Wheaton public meetings in 2021
217 substantive meetings from 2021, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss old business including a register application addendum for 115 W. Oak, and consider new business including an Illinois Attorney General case. The meeting is open to the public in person or virtually.
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application addendum – 115 W. Oak
- Landmark properties sans PIP sign
- 2021 lectures
- Illinois Attorney General Case 2021CH000460
The Wheaton Historic Commission unanimously approved the landmark application for 115 W. Oak under the categories of Age and Architecture. The commission also discussed an Attorney General lawsuit against the Wheaton Historic Preservation Council, with a court date set for March 23, 2022. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational or procedural.
- Approved landmark application for 115 W. Oak (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of November 16, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider adopting the CY2022 budget and several tax levy ordinances for fiscal year 2022, along with other routine items. The meeting includes public comment, consent agenda items, and regular agenda items covering contracts, appointments, and zoning changes.
- Adoption of CY2022 budget ordinance
- Tax levies for general and special corporate purposes, SSA 3 and SSA 8
- Resolution authorizing agreement with Axon for body cameras
- Ordinance amending zoning ordinance for group home care spacing
- Resolution authorizing city manager to participate in opioid litigation
The City Council unanimously passed the 2022 budget ordinance, the 2021 property tax levy (flat for third year), and several related tax and appropriation ordinances for Special Service Areas. It also approved appointments to city commissions, contracts for body cameras and code enforcement software, and a zoning text amendment removing group care home spacing requirements. All votes were unanimous.
- Adopted 2022 budget with $157.6M revenues and $146.1M expenditures (unanimous)
- Passed 2021 property tax levy ordinance (unanimous)
- Approved appointments to Liquor Control, Environmental Improvement, and Housing Commissions (unanimous)
- Authorized $47,734 aggregate materials agreement with Vulcan Construction (unanimous)
- Authorized $460,000 Axon body-worn camera contract over 5 years (unanimous)
- Approved code enforcement software agreements with DACRA Tech (unanimous)
- Removed group care home spacing requirements from zoning ordinance (unanimous)
- Approved $3,879,729.88 warrant (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board will hold its regular meeting, including public comments, a website demonstration, and a consent agenda with minutes and financial reports. New business includes an update on a gift, a motion to amend the meeting room policy to remove fees, and a motion to approve a tobacco-free workplace policy. A closed session is scheduled to discuss a specific employee's appointment or performance.
- Motion to approve meeting room policy amendment to remove fees
- Motion to approve employee handbook tobacco-free workplace policy
- Ted Utchen gift update
- Financial reports for November 2021 and bill listing for December 2021 payment
- Closed session to discuss employee appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved two policy changes: removing fees for meeting room use and adopting a tobacco-free workplace policy covering smoking, chewing, and vaping. The board also approved the consent agenda, received updates on the new website and director's report, and held a closed session to discuss a specific employee matter.
- Approved consent agenda including November 2021 minutes and financial reports (7-0)
- Approved meeting room policy amendment to remove fees (7-0)
- Approved employee handbook tobacco-free workplace policy (7-0)
- Held closed session to discuss employee appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal (7-0)
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider a text amendment (ZA 21-26) that would change spacing requirements for group care homes across multiple articles of the zoning code. The board will also handle routine items like approving minutes and public comment. This is a public hearing on a proposed zoning change.
- Text amendment ZA 21-26 affecting Articles II, VII-XIV on group care home spacing requirements
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of a text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance that would remove spacing requirements for Group Care Homes across multiple residential and institutional districts. The recommendation includes amendments to both permitted use and special use sections, as directed by staff. The board also approved the November 9, 2021 minutes and closed the public hearing.
- Recommended approval of ZA #21-26 to remove Group Care Home spacing requirements (5-0)
- Closed public hearing for ZA #21-26 (voice vote, all aye)
- Waived normal rules to vote on ZA #21-26 the same evening (voice vote, all aye)
- Approved November 9, 2021 minutes as presented
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on December 14, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-26, which proposes amendments to the Wheaton Zoning Ordinance to remove spacing requirements for Group Care Homes in residential and institutional districts. The public may comment in person or via Zoom.
- Public hearing on Zoning Application #21-26 to remove spacing requirements for Group Care Homes
- Affects R-1 through R-7 Residential Districts and I-1 Institutional District
- Current spacing requirements range from 300 to 1,000 feet
- Meeting at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, 303 West Wesley Street, and via Zoom
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council has cancelled its regularly scheduled Planning Session for Monday, December 13, 2021, citing lack of business. No other items are on this agenda, which is purely procedural.
- Cancellation of City Council Planning Session for December 13, 2021
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council is holding a public hearing on the proposed Calendar Year 2022 Annual Budget. The budget projects total revenues of $157.6 million and expenditures of $146.1 million across all funds. The hearing allows public comment before the budget's adoption at the next council meeting on December 20, 2021.
- Property tax levy held flat for third consecutive year
- No new taxes or increases in water, sewer, or parking rates
- $4.4 million in grant revenue, including $2.5 million from ARPA
- Adds two full-time Police Officers, but all five new positions held vacant
- $18.6 million for capital improvements, including Roosevelt Road sidewalk and pedestrian bridge
The Wheaton City Council held a public hearing on the Calendar Year 2022 Budget, which totals $146.1 million in expenditures and $157.6 million in revenues. The draft budget holds the property tax levy flat, proposes no new taxes, and includes no increases in water, sewer, or parking rates. No public comments were made, and the hearing was adjourned unanimously.
- Public hearing on CY 2022 Budget held (no vote on budget itself)
- Adjourned public hearing at 7:06 p.m. (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council will conduct a public hearing on December 13, 2021, to consider the proposed Calendar Year 2022 annual budget. The budget has been available for public inspection since November 2, 2021, at City Hall and online. Residents may speak in support or opposition at the hearing, after which the budget may be revised and passed.
- Public hearing on proposed Calendar Year 2022 budget
- Budget available for inspection since November 2, 2021
- Hearing at 7:00 P.M. in City Council Chambers, 303 W. Wesley Street
Commission on Aging
The Commission on Aging will review housing assistance program summaries and the status of 2022 applications. The body will also discuss objectives for the 2022 calendar year and elect its officers.
- Review of 2021 Housing Assistance Program Summary
- Review of 2022 Application and Interview Summaries
- Status of CY2022 Applications
- Election of officers for CY2022
The Wheaton Housing Commission's regularly scheduled meeting on December 9, 2021, was cancelled. No substantive decisions were made or discussed at this meeting.
Commission on Aging
The regularly scheduled meeting for the Wheaton Housing Commission on December 9, 2021, has been cancelled.
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider a series of ordinances and resolutions, including the 2022 tax levy, appropriations for special service areas, and several service contracts. The agenda also includes a zoning report for a development at 250 E. Roosevelt Rd., appointments to boards, and a closed session for litigation. Public comments are limited to five minutes per speaker.
- Ordinance levying taxes for general and special corporate purposes for Jan 1-Dec 21, 2022
- Ordinance amending 2021 tax levy in Ordinance No. O-2021
- Ordinances for levy and appropriations for SSA 3 and SSA 8 for FY 2022
- Ordinance terminating SSA 2 CBD
- Resolution authorizing agreement with Chicagoland Paving for hot mix asphalt removal
The City Council approved a planned unit development (PUD) for two commercial buildings at 250 E. Roosevelt Road, despite a recommendation for denial from the Planning and Zoning Board. The council also directed the city attorney to prepare a text amendment to allow multiple buildings on O-R zoned properties. The vote on the PUD was 4-3, with Councilmembers Fitch, Robbins, and Weller voting no.
- Approved the consent agenda, including minutes from November 15, 2021, and Resolution R-2021-108 for Lodalia Estates improvements.
- Appointed Brian Bobigian to the Bicycle Advisory Commission and Andrea Koziarz to the Sister City Commission for three-year terms.
- Directed staff to prepare the 2022 property tax levy ordinance with a 2% library increase (Option #1).
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-53 terminating Special Service Area No. 2 (Central Business District).
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-54 amending City of Wheaton Employee Rules and Regulations.
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-55 adding nine leased parking spaces on Liberty, west of Wheaton Ave.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-104 for tree pruning services with Winkler Services, LLC, not to exceed $152,428.94.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-105 for traffic signal maintenance with H&H Electric Co., not to exceed $107,992.50.
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is meeting to approve minutes, receive committee updates on the Reindeer on Parade and poinsettia distribution, and discuss strategic planning. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Committee update: Reindeer on Parade
- Committee update: Poinsettia distribution
- Discussion: Strategic Planning
The Community Relations Commission met and unanimously approved the prior meeting's minutes. Members discussed strategic planning, including creating better partnerships, participating in the 4th of July parade, celebrating diversity beyond nationally recognized months, and surveying residents to increase awareness of the commission. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned at 8:40 pm.
- Approved the meeting minutes unanimously.
- Discussed strategic planning for better partnerships, parade participation, diversity celebration, and resident survey (no formal action taken).
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to review its budget, recycling and other reports, and discuss upcoming projects including electronic recycling, cooking oil collection, and a Recycling Extravaganza. The commission will also take up unfinished business on battery recycling and a Nurse's Closet, and new business including business composting and a mission statement review.
- Monthly Electronic Recycling events scheduled for 12/11/21 and 1/8/22
- Special Cooking Oil Collection on 11/27/21
- Recycling Extravaganza scheduled for 4/2/22
- Discussion of battery recycling program
- Review of Green Award nomination documents
The Environmental Improvement Commission meeting scheduled for November 23, 2021, was not held because a quorum was not present. No decisions or discussions took place.
- No meeting held due to lack of quorum
Public Notices & Hearings
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission has cancelled its regularly scheduled November 23, 2021 meeting due to lack of business. This is the only item on this public notice agenda.
- Fine & Cultural Arts Commission meeting cancelled for Nov. 23, 2021
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council has cancelled its regularly scheduled Planning Session for Monday, November 22, 2021, due to lack of business. This notice is procedural only; no decisions or discussions will take place at that meeting.
- Cancellation of City Council Planning Session on November 22, 2021
Firefighters' Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to review investment and financial reports, approve bills, discuss fiduciary coverage, and set 2022 meeting dates. The agenda includes routine items such as minutes approval and public comment, as well as potential actions on cash management and account designations.
- Investment report from Marquette Associates, including potential securities transactions and manager changes
- Accountant's report from Lauterbach & Amen, LLP, including monthly financial report and bill approvals
- Discussion/approval of fiduciary liability coverage extension and fidelity bond/crime coverage proposal
- QILDRO for Michael Franzone
- Establish 2022 board meeting dates and interim cash management policy
The Board approved moving $1.35 million from cash into investments, with $950,000 to SV5 Vanguard and $400,000 to NIS, split into two trades on November 24 and December 6, 2021. It also approved a $699 fiduciary liability coverage extension and a $2,109 Fidelity Bond/Crime policy, both effective through December 1, 2021 and 2021-2024 respectively. The Board tabled several items—cash reserve balance, local account collateralization, and Global Cash Movement authorizations—until a special meeting on December 15, 2021. It also directed RDL to request changing the asset transfer date from January 4 to April 1, 2022.
- Approved $1.35M cash reallocation: $950K to SV5 Vanguard, $400K to NIS, in two trades (Nov 24 and Dec 6, 2021).
- Approved $699 payment for fiduciary liability coverage extension through Dec 1, 2021.
- Approved $2,109 payment for Fidelity Bond/Crime policy effective Dec 1, 2021 to Dec 1, 2024.
- Approved minutes from Aug 23, 2021 regular and Oct 6, 2021 special meetings.
- Accepted investment report for period ending Oct 31, 2021 (market value $46,849,804).
- Approved monthly financial report and $106,729.33 in disbursements.
- Established 2022 meeting dates: Feb 7, May 20, Aug 19, Nov 14.
- Tabled cash reserve, collateralization, and Global Cash Movement items to Dec 15, 2021 special meeting.
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Police Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees is meeting to review investment performance, approve bills, and act on several pension-related applications. Decisions include approving non-duty disability benefits for two individuals, approving surviving spouse benefits for two deceased pensioners, and considering a new membership application. The board will also discuss investment policy updates and trustee training expenses.
- Quarterly investment performance review by Graystone Consulting
- Consent to assignment of Chartwell Advisory Agreement
- Approve non-duty disability benefits for Christopher J. Harpling and Rommy Klamerus
- Approve surviving spouse benefits for Barbara Leonard and Joyce Vallo
- Application for non-duty disability benefit by Benjamin Belcaster and Jacqueline A. Johnson
The Board approved transferring $2.4 million from Oak Mark International, splitting it evenly between Vanguard Value Index and Ziegler Red Granite Large Growth. It approved non-duty disability pensions for Christopher J. Harpling ($4,838.83/month) and Rommy L. Klamerus ($4,796.18/month), plus surviving spouse benefits for Barbara Leonard ($7,846.29/month) and Joyce A. Vallo ($3,835.42/month). The Board also accepted Ryan Cusack's $466,720.68 transfer from Glen Ellyn and set 2022 meeting dates. All votes were unanimous with Trustee Wilson absent.
- Approved $2.4M transfer from Oak Mark International, $1.2M each to Vanguard Value Index and Ziegler Red Granite Large Growth
- Approved non-duty disability pension for Christopher J. Harpling at $4,838.83/month
- Approved non-duty disability pension for Rommy L. Klamerus at $4,796.18/month
- Approved surviving spouse benefit for Barbara Leonard at $7,846.29/month
- Approved surviving spouse benefit for Joyce A. Vallo at $3,835.42/month
- Accepted Ryan Cusack's $466,720.68 transfer from Glen Ellyn and revised his hire date to August 12, 2008
- Approved monthly financial report and $264,018.02 in disbursements
- Set 2022 meeting dates: Feb 17, May 19, Aug 18, Nov 17 at 5:00 p.m.
🗳️ How they voted (10 roll-call votes)
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is reviewing a proposal for a signal at Roosevelt and managing remaining budget funds. Members are also coordinating volunteers for the USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships at Cantigny.
- Roosevelt signal proposal
- Budget balance of $1,144
- Purchase of maps for $982
- Safe routes map printing cost of $100
- USA Cycling Cyclocross National Championships volunteer coordination
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved a unanimous voice vote to spend its remaining $1,144 budget on French Market giveaways ($400), bike rodeo giveaways ($400), and maps (up to $340). The commission also approved the concept of a Roosevelt signal proposal by unanimous voice vote, with only the format to be changed. Approval of the previous meeting's minutes was tabled to the next meeting.
- Approved spending $400 on French Market giveaways, including helmets and trinkets.
- Approved spending $400 on bike rodeo giveaways.
- Approved spending up to $340 on maps.
- Approved the Roosevelt signal proposal concept by unanimous voice vote; only the format will change.
- Agreed to the city's request for a ramp on the underpass stairs; Alyse will email John Duguay with the commission's approval.
- Tabled approval of the previous meeting's minutes to the next meeting.
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including updates on the GIS mapping project for landmark buildings, a landmark plaque vendor issue, and an application addendum for the Wheaton Register of Historic Places. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.
- GIS mapping project (landmark buildings) update
- Landmark plaque vendor issue – Scott & Julie Berger, 418 S. West – Citizen Bronze
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application addendum – 115 W. Oak
- List of potential bollard historic site markers
- Historic Commission mission statement review
The Wheaton Historic Commission approved a request from the owners of 418 S. West to purchase a landmark plaque in an older design, using vendor Citizen Bronze, with the draft design requiring preapproval by the Commission Chair. The commission also approved the minutes of the October 19, 2021 meeting as amended. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were updates or discussions.
- Approved minutes of October 19, 2021 meeting as amended (unanimous)
- Approved landmark plaque for 418 S. West from Citizen Bronze, old font style, current finish color, with draft design requiring Chair preapproval (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will hold a regular meeting on November 15, 2021, at 7:00 PM. The agenda includes a proclamation, public comments, consent agenda items, and several regular agenda items. Key actions include approving resolutions for surplus property disposal, executing agreements for communications and vehicle upfitting, and considering a lot width variation for a property at 911 N. Wheaton Ave.
- Resolution authorizing disposal of surplus property (PW)
- Resolution authorizing disposal of surplus property (PD)
- Reappointments to city boards and commissions
- Resolution authorizing Agreement No. 246 with Illinois Communications Sales
- Ordinance granting lot width variation at 911 N. Wheaton Ave
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved two vehicle upfitting agreements: a three-year, $54,880 labor contract with Illinois Communication Sales, Inc. (Agreement No. 246) and a $27,984.80 equipment contract with Fleet Safety Supply (Agreement No. 248), both for four police squad cars. The council also passed a lot width variation ordinance for 911 N. Wheaton Ave., approved reappointments to three city boards, and approved a $5,647,560.58 warrant. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved $54,880 vehicle upfitting labor contract with Illinois Communication Sales (unanimous)
- Approved $27,984.80 vehicle upfitting equipment contract with Fleet Safety Supply (unanimous)
- Passed lot width variation ordinance for 911 N. Wheaton Ave. (unanimous)
- Approved reappointments to Community Relations, Bicycle Advisory, and Downtown Design Review boards (unanimous)
- Approved $5,647,560.58 warrant (unanimous)
- Adopted consent agenda including surplus property resolutions (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Library Board will consider approving the CY2022 operating budget for presentation to the City Council, as well as new meeting room and program policies. The board will also hear public comments, review financial reports, and may enter closed session to discuss a specific employee matter.
- Motion to approve CY2022 operating budget
- Motion to approve Meeting Room Policy
- Motion to approve Program Policy
- Financial reports for October 2021 and bill listing for November 2021 payment
- Closed session under 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1) for employee discussion
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved the CY2022 operating budget to be presented to the City Council, along with the meeting room and program policies. The board also accepted the resignation of a board member and entered closed session to discuss the Library Director's employment.
- Approved consent agenda including October minutes and financial reports (5-0)
- Accepted resignation of board member Mr. McDonough (consensus)
- Approved CY2022 operating budget to present to City Council (5-0)
- Approved Meeting Room Policy (5-0)
- Approved Program Policy with minor changes (5-0)
- Entered closed session to discuss Library Director's employment (5-0)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council has rescheduled its Saturday, November 13, 2021 Budget Workshop Session for the 2022 Calendar Year Municipal Budget. The meeting will now begin at 9:00 a.m. instead of 8:00 a.m. in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 303 West Wesley Street, Wheaton, Illinois. This notice is procedural, announcing only the time change.
- Budget Workshop Session for 2022 Municipal Budget rescheduled to 9:00 a.m. on November 13, 2021
- Meeting location: Council Chambers, second floor, 303 West Wesley Street, Wheaton, IL
City Council Workshops
The Wheaton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the draft Calendar Year 2022 budget, covering all major funds including General, Water, Sewer, Parking, and Fleet Services, as well as general government departments. They will also review the 2022-2023 Capital Improvement Plan. Public comments are limited to three minutes per person.
- Review of 2022 draft budget for all funds (General, Water, Sanitary Sewer, Storm Sewer, Parking, Fleet Services)
- Review of 2022-2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects
- Review of TIF #2, TIF #3, and Special Service Area #8 funds
- Public comments limited to 3 minutes per speaker
The Wheaton City Council held a budget workshop to review the draft CY2022 budget, hearing departmental goals and budget changes. The Council directed staff to pursue a $500,000 state grant for installing a sidewalk along the Roosevelt Road corridor, choosing this over a switchback ramp at the Wheaton Avenue Underpass. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a workshop for discussion and direction.
- Directed staff to pursue grant funds for Roosevelt Road sidewalk installation
- Reviewed draft CY2022 budget for all city funds
- Noted Public Works vehicle purchases deferred to CY2022 budget
- Heard plans for lead service line replacement program in Q1 2022
- Heard plans for sanitary sewer backup prevention program in Q1 2022
Public Notices & Hearings
This is a public notice announcing that the Fire Pension Board has rescheduled its November 12, 2021 meeting to November 19, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Fire Station 38 (1 Fapp Circle). No other agenda items are listed.
- Fire Pension Board meeting rescheduled from Nov 12 to Nov 19, 2021
- Meeting time: 1:00 p.m.
- Location: Fire Station 38, 1 Fapp Circle
Commission on Aging
The Commission on Aging will review housing assistance and application summaries from 2021. The body will also discuss the status of 2022 applications and establish objectives and a meeting schedule for the coming year.
- 2021 Housing Assistance Program Summary
- 2022 Application Summary
- Status of CY2022 Applications
- Approval of CY2022 Meeting Schedule
- Objectives for CY2022
The Wheaton Housing Commission (listed as Commission on Aging in the title but referred to as Housing Commission in the text) met and approved the minutes from October 14, 2021, and the CY2022 meeting schedule. They noted a decrease in housing assistance participants from 50 to 37, with two past participants having incomplete applications. No public comments were made, and no other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Approved minutes of October 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous voice vote)
- Approved CY2022 meeting schedule
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to consider approving the final firefighter eligibility list. The agenda includes routine items such as call to order, public comment, and approval of minutes, with the main action being the eligibility list approval.
- Approval of Final Firefighter Eligibility List
The Board approved the Final Firefighter Eligibility List by unanimous vote. No public comment, old business, or miscellaneous items were discussed. The meeting was called to order at 5:32 p.m. and adjourned at 5:40 p.m.
- Approved minutes of October 26th regular meeting (unanimous)
- Approved Final Firefighter Eligibility List (5-0)
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider two items: a text amendment and planned unit development (PUD) for 250 E. Roosevelt Road by Quattro Development LLC, and a lot width variation for 911 N. Wheaton Avenue by L. Martinez Construction Inc. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment.
- Text amendment and PUD application for 250 E. Roosevelt Road (ZA 21-20)
- Lot width variation request for 911 N. Wheaton Avenue (ZA 21-24)
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of a lot width variation for a two-story addition at 911 N. Wheaton Avenue, with conditions to meet flood protection and stormwater storage requirements. The board also denied a proposed planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road, citing concerns about traffic, grading, and lack of public benefit.
- Approved lot width variation for 911 N. Wheaton Avenue (6-0)
- Denied PUD and text amendment for 250 E. Roosevelt Road (0-6)
- Approved minutes of October 26, 2021
- Closed public hearing for ZA 21-24
- Closed public hearing for ZA 21-20
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on November 9, 2021, to consider a zoning variation request for a two-story addition to a single-family home at 911 N. Wheaton Avenue. The property has a lot width of 44.6 feet, less than the required 50 feet, and the applicant seeks a variance to allow construction. Public comments will be accepted in person or via Zoom.
- Zoning Application #21-24: variation to allow two-story addition on 44.6-foot lot (required 50 feet)
- Property: 911 N. Wheaton Avenue, Wheaton, IL (P.I.N. 05-09-322-004)
- Applicant: L. Martinez Construction Inc, Warrenville, IL; owner: Leigh Ann Jarrett
- Public hearing: Nov 9, 2021, 7:00 p.m., Council Chambers, 303 W. Wesley St., and via Zoom
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council is holding budget workshop sessions for the 2022 municipal budget on November 8 and November 13, 2021, followed by a public hearing on December 13, 2021. The regular Planning Session for November 8 has been cancelled.
- Budget workshop sessions for 2022 municipal budget on Nov 8 and Nov 13, 2021
- Public hearing on 2022 budget on Dec 13, 2021 at 7 p.m.
- Regular Planning Session cancelled for Nov 8, 2021
City Council Workshops
The Wheaton City Council is holding a budget workshop to review the draft Calendar Year 2022 budget. The agenda covers the municipal band, library, and Downtown Wheaton Association, followed by a budget overview and detailed reviews of the police and fire departments, including their general funds, pension funds, and other specific funds. Public comments are limited to three minutes per speaker.
