Seneca, IL

Storm Debrief Special Workshop Meeting

The Seneca Village Council is holding a special workshop meeting to discuss and debrief the recent storm event. The agenda includes a public forum and a storm debrief discussion, with no formal decisions or votes scheduled.

• Public forum
• Storm debrief discussion

Special Park Board Meeting

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will consider several expenditures and two ordinances, including a working cash fund ordinance and approval of a final plat for the LaRou Brothers subdivision. Presentations from the SBA on disaster recovery and from Dynegy Energy Services are also scheduled. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes, treasurer's report, and bills.

• Ordinance 2026-09: working cash fund for the Village
• Ordinance 2026-10: final plat for LaRou Brothers subdivision (24 PINs)
• Expenditure to Chamlin & Associates: $18,745.50 for engineering services
• Expenditure to Grainco FS: $1,618.45 for storm generator fuel
• Expenditure to Landcomp Corp (Republic Services): $3,237.76 for sludge removal

Planning Commission Regular Meeting

The Seneca Planning Commission will hold its regular meeting, including reports from zoning and code enforcement officers. The main action item is a motion to recommend approval or denial of a final plat of subdivision for Brian & Peter Larou, which will be forwarded to the Village Council.

• Motion to recommend approval/denial of final Plat of Subdivision (dated 07/22/2026) for Brian & Peter Larou
• Approval of July 8, 2026 meeting minutes
• Zoning Enforcement Officer report
• Code Enforcement Officer report

Park Board Regular Meeting - CANCELLED DUE TO STORM

This meeting was cancelled due to a storm. The agenda included routine items such as approval of minutes and treasurer's report, updates on park projects, and discussions on various topics including a circus inquiry, a field usage form, a new board member, a paid part-time employee, and an Ottawa YMCA inquiry.

• Crotty Park update
• Graves Park update
• Community Garden update
• Boat Launch update
• Discussion of paid part-time park employee

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will meet to approve bills, hear reports from commissioners, and vote on several expenditures including road repairs and software contracts. The meeting includes routine procedural items and public comment.

• $154,914 contract with D Construction for 2026 Motor Fuel Tax Street Maintenance Program
• $969,249 contract with D Construction for Old Stage Road & Shipyard Road Reconstruction
• $13,249 contract with Opperman Construction Co. for storm sewer replacement at Armour/Crotty and Armour/Bridge
• $3,335.45 contract with Hawkins, Inc. for water treatment supplies
• Resolution No. 653 encouraging use of local businesses in new development

The Seneca Village Council approved multiple expenditures, including a $969,249 contract for Old Stage Road and Shipyard Road reconstruction, a $154,914 street maintenance program, and various other purchases. All motions passed unanimously with Commissioner Weber absent. The council also adopted Resolution No. 653 encouraging local business use in new development.

• Approved $969,249 contract to D Construction for Old Stage Road & Shipyard Road Reconstruction (4-0)
• Approved $154,914 expenditure to D Construction for 2026 Motor Fuel Tax Street Maintenance Program, subject to IDOT approval (4-0)
• Approved $13,249 expenditure to Opperman Construction for storm sewer replacement at Armour/Crotty and Armour/Bridge (4-0)
• Approved $3,335.45 expenditure to Hawkins, Inc. for water treatment supplies (4-0)
• Approved $2,083 expenditure to Master Meter, Inc. for annual software support (4-0)
• Approved $1,700 expenditure to LOCIS for software additions and membership fees (4-0)
• Approved $14,443.70 expenditure to Grundy County ETSB for two Student Resource Officer portable radio kits (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 653 encouraging local business use in new development (4-0)

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will consider several expenditure motions, covering park improvements, equipment purchases, and professional services. Items include a $14,420 contract for FY26 audit services and a $10,000 payment for Graves Park ballfield work. The council will also vote on hiring a part‑time police officer at $28.03 per hour. These decisions are scheduled for the July 20, 2026 meeting.

