Jamie Smith

The Board of Trustees discussed and approved the renewal of the municipal software contract with Dacra Tech to ensure continued operational continuity. Additionally, the Board authorized a Professional Engineering Services Agreement with Baxter & Woodman for the 11110 3rd Street Depressional Storage Drainage Project and a contract with Strand Associates for construction-related services for the wastewater treatment plant digester blower replacements. Other topics included an update on the Village's transition to the new BS&A software system and remarks regarding Student Government Day and local historical commemoration efforts.

The Board discussed various administrative and operational items. Key actions included the approval of consent agenda items such as rock salt purchasing, special event permits, and fireworks display enhancements. The Board adopted a resolution opposing House Bill 5626, citing concerns over municipal land use and zoning authority. A Special Use Permit for outdoor storage expansion was approved for a local business. Several contracts were awarded or extended, including engineering services for development specifications and building code permit processes, a mosquito control program, a pond maintenance contract, and a traffic signal maintenance agreement. The meeting also included an executive session regarding real estate and litigation matters.

The board discussed a concept review for the proposed Townhomes at Belle Oak Woods development, addressing concerns regarding rezoning, site plans, and parking. Additionally, the board reviewed a proposed ordinance to formalize the Community Affairs Commission, aiming to update its structure and advisory role. The meeting also included a discussion on amending the electric vehicle ordinance to clarify and define acceptable streets for golf cart operation. Finally, an executive session was held to address personnel and legal matters.

The Board of Trustees reviewed several proposals, including a request for rezoning and a special use permit for the Rails of Mokena residential development and a conceptual proposal for the Wolf Landings subdivision involving annexation and rezoning. Both proposals were discussed regarding traffic, safety, and infrastructure concerns, and neither was recommended to advance to the Planning Commission. Additionally, the Board reviewed projections for the Refuse Fund and the Special Tax Allocation Fund for the upcoming fiscal year and reached a consensus to continue the 'It's a Wonderful Life' theme for the 2026 holiday season decorations.

The Board discussed several conceptual development proposals, including a rezoning request for a townhome-style project at LaPorte Point, amendments to a Planned Unit Development for the Corporate Corridors North industrial property, and a request from Action Behavior Centers to reduce parking spaces for an outdoor playground. Additionally, the Board reviewed procurement plans for the Fiscal Year 2027 fleet and discussed terms for a Sales Tax Incentive Agreement with Midwest Furniture Liquidators. A closed session was held regarding personnel matters and investments.