Skokie public meetings in 2025

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for December 18, 2025, has been cancelled. The cancellation is due to a lack of agenda items.

Public Safety Commission

The commission will review the November 19, 2025 meeting minutes, hear public comments, and receive reports from the fire, police, and engineering departments along with a presentation on e‑mobility devices. It will also address any unfinished business, consider new business, and then adjourn.

• Review minutes of the November 19, 2025 meeting
• Public comment (3 minutes per person)
• Fire Department report
• Police Department report
• E‑mobility devices presentation

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to recap the Main Street Commercial Corridor Plan. The body will also discuss implementation, including project updates and streetscape design.

• Main Street Commercial Corridor Plan recap
• Main Street implementation project updates
• Main Street streetscape design discussion

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Skokie Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, consider a permanent appointment for a Fire Lieutenant, and receive resignations from several police and fire personnel. The meeting will also include a public comment period and an executive session.

• Approval of November 17, 2025, meeting minutes
• Recommendation for permanent appointment of Fire Lieutenant Scott Wallace
• Resignations of Firefighter Jack McLaughlin and Firefighter Sean Patten
• Resignations of Probationary Police Officers Hector Cruz, Caitlin Dole, and Daisy Rojas
• Police Department Open House

The commission approved the fire chief's memorandum making Scott Wallace a permanent Fire Lieutenant. It accepted the resignation of Fire Fighter Jack McLaughiin, the retirement of Fire Fighter Sean Patten, and the resignations of Probationary Police Officers Hector Cruz, Caitlin Dole, and Daisy Rojas. The board also approved the November 17, 2025 meeting minutes and moved into Executive Session.

• Approved memorandum appointing Scott Wallace as permanent Fire Lieutenant
• Accepted resignation of Fire Fighter Jack McLaughiin
• Accepted retirement of Fire Fighter Sean Patten
• Accepted resignations of Probationary Police Officers Hector Cruz, Caitlin Dole, and Daisy Rojas
• Approved November 17, 2025 meeting minutes as written
• Motion to enter Executive Session approved

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to introduce a new member and receive updates from the Health and Human Services Director. The board will also discuss whether to reschedule or cancel the February 12, 2026 meeting.

• Introduction of new member Rev Dr. Valerie Riley
• Award of Health Research Excellence to Jimmy Gonzalez-Vicker
• Discussion on rescheduling or cancelling the February 12, 2026 meeting

The Board approved the meeting agenda and the November 13, 2025 minutes. Members voted unanimously to create a Board‑sponsored Health Research Excellence award for the Illinois Junior Academy of Science Fair. The Board discussed whether the February 12, 2026 meeting will be cancelled or rescheduled and will poll members before deciding.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved November 13, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved creation of Health Research Excellence award (unanimous)

Ethics Commission

The Skokie Ethics Commission will consider an evidentiary hearing regarding an amended complaint alleging violations of the Skokie Ethics Code by James Johnson. The commission will also vote to approve minutes from its August 13 and September 3, 2025 meetings, allow brief public comments, and may enter an executive session before adjourning.

• Evidentiary hearing on amended complaint alleging Ethics Code violations by James Johnson
• Motion to approve minutes of August 13, 2025 and September 3, 2025 meetings
• Public comment period (three minutes per speaker)
• Potential executive session
• Adjournment

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from its August 13 and September 3, 2025 meetings. It adjourned the evidentiary hearing on the complaint against former Trustee James Johnson and scheduled it to resume on January 14, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. The December 10, 2025 meeting was then unanimously adjourned.

• Approved August 13, 2025 Ethics Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 3, 2025 Ethics Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned evidentiary hearing on James Johnson complaint and continued to Jan 14 2026 at 4:00 p.m.
• Adjourned the Dec 10, 2025 Ethics Commission meeting (unanimous)

Appearance Commission

The Skokie Appearance Commission will consider four new residential addition applications: 1st floor additions at 5338 Greenwood St, 9555 Hamlin Ave, and 9440 Lawler Ave, and a 1st and 2nd floor addition at 9050 Keystone Ave. Commissioners will discuss the proposals and vote on granting Certificates of Appropriateness. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of the November 12 minutes and public comment.

• 2025-047A – 5338 Greenwood St – 1st floor addition
• 2025-048A – 9555 Hamlin Ave – 1st floor addition
• 2025-049A – 9050 Keystone Ave – 1st & 2nd floor addition
• 2025-050A – 9440 Lawler Ave – 1st floor addition

The Appearance Commission approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes by a 7‑0 vote. It then granted certificates of appropriateness for 5338 Greenwood Street, 9555 Hamlin Avenue, 9050 Keystone Avenue, and 9440 Lawler Avenue, each by a unanimous 7‑0 vote. The Lawler Avenue approval allowed either a hip or gable roof and optional transom windows.

• Approved November 12, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5338 Greenwood St (7-0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 9555 Hamlin Ave (7-0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 9050 Keystone Ave (7-0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 9440 Lawler Ave with roof options and optional transom windows (7-0)

Human Relations Commission

The Skokie Human Relations Commission will discuss recommendations from its sub‑committees, consider the Common Good Project, and review its committee structure and the schedule for 2026 meetings. A guest speaker, Roger Moreano of the YWCA Evanston/North Shore, will address the commission. The board will also present the Neighbor Engagement Committee's Block Party Awards for January.

• Guest speaker: Roger Moreano, Senior Director, Institutional and Community Equity at YWCA Evanston/North Shore
• Block Party Awards Presentation – January (Neighbor Engagement Committee)
• Review recommendations from November 10 sub‑committee meeting (Community Engagement Sub‑Committee)
• Discussion of the Common Good Project (Community Engagement Sub‑Committee)
• Review committee structure and involvement; review 2026 meeting dates

The Human Relations Commission moved and approved an amendment to place the Public Comment section before the Welcome and Introductions. The commission also approved the minutes from the October 27, 2025 meeting. Finally, the schedule of meeting dates for 2026 was reviewed and confirmed.

• Amended agenda approved (all in favor)
• October 27, 2025 meeting minutes approved (all in favor)
• 2026 meeting dates reviewed and confirmed

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will review financial statements from October 31, 2025, and receive reports on operations, marketing, and programming. The board is also scheduled to discuss the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Review of October 31, 2025 financial statements
• Discussion of 2026 PAC Meeting Schedule
• Executive Director's report on insurance walk-through results
• Report on North Shore Center Foundation benefit which raised over $24,000

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, December 4, 2025 because there are no agenda items. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting. The next regularly scheduled meeting is set for Thursday, December 18, 2025.

Commission on Family Services

The Commission on Family Services will review and possibly adopt a revised mission statement. It will also consider scheduling the April meeting and discuss the subcommittee’s mission. The agenda includes routine items such as approval of minutes and a public comment period.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of November 5, 2025 minutes
• Review of Commission mission statement
• Decision on April Commission meeting date
• Discussion of subcommittee mission

Special Meeting

The Skokie Village Board will hold a special meeting to review and discuss the draft goals, outcomes, and targets of its strategic plan. Board members will hear public comments on the draft. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Call to Order and Roll Call
• Review and Discussion of Draft Goals, Outcomes and Targets
• Public Comments

The Board reviewed strategic goals and staff revenue targets, but no substantive actions were taken. Trustees gave feedback on equity, fair housing, youth engagement, and communication. A motion to adjourn was made by Trustee Pure Slovin, seconded by Trustee Iverson, and carried. The meeting ended at 7:16 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Public Arts Advisory Committee

The Skokie Public Arts Advisory Committee will discuss updates on existing public art maintenance, propose several new mural sites, consider a list of potential muralists, and decide on replacing two existing murals. The meeting also includes scheduling future committee meetings for 2026.

• Maintenance update for the Midnight Butterfly artwork
• Consider new mural at NE corner of Church/Crawford (west‑facing wall)
• Consider new mural at 4925 Oakton Street (Happy Paws)
• Review potential muralists: Sally Traxler‑Lavengood, Alyssa Low, Sarah Goone, Ryan Tova Katz, Louise Jones
• Replace the Shawnimals and Nate Otto murals

Commission on Family Services

The At Risk Youth and Families Subcommittee will meet to share information collected from Skokie school districts. The group will discuss ways to support at-risk youth and families and determine next steps.

• Information sharing regarding Skokie school districts' support for at-risk youth and families

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will discuss a zoning amendment to allow accessory dwelling units. The body will also review a special use permit for a limited retail operation at 7550 Linder Avenue.

• Case 2025-21P: Proposed amendments to Zoning Ordinance §118-60 to add accessory dwelling units
• Case 2025-19P: Special Use Permit for limited retail use at 7550 Linder Avenue (Gandhi Group, LLC)

The commission approved the minutes of the November 6, 2025 meeting by an 8‑0 vote. The commission unanimously approved a special‑use permit for Gandhi Foods at 7550 Linder Avenue, allowing the retail space to occupy 16% of the floor area, exceeding the usual 10% limit. The commission also unanimously voted to table the proposed accessory dwelling unit zoning amendment (Case 2025‑21P) until February 19, 2026, directing staff to address questions raised.

• Approved November 6, 2025 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for Gandhi Foods, 7550 Linder Ave (unanimous)
• Tabled ADU zoning amendment (Case 2025-21P) until Feb 19 2026 (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a parking lot variation request for 7880 Lincoln Avenue, seeking a 13‑foot drive aisle and 9‑foot parking spaces instead of the required 14‑foot and 10‑foot dimensions. Staff has recommended granting the variation. The board will also approve the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes and hear a staff proposal for the 2026 meeting schedule. A public comment period and standard procedural items are also on the agenda.

• 7880 Lincoln Ave – Parking Variation request (13‑ft drive aisle, 9‑ft parking spaces) with staff recommendation to approve
• Approval of September 17, 2025 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting minutes
• Staff communication proposing the Zoning Board of Appeals meeting schedule for 2026
• Public comment period (no comments recorded)
• Standard procedural items: call to order, roll call, old business (none), adjournment

The board unanimously approved a variance allowing a 13‑foot drive aisle and 9‑foot parallel parking spaces at 7880 Lincoln Avenue. It also approved a flexible meeting‑schedule plan to hold meetings on the first and third Wednesdays as needed. The September 17, 2025 board minutes were approved by all present members.

• Approved parking variance for 7880 Lincoln Ave (7 aye, 0 nay, 2 absent)
• Approved flexible meeting‑schedule approach (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved September 17, 2025 ZBA minutes (all present aye, 2 absent)

Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board

The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board will meet on November 19, 2025. The board will approve the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting and introduce a new member. It will review and discuss completing the 2023 draft Use of Force Report of Findings and Recommendations. The board will examine the 2024 use‑of‑force data submitted by Chief Barnes on October 29, 2025 to decide which body‑worn‑camera videos to view, and will set dates for training and for submitting the final 2023 report to the mayor.

• Approve minutes from the 10/08/2025 meeting
• Review and discuss completion of the 2023 draft Use of Force Report of Findings and Recommendations
• Review 2024 use of force data reports submitted by Chief Barnes on 10/29/2025 and decide which body‑worn‑camera videos to view
• Establish dates for Reality Based and Use of Force Tools training opportunities
• Determine date for submission of the 2023 final Use of Force report to the Mayor

The board approved the minutes from the October 8, 2025 meeting. Members agreed to request additional body‑worn‑camera videos and related reports, which Chief Jesse Barnes will provide for the next meeting. Chair Dennis Rizo was assigned to incorporate suggested wording changes into the draft 2023 Use‑of‑Force Report for future approval. The meeting was adjourned following a motion by the chair.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Trustee Levy, seconded by Abel Figueroa)
• Requested specific body‑worn‑camera videos and related reports for next meeting
• Assigned Chief Jesse Barnes to provide the requested reports and videos for review
• Assigned Chair Dennis Rizo to incorporate suggested changes into the 2023 Use‑of‑Force Report
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by Chair Rizo, seconded by Muhammad Habib and Harriet Jacobs)

Public Safety Commission

The Skokie Public Safety Commission will review the minutes from its October 22, 2025 meeting, accept brief public comments, and receive reports from the Fire Department, Police Department, and Engineering Department. It will then address any unfinished business, consider new business items, and adjourn.

• Review minutes of the October 22, 2025 meeting
• Public comment (3 minutes per person)
• Fire Department Incident Action Plan report
• Police Department report
• Engineering report

The commission approved the October 22, 2025 meeting minutes. No action was taken on traffic concerns for Gross Point Road/Dempster, East Prairie sidewalk, or the Main‑Dempster‑Crawford‑McCormick area. Members discussed beginning a study of e‑bikes and scooters and agreed staff will prepare an informational presentation before any recommendation is made. No formal decision or vote was recorded on the e‑bike proposal.

• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• No action taken on traffic concerns for Gross Point Road/Dempster and related sidewalks
• Discussed e‑bike and scooter study; staff to prepare presentation (no decision made)

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The commission will approve minutes from the October 28 meeting and confirm its name change as of 11/3. It will discuss the Village AI Policy presentation scheduled for January or February 2026 and review a draft annual end‑of‑year report by Scott. Updates on several technology programs, including Home Medical Technology, Crypto Scams, and New Technology in Cars, will also be presented.

• Confirm commission name change effective 11/3
• Review schedule for Village AI Policy presentation (Jan/Feb 2026)
• Scott to share draft annual end‑of‑year report
• Provide medical industry contacts for Home Medical Technology program
• Plan Crypto Scams program presentation for February 2026

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will review recommendations for permanent appointments to the ranks of Fire Lieutenant and Police Officer. The board will also note the resignation of a probationary firefighter and establish the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Permanent appointment recommendation for Fire Lieutenant Peter Arreguin
• Permanent appointment recommendation for Fire Lieutenant Christopher Riley
• Permanent appointment recommendation for Police Officer Amanda Levy
• Resignation of Probationary Firefighter Jacob Karkoszka
• Establishment of the 2026 BFPC meeting schedule

The board accepted the resignation of Probationary Fire Fighter Jacob Karkoszka effective November 5, 2025. It approved the permanent appointment of Peter Arreguin and Christopher Riley to the rank of Fire Lieutenant after they completed their one‑year probationary periods. It also approved the permanent appointment of Amanda Levy to the rank of Police Officer after she completed her two‑year probationary period. The board approved the October 21 and August 18, 2025 meeting minutes and moved into executive session.

• Accepted resignation of Probationary Fire Fighter Jacob Karkoszka (effective Nov 5, 2025)
• Approved permanent appointment of Peter Arreguin as Fire Lieutenant
• Approved permanent appointment of Christopher Riley as Fire Lieutenant
• Approved permanent appointment of Amanda Levy as Police Officer
• Approved October 21, 2025 meeting minutes as written
• Approved August 18, 2025 meeting minutes as amended
• Moved into Executive Session (motion by Chair, seconded by Commissioner Potthast)

Board of Health

The Skokie Board of Health will hear a presentation on community solar from Joule Power. The chair and the Health and Human Services director will give updates. An introduction for the Health Research Excellence award will be considered. The meeting also includes public comment before adjournment.

• Joule Power – Community Solar presentation by Glenn Weinberg
• BOH Chair updates from Dr. Edward Linn
• Health and Human Services updates from Mike Charley
• Award of Health Research Excellence introduction by Jimmy Gonzalez Vicker
• Public comment (3 minutes per person)

The Skokie Board of Health approved the meeting agenda and the October 9 minutes. The Board heard a presentation on the 2025 Skokie Community Solar program and health updates from the Chair and HHS Director. A proposal to sponsor a student award at the regional high school science fair was introduced for future discussion. No substantive decisions were made on new business.

• Approved agenda (first by Yau, second by Pandya)
• Approved minutes (first by Yau, second by Pandya)
• Adjourned meeting (first by Varma, second by Dr. Werner)

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will review several residential and non-residential development requests. Key items include a new 68-unit townhome development and the reconstruction of a McDonald's restaurant. The body will also discuss modifications to a 245-unit mixed-use project on Old Orchard Road.

• 4600 Main St: Proposal for 68 new residential townhome units
• 5360 Touhy Ave: New construction of a limited service restaurant (McDonald's)
• 5202-5250 Old Orchard Rd: Modified review for conversion of offices to 245 residential units
• 5050 Church St: Addition to the Holy Apostolic Catholica Assyrian Church of the East
• 5530 Touhy Ave: Façade change and signage for Dave’s Hot Chicken

The Appearance Commission approved Certificates of Appropriateness for six projects, each by a unanimous 6‑0 vote with one commissioner absent. Projects included a residential conversion on Old Orchard Rd, a first‑floor addition on Hamlin Ave, an addition on Church St, a new limited‑service restaurant on Touhy Ave, a façade upgrade for Dave's Hot Chicken on Touhy Ave, and new townhomes for a school on Main St. The next regular meeting is scheduled for December 10, 2025.

• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5202-5250 Old Orchard Rd (residential & non‑residential) (6‑0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 8731 Hamlin Ave (residential) (6‑0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5050 Church St (non‑residential) (6‑0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5360 Touhy Ave (non‑residential) (6‑0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5530 Touhy Ave (non‑residential) (6‑0)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 4600 Main St (non‑residential) (6‑0)

Fine Arts Commission

The Fine Arts Commission will discuss the Artistic Excellence Awards, fellowships, and a pop-up art exhibit. The body will also review grants and the Student Outstanding Artist Recognition (SOAR) exhibit.

• Artistic Excellence Awards for Crews, Chander, Morris, and Osseny
• Fellowships for Sloan, Siegal, Levan, and Vassilen
• Pop-Up Art Exhibit involving Sloan, Thomas, Caplice, and Vassilen
• Grants involving Rhodes, Chander, Wood, and Thorne
• Student Outstanding Artist Recognition (SOAR) Exhibit

The commission chose Joe Folise as the 2025 individual Artistic Excellence awardee, gave special recognition to Nosi Thorne, and selected Seman Violins as the 2025 group awardee. Staff will prepare an online application for the Skokie Storefront Artist Fellowship to open before Thanksgiving with a deadline of Jan 6, 2026. Staff will publish a Call for Submissions for the pop‑up art exhibit on Dec 1, 2025, with submissions due Jan 9, 2026. A draft to update the Fine Arts Commission handbook will be written and shared for review and future vote.

• Selected Joe Folise as 2025 individual Artistic Excellence awardee
• Granted special recognition to Nosi Thorne
• Selected Seman Violins as 2025 group Artistic Excellence awardee
• Staff to prepare online fellowship application (open before Thanksgiving, deadline Jan 6 2026)
• Staff to publish Call for Submissions for pop‑up art exhibit on Dec 1 2025 (deadline Jan 9 2026)
• Staff to draft Fine Arts Commission handbook update for review and future vote

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to review the demographic, socioeconomic, and workforce profile of Skokie. The commission will also consider the approval of meeting minutes from October 15, 2025.

