Public Meetings - Joliet, Illinois

August 10, 2026 The Joliet Board of Fire and Police Commissioners held a meeting on August 10, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners Pat Strocchia, Tomas Ponce, and John Stefanski were present, establishing a quorum, while Chairman Quinn Adamowski and Commissioner Natalie Coleman were absent. The meeting focused primarily on personnel actions, including the approval of minutes, updates to the hiring eligibility lists, five fire department promotions, and a significant number of conditional hires for both the police and fire departments. City Manager Beth Beatty, Interim Police Chief Robert Brown, Deputy Fire Chief John Stachelski, and Mayor Terry D'Arcy were among those in attendance. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (July 13, 2026): The Board voted 3-0 to approve the previous meeting's minutes. Secretary's Report Commissioner Stefanski provided an update on the status of applicants for the Fire and Police Departments: - Fire Department Applicant List: Six applicants were removed. Grace Wolf was removed for failure to meet requirements. Five others—Edith Ortiz-Ruiz, Thomas McDougall, Daniel Greaves, Alex Guzman, and Zach Carlson—withdrew from eligibility. - Police Department Certified Lateral List: Four applicants were removed from the list. Myles Klein withdrew. Matthew Zeiger, Matthew Sheets, and John Rodriguez were removed for failure to meet requirements. - Late Item (Fire Department): Applicant Damian Lagownik was later removed during the meeting for failure to meet requirements. Fire Department Promotions Deputy Fire Chief John Stachelski read letters from Fire Chief Jeff Carey stating he had reviewed the personnel files of the following candidates and found no reason they should not be promoted. The Board unanimously approved all promotions (3-0). Promoted to Captain: - Michael Kubinski (Lieutenant to Captain) - Scott Winkels (Lieutenant to Captain) Promoted to Lieutenant: - Christopher Kinsella (Apparatus Operator/Paramedic to Lieutenant) - Christopher O'Hara (Apparatus Operator/Paramedic to Lieutenant) - Christian Conroy (Apparatus Operator/Paramedic to Lieutenant) Closed Session The Board voted 3-0 to enter into Closed Session to discuss specific employee personnel matters as allowed under Illinois law (5 ILCS 5/120/2(c)(1)). The Board reconvened to open session following the discussion. Hiring of Certified Lateral Police Officers The Board considered conditional hires for the Joliet Police Department. Approved hires were contingent upon successful completion of vision, drug, and physical examinations. Conditionally Approved: - William Whitfield (2) - Samuel Markusic (4) - David Devries (6) - Caitlin Mosier (8) - Brian Simental (9) Rejected: - David Mullen (7) — Motion failed 3-0. Hiring of Firefighter/Paramedics The Board considered a large slate of conditional hires for the Joliet Fire Department. Approved hires were contingent upon successful completion of vision, drug, and physical examinations, and a background investigation. Conditionally Approved: - Devon Wiggers (1), Hannah Macejak (3), Jesse Hurtado (4), William Owens (5), James Schneider (8), Kyle Dupuis (9), Armauni Dixon (11), Bartek Szumeic (13), Joseph Manzo (17), Sergio Delatorre (18), Jason Hoffman (22), and Jamar White (24). Rejected: - Michael Belliveau (6), Alejandro Palao (10), Andrew Willis (12), Jack Kucera (14), John Sutherland (16), David Bednar (21), Brandon Young (25), Anthony Brice II (26), and Luke Granholm (30). These motions all failed by a unanimous 3-0 vote. Removed from List: - Damian Lagownik (28) was removed for failure to meet requirements. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved: Meeting of July 13, 2026. - Promotions Approved (Fire Department): 5 total promotions (2 Captains, 3 Lieutenants). - Conditional Hires Approved (Police): 5 lateral officers. - Conditional Hires Approved (Fire): 12 firefighter/paramedics. - Hiring Motions Rejected: 1 police lateral applicant and 9 firefighter/paramedic applicants were rejected by the Board (all votes 3-0). The minutes do not provide specific reasons for the rejections. - Eligibility List Changes: 7 applicants removed for failure to meet requirements or withdrawn. - Public Comment: No members of the public spoke during the agenda or non-agenda public comment periods.

The Communication, Technology and Information Systems Committee of the City of Joliet met on August 5, 2026 at 8:30 AM in the Executive Conference Room. Chairperson Sherri Reardon presided. The committee considered several technology contracts and renewals, all of which were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 6, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. - Award of Contract to CDWG for Cradlepoint NetCloud Mobile Router Licensing Renewal ($49,207.09): Approved without objection. The contract renews annual licensing for mobile routers in public safety vehicles. Public Comments & Testimony - A citizen spoke briefly at the end of the meeting, thanking the committee for their time. No substantive testimony was given on agenda or non-agenda items. Discussion Items 1. Award of Contract to Sierra ITS for Professional Services Funding ($275,000) - The contract funds temporary staff augmentation for a project manager for the upcoming enterprise permitting and licensing (EPL) project and an HRIS specialist to modernize HR processes. Staff noted the amount is a not-to-exceed cap for multiple professionals. Committee discussion clarified capacity constraints in IT. Approved unanimously. 2. Award of Contract to Lenovo for 2026 PC Lifecycle Program ($85,000) - The contract covers replacement of aging laptops (4-year lifecycle) and desktops (5-year lifecycle). Discussion included extending the lifecycle due to increasing web-based applications (85% now cloud-based) and a suggestion to consider Apple products as an alternative. Staff noted they are exploring extended warranties. Approved unanimously. 3. Award of Contract to SHI for Three-Year Microsoft Enterprise Licensing Agreement (not to exceed $1,278,214.47) - The agreement covers all Microsoft licensing (Office, OS, servers). Staff described a cleanup project to properly license field workers with lower-cost E3 licenses, generating savings. The three-year lock-in protects against price increases. Approved unanimously. 4. Award of Contract to VideoTec for Access Control and Surveillance at 9 Osgood (PACE Building) ($72,927) - The contract installs door access control, badge readers, and interior/exterior cameras. Three vendors bid; VideoTec was the low-cost option. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All five agenda items were approved unanimously. - The committee directed staff to explore alternative hardware options (Apple) for future PC lifecycle replacements. - No closed session was held; the meeting adjourned after public comment.

