Will County Gazette

City of Crest Hill City Council met July 21.

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 Jamie Malloy, City Clerk Christine Vershay-Hall, Alderman Scott Dyke, Alderman Angelo Deserio, Alderman Darrell Jefferson, Alderwoman Claudia Gazal, Alderperson Tina Oberlin, Alderman Mark Cipiti, Alderman Joe Kubal.

Also present were: City Administrator Blaine Wing, Police Chief Ed Clark, Finance Director Glenn Gehrke, City Engineer Ron Wiedeman, City Attorney Mike Stiff.

Absent were: Alderman Nate Albert, Interim Public Works Director Julius Hansen, Community Development Consultant Ron Mentzer, Interim Human Resource Manager Dave Strahl, Building Commissioner Don Seeman.

Mayor Soliman excused Alderman Nate Albert from the meeting.

Mayor Soliman introduced the resolution for the appointment of Mr. Daniel Ritter as Community and Economic Development Director, effective July 28, 2025. Mr. Daniel Ritter was in attendance. Mayor Soliman remarked on his prior meeting with Mr. Ritter, noting his outlined expectations and the impressive nature of his resume, suggesting confidence in his appointment.

Mayor Soliman asked for a motion to Approve a Resolution Approving the Appointment of Daniel Ritter to the Position of Community and Economic Development Director for the City of Crest Hill Effective July 28, 2025, and Setting the Initial Salary for Daniel Ritter per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#1) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Approve a Resolution Approving the Appointment of Daniel Ritter to the Position of Community and Economic Development Director for the City of Crest Hill Effective July 28, 2025, and Setting the Initial Salary for Daniel Ritter per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1320

Upon approval, Mr. Daniel Ritter approached the podium and expressed his gratitude, thanking the Mayor and the Council. Mr. Ritter commented that he is excited for the opportunities at Crest Hill and working collaboratively with all and he anticipates maintaining productive communication to further our progress.

Council members extended a warm welcome to Mr. Ritter, conveying their eagerness to collaborate with him in his new role.

Mayor Soliman introduced City Engineer Ron Wiedeman, who delivered an informational update regarding the Grand Prairie Water Commission's alternate water source program.

Background

City Engineer Wiedeman commenced his update by addressing the foundational need for this project, driven by the contaminants found in Crest Hill's shallow wells, primarily salt and more recently, PFAS. This prompted involvement in the Grand Prairie initiative. Engineer Wiedeman highlighted the City's reliance on eight operational shallow wells, explaining the City's long-term plan since 2015 to augment this number to accommodate future growth and optimize operational efficiency.

Project Timeline

• 2020-21: Conducted a Phase 1 report evaluation on alternative sources.

• January-August 2022: Undertook public outreach engagements with residents.

• July 2023-December 2024: Concluded contracts for designing new receiving stations and a substantial 2.5-million-gallon ground storage tank.

• June 2024: Formed the Grand Prairie Water Commission collectively.

The envisioned water source entails acquiring treated water from the City of Chicago, with plans to facilitate its transport to surrounding southwest suburbs. Regarding contractual milestones, by the close of 2023, an effective agreement between Chicago and Joliet would transition to the Grand Prairie Water Commission.

Operational and Financial Planning

Engineer Wiedeman depicted the geographical expansion involving interconnections among six municipalities: Channahon, Crest Hill, Joliet, Minooka, Romeoville, and Shorewood with the primary infrastructural path: "The main directive guides the waterline along Gaylord and Cedarwood Drives, primarily the northbound lanes necessitating constructive detours."

Anticipated works for Crest Hill are scheduled between mid-2026 and mid-2029. Bidding initiates during early 2026, leading to consequential groundbreaking near mid-year.

Financially, the Grand Prairie initiative constitutes a $1.446 billion scope, excluding Chicago's complementary fiscal contribution, bringing the overall venture to an estimated $1.5 billion. Continuous annual budget assessment remains integral, intending to refine fiscal estimates informed by authentic construction progress data.

Financial Strategy

• WIFIA loans were sanctioned at a 4.5% interest rate, closing in September 2025.

• A $20 million upfront financial commitment from Shorewood.

• IEPA state revolving funds at an approximately 2% interest rate.

• Deployment of revenue bonds spearheaded by the commission.

Municipality Required Improvements

Each participating municipality must independently address:

• Complying with an IEPA requisite for two days of water reserves.

• Establishing additional pipelines, reservoirs, and pump facilities.

• Significant water loss audit alignment, restricting to a 10% variance.

Initiating corrosion studies to mitigate contamination risks akin to previous national examples.

• Phasing out depreciating system components.

Recent Progress Measures

• Institutionalization of Grand Prairie Water Commission (June 2024).

• Achieved public water supply status (March 2025).

• Design and commencement of the first work package - the tunnel extension initiated from a groundbreaking concluded six weeks prior.

• Substantial progression across all design phase projects.

• Accomplished land acquisitions for Grand Prairie's two facility sites as of August 2024.

• Complete fiscal reevaluation of baseline budget by May 2025.

• Launched online construction update platforms dedicated to stakeholder visibility.

Forthcoming Objectives (Next 12 Months)

1. Persistence in tunnel extension developments.

2. Reconciling design intricacies for twenty-six work packages.

3. Sustained coordination for land acquisitions, permit issuances, and inter-agency alignments.

4. Inviting competitive bids for seven main line projects (pipeline span: 60-66 inches).

5. Finalizing chemical supply agreement transitions between Chicago-Joliet to Grand Prairie.

6. Ongoing outreach for contractor and public informational sessions.

Technical Particulars and Future Enhancements

A comprehensive timeline details activity culminating in a significant subterranean tunnel, spanning 515 feet in a 10-foot diameter, positioned at a depth of 120 feet with project completion targeted for end of 2026.

Engineer Wiedeman outlined the compendium of easements necessary: "A total of around 400 varying easements will need acquisition for the project. Permits over 260 governmental agencies play a pivotal role, as will collaborative agreements intersecting multiple civic districts."

Council Discourse and Future Action

Discussions followed regarding potential disturbances like railroad undercrossing modifications and social media dissemination, coordinated under Administrator Wing's leadership for biannual updates.

Mayor's Conclusive Observations

Mayor Soliman succinctly reiterated the project's significant journey: "In the realm of heightening inter-municipal collaboration, industrious engagement endures despite predictable adversities. This represents the apex of investment within Crest Hill's storied legacy, heralding a future where water quality dramatically surpasses prior standards, aligned to secure sustainable water strategies for the forthcoming century across all partnered jurisdictions."

APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Mayor Soliman presented the minutes from the Work Session Meeting Held on June 23, 2025, for Council approval per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#2) Motion by Alderwoman Gazal seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the Minutes from the Work Session Held on June 23, 2025, per the memo dated July 21, 2025. On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Dyke.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Mayor Soliman presented the minutes from the Work Session Meeting Held on June 30, 2025, for Council approval per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#3) Motion by Alderman Jefferson seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Approve the Minutes from the Work Session Held on June 30, 2025, per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

Prior to voting, Alderwoman Gazal raised concerns about the minutes' being very vague with detail and accuracy. Clerk Vershay-Hall commented that this meeting was held at the Public Work Facility Garage and the recording was inaudible due to the big fan running.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Mayor Soliman presented the minutes from the Regular Meeting Held on July 7, 2025, for Council approval per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#4) Motion by Alderwoman Gazal seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve the Minutes from the Regular Meeting Held on July 7, 2025, per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

CITY ATTORNEY: Attorney Mike Stiff requested to Approve a Resolution Designating and Appointment City Administrator Blaine Wing as the Alternate Delegate to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to the Grand Prairie Water Commission per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

The bylaws stipulate that each member municipality is required to appoint a permanent member and an alternate delegate to TAC. Attorney Stiff explained that due to a vacancy following the interim appointment of Public Works Director, Administrator Wing has been proposed as the temporary alternate delegate. Our permanent member remains City Engineer Ron Wiedeman.

This appointment will be revisited upon the hiring of a permanent Public Works Director, allowing for subsequent reassignment. Until such time, Administrator Wing is the designated backup, though his actual engagement is not anticipated frequently, as Engineer Wiedeman has consistently been present.

(#5) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve a Resolution Designating and Appointment City Administrator Blaine Wing as the Alternate Delegate to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) to the Grand Prairie Water Commission per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1321

CITY ADMINISTRATOR: City Administrator Blaine Wing requested to Approve a Resolution Approving an Independent Contractor Consulting Service Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, IL and Natalia Domovessova per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

Administrator Wing elaborated on the necessity for engaging Natalia Domovessova as a virtual planner, citing the growing backlog of municipal cases and stated that there are 30 to 31 cases. During the workshop, we highlighted the cost advantage of her service at $80.00 per hour compared to the $167.00 per hour charged by our current engineering consultant.

Emphasizing Ms. Domovessova's expertise, Administrator Wing detailed her qualifications noting that Ms. Domovessova collaborated with our Consultant Ron Mentzer in the past during his tenure in Warrenville and commented that she will bring a robust understanding of Illinois regulations and a proven constructive interaction ensuring an effective handling of the case backlog.

He also referred to the workshop meeting insights, where her efficiency in navigating complex Illinois compliance issues was discussed along with her proven record of collaborating effectively with our current engineering team.

(#6) Motion by Alderwoman Gazal seconded by Alderperson Oberlin, to Approve a Resolution Approving an Independent Contractor Consulting Service Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, IL and Natalia Domovessova per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1322

Administrator Wing requested to Approve a Resolution Approving an Updated and Extended Independent Contractor Agreement Consultant Service Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, IL and Ronald Mentzer per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

Administrator Wing outlined the extension of the Independent Contractor Agreement with Ronald Mentzer until the end of the year, incorporating a temporary director-acting premium of $10 per hour for Consultant Mentzer, pending the appointment of a new Director. This adjustment was necessitated by the recent absence of a permanent Director. The premium will be discontinued upon the onboarding of the new Director. Administrator Wing commended Consultant Mentzer's substantial contributions to the transition of significant projects and set the stage for Director Daniel Ritter's entry, affirming that Consultant Mentzer will maintain his three-day weekly commitment while fulfilling additional responsibilities.

(#7) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve a Resolution Approving an Updated and Extended Independent Contractor Agreement Consultant Service Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, IL and Ronald Mentzer per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1323

Administrator Wing requested to Approve a Resolution Approving an Extension of the Appointment of Julius Hansen as Interim Director of Public Works and Approving an Amended and Extended Employee Leasing Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill and MGT Impact Solutions, LLC for Julius Hansen's Services as Interim Director of Public Works per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

This extension will be effective until January 2, 2026. Administrator Wing highlighted the successful renegotiation with MGT to extend the current pay rate through August, beyond the initial contract end date of August 8th. The agreement also incorporates a provision for termination with a 30-day notice if concluded earlier. Administrator Wing expressed confidence in Interim Director Hansen's performance during his tenure and revealed plans to interview finalist firms for a permanent director.

(#8) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Approve a Resolution Approving an Extension of the Appointment of Julius Hansen as Interim Director of Public Works and Approving an Amended and Extended Employee Leasing Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill and MGT Impact Solutions, LLC for Julius Hansen's Services as Interim Director of Public Works per the memo dated July 21, 2025. On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

There being seven (7) affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED. Resolution #1324

Administrator Wing requested to Approve a Resolution Approving (and Ratifying the Execution) of an Employee Leasing Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, IL, and MGT Impact Solutions, LLC for the Services of Brian Bursiek as Temporary Administrative Assistant to the Interim Director of Public Works per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

Administrator Wing outlined the need for a resolution regarding Brian Bursiek, appointed as a temporary administrative assistant to support the Interim Public Works Director. Due to an unforeseen vacancy, Administrator Wing collaborated with MGT to promptly secure a qualified individual with relevant experience. Mr. Bursiek started the prior Wednesday, and Administrator Wing requested Council's official ratification of his labor arrangement.

(#9) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve a Resolution Approving (and Ratifying the Execution) of an Employee Leasing Agreement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, IL, and MGT Impact Solutions, LLC for the Services of Brian Bursiek as Temporary Administrative Assistant to the Interim Director of Public Works per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1325

Inquiries brought forth by the Council included future fire hydrant flushing schedules, updates on the 50/50 tree program, and temporary impediments by tree growth on signage. Administrator Wing committed to follow-ups for flushing dates, assured receipt of program drafts from Interim Director Hansen, and mentioned plans to deploy a "See Click Fix" public interface. Achievements such as labor savings in community maintenance and the reinstatement of the rain barrel program received commendations from Council members, alongside discussions to optimize resident acquisition costs.

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT: Mayor Soliman requested Approval of Pay Request #30 from Vissering Construction Inc. with Direction to Send it to the IEPA for Approval and Disbursement for a Total Amount of $1,108,332.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#10) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve Pay Request #30 from Vissering Construction Inc. with Direction to Send it to the IEPA for Approval and Disbursement for a Total Amount of $1,108,332.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Mayor Soliman requested Approval of Emergency Purchase and Service Two Pumps from Metropolitan Pump Co. for the East STP for a Total Cost of $32,428.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#11) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Jefferson, for Approval of Emergency Purchase and Service Two Pumps from Metropolitan Pump Co. for the East STP for a Total Cost of $32,428.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Mayor Soliman requested Approval of Emergency Repair Work with Layne Christensen Co. for Service to Well #4 not to Exceed an Amount of $150,000.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#12) Motion by Alderman Jefferson seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, for Approval of Emergency Repair Work with Layne Christensen Co. for Service to Well #4 not to Exceed an Amount of $150,000.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

CITY ENGINEER: City Engineer Ron Wiedeman requested to Award the contract to Len Cox and Sons Excavating for the Hillcrest Shopping Center Water Main Improvement in the Amount of $1,795,366.25 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#13) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Award the contract to Len Cox and Sons Excavating for the Hillcrest Shopping Center Water Main Improvement in the Amount of $1,795,366.25 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution Approving a Construction Engineering Agreement for Hillcrest Shopping Center Water Main Replacement Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois and Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. For an Amount of $224,410.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#14) Motion by Alderman Cipiti seconded by Alderperson Oberlin, to Approve a Resolution Approving a Construction Engineering Agreement for Hillcrest Shopping Center Water Main Replacement Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois and Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. For an Amount of $224,410.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1326

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Award the Contract to MJ Underground for the Innercircle-Phase I Water Main and Roadway Rehabilitation Improvement in an Amount of $2,318,680.64 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#15) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Award the Contract to MJ Underground for the Innercircle-Phase I Water Main and Roadway Rehabilitation Improvement in an Amount of $2,318,680.64 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution Approving a Construction Engineering Agreement for Innercircle Drive Water Main Replacement and Roadway Rehabilitation Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and V3 Companies for an Amount of $69,843.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#16) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Approve a Resolution Approving a Construction Engineering Agreement for Innercircle Drive Water Main Replacement and Roadway Rehabilitation Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois and V3 Companies for an Amount of $69,843.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.-

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1327

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Award the Contract to M.J. Underground, Inc. for the Caton Farm Water Main Extension in the Amount of $724,836.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#17) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Award the Contract to M.J. Underground, Inc. for the Caton Farm Water Main Extension in the Amount of $724,836.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution Approving a Construction Engineering Agreement for Caton Farm Road Water Main Extension Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and Strand Associates, Inc. for an Amount of $133,200.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#18) Motion by Alderman Cipiti seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve a Resolution Approving a Construction Engineering Agreement for Caton Farm Road Water Main Extension Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and Strand Associates, Inc. for an Amount of $133,200.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

Resolution #1328

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution Approving an Agreement for 2025 Roadway Rehabilitation Program by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and P.T. Ferro Construction Company for an Amount of $716,911.65 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#19) Motion by Alderman Cipiti seconded by Alderperson Oberlin, to Approve a Resolution Approving an Agreement for 2025 Roadway Rehabilitation Program by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and P.T. Ferro Construction Company for an Amount of $716,911.65 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1329

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution Approving an Agreement for Kelly and Cora Retaining Wall Replacement Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and MYS Incorporated for an Amount of $372,282.22 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#20) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Approve a Resolution Approving an Agreement for Kelly and Cora Retaining Wall Replacement Improvement by and between the City of Crest Hill, Will County, Illinois, and MYS Incorporated for an Amount of $372,282.22 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1330

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Supplemental Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Section No. 19-00051-00-MS for a New Salt & Brine Facility in the Amount of $9,199.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#21) Motion by Alderman Cipiti seconded by Alderperson Oberlin, to Approve a Supplemental Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Section No. 19-00051-00-MS for a New Salt & Brine Facility in the Amount of $9,199.00 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Resolution #1331

City Engineer Wiedeman requested to Approve a Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Section No. 23-00056-00-TL for the Traffic Signal Modernization, Intersection Improvement and Resurfacing in the Amount of $676,488.75 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#22) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Cipiti, to Approve a Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code for Section No. 23-00056- 00-TL for the Traffic Signal Modernization, Intersection Improvement and Resurfacing in the Amount of $676,488.75 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

Resolution #1332

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT: There were no agenda items.