- Review of Calendar Year 2022 draft budget
- Police Department: General Fund, Forfeiture Funds, Police Pension Fund
- Fire Department: General Fund, Wireless Alarm Network, Foreign Fire Insurance Tax Fund, Fire Pension Fund
- Municipal Band and Library budget items
- Downtown Wheaton Association budget packet
The City Council held a budget workshop to review the proposed 2022 budget, which includes no increase in the total property tax levy for the third consecutive year. The budget adds two police officer positions and a grant writer, and transfers $7.5 million in excess reserves to various funds. No formal votes were taken; the budget is scheduled for adoption on December 21, 2021.
- Reviewed 2022 draft budget with no tax levy increase
- Noted $7.5M excess reserves transfer to Debt Service, Building Renewal, Stormwater, and Capital Projects funds
- Noted $4.9M ARPA funds allocated to capital projects
- Noted addition of two police officer positions and grant writer position
- Approved Axon body-worn camera system for police (recommended and approved)
- Noted Library requests $80,000 increase in property tax levy
- Noted DWA requests SSA8 revenue remain at $275,000
- No formal votes taken; budget adoption scheduled for December 21, 2021
Public Notices & Hearings
This notice announces that the Community Relations Commission has cancelled its regular meeting scheduled for November 3, 2021. No other business is listed; the agenda is purely procedural.
- Cancellation of Community Relations Commission meeting on November 3, 2021
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting to consider three new business items: a Class A liquor license application for 401 Town Square, an ordinance to extend time and make minor architectural changes for a project at 1004 Wheaton Place, and an ordinance granting an interior side yard variation for 301 W. Oak Ave. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes, a bill warrant, and public comments.
- Class A liquor license application for 302 Wheaton at 401 Town Square
- Ordinance authorizing extension of time and minor architectural changes for O-2018-29 at 1004 Wheaton Place
- Ordinance granting interior side yard variation for 301 W. Oak Ave. (Western DuPage Landscaping)
- Approval of Warrant No. 811 for bill payments
- Approval of draft minutes from October 18, 2021
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved an ordinance increasing the Class A liquor license for 302 Wheaton, LLC, DBA 302 Wheaton, allowing retail sale on premises and in the courtyard at 401 Town Square. The council also approved an extension of time and minor architectural changes for a special use permit at 1004 Wheaton Place, and granted a side yard setback variation for 301 W. Oak Avenue. All votes were unanimous, with Councilman Weller recusing from the 1004 Wheaton Place vote.
- Approved Ordinance O-2021-49 increasing Class A liquor license for 302 Wheaton (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance O-2021-50 extending time and allowing minor architectural changes for special use permit at 1004 Wheaton Place (unanimous, Weller recused)
- Received Planning & Zoning Board report recommending side yard setback variation for 301 W. Oak Avenue (unanimous)
- Approved Ordinance O-2021-51 granting interior side yard setback variation for 301 W. Oak Avenue (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 811 in the amount of $3,457,362.65 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of October 18, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
Police Pension Fund Board
The Board of Trustees will meet to review retirement and disability benefit applications. The agenda also includes an investment report regarding pension obligation bonds.
- Non-Duty Disability Benefit application for Rommy Klamerus
- Investment Report and discussion/possible action on Pension Obligation Bonds
The Board approved a non-duty disability benefit for Rommy L. Klamerus, effective October 8, 2021, subject to repayment for time paid from her accrued benefit bank. The Board also directed the pension consultant to transfer $2.9 million from the Money Market account to be invested proportionately across existing funds as of September 30, 2021. Both motions passed unanimously by roll call vote with three trustees present and two absent.
- Granted non-duty disability benefit to Rommy L. Klamerus effective Oct 8, 2021 (3-0)
- Directed transfer of $2,900,000 from Money Market to be invested proportionately over existing funds as of Sept 30, 2021 (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is holding a special meeting to consider approving an initial firefighter eligibility list. The agenda also includes public comment, minutes approval, and old business.
- Approval of Initial Firefighter Eligibility List
The Board approved the Initial Firefighter Eligibility List, which determines the pool of candidates for future firefighter hiring. The motion passed unanimously with all five commissioners voting in favor. No other substantive business was conducted.
- Approved Initial Firefighter Eligibility List (5-0)
- Approved minutes of October 5th regular meeting (5-0)
Joint Review Board
The Joint Review Board is meeting to appoint public members and a chairman. The board will review state and internal 2020 reports for TIF #2 (Main St) and TIF #3 (Courthouse).
- TIF #2 Main St Comptroller's Report-2020
- TIF #2 Main Street Annual Report 12-31-2020
- TIF #3 Courthouse Comptroller's Report-2020
- TIF #3 Courthouse Annual Report 12-31-2020
The Joint Review Board held its annual meeting and approved the annual reports for TIF Districts 2 and 3. Members also appointed Vanessa Stang as a public member for TIF #3 and selected Scott Weller as Chairman. The agenda was approved, and the meeting adjourned at 10:35 A.M.
- Approved annual reports for TIF Districts 2 and 3 (voice vote, all aye)
- Appointed Vanessa Stang as Public Member for TIF #3 (voice vote, all aye)
- Appointed Scott Weller as Chairman (voice vote, all aye)
- Approved meeting agenda (voice vote, all aye)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is holding a special meeting on October 27, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. The agenda includes committee updates, new business items such as the DWA Reindeer Project and Poinsettias, and strategy discussions. This is a routine meeting with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- National Hispanic Heritage Month Recap
- Make a Difference Day Recap
- DWA Reindeer Project
- Poinsettias
- Strategy Discussions
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is holding a special meeting to review past events, including National Hispanic Heritage Month and Make a Difference Day, and to discuss new business such as the DWA Reindeer Project, poinsettias, and strategy. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Recap of National Hispanic Heritage Month
- Recap of Make a Difference Day
- Discussion of DWA Reindeer Project
- Discussion of poinsettias
- Strategy discussions
The Community Relations Commission held a special meeting with no substantive policy decisions. Members approved the previous meeting's minutes unanimously and discussed updates on Hispanic Heritage Month and Make a Difference Day. New business included planning the DWA Reindeer Project and poinsettia deliveries, plus strategy discussions for future community engagement.
- Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider two development items: a text amendment and planned unit development (PUD) for 250 E. Roosevelt Road by Quattro Development LLC, and a variation request for 301 W. Oak Avenue by Western DuPage Landscaping, Inc. The agenda also includes routine items like roll call, minutes approval, and public comment.
- ZA 21-20: Text amendment and PUD for 250 E. Roosevelt Road (Quattro Development LLC)
- ZA 21-23: Variation for 301 W. Oak Avenue (Western DuPage Landscaping, Inc.)
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of a variation to allow a patio, seat wall, and pergola with a 0.5-foot interior side yard setback (instead of the required 6.0 feet) at 301 W. Oak Avenue. The board also continued a public hearing for a proposed development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road to November 9, 2021, at the applicant's request. The minutes from October 12, 2021, were approved.
- Recommended approval of ZA #21-23 setback variation for 301 W. Oak Avenue (unanimous)
- Continued public hearing for ZA #21-20 at 250 E. Roosevelt Road to November 9, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes from October 12, 2021
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Wheaton Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, hearing public comment, and reviewing budget and recycling reports. The commission will also discuss upcoming recycling events and unfinished items like battery and spray can collection, plus a funding request for EIC events.
- Monthly electronic recycling event scheduled for Nov. 13, 2021
- Pumpkin recycling event on Nov. 6, 2021
- Special cooking oil collection on Nov. 27, 2021
- Discussion of battery recycling and spray can/small propane container collection proposals
- Funding request for EIC events under new business
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved the September meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. Members reported on the October 9 electronics recycling event, which handled about 200 cars, and discussed upcoming projects including a November 13 electronics recycling event and a November 6 Pumpkin Smash. A proposal for spray can and small propane container collection will not proceed because pickup service is not available every Monday.
- Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
- Spray can and small propane container collection program will not happen
- Sustainability Award criteria to be finalized at next meeting
- No new expenditures; $2,966.55 remains open to spend
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on October 26, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-23, which requests a variation to allow a patio, seat wall, and trellis with a reduced interior side yard setback of approximately 0.5 feet instead of the required 6.0 feet at 301 W. Oak Avenue. The applicant, Western DuPage Landscaping, Inc., submitted the request on behalf of property owner Paul Schaller. Public comments will be accepted in person or via Zoom.
- Zoning Application #21-23: variation for reduced side yard setback (0.5 ft vs. required 6.0 ft) at 301 W. Oak Avenue
- Applicant: Western DuPage Landscaping, Inc., 31W478 Diehl Road, Naperville, IL
- Property owner: Paul Schaller, 301 W. Oak Avenue, Wheaton, IL
- Public hearing: October 26, 2021, 7:00 p.m., Wheaton City Hall, 303 West Wesley Street, and via Zoom
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding its regular in-person meeting to discuss new projects for 2022 and receive updates on the fire hydrant painting project, including a revised schedule. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comments.
- New projects for 2022 discussion
- Fire hydrant painting project: revised schedule and updates
- Public comments period
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission held a brief meeting, approving the agenda and prior minutes. A discussion about adding locks to a fence as a potential high school fundraiser was tabled until the next meeting, and the Fire Hydrant Project was tabled until spring. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals.
- Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Approved September 28, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled fence locks fundraiser discussion until next meeting
- Tabled Fire Hydrant Project until spring
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council is holding a planning session to discuss two primary items. The body will review topics regarding body worn cameras and sidewalk snow removal requirements for pedestrian routes.
- Discussion of body worn cameras
- Discussion of sidewalk snow removal requirements for pedestrian routes
The Wheaton City Council directed staff to proceed with a bid waiver and service agreement with Axon for body-worn cameras, following a police department recommendation. The council also discussed a potential sidewalk snow removal ordinance, requesting staff to focus on crosswalk areas and windrow-prone commercial areas. No formal action was taken on the snow removal policy.
- Approved October 11, 2021 minutes
- Directed staff to prepare bid waiver and service agreement with Axon for body-worn cameras
- Requested staff to develop snow removal policy for crosswalk areas and windrow-prone commercial areas
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is meeting to review updates on safe routes and the French Market. Members will discuss a trail survey and a program regarding the Chicago Aurora & Elgin. The meeting includes reports on public comments regarding the Main and Roosevelt proposal.
- Main and Roosevelt Proposal public comment
- Safe routes update
- Dupage trails plan survey
- French Market recap and October planning
- Chicago Aurora & Elgin program
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved a motion to print copies of the tentative safe routes map for distribution to parents for feedback. The commission also decided to write a proposal to the city about adding a second crosswalk button at Carlton to improve safety for southbound traffic across Roosevelt. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included updates on the French Market, budget, and attendance policy discussions.
- Approved motion to print tentative safe routes map (unanimous voice vote)
- Decided to write a proposal to city for a second crosswalk button at Carlton (safety issue)
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including updates on the GIS mapping project, landmark plaque vendor, and historic site markers. They will also review a withdrawal of a Register of Historic Places application for 831 N. Washington and a new application for 115 W. Oak, as well as review the commission's mission statement.
- Withdrawal of Wheaton Register of Historic Places application – 831 N. Washington
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application – 115 W. Oak
- GIS mapping project (landmark buildings) update
- Historic Commission mission statement review
- Historic site marker update
The Historic Commission approved the September 21, 2021 minutes as amended, and discussed several ongoing projects. A landmark application for 831 N. Washington was withdrawn, and no new decisions were made on other items. The meeting was largely procedural and informational.
- Approved September 21, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Noted withdrawal of landmark application for 831 N. Washington
- Discussed adding 'local history' to commission statement, no formal action
- Discussed updating city website text, no formal action
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider six new business items, including appointments to city boards and resolutions authorizing contracts for well work, sewer construction, equipment leasing, and insurance coverage. The meeting also includes public comment, approval of minutes, and a closed session for personnel and land acquisition matters.
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved several resolutions, including a $72,448 contract for well inspection and repairs, a $166,250 sewer replacement contract, a $225,422 truck purchase, and insurance coverage renewals. All votes were unanimous with Councilman Brown absent. The council also approved the consent agenda, a board appointment, and a warrant for $1,440,103.12.
- Approved consent agenda including minutes of October 4, 2021 (unanimous)
- Appointed Marco Scola to Community Relations Commission (unanimous)
- Adopted R-2021-95: $72,448 contract with Layne Christensen for Well #3 inspection/repairs (unanimous)
- Adopted R-2021-96: $166,250 contract with Swallow Construction for Scott Street sewer replacement (unanimous)
- Adopted R-2021-97: $225,422 purchase of platform body truck with aerial lift (unanimous)
- Adopted R-2021-98: property and liability insurance coverage for Nov 2021-Oct 2022 (unanimous)
- Adopted R-2021-99: $45,675 contract with Cannon Cochran for insurance TPA services (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 810 for $1,440,103.12 (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Library Board is meeting to discuss the third-quarter strategic plan update, the 2022 budget, and the West Side Plaza project. They will also consider a motion to approve a Citizens to Be Heard policy and discuss the library director's evaluation process. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, financial reports, and the director's report.
- West Side Plaza Project discussion
- CY2022 Budget discussion
- Motion to approve Citizens to Be Heard Policy
- Financial reports for September 2021 and bill listings
- Strategic Plan 3rd Quarter Update
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved the Citizens to Be Heard policy and the consent agenda, which included minutes and financial reports. The board also discussed the CY2022 budget, with a formal approval motion planned for November, and agreed on a process for the director's evaluation.
- Approved Citizens to Be Heard policy (7-0)
- Approved consent agenda including September minutes and financial reports (7-0)
Local Liquor Commission
The Liquor Commission will review a new business application. The request is for a Class A liquor license at 401 Town Square Wheaton.
- Class A liquor license application for 302 Wheaton LLC at 401 Town Square Wheaton
The Wheaton Local Liquor Control Commission unanimously recommended approval of a Class A liquor license for 302 Wheaton, LLC, operating as 302 Wheaton, a 52-seat fast-casual restaurant with a courtyard at 401 Town Square Wheaton. The commission also approved the proposed courtyard design, which includes landscaped planters and signage to keep drinks within the area. The recommendation will go to the City Council for final action.
- Approved minutes of September 9, 2021 meeting (voice vote, all aye)
- Recommended approval of Class A liquor license for 302 Wheaton, LLC (roll call, all aye)
- Approved courtyard design with landscaped planters and signage (roll call, all aye)
Commission on Aging
The Commission on Aging will meet to discuss the CY2022 application summary and assignments. The body will also address the election of a Commission Secretary and review a 2021 Housing Assistance Program summary.
- Election of Commission Secretary
- Review of 2021 Housing Assistance Program Summary
- CY2022 Application Summary
- CY2022 Applications and Assignments
The Wheaton Housing Commission met on October 14, 2021, and approved the minutes from its August and September meetings. Commissioners reviewed the 2021 Housing Assistance Program summary, noting a record number of recipients dropped from the program, and discussed ways to promote the program. They also reviewed CY2022 applications and assignments, deciding to conduct interviews by telephone due to the pandemic, with summaries due by November 19.
- Approved August 12, 2021 minutes as corrected (unanimous voice vote)
- Approved September 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
- Decided to conduct CY2022 applicant interviews by telephone due to pandemic
- Set deadline of November 19 for interview summaries to be returned to Sheri Racine
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider a text amendment and planned unit development (PUD) application for 250 E. Roosevelt Road, submitted by Quattro Development LLC. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment.
- ZA 21-20 - Text amendment and PUD for 250 E. Roosevelt Road by Quattro Development LLC
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board continued the public hearing for the text amendment and planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road until October 26, 2021, to allow the applicant to revise plans to match a new combined drive approach concept. The board also approved the September 28, 2021 minutes as presented. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Continued public hearing for ZA 21-20 (250 E. Roosevelt Road) to Oct. 26, 2021 (voice vote, all aye)
- Approved September 28, 2021 minutes as presented
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council is holding a planning session to discuss estimates for the 2021 property tax levies. The session includes reviews of general purpose, debt, and special service area levies.
- 2021 General Purpose And Debt Property Tax Levy estimate
- 2021 SSA 3 Streams Property Tax Levy estimate
- 2021 SSA 8 Downtown Promotional & Municipal Services Property Tax Levy estimate
- Board, Commission And Committee Review
The City Council reviewed estimates for the 2021 property tax levies, including the General Purpose and Debt Levy, SSA #3, and SSA #8. Staff recommended a flat General Purpose and Debt Levy with no increase from 2020, and the Council discussed the process for reviewing boards, commissions, and committees. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a planning session.
- Approved September 27, 2021 Planning Session minutes
- Reviewed 2021 General Purpose and Debt Tax Levy estimate; staff recommends flat levy
- Reviewed 2021 SSA #3 Streams Property Tax Levy estimate ($12,128)
- Reviewed 2021 SSA #8 Downtown Promotional and Municipal Services Levy estimate ($278,726)
- Directed staff to begin board/commission/committee review with Band, Bicycle Advisory, and Community Relations Commissions
Firefighters' Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board of Trustees is holding a special meeting to consider approving regular retirement benefits for two firefighters, review and approve a fiduciary liability insurance renewal, and discuss possible action on fidelity bond/crime insurance coverage. The board will also receive updates on trustee training and hear public comments.
- Approve regular retirement benefits for Peter O'Leary and Thomas R. Siemsen
- Review/approve fiduciary liability insurance renewal
- Discuss/possible action on fidelity bond/crime insurance coverage
- Trustee training updates on 2021 AFFI Pension Conference
- Public comment limited to 3 minutes per person
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board approved regular retirement benefits for Thomas R. Siemsen and Peter O'Leary, as calculated by Lauterbach & Amen, LLP. The board also approved payment of the AFFI trustee training registration fee for Trustee Kammes and the fiduciary liability insurance renewal. A fidelity bond/crime insurance quote was deferred to the next meeting.
- Approved Thomas R. Siemsen's regular retirement benefit (monthly $7,750.62, annual $93,007.44) (5-0)
- Approved Peter O'Leary's regular retirement benefit (monthly $2,069.38, annual $24,832.56) (5-0)
- Approved $150 AFFI seminar registration fee for Trustee Kammes (3-0, Kammes abstained, Cochran absent)
- Approved $6,919 fiduciary liability insurance renewal effective Oct 25, 2021 to Oct 25, 2022 (5-0)
- Deferred fidelity bond/crime insurance quote to next regular meeting
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is meeting to handle routine business and discuss several upcoming community events. The commission will receive committee updates on the Festival of Cultures and National Hispanic Heritage Month, and will discuss new business including strategic planning, holiday decorations, and a member's resignation. The meeting is largely administrative and planning-focused, with no major policy decisions or financial items on the agenda.
- Committee updates on Festival of Cultures and National Hispanic Heritage Month
- Strategic planning discussion
- DWA Reindeer decorating and Poinsettias holiday activities
- Kay's resignation from the commission
- Discussion of meeting format preferences (in-person, Zoom, hybrid)
The Community Relations Commission unanimously approved participating in the DWA Reindeer decorating event with a $200 sponsorship fee. They also approved the previous meeting's minutes and agreed to hold future meetings in person. The commission discussed strategic planning, poinsettia distribution, and accepted Kay's resignation.
- Approved DWA Reindeer decorating participation with $200 sponsorship fee (unanimous)
- Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Agreed to meet in person for future meetings
- Held poinsettia distribution decision until November for budget update
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Wheaton Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is holding a special meeting on October 5, 2021. The agenda is largely procedural, including call to order, public comment, minutes approval, and old/new business, with a closed session scheduled for firefighter interviews.
- Closed session for firefighter interviews under 5ILCS 120/2(C)(21)
- Public comment period
- Approval of minutes
- Old and new business items
The Board approved the minutes of the September 8th meeting and then entered closed session to interview firefighter candidates. After returning, they voted unanimously to place Lewis Downs and Vince Groezinger on the Final Firefighter Eligibility List and remove all other considered candidates. The meeting adjourned at 8:58 p.m.
- Approved minutes of September 8th regular meeting (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for firefighter candidate interviews (unanimous)
- Placed Lewis Downs and Vince Groezinger on Final Firefighter Eligibility List (unanimous)
- Removed all other considered candidates from eligibility list (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider several resolutions authorizing purchases and agreements, including a new pumper fire truck from Pierce Manufacturing, LED streetlight fixtures, and a Ford F550 truck and dump body. The council will also vote on engineering agreements for flood studies at Cadillac/Wakeman and Dorset Drive, and a parking study for Wheaton Place and Willow Ave. Consent items include a plat of vacation and easement for Wyndemere and a bond waiver for a raffle license for the Student Excellence Foundation.
- Resolution authorizing purchase of 1 pumper fire truck from Pierce Manufacturing
- Resolution authorizing purchase of LED streetlight fixtures from Lighting Solutions
- Resolution authorizing purchase of F550 Sutton Ford and F550 dump truck body
- Agreements 234 and 235 for flood studies at Cadillac/Wakeman and Dorset Dr.
- Agreement 233 with Desman for Wheaton Place and Willow Ave parking study
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved all agenda items, including the purchase of a replacement pumper fire truck for $561,456, a new dump truck chassis and body totaling $70,656, and LED streetlight fixtures for $63,350. They also approved engineering agreements for flood improvements and parking structure inspections, a right-of-way agreement for fence construction, and a $2,288,909.22 warrant. All votes were unanimous with no opposition.
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, a plat vacation, and a raffle license.
- Approved right-of-way agreement for fence construction at 310 & 320 N. Gary Ave.
- Adopted resolutions to purchase a 2022 Ford F550 chassis and dump truck body for $35,583 and $35,073.
- Adopted resolution to purchase a replacement pumper fire truck for $561,456.
- Adopted resolution to purchase LED streetlight fixtures for $63,350.
- Adopted agreement for final engineering for Cadillac and Wakeman flood improvements for $111,210.
- Adopted agreement for final engineering for Dorset Drive flood improvements for $29,120.
- Adopted agreement for parking structure engineering services for $21,290 and approved warrant of $2,288,909.22.
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Wheaton Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including budget and recycling reports, plus upcoming projects. They will also consider new business items such as battery recycling, smoke detector collection, and a proposal for spray can and small propane container collection. The meeting includes public comment and review of city code regarding commissions.
- Monthly electronic recycling event scheduled for 10/9/21
- Discussion of battery recycling program
- Proposal for spray can and small propane container collection
- Review of City Code regarding commissions
- Funding for EIC events
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved spending $1,300 for a Curie smoke detector kit and $75 for pumpkin pies for a drawing at the Pumpkin Smash event. They also discussed battery recycling, renamed the Green Citizen Award to the Wheaton Sustainability Award, and reviewed other collection policies.
- Approved $1,300 for Curie smoke detector kit (unanimous)
- Approved $75 for pumpkin pies for Pumpkin Smash drawing (unanimous)
- Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Renamed Green Citizen Award to Wheaton Sustainability Award
- Decided not to collect cardboard, magazines, and books at electronics recycling events
- Decided spray cans and small propane tanks should only be collected if removed on collection day
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider a text amendment and planned unit development (PUD) application for 250 E. Roosevelt Road, submitted by Quattro Development LLC. The agenda also includes routine items like roll call, minutes approval, and public comment. No other substantive business is listed.
- Review of ZA 21-20: text amendment and PUD for 250 E. Roosevelt Road by Quattro Development LLC
- Public comment period
- Approval of previous meeting minutes
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board continued the public hearing for the proposed text amendment and planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road to October 12, 2021. The board requested additional information, including feedback from the City Attorney on documents submitted by an adjacent property owner, a revised site plan with a tiered retaining wall, a photometrics plan, and a revised sign plan. No final decision was made.
