Will County public meetings in 2021

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing - Cancelled

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting scheduled for December 21, 2021, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for January 4, 2022.

Will County Board - Recessed Meeting

The Board is reviewing several land use ordinances, including a solar farm and animal care facility. Members will also vote on road maintenance funding and a series of election district adjustments across multiple townships.

• Special Use Permit for a solar farm facility at the NE corner of IL-50 and W. Offner Rd.
• Special Use Permit and variances for an animal care/boarding facility at 24520 S. Kankakee St.
• MFT funds of $4,442,020.00 for county-wide maintenance material (bituminous patching).
• Contract award of $249,146.06 to "D" Construction, Inc. for W. Kankakee River Road.
• Public hearing and ordinance regarding raffle regulations in Chapter 116 of the County Code.

The Will County Board approved a series of resolutions adjusting election districts in 24 townships, each by a 15-8 vote. The board also approved a $9.42 million budget increase for the new morgue facility, a solar farm special use permit in Monee, and several road and infrastructure contracts. A proposed ARPA consultant contract was postponed to a January 20 special meeting.

• Approved precinct map adjustments for 24 townships (15-8 each)
• Approved $9.42M all-in cost for new morgue facility (unanimous)
• Approved solar farm special use permit at IL-50 & W. Offner Rd., Monee (13-11)
• Approved animal care/boarding facility special use at 24520 S. Kankakee St., Manhattan (unanimous)
• Approved $4,442,020 MFT funds for county-wide maintenance materials (unanimous)
• Approved $249,146.06 contract to "D" Construction for W. Kankakee River Rd. (unanimous)
• Postponed $1.5M ARPA consultant contract to Jan. 20 special meeting (23-1)
• Approved amended raffle regulations, Chapter 116 (23-0)

WC Republican Caucus - Special Meeting - Cancelled

The special meeting scheduled for December 15, 2021, has been cancelled. No further date has been determined.

WC Land Use & Development Committee - Regular Meeting

The Land Use & Development Committee is considering several zoning ordinances and special use permits. The body will also discuss housing text amendments, solar farm stormwater management, and a building ordinance exception.

• Special Use Permit for a solar farm facility at the NE corner of IL-50 and W. Offner Rd., Monee
• Special Use Permit and variances for an animal care/boarding facility at 24520 S. Kankakee St., Manhattan
• Zoning Map Amendment from A-1 to E-2 and street setback variance for 15620 W. Baker Rd., Manhattan
• Zoning Map Amendment from C-1 to I-1 and outdoor storage permit for V. New Ave., Lockport
• Appeal #APCD-21-005 regarding 2117 Maple Road, Joliet

The committee approved a special use permit for a 2-megawatt solar farm on 30 acres at the NE corner of IL-50 and W. Offner Rd. in Monee, with 16 conditions including increased mowing, a drain tile map, neighbor notification during piling work, and a wildlife mortality report. The committee also approved a special use permit for a dog rescue in Manhattan, a zoning change in Lockport, and sent two ordinance amendments to public hearing.

• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-056 with 16 conditions (5-1)
• Approved animal care/boarding special use permit ZC-21-046 with 8 conditions (7-0)
• Approved zoning map amendment from A-1 to E-2 for ZC-21-067 (6-0)
• Approved zoning map amendment from C-1 to I-1 for ZC-21-070 (6-0)
• Approved outdoor storage yard special use permit for ZC-21-070 with 9 conditions (6-0)
• Tabled appeal APCD-21-005 for ZC-21-071 until January meeting (7-0)
• Approved sending stormwater ordinance amendment for solar farms to public hearing (6-0)
• Approved sending building ordinance amendment for pole barns to public hearing (6-0)

WC Democratic Caucus - Special Meeting

The body is meeting to discuss the County Board Agenda and receive reports from various committees. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items and committee updates.

• Discussion of County Board Agenda
• Land Use & Development committee report
• Finance committee report
• Public Works & Transportation committee report
• Ad-Hoc Modern Housing Solutions committee report

The Will County Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee met on December 2, 2021, and heard a presentation from Anthony Melei, Director of ITT for the Will County Health Department, about the department's IT systems, pandemic response, and a proposed data warehouse project. The committee approved the minutes from its September and October meetings, but took no other formal votes. No decisions were made regarding the data warehouse or any other new business.

• Approved September 2, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved October 7, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

WC Legislative Committee - Regular Meeting

The Legislative & Judicial Committee is meeting to establish federal legislative priorities for FY2023 and state priorities for FY2022. The body will also review updates on state and federal legislative issues and the State, Local, Tribal and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act.

• FY2023 Federal Legislative Agenda & Priorities
• FY2022 State Legislative Agenda & Priorities
• S. 3011/H.R. 5735: State, Local, Tribal and Territorial Fiscal Recovery, Infrastructure, and Disaster Relief Flexibility Act
• Placement of County Highway Route signage on all County Highways

The Will County Legislative & Judicial Committee unanimously approved the minutes from the November 9, 2021 meeting. The committee received informational updates on federal and state legislative issues, including the federal infrastructure bill and state redistricting. A discussion was held on placing County Highway Route signs, which the Public Works Director stated he has the administrative authority to do and plans to proceed with in 2022. No formal action was taken on the signage or other legislative items.

• Approved minutes of Nov 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed placement of County Highway Route signs; no formal action, staff to proceed administratively
• Heard federal legislative update from Smith Dawson & Andrews (informational)
• Heard state legislative update from Curry & Associates (informational)
• Received NACo update on priorities and resolutions (informational)

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss budget amendments and the acquisition of land in the Spring Creek Greenway. The body is also reviewing contracts for waste removal and landscape maintenance.

• Resolution No. 21-34 to acquire Parcel SCX0C1 in the Spring Creek Greenway
• Budget Amendment Ordinance No. 608 for the Corporate Fund (Fund 10)
• Contract award of $29,650.00 to Waste Management of Illinois for waste removal and recycling
• Contract award of $28,500.00 to ASE Illini-Scapes, Inc. for landscape maintenance at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center and Isle a la Cache Museum
• Resolution No. 21-35 for an intergovernmental agreement with Bolingbrook Park District regarding Hidden Oaks Nature Center and Hidden Lakes Trout Farm

The Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners approved several items unanimously, including a budget amendment, land acquisition, and multiple contracts. They also accepted a donation from the Nature Foundation. No substantive decisions were denied or tabled.

• Approved Second Budget Amendment Ordinance No. 608 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 21-34 authorizing acquisition of Parcel SCX0C1 in Spring Creek Greenway (unanimous)
• Awarded $29,650 contract to Waste Management of Illinois for waste removal and recycling (unanimous)
• Awarded $28,500 contract to ASE Illini-Scapes for landscape maintenance at Four Rivers and Isle a la Cache (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution No. 21-35 intergovernmental agreement with Bolingbrook Park District for Hidden Oaks and Hidden Lakes (unanimous)
• Approved Schedule of Bills for November 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved monthly financial statements for November (unanimous)
• Approved motion to amend agenda order to move awards to beginning (unanimous)

WC Executive Committee - Board Agenda Setting Meeting

The Executive Committee is meeting to determine the County Board agenda. Discussions include the American Rescue Plan, paratransit services, and several intergovernmental agreements for mobility management.

• Intergovernmental agreements with Crete, Frankfort, Monee, Peotone, Washington, and Will Townships for the Will County Mobility Management Project
• Authorization to petition the City of Joliet for annexation of a Will County Campus Parcel
• Acquisition of land easements for the construction of the RNG Pipeline
• Funding for expansion of paratransit services and a Paratransit Integration and Efficiency Study
• Amendments to the Will County Raffle Ordinance

The Will County Executive Committee unanimously moved forward several items to the full County Board, including authorizing the County Executive to execute a contract with an ARPA consultant, adjusting election precincts, and amending the raffle ordinance. The committee also approved a resolution supporting expanded paratransit services and postponed a request to annex a County campus parcel into Joliet for further information. Presentations from the Northern Illinois Food Bank and two visitors bureaus were for information only, with no funding decisions made.

• Authorized County Executive to execute ARPA consultant contract (unanimous)
• Moved forward 24 resolutions adjusting election precincts (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting paratransit expansion (unanimous)
• Postponed Joliet annexation petition for more info (unanimous)
• Dissolved four ad-hoc committees (unanimous)
• Corrected scrivener's error in Sheriff's salary ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved County Board agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved multiple intergovernmental agreements for mobility management (unanimous)

Stormwater Management Planning Committee - Regular Meeting

The Stormwater Management Planning Committee is meeting to discuss the 2021 project budget and the 2022 meeting schedule. The body is reviewing funding agreements for drainage restoration and maintenance projects in several municipalities.

• Funding up to $10,750 for Village of New Lenox Hill View Subdivision Drainage Restoration Project at 136 West Wood Street
• Funding up to $12,500 for Wheatland Township Rolling Acres & Sunny Farms Acres Subdivisions Drainage Restoration and Maintenance Project Phase 1
• Funding up to $15,000 for City of Crest Hill Fern Street Drainage Improvement Project
• Discussion of USACE DuPage River Flood Mitigation Project
• Review of 2021 Itemized Budget and 2022 Meeting Schedule

The committee unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included joint funding agreements for drainage projects in Wheatland Township, New Lenox, and Crest Hill, totaling $145,456. They also approved the 2022 meeting schedule. No other substantive decisions were made; the rest of the meeting was discussion and public comment.

• Approved consent agenda with joint funding agreements for drainage projects (12-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-10 with Wheatland Township for Rolling Acres and Sunny Farm Acres drainage restoration
• Approved Resolution 21-11 with Village of New Lenox for Hill View Subdivision drainage restoration
• Approved payout for City of Crest Hill Fern Street drainage project at $7,206.25
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule

WC Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee will review sales and cannabis tax collections and discuss financing options for a renewable natural gas plant at the Prairie View Landfill. Members will also consider several budget appropriation items and transfers across various county departments.

• Establishing all-in budget for Renewable Natural Gas Plant at Prairie View Landfill
• Review of RNG facility financing options with Speer Financial
• Appropriating award funds in Coroner's FY22 Budget
• Appropriating Emergency Solutions Grant funds in Veterans Assistance Commission FY2022 Budget
• Authorizing County Executive to execute documents for Delinquent Tax Program

The Will County Finance Committee postponed establishing the all-in budget for the Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) plant at Prairie View Landfill, with members citing the need for more information on funding gaps. They heard a presentation from Speer Financial on financing options, including private placement and public sale, for a potential $10 million gap. The committee also moved forward several appropriation and transfer items to the County Board, all unanimously.

• Postponed establishing all-in budget for RNG plant (unanimous)
• Moved forward Coroner's FY22 award funds appropriation (unanimous)
• Moved forward Veterans Assistance Commission emergency grant appropriation (unanimous)
• Moved forward FY21 budget transfers (unanimous)
• Moved forward delinquent tax program authorization (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 2 and Nov 9 meetings (unanimous)

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing

The Commission will review several zoning cases involving map amendments, special use permits, and variances across various townships. Items include a fuel station development in Frankfort, accessory dwelling unit adjustments in Monee, and animal care facility requests in Manhattan.

• Map amendment and special use permits for a motor vehicle fueling station at 7654 Lincoln Highway, Frankfort
• Variances for street and side yard setbacks at 23554 W. Link Lane, Plainfield
• Variances for accessory dwelling unit size, height, and building area at 24810 S. Murphy Ln., Monee
• Map amendment and street setback variance at 15620 W. Baker Rd., Manhattan
• Special use permit and setbacks for an animal care/boarding facility at 24520 S. Kankakee St., Manhattan

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission approved a special use permit for a dog rescue at 24520 S. Kankakee St. in Manhattan, over the objections of neighbors and a staff recommendation for denial. The permit was approved 4-1 with eight conditions, including a limit of 25 dogs and a requirement for a waste management plan. The commission also approved related variances for the facility's setbacks.

