Claudia Gabrels

The board meeting agenda includes opening the session, roll call, the pledge of allegiance, and public comments. Key discussion topics scheduled involve reports from the Supervisor (including bus service and general assistance reports) and departmental reports (Secretary and Roads Department). New business items include monthly financial and investment reports for information only, a presentation from WAYS, a discussion regarding bus service, and confirmation of the next meeting date.

DuPage County is preparing its 2026 Annual Action Plan and an amendment to its Citizen Participation Plan. The Annual Action Plan outlines the use of approximately $5.56 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the Community Development Block Grant, Emergency Solutions Grant, and HOME Investment Partnerships Act programs in FY2026. This funding is dedicated to developing viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanding economic opportunities primarily for low- and moderate-income persons. The Citizen Participation Plan amendment seeks to align policies with regulatory requirements.

The board meeting included a levy presentation by the Winfield Township Assessor, providing information about expected funds and disbursement timelines. The proposed budget was discussed, noting the future need for a grant manager and software, with a decision made to pay an assistant for basic accounting work in the interim. Logo options for the website were reviewed, and modifications were requested. Small changes to the needs assessment were discussed, with distribution plans to be addressed at the next meeting. A focus meeting was postponed until after the holidays. Other topics included a draft application for funding, a review of the job description of a part-time staff member, and a board vacancy. Updates were provided on the bank account and the Association of Community Mental Health Authority application. Restrictions were placed on Google Drive access to prevent OMA violations.

The board discussed the mission statement and guiding principles, year-one goals, and the community needs assessment survey. They considered the distribution of the needs assessment, potential guests for a future meeting, and a proposed budget. A report was given on a meeting with the Wayne Township Supervisor. The board discussed and approved membership for the Association of Community Mental Health Authorities of Illinois. They also discussed employment of part-time staff and administrative employee responsibilities. The board will begin a discussion about logos, marketing pieces, and a website. Mark Malay will be invited to a future meeting to discuss the levy this board will receive.

The meeting included discussions on the structure of the board, review of an application for a board position, and the unanimous approval of a new board chair. Consensus was reached that the Board would operate as a committee of the whole. Plans for a workshop focused on the budget and a postcard to be sent to Township residents were discussed. Members were reminded to complete OMA training. The board also discussed information shared by Milton Township, developing a Year One plan, and a Community Needs Assessment. A meeting with Wayne Township 708 Board was scheduled. Other topics included budget development, policy and human resources, publicity, communication, and the website. The board discussed obtaining a general email address and creating board member bios. The board accepted the resignation of Erick Pfaucht and discussed a community round table. Members will submit gathered information to the Chair and Secretary by September 2nd.