• Approve $14,420 payment to Mack & Associates for FY26 auditing services
• Approve $10,000 payment to Molitor Athletic Field for Graves Park ballfield work
• Approve $4,680 payment to Jo’s Seal Coating for Crotty Park walking path and parking
• Approve hiring of part‑time police officer Michael Holford at $28.03 per hour
• Approve $3,026.04 purchase of two 8’ picnic tables for Crotty Park from Barco Products

The Seneca Village Council approved all agenda items unanimously, including several expenditures for park improvements, water system parts, and a new police hire. The council also approved the treasurer's report and payment of bills, and heard a presentation on the annual audit.

• Approved $1,848 for a Wacker Neuson trash pump from Acme Tools (5-0)
• Approved $4,680 for Crotty Park walking path and parking seal coating (5-0)
• Approved $3,026.04 for two 8' picnic tables for Crotty Park (5-0)
• Approved $7,400 for a Baumalight mower attachment for the mini-excavator (5-0)
• Approved $3,078.89 for two 6" plug valves from Water Products Company (5-0)
• Approved $10,000 for Graves Park ballfield work by Molitor Athletic Field (5-0)
• Approved $14,420 for FY26 auditing services from Mack & Associates (5-0)
• Approved hiring Michael Holford as part-time police officer at $28.03/hour (5-0)

Park Board Regular Meeting

The Seneca Park Board will approve the June 2026 meeting minutes and the Treasurer’s Report. It will discuss updates on Crotty Park, Graves Park, the community garden, and the boat launch. New business includes ordering two picnic tables for Crotty Park, not to exceed $3,200 from Barco Products (donation), considering a change of the Graves Park head, planning a National Night Out table for August 4, and reviewing the OSLAD grant deadline of August 31.

• Approval of June 2026 meeting minutes
• Approval of Treasurer’s Report
• Order of two picnic tables for Crotty Park, not to exceed $3,200 from Barco Products (donation)
• Discussion to switch Graves Park head
• Discussion of OSLAD grant deadline August 31

The Seneca Park Board approved the June 2026 minutes, approved ordering two picnic tables for Crotty Park at a cost not to exceed $3,200 (funded by a donation), and adjourned. They also discussed new business, including posting a public notice for a vacant board spot and updating the Field Usage form for the 2026/2027 season.

• Approved June 2026 meeting minutes
• Approved ordering 2 picnic tables at Crotty Park, not to exceed $3,200 (donation)
• Approved adjournment at 6:49 PM

Planning Commission Regular Meeting

The Seneca Planning Commission will approve the minutes from the June 24, 2026 special meeting. Commissioners will hear updates from the Zoning Enforcement Officer and the Code Enforcement Officer. The agenda also includes routine items such as roll call, public comment, and future agenda planning.

• Approval of June 24, 2026 special meeting minutes
• Zoning Enforcement Officer report & update
• Code Enforcement Officer report & update

The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the June 24, 2026 meeting as presented. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included reports from the Zoning Enforcement Officer and Code Enforcement Officer, and a note that a minor subdivision application may be on the August agenda.

• Approved June 24, 2026 meeting minutes (5-0)

Council Meeting

The Village Council will consider multiple expenditures for emergency storm repairs and maintenance at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. The body will also review engineering services for street lighting and water main relocation, as well as a proposed minor land subdivision.

• Approval of $48,736.00 IDOT Engineering Services Agreement for River Road
• Approval of $45,860.00 to Chamlin and Associates for street light mapping and water main relocation
• Multiple Wastewater Treatment Plant expenditures including $8,385.72 for a backup generator rental
• Approval of $6,050.00 and $2,000.00 for emergency storm tree services on various streets
• Discussion of a proposed Class 1 Minor Land Subdivision for Brian Larou and Peter Larou, Jr.

The council approved numerous expenditures for emergency storm-related repairs to the Wastewater Treatment Plant and local streets. Other actions included funding for park renovations, engineering services, and a donation to the Seneca FFA. A proposed land subdivision for Brian and Peter Larou, Jr. was discussed and will be reviewed in August.

