Will County Gazette

City of Crest Hill City Council met June 3.

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. Mayor Soliman asked everyone to remain standing. He commented that a long time Crest Hill resident, Harriet Luce, passed away on Sunday, May 26, 2024. She was eighty-six (86) years old and had served on the Crest Hill Veterans & Police Memorial Committee for ten (10) years volunteering her time. Mayor Soliman asked for a moment of silence to honor Harriet Luce.

Roll call indicated the following present: Mayor Raymond Soliman, City Treasurer Glen Conklin, City Clerk Christine Vershay-Hall, Alderman Scott Dyke, Alderman Darrell Jefferson, Alderwoman Claudia Gazal, Alderperson Tina Oberlin, Alderman Mark Cipiti, Alderman Nate Albert (7:02pm), 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, Interim Human Resource Manager Dave Strahl, City Attorney Mike Stiff, Deputy Clerk Karen Kozerka.

Absent were: Interim Director of Finance Carron Johnson, Interim City Planner Maura Rigoni, Building Commissioner Don Seeman.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Mayor Soliman presented the minutes from the Regular Meeting held on May 20, 2024, for Council approval per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#1) Motion by Alderwoman Gazal seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the Minutes from the Regular Meeting Held on May 20, 2024, per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Albert.

ABSENT: None.

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

Mayor Soliman asked for the Council's concurrence to deviate to the Mayor's Report on the agenda. He commented that representatives from the American Italian Cultural Society are in attendance for the Festa Italiana 2024, which is on August 9, 2024, through August 11, 2024.

Dan Brandolino and Christina Hayden from the American Italian Cultural Society approached the podium and commented that they are having their 2024 Festa Italiana Picnic on August 9, through August 11, 2024. Christina announced the band line-up and menu items that would be available. Dan informed the Council that he had been in contact with Police Chief Ed Clark and discussed security for the event.

Alderman Dyke asked how the security contract is being managed for this event. Chief Clark commented that they have discussed parking and he said he would be presenting the contract to the Council.

Mayor Raymond Soliman requested to Approve a Three-Day Liquor License Waiver for Festa Italiana - American Italian Cultural Society per the memo dated June 3, 2024. This is a $50.00 fee per day which would amount to a $150.00 fee waiver for the three days.

(#2) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve a Three- Day Liquor License Waiver for Festa Italiana - American Italian Cultural Society per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Cipiti, Albert.

ABSENT: None.

There being five (5) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Mayor Raymond Soliman requested to Approve a Sign Permit Waiver for Festa Italiana - American Italian Cultural Society per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#3) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve a Sign Permit Waiver for Festa Italiana - American Italian Cultural Society per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Cipiti, Albert.

ABSENT: None.

There being five (5) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

Mayor Raymond Soliman requested to Approve a Parade Road Closure for Festa Italiana - American Italian Cultural Society per the memo dated June 3, 2024. This would be for approval of the road closure and use of our police officers.

(#4) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Dyke, to Approve a Parade Road Closure for Festa Italiana - American Italian Cultural Society per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Cipiti, Albert.

ABSENT: None.

There being five (5) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

CITY ATTORNEY: There were no agenda items.

CITY ADMINISTRATOR: Interim City Administrator Tony Graff commented that he emailed his report to the Council on Friday, and he has no agenda items but would entertain any questions.

Alderwoman Gazal asked the status of the microphones for the Chambers. Interim Administrator Graff commented that LVS has looked at the microphones and feels they all need to be replaced and he will be submitting a proposal shortly. The proposal will be for twenty-one (21) microphones, which will be at the dais and the sides, as well.

Alderwoman Gazal asked Interim Administrator Graff if he had investigated the overtime that she had asked him about. Interim Administrator Graff commented that he did investigate that.

Alderwoman Gazal stated that she felt it would have been nice if the Elected Officials were asked to hand out brochures at the Memorial event instead of paying many hours of overtime. She also commented that there was a lot of overtime that day.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT: Interim Public Works Director Mike Eulitz commented that he has no agenda items but is willing to answer any questions.