• Approved special use permit for animal care/boarding facility (dog rescue) at 24520 S. Kankakee St. (4-1)
• Approved variance for animal care facility setback from 500 ft. to 394 ft. from nearest dwelling (5-0)
• Approved variance for animal care facility setback from 250 ft. to 225 ft. from nearest R-zoned district (5-0)
• Approved map amendment from A-1 to E-2 for 15620 W. Baker Rd., Manhattan (5-0)
• Approved variance for minimum street setback from 100 ft. to 41.3 ft. for 15620 W. Baker Rd. (5-0)
• Approved map amendment from C-1 to I-1 for vacant New Ave., Lockport (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for outdoor storage yard for Five Star Landscape Co. (5-0)
• Approved variance for fence height within street setback from 4 ft. to 8 ft. for Five Star Landscape Co. (5-0)

WC Capital Improvements & IT Committee - Regular Meeting

The Capital Improvements Committee is meeting to receive financial and construction updates on two specific projects. The body will discuss the Morgue Project and the RNG Facility.

• Morgue Project update and financial summary
• RNG Facility construction update and financial summary

The committee received updates on the morgue project, which is over its established budget, and discussed potential cost-saving measures and the need for additional funding. No formal action was taken on the morgue budget. The committee also heard updates on the RNG facility construction, including pipeline rerouting and ongoing negotiations with Waste Management for an operations and maintenance agreement.

• Approved minutes of Sep 7, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed morgue project budget overrun; no vote taken
• Discussed RNG facility construction updates; no vote taken
• Adjourned meeting at 11:29 AM (unanimous)

WC Public Works & Transportation Committee - Regular Meeting

The Public Works & Transportation Committee is meeting to award contracts for road maintenance and approve infrastructure agreements. The body will discuss highway improvements and professional services for bridge design.

• IDOT Resolution for County Wide Maintenance Material using MFT Funds ($4,442,020.00)
• Contract award to "D" Construction, Inc. for W. Kankakee River Road ($249,146.06)
• Design Engineering Services agreement with A. Epstein and Sons International, Inc. for Gougar Road (CH 52) Bridge
• Intergovernmental Agreement with City of Lockport for emergency vehicle preemption at Cedar Road and Division Street
• Revised IDOT-County Joint Agreements for Bell Road and 80th Avenue

The Public Works & Transportation Committee unanimously moved forward nine items to the Will County Board, including contracts for bituminous patching and aggregate materials, an IDOT resolution for $4.44 million in MFT funds, a $249,146.06 contract for Wilmington Road District work, and agreements for concrete repairs, an emergency vehicle preemption system, design engineering for the Gougar Road bridge, and revised IDOT joint agreements for Bell Road and 80th Avenue. The committee also discussed county highway signage plans and federal infrastructure funding opportunities, but took no final action on those topics.

• Approved minutes of Oct 5, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved executive session minutes of Oct 5, 2021 (unanimous)
• Moved forward contract award for bituminous patching materials (unanimous)
• Moved forward contract award for various aggregate materials (unanimous)
• Moved forward IDOT resolution for $4,442,020 in MFT funds (unanimous)
• Moved forward $249,146.06 contract to D Construction for W. Kankakee River Road (unanimous)
• Moved forward $7,460.89 additional MFT funds for concrete repairs (unanimous)
• Moved forward IGA with Lockport for emergency vehicle preemption system (unanimous)

WC Executive Committee - Assignment Meeting

The Executive Committee is assigning items for review including road maintenance contracts, budget transfers, and intergovernmental agreements. The body will discuss transportation funding and mobility management projects across several townships.

• IDOT Resolution for County Wide Maintenance Material using MFT Funds ($4,442,020.00)
• Contract award to "D" Construction, Inc. for W. Kankakee River Road ($249,146.06)
• Professional Services Agreement with A. Epstein and Sons International, Inc. for Gougar Road bridge design
• Amendments to the Will County Raffle Ordinance
• Intergovernmental agreements with New Lenox, Crete, Frankfort, Monee, Peotone, Washington, and Will Townships

The Will County Executive Committee met on December 2, 2021, and unanimously approved the minutes from the October 7 and October 14, 2021 meetings. The committee postponed two items related to the County Executive's Office and the Comprehensive Economic Development (CED) strategy for one month. Members also approved motions to add agenda items for appropriating grant funds in the Coroner's budget and for adjusting election precincts, and accepted the committee assignment requests as amended. The committee then moved into executive session to discuss labor negotiations.

• Approved minutes from the October 7, 2021 Executive Committee meeting.
• Approved minutes from the October 14, 2021 Executive Committee meeting.
• Postponed for one month the request for the County Executive's Office to execute an agreement with the CED.
• Postponed for one month the authorization for the County Executive to execute an agreement with the CED.
• Approved adding an item to appropriate grant funds in the Coroner's budget.
• Approved adding an item to adjust election precincts.
• Approved the committee assignment requests as amended.
• Approved a motion to enter executive session for labor negotiations.

WC Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee is meeting to approve previous minutes and conduct new business. The agenda includes the introduction of department heads from the Health Department.

• Approval of September 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approval of October 7, 2021 meeting minutes
• Introduction of Health Department heads

The committee heard a presentation from Will County Health Department IT Director Anthony Melei on the department's IT systems, including the NextGen electronic health record, pandemic response, and a proposed data warehouse. The committee discussed the data warehouse project, which has an ARP funding request, and its potential benefits. No formal action was taken on the presentation; the committee approved the minutes from the September and October meetings.

• Approved the September 2, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0).
• Approved the October 7, 2021 meeting minutes (3-0).
• Heard a presentation from Health Department IT Director Anthony Melei on IT systems and a proposed data warehouse.
• Discussed the data warehouse project, which has an ARP funding request, and its potential benefits.
• Adjourned the meeting at 9:50 AM (unanimous).

Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting

The Will County Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to conduct regular business. The primary item of new business is the review of a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Historic Preservation Plan.

• Historic Preservation Plan RFP Draft

The Will County Historic Preservation Commission met and approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes unanimously. No public comments were made. The main discussion centered on a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Historic Preservation Plan, which will be sent to the County Board for approval in January 2022. Commissioners were invited to submit comments by December 17. No formal decisions were made on the RFP or other substantive matters.

• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)
• Approved November 3, 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

WC Public Health & Safety Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee will receive updates on the opioid crisis and operations at Sunny Hill Nursing Home. Members will also discuss declaring homelessness a public health emergency.

• Discussion on declaring homelessness a public health emergency
• Opioid update from Dr. Kathleen Burke
• Monthly update from Sunny Hill Nursing Home
• Monthly update from Will County Health Dept.

WC Diversity & Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Board Diversity & Inclusion Committee will meet via video and audio. The agenda includes a scheduled update from Carmona Strategic Solutions.

• Update from Carmona Strategic Solutions

The Will County Diversity & Inclusion Committee met on December 1, 2021, and heard an update from Carmona Strategic Solutions, followed by a question-and-answer period. No substantive decisions were made; the only action was a unanimous motion to adjourn.

• Heard update from Carmona Strategic Solutions (no action)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (6-0, Winfrey absent)

Forest Preserve District Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to review a budget amendment and the acquisition of a specific land parcel. The body will also discuss collective bargaining, litigation, and personnel matters in executive session.

• Resolution No. 21-34: Acquisition of Parcel SCX0C1 in the Spring Creek Greenway
• Second Budget Amendment Ordinance No. 608 for the Corporate Fund (Fund 10)
• 2020-2024 Capital Improvement Program - Land Preservation Program Status Report

The Forest Preserve District Finance Committee unanimously approved a second budget amendment for the Corporate Fund and a resolution authorizing the acquisition of a parcel in the Spring Creek Greenway. The committee also approved the schedule of bills and the minutes from the November 3 and November 17 meetings. No closed session occurred, and public comments were heard regarding the Deer Management Program.

• Approved the Schedule of Bills.
• Approved the minutes of the November 3, 2021 meeting.
• Approved the minutes of the November 17, 2021 meeting.
• Approved the Second Budget Amendment Ordinance No. 608 for the Corporate Fund (Fund 10).
• Approved Resolution No. 21-34 authorizing the acquisition of parcel SCX0C1 in the Spring Creek Greenway.

Forest Preserve District Operations Committee - Regular Meeting

The Operations Committee is meeting to award service contracts and approve an intergovernmental agreement. The body will also discuss permission to bid for a reconstruction project.

• Contract for $29,650.00 to Waste Management of Illinois for waste removal and recycling
• Contract for $28,500.00 to ASE Illini-Scapes, Inc. for landscape maintenance at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center and Isle a la Cache Museum
• Resolution No. 21-35 for an agreement with Bolingbrook Park District regarding Hidden Oaks Nature Center and Hidden Lakes Trout Farm
• Permission to bid for Hidden Lakes Bait Shop Reconstruction

The Operations Committee approved a $29,650 contract with Waste Management of Illinois for waste removal and recycling services, with a 14-to-1 vote. It also unanimously approved a $28,500 landscape maintenance contract with ASE Illini-Scapes, an intergovernmental agreement with Bolingbrook Park District for Hidden Oaks Nature Center and Hidden Lakes Trout Farm, and permission to bid on the Hidden Lakes Bait Shop reconstruction. All items were forwarded to the Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners. No closed session occurred.

• Approved $29,650 contract to Waste Management of Illinois for waste removal and recycling services (14-1).
• Approved $28,500 contract to ASE Illini-Scapes for campus landscape maintenance at Four Rivers and Isle a la Cache (unanimous).
• Approved Resolution 21-35 authorizing intergovernmental agreement with Bolingbrook Park District for Hidden Oaks and Hidden Lakes Trout Farm (unanimous).
• Approved permission to bid on Hidden Lakes Bait Shop reconstruction (unanimous).
• Approved minutes of November 3, 2021 (unanimous).
• Adjourned at 9:15 AM (unanimous).

Will County Board - Recessed Meeting

The Board is meeting to hold a public hearing on the 2022 annual budget and various tax levies. Members will also consider zoning requests for solar farms and several public works contracts.

• Public hearing for the 2022 Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance
• Special Use Permits for solar farm facilities on Goodenow Road and South Gougar Rd.
• Zoning map amendment from A-1 to R-2A for 23724 IL Route 113
• $80,000 in MFT funds for Cedar Road structure replacement over Spring Creek
• Professional services agreements for a new Will County Morgue/Coroner’s Facility

The Will County Board approved the FY2022 Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance, which includes funding from the American Rescue Plan Act and a decrease in the county property tax rate. The board also approved several property tax levies, including the Corporate Fund, FICA, IMRF, and Tort Immunity funds, with most passing by a 14-12 vote. Additionally, the board approved two solar farm special use permits, a zoning map amendment, and set the salaries for the County Clerk, Sheriff, and Treasurer for the next term.

• Approved FY2022 Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance (21-374) unanimously.
• Approved Corporate Fund Levy (21-375) 14-12.
• Approved FICA Levy (21-376) 14-12.
• Approved IMRF Levy (21-377) 14-12.
• Approved Tax Levy for Tort Immunity Fund (21-378) 14-12.
• Approved special use permit for solar farm on Goodenow Road (ZC-21-036) unanimously.
• Approved special use permit for solar farm on South Gougar Rd (ZC-21-038) unanimously.
• Approved setting the Will County Sheriff's salary with a 3% annual raise (21-405) 17-9.

Forest Preserve District Finance Committee - Special Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to approve the FY2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance and two levy ordinances. The committee will also hold an executive session to discuss personnel, litigation, land acquisition, and collective bargaining.

• FY2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591A
• Corporate Levy Ordinance No. 596A
• Construction and Development Levy Ordinance No. 597A

The Finance Committee approved the FY2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591A, the Corporate Levy Ordinance No. 596A, and the Construction and Development Levy Ordinance No. 597A, each by a 15-to-1 vote, with Commissioner Parker voting no. All three items were forwarded to the Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 9:11 AM.

• Approved FY2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591A (15-1, Parker no)
• Approved Corporate Levy Ordinance No. 596A (15-1, Parker no)
• Approved Construction and Development Levy Ordinance No. 597A (15-1, Parker no)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:11 AM (unanimous)

WC Republican Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Republican Caucus is holding a special meeting to discuss the County Board agenda. The meeting includes reports from various committees, including Finance and Public Works & Transportation.