• Approved $4,250 for Wastewater Treatment Plant flow transmitter (4-0)
• Approved $5,540 to rebuild Wastewater Treatment Plant excessive flow pump (4-0)
• Approved $2,970 for emergency blower motor repairs and generator hook-up (4-0)
• Approved $5,377.98 for emergency generator fuel (4-0)
• Approved $5,880 for Crotty Park Ballfield renovation (4-0)
• Approved $8,385.72 for emergency backup generator rental (4-0)
• Approved $9,600 for Community Clean-Up Day dumpsters (3-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved $45,860 for engineering services via Chamlin and Associates (4-0)

Special Planning Commission Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will meet to discuss a proposed Class 1 Minor Land Subdivision sketch plan for Brian Larou and Peter Larou, Jr. The meeting also includes reports from the Zoning and Code Enforcement officers.

• Discussion of Class 1 Minor Land Subdivision sketch plan for Brian Larou and Peter Larou, Jr. (PINs 29-51-102-001 through 29-51-102-024)
• Zoning Enforcement Officer report and update
• Code Enforcement Officer report and update

The Planning Commission approved the minutes from the May 13, 2026 meeting. The motion was made by Commissioner Jackson, seconded by Commissioner Klicker, and passed unanimously. The commission then adjourned the meeting at 5:20 PM by voice vote.

• Approved May 13, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Special Council Meeting - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER

The Special Council Meeting scheduled for June 17, 2026, was cancelled due to weather. The agenda had included a discussion regarding the 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC).

• Discussion of 2024 International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC)

Council Meeting

The council approved several public works expenditures, including $8,786 for water meters, $3,925 for park mulch, $1,755 for a valve, and hired a part‑time maintenance worker at $26.50 per hour. It also authorized an escrow account for fund management and approved contracts for GIS streetlight mapping ($2,094), a health‑plan agreement, fuel purchases ($4,861.89), and a law‑enforcement policy manual ($6,326.17). Additionally, the mayor appointed Todd Cade to the Seneca Regional Port District Board.

• Approval of $8,786 expenditure to Consolidated Pipe & Supply Co for water meters
• Approval of $3,925 expenditure to Southern Roots Landscaping for mulch at Crotty Park
• Motion to hire Andrew Applebee as part‑time Public Works Maintenance at $26.50 per hour
• Authorization of an escrow account with signers Mayor Jeff Olson, Commissioner Kaylea Mann, and Treasurer Jessica Kempiak
• Approval of $2,094 contract with Chamlin & Associates to add streetlights to GIS and revise zoning map

The Seneca Village Council approved a series of spending items for water infrastructure, park maintenance, a valve replacement, and a part‑time public works position. It also authorized an escrow account, GIS services for streetlights, a health‑plan cooperation agreement, and appointed Todd Cade to the Seneca Regional Port District Board.

• Approved $8,786.00 expenditure to Consolidated Pipe & Supply Co for water meters (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved $3,925.00 expenditure to Southern Roots Landscaping for mulch and garden bed work at Crotty Park (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved $1,755.00 expenditure to Underground Pipe & Valve Co for replacement of a 6‑inch silent check valve (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved hiring of Andrew Applebee as a part‑time Public Works Maintenance worker at $26.50 per hour (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved establishment of an escrow account with signers Mayor Olson, Commissioner Mann, and Treasurer Kempiak (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved $2,094.00 expenditure to Chamlin & Associates for GIS streetlight data and zoning map revisions (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved the Local Government Health Plan Intergovernmental Cooperation Agreement for 7/1/2026‑6/30/2028 (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)
• Approved appointment of Todd Cade to the Seneca Regional Port District Board, replacing Jacey Brewer (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Olson, Peddicord, Weber)

Planning Commission Regular Meeting - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER

The Seneca Planning Commission meeting scheduled for June 10, 2026 was cancelled due to weather. No agenda items were acted upon or decided. The agenda listed reports, old and new business, and two development proposals that will be addressed at a future meeting.

• Discussion of proposed concept plan dated 05/13/2026 for 426 N. Main St. (PIN 24-24-114-038) by Pat Regan
• Discussion of proposed Class 1 Minor Land Subdivision sketch plan for Brian Larou and Peter Larou, Jr. (PINs 29-51-102-001 through 29-51-102-024)

Park Board Regular Meeting

The Seneca Park Board will review updates on several local parks and the community garden. The board will also discuss summer activities and upcoming seal coating scheduled for the week of June 22.

