Will County Gazette

City of Crest Hill City Council met March 18.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The regular meeting of the City of Crest Hill was called to order by Mayor Raymond R. Soliman at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 20600 City Center Boulevard, Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

Roll call indicated the following present: Mayor Raymond Soliman, City Treasurer Glen Conklin, City Clerk Christine Vershay-Hall, Alderman Scott Dyke, Alderman John Vershay, Alderman Darrell Jefferson, Alderwoman Claudia Gazal, Alderperson Tina Oberlin, Alderman Mark Cipiti, Alderman Joe Kubal.

Also present were: Interim City Administrator Tony Graff, Police Chief Ed Clark, City Engineer Ron Wiedeman, Interim Public Works Director Mike Eulitz, Interim Director of Community Development Ron Mentzer, City Attorney Mike Santchi, Deputy Clerk Karen Kozerka.

Absent were: Alderman Nate Albert, Finance Director Lisa Banovetz, Interim City Planner Maura Rigoni, Building Commissioner Don Seeman.

Mayor Soliman informed everyone that he received a message from Alderman Albert, and he is excused from this meeting.

PUBLIC HEARING: Conduct a Public Hearing with Respect to a Sign Ordinance Variation for the Will County Children's Advocacy Center located at 1206 Cedarwood Drive.

(#1) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Open a Public Hearing for a Sign Ordinance Variation for the Will County Children's Advocacy Center located at 1206 Cedarwood Drive, per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

The Public Hearing was opened at 7:01 p.m.

Interim Community Development Director Ron Mentzer commented that the city sign ordinance requires any variance request to the sign ordinance be heard by the City Council at a Public Hearing. This is a request from Will County which would allow a new sign that they are proposing to install at the new Children's Advocacy Center located at 1206 Cedarwood Drive. This would be an electronic message board that would be larger than what is normally permitted under the city's sign regulations. The electronic board sign is approximately twenty-eight square feet in area and the sign regulations that normally apply to these types of signs limit the sign area to twenty square feet in area. He commented that all other aspects of this sign comply with the provisions of the city's sign regulations. Interim Director Mentzer commented that technically since this is a corner lot they are allowed two monument signs, and they are only proposing one monument sign.

Based on the staff's review they believe the sign meets the standards for approval of a variation and this sign is going to be installed to provide public information and notices. It is not going to be used for commercial advertising purposes. This sign will be far away from residential properties.

Staff is recommending that the approval of the sign ordinance variation request include and be conditioned on items, such as:

The applicant shall install decorative landscaping around the base of the sign.

The electronic message board component of the sign shall be equipped with technology that automatically dims the message board as the amount of ambient light in the sky reduces to prevent an unnecessarily bright sign during cloudy periods and after dark.

No additional exterior electronic message board signage shall be allowed or installed on the subject property.

The sign design and location shall be substantially consistent with the application materials submitted by the applicant.

Mayor Soliman asked if the Council members had any questions or comments.

Alderperson Oberlin commented that this is very nice and appealing. She also commented that this is a wonderful organization that takes care of our children, and she is very proud to have this organization in the City of Crest Hill.

Mayor Soliman asked if anyone from the Children's Advocacy Center would like to approach the podium and make a comment for the record.

Ken Gray, Deputy State's Attorney for James Glasgow, approached the podium and apologized for Mr. Glasgow not being in attendance this evening. Ken commented that the Will County Children's Advocacy Center is Mr. Glasgow's baby. He started this in 1995 with a grant from DCFS, and a generous contribution of St. Joe's at the time, and Paul Pawlak of Silver Cross Hospital is where the first Children's Advocacy center was. The slogan for the Advocacy Center is 'Hope, Healing, and Justice for Abused Children. This Advocacy Center is partners with all Law Enforcement. He commented that they are very proud and happy to be in Crest Hill.