The Joliet City Council met on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. All nine council members were present. The agenda included consent items, three liquor license applications, a public hearing for a new business district, several ordinances and resolutions, and public comments. All items were approved with a few dissenting votes on liquor licenses and clarifications on a use variation. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved minutes of the Pre-Council meeting (July 20, 2026) and City Council meeting (July 21, 2026). - Invoices: Approved the list of invoices to be paid. - Fire Department Medical Evaluations: Awarded contract to Rock Valley Health for $290,376.00 (RFP 386-26). - Minton Road Lift Station Engineering: Awarded professional services agreement to V3 Companies Inc. for $49,950.00 (387-26). - Sanitary Sewer Cleaning Program: Approved Change Order No. 2 to Pipe View America ($91,700.00) and Amendment No. 1 to RJN Group Inc. ($24,700.00) (388-26). - Hickory-Spring Creek Cleaning Project: Awarded contract to Gregg W. Dobczyk Excavating for $139,900.00 (389-26). - Generator Purchase: Approved purchase of a Caterpillar generator for Public Works Cedarwood facility from Altorfer Power Systems for $163,379.84 (390-26). - Grounds Maintenance Contract: Awarded contract to Dukes Landscape Services for $879,996.00 covering 2026–2029 (391-26). Public Comments & Testimony - Agenda Items: Larry Crawford thanked the Council for supporting parade closures (resolutions 405-26 and 406-26) and expressed concern that the variation of use at 317 S. Reed Street (401-26) could set a precedent. He also voiced support for Police Chief Brown. - Non-Agenda Items: - Adrienne Williams complained about conditions at Riverwalk/Evergreen Terrace, alleging delays in relocation and lack of response from Councilman Cardenas. - Kathy Garthus reported a serious motorcycle accident on Route 53 and urged more police presence near warehouses. - Larry Crawford asked for details on how surplus property (resolution 404-26) would be disposed of. - Amy Sanchez promoted upcoming events: House Music Festival (Aug 8), 815 Youth Day (Aug 15), Riverwalk back-to-school fair (Aug 22), Black Joy Parade (Aug 29), and Mexican Independence Day Parade (Sept 12). Discussion Items - Liquor Licenses: - Class B – BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse (393-26): Councilman Hug questioned whether the license should be issued before the restaurant is fully built. City staff explained that approval is conditional upon final inspections. Approved 7-2 (Councilwoman Ibarra and Councilman Moreno dissenting). - Class E – Angelita’s Mexican Bar & Cuisine (394-26): Councilman Hug asked about the difference between Class B and E licenses. Approved 8-0-1 (Councilman Cardenas abstained). - Class E – Tacos El Tio 11 (395-26): Approved unanimously. - Public Hearing – Rock Run Collection Business District (397-26): No public comments. The hearing was closed. - Ordinance 399-26 – Rock Run Collection Business District: Approved unanimously, establishing the district and imposing retailers’ occupation, service occupation, and hotel operators’ occupation taxes. - Ordinance 400-26 – Public Nuisance Declarations: Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 401-26 – Variation of Use at 317 S. Reed Street: Councilwoman Quillman expressed concern about setting a precedent for converting residential to business use. Staff (Dustin Anderson and Interim Corporation Counsel Mike Castaldo) clarified that each variation is fact-specific and must come before the council; the adjoining UCP property makes this unique. Councilwoman Ibarra noted that the Reedwood Neighborhood Council fully supports the change. After further discussion, Councilwoman Quillman voted aye. Approved unanimously. - Resolution 404-26 – Surplus Property: Approved unanimously, with Councilwoman Quillman stating she had questions about the process. - Parade Route Resolutions: Resolutions 405-26 (Black Joy Parade, August 29, closing Routes 6 and 30) and 406-26 (Mexican Independence Day Parade, September 12, closing State Route 171) were both approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items approved unanimously. - Liquor licenses: BJ’s approved 7-2; Angelita’s approved 8-0-1; Tacos El Tio approved unanimously. - Rock Run Collection Business District established via Ordinance 18880. - Variation of use at 317 S. Reed Street approved via Ordinance 18882. - Two parade route closure resolutions adopted (Resolutions 8321 and 8322). - Lease extension for GiGi’s Sweets at Gateway Transportation Center approved (Resolution 8319). - Surplus property declaration approved (Resolution 8320). - Public Works reported 74 water main breaks year-to-date, down from 95 at the same period in 2025, with 34 breaks occurring in the newly acquired sanitary sewer district. - Councilman Moreno requested Economic Development staff explore attracting a water park to Joliet. - Councilman Clement offered condolences on the passing of Tom Charley (O’Charley’s Pub) and Mike Mackey (former city employee). - Councilwoman Ibarra thanked colleagues for support during her father’s medical emergency.