• Discussion of County Board Agenda
• Land Use & Development committee report
• Finance committee report
• Public Works & Transportation committee report
• Public Health & Safety committee report

The Will County Board Republican Caucus met and unanimously approved the minutes from the October 20, 2021 special meeting. The caucus discussed, but took no formal action on, a proposal to increase salaries for countywide elected officials, hearing from Treasurer Tim Brophy and Sheriff's Lieutenant Conser. Members also discussed the upcoming county budget, including allocations for a 2-1-1 system, Will Ride, and the CAC, and reviewed items on the County Board agenda.

• Approved the minutes of the October 20, 2021 special meeting unanimously.
• Approved a motion to suspend rules to allow for public comments.
• Discussed a proposal for a 3% annual raise for countywide elected officials, with no formal action taken.
• Discussed the county budget, including $350,000 for a 2-1-1 system, $300,000 for Will Ride, and an additional $300,000 for the CAC.
• Discussed the upcoming vote on the county levy, with several members indicating they would vote against it.
• Discussed the decision to not renew the contract with Mack Communications, with plans to bring communications in-house.
• Discussed the selection of Anser Consultants to negotiate a contract for ARPA consulting services.
• Discussed the return to in-person County Board meetings in January 2022.

WC Democratic Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Democratic Caucus is holding a special meeting to discuss the County Board agenda. The meeting includes reports from various committees, including Finance and Public Health & Safety.

• Discussion of County Board Agenda
• Land Use & Development committee report
• Finance committee report
• Public Works & Transportation committee report
• Ad-Hoc Modern Housing Solutions committee report

The Will County Democratic Caucus discussed and informally agreed to support 3% annual raises for the Sheriff, County Clerk, and Treasurer, with raises for the Clerk and Treasurer starting in 2024. The caucus also reviewed the upcoming County Board agenda, including the FY2022 budget and a federal lobbyist contract. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only formal action was approving the previous meeting's minutes.

• Approved minutes of Sep 14, 2021 special meeting (9-0)
• Discussed supporting 3% annual raises for Sheriff, Clerk, Treasurer (no formal vote)
• Discussed FY2022 budget and upcoming votes on levies
• Discussed restoring federal lobbyist contract to $10,000/month
• Discussed funding for 211 System and State's Attorney CAC
• Discussed moving to in-person meetings in January 2022
• Discussed potential evening meetings for 2022

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing - Cancelled

The meeting scheduled for November 16, 2021, has been cancelled. The next scheduled meeting is December 7, 2021.

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners - Public Hearing

The Board of Commissioners is conducting a public hearing to discuss a proposed appropriation and budget. The meeting is being held via video and audio due to COVID-19 disaster declarations.

• Proposed Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591

The Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the proposed 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591, totaling $60,155,041. The hearing included an explanation of the ordinance and highlights by Executive Director Schultz, but no formal decision was made. The board did not vote on the ordinance during this hearing.

• Held public hearing on 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 (no vote taken)

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners - Public Hearing

The Board of Commissioners is conducting a public hearing to explain and discuss proposed levy ordinances numbers 592-597. The meeting is being held remotely via video and audio due to COVID-19 disaster declarations.

• Public hearing regarding proposed levy ordinances nos. 592-597

The Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on November 10, 2021, to discuss six proposed tax levy ordinances (Nos. 592-597) for tax year 2021, totaling $16,142,613.93. No formal vote was taken at this hearing; the levies were explained but not approved or denied. The hearing was held remotely due to the COVID-19 disaster declaration.

• Held public hearing on proposed 2021 tax levies (no vote taken)
• Explained six levy ordinances totaling $16,142,613.93 for tax year 2021

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to approve the 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance and several levy ordinances. The board will also consider land donations and specific project contracts.

• Approval of 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 and six levy ordinances
• Approval of Ordinance No. 605 establishing the 2022 Fee Schedule
• Acceptance of a 6.4 (+/-) acre parcel donation adjacent to Kraske Preserve in Crest Hill
• Contract award of $59,489.91 to RES Great Lakes for native seed at Forked Creek Preserve
• Contract award of $58,415.80 to Troch-McNeil Paving Company for Messenger Marsh Asphalt Trail Reconstruction

The Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners defeated the 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 (13-10) and three related levy ordinances: Corporate Levy No. 596 (13-11), Construction and Development Levy No. 597 (13-11), and the Audit Levy No. 592 was approved (17-5). The board approved several other levies, including Liability (21-1), IMRF (22-0), and FICA (22-0), as well as the 2022 fee schedule and other routine items. Discussion followed on next steps for the defeated ordinances, with the president indicating he would take the matter back to staff for a more bipartisan proposal.

• Defeated 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 (13-10)
• Defeated Corporate Levy Ordinance No. 596 (13-11)
• Defeated Construction and Development Levy Ordinance No. 597 (13-11)
• Approved Audit Levy Ordinance No. 592 (17-5)
• Approved Liability Levy Ordinance No. 593 (21-1)
• Approved IMRF Levy Ordinance No. 594 (22-0)
• Approved FICA Levy Ordinance No. 595 (22-0)
• Approved 2022 Fee Schedule Ordinance No. 605 (unanimous)

WC Executive Committee - Board Agenda Setting Meeting

The Executive Committee is meeting to determine the County Board agenda. The body will discuss funding requests, professional service contracts, and the acquisition of land easements for an RNG pipeline.

• Acquisition of land easements for RNG pipeline construction
• Metra presentation on 2022 Proposed Operating & Capital Program & Budget
• Renewal of state lobbying services agreement with Curry & Associates, LLC
• Professional services contract with federal lobbyist firm Smith Dawson & Andrews
• Bids for gasoline and diesel fuel, snow removal, and sale of surplus vehicles

The Will County Executive Committee moved several items to the full County Board, including support for a 2-1-1 information system, a freeze on countywide elected officials' salaries, and a contract renewal with federal lobbyist Smith Dawson & Andrews at $10,000 per month. The committee also approved the process for dividing county board districts into three groups by lottery. All items are recommendations for the County Board's final approval.

• Moved forward support for 2-1-1 system (unanimous)
• Moved forward salary freeze for countywide elected officials (11-2)
• Moved forward federal lobbyist contract at $10,000/month (12-1)
• Moved forward district term lottery process (unanimous)
• Moved forward ARPA consultant negotiation authorization (unanimous)
• Moved forward setting Assistant State's Attorneys at 83 (11-1)
• Moved forward contract for Administrative Adjudication Hearing Officer Kelley Gandurski (unanimous)
• Moved forward contract for Administrative Adjudication Hearing Officer Gail Reich (unanimous)

WC Legislative Committee - Regular Meeting

The Legislative & Judicial Committee is meeting to establish state legislative priorities for FY2022 and federal priorities for FY2023. The body will also review updates on state and federal legislative issues.

• Support for S. 3011 regarding flexibility in ARPA Recovery Funds
• Establishing FY2022 State Legislative Agenda & Priorities
• Establishing FY2023 Federal Legislative Agenda & Priorities
• Support for the repeal of the Federal IMD Medicaid Exclusion
• Discussion on opting out of preferential assessment for low-income housing

The Will County Legislative & Judicial Committee voted unanimously to opt out of a new state law (initiated by Cook County) that changes how low-income housing properties are assessed for property taxes. The committee also approved a resolution supporting the repeal of the federal IMD Medicaid exclusion to expand substance use services in Will County. The FY2022 State Legislative Agenda was continued to a future meeting, and the committee received updates on federal and state legislation.

• Approved opting out of preferential assessment for low-income housing (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting repeal of federal IMD Medicaid exclusion (unanimous)
• Continued establishing FY2022 State Legislative Agenda & Priorities (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Oct 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved support for S. 3011/H.R. 5735 Flexibility and ARPA Bill (unanimous)

WC Land Use & Development Committee - Regular Meeting

The Land Use & Development Committee is meeting to discuss several special use permits for solar farm facilities and one residential zoning map amendment. The body will also consider text amendments regarding housing definitions and uses in residential areas.

• Zoning map amendment from A-1 to R-2A for 23724 Route 113, Custer Park
• Special use permit for a solar farm facility on Goodenow Road, Beecher
• Special use permit for a solar farm facility at 27555 South Gougar Rd., Manhattan
• Special use permit for a solar farm facility at NE Corner of IL-50 and W. Offner Rd., Monee
• Proposed housing text amendments for definitions and uses in residential areas

The Will County Land Use & Development Committee approved two solar farm special use permits (ZC-21-036 in Crete Township and ZC-21-038 in Manhattan Township) with added conditions, including field tile marking and an extra mowing cycle. A third solar farm case (ZC-21-056) was tabled to December 14. The committee also approved a zoning map amendment for a residential parcel in Custer Township.

• Approved zoning map amendment ZC-21-060 (A-1 to R-2A) for 23724 IL Route 113, Custer Township (6-0, Traynere absent)
• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-036 on Goodenow Road, Crete Township, with 17 conditions (7-0)
• Added condition requiring field tile specialist to mark tile lines before installation for ZC-21-036 (7-0)
• Amended condition #7 to add end of May/beginning of June mowing for ZC-21-036 (7-0)
• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-038 on S. Gougar Rd, Manhattan Township, with 15 conditions (7-0)
• Amended conditions for ZC-21-038 to include field tile map and extra mowing (7-0)
• Removed FAA condition #12 from ZC-21-038 (7-0)
• Tabled solar farm case ZC-21-056 (IL-50 and W. Offner Rd, Monee) to December 14 (7-0)

WC Finance Committee - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Finance Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss the FY2022 Budget. The meeting is being conducted via video and audio due to COVID-19 guidelines.

• Discussion of FY2022 Budget

The Will County Finance Committee approved a motion to add $350,000 for the 211 system, $300,000 for the CAC, and $300,000 for Will Ride to the FY2022 budget, with funding to come from County Clerk savings or contingency. The vote was 6-2, with Ogalla and Traynere voting no. The committee also discussed the FY2022 budget, which increased to $792.8 million combined, and debated whether the County Clerk's office would realize $1 million in savings from new vote-by-mail equipment.

• Approved $350K for 211 system, $300K for CAC, $300K for Will Ride in FY2022 budget (6-2)
• Approved motion to adjourn (unanimous)

WC Executive Committee - Assignment Meeting

The committee is discussing the annual budget and appropriation ordinance for the period beginning December 1, 2021. Members are also reviewing various tax levies and infrastructure projects.

• Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for Dec 1, 2021 to Nov 30, 2022
• Tax levies for Corporate, FICA, IMRF, Tort Immunity, and other funds
• Cedar Road bridge reconstruction using $80,000.00 in MFT funds
• Acceptance of $44,000.00 donation for development at Laraway Road and 116th Street
• 24-month extension with Canon Solutions America for copy machines

The Will County Executive Committee met on November 4, 2021, and took several actions. The committee unanimously moved forward a resolution authorizing the County Executive to bind insurance coverage and execute contracts for property, casualty, workers' compensation, and other risk management services. It also unanimously approved assigning the solar farm ordinance to the Land Use & Development Committee. The committee withdrew an item regarding a Canon Solutions America master agreement extension. Several other items were discussed but not voted on, including a request for funding for a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) plan, a proposal to support a 2-1-1 system through the United Way, and a discussion on determining salaries for elected officials.

• Moved forward resolution authorizing County Executive to bind insurance coverage and execute contracts for risk management services (unanimous)
• Approved assignment of solar farm ordinance to Land Use & Development Committee (unanimous)
• Withdrew item authorizing 24-month extension of master agreement with Canon Solutions America for copy machines (unanimous)
• Approved committee assignment requests as amended (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn at 12:17 P.M. (unanimous)

Forest Preserve District Operations Committee - Regular Meeting

The Operations Committee will meet to consider several contract awards and new bidding permissions. Items include native seed purchases for Forked Creek Preserve and asphalt trail reconstruction at Messenger Marsh.

• $59,489.91 contract award to RES Great Lakes for supplemental native seed at Forked Creek Preserve
• $58,415.80 contract award to Troch-McNeil Paving Company, Inc. for Messenger Marsh asphalt trail reconstruction
• Ordinance No. 607 regarding a license agreement with Northern Illinois Gas Company d/b/a Nicor Gas Company at Joliet Junction Trail
• Permission to bid for Whalon Lake Viewshed Management
• Permission to bid for 2022 Ecological Management Contracts at multiple preserves

The Operations Committee unanimously approved two contracts totaling $117,905.61: $59,489.91 to RES Great Lakes for native seed at Forked Creek Preserve and $58,415.80 to Troch-McNeil Paving for the Messenger Marsh Asphalt Trail Reconstruction. It also approved a license agreement with Nicor Gas, permission to bid on several projects, and other routine items, all forwarded to the full Board of Commissioners.

