Charles Howell

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Key new business items included the discussion and agreement on the new policy review schedule for 2026-2027. The Board also reviewed Administration Policies concerning Mission, By-Laws, Financial Procedures, and FOIA. Furthermore, the Board discussed and approved banning a minor patron until July 27, 2027, due to violent behavior on library property. Lastly, there was a discussion regarding the library's participation in the Oak Forest "Fleadh" parade scheduled for March 7, 2026. Correspondence included a thank you note from a board member.

The meeting included the appointment of an Acting Secretary following a motion and second. Key discussions involved the sidewalk along Central Avenue and Independence Street, and a presentation scheduled for an upcoming In Service Day. The board enacted the Truth in Taxation Ordinance No. 12-06 and authorized the associated posting and publication of the Notice of Public Hearing for the Levy Ordinance, noting the new levy would be 3.3% higher than the previous year. Additionally, the board discussed and approved the Audit Results, including authorization for electronic filing with Cook County. The board also approved changes to the Patron Behavior Policy and adopted Resolution No. 187 concerning these policy changes. In Old Business, preparations for the Community Awareness Fair were discussed. During the Open Forum, concerns were raised regarding the availability of public-use computers at the library and the upcoming changes to the Open Meeting Act taking effect in January 2013.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda items, which encompassed the Treasurer's Report, approval of bills, General Fund Income and Disbursement Report, monthly staff reports, and committee reports. New business involved the enactment of Ordinance #25-06, which abates taxes on the library's bonds for levy year 2025. Additionally, the board enacted Ordinance #25-07, setting the regular meeting dates for 2026 after amending an incorrect date. Old business consisted of a review of the FY26 Per Capita Grant requirements across several standards including Human Resources, Information Services, Marketing and Promotion, Programming, Safety & Emergency, and Technology. The session concluded with an update on upcoming holiday programs.

The public hearing convened to address the Explanation of Budget and Appropriation Ordinance No. 25-03. No questions were raised by the audience during the designated period.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda items, which covered the Treasurer's Report, approval of bills, general fund reports, staff reports, and committee reports. New business focused heavily on fiscal matters, including the enactment of Levy Ordinance No. 25-04, the enactment of the Certificate of Compliance with Truth in Taxation Law, the enactment of an ordinance authorizing a reduction of the tax extension for Levy Year 2025, and the enactment of the Annual Statement of Revenues and Expenditures. The Board also approved the Annual Audit Report and authorized its publication availability. Furthermore, the open enrollment benefits package for 2026 was approved, maintaining the library's contribution levels. Old business involved a review of FY26 Per Capita Grant requirements. Updates were provided on the HVAC project and upcoming staff/holiday events. A request was made for the Director to follow up with the auditor regarding GASB accounting practices with Quickbooks.