This pre-council meeting was held on August 3, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Joliet City Hall. Councilman Larry E. Hug was absent. The meeting included a presentation on the Alternative Water Source Program, review of consent agenda items, public hearings, and discussion on several ordinances and resolutions. No final votes were taken; items will be acted upon at the regular City Council meeting on August 4, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from July 20 and July 21, 2026. - Invoices to be paid. - Award of contract for 2026-2027 Joliet Fire Department Medical and Fitness Evaluations to Rock Valley Health ($290,376). - Award of professional services agreement for Minton Road Lift Station Replacement Construction Engineering to V3 Companies Inc. ($49,950). - Approval of change order No. 2 for 2025 Sanitary Sewer Cleaning and Inspection Program to Pipe View America ($91,700) and amendment No. 1 to RJN Group Inc. ($24,700). - Award of contract for 2026 Hickory-Spring Creek Cleaning Project to Gregg W. Dobczyk Excavating ($139,900). - Purchase of Caterpillar Generator for Public Works Cedarwood facility from Altorfer Power Systems ($163,379.84). - Award of contract for 2026-2029 Facilities Grounds Maintenance to Dukes Landscape Services ($879,996). Public Comments & Testimony - Kathy Spieler (Reedwood Neighbors Group co-chair) spoke in support of Council Memo 401-26 (variation of use for UCP at 317 S. Reed Street). She read letters of support from neighbors citing the property's history of neglect and the positive impact of UCP's work. - Boise Walker (Chair, Black Joy Parade committee) spoke on Council Memo 405-26, providing background on the parade's history and its relaunch in 2025, and requested the council's support for route closures. - Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman spoke on behalf of Michelle Burke (Cathedral Area president) regarding Council Memo 401-26. She expressed concerns about setting a precedent for allowing commercial use in a single-family residential zone, noting the neighborhood's long struggle to restore single-family character. She suggested consolidating the two parcels rather than granting a variation of use. Discussion Items - Alternative Water Source Program Update: Director of Public Utilities Allison Swisher presented an update. Key points: The program budget is $1.446 billion; 26 construction work packages are planned; the target for switching to Lake Michigan water remains fall 2030. Grant funding received to date: $8.35 million of the $10 million anticipated. The Stantec Amendment No. 5 (totaling $35 million) will be presented for approval at the August 18, 2026 council meeting. Councilman Cardenas asked about timeline; Swisher confirmed fall 2030. Councilwoman Quillman praised Swisher's work. - Rock Run Collection Business District (Ordinance 399-26): Councilwoman Ibarra asked for clarification on the blighted area finding. Kevin Sing explained that the finding is a statutory requirement for establishing a business district; the area is not currently blighted. - Public Nuisance Ordinance (400-26): Councilman Moreno asked about a property at 962 that has two structures on one lot. Dustin Anderson clarified that the ordinance targets only the rear structure, which is in poor condition, and that passage would authorize further steps, not immediate demolition. - Variation of Use at 317 S. Reed Street (401-26): Mayor D'Arcy asked Dustin Anderson about alternative paths. Anderson outlined a consolidation of parcels via a planned unit development (PUD), which would require a four-month process. Councilwoman Quillman expressed concern that granting a variation of use would set a precedent for other neighborhoods. Interim Corporation Counsel Michael Castaldo noted that home rule authority might allow a faster path. Councilwoman Ibarra raised the additional expense for the nonprofit UCP. The council directed staff to explore a more expedited consolidation option. Key Outcomes - Staff will research a faster consolidation process for the 317 S. Reed Street parcels as an alternative to the variation of use, with consideration of cost and timeline for the nonprofit. - The Stantec Amendment No. 5 will be brought to the council for approval on August 18, 2026. - Consent agenda items, liquor licenses, and parade route closure resolutions will be voted on at the August 4, 2026 regular council meeting. - The public hearing and ordinance for the Rock Run Collection Business District will be advanced to the regular meeting. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:30 PM by motion of Councilwoman Ibarra, seconded by Councilman Moreno, with all present members voting aye.

