village's non-home rule sales tax from 0.75% to 1.0%. Finally, resolutions were approved for an Intergovernmental Agreement concerning Emergency Dispatch Radio Systems and the execution of vendor quotes for new Audio-Visual Hardware at Riverwalk Park.

The meeting included discussions on the upcoming band series and the MCC's role in writing a release for the Daily Herald and developing a web landing page for the music events. There was a discussion regarding the distinction between village events and village-sponsored events. The MCC discussed Village Board feedback on the banner policy draft, particularly the Village Board's recommendation for fee waivers. The MCC members also discussed the Community Pulse and Village engagement with the community. Scott Young created the Music Night logo. The Library, the Greater Chamber of Commerce, and the Park District were eager to collaborate with the MCC.

The Winfield Village Board of Trustees meeting will cover various topics, including a proclamation recognizing Memorial Day, TIF 2 updates, and several consent agenda items such as approving minutes from previous meetings, payments of bills, and agreements for the Winfield Riverwalk Music Nights, Farmers Market, Greater Winfield Chamber Car Show, Winfield Criterium and Summerfest, and Winfield School District 34 Back to School Ice Cream Social. Non-consent agenda items include approving a resolution for a third amendment to a tax increment financing redevelopment agreement, a contract renewal for plan review and inspection services, financial support for the Winfield Criterium and Summerfest, music performance contracts for the Summer Concert Series, and the purchase and installation of entryway signs. The meeting will also include trustee comments, reports from various village officials, and a Committee of the Whole session to review a professional services proposal for the design of the Winfield Town Center Plaza.