• Seal coating starting week of June 22
• Updates on Crotty Park
• Updates on Graves Park
• Boat Launch update
• Community Garden discussion

The board approved the minutes from the May 2026 meeting. No other formal votes were taken, though the board discussed playground equipment quotes and seal coating schedules.

• Approved May 2026 meeting minutes

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will vote on several personnel promotions and a salary increase, approve a road‑related intergovernmental agreement, adopt a resolution for highway maintenance funding, and consider an ordinance amending subdivision regulation fees. The council will also authorize a $1,537 payment for codification services. These items are on the agenda for the June 1, 2026 meeting.

• Promotion of James Applebee to Public Works Superintendent (Water & Sewer) with $2.25/hr pay increase
• Promotion of Matt Sticha to Public Works Superintendent (Streets) with $2.25/hr pay increase
• Approval of a 4.5% raise for a non‑union employee effective April 1, 2026
• Intergovernmental Agreement with Manlius Township Road District to place a speed limit sign
• Ordinance No. 2026-08 amending subdivision regulation fees

The Village Council approved several actions, including promotions for two public works superintendents, a 4.5% raise for non‑union employees, and a $1,537 payment for codification services. It also adopted an intergovernmental agreement for a speed‑limit sign, a resolution for highway‑maintenance funding, and an ordinance updating subdivision regulation fees. All motions carried with three ayes and no nays; Commissioners Higgins and Peddicord were absent.

• Approved promotion of James Applebee to Public Works Superintendent (Water & Sewer) with $2.25/hr pay increase (3‑0)
• Approved promotion of Matt Sticha to Public Works Superintendent (Streets) with $2.25/hr pay increase (3‑0)
• Approved 4.5% raise for non‑union employees effective April 1 2026 (3‑0)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement with Manlius Township Road District for speed‑limit sign placement (3‑0)
• Approved Resolution No. 652 for maintenance under the Illinois Highway Code (Motor Fuel Tax Funds) (3‑0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 2026‑08 amending subdivision regulation fee provisions (3‑0)
• Approved $1,537 expenditure to American Legal Publishing for codification services (3‑0)
• Approved payment of bills as presented in the Treasurer’s report (3‑0)

Council Meeting

The Village Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the annual budget and appropriations for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2027. The body will also consider a subdivision plat for the Jashari Subdivision and various municipal expenditures.

• Public hearing and vote on Ordinance 2026-06 for the 2026-2027 Annual Budget
• Ordinance No. 2026-07 regarding map amendment and final plat for Jashari Subdivision
• Facade Improvement Program Agreement for Fergy’s Bar & Grill (272-274 N. Main St) up to $10,000.00
• Expenditure of $5,500.00 to Holler Tree Service for River Road culvert cleanout
• Expenditures for Vortex Technologies ($2,400.00), Impact AEDs, LLC (up to $1,868.00), and WEX Bank ($4,410.47)

The council approved Ordinance 2026‑06, adopting the village’s annual budget and appropriations for the fiscal year April 1 2026 through March 31 2027. It also approved expenditures to Vortex Technologies ($2,400.00), Impact AEDs, LLC (up to $1,868.00), Bankcard Processing Center ($3,534.96), WEX Bank ($4,410.47) and Holler Tree Service ($5,500.00). The council adopted Ordinance 2026‑07 approving the map amendment and final plat for the Jashari Subdivision. Finally, the council approved Resolution 651 authorizing participation in the Illinois Emergency Management Mutual Aid System.

• Adopted Annual Budget and Appropriations FY 2026‑27 (Ordinance 2026‑06) – unanimous
• Approved $2,400.00 expenditure to Vortex Technologies for flow‑meter calibration – unanimous
• Approved up to $1,868.00 expenditure to Impact AEDs, LLC for AED cabinets and CPR pads – unanimous
• Approved $3,534.96 expenditure to Bankcard Processing Center for credit‑card purchases – unanimous
• Approved $4,410.47 expenditure to WEX Bank for fuel purchases – unanimous
• Approved $5,500.00 expenditure to Holler Tree Service for River Road culvert cleanout and tree removal – unanimous
• Approved Ordinance 2026‑07 for Jashari Subdivision map amendment and final plat – unanimous
• Approved Resolution 651 to join Illinois Emergency Management Mutual Aid System – unanimous

Planning Commission Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a map amendment to rezone property in Brookfield Estates from R-4 to Agriculture. The commission will also consider recommendations for a final plat of subdivision and a plat of vacation for the Jashari property.