The Joliet City Council met on July 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra was absent. The meeting included routine approvals, a public hearing on a small annexation, multiple financial and intergovernmental agreements, and extensive public comments regarding an ICE operation and other community issues. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of July 6 and July 7, 2026. - Approved July 2026 invoices. - Approved purchase of an AX17 Vermeer Chipper ($119,527.78) from Vermeer Illinois. - Approved professional service agreements with Geotech Inc. and TWIG Technologies (each up to $50,000) for on-call engineering and surveying. - Approved professional service agreement with Strand Associates for Northpoint Traffic Impact Study review (up to $100,000). - Awarded contract for 2026 Sidewalk Replacement Program (West of Larkin) to Davis Concrete Construction ($1,106,778.11). - Approved purchase of fire department equipment from Stryker Medical ($654,217.80) including cots, loaders, stair chairs, and defibrillators. - Approved biosolids spring lease payments to four farms totaling $140,400. - Approved purchase of water metering equipment from Core & Main LP ($126,900). - Awarded contract for Hickory Creek and East Interceptor Multisensor Inspection to Taplin Group ($299,168) and field inspection services to RJN Group ($56,400). - Awarded professional services agreement for Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation for 2027 Watermain Replacement Program to RJN Group ($52,400). - Approved Change Order No. 2 for Railroad Street Water Main Improvements (deduction of $417,544.90). - Approved Change Order No. 1 for Lois Place Lift Station Rehabilitation ($20,958.83) and final payment ($48,540.39). - Approved Change Order No. 3 for Heggie Park Water Main Improvements (deduction of $272,352.78). All consent items were approved unanimously by 8-0 (Ibarra absent). Public Comments & Testimony On Agenda Items: - Ashley Bester, a Preston Heights resident, expressed concern about Council Memo 385-26 (Emergency Shower Facility Access Agreement with Joliet Park District). She questioned whether residents were included in the planning, what risk assessments were done, and what safety and comfort contingencies are in place. She requested that residents be included in the committee. Public Hearing (Annexation): No public comments were made. On Non-Agenda Items (after consent): - Christopher Parker (President, African American Business Association - ABBA) and Kira Ford thanked the council for CDBG funding support for ABBA’s programs aiding black entrepreneurs. - Alicia Morales spoke as a private citizen about an ICE operation on July 20, 2026, on Henderson and Virginia Street. She raised concerns about lack of transparency, whether federal agents had judicial warrants, the role of Joliet Police, and whether a vehicle accident was properly reported. She called for leadership on transparency and equal protection. - Sam Coffey alleged that a Joliet police officer (Scott Fosen) told a person they could not record on a public street, possibly violating the Illinois Trust Act. He claimed Fosen has a Valknut tattoo associated with white supremacists, and requested an investigation, apology, and policy changes. - Magda Lara, a 60+ year resident, called for unity, transparency, and equal enforcement of law, referencing the Constitution and Bill of Rights. - Rosa Hernandez described witnessing the ICE operation, being approached aggressively by Joliet Police, and seeing a vehicle accident. She asked police not to assist ICE and to protect the community. - Sativa criticized the city for installing data centers and flock cameras without public consent, and complained about water infrastructure problems. - Dr. Jacob Jakobi Collins, a teacher, thanked the council for supporting Preston Heights water issues and asked how private residents can partner with the city. - Crystal Adams, a Preston Heights resident, thanked the city for progress on water main replacement but requested detailed project timelines, communication plans, and regular updates. - Betty Washington thanked Councilwoman Ibarra (absent) and Greg Ruddy for securing funds for a drainage project at Mt. Zion Baptist Church. - Amy Navarro, new program director of Latino Economic Development Association (LEDA), introduced herself and thanked the city for CDBG funding. - Enrique, co-owner of a photo/video studio, praised LEDA’s support for small businesses. - Andres Bejarano, founder of Latino Media Solutions, testified how LEDA helped start his business. - Kathy Garthus expressed concerns about ICE, swapped license plates, and personal issues with a vehicle tampered with by city officials, demanding accountability. Council members did not generally respond, but Chief Brown addressed questions about police posture: he stated Joliet Police follow state law, do not participate in immigration enforcement (retainer warrants), but may provide public safety assistance if there is an active federal warrant. He said the July 20 incident involved a federal arrest warrant, and an accident report was filed. He committed to reviewing body camera footage. Discussion Items - Public Service Committee Report (Councilman Hug): Outlined that all nine contracts reviewed were routine and recommended for approval. Noted two change orders resulted in deductions (under budget): Railroad Street Water Main ($417,545 deduction) and Heggie Park Water Main ($272,353 deduction). - Ordinance 372-26 (Budget Amendment for Multi-Modal Center): Councilman Hug clarified the $383,589.39 payment will be fully reimbursed by Pace. - Ordinance 373-26 (Class Action Settlement): Mayor D'Arcy explained the city is returning $1.7 million collected incorrectly in the Musa case. - Resolution 384-26 (CDBG Annual Action Plan PY2026): Councilman Hug expressed concerns that CDBG funds have shifted from neighborhood infrastructure to donations to nonprofits. He questioned the distribution, particularly Catholic Charities receiving a large share. CDBG Program Manager Brigette Roehr explained the program’s strict rules, including a 15% cap on service activities, and noted efforts to expand access and pilot an owner-occupied rehab program. The Council discussed the scoring rubric. Hug voted nay; the resolution passed 7-1. - Resolution 385-26 (Emergency Shower Facility Access): Mayor D'Arcy and Councilman Hug addressed concerns raised by Ashley Bester, emphasizing the agreement is an optional option, not a requirement, and that a second water line to Preston Heights is being installed starting end of July, which should alleviate water disruptions. Key Outcomes - Appointments: Andrew J. Neill appointed to Tree Advisory Board; Diane Harris reappointed to Library Board (both unanimous). - Consent Agenda: All items approved unanimously (8-0). - Agenda Items: - Award of Contract for Minton Road Lift Station Replacement (Austin Tyler Construction, $590,075): Approved 7-0-1 (Moreno abstained). - Change Order for Glenwood and West Acres Water Main Improvements (Austin Tyler Construction, $218,240.10): Approved 7-0-1 (Moreno abstained). - Public Hearing (Annexation A-2-26): Resolution approving annexation agreement for 0.14 acres at Elgin and Leach: Adopted 7-1 (Quillman nay). Subsequent ordinances for annexation and R-3 zoning also adopted 7-1. - Ordinances: All five ordinances adopted unanimously (8-0) except where noted. - Ordinance 371-26 (IDOT $3.5M grant): Unanimous. - Ordinance 372-26 (Budget amendment for Multi-Modal Center): Unanimous. - Ordinance 373-26 (Class action settlement): Unanimous. - Resolutions: All 11 resolutions adopted unanimously except 384-26 (CDBG Annual Action Plan) adopted 7-1 (Hug nay). - Notable: Resolutions 379-26 and 380-26 (MOUs with Channahon and Elwood Fire Protection Districts) approved. - Resolution 385-26 (Emergency shower access IGA with Joliet Park District) approved unanimously. - Next Steps: - Chief Brown will review body camera footage from July 20 ICE operation. - Preston Heights community meeting scheduled for July 30 at Nowell Park for water system updates. - CDBG program will explore a nonprofit academy and continue owner-occupied rehab pilot.