Lisa Morel Las, Executive Director of the Advocacy Center, commented that they have been looking for years for a home where the Children's Advocacy Center could go and when we heard that the property might be on the market, we were thrilled. The property is perfect. They just moved in last week and are close to starting up. Lisa commented that when they say they work with abused children, which would be children from ages three to seventeen years old throughout entire Will County. This location will bring police officers, law enforcement, DCFS, assistant state's attorneys, and therapists to the center every day from all over Will County. The operating hours are 8:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., but we are called out at times when children are involved in murders during the night and must do an interview in the middle of the night, or we get called out for any children who have been sexually, physically abused, or sexually exploited trafficked children. Lisa stated that they are the only agency in Will County that offers trauma therapy for abused children. She also commented that any child who receives therapy at our agency, Mr. Glasgow, is adamant that that child can always come back when needed and is free of charge.

Lisa also commented that the sign that is being discussed is being provided by a donor that is paying for the entire cost of the sign.

Kevin Meyers, an Assistant State's Attorney, commented that he is assigned to work with the CAC (Children's Advocacy Center). He commented that he is there to talk about why they need the variation from a legal aspect. He commented that they do not have any goal to have the sign as an economic benefit. Without making this sign directly viewable by the public the societal benefit is not fully realized. This is a unique set up where people come in the middle of the night and parents are bringing their children to the center during the child's darkest day and we need to make this sign visible, so added stress is taken away while trying to find the center.

He commented that this will not alter the neighborhood, and they do have dimming technology with dynamic adjustments.

Lino Carrillo, from Express Signs & Lighting Maintenance in Shorewood, Illinois, commented that they have been contracted to design, fabricate, and install the sign. The sign is top of the line, with auto dimming technology that can dim down to one percent.

Mayor Soliman asked if any Council members have any questions for Lino or the Advocacy Center.

Alderwoman Gazal asked what the dimensions of the entire sign are. Lino commented that the message center is four foot two inches in height and seven foot six inches in diameter and eleven feet six inches in total from the ground. Interim Director Mentzer commented that the bottom of the message board is approximately three feet off the ground.

Mayor Soliman asked if there were any residents who would like to make a comment.

Joann Bennett, President for Park Place on the Green Association, commented that their fence backs up to the center and they are concerned if the light will be coming through to their homes. She also commented that she is concerned they would be coming there in the middle of the night. She asked if the sign would always be on.

Gayle Crompton, Treasurer for Park Place on the Green Association, commented that Children's Advocacy has done wonders for Will County and thanked them. She also commented that she is concerned about how large the sign would be. She also asked when the sign would dim. Leno approached the podium, explained the dimensions of the sign, and stated it would not be flashing but have images that would change. Leno explained that there is a light sensor built in the unit and will dim always, even down to one percent, if it is dark.

Lisa commented that their intention is to be good neighbors and wanted to invite anyone to the open house which will be on April 8, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. and would like someone from the City Council to be there.

Pam Pryzbylo, a resident of Park Place on the Green, commented that she is concerned the sign could obstruct where they would turn. Alderperson Oberlin commented that with the setback she does not feel this sign will cause any problems with obstruction.

Alderwoman Gazal asked the police chief for his police perspective on this. Chief Ed Clark commented that from a police perspective he does not feel it will be an issue since it is offset enough. Chief Clark also commented that as far as the afterhours, there will be no issues with that, the advocacy center are great people.

Alderwoman Gazal commented that she thinks this is an amazing thing and will be good for the City of Crest Hill.

Mayor Soliman commented that the City of Crest Hill has had a great relationship with the Children's Advocacy Center for many years. He also commented that there will be many police officers in the building when someone is inside that building. Mayor Soliman stated that this is a tremendous asset to our city.

Alderperson Oberlin commented that she wants to repeat that the work this center does in a loving and caring way for our children when they are at the most vulnerable time is so wonderful.

(#2) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Close a Public Hearing for a Sign Ordinance Variation for the Will County Children's Advocacy Center located at 1206 Cedarwood Drive, per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

The Public Hearing was closed at 7:25 p.m.

Mayor Soliman commented that the formal vote will be at the April 1, 2024 Council meeting.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Mayor Soliman presented the minutes from the Regular Meeting held on March 4, 2024 for Council approval per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

(#3) Motion by Alderwoman Gazal seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the Minutes from the Regular Meeting Held on March 4, 2024 per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Jefferson, Gazal.

