Public Meetings - Joliet, Illinois

This special meeting of the Joliet Board of Fire and Police Commissioners was called to order at 5:30 PM on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in City Hall Council Chambers. Commissioners present: Chairman Quinn Adamowski, John Stefanski, Tomas Ponce, and Pat Strocchia. Commissioner Natalie Coleman was absent. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, a secretary's report, fire department promotions, a closed session, and hiring decisions for Joliet Police Department patrol officers. The meeting adjourned at 5:59 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (February 9, 2026): Motion by Stefanski, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0 (Coleman absent). - Approval of Minutes (March 9, 2026): Motion by Stefanski, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. - Secretary's Report: Commissioner Stefanski reported that Police Certified Lateral List 9 candidate Darin Van Patter was removed for failure to meet requirements on February 18, 2026. - Joliet Fire Department – Promotion to Captain (Rick Netcel): Fire Chief Jeff Carey reviewed Lieutenant Netcel's file and found no reason for non-promotion. Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Netcel promoted from Lieutenant to Captain. - Joliet Fire Department – Promotion to Lieutenant (Cory Brenczewki): Chief Carey reviewed Apparatus Operator Brenczewki's file and found no reason for non-promotion. Motion by Strocchia, seconded by Stefanski, carried 4-0. Brenczewki promoted from Apparatus Operator to Lieutenant. - Joliet Fire Department 2026-2028 New Hire Eligibility List: Motion by Stefanski, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0 to approve the eligibility list. Closed Session - A motion to enter closed session to discuss specific personnel (5 ILCS 5/120/2(c)(1)) was made by Stefanski, seconded by Strocchia, and carried 4-0 at approximately 5:35 PM. The board reconvened in open session at 5:53 PM. Discussion and Hiring Actions – Joliet Police Department After closed session, the board considered conditional hires from two lists: entry-level applicants and lateral applicants. All approvals were conditional upon successful completion of vision and physical examinations unless otherwise noted. Entry-Level Applicants Approved: - Austin Thompson (44): Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams. - Jose Hernandez (64): Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams. - Terry Alexander (66): Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams. - Symphony Campbell (75): Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams, and must come into compliance with department policies by the end of the 18-month probationary period (note: transcript adds this additional condition beyond the minutes' mention of medical exams only). - Ma-Teejenal Smith (88): Motion by Strocchia, seconded by Ponce, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams. Entry-Level Applicant Not Approved: - Leroy Munoz Jr. (70): Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, failed 0-4 (all commissioners voted nay). Lateral Applicants Approved: - Alicia Headrick (5): Motion by Ponce, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams. - Brenden A'Hearn (8): Motion by Stefanski, seconded by Strocchia, carried 4-0. Condition: pending vision and physical exams. Lateral Applicant Not Approved: - David Benes (3): Motion by Stefanski, seconded by Strocchia, failed 0-4 (all commissioners voted nay). Key Outcomes - All four commissioners present voted unanimously on all matters except the two motion failures, which also received unanimous “nay” votes. - Two fire department promotions and a new hire eligibility list were approved. - Five entry-level and two lateral police candidates were conditionally hired; two candidates were rejected. - No public comments were made during either the agenda-item or general public comment periods.

The Joliet City Council held a regular meeting on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 4:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on the proposed Joliet Technology Center annexation, a 795-acre data center development. Due to the state election day prohibition, the council recessed the meeting without voting on the annexation, scheduling a reconvened meeting for Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Other routine and non-controversial items were approved. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes of the Pre-Council Meeting (March 2, 2026) and City Council Meeting (March 3, 2026) were approved. - Invoices to be Paid: Approved. - Contract Extension – Landscape Maintenance: Awarded a contract extension to Ramiro Guzman Landscaping for the 2023-2027 Landscape Maintenance Services (Utilities) Program in the amount of $140,366.78 (Council Memo 161-26). - Purchase of Flow Metering Equipment: Approved purchase of ISCO Flow Metering Equipment from Gasvoda & Associates, Inc. for $49,995.00 (162-26). - CrowdStrike Endpoint Security Renewal: Awarded contract to Center for Internet Security (CIS) for annual renewal at $65,142.00 (163-26). - Euna Procurement Renewal: Awarded contract to Euna Solutions for annual renewal at $26,500.00 (164-26). - Laserfiche Document Management Renewal: Awarded contract to Cities Digital Inc. for annual renewal at $75,050.00 (165-26). - All consent agenda items were approved unanimously with Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman absent. Council Committee Reports - Communication, Technology & Information Systems: Councilwoman Reardon reported on the March 4, 2026 committee meeting. - Finance: Councilman Mudron reported on the March 16, 2026 committee meeting, including a discussion on an ordinance amending city manager authority for succession hiring. - Public Service: Councilman Hug reported on the March 16, 2026 committee meeting, covering landscaping, flow meters, parking deck engineering, water main change order, Culver's drive-thru permit, low-interest loans for water mains and lead service lines, and an MOU for the Cass Street Bridge project. Agenda Items (Non-Consent) - Professional Services Agreement for Parking Deck Modifications (167-26): Approved unanimously to enter into an agreement with TY Lin for Phase III engineering services for the Ottawa Street Parking Deck modifications, not to exceed $104,088.00. - Change Order for Emerald Lawns Water Main Improvements (168-26): Approved a change order deducting $571,601.18 and a final pay estimate of $614,195.92 to Austin Tyler Construction Inc. The vote was 7 ayes, 1 abstention (Councilman Moreno). - Drive-Thru Permit for Culver's Restaurant (170-26): Approved the drive-thru permit for a Culver's at 1301 Shale Road. - Ordinance on City Manager Authority for Succession Hiring (172-26): A motion to postpone this item to the April 7, 2026 City Council meeting was approved 7-1 (Councilman Mudron voted no), after Councilwoman Ibarra requested more time to review. - Resolution for MOU for Cass Street Bridge Project (174-26): Adopted Resolution 8259 authorizing a Memorandum of Understanding with D Construction Inc. for temporary use of city-owned property for IDOT’s Cass Street Bridge project. - Resolution Accepting IEPA Loan L176077 for Water Main Replacement (175-26): Adopted Resolution 8260 accepting a low-interest loan at 2.16% for the 2026 Water Main Replacement Program. - Resolution Accepting IEPA Loan L176080 for Lead Service Line Replacement (176-26): Adopted Resolution 8261 accepting a zero-interest loan for the 2026 Lead Water Service Line Replacement Program. Public Hearing – Joliet Technology Center (A-4-25 and PUD-8-25) The public hearing opened at approximately 5:30 PM for the proposed annexation, rezoning to I-1 (Light Industrial), preliminary PUD, and preliminary plat of the Joliet Technology Center on approximately 795 acres near S. Rowell Road and Bernhard Road. The developer (Hillwood and Powerhouse Data Centers) presented details on the project, including: closed-loop water cooling (max 150,000 gallons per day, with spikes up to 300,000), noise mitigation plans, traffic improvements, economic impact (estimated $2.1 billion in tax revenue over 30 years, $20 million upfront community benefit), and grid reliability. Expert testimony from ComEd, Langan Engineering, Kimley-Horn, and others was provided. Numerous public speakers (over 80 individuals) spoke during the hearing. Supporters included union representatives (Will Grundy Building Trades, IBEW, Sheet Metal Workers, LiUNA, Operating Engineers), the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce, Lewis University, Joliet Junior College, and local residents. They emphasized job creation (7,000–10,000 construction jobs, 700 permanent high-wage jobs), tax base diversification, and the developer’s transparency and lack of incentives. Opponents, including residents of Joliet, Elwood, Manhattan, and other nearby communities, expressed concerns about: depleting the aquifer (Joliet relies on groundwater until 2030), noise pollution (including low-frequency infrasound), increased electricity costs, lack of transparency (no Spanish-language materials, redacted FOIA documents, rushed timeline), potential health impacts (cancer, sleep deprivation), property value declines, and the speculative nature of AI demand. Several speakers urged the council to wait for the Illinois Power Act (SB 4016/HB 5513). A petition with over 4,719 signatures opposing the data center was presented. Key Outcomes - Consent and routine agenda items were approved as noted above. - Postponement of the city manager authority ordinance to April 7, 2026. - Mayor Pro Tem Appointment: Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman was appointed as Mayor Pro Tem for the term April 1–June 30, 2026. - Recess: The council recessed the meeting at approximately 11:45 PM, with a motion to reconvene on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The delay was required by state election day prohibitions. No vote was taken on the Joliet Technology Center annexation or related ordinances at this meeting. The reconvened meeting will continue with council deliberation and a vote.