- Continued public hearing for ZA 21-20 to October 12, 2021 (voice vote, all aye)
- Approved minutes of September 14, 2021 as presented
- Requested City Attorney feedback on documents from 222 E. Roosevelt Road property owner
- Requested revised site plan with tiered retaining wall along west property line
- Requested photometrics plan for parking lot lighting
- Requested revised sign plan showing one shared monument sign east of Roosevelt Road drive approach
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding its regular September meeting, with no new business on the agenda. The only substantive item is a discussion of the revised schedule for the Fire Hydrant Painting Project under old business. The rest of the meeting is procedural, covering call to order, roll call, minutes approval, and public comments.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: Revised Schedule discussion
- No new business items
- Public comments period
- Approval of previous meeting minutes
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission met and approved the agenda and prior minutes. The Fire Hydrant Project was tabled until spring because only a small portion of the requested paint was received, causing delays and loss of artists. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Approved August 24, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Tabled Fire Hydrant Project until spring due to paint shortage and weather
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss the 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The meeting includes a review of draft minutes from August 23, 2021.
- Overview of 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
The Wheaton City Council held a planning session to review the draft 2022-2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which outlines $14.1 million in recommended 2022 spending. No formal decisions were made; the council requested staff provide details on grants and re-present Roosevelt Road project options at a future session. The meeting was informational, with no votes taken.
- Approved August 23, 2021 planning session minutes
- Requested staff details on all unappropriated and appropriated grants of record
- Requested re-presentation of Roosevelt Road project options at a future planning session
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, hearing public comments, and receiving updates on the GIS landmark mapping project, landmark plaque vendor, and two applications to the Wheaton Register of Historic Places (831 N. Washington and 115 W. Oak). New business includes the FY 2021 budget, a Downtown Design Review report, and updates on the Colvin House blueprints and Warren L. Wheaton house construction. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or votes listed.
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application – 831 N. Washington
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application – 115 W. Oak
- FY 2021 Historic Commission budget
- 606 N. Main / Colvin House blue prints
- Update on Warren L Wheaton house construction
The Wheaton Historic Commission met on September 21, 2021, and approved the August minutes unanimously. They discussed ongoing projects including the GIS map, plaque vendor options, and landmark applications for 831 N. Washington and 115 W. Oak, but took no final votes on these items. The commission also reviewed the 2022 budget request and heard reports on the Downtown Design Review Board's approval of Ditka's signage.
- Approved August 17, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Reviewed 2022 Historic Commission budget request (no action)
- Discussed landmark application for 831 N. Washington (no decision)
- Discussed landmark application for 115 W. Oak (no decision)
- Heard report on Downtown Design Review Board approving Ditka's sign (no commission action)
Library Finance Committee
The Wheaton Public Library Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the library's CY2022 budget. The agenda includes public comment opportunities and the budget discussion is the main item of business.
- Discussion of Wheaton Public Library CY2022 Budget
The minutes for the Wheaton Library Finance Committee meeting on September 20, 2021, contain only a sign-in page for the CivicPlus portal and no meeting content. No decisions, approvals, or discussions are recorded in the provided text.
City Council Meetings
The City Council will address several new business items including bond redemptions and various intergovernmental agreements. The meeting also includes a police officer swearing-in ceremony and a proclamation for Herbert Tweedie.
- Ordinance for redemption and payment of General Obligation Bonds Series 2010
- Liquor license application for DuPage County Fair Association Oktoberfest
- IGA with IDOT regarding state maintained traffic signals
- Agreement with RW Dunteman for 2021 concrete panel replacement program
- Appointment and swearing-in of the City Clerk
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved Ordinance O-2021-48 to redeem and pay off $3,225,000 in outstanding General Obligation Bonds (Series 2010) before maturity, using excess General Fund reserves. This action is expected to save the city $210,000 in net present value interest costs. The council also approved several other items, including a new records management system, a concrete panel replacement program, and an intergovernmental agreement for enhanced Medicaid ambulance reimbursement.
- Approved minutes of the September 7, 2021 meeting as submitted.
- Appointed Andrea Rosedale as City Clerk through May 1, 2023.
- Appointed Frank Hudetz to the Housing Commission for a term ending September 20, 2024.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-82 renewing the intergovernmental agreement with IDOT for state-maintained traffic signals.
- Approved an outdoor special event liquor license for the DuPage County Fair Association's Octoberfest.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-83 for a three-year records management system with Proven IT, not to exceed $66,096.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-84 for the 2021 Concrete Panel Replacement Program with R.W. Dunteman, not to exceed $150,000.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-85 for enhanced Medicaid ambulance reimbursement, estimated at $160,000 annually.
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board of Trustees will hear a presentation on a plaza study from Studio GC Architects, discuss the CY2022 budget, and vote on several new policies including credit card transactions, notary services, and public comment procedures. The board will also review the director's report and begin the director evaluation process.
- Plaza Study presentation by Studio GC Architects
- CY2022 Budget Discussion
- Motion to Approve Credit Card Transaction Policy
- Motion to Approve Notary Service Policy
- Motion to Approve Citizens to Be Heard Policy
The Board approved the consent agenda (August minutes, August financial reports, September bill listing), a revised Credit Card Transaction Policy, and a revised Notary Service Policy, all by unanimous roll-call votes. A motion to table the Citizens to Be Heard Policy until the October meeting carried. The Board also made a consensus vote to continue development of the West Side Plaza project.
- Approved consent agenda items: August 16, 2021 minutes, August 2021 financial reports, September 2021 bill listing
- Approved revised Credit Card Transaction Policy
- Approved revised Notary Service Policy
- Tabled Citizens to Be Heard Policy until October meeting
- Made consensus vote to continue West Side Plaza project development
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The Commission will review a letter from the city and information regarding DuPage County bikeways. The agenda includes updates on history rides, safe routes, and a proposal for Main and Roosevelt.
- Main and Roosevelt Proposal public comment at City Council Meeting on Sept 27th
- DuPage County bikeways update
- Safe routes update
The commission discussed a proposal for a spring 2022 Bike Rodeo for kids, with police participation likely approved. They also planned to present a proposal for bicycle and pedestrian crossing improvements at Main St. and Roosevelt Rd. at the September 27 City Council meeting. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only action was unanimous approval of the August 2021 minutes.
- Approved August 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Discussed spring 2022 Bike Rodeo proposal for kids
- Planned to present crossing improvements at Main St. and Roosevelt Rd. at City Council meeting on September 27
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider a text amendment and planned unit development (PUD) application for 250 E. Roosevelt Road, submitted by Quattro Development LLC. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment.
- ZA 21-20: Text amendment and PUD for 250 E. Roosevelt Road by Quattro Development LLC
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously to continue the public hearing for the proposed planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road to September 28, 2021. The applicant requested the continuation to revise the site plan after DuPage County released preliminary plans for intersection improvements that would require right-of-way acquisitions on the property. The board also approved the August 24, 2021 minutes and adjourned at 7:13 p.m. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved August 24, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Continued public hearing for ZA 21-20 (250 E. Roosevelt Road) to Sept. 28, 2021 (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:13 p.m. (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Foreign Fire Insurance Board
The Foreign Fire Insurance Board is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, hearing the treasurer's report, and taking public comment. Under new business, the board will discuss fitness reimbursements and Flow MPS.
- Fitness reimbursements discussion
- Flow MPS discussion
- Treasurer's report
- Approval of old minutes
The Foreign Fire Insurance Board approved the purchase of FLOW MSP preplan software for up to $5,000, including a $4,000 annual license and $500 one-time implementation fee. They also approved fitness reimbursements totaling $1,664.93 for six members, and approved a proposal for six RTIC coolers for fire apparatus not to exceed $750. The minutes from May 14, 2021, and treasurer's reports from May through August 2021 were approved unanimously. No public comment or old business was reported.
- Approved minutes from 05/14/2021 (motion by CHF Schultz, second by FF Tabb)
- Approved treasurer's reports for May-August 2021 (motion by LT Hunecke, second by FF Tabb, unanimous)
- Approved purchase of 6 RTIC coolers not to exceed $750 (motion by FF Igara, second by FF Tabb)
- Approved fitness reimbursements totaling $1,664.93 (motion by LT Hunecke, second by FF Tabb, unanimous)
- Approved purchase of FLOW MSP software not to exceed $5,000 (motion by LT Hunecke, second by CHF Schultz, unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council has cancelled its regularly scheduled Planning Session for Monday, September 13, 2021, citing a lack of business. This is a procedural notice; no decisions or discussions will take place at this meeting.
- Cancellation of the September 13, 2021 City Council Planning Session
Local Liquor Commission
The Wheaton Local Liquor Commission is meeting to consider an application for an outdoor special event liquor license from the DuPage County Fair Association for Octoberfest. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the August 18, 2021 meeting, public comment, and old/new business items.
- Application for Outdoor Special Event Liquor License - DuPage County Fair Association - Octoberfest
- Approval of minutes from August 18, 2021 meeting
The Wheaton Local Liquor Control Commission recommended approval of the DuPage County Fair Association's application for an Outdoor Special Event Liquor License for its Octoberfest event, scheduled for October 1-3, 2021 at the north end of the DuPage County Fairgrounds. The motion was made by Commissioner Brown, seconded by Commissioner Sender, and passed unanimously. The commission also approved the minutes from the August 18, 2021 meeting as submitted. No public comment was received, and the meeting adjourned at 7:14 P.M.
- Approved the minutes of the August 18, 2021 meeting as submitted
- Recommended approval of the DuPage County Fair Association's Outdoor Special Event Liquor License application for Octoberfest (Oct 1-3, 2021) via unanimous roll call vote
Commission on Aging
The Commission is reviewing the 2021 Housing Assistance Program summary and advertising. Additionally, members are addressing the mailing and posting of CY2021 applications.
- Review of 2021 Housing Assistance Program Summary
- Discussion of Housing Assistance Program advertising
- Election of Commission Secretary
- Mailing of CY2021 applications to current recipients
- Posting of CY2021 applications to City website and newsletter
The Wheaton Housing Commission (listed as Commission on Aging in the header, but referred to as Housing Commission in the text) held a regular meeting with no public comment. They unanimously approved the August 13, 2021 minutes as amended, with Chair Eisenmann to resubmit them due to an error. The secretary position remains vacant, and the commission noted that only 40% of previous applicants have re-applied for 2021, with members tasked to call applicants to encourage reapplication. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved August 13, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (unanimous voice vote)
- Noted secretary position remains vacant; Chair to continue taking notes
- Noted only 40% of previous applicants re-applied; commissioners to call applicants
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to handle routine business, including public comment, minutes approval, and old/new business. The main action is a closed session to interview police commander candidates, followed by approval of final police officer and lateral police officer eligibility lists.
- Closed session for Police Commander Candidate Interviews (5ILCS 120/2(C)(21))
- Approval of Final Police Officer Eligibility List
- Approval of Lateral Police Officer List
The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners held a regular meeting with no public comment or old/new business. They approved the previous meeting's minutes and entered closed session for police commander candidate interviews. After returning, they unanimously placed five officers on the Police Commander Eligibility List, then adjourned.
- Approved minutes of September 7 regular meeting (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for police commander promotional interviews (unanimous)
- Exited closed session (unanimous)
- Placed Officers Fearon, Jackson, Sanchez, Sheahan, and Smith on Police Commander Eligibility List (unanimous)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to consider ending the probationary periods for three police officers and to conduct closed-session interviews for a police commander promotion. Public comment and approval of minutes are also on the agenda.
- End of probation for Police Officer Denis Doherty
- End of probation for Police Officer Ryan Cusack
- End of probation for Police Officer Mario Fearon
- Closed session for Police Commander promotional interviews (5ILCS 120/2(C)(21))
The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners unanimously approved ending probation for Police Officers Denis Doherty, Ryan Cusack, and Mario Fearon. The board also entered closed session for police commander promotional interviews and later adjourned. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Ended probation for Police Officer Denis Doherty (unanimous)
- Ended probation for Police Officer Ryan Cusack (unanimous)
- Ended probation for Police Officer Mario Fearon (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for police commander promotional interviews (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:42 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider issuing up to $54 million in taxable general obligation bonds to fund police and firefighter pension unfunded liabilities, along with related resolutions for bond review and professional services. The agenda also includes several liquor license items, zoning amendments, and various city contracts and purchases. Public comments are limited to five minutes per speaker.
- Ordinance for issuance of taxable general obligation bonds, Series 2021, not to exceed $54,000,000
- Resolution setting forth review of pension obligation bonds to fund police and firefighters pension unfunded liabilities
- Application for Class S liquor license, Buchanan Energy LLC - Bucky 540, 1000 E. Roosevelt Road
- Ordinance granting special use permit for prepared meal service business at 301 W. Roosevelt Rd. - The Kitchen Table
- Resolution authorizing agreement with YAD Construction for Fire Station 38 locker room renovations
The Wheaton City Council passed Ordinance O-2021-43 authorizing up to $54 million in taxable general obligation bonds to fund police and fire pension unfunded liabilities, with a 5-2 vote. The council also adopted related resolutions for the bond sale and professional services, and approved several other items including a new liquor license, zoning amendments, and various contracts.
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-43 authorizing up to $54M in pension obligation bonds (5-2)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-73 reviewing pension obligation bond process (6-1)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-74 approving professional services for bond sale (6-1)
- Approved appointments to Housing and Band Commissions (unanimous)
- Approved Class S liquor license for Bucky's #540 (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-44 allowing outdoor special event liquor at Central Athletic Complex (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-46 and O-2021-47 for licensed prepared meal service at 301 W. Roosevelt Rd. (unanimous)
- Approved $204,100 generator replacement at City Hall (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is meeting for a regular session. The agenda includes committee updates on the Festival of Cultures, DEI, Latinx Month, veterans support, and 2022 budgets, plus approval of minutes and public comment. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Committee update: Festival of Cultures
- Committee update: DEI
- Committee update: Latinx Month
- Committee update: Veterans acknowledgement and support
- Discussion: 2022 budgets
The Community Relations Commission approved a $200 request to support panelists for a panel on the 1st Civil Rights March in Wheaton, scheduled for 9/21 via Zoom. The commission also discussed updates on the Festival of Cultures, noting it is 12 days away, and reviewed the 2022 budget of $10,000. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural.
- Approved $200 for civil rights march panelists (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of previous meeting (unanimous)
- Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
Police Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to review investment performance, approve bills, and consider retirement and disability benefit applications. The board will also discuss actuarial valuation, tax levy, and other administrative matters.
- Quarterly investment performance review by Graystone Consulting
- Approval of bills presented by accountant Lauterbach & Amen, LLP
- Approve regular retirement benefits for Joseph Dimas
- Application for non-duty disability benefit by C. Harpling
- Review/approve actuarial valuation and tax levy request
The Board accepted the Actuarial Valuation as prepared by Foster & Foster and voted to request a tax levy of $3,965,362.00 from the City. It also approved a $1,000,000 portfolio reallocation from Wells Fargo Emerging Markets to American Funds EuroPacific, accepted the Quarterly Performance Report, and approved the Monthly Financial Report with disbursements of $276,995.57. New member Falon-Jocquet Adams was accepted into the fund, and regular retirement benefits for Joseph Dimas were approved. The Board also adopted the Municipal Compliance Report and elected officers for the coming term.
- Approved the May 20, 2021 regular meeting minutes as written.
- Accepted the Quarterly Performance Report for period ending June 30, 2021 (net return 4.53% QTD, market value $74,103,078).
- Approved transferring $1,000,000 from Wells Fargo Emerging Markets to American Funds EuroPacific.
- Accepted the Monthly Financial Report and approved disbursements of $276,995.57.
- Accepted Falon-Jocquet Adams into the fund as a Tier II participant effective June 1, 2021.
- Approved Joseph Dimas' regular retirement benefit (monthly pension $7,013.57, annual $84,162.84).
- Adopted the Municipal Compliance Report and authorized signatures by the Board President and Secretary.
- Approved a tax levy request of $3,965,362.00 from the City based on the Actuarial Valuation.
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Wheaton Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to handle routine business including minutes approval, a budget report, and recycling and Adopt-a-Highway updates. Members will discuss upcoming projects like the September electronic recycling event, and unfinished business on battery recycling, the Green Citizen draft for 2022, and the Nurse's Closet. New business includes a bulb eater, smoke detector collection, cardboard and book collection at the electronic event, and funding for EIC events.
- Monthly Electronic Recycling event scheduled for 9/11/21
- Discussion of battery recycling program
- Review of Green Citizen draft for 2022
- New business: Bulb Eater, smoke detector collection, cardboard/book collection at electronic event
- Funding for EIC events
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved the June meeting minutes unanimously. The commission discussed upcoming electronics recycling and Adopt-a-Highway events, and noted the city approved a new bulb eater. Several items, including the Green Citizen draft and battery recycling, were tabled.
- Approved June meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Noted city approval of new bulb eater purchase
- Tabled Green Citizen draft
- Tabled battery recycling
- Tabled smoke detector collection
- Tabled cardboard, magazine, and phone book collection at electronics collections
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider a text amendment and planned unit development (PUD) application for 250 E. Roosevelt Road, submitted by Quattro Development LLC. The agenda also includes routine items such as roll call, minutes approval, and public comment.
- ZA 21-20: Text amendment and PUD for 250 E. Roosevelt Road by Quattro Development LLC
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board held a public hearing on a request by Quattro Development LLC to amend the zoning ordinance and obtain a special use permit for a planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road, proposing a 10,000 sq ft nursery school and a 3,500 sq ft urgent care facility. After hearing testimony from the applicant, staff, and neighboring residents, the board voted unanimously to continue the hearing to September 14, 2021, requesting additional information on legal, traffic, storm sewer, and design issues before making a recommendation to the City Council.
- Approved the minutes of the August 10, 2021 meeting as presented.
- Continued the public hearing for ZA 21-20 (text amendment and PUD at 250 E. Roosevelt Road) to September 14, 2021, by unanimous voice vote.
- Requested City Attorney direction on whether the text amendment is necessary if the property is subdivided into two lots.
- Requested staff information on the existing 1969 vehicular cross access/parking agreement.
- Requested applicant information on traffic counts, storm sewer outlet, foundation approaches, and site topography, including a rendering of the proposed modular wall.
Public Notices & Hearings
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission holds a special in-person meeting with no new business. The agenda is mostly procedural, with old business items including the Fire Hydrant Painting Project's Labor Day launch, the Festival of Cultures, and a recap of Music in the Park.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: Labor Day Launch
- Festival of Cultures
- Music in the Park: recap
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on a zoning text amendment and a special use permit for a planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road. The proposal includes demolishing an existing structure and building a 10,000 sq ft nursery school and a 3,500 sq ft office (proposed urgent care), with several requested variations. Public comments will be accepted in person or via Zoom.
- Zoning text amendment to Article 5.11.B1 regarding multiple principal structures on a lot in commercial districts
- Special use permit for planned unit development at 250 E. Roosevelt Road
- 10,000 sq ft nursery school with outdoor playground and 35 parking spaces
- 3,500 sq ft business/professional office (proposed urgent care) with 23 parking spaces
- Four requested variations: reduced landscape setbacks (10 ft and 8 ft vs 15 ft), building perimeter setbacks (2 ft vs 8 ft), and building setback (20 ft vs 26 ft)
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding an in-person special meeting to discuss old business, including the Fire Hydrant Painting Project's Labor Day launch, the Festival of Cultures, and a recap of Music in the Park. No new business is listed. The meeting is open to the public with COVID protocols in place.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: Labor Day launch
- Festival of Cultures
- Music in the Park: recap
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission approved the agenda and July minutes, then tabled a marketing discussion until next month. Members are soliciting retailers for 20 sponsors at $250/year for a fundraising event, with one signed up so far. The fire hydrant art project is moving forward with donated paint and artist layouts, and the Festival of Cultures has six musical acts, three storytellers, and 25 cultural groups scheduled.
- Approved agenda by unanimous voice vote
- Approved July 27, 2021 minutes by unanimous voice vote
- Tabled commission marketing discussion until next meeting
- Advanced fire hydrant project: ordered paint, Tony to receive artist layouts for Mike's approval
- Continued fundraising solicitation: goal 20 sponsors at $250/year, one signed up
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss the ranking of capital projects for flood prone areas. The body will also review stormwater considerations and a case study regarding Wendover Court basins.
- Flood Prone Area Capital Project Ranking
- Wendover Court Basins Case Study
- Board and Commission Review
The Wheaton City Council held a planning session to discuss flood resiliency, reviewing a proposed ranking system for flood-prone area capital projects and a case study on detention basins. No formal votes were taken, but the Council directed staff to further investigate water redirection at Wendover Court and to develop initial drafts of board and commission purposes. The meeting was informational, with no substantive decisions made.
- Approved August 9, 2021 planning session minutes
- Directed staff to investigate neighboring residences redirecting water into Wendover Court detention basins
- Directed staff to develop initial drafts of board and commission purposes and duties for Council review
Firefighters' Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board will meet to approve retirement and disability benefits for specific members, review investment and financial reports, and consider actuarial valuation and tax levy requests. The board will also elect officers and handle administrative items.
- Approve duty disability and dependent benefits for Lyle Lake
- Approve regular retirement benefits for Peter O'Leary, Thomas R. Siemsen, and Christopher Stryszak
- Review/approve actuarial valuation and tax levy request
- Review investment report from Marquette Associates
- Approve bills and trustee training fees
The Board accepted the Actuarial Valuation and requested a tax levy of $1,845,963 from the City of Wheaton, based on the recommended municipal contribution. It also approved the monthly financial report and disbursements of $113,019.82, adopted the Municipal Compliance Report, and elected officers. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved Actuarial Valuation and tax levy request of $1,845,963 (5-0)
- Approved monthly financial report and disbursements of $113,019.82 (5-0)
- Adopted Municipal Compliance Report (5-0)
- Elected Jason Skilondz as President and John Cochran as Secretary (5-0)
- Removed PIMCO from alert status (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2021-01 appointing Skilondz and Kammes as Authorized Agents (5-0)
- Kept closed session minutes closed (5-0)
- Approved May 17, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Local Liquor Commission
The Wheaton Local Liquor Commission is meeting to consider a new Class S liquor license for Bucky's #540, amendments to city code for outdoor special event liquor licenses for the Wheaton Park District's October Fest and Light the Torch 5K Night Run, and an amendment regarding off-site catering. The agenda also includes public comment and approval of minutes from the July 21, 2021 meeting.
- Application for Class S liquor license by Buchanan Energy (S) LLC D/B/A Bucky's #540 at 1000 E. Roosevelt Road
- Amendment to Section 6-87.5 and outdoor special event liquor license for Central Athletic Complex, October Fest and Light the Torch 5K Night Run on October 2, 2021
- Amendment to Section 6-87, Subsection 7 of Wheaton City Code regarding off-site catering
The Wheaton Local Liquor Control Commission recommended approval of a Class S liquor license for Bucky's #540 at 1000 E. Roosevelt Road, an amendment to allow outdoor special event liquor licenses at the Central Athletic Complex, and an amendment to permit off-site catering for existing Class A, B, or I licensees. All three motions passed unanimously. The meeting was procedural with no public comment.
- Approved Class S liquor license for Buchanan Energy (S) LLC d/b/a Bucky's #540 (unanimous)
- Approved amendment to Section 6-87.5 to include Central Athletic Complex as authorized location (unanimous)
- Approved Outdoor Special Event Liquor License for October Fest and Light the Torch 5K Night Run (unanimous)
- Approved amendment to Section 6-87, Subsection 7 for off-site catering (unanimous)
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including appointments, a resignation, and two applications for the Wheaton Register of Historic Places. The public can attend in person or virtually.
