Vince Cassata

The special board meeting centered on the discussion and approval of the fiscal year 2025-2026 midyear budget, presented using a new format that ties budget items to the strategic plan goals due to the implementation of a new financial management software system. Key discussion points included the modernization of financial systems, which involved consolidating numerous old funds (like recreation, ESDA, and capital improvement funds) into fewer, more appropriate structures to enhance efficiency and auditor compliance. Specific revenue line items reviewed included increases in real estate transfer tax, food and beverage tax, and sales tax, partially offset by declines in cannabis sales tax and cable franchise fees. Expense categories discussed included personnel, contractual services, commodities, and debt service. The board also reviewed the substantial reduction in inter-fund transfers following the consolidation.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance led by representatives from the local Starbucks, highlighting four staff members who grew up in Glendale Heights. Trustee reports covered the announcement of warming centers due to extreme cold and updates from the park committee. A resident submitted positive feedback regarding village trucks assisting children with snow removal. Reports also addressed upcoming primary and midterm elections, upcoming Coffee with the Mayor and Board event, participation in an NIU survey, and a historic house meeting. Strategic work on village operations was mentioned. Community announcements included details for the next Coffee and Chat event, the launch of new village websites (glendaleheights.org and grre.org), and the implementation of Administrative Wednesdays by the Community Development Department. The Police Department introduced the "Raising Flags to New Heights" program benefiting the Kuanas Club, and reminded residents about checking on vulnerable neighbors during extreme weather. Leisure Services highlighted efforts to collect Valentine cards for hospitalized veterans, announced registration for the Mother Son and Daddy Daughter dances, and provided reminders on snow removal guidelines and winter parking restrictions. The Human Resources Manager noted current hiring efforts for various seasonal positions. Purchasing announced a recycling drive for broken and unused holiday lights. The Director of Marketing promoted the Glendale Heights Seasonal Market and presented awards for the Holiday in the Heights House Decorating Contest. Finally, representatives from ICNA Relief provided an overview of their nationwide, faith-based charity work, noting their local presence including a food pantry and a women's transitional house in Glendale Heights.

The meeting commenced with the Glendale Heights Chamber of Commerce leading the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by introductions from chamber representatives regarding their role in supporting the community's transition from survival to thriving. Board members provided updates from recent engagements, including the DMMC meeting and the DuPage Mayor's Managers Conference, where they discussed state legislation impacting the local level. Several community announcements were made, including details about upcoming 'Coffee and Chat' sessions, encouraging registration for the village's e-newsletter, and updates on warming shelters due to extreme weather conditions. Key initiatives highlighted included the 'Raising Flags to New Heights' program benefiting the Kuanas Club and registration for the new Inner Village co-ed youth volleyball league. The board received reminders about winter parking regulations. Furthermore, updates were provided on current hiring opportunities within the village and continued support for the Special Olympics Illinois Polar Plunge. Finally, the Finance Director provided information on the Senior Citizen Utility Tax Grant Program, and the board approved proclamations declaring February as Black History Month and American Heart Month, and recognizing the week of February 8th through 14th as National Salute to Veteran Patients Week. A presentation highlighted the success of the 'Valentine's for Veterans' program, which received hundreds of cards to be distributed to veterans in various Illinois facilities.

The meeting began with a presentation from DUCAP (DuPage County Area Project), whose director introduced members and discussed upcoming youth initiatives, specifically "Crochet and Cookies" in February and the "Internship for the Day" program for high school students to job shadow local professionals. The board also heard reports concerning the recent launch of new ADA accessible and mobile-friendly websites for the Village and the Leisure Services Department. Key operational updates included the implementation of "Administrative Wednesdays" by the Community Development Department, a reminder about proper snow removal and winter parking restrictions, information regarding Christmas tree collection, and collection for unused holiday lights. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to presenting the Chief's Award of Valor and a Life-Saving Award to two officers for their quick and decisive actions in rescuing three subjects from a vehicle submerged in icy water on December 14th. The Mayor expressed profound gratitude for their heroism. Announcements also covered upcoming events such as family dances and a seasonal market, as well as current hiring opportunities.

The meeting included recognition of the Glendale Heights Youth Baseball Softball 12 Youth Fall Softball Champions. Discussion topics included acknowledgments for Christmas lighting displays and snow command efforts. Trustees raised concerns regarding vehicles parked on the street during snow plowing, leading to a discussion about ticketing enforcement and residents utilizing park parking as an alternative. Updates were provided on community events such as the senior luncheon and a local ballet performance. Administrative announcements detailed business license renewal deadlines, changes to Community Development administrative hours, holiday food and light recycling drives, and registration for a house decorating contest. Changes to January 2026 meeting dates due to a holiday were also announced.