Michael J. Coleman

The commission held a public hearing regarding a request for a special use permit for the Credit Union One Amphitheater to allow for the construction of permanent festoon lighting as part of a larger renovation project. The lighting, intended to improve guest safety in turf areas, was reviewed in relation to village zoning codes concerning light pollution, uplighting, and permitted sign types. Additionally, the commissioners questioned the necessity of the request and the physical positioning of the lighting within the venue to ensure minimal light spillover to adjacent properties.

The meeting included a presentation by Nixon Embroidery and Walk Your Plans, followed by the recognition of a boating safety class and the presentation of a video regarding the annual Irish Parade. The board adopted a resolution designating the week of April 12th through April 18th, 2026, as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. Additionally, the board appointed Anthony Domaniani to the position of diesel mechanic and discussed the appointment of a property and evidence custodian.

The Board conducted several personnel and administrative items, including a business spotlight presentation for Arenello's Pizza and the appointment of a new Finance Director, Human Resource Specialist, Communications Manager, Executive Administrative Assistant, Special Events Manager, and Harmony Square Supervisor. Additionally, the Board adopted a resolution recognizing Public Service Recognition Week and approved the annual budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Finally, the Board approved the dissolution of a long-standing special assessments fund, transferring its balances to the water retail fund as part of ongoing efforts to simplify financial ledgers.

The committee discussed several key items, including a village procurement update regarding new internal procedures and upcoming RFQs for engineering and landscaping services. They reviewed the fiscal year 2027 draft budget, approved an ordinance for a collateralized deposit agreement with Heartland Bank and Trust, and discussed the dissolution of a special assessment fund. Additionally, the committee addressed fiscal year 2027 pay scale ordinances for fire and other staff, reviewed a collateral assignment for Harmony Square, and expressed opposition to state legislation impacting local zoning and home rule powers. They also approved an intergovernmental agreement regarding easements with Kirby School District 140, authorized an agreement for cybersecurity software, and discussed the purchase of a synthetic ice rink and materials for Harmony Square.

The public hearing focused on the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget. Key discussion topics included a financial overview highlighting a healthy general fund, projected surpluses, revenue increases due to tax levy changes, and capital improvement fund allocations. The session also covered personnel expenditure updates, the repayment of inter-fund loans, improvements in budget monitoring processes, and the transition of specific fund classifications from capital to operational.