- Appointment of Joseph D Szczepaniak
- GIS mapping project (landmark buildings) update
- Historic site marker update
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application – 831 N. Washington
- Wheaton Register of Historic Places application – 115 W. Oak
The Wheaton Historic Commission approved the July 20, 2021 minutes and appointed Joe Szczepaniak as Vice Chair after Lori Bilske resigned. The commission reviewed two Wheaton Register applications (831 N. Washington and 115 W. Oak), providing research guidance but taking no formal action. It also discussed the GIS mapping project, historic site markers, and concerns about the Center for History collection.
- Approved July 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Elected Joe Szczepaniak as Vice Chair (unanimous)
- Noted Lori Bilske's resignation as Vice Chair
- Reviewed Wheaton Register application for 831 N. Washington; no action taken
- Reviewed Wheaton Register application for 115 W. Oak; no action taken
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting to consider a range of items including agreements, ordinances, and appointments. Key decisions include a highway authority agreement with 7-Eleven, amendments for a carwash canopy, a water tower lease with T-Mobile, and a debt management policy. The meeting also includes public comments and a closed session for personnel evaluation.
- Resolution authorizing highway authority and limited indemnification agreement with 7-Eleven at 625 W. Roosevelt Rd.
- Ordinance amending ordinances F-1933 and F-2041 for a carwash canopy at 100 W. Geneva Road.
- Resolution authorizing water tower lease agreement with T-Mobile for Orchard Water Tower.
- Resolution approving a debt management policy for the City of Wheaton.
- Ordinance granting side yard setback variations at 121 W. Forest Avenue (Suess).
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved a five-year contract with the Wheaton Firefighters Union IAFF Local 3706, along with several other items including a PUD amendment for a Circle K carwash canopy, a T-Mobile water tower lease, a debt management policy, and a side yard setback variation for 121 W. Forest Ave. The council also extended outdoor dining tents and liquor sales on Hale Street through October 31, 2021.
- Approved 5-year contract with Wheaton Firefighters Union IAFF Local 3706 (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-40 amending PUD for Circle K at 100-110 W. Geneva Rd to allow carwash canopy (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-71 for T-Mobile water tower lease at 71 Marywood Trail (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-72 approving updated Debt Management Policy (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-41 granting side yard setback variations at 121 W. Forest Ave (6-1, Barbier opposed)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-42 extending Hale Street dining tents and outdoor liquor sales to Oct 31, 2021 (unanimous)
- Approved appointments of David Duve and Stephanie Henry to city commissions (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 806 for $1,040,087.31 (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board of Trustees is meeting in person with Zoom audio options. The board will consider a consent agenda, hear the director's report, and take up new business including a motion to approve the Computer Use Policy and the start of the CY2022 budget process.
- Motion to Approve Computer Use Policy
- CY2022 Budget Process
- Financial Reports for July 2021 and Bill Listing for August 2021 Payment
- Minutes for July 19 and July 28, 2021 meetings
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved a revised Computer Use Policy, which updates the library's rules for computer and internet use. The board also approved the consent agenda, including minutes and financial reports, and discussed the CY2022 budget process and upcoming projects.
- Approved revised Computer Use Policy (8-0)
- Approved consent agenda: July 19 and July 28 minutes, July 2021 financial reports, August 2021 bill listing (8-0)
Commission on Aging
The Commission on Aging is meeting to discuss the 2022 application review, budget, and income cap and monthly stipend amounts. The body will also review interview questions for the Housing Commission and discuss returning to in-house visits.
- Proposed CY2022 budget, income cap, and monthly stipend amounts
- Review of CY2022 applications
- Housing Commission homeowner/renter interview questions
- Housing Assistance Program advertising
- Election of officers
The Wheaton Housing Commission approved an increase in the income cap for the CY2022 Housing Assistance Program to $27,800, and requested an additional $3,000 from the city to fund higher monthly stipends for owners and renters. The commission also approved the minutes from January 14, 2021, and elected officers for CY2022. No public comments were made, and no other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Approved CY2022 income cap increase to $27,800 (unanimous)
- Approved request for $3,000 additional city funds for stipend increases (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of January 14, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved officers for CY2022: Chair Kristine Eisenmann, Vice Chair Stu Johnson (unanimous)
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission will vote on the 2022 budget and discuss several infrastructure proposals. Members will also review updates on safe routes and bike sign wording.
- Vote on 2022 Budget
- Roosevelt proposal
- Winfield Rd proposal
- Leask Lane possible proposal
- Changing wording of bike signs
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved a $3,000 budget for 2022, up from $2,500 in 2021, and unanimously approved a modified proposal to modify traffic lights at Main St and Roosevelt Rd for safer bike and pedestrian crossings. They also approved a proposal to improve the shoulder on Winfield Rd between Mack and Roosevelt using crushed limestone, and approved spending $148 for 1,000 business cards with a QR code for the bike map.
- Approved $3,000 2022 budget (unanimous)
- Approved modified traffic light proposal at Main St & Roosevelt Rd (unanimous)
- Approved Winfield Rd shoulder improvement proposal (unanimous)
- Approved $148 purchase of 1,000 business cards (unanimous)
- Accepted July minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted David Duve and George Schmidt as new members
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider two new business items: a side yard setback variation for a property at 121 W. Forest Avenue and a text amendment and special use request for 301 W. Roosevelt Road. The agenda also includes routine items like roll call, minutes approval, and public comment.
- ZA 21-18: Side yard setback variations at 121 W. Forest Avenue
- ZA 21-19: Text amendment and special use at 301 W. Roosevelt Road (The Kitchen Table)
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of ZA 21-19, a text amendment and special use permit allowing The Kitchen Table to operate a licensed prepared meal service business at 301 W. Roosevelt Road, with a unanimous 4-0 vote. The board denied ZA 21-18, a request for side yard setback variations for a patio and outdoor fireplace at 121 W. Forest Avenue, with a 3-1 vote (Aranas, Dabovich, Gudmundson in favor; Wanzung opposed).
- Recommended approval of ZA 21-19 text amendment and special use for The Kitchen Table (4-0)
- Denied ZA 21-18 side yard setback variations for patio and fireplace at 121 W. Forest Ave (3-1)
- Approved minutes of July 13, 2021 as presented
- Closed public hearings for both ZA 21-18 and ZA 21-19
- Waived normal rules to vote on both applications the same evening
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on August 10, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-18. The application seeks variations to allow reconstruction and expansion of an existing patio and an outdoor fireplace with side yard setbacks smaller than required. The property is 121 W. Forest Avenue, and the applicants are Philip and Mary Suess.
- Zoning Application #21-18: variations to allow patio with 3.0 ft side yard setback instead of required 6.4 ft
- Outdoor fireplace with 1.0 ft side yard setback instead of required 10.0 ft
- Property: 121 W. Forest Avenue, Wheaton, IL 60187
- Public hearing: Aug 10, 2021, 7:00 p.m., in-person and via Zoom
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on August 10, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-19, which requests a text amendment to the O-R Office Research District to allow a 'Licensed Prepared Meal Service Business' as a special use, and a special use permit for such a business to operate at 301 W. Roosevelt Road. The application also proposes deleting the definition of 'Mother and Infant Support Center' from the zoning ordinance. Public comments will be accepted at the hearing or in writing.
- Zoning text amendment to add 'Licensed Prepared Meal Service Business' as a special use in O-R district
- Special use permit for a meal prep business at 301 W. Roosevelt Road (former Wheaton Inn)
- Proposed deletion of 'Mother and Infant Support Center' definition from zoning ordinance
- Special use limited to 800 sq. ft. in a multi-tenant building
- Public hearing on August 10, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. in Wheaton City Hall
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council is holding a planning session to review specific discussion items. The body will examine updates to the city's debt management policy and an analysis of streams and lakes.
- Debt Management Policy Update
- Streams Lake Analysis
The Wheaton City Council approved the July 26, 2021 minutes and directed staff to pursue a consulting engineer for long-term solutions to the Streams Lakes sedimentation issue. Staff also presented a debt management policy update ahead of a proposed $52 million pension obligation bond issuance, with a resolution expected at the August 16 meeting. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was a planning session.
- Approved July 26, 2021 City Council Planning Session minutes
- Directed staff to pursue a consulting engineer for Streams Lakes long-term remediation solutions
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is meeting to approve minutes, receive committee updates on the Festival of Cultures, Make a Difference Day, and veterans support, and discuss potential new members and strategic planning and budget. The agenda is largely routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.
- Committee updates: Festival of Cultures, Make a Difference Day, veterans acknowledgement and support
- Discussion with potential new members
- Strategic planning and budget discussion
- Public comment period
The Community Relations Commission unanimously approved the minutes and agreed to move forward with the Festival of Cultures, which has secured $5,250 in sponsorships and 4 bands. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were updates or discussions.
- Approved meeting minutes unanimously
- Agreed to move forward with Festival of Cultures event
- Adjourned meeting unanimously at 8:38 pm
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting to consider several routine items, including appointments to city commissions, a special event liquor license for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Summer Wine Walk, and an ordinance to increase the Class A liquor license for Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale Street. They will also vote on a bond waiver and raffle license for Wheaton Lions Charities, approve minutes, and pay bills. The agenda includes a proclamation for Wheaton Drama's 90th anniversary and a closed session for collective bargaining.
- Approve bond waiver and raffle license for Wheaton Lions Charities
- Appointments to city commissions
- Outdoor special event liquor license for Downtown Wheaton Association Summer Wine Walk
- Ordinance amending Chapter 6 to increase Class A liquor license for Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale Street
- Approval of bills (Warrant No. 805)
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved a Class A liquor license for Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale Street, along with a raffle license for Wheaton Lions Charities, appointments to city commissions, an outdoor liquor license for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Summer Wine Walk, and a warrant of $1,512,143.05. All votes were unanimous with Councilwoman Bray-Parker absent. The meeting also included a proclamation for Wheaton Drama's 90th anniversary and a closed session on collective bargaining.
- Approved consent agenda including July 19, 2021 minutes and raffle license for Wheaton Lions Charities (unanimous)
- Appointed George Schmidt to Bicycle Advisory Commission and Joseph Szczepaniak to Historic Commission (unanimous)
- Approved outdoor special event liquor license for Downtown Wheaton Association Summer Wine Walk (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-39 granting Class A liquor license to Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale St. (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 805 for $1,512,143.05 (unanimous)
- Adjourned to closed session for collective bargaining and review of closed session minutes (unanimous)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is holding a special meeting to conduct entry-level and lateral police candidate interviews in closed session, and to approve the final police officer eligibility list and lateral police officer list. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with public comment, minutes approval, and old/new business items.
- Closed session for entry level and lateral police candidate interviews
- Approval of final police officer eligibility list
- Approval of lateral police officer list
The Board approved adding two candidates to the Final Police Officer Eligibility List and two to the Lateral Police Officer List, all unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural, including approval of prior minutes and a closed session for candidate interviews.
- Approved minutes of July 27 regular meeting (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for entry-level police candidate interviews (unanimous)
- Added Genevieve Gotay and Mark Strapazon to Final Police Officer Eligibility List (unanimous)
- Added James Gutierrez and Kristopher Dlugopolski to Lateral Police Officer List (unanimous)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:47 p.m. (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board of Trustees is holding a planning meeting on July 28, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. The main agenda item is a strategic planning review and discussion involving board members and management staff. The meeting is open to in-person attendance and via Zoom audio, with public comment options.
- Strategic Planning Review and Discussion with Board and Management Staff
- Public comment via in-person, phone, or written statements to the Library Director
The Wheaton Public Library Board held a planning meeting focused on reviewing the components of the 2-year Strategic Plan, presented by staff. No formal decisions or votes were taken during the meeting, which included discussion and questions from board members. The meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.
- No formal decisions or votes taken during the meeting
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Wheaton Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, discussing board rules, and reviewing officer probation and quarterly reports. The board will also enter closed session for entry-level police candidate interviews.
- End of probation for Officer Seth Berlin
- Quarterly review reports from Sergeant Rob Miroballi and Sergeant Patti Potter
- Closed session for entry-level police candidate interviews
- Discussion of board rules and regulations
The Board unanimously adopted updates to its Rules & Regulations regarding preference points, and unanimously ended the probation of Police Officer Seth Berlin. It also reviewed quarterly reports for two sergeants and held a closed session for entry-level police candidate interviews. No public comment was made and no other substantive decisions were recorded.
- Adopted updated Board Rules & Regulations on preference points (unanimous)
- Ended probation of Police Officer Seth Berlin (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of May 26th regular meeting (unanimous)
- Entered closed session for entry-level police candidate interviews (unanimous)
- Exited closed session at 6:57 p.m. (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, July 27, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. This notice was sent to local media outlets and the public. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of business
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding its regular July meeting in person. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no new business. The commission will discuss updates on ongoing projects including the Fire Hydrant Painting Project, Festival of Cultures, Music in the Park, and an art contest.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: Labor Day launch
- Festival of Cultures update
- Music in the Park update
- Art Contest update
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission approved two motions directing up to $1,000 for painting supplies and up to $2,000 from commission funds for artist payments related to the fire hydrant project. Kathy Young's resignation and commission marketing were tabled until next month. The Festival of Cultures is on schedule, and Music in the Park drew about 100 attendees but exceeded its budget.
- Approved up to $1,000 for fire hydrant painting supplies (unanimous)
- Approved up to $2,000 from commission funds for artist payments if sponsorships fall short (unanimous)
- Tabled Kathy Young's resignation until next month
- Tabled commission marketing discussion until next month
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss several financial and organizational items. Discussion topics include an overview of the American Rescue Plan Act spending proposal and the 2022 budget framework.
- American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) overview and spending proposal
- Wheaton Benchmark Study
- CY 2022 Budget Framework
The Wheaton City Council directed staff to use the replacement of lost public sector revenue as the allocation category for the $4.9 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and to focus on City infrastructure when identifying projects. The Council also received a presentation on the Benchmark Study and the CY 2022 Budget Framework, but no formal votes were taken on these items.
- Directed staff to use replacement of lost public sector revenue as ARPA allocation category
- Directed staff to focus on City infrastructure for ARPA-funded projects
- Approved June 28, 2021 Planning Session minutes
Local Liquor Commission
The Wheaton Local Liquor Commission will meet virtually on July 21, 2021, after being rescheduled from July 8. The commission will consider a Class A liquor license application for Wheaton II Egg Harbor LLC (Egg Harbor) at 208 S. Hale Street and an outdoor special event liquor license for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Summer Wine Walk. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of minutes from May 13, and old/new business.
- Class A liquor license application: Wheaton II Egg Harbor LLC d/b/a Egg Harbor, 208 S. Hale Street
- Outdoor special event liquor license: Downtown Wheaton Association, Summer Wine Walk
- Meeting rescheduled to July 21, 2021, 2 PM, via Zoom
The Wheaton Local Liquor Control Commission recommended approval of an Outdoor Special Event Liquor License for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Summer Wine Walk and a Class A Liquor License for Egg Harbor restaurant at 208 S. Hale Street. Both recommendations were approved unanimously by the commissioners present. The minutes also note the approval of the July 21, 2021 meeting minutes.
- Approved minutes of July 21, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Outdoor Special Event Liquor License for Downtown Wheaton Association Summer Wine Walk (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of Class A Liquor License for Wheaton II Egg Harbor LLC d/b/a Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale Street (unanimous)
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is meeting to review ongoing projects including Safe Routes and the Bicycle Friendly Community initiative. Members will discuss a potential safety proposal for the Main and Roosevelt crossing and forest preserve trail etiquette.
- Safety issue and possible proposal for Main/Roosevelt crossing
- Forest preserve trail etiquette discussion
- Bicycle Friendly Community update
- Safe routes update
- Vote on treasurer reimbursements
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved several expenditures, including up to $1,000 for reprinting the Wheaton Bike Route Map, up to $100 for a commission banner, and reimbursement for French Market materials. They also heard from DuPage County about trail priorities and discussed ongoing projects like Safe Routes to School and a safety issue at Main St and Roosevelt. No major policy decisions were made; most actions were routine approvals.
- Approved up to $1,000 for bike map reprint (unanimous)
- Approved up to $100 for commission banner (7-1)
- Approved reimbursement for French Market materials (unanimous)
- Approved up to $25 for History Ride handouts (unanimous)
- Approved June 2021 minutes (unanimous)
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to discuss old and new business, including updates on the GIS mapping project, historic site markers, and a fall lecture. They will also consider a new application for the Wheaton Register of Historic Places for 831 N. Washington, a new commissioner application, and the resignation of Barbara Dutton-Thomas.
- New Wheaton Register of Historic Places application for 831 N. Washington
- Resignation of Barbara Dutton-Thomas
- New commissioner application from Joseph D Szczepaniak
- Update on GIS mapping project for landmark buildings
- Discussion of Iagulli Signs for Wheaton Landmark Plaque (possibly out of business)
The Wheaton Historic Commission approved the May 18, 2021 meeting minutes and its revised Annual Report, both unanimously. It also approved Joseph D. Szczepaniak's application to join the commission after he left the room for the vote. The commission discussed the GIS project, historic site markers, a landmark application for 831 N. Washington, and noted the resignation of Commissioner Barbara Dutton-Thomas.
- Approved May 18, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approved revised Annual Report (unanimous)
- Approved Joseph D. Szczepaniak's commission application (unanimous)
- Noted Barbara Dutton-Thomas's resignation due to moving out of Wheaton
- Discussed landmark application for 831 N. Washington; no decision recorded
- Discussed GIS project and plans to notify property owners
- Scheduled fall lecture 'The Great Fires of Wheaton' for September 16
- Adjourned at 8:30 pm (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider several items, including a resolution authorizing an agreement with the Wheaton Foreign Fire Insurance Board for Fire Station 38 renovations, an ordinance amending Board of Fire and Police Commissioners rules, and a zoning variance for 199 Longfellow Drive. The consent agenda includes disposal of surplus property and approval of minutes. Public comments are limited to five minutes per speaker.
- Resolution authorizing agreement with Wheaton Foreign Fire Insurance Board for Fire Station 38 renovations
- Ordinance amending Section 2-293 regarding Board of Fire and Police Commissioners rules
- Ordinance granting rear yard setback variations for 199 Longfellow Drive (Barabas)
- Resolution authorizing disposal of surplus property
- Approval of Warrant No. 804
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved a contract with Yad Construction for kitchen and dayroom renovations at Fire Station #38, funded by the Wheaton Foreign Fire Insurance Tax Board, not to exceed $79,995. The council also passed an ordinance amending fire and police commission rules to give preference points to police interns and community service officers in hiring. Additionally, the council approved rear yard setback variations for a patio and outdoor fireplace at 199 Longfellow Drive, and approved a warrant for $1,967,508.95. All votes were unanimous, with Councilwoman Fitch absent.
- Approved Resolution R-2021-66: $79,995 contract with Yad Construction for Fire Station #38 kitchen/dayroom renovations (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-37: Amended fire/police commission rules to give preference points to police interns and community service officers (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-38: Granted rear yard setback variations at 199 Longfellow Drive for patio and outdoor fireplace (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 804 in the amount of $1,967,508.95 (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes and surplus property resolution (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board of Trustees will meet in person and via Zoom. The board will vote on revised circulation and laptop lending policies, elect officers for the coming year, and hear the library director's report. Public comments can be made in person, by phone, or submitted online.
- Motion to approve revised circulation policy
- Motion to approve revised laptop and laptop accessories lending policy
- Election of officers for July 2021 – June 2022
- Approval of June 2021 financial reports and July 2021 bill listing
- Presentation of updated statistics documents
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved a revised Circulation Policy, which sets an overdue charge limit of $10 before borrowing is blocked, and a revised Laptop and Laptop Accessories Lending Policy, allowing 3-hour loans with no renewals. The board also elected officers for 2021-2022, with Laurie Metanchuk as President, and approved the consent agenda and prior meeting minutes.
- Approved the Consent Agenda, including June 2021 minutes and financial reports.
- Elected officers for July 2021-June 2022: President Laurie Metanchuk, Vice President Al Herbach, Secretary Vallari Talapatra, Treasurer Simone Morton.
- Approved the minutes of the June 21, 2021 Nominating Committee meeting.
- Approved the revised Circulation Policy, setting the overdue limit at $10.
- Approved the revised Laptop and Laptop Accessories Lending Policy, with 3-hour loans and no renewals.
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The regular meeting of the Wheaton Board of Fire & Police Commissioners scheduled for July 14, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting; it will be rescheduled at a later time.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of business
- Rescheduled at a later time
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Wheaton Board of Fire and Police Commissioners has rescheduled its regular meeting from July 14 to July 27, 2021, at 4:30 PM in the Gamon Room at Wheaton City Hall. The agenda contains no other business items, only the meeting date and time change.
- Regular meeting rescheduled from July 14 to July 27, 2021
- New time: 4:30 PM
- Location: Gamon Room, Wheaton City Hall, 303 W Wesley Street
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on July 13, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-16, which requests an amendment to an existing Planned Unit Development. The amendment would allow construction of a convenience filling station with seven fuel dispensers, a canopy, parking, and a transaction kiosk on property at 600 S. Main Street, replacing an existing employee parking lot. The public may comment in person or via Zoom.
- Zoning Application #21-16: amendment to Planned Unit Development Ordinance No. F-1706
- Proposed gasoline station with seven fuel dispensers, fuel canopy, parking area, and transaction kiosk
- Property at northwest corner of Roosevelt Road and Main Street, 600 S. Main Street
- Applicant: Roundy's Illinois, LLC (Mariano's); property owner: Realty Income Illinois Properties 3, LLC
- Public hearing at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, Wheaton City Hall, 303 West Wesley Street
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on July 13, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-17. The applicants, John and Margaret Barabas, request variations to allow a patio with a 3-foot rear yard setback (instead of the required 25 feet) and an outdoor fireplace with a 7.5-foot setback (instead of 10 feet) at 199 Longfellow Drive. Public comments will be accepted in person or via Zoom.
- Public hearing for Zoning Application #21-17
- Requested variation: patio rear yard setback 3.0 ft vs. required 25.0 ft
- Requested variation: outdoor fireplace rear yard setback 7.5 ft vs. required 10.0 ft
- Property: 199 Longfellow Drive, Wheaton, IL (PIN 05-21-308-014)
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting to consider two items: a rear yard setback variation for a property on Longfellow Drive and a PUD amendment for the Mariano's site at 600 S. Main Street. The board will also approve minutes and take public comment.
- Rear yard setback variations for 199 Longfellow Drive (ZA #21-17)
- PUD amendment for 600 S. Main Street, Mariano's (ZA 21-16)
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of ZA 21-17, allowing a patio with a 3.0-foot rear yard setback (instead of 25.0 feet) and an outdoor fireplace with a 7.5-foot setback (instead of 10.0 feet) at 199 Longfellow Drive, with the condition that a portable fountain not be placed in the drainage easement. The board also continued the public hearing for ZA 21-16, a proposed Mariano's gas station at 600 S. Main Street, to August 24, 2021, due to unresolved legal issues regarding notice and to gather more information.
- Approved minutes of June 8, 2021 as presented.
- Recommended approval of ZA 21-17 (rear yard setback variations) with condition that portable fountain not be placed in drainage easement.
- Continued public hearing for ZA 21-16 (Mariano's PUD amendment for gas station) to August 24, 2021.
- Requested additional information for ZA 21-16: written response to staff report conditions, lighting plan, sign plan, and answers on community character and downtown enhancement.
- Adjourned meeting at 9:28 p.m.
Local Liquor Commission
The Wheaton Local Liquor Commission is meeting to consider two liquor license applications: a Class A license for Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale Street and outdoor special event licenses for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Adams Park Concert and Summer Wine Walk. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from May 13, 2021, and public comment.
