Stookey Township

The quarterly meetings focused on MS4 permit requirements, including public education and outreach, illicit discharge detection and elimination, construction site runoff control, and post-construction management. Discussions included updates on contact information, the submission of notices of intent for changes in operators, and preparations for upcoming MS4 audits conducted by the Illinois EPA. The group reviewed past training events and scheduled future meetings to coordinate data collection, annual reporting, and permit renewal strategies.

The committee discussed several upcoming community events, including a breakfast and egg hunt with potential for future fundraising. Updates were provided on grant opportunities, specifically regarding the PARC grant forms and an application for a tree giveaway, which will involve planting at Stookey Park and the athletic park. Pickleball court progress was reviewed, covering the removal of old dugouts, survey completion, asphalt curing timelines, and the selection of specific court colors. Additional operational updates included the setup of a batting cage, needs for weed killer and mulch, and a report on increased park funding due to a rise in EAV.

The committee discussed code enforcement issues, including ongoing work regarding various properties, maintenance concerns at the Woodcliffe apartments, and updates on demolition bids for problem properties. The meeting also addressed street lighting, noting no new requests, and considered several resident nominations for the Stookey Standout award.

The committee discussed ongoing code enforcement issues regarding several derelict properties, noting both persistent problems and recent successes in property compliance. Regarding street lighting, the committee decided to cancel a request for decorative lights due to lack of resident follow-through and reported a malfunctioning light to the utility provider. Additionally, the committee updated its policy on the Stookey Standout award, moving to an on-demand nomination basis.

The committee discussed ongoing code enforcement challenges, including property conditions and safety concerns for staff. Efforts to coordinate with regional officials for expanded code enforcement resources were noted. In terms of street lighting, no new requests were received. The committee also established a neighborhood recognition program, titled Stookey Standout, to incentivize property maintenance through peer encouragement and community nomination initiatives.