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Vershay.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert

There being six (6) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Mayor Soliman presented the minutes from the Work Session meeting held on March 11, 2024 for Council approval per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

(#4) Motion by Alderwoman Gazal seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the Minutes from the Work Session Meeting Held on March 11, 2024 per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin.

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Vershay.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being six (6) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

CITY ATTORNEY: City Attorney Mike Santchi requested to Approve a Resolution Authorizing the Engagement of the Law Office of Theresa A. Berkey to Represent the City of Crest Hill in a Collections Matter, and Appointing Said Law Firm as Special Counsel to the City of Crest Hill per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

(#5) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Vershay, to Approve a Resolution Authorizing the Engagement of the Law Office of Theresa A. Berkey to Represent the City of Crest Hill in a Collections Matter, and Appointing Said Law Firm as Special Counsel to the City of Crest Hill per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Resolution #1210

CITY ADMINISTRATOR: Interim City Administrator Tony Graff commented that he has no agenda items for tonight but can answer any questions.

Alderwoman Gazal asked the administrator if there is a reason we have not had an update or communication report. Interim Administrator Graff commented that he has sent out an email with a spreadsheet from our staff meeting which has all the projects and tasks with notes and deadlines. Alderwoman Gazal commented that she did receive that, and she is talking about an actual report of how the week went and with whom you have met. Alderwoman Gazal also commented that it was her understanding from the beginning that is something you were going to do. Interim Administrator Graff commented that the spreadsheet he uses is very precise and gives updates along with the tasks that the staff are working on. He also commented that he can add more detail, if wanted. Alderwoman Gazal commented that she is not talking about that, she wants more information on situations that are dealt with on a weekly basis, such as a person resigning. Interim Administrator Graff commented that he would work on that.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT: Interim Public Works Director Mike Eulitz requested Approval of Pay Request #14 from Vissering Construction Inc. with Direction to Send it to the IEPA for Approval and Disbursement for a Total Amount of $1,766,070.87 per the memo dated March 18, 2024. This is for the West Plant expansion project.

(#6) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve Pay Request #14 from Vissering Construction Inc. with Direction to Send it to the IEPA for Approval and Disbursement for a Total Amount of $1,766,070.87 per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Kubal, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti.

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Interim Public Works Director Mike Eulitz updated the mayor and the City Council regarding what the Public Works Department has been doing the last couple of months. He commented that since there was not much snow, they have been cleaning catch basins and doing watermain and storm sewer repairs, picking up trash in locations as we have been going along fixing potholes. He also commented that they have been locating all the B- Box locations for the large ongoing meter replacement project.

Alderman Cipiti commented that during the winter from the result of the snow there were mailboxes that were damaged, and the residents received temporary mailboxes and wondered when the city crews will be out to replace the mailboxes with permanent mailboxes.

City Engineer Ron Wiedeman commented that the policy in the city has been that the property owners would replace their mailbox, and the city would reimburse the owner up to a certain dollar amount. Interim Director Eulitz commented that he would make sure to look into this.

CITY ENGINEER: City Engineer Ron Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution for an Agreement for Wilcox Street Storm Sewer Project by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois and Christopher B. Burke, Ltd. per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

(#7) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Vershay, to Approve a Resolution for an Agreement for Wilcox Street Storm Sewer Project by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois and Christopher B. Burke, Ltd. per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson.

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Resolution #1211

City Engineer Ron Wiedeman requested to Approve the Execution of the License Agreement with Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America LLC for an Easement in the Northeast Corner of Caton Farm Rd and Weber Rd. per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

(#8) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve the Execution of the License Agreement with Natural Gas Pipeline Company of America LLC for an Easement in the Northeast Corner of Caton Farm Rd and Weber Rd. per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal.