• Public hearing for rezoning Jashari property (PINs 29-51-300-004 through 29-51-300-018) from R-4 to Agriculture
• Proposed Final Plat of Subdivision dated 05/04/2026 for Auston and Grace Jashari
• Proposed Plat of Vacation for Jashari Property
• Approval of Planning Commission meeting time change

The commission approved the April 8, 2026 meeting minutes. It opened and then closed a public hearing on a map amendment to rezone several parcels in Brookfield Estates from R‑4 to Agriculture. The commission voted to recommend that the Village Council approve the rezoning and also recommend approval of the final plat of subdivision for Auston and Grace Jashari. Finally, it approved moving the regular meeting start time to 5:00 PM, effective June 10, 2026.

• Approved April 8, 2026 meeting minutes (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Opened public hearing on map amendment rezoning Brookfield Estates (4 ayes)
• Closed public hearing on map amendment rezoning Brookfield Estates (4 ayes)
• Recommended Village Council approve map amendment rezoning to Agriculture (4 ayes)
• Recommended Village Council approve final plat of subdivision for Auston and Grace Jashari (4 ayes)
• Approved change of Planning Commission meeting time to 5:00 PM (4 ayes, effective June 10, 2026)

Park Board Regular Meeting

The Seneca Park Board will approve the minutes from the April 2026 meeting and the Treasurer’s Report. It will receive updates on Crotty Park, Graves Park, the Community Garden, and the Boat Launch. The board will discuss and vote on replacing AED units at three parks, with a total cost not to exceed $1,600.

• Approval of April 2026 meeting minutes
• Approval of Treasurer’s Report
• Updates on Crotty Park, Graves Park, Community Garden, and Boat Launch
• Discussion and approval of AED replacements at three parks, budget capped at $1,600

The board approved the April 2026 meeting minutes and the treasurer's report through April 2026. It authorized up to $1,600 to replace AED storage boxes at three locations. The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 PM. New business items such as a playground equipment quote and scoreboard repairs were noted but not decided.

• Approved April 2026 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved Treasurer report through April 2026 (motion passed)
• Approved up to $1,600 for AED storage box replacement at three locations (motion passed)
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 7:10 PM (motion passed)

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will adopt the annual budget and appropriations for the 2026‑2027 fiscal year. It will also approve several expenditures, including an $84,000 contract for a Main Street water main replacement and a corrected $31,100 payment for Old Stage Road reconstruction. Additional items include hiring a full‑time public works maintenance worker and adopting resolutions on land‑use authority and a road‑closure request for the 2026 Seneca Cruise Night.

• Adoption of ordinance adopting the Annual Budget and Appropriations for 2026‑2027
• Approval of $84,000 to Chamlin & Associates for Main Street water main replacement
• Approval of corrected $31,100 payment to Chamlin & Associates for Old Stage Road reconstruction and parking lane
• Approval of $24,780 to Walker Process for repair parts and field service at the Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Approval of hiring Dylan Einhaus for the full‑time Public Works Maintenance position

The Seneca Village Council approved multiple expenditures for road reconstruction, water main replacement, wastewater plant repairs, speed radar signs, and squad car equipment, and hired a full‑time public works maintenance employee. It also adopted Resolution 649 supporting municipal zoning authority and Resolution 650 requesting a road closure for the 2026 Seneca Cruise Night. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved corrected expenditure $31,100 to Chamlin & Associates for Old Stage Road reconstruction and parking lane (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Dylan Einhaus for full-time Public Works Maintenance position (unanimous)
• Approved $24,780 expenditure to Walker Process for wastewater treatment plant repair parts and service (unanimous)
• Approved $84,000 expenditure to Chamlin & Associates for Main Street water main replacement services (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 expenditure to Nick’s Metal Fabrication & Sons Inc. for aluminum speed radar sign poles (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 649 supporting municipal authority to regulate land use and zoning (unanimous)
• Approved $21,145 expenditure to Rugged Depot for squad car computers and docking stations (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 650 requesting road closure and detour for 2026 Seneca Cruise Night (unanimous)

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will consider several expenditure approvals, including a $31,000 road reconstruction project, park renovations, and equipment purchases. It will also discuss ordinances for a fire district conditional use and annexation of village territory. Additional items include hiring for public works and a review of the 2026‑2027 fiscal year budget.

• Approve $31,000 to Chamlin & Associates for reconstruction of Old Stage Road and a parking lane along Shipyard Road.
• Approve up to $16,000 to Mol itor Athletic Fields for renovation of Crotty Park and two ballfields at Graves Park.
• Approve $6,284.25 to Muni -Link LLC for utility billing software services (May 1, 2026‑April 20, 2027).
• Approve $7,468 to Motorola Solutions, Inc. for dash cam and watchguard equipment for Squad 95.
• Discuss/approve ordinance granting a Conditional Use and Variance for Seneca Fire Protection and Ambulance District at 303 N. Cash St.

The council approved the minutes from the April 6 meeting and the treasurer’s report. It authorized hiring three seasonal park workers and approved expenditures totaling about $80,500 for projects including utility billing software, park renovations, a road reconstruction, and dash‑cam equipment. The council also adopted a conditional‑use ordinance for the fire district and annexed additional territory to the village limits. All motions passed with four votes in favor and none against.

• Approved hiring of Casey Klicker, Cameron Vega, and Peyton Weber for seasonal park & grounds help (4-0)
• Approved $6,284.25 payment to Muni-Link LLC for utility billing software (4-0)
• Approved up to $16,000 to Molitor Athletic Fields for Crotty Park and Graves Park renovations (4-0)
• Approved $31,000 to Chamlin & Associates for Old Stage Road reconstruction and parking lane (4-0)
• Approved $7,468 to Motorola Solutions for dash cam and watchguard equipment for Squad 95 (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2026-04 granting conditional use and variance for Seneca Fire Protection at 303 N. Cash St (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance 2026-05 annexing specified parcels to village limits and map amendment (4-0)
• Approved $5,630 to Superior Excavating for 6‑inch line stop at 484 N. Main St (4-0)

Park Board Regular Meeting

The Park Board will discuss and vote on two maintenance contracts for Crotty Park and athletic fields. The board will also receive updates on the boat launch, community garden, and the May 2nd Spring Fling.

• Christmas Light Installer for Crotty Park lights, not to exceed $5,400
• Molitar Athletic Fields for field maintenance rehab, not to exceed $15,375
• Gaga pit installation at Crotty Park
• Discussion regarding bathrooms at Crotty Park

The Park Board approved the March 2026 meeting minutes. It authorized spending up to $16,000 for rehabilitation of Molitar Field (Crotty and Graves Fields) and up to $5,400 for Christmas light installation. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:05 PM.

• Approved March 2026 meeting minutes
• Approved up to $16,000 for Molitar Field Rehab (Crotty and Graves Fields)
• Approved up to $5,400 for Christmas Light Installers
• Approved adjournment of the meeting at 7:05 PM

Planning Commission Regular Meeting

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a motion to recommend that the Village Council approve or deny a conditional use and variance request for a 40‑ft storage shipping container at 303 N. Cash St, requested by the Seneca Fire Protection & Ambulance District. The commission will also hear a public hearing and motion on a map amendment for the Graves Property (PIN 24‑26‑104‑000 and part of PIN 24‑23‑316‑000) in an R4 Traditional Residential zone, and a motion on a concept plan for the same property.

• Public hearing and motion on conditional use & variance for a 40‑ft storage container at 303 N. Cash St (Seneca Fire Protection & Ambulance District)
• Public hearing and motion on map amendment to Graves Property (PIN 24‑26‑104‑000 and part of PIN 24‑23‑316‑000) R4 Traditional Residential
• Motion to recommend Village Council approve or deny proposed concept plan for Graves Property

The Planning Commission approved the March 11, 2026 minutes and held public hearings on a proposed 40‑ft storage container at 303 N. Cash St and a map amendment for the Graves Property. Commissioners unanimously voted to recommend that the Village Council approve the conditional use and variance, the map amendment, and the concept plan. A future agenda item to change the meeting start time to 5:00 PM was also noted.

• Approved March 11, 2026 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Opened and closed public hearing on 40‑ft storage container (7-0)
• Recommended Village Council approve conditional use and variance for 303 N. Cash St (7-0)
• Opened and closed public hearing on Graves Property map amendment (7-0)
• Recommended Village Council approve Graves Property map amendment (7-0)
• Recommended Village Council approve Graves Property concept plan (7-0)
• Added future agenda item to change meeting time to 5:00 PM (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote, all ayes)

Joint Review Board Meeting - TIF District No. 1

The Village of Seneca Joint Review Board will convene to review the financial reports for Tax Increment Financing District No. 1 for fiscal years 2024 and 2025. The board will also discuss the potential extension of the district.

• Review Annual TIF Report: FYE 2024
• Review Annual TIF Report: FYE 2025
• Discussion and Review of TIF District No. 1 Extension
• Meeting at 340 N. Cash St, Seneca, IL 61360

Joint Review Board Meeting - TIF District No. 2

The Joint Review Board will review the annual Tax Increment Financing (TIF) reports for fiscal years ending 2024 and 2025. Board members will discuss a proposed extension of TIF District No. 2 at the Shipyard Road Business Development Park. The meeting will include a public comment period before adjournment.

• Review Annual TIF Report: FYE 2024
• Review Annual TIF Report: FYE 2025
• Discussion and Review of TIF District No. 2 Extension
• Public Comment

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will vote on several expenditure approvals, including a $43,436.51 contract for dispatch services and administrative phone lines. The council will also consider a 2% increase in water and sewer rates effective April 1, 2026, and approve repairs and equipment purchases for streets, parks, and public safety. Additional items include hiring for a seasonal parks position and a donation for solar radar speed signs.

• Approval of $43,436.51 to Grundy County ETSB for dispatch services and admin phone lines
• Approval of $8,635.00 to Underground Pipe & Valve, Co. for Birchlawn Street repairs
• Approval of $2,860.89 to Hawkins, Inc. for water treatment plant chlorine supplies
• Approval of $7,000.00 to Elan City for purchase of two solar radar speed signs
• Approval of a 2% annual water and sewer rate increase effective April 1, 2026

The Seneca Village Council approved several expenditures, including $43,436.51 for dispatch services and phone lines, $14,851.16 for Squad 95 retrofitting supplies, and $7,000 for two solar radar speed signs. It also approved a resolution for the 2026 high school homecoming parade and a $300 donation to the University of Illinois Extension. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $43,436.51 for dispatch services and admin phone lines (5-0)
• Approved $14,851.16 for Squad 95 retrofitting supplies (5-0)
• Approved $7,000 for two solar radar speed signs (5-0)
• Approved $8,635 for Birchlawn Street repairs (5-0)
• Approved $2,462.20 for three body‑worn cameras (5-0)
• Approved $3,828.80 for body‑worn camera redaction software (5-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 648 for the 2026 high school homecoming parade (5-0)
• Approved $300 donation to University of Illinois Extension for LaSalle County 4‑H programs (5-0)

Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council will vote on several expenditure approvals, including a $28,761.27 payment to the State of Illinois for the River Road/IL 170 construction project. Additional items include contracts for park maintenance, utility repairs, and hiring a part‑time parks employee. The meeting also includes discussion of a proposed pickleball court at Crotty Park.

