Bruce Vander Veen

The Village Board meeting focused on various municipal business items, including the adoption of the 2026 Annual Budget and the setting of the property tax levy. Discussions included the purchase of a new ambulance, replacement of the 1963 Elgin Street Sweeper, updates on public works projects such as storm sewer and water main replacements, and the review of financial reports. Additionally, the Board addressed code enforcement, library budget and activities, the establishment of a parking lot joint use agreement, and employee compensation adjustments.

The board addressed several administrative and operational items, including amendments to the 2025 schedule of fees and no-parking zone ordinances. Discussions covered contract approvals, property maintenance status, code enforcement reports, and various committee updates, including finance, public works, and library board activities. The meeting also addressed site plan revisions for local businesses and resolved to continue discussions on utility extensions and senior center rental agreements in closed session.

The commission reviewed and acted on several zoning and development items. Major actions included the approval of a zoning map amendment for parcel QA2963 00001 to permit an off-site parking lot for Professional Power Products (3Pi), alongside the approval of a temporary parking lot lease at West Park. The commission also approved an amended conditional use permit for the 448 W. Madison Street site, allowing for modifications to employee counts and parking requirements, and authorized the issuance of a final occupancy permit for the site's expansion. Additionally, a conditional use permit was granted for an accessory structure at 206 S. Walworth St, and an extraterritorial certified survey map was approved. Several items were tabled, including a conditional use permit for a monopole height exception and multiple certified survey maps pending further documentation.

The board discussed several items, including a tabled motion regarding the razing, well abandonment, and asbestos inspection for the structure at 28 N. Third Street. The board approved contractual invoices, the treasurer's report, and monthly bills. Professional services from raSmith for the Sweet Road Rehabilitation Project were approved, as was the selection of a new service provider for municipal garbage and recycling collection. Additionally, the board authorized the Diamond Communications Tower lease, pending attorney approval, and granted an Outdoor Special Permit for a benefit ride hosted by the Thim Blue Line LEMC.

The board meeting agenda includes a presentation on the 2025 Water and Sewer Rate Study, Phase 1, and the consideration of Resolution No. 2025-01 regarding a Conditional Use Permit for indoor commercial entertainment. Committee reports cover financial invoice reviews, public works projects, and personnel matters, including updates to the public works superintendent job description, the implementation of a new employee evaluation form, and a proposed health insurance cash in-lieu option. The administrator's report includes updates on village projects and upcoming election logistics. Additionally, the board will convene in closed session to conduct a performance review of the Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer.