Naperville City Council Meeting - February 5, 2026: Proclamations, IMEA Contract Debate, and Stretch Code Discussion
Naperville City Council Meeting - February 5, 2026
The Naperville City Council met on February 5, 2026, to discuss several agenda items, including proclamations for Black History Month and 203 Day, public forum comments on air emissions and building stretch codes, a first reading of the 2024 International Code Council amendments, and a major debate on whether to pause negotiations with the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) for a long-term power supply contract. The council also approved the consent agenda (with one item removed) and a Community Development Block Grant allocation.
Consent Calendar
- Approved by a 9-0 vote using the omnibus method, after removing Item I-11 (first reading of building code amendments) for separate discussion. The consent agenda included:
- Approval of January 20, 2026, city council meeting minutes.
- Approval of the city council meeting schedule for February, March, and April 2026.
- Several change orders and contract awards for engineering services, water main improvements, generator replacement, and mechanical work.
- Appointments and ordinance amendments (including 911 system surcharge).
Public Comments & Testimony
- Tim Farido (Naperville resident): Presented data on air emission reductions from diesel generators, arguing that modern generators (including those for the proposed CARES Status Center) achieve 98% reduction in pollutants since 1990. He noted that exercising events would occupy only 1.5% of the time.
- Richard Stark (Naperville resident): Recommended that the city council direct Brian Groth (electric utility director) to develop a long-term electricity strategy, offering his own strategic advisory support.
- Dan Georgevik (lifelong resident, home builder, representing Northern Illinois Home Builders Association): Opposed adoption of stretch building codes, citing cost increases of tens of thousands of dollars per home with negligible energy savings. He offered the housing advocacy committee as a resource.
- Swati Dale (Naperville resident, 4 years): Discussed the role of technology in education, emphasizing that teachers build relationships and inspire critical thinking while technology provides flexibility and information.
- Court Earhart (president of Earhart Construction, past president of Northern Illinois Home Builders Association): Opposed the energy stretch code, stating that homes built to current codes are 50% more efficient than in 1975, and that his company's analysis showed a cost increase of $21,612.86 for a 1,915 sq. ft. home with only $98 annual energy savings.
- Chad Meese (lifelong resident, owner of Red Star Construction, vice president of Northern Illinois Home Builders Association): Opposed the stretch code, citing affordability concerns, increased upfront costs, and lack of guaranteed payback. He suggested voluntary programs and phased improvements instead.
- Public Comment on IMEA Contract (25 speakers): A large number of residents spoke on Item O2, with positions split between supporting renewal of the IMEA contract and urging the city to explore alternatives. Key speakers:
- Supporting IMEA renewal: Michael Lipinski, Steve Cushman, Patrick Hughes (Affordable Naperville), Robert Geese (former Argonne scientist), Dick Firstinaw, Judith McGowan, and others argued that IMEA provides stable, affordable power (16-25% below ComEd rates), protects against market volatility, and that the city has already invested heavily in the Prairie State coal plant. They warned of future grid shortages and higher costs if the city leaves IMEA.
- Opposing IMEA renewal: Katherine Clarkin (environmental scientist), John Desmond Doyle, Joseph Huss, Teresa Huss, Larry Collish, Al Carvelis, Tim Farrito, Rich Sternal, James Fellar, Addie Julka (Naperville Central High School student), Ashley Pennick, Andrea Ramirez, Stephanie Jackson, Don Heller, Marilyn Schweitzer, Greg Hubert, and Himena Argueta (Wabonzi Valley High School student) argued that IMEA is more expensive than market alternatives, relies on coal (86% of generation), and locks the city into a 30-year contract with no cost guarantees, limited flexibility, and lack of transparency. They supported issuing a competitive RFP and developing a city energy strategy.
Discussion Items
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Item I-11: First Reading of 2024 International Code Council Amendments (Building Stretch Code): Council heard public testimony from Court Earhart and Chad Meese opposing the stretch code. Councilman Holzour noted a Pacific Northwest National Laboratory analysis showing costs higher than the $2,000-$3,000 figure but lower than builder estimates. Councilman Wilson asked builders if they had encountered anyone willing to subsidize the additional costs; they said no. The item was a first reading only; no action was taken. It will return on February 17, 2026.
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Item J1: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing: The public hearing was opened and closed with no speakers. Council then approved the 2026 Annual Action Plan allocating $535,000 (motion by Councilman White, second by Councilman Kelly, passed unanimously).
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Item O2: Consideration to Direct Staff to Discontinue Negotiations for a Successor Power Sales Agreement with IMEA: After extensive public comment, council debated the motion. Councilman Kelly moved to direct staff to pause formal negotiations with IMEA unless a majority of council directs re-engagement. Councilman Holzour seconded. Council members expressed differing views:
- Supporting the pause: Councilman Kelly, Gibson, Sayad, White, Jane, and Holzour cited the need to explore alternatives, the lack of cost guarantees in the proposed contract, the full-requirements clause limiting flexibility, and the desire to follow a competitive procurement process. Councilman White emphasized the need for an energy strategy before issuing an RFP.