• Approve $28,761.27 payment to the State of Illinois for River Road/IL 170 construction costs (village share)
• Approve $2,281.25 to Associated Technical Services LTD. for emergency leak services
• Approve up to $5,400.00 to Jo’s Seal Coating for seal coating walking paths at Crotty and Graves Parks
• Approve hiring Felicia Schumaker as part‑time Parks and Beautification employee at $20 per hour
• Discuss proposed pickleball court development at Crotty Park

The Seneca Village Council approved multiple expenditures, including a $28,761.27 village share for River Road/IL 170 construction. It also approved several park‑related contracts, a part‑time parks employee, and a police reporting system maintenance fee. Additional approvals covered a 4‑H fair sponsorship and the release of executive‑session minutes. Discussions were held on open burning and golf‑cart/UTV permits, but no actions were taken on those items.

• Approved $28,761.27 to State Treasurer for village share of River Road/IL 170 construction (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved $2,281.25 to Associated Technical Services for emergency leak services (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved $2,186.70 to Ayers Electric for wastewater plant repair after power surge (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved up to $5,400.00 to Jo’s Seal Coating for seal coating walking paths at Crotty and Graves Parks (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved up to $10,000.00 for batting cage materials at Graves Park (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved hiring of Felicia Schumaker as part‑time Parks and Beautification employee at $20 per hour (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved $4,251.61 to Superion LLC for Police Department Reporting System annual maintenance (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)
• Approved $250.00 to Grundy County 4‑H Association for 2026 Fair sponsorship (ayes: Higgins, Peddicord, Weber, Olson)

Special Council Meeting

The Seneca Village Council holds a special meeting on March 12, 2026. The council will discuss whether to extend the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District or allow it to expire. The agenda also includes routine items such as call to order, roll call, pledge of allegiance, public comment, and executive‑session matters concerning employee actions and a semi‑annual review of minutes.

• Consideration of extending the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District or allowing it to expire
• Executive session: appointment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees or legal counsel (5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1))
• Executive session: semi‑annual review of executive session minutes (5 ILCS 120/2.06(d))

The council unanimously agreed to move forward with extending the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district for an additional ten years and will schedule an open house and send a formal letter of support to other taxing bodies. The council entered executive session, later returned to regular session, and adjourned the meeting.

• Agreed to pursue ten-year TIF district extension (unanimous consensus)
• Entered executive session (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Peddicord, Weber, Olson; nays: none)
• Returned to regular session (ayes: Higgins, Mann, Peddicord, Weber, Olson; nays: none)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote of all ayes)

Special Park Board Meeting

The Seneca Park Board will discuss and vote on several projects, including seal coating at Crotty and Graves Parks with a budget not to exceed $5,500, and installing batting cages at Graves Park with a budget not to exceed $10,000. Other topics include potential pickle ball courts, participation in the Seneca Heritage Festival, the 2026 park budget, and the Gaga Pit project. The meeting also includes updates on existing parks and a public comment period.

• Seal coating at Crotty and Graves Parks – approval up to $5,500
• Batting cages at Graves Park – approval up to $10,000
• Discussion of new pickle ball courts
• Discussion of park participation in Seneca Heritage Festival
• Discussion of the 2026 park budget

The Seneca Park Board approved the February 2026 meeting minutes. It authorized up to $10,000 for Graves Park batting cages and up to $5,000 for Jo’s Seal Coating services for both parks. The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 PM.

• Approved February 2026 meeting minutes
• Approved up to $10,000 for Graves Park batting cages
• Approved up to $5,000 for Jo’s Seal Coating services for both parks
• Approved adjournment of meeting at 7:30 PM

Planning Commission Regular Meeting

The Seneca Planning Commission meeting will review routine reports and approve prior minutes. The primary agenda item is a discussion with Patrick Rigan about a proposed addition to the existing building at 426 N. Main St (PIN 24-24-114-038). No other decisions or actions are listed beyond standard procedural business.

• Discussion of proposed addition to existing building at 426 N. Main St (PIN 24-24-114-038)

The Planning Commission approved the February 11, 2026 meeting minutes. It decided not to issue any additional building permits for the proposed addition at 426 N. Main St. until the existing structure meets exterior code requirements and asked the applicant to submit architectural drawings for review. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved February 11, 2026 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Denied issuance of additional building permits for 426 N. Main St. addition pending code compliance
• Requested architectural drawings for 426 N. Main St. addition review
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried unanimously)