POLICE DEPARTMENT: Police Chief Ed Clark requested to Approve a Special Event Police Services Agreement with American Italian Cultural Society for Festa Italian per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

The event is scheduled for August 8th through August 10th, with specified hours outlined in the agreement. The insurance documentation is attached. Alderperson Oberlin highlighted the need to amend the city's address in the documents.

(#23) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderwoman Gazal, to Approve a Special Event Police Services Agreement with American Italian Cultural Society for Festa Italian per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSTAIN: Ald. Cipiti.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Chief Clark provided an update on the school resources officer program, noting that the review of the intergovernmental agreement with the school district is underway. Officer Outlaw has now achieved national and state certifications, and the department anticipates a formal approval presentation soon.

Mayor Soliman commended Chief Clark's diligence, emphasizing the program's significance for the Crest Hill schools.

Upon inquiry about the intersection of Nicholson and Ludwig, Chief Clark acknowledged the need for further review and action.

Regarding the National Night Out: Chief Clark announced that the event will be on September 4th, from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., following past formats. Coordination with vendors is ongoing, and the involvement of a helicopter is confirmed, promising an expansive community engagement.

MAYOR'S REPORT: Mayor Soliman requested to Approve an Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.76 (Liquor Control Commissioner) of Title 2 (Administration and Personnel) of the City of Crest Hill Code of Ordinances (Codification of Deputy Liquor commissioner Salary) per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

Mayor Soliman informed the Council that this ordinance amendment had been thoroughly discussed at the work session held the previous Monday. The packet provided includes the list of current liquor license holders along with their classifications. Mayor Soliman emphasized the necessity to codify the Deputy Liquor Commissioner salaries based on recent findings.

(#24) Motion by Alderperson Oberlin seconded by Alderman Jefferson, to Approve an Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.76 (Liquor Control Commissioner) of Title 2 (Administration and Personnel) of the City of Crest Hill Code of Ordinances (Codification of Deputy Liquor commissioner Salary) per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

Ordinance #2030

Mayor Soliman apologized for not recognizing the Public Works Department during the June 30th work session meeting that was held at the Public Works Facility Garage. He then thanked the department and the Interim Public Works Director Julius Hansen for all they did to host the meeting.

Mayor Soliman announced that there was a Grand Opening and a tour of the facility at Hendrickson Bumper on Caton Farm Road, on Wednesday, July 16th.

Mayor Soliman announced that there will be a mosquito spraying on Tuesday, July 22, 2025.

CITY CLERK: Clerk Vershay-Hall announced that the City-Wide Garage Sale will be Thursday, August 14, 2025, through Sunday, August 17, 2025. There is a $5.00 permit fee and the deadline to submit your application and be placed on the list is Tuesday, August 12, 2025. Maps and Lists will be available for pick up at the Clerk's Office on Wednesday, August 13, 2025.

CITY TREASURER: City Treasurer Jamie Malloy requested to Approve the List of Bills Issued Through July 31, 2025, in the Amount of $528,680.78 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

(#25) Motion by Alderman Jefferson seconded by Alderman Deserio, to Approve the list of bills issued through July 31, 2025, in the amount of $528,680.78 for Council approval per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

City Treasurer Jamie Malloy presented the Regular and Overtime Payroll from June 30, 2025, through July 13, 2025, in the amount of $297,171.18 per the memo dated July 21, 2025.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: There was no unfinished business.

NEW BUSINESS: There was no new business.

COMMITTEE/LIAISON REPORTS: There were no committee/liaison reports.

CITY COUNCIL COMMENTS: Alderperson Oberlin commented that with the severe heat approaching please check on the elderly. She also welcomed the new Community & Economic Development Director Daniel Ritter.

PUBLIC COMMENT: Stuart Soifer, a resident, asked if City Hall will be a cooling center with the extreme heat coming up. Mayor Soliman stated that the City is always a cooling center, and we are mentioned on Will County's site, as well.

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

(#26) Motion by Alderman Dyke seconded by Alderman Deserio, to adjourn the July 21, 2025, Council meeting.

On roll call, the vote was:

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

NAYES: None.

ABSENT: Ald. Albert.

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

The meeting was adjourned at 8:16 p.m.

https://cresthill-il.municodemeetings.com/sites/cresthill-il.municodemeetings.com/files/fileattachments/city_council/meeting/4661/city_council_minutes_july_21_2025.pdf