• Review of Skokie demographic, socioeconomic and workforce profile

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will receive an update on the Village Board’s November 3, 2025 action concerning the Human Relations Ordinance (Chapter 58, Article I, Section 58-8). The commission will discuss programming, initiatives, and partnership ideas aimed at preventing hate crimes and broader bias incidents. It will also consider items related to the Common Good Project before opening public comment.

• Update on Village Board action (Nov 3 2025) regarding the Human Relations Ordinance, Chapter 58, Article I, Section 58‑8 of the Skokie Village Code
• Discussion of programming, initiatives, and partnership ideas to address the recent hate crime and broader hate and bias prevention
• Consideration of the Common Good Project

The Human Relations Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. The commission discussed recent hate‑crime incidents, potential programming, and the Common Good Project, but deferred any formal actions on those items. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will review financial statements for the period ending September 30, 2025, and reports on operations and marketing. The board is also scheduled to discuss the meeting calendar for 2026.

• Review of September 30, 2025 financial statements
• Discussion of 2026 PAC meeting schedule
• Executive Director's report on completed parking lot repairs
• Marketing report on October events including Giordano Dance Chicago and Tab Benoit
• Update on capital improvement priority list with Village finance department

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission will consider revisions to the previously approved McDonald’s development at 5360 Touhy Avenue, including a site‑plan approval and special‑use permit. It will also discuss a new two‑lot development at 7952 Lincoln Avenue that proposes a six‑story mixed‑use building with 58 residential units, ground‑floor commercial space, outdoor dining, and several zoning relief requests. Routine agenda items such as approval of the October 16, 2025 minutes are also on the agenda.

• 5360 Touhy Avenue – presentation of revised site‑plan approval and special‑use permit for the McDonald’s development
• 7952 Lincoln Avenue – site‑plan approval, subdivision, and special‑use permit for a 2‑lot, 6‑story mixed‑use project with 58 residential units, ground‑floor commercial, outdoor dining, and multiple zoning reliefs

The commission approved the minutes of the October 16, 2025 meeting (7 ayes, 0 nays, 2 abstentions). It unanimously approved the Site Plan (Case 2025-04P) with a corrected parking count, a 5‑year build timeline, and a left‑turn restriction. The Subdivision (Case 2025-05P) and Special Use Permit (Case 2025-20P) were also approved unanimously. All three approvals will still require final approval by the Board of Trustees.

• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (7 ayes, 0 nays, 2 abstain)
• Approved Site Plan Case 2025-04P with 71 parking spaces, 5‑year timeline, left‑turn restriction (unanimous ayes)
• Approved Subdivision Case 2025-05P (unanimous ayes)
• Approved Special Use Permit Case 2025-20P (unanimous ayes)
• No formal action taken on 5360 Touhy Avenue update (information only)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals announced that the November 5, 2025 meeting will not be held because there are no cases to consider. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025.

Commission on Family Services

The Skokie Commission on Family Services will review old business items, including a summary of the produce initiative and food and clothes drive, the Live Well Age Well Skokie event scheduled for Friday, Nov. 7, and the commission mission statement. The commission will then conduct subcommittee breakout sessions as new business. The meeting will conclude with public comments before adjournment.

• Produce initiative and food and clothes drive – summary
• Live Well Age Well Skokie event on Friday, Nov. 7
• Commission mission statement review
• Subcommittee breakout sessions
• Public comments

The commission approved the meeting agenda, the September 30 minutes, and the consent agenda. It deferred the commission mission statement. It confirmed that a senior resource fair will be held on Friday, November 7 at Oakton Community Center.

• Approved meeting agenda (by consent)
• Approved September 30, 2025 minutes (by consent)
• Approved consent agenda (by consent)
• Deferred commission mission statement
• Scheduled senior resource fair for Nov 7 at Oakton Community Center

Special Meeting

The Skokie Village Board will hold a special meeting to conduct a strategic‑plan retreat. Board members will review the village's strategy and culture, define a vision, identify strategic challenges and priorities, discuss revenue considerations, and set or confirm goals. The meeting also includes a period for public comments before adjournment.

The Mayor, Clerk, Trustees and Village staff met at the Niles Township building for a strategic‑planning retreat. The Board reviewed and adopted discussion norms, examined a long‑term vision for 2045, heard a revenue presentation, and completed a SWOT exercise. The meeting concluded with a plan for the manager and consultant to compile strategic issues and share them with staff; no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

SPIRIT Committee

The SPIRIT Committee will meet to review community engagement data and discuss outreach efforts. The agenda includes an overview of outreach activities and planning of next steps. Public comment is limited to three minutes per person. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Community Engagement Data Review and Discussion
• Overview of Outreach Efforts
• Next Steps
• Public Comment (3 minutes per person, one comment per person)

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Skokie Consumer Affairs Commission will meet on Oct. 29, 2025 to consider the upcoming 2026 schedule, hold a discussion about the Business of the Year, and hear a guest presenter on sustainability. No specific actions or decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Memo 2026 Schedule discussion
• Business of the Year discussion
• Sustainability guest presenter

The commission approved the September 17, 2025 meeting minutes. FLX Move was chosen as the Business of the Year winner. The meeting was adjourned at 7 pm.

• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Selected FLX Move as Business of the Year winner (decision made after review)
• Adjourned meeting at 7 pm (motion passed)

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Commission is meeting to confirm its new name as the Skokie Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission. Members will discuss a Village AI policy and coordinate a series of public educational programs on cybersecurity, AI, and consumer technology.

• Finalization of the name change to Skokie Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission
• Discussion of the Village AI Policy
• Logistics for October 30 Cyber Security presentation at the Police Training Room
• Planning for November 22 Social Media Literacy event at the Library Radmacher Room
• Review of a draft annual end-of-year report

The commission approved the minutes from the September 30, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the October 28, 2025 meeting was approved. No other substantive decisions were made; name change and program plans were discussed but not finalized.

• Call to order motion approved (all members)
• Approve September 30, 2025 minutes (all members)
• Adjourn meeting motion approved (all members)

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will discuss several new initiatives, including recruiting volunteers for Pumpkin Smash Sunday on November 2, 2025, and presenting the Skokie Residential Sustainability Awards. It will review the Q3 (July‑August‑September) action items of the Sustainability Plan and consider advising the village on its recommendation of e‑motos and e‑bikes, referencing the Ride Illinois Guidance document. The meeting also includes recaps of prior community visioning and solar projects.

• Volunteer recruitment for Pumpkin Smash Sunday (Nov 2, 2025)
• Skokie Residential Sustainability Awards
• Review Q3 (July‑Aug‑Sept) action items of the Sustainability Plan
• Advise Village SEAC’s recommendation of e‑motos and e‑bikes (Ride Illinois Guidance)
• Recap of the Strategic Plan Community Visioning Session

The commission approved the September 29, 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners voted unanimously to assume responsibility for reviewing applications, issuing awards, and setting eligibility guidelines for the Residential Sustainability Awards, and also to promote the awards through all Village communication channels. They also voted unanimously that Village staff should use Ride Illinois Guidance for Municipalities when developing rules for e‑bikes and e‑motos.

• Approved September 29, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed, seconded)
• Commissioners voted unanimously to take responsibility for reviewing applications, issuing Residential Sustainability Awards, and establishing eligibility guidelines (unanimous)
• Commissioners voted unanimously to have the Village use all communication resources to promote the Residential Sustainability Awards (unanimous)
• Commissioners voted unanimously to have Village staff use Ride Illinois Guidance for Municipalities for e‑bike/e‑moto rule development (unanimous)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will discuss a recent hate incident and review committee assignments. The body will also approve meeting minutes and receive reports on housing and community engagement.

• Discussion of recent hate incident
• Approval of September 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Neighbor Engagement Committee Block Party of the Year Awards
• Review of Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
• December meeting potluck

The Human Relations Commission unanimously approved an amendment to add an introductory comments item on the recent hate incident to the agenda. The commission also unanimously approved the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting. No other policy actions or votes were recorded.

• Amended agenda to add Introductory Comments on recent hate incident (unanimous)
• Approved September 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission

The Housing Sub‑Committee of the Skokie Plan Commission will discuss proposed zoning code changes and review updates on the Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment and the Skokie Home Addition Plan Book. It will also consider a recommendation to the Plan Commission to establish accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as habitable space. The meeting includes routine items such as approving minutes and adopting the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Discussion of proposed Zoning Code changes
• Update on Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment
• Discussion of Housing Design and Skokie Home Addition Plan Book
• Consideration of recommendation to establish Accessory Dwelling Units as habitable space
• Adoption of 2026 Meeting Schedule

The Housing Sub‑Committee approved the July 14, 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous voice vote, Beth Demes abstaining. Jeff Burman volunteered to serve as substitute chair for the January 12, 2026 meeting. Staff were tasked with checking whether hybrid meetings are allowed in the future.

• Approved July 14, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote, Beth Demes abstained)
• Jeff Burman agreed to serve as substitute chair for Jan 12, 2026 meeting
• Staff to determine if hybrid meeting format is permitted

Public Safety Commission

The Skokie Public Safety Commission will review the minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting and receive reports from the Fire and Police departments. The agenda includes a police station tour and discussion of unfinished and new business.

• Review of September 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Fire Department report
• Police Department report
• Police station tour
• Discussion of unfinished and new business

The Skokie Public Safety Commission approved the minutes from its September 17, 2025 meeting. No other actions, proposals, or votes were taken during the October 22 session.

• Approved September 17, 2025 meeting minutes

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will review recommendations for the permanent appointment of two police officers and two firefighters. The board will also consider rank deferral requests from two firefighter candidates and review the Final Fire Lieutenant Promotional Eligibility List.

• Permanent appointment recommendations for Police Officers Claudia Contreras and Elizabeth Munoz
• Permanent appointment recommendations for Firefighters Jack Lagan and Rey Galsim
• Rank deferral requests from firefighter candidates Thomas Moran and Jack Moran
• Review of Final Fire Lieutenant Promotional Eligibility List

The Board corrected prior meeting minutes and approved the September 15 minutes. It confirmed permanent appointments for Police Officers Claudia Contreras and Elizabeth Munoz, and for Firefighters Jack Logan and Rey Galsim, each with a 5‑0 vote. The Board also approved one‑time deferrals for firefighter candidates Thomas Moran and Jack Moran, adopted the 2025 Fire Lieutenant Promotional Eligibility List, and moved the meeting into executive session.

• Corrected August 18 minutes end time and agenda date error approved
• September 15, 2025 minutes approved as written
• Approved permanent appointment of Police Officers Claudia Contreras and Elizabeth Munoz (5-0)
• Approved one‑time deferral for Fire Fighter candidates Thomas Moran and Jack Moran (5-0)
• Approved permanent appointment of Fire Fighters Jack Logan and Rey Galsim effective Oct 30, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved 2025 Fire Lieutenant Promotional Eligibility List
• Motion to enter executive session made

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will consider a request for a 68-unit townhouse development at 4600 Main Street. The body will also review a special use permit and site plan for a religious assembly expansion at 5050 Church Street and a restaurant permit at 3358 Main Street.

• 4600 Main Street: Site plan approval for 68 townhouse residences
• 5050 Church Street: Special use permit, site plan approval, and parking determination for religious assembly use
• 3358 Main Street: Special use permit for limited-service restaurant use
• Approval of 2026 Plan Commission meeting dates

The commission approved the minutes from the September 18 meeting (8-0). It unanimously approved a special use permit, site plan and parking determination for 5050 Church Street, a special use permit for a restaurant at 3358 Main Street, and the site‑plan approval for a 68‑townhome development at 4600 Main Street (all 8‑0). The commission also adopted the 2026 meeting schedule with a 7‑1 vote.

• Approved September 18 minutes (8-0)
• Approved case 2025-16P special use permit for 5050 Church St (8-0)
• Approved case 2025-17P site plan for 5050 Church St (8-0)
• Approved case 2025-18P parking determination for 5050 Church St (8-0)
• Approved case 2025-15P special use permit for 3358 Main St restaurant (8-0)
• Approved case 2025-12P site plan for 4600 Main St 68 townhomes (8-0)
• Approved 2026 Plan Commission meeting dates (7 ayes, 1 nay)

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Consumer Affairs Commission will review the proposed 2026 schedule memo and hold a discussion on the Business of the Year award. No formal actions or votes are listed on the agenda. The meeting also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment.

• Approval of September 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of Memo 2026 Schedule
• Discussion of Business of the Year

The commission approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. It agreed to begin promoting the Business of the Year nominating form and to collect nominations through September 30. The commission will present a window cling to nominees at a Village Board Meeting on December 1. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Agreed to promote the Business of the Year nominating form (decision made)
• Set nomination collection deadline for September 30 (decision made)
• Decided to present a window cling to nominated businesses (decision made)
• Scheduled window cling presentation at Village Board Meeting on December 1 (decision made)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting passed (motion passed)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will discuss an overview of the Economic Vitality Strategy and a 12-month workplan. Members will also consider approving the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Overview of the Economic Vitality Strategy
• Discussion of the Economic Development Commission 12 Month Workplan
• Consideration of approval for the 2026 Meeting Schedule
• Introduction of new member Eugene Salganik

The commission unanimously approved the July 16, 2025 minutes. Commissioners concurred with the proposed 2026 meeting schedule and agreed to change the next meeting date from November 19 to November 12, 2025. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Concurred with 2026 Economic Development Commission meeting schedule
• Approved change of next meeting date to November 12, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will approve the September 8 minutes and review the August 31 financial statements, which show the center about $85,000 below budget for the year. The board will hear an operations report on recent maintenance work and a marketing report on recent ticket sales, followed by a programming update that includes the upcoming production of “Godspell” on October 23 and several scheduled concerts. An update on capital‑improvement projects will be provided, noting that a priority list is being coordinated with the Village finance department but no new projects are reported.

• Approve minutes from the September 8 board meeting.
• Review August 31 financial statements showing a $85,000 budget shortfall for the year.
• Operations report: two dark weeks in August for carpet cleaning, handrail painting, and light‑bulb replacement.
• Programming update: “Godspell” opening October 23; upcoming concerts by Killer Queen, A.J. Croce, Orleans, Firefall, and others.
• Capital improvements: priority list of CI projects being coordinated with Village finance; no new items reported.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to receive a presentation on the Communicable Disease Program. The meeting includes updates from the Community Health Supervisor regarding Health and Human Services.

• Presentation on Communicable Disease Program by Jenn Davis-Spells
• Health and Human Services updates from Community Health Supervisor Jenn Davis-Spells

The Board of Health approved the meeting agenda and the September 11, 2025 minutes by consent without objection. The board assigned the electric‑bike, scooter and go‑kart ordinance review to Police Chief Jesse Barnes for further research, noting no additional recommendation is needed. Staff will contact the Skokie Park District about flu clinic scheduling and will discuss possible science‑fair involvement with HHS leadership.

• Agenda approved by consent without objection
• September 11, 2025 minutes approved by consent without objection
• Electric‑bike, scooter, go‑kart issue assigned to Police Chief Jesse Barnes for further research (no vote)
• No recommendation needed for electric‑bike ordinance (item already assigned)
• Jennifer Davis‑Spells to reach out to Skokie Park District about flu clinic date notifications
• Jimmy Gonzalez‑Vicker to contact Mike Charley regarding BOH involvement in the March 2026 science fair

Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board

The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board will meet to discuss the completion of the 2023 draft Use of Force Report of Findings and Recommendations and determine the date for submitting the final draft to the Mayor. The meeting will also include the introduction of new members and a plan for reviewing 2024 use of force data.

• Review and discussion of 2023 draft Use of Force Report of Findings and Recommendations
• Determine date for submitting final draft to Mayor
• Plan for 2024 use of force data review
• Introduction of new board members
• Reality Based and Use of Force Tools training opportunities

The Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board did not have a quorum, so no substantive motions were voted on. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and the meeting ended at 8:09 pm. The board will have a sub‑group revise the 2023 Use‑of‑Force Report for the next meeting.

• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)
• Motion to approve November 12, 2024 minutes not decided (no quorum)

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will review four development applications, including residential additions and façade changes, and a new mixed‑use building. Staff reports indicate no objections to the proposed elevations for each case. The commission will vote on Certificates of Appropriateness for the projects. The meeting also includes adoption of the 2026 Appearance Commission meeting dates.

• 2025-038A – 4260 Suffield Ct: second‑floor addition with four bedrooms, two bathrooms, laundry room, and two walk‑in closets.
• 2025-039A – 4915 Farwell Ave: façade reconfiguration, new front entrance, and second‑story balcony above the garage.
• 2025-040A – 7334 Central Park Ave: exterior façade renovation of fire‑damaged building, including required fire sprinkler system.
• 2025-041A – 8201‑8209 Skokie Blvd: new five‑story mixed‑use building with 66 residential units and ground‑floor commercial space.
• Adoption of 2026 Appearance Commission meeting dates.

The Skokie Appearance Commission granted Certificates of Appropriateness for a 2nd‑floor addition at 4260 Suffield Court, façade changes at 4915 Farwell Avenue, new construction with a red stripe at 7334 Central Park Avenue, and a mixed‑use building at 8201‑8209 Skokie Boulevard, each vote 7‑0. The commission also approved the September 10 minutes and adopted the 2026 meeting dates.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 4260 Suffield Court addition (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 4915 Farwell Avenue façade changes (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 7334 Central Park Avenue new construction with red stripe (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 8201-8209 Skokie Boulevard mixed‑use building (7-0)
• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Adopted 2026 Appearance Commission meeting dates (unanimous)

Fine Arts Commission

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission will review recent projects such as Weaving Community, The Storefront, and several gallery exhibits. It will discuss upcoming activities including Arts & Humanities Month, the Yolanda Castrejon exhibit, and the Artistic Excellence Awards nomination deadline. The meeting also includes a grants discussion, a pop‑up exhibit/networking reception, and a public comment period.

• Review of recent projects (Weaving Community, The Storefront, etc.)
• Discussion of Yolanda Castrejon's Confuzed Gallery exhibit @ The Storefront (10/6‑10/12)
• Arts & Humanities Month events (10/1‑10/31)
• Artistic Excellence Awards nomination deadline (10/31)
• Public comments

The Fine Arts Commission voted unanimously to make Commissioner Lieberman a Commissioner Emeritus. The commission also decided not to approve the use of Slack or Discord for its business. A prior vote postponed the awarding of grants, and Staff Liaison Gioia was assigned to prepare a quarterly memo to the Village Board about The Storefront.