The Joliet Board of Fire and Police Commissioners met on Monday, March 9, 2026 at 5:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included a closed session to discuss specific employee matters, followed by open session actions on motions related to Lieutenant Harrison. Commissioners present: Chairman Quinn Adamowski, Tomas Ponce, John Stefanski, and Natalia Coleman (arrived at 5:37 PM). Commissioner Pat Strocchia was absent. Closed Session The board voted unanimously (3-0, with Coleman absent and Strocchia absent) to move closed session up on the agenda to discuss specific employee matters per 5 ILCS 5/120/2(c)(1). The closed session lasted from approximately 5:30 PM to 6:49 PM. Agenda Items - Lieutenant Harrison Motions Acceptance of Motion for Discovery (TMP-9618) The board unanimously voted (4-0) to accept Lt. Harrison's Motion for Discovery as a procedural matter. Hearing and Potential Ruling on Motion for Discovery (TMP-9619) After discussion with both parties, the board unanimously voted (4-0) to table the hearing on the Motion for Discovery, pending a future hearing. Acceptance of Motion to Reinstate Salary and Health Insurance (TMP-9620) The board unanimously voted (4-0) to accept Lt. Harrison's Motion to Reinstate Salary and Health Insurance as a procedural matter. Hearing and Potential Ruling on Motion to Reinstate Salary and Health Insurance (TMP-9621) A motion to approve the reinstatement of Lt. Harrison's salary and health insurance was voted on. The motion failed with a vote of 2 ayes (Stefanski, Ponce) and 2 nays (Adamowski, Coleman). Commissioner Strocchia was absent. Therefore, the reinstatement was not approved. Public Comment No members of the public spoke on agenda or non-agenda items. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:52 PM.

The Joliet CTIS Committee met on March 4, 2026, at 8:30 AM in the Executive Conference Room of City Hall. Chairperson Sherri Reardon presided, with Councilmen Cesar Cardenas and Juan Moreno present. CIO Christopher Sternal presented three contract renewals, all approved unanimously. The committee also discussed technology for home inspections and challenges faced by small businesses with zoning board submissions. Approval of Minutes - Motion to approve minutes from February 4, 2026 (TMP-9600) carried 3-0. Discussion Items - CrowdStrike Endpoint Security Renewal (TMP-9578): Award of contract to Center for Internet Security (CIS) for $65,142. CIO Sternal noted CIS is a nonprofit partially funded by Homeland Security, providing a deep discount. The software protects 987 devices, replacing Trend Micro in 2022. It runs real-time scanning in the background. Councilman Cardenas asked about layers of security; Sternal explained they use multiple products for defense in depth, and CrowdStrike specializes in antivirus. Motion to approve by Moreno, seconded by Cardenas, passed 3-0. - Euna Procurement Renewal (TMP-9580): Award to Euna Solutions (formerly Bonfire) for $26,500. This e-procurement system streamlines bids and RFPs. Sternal noted it has been in use about a year, with a push this year for full adoption. Vendors appreciate the platform, and it expands reach through a network. Councilman Cardenas asked about industry standard; Sternal confirmed it is widely used. Motion by Cardenas, seconded by Moreno, passed 3-0. - Laserfiche Document Management Renewal (TMP-9582): Award to Cities Digital Inc. for $75,050. Implemented in 2022, it replaced the old system and now hosts digital forms for on-duty injury reports, special events, business grants, etc. Councilman Cardenas inquired about the special events form; Sternal acknowledged it is cumbersome and noted plans to bring forward an enterprise permitting/licensing software next month. The current form is a temporary solution. Motion by Cardenas, seconded by Moreno, passed 3-0. Other Business and Discussion - Home Inspection Technology (EPL): Councilman Moreno asked about progress. Sternal responded that they finished negotiating better pricing and plan to bring it to the next committee meeting. - Zoning Board Submission Issues: Councilman Moreno raised concerns that small developers and businesses face difficulties with the zoning board submission process, including unclear deadlines and multiple requests for additional documents. He suggested a simplified one-form approach and clearer timelines. Sternal indicated this is more of a planning department issue, but noted the website is being revamped. Councilwoman Reardon mentioned that Paulina in economic development is working on a simplified guide for small businesses. The committee acknowledged the need to make processes easier for non-professional applicants. Key Outcomes - All three contract awards approved unanimously (3-0 each). - Home inspection technology proposal to be presented at the next committee meeting. - Concerns about zoning board process will be relayed to planning and economic development departments for potential simplification. - Meeting adjourned by motion from Cardenas, seconded by Moreno, carried 3-0.