- Class A liquor license application for Wheaton II Egg Harbor LLC d/b/a Egg Harbor at 208 S. Hale Street
- Outdoor special event liquor licenses for Downtown Wheaton Association's Adams Park Concert and Summer Wine Walk
- Approval of minutes from May 13, 2021
Public Notices & Hearings
The Community Relations Commission is holding a virtual special meeting on July 7, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. The agenda includes committee updates on past events like PRIDE Month, Wheaton Plaza del Zocalo, Festival of Cultures, Make a Difference Day, and veterans acknowledgement and support, plus public comment.
- PRIDE Month Recap
- Wheaton Plaza del Zocalo Recap
- Festival of Cultures
- Make a Difference Day
- Veterans acknowledgement and support
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is holding a special virtual meeting. The agenda is mostly procedural, with committee updates on past events and public comment. No new business or decisions are listed.
- PRIDE Month recap
- Wheaton Plaza del Zocalo recap
- Festival of Cultures update
- Make a Difference Day update
- Veterans acknowledgement and support update
The Community Relations Commission approved the June 2021 meeting minutes with discussed changes. They also received updates on various events, including the upcoming Festival of Cultures on Sept 12th, which has secured sponsorships and performers. The commission discussed future meeting structure, noting that after the governor's order expires, meetings will likely be in person.
- Approved June 2021 meeting minutes with discussed changes.
- Noted progress on Festival of Cultures, including secured performers and $3,000 sponsorship.
- Discussed potential partnership with DuPage NAACP for a new program.
- Agreed to introduce Dilli Phuyal to Chamber of Commerce for Festival involvement.
- Adjourned meeting at 8:24 pm.
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting on July 6, 2021, to handle routine business including approving minutes, considering bond waivers and raffle licenses for three organizations, reappointing members to city boards and commissions, and authorizing renewal of software maintenance with ESRI, Inc. The meeting also includes public comment periods and approval of bills (Warrant No. 803).
- Bond waivers and raffle licenses for FT Cares Foundation, Lincoln Elem PTA, and DuPage Care Ctr Fndn
- Reappointments to city boards and commissions
- Resolution authorizing renewal of software maintenance and support services with ESRI, Inc.
- Approval of minutes from June 21, 2021
- Approval of bills (Warrant No. 803)
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including meeting minutes, bond waivers, and raffle licenses for three organizations. It reappointed three members to city boards and commissions for three-year terms, and adopted Resolution R-2021-64 to renew ESRI software maintenance for $21,404. The council also approved Warrant No. 803 for $815,749.27. All votes were unanimous, with Councilman Barbier absent.
- Approved consent agenda: meeting minutes, bond waivers, and raffle licenses for FT Cares Foundation, Lincoln Elementary PTA, and DuPage Care Center Foundation.
- Reappointed Saleha Jawaid to Community Relations Commission, Jan Kay to Housing Commission, and Eileen Pearse to Liquor Control Commission, all for three-year terms.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-64 authorizing ESRI software maintenance renewal for one year, not to exceed $21,404.
- Approved Warrant No. 803 in the amount of $815,749.27.
- Adjourned the meeting at 7:07 p.m.
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss several infrastructure and regulatory items. The body will review a proposal for parking guidance services and continue discussions on flood protection.
- Consulting services proposal for Automated Parking Guidance System at Wheaton Place Parking Structure
- Flood Resiliency Investigation - Flood Protection Program Discussion Part 5
- Sidewalk snow removal requirements for commercial properties
The Wheaton City Council held a planning session and directed staff to postpone further investigation of an automated parking guidance system (APGS) for the Wheaton Place Parking Structure until additional utilization data is collected and the city's comprehensive parking study is completed. The council also requested staff formulate a strategy to communicate the proposed flood protection program to the public and prioritize projects, and to continue investigating an ordinance requiring commercial property owners to remove snow from adjacent public sidewalks. The meeting was a planning session with no formal votes taken.
- Postponed further investigation of automated parking guidance systems (APGS) for Wheaton Place Parking Structure until parking study complete
- Requested staff formulate strategy to communicate flood protection program to public and prioritize projects
- Requested staff continue investigating ordinance requiring commercial property owners to remove snow from adjacent public sidewalks
- Approved June 14, 2021 City Council Planning Session minutes
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to handle routine business including approving minutes, receiving a budget report, and hearing updates on recycling and Adopt-a-Highway programs. They will also discuss upcoming projects like monthly electronic recycling events, unfinished items such as battery recycling and Green Citizen planning for 2022, and new business on funding for EIC events. The meeting is open for public comment, with options for in-person or virtual attendance.
- Monthly electronic recycling events scheduled for 7/10/21 and 8/14/21
- Discussion of battery recycling program
- Planning for Green Citizen 2022
- Funding request for EIC events
- Annual report submitted
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved the May meeting minutes unanimously. Members reviewed the June 12 electronics recycling event, which collected bulbs, oil, scrap metal, and electronics, and discussed upcoming recycling events and a highway cleanup. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.
- Approved May meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
- Tabled battery recycling discussion
- Scheduled next electronics recycling events for July 10 and August 14
- Scheduled Adopt-a-Highway cleanup for July 17
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 22, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. This notice was sent to local media outlets and the public. No items were scheduled for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of business
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding its regular June meeting, with no new business on the agenda. The commission will discuss updates on several ongoing community events, including the Fire Hydrant Painting Project, Festival of Cultures, Music in the Park, and an art contest.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: Labor Day launch discussion
- Festival of Cultures update
- Music in the Park update
- Art Contest update
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission approved its agenda and the minutes from June 8, 2021, by unanimous voice votes. Members discussed new business, including a retirement and a support flyer seeking $250 yearly donations. Under old business, they noted the Festival of Cultures is on schedule, and Music in the Park is set for July 25, 2:00-5:00, with acts being signed up. The meeting adjourned at 6:39 p.m.
- Approved the agenda by unanimous voice vote
- Approved the minutes of June 8, 2021, by unanimous voice vote
- Discussed creating a support flyer for the Commission, asking for $250 yearly donations
- Noted Festival of Cultures projects are on schedule, with a check being cut for a student
- Planned Music in the Park for July 25, 2:00-5:00, with W-9 forms being collected
- Adjourned at 6:39 p.m. by unanimous voice vote
City Council Meetings
The City Council will review several resolutions regarding construction agreements and municipal upgrades. The agenda includes discussions on road, sewer, and water rehabilitation programs alongside various city service purchases.
- Construction use and indemnification agreements for 614 N Wheaton Avenue, 103 Triple Crown Court, and 1815 Golden Pond Lane
- 2021 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program updates
- Purchase of six replacement vehicles for Police and Fire departments from Currie Motors Fleet
- Purchase of two replacement ambulances from North Central Ambulance
- Ordinance amending Chapter 58 regarding streets, sidewalks, and other public places
The Wheaton City Council unanimously passed Ordinance O-2021-36, granting a special use permit and variations for a 4,385 square foot Culver's restaurant at 908 E. Roosevelt Road, following a Planning & Zoning Board recommendation. The council also approved a $4.69 million road, sewer, and water rehabilitation contract with Plote Construction, and a $446,776.80 purchase of two replacement ambulances. All other agenda items, including consent agenda resolutions, ordinance amendments, and various contracts, were approved unanimously.
- Approved Ordinance O-2021-36 for a Culver's restaurant at 908 E. Roosevelt Road (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-60 for the 2021 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program with Plote Construction Inc. for up to $4,691,917.85 (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-61 for two replacement ambulances from North Central Ambulance for up to $446,776.80 (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-57 for a Mitel telephone system upgrade with CMS Solutions for up to $31,350 (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-58 for six replacement police and fire vehicles from Currie Motors Fleet for up to $225,330 (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-59 for network security testing services from Illumant for three years, up to $20,232 (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-62 for sewer lateral testing and sealing with Michels Corporation for up to $179,840 (unanimous).
- Approved Resolution R-2021-63 for a Microsoft 365 subscription renewal from Dell Marketing LP for three years, up to $315,000 (unanimous).
Library Board
The Board of Trustees will review financial reports for May 2021 and a bill listing for June 2021. Discussion includes selecting a consultant for West Side Plaza repairs and adopting several intellectual freedom documents.
- Selection of consultant for West Side Plaza Repairs
- Approval of Material Selection Policy
- Resolution accepting gift from the Theodore M. Utchen 1996 Trust
- Adoption of Association Core Intellectual Freedom Documents
- Discussion of Special Strategic Planning Review Meeting on July 26, 2021
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved the updated Material Selection Policy, accepted a $100,000 bequest from the Theodore M. Utchen 1996 Trust, and adopted core intellectual freedom documents. The board also selected Studio GC for West Side Plaza repairs and released closed session minutes from three past meetings. All votes were unanimous among present members.
- Approved the updated Material Selection Policy
- Accepted $100,000 gift from the Theodore M. Utchen 1996 Trust
- Adopted the Association Core Intellectual Freedom Documents
- Selected Studio GC for West Side Plaza repairs
- Released closed session minutes from Dec 19, 2016, Feb 19, 2018, and Jan 18, 2021
- Approved the Consent Agenda (May 2021 minutes and financial reports)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board's Nominating Committee is meeting to discuss and develop a slate of officers (President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary) for the July 2021–June 2022 term, to be presented at the July 19 Board meeting. The agenda includes a citizens-to-be-heard period and is otherwise procedural.
- Develop slate of officers for July 2021–June 2022 term
- Slate includes President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary
- Election of officers scheduled for July 19 Board meeting
- Citizens may speak up to 5 minutes during Citizens to be Heard
The Wheaton Public Library Nominating Committee met and recommended a slate of officers for the Library Board of Trustees. The proposal includes Laurie Metanchuk for President, Al Herbach for Vice President, Simone Morton for Treasurer, and Vallari Talapatra for Secretary. The recommendation was made but not voted on at this meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 6:15 p.m.
- Proposed Laurie Metanchuk for President
- Proposed Al Herbach for Vice President
- Proposed Simone Morton for Treasurer
- Proposed Vallari Talapatra for Secretary
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission will meet via Zoom to discuss ongoing transit projects and conduct a vote on a bike lane proposal for Danada Dr. The body will also receive updates on safe routes and the Bicycle Friendly Community status.
- Vote on Danada Dr. Bike Lane Proposal
- French Market discussion
- Library Bike presentation scheduled for July 14th
- Safe routes update
- Bicycle Friendly Community update
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission unanimously approved the Danada Drive proposal and authorized up to $100 for a commission banner. They also discussed plans for a French Market table on July 3, a July 14 library webinar, and safe routes to schools, but no other formal votes were taken.
- Approved Danada Drive proposal (unanimous)
- Approved up to $100 for commission banner (unanimous)
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historical Commission's regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 15, 2021, has been cancelled. This notice is provided by the City Clerk in accordance with state statutes. No business will be conducted at this meeting.
- Regular meeting of June 15, 2021 cancelled
The Wheaton Historical Commission regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday, June 15, 2021, was cancelled. No substantive decisions were made or discussed at this meeting.
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020. The body will also discuss Part 5 of the City of Wheaton Flood Resiliency Investigation - Flood Protection Program.
- Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for fiscal year ended December 31, 2020
- City of Wheaton Flood Resiliency Investigation - Flood Protection Program Part 5
The Wheaton City Council reviewed flood resiliency studies for 15 flood-prone areas, comparing buyout/floodproofing programs to capital improvement projects, with total program costs estimated at $49.1 million ($37 million with grants). The Council requested staff present remaining flood protection projects at a future session and pursue proposals for establishing a stormwater utility to fund potential projects. No formal decisions were made on specific flood projects; the session was informational.
- Approved the May 24, 2021 City Council Planning Session minutes.
- Requested staff present the remainder of Flood Protection Capital Improvement Projects at a future Planning Session.
- Requested City staff pursue proposals for establishing a stormwater utility to fund potential Flood Protection Capital Improvement Projects.
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Liquor Control Commission meeting scheduled for June 10, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. This is a procedural notice; no decisions or discussions will occur.
- Liquor Control Commission meeting cancelled
- Originally scheduled for June 10, 2021 at 7 PM
- Location: City Council Chambers, Wheaton City Hall, 303 W. Wesley Street
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a special use permit and four variations for a 4,200-square-foot fast-food restaurant with a drive-thru at 908 E. Roosevelt Road. The proposal includes demolition of existing structures, 50 parking spaces (16 fewer than required), and reduced landscape and sign setbacks. The board will hear public comments and accept written input.
- Special use permit for fast-food restaurant with drive-thru at 908 E. Roosevelt Road
- Demolition of existing structures for new 4,200 sq ft commercial building
- Variation for 50 parking spaces instead of required 66
- Variation for front yard landscape setback of 5.1 ft instead of 15 ft
- Variation for side yard landscape setbacks of 5 ft instead of 10 ft
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to consider a zoning application (ZA 21-15) for 908 E. Roosevelt Road. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment.
- Zoning application ZA 21-15 for 908 E. Roosevelt Road
- Public comment period
- Approval of previous meeting minutes
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of a special use permit and variations for a Culver's fast-food restaurant with a drive-thru at 908 E. Roosevelt Road. The recommendation includes conditions such as an 8-foot beige vinyl fence, a monument sign instead of a pylon sign, a wider driveway approach, and designated employee parking. The board also approved the minutes from the May 25, 2021 meeting.
- Approved minutes of May 25, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of ZA 21-15 for Culver's at 908 E. Roosevelt Rd (6-0)
- Condition: 8-foot beige vinyl fence along rear property line
- Condition: monument sign instead of pylon sign
- Condition: wider driveway approach, or right-in/right-out if IDOT denies
- Condition: employee-only parking spaces identified on site plan
- Condition: garbage collection per City Code Sec. 54-45 (6 am-6 pm, Mon-Fri)
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding a special virtual meeting. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no new business and the fire hydrant painting project listed as old business with a TBD status.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: TBD
- Virtual meeting via Zoom with public comment by phone or link
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission approved two funding commitments: holding annual fundraisers with a $5,000/year minimum goal and committing at least $5,000 to the Get Fired Up Wheaton fire hydrant painting project, launching Labor Day. The Commission also noted the retirement of Kathy Young and the cancellation of the Mural Project.
- Approved annual fundraisers with $5,000/year minimum goal (unanimous)
- Committed at least $5,000 to Get Fired Up Wheaton project (unanimous)
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved May 24, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 6:39 p.m. (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider several ordinances and resolutions, including special use permits for a planned unit development at Blanchard Circle and a two-story mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue, as well as a zoning text amendment to reduce parking requirements. The agenda also includes appointments to city boards, a sidewalk criteria and prioritization list, and various infrastructure contracts. Public comments will be heard during the Citizens to be Heard section.
- Special use permit for PUD-21 Blanchard Circle
- Special use permit for two-story mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue (LX4 Properties, LLC)
- Zoning text amendment to reduce parking requirements
- Resolution authorizing agreement with HDR Engineering for Wheaton Ave pedestrian underpass rehab construction engineering services
- Resolution approving new public sidewalk criteria and prioritization list
The Wheaton City Council unanimously passed Ordinance O-2021-26, establishing an administrative adjudication system for municipal code violations, expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2021. The council also approved several development projects, including a special use permit for two commercial buildings at 21 Blanchard Circle and a mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue. A new sidewalk criteria and prioritization list was adopted, with $350,000 budgeted annually to achieve sidewalks on at least one side of every street by 2026. The council also approved a Pride proclamation to be issued at the June 21 meeting.
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-26 establishing administrative adjudication for municipal code violations (unanimous)
- Approved special use permit for two commercial buildings at 21 Blanchard Circle (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-28 allowing reduced on-site parking requirements in College Avenue area (unanimous)
- Approved special use permit for two-story mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-52 establishing new sidewalk criteria and prioritization list (unanimous)
- Approved $85,216.68 for garage door replacement at Water Division (unanimous)
- Approved $34,898.44 for Wheaton Avenue Pedestrian Underpass engineering services (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 801 in the amount of $2,825,822.05 (unanimous)
Community Relations Commission
The Community Relations Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business, including approving minutes and receiving committee updates on past events like the Good Citizens Award and AAPI Heritage Month. Under new business, members will discuss the meeting structure (hybrid, Zoom, or in-person), the Wheaton Plaza del Zocalo, and a new member applicant, Meg Beasley. Public comment is open.
- Discussion of meeting structure: hybrid, Zoom, or in-person
- Discussion of Wheaton Plaza del Zocalo
- New member applicant: Meg Beasley
- Committee updates: Good Citizens Award, AAPI Heritage Month, Festival of Cultures, Make a Difference Day, Veterans acknowledgement
The Community Relations Commission approved a motion to partner/sponsor the Plaza del Zocalo event, with members volunteering to judge a pet parade. The meeting also included updates on various community initiatives, such as the Good Citizens Awards and Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, but no other substantive decisions were made.
- Approved partnership/sponsorship of Plaza del Zocalo event (all members)
- Approved May 2021 meeting minutes (all members)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is holding a routine meeting that includes electing officers and conducting closed-session interviews of firefighter candidates. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no public action items or financial decisions listed.
- Election of officers
- Closed session: approval of closed session minutes
- Closed session: firefighter candidate interviews
The Board unanimously re-elected Commissioner Wanzenberg as Secretary and Commissioner Cannova as Chair. It approved prior meeting minutes, entered closed session to review minutes and firefighter candidate interviews, and unanimously voted to place Matthew Sheehan on the Final Firefighter Eligibility List while removing all other candidates considered. The Board also opened June 15, 2020 closed session minutes, kept other closed minutes closed, and destroyed all previous closed session recordings.
- Approved minutes of May 12 regular meeting (unanimous)
- Re-elected Commissioner Wanzenberg as Secretary (unanimous)
- Re-elected Commissioner Cannova as Chair (unanimous)
- Entered closed session to review closed session minutes and firefighter candidate interviews (unanimous)
- Opened June 15, 2020 closed session minutes; kept all other closed minutes closed (unanimous)
- Destroyed all previous closed session recordings (unanimous)
- Placed Matthew Sheehan on Final Firefighter Eligibility List; removed all other candidates (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 8:55 p.m. (unanimous)
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, a budget report, and reports on recycling, Adopt-a-Highway, and Arbor Day. They will also discuss upcoming projects like the June electronic recycling event, unfinished business such as battery recycling and Green Citizen planning for 2022, and new business on funding for EIC events.
- Monthly Electronic Recycling event on 6/12/21
- Battery Recycling discussion
- Green Citizen planning for 2022
- Annual Report due 6/15/2021
- Funding for EIC events
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved the April meeting minutes unanimously. Members reported on recent events, including a slow electronics recycling day, a highway cleanup, and a successful native plant sale with nearly $1,400 profit. No new funding was needed, and several items were tabled.
- Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
- Tabled battery recycling discussion
- Tabled Green Citizen planning for 2022
- No funding needed for EIC events
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on May 25, 2021, to consider a special use permit for a planned unit development at 21 Blanchard Circle. The proposal includes demolishing an existing structure and building a 5,900-square-foot multi-tenant retail building with a restaurant and drive-thru, plus a 10,500-square-foot nursery school. The public can comment remotely or in writing.
- Special use permit for planned unit development at 21 Blanchard Circle
- Demolition of existing structure and construction of two commercial buildings
- 5,900 sq ft retail building with 2,400 sq ft restaurant with drive-thru and 3,500 sq ft retail
- 10,500 sq ft nursery school with outdoor playground
- 49 parking spaces for retail building, 36 for nursery school
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a zoning text amendment that would reduce off-street parking requirements in the College Avenue and Downtown Parking Overlay Districts, and a special use permit for a two-story mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue. The building would have 2,156 square feet, 5 parking spaces (4 tandem), a business/professional office on the main floor, and 2-3 apartments upstairs. The applicant is LX4 Properties, LLC.
- Zoning text amendment to delete and replace Articles 5.7.B(3).3, 16.6D, 22.1.4, and 22.4.1.3(1) to allow reduced parking in College Avenue area
- Special use permit for two-story mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue with 2,156 sq ft footprint and 5 parking spaces (4 tandem)
- Proposed parking ratios: Medical 1.92/1,000 sq ft, Office 1.81/1,000 sq ft, Residential .78/1,000 sq ft, Restaurant 6.88/1,000 sq ft, Retail 1.05/1,000 sq ft, Performing Arts Theatre .32/seat
- Tandem parking allowed as special use in Parking Overlay or Institutional Zoning Districts, with employee/resident/parishioner restrictions
- Public hearing via Zoom on May 25, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.; written comments to Staff Planner Tracy Jones
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding its regular meeting virtually and in person, with no new business on the agenda. The only old business item is the Fire Hydrant Painting Project, with details to be determined. The meeting includes public comments and approval of minutes, and is largely procedural aside from the hydrant project update.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: TBD
- No new business listed
- Public comments accepted via Zoom or in person
- Meeting held in Gamon Room, Wheaton City Hall
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission discussed the Festival of Cultures poster and recommended artists make alterations within seven days. The Fire Hydrant Project waiver was tabled due to length, and a new mural project at Hale and Liberty Streets was introduced for future discussion.
- Recommended artists alter Festival of Cultures poster (unanimous)
- Tabled Fire Hydrant Project waiver until next meeting
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved May 24, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
Planning & Zoning Board
The Planning and Zoning Board will meet virtually to review new business items. The agenda includes two specific zoning cases regarding 21 Blanchard Circle and 1016 College Avenue.
- ZA 21-13: 21 Blanchard Circle
- ZA 21-14: 1016 College Avenue
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval of a special use permit for a planned unit development at 21 Blanchard Circle, allowing two commercial buildings (a 5,900 sq ft restaurant/retail building and a 10,500 sq ft nursery school) after demolition of the existing structure. The board also recommended approval of text amendments and a special use permit for a two-story mixed-use building at 1016 College Avenue, including reduced parking requirements and tandem parking spaces. Both recommendations were approved unanimously (5-0) and will go to the City Council for final decision.
- Recommended approval of ZA 21-13 special use permit for PUD at 21 Blanchard Circle (5-0)
- Recommended approval of ZA 21-14 text amendments and special use for 1016 College Avenue (5-0)
- Approved minutes of May 11, 2021 as presented
- Closed public hearings for both ZA 21-13 and ZA 21-14
- Waived normal rules to vote on both items the same evening
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss the future funding of police and firefighter pension liabilities. The body will also review new criteria for sidewalk construction.
- Analysis of future funding of police and fire pension liabilities
- New sidewalk construction criteria
The City Council discussed a new sidewalk construction policy and heard public comments, but took no formal votes. On pension funding, the majority of Council directed staff to focus on issuing a $51.9 million Pension Obligation Bond to eliminate the entire unfunded police and fire pension liability, though some members preferred annual $1.2 million contributions. No final decision was made; staff will continue analysis.
- Approved April 26, 2021 Planning Session minutes
- Directed staff to focus on $51.9M Pension Obligation Bond option (majority preference)
- Discussed new sidewalk construction criteria; no formal action
Police Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting to review investment performance, approve bills, and act on membership and retirement applications. The board will also consider several administrative items, including trustee training fees, insurance renewal, and board election results.
- Quarterly investment performance review and investment policy update by Graystone Consulting
- Approval of bills, including Illinois Department of Insurance Compliance Fee
- Applications for membership from Ryan Cusack, Corey Eldridge, Mohammad Mohammad, Cory Simpson, and Evan Tschida
- Approval of regular retirement benefits for William Cooley, Kathleen Sommerfield, Adnan Hasan, and Roy Reiger
- Reinstatement of creditable service for Bradley Caliendo and QILDRO for Mark Fields
The Wheaton Police Pension Fund Board approved rebalancing its investment portfolio by liquidating $1.5 million from Oakmark International and $600,000 from Vanguard S&P 500 Index Fund, reallocating proceeds equally to fixed income managers Ryan Labs and Chartwell. The board also approved monthly disbursements of $276,995.57, accepted four new members, approved four regular retirement benefits, and approved several other financial and administrative items.