• Commissioner Lieberman appointed Commissioner Emeritus (unanimous affirmative vote)
• Use of Slack/Discord for SFAC business not approved by Village counsel
• Awarding of grants postponed (vote at previous meeting)
• Staff Liaison Gioia tasked to prepare quarterly memo to Village Board on The Storefront

Commission on Family Services

The Skokie Commission on Family Services will approve its agenda, minutes, and consent items, then hear a presentation by Sustainability Coordinator Lisa Sanzenbacher. Staff will report on health and human services, and the commission will review old business items including a produce and clothing drive, the Live Well Age Well Skokie volunteer effort, and the commission mission statement. No new business items are listed for decision.

• Presentation by Lisa Sanzenbacher, Sustainability Coordinator
• Produce initiative and food and clothes drive – summary
• Live Well Age Well Skokie – volunteer recruitment and flyer distribution
• Review of Commission Mission Statement
• Approval of agenda, minutes, and consent agenda

The agenda and the previous meeting minutes were approved by consent. The commission voted to defer the mission statement agenda item, with no vote tally recorded. No other actions or approvals were taken at this meeting.

• Agenda approved by consent (no vote)
• Minutes approved by consent (no vote)
• Commission mission statement agenda item deferred (no vote)

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Commission is reviewing submissions to narrow options for a final recommendation on a name change. Members will also discuss the planning and timelines for various public programs regarding AI, cybersecurity, and medical technology.

• Review of submissions for a Commission name change
• Planning for a Business AI Program event
• Coordination of a Cyber Security event for October 2025
• Planning for a General AI Program in April 2026
• Drafting of the Annual End of Year Report

The commission called the meeting to order and approved the minutes from August 26, 2025. Members voted to rename the body to the Skokie Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission. The group agreed to postpone the STAT Expo concept until more programs are developed. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved call to order (All approved)
• Approved August 26, 2025 minutes (All approved)
• Approved commission name change to Skokie Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (All approved)
• Postponed STAT Expo concept (no vote recorded)

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will approve minutes from its August 26 meeting, review old business items such as the IL Solar for All advisory committee opening, the 2025 Bicycle Friendly Community Survey, and compost updates. It will then introduce new business, including a Strategic Plan Community Visioning Session on October 5 at Niles West High School, a Food Recovery Infrastructure Assessment and pilot project planning meeting on October 6 at the SWANCC offices, Community Solar public information sessions in October, a Skokie Green Business Recognition event in November, and a Village Boards and Commission Recognition event scheduled for June 2026.

• Strategic Plan Community Visioning Session – Oct 5, 6‑8 p.m., Niles West High School
• Food Recovery Infrastructure Assessment & Pilot Project Planning – Oct 6, 1‑2:30 p.m., 77 W. Hintz Road, Wheeling, IL
• Community Solar Public Information Sessions – Oct 13 (1 p.m.) and Oct 29 (5:30 p.m.) at Skokie Public Library
• Skokie Green Business Recognition Event – Nov 3, 5:30‑8:30 p.m., Sketchbook Brewery/Village Hall
• Village Boards and Commission Recognition Event – Jun 25, 2026, 5 p.m., Northshore Center for the Performing Arts

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission approved the minutes from its August 26, 2025 meeting, with the amendment noted. No other formal actions were taken; the session featured updates on solar programs, composting totals, bicycle survey reminders, and announcements of upcoming events.

• Approved August 26, 2025 minutes as amended (motion passed)

SPIRIT Committee

The SPIRIT Committee is meeting to review the status of community engagement efforts and discuss ways to increase participation in surveys and visioning sessions. The group will evaluate the effectiveness of outreach methods and specific initiatives.

• Status of block parties and business outreach
• Review of community survey and focus groups
• Discussion on expanding reach for Cultural Groups Focus Group
• Sign-ups for Community Visioning Session

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will review requests for a new mixed-use development, a street vacation, and a signage amendment. The body is deciding on site plan approvals and land use changes for three different locations.

• 8201 Skokie Boulevard: Proposed 5-story mixed-use building with 68 residential units and ground floor commercial space
• Foster Street: Request to vacate a 0.109-acre unimproved street section between 9456 and 9500 Crawford Avenue
• 5206 Touhy Avenue: Request to amend a site plan to replace a monument sign with a ground sign

The commission approved the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting. It unanimously approved a street vacation on Foster Street and a mixed‑use 5‑story building at 8201 Skokie Boulevard. It also unanimously denied a signage amendment for Popeyes at 5206 Touhy Avenue.

• Approved minutes of August 7, 2025 meeting (6 aye, 0 nay, 2 abstain)
• Approved street vacation of Foster Street (case 2025-10P) unanimously
• Approved site plan for 8201 Skokie Boulevard mixed‑use building (case 2025-14P) unanimously
• Denied signage amendment for Popeyes at 5206 Touhy Avenue (case 2025-13P) unanimously

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss a side‑yard variation (2025‑06Z) for 4144 Enfield Avenue. The petition seeks to build a carport with a 3‑foot east side yard instead of the required 6‑foot minimum. Staff recommends granting the variance, and the Appearance Commission must review the proposal. The board will vote on the request after routine agenda items.

• 2025‑06Z side‑yard variation request for 4144 Enfield Ave to allow a carport with a 3‑foot east side yard (minimum required 6 ft).
• Staff recommendation to grant the variance, citing prior 1962 variation on the same property and a 2009 variation at 4122 Enfield Ave.
• Appearance Commission review required because the addition affects the front elevation.
• Board will vote on the variance after standard agenda items (call to order, minutes, old/new business).
• No other substantive cases on the agenda; remaining items are procedural.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a side‑yard variation allowing a 3‑foot east setback for a carport at 4144 Enfield Ave. The motion passed unanimously with seven ayes and no nays; two members were absent. Staff will prepare a covenant that the petitioners must sign before any building permits are issued. No other business was decided.

• Approved August 20, 2025 meeting minutes (7 ayes, 2 absent)
• Granted 3‑foot east side‑yard variance for 4144 Enfield Ave carport (7‑0, 2 absent)
• Noted October 1, 2025 meeting cancelled due to holiday
• No old business discussed
• No public comments received

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Consumer Affairs Commission will approve the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting, consider adopting a revised mission statement, and receive nominations for the commission’s Business of the Year award. The agenda also includes routine items such as roll call, public comment, and staff communications. The meeting will conclude with adjournment.

• Approval of August 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Consideration of a revised mission statement
• Review of Business of the Year nominations

The commission approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to promote the Business of the Year nomination form, collect nominations through September 30, and present a window cling to nominees at the December 1 Village Board meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Approved promotion of Business of the Year nomination form (collect nominations until Sep 30)
• Approved presentation of window cling to nominees at Dec 1 Village Board meeting
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Public Safety Commission

The Public Safety Commission will meet to receive reports from the Police Department and Engineering Division. The meeting includes a feedback session and overview regarding Fire Department accreditation.

• Fire Department accreditation overview and feedback session

The commission approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. It decided to hold the October 2025 meeting on October 22 instead of the originally scheduled October 15. Several traffic‑safety concerns were noted, but no actions on them were decided.

• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes
• Rescheduled October 2025 meeting to Oct 22 (previously Oct 15)

Human Relations Commission

The Skokie Human Relations Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear from guest speakers, and review committee reports on topics including hate/bias incidents and the Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board.

• Approval of June 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• Guest speakers from Sanctuary Niles Township
• Review of Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board
• Discussion on Early Intervention in Hate/Bias Incidents
• Community Engagement Sub-Committee report

The commission voted to approve the meeting agenda after a motion by Josef Meyers and a second by Carl Johnson, with all members in favor. A second motion by Sheila Crumrine to approve the June 23, 2025 meeting minutes was also carried unanimously. No other formal actions were taken during the session.

• Approved meeting agenda (all members in favor)
• Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (all members in favor)

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board will consider a memorandum announcing the resignation of Probationary Police Officer Cori Cafcaterra. It will also review the Fire Lieutenant promotional process. An executive session will be held under the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

• Memorandum announcing resignation of Probationary Police Officer Cori Cafcaterra
• Review of Fire Lieutenant promotional process
• Approval of minutes from August 18, 2025 regular meeting
• Executive session requested per Section 2, Paragraph c.1 of the Illinois Open Meetings Act
• Public comment (3 minutes per person)

The commission approved the minutes from the August 18, 2025 meeting. It accepted Officer Cori Calcaterra's resignation and thanked her for her service. A motion to move into Executive Session was made and seconded, though the outcome was not recorded. The next regular meeting is set for October 21, 2025.

• Approved August 18, 2025 meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Accepted resignation of Probationary Police Officer Cori Calcaterra
• Motion to enter Executive Session made and seconded (outcome not recorded)

Board of Health

The Skokie Board of Health will meet to discuss childhood lead and flu program updates. The meeting includes presentations from the Community Health Supervisor and updates from Health and Human Services.

• Childhood Lead & Flu Program updates presented by Jennifer Davis-Spells
• Public Health Partners of Excellence Awards update from Mike Charley

The board approved the meeting agenda after Dr. Sood moved and Keeler seconded. The June 12, 2025 meeting minutes were also approved following the same motion procedure. Members voted to approve all four nominees for the 2025 Public Health Partners of Excellence Awards. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Agenda approved (motion by Dr. Sood, seconded by Keeler)
• June 12, 2025 minutes approved (motion by Dr. Sood, seconded by Keeler)
• Approved all four nominees for 2025 Public Health Partners of Excellence Awards (board vote)

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will meet to consider two residential construction requests. The body is deciding whether to grant Certificates of Appropriateness for first-floor additions at two different properties.

• 2025-036A: Request for a 1st floor addition at 7700 Leclaire Ave
• 2025-037A: Request for a 1,180 square foot 1st floor addition and garage at 3524 Greenleaf St

The Appearance Commission approved the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting. It then granted a Certificate of Appropriateness for a first‑floor addition at 7700 Leclaire Avenue, and another Certificate of Appropriateness for a first‑floor addition at 3524 Greenleaf Street. Both votes were 7‑0 in favor.

• Approved August 13, 2025 meeting minutes (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 7700 Leclaire Avenue addition (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 3524 Greenleaf Street addition (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:40 PM

Fine Arts Commission

The Fine Arts Commission will review past projects and discuss grant opportunities. It will consider upcoming community art events, award programs, and the Artist Networking Event. The body will also address new business and subcommittee assignments.

• Hot Flashes & Fierce Tales: Stories from Menopause, Midlife and Beyond @ The Storefront (9/10)
• Weaving Community at Skokie Farmers' Market (9/21)
• Star Sound Bath Meditation @ The Storefront (9/24)
• Arts & Humanities Month (Oct 1‑Oct 31)
• Yolanda Castrejon Exhibit @ The Storefront (Oct 6‑Oct 12)

The commission voted unanimously to allocate $5,000 of the grant budget for an artist residency stipend this year and to encumber the remaining $5,000 for a future arts‑programming grant. Subcommittees were appointed to handle the grant, residency, SOAR exhibit, Artistic Excellence Awards, and pop‑up exhibit/networking projects. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $5,000 residency stipend (unanimous)
• Encumbered $5,000 for arts‑programming grant to next budget year (unanimous)
• Grant subcommittee assigned to Vice chair Rhodes, Commissioners Chander, Wood, Thorne
• Residency subcommittee assigned to Commissioners Sloan, Siegal, Levan, Vassilen
• SOAR subcommittee assigned to Chair Blum Barish, Commissioners Thomas, Chander, Siegal, Liberman, Joshi, Morris
• Artist Excellence subcommittee assigned to Commissioners Crews, Chander, Morris, Osseny
• Pop‑up Exhibit/Networking subcommittee assigned to Commissioners Thomas, Sloan, Caplice, Vassilen

Performing Arts Center Board

The Board is reviewing financial statements through July 31, 2025, and receiving reports on center operations and marketing. Discussions include the impact of the 'CLUE: A WALKING MYSTERY' event and the upcoming fall performance schedule.

• FY26 financials through July are approximately $8,800 below budget
• Marketing report cites 2,400+ ticket sales and $160K+ in revenue over the past month
• Red Hot Chilli Pipers event generated $18,158 in face value revenue
• Priority list of capital improvement projects submitted to Village finance department
• Upcoming productions include 'The First Lady of Television' and 'Godspell'

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission will not hold its regularly scheduled meeting on September 4, 2025 because no agenda items were submitted. The next meeting is scheduled for September 18, 2025.

Commission on Family Services

The Commission on Family Services will meet to review its mission statement and discuss the consent agenda. The body will also receive reports on the produce initiative, food and clothes drive, and the Live Well Age Well Skokie program.

• Review of Commission Mission Statement
• Summary of produce initiative and food and clothes drive
• Seniors Subcommittee report on Live Well Age Well Skokie
• Request for volunteers for Live Well Age Well Skokie event

The commission approved the agenda and May minutes by consent. The scheduled October 1 meeting was changed to Tuesday, September 30. The board decided to pilot a consent agenda process at the next meeting. Discussion on updating the mission statement was deferred.

• Agenda approved by consent
• May 2025 minutes approved by consent
• October meeting date moved to Sep 30
• Consent agenda process to be tried at next meeting
• Mission statement review deferred

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals cancelled its September 3, 2025 meeting because no cases were scheduled. The next regular meeting is set for September 17, 2025.

Ethics Commission

The Skokie Officers Ethics Commission will meet to discuss pre-hearing matters concerning an amended complaint alleging violations of the Skokie Ethics Code against James Johnson.

• Consideration of pre-hearing matters regarding amended complaint against James Johnson

The Ethics Commission voted unanimously to deny the respondent's motion to strike or deny subpoenas for George Van Dusen, Eddie Sutker, Khem Khoen, Ralph Klein, Keith Robinson, and Alison Pure Slovin. It also unanimously approved the respondent's motion to strike subpoenas related to Edgar Pal, and denied the complainant's motion for judgment on the pleadings. An evidentiary hearing was scheduled for November 6, 2025 at 4:00 p.m., and the meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Denied respondent's motion to strike or deny subpoenas for six individuals (unanimous)
• Approved respondent's motion to strike or deny subpoenas for Edgar Pal (unanimous)
• Denied complainant's motion for judgment on the pleadings (unanimous)
• Scheduled evidentiary hearing for November 6, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

SPIRIT Committee

The SPIRIT Committee will discuss the Skokie Strategic Plan process and community engagement efforts, including surveys, focus groups, and a visioning session scheduled for October 5, 2025. Members will also review communications strategies and gather suggestions for future outreach.

• Community Visioning Session on October 5, 2025 at Niles West Gym
• Skokie Strategic Planning Survey and focus groups for target audiences

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission will review suggestions for a new commission name and coordinate dates for public programming. Discussions include scheduling events on AI, cybersecurity, and home medical technology for late 2025 and 2026.

• Review of name suggestions for the Commission
• Planning for Business AI, Home Medical Technology, and Cyber Security programs
• Discussion of a 'STAT-tistics' expo concept at Village Hall
• Review of a program regarding aggressive sales tactics and subscription management
• Planning for a drone photography event in collaboration with the Fine Arts Commission

The STAT Commission approved the minutes from its July 29, 2025 meeting by unanimous vote. No other formal motions were adopted; the remainder of the meeting involved discussion of program ideas, assignment of tasks, and planning of future events.

• Approved call to order (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from July 29, 2025 (unanimous)

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will review minutes from its July 2025 meeting and receive updates on community solar, a state transportation project, composting, and electric vehicle charging at Village Hall. New items include welcoming a trustee liaison, discussing a local festival, and reviewing energy bills and solar programs.

• Community Solar campaign update
• IDOT Lincoln Ave Project update
• EV chargers installed at Village Hall
• Welcome new SEAC Trustee Liaison Lissa Levy
• IL Solar for All advisory committee opening

The commission approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting after a motion by Vice Chair McNelis and second by Commissioner Gotkin. The commission also scheduled its next meeting for September 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM in Conference Room A of Skokie Village Hall. The meeting was adjourned at 9:01 PM following a motion by Commissioner Okallau, seconded by Commissioner Gershbein.

• Approved July 15, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Vice Chair McNelis, seconded by Commissioner Gotkin)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 29, 2025 at 7:00 PM in Conference Room A, Skokie Village Hall
• Adjourned meeting at 9:01 PM (motion by Commissioner Okallau, seconded by Commissioner Gershbein)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The Skokie Foreign Fire Insurance Board met to review and approve department spending requests, including fitness equipment for Station 17 and a new TV for Station 18. The board also discussed ongoing capital improvements and previously approved items like bunkroom upgrades and outdoor chairs.

• $1,580 for miscellaneous fitness equipment at Station 17
• $448 for a new TV in the Lieutenant's Office at Station 18
• Bunkroom improvements at Station 16 (in progress)
• Stainless steel drinking mugs for all stations ($500 budget)
• Low-maintenance outdoor chairs delivered to Station 18

The board approved several equipment purchases, including a $49,356 upgrade to the alerting system in Station 16’s new bunkroom. It also approved a $4,126 boat trailer, a $455 leg‑curl attachment, a $1,353 tool chest, and a $12,000 air‑purifying system. A $11,991 request for new recliners was tabled for further research, and a $180 picnic‑table request was cancelled. All approvals were unanimous (6‑0).

• Approved minutes from June 23, 2025 (6‑0)
• Cancelled $180 picnic‑table purchase request (request withdrawn)
• Approved $4,126 boat trailer for Swift Water Rescue Team (6‑0)
• Tabled $11,991 recliner purchase request for further quote research (6‑0)
• Approved $455 leg‑curl attachment for Station 18 power rack (6‑0)
• Approved $1,353 tool chest for Station 18 (6‑0)
• Approved $49,356 alerting system improvements for Station 16 bunkroom (6‑0)
• Approved $12,000 air‑purifying system for Station 18 (6‑0)

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for August 21, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a request for a variation to allow a home addition at 4409 Golf Road. The board will determine if the project can proceed with a 4-foot west side yard instead of the required 6-foot minimum.

