Maria Teresa Forrest

The committee reviewed and recommended approval for several petitions, including a Special Use Permit for a private airstrip, a map amendment for a residential development in the Aero Lake Estates subdivision, and a Special Use Permit for a commercial solar facility. The committee also adopted watershed-based plans as amendments to the county's Stormwater Management Plan. Additionally, the committee discussed updates regarding state standards for wind, solar, and energy storage systems, approved an amendment to a Special Use Permit regarding construction timelines for the Red Maple Solar Project, and addressed an applicant name change on a prior solar project permit.

The board discussed several items, including reports from the Treasurer and the 9-1-1 Coordinator regarding audit status, monthly financial reports, and the payment of bills. Updates were provided on the CAD committee progress, grant statuses for indoor mapping, and legislative developments, including strategic planning and CESSA protocol updates. The board also elected a new Vice-Chairman, approved the purchase of dual-band radio equipment for the DeKalb Sheriff, and received updates on NG911 system configurations and national call processing standards. Additionally, the board addressed infrastructure concerns, such as a failed tornado siren, and reviewed board vacancies.

The committee discussed the Somonauk Creek grant and watershed planning, including potential sites for steering committee meetings and marketing strategies with Northern Illinois University. There was a review of 3D imaging technology using Helicopter Time-Domain Electromagnetics for subsurface surveying. The committee also reviewed proposed updates to the County Stormwater Ordinance, focusing on water quality, Best Management Practices, and the implementation of volume capture methods for new developments.

The committee discussed board member attendance policies, including the impact of extended seasonal absences on quorum and compliance, and drafted potential bylaw revisions. The committee finalized the 2026-2027 slate of officers. Members also deliberated on conducting a countywide behavioral health needs assessment and reviewed logistics for an upcoming board retreat, including location and focus areas like strategic planning and relationship building. Additionally, the office report highlighted achievements in community event attendance, agency outreach, and successful media and social media campaigns.

The committee discussed several items, including an office report on the Legacy Wall project and property tax distributions. Financial actions taken included the approval of agency and office claims. The committee reviewed financial strategy and grant year 2027 contract updates, including corrective action for Elder Care Services. Discussions also covered grant recommendations for Opioid Settlement Funds and the CEBiB program. New business included a wrap-up of the grant year 2027 cycle, and the approval of fund reallocation requests for Safe Passage and DeKalb ROE. Additionally, updates on one-year and three-year plan goals and behavioral health survey responses were provided.