• Approved $59,489.91 contract to RES Great Lakes for native seed at Forked Creek Preserve (unanimous)
• Approved $58,415.80 contract to Troch-McNeil Paving for Messenger Marsh trail reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance No. 607 authorizing license agreement with Nicor Gas at Joliet Junction Trail (unanimous)
• Approved permission to bid Whalon Lake viewshed management (unanimous)
• Approved permission to bid 2022 ecological management contracts (unanimous)
• Approved permission to bid waste removal and recycling services (unanimous)
• Approved permission to seek proposals for bird surveys (unanimous)
• Approved Illinois Association of Park Districts credentials certificate (unanimous)

Forest Preserve District Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance and multiple tax levy ordinances. The body will also consider a new fee schedule and a real property tax settlement agreement.

• 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591
• 2021 Tax Levy Ordinances Nos. 592-597
• Ordinance No. 605 establishing the 2022 Fee Schedule
• Resolution No. 21-32 regarding the Second Lemont Refinery Real Property Tax Assessment Settlement Agreement
• Resolution No. 21-33 accepting a 6.4 (+/-) acre parcel donation adjacent to Kraske Preserve in Crest Hill

The Forest Preserve District Finance Committee approved the 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 totaling $60,155,041, along with six tax levy ordinances (Nos. 592-597) for liability, audit, IMRF, FICA, corporate, and construction/development purposes. The committee also approved the 2022 fee schedule (Ordinance No. 605), an agricultural license for the 2022 Farm License Program (Ordinance No. 606), a tax assessment settlement agreement with Lemont Refinery (Resolution No. 21-32), and acceptance of a 6.4-acre donation adjacent to Kraske Preserve (Resolution No. 21-33). All items were approved unanimously (12-0) and will be forwarded to the full Board of Commissioners.

• Approved 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 totaling $60,155,041 (12-0)
• Approved 2021 Tax Levy Ordinances Nos. 592-597 for liability, audit, IMRF, FICA, corporate, and construction/development (12-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 605 establishing the 2022 Fee Schedule (12-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 606 authorizing one agricultural license for the 2022 Farm License Program (12-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 21-32 authorizing the Second Lemont Refinery Real Property Tax Assessment Settlement Agreement (12-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 21-33 accepting donation of a 6.4-acre parcel adjacent to Kraske Preserve in Crest Hill (12-0)
• Approved Schedule of Bills for October 31, 2021 (12-0)
• Approved minutes of October 6, 2021 (12-0)

Forest Preserve District Retiree Health Insurance Trust Fund - Regular Meeting

The Forest Preserve District of Will County Retiree Health Insurance Trust Fund is meeting to review financial reports and the upcoming budget. The board will also hold an executive session to discuss personnel, litigation, land acquisition, and collective bargaining.

• Resolution No. 21-05, 2022 Budget
• Schedule of Bills for July 2021-September 2021
• Quarterly Investment Report as of July 2021-September 2021
• Quarterly Operating Statement for period ending July 2021-September 2021

The Forest Preserve District of Will County Retiree Health Insurance Trust Fund met remotely on November 3, 2021, and unanimously approved Resolution No. 21-05 for the 2022 budget, the schedule of bills for July-September 2021, the quarterly investment report, and the quarterly operating statement. No closed session occurred, and no public comments were received. Executive Director Schultz noted that joining the Government Insurance Network reduced health insurance premiums, which may help build the fund balance.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-05, 2022 Budget (unanimous)
• Approved Schedule of Bills for July-September 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Quarterly Investment Report as of July-September 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Quarterly Operating Statement for period ending July-September 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 4, 2021 (unanimous)

WC Diversity & Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Board Diversity & Inclusion Committee will meet to review old and new business. The primary agenda item is an update from Carmona Strategic Solutions.

• Update from Carmona Strategic Solutions

The Will County Diversity & Inclusion Committee heard an update from consultant Carmona Strategic Solutions on its DEI work, which sparked extensive discussion about whether the project's scope should focus internally on county hiring and operations or also include outreach to private employers like Amazon. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the previous meeting's minutes and adjourning. The committee agreed to have staff resend the mission statement to members.

• Approved minutes of Oct 6, 2021 meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

WC Public Health & Safety Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee will receive several informational reports including updates on Sunny Hill Nursing Home and the Will County Health Department. Discussion items include an opioid update, a proposal regarding homelessness as a public health emergency, and a discussion on Sunny Hill nursing home admission policies.

• Sunny Hill Nursing Home September 2021 updates
• Will County Health Dept. monthly update
• Opioid update
• Declaring homelessness a public health emergency
• Extending Sunny Hill Nursing Home admission policy for non-Will County residents

The Public Health & Safety Committee unanimously moved forward a resolution to extend Sunny Hill Nursing Home's admission policy for non-Will County residents for an additional six months. The committee also received updates on COVID-19 cases at Sunny Hill and the county's vaccination rate, and discussed a draft resolution declaring homelessness a public health emergency, which is expected to be reviewed at the December meeting.

• Moved forward resolution extending Sunny Hill admission policy for non-Will County residents (unanimous)
• Approved meeting adjournment at 12:54 PM (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a regular meeting to conduct routine business. The agenda includes a proclamation for Sandra Vasko and a discussion regarding the annual agenda.

• Sandra Vasko Executive Proclamation
• Annual Agenda

The Will County Historic Preservation Commission approved its 2022 meeting dates, moving the July 6th meeting to July 13th due to the holiday. The commission also recognized outgoing Chair Sandra Vasko with an executive proclamation from County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, honoring her 19 years of service. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved 2022 meeting dates with July 6th moved to July 13th (5-0)
• Approved August 4, 2021 minutes as amended (4-0, Kiefner abstained)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:04 PM (5-0)

WC Public Works & Transportation Committee - Regular Meeting

The Public Works & Transportation Committee is reviewing several professional services agreements and intergovernmental contracts. The body is deciding on funding for bridge work and property acquisitions for road intersections.

• Reconstruction of the bridge on Cedar Road (CH 4) over Spring Creek using $80,000.00 in MFT funds
• Acceptance of a $44,000.00 donation in lieu of improvements for a development at Laraway Road and 116th Street
• Right of Way Acquisition Services agreements for Bell Road (CH 16) at 143rd Street (CH 37)
• Intergovernmental Agreement with the Village of Peotone for pedestrian warning signs on Wilmington-Peotone Road (CH 25)
• Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Crest Hill for improvements at Weber Road (CH 88) and Knapp Drive

The Public Works & Transportation Committee unanimously moved forward a package of three items related to the Cedar Road bridge over Spring Creek: rescinding the 2015 engineering agreement, authorizing a new agreement with ESI Consultants, Ltd., and approving $80,000 in MFT funds for the structure replacement. The committee also approved a $44,000 donation from a developer for turn lanes on Laraway Road and moved forward several other road-related agreements and speed zone changes. All votes were unanimous.

• Rescinded 2015 engineering agreement for Cedar Road bridge (unanimous)
• Authorized new engineering agreement with ESI Consultants for Cedar Road bridge (unanimous)
• Approved $80,000 MFT funds for Cedar Road bridge replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $44,000 developer donation for Laraway Road turn lanes (unanimous)
• Moved forward Laraway Road ingress/egress resolution (unanimous)
• Moved forward IGA with Village of Peotone for pedestrian signs (unanimous)
• Moved forward three right-of-way appraisal agreements for Bell Road/143rd St (unanimous)
• Moved forward IGA with City of Crest Hill for Weber Road/Knapp Drive improvements (unanimous)

WC Capital Improvements & IT Committee - Regular Meeting

The Capital Improvements & IT Committee is reviewing financial summaries and updates for several county projects. The body is considering authorizing payments to Harbour Contractors, Inc. and Stromsland, De Young & Prybys for work on the County Office Building and 1300 Copperfield Avenue.

• Payment authorization for Harbour Contractors, Inc. (1300 Copperfield Avenue Project)
• Payment authorization for Stromsland, De Young & Prybys (1300 Copperfield Avenue Project)
• Payment authorization for Harbour Contractors, Inc. (Will County Office Building Remodel Project)
• Payment authorization for Stromsland, De Young & Prybys (Will County Office Building Remodel Project)
• Financial updates on the Morgue Project and RNG Facility Construction

The Will County Capital Improvements Committee approved four payments for ongoing construction projects, including work at the former Silver Cross Hospital property (1300 Copperfield Ave.) and the County Office Building remodel. All payments were approved unanimously or 7-0. The committee also received updates on the morgue project, which is awaiting contract approval, and the RNG facility construction, which is progressing with some easement negotiations.

• Approved payment to Harbour Contractors for 1300 Copperfield Ave. project (7-0)
• Approved payment to Stromsland, De Young & Prybys for 1300 Copperfield Ave. project (7-0)
• Approved payment to Harbour Contractors for County Office Building remodel (unanimous)
• Approved payment to Stromsland, De Young & Prybys for County Office Building remodel (7-0)

Stormwater Management Planning Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee is meeting to discuss the 2021 project program itemized budget and various stormwater management topics. Discussion items include solar farm projects and flood mitigation efforts.

• 2021 Project Program Discussion Itemized Budget
• Rock Creek Watershed Based Plan and IEPA Section 319(h) Grant funding
• USACE DuPage River Flood Mitigation Project
• Stormwater Management for Solar Farm Projects

The Will County Stormwater Management Planning Committee met on November 2, 2021, but lacked a quorum (only 8 of 15 members present), so no official votes were taken. Members discussed the Rock Creek Watershed Based Plan, a proposed $100,000 project with a $40,000 local match, and heard that the grant application deadline is November 16. They also discussed potential changes to the stormwater ordinance for solar farms and the 2022 meeting schedule, but deferred all decisions to a future meeting.

• No quorum; no votes taken on any agenda items
• Consent Agenda (Resolution 21-10) not approved due to lack of quorum
• Minutes from Oct 5, 2021 not approved due to lack of quorum
• Rock Creek Watershed Plan discussed; no action taken
• Solar farm stormwater ordinance changes discussed; no action taken
• 2022 meeting schedule discussed; no action taken
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (8-0)

WC Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee is reviewing the annual budget and appropriation ordinance for the period of December 1, 2021, to November 30, 2022. Members will discuss various tax levies and the appropriation of grant funds for the Coroner and Community Health Center.

• Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for FY2022
• Establishing all-in budget for the Renewable Natural Gas Plant at the Prairie View Landfill and Recycling Facility
• Tax levies for Corporate, FICA, IMRF, Tort Immunity, and Worker's Comp. Reserve funds
• Tax levies for Health Department, County Highway, County Bridge, and Federal Aid Matching funds
• Appropriating grant funds in the Coroner's and Community Health Center's FY2021 budgets

The Will County Finance Committee voted 5-3 to move the FY2022 budget and multiple tax levy ordinances to the full County Board. The committee also postponed a decision on the Renewable Natural Gas Plant budget to allow for more accurate cost estimates. Several grant appropriations and fund transfers were unanimously moved forward.

• Moved FY2022 budget ordinance to County Board (5-3)
• Moved corporate fund levy to County Board (5-3)
• Moved FICA, IMRF, tort immunity, worker's comp, TB sanitarium, health dept, highway, bridge, federal aid matching levies to County Board (5-3 each)
• Postponed Renewable Natural Gas Plant all-in budget decision to December (unanimous)
• Moved Coroner's grant appropriation to County Board (unanimous)
• Moved Community Health Center grant appropriation to County Board (unanimous)
• Moved Health Department fund transfer to County Board (unanimous)
• Approved assignment of tax sale certificates (unanimous)

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing

The Planning and Zoning Commission will consider several zoning cases, including multiple special use permits for solar farm facilities. The agenda also includes requests for temporary use permits and various property setbacks and lot area variances.