• Variation request for 4409 Golf Road to allow a 4-foot west side yard for a 152 square foot addition
• Staff recommendation to deny the variation request for 4409 Golf Road
• Approval of May 21, 2025 meeting minutes

The board approved the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. It then approved a variance allowing a 4‑foot west side yard for the addition at 4409 Golf Road, with a 5‑3 vote. The approval requires a covenant. The September 3, 2025 meeting was cancelled due to lack of cases.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Granted 4‑foot side‑yard variance for 4409 Golf Road (5‑3)
• Cancelled September 3, 2025 meeting (lack of cases)

Human Relations Commission

The Community Engagement Sub-Committee will review a July 10, 2025 memo from Mayor Tennes and Village Manager John Lockerby. Members will discuss the Human Relations section of the Skokie Code of Ordinances and propose outreach actions.

• Review of July 10, 2025 memo from Mayor Tennes and Village Manager John Lockerby
• Discussion of Article I, Chapter 58 of the Skokie Code of Ordinances
• Determination of next steps for proposed outreach and engagement actions

The Human Relations Commission unanimously approved the July 10, 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners discussed a proposal to create a plain‑language flyer about the Human Relations Ordinance and asked for additional feedback by July 26, 2025. The Village Communications Department will draft a formal version, and Sanctuary Niles Township was invited to present at the full commission meeting on September 16, 2025. No follow‑up sub‑committee meeting was scheduled.

• Approved July 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Requested additional feedback on flyer draft by July 26, 2025
• Assigned Village Communications Department to create formal flyer draft
• Invited Sanctuary Niles Township to present at full commission meeting on Sep 16, 2025
• Chair will provide status update on ordinance work on Sep 2, 2025
• No follow‑up sub‑committee meeting scheduled (future date to be set)

Economic Development Commission

The Skokie Economic Development Commission will convene on August 20, 2025, at Village Hall to conduct routine procedural items including roll call, approval of prior meeting minutes, and public comment. No ordinances, contracts, or fee changes are listed for action or discussion.

The August 20, 2025 Economic Development Commission meeting was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The commission will reconvene on September 17, 2025.

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will meet to discuss unfinished business regarding the Fire Lieutenant promotional process. The agenda also includes a request for an executive session under the State of Illinois Open Meetings Act.

• Fire Lieutenant Promotional Process
• Executive session requested per Section 2, Paragraph c. 1 of the State of Illinois Open Meetings Act

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners approved the July 21, 2025 meeting minutes. A citizen asked to meet with public safety leaders about emergency medical transport protocol revisions. The board made a motion to move into executive session, which was seconded; no vote tally was recorded. The next regular meeting is set for Monday, September 15, 2025.

• Approved July 21, 2025 meeting minutes (no corrections noted)
• Motion to move into Executive Session made by Chair Willard Evans and seconded by Vice Chair Helene Levine (outcome not recorded)

Ethics Commission

The Skokie Ethics Commission will consider a motion to bifurcate public comment and a motion to dismiss a complaint filed against James Johnson for alleged violations of the Skokie Ethics Code. The body will also approve minutes from a prior meeting.

• Motion to approve minutes of April 2, 2025 meeting
• Consideration of legal sufficiency/probable cause of amended complaint against James Johnson
• Respondent's Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction
• Respondent's Motion to Strike and Dismiss
• Motion to Bifurcate Public Comment

The Ethics Commission approved the April 2 minutes, recessed into executive session, and unanimously denied the complainant’s motion in limine, the respondent’s motion to dismiss for lack of jurisdiction, and the respondent’s motion to strike and dismiss (granting relief on later paragraphs). It directed the attorney to draft a written decision and scheduled a hearing for September 3, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.

• Approved April 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved motion to recess into executive session (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Denied complainant’s Motion in Limine (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Denied respondent’s Motion to Dismiss for Lack of Jurisdiction (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Denied respondent’s Motion to Strike and Dismiss for paragraphs 6‑8 and granted it for paragraphs 9‑13 (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Directed commission attorney to draft written decision (unanimous voice vote)
• Scheduled hearing for September 3, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. (tentative)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Fine Arts Commission

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission will meet to review past events, discuss upcoming arts programming, and consider grant opportunities. The agenda includes reports on ongoing and planned events such as artist networking sessions, exhibits, and community art projects. No formal decisions are listed; the meeting focuses on information sharing and planning.

• Artist Networking Event on August 17, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
• Yolanda Castrejon Exhibit scheduled for October 6–12
• Farmers' Market Photo Exhibit and Weaving Community Art Project proposed
• Student Outstanding Artist Recognition (SOAR) Exhibit planned for October

The Fine Arts Commission voted unanimously to pursue a new grant structure that would replace school grants with two larger grants—one for a nonprofit arts program and one for an artist‑in‑residence at The Storefront. Commissioners Sloan and Levan will meet with Vice Chair Rhodes before the next meeting to develop a proposal, and Staff Liaison Gioia will research timing requirements for grant distribution. The commission also decided to delay the October FAC Art Exhibit and the Farmers' Market Photo Exhibit until later in the season. Commissioner Waxburg announced she will step down after twenty years of service.

• Unanimously voted to pursue new two‑grant structure (unanimous)
• Commissioners Sloan and Levan to meet with Vice Chair Rhodes to draft grant proposal
• Staff Liaison Gioia to research timing requirements for grant distribution
• Decision to delay October FAC Art Exhibit until winter/spring
• Decision to delay Farmers' Market Photo Exhibit to later in the season
• Commissioner Waxburg announced stepping down after twenty years

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will review several residential requests for additions and one new single-family home. The body will also consider facade changes for a non-residential property.

• 8037 Harding Ave: Request for 2nd floor addition
• 9325 Harding Ave: Request for 2nd floor addition
• 5143 Brummel St: Request for 2nd floor addition
• 9215 Avers Ave: Request for new single-family home
• 9340 Skokie Blvd: Request for non-residential facade changes

The Appearance Commission approved the minutes from the July 9, 2025 meeting. It granted Certificates of Appropriateness for six projects, including five residential additions and a commercial façade renovation, each by a unanimous vote with two members absent. All approvals were recorded as motions with the listed sponsors and seconds.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 8037 Harding Ave (2nd floor addition) – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness with masonry waiver for 9325 Harding Ave (2nd floor addition) – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 5143 Brummel St (2nd floor addition) – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 9215 Avers Ave (new single‑family home) – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness with canopy revisions for 3827 Harvard Ter – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness with conditions for 9340 Skokie Blvd (façade changes) – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent
• Approved minutes of the July 9, 2025 Appearance Commission meeting – 4 ayes, 0 nays, 2 absent

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Skokie Consumer Affairs Commission will hold a routine meeting with no substantive decisions or discussions listed on the agenda. The meeting is procedural, covering call to order, roll call, approval of past minutes, old/new business (unspecified), public comment, and adjournment.

The commission approved the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes. It agreed to begin promoting the Business of the Year nomination form and to collect nominations through September 30. The commission also decided to present a window cling to the nominees at the Village Board Meeting on December 1. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved July 16, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Agreed to promote Business of the Year nomination form and collect nominations until September 30
• Decided to present a window cling to nominees at the Village Board Meeting on December 1
• Motion to adjourn meeting passed

Performing Arts Center Board

The board meets to receive reports on summer event attendance, marketing results, and financial performance for the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts. No formal decisions are listed on this procedural agenda.

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will discuss a request for outdoor storage and a fence variance at 5347 Birchwood Avenue. A separate item regarding a 68-unit townhouse development at 4600 Main Street has been canceled.

• 5347 Birchwood Avenue: Request for special use permit for outdoor storage and relief to build a fence in the required front yard
• 4600 Main Street: Site plan approval for 68 townhouse residences (Canceled)

The commission approved the staff report for a special use permit allowing outdoor storage at 5347 Birchwood in an M1 Office Assembly Industry district. It also approved relief to install a screened fence within the required 50‑foot front‑yard setback. Both motions passed unanimously with a 7‑0 vote. The minutes of the July 17, 2025 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved staff report for special use permit at 5347 Birchwood (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved fence relief to build screened fence in 50‑ft front yard (7 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved July 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for August 6, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases.

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Commission is reviewing the schedule and status of various technology programs, including AI, cybersecurity, and medical technology. Members will also discuss the creation of a digital delivery method for information and the possibility of renaming the commission.

• Business AI Program planning for September
• Cyber Security program coordination with Police Department for October
• General AI Program outreach strategies for younger demographics
• Proposed 'STAT-tistics' Expo concept
• Discussion on renaming the Commission

The meeting was called to order and the minutes from June 24, 2025 were approved unanimously. The commission voted to rename itself and Alex will circulate a form for name ideas. Scott will draft an annual End‑of‑Year report and the group approved the plan to include event metrics. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Call to order approved unanimously
• June 24, 2025 minutes approved unanimously
• Commission agreed to rename itself (Alex to send name‑idea form)
• Scott to draft annual End‑of‑Year report
• Annual report to include attendance and feedback metrics

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will discuss the retirement of Fire Chief Jeffrey Hoeflich and the resignation of Firefighter Zane McCartney. The board will also consider the permanent appointment of Michael Hernandez to the rank of Firefighter and review the Fire Lieutenant promotional process.

• Retirement of Fire Chief Jeffrey Hoeflich
• Resignation of Firefighter Zane McCartney
• Proposed permanent appointment of Probationary Firefighter Michael Hernandez
• Fire Lieutenant Promotional Process
• Executive session per State of Illinois Open Meetings Act

Commissioner Bruce Rottner moved, and Commissioner Nicole Potthast seconded, to approve the June 16 minutes; the outcome was not recorded. The board received notice of Firefighter Zane McCartney's resignation and a recommendation to permanently appoint Firefighter Michael Hernandez effective June 17, 2025. A motion to enter executive session was made and seconded by Commissioner Bruce Rottner, with no vote result documented.

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will review a request to vacate a public alley and a special use permit for an automotive repair facility. The body will also vote on the approval of meeting minutes from May 15, 2025.

• Request by MD Private Services, LLC and William Szydlowski to vacate a 20’ x 117’ unimproved alley north of 7625 Parkside Avenue and south of 5550 Howard Street
• Special use permit request for an automotive repair facility at 7401 St. Louis Avenue – Unit B
• Request to waive the requirement of providing one parking lot tree for every 15 parking spaces at 7401 St. Louis Avenue

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 15 meeting. It voted 7‑0 to vacate a 20‑by‑117‑foot east‑west alley north of 7625 Parkside Avenue and south of 5550 Howard Street. It also voted 7‑0 to grant a special use permit for a body shop at 7401 St. Louis Avenue in the M3 Industrial district, including a relief to pay $800 instead of planting required trees.

• Approved May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved alley vacation (Case 2025-06P) 7‑0
• Approved special use permit for body shop (Case 2025-09P) 7‑0
• Approved $800 in lieu of planting required parking‑lot trees 7‑0

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for July 16, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases.

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Consumer Affairs Commission will meet to review 2025 business visits and discuss the commission's mission statement. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from June 11, 2025.

• 2025 Business Visits
• Mission Statement

The commission approved the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken. The meeting was adjourned at 6:55 pm.

• Approved June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to discuss retail strategies and placemaking. The body will also review minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting.

• Discussion on Retail Strategies and Placemaking

The Economic Development Commission approved the draft minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. A motion to adjourn the July 16, 2025 meeting was also unanimously approved. No other decisions were made.

• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned July 16, 2025 meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The commission will review updates to the Sustainability Plan and a community solar campaign. The body will also discuss promotions for a Repair Café and residential letters regarding water service lines.

• Community Solar Campaign
• Sustainability Plan Q2 Updates
• Repair Café Promotion
• Water Service Lines Residential Letters

The commission approved the minutes from the June 24, 2025 Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission meeting. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:29 PM. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved June 24, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Okallau, seconded by McNelis)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:29 PM (motion by McNelis, seconded by Mahoney)

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will review financial statements from May 31, 2025, and receive reports on marketing, programming, and general operations. The meeting includes updates on upcoming events and the 'CLUE: A WALKING MYSTERY' interactive event in downtown Skokie.

• Review of May 31, 2025 financial statements
• Marketing report showing $160,000+ in revenue for upcoming shows
• Update on 'CLUE: A WALKING MYSTERY' event running July 23 through August 17
• Executive Director's report on June and July rentals and performances
• Discussion of Burton Cummings performance on July 14

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The Board will discuss updates on previously approved purchases and consider new requests for station equipment. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding the Fire Chief's retirement.

• New request for miscellaneous fitness equipment for Station #17
• New request for a TV for the Lieutenant office at Station #18
• Update on Station #16 capital improvements for bunkrooms scheduled for August
• Update on pick list funding approved at $350 per person
• Review of approved annual requests for FDIC attendance, knife sharpening, and Peloton subscriptions

Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission

The Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission will discuss the implementation of the Housing Chapter, including housing gaps and zoning code issues. The body is considering a recommendation to the Plan Commission to establish Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) as habitable space.

• Consideration of recommendation to establish Accessory Dwelling Units as habitable space
• Discussion of Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment
• Discussion of Housing Design and Skokie Home Addition Plan Book
• Discussion of addressing Zoning Code Gaps

The committee met with a quorum and approved the minutes from the April 10, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. Members discussed housing data, the Village community survey, and potential policies on accessory dwelling units and short‑term rentals, but no formal actions or votes were taken on those topics.

• Approved April 10, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)

Human Relations Commission

The Community Engagement Sub-Committee will meet to establish and define its goals. Members will discuss strategies to achieve these goals and assign responsibility to specific commissioners.

• Definition of committee goals
• Discussion of strategies to achieve goals
• Assignment of commissioners to specific strategies

The committee discussed goals and strategies for supporting immigrants and reducing bias. It scheduled the next meeting for August 20, 2025. Staff liaison Amanda Sabri was tasked with drafting a mission statement, and a shared Google Drive spreadsheet will be sent for members to suggest program partners.

• Set next sub‑committee meeting for August 20, 2025 at 6:30 pm
• Assigned staff liaison Amanda Sabri to prepare a draft mission statement
• Will send a link to a shared Google Drive spreadsheet for members to contribute partner ideas
• Committee will continue brainstorming possible partners and program ideas

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will consider several residential requests for home additions and a new porch. The body will review the aesthetic and material specifications for these projects to ensure they meet village standards.

• 2nd floor addition at 7656 Crawford Ave
• Front covered porch at 5231 Church St
• 1st and 2nd floor addition at 8240 Crawford Ave
• 1st and 2nd floor addition at 9513 Laramie Ave
• 1st floor addition at 9601 Lowell Ave

The commission unanimously approved certificates of appropriateness for the 2nd‑floor addition at 7656 Crawford Avenue, the front covered porch at 5231 Church Street, the 1st‑ and 2nd‑floor addition at 8240 Crawford Avenue, and the 1st‑ and 2nd‑floor addition at 9513 Laramie Avenue with a condition to retain existing east‑elevation windows. The 1st‑floor addition at 9601 Lowell Avenue was postponed because the submitted plans lacked sufficient detail. The minutes of the June 11, 2025 meeting were also approved.

• Approved minutes of June 11, 2025 Appearance Commission meeting (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 7656 Crawford Avenue addition (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5231 Church Street porch (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 8240 Crawford Avenue addition (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 9513 Laramie Avenue addition, condition: retain existing east‑elevation windows (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Postponed 9601 Lowell Avenue case pending revised plans (no vote)
• Discussed Housing Sub‑Committee plan to streamline residential project reviews (no decision recorded)

Plan Commission

The July 3, 2025, meeting of the Skokie Plan Commission has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for July 2, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases.

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission meeting scheduled for June 26, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Telecommunications and Technology Commission is discussing the scheduling and logistics for several community programs. These include events on AI, cybersecurity, and home medical technology.

• Planning for a Science Fair presentation to the Village Board in July
• Scheduling for Cyber Security and General AI programs
• Review of a program on new technology in cars
• Development of one-pagers on aggressive sales tactics, scams, and subscription management
• Discussion of a drone photography event and a STAT Expo concept

The STAT Commission approved the call to order, adopted the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting, and adjourned the session. No substantive program approvals or denials were recorded.

• Call to order approved (motion by Ujjval, seconded by Avi)
• Minutes from May 27, 2025 approved (motion by Avi, seconded by David)
• Meeting adjourned (motion by Ujjval, seconded by Jimmy)

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will review updates on green business recognition and EV charging at Village Hall. The body is also discussing sidewalk locations and residential sustainability awards.

• Residential Sustainability Awards
• Additional Community Solar program
• Village Hall EV Charging update
• Household Hazardous Waste Collection on July 15 with a $75 fee
• Skokie Green Business Recognition program update

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission approved the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting unanimously. No other formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded during the June 24, 2025 session.

• Approved May 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The board will discuss several new funding requests for fire station equipment, maintenance, and personnel training. The meeting also includes updates on previously approved capital improvements and equipment purchases.

• Proposed $20,000 for FY26 Department Training
• Proposed $15,000 for FY26 Cable/Internet Service for all stations
• Proposed $7,500 for specialized EMS equipment and advanced training
• Proposed $1,755 per visit for semi-annual ice machine cleaning at 3 stations
• Update on Station #16 bunkroom capital improvements scheduled for August

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will review data on 2024 hate crimes and bias motivated incidents presented by Police Chief Jesse Barnes. The body will also receive reports from committees regarding community events and fair housing.

• Presentation of 2024 hate crimes and bias motivated incidents data by Police Chief Jesse Barnes
• Neighbor Engagement Committee reports on block parties and 4th of July Parade
• Equity and Diversity Committee reports on Juneteenth, Skokie Pride, and early intervention in hate/bias incidents
• Fair Housing Committee reports on the Fair Housing Sub-Committee and Plan Commission Housing Subcommittee
• Discussion of the Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board

The Human Relations Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the April 28, 2024 meeting minutes. Staff were tasked with updating the Skokie Police Department’s Hate Crimes & Hate Incidents brochure. The commission confirmed it will join the Beautification Commission in the 4th of July Parade. Meeting dates for September 2025 through June 2026 were set with no objections.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 28, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Directed staff to update Police Department hate‑crimes brochure
• Commission will join Beautification Commission in 4th of July Parade
• Set 2025‑2026 meeting dates (no objections)

Public Safety Commission

The Public Safety Commission will receive reports from the Police Department, Fire Department, and Engineering Division. The meeting includes a review of the 2025 Construction Map.

• Review of 2025 Construction Map

The Skokie Public Safety Commission approved the minutes from the May 21, 2025 meeting. No new business was considered. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Jeff S, seconded by Dennis)

Human Relations Commission

The Sub-Committee on Fair Housing will review suggestions for community-focused education. The body will also hold a planning session for future programming.