Alderman Dyke commented that in the past there was an issue with the Ford Explorer being used and having damage and he is wondering since then if they have a procedure in place. He also asked if anyone could get ahold of the keys and use it without permission, and if the vehicle is checked for damages after someone uses it. Interim Director Eulitz commented that there is a procedure in place and an employee cannot just take the vehicle without approval and it is inspected before and after each use. Alderman Dyke asked if permission was given, and an inspection was done on Memorial Day when the car was used during the ceremony. Interim Director Eulitz commented that the vehicle was inspected on Friday, May 24, 2024, and then it was inspected again on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Alderman Dyke then asked Interim Director Eulitz if authority was granted for use of that vehicle for Monday. Interim Director Eulitz commented that authority was granted.

Alderperson Oberlin thanked Interim Director Eulitz for his correspondence for the Lidice and she commented that she appreciates his help.

Alderman Cipiti asked if Interim Director Eulitz could give a brief description of the mosquito spraying that will be taking place. Interim Director Eulitz commented that on June 4, 2024, between the hours of 9:00 p.m. until 2:00 a.m. there will be mosquito spraying trucks going through the area spraying for mosquitos.

CITY ENGINEER: City Engineer Ron Wiedeman requested to Award the Contract and have the Mayor Execute the Construction Contract Documents with Davis Concrete Contractors for the 2024/2025 MFT Concrete Flatwork Program (Section No 25-00000- 01-GM) in the Amount of $99,159.00 per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#5) Motion by Alderman Jefferson seconded by Alderperson Oberlin, to Award the Contract and have the Mayor Execute the Construction Contract Documents with Davis Concrete Contractors for the 2024/2025 MFT Concrete Flatwork Program (Section No 25-. 00000-01-GM) in the Amount of $99,159.00 per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

City Engineer Ron Wiedeman requested to Award the Contract to Gallagher, Asphalt Corporation for the 2024 Roadway Rehabilitation Program in the Amount of $1,119,951.39 per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#6) Motion by Alderman Jefferson seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Award the Contract to Gallagher, Asphalt Corporation for the 2024 Roadway Rehabilitation Program in the Amount of $1,119,951.39 per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT: Interim Community Development Director Ron Mentzer commented that the item regarding the Sale of Property 1610 Plainfield Road (Old City Hall) will need to be discussed in the Executive Section before acting on this item.

Alderperson Oberlin asked if everything was okay with the resident that he reached out to. Interim Director Mentzer commented that he has made a mess which he will have to clean up, but he did really appreciate the time that the city staff gave him to explain the options he has.

POLICE DEPARTMENT: Polic Chief Ed Clark commented that he has no agenda items but wanted to announce that they are participating in the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics. It is a great event, and he is very thankful for those who run. Crest Hill will pick the torch up at Route 53 and Caton Farm Road and then go up Caton Farm Road to the City Center and then go back up to Caton Farm Road to Weber Road and then past the Old City Hall to St. Joe's Park where the City of Joliet will pick up the torch.

Alderwoman Gazal commented that she met with City Engineer Ron Wiedeman regarding signage by Willow Circle. The residents have major concerns about the amount of traffic and would like a stop sign on the north side. Chief Clark commented that he would talk with the city engineer and start working on that.

MAYOR: Mayor Raymond Soliman commented that the item regarding presenting a Conditional Offer of Employment for a Full Time Building Inspector will need to be discussed in Executive Session before acting on this item.

Mayor Soliman announced that he would like to extend his deepest apologies to Alderwoman Gazal for not having a moment of silence for her father when he had passed away and he takes full responsibility in his action, and he is sure Mr. Gazal was a great father and great grandfather. Mayor Soliman extended his deepest condolences to Alderwoman Gazal and all her family and asked for everyone to keep Mr. Gazal in their thoughts and prayers.

Mayor Soliman announced that he and his wife, Vicky, attended Chaney-Monge School 8th Grade Graduation on Tuesday, May 28, 2024, and then attended Richland Graduation on Wednesday, May 29, 2024. There were fifty-two graduates from Chaney-Monge School and 110 from Richland School. Mayor Soliman congratulated all graduates and wished them nothing but the best in the future and a great summer.

Mayor Soliman announced that the Memorial Day Ceremony was a great day with approximately 125 people present. He extended his heart felt gratitude to everybody that helped in any role and all participants in the program.