• Temporary Use Permit (TUP-21-008) for a security trailer at 14355 Archer Avenue, Lockport
• Temporary Use Permit (TUP-21-009) for a plumbing business at 14355 Archer Avenue, Lockport
• Variance (ZC-21-051) for accessory building area and side yard setback at 986 Vine Street, New Lenox
• Variance (ZC-21-066) for lot area, frontage, and setbacks at 15360 W. Delaney Rd., Manhattan
• Variance (ZC-21-071) for animal confinement setback and lot area at 2117 Maple Road, Joliet

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission approved two solar farm special use permits (ZC-21-036 in Crete Township and ZC-21-038 in Manhattan Township) and recommended approval of a third (ZC-21-056 in Monee Township) with a 3-2 vote. The commission also approved several variances for accessory buildings and lot conformance, but denied two variances for animal confinement setbacks on a Joliet Township property. The meeting included a public hearing on multiple zoning cases.

• Approved TUP-21-008 for a security trailer at 14355 Archer Ave, Lockport (5-0)
• Approved TUP-21-009 for a plumbing business without a permanent structure at 14355 Archer Ave, Lockport (5-0)
• Approved variance for maximum accessory building area at 986 Vine St, New Lenox (5-0)
• Approved variance for minimum side yard setback at 986 Vine St, New Lenox (5-0)
• Approved four variances for lot conformance at 15360 W. Delaney Rd, Manhattan (5-0 each)
• Denied variance for animal confinement setback (west) at 2117 Maple Rd, Joliet (0-5)
• Denied variance for animal confinement setback (north) at 2117 Maple Rd, Joliet (0-5)
• Approved special use permit for solar farm on Goodenow Rd, Beecher (5-0)

WC Democratic Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Democratic Caucus is holding a special meeting to discuss a Special County Board Agenda. The meeting includes standard procedural items and a period for public comment.

• Discussion of Special County Board Agenda

The Will County Democratic Caucus discussed the upcoming County Board agenda, focusing on the 11/2 redistricting map and a salary resolution. Members reached a consensus to support the 11/2 map and to vote with Mr. Van Duyne's amendment to keep the County Board salary at $23,000 with no increase, except Ms. Ventura. No formal votes were taken during this caucus meeting.

• Consensus to support the 11/2 redistricting map (informal)
• Consensus to support amendment keeping County Board salary at $23,000 (informal, except Ventura)

Will County Board - Recessed Meeting

The Will County Board is meeting to vote on several land use permits, including solar farm facilities in Beecher. The board will also hold public hearings regarding groundwater use restrictions in Joliet and increases to construction debris fees.

• Special Use Permits for solar farm facilities on E. Indiana Avenue, Beecher
• Ordinance prohibiting groundwater as a potable water supply near 1306 McKinley Avenue, Joliet
• Proposed increase in clean construction and demolition debris fees
• Intergovernmental agreements with Romeoville and Crest Hill for license plate reading cameras
• Professional services agreements with Wight and Company and Leopardo Companies for a new morgue/coroner's facility

The Will County Board approved the 2021 tax levy estimate, including a 1.014% Consumer Price Index adjustment, by a 14-12 vote. The board also approved two solar farm special use permits with added conditions for tile location and mowing, and approved intergovernmental agreements for license plate reading cameras in Romeoville and Crest Hill. Several items were postponed or tabled, including the reapportionment plan and board salaries.

• Approved 2021 tax levy with 1.014% CPI increase (14-12)
• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-035 with added conditions (unanimous)
• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-037 with added conditions (unanimous)
• Approved license plate reading camera agreement with Romeoville (20-6)
• Approved license plate reading camera agreement with Crest Hill (20-6)
• Postponed reapportionment plan 21-354 to special meeting (24-2)
• Postponed board salary setting 21-355 to special meeting (16-10)
• Remanded renewable natural gas plant budget resolution to Finance Committee (unanimous)

WC Republican Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Republican Caucus is holding a special meeting to discuss the FY2022 budget and the County Board agenda. The meeting includes reports from various committees, including Finance and Land Use & Development.

• Discussion of FY2022 Budget
• Discussion of County Board Agenda
• Reports from Land Use & Development, Finance, and Public Works & Transportation committees
• Reports from Diversity & Inclusion, Public Health & Safety, and Legislative & Judicial committees
• Reports from Capital Improvements and Executive committees

The Will County Republican Caucus met to discuss the FY2022 budget, the RNG facility budget, and the upcoming redistricting vote. Members expressed opposition to the budget and levy, with some stating they would vote no. The RNG facility budget was remanded back to the Finance Committee to correct a $500 error in the contingency amount. No formal votes were taken on these items during the caucus meeting.

• Approved minutes of Sep 15, 2021 special meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed FY2022 budget; members Moustis and Balich stated they would vote no
• RNG facility budget remanded to Finance Committee to correct contingency amount
• Redistricting map discussion; no vote taken, special meeting planned
• County Board salary setting postponed to special meeting
• Adjourned at 7:19 PM (unanimous)

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing - Cancelled

The public hearing scheduled for October 19, 2021, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for November 2, 2021.

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing proposed 2021 levies and deciding on the acquisition of land parcels in Jackson Creek Greenway, Black Walnut, and North DuPage River areas. The board is also awarding several contracts for preserve restoration and facility improvements.

• Proposed 2021 Levies review and authorization of final levy ordinances
• Contract of $952,000.00 to Lite Construction, Inc. for Four Rivers Environmental Education Center museum improvements
• Contract of $357,300.00 to Superior Exhibits & Design, Inc. and Bluestone & Associates for Four Rivers interpretive campus improvements
• Contract of $72,680.00 to Sikich LLC for 2021-2023 financial audit services
• Acquisition of parcels in Jackson Creek Greenway, Black Walnut Resource Planning Area, and North DuPage River Resource Planning Area

The Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners approved all agenda items unanimously, including several land acquisitions, contracts for restoration and construction, and a financial audit services contract. They also authorized filing an amicus brief in a river access case. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved 2021 levies and authorized staff to prepare final levy ordinances (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-29 for acquisition of Parcel JC40B1 in Jackson Creek Greenway (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-30 for acquisition of Parcel BW10D1 in Black Walnut Resource Planning Area (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-31 for acquisition of Parcels NDPXC1, C2, C3 in North DuPage River Resource Planning Area (unanimous)
• Awarded $72,680 contract to Sikich LLC for financial audit services 2021-2023 (unanimous)
• Awarded $952,000 contract to Lite Construction for interior museum improvement at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center (unanimous)
• Awarded $357,300 contract to Superior Exhibits & Design/Bluestone & Associates for interpretive campus improvements at Four Rivers (unanimous)
• Authorized filing amicus brief in Holm vs. Kodat regarding riparian rights on Mazon River (unanimous)

WC Executive Committee - Board Agenda Setting Meeting

The Executive Committee is meeting to set the agenda for the County Board. Discussions include redistricting maps, official salaries, and various contract renewals and bids.

• Proposed 11-2 Redistricting Map and Reapportionment Plan 13-2
• Prohibiting groundwater use as potable water supply near 1306 McKinley Avenue
• Amending Solid Waste Disposal Ordinance to increase clean construction and demolition debris fees
• Ratifying emergency masonry repairs to the Court Annex Building at 57 North Ottawa Street
• Multi-year real estate assessment agreement with CITGO Refinery

The Will County Executive Committee voted 7-4 to move an 11-district, 2-member redistricting map proposal to the full County Board, and also voted 7-4 to remove the 13-district map from consideration. The committee also unanimously moved forward several items, including a groundwater well prohibition ordinance for a Joliet property and multiple contract renewals. The meeting included extensive public comment and debate on the redistricting maps, with some members opposing the 11-district map as partisan and others supporting it as a legal and fair option.

• Moved 11-district redistricting map to full County Board (7-4)
• Removed 13-district map from consideration (7-4)
• Moved forward groundwater well prohibition ordinance for 1306 McKinley Ave, Joliet (unanimous)
• Moved forward PACE FY22 budget presentation (unanimous)
• Moved forward intergovernmental agreement with Oak Forest for radio system access (unanimous)
• Moved forward contract renewals for elevator maintenance, printer cartridges, security, janitorial, and refuse services (unanimous)
• Postponed Canon copy machine master agreement extension to next month (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to RNG plant cost estimate to $53,626,317.60 (6-1)

WC Democratic Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Democratic Caucus is holding a special meeting. The agenda consists of procedural items and reports from various committees.

• Land Use & Development committee report
• Finance committee report
• Public Works & Transportation committee report
• Ad-Hoc Reapportionment committee report
• Ad-Hoc Modern Housing Solutions committee report

The Will County Democratic Caucus held a special in-person meeting to discuss the county board redistricting map. Members unanimously agreed to support a motion to remove the 13-district map from consideration at the next day's Executive Committee meeting. The caucus will instead pursue a compromise on an 11-district map, with negotiations focused on changes to districts in the eastern part of the county. No final decision was made on the map or on potential salary increases for county officials, which were tabled for a future caucus meeting.

• Unanimously agreed to support a motion to remove the 13-district county board map from consideration.
• Agreed to continue pursuing a compromise on an 11-district map, with changes focused on eastern Will County.
• Tabled discussion on salary increases for county board members and countywide elected officials.
• Discussed but took no action on a proposal to lower the speed limit on Cedar Road in Manhattan.
• Noted the Finance Committee's 4-4 vote to send the aggregate levy to the full board with no recommendation.
• Reported the Land Use Committee approved a map amendment from A-1 to E-2.
• Reported the Legislative & Judicial Committee passed a resolution designating Will County as a 'Hidden Heroes County'.
• Reported the Public Works Committee approved installing stop signs at Cedar Rd and Baker Rd in Manhattan.

WC Finance Committee - Special Meeting - Cancelled

The special meeting of the Will County Board Finance Committee scheduled for October 12, 2021, has been cancelled. The next scheduled meeting is November 2, 2021.

WC Land Use & Development Committee - Regular Meeting

The Land Use & Development Committee is considering special use permits for two solar farm facilities in Beecher and a zoning map amendment in Frankfort. The body will also discuss a truck terminal extension in Joliet and residential housing text amendments.

• Special use permit for solar farm at E. Indiana Avenue, Beecher (ZC-21-035)
• Special use permit for solar farm at E. Indiana Avenue, Beecher (ZC-21-037)
• Zoning map amendment from A-1 to E-2 for 24129 S. Center Rd., Frankfort (ZC-21-053)
• First extension of special use permit for a truck terminal on Manhattan Road, Joliet (SEXT-21-006)
• Housing text amendments for definitions and uses in residential areas

The committee approved two special use permits for solar farm facilities in Washington Township, each with conditions, after a motion to postpone for ordinance review failed. A separate zoning map amendment for a property in Green Garden Township was also approved. The housing text amendments were continued to the next meeting.

• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-035 (6-1)
• Approved solar farm special use permit ZC-21-037 (7-0)
• Denied motion to postpone solar farm cases (3-4)
• Approved zoning map amendment ZC-21-053 from A-1 to E-2 (7-0)
• Approved first extension of truck terminal special use permit SEXT-21-006 (7-0)
• Continued housing text amendments discussion to next meeting

WC Legislative Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Legislative & Judicial Committee is meeting to receive legislative updates and consider a resolution. The body will review reports on federal and state legislative issues.

• Resolution in support of Will County's Military and Veteran Caregivers - Hidden Heroes

The committee voted unanimously to move a resolution supporting Will County becoming a Hidden Heroes designated county, which would provide additional resources and grant opportunities for military and veteran caregivers. The resolution will go to the full County Board on October 21, 2021. The meeting also included updates on federal and state legislative issues, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Moved forward resolution to support Will County as a Hidden Heroes designated county (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 14, 2021 meeting (7-0)

WC Executive Committee - Assignment Meeting

The committee is reviewing proposed redistricting maps and a proposal to set minimum pay for county employees at $15.00 per hour. The meeting also includes various contract renewals and committee assignment requests for county services.

• Discussion on setting minimum pay for Will County employees at $15.00 per hour
• Proposed 11-2 and 13-2 redistricting map overviews
• Intergovernmental agreements with Romeoville and Crest Hill for license plate reading cameras
• Professional services agreements with Wight and Company, Inc. and Leopardo Companies, Inc. for a new morgue/coroner's facility
• Amendment to Solid Waste Disposal Ordinance to increase clean construction and demolition debris fees

The Will County Executive Committee discussed the County Executive's proposed 11-district map and the Reapportionment Committee's 13-district map, but took no vote. Chair Mimi Cowan proposed that each caucus select members to meet with the County Executive to seek a compromise, potentially delaying the vote to November. The committee also discussed setting a $15/hour minimum wage for county employees, but took no action, deferring to collective bargaining negotiations. Several committee assignment requests were approved unanimously.