The City of Joliet Pre-Council Meeting convened on Monday, July 20, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Mayor Terry D'Arcy presided, with Councilmembers Cesar Cardenas, Joe Clement, Larry E. Hug, Suzanna Ibarra, Pat Mudron, Jan Hallums Quillman, and Sherri Reardon present; Councilman Juan Moreno was absent. The meeting was a preparatory session for the next day's City Council meeting, covering appointments, consent agenda items, public hearings, ordinances, resolutions, and public comments. A closed session was held at the end. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Pre-Council meeting minutes of July 6, 2026, and City Council meeting minutes of July 7, 2026. - Invoices: July 2026 invoices to be paid. - 352-26: Purchase of one (1) AX17 Vermeer chipper from Vermeer Illinois Inc. for $119,527.78. - 353-26: Professional service agreements for on‑call engineering and surveying with Geotech Inc. and TWIG Technologies, each not to exceed $50,000. - 354-26: Professional service agreement for the Northpoint Traffic Impact Study (TIS) review with Strand Associates, not to exceed $100,000. Councilwoman Ibarra requested a copy of the contract before the vote; Councilman Hug clarified that this amount is fully reimbursed by the Northpoint developer. - 355-26: Award of contract for the 2026 City of Joliet Sidewalk Replacement Program (West of Larkin) to Davis Concrete Construction Co. for $1,106,778.11. - 356-26: Purchase of fire department equipment from Stryker Medical (Power Pro 2 cots, Power Load auto cot loaders, Xpedition powered stair chairs, Lifepack 35 monitor/defibrillators) totaling $654,217.80. - 357-26: Biosolids application spring lease payments to four farms: Anderson Farms ($24,000), Oram Farms ($37,800), Homerding Farms LLC ($27,000), and James Fleishman ($51,600). - 358-26: Purchase of water metering equipment from Core & Main LP for $126,900. - 359-26: Award of contract for Hickory Creek and East Interceptor multisensor inspection to Taplin Group ($299,168) and professional services for field inspection to RJN Group Inc. ($56,400). - 360-26: Professional services agreement for sanitary sewer rehabilitation for the 2027 Watermain Replacement Program to RJN Group Inc. for $52,400. - 361-26: Change Order No. 2 for the Railroad Street Water Main Improvements (P.T. Ferro Construction) – a deduction of ($417,544.90). - 362-26: Change Order No. 1 for Lois Place Lift Station Rehabilitation (Airys Inc.) of $20,958.83 and final payment No. 4 of $48,540.39. - 363-26: Change Order No. 3 for Heggie Park Water Main Improvements (P.T. Ferro Construction) – a deduction of ($272,352.78). Discussion Items - Minton Road Lift Station Replacement (365-26): Award of contract to Austin Tyler Construction Inc. for $590,075. - Glenwood and West Acres Water Main Improvements Change Order (366-26): Change Order No. 1 to Austin Tyler Construction Inc. for $218,240.10. - Public Hearing – Annexation Agreement (368-26): A hearing was held for a resolution to annex 0.14 acres at the intersection of Elgin Avenue and Leach Avenue (A‑2‑26). No public testimony was recorded during the agenda review, but Councilwoman Quillman asked staff for clarification: the vacant lot is currently in the county and would be annexed to allow the adjacent property owner to consolidate lots and build a shed. The existing property is zoned R‑3 (one‑and‑two‑family residential), and the annexation would not change that classification. Staff confirmed the owner’s intent is a shed, not multifamily housing. - IDOT Grant Ordinance (371-26): Ordinance accepting a $3,500,000 grant from IDOT for the Joliet I‑80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan and amending the 2026 budget. Mayor D’Arcy requested an explanation; staff said the funds fulfill a 2022 commitment for neighborhood improvements (multi‑use path, lighting, traffic calming, historic plaque). Renderings will be presented at a community meeting tentatively in September. - Budget Amendment for Multimodal Center (372-26): Ordinance amending the 2026 budget for final payment ($383,589.39) for the Joliet Multi‑Modal Transportation Center‑1B Bus Station. Councilman Hug noted the amount is fully reimbursed by PACE/OTA. - Class Action Settlement (373-26): Ordinance authorizing the settlement agreement in Musa et al. v. City of Joliet (Will County Case 22 LA 334 consolidated with 22 CH 196). Interim Corporation Counsel Todd Lenzie explained that the city improperly adjudicated overweight/overlength truck violations administratively instead of in circuit court. The settlement fund is $2,039,786.79, but the effective amount is approximately $1.7 million because the city will not collect about $300,000 in previously uncollected fines. The settlement covers claims from 2017 to present. Councilman Hug asked if this is essentially refunding collected fines; Mr. Lenzie confirmed. - Emergency Shower Facility Access (385-26): Resolution for an intergovernmental cooperation agreement with the Joliet Park District to provide emergency shower access during extended water service disruptions. Councilwoman Ibarra asked John Lukancic to explain. Mr. Lukancic said the plan was developed after a recent water outage; the agreement is in place and a public meeting to update residents is scheduled for July 30 at 6:00 PM at Knoll Park. Mayor D’Arcy noted a joint meeting with the county is planned. - Other Resolutions: The council reviewed resolutions for drainage easements from Mt. Zion Church (375‑26), a memorandum of agreement with the Illinois EPA for 14 W. Clinton Street (376‑26), a FOID enforcement grant (377‑26), an intergovernmental agreement with Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202 (378‑26), MOUs with Channahon and Elwood fire protection districts (379‑26, 380‑26), a letter of understanding with IDOT regarding fire standpipe maintenance for the I‑80 bridge project (381‑26), an amendment to the Metra license for Washington Street water main improvements (382‑26), an intergovernmental agreement with Shorewood for sewer line oversizing (383‑26), and adoption of the CDBG Annual Action Plan PY2026 (384‑26). Public Comments & Testimony - Carol Gates: Spoke about a non‑profit organization’s event that was cancelled less than 24 hours before, citing a health alert. She questioned the cancellation and requested the return of funds from the organizer. She gave her information to staff. - Trista Brown and fellow speaker: Presented Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra with a certificate of achievement and the Margaret Grace Humanitarian Award / Community Servant Award for her humanitarian work, including securing safety cameras along the river bridge. They read the names of individuals lost in the river. - Dr. Glenda Wright McCullum: Announced the launch of the