• Review of ideas for community-focused education on Fair Housing
• Planning session for future programming

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission meeting scheduled for June 18, 2025, was cancelled due to a lack of quorum.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for June 18, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases.

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will discuss promotional processes and personnel changes. The body is considering a resolution to defer the rank of one entry-level police officer candidate until October 2025.

• Resolution to defer rank for entry level police officer candidate Ilie Suciu until October 2025
• Police Sergeant Eligibility List
• Fire Lieutenant Promotional Process
• Retirement of Police Officer Joseph Marzigliano
• Resignation of Police Officer Adem Nazifi

The Board approved the minutes from the April 21, 2025 meeting. It approved memoranda announcing the retirement of Officer Robert Roque and the resignations of Officers Adam Vaid, David Huang, and Jonathan Ngo. The Board certified the Final Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List of 42 candidates, effective until May 18, 2027 or until exhausted. A motion to adjourn to Executive Session was approved unanimously.

• Approved April 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved memoranda announcing retirement and resignations of four police officers
• Certified Final Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List of 42 candidates (expires May 18, 2027 or when exhausted)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting to Executive Session (unanimously)

Board of Health

The Skokie Board of Health will meet to receive a presentation from a social worker and police officer regarding the Co-Responder Team. The meeting also includes updates on Health and Human Services and the Collective Impact Summit.

• Co-Responder Team presentation by Brian McHugh and Kimberly Blue
• Health and Human Services updates regarding Public Health Partners of Excellence Awards
• Collective Impact Summit update from Sibyl Yau

The Skokie Board of Health approved the meeting agenda and the April 10, 2025 minutes. No new business was taken. The board discussed a potluck for the October meeting but decided to continue the discussion at the September meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (first by Dr. Sood, second by Dr. Lupovitch)
• Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (first by Dr. Sood, second by Dr. Lupovitch)
• Potluck event discussion deferred to September 11, 2025 meeting

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will review requests for several residential first-floor additions and a new single-family home. The body will also consider revisions to an office building conversion and a mixed-use building proposal.

• New single-family residence at 7848 Kolmar Ave
• First floor additions at 3361 Capitol St, 8530 Keystone Ave, and 3412 Touhy Ave
• Revisions to approved 1st and 2nd floor addition at 50 Williamsburg Rd
• Revisions to approved office building conversion at 5202 Old Orchard Rd
• Mixed-use building proposal at 7852 Lincoln Ave

The Appearance Commission approved the minutes from the May 14, 2025 meeting. It granted Certificates of Appropriateness for seven projects, including residential additions at 3361 Capitol St, 7848 Kolmar Ave, 8530 Keystone Ave, 3412 Touhy Ave, revisions at 50 Williamsburg Rd and 5202 Old Orchard Rd, and a mixed‑use building at 7852 Lincoln Ave with a condition on the sign. All votes were unanimous except the Lincoln Ave project, which passed 4‑1.

• Approved minutes of May 14, 2025 Appearance Commission meeting (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 3361 Capitol St addition (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 7848 Kolmar Ave new residence (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 8530 Keystone Ave addition (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 3412 Touhy Ave addition (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for revisions at 50 Williamsburg Rd (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for revisions at 5202 Old Orchard Rd (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 7852 Lincoln Ave mixed‑use building with sign condition (4-1, 2 absent)

Fine Arts Commission

The Fine Arts Commission is reviewing past and upcoming programs at The Storefront. The body will also discuss future events including the Farmers’ Market 50th Anniversary Photo Exhibit and 2026 Arts Grants.

• Review of Makers Market and Color the Future programs
• Planning for Woven Connections Community Art Project on June 23
• Farmers’ Market 50th Anniversary Photo Exhibit in August
• Pinwheels for Peace Community Art Project on September 21
• Discussion of 2026 Arts Grants

Consumer Affairs Commission

The commission approved the May 14, 2025 meeting minutes after a motion by Natalie and a second by Jerry. Commissioners discussed shifting the commission’s role toward a business ombudsman and agreed that Chairman Biju Krishman will draft a memo to the Village Board proposing a name change. Planning for the shredding event is on hold pending a meeting with the sustainability team. The next meeting is scheduled for July 16, 2025 at 6 pm.

• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (motion passed)
• Commission to draft memo proposing name change (no vote recorded)
• Shredding event planning placed on hold (status update)

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for June 5, 2025 has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

Commission on Family Services

The Commission on Family Services will discuss upcoming community events and receive reports from various subcommittees. The meeting includes updates on health and human services and a report on the Village Budget Meeting.

• Reports on Festival of Cultures (May 17 & 18)
• Planning for Skokie Pride Event (June 22), Juneteenth Celebration (June 14), and 4th of July Parade
• Update on produce initiative and food and clothes drive sign-up site
• Seniors Subcommittee report on Live Well Age Well Skokie (May 28 meeting)
• At-Risk Youth and Families Subcommittee report on Mother's Day diaper drive

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for June 4, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases.

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will review reports from the Neighbor Engagement, Fair Housing, and Equity and Diversity committees. The body will discuss upcoming community celebrations and the Fair Housing Ordinance.

• Fair Housing Ordinance
• Skokie Juneteenth Celebration (June 14)
• Skokie Pride (June 22)
• Skokie Festival of Cultures
• Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Skokie Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission will review progress on multiple tech-focused programs, including AI, cybersecurity, and smart home technology, and finalize dates and logistics for upcoming events. The meeting will also include updates on lower-priority initiatives like a STAT website and drone usage in the Village.

• Finalize June 2 Village Board Science Fair logistics
• Decide on new Cyber Security event target date (mid-late summer or October)
• Confirm June 9 AI Program event at Skokie Public Library
• Finalize fall Smart Home Technology event date and promotion steps
• Review draft PowerPoint for 'Consumer as the product' program

The STAT Commission formally called the meeting to order with a motion that was approved. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 29, 2025 meeting. The remainder of the session consisted of discussions about upcoming technology programs, but no formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded.

• Call to order approved
• April 29, 2025 minutes approved

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will review sustainability initiatives for the FY26 budget and a proposed 25 mph speed limit for residential streets. The body will also discuss residential sustainability awards and website updates.

• Sustainability in the FY26 Budget
• Establishment of 25 Miles Per Hour Speed Limit for Village Wide Residential Streets
• Residential Sustainability Awards
• Electronic Lawn Equipment Rebates
• Hefty ReNew giveaway program

The commission voted to approve the minutes from the March 4, 2025 meeting. A motion to adjourn the May 27, 2025 meeting was also passed. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (motion by Okallau, seconded by Mahoney)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Gershbein, seconded by Saxe)

Public Safety Commission

The Skokie Public Safety Commission will meet to receive reports from the Police, Fire, and Engineering divisions. The Fire Department will lead a review of the Community Risk Assessment.

• Review of the Community Risk Assessment

The Skokie Public Safety Commission approved the minutes from the April 16 meeting. No other actions, approvals, or denials were recorded. Unfinished business and new business were both listed as none.

• Approved April 16 meeting minutes

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will meet to hold a discussion on the life science market. The meeting includes presentations from representatives of Intersect Illinois, World Business Chicago, and JLL.

• Life Science Market Discussion featuring Elizabeth Gichana (Intersect Illinois), Rebecca Motley (World Business Chicago), and Max Zwolan (JLL)

The commission voted to approve the draft minutes from the April 16, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Commissioner Levinson, seconded by Commissioner Carley, and passed by unanimous voice vote. Later, the commission voted to adjourn the meeting; the motion was made by Commissioner Gleason, seconded by Commissioner Akers, and approved unanimously.

• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will review a request for a front yard variation to allow for an attached garage. Staff recommends approving the request based on the property's unique triangular shape and safety benefits of accessing parking via Lake Street.

• Case 2025-03Z: Request for a 5-foot front yard variation instead of the 25-foot minimum at 8950 East Prairie Road

The board approved the minutes of the May 7, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. It rejected the petition to reduce the front‑yard setback for an attached garage at 8950 East Prairie Road, with a 2‑aye, 3‑nay, 2‑abstain vote. The motion failed and the board noted that further appeal must go to the Circuit Court. June board meetings were cancelled because there were no cases scheduled.

• Approved May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Denied garage setback variation for 8950 East Prairie Road (2‑aye, 3‑nay, 2‑abstain)
• Cancelled June meetings due to lack of cases

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will discuss promotional processes for Police Sergeants and Fire Lieutenants. The body will also review the final entry level Police Officer eligibility list.

• Final Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List
• Police Sergeant Promotional Process
• Fire Lieutenant Promotional Process
• Retirement of Police Officer Robert Roque
• Resignations of Police Officers Adam Vaid, David Huang, and Jonathan Ngo

The commission approved the May 21, 2025 meeting minutes and approved memoranda honoring the retirement of Officer Robert Roque and the resignations of Officers Adam Vaid, David Huang, and Jonathan Ngo. It certified the Final Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List of 42 candidates, effective until May 18, 2027 or until exhausted. The board unanimously moved to adjourn the meeting into Executive Session.

• Approved May 21, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved memoranda recognizing retirement of Officer Robert Roque and resignations of Officers Adam Vaid, David Huang, and Jonathan Ngo
• Certified Final Entry Level Police Officer Eligibility List of 42 candidates (expires May 18, 2027 or when exhausted)
• Unanimously approved motion to adjourn meeting to Executive Session

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold public hearings on two requests for the McDonald's at 5360 Touhy Avenue: a site plan approval for tearing down and rebuilding the restaurant, and a special use permit for two drive-through lanes. The commission will also vote on minutes from the previous meeting and hear public comment.

• Site Plan Approval for tear down and rebuild of McDonald's at 5360 Touhy Avenue
• Special Use Permit for two drive-through lanes as part of the new restaurant construction
• Approval of April 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Opportunity for public comment on agenda items

The commission approved the site‑plan application for the demolition and rebuild of the McDonald’s restaurant at 5360 Touhy Avenue with a 6‑0 vote. It also approved a special‑use permit allowing two drive‑through lanes at the same location, also by a 6‑0 vote. The minutes of the April 17, 2025 meeting were approved by unanimous voice vote. No public comments were received.

• Approved site‑plan for 5360 Touhy Ave (6‑0)
• Approved special‑use permit for two drive‑through lanes at 5360 Touhy Ave (6‑0)
• Approved April 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Accepted staff reports for both cases (6‑0)

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will review several requests for residential first and second-floor additions. The body will also consider signage requests and a proposal for a non-residential addition and new mixed-use building.

• 7952 Lincoln Ave: Non-residential addition and new mixed-use building
• 9323 Skokie Blvd: Signage requiring a variation
• 5206 Touhy Ave: Signage request
• 3524 Greenleaf St: 1st floor addition
• 7428 Lowell Ave: 1st and 2nd floor addition

The Appearance Commission unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for the mixed‑use development at 7952 Lincoln Avenue, requiring pedestrian access provisions. It also approved Certificates of Appropriateness for six residential additions and a signage project at 5206 Touhy Avenue. The signage request at 9323 Skokie Boulevard was continued for later review.

• Approved minutes of April 9, 2025 Appearance Commission meeting (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 3524 Greenleaf St addition (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 7428 Lowell Ave addition with masonry waiver (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 9221 Tripp Ave addition (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 3907 Enfield Ave addition (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 9216 Karlov Ave addition (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 5206 Touhy Ave (7‑0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for mixed‑use project at 7952 Lincoln Ave with pedestrian access condition (7‑0)

Fine Arts Commission

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission is meeting to discuss upcoming community art events and projects. The body will review the Storefront programming and plan for the Farmers’ Market 50th Anniversary exhibit.

• Meet Up on Main events (6/2, 6/9, 6/16, 6/23, 6/30)
• Farmers’ Market 50th Anniversary Photo Exhibit in August
• Pinwheels for Peace Community Art Project on September 21
• 2026 Art Grants
• Pic-O-Matic Art Vending Machine

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Consumer Affairs Commission will discuss its 2025 business visits program and review its mission statement. The meeting also includes approval of April meeting minutes and a public comment period. No specific proposals or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of 2025 Business Visits program
• Review of Commission mission statement
• Approval of April 9, 2025 meeting minutes

The Commission approved the April 9, 2025 meeting minutes. Members were assigned to visit Sketchbook, Schaefer’s, Kneads and Wants, and Will’s Place with reporting dates in May, June, July, and August. The Commission also agreed to hold a shredding event on Saturday, September 13, 2025, in the Village Employee parking lot.

• Approved April 9, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)
• Assigned George and Natalia to visit Sketchbook, report back in May
• Assigned Ashley to visit Schaefer’s, report back in June
• Assigned Ted to visit Kneads and Wants, report back in July
• Assigned Gary to visit Will’s Place, report back in August
• Planned shredding event for Sep 13, 2025, 9 am‑12 pm in Village Employee parking lot

Performing Arts Center Board

The board will review financial statements for March 2025, which show net income $286,159 better than budget, though the center does not expect to make budget for the year. They will also hear the executive director's report on programming and operations, and a marketing report highlighting recent shows and ticket sales. No votes on new business are scheduled; the agenda is primarily informational.

• March 2025 net income $286,159 better than budget, but year-to-date net loss of $148,937
• Upcoming events include Bill W. and Dr. Bob, Glenn Miller Orchestra, Chicago Gay Men's Chorus, and K-Pop show n.Ssign
• Front banner frames being repainted and new banners to be installed; plants and sprinkler system checked for summer
• Marketing report shows strong digital ROI for recent shows (e.g., Robert Cray Band 95.5% sold, Stop Making Sense 90% sold)
• FTC ruling requires the center to advertise only 'starting' ticket prices due to variable fees

Board of Health

The meeting scheduled for May 8, 2025, was cancelled because there was no quorum.

Commission on Family Services

The Skokie Commission on Family Services will approve April minutes, hear reports from the chair and health/human services, and discuss old business including the Festival of Cultures, Skokie Pride, Juneteenth, and the Fourth of July Parade. Subcommittees will report on senior, youth, and disabilities initiatives, and new business includes scheduling future meetings and the village budget.

• Sign-up for Festival of Cultures (May 17-18)
• Skokie Pride Event planning (June 22)
• Juneteenth Celebration discussion (June 14)
• Seniors Subcommittee report on Live Well Age Well Skokie
• At-Risk Youth Subcommittee report on Mother's Day diaper drive

The commission approved the agenda (amended) and approved the April 2025 minutes by consent. The Skokie Pride Event, the Juneteenth Celebration, and the subcommittee breakout sessions were each deferred. Proposed future meeting dates were presented for consideration.

• Agenda approved as amended (no vote tally provided)
• April 2025 minutes approved by consent
• Skokie Pride Event (June 22) deferred
• Juneteenth Celebration (June 14) deferred
• Subcommittee breakout sessions deferred
• Future meeting dates proposed (Sept 3, Sept 30, Nov 5, Dec 3, Feb 4, Mar 4, Mar 31, May 6, Jun 3)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals will hear three variation requests from homeowners seeking to build additions with reduced setbacks. The board will also approve minutes from its March 5, 2025 meeting. Staff recommends approval for the first item, at 7656 Crawford Avenue, to allow a second-floor addition with a 7.86-foot side yard abutting a street instead of the required 10 feet. Decisions on the other two requests—at 8950 East Prairie Road (garage in front yard) and 5011 Estes Avenue (second-floor side yard)—are pending board vote.

• 2025-02Z: Daniel & Maria Toma request a variation to build a second-floor addition at 7656 Crawford Avenue, keeping a 7.86-foot side yard abutting a street (10-foot minimum required).
• 2025-03Z: Katherine & Samuel Garfinkel seek a variation for an attached garage at 8950 East Prairie Road, resulting in a 5-foot front yard (25-foot minimum required).
• 2025-04Z: Admir & Ajla Rosic request a variation for a second-floor addition at 5011 Estes Avenue, continuing a 3.62-foot side yard (4-foot minimum required).
• Approval of March 5, 2025 meeting minutes, which include approval of a prior variation at 9221 Tripp Avenue.

The board approved the March 5, 2025 minutes by unanimous voice vote. It granted a variance for 7656 Crawford Avenue and a variance for 5011 Estes Avenue, each with an 8‑0 vote and a required covenant. The request for 8950 East Prairie Road was continued to the May 21, 2025 meeting. No objections were raised during the votes.

• Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Granted variance for 7656 Crawford Avenue (8‑0, covenant required)
• Granted variance for 5011 Estes Avenue (8‑0, covenant required)
• Continued case 8950 East Prairie Road to May 21, 2025 meeting

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on Thursday, May 1, 2025, due to a lack of agenda items. The next regularly scheduled meeting will take place on Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Ethics Commission

The Skokie Ethics Commission will meet to consider the legal sufficiency and probable cause of an amended ethics complaint filed March 17, 2025, against James Johnson. The meeting includes public comment and possible executive session. No other substantive business is on the agenda.

• Amended complaint filed March 17, 2025 alleging violations of the Skokie Ethics Code against James Johnson
• Commission will consider legal sufficiency and probable cause of the complaint
• Possible executive session under Illinois Open Meetings Act

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission is discussing the scheduling and content of various community programs. The body is reviewing plans for events focused on AI, cybersecurity, and smart home technology.

• Review of General AI Program 45-minute presentation
• Planning for May 1 event on AI Fraud
• Discussion of virtual Smart Home Technology event in April
• Review of social media literacy program focusing on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok scams
• Planning for July/August program on new technology in cars

The commission called the meeting to order by motion of Ken Grossman, seconded by Ujjval Patel, and the motion was approved by all members. A motion to approve the February 25, 2025 minutes was made by Ujjval Patel and seconded by David Coyne, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome. The board reviewed several Tier 1 and Tier 2 technology programs, setting tentative dates and assigning tasks, but no formal approvals or rejections were recorded.

• Call to order approved (all members)
• Motion to approve February 25, 2025 minutes made (vote outcome not recorded)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will discuss committee reports on neighbor engagement, fair housing, and equity initiatives, including block parties, the 4th of July Parade, and a proposed Fair Housing Ordinance. Other items include early intervention in hate/bias incidents, the Skokie Festival of Cultures, Skokie Pride, a Women's History event, and a Village Seal redesign. The meeting is mainly for discussion and updates, with no formal votes scheduled.

• Fair Housing Ordinance – committee report
• Village Seal redesign – item of business
• Early Intervention in Hate/Bias Incidents – committee report
• Skokie Festival of Cultures – sign-up discussion
• Women's History Event – slide show presentation

The commission approved its agenda and the March 24, 2024 meeting minutes. Commissioners voted unanimously to join the Beautification Commission’s float in the 4th of July parade. The review of the Fair Housing Ordinance was placed on pause pending a new commissioner.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 24, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved participation in 4th of July parade float (unanimous)
• Paused review of Fair Housing Ordinance until further notice

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners will review recruitment and promotional processes for police officers, police sergeants, and fire lieutenants. The meeting includes notifications of resignations and candidate requests.