- Approved portfolio rebalancing: liquidate $1.5M from Oakmark International and $600K from Vanguard S&P 500, reallocate to Ryan Labs and Chartwell (4-0)
- Approved monthly disbursements of $276,995.57 (4-0)
- Approved payment of IDOI Compliance Fee upon receipt of invoice (4-0)
- Accepted five new Tier II members: Ryan Cusack, Corey Eldridge, Mohammad Mohammad, Cory Simpson, Evan Tschida (unanimous)
- Approved regular retirement benefits for William Cooley, Kathleen Sommerfield, Adnan Hasan, Roy Reiger (4-0)
- Approved fiduciary liability insurance renewal of $6,263 (4-0)
- Approved Bradley Caliendo's reinstatement of creditable service, $26,780.57 paid in full (4-0)
- Certified election results: Angela Smith and Jerry Hampel re-elected unopposed for two-year terms (unanimous)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission is meeting to review ongoing projects and new proposals. Members will discuss a bike lane proposal for Danada Dr and potential synergy with the French Market.
- Danada Dr Bike Lane Proposal
- Library Bike presentation
- Bicycle Friendly Community update
- Group ride planning for June 5th
- Safe routes update
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved the April minutes unanimously and decided to host the June meeting in person, with the option to switch to Zoom if needed. They planned a July 14 library webinar on biking, a June 5 public group ride ending at Memorial Park, and a bike photo contest for August 1-15. No formal votes were taken on policy items; most actions were planning and coordination decisions.
- Approved April minutes unanimously
- Decided to host June meeting in person, with option to switch to Zoom
- Scheduled library webinar 'Biking Adventures' for July 14 at 7 pm
- Planned public group ride on June 5, ending at Memorial Park concert
- Set bike photo contest for August 1-15, with Alyse to lead coordination
- Tabled Danada Dr proposal for vote at June meeting
- Agreed to explore French market bike valet and temporary bike racks
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting, with public comments and approval of the April minutes. Old business includes updates on historic site markers, Preservation Month, the annual report due June 15, and officer elections. New business is limited to miscellaneous items.
- Historic site marker updates
- Preservation Month activities
- Annual report due June 15, 2021
- Officer elections
The Wheaton Historic Commission unanimously approved the April 20, 2021 minutes as amended and re-elected its officers for the coming term. The commission also discussed site markers, Preservation Month activities, and a potential cemetery walk, but took no other formal votes.
- Approved April 20, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Elected Nancy Flannery as Chair, Lori Bilske as Vice Chair, and Steph McGrath as Secretary (unanimous)
Firefighters' Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting on May 17, 2021, at 9:00 a.m. at Fire Station #1, 1 Fapp Circle. The agenda includes approval of minutes, investment and accountant reports, trustee training fees, and a status update on disability benefits for Lyle Lake. The board will also certify election results for a retired member position and discuss a records disposal service.
- Approval of February 19, 2021 meeting minutes
- Investment report from Marquette Associates, including potential security trades and manager changes
- Accountant's report from Lauterbach & Amen, including bill approvals and Illinois Department of Insurance compliance fee
- Status update on disability benefits for Lyle Lake
- Certify board election results for retired member position
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board approved reallocating $600,000 from cash to the NIS fixed income manager upon receipt of the tax levy, and approved $100,991.52 in disbursements. They also approved several trustee training reimbursements, engaged L&A for records disposal, and certified Rick Kammes' reelection to the retired member position.
- Approved $600,000 reallocation from cash to NIS fixed income manager (4-0, Hartman abstained)
- Approved $100,991.52 in disbursements per Vendor Check Report (5-0)
- Approved IDOI Compliance Fee payment up to $8,000 (5-0)
- Approved Trustee Hartman's training reimbursement of $384.16 (4-0, Hartman abstained)
- Approved Trustee Cochran's training reimbursement of $228.08 (4-0, Cochran abstained)
- Approved Trustee Skilondz's training reimbursement of $824.02 (4-0, Skilondz abstained)
- Certified Rick Kammes' reelection to retired member position (unanimous)
- Engaged L&A for records inventory and disposal services up to $2,250 (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting on May 17, 2021, to consider a range of items including a planned unit development for an 18-unit apartment building, several liquor license changes, a contract for the Wheaton Avenue pedestrian underpass rehab, and an ordinance establishing administrative adjudication. The agenda also includes consent items for construction agreements at multiple addresses, a budget amendment, and various proclamations and recognitions.
- Ordinance granting PUD for 18-unit apartment building at 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Ave (Ross Builders)
- Resolution authorizing agreement with Landmark Contractors for Wheaton Avenue pedestrian underpass rehab
- Ordinance amending Chapter 6 to increase Class I liquor license for Front Street Grill, 225 W. Front St.
- Ordinance amending Chapter 6 Sec 6-87.5 for outdoor special event liquor license
- Ordinance amending 2021 budget (Ordinance O-2020-42)
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved a special use permit for a four-story, 18-unit apartment building at 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Avenue, following a unanimous recommendation from the Planning & Zoning Board. The Council also passed ordinances to increase a liquor license for Front Street Grill, allow outdoor special event liquor sales, and amend the 2021 budget to add a grant writer position. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved special use permit for 18-unit apartment building at 204-210 S. Wheaton Ave. (unanimous)
- Approved increase in Class I liquor license for Front Street Grill (unanimous)
- Amended liquor code to allow alcoholic liquor at outdoor special events (unanimous)
- Authorized special event liquor license to Downtown Wheaton Association for margarita crawl (unanimous)
- Adopted resolution supporting restoration of LGDF revenue (unanimous)
- Approved $275,337.07 contract for Wheaton Avenue Pedestrian Underpass Rehabilitation (unanimous)
- Approved 2021 budget amendment adding grant writer/administrator position (unanimous)
- Approved front yard setback variation for gazebo at Bartlett Learning Center (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board is meeting to consider several action items, including approving non-resident card participation and a new method for calculating non-resident fees for homeowners and renters. They will also select a consultant for West Side Plaza repairs and discuss a mechanical study. The meeting will be held via Zoom due to COVID-19 precautions.
- Motion to approve non-resident card participation
- Motion to approve tax method for non-resident fees for homeowners and renters
- Motion to approve nominating committee
- West Side Plaza repairs – selection of consultant
- Mechanical study – discussion
The Board approved non-resident card participation and a tax-based method for calculating non-resident fees for homeowners and renters, both unanimously. It also approved a nominating committee and discussed but did not decide on West Side Plaza repairs and a mechanical study.
- Approved non-resident card participation (unanimous)
- Approved tax method to calculate non-resident fees for homeowners and renters (unanimous)
- Approved nominating committee with Fenne as chair (unanimous)
- Deferred West Side Plaza consultant selection to June meeting
- Discussed mechanical study for chillers; no action taken
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Foreign Fire Insurance Board
The Foreign Fire Insurance Board is meeting to handle routine business: approving old minutes, receiving the treasurer's report, and hearing public comment. They will also discuss the Station 38 kitchen remodel and a new fitness training item. The agenda is mostly procedural, with only these two substantive items listed.
- Station 38 Kitchen remodel discussion
- Fitness training as new business
- Treasurer's report
- Public comment period
- Approval of old minutes
The Foreign Fire Insurance Board approved a budget not to exceed $120,000 for the Station 38 kitchen remodel and a separate budget not to exceed $3,500 for ACE certification of three members. Both motions passed unanimously. The board also approved prior minutes and the treasurer's report, and assigned officer roles.
- Approved minutes from last meeting (unanimous)
- Approved treasurer's report (unanimous)
- Approved officer roles: President Lt. Hunecke, Vice President FF Tabb, Treasurer FF Igara, Secretary FF Baus (unanimous)
- Approved Station 38 kitchen remodel budget not to exceed $120,000 (unanimous)
- Approved fitness training budget not to exceed $3,500 for 3 ACE certifications (unanimous)
Local Liquor Commission
The Wheaton Local Liquor Commission is meeting to consider two liquor-related items: a Class I liquor license application for Front Street Grill at 225 W. Front Street, and an amendment to the city code regarding outdoor special event liquor licenses, along with an application for such a license for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Margarita Crawl event. The meeting also includes routine items like roll call, public comment, and approval of minutes.
- Class I liquor license application – Front Street Grill, LLC (Mike Ditka's Chicago, LLC DBA Front Street Grill) – 225 W. Front Street
- Amendment to Sec. 6-87.5 of the Wheaton City Code – Outdoor Special Event Liquor License
- Application for an Outdoor Special Event Liquor License – Downtown Wheaton Association – Margarita Crawl
The Wheaton Local Liquor Control Commission recommended approval of a Class I liquor license for Front Street Grill, a proposed restaurant at 225 W. Front Street, with a unanimous vote. The commission also recommended approval of an amendment to the city code to allow alcoholic liquor (not just beer and wine) at outdoor special events, and approved two outdoor special event licenses for the Downtown Wheaton Association's Margarita Crawl events, both by a 3-1 vote with Chair Taylor dissenting.
- Recommended approval of Class I liquor license for Front Street Grill (unanimous)
- Recommended approval of amendment to Sec. 6-87.5 to allow alcoholic liquor at outdoor special events, with added 'and quantity' language (3-1)
- Recommended approval of Outdoor Special Event Liquor Licenses for DWA Margarita Crawl events on June 4 and July 9, 2021 (3-1)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to discuss a proposal regarding preference points for the interim eligibility list for police officer candidates, consider the end of probation for Police Officer Adam Welte, and review a promotional examination education waiver request. The meeting will be held virtually due to the Governor's executive order.
- Proposal on preference points for interim eligibility list for police officer candidates
- End of probation for Police Officer Adam Welte
- Promotional examination education waiver request
The Board unanimously approved ending probation for Police Officer Adam Welte and accepted a promotional examination education waiver request from Police Officer Mario Fearon. Minutes from the March 24th meeting were also approved. No action was taken on a proposal regarding preference points for the interim eligibility list.
- Ended probation for Police Officer Adam Welte (unanimous)
- Accepted promotional exam education waiver for Police Officer Mario Fearon (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of March 24th regular meeting (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on May 11, 2021, to consider Zoning Application #21-10, which requests a variation to allow a gazebo/pavilion with a 0.0-foot front yard setback off Cross Street instead of the required 20.0 feet. The property is owned by the Bartlett Learning Center at 125 E. Seminary Avenue. Public comments will be accepted at the hearing or in writing.
- Zoning Application #21-10 for a gazebo/pavilion structure at 125 E. Seminary Avenue
- Requested variation: 0.0-foot front yard setback off Cross Street instead of required 20.0 feet
- Public hearing held remotely via Zoom on May 11, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
- Written comments may be sent to Staff Planner Tracy Jones at tjones@wheaton.il.us
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to consider a front yard setback variation for the Bartlett Learning Center at 125 E. Seminary Avenue. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comment.
- Front yard setback variation (ZA 21-10) for 125 E. Seminary Avenue - Bartlett Learning Center
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended approval of a front yard setback variation for a gazebo/pavilion at 125 E. Seminary Avenue, allowing a 0.0-foot setback off Cross Street instead of the required 20 feet. The structure, proposed by the Bartlett Learning Center, would replace shade from a removed tree for students with sensory issues. The recommendation will go to the City Council for final decision.
- Approved minutes of April 27, 2021 as presented
- Closed public hearing for ZA #21-10 (voice vote, all aye)
- Waived normal rules to vote same evening (voice vote, all aye)
- Recommended approval of ZA #21-10 front yard setback variation (6-0)
Public Notices & Hearings
This agenda is a public notice for a single in-person meeting of the Band Commission on May 10, 2021, at 7:00 p.m. in the Gamon Room at Wheaton City Hall. No specific agenda items are listed, so the meeting appears to be procedural or routine.
- Band Commission in-person meeting scheduled for May 10, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
- Meeting location: Gamon Room, 2nd Floor, Wheaton City Hall
Public Notices & Hearings
The City Council has cancelled its regularly scheduled Planning Session for Monday, May 10, 2021. No other business is listed for this meeting.
- Cancellation of the May 10, 2021 Planning Session
Band Commission
The Wheaton Band Commission is meeting to discuss the 2021 concert season and the procedures to be implemented to comply with COVID precautions. The agenda includes public comments and commission questions, but no specific decisions or proposals are listed.
- Discussion of 2021 Concert Season
- Procedures for COVID precautions
The Wheaton Band Commission discussed plans for the 2021 summer season, with the Wheaton Municipal Band performing at the Memorial Park bandshell. No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational, covering COVID-19 protocols, ticketing, and logistics. The band will split into two alternating groups, and auditions were skipped, with all 2019 members invited back.
- No auditions held for 2021 season; all 2019 band members offered spots
- Band roster split into two alternating groups (A and B) for performances
- COVID-19 protocols adopted for rehearsals and concerts, including temperature checks and sanitizing
- Eventbrite retained as ticketing resource with limited in-person ticket options
- Fourth of July parade participation funded from excess band funds
- Band commission members to volunteer at concert gates
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is meeting virtually to handle routine business: approving minutes, receiving committee updates on events like the Good Citizens Award and Festival of Cultures, and discussing the annual report and commission positions. Public comment is available by phone or Zoom.
- Committee updates: Good Citizens Award, Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, Festival of Cultures, Make a Difference Day, Veterans acknowledgement
- New business: Annual Report and Commission positions
- Public comment via phone 312-626-6799, Meeting ID 865 3660 0140
The Community Relations Commission approved the April minutes, selected 13 Good Citizens Award winners, and approved a $150 speaker fee for an Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month webinar. The commission also approved a slate of officers for the next year, with Tony Asta as Chair, and discussed plans for the Festival of Cultures and expanding Make a Difference Day.
- Approved April 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Selected 13 Good Citizens Award winners (5 adults, 6 students, 2 groups)
- Approved $150 speaker fee for AAPI Heritage Month webinar (unanimous)
- Approved slate of officers: Tony Asta (Chair), Colleen Attwell (Vice Chair), Krista Selvey (Secretary), Saleha Jawaid (Treasurer), Jen Sever/Rachel Bautista (Communications Leads) (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
This is a special virtual meeting of the Fine & Cultural Arts Commission. The agenda is mostly procedural, covering call to order, roll call, public comments, and approval of minutes. The only substantive item is discussion of the Fire Hydrant Painting Project for July 4th under old business.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: July 4th discussion
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding a virtual special meeting. The agenda is mostly routine (call to order, roll call, minutes approval), with the only substantive item being discussion of the Fire Hydrant Painting Project for July 4th under old business.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: July 4th discussion
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission voted unanimously to delay the Fire Hydrant Project until all legal conditions are approved, following concerns from the City of Wheaton's legal department about First Amendment considerations since the hydrants are public property. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with agenda and minutes approved unanimously.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of April 27 (unanimous)
- Delayed Fire Hydrant Project pending legal review (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will hold its regular meeting on May 3, 2021, with a mix of consent and regular agenda items. Key actions include approving a budget amendment, several special use permits and zoning variations, a liquor license change, and various contracts and agreements. The meeting also includes proclamations and public comment opportunities.
- Ordinance amending calendar year budget (Ordinance No. O-2019-60)
- Special use permit amendment for Wade Center at NWC Lincoln and Washington
- Extension of time for PUD at 105 Bridge Street (Andreacchi)
- Side yard setback variation at 523 E. Elm Street (Johnson)
- Decrease in Class A liquor license for Sushi Mono, 230 W. Front Street
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including minutes, several construction agreements, a liquor license amendment, and a subdivision plat. They also reappointed Anne Wanzenburg to the Fire and Police Commissioners and designated Nicole Aranas as Chairman of the Planning & Zoning Board. The council passed ordinances for a special use permit amendment at the Wade Center, a PUD extension at 105 Bridge Street, a budget amendment, a setback variation at 523 E. Elm Street, and a service agreement with Altiro Latin Fusion for the library café. Resolutions were adopted for security cameras, a lease with ComEd, and other items.
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, construction agreements, liquor license amendment, and subdivision plat (unanimous)
- Reappointed Anne Wanzenburg to Fire and Police Commissioners and designated Nicole Aranas as Planning & Zoning Board Chairman (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-17 amending special use permit for Wade Center to allow demolition and garden (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-18 extending PUD validity for 105 Bridge Street by one year (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-19 amending 2020 budget (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-20 granting setback variation at 523 E. Elm Street (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-35 for library café service agreement with Altiro Latin Fusion (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-36 for security cameras at water facilities, not to exceed $20,747 (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing to consider Zoning Application #21-06, a request for a variation to allow a deck with a 17.79-foot corner side yard setback instead of the required 30.47 feet at 523 E. Elm Street. The applicant is Christopher Johnson. Public comments will be accepted during the remote meeting or in writing.
- Zoning Application #21-06: variance for deck at 523 E. Elm Street
- Requested setback: 17.79 feet instead of required 30.47 feet
- Public hearing via Zoom on April 27, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
- Written comments to Staff Planner Tracy Jones
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on April 27, 2021, to consider a special use permit for a planned unit development. The application seeks to build a four-story, 18-unit apartment building at 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Avenue. The public can comment remotely via Zoom or by phone.
- Special use permit for planned unit development (Application #21-07)
- Four-story, 18-unit apartment building at 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Avenue
- 26,154 sq ft living space, 30 parking spaces, rooftop deck
- Applicant: Ross Builders, Inc. on behalf of Liberty Square Flats, LLC
- Public hearing via Zoom and phone; written comments to tjones@wheaton.il.us
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Wheaton Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting virtually to discuss routine business including a budget report, reports on recycling and other programs, and upcoming projects like electronic recycling and Arbor Day. The commission will also take up unfinished business on battery recycling and Green Citizen planning, plus new business including officer elections and the annual report.
- Monthly Electronic Recycling event scheduled for 5/8/21
- Arbor Day event at Jefferson Early Child Center on 4/30/21
- Discussion of battery recycling program
- EIC Officers Elections
- Annual Report due 6/15/2021
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved the March minutes and reelected Ted Witte as Chair, Bob as Treasurer, and Cathy Coleman as Secretary by unanimous voice vote. The commission also reported on the April 10 Recycling Extravaganza, which collected 71,305.70 pounds of materials, and discussed upcoming events including an electronics recycling event and Arbor Day tree planting. No new expenditures were reported, and no public comment was received.
- Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
- Reelected officers: Ted Witte (Chair), Bob (Treasurer), Cathy Coleman (Secretary) (unanimous voice vote)
- Tabled Green Citizen 2022 planning
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding its regular meeting, with new business including a proposal for a rose mural by Stephen Bryer and old business on the Fire Hydrant Painting Project for July 4th. The meeting is open to the public both virtually and in person.
- Rose Mural project proposal by Stephen Bryer
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project scheduled for July 4th
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission learned that the artist for the Rose Project decided not to pursue it, effectively ending that project. The commission discussed plans for the Fire Hydrant Project, assigning roles and scheduling a special meeting to finalize details. No formal votes were taken on these items.
- Approved agenda by unanimous voice vote
- Approved minutes of March 23 and April 13 by unanimous voice vote
- Noted Rose Project artist declined to pursue project
- Discussed Fire Hydrant Project roles and themes; no formal action taken
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to consider two new business items: a corner side yard variation for 523 E. Elm Street and a planned unit development (PUD) for 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Avenue. The board will also handle routine matters like approving minutes and public comment.
- ZA 21-06: Corner side yard variation at 523 E. Elm Street (Johnson)
- ZA 21-07: PUD at 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Avenue (Ross Builders, Inc.)
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended approval of a special use permit for a planned unit development (PUD) to build a 4-story, 18-unit apartment building at 204 and 210 S. Wheaton Avenue, with conditions. The board also unanimously recommended approval of a side yard setback variation for a deck at 523 E. Elm Street. Both recommendations will go to the City Council for final action.
- Recommended approval of PUD for 18-unit apartment building at 204/210 S. Wheaton Ave (5-0)
- Recommended approval of side yard setback variation for deck at 523 E. Elm St (5-0)
- Approved minutes of April 13, 2021 meeting as presented
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to continue discussions regarding the analysis of future funding for police and firefighter pension liabilities. The meeting also includes the approval of draft minutes from the April 12, 2021, planning session.
- Analysis of future funding of police and fire pension liabilities - continued discussion
The Wheaton City Council held a planning session to continue discussing strategies for funding Police and Fire pension liabilities, with a focus on reducing future costs and achieving more predictable payments. No formal decisions were made; the Council directed staff to further analyze specific funding scenarios, including a one-time $6 million contribution, annual $1.2 million contributions for five years, and issuing a Pension Obligation Bond. The meeting was procedural, with no votes taken on substantive items.
- Approved April 12, 2021 Planning Session minutes
- Directed staff to focus on three pension funding strategies: one-time $6M contribution, $1.2M annual for 5 years, and Pension Obligation Bond
- Requested staff to analyze payroll growth assumptions and amortization approaches for pension funding
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is meeting to discuss ongoing business including map distribution and contributions to an annual report. Members will provide updates on safe routes and the Bicycle Friendly Community status. The body is also coordinating group rides and the National Bike to School event.
- Library Bike presentation
- Map distribution plan and storefront signs
- National Bike to School event on May 5th
- Safe routes update
- Bicycle Friendly Community update
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved $100 for 5"x7" bike map signs for storefront distribution and discussed creating a library bike video. Members agreed to pilot safe-routes programs at Whittier and Monroe schools, and postponed the Bicycle Friendly Community update to next month. No other formal votes were taken; most items were planning discussions.
- Approved $100 for bike map signs (unanimous)
- Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Agreed to pilot safe-routes program at Whittier and Monroe schools
- Postponed Bicycle Friendly Community update to next meeting
- Tabled vote on bike ride with Park District until next meeting
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, hearing public comments, and discussing old and new business. Key items include updates on historic site markers and a book project, as well as planning for Preservation Month activities and the annual report due June 15. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.
- Historic site marker updates
- Preservation Month programs: fall lecture 'The Great Fires of Wheaton' and September bike tour of Mid-Century Modern Homes
- DuPage County Historical Museum Architectural Walking Tour on May 30 at 10 am
- Annual Report due June 15, 2021
- Officer election in May
The Wheaton Historic Commission approved Lori Bilske as a new commissioner and made plans for Preservation Month, including setting dates for Pride in Preservation signs and scheduling a history bike tour. The commission also discussed a potential cemetery walk and updates to the history booklet.
- Approved Lori Bilske as new commissioner (unanimous)
- Set Pride in Preservation signs for May 15-23
- Planned fall lecture on major fires in Wheaton
- Scheduled History Bike Tour for September
- Approved February 16, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting on April 19, 2021, to consider several routine items, including approving minutes, consent agenda resolutions for construction agreements, and a bond waiver for a school PTA. The regular agenda includes an ordinance to amend employee pay schedules, reappointments to city commissions, issuance of outdoor liquor licenses for park district concerts, an extension for a development at 525 W. Roosevelt Road, a zoning report for a setback variation, and a resolution to purchase trees for the downtown streetscape project. The meeting is open to the public in person and virtually.
- Ordinance amending pay schedules for city officers, assistants, and employees
- Resolution to purchase trees from Kaneville Tree Farms for Phase 4 of Downtown Streetscape Project
- Ordinance to extend time for development at 525 W. Roosevelt Road
- Request for bond waiver and raffle license for Carl Sandburg Elementary School PTA
- Authorization of outdoor special event liquor licenses for Wheaton Park District weekend concerts
The Wheaton City Council unanimously passed Ordinance O-2021-14, amending pay schedules for non-collective bargaining employees for 2021/22 to remain competitive. They also approved consent agenda items, reappointments, liquor licenses, a special use permit extension, a tree purchase, and a warrant. All votes were unanimous.