Southside Community Impact Council, an initiative of the Arise Community Development Foundation. She described its focus areas and asked the council to support the council. She also requested that some of the $3.5 million IDOT grant be allocated to repair sidewalks near the community center under development at Des Plaines and McDonald Street, citing safety hazards. - Robert Webb: Expressed concerns about the Joliet Police Department, citing a state report on police misconduct and alleging stalking and unconstitutional searches. He urged the council to read the report and warned that failure to address misconduct could lead to a class‑action lawsuit. - Dr. Curtis Bryant: Senior pastor of Mt. Zion Baptist Church on the east side. He expressed gratitude for the drainage easement resolution but raised broader water issues in the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District. He noted his church has low water pressure since the switch to city water, preventing them from offering shelter during outages. He asked for details on the emergency plan and for faster repairs. He offered to collaborate and was referred to John Lukancic after the meeting. - Kathy Garthus: Spoke about personal concerns, including her vehicle being allegedly stolen and damaged, lack of prosecution, and what she described as a pattern of police harassment and false mental health labeling. She requested action. Key Outcomes - No binding votes were taken; all items are scheduled for action at the Regular City Council meeting on July 21, 2026. - Clarifications were provided on the Northpoint TIS reimbursement, the 502 Leach Avenue zoning, the IDOT grant scope, the multimodal center reimbursement, and the class action settlement. - Council directed staff to provide a copy of the Northpoint TIS contract before the vote. - The council expressed support for the Southside Community Impact Council and noted the sidewalk repair request. - The emergency shower facility plan was acknowledged; the public meeting on July 30 will provide further updates. - Closed Session: A motion by Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra, seconded by Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman, to enter closed session to discuss personnel, collective bargaining, land acquisition or conveyance, and pending or threatened litigation was approved unanimously (8‑0, with Moreno absent). The meeting then recessed into closed session.

The Joliet Zoning Board of Appeals met on July 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The board unanimously approved three petitions related to a variation of use and two special use permits, all recommended for final action by the City Council. The meeting also included the election of a new Chair, Jane McGrath Schmig. Board member Jesse Stiff was absent. Election of Chair - The board voted unanimously (5-0) to move up agenda item 7A, Election of Chair, to the beginning of the meeting. Following nominations, Jane McGrath Schmig was elected as the new Chair of the Zoning Board of Appeals by a 5-0 vote. Approval of Minutes - The minutes from the June 18, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Petition 2026-29 (317 S. Reed Street): Gianna Barone, a resident and co-chair of the Reedwood Neighborhood Group, spoke in support. She stated that she polled approximately 30 people in her database and all were in favor. She read five letters of support from community members (Sherry Brown, Peggy Johnson, Kathy Speeler, Margie Court, and herself). The letters cited the property's long vacancy, previous squatters, and the positive impact of the UCP Center. - No public comments were made on Petitions 2026-30 or 2026-31. Discussion Items - Petition 2026-29 – Variation of Use for Administrative Offices (317 S. Reed Street): Staff planner Jayne Bernhard read the staff report into the record. Petitioner Brian Patel, representing UCP Center for Disability Services, appeared. The request was to allow administrative offices (R-B restricted business use) within an existing residential structure in an R-2 single-family residential district, adjacent to the UCP Center's main campus at 311 S. Reed Street. The site would house up to eight non-programmatic staff, with no exterior changes to residential appearance, no signage, and employee parking at the main campus. Board member Bob Nachtrieb asked about neighbor outreach; Patel stated he had met with the Reedwood Neighborhood Group. A resident spoke in support. - Petition 2026-30 – Special Use Permit for Resale Boutique (124 N. Ottawa Street): Staff read the report. Petitioner Savanna Wilhelmi, a lifelong Joliet resident and owner of a salon, introduced her business, Maison Mariana. The boutique would offer secondhand bridal wear, tuxedo rentals, special occasion wear, accessories, and home accents within an existing mixed-use building in the B-2 Central Business District. Hours would be Monday–Friday 11 AM–5 PM with extended hours during downtown events. Board member Ralph Bias asked about upper floor uses; staff confirmed upper three levels are residential. No board or public questions followed. - Petition 2026-31 – Special Use Permit for Truck Repair Facility (608 Railroad Street): Staff read the report. Petitioner Kutaikur Dikin, Operations Manager of TFR Fleet Parts and Services LLC, appeared. The request was to re-establish a truck repair facility in an I-2 General Industrial District. The facility would employ three people, operate 9 AM–5 PM, and perform all work indoors. The previous special use permit from 2017 had lapsed. Board member Bias inquired about the fleet size (65 trucks total, 50 owner-operators) and noted that trucks would be on the road, not parked overnight. No public comments. Key Outcomes - Petition 2026-29: Motion to approve the variation of use (5-0). The request will proceed to City Council with a recommendation of approval. Conditions include limiting use to administrative offices, maintaining residential exterior and interior, no future expansion, and potential revocation if the property becomes a public nuisance. - Petition 2026-30: Motion to recommend approval of the special use permit (5-0). Conditions include obtaining a building permit or certificate of occupancy within 180 days and potential revocation for public nuisance. The request moves to City Council. - Petition 2026-31: Motion to recommend approval of the special use permit (5-0). Conditions include obtaining a business license, re-establishing paved parking with five striped spaces, no outdoor storage of trucks/trailers/inoperable vehicles, and the 180-day permit requirement. The request moves to City Council. - No items were discussed under Old/New Business not for final action, and no public comments on non-agenda items were made. The meeting adjourned with a unanimous vote.