• Entry Level Police Officer Recruitment
• Police Sergeant promotional process
• Fire Lieutenant promotional process
• Resignation of Police Officer Jose Ruiz
• Resignation of Fire Lieutenant Robert Gaseor

The commission approved the February 18, 2025 meeting minutes, accepted the resignations of Officer Jose Ruiz and Lieutenant Robert Gaseor, denied Daniel Sanchez’s request to reconsider his candidacy, approved the deferment of firefighter candidate Jack King, and moved the meeting into executive session. All motions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved February 18, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Accepted resignations of Police Officer Jose Ruiz and Fire Lieutenant Robert Gaseor
• Denied Daniel Sanchez’s request to reconsider candidacy (5‑0)
• Approved deferment of Firefighter candidate Jack King (5‑0)
• Moved into executive session (5‑0)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The Skokie Foreign Fire Insurance Board will consider four new equipment requests for Fire Station 18, including a cold plunge, belt squat machine, sauna, and grill. The board will also receive updates on previously approved purchases such as a HEPA air filter and bunkroom improvements. The meeting is scheduled for April 18, 2025, at Station 16.

• Cold Plunge for Station 18 ($8,604 requested)
• Belt Squat Machine for Station 18 ($2,778 requested)
• 3-Person Indoor Traditional Sauna for Station 18 (price not specified)
• New Weber Grill for Station 18 ($3,949 requested)
• Update on tabled items including tool chest, work bench, Wi-Fi upgrade, and Pick List

The board approved a $4,200 stainless‑steel grill for Station 18, funding it from the Furniture and Fixtures budget (5‑0). It also approved a $350 pick‑list allocation per member, totaling $42,000 (5‑0). The request for an $8,604 cold plunge was denied (5‑0), while proposals for a belt‑squat machine and a three‑person sauna were tabled for further space discussion (both 5‑0).

• Approved $4,200 stainless‑steel grill for Station 18 (5‑0)
• Approved $350 pick‑list allocation per member ($42,000 total) (5‑0)
• Denied $8,604 cold plunge request for Station 18 (5‑0)
• Tabled $2,778 belt‑squat machine request for Station 18 (5‑0)
• Tabled $6,338 three‑person sauna request for Station 18 (5‑0)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will continue a hearing on site plan approval and subdivision for a 6-story mixed-use building with 58 residential units and ground-floor commercial at 7952 Lincoln Avenue. The petitioner seeks multiple zoning reliefs including a reduced building height of 19 feet, narrower parking stall and aisle widths, and an outdoor dining area within a sight triangle. The commission will also approve minutes from the March 20, 2025 meeting.

• Continued hearing for site plan approval of a 6-story, 58-unit mixed-use building with commercial space at 7952 Lincoln Avenue
• Request for relief from minimum building height (19 ft vs. required 25 ft) and parking standards (8.5 ft stall width, 20 ft aisle width)
• Resubdivision of three lots into one with dedication of varying Lincoln Avenue right-of-way widths to the Illinois Department of Transportation
• Request to allow outdoor dining within a 15-foot sight distance triangle and to reduce guest parking via a shared parking agreement

The commission approved the site plan for 7952 Lincoln Avenue, allowing a 1‑lot development with 58 residential units, first‑floor commercial space, and an outdoor dining area. The commission also approved a subdivision that merges three lots into one with right‑of‑way dedications to the Illinois Department of Transportation. Both actions passed with a 5‑0‑3 vote (aye‑nay‑absent). The meeting minutes from March 20 were also approved unanimously.

• Approved site plan for 7952 Lincoln Ave (5-0-3)
• Approved four items of relief for 7952 Lincoln Ave (5-0-3)
• Approved subdivision of 3 lots into 1 at 7952 Lincoln Ave (5-0-3)
• Approved minutes of March 20, 2025 meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Public Safety Commission

The Skokie Public Safety Commission will review the Skokie Police Department's 2025 awards. The agenda also includes reports from the fire department and engineering division, as well as approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Review of Skokie Police Department 2025 Awards

The commission met on April 16, 2025, approved the March 19 minutes, received police, fire, and engineering reports, and noted a future police station tour. No substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

Economic Development Commission

The Economic Development Commission will discuss scheduling focus area workshops for the Economic Vitality Strategy. They will also hear an overview of the Downtown Skokie Merchants Collaborative from Madeleine England (Kneads and Wants), and receive Planning and Development project updates. The meeting includes approval of January 15 meeting minutes and public comment.

• Discussion on scheduling focus area workshops for the Economic Vitality Strategy
• Presentation from Madeleine England on the Downtown Skokie Merchants Collaborative (Vibes in the Village)
• Planning and Development Project Updates
• Approval of January 15, 2025 meeting minutes

The Economic Development Commission approved the draft minutes from the January 15, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. No other substantive actions were taken. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved January 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its April 16, 2025 meeting due to a lack of cases. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be on May 7, 2025.

• Cancellation of April 16 meeting due to lack of cases

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will consider approval of March meeting minutes, review February financial statements showing net income better than budget by $98,223, and receive operations, marketing, and programming updates. The board will also discuss old and new business.

• Approval of minutes from March 10, 2025 meeting
• February financial statements: net income $63,774 vs budget of -$34,449, a positive variance of $98,223
• Energy reduction: demand 20% less and consumption 11% less than previous year (from March minutes)
• Upcoming shows: Serial Killers with Dr. Scott Bonn (513 sold), The Smithereens (417 sold), Stop Making Sense (412 sold)
• FTC ruling requiring all-in ticket pricing to be displayed, affecting advertising practices

Board of Health

The Skokie Board of Health will hold a regular meeting with updates from the chair and Health and Human Services. Staff will present overviews of the Emergency Financial Assistance program and the Reserved Residential Parking program. No votes on ordinances or contracts are scheduled.

• Emergency Financial Assistance program overview
• Reserved Residential Parking program overview
• Approval of March 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The Skokie Board of Health approved the meeting agenda after a first and second motion. The board also approved the minutes from the March 13, 2025 meeting. A resignation was announced, and the board will formally acknowledge it at the April 21 Village Board meeting.

• Approved agenda (first by Dr. Lupovitch, second by Dr. Sood)
• Approved March 13, 2025 minutes (first by Dr. Lupovitch, second by Dr. Sood)

Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission

The Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission will discuss the implementation of the Housing Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. The body is reviewing a work plan to address housing needs, zoning code gaps, and the feasibility of accessory dwelling units.

• Discussion of Housing Gaps and Needs Assessment
• Review of zoning code gaps and feasibility of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
• Discussion of the Skokie Home Addition Plan Book for streamlined home modifications
• Approval of January 2, 2025 meeting minutes

The committee voted to approve the minutes from the January 2, 2025 meeting with a unanimous 10‑in‑favor, 0‑opposed tally. The rest of the session consisted of discussion on housing data collection, surveys, accessory dwelling units, and a potential plan‑book for homeowners.

• Approved Jan 2, 2025 meeting minutes (10‑0)

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will review multiple residential addition proposals, a signage variation for a med spa, facade changes for two commercial properties, and a mixed-use building application. The meeting includes a continued case from March on signage at 9323 Skokie Blvd.

• 4416 Concord Ln – 1st floor addition (70 sq ft)
• 8158 Floral Ave – 2nd floor addition (117 sq ft)
• 9323 Skokie Blvd – Signage variation for Light Rx Med Spa (continued from March)
• 5530 Touhy Ave – Facade and signage request
• 7852 Lincoln Ave – Mixed-use building application

The Appearance Commission voted unanimously to grant certificates of appropriateness for six residential addition projects and three non‑residential façade projects. All votes were 7‑0 in favor. Two items—a signage variation for 9323 Skokie Blvd and a mixed‑use building at 7852 Lincoln Ave—were continued to the May 14, 2025 meeting. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 4416 Concord Ln (1st floor addition) – 7-0
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 8158 Floral Ave (2nd floor addition) – 7-0
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 3506 Lake St (2nd floor addition) – 7-0
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 7840 Kildare Ave (1st & 2nd floor addition) – 7-0
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 9410‑9466 Skokie Blvd façade – 7-0
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 5533 Touhy Ave façade and signage – 7-0
• Continued case for 9323 Skokie Blvd signage variation to May 14, 2025 – no vote
• Continued case for 7852 Lincoln Ave mixed‑use building to May 14, 2025 – no vote

Fine Arts Commission

The Fine Arts Commission will discuss and potentially approve a phased scheduling approach for The Storefront, a new arts incubator space. The plan outlines three phases: Fine Arts Commission/economic vitality programming, outside art exhibitions and workshops with fees ($150/week for exhibitions, 10% of net ticket sales for ticketed workshops), and long-term retail pop-ups and classes. The commission will also review required capital improvements to the space, including removal of mirrors, painting walls a neutral white, installing a permanent hanging system, a smart lock, and permanent signage.

• Phased programming for The Storefront including fee structure: $150/week for exhibitions, 10% of net ticket sales for ticketed workshops, free workshops with sponsorship
• Capital improvements needed: remove mirrors and dance barres, repaint walls, install permanent hanging system, smart lock, and signage
• Art Teacher Lesson Swap scheduled for April 17, 4:30–6 p.m.
• Farmers' Market 50th anniversary photo exhibit planned for September
• Pinwheels for Peace community art project scheduled for September 21

The commission approved a subcommittee (Jeff, Sonya, Pam S, Vassi) to plan Arts and Humanities Month activities. All Fine Arts Grants have been fully distributed. Volunteers are needed for the Storefront event on June 16. Additional action items were noted for upcoming networking events and programming.

• Formed Arts & Humanities Month subcommittee (Jeff, Sonya, Pam S, Vassi)
• Confirmed all Fine Arts Grants money has been distributed
• Requested volunteer for Storefront event on June 16
• Subcommittee to develop Arts & Humanities Month social media posts
• Action item: artists to create mini originals at next networking event

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Consumer Affairs Commission will meet to discuss new business regarding 2025 business visits and the commission's mission statement. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from January 8, 2024.

• Discussion of 2025 Business Visits
• Discussion of Mission Statement

The Consumer Affairs Commission approved the minutes from its January 8, 2025 meeting. Natalie Lopatkiewicz made the motion, Ashley Silverstein seconded, and the motion passed. No other formal actions were taken at this meeting.

• Approved January 8, 2025 meeting minutes (motion passed)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a site plan approval and subdivision for 7952 Lincoln Avenue. The proposal includes a 6-story mixed-use building with 58 residential units, ground-floor commercial with outdoor dining, and an expansion of an existing commercial building for child/youth services and a restaurant. Several zoning relief requests are involved, including building height, parking dimensions, and guest parking reduction. The commission will also approve prior meeting minutes and hear public comment.

• Site Plan Approval for a 1-lot planned development: 6-story mixed-use building with 58 residential units and ground-floor commercial with outdoor dining at 7952 Lincoln Avenue
• Relief from §118-93(e)(2)(c) to allow outdoor dining within a 15-ft sight distance triangle
• Relief from §118-184(a) to allow building height of 19 ft instead of 25-ft minimum along a retail street in CX district
• Relief from §118-212(a)(1) for 8.5-ft parking stall width (vs. 9 ft) and 20-ft aisle width (vs. 24 ft)
• Subdivision request to resubdivide 3 lots into 1, including dedication of Lincoln Avenue right-of-way to IDOT

Commission on Family Services

This meeting includes approval of minutes, chair's report, and health and human service report. Old business covers upcoming community events (Festival of Cultures, Skokie Pride, Juneteenth) and subcommittee reports on seniors' resource fair, at-risk youth diaper drive, and disabilities. New business discusses a possible June dinner meeting and requirements for subcommittee meetings. No final decisions or ordinances are expected.

• Festival of Cultures sign-up for May 17-18
• Skokie Pride Event on June 22, 1pm-4pm
• Juneteenth Celebration on June 14, 1pm-5pm
• Seniors Subcommittee report on Live Well Age Well Skokie resource fair
• At-Risk Youth and Families Subcommittee report on Mother's Day diaper drive

The commission approved the meeting agenda, adding the July Fourth Parade as an old‑business item. The March 2025 minutes were approved with a correction. Shajan Jose agreed to arrange food delivery for the June 4 commission dinner meeting.

• Agenda approved with addition of July Fourth Parade (no vote recorded)
• March 2025 minutes approved with correction (no vote recorded)
• Shajan Jose agreed to organize food delivery for June 4 meeting (no vote recorded)

Ethics Commission

The Ethics Commission will consider a motion for leave to file an amended complaint and evaluate the legal sufficiency and probable cause of that complaint. The allegations involve potential violations of the Skokie Ethics Code by Trustee James Johnson.

• Motion for leave to file amended complaint filed March 17, 2025 by Skokie Residents 1-8
• Review of legal sufficiency and probable cause regarding Trustee James Johnson

The Ethics Commission unanimously approved the March 5, 2025 minutes. A motion to accept an amended complaint against Trustee James Johnson was moved, seconded and passed with two Yes votes and one abstention. The commission recessed to let the complainant sign and notarize the filing. The meeting adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Approved March 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Accepted amended ethics complaint (2 Yes, 1 Abstain) – motion passed
• Recessed to allow complainant to sign and notarize the complaint
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous motion)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for April 2, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of cases. The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 16, 2025.

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will consider three new business items: a second-floor addition at 5232 Greenwood St, a window signage variation for a med spa at 9323 Skokie Blvd, and a new building and addition for Niles Township High School District 219 at 5701 Oakton St. They will also revisit a continued case to convert a carport to a garage at 9648 Kedvale Ave. Decisions on certificates of appropriateness will follow staff recommendations and public comment.

• 5232 Greenwood St – second-floor addition and new 400 sq ft garage (residential)
• 9323 Skokie Blvd – window signage requiring a variation for Light Rx Med Spa (non-residential)
• 5701 Oakton St – new two-story Niles Central High School building and three-story Niles West High School addition
• 9648 Kedvale Ave – continued case to convert carport to attached garage (residential)

The Appearance Commission approved the February 12, 2025 meeting minutes (6‑0 vote, 1 absent). It granted a Certificate of Appropriateness for 5232 Greenwood Street (residential 2nd‑floor addition) with a unanimous 6‑0 vote, one member absent. It also granted a Certificate of Appropriateness for 5701 Oakton Street (Niles school addition) with a unanimous 6‑0 vote, one member absent, conditional on additional landscaping. A Certificate of Appropriateness was approved for 9648 Kedvale Avenue (carport‑to‑garage conversion) subject to zoning review, also 6‑0 with one absent. The signage variation request for 9323 Skokie Boulevard was continued to the April 9 meeting.

• Approved February 12, 2025 minutes (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5232 Greenwood St (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 5701 Oakton St with landscaping condition (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 9648 Kedvale Ave subject to zoning review (6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent)
• Continued signage variation for 9323 Skokie Blvd to April 9 meeting (no vote recorded)

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission is discussing the scheduling and content for several community programs. These include events on AI fraud, smart home technology, and medical technology.

• Planning for a May 1 program on AI Fraud
• Review of a 45-minute General AI presentation for a May event
• Coordination for the April 6 Spring Greening event
• Planning for a virtual Smart Home Technology event in April
• Development of a program on new technology in cars for July or August

Human Relations Commission

The Skokie Human Relations Commission will meet to approve the February 2024 meeting minutes, hear committee reports from Neighbor Engagement, Fair Housing, and Equity and Diversity, and discuss a village seal redesign. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Village seal redesign discussed under Other Items of Business
• Neighbor Engagement Committee reports on block parties and 4th of July parade
• Fair Housing Committee reviews housing subcommittee and fair housing ordinance
• Equity and Diversity Committee discusses hate/bias incidents and Skokie Festival of Cultures

The Human Relations Commission approved its agenda and the February 24, 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. Commissioners approved Fair Housing social‑media posts for April. They voted not to move forward with promotion of the Unite Against Racism program due to insufficient event details.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 24, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Fair Housing social‑media posts for April (unanimous)
• Voted not to promote Unite Against Racism event (unanimous)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will meet to discuss a special use permit request for outdoor storage at 8046 Ridgeway Avenue. The proposal seeks to allow a car dealer to park up to 9 vehicles for sale on a crushed gravel surface.

• Special use permit for outdoor storage (vehicle display) at 8046 Ridgeway Avenue
• Review of 2025-02P request in an M2 Light Industry zoning district

The commission approved the minutes from the March 6, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. It then approved case 2025-02P, granting a special use permit for outdoor vehicle storage at 8046 Ridgeway Avenue. The approval was unanimous (5 ayes, 0 nays) and includes conditions such as a 5‑foot clearance along the north wall, allowance of a gravel surface, and limited staff parking.

• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved case 2025-02P special use permit for 8046 Ridgeway Ave (5 ayes, 0 nays) with conditions

Economic Development Commission

The Skokie Economic Development Commission will hear a presentation and review the results of the 2024 Skokie Community Survey. They will also receive a recap of the Bisnow life-sciences event in Chicago and hold a workshop on the Economic Vitality Strategy. No formal votes on ordinances or contracts are scheduled; the meeting is focused on discussion and planning.

• Presentation and review of the 2024 Skokie Community Survey
• Recap of the Bisnow Chicago Life Sciences, Quantum Computing and Biotech event at ISTP
• Workshop/discussion on the Economic Vitality Strategy
• Approval of minutes from the January 15, 2025 meeting

Ethics Commission

The Village of Skokie Officers Ethics Commission meeting scheduled for March 19, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. has been cancelled. No business will be conducted at this time. Future meeting dates will be posted as required by the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

Public Safety Commission

The Public Safety Commission will receive reports from the Engineering Division, Police Department, and Fire Department. The Police Department will provide a presentation on public event planning and risk mitigation.

• Police Department presentation on Public Event Planning/Risk Mitigation

The commission approved the February 19 meeting minutes and received updates from engineering, police, and fire departments. A new ladder truck was reported in service, and a commissioner demonstrated an arm band light for pedestrian and cyclist visibility, discussed as a potential community safety item. No new business was conducted.

• Approved February 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Heard engineering report on current and upcoming projects
• Heard police department February report and public event planning presentation
• Heard fire department February report; new ladder truck put in service
• Discussed potential distribution of arm band lights for pedestrian/cyclist safety

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for March 19, 2025, has been cancelled. The cancellation is due to a lack of cases.