Alderman Dyke asked if there would be a resolution to honor Alderman John Vershay for all his years of service with the City of Crest Hill. Mayor Soliman commented that he would look into doing this.

Alderwoman Gazal asked if the Mayor had received any resumes for the ward one vacancy. Mayor Soliman commented that he has three resumes and will be bringing a candidate forward at the Work Session Monday, June 10, 2024. Alderwoman Gazal asked if he had interviewed everyone. Mayor Soliman commented that he has not interviewed everyone yet.

CITY CLERK: City Clerk Christine Vershay-Hall requested to Approve an Application for a Block Party for Alma Drive - Michelle Maynard per the memo dated June 3, 2024. This would be from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. and they are asking to close off Alma Drive from Innercircle to Hosmer Lane.

(#7) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Albert, to Approve an Application for a Block Party for Alma Drive - Michelle Maynard per the memo dated June 3, 2024. On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

CITY TREASURER: City Treasurer Glen Conklin requested to Approve a Resolution Designating Carron Johnson as the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Authorized Agent for the City of Crest Hill per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#8) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve a Resolution Designating Carron Johnson as the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) Authorized Agent for the City of Crest Hill per the memo dated June 3, 2 2204.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED. Resolution #1235

City Treasurer Glen Conklin requested to Approve the list of bills issued through June 4, 2024, in the Amount of $1,760,003.26 per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#9) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin, seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the list of bills issued through June 4, 2024, in the amount of $1,760,003.26 for Council approval per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

City Treasurer Glen Conklin presented the regular and overtime payroll from May 6, 2024, through May 19, 2024, in the amount of $257,336.15 per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

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

NEW BUSINESS: There was no new business.

COMMITTEE/LIAISON REPORTS: Alderperson Oberlin commented that the Lidice Ceremony will be on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at the Lidice Memorial Park. It will be moved to City Hall if there is rain.

COUNCIL COMMENTS: Alderperson Oberlin commented that she was overwhelmed with all her recent illnesses and surgeries and wanted to thank all the residents for the outpouring of texts, and phone calls checking on her, it was very moving and very much appreciated.

Alderman Cipiti congratulated all the graduates and wished them good luck on their next steps in life.

Alderwoman Gazal announced they will be starting 'Lets Meet at the Park' on June 26, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. at the Fields of Long Meadow. She commented that 'Touch a Truck' will be there, giveaways, and hotdogs. She also thanked Chief Clark for supporting the community and keeping his promise.

PUBLIC COMMENT: There were no public comments.

Mayor Soliman informed the Council that there was a need for an executive session on 5ILCS 120/2(c)(1), 5ILCS 120/2(c)(6), and 5ILCS 120/2 (c)(11) per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

(#10) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to go into executive session on 5ILCS 120/2(c)(1), 5ILCS 120/2(c)(6), and 5ILCS 120/2(c)(11) per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

ABSENT: None.

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

Executive Session 7:32 p.m.

(#11) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to reconvene from the executive session on 5ILCS 120/2(c)(1), 5ILCS 120/2(c)(6), and 5ILCS 120/2(c)(11) per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

Reconvened 9:37 p.m.

City Attorney Mike Stiff requested a Motion to Approve the Mayor Signing the Revised Letter of Intent for the Sale of the Property Located at 1610 Plainfield Road, Crest Hill IL as discussed in Executive Session.

(#12) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Dyke, to Approve the Letter of Intent for the Sale of the Property Located at 1610 Plainfield Road, Crest Hill IL (Executive Session) per the memo dated June 3, 2024.

On roll call, the vote was:

AYES: Ald. Kubal, Dyke, Oberlin, Albert.

NAYES: Ald. Jefferson, Gazal, Cipiti.

ABSENT: None.

There being four (4) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.

City Attorney Mike Stiff requested a Motion to Present a Conditional Offer of Employment for a Full Time Building Inspector position at a Salary of $63,000.00 as discussed in Executive Session.

(#13) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Present a Conditional Offer of Employment for a Full Time Building Inspector position with a Starting Salary of $63,000.00 to the Candidate.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

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

(#14) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Albert, to adjourn the June 3, 2024, Council meeting.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: None.

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

The meeting was adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

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