• Approved minutes of four prior meetings (unanimous)
• Approved motion to add VAC grant funds item to agenda (unanimous)
• Approved motion to add settlement, salary determination items to agenda (unanimous)
• Approved committee assignment requests as amended (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn at 12:09 PM (unanimous)

WC Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee is meeting to conduct business and introduce department heads. The meeting is being held via video and audio due to COVID-19 guidelines.

• Introduction of State's Attorney's Office department head
• Introduction of Sheriff's Office department head

The Will County Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee met to hear technology updates and needs from the State's Attorney's Office and the Sheriff's Office. No formal decisions were made; the committee gathered information for future prioritization. The next meeting will focus on the Health Department.

• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously (3-0)

Forest Preserve District Operations Committee - Regular Meeting

The Operations Committee is reviewing several contract awards for restoration projects, museum improvements, and website updates. The body is also considering a license agreement for Commonwealth Edison and permissions to bid on trail repairs.

• Contract of $952,000.00 to Lite Construction, Inc. for Interior Museum Improvement Project at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center
• Contract of $357,300.00 to Superior Exhibits & Design, Inc. and Bluestone & Associates for interpretive campus improvements at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center
• Contract of $146,348.85 to Bisping Construction Co., Inc. for hydrologic restoration at Kankakee Sands Preserve
• Contract of $143,280.00 to Americaneagle.com for a new website content management system and updates
• Ordinance No. 604 authorizing License Agreement No. 21-11 to Commonwealth Edison Company at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve

The Operations Committee unanimously approved 13 items, including 10 contracts totaling about $1.9 million for restoration, museum improvements, and maintenance, plus a license agreement with ComEd and permissions to bid on trail projects. All items were forwarded to the full Board of Commissioners. The committee also heard reports on the 2022 events schedule and deer management public comments.

• Approved $20,216 native seed purchase for Forked Creek Preserve (11-0)
• Approved $146,348.85 hydrologic restoration at Kankakee Sands Preserve (11-0)
• Approved $38,862 prairie restoration at Hadley Valley Preserve (11-0)
• Approved $952,000 interior museum improvement at Four Rivers EEC (11-0)
• Approved $357,300 interpretive campus improvements at Four Rivers EEC (11-0)
• Approved $26,838 trailhead signage design services (11-0)
• Approved $34,900 demolition of Lawless House at Thorn Creek Woods (11-0)
• Approved $143,280 website content management system (11-0)

WC Diversity & Inclusion Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Board Diversity & Inclusion Committee will meet to review the first month of work performed by Carmona Strategic Solutions. The meeting is being held via video and audio due to COVID-19 guidelines.

• Update from Carmona Strategic Solutions on first month's work
• Approval of August 4, 2021 meeting minutes

The Will County Diversity & Inclusion Committee met on October 6, 2021, and approved the minutes from the August 4, 2021 meeting unanimously. The main agenda item was an update from Carmona Strategic Solutions on their first month of work, which included a PowerPoint presentation and discussion. No formal decisions were made on the consultant's work, but members requested that future presentations be shared in advance and that the consultant provide monthly reports on hours and costs. The meeting adjourned unanimously at 11:05 AM.

• Approved minutes from Aug 4, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:05 AM (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission - Regular Meeting - Cancelled

The regular meeting scheduled for October 6, 2021, was cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for November 3, 2021.

WC Public Health & Safety Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee is meeting to discuss several contract renewals and bid awards for Sunny Hill Nursing Home. The agenda also includes updates on opioids and a proposal to declare homelessness a public health emergency.

• Proposal to declare homelessness a public health emergency
• Renewing contract for security guard services at Sunny Hill Nursing Home
• Renewing contracts for medical products at Sunny Hill Nursing Home
• Awarding bids for nursing services (CNA, LPN & RN), disposable washcloths, incontinence supplies, and exam gloves for Sunny Hill Nursing Home
• Community Health Center Women's Health Renovations

The Public Health & Safety Committee unanimously moved forward seven items to the Will County Board, including a contract for Community Health Center Women's Health renovations, a security guard services renewal, medical product renewals, and bids for nursing services, disposable washcloths, incontinence supplies, and exam gloves for Sunny Hill Nursing Home. The committee also approved the September 1, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. Informational reports were given on COVID-19 vaccination efforts, opioid response, and Sunny Hill updates, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes of Sep 1, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Moved forward Community Health Center Women's Health renovations contract (unanimous)
• Moved forward Sunny Hill security guard services contract renewal (unanimous)
• Moved forward Sunny Hill medical products contract renewals (unanimous)
• Moved forward Sunny Hill nursing services bid (CNA, LPN & RN) (unanimous)
• Moved forward Sunny Hill disposable washcloths bid (unanimous)
• Moved forward Sunny Hill disposable incontinence supplies bid (unanimous)
• Moved forward Sunny Hill exam gloves bid (unanimous)

Forest Preserve District Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The Finance Committee will consider the 2021 levies and the placement of Budget Ordinance No. 591 on public display. The body is also reviewing the acquisition of several land parcels and a contract for audit services.

• Review of proposed 2021 levies
• Resolution No. 21-29: Acquisition of Parcel JC40B1 in Jackson Creek Greenway
• Resolution No. 21-30: Acquisition of Parcel BW10D1 in Black Walnut Resource Planning Area
• Resolution No. 21-31: Acquisition of Parcels NDPXC1, C2 and C3 in North DuPage River Resource Planning Area
• Contract award of $72,680.00 to Sikich LLC for 2021-2023 financial audit services

The Finance Committee approved placing the tentative 2022 Appropriation and Budget Ordinance No. 591 on public display, with a total appropriation of $60,155,041, down from $66,161,996 in 2021. The committee also approved the 2021 levy rates, land acquisitions in Jackson Creek, Black Walnut, and North DuPage River areas, and a $72,680 audit contract with Sikich LLC. All items were forwarded to the full Board of Commissioners for final action.

• Approved Schedule of Bills (12-0)
• Approved minutes of September 1, 2021 (12-0)
• Approved placing tentative 2022 budget ordinance on public display (12-0)
• Approved 2021 levy rates and authorized staff to prepare final levy ordinances (12-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-29 for Jackson Creek Greenway parcel acquisition (12-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-30 for Black Walnut parcel acquisition (12-0)
• Approved Resolution 21-31 for North DuPage River parcels acquisition (12-0)
• Approved $72,680 audit contract with Sikich LLC (10-1, 1 abstention)

Stormwater Management Planning Committee - Regular Meeting

The Stormwater Management Planning Committee is meeting to discuss the 2021 project budget and a flood mitigation project. The body is considering a resolution to provide partial local matching funds for a state grant to develop a watershed plan for Rock Creek.

• Resolution 21-06: Authorization of up to $25,000 for the local match of an IEPA Section 319(h) Grant for the Rock Creek Watershed Based Plan
• Discussion of the 2021 Project Program Itemized Budget
• Correspondence regarding the USACE Dupage River Flood Mitigation Project

The Will County Stormwater Management Planning Committee approved a consent agenda that included support for the Rock Creek Watershed Based Plan with a $25,000 local match, and three 50/50 cost-share projects: $25,000 for New Lenox Township drainage maintenance, $3,000 for a City of Joliet project, and $20,000 for another New Lenox Township project. The committee also approved the minutes from its August and June meetings. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved consent agenda including Rock Creek Watershed Plan support and three 50/50 projects (10-0)
• Approved $25,000 for New Lenox Township drainage maintenance (part of consent agenda)
• Approved $3,000 for City of Joliet Pilcher Park Farms project (part of consent agenda)
• Approved $20,000 for New Lenox Township Walona Meadows project (part of consent agenda)
• Approved minutes from Aug 3, 2021 meeting (10-0)
• Approved minutes from Jun 1, 2021 meeting (10-0)

WC Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee is discussing expenses, professional services, and outstanding debt for the FY2022 budget. Members will also review proposals for Sheriff's Department equipment and cost estimates for a natural gas plant.

• Sheriff's Department proposal for capital purchases of cars and cameras
• Cost estimate for Renewable Natural Gas Plant at Prairie View Landfill and Recycling Facility
• Appropriation of IDPH grant funds for COVID-19 Mass Vaccination in Health Department FY2021 budget
• Determination of the Estimate of the Annual Aggregate Levy
• Renewal of contract for Annual Audit

The Finance Committee moved forward a $53,631,580 budget for the Renewable Natural Gas plant at Prairie View Landfill, including a $1 million contingency, after members reduced the proposed $5.2 million contingency. The committee also approved moving $250,000 in the Health Department budget from personnel to non-personnel costs, and moved forward a 4-4 tie on the annual tax levy estimate, sending it to the County Board without a recommendation.

• Set RNG plant budget at $53,631,580 with $1M contingency (unanimous)
• Approved Sheriff's purchase of Axon in-car cameras using vehicle funds (unanimous)
• Moved forward $250K Health Department fund transfer (unanimous)
• Moved forward annual audit contract renewal (unanimous)
• Moved forward tax levy estimate with 4-4 tie, no recommendation
• Moved forward appropriation transfers within county budgets (8-0)
• Approved assignment of tax sale certificates (unanimous)
• Authorized County Executive to execute delinquent tax program documents (unanimous)

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing

The commission is considering several zoning map amendments, special use permits, and variances. Key items include requests for solar farm facilities in Beecher and a fueling station in Frankfort.

• Special use permits for two solar farm facilities on E. Indiana Avenue, Beecher
• Map amendment from C-2/C-3 to C-4 and special use permits for a fueling station and liquor sales at 7654 Lincoln Highway, Frankfort
• Four variances for setbacks, frontage, and lot area at 10S188 Route 59, Naperville
• Zoning map amendment from A-1 to E-2 at 24129 S. Center Rd., Frankfort
• Election of Vice-Chairperson

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission approved two Special Use Permits for 2-megawatt solar farm facilities in Washington Township, each by a 6-1 vote with Commissioner Peterson dissenting. The commission also approved four variances for a Naperville property and a zoning map amendment in Green Garden Township. One zoning case was tabled to the December 7, 2021 meeting.

• Approved Special Use Permit for solar farm at E. Indiana Avenue, Beecher (ZC-21-035) with 14 conditions (6-1)
• Approved Special Use Permit for solar farm at E. Indiana Avenue, Beecher (ZC-21-037) with 15 conditions (6-1)
• Approved four variances for property at 10S188 Route 59, Naperville (ZC-21-073) (7-0)
• Approved zoning map amendment from A-1 to E-2 at 24129 S. Center Rd., Frankfort (ZC-21-053) (7-0)
• Tabled zoning case ZC-21-017 for Mac's Convenience Stores to December 7, 2021 (7-0)
• Approved John Kiefner as Vice-Chairman (7-0)
• Approved minutes from September 7, 2021 meeting (4-0)

WC Capital Improvements & IT Committee - Regular Meeting

The Capital Improvements & IT Committee is discussing updates on the County Office Building, the 1300 Copperfield Ave. project, and the RNG facility. The body is deciding on professional services agreements for a new morgue/coroner's facility and authorizing various project payments.

• Professional Services Agreement with Wight and Company, Inc. for New Will County Morgue/Coroner’s Facility design
• Professional Services Agreement with Leopardo Companies, Inc. for New Will County Morgue/Coroner's Facility construction management
• Payment to Harbour Contractors, Inc. for 1300 Copperfield Avenue Project
• Payment to stromsland + de young + prybys Architecture Group for 1300 Copperfield Avenue and Office Building Remodel
• Payments to HR Green, Inc. for Will County Health Department and Will County Courthouse

The committee approved a motion to go out for bid on replacing the roof at 1300 Copperfield Ave. and an amendment to include winterizing the building, with a combined estimated cost of $558,600. It also unanimously approved professional services agreements for the new Morgue/Coroner's facility and several payments for ongoing projects. The future of the old courthouse was discussed but no decision was made.

