John Berning

The meeting included several key discussions and approvals. Clerk communications covered the mailing of income study questionnaires, a request to the DOT for a speed reduction review on STH 11, the posting of utility and other unpaid bills to the tax roll, and actions taken regarding building roof leaks, resulting in accepting a bid from Great Lakes Roofing. Bids are being obtained for cleaning Village Hall vents due to odors. The board considered raising board pay. Public Works reported on Dollar General's snow responsibility, DOT project completion, a water main break on 18th Street, and informed parties about a cross-connection mailing. The board approved bills and financials for October 2025. Final payment approval was granted for G-Pro Excavating's infrastructure improvement project, pending receipt of final documents. A public hearing was held concerning Final Assessment Resolutions related to improvements on 19th Street, including sewer, water main, paving, and sidewalk replacement. The request to subdivide a 20-acre parcel was forwarded to the plan commission for January 2026. Payments to contractors Michel's Power and J&R Underground for the DOT electrical project were approved, as was a resolution for a General Obligation Promissory Note of $1,400,250.00. Grass cutting bids were reviewed, with references to be sought before award. A motion to donate $10,000 from Memorial Park to the American Legion failed for lack of a second, with a suggestion to first inquire about leasing the park. CDA funds were approved for maintenance on the Village Hall roof and vent cleaning. A correction to the September 17, 2025, minutes regarding approved minutes was adopted. An operator's license for Arielle Cupps was approved with a 5-1-1 vote. The 2026 budget was reviewed prior to the December 4 meeting.

The agenda for the regular meeting includes standard items such as roll call, pledge of allegiance, public input, and reports from village officers, including Public Works and Law Enforcement. Financial discussions cover outstanding bills and November financials. Unfinished business addresses the grass cutting bid and a recommendation from the Memorial Park committee to donate funds to the Hazel Green American Legion. New Business includes two closed sessions: one for conferring with legal counsel regarding litigation concerning a dilapidated structure at 2615 Detroit Street and an abatement agreement breach, and another to consider the employment matter related to accepting a resignation. Open session actions may include accepting Leadmine Street, purchasing a new squad car, selling a 2018 Dodge Durango, discussing the compost/burn site, approving election officials for 2026-27, managing a CD maturity, handling an operator's license, reviewing winter decorations purchases, and accepting a crossing guard's resignation.

The meeting covered several topics, including updates on community-wide income survey for CDBG funding, proposed speed limit changes, and property maintenance. The board discussed and approved the budget for fireworks in 2026, Delta 3 to stake lots in Country Valley Heights, purchase radars for both squads, Johnson Block to perform the 2025 audit. The board also discussed a lawn mower and went into a closed session to consider compensation of public employees, which resulted in raises for various positions.