Chris DePalma

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance. The primary discussion and action item involved the approval of a contract for the Jacob Grossman Aquatic Center, which was carried by a roll call vote of three AYES and no NAYS. The meeting concluded with an adjournment motion.

The key discussions centered on the appointment of Bruce Piepenbrink to fill the vacancy in the Office of Township Assessor, followed by his administration of the Oath of Office. Reports covered successful holiday food drive operations, including providing 135 meals, and the welcome of the new Assessor. The Township Manager provided updates on building projects, including pending trim completion, gutter deicing system installation, and planned landscaping with native plants and a rain garden. Staff changes included hiring a new Highway staff member with CDL knowledge and an Executive Coordinator, Annika Moody, to manage accounts payable and other duties. Updates were provided on pool plaster redoing and upcoming roof work. Camp registration dates for the pool season were announced. The Mental Health Board is set to evaluate twenty-four applications with $230,000 remaining to allocate. Four Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests were received. The Board approved expenditures totaling $312,720.16 across various funds. New business included a discussion on the Aquatic Center Pool Finish Improvement project, on which no action was taken, and the appointment of Chris DePalma as a delegate to the Illinois Association of Park Districts Annual Business Meeting.

The agenda includes discussion and potential approval of several key items: a resolution authorizing the release of certain closed session minutes, the township levy, and the Vernon Township holiday schedule for 2026. Additionally, the board will consider the creation of an Administrative Coordinator position and the appointment of individuals to the Vernon Township Community Mental Health Board.

The meeting addressed concerns from residents regarding a development project, including traffic, road conditions, and school impact. The Supervisor reported on community support for the Food Pantry and attendance at local events. A discussion was held regarding the Assessor's term transition and a plan being developed. The board reviewed and approved expenditures across various funds and discussed the estimated levy for Tax Year 2025, noting a minimal impact on residents due to a 3.25% increase.

The meeting included a moment of silence to recognize the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Updates were provided on the digital newsletter and the completion of Open Meetings Act (OMA) training by board members. The Township Manager gave an update on building construction, including roof work, exterior lights, and addressing leaks. Landscaping and drainage issues were discussed, and the impact of geothermal heating and cooling on utility bills was raised. A refund check from the Department of Revenue was mentioned. Reports covered the closure of the pool season, new caseworkers hired with Mental Health Board funds, and a cereal drive. Two additional grants were approved for JCC and NAMI CCNS, and the Mental Health Minute is now live on the mental health board website. One Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was received. Expenditures in various funds were approved.