[Note: The official agenda, minutes, and raw transcript for this meeting consistently identify the date of the proceedings as Monday, March 2, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Per user instruction, the summary is compiled under the date of March 3, 2026, creating a date discrepancy between the source material and this summary.] The City of Joliet Pre-Council Meeting was convened by Mayor Terry D'Arcy with all council members present: Mayor Pro-Tem Pat Mudron, Councilman Cesar Cardenas, Councilman Joe Clement, Councilman Larry E. Hug, Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra, Councilman Juan Moreno, Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman, and Councilwoman Sherri Reardon. Also present were City Manager Beth Beatty and Interim Corporation Counsel Todd Lenzie. The meeting featured extensive presentations on environmental compliance and water conservation, the review of a substantial consent agenda, several liquor licenses, and multiple resolutions. Council members also weighed in on pressing traffic infrastructure concerns. Presentations - National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Update: Dan Bounds of Baxter & Woodman and Public Works Director Greg Ruddy presented the annual stormwater management report. The city operates under an MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) permit administered by the Illinois EPA, requiring six minimum control measures. A new permit became effective in August 2025, introducing enhanced documentation and training requirements. Councilwoman Suzanna Ibarra advocated for expanded public outreach, urging staff to hold neighborhood-based meetings rather than relying solely on televised council meetings to satisfy outreach requirements. Dan Bounds affirmed this feedback could be incorporated into the new five-year stormwater management plan. Councilman Larry Hug inquired about consequences for exceeding EPA pollutant thresholds; Bounds explained that local waterways are already classified as impaired and the program aims to reduce overall discharges through public education and regional watershed group collaboration. - Non-Revenue Water Reduction Program Update: Public Utilities Director Allison Swisher and Will Jernigan of Cavanaugh & Associates provided the annual progress report on reducing water loss. The city is committed to reducing non-revenue water to below 10% by September 30, 2030, as a condition of its Lake Michigan water allocation from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). The program has achieved a significant reduction of over one-third in water loss volume since 2018 (from 125 to 80 gallons per connection per day). However, the percentage-based metric fell only from 35% to 28%, which the presenters argued is misleading because it penalizes water conservation by relying on a moving target. The city is working with IDNR to adopt a volume-based metric as the industry standard. Key progress includes completing the replacement of all oldest customer meters, replacing approximately 30 miles of water main in the past year (as part of a planned 192-mile program), subdividing the system into six (and eventually 13) zones for targeted leak detection, and transitioning data analysis from an annual to monthly to daily real-time monitoring cadence. The purple and blue zones remain the primary focus of loss reduction efforts. Public Comments & Testimony - Honorary Street Name (Agenda Item): Essence Clark (wife) and Shelley Clark (sister-in-law) spoke in favor of Resolution 159-26, which designates an honorary street name for Michael Austin Clark. Essence Clark detailed his extensive community service, including his work with Joliet Township High Schools, the J-REC committee, the MLK Day of Service, the NAACP, the African American Business Association, and the creation of the MAC Mentoring program and a scholarship fund at Joliet West. - Educational Forum (General Comment): Trista Brown, founder of PIKA, announced an educational forum titled “Voices of the Community” scheduled for March 12, 2026, at the Joliet Library (6:00 PM). She