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED. Resolution #1214

Alderperson Oberlin commented that she forgot to thank Interim Director Eulitz for correcting all the documents to read the correct address and she commented that she appreciates his efforts.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT: Interim Director of Community Development Ron Mentzer requested to Approve a Resolution for a Policy Regarding Permit Fee Waivers for Overlapping Governmental Jurisdictions per the memo dated March 18, 2024. This would authorize the Director of Community Development or the Building Commissioner to waive up to $2,500.00 in permit or application fees for overlapping governmental districts.

(#9) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderperson Oberlin, to Approve a Resolution for a Policy Regarding Permit Fee Waivers for Overlapping Governmental Jurisdictions per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED. Resolution #1212

Interim Director of Community Development Ron Mentzer requested to Approve a Resolution Adopting the 2024 Zoning Map for the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois per the memo dated March 18, 2024. This is an annual responsibility. The city must adopt a new zoning map to reflect the various zoning and special use approvals that the city council has granted in the prior year. He commented that in 2023 there were six special use and rezoning granted.

(#10) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Dyke, to Approve a Resolution Adopting the 2024 Zoning Map for the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED. Resolution #1213

Interim Director of Community Development Ron Mentzer requested to Approve the Waiver of the Permit Fee of $15,810.00 for the Salt Dome Located at 1240 Caton Farm Road per the memo dated March 18, 2024. The city has not incurred any outside consulting cost for this permit.

(#11) Motion by Alderman Vershay seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve the Waiver of the Permit Fee of $15,810.00 for the Salt Dome Located at 1240 Caton Farm Road per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

POLICE DEPARTMENT: Police Chief Ed Clark commented that he had no agenda items but would like to give an update on the Polar Plunge. Chief Clark stated that the Polar Plunge was a success and they raised $1,000.00. He also announced that 'Cop on a Rooftop' is scheduled for June 17, 2024 from 5:00 a.m. through 12:00 p.m. at our Dunkin Donuts location on Plainfield Road.

He also wanted to thank the Will County Sheriff's Office and Illinois State Police for their assistance in the terrible crash we had on Plainfield Road. They were helpful with the reconstruction, and we were on the scene for eleven hours. They now have the vehicle involved and these agencies were helpful. Chief Clark thanked the officers on the scene for their work during the long hours.

MAYOR: Mayor Raymond Soliman requested to Approve a Class A Liquor License for JC Catchers Tap Located at 1723 N. Center Street per the memo dated March 18, 2024. He commented that Mr. Anthony Kavaliunas is purchasing the building and business from John Cox who is the current owner. The name of the establishment and the kitchen will remain the same.

(#12) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Vershay, to Approve a Class A Liquor License for JC Catchers Tap Located at 1723 N. Center Street per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson.

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Mayor Raymond Soliman requested to Approve an Ordinance Amending Section 5.08.280-Restrictions and Prohibitions of Chapter 5.08 (Alcoholic Beverages) of Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the City of Crest Hill Code of Ordinances per the memo dated March 18, 2024. This is for an amendment to the Class Q BYOB permit for Mr. Don White, owner of White, Smoke & Ash. This will add additional language to allow alcohol outside on the patio area which is gated and restricted.

(#13) Motion by Alderman Cipiti seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve an Ordinance Amending Section 5.08.280-Restrictions and Prohibitions of Chapter 5.08 (Alcoholic Beverages) of Title 5 (Business Licenses and Regulations) of the City of Crest Hill Code of Ordinances per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Kubal, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Ordinance #1975

Mr. Don White approached the podium and thanked everyone for the support of White, Smoke & Ash and he appreciates everything they do for them.

Mayor Soliman mentioned that most have heard the Governors Press Release regarding the closure of the Stateville Penitentiary. Mayor Soliman read his statement that was drafted after the announcement was made by Governor Pritzker.

Mayor Soliman read his statement that he had given it to all the local media that had contacted him on Friday morning.