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-14 amending pay schedules (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including resolutions and raffle license (unanimous)
- Reappointed members to Band, Environmental Improvement, and Bicycle Advisory Commissions (unanimous)
- Authorized outdoor special event liquor licenses for Memorial Park concerts (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-15 extending special use permit for cat adoption agency (unanimous)
- Received P&Z report and authorized Mayor to sign comment card for setback variation (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-28 for tree purchase up to $42,330 (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 798 for $1,888,517.44 (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board is meeting to consider several actions, including approving the 2021-2023 strategic plan, adding the Sunday before Memorial Day and Labor Day to holiday closings, and selecting a coffee café vendor. The board will also discuss library reopening and hear public comments.
- Motion to approve 2021-2023 Wheaton Public Library Strategic Plan
- Motion to add Sunday before Memorial Day and Labor Day to holiday closings
- Coffee café vendor presentations and recommendation to City Council
- Library reopening discussion
- Financial reports for March 2021 and bill listing for April 2021 payment
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved the 2021-2023 Strategic Plan, the addition of Sundays before Memorial Day and Labor Day to holiday closings, and recommended Altiro as the coffee café vendor to the City Council. The Board also approved the consent agenda and discussed reopening plans for June 1st.
- Approved 2021-2023 Strategic Plan (unanimous)
- Approved adding Sunday before Memorial Day and Labor Day to holiday closings (unanimous)
- Approved recommending Altiro as coffee café vendor to City Council (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including March minutes and financial reports (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding a special virtual meeting to discuss new business, including a fire hydrant painting project with a date to be determined. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and public comments, followed by a closed session for commission applicant interviews.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: Date TBD
- Closed Session: Commission Applicant Interviews
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding a virtual special meeting on April 13, 2021. The main item of new business is discussing the Fire Hydrant Painting Project, with the date still to be determined. The rest of the agenda is routine procedural items like approving minutes and public comments.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project: date to be determined
- Virtual meeting via Zoom with public comment by phone or link
- Approval of agenda and minutes
- Public comments period
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission held a special meeting to discuss a fire hydrant art project, which has City support. Members discussed timeline, sponsorships, and partnering, and Mike Bock will confirm requirements with the Fire Chief and draft guidelines for the next meeting. No formal decisions were made.
- Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
- Discussed fire hydrant project details; no formal action taken
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to handle routine business, including approving minutes and public comment. The main item is a request for comment on a DuPage County zoning notification for a corner side yard setback variation at 1928 Stoddard Avenue, submitted by Karlovitz. The board is discussing, not deciding, this item.
- ZA 21-05: DuPage County zoning notification request for comment on a corner side yard setback variation at 1928 Stoddard Avenue (Karlovitz)
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board voted unanimously to recommend approval of ZA #21-05, a variation to allow an in-ground pool at 1928 Stoddard Avenue with a corner side yard setback of 13.0 feet instead of the required 30.0 feet (county) or 24.2 feet (city). The recommendation is subject to conditions that the existing play structure not be relocated to the front yard and that landscaping be installed and maintained per the attached plan. The board also approved the February 23, 2021 minutes and adjourned at 7:37 p.m.
- Approved minutes of February 23, 2021 as presented
- Recommended approval of ZA #21-05 pool setback variation at 1928 Stoddard Ave (7-0, unanimous)
- Conditioned recommendation on not relocating play structure to front yard and maintaining landscaping per plan
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council Planning Session includes discussions regarding adding parking inventory in the downtown area. The body will also receive information and an update on sanitary sewers.
- Adding Parking Inventory Downtown
- Sanitary Sewer Information And Update
The City Council discussed a potential parking structure on the north lot of City Hall, reviewing three conceptual four-story options from Walker Consultants costing about $10 million each, and directed staff to continue exploring the strategy. Staff also presented proposed revisions to the Residential Sewer Backup Program (increasing reimbursement to 75% up to $6,000) and the Sanitary Sewer Service Line Reimbursement Program (requiring full replacement, raising the cap to $5,000, and increasing the budget to $250,000), and the Council asked staff to investigate ways to increase program participation. No formal votes were taken at this planning session.
- Council directed staff to continue investigating a downtown parking deck strategy.
- Council requested staff investigate ways to increase participation in sewer backup and service line reimbursement programs.
- Council approved the March 12, 2021 planning session minutes.
- Council heard presentations on parking and sanitary sewer issues but took no formal votes.
Local Liquor Commission
The Wheaton City Council is meeting to consider an outdoor special event liquor license for the Wheaton Park District's Summer Entertainment Series weekend concerts at Memorial Park on multiple dates in June through September. The agenda also includes public comment, approval of minutes from November 12, 2020, and items under old and new business. No other substantive decisions are listed.
- Outdoor Special Event Liquor License for Memorial Park (Wheaton Park District) on June 4-5, 25-26, July 9-10, 23-24, August 7-8, September 10-11
- Approval of minutes from November 12, 2020
- Public comment period
- Old business and new business items (unspecified)
The Wheaton Local Liquor Control Commission recommended approval of Outdoor Special Event Liquor Licenses for the Wheaton Park District's Summer Entertainment Series Weekend Concerts at Memorial Park. The recommendation covers multiple dates from June through September 2021, with alcohol sales subject to COVID-19 capacity restrictions and safety protocols. The motion passed unanimously on a roll call vote.
- Approved minutes of November 12, 2020 meeting (voice vote, all aye)
- Recommended approval of Outdoor Special Event Liquor Licenses for Memorial Park summer concerts (roll call, all aye)
Foreign Fire Insurance Board
The Wheaton Fire Station 38 board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving old minutes and receiving the treasurer's report. They will discuss the Station 38 kitchen remodel under old business. New business includes training and fitness reimbursements for Mellinger, and safety glasses. Public comment is scheduled before agenda additions.
- Station 38 Kitchen remodel
- Mellinger training reimbursement
- Fitness reimbursements
- Safety glasses
- Public comment
The board approved the treasurer's report, reimbursements for FF Igara and Evoy, fitness reimbursements, and $1,800 for safety glasses. The Station 38 kitchen remodel and Mellinger training reimbursement were tabled. The meeting was procedural with no public comment.
- Approved minutes from 11/20/2020 meeting unanimously.
- Approved treasurer's report unanimously.
- Approved reimbursement for FF Igara and Evoy for class in Champaign (Igara recused).
- Tabled Station 38 kitchen remodel due to lack of financial info.
- Tabled Mellinger training reimbursement ($400) until next meeting.
- Approved fitness reimbursements for verified members unanimously.
- Approved $1,800 for safety glasses and replacement parts unanimously.
- Adjourned at 0757 unanimously.
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is meeting virtually to review past events, receive committee updates, and discuss upcoming initiatives. The agenda includes post-event reviews, updates on community engagement, and planning for heritage month celebrations.
- Post-event review of Women's History Month
- Update on meetings with community leaders re: strategy/planning
- Good Citizens Award update
- Planning for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month
- Festival of Cultures update
The Community Relations Commission approved a $25 sponsorship for a Field of Honor flag at Seven Gables Park, hosted by Cantigny American Legion from June 30 to July 4. Members also discussed upcoming events including Good Citizens Awards, AAPI Heritage Month, and Juneteenth recognition, but no other formal votes were taken.
- Approved $25 flag sponsorship for Field of Honor (all approved)
- Approved March 2021 meeting minutes (all approved)
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting to consider several routine and administrative items, including amendments to the 2021 budget and pay schedules, as well as authorizing purchases of a street sweeper and snow thrower. The agenda also includes consent items for bond waivers, surplus property disposal, and appointments to city boards. Public comments will be heard, and the meeting is held in person and virtually.
- Ordinance amending the Calendar Year 2021 Budget (O-2020-42)
- Ordinance amending pay schedules for city officers, assistants, and employees
- Resolution to purchase one replacement street sweeper from Standard Equipment Company
- Resolution to purchase one replacement snow thrower from Bonnell Industries
- Resolution authorizing Agreement 191 with Globe Construction for concrete flatwork
The Wheaton City Council approved a three-year extension of its solid waste and recycling contract with Lakeshore Recycling Systems, retaining the pay-as-you-throw model, by a 4-3 vote. The council also unanimously passed several other items, including a 2021 budget amendment for a library capital project, purchases of a street sweeper and snow thrower, a concrete work agreement, and two ordinances ratifying mayoral executive orders related to COVID-19. All other agenda items, including consent agenda and board appointments, were approved unanimously.
- Approved 3-year Lakeshore Recycling contract extension (4-3)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-11 amending 2021 budget for library project (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-20 for street sweeper purchase up to $282,248 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-21 for snow thrower purchase up to $115,724.07 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-22 for concrete work with Globe Construction up to $180,000 (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-12 ratifying executive order for Memorial Park bandshell use (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-13 ratifying executive order for Hale Street dining tents (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 797 for $1,604,489.88 (unanimous)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to discuss police hiring requirements and provide feedback to staff for further research. They will also hold a closed session to review a prior candidate's qualifying examination and the police officer selection process. Public comment is available via phone.
- Discussion of police hiring requirements
- Closed session to review prior candidate's qualifying examination
- Closed session on police officer selection process
- Comments on Wheaton Police Department 2020 Annual Report
The Board approved adding Mohammad Mohammad and Matthew Lucki to the Lateral Police Officer Eligibility List. The board also approved the minutes of the February 10th regular meeting. No other substantive business was conducted; the meeting included a closed session for candidate interviews and adjournment.
- Approved minutes of the February 10th regular meeting.
- Approved adding Mohammad Mohammad and Matthew Lucki to the Lateral Police Officer Eligibility List.
- Held a closed session for entry-level police candidate interviews.
- Adjourned the meeting.
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Environmental Improvement Commission is meeting to discuss routine business including budget and recycling reports, and to plan upcoming events such as the electronic recycling event, Recycling Extravaganza, Native Plant Sale, and Arbor Day. They will also address unfinished business like battery recycling and Green Citizen planning, and consider new business including an Earth Day proclamation, Adopt-a-Highway, and funding for EIC events.
- Monthly Electronic Recycling (4/10 part of Extravaganza)
- Recycling Extravaganza (4/10/21)
- Native Plant Sale (4/24/21)
- Arbor Day – Jefferson Early Child Center (4/30/21)
- Funding for EIC events
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved a motion to allocate up to $100 for incidentals for the Recycling Extravaganza. The commission also approved the February meeting minutes and heard reports on recent and upcoming events, including a successful electronics recycling collection.
- Approved up to $100 for Extravaganza incidentals by unanimous voice vote.
- Approved February meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote.
- Noted no new expenditures in the budget report.
- Heard report on March 13 electronics recycling event, which collected about 20 gallons of cooking oil, several hundred bulbs, and several gaylords of textiles.
- Discussed upcoming projects: Electronics Recycling and Recycling Extravaganza (April 10), Native Plant Sale (April 24), Arbor Day (April 30), and Honoraria (April 5).
- Noted battery recycling and Green Citizen planning are still in progress.
Public Notices & Hearings
This agenda is a public notice that the Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 23, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.
- Planning and Zoning Board meeting cancelled for March 23, 2021
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding a virtual regular meeting to discuss new business including a fire hydrant painting project and a joint art installation with the Chamber of Commerce, as well as old business regarding the Festival of Cultures high school art project and stage support. The meeting includes public comments and standard procedural items like agenda approval and minutes.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project (date TBD)
- Chamber of Commerce Joint Art Installation
- Festival of Cultures: High School Art Project and Stage Support on September 12th
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission meeting scheduled for March 23, 2021, was not held because a quorum was not present. No decisions or discussions occurred.
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council Planning Session includes discussions regarding a system of administrative adjudications and a contract extension for Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS). The meeting also includes the approval of previous draft minutes.
- System Of Administrative Adjudications discussion
- Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS) Contract Extension discussion
- Approval of 03/08/21 Draft Minutes
The City Council directed staff to establish a contract extension with Lakeshore Recycling Systems (LRS) using Option 2, which continues the pay-as-you-throw model with increased collection fees. The Council also approved the March 8, 2021 Planning Session minutes. No formal ordinance was adopted for the administrative adjudication system; staff will gather more information for a future session.
- Approved the March 8, 2021 City Council Planning Session minutes.
- Directed staff to proceed with an LRS contract extension using Option 2's pay-as-you-throw model with increased collection fees.
- Discussed a draft ordinance for administrative adjudications but took no formal action; staff will present more information later.
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is meeting to receive updates on the History ride, Bike to School, and Safe routes programs. Members will discuss the potential for a 2021 Bike Fest or photo contest and a proposed new biking challenge activity.
- Biking Challenge proposal including digital posting and mileage tracking
- Discussion on 2021 Bike Fest or Bike Wheaton Photo Contest
- Bicycle Friendly Community update
- Bike to School and Safe routes updates
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission voted to postpone pursuing Bicycle Friendly Community certification until 2022, deciding 2021 was too early. They approved the February minutes and discussed plans for group rides, a history ride, a biking challenge, and a photo contest, but no other formal decisions were made.
- Approved February minutes unanimously
- Postponed Bicycle Friendly Community application to 2022
- Planned first group ride for April 17 to St. James Farm
- Planned second group ride for May 1 on south side shortcuts
- Agreed to co-sponsor bike photo contest with Park District
- Discussed library Zoom request on bike safety and routes
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historical Commission's regular meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 16, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. No items were discussed or decided at this meeting.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of business
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will consider an ordinance to deny a special use permit for a business office in the C-2 Retail Core Business District at 210 W Wesley St. The agenda also includes consent items for plat consolidations, a raffle license waiver, appointments to boards and commissions, and authorization for equipment rental.
- Ordinance denying special use for business office at 210 W Wesley St
- Resolution approving Good News Publishers Plat of Consolidation No. 3
- Resolution approving 1104 E Harrison Avenue Plat of Consolidation
- Waiver and raffle license for Lincoln Elementary School PTA
- Resolution authorizing rental of backhoe loader and dump truck from Herc Rentals
The Wheaton City Council unanimously denied a special use permit for a State Farm insurance office at 210 W. Wesley Street, citing inconsistency with the Comprehensive Plan and C-2 Retail Core district. The council also approved consent agenda items, including two plats of consolidation and a raffle license, and authorized equipment rental for storm sewer repairs.
- Denied special use permit for insurance office at 210 W. Wesley St. (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including plat consolidations and raffle license (unanimous)
- Appointed Marisa Nickol to Sister City Commission for 3-year term (unanimous)
- Authorized $26,850 rental of backhoe loader and dump truck via Omnia Partners (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 7965 for $1,084,608.25 (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board is meeting to consider several policy changes, including a motion to eliminate daily overdue fines and a proposal to add Father's Day to holiday closings. The board will also discuss the third draft of its strategic plan and vote on a $17,600 contract for a visioning and master plan. Public comment is being accepted via an online form due to COVID-19 precautions.
- Motion to approve eliminating daily overdue fines
- Strategic Plan Draft 3 discussion
- Motion to approve Studio GC proposal for visioning and master plan at $17,600
- Motion to approve adding Father's Day to holiday closings
- Financial reports for February 2021 and bill listing for March 2021 payment
The Wheaton Public Library Board of Trustees voted to eliminate daily overdue fines, approved a $17,600 contract for a visioning and master plan, and added Father's Day to holiday closings. The board also discussed the strategic plan draft and heard that the library may fully reopen around June 1st.
- Approved the consent agenda, including February 2021 minutes and financial reports.
- Approved eliminating daily overdue fines.
- Approved Studio GC proposal for a visioning and master plan at $17,600.
- Approved adding Father's Day to holiday closings.
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
This agenda is a notice that the Wheaton Board of Fire and Police Commissioners has rescheduled its regular meeting from March 10, 2021 at 5:30 PM to Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at 3:30 PM in the Gamon Room at Wheaton City Hall. No other business items are listed.
- Regular meeting rescheduled from March 10 to March 24, 2021
- New time: 3:30 PM
- Location: Gamon Room, Wheaton City Hall, 303 W Wesley Street
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, March 9, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. The city clerk issued this public notice in accordance with state statutes.
- March 9, 2021 Planning and Zoning Board meeting cancelled
- Cancellation due to lack of business
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council Planning Session includes discussions regarding future funding for police and fire pension liabilities. The council will also discuss the refinancing of 2010 General Obligation Bonds.
- Analysis of future funding of police and fire pension liabilities
- 2010 General Obligation Bonds - Refinancing
The City Council discussed issuing Pension Obligation Bonds to address the unfunded pension liabilities of the Police and Firefighters' Pension Funds, with a potential bond of $57 million. No formal decision was made, but the Council requested staff to provide further analyses on this and other funding strategies, including debt capacity and risk evaluations. The Council also directed staff to explore paying off the 2010 General Obligation Bonds early using $2.5 million in General Fund excess reserves.
- Approved the February 22, 2021 Planning Session minutes.
- Discussed issuing Pension Obligation Bonds to address unfunded pension liabilities; no decision made.
- Requested staff to provide analyses of funding strategies, including a $57 million pension obligation bond with dollar-cost averaging.
- Requested staff to provide details on debt capacity, risk evaluations, and financial projection timelines for funding strategies.
- Directed staff to explore paying off the 2010 General Obligation Bonds using $2.5 million in General Fund excess reserves.
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is holding a virtual meeting on March 3, 2021. The agenda includes approval of minutes, old business such as a post-event review of Black History Month and committee updates on community leader meetings, Women's History Month, the Good Citizens Award, and the Festival of Cultures. The meeting also includes a public comment period.
- Post-event review of Black History Month
- Update on meetings with community leaders re: strategy/planning
- Women's History Month planning
- Good Citizens Award update
- Festival of Cultures update
The Community Relations Commission approved a motion to co-sponsor the Frida Kahlo art exhibit with the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce by helping secure artists. The commission also approved the February 2021 meeting minutes. Updates were given on Black History Month engagement, Women's History Month plans, and Good Citizens Awards deadlines.
- Approved motion to co-sponsor Frida Kahlo art exhibit with Wheaton Chamber of Commerce
- Approved February 2021 meeting minutes
- Discussed Black History Month wrap-up statistics and Women's History Month components
- Noted Good Citizens Awards application dates: March 22 to April 26, event May 17
- Commissioners assigned to clean storage in the Annex per City request
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will hold its regular meeting on March 1, 2021, with a mix of routine and substantive items. Key actions include amending fire department fees, extending a preliminary plat for Henniger Homes, and considering a PUD amendment to allow a dual-lane drive-thru at Chick-fil-A on E. Loop Road. The council will also vote on several resolutions authorizing purchases and contracts, including bituminous material, locker room renovations, exterior painting, thermal imaging cameras, and flow metering services. Public comments are limited to the Citizens to be Heard portion, with options to submit in advance or speak virtually.
- Ordinance amending Section B-9 Fire Dept Fees in Appendix B Fee Schedule
- Ordinance extending time on validity of Ordinance O-2019-53 for Henniger Homes preliminary plat
- Ordinance amending PUD to allow dual lane drive-thru at Chick-fil-A, 301 E. Loop Road
- Resolution opposing variance petition for property at 0N758 Gary Avenue
- Resolution authorizing purchase of bituminous material from Plote Construction
The Wheaton City Council unanimously passed Ordinance O-2021-09, amending the Planned Unit Development to allow a dual-lane drive-thru at the Chick-fil-A at 301 East Loop Road. The Council also voted 6-1 to direct the City Attorney to draft an ordinance denying a special use permit for a business office at 210 W. Wesley Street, following the Planning & Zoning Board's recommendation. Additionally, the Council approved several resolutions, including the purchase of bituminous material for road work and contracts for police locker room renovations and public works painting.
- Approved minutes of February 16, 2021 meeting and a raffle license for Wheaton Junior Women's Club (consent agenda).
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-07 amending fire department fees for ambulance services (BLS, ALS 1, ALS 2).
- Reappointed Kevin Illia to the Board of Fire & Police Commissions for a three-year term.
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-08 extending the validity of a preliminary plat for the Summit Street Subdivision (209-231 N. Summit St. and 1403 Harwarden St.).
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-09 amending the PUD for a dual-lane drive-thru at Chick-fil-A, 301 East Loop Road.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-09 opposing a variance for property at 0N758 Gary Avenue.
- Adopted Resolutions R-2021-10 through R-2021-14 authorizing purchases and contracts for road material, police locker room renovation, public works painting, thermal imaging cameras, and flow metering services.
- Directed the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance denying the special use permit for 210 W. Wesley Street (motion carried 6-1).
🗳️ How they voted (1 roll-call vote)
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Wheaton Environmental Improvement Commission will meet virtually to discuss routine business including budget and recycling reports, upcoming events, and unfinished items. Key items include recommendations for a solid waste/recycling contract and funding for EIC events.
- Solid Waste/Recycling Contract recommendations
- Funding for EIC events
- Battery Recycling
- No Idling Signs
- Recycling Extravaganza (4/10/21)
The Environmental Improvement Commission approved funding for the April 10 Recycling Extravaganza: $1,500 for three shredding trucks and up to $400 for honoraria. The commission also discussed a potential 3-year extension of the city's recycling contract with Lakeshore, providing feedback on features like 'pay as you throw'. The Prairie Path Clean Up was officially cancelled.
- Approved $1,500 for three shredding trucks for the April 10 Recycling Extravaganza
- Approved up to $400 for honoraria for the April 10 event
- Approved the January meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote
- Noted the Prairie Path Clean Up was officially cancelled
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The commission is reviewing several cultural programs and public art initiatives. Discussion includes a fire hydrant painting project and upcoming summer events.
- Fire Hydrant Painting Project (date TBD)
- Music in the Park on July 25th
- Festival of Cultures High School Art Project and Stage Support on September 12th
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission held a routine virtual meeting, approving the agenda and January minutes by unanimous voice votes. No formal action was taken on new business; members discussed a potential fire hydrant painting project, awaiting approval from the Fire Chief, and noted ongoing plans for Music in the Park and Festival of Cultures pending Park District date confirmation. The meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
- Approved the meeting agenda by unanimous voice vote
- Approved the January 26, 2021 minutes by unanimous voice vote
- Discussed fire hydrant painting project; no action taken, will seek Fire Chief approval
- Discussed Music in the Park and Festival of Cultures; awaiting Park District date confirmation
- Discussed removal of golf balls; no action taken, letter to be drafted
- Discussed future project ideas; no action taken
- Discussed artist's prints for ornaments; no action taken
- Adjourned meeting at 6:40 p.m. by unanimous voice vote
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to consider agenda items including approval of minutes, public comment, and old business. The primary item under old business is PZB 21-02, a proposal for 210 W. Wesley Street, which is the subject of a linked document. The meeting will conclude with miscellaneous items and adjournment.
- Review of PZB 21-02 for 210 W. Wesley Street
- Approval of minutes from previous meeting
- Public comment period
- Old business discussion
- Miscellaneous items
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board denied a special use permit (ZA #21-02) that would have allowed a business and professional office (insurance office) to occupy the main floor of the commercial space at 210 W. Wesley Street in the C-2 Retail Core Business District. The board voted unanimously against the request, citing concerns about setting a precedent and insufficient evidence to meet special use standards, particularly the Comprehensive Plan objective. The public hearing was closed before the vote.
- Approved minutes of February 9, 2021 as presented
- Closed public hearing for ZA #21-02 (voice vote, all aye)
- Denied special use permit ZA #21-02 for 210 W. Wesley Street (unanimous, 0-7)
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss the fourth part of a flood resiliency investigation. The meeting includes time for public comment and the approval of previous minutes.
- Discussion of Flood Resiliency Investigation Part 4
The City Council held a planning session to review Part 4 of the Flood Resiliency Investigation, which presented a Stormwater Decision Framework to address overland flooding. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational, with staff outlining potential buyout, floodproofing, and capital improvement options. The total program cost was estimated at approximately $49 million, potentially reduced to $37 million with grants. The Council also discussed a potential ordinance requiring commercial property owners to clear sidewalks after snow events, but no action was taken.