emphasized the need for the city to engage all residents across all districts and praised the helpfulness of the City Hall information desk staff. Consent Calendar (Items for Formal Approval at City Council) The City Manager reviewed the following items slated for the City Council meeting: - Reappointments to the Historic Preservation Commission and Tree Advisory Board. - Approval of minutes and invoices. - Award of Contract No. 2962-0226 for Well 23D Rehabilitation to Great Lakes Water Resources Group ($218,300.00). - Award of Professional Services Agreement for District Metered Area Management to McKim & Creed Inc. ($168,000.00). - Award of Professional Services Agreement for the 2026 Water Loss Control Technical Assistance Program to Cavanaugh & Associates PA ($668,355.00). - Award of Professional Services Agreement for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Investigation and Rehabilitation Program to RJN Group Inc. ($409,595.00). - Award of 2026 Public Utilities Department Leak Detection and Meter Testing Services Agreement to M.E. Simpson Co. Inc. ($595,440.00). - Approval of Amendment No. 1 for Geotechnical Services for the Westside WWTP Expansion to SEECO Consultants Inc. ($6,110.00). - Approval of Change Order No. 1 for the Marquette Park Water Main Improvements Project, providing a deduction ($359,193.74) and a final payment ($515,575.25). - Approval of Payment to JULIE Illinois One-Call System Services ($30,591.25). - Award of Payment for Joliet Slammers Stadium Structural Steel Painting to Cosgrove Construction Inc. ($409,660.00), representing year three of a four-year painting project. - Approval of a Contract Amendment with Borderless Studios for work associated with the federal Choice Neighborhood Initiative Grant ($30,000.00, 100% HUD reimbursable). Agenda Item - JOL-08-04 Distribution System Upgrades Project: Award of Contract No. 2938-0126 to P.T. Ferro Construction Co. in the amount of $15,196,257.72. Licenses & Permits - Class “K” Liquor License: Issuance to Joliet Baseball Concessions LLC at 1 Mayor Art Schultz Drive (Joliet Slammers Stadium). The new LLC separates concessions from baseball operations. Recommended for approval by the Deputy Liquor Commissioner. - Class “B” Liquor License: Issuance to The Matise at 113 N. Ottawa Street (a renovated banquet hall in the former St. Mary’s Church, hosting private events and occasional public events with live entertainment). Recommended for approval by the Deputy Liquor Commissioner. Resolutions - Resolution appropriating supplemental Motor Fuel Tax funds for the Bridge Street (Nicholson St. to Center St.) Roadway Improvement Project. - Resolution accepting a grant of public utility easement from Larkin Village Apartments for the Larkin Avenue Water Main Improvements Project. - Resolution approving an easement agreement for a water transmission main with Plainfield Community Consolidated School District No. 202 (Plainfield South High School). - Resolution approving an honorary street name designation for Michael Austin Clark Way. - Resolution accepting a grant of permanent easement for the 652 Collins Street Alley Improvements Project. Council Discussion & Key Outcomes - Interstate 80 Lane Reductions and Downtown Traffic: Prior to adjournment, Councilman Joe Clement raised an urgent concern about Interstate 80 being reduced to two lanes and the resulting severe strain on downtown Joliet traffic, specifically citing bottlenecks near bridges and the need for a coordinated downtown traffic plan. Councilwoman Jan Hallums Quillman concurred, questioning the timing of the closures relative to the Route 66 centennial celebration. City Manager Beth Beatty confirmed she had spoken personally with IDOT leadership. Public Works Director Greg Ruddy reported that a meeting with IDOT staff is scheduled in two weeks to establish formal detour routes and prevent simultaneous bridge closures from overwhelming city streets. - Votes: A motion to adjourn the pre-council meeting was made by Councilwoman Ibarra, seconded by Councilman Hug, and carried unanimously by all council members present.

The Joliet City Council met on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. The meeting began with an invocation by Pastor Lonnie Posley, followed by a proclamation recognizing March as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, presented by Councilwoman Quillman, with remarks from three-time cancer survivor Wenora Johnson. Mayor D'Arcy also recognized boxer Jojo Awinongya Jr. for his recent international tournament success. The council approved a consent agenda, several contracts, liquor licenses, and resolutions, and heard public comments expressing strong opposition to a proposed data center. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of previous meetings (Pre-Council Feb 2, Council Feb 3, Combined Feb 17, 2026). - Approved invoices to be paid. - Approved award of contracts and agreements: - Well 23D Rehabilitation to Great Lakes Water Resources Group ($218,300.00). - District Metered Area Management professional services to McKim & Creed Inc. ($168,000.00). - 2026 Water Loss Control Technical Assistance Program to Cavanaugh & Associates PA ($668,355.00). - 2026 Sanitary Sewer Investigation and Rehabilitation Program to RJN Group Inc. ($409,595.00). - 2026 Leak Detection and Meter Testing Services to M.E. Simpson Co. Inc. ($595,440.00). - Amendment No. 1 for Geotechnical Services for Westside WWTP Expansion to SEECO Consultants Inc. ($6,110.00). - Change Order No. 1 for Marquette Park Water Main Improvements (deduction of $359,193.74, final payment $515,575.25). - Payment to JULIE Illinois One-Call System Services ($30,591.25). - Payment for Joliet Slammers Stadium Structural Steel Painting to Cosgrove Construction Inc. ($409,660.00). - Contract Amendment with Borderless Studios for Choice Neighborhood Initiative Grant (funded by HUD). Public Comments & Testimony - Andrea Baumhardt raised concerns about the proposed data center, questioning the type of generators (Tier 2 vs. Tier 4), number of generators (550–600 for an 1800 MW facility), and frequency of testing. She urged the council to consider air quality impacts on children and pregnant women. - Rick Norman expressed opposition, stating that clean air and water are more important than data centers. He shared his personal health struggles (brain tumor, disability) and argued that the data center would bring cancer-causing pollution. He noted Councilwoman Ibarra has stated she will vote no, and urged the rest to follow. - Marjorie McNichols questioned the haste, size, and choice of developer for the data center. She suggested considering sustainable developers that use HVO biofuel or waste heat for greenhouses, and proposed linking the center to Joliet Junior College for tech and horticulture programs. She asked for a smaller, more innovative project. - Joe Jenkins thanked the city for closing Millsdale Road, which has improved traffic and reduced congestion. - Lerida Vargas, owner of 337 Third Avenue, reported that the rental property has been shot at three times in nine months, causing tenants to leave. She asked for assistance from the city. - Kathy Garthus spoke about difficulty accessing the library for the Comprehensive Plan workshop due to parking removal, and criticized the lack of phone service at the library. She also opposed the data center, stating it would harm her ability to find a home. Discussion Items - Award of Contract No. 2938-0126 for JOL-08-04 Distribution System Upgrades to P.T. Ferro Construction Co. for $15,196,257.72. This is part of the Grand Prairie Water Project; the contract came in well under the estimated $28 million. Approved unanimously. - Issuance of Class “K” Liquor License at 1 Mayor Art Schultz Drive for Joliet Baseball Concessions LLC (subdivision of existing license). Councilman Hug clarified it is not a new license but a reissuance under a new company name. Approved unanimously. - Issuance of Class “B” Liquor License at 113 N. Ottawa Street for The Matise. Councilwoman Ibarra expressed excitement about the venue. Approved unanimously. - Resolutions: - Resolution appropriating supplemental Motor Fuel Tax funds for Bridge Street roadway improvement project (Nicholson St. to Center St.). Adopted (Resolution 8254). - Resolution accepting public utility easement from Larkin Village Apartment for Larkin Avenue Water Main Improvements. Adopted (Resolution 8255). - Resolution approving easement agreement for water transmission main with Plainfield Community Consolidated School District No. 202 (Plainfield South High School). Adopted (Resolution 8256). - Resolution approving honorary street name designation for Michael Austin Clark Way (Glenwood Avenue between Hames Avenue and Market Avenue). Adopted (Resolution 8257). - Resolution accepting permanent easement for 652 Collins Street parking lot on the alley improvements project. Adopted (Resolution 8258). Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items, the main agenda item (contract award), all liquor license issuances, and all resolutions were approved by unanimous vote (9-0) of the council. - The council did not vote on the proposed data center; it was not on the agenda. Public comments indicate strong opposition and a future vote may be scheduled. - The city manager reminded residents of the second Comprehensive Plan community workshop and upcoming events at Bicentennial Park. - Mayor D'Arcy reported on his trip to Washington, D.C. to advocate for federal funding for the regional water project, meeting with Senators Durbin and Duckworth and several Congress members. - Councilwoman Reardon noted the swearing-in of nine new firemen. - Councilwoman Quillman highlighted the UCP Chef's Tasting event. - Councilman Mudron congratulated Mike Hanson on his induction into Joliet Catholic Academy Business Hall of Champions. - Councilwoman Ibarra thanked all city employees for Employee Appreciation Week.