"Yesterday, senior City officials were notified by the State of Illinois Department of Corrections that it is set to begin the process that could lead to the demolition, reconstruction, and potential expansion of the Stateville Correctional Center within the next three to five years. While the State has not yet finalized its plans for the Stateville facility, it has made it clear it is committed to collaborating closely with all stakeholders that will be impacted by this potential project, including the City of Crest Hill. The City of Crest Hill looks forward to learning more details about the planned new, state-of- the art, Stateville Correctional Center and collaborating with the Department of Corrections to ensure local concerns are effectively addressed and the overall Stateville site is improved and enhanced in conjunction with this project. We are looking forward to working with the State of Illinois Department of Corrections. We are optimistic that these improvements and new facilities could produce economic development on some of the surrounding properties. We are also optimistic that this announcement will end the speculation and uncertainty of the future of this prison site."

Mayor Soliman commented that Stateville Penitentiary has been here since 1925 and is in a very dilapidated condition where improvements need to be made. In the last several years they have threatened to close this facility, which would be very detrimental to the City of Crest Hill. The City of Crest Hill depends on the penitentiary for sewer and water, which started in Crest Hill in 1988 and accounts for about twenty-five percent of our sewer and water fund.

Mayor Soliman commented that there will be collaboration between them and the City of Crest Hill, along with our local senators and representatives. Mayor Soliman commented that this is better than receiving a phone call stating they are closing. He is hoping to get a commitment that in three to five years the building will be demolished, and a new facility will be built and maybe some new facilities will be added along with this. The result will be beneficial.

Mayor Soliman announced that there will be a Veteran & Police Memorial Committee meeting to discuss the Memorial Day plans for 2024. This meeting will be on Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. in the Community Room at the City Center.

Alderwoman Gazal commented that she was contacted by Sherry Williams on the Will County Board to notify her about Stateville and then she reached out to our lobbyist, which to find out he was not part of the meeting that the mayor had with the two interims and not our lobbyist. She commented that she felt it would have been nice for the mayor to notify our lobbyist. She also commented that she understands this will take three to five years but how will this affect our city and asked if we have a plan, and she would like to see the footprints of the facility. She also commented that this is probably why they have not given us the two hundred acres.

Mayor Soliman commented that the Lobbyist was not on the call/meeting with us since it came from the Governor's Office at 4:25 p.m. on Thursday and informed us who they invited to the zoom call. There were members from Will County and the Will County Governmental League, and we were also told by the Governor's Office to not discuss any of the comments of the zoom meeting until the Governor made the Press Release. He also commented that when he was given that order from the Governor's Office, he obeyed that order. He also stated that the Lobbyist found out because he called me on Friday morning after he heard it on the radio. Mayor Soliman then informed Alderwoman Gazal that they had a meeting with Representative Manley at the City Center on Friday morning and our Lobbyist was included.

Mayor Soliman informed the Council that he had a meeting this morning with Senator Cappel, along with Romeoville Mayor Noak and Joliet Mayor D'Arcy who was not able to attend. They discussed long range plans, short range plans, and phasing of projects, and wanted to know what the ideas are and in the mayor's opinion he is not certain the state knows their timeline regarding this.

Alderwoman Gazal commented that she hopes we can be very proactive and aggressive. She also commented that IML is having a Lobby Day on April 17, 2024 and she feels it would be good for the Council and thought we should put this on a work session to discuss it. Mayor Soliman commented that everyone was invited and could sign up for Lobby Day.

CITY CLERK: City Clerk Christine Vershay-Hall thanked her staff, Karen, and Samantha, for the wonderful job they have done this year with the business licenses. She commented that since the Council approved the tier program, we had nineteen businesses come in and pay, eighteen still owing, and five that have closed. She also commented that six businesses will have the inspector visit to verify if they are still in business.

Alderperson Oberlin asked if any business came in wanting a refund since they paid the full amount. Clerk Vershay-Hall commented that no one has asked for a refund yet.

CITY TREASURER: City Treasurer Glen Conklin presented the regular and overtime payroll from February 26, 2024 through March 10, 2024 in the amount of $253,793.37 per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

City Treasurer Glen Conklin requested Approval of the list of bills issued through March 19, 2024 in the amount of $1,305,703.18 for Council approval per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

(#14) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the list of bills issued through March 19, 2024 in the amount of $1,305,703.18 for Council approval per the memo dated March 18, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin. NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

City Treasurer Glen Conklin apologized for the Treasurer Office not being able to distribute the property tax rebate checks in the usual timeframe. He stated that there have been several issues delaying the processing of this year's checks. He commented that some more significant tasks have taken up our staff's time related to our meter change out program, as well as a financial software change out, which has been difficult.