Board of Health

The Skokie Board of Health will hear a presentation on the Village's Stormwater Quality Program from an engineering consultant. The board will also receive updates on a recent water main break and water sampling, as well as chair and department updates. Routine items include approval of the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• Presentation on Village of Skokie Stormwater Quality Program by Daniel Bounds, Baxter & Woodman
• Water main break water sampling update from Health and Human Services
• Board of Health Chair updates from Dr. Edward Linn
• Approval of minutes from February 13, 2025 meeting

The Skokie Board of Health met on March 13, 2025, and approved the agenda and minutes from the February 13, 2025 meeting. The board received informational presentations on the Village's stormwater quality program, a measles outbreak in West Texas, and a detailed update on the response to the February water main break, including the boil order and lifting. No formal decisions were made beyond the approvals.

• Approved agenda (motion by Sood, second by Werner)
• Approved February 13, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by Sood, second by Werner)

Performing Arts Center Board

The Skokie Performing Arts Center Board will meet to approve February 2025 meeting minutes and review January 2025 financial statements, which show a net loss $37,122 below budget. The board will receive the Executive Director's report on programming, operations, and capital improvements, as well as a marketing report on upcoming shows. No new business items are listed for decision.

• January 2025 net income of -$64,784 vs. budget -$27,287; $37,122 below budget per director's report
• Taylor Dayne (Feb. 14) cancelled due to Skokie water main break; other shows impacted
• New Marketing Manager Sophie Woolley started Feb. 24 and will attend as observer
• Marc Maron show (March 28) sold out: 851 tickets / $44,513 revenue
• Capital improvements ongoing; working with Village finance on additional bids

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The Skokie Foreign Fire Insurance Board will consider multiple purchase requests for Station 18, including replacement TVs, a tool chest, a workbench, and a network upgrade. The board will also receive updates on previously approved items such as $240,000 in bunkroom renovations and a HEPA air filter.

• Replacement TV for Station 18 print shop – $1,498
• Upgrade training monitor for Station 18 day room – $4,998
• Replacement TVs for LT office and workout room (2 units) – $3,196
• Replacement of broken tool chest at Station 18 – $698
• Replace existing workbench at Station 18 (price not specified)

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will consider a site plan for Community High School District No. 219. The proposal includes a new 2-story building for Niles Central High School and a 3-story addition to Niles West High School.

• Site plan approval for 5701 Oakton Street, 7700 Gross Point Road, and 7720 Gross Point Road
• Construction of a 2-story building for Niles Central High School
• Construction of a 3-story building addition at Niles West High School
• Request for a new signalized intersection at Gross Point Road
• Requests for zoning relief regarding directional signage, parking minimums, and landscaping

The Skokie Plan Commission unanimously approved a site plan for a 4-lot planned development at 5701 Oakton Street, 7700 Gross Point Road, and 7720 Gross Point Road, allowing construction of a 2-story building for Niles Central High School and a 3-story addition at Niles West High School. The approval includes reconfiguration of surface parking, new stormwater detention, and a new signalized intersection at Gross Point Road. The commission also approved four zoning relief items, including directional signs in a residential district and waivers for parking lot trees and landscaping. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved site plan for Niles Central High School and Niles West addition (5-0)
• Approved relief for directional signs in residential district (5-0)
• Approved relief for directional signs exceeding 4 sq ft and 38 inches (5-0)
• Approved waiver for 1 parking lot tree per 15 spaces (5-0)
• Approved waiver for landscaping between property line and curbing (5-0)

Commission on Family Services

The Commission on Family Services will host a guest speaker from HIAS Immigration and Citizenship. The body will also receive reports from subcommittees regarding seniors, at-risk youth, and disabilities.

• Guest speaker Fatima Rasoul from HIAS Immigration and Citizenship
• Discussion of Festival of Cultures (May 17 & 18), Skokie Pride, and Juneteenth
• Seniors Subcommittee report on Live Well Age Well Skokie resource fair
• At-Risk Youth and Families Subcommittee report on Mother's Day diaper drive
• Disabilities Subcommittee report on ADA 35th Anniversary and compliance

The Skokie Commission on Family Services met and discussed potential federal and local funding cuts to programs like Medicaid and SNAP, focusing on community advocacy. They approved the agenda and February minutes by consent, heard a presentation from HIAS on refugee resettlement, and received updates on upcoming events including the Festival of Cultures, Skokie Pride, and Juneteenth. Subcommittees reported on the Live Well Age Well Skokie senior resource fair, a Mother's Day diaper drive, and ADA compliance concerns. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters.

• Approved agenda by consent
• Approved February 2025 minutes by consent
• Senior Resource Fair Planning Committee approved new name and logo for Live Well Age Well Skokie
• Diaper Drive planned for May 2-11
• Recommended June dinner meeting as wrap-up before summer break

Ethics Commission

The Skokie Officers Ethics Commission will discuss and vote on whether an ethics complaint filed February 20, 2025, alleging violations by Trustee James Johnson, is sufficient. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment. An executive session may be held to consider the complaint.

• Discussion and vote on sufficiency of ethics complaint against Trustee James Johnson (filed Feb. 20, 2025)
• Public comment period (3 minutes per speaker)
• Motion to approve minutes of January 31, 2024 meeting
• Possible executive session under Illinois Open Meetings Act for complaint consideration

The Skokie Officer's Ethics Commission voted unanimously to dismiss all but two allegations in a complaint filed by Elline Eliasoff against Trustee James Johnson. The commission found probable cause for a hearing on allegations related to May 6, 2024, and June 3, 2024, and scheduled the hearing for March 19 at 3:00 pm. The meeting included public comment and a closed session to deliberate the complaint's sufficiency.

• Dismissed all allegations except those related to May 6, 2024 and June 3, 2024 (unanimous)
• Found probable cause for a hearing on the remaining allegations (unanimous)
• Scheduled hearing for March 19 at 3:00 pm
• Approved motion to enter executive session (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will consider a variation request from Rajeev & Shreekirit Kapur to reduce the required 6-foot side yard to 3.5 feet for a 40x20-foot addition at 9221 Tripp Avenue. Staff recommends denial, citing alternative zoning-compliant options. The board will also approve previous meeting minutes and take public comment.

• 2025-01Z – 9221 Tripp Avenue: Variation to allow a 3.5-foot north side yard (6 ft minimum) for a 40x20 ft addition with garage and bedroom in R1 Single-Family district.
• Staff report recommends denial, stating a detached garage and front-half bedroom addition are feasible without variance.
• Approval of January 15, 2025 meeting minutes.
• Public comment period for all agenda items.
• Communications from staff on any zoning matters.

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for Rajeev & Shreekirit Kapur at 9221 Tripp Avenue, allowing a 3.5-foot side yard instead of the required 6-foot minimum for a new addition. The vote was 6-0, with a covenant required. The board reversed staff's negative recommendation after hearing from the applicant and a board member's site visit. The next meetings on March 19 and April 2 were cancelled due to lack of cases.

• Approved Case 2025-01Z: variance for a 3.5-foot side yard at 9221 Tripp Avenue (6-0, covenant required)
• Approved minutes of the January 15, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Cancelled March 19 and April 2, 2025 meetings due to lack of cases

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will hear updates on a water main break and stormwater taskforce recommendations, and promote two upcoming community events: Spring Greening on April 6 and Clean Green Litter Pick-Up from March 10 to April 19.

• Water main break update
• Stormwater taskforce recommendations
• Call for volunteers: Spring Greening on April 6
• Clean Green Litter Pick-Up, March 10 through April 19

The Skokie Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission approved the January 28, 2025 meeting minutes. They received updates on the February water main break investigation and the Stormwater Taskforce's recommendations. No formal decisions were made on these items; the meeting was informational. The April meeting was later canceled in favor of launching the Hefty ReNew program.

• Approved January 28, 2025 meeting minutes (motion by McNelis, seconded by Mahoney)
• Heard update on February 14 water main break; consultant hired to investigate cause
• Heard Stormwater Taskforce recommendations (no action taken)
• Noted volunteers needed for Spring Greening on April 6
• Noted Clean Green Skokie litter pick-up runs March 10-April 19
• Noted April meeting canceled; Hefty ReNew launch at Winter Market on April 27

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission will discuss updates on several higher and lower priority programming initiatives, including home medical technology, smart home technology, AI programs, cybersecurity, and a science fair. No votes or formal decisions are scheduled; the meeting is entirely discussion-based.

• Update on home medical technology programming and scheduling a date
• Smart home technology update targeting March or April 2025 at the library
• Discussion of a general AI program and a business AI program
• Cybersecurity program on AI fraud scheduled for May 1
• Planning for a science fair on March 8 at Wheeling High School

The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology Commission met and approved minutes from November 19, 2024, and January 28, 2025. They discussed and planned several technology-related programs, including a virtual Smart Home Technology event in April, a General AI program in May, and a Cybersecurity event tentatively scheduled for May 1. No formal votes were taken on these program plans; they were discussion items.

• Approved November 19, 2024 minutes (motion by Michael Lamprecht, seconded by Michael Calder)
• Approved January 28, 2025 minutes (motion by Christopher Oh, seconded by Avi Nutkis)
• Agreed to hold Smart Home Technology event virtually in April
• Targeted May for General AI program presentation
• Tentatively scheduled Cybersecurity event for May 1
• Targeted July/August for program on new technology in cars

Human Relations Commission

The commission will receive presentations on fair housing regulations from Open Communities and a report on Skokie's fair housing ordinance history. Members will also discuss committee reports and several village-wide administrative items.

• Fair housing presentation by Dominic Voz of Open Communities
• Review of Skokie's current fair housing ordinance
• Village Seal redesign discussion
• Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board discussion
• Unite Against Racism project with YWCA

The Skokie Human Relations Commission approved a motion to request Village communications department promotion of a YWCA 'Unite Against Racism' panel discussion tentatively planned for April 30. The commission also received updates on the Block Party Forum scheduled for April 14, fair housing social media posts for April, and a finalized Village seal design to be presented to the Board of Trustees on March 3. No public comments were given, and the meeting adjourned at 9:00 PM.

• Approved request for Village promotion of YWCA Unite Against Racism event (all in favor)
• Approved agenda (all in favor)
• Approved minutes of January 27, 2024 meeting (all in favor)
• Scheduled Block Party Forum for April 14 at Skokie Public Library
• Commission to review Fair Housing Ordinance feedback by April 30 for May 19 discussion
• Village Seal redesign finalized; to be presented to Board of Trustees on March 3

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission will hold a public hearing on a special use permit for a children's daycare at 4658 Oakton Street, with staff recommending approval. The commission will also take up several applications for a religious assembly and dormitory development at 7848 & 7852-7854 Lincoln Avenue, including site plan approval, parking determinations, and special use permits, which were continued from a previous meeting due to notice issues. Meeting minutes from January 9, 2025, are also up for approval.

• Special use permit for Mosaic Early Childhood daycare at 4658 Oakton Street (up to 43 children, 15 staff, 7am-6pm daily)
• Site plan approval for a 3-story building with religious assembly and 17 dormitory units at 7848 & 7852-7854 Lincoln Avenue
• Parking determination for religious assembly at 7852 Lincoln Avenue
• Special use permit for religious assembly at 7852 Lincoln Avenue in NX district
• Parking determination and special use permit for dormitory use at 7852 Lincoln Avenue

The Skokie Plan Commission approved a special use permit for a child day care at 4658 Oakton Street (6-0) and recommended approval of a 3-story religious assembly building with 17 dormitory units at 7848 & 7852-7854 Lincoln Avenue (5-1). The commission also approved related parking determinations and special use permits for the religious and dormitory uses, all with the same 5-1 vote. All cases are advisory and will go to the Village Board for final decision.

• Approved special use permit for child day care at 4658 Oakton Street (6-0)
• Recommended approval of site plan for 3-story religious assembly building with 17 dormitory units at 7848 & 7852-7854 Lincoln Avenue (5-1)
• Approved parking determination of 13 vehicle and 1 bicycle space for religious assembly at 7852 Lincoln Avenue (5-1)
• Approved special use permit for religious assembly at 7852 Lincoln Avenue (5-1)
• Approved parking determination of 27 vehicle and 1 bicycle space for dormitory use at 7852 Lincoln Avenue (5-1)
• Approved special use permit for dormitory use at 7852 Lincoln Avenue (5-1)

Human Relations Commission

The Sub-Committee on Fair Housing will meet to review the Village of Skokie's Fair Housing Ordinance. Members will also discuss the commission's charge and ways to promote fair housing education and awareness.

• Review of Skokie’s Fair Housing Ordinance
• Discussion of Commission’s Charge Related to Fair Housing
• Discussion of opportunities to promote fair housing awareness and education

Economic Development Commission

The February 19, 2025 meeting of the Skokie Economic Development Commission has been cancelled due to lack of quorum. The next scheduled meeting is March 19, 2025.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum
• Next meeting scheduled for March 19, 2025

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its February 19, 2025 meeting because no cases were filed. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 5, 2025.

Public Safety Commission

The Skokie Public Safety Commission will receive a presentation from the Engineering Division on a proposed village-wide speed limit reduction to 25 mph in residential districts. The meeting also includes routine reports from the Police and Fire Departments, a review of January minutes, and unfinished and new business.

• Presentation on proposed Village Wide Speed Limit Reduction to 25 mph in Residential Districts

The Skokie Public Safety Commission met on February 19, 2025, and approved the minutes of the January 15 meeting. The commission heard a presentation on a proposed village-wide speed limit reduction to 25 mph on residential streets, but took no formal action on it. Police and fire department reports were presented, including a rise in Group B offenses and EMS calls. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of January 15, 2025 meeting
• Heard presentation on proposed 25 mph residential speed limit reduction (no action taken)

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners will consider a one-time deferral request from entry-level firefighter candidate Joshua Thilmany regarding his rank on the Eligibility List. Other items include approval of January 21 meeting minutes and a closed executive session. No unfinished or new business is scheduled.

• Letter from candidate Joshua Thilmany requesting a one-time deferral of his rank on the Entry Level Firefighter Eligibility List
• Approval of minutes from January 21, 2025 regular meeting
• Closed executive session under Illinois Open Meetings Act Section 2(c)(1)
• Next regular meeting set for March 17, 2025

The Skokie Board of Fire and Police Commissioners approved a one-time deferral of Entry Level Firefighter candidate Joshua Thilmany's rank on the eligibility list, and approved the minutes of the January 21, 2025 meeting. The board then moved into executive session with no further business.

• Approved minutes of January 21, 2025 regular meeting (4-0)
• Approved one-time deferral of Joshua Thilmany's rank on Entry Level Firefighter Eligibility List (4-0)
• Moved into executive session (4-0)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The February 14, 2025, meeting of the Foreign Fire Insurance Board was canceled due to a water main break. The agenda included planned discussions on equipment requests for Station #18 and network upgrades.

• Proposed replacement TV for Print Shop – Station #18
• Proposed upgrade training monitor for Day Room - Station #18
• Proposed replacement TV for LT Office & Work Out Room – Station #18
• Proposed replacement of broken tool chest and workbench at Station #18
• Proposed upgrade of Station Network (WIFI)

Board of Health

The Skokie Board of Health will receive updates on respiratory viruses from Dr. Edward Linn and a presentation on HHS grant funding from Mike Charley. Old business includes a follow-up on backyard chickens from the November 18, 2024 Village Board meeting. New business covers an introduction of Dr. Stephen Lupovitch and planning for the Skokie Health Equity Symposium on March 11, 2025. Public comments will be taken before adjournment.

• Respiratory Viruses Update by Dr. Edward Linn
• HHS Grant Funding Presentation by Mike Charley
• Backyard Chickens – update from November 18, 2024 Village Board meeting
• Dr. Stephen Lupovitch Introduction/Biography
• Skokie Health Equity Symposium scheduled for March 11, 2025

The Skokie Board of Health met on February 13, 2025, and approved the agenda and minutes from the November 14, 2024 meeting. Dr. Edward Linn provided updates on respiratory viruses, recommending COVID-19 and RSV vaccines for certain groups, noting a severe flu season, and supporting the ban on backyard chickens due to H5N1 concerns. Mike Charley reported on HHS activities, including a new $5,000 grant for CPR materials and a partnership for flu vaccines in schools. The board also discussed the upcoming Health Equity Symposium and introduced new member Dr. Stephen Lupovitch.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 14, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Village Board upheld ban on backyard chickens (as reported)
• Received update on H5N1 and respiratory viruses
• Noted HHS received $5,000 MRC Operational Readiness grant
• Discussed upcoming Health Equity Symposium on March 11, 2025

Appearance Commission

The Skokie Appearance Commission will consider certificates of appropriateness for four residential projects: a one-story addition at 8632 Monticello Ave, a one- and two-story addition at 45 Williamsburg Rd, a second-floor addition at 7901 East Prairie Rd, and a carport-to-garage conversion at 9648 Kedvale Ave. Old business includes revisions to a new detached residence at 9357 Springfield. Staff comments note concerns about siding materials and window placement on several projects.

• 2025-001A: one-story addition at 8632 Monticello Ave
• 2025-002A: one- and two-story addition at 45 Williamsburg Rd
• 2025-003A: second-floor addition at 7901 East Prairie Rd
• 2025-004A: convert carport to attached garage at 9648 Kedvale Ave
• 2024-048A: revisions to new detached residence at 9357 Springfield

The Skokie Appearance Commission approved Certificates of Appropriateness for four residential projects: a new detached residence at 9357 Springfield Avenue, a 1-story addition at 8632 Monticello Avenue, a 1 & 2-story addition at 45 Williamsburg Road, and a 2nd floor addition at 7901 East Prairie Road. All votes were unanimous (5-0, with two members absent). A request to convert a carport to an attached garage at 9648 Kedvale was continued to March 26, 2025, with no vote taken, as the Commission found the current design unacceptable.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for new residence at 9357 Springfield Avenue (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 1-story addition at 8632 Monticello Avenue with cementitious siding allowance (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 1 & 2-story addition at 45 Williamsburg Road with revised elevations meeting 51% masonry requirement (5-0, 2 absent)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 2nd floor addition at 7901 East Prairie Road (5-0, 2 absent)
• Continued carport-to-garage conversion at 9648 Kedvale to March 26, 2025 (no vote)

Appearance Commission

The Skokie Appearance Commission will consider four residential appearance applications. Three certificates of appropriateness were granted for additions at 8632 Monticello Ave, 45 Williamsburg Rd, and 7901 East Prairie Rd. The fourth item, a carport-to-garage conversion at 9648 Kedvale, was continued to March 26, 2025. One old business item, a revised new detached residence at 9357 Springfield, was also approved.