The Joliet City Council met on February 20, 2026, with Mayor Pro Temp Pat Mudwin presiding in the absence of Mayor Darcy. The meeting included presentations on the CERT program and the comprehensive plan, a proclamation for Black History Month, committee reports, approval of several contracts and resolutions, and extensive public comment on topics including a proposed data center, street naming, and community concerns. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from January 20, 2026, and payment of invoices were approved unanimously. - Council Memo 114-26: Award of professional services agreement for 2026-2027 bridge program manager to Willet Hoffman and Associates ($56,475,000 note: likely $56,475, but transcript says $56,475,000 - assumed $56,475 per typical contract). - Council Memo 115-26: Change order for Essington Road Bridge over Rock Run Creek ($112,158.64) and final payment ($114,774.28). - Council Memo 116-26: Change order for 2024 sidewalk curb replacement ($17,884). - Council Memo 117-26: Purchase of 11 police pursuit vehicles (not to exceed $810,000). - Council Memo 118-26: Purchase of 4 police explorer vehicles (not to exceed $208,000). - Council Memo 119-26: Purchase of 5 Ford F-250 service body vehicles ($320,957.65). - Council Memo 120-26: SCADA equipment for Southeast Joliet Sanitary District ($53,951). - Council Memo 121-26 through 123-26: Change orders extending completion dates for water main projects. - Council Memo 124-26: Core network switch replacement contract to CDWG ($62,953.12). - Council Memo 125-26: Nutanix server replacement contract to Heartland Business Systems ($223,922.42). - Council Memo 126-26: GIS software license renewal with Esri (3-year, $361,626). Public Comments & Testimony On Agenda Items: - Gina Glasgow (representing Habitat for Humanity CEO Nicole Murray) expressed gratitude for the donation of six lots, highlighting the importance of land for affordable homeownership and long-term tax revenue. - Trista Graves Brown, Sandy Costa, Dorothy Arrington, Ron (Tomorrow Starts Today), and others spoke in strong support of the honorary street naming for Reverend Larry Ellis, praising his community work and leadership. On Non-Agenda Items (General Public Comments): - Jennifer Garlets (Citizens Against Ruining the Environment) urged the council to adopt a single-use plastic bag ordinance, citing environmental and health concerns. - Leo Vicarello (Solar on Earth) promoted a community solar program that could save the city an estimated $300,000–$400,000 annually on utility bills. - Andrea Baumart raised questions about the Joliet Technology Center (data center) proposal, requesting public access to water usage graphics, soil studies, and safeguards. - John Wagner expressed concerns about Flock Safety cameras, citing privacy and data use issues, and urged review of the contract. - Christine Johnson challenged the indefinite ban imposed on seven individuals at the Joliet Area Historical Museum, arguing it violates due process and the intergovernmental agreement. - Abby Vulmer and Griselda Chavez opposed the data center project, citing environmental impacts, inflated job claims, and rising utility costs, and referenced a national call for a moratorium. - LeVard Lee (All Rise) spoke about inaccessible curbs and businesses for wheelchair users, requesting city action. - Resident reported coyotes, odor from a tire shop, and a dangerous dark intersection at Water Street and McDonald's. - Another resident (Love's Truck Stop update) described ongoing flooding, drainage issues, road damage, and lack of notice from the developer. - Multiple speakers further opposed the data center, citing AI harms and labor concerns. Discussion Items Presentations: - CERT Program Update (John Lukanzik): The Community Emergency Response Team program, active for under a year, has 99 trained members (including 22 high school graduates) and over 30 in training. The high school class logged over 400 volunteer hours. Joliet’s program is among the largest in Illinois. - Comprehensive Plan Status (Jane Bernhardt, Planning Director): The city’s first comprehensive plan in 50 years is in Phase 3 (Enhance). Over 2,000 survey responses were received; 230 attended seven topic workshops. Community Workshop 2 is set for February 26, 2026, 5–8 p.m. at the Joliet Public Library (Ottawa Street branch). Councilmembers expressed concern about scheduling two workshops on consecutive nights. - Black History Month Proclamation (Councilman Carnes): Proclamation reading and remarks honoring Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. and announcing three days of free admission events (Feb 20–22) at Bicentennial Park. Council Committee Reports: - CTIS (Feb 4): Demo of