James Begy

This Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan for the Village of Lemont establishes a comprehensive framework to evaluate and enhance the accessibility of its public pedestrian facilities, pedestrian traffic signals, and related infrastructure. The plan details the inventory and assessment of existing conditions, outlines administrative requirements, public outreach efforts, and design standards. It develops a prioritization methodology based on the physical condition of assets and proximity to pedestrian traffic generators. The plan's objective is to create long-range strategies for continuous improvement, aiming to eliminate identified barriers over an estimated 20-year period, ensuring all facilities are accessible for people with disabilities.

This document outlines the Village of Lemont's strategic vision, focusing on four key priorities: Financial Stability, Operational Excellence, Workforce Development, and Community Pride. The plan details specific outcomes and targets for each priority, including securing external funding, implementing new water/sewer rates, enhancing water supply, deploying technology, optimizing staffing, fostering community attractiveness, retaining businesses, and expanding recreational opportunities. The initiatives aim to maintain responsible financial stewardship, deliver high-quality public services, maintain critical infrastructure, and invest in the future of the community.

The Village Board meeting discussed and approved a new contract with Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. for refuse, recyclables, and landscape waste services. The new agreement includes weekly trash and recycling pickup, weekly yard waste collection from April to December, one bulk item per week, and an at-your-door special waste recycling program. The contract also covers services for Village facilities and special events. The new rates will be lower than the current rates for residents, with a continued senior discount. The agreement includes an annual escalator of 4.5%.

The strategic plan outlines the vision, mission, and core values for the Village of Lemont. The vision is for a thriving, family-oriented, and fiscally-sound community with diverse opportunities and a welcoming environment. The mission focuses on maintaining the community's quality, character, and heritage while fostering growth through cost-effective and professional services. Core values include transparency, enthusiasm, integrity/respect, continuous improvement, and teamwork/collaboration.

The committee discussed the leasing of Consumers Quarry by Ozinga Concrete, noting the Village Trustees' opposition and the unlikelihood of a zoning change. A report on Citgo-sponsored quarry restoration work highlighted the success of volunteer efforts. The committee addressed the allocation of remaining budget funds and a Comed grant, totaling approximately $15,000, and recommended exploring cost-effective options for a boat dock at the new boat ramp. Discussions also included potential collaboration with the High School for quarry path landscaping improvements and the formalization of committee membership and voting rights.