The Joliet City Council met on July 7, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting opened with an invocation by Pastor Kurt Hoover of Messiah Lutheran Church and the Pledge of Allegiance. The council addressed a range of items including proclamations, consent agenda approvals, ordinances for development projects, resolutions for grants and street designations, and public comments on water infrastructure issues in the Preston Heights area. Proclamation - Councilwoman Quillman read a proclamation recognizing the 100th anniversary of the Slovenian Union of America and the 50th anniversary of their Joliet Home Office. Members of the organization spoke about their Heritage Museum on N. Chicago Street and thanked the council. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. Key items included: - Approval of minutes from the Pre-Council Meeting (June 15, 2026) and City Council Meeting (June 16, 2026). - Payment of $50,000 in annual membership dues to the Will County Center for Economic Development (Memo 336-26). - Purchase of two specialty trucks for Public Works for $272,143 (Memo 337-26). - Purchase of six vehicles from Ron Tirapelli Ford for $288,318 (Memo 338-26). - Amendment No. 3 to engineering services for the Joliet Centralized Traffic Management System Improvement Project to Iteris Inc. for $14,999.24 (Memo 339-26). - Change Order No. 1 for the County Line Road Improvements Project (deduction of $16,122.71 and final payment of $97,620.74) (Memo 340-26). - Change Order No. 3 for the 2024 Electrical Maintenance Assistance Contract to Meade Electric Company for $19,237.51 and Payment Request No. 8 for $49,527.97 (Memo 341-26). Public Comments & Testimony - Carla Liburdi (Contractors Association of Will and Grundy County) spoke in support of the honorary street name designation for Les Cheney (Memo 350-26), thanking the city for honoring his legacy. - Preston Heights Residents (Non-Agenda): Multiple residents, including David Hook, Ashley Buster, Natalie Silva, and Crystal Adams, voiced urgent concerns about recurring water outages due to frequent water main breaks (over 33 since February 1, 2026) in the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District, which was taken over by the city in February. They described loss of water for 24-72 hours at a time, financial burdens (e.g., buying bottled water, paying for hotel rooms), lack of communication from city staff, and the need for permanent infrastructure replacement rather than temporary repairs. - A resident also raised personal safety concerns regarding a protection order violation, but did not address council action. Discussion Items - Council Committee Reports: - Land Use & Economic Development (Councilman Cardenas): Reviewed a lease extension for GG Suites at the Gateway Transportation Center and a presentation on visitor data from Heritage Corridor Destinations. - Public Safety (Councilman Clement): Discussed equipment purchases for fire department ambulances, MOUs with Elwood and Shanahan Fire Protection Districts, tobacco enforcement grants, FOID card enforcement, and concerns about e-bikes, dirt bikes, and the sale of Kratom (synthetic heroin marketed to kids at gas stations). Councilman Hug requested brand name information to educate parents. - Public Service (Councilman Hug): Reviewed vehicle purchases, change orders for traffic management and road projects, and the honorary street name designation for Les Cheney. - Preston Heights Water Infrastructure: Council members and City Manager Beth Beatty provided background that the Southeast Joliet Sanitary District was insolvent before the city took over in February 2026. The county committed $15 million over 10 years for improvements, but the aging system (with many inoperable valves and only one water feed) continues to fail. A $3 million project to add a second feed on Route 53 is scheduled for completion in September 2026. - City Manager's Report: Highlighted national attention for Route 66 events (world's largest fried apple pie, restoration of the first Dairy Queen), successful management of multiple community events (fireworks, NASCAR, storm response), and thanked city staff. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items (Memos 336-26 through 341-26) were approved unanimously. - Memos 343-26 through 346-26 (Ordinances): - 343-26: Final plat of resubdivision for Vista Ridge Phase 3 PUD (Ordinances 18868-18869) – Approved unanimously. - 344-26: Final PUD and recording plat for 580 Caton Farm Road (Ordinances 18870-18871) – Approved unanimously. - 345-26: Special use permit and variation of use for 1216 Fairview Avenue (Ordinances 18872-18873) – Approved unanimously. - 346-26: Ordinance setting a public hearing for the Rock Run Collection Business District (Ordinance 18874) – Approved unanimously. - Memos 348-26 through 351-26 (Resolutions): - 348-26: Accept a grant for Joliet’s Tobacco Enforcement Program (Resolution 8303) – Approved unanimously. - 349-26: Appropriate Motor Fuel Tax funds for Amendment No. 3 to traffic management engineering services (Resolution 8304) – Approved unanimously. - 350-26: Approve honorary street name designation for Les Cheney (Resolution 8305) – Approved unanimously. - 351-26: Declare surplus property from the Tri-County Auto Theft Taskforce (Resolution 8306) – Approved unanimously. - Next Steps on Preston Heights Water: Council members agreed to form a task force, contact the county about accelerating the 10-year funding plan, explore emergency management resources (including possible FEMA assistance), and hold a meeting with affected residents. Public Utilities Director Allison Swisher will gather more information and report back.