• Approved motion to go out for roof replacement bid at 1300 Copperfield Ave. (7-1)
• Approved amendment to include winterizing of 1300 Copperfield Ave. building (6-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Wight and Company for Morgue/Coroner's facility design (unanimous)
• Approved pre-construction services agreement with Leopardo Companies for Morgue/Coroner's facility (unanimous)
• Approved payment to HR Green, Inc. for Health Department (unanimous)
• Approved payment to HR Green, Inc. for Courthouse (unanimous)
• Approved payment to Harbour Contractors, Inc. for 1300 Copperfield Ave. project (unanimous)
• Approved payments to Stromsland, DeYoung & Prybis for Copperfield and Office Building projects (unanimous)

WC Public Works & Transportation Committee - Regular Meeting

The Public Works & Transportation Committee is meeting to discuss intergovernmental agreements for license plate reading cameras and professional services for right-of-way acquisition. The body will also review speed zone changes and infrastructure projects.

• Intergovernmental Agreement with Village of Romeoville for license plate reading cameras on county highways
• Intergovernmental Agreement with City of Crest Hill for license plate reading cameras on county highways
• Professional Services Agreement with Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick, Inc. for right-of-way acquisition along Kankakee County Line Road (CH 58)
• Establishment of Altered Speed Zones 594 in County Board District #2
• Stipulated Agreement 2167 for Gougar Road over CN Rail Road

The committee voted unanimously to lower the speed limit on Cedar Rd. at Baker Rd. to 45 mph for 1/4 mile in each direction, and to install a 4-way stop sign at that intersection. The speed limit change will go to the County Board for final approval, while the stop sign can be implemented by the transportation director. The committee also approved several intergovernmental agreements and professional services contracts.

• Approved lowering speed limit to 45 mph on Cedar Rd. at Baker Rd. (8-0)
• Approved installing 4-way stop sign at Cedar Rd. and Baker Rd. (8-0)
• Approved IGA with Village of Romeoville for license plate reading cameras (unanimous)
• Approved IGA with City of Crest Hill for license plate reading cameras (unanimous)
• Approved professional services agreement with Hampton, Lenzini, and Renwick for right-of-way acquisition (unanimous)
• Approved establishment of Altered Speed Zone 594 (unanimous)
• Approved ICC Stipulated Agreement 2167 for Gougar Rd. grade crossing (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Sep 7, 2021 regular and executive session (unanimous)

OPEB - Regular Meeting

The OPEB Committee is meeting to review investment reports for the second and third quarters of 2021. The body will discuss amendments to retiree election rules and the appointment of an election administrator for January 2022.

• Investment Report for 2nd & 3rd Quarter of 2021
• Amendments to the OPEB Retiree Election Rules & Procedures
• Appointment of Election Administrator for January 2022 Retiree Election
• Setting date for special meeting to declare winner of 2022 Retiree Election
• Authorization for Investment Manager to make quarterly investment purchase

The Will County OPEB Committee unanimously approved several items: the minutes from April 6, 2021; the appointment of Mr. Thornton as Election Administrator for the January 2022 retiree election; February 1, 2022 as the date for a special meeting to declare the election winner and swear in a new trustee; meeting dates for 2022 and January 2023; and authorization for the investment manager to make a quarterly investment purchase. The committee also heard a review of the investment report for the 2nd and 3rd quarters of 2021 and discussed amendments to the OPEB Retiree Election Rules and Procedures, but no vote was recorded on those items.

• Approved minutes from April 6, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Mr. Thornton as Election Administrator for January 2022 retiree election (unanimous)
• Approved February 1, 2022 as date for special meeting to declare election winner and swear in new trustee (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 and January 2023 meeting dates: Jan 4, Apr 5, Jul 5, Oct 4, 2022; Jan 3, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved authorizing investment manager to make quarterly investment purchase (unanimous)

WC Committee of the Whole - Public Hearing

The Committee of the Whole is conducting a public hearing regarding reapportionment plans. The meeting includes overviews of the process from the State's Attorney's Office, a County Board reapportionment plan, and a proposed redistricting map from the County Executive.

• Overview of Reapportionment Process by State's Attorney's Office
• County Board Reapportionment Plan 13-2 Version 1 with 2020 Census
• County Executive's Proposed 11-2 Redistricting Map
• Public hearing and comments on reapportionment plans

The Will County Board Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on October 4, 2021, to discuss reapportionment plans, including the County Board's 13-2 Version 1 and the County Executive's proposed 11-2 redistricting map. The hearing was opened and closed unanimously, and the meeting adjourned without any formal decisions on the plans.

• Opened public hearing on reapportionment plans (unanimous)
• Closed public hearing on reapportionment plans (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing - Cancelled

The Planning and Zoning Commission meeting scheduled for September 21, 2021, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 5, 2021.

Will County Board - Regular Meeting

The Will County Board will review a proposed redistricting map and consider several zoning amendments and bond debt service abatements. The board is also addressing intergovernmental agreements for license plate reading cameras and various professional service contracts.

• Zoning map amendment from A-2 to C-4 for 14124 W. Maple Road, Mokena
• Special Use Permit for light equipment sales/rentals at 23824 W. Andrew Road, Plainfield
• Tax abatements for multiple bond series including $170.8 million for General Obligation Building Will Bonds Series 2020
• Intergovernmental agreements with University Park and Wilmington for license plate reading cameras
• Agreement with Globetrotters Engineering Corporation for design services on Laraway Road at Cedar Road

The Will County Board approved intergovernmental agreements with University Park and Wilmington for license plate reading cameras on county highways (20-6 each), despite opposition from some members. It also denied an appeal to overturn a Planning and Zoning Commission decision on a variance for an accessory building in Lockport (18-8). The board approved a zoning map amendment for a property in New Lenox, a special use permit for light equipment sales in Plainfield, and a refund of fees for Plumbing Express Inc. (25-0).

• Approved license plate reading camera agreements with University Park and Wilmington (20-6 each)
• Denied appeal to overturn PZC decision on accessory building variance in Lockport (18-8)
• Approved zoning map amendment from A-2 to C-4 for 14124 W. Maple Road, Mokena (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for light equipment sales/rentals at 23824 W. Andrew Road, Plainfield (unanimous)
• Approved fee refund for Plumbing Express Inc. (25-0)
• Approved multiple tax abatements for bond debt service (unanimous)
• Approved CARES Act fund closure and hazard mitigation plan (unanimous)
• Approved various contracts, hires, and appointments (unanimous)

WC Republican Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Republican Caucus is holding a special meeting to discuss the Fiscal Year 2022 budget. Members will also discuss the upcoming County Board agenda.

• Discussion of FY2022 Budget
• Discussion of County Board Agenda
• Committee reports from eight different bodies

The Will County Republican Caucus met to discuss the FY2022 budget, the RNG facility, and the Copperfield building. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only actions were approving the August 18, 2021 meeting minutes and adjourning. Members expressed concerns about budget transparency, the rising cost of the RNG facility, and the high renovation costs for the Copperfield building, with several indicating they would vote against related appropriations.

• Approved August 18, 2021 caucus minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:34 PM (unanimous)
• Discussed FY2022 budget; no action taken
• Discussed RNG facility cost increase; no action taken
• Discussed Copperfield building renovation costs; no action taken

WC Land Use & Development Committee - Regular Meeting

The Land Use & Development Committee will consider a special use permit for an RV rental business in Plainfield and an appeal regarding a property in Lockport. The body will also discuss housing text amendments for the Will County Zoning Ordinance.

• Special use permit for light equipment sales/rentals (compact RVs) at 23824 W. Andrew Road, Plainfield
• Appeal #APCD-21-004 regarding Zoning Case #ZC-21-050 at 14357 High Road, Lockport
• Request for refund of fees for REF-21-001, Plumbing Express Inc.
• Housing text amendments for definitions and uses in residential areas

The committee approved a special use permit for light equipment sales/rentals at 23824 W. Andrew Road, Plainfield, allowing Cruise America RV rentals with conditions, including a max of six RVs and a parking plan. It also approved a $50 fee refund for Plumbing Express Inc. and voted 6-1 to overturn a PZC denial for a variance on accessory structure size at 14357 High Road, Lockport. A discussion on housing definitions resulted in no action.

• Approved special use permit for RV rentals at 23824 W. Andrew Road (6-0)
• Approved $50 fee refund to Plumbing Express Inc. (6-0)
• Approved appeal to overturn PZC denial for accessory structure variance (6-1)
• Discussed housing text amendments; no action taken

WC Finance Committee - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Finance Committee is holding a special meeting to discuss expenses for the FY2022 budget. The meeting is being conducted via video and audio due to COVID-19 guidelines.

• Discussion of FY2022 Budget - Expenses

The Will County Finance Committee held a special meeting to review the FY2022 budget expenses, with detailed discussions on various line items including the impact of the new Body Cam Act, increases in legal services, and property maintenance costs. No formal decisions or votes were taken on the budget; the meeting was for discussion only. The committee adjourned unanimously.

• Adjourned meeting unanimously (8-0, Pretzel absent)

WC Democratic Caucus - Special Meeting

The Will County Board Democratic Caucus is holding a special meeting to discuss the County Board agenda. The meeting includes reports from various committees and a public comment period.

• Discussion of County Board Agenda
• Reports from Land Use & Development committee
• Reports from Finance committee
• Reports from Public Works & Transportation committee
• Reports from Ad-Hoc Modern Housing Solutions committee

The Will County Democratic Caucus met and approved the minutes from the August 17, 2021 special meeting with a 10-0 vote. The meeting was primarily a discussion of the upcoming County Board agenda, covering items such as a special use permit for light equipment sales, a variance appeal for a pole barn, and the closing of the CARES Act fund. No formal decisions were made on these agenda items, as they were only discussed in preparation for the full board meeting.

• Approved minutes of Aug 17, 2021 special meeting (10-0)
• Discussed special use permit for light equipment sales at 824 W. Danger Rd., Plainfield (passed PZC and Land Use unanimously)
• Discussed appeal of PZC denial for a pole barn variance on High Rd., Lockport Township (PZC denied due to neighbor objections)
• Discussed refund of $50 building permit fee for a plumbing business (committee recommended refund)
• Discussed license plate reading cameras for Wilmington and University Park (passed committee unanimously)
• Discussed setting November 30 deadline for CARES Act invoices from Stepping Stones and Guardian Angel
• Discussed upcoming presentation of County Executive's redistricting map (no vote until after public hearing)
• Discussed raising county minimum wage to $15/hour (bipartisan support, further study requested)

WC Legislative Committee - Regular Meeting

The Legislative & Judicial Committee is meeting to review legislative updates and new business. Discussions include a request for more state-issued treatment center licenses and FOID modernization.

• Request for increase in State Issued Licenses for Treatment Centers from Dr. Kathleen Burke
• HB 562 FOID Modernization discussion with the Sheriff's Dept
• Federal Legislative Update from Smith, Dawson & Andrews
• State Legislative Issues update from Curry & Associates
• ISACo Updates

The Will County Legislative & Judicial Committee voted unanimously to move forward a resolution supporting the elimination of the Medicaid IMD Exclusion, a 1905 law limiting institutions for mental health and substance use treatment to 16 beds. The resolution will go to the Will County Board for consideration. The committee also heard updates on federal and state legislation, including the federal reconciliation bill, infrastructure bill, and Illinois redistricting and energy bills, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved minutes of Aug 10, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Moved forward resolution to support eliminating Medicaid IMD Exclusion to Will County Board (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (7-1)

WC Executive Committee - Board Agenda Setting Meeting

The committee is meeting to set the County Board agenda. Discussions include a proposed redistricting map based on 2020 Census data and setting a minimum pay rate of $15.00 per hour for county employees.

• Review of Reapportionment Plan 13-2 Version 1 with 2020 Census
• Proposed minimum pay for Will County employees at $15.00 per hour
• Contract with Tulsa Inspection Resources -PUC, LLC for RNG Pipeline inspection
• Adoption of Revised Will County County-Wide Hazard Mitigation Plan
• Contract renewals with Total Parking Solutions, Inc. (TPS) for parking terminals

The Executive Committee voted 12-1 to move forward a recommendation setting November 30, 2021 as the deadline for organizations to spend remaining CARES Act grant funds, after which unspent money would be reallocated to eligible County expenses. The committee also moved forward several items to the full County Board, including a contract amendment for eCourt data migration, a pipeline inspection contract, and a revised county-wide hazard mitigation plan. A proposed $15-per-hour minimum wage for County employees was discussed but not voted on, with members requesting more data on costs and benefits. The committee also moved the renewable natural gas plant cost estimate item to the Finance Committee for further review.