- Approved January 25, 2020 minutes with revision of 'interest rate' to 'actuarial established rate of return'
- Discussed flood resiliency framework; no formal action taken
- Discussed potential snow removal ordinance for commercial properties; no action taken
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board is holding a planning meeting via Zoom to discuss strategic planning with trustees and management staff. Public comment is accepted via written statements submitted online. The agenda contains only this discussion item and procedural items.
- Strategic planning discussion with board and management staff
- Virtual meeting via Zoom only due to COVID-19 precautions
- Public comments accepted via online form
The Wheaton Public Library Board held a planning meeting to discuss the library's strategic plan, led by Library Director Betsy Adamowski. No formal decisions or votes were made; the plan will be a discussion item at the March board meeting. The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
- No formal decisions or votes taken during the planning meeting
- Strategic plan to be discussed at March Library Board meeting
Firefighters' Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board of Trustees is meeting virtually to handle routine pension fund business. They will review investment reports, approve monthly bills, and consider cost-of-living adjustments for pensioners. The agenda also includes trustee training, eligibility affidavits, and possible discussion of records disposal services.
- Investment report from Marquette Associates, including potential securities trades and policy review
- Accountant's report from Lauterbach & Amen, LLP, with monthly financials and bill approval
- Approval of annual Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) for pensioners
- Review of trustee term expirations and election procedures
- Discussion of records inventory and disposal service by Lauterbach & Amen, LLP
The Wheaton Firefighters' Pension Fund Board approved the 2021 Cost of Living Adjustments for pensioners as calculated by Lauterbach & Amen, approved $114,992.05 in disbursements, and accepted the monthly financial report. The board also placed CI Financial on alert due to its acquisition of Segall Bryant & Hamill, consented to assign the contract to CI Financial, and approved transferring $100,000 from Vanguard S&P 500 to cash. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the transfer and one on the COLA approval.
- Approved 2021 Cost of Living Adjustments as calculated by L&A (4-0, Kammes abstained)
- Approved $114,992.05 in disbursements for Oct-Dec 2020 (5-0)
- Accepted monthly financial report for period ending Dec 31, 2020 (5-0)
- Placed CI Financial on alert due to organizational changes (5-0)
- Consented to assign Segall Bryant & Hamill contract to CI Financial (5-0)
- Approved transfer of $100,000 from Vanguard S&P 500 to cash on April 1, 2021 (4-0, Hartman abstained)
- Approved $385 registration fees for trustees to attend IPPFA Illinois Pension Conference (5-0)
- Authorized L&A to suspend pensioners' direct deposit if affidavits not received (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Police Pension Fund Board
The Wheaton Police Pension Fund Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting on February 18, 2021, at the Wheaton Police Department. The board will consider approving regular retirement benefits for Rodney Stringer, annual cost of living adjustments for pensioners, and a new membership application from Mario Fearon. They will also review investment and financial reports, discuss a portability update, and may enter closed session.
- Approve Regular Retirement Benefits – Rodney Stringer
- Approve Annual Cost of Living Adjustments (COLAs) for Pensioners
- Application for Membership – Mario Fearon
- Quarterly Performance Review – Graystone Consulting
- Presentation and Approval of Bills – Lauterbach & Amen, LLP
The Wheaton Police Pension Fund Board approved regular retirement benefits for two officers, approved 2021 cost-of-living adjustments for pensioners, and reallocated $700,000 from a Vanguard fund to a cash account. The board also accepted a new member, approved a pension portability transfer, and accepted the monthly financial report with $221,433.95 in disbursements.
- Approved $700,000 reallocation from Vanguard Index 500 to US Bank Cash Equity #1 (5-0)
- Approved Rodney Stringer's regular retirement benefit of $4,672.99/month (5-0)
- Approved $93.15 retroactive payment variance for Rodney Stringer (5-0)
- Approved William Cooley's regular retirement benefit of $8,834.35/month (5-0)
- Approved 2021 Cost of Living Adjustments for pensioners (5-0)
- Accepted Mario Fearon into the pension fund as Tier II participant (unanimous)
- Accepted Seth Berlin's portability transfer of $54,387.28 from Hanover Park (5-0)
- Approved monthly financial report and $221,433.95 in disbursements (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is coordinating efforts for National Bike to School Day on May 5th and planning the 2021 History Ride. Members are also discussing the Bicycle Friendly Community initiative and recruiting new commission members.
- Coordination of National Bike to School Day (May 5th)
- Planning for 2021 History Ride
- Bicycle Friendly Community discussion
- Update on 400 stickers for maps
- Recruitment of new commission members
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission agreed to pursue the League of American Bicyclists' Bike Friendly Community designation as a long-term goal, with members Bob van Valzah and Laurel Salvador tasked to further investigate the application and propose next steps. The commission also approved the January meeting minutes unanimously and discussed plans for National Bike to School Day, Safe Routes to School, and the 2021 History Ride.
- Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Agreed to pursue Bike Friendly Community designation as long-term goal
- Assigned Bob van Valzah and Laurel Salvador to investigate application and propose next steps
City Council Meetings
The City Council will review several new business items including tax levy abatement and fire department fee updates. The meeting also includes a discussion on identifying strategic priorities for the city through 2025.
- Ordinance amending liquor licenses for Butterfield Rd and Smashburger
- Ordinance abating the 2020 tax levy for SSA 2
- Resolution authorizing agreement 176 with MDS Technologies for pavement management system updates
- Ordinance amending Fire Department fees in the Wheaton City Code
- Resolution identifying strategic priorities for the City of Wheaton 2021-2025
The Wheaton City Council unanimously adopted Resolution R-2021-08 identifying five strategic priorities for 2021-2025: financial stability, enhanced infrastructure, responsive and efficient services, community safety, and environmental sustainability. The Council also approved a $35,950 contract with MDS Technologies for pavement management system updates, abated the entire $39,400 SSA #2 tax levy, and passed two liquor license amendments. All votes were unanimous with no opposition.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-08 identifying 2021-2025 strategic priorities (unanimous)
- Approved $35,950 contract with MDS Technologies for pavement management updates (unanimous)
- Abated entire $39,400 SSA #2 tax levy via Ordinance O-2021-06 (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-05 amending liquor licenses for 7-Eleven and Smashburger (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 794 in the amount of $1,622,839.69 (unanimous)
- Approved minutes of February 1, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission is meeting virtually and in person to conduct regular business, including approving prior meeting minutes and receiving updates on historic site markers and a book project. The commission will also discuss a new application from Scott and Julie Berger to add 418 S. West Street to the Wheaton Register of Historic Places, and note the Chicago Golf Club's recent listing on the National Register.
- Application by Scott & Julie Berger for 418 S. West Street to the Wheaton Register of Historic Places
- Update on historic site marker projects
- Update on 'Wheaton and Its Homes' by Graham Burnham
- Chicago Golf Club named to National Register of Historic Places
- Approval of November 17, 2020 and January 19, 2021 meeting minutes
The Wheaton Historic Commission approved a landmark application for the home at 418 S. West, determining it significant for history, architecture, and age, with a built date of 1903. The commission also approved minutes from previous meetings and discussed several non-decision items, including site markers, a history booklet reissue, and Preservation Month activities.
- Approved landmark application for 418 S. West (unanimous)
- Approved November 17, 2020 minutes as amended (unanimous)
- Approved January 19, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board is meeting remotely via Zoom due to COVID-19. The board will consider a consent agenda, hear reports, and discuss unfinished business including an interior remodel project update and the elimination of daily overdue fines. New business includes a discussion of Father's Day and a motion to appoint new board officers.
- Discussion on elimination of daily overdue fines
- Interior Remodel Project Update
- Motion to appoint Laurie Metanchuk as Library Board President and Vallari Talapatra as Library Board Secretary
- Financial reports for January 2021 and bill listings for December 2020 and February 2021 payments
- Special planning meeting scheduled for February 22, 2021
The Wheaton Public Library Board approved the consent agenda, including January meeting minutes and financial reports. The board appointed Laurie Metanchuk as Board President and Vallari Talapatra as Board Secretary. Discussions were held on eliminating daily overdue fines and closing on Father's Day, with motions expected at the next meeting.
- Approved consent agenda including January minutes and financial reports (unanimous)
- Appointed Laurie Metanchuk as Library Board President (unanimous)
- Appointed Vallari Talapatra as Library Board Secretary (unanimous)
Board of Fire & Police Commissioners
The Board of Fire & Police Commissioners is meeting to approve the final Fire Lieutenant eligibility list and the board's rules and regulations. The board will also enter a closed session to discuss the police officer selection process. Public comment is available by phone.
- Approval of Final Fire Lieutenant Eligibility List
- Approval of Rules and Regulations of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners
- Closed session on Police Officer selection process (5ILCS 120/2(C)(3))
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing to consider a special use permit for an insurance agency to occupy the main floor of an existing commercial space at 210 W. Wesley Street. The property is zoned C-2 Retail Core Business District. Public comments will be accepted during the remote hearing or in writing.
- Special use permit application #21-02 for business and professional office (insurance agency)
- Location: 210 W. Wesley Street, Wheaton, IL 60187
- Applicant: Mark Boswell, on behalf of owner Chicago Title Land Trust (Trust Number 8002371229)
- Public hearing via Zoom on February 9, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to handle routine procedural items including roll call, minutes approval, and public comment. The main item of new business is a zoning application (PZB ZA 21-02) for 210 W. Wesley Street, which the board will discuss or decide on.
- Zoning application PZB ZA 21-02 for 210 W. Wesley Street
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board held a public hearing for a special use permit to allow a State Farm office at 210 W. Wesley Street. The board voted unanimously to continue the hearing until February 23, 2021, to allow the Downtown Wheaton Association to submit a recommendation and staff to research the history of a comparable property. No final decision was made.
- Continued public hearing for special use permit ZA #21-02 to February 23, 2021 (voice vote, all aye)
- Approved minutes of January 26, 2021 as presented
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton City Council has cancelled its regularly scheduled Planning Session for Monday, February 8, 2021, due to lack of business. This is a procedural notice with no items to be decided or discussed.
- Cancellation of City Council Planning Session on February 8, 2021
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is holding a virtual meeting on February 3, 2021, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm. The agenda includes approval of minutes, old business with committee updates on community leader meetings, Black History Month, Women's History Month, the Good Citizens Award, and the Festival of Cultures, plus new business and public comment. The meeting is held virtually due to the governor's executive order limiting gatherings.
- Committee updates on strategy/planning with community leaders
- Black History Month planning
- Women's History Month planning
- Good Citizens Award update
- Festival of Cultures update
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will meet on February 1, 2021, to consider several items, including a contract for Phase 4 of the Downtown Streetscape, an amendment to the Morgans Orchard Lake PUD, and a special use permit for an artist studio. They will also receive reports on paramedic service fees and the 2020-2025 strategic plan, and make board appointments.
- Resolution authorizing Agreement 174 with LAMP Concrete Contractors for Phase 4 of Downtown Streetscape
- Ordinance amending PUD for Morgans Orchard Lake Subdivision
- Ordinance granting special use for artist studio in existing garage at 719 S Naperville Rd
- Resolution authorizing Agreement 175 with Marquette Associates for investment consultant services
- Appointments and reappointments to city boards and commissions
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved a $10.32 million contract with A Lamp Concrete Contractors for Phase 4 of the Downtown Streetscape, including solar power with battery storage (Option 3). The council also passed a zoning amendment for Morgan's Orchard Lake subdivision, approved appointments to city boards, and received reports on paramedic service fees and the strategic plan.
- Approved $10.32M Downtown Streetscape Phase 4 contract with A Lamp Concrete Contractors (unanimous)
- Passed ordinance O-2021-03 amending zoning map and granting special use permit for Morgan's Orchard Lake subdivision (unanimous)
- Approved appointments: Rochelle Favale to Group Care Home Commission, Lisa Buchanan to Historic Commission, Tim Bayee to Police Pension Fund Board (unanimous)
- Adopted resolution R-2021-06 for 3-year investment consultant services with Marquette Associates, not to exceed $88,500 (unanimous)
- Passed ordinance O-2021-04 granting special use permit for artist's studio at 719 S. Naperville Road (unanimous)
- Received staff report on paramedic service fees, supporting Option 4 (unanimous)
- Received 2020-2025 Strategic Plan report with minor wording changes (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 793 for $717,150.98 (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board will hold a public hearing on January 26, 2021, to consider a special use permit for two home occupations in a detached garage at 719 S. Naperville Road. The applicants, William and Elizabeth Corry, propose using the main level as an artist's studio and the upper level as a short-term home sharing rental. A special use for an artist's studio on the upper floor was previously granted in 1998. The property will remain in the R-3 zoning district.
- Special use permit application #21-01 for two home occupations in a detached garage
- Main level of garage to be used as artist's studio
- Upper level of garage to be used as short-term home sharing rental
- Property located at 719 S. Naperville Road, Wheaton, IL
- Public hearing via Zoom on January 26, 2021 at 7:00 p.m.
Environmental Improvement Commission
The Wheaton Environmental Improvement Commission is holding a virtual meeting to discuss its budget, recycling reports, and upcoming projects. The commission will also address unfinished business including a green strategic plan, battery recycling, and a native plant sale, plus new business on funding for EIC events.
- Virtual meeting via Zoom; public comments by phone
- Budget report and recycling report
- Upcoming projects: monthly electronic recycling and Arbor Day at Wiesbrook or Sandberg School
- Unfinished business: Nurses Closet, Green Strategic Plan, battery recycling, no idling signs, native plant sale
- New business: funding for EIC events
Fine & Cultural Arts Commission
The Fine & Cultural Arts Commission is holding a virtual regular meeting. The agenda includes public comments, approval of minutes, and new business items for the Music in the Park event on July 25th and the Festival of Cultures on September 12th, which involves a high school art project and stage support. Old business covers various proposed projects such as lithographs and tours. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom or phone.
- Music in the Park event scheduled for July 25th
- Festival of Cultures on September 12th: high school art project and stage support
- Old business: proposed projects including lithographs and tours
- Public comments accepted via Zoom or phone
- Next meeting: February 23rd, 2021
The Fine and Cultural Arts Commission approved a $1,000 donation toward performers and a sound engineer for the Festival of Cultures, and supported a high school graphic design contest with a $100 prize. Music in the Park is tentatively scheduled for July 25 with three performers. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were discussions or updates.
- Approved $1,000 donation for Festival of Cultures performers and sound engineer (unanimous)
- Approved support for high school graphic design contest with $100 prize (unanimous)
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved November 24 minutes (unanimous)
Planning & Zoning Board
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board is meeting virtually to handle routine business, including approving minutes and public comment. The main item is a new zoning application (PZB ZA 21-01) for 719 S. Naperville Road, which will be discussed under new business. The agenda is otherwise procedural.
- Zoning application PZB ZA 21-01 for 719 S. Naperville Road
- Approval of meeting minutes
- Public comment period
- Virtual meeting via Zoom
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council Planning Session includes a discussion regarding the analysis of future funding for police and firefighter pension liabilities. The session also includes a review of the Community Response - Draft Strategic Plan.
- Analysis of future funding of police and fire pension liabilities
- Community Response - Draft Strategic Plan
The Wheaton City Council discussed future funding of police and fire pension liabilities, hearing that a pension obligation bond at 3% interest could save about $33 million through 2041 compared to the current 6.75% actuarial rate. The Council directed staff and consultants to further explore options, including bond issuance and increased annual contributions, and to return with additional analyses. The Council also provided final feedback on the draft Strategic Plan, requesting specific changes to several strategic priorities. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was a planning session.
- Directed staff to further explore pension funding options, including pension obligation bonds (unanimous)
- Requested actuary provide cost breakdown and funding analysis comparing current rate vs. 3% bond over 20 years (unanimous)
- Requested future analyses include economic downturn effects on costs (unanimous)
- Requested changes to Strategic Priority 1: Financial Stability, including rewording outcomes and adding KPI (unanimous)
- Requested changes to Strategic Priority 2: Enhanced Infrastructure, adding KPIs on spending and lead service lines (unanimous)
- Requested changes to Strategic Priority 3: Responsive and Efficient Services, adding cost/efficiency KPI and consolidating goals (unanimous)
- Requested changes to Strategic Priority 4: Community Safety, adding 'residents' and safety data availability (unanimous)
- Requested changes to Strategic Priority 5: Environmental Sustainability, adding energy KPI and removing 'solar' (unanimous)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board is meeting virtually to conduct a board development session with consultant John Keister of John Keister & Associates. The agenda includes only this planning item, with no other business or public comment by phone; written comments may be submitted online.
- Board development session with consultant John Keister
- Virtual meeting via Zoom only
- Public comments accepted via online form only
The Wheaton Public Library Board held a planning meeting with consultant John Keister, who discussed the board's role, including hiring the Library Director and advocating for the library. No formal decisions were made; the only action was adjournment.
- Adjourned meeting at 7:41 p.m. (voice vote, carried)
Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission
The commission is meeting to review feedback on signage and roadway markings. Members will discuss bike shelters, repair stations, and the 2021 roadmap spreadsheet. The body will also consider filling two WBAC openings.
- Signage and Roadway Markings Proposal feedback
- Bike Shelter/Repair Station/Map Sign discussion
- Sticker distribution and map placement
- 2021 Roadmap Spreadsheet including budget requests and roadwork
- Filling two WBAC openings
The Wheaton Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission approved the December minutes unanimously. They discussed signage and roadway marking proposals with guest John Duguay, including issues at the Prairie Path near railroad tracks and at county-owned properties. Plans for a bike shelter, repair station, and map sign were reviewed, with construction expected in May/June. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was largely informational and planning-focused.
- Approved December minutes unanimously
- Discussed signage at Prairie Path near railroad tracks; no action taken
- Reviewed bike shelter/repair station/map sign plans; construction expected May/June
- Agreed to advertise for final two commission openings
- Agreed to discuss bike rides at March meeting
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council is meeting virtually and in person to consider several agenda items. They will vote on a resolution to adopt a Complete Streets policy, an ordinance amending a special use permit for a PUD at Rice Lake Square Parcel 7 (Blue Bird Day), and appointments to city boards and commissions. The consent agenda includes authorizing a bond waiver and issuing a raffle license for Lincoln Elementary School, plus approval of minutes and Warrant No. 792. The meeting also includes a police department promotion/swearing-in ceremony and a proclamation for the Little Popcorn Store's 100th anniversary.
- Resolution to adopt a Complete Streets policy
- Ordinance amending special use permit for PUD at Rice Lake Square Parcel 7 (Blue Bird Day)
- Appointments to city boards and commissions
- Authorize bond waiver and issue raffle license for Lincoln Elementary School
- Approval of bills: Warrant No. 792
The Wheaton City Council unanimously adopted a Complete Streets policy to guide transportation projects and increase grant eligibility. It also approved a special use permit amendment allowing Blue Bird Day to operate at Rice Lake Square, and approved a $1.6 million warrant.
- Adopted Complete Streets policy (unanimous)
- Approved PUD amendment for Blue Bird Day at Rice Lake Square (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 792 for $1,608,429.03 (unanimous)
- Appointed Laura Peccarelli to Community Relations Commission (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes and raffle license for Lincoln Elementary (unanimous)
Historic Commission
The Wheaton Historic Commission will meet virtually to consider two applications for the Wheaton Register of Historic Places: 418 S. West Street and 23 W Union Ave. They will also discuss updates on historic site markers, the 'Wheaton and Its Homes' book, and Cantigny, plus community projects for Black History and Women's History Months.
- Application for 418 S. West Street for the Wheaton Register of Historic Places
- Application for 23 W Union Ave for the Wheaton Register of Historic Places
- Historic site marker updates
- Cantigny update from DuPage County Department of Building & Zoning
- Community Relations Commission projects for Black History Month and Women's History Month
The Wheaton Historic Commission approved Lisa Buchanan's application to serve on the commission, which will now go to the City Council. The commission also discussed several old business items, including the installation timeline for a Chicago Aurora & Elgin marker and challenges with reissuing a history booklet. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational.
- Approved Lisa Buchanan's commissioner application (unanimous)
- Minutes of November 17, 2020 not approved, deferred to next month
- Discussed options for installing Chicago Aurora & Elgin marker (no action)
- Discussed reissue of 'Wheaton and Its Homes' booklet (no action)
Library Board
The Wheaton Public Library Board will consider approving amended operating hours effective March 1, 2021, and will receive updates on the interior remodel project. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda items, financial reports, and a closed session to discuss releasing closed session minutes.
- Motion to approve amended library hours: Mon–Thu 11am–7pm, Fri 11am–5pm, Sat 9am–5pm, Sun 1pm–5pm
- Interior remodel project update
- Financial reports for December 2020 and bill listings for December 2020 and January 2021 payments
- Resolution R-01-20 authorizing release of closed session minutes
- Public comments accepted via online form or read aloud
Commission on Aging
The Commission on Aging will meet virtually to approve its 2021 regular meeting schedule. The body will also discuss goals, modifications, or additions to the Housing Commission Objectives for 2021.
- Approval of November 12, 2020 minutes
- Review of CY 2020 and CY 2021 Housing Assistance Program summaries
- Review of 2021 Interview Summary
- Approval of CY 2021 Regular Meeting Schedule
- Discussion of Housing Commission Objectives 2021
The Wheaton Housing Commission met virtually and approved the minutes from November 2020 and the 2021 meeting schedule. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on administrative matters and updates on the housing assistance program.
- Approved minutes of November 12, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
- Approved 2021 meeting schedule (unanimous)
Public Notices & Hearings
The Wheaton Planning and Zoning Board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 12, 2021, has been cancelled due to lack of business. This notice is procedural and contains no items for discussion or decision.
- Meeting cancelled due to lack of business
City Council Planning Sessions
The City Council will hold a planning session to discuss paramedic service fees. The meeting includes a review of the December 14, 2020 draft minutes.
- Discussion of paramedic service fees
Community Relations Commission
The Wheaton Community Relations Commission is holding a virtual meeting with routine agenda items including approval of minutes, committee updates, and public comment. The main substantive discussion is under old business, covering strategy and planning, 2021 projects, and potential new commission members.
- Discussion of 2021 projects
- Strategy & Planning committee update
- Potential new commission members
- Public comment via phone or Zoom
City Council Meetings
The Wheaton City Council will meet on January 4, 2021, to consider several items, including a resolution authorizing a market license agreement with WFM26, LLC, and a first amendment to a lease with WPD for Presidents Park. They will also consider ratifying a mayoral executive order, renewing a CrowdStrike subscription, and reappointing members to city boards. The meeting will be held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions, with public comments accepted in advance or during the meeting.
- Resolution authorizing market license agreement with WFM26, LLC
- Ordinance ratifying Mayoral Executive Order EO 2020-11
- Resolution approving first amendment to lease with WPD for Presidents Park
- Resolution authorizing renewal of CrowdStrike Falcon Complete subscription from CDW Government
- Reappointment to city boards and commissions
The Wheaton City Council unanimously approved a market license agreement with WFM26, LLC, starting April 1, 2022, allowing the French Market to continue operating. The council also ratified a mayoral executive order extending COVID-19 benefits, approved a lease amendment with the Park District, and authorized a cybersecurity subscription purchase.
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-01 authorizing market license agreement with WFM26, LLC (unanimous)
- Passed Ordinance O-2021-01 ratifying Executive Order 2020-11 extending COVID-19 benefits to June 2021 (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-02 approving lease amendment with Wheaton Park District for Presidents Park (unanimous)
- Adopted Resolution R-2021-03 authorizing Crowdstrike Falcon Complete renewal subscription up to $46,728 (unanimous)
- Reappointed Anthony Asta to Community Relations and Fine & Cultural Arts Commissions (unanimous)
- Approved Warrant No. 791 for $895,446.06 (unanimous)