Alderwoman Gazal asked where we stand with the money that Stateville owes. Treasurer Conklin commented that that issue will be a Court matter but feels the new Stateville situation might give us a little leverage with the Department of Corrections.

Treasurer Conklin commented that losing that water sewer customer by the displacement during the process would be approximately a five percent knock to our sewer and water on the revenue side. He also commented that we are losing five percent of revenue, but we will also have less costs.

Mayor Soliman commented that from the preliminary agreement that there is language that if the Stateville Penitentiary closed there would be monetary assistance from the other five communities.

Treasurer Conklin commented that there will be a budget update very soon. We are currently still looking at a budget deficit on some of the sewer water items and capital projects, and the operating budget is still in the red and working to get voluntarily cuts to make that at least even.

Treasurer Conklin also commented that there will be discussion regarding the property tax rebate program, whether it will be to continue as is, modify to exclude businesses, or rental properties. There will be some options to consider that we can discuss in the future.

Alderwoman Gazal asked where we are at with the non-union salaries. Treasurer Conklin commented that most department heads have done their evaluations and now it will need to be put on a work session for discussions. Alderwoman Gazal commented that she sounds like a broken record, but she is defending our department heads and our staff who are non- union employees.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: There were no unfinished business items on the agenda.

NEW BUSINESS: There was no new business on the agenda.

COMMITTEE/LIAISON REPORTS: Alderperson Oberlin commented that the Lidice Ceremony will be on Sunday, June 9, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. This program will be merging with the Children's School and the Museum, and they will be sponsoring this since they have more financial abilities. Alderperson Oberlin commented that it will be the same program but just ran differently.

Alderman Dyke commented that he received a pricing chart from the Heritage Corridor, and he will contact them to see if Crest Hill is eligible for the legacy prices and he would like this to be on our next work session since the deadline is on April 5th. He also commented that he would like to see Crest Hill do both publications and would like this to go to formal vote on April 1, 2024.

COUNCIL COMMENTS: Alderperson Oberlin wished everyone a Happy Easter.

Alderwoman Gazal thanked Interim Director Mentzer for meeting with her today to discuss the Division strip mall and appreciates everything he is doing. She also wished everyone a Happy Easter and may the grace of Jesus be with you and your family forever.

Alderman Dyke wished the employees and family and residents of Crest Hill a joyous and Happy Easter.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Linda Dyke, a resident, approached the podium and thanked Chief Clark and other law enforcement agencies, and Attorney Mike Stiff in helping get the drug house cleaned and boarded up. She announced to all landlords that are in Crest Hill that there are two more houses that they are watching, and one is on Wilcox, and they are not going to stop until they are gone. She stated to not be afraid to email her husband, Scott Dyke at sdyke@cityofcresthill.com or call the Police Department, take license plate numbers and do not be afraid.

Gayle Crompton, a resident, thanked everyone for a great meeting with much information given. She also commented that it is wonderful to live in Crest Hill and thanked everyone for listening to them.

Mayor Soliman informed the Council that there was a need for an executive session on Personnel 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1).

(#15) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to go into executive session on Personnel 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1).

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Kubal, Dyke, Vershay.

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Executive Session 8:18 p.m.

(#16) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to reconvene from the executive session on Personnel 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1).

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Vershay, Jefferson, Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Dyke.

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert, Kubal.

There being six (6) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Reconvened 9:14 p.m.

There being no further business before the Council, and no action needed from the executive session, a motion for adjournment was in order.

(#17) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Vershay, to adjourn the March 18, 2024 Council meeting.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Gazal, Oberlin, Cipiti, Dyke, Vershay, Jefferson

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert, Kubal.

There being six (6) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

The meeting was adjourned at 9:14 p.m.

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