The City of Joliet held a Pre-Council meeting on July 6, 2026, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included a presentation on water conservation awards, discussion of consent agenda items, ordinances and resolutions, and public comments. No formal votes were taken; items will be considered for approval at the regular City Council meeting on July 7, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from June 15, 2026 Pre-Council and June 16, 2026 City Council meetings. - Approval of invoices to be paid. - Payment of $50,000 annual membership dues to Will County Center for Economic Development (Item 336-26). - Purchase of two specialty trucks for Public Works for $272,143 (Item 337-26). - Purchase of six vehicles from Ron Tirapelli Ford for $288,318 (Item 338-26). - Amendment No. 3 to professional engineering services for Joliet Centralized Traffic Management System Improvement Project to Iteris Inc. for $14,999.24 (Item 339-26). - Change Order No. 1 for County Line Road improvements: deduction of $16,122.71 and final payment of $97,620.74 (Item 340-26). - Change Order No. 3 for 2024 Electrical Maintenance Assistance Contract to Meade Electric for $19,237.51 and Payment Request No. 8 for $49,527.97 (Item 341-26). Public Comments - Megan Cooper thanked the Joliet Police Department for their professionalism during the Fourth of July weekend festivities, particularly at Bicentennial Park where they handled a large group of unsupervised teens using illegal fireworks. She defended the officers' use of force and urged the council to recognize their service. - Julie Alexander and other representatives of Including You, Inc. provided an update on the organization's mission to empower and engage the community. They announced a Joliet Family Fun Festival on July 18, 2026, at Bicentennial Park and thanked the council for past support. - Kathy Garthus spoke about personal concerns regarding an order of protection she has against a known attacker. She alleged that the Joliet Police Department failed to enforce the order and that she was not being protected, citing a specific incident at a Pilot gas station where surveillance footage showed the alleged violation. She also raised issues about a pickup truck. Discussion Items - Water Conservation Presentation: Director of Public Utilities Allison Swisher recognized the winners of the April Grand Prairie Water Commission Conservation Challenge (Lori Ludson) and the Q2 2026 Water Conservation Incentive Program (kids winner Felicity). She announced the Q3 program, a water conservation night at the Joliet Slammers baseball game on July 7, and highlighted the City's Gold Level Water Ambassador designation from the Illinois American Water Works Association, one of only 36 communities statewide. - Vista Ridge Resubdivision (Item 343-26): Councilman Hug asked for clarification on the location of the Vista Ridge subdivision. Community Development Director Dustin Anderson responded that it is located at County Line Road and Ridge Road. - 580 Caton Farm Road PUD (Item 344-26): No discussion recorded in minutes, but it was listed. - 1216 Fairview Avenue Special Use Permit (Item 345-26): No discussion recorded. - Rock Run Collection Business District (Item 346-26): City Manager Beth Beatty provided an overview. Councilman Moreno asked for an explanation, and Councilman Mudron and Hug requested clarification. Caitlin Johnson of SB Friedman, the city's economic development consultant, explained that the proposed business district would impose a 1% sales tax on goods and a 1% hotel tax within the defined area (the northeast corner of I-55 and I-80, including the Rock Run Collection development and the casino). These funds would be used for redevelopment within the district. Councilman Hug noted that the industrial portion of the development is excluded from the tax because it does not generate sales tax, and raised a question about future conversion of industrial parcels to retail. Caitlin Johnson confirmed that the business district can be amended or expanded in the future to include additional properties, subject to public approval and eligibility criteria. The district has a 23-year term. - Tobacco Enforcement Grant (Item 348-26): Councilman Clement spoke in support and asked if similar programs exist for alcohol enforcement. He recalled that the state used to conduct compliance checks and suggested the city look into reinstating that program. - Motor Fuel Tax Appropriation (Item 349-26): Councilman Hug clarified that this is a housekeeping item required to release Motor Fuel Tax funds for the traffic management system project, separate from the expenditure approval. - Honorary Street Name for Les Cheney (Item 350-26): No discussion recorded. - Surplus Property Declaration (Item 351-26): No discussion recorded. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on consent or ordinance/resolution items at this pre-council meeting. These items will be presented for approval at the regular City Council meeting on July 7, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:30 PM (estimated) by motion of Councilwoman Sherri Reardon, seconded by Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra, with all members voting aye.