• Moved forward (12-1) setting Nov. 30, 2021 as the deadline for CARES Act grant recipients to spend funds, with unspent money to be used for eligible County expenses.
• Moved forward (unanimous) authorizing the County Executive to execute an amendment with Journal Technologies Inc. for eCourt data migration.
• Moved forward (unanimous) authorizing a contract with Tulsa Inspection Resources-PUC, LLC for pipeline inspection services for the RNG pipeline.
• Moved forward (unanimous) adopting the revised Will County County-Wide Hazard Mitigation Plan.
• Moved forward (unanimous) to the Finance Committee the item establishing an all-in cost estimate for the Renewable Natural Gas Plant at Prairie View Landfill.
• Moved forward (unanimous) renewing contracts with Total Parking Solutions, Inc. for parking terminal monitoring and maintenance.
• Moved forward (unanimous) declaring surplus and authorizing sale of real property acquired by condemnation.
• Approved (unanimous) the County Board agenda as amended, including removing a Crest Hill feasibility study and adding an IGA with Wilmington for license plate readers.

Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners - Regular Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to approve several intergovernmental agreements and award construction contracts. The session includes discussions on trail development and facility improvements.

• Contract of $313,754.60 to Oak Lawn Blacktop Paving Co. for annual asphalt repair and replacement
• Contract of $303,200.49 to Integral Construction, Inc. for All Abilities Trail Improvement Project at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center
• Contract of $244,500.00 to Berglund Construction Company for building envelope improvements at the Operations and Law Enforcement Facility
• Intergovernmental Agreement with Plainfield Township Park District for DuPage River Regional Trail development
• Intergovernmental Agreement with Joliet Junior College for natural area volunteer workdays

The Forest Preserve District Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several contracts and agreements, including a $313,754.60 asphalt repair contract, a $303,200.49 trail improvement project, a $244,500.00 building envelope contract, and intergovernmental agreements for trail development and insurance network membership. The board also approved a request to hire a full-time Human Resource Generalist. All decisions were unanimous with two members absent.

• Approved Resolution 21-26 for DuPage River Regional Trail development with Plainfield Township Park District (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-27 amending license agreements with Village of Manhattan at Wauponsee Glacial Trail (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-28 for membership in Government Insurance Network (unanimous)
• Awarded $313,754.60 contract to Oak Lawn Blacktop Paving Co. for asphalt repair (unanimous)
• Awarded $303,200.49 contract to Integral Construction for All Abilities Trail at Four Rivers (unanimous)
• Awarded $244,500.00 contract to Berglund Construction for building envelope improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-24 concerning use of DuPage River (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 21-25 with Joliet Junior College for volunteer workdays (unanimous)

WC Planning and Zoning Commission - Public Hearing

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission is reviewing several zoning cases, including a request for a temporary use permit for a fall festival. The body will also consider various variance requests for accessory buildings and property setbacks.

• Temporary use permit for fall festival with paintball and axe throwing at 3450 Crete-Monee Road, Monee
• Variance for accessory building area (1,800 to 2,359 sq ft) at 16014 W. 139th St., Homer Glen
• Special use permit for light equipment sales/rentals at 23824 W. Andrew Road, Plainfield
• Variance for accessory building area (3,000 to 4,248 sq ft) at 22940 S. Althea Court, Minooka
• Variance for pool and yard setbacks at 16327 S. Lily Cache Road, Plainfield

The Will County Planning and Zoning Commission approved a temporary use permit for a fall festival with paintball and axe throwing at 3450 Crete-Monee Road, Monee, with 12 conditions. It also approved variances for accessory building area in Homer Glen, Minooka, and Wilmington, and a special use permit for RV rentals in Plainfield. The commission denied a variance for a pool setback in Plainfield, but approved variances for the garage setbacks on the same property.

• Approved TUP-21-007 for a fall festival with paintball and axe throwing at 3450 Crete-Monee Road, Monee, with 12 conditions.
• Approved ZC-21-043, a variance to increase accessory building area from 1,800 to 2,359 sq ft at 16014 W. 139th St., Homer Glen.
• Approved ZC-21-047, a special use permit for light equipment sales/rentals (RV rentals) at 23824 W. Andrew Road, Plainfield, with 4 conditions.
• Approved ZC-21-052, a variance to increase accessory building area from 3,000 to 4,248 sq ft at 22940 S. Althea Court, Minooka.
• Denied a variance for pool setback from 5 to 3 feet at 16327 S. Lily Cache Road, Plainfield.
• Approved variances for rear yard setback (5 to 4.94 ft) and side yard setback (10 to 9.93 ft) for the garage at 16327 S. Lily Cache Road, Plainfield.
• Approved ZC-21-062, variances for lot frontage (90 to 0 ft), side yard setback (10 to 3.6 ft), and accessory building area (1,500 to 1,622 sq ft) at 22158 Route 113, Wilmington.
• Approved minutes from the Aug 3, 2021 public hearing.

WC Capital Improvements & IT Committee - Regular Meeting

The Capital Improvements Committee is meeting to discuss financial summaries and updates for several county projects. The body will also consider authorizing a payment to the Farnsworth Group for the Will County Courthouse.

• Payment authorization to Farnsworth Group for the Will County Courthouse
• Financial summary for County Office Building Renovations
• Update on 1300 Copperfield Ave. Project (Former Silver Cross Hospital Property)
• Morgue Project update and financial summary
• RNG Facility construction update and financial summary

The committee discussed the 1300 Copperfield Ave. project, where the County Executive's Office requested $1.8 million to secure the building and protect the county's investment. No formal vote was taken on this request during the meeting. The committee also approved a payment to Farnsworth Group for courthouse services and discussed delays in the RNG facility project due to an underground tank discovery.

• Approved the minutes from the August 9, 2021 meeting (7-0).
• Approved payment to Farnsworth Group for the Will County Courthouse (unanimous).
• Discussed, but did not vote on, a $1.8 million request to secure the 1300 Copperfield Ave. property.
• Heard an update that the RNG facility project is delayed due to an unidentified underground storage tank and contaminated soil.
• Heard that the County Office Building renovation Phases I-III are complete, with Phase IV plans being revised for Vote by Mail equipment.
• Discussed the Morgue Project, noting negotiations for a design contract are close to finalization.
• Requested that staff from Wight and Co. and Leopardo Construction provide monthly updates on the Morgue Project.
• Adjourned the meeting at 1:15 PM (unanimous).

WC Public Works & Transportation Committee - Regular Meeting

The committee will discuss several infrastructure projects and intergovernmental agreements. Items include bridge construction on Scheer Road and the placement of license plate reading cameras.

• County aid for a bridge over Forked Creek on Scheer Road
• License plate reading camera agreement with Village of University Park
• Supplemental engineering services for Laraway Road (CH 74) at Cedar Road (CH 4)
• Feasibility study discussion regarding Weber/Knapp Area with City of Crest Hill
• License plate reading camera agreement with City of Wilmington

The committee unanimously approved moving forward with negotiations with the City of Crest Hill for a feasibility study of the Weber/Knapp Road intersection, estimated at $250,000. It also approved intergovernmental agreements for license plate reading cameras with University Park and Wilmington, and a supplemental engineering services agreement for Laraway Road. A discussion on the Cedar/Baker Road intersection resulted in no action, with staff to bring a speed limit reduction proposal next month.

• Approved motion to negotiate settlement agreement with Crest Hill for Weber/Knapp feasibility study (unanimous)
• Approved IGA with Village of University Park for license plate reading cameras (unanimous)
• Approved supplemental engineering services agreement with Globetrotters Engineering for Laraway Road at Cedar Road (unanimous)
• Approved IGA with City of Wilmington for license plate reading cameras (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Aug 9, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved executive session on land acquisition and concurred with Director of Transportation recommendation (unanimous)

WC Finance Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Finance Committee is meeting to discuss the FY2022 budget and American Rescue Plan revenue loss calculations. The body will consider several requests for UKG project training and change orders. The agenda includes multiple items regarding the abatement of taxes to pay debt service on various general obligation bonds.

• Discussion of FY2022 Budget
• Request for expanded UKG Training Program and change orders for UKG Project and Fortium Partners Agreement
• Appropriating Restore, Reinvest, and Renew (R3) Planning and Direct Support Grants
• Abating taxes for debt service on $170,800,000 General Obligation Building Will Bonds, Series 2020
• Abating taxes for debt service on $57,380,000 General Obligation Transportation Improvement Bonds, Series 2010

The Will County Finance Committee unanimously moved forward several items to the full County Board, including expanded UKG payroll training, a change order for the payroll system, two R3 grants, a COVID support budget transfer, and eight debt service tax abatements. The committee also discussed the FY2022 budget, focusing on revenue projections, ARPA fund usage, and a potential $5.7 million revenue loss calculation, but took no formal action on the budget itself.

• Approved minutes from July 6, 2021 (unanimous)
• Moved forward expanded UKG payroll training program (unanimous)
• Moved forward UKG/Fortium Partners change order (unanimous)
• Moved forward R3 Planning Grant appropriation (unanimous)
• Moved forward R3 Direct Support Grant appropriation (unanimous)
• Moved forward COVID Support Budget internal transfer (unanimous)
• Moved forward 8 debt service tax abatements for FY2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 2:52 PM (unanimous)

Stormwater Management Planning Committee - Regular Meeting - Cancelled

The regular meeting scheduled for September 7, 2021, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 5, 2021.

WC Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee - Regular Meeting

The Will County Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee is meeting to discuss IT project updates. The body will review requests for change orders and an expanded training program for the UKG project for the 2022 fiscal year.

• Request for change orders for the UKG Project and Fortium Partners Agreement for 2022 Fiscal Year
• Request for expanded and enhanced UKG Training Program for 2022 Fiscal Year
• Introduction of County Office Building Departments: Treasurer

The Will County Ad-Hoc IT Assessment Committee unanimously moved forward two items to the Finance Committee: a change order to extend the UKG payroll system project by 24 weeks at a cost of approximately $147,000, and an expanded training program for the UKG system at $118,080. The committee also heard from the Treasurer's Office about IT needs and discussed potential future tax payment relief options, but took no formal action on those topics.

• Approved minutes of Aug 5, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Moved forward $147K change order for UKG/Fortium Partners payroll system extension (unanimous)
• Moved forward $118,080 expanded UKG training program (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 9:48 AM (unanimous)

WC Executive Committee - Assignment Meeting

The Executive Committee is reviewing committee assignment requests involving budget transfers, bond debt service, and infrastructure projects. The body is also discussing a proposal to set the minimum pay for Will County employees at $15.00 per hour.

• Proposal to set minimum pay for Will County employees at $15.00 per hour
• Tax abatements for multiple General Obligation bonds, including a $170,800,000 Series 2020 bond
• Appeal # APCD-21-004 regarding 14357 High Avenue in Lockport Township
• Proposal to declare homelessness a public health emergency
• Contract for pipeline inspection services with Tulsa Inspection Resources-PUC, LLC

The Will County Executive Committee met on September 2, 2021, and approved the minutes from three prior meetings. The committee also approved motions to add several items to committee agendas, including a refund of fees from Plumbing Express, a contract renewal with Total Parking Solutions, and a license plate reader resolution for the City of Wilmington. No substantive policy decisions were made; most discussion focused on ARPA planning, CARES fund closeout, and future agenda items.

• Approved minutes of Aug 5, 2021 Assignment Meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Executive Session minutes of Aug 5, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Aug 12, 2021 Board Agenda Setting Meeting (unanimous)
• Added refund of fees from Plumbing Express to Land Use Committee agenda (unanimous)
• Added Total Parking Solutions contract renewal to Executive Committee agenda (unanimous)
• Added City of Wilmington license plate reader resolution to Public Works agenda (unanimous)
• Accepted committee assignments as amended (unanimous)