Kaprice Whittington

The agenda includes the review of financial reports, specifically the approval of payable bills, acceptance of the March 2026 financial report, and an update regarding Illinois Funds. The librarian's report covers building and maintenance activities, lighting updates, and a planned library closure. Unfinished business items consist of the approval of the Five-Year Plan for 2026-2031 and personnel policy revisions regarding employee classification, compensatory time, and overtime compliance. Additionally, there is a new business item regarding patron behavior.

The City Council meeting included a proclamation declaring January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Financial matters were addressed, including the review and acceptance of the audited Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and the approval of financial warrants. The council also authorized a joint funding agreement for engineering costs for the NW Trail project, accepted property deeds, passed an ordinance establishing fire lane definitions, and approved a budget adjustment for housing grants. Additionally, the council authorized staff to initiate a text amendment concerning uses in the Retail Revitalization Overlay District and held an executive session to discuss collective negotiating matters and pending litigation.

The commission reviewed and approved a special use permit application for the Southern Illinois Irish Festival at Evergreen Park. Additionally, they approved an application for a Not-For-Profit Special Event Retailer's License for the Nature On Tap event held at the Oakland Nature Preserve, including provisions for a rain date.

The council discussed various city matters, including support for allowing grocery stores to sell hard liquor and updates on workforce training programs. Proclamations were issued for Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Kamille Smith-David Day, National Crime Victims' Rights Week, and Arbor Day. A public hearing was held regarding the proposed FY 2027 City Budget, during which community members provided input on funding for agencies, homelessness, and the need for more transparency in budget narratives. The council reviewed several consent items, including warrants, fuel tax fund allocations for street rehabilitation, and professional services agreements for housing and redevelopment projects. Additionally, the council discussed the proposed budget and five-year capital improvement program, specifically addressing concerns about the Assistant City Manager position, stormwater utility fees, and the funding of community organizations.

The board meeting agenda included several administrative and financial items, such as the treasurer's report, submission of annual affidavits, and member information forms. Key business topics included conducting elections for active and retiree representative members, selecting board positions, and reviewing a new membership application. The board also addressed professional service engagement letters for the upcoming audit and actuarial services, as well as formal resolutions for account representatives and authorized agents for investment funds. Additionally, the meeting covered invoice processing, professional training, a review of recent pension legislation involving benefit changes, and a review of closed meeting minutes.