Peregrine Technologies platform for police data integration; approved GIS renewal, network switch, and server replacement contracts. - Finance (Feb 17): Reported on Route 66 grant ($22,500 for AV equipment), DCEO grant ($100,000 for water main), HUD neighborhood incentive ($500,000), and monthly financials. - Public Service (Feb 17): Reviewed six vehicle purchase contracts and five change orders, including modifications to the Ottawa Street parking garage (see key outcomes). Agenda Items (Votes): - Council Memo 128-26: Peregrine Technologies Contract – A demonstration highlighted the platform’s ability to search across siloed data, provide crime trend analysis, and support officer wellness. The contract is approximately $200,000 per year for five years. Approved unanimously (8-0). - Council Memo 129-26: City Square Parking Garage Modifications – Contract with Stalls Construction for $1,027,136 to add storage, electrical, and IT rooms. Councilmembers discussed cost overruns from the original project estimate (9 million) and lack of maintenance budget. Approved 7-2 (Councilmembers Hugg and Quillman voted no). Resolutions (all approved): - 131-26 through 134-26: Supplemental MFT fund appropriations for road resurfacing and traffic signals (Contracts A and B). - 134-26: Honorary street name designation for Reverend Larry Ellis (unanimous, 8-0). - 135-26: Grant acceptance for Plainfield Road water main replacement ($100,000). - 136-26: Utility easement acceptance for Washington Street water main improvements. - 137-26: Route 66 grant acceptance for City Square AV equipment. - 138-26: Donation of six lots to Habitat for Humanity (unanimous). - 139-26: Project labor agreement with Fox Valley Building Trades for the Alternative Water Source Program. Key Outcomes - Approvals: All consent agenda items (minutes, invoices, memos 114-126) were approved unanimously. - Peregrine Technologies Contract (128-26): Approved 8-0. Next step: City Manager to execute the agreement. - Parking Garage Modifications (129-26): Approved 7-2. Project to proceed with modifications to the Ottawa Street garage. - Honorary Street Naming (134-26): Unanimously approved. The street naming for Rev. Larry Ellis will move forward. - Committee Recommendations: All items from CTIS, Finance, and Public Service committees were forwarded and approved. - City Manager's Announcement: The comprehensive plan workshop is set for February 26, 2026 (5–8 p.m.) at the downtown library. - Councilmember Reardon's Statements: Called for transparency regarding the proposed data center plan, noting that 1,300 pages of documents were heavily redacted. Also shared a constituent’s request for a living kidney donor.

The Zoning Board of Appeals met on February 19, 2026, at 2:00 PM in City Hall Council Chambers. Six members were present (Brigette Roehr absent) and unanimously approved a single petition for setback variations for a new detached garage. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 15, 2026): The board unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting by a vote of 6-0 (motion by Bob Nachtrieb, seconded by Ralph Bias). Discussion Items - Petition 2026-03 – Variations for 108 Hunter Avenue: The applicant, property owner Fabian Contreras, requested two variations to reduce required rear and side yard setbacks for a new detached garage from 3 feet to 1 foot. The subject property is 6,515 sq ft and contains a two-story single-family residence built in 1900 with an existing 566 sq ft detached garage. The proposed garage would be 42 ft by 22 ft (924 sq ft total) including 264 sq ft of patio space (approximately 28% of the structure), making it about 63% larger than the existing garage. Planning Director Jayne Bernhard read the staff report, which noted that while the applicant had not demonstrated a practical difficulty or hardship to waive the setbacks, many nearby garages abut the lot lines. Staff concluded the variation would not alter the essential character of the locality and recommended approval with a condition that the garage's materials and colors match the principal structure. Mr. Contreras confirmed he would move the garage 1 foot forward in response to a board question. No members of the public spoke in favor or opposition. Key Outcomes - Approval of Petition 2026-03: The board voted 6-0 to approve the requested variations (motion by Ralph Bias, seconded by Jesse Stiff). The approval is conditioned on the garage matching the materials and colors of the principal structure. As the Zoning Board of Appeals makes final decisions on such variation requests, no further city council action is required.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussion, public comments, or decisions can be generated.