• 8632 Monticello Ave – 1-story addition granted Certificate of Appropriateness (5-0-2)
• 45 Williamsburg Rd – 1 & 2-story addition granted Certificate of Appropriateness (5-0-2)
• 7901 East Prairie Rd – 2nd floor addition granted Certificate of Appropriateness (5-0-2)
• 9648 Kedvale – Convert carport to attached garage, continued to March 26, 2025
• 9357 Springfield – Revised new detached residence granted Certificate of Appropriateness (5-0-2)

Fine Arts Commission

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission will wrap up the Excellence in the Arts Awards, review Fine Arts Grants, and plan the upcoming Artist Networking Event on February 25. They will also discuss updates on The Storefront, including an art fair, social media, and capital improvements. Other topics include an artist directory, October Arts & Humanities Month, and SOAR preparations.

• Excellence in the Arts Awards wrap up
• Fine Arts Grants update
• Artist Networking Event planning with activities, nametags, food, and volunteer needs
• The Storefront updates: Art Fair with Anatomically Correct, social media, Mondays on Main Street, and capital improvements
• SOAR (Student Outreach and Recruitment) preparations and upcoming arts events

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will approve January meeting minutes, review December 2024 financial statements showing a net income of $3,410 (below budget by $40,131), and hear the Executive Director's report on operations, including a new Marketing Manager starting February 24. The board will also receive a marketing update on upcoming shows and a programming calendar.

• Approval of January 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of December 2024 financial statements: net income $3,410 vs. budget $43,541
• Executive Director's report: new Marketing Manager Sophie Woolley starts Feb 24, capital improvements underway
• Marketing report: ticket sales for upcoming shows (Taylor Dayne, Edwin McCain, BritBeat, Rita Rudner)
• Discussion on Northlight’s exit date and new business opportunities in the North Theatre (from previous minutes)

Village Seal Committee

The Village Seal Committee will meet to review updated design options for the village seal. They will also consider minutes from their previous meeting on January 28. No decisions are expected; this is a discussion item.

• Review of minutes from January 28 meeting
• Review of updated seal design options

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission will not meet on February 6, 2025 due to a lack of agenda items. The next regularly scheduled meeting is February 20, 2025.

• Meeting cancelled due to no agenda items

Human Relations Commission

The Housing Sub-Committee of the Human Relations Commission will review the existing Fair Housing Ordinance, discuss the commission's charge related to housing, and explore opportunities to promote fair housing awareness and education. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are discussion-only.

• Review of the Fair Housing Ordinance
• Discussion of the Commission’s charge related to housing
• Discussion of opportunities to promote fair housing awareness and education

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will not meet on February 5, 2025, because there are no cases to hear. The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 19, 2025.

• Cancellation of the February 5, 2025, Zoning Board of Appeals meeting

Commission on Family Services

The Commission will host guest speaker Fatima Rasoul from HIAS Immigration and Citizenship. Members will also discuss the commission budget and upcoming village events.

• Guest presentation by Fatima Rasoul, HIAS Immigration and Citizenship
• Discussion of Commission budget
• Planning for Festival of Cultures and 4th of July Parade
• Signup Genius for Produce Initiative and food and clothes drive
• Reports from Seniors, At-Risk Youth and Families, and Disabilities subcommittees

The Commission on Family Services met and approved the agenda and December minutes (with correction). The guest speaker from HIAS was postponed to March. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on reports and upcoming events.

• Agenda approved by consent
• December minutes approved with correction
• Guest speaker Fatima Rasoul postponed to March meeting

Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission (STAT)

The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission will discuss and plan several community technology programs, including events on smart home technology, AI, and navigating aggressive sales tactics. The commission will also approve minutes from November 2024 and review lower-priority items like a Farmers' Market table and car technology programs. No final decisions are expected; most items are in early planning stages.

• Discussion of smart home technology event targeting March or April 2025
• Planning for a program on aggressive sales tactics with CUB on February 19
• Update on STAT website showcasing Village technology use
• Development of beginner and business AI programs
• Consideration of rotating table at Farmers' Market with QR codes

The Skokie Telecommunications and Technology (STAT) Commission met on January 28, 2025, and discussed upcoming programs and events, but took no formal votes or decisions. The commission reviewed and edited minutes from November 19, 2024, with final approval deferred to the February meeting. Members assigned tasks for various Tier 1 programs, including home medical technology, smart home technology, and a general AI presentation.

• Approved meeting minutes from November 19, 2024, with edits to be finalized by Alex for February approval
• Assigned Alex to contact library for smart home technology event date
• Assigned Michael L. to develop one-pager on energy suppliers for aggressive sales tactics program
• Assigned David and Avi to connect on general AI program presentation
• Assigned Ujjval and David to develop business AI program
• Assigned Jimmy and David to continue work on new technology in cars program
• Volunteers assigned for Science Fair participation (Michael C., Michael L., Ujjval)
• Scheduled next meeting for February 25, 2025

Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission

The Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission will consider a Request for Proposals for new drop-off and curbside compost services. They will also review Q4 updates for the 2024 Environmental Sustainability Plan, community survey results, and a new household hazardous waste share-cost program. The meeting includes public comment and approval of prior minutes.

• Request for Proposals (RFP) for new drop-off and curbside compost services
• 271 tons of food scraps composted in 2024, 72.5 tons more than 2023
• 12th free food scrap drop-off site opened in Q4
• New At-Home Household Hazardous Waste share-cost program
• 2025 Residential Sustainability Award extended to July to include spring/summer projects

The commission was informed that Waste Not and Collective Resource have been selected to provide drop-off and curbside compost services, with both options available to current and future subscription customers. The commission also discussed Q4 sustainability plan updates, community survey results, and noted the opening of a 12th free food scrap drop-off site. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved minutes from December 17, 2024 meeting (motion by Okallau, second by McNelis)
• Selected Waste Not and Collective Resource for compost services (reported by staff)
• Opened 12th free food scrap drop-off site (reported by staff)
• Extended 2025 Residential Sustainability Award deadline to July (reported by vice chair)

Village Seal Committee

The Village Seal Committee is meeting to review minutes from a previous meeting and discuss the design of the village seal.

• Review of January 24 meeting minutes
• Discussion of seal design

The Village Seal Committee approved the minutes from the January 24 meeting and continued design discussions for a new village seal. The committee decided to remove the word 'diversity' from the design, opting to represent diversity through the mosaic/stained glass flame. They also requested three design options for the seal's text, including variations with 'Wabskoki' and 'A Community of Vision.' No final design was approved.

• Approved minutes from January 24, 2025 meeting
• Removed 'diversity' from seal design text
• Requested three design options for text placement in seal

Human Relations Commission

The Skokie Human Relations Commission will hear a presentation on the policy for early identification and intervention in initial incidents of hate, and will also receive committee reports on neighborhood engagement, housing, and equity. The agenda includes public comments and approval of minutes from the December 9, 2024 meeting. Other business includes a village seal redesign and a police use of force review board update.

• Presentation on Policy for Early Identification and Intervention in Initial Incidents of Hate
• Block Party of the Year Award Recognition and Block Party Forum (Neighbor Engagement Committee)
• Fair Housing Ordinance (Housing Committee)
• Skokie Pride and Women's History Month (Equity and Diversity Committee)
• Village Seal Redesign and Skokie Police Use of Force Review Board

The Skokie Human Relations Commission heard a presentation on the Policy for Early Identification and Intervention in Initial Incidents of Hate, asked questions, and provided feedback. The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the December 9, 2024 meeting. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were informational updates.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 9, 2024 meeting minutes as written (unanimous)

Village Seal Committee

The Village Seal Committee will meet to review minutes from the previous meeting, examine updated seal designs, and discuss the project timeline and next steps. No votes or binding decisions are scheduled; the session is advisory.

• Review of updated village seal designs
• Discussion of timeline and next steps for seal project
• Approval of December 18 meeting minutes

The Village Seal Committee reviewed updated seal designs but did not agree on whether to include Native language text, deciding to meet again on January 28. They approved the previous meeting's minutes with a typo correction and discussed printing and timeline considerations.

• Approved December 18, 2024 meeting minutes with typo correction
• Deferred decision on seal text to January 28 meeting
• Set next meeting for January 28 at noon
• Tentatively scheduled February 6 meeting at 8 a.m.

Plan Commission

The Skokie Plan Commission meeting scheduled for January 23, 2025, has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

Board of Fire and Police Commissioners

The Skokie Board of Fire & Police Commissioners will hold a regular meeting with mostly procedural items. They will approve minutes from December, acknowledge the resignation of Probationary Police Officer Ernesto Colon and the retirement of Police Commander Timothy Gramins after over 30 years, and then move into a closed executive session under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. No new business or unfinished business is on the agenda.

• Resignation of Probationary Police Officer Ernesto Colon
• Retirement of Police Commander Timothy Gramins after over 30 years of service
• Approval of minutes from December 16, 2024 Regular Meeting
• Request for closed executive session under Section 2, Paragraph c.1 of the Open Meetings Act

The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners approved the minutes of the December 16, 2024 meeting and noted the resignation of Probationary Police Officer Ernesto Colon and the retirement of Police Commander Timothy Gramins after 30 years of service. No other substantive decisions were made; the board moved into executive session.

• Approved minutes of December 16, 2024 regular meeting (5-0)
• Noted resignation of Probationary Police Officer Ernesto Colon
• Noted retirement of Police Commander Timothy Gramins after 30 years of service
• Moved into executive session (5-0)

Foreign Fire Insurance Board

The Foreign Fire Insurance Board will meet to approve the FY 25-26 budget and consider new requests including bunkroom improvements at Station #16 and stainless steel drinking mugs. A previously requested steam humidifier for Station #16 has been cancelled. Updates on previously approved equipment purchases (e.g., HEPA filter, hats at $6,000) will also be reviewed.

• Budget approval for fiscal year 2025-26
• Bunkroom Improvements – Station #16 – Capital Improvements (new request)
• RITCOUTDOORS.Com Stainless drinking mugs for each Station (new request)
• Steam Humidifier & Humidistat for Station #16 Bunkroom – cancelled
• Update on purchases: HEPA filter, 5.11 hats ($6,000), Expresso machines ($2,400) and more

Public Safety Commission

The Skokie Public Safety Commission will hold a regular meeting with reports from the Fire and Police Departments and an Engineering Division presentation on Urban SDK. The agenda includes approval of previous minutes and items for unfinished and new business.

• Engineering Division presentation on Urban SDK

The Skokie Public Safety Commission met on January 15, 2025, and approved the minutes from the December 18 meeting. The commission received reports from the Fire, Police, and Engineering departments, noting record call volumes, new police vehicles, and a traffic data platform. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval; Commissioner Ibrahim Mansuri announced his resignation.

• Approved December 18, 2024 meeting minutes
• Adjourned at 8:52 p.m. (all approved)

Economic Development Commission

The commission will meet to discuss 4051 Main Street and review a downtown report. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding a Chicago Life Sciences event at ISTP scheduled for February.

• Discussion regarding 4051 Main Street
• Review of Downtown Report
• Discussion of Chicago Life Sciences Event at ISTP

The Skokie Economic Development Commission met on January 15, 2025, and approved the minutes from the December 18, 2024 meeting. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of informational updates on the Village's acquisition and use of 4051 Main Street, downtown events and business recruitment, and an upcoming life sciences event at ISTP.

• Approved December 18, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variation request to install two signs with logo heights of 62.4 inches and 107.2 inches at 4919 Main Street, exceeding the 36-inch maximum in the TX Transit-Mixed Use district. The board will also consider approving the minutes from its December 4, 2024 meeting, which included decisions on two residential variance cases.

• Variation request for two signs at 4919 Main Street: 62.4-inch and 107.2-inch logos vs. 36-inch code maximum
• Approval of December 4, 2024 meeting minutes (with prior cases: 8240 Harding Avenue addition variation approved, 9100 Kenton Avenue height variation approved with conditions)
• Staff recommends granting the sign variation due to limited visibility from the deep lot
• Petitioner: Pickledilly, LLC on behalf of 4820 & 4901, LTD

The Skokie Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a variation for Pickledilly, LLC to install two signs at 4919 Main Street with logo heights of 62.4 inches and 107.2 inches, exceeding the 36-inch maximum in the TX Transit Mixed-Use district. The board also approved the December 4, 2024 meeting minutes and noted that the February 5 and 19, 2025 meetings were cancelled due to lack of cases.

• Approved sign variation for two oversized signs at 4919 Main St (6-0)
• Approved minutes of December 4, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Cancelled February 5 and 19, 2025 meetings due to lack of cases

Performing Arts Center Board

The Performing Arts Center Board will consider approving a policy for electronic approval/disapproval of artists, which was discussed at the previous meeting. The board will also review financial statements for November 2024 showing a net income of $61,563, and receive an operations report on upcoming events, staffing, and capital improvements.

• Vote on policy for electronic approval/disapproval of artists, with a procedure for 'time sensitive' subject line and objection handling
• Financial statements for November 2024 show net income of $61,563, above budget by $89,062
• New concessions manager hired; marketing manager position interviews underway
• Upcoming feature series shows include The Rat Pack Is Back (567 tickets sold, $40,785.50) and Taylor Dayne (260 tickets, $19,825.60)
• Capital improvements: door repair quotes collected, Rice Foundation grant for monitor mixing board and moving lights

Board of Health

The January 9, 2025 meeting of the Skokie Board of Health was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No business was conducted or discussed. The next regular meeting is scheduled for February 13, 2025.

Plan Commission

The Plan Commission will consider a special use permit for a pickleball recreation facility at 3462 Touhy Avenue. The body will also review several requests for a religious assembly and dormitory project at 7848 and 7852-7854 Lincoln Avenue.

• Special use permit for Second City Pickleball, LLC at 3462 Touhy Avenue
• Site plan approval for a 3-story religious assembly and 17-unit dormitory at 7848 & 7852-7854 Lincoln Avenue
• Parking determination for religious assembly use at 7852 Lincoln Avenue
• Special use permit for religious assembly use at 7852 Lincoln Avenue
• Special use permit and parking determination for dormitory use at 7852 Lincoln Avenue

The Skokie Plan Commission approved a special use permit for an indoor pickleball facility at 3462 Touhy Avenue, with 8 in favor and none opposed. The commission also considered a religious assembly and dormitory project on Lincoln Avenue, but those cases were postponed due to improper notice and will be re-noticed within 45 days.

• Approved special use permit for pickleball facility at 3462 Touhy Avenue (8-0)
• Postponed cases 2024-30P through 34P for Lincoln Avenue religious assembly and dormitory due to improper notice

Appearance Commission

The Appearance Commission will consider requests for a new 5-story mixed-use building and a residential addition. The body will review the architectural elevations and design of these proposed projects.

• 4750 Keeney St: Proposal for a new 5-story mixed-use building with 20 residential units and first-floor commercial space
• 9303 Lincolnwood Dr: Request for a 2-story addition including a garage, sitting room, great room, and bedroom

The Skokie Appearance Commission unanimously approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a 2-story addition at 9303 Lincolnwood Drive and for a new mixed-use building at 4750 Keeney Street. The minutes are draft and not yet approved. No public comment was made.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 2-story addition at 9303 Lincolnwood Drive (7-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for new mixed-use building at 4750 Keeney Street with conditions (7-0)

Fine Arts Commission

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission will review nominations for Artistic Excellence Awards, discuss updates on the Artist Networking Event and Arts Space on Main, and receive a SOAR update. Other upcoming projects such as an Artist Directory, Arts & Humanities Month, and grant applications will also be discussed.

• Artistic Excellence Awards Nomination Review
• Artist Networking Event Update
• Arts Space on Main Update
• SOAR Update
• Discussion of upcoming projects (Artist Directory, October 2024 Arts & Humanities Month, Farmers’ Market, Photo Exhibit, Grant Applications)

The Skokie Fine Arts Commission unanimously selected Jay Ryan as the individual Artistic Excellence Award recipient and Music Theater Works as the group recipient. The commission also decided to proceed with the Artist Networking Event in late February, and discussed plans for the new Arts Space on Main.

• Selected Jay Ryan as individual AEA recipient (unanimous)
• Selected Music Theater Works as group AEA recipient (unanimous)
• Proceeded with Artist Networking Event for late February (2/24 or 2/25)

Consumer Affairs Commission

The Consumer Affairs Commission will meet to approve minutes from November 2024, review the past year's activities, and discuss planning for 2025. No specific proposals or votes on concrete items are on the agenda.

• Approval of meeting minutes from November 13, 2024
• Review of 2024 activities and accomplishments
• Discussion of 2025 planning and goals

The Consumer Affairs Commission scheduled visits to 2024 award-winning businesses and discussed revisiting its mission statement. No formal votes or policy decisions were made; the meeting was planning-focused.

• Scheduled business visits: Sketchbook (Feb), Schaefer's (Apr), Kneads and Wants (Jun), Will's Place (Sep)
• Invited Kneads and Wants to February meeting
• Agreed to revisit mission statement in February

Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission

The Housing Sub-Committee of the Plan Commission will meet to begin implementing the updated Housing Chapter of Skokie's Comprehensive Plan. Staff recommend focusing on promoting housing type flexibility and reasonable standards, forming a housing needs assessment working group, and creating an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) working group to draft policy recommendations.

• Discussion of Housing Chapter themes H2 (Promote Housing Type Flexibility) and H3 (Reasonable Standards)
• Staff recommendation to conduct a Housing Needs Assessment to identify local housing gaps
• Proposal to create a 3-member Housing Needs Assessment working group and a 3-member ADU working group
• Potential zoning and building code updates to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs)

The Housing Sub-Committee of the Skokie Plan Commission met on January 2, 2025, and discussed the Housing Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan. Members formed two working groups: one to conduct a housing needs assessment and another to review zoning code efficiency and the feasibility of Accessory Dwelling Units. A third working group on a plan-book for home additions was suggested but not formally established. The sub-committee will meet quarterly, with the next meeting to be scheduled.

• Formed working group on housing needs assessment (members: Schroeckenstein, Niedorowski, Akers)
• Formed working group on zoning code efficiency and Accessory Dwelling Units (members: Weber, Ryan, Lavin)
• Set sub-committee to meet quarterly with no strict deadline

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals has cancelled its January 1, 2025 meeting due to the New Year's Day holiday. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 15, 2025. No items are being discussed or decided at this cancelled meeting.