- Opposing the pause: Councilman McRoom, Wilson, and Mayor Worley argued that the city should continue negotiations to maintain relationships, retain optionality, and avoid locking the city into the current generation mix. Mayor Worley noted that the city's counterproposal had made progress and that hope is not a strategy.
- Councilman Wilson attempted to amend the motion to delay the vote until IMEA could speak publicly, but Councilman Kelly declined.
Key Outcomes
- Consent Agenda: Approved 9-0, with Item I-11 removed.
- Item I-11 (Building Code Amendments): First reading held; no vote. Will return February 17, 2026.
- Item J1/O1 (CDBG): Public hearing closed; $535,000 allocation approved unanimously.
- Item O2 (IMEA Contract Negotiations): Motion to pause formal negotiations with IMEA passed 6-3. Voting in favor: Councilman Holzour, Jane, Kelly, Sayad, White, Gibson. Voting against: Councilman McRoom, Wilson, and Mayor Worley. The motion directs staff to pause unless a majority of council directs re-engagement.
- New Business: None; meeting adjourned.
Meeting Transcript
2026. Whereas Black History Month observed each February is a time to honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of Black Americans who have played a pivotal role in shaping the fabric of our nation and local community. And whereas the study and celebration of Black history are essential to understanding the enduring struggles, resilience, and achievements that have marked the journey toward equity and justice in our society. And whereas the city of Naperville maintains within its mission statement a commitment to create an inclusive community that values diversity. And whereas recognizing Black History Month provides an opportunity not only to reflect on history, but also to recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of equity, inclusion, and mutual respect in Naperville. And whereas Naperville Neighbors United exemplifies the spirit of unity in education by fostering dialogue, creating connections, and celebrating the diversity that enriches our community. And whereas, through initiatives, events, and conversations, Naperville Neighbors United continues to inspire individuals to engage in meaningful learning and to act toward creating an inclusive environment for all residents. Now, therefore, I, Scott Worley, mayor of the of Naperville, do hereby recognize Naperville Neighbors United for his unwavering commitment to fostering unity and inclusivity and proclaim February 2026 as Black History Month in the city of Naperville. And I encourage all residents to participate in this celebration to learn about Black history and culture and to contribute to building a community that values and uplifts diversity. Thank you. My name is Shashawn Rule, and I'm a senior at Wabonzi Valley High School. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share what Black History Month means to me. Black History Month is more than a time to revisit historical moments or recognize well-known figures. To me, it represents a chance to acknowledge the depth and impact of Black contributors that have helped shape this country and continue to influence it today. Many of these contributors were made in times where recognition was very limited, yet their effects remain present in our culture and everyday lives. Black History Month also highlights the importance of understanding history as a shared experience. Black history is not separate from American history, it is an essential part of it. From advancements in art and music to leadership in science, education, sports, and social progress, black individuals have played a crucial role in shaping the world around us. Recognizing these contributors allow us to gain a more complete and accurate understanding of our collective past. Black History Month also encourages reflection. It challenges us to look beyond what we already know and to engage with perspectives that may have not always been centered. Through learning and discussion, we are reminded that progress is built over time and that awareness is a key step toward understanding and respect. For me, Black History Month represents recognition, reflection, and continued learning. It is meaningful, it is a meaningful opportunity, is a meaningful opportunity to honor the past while thoughtfully engaging with the present. Thank you for your time. Have a good night. Black history is American history. That is a fact. Leadership forged through adversity and progress driven by faith and courage. It reflects both the challenges that were faced and the growth that followed. This February marks the 100-year anniversary of Black History Month, a moment to reflect and a reminder that celebrating and uplifting these stories remain important today. Mr. Freeman. Mr. Freeman spent 36 years with Southwest Airlines, becoming the first black pilot in 1980. And in 1992, he became the first black chief pilot of any airline. And to be clear, Mr. Freeman wasn't chosen because he was black. He was chosen because he was the best. I've been grateful to hear his story shared. And one moment that always stands out to me is when he was selected to fly Rosa Parks, a pioneer of the civil rights movement, to her final resting place, a reflection of the respect he earned through through excellence and leadership. At a time when history and lived experiences are being questioned or overlooked, moments like these remind us why black history matters and why these stories must continue to be shared and remembered. We cannot go backward, only forward. The story of America is still being written. What will the chapters ahead say about who we choose to be? Thank you. Yes, we have one speaker signed up, Regina Brent. Okay. Good evening, everyone. I just wanted to bring you a little black history note for this month from the African Methodist Episcopal Church, a statement on the removal of exhibits at the President's House site.
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