Public Meetings - Oswego, Illinois

The Oswego Village Board Committee of the Whole met on November 18, 2025, at Oswego Village Hall. The main item was the calendar year 2025 third-quarter financial update, followed by a closed session. No members of the public addressed the board. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public came forward during the public forum. Discussion Items - CY25 Q3 Quarterly Financial Update: Andrea, presenting the financial update, reported data through September 30, 2025, and characterized the results as good news. - General Fund: The budget includes $28.3 million in revenue and just under $29 million in expenses. The budgeted deficit is due to excess reserves transferred from the general fund to the capital fund for the public works facility expansion; excluding that transfer, the budget would be in surplus. Actual revenues were $24.6 million and expenses were $18.3 million, leaving a $6.3 million surplus three-quarters of the way through the year. All departments were under the 75% spending target except community relations and economic development, which were affected by timing of a capital contribution and grant spending. The general fund overall was at 71% of budget, administration at 70%, police at 73%, and public works at 62%. - Revenue highlights: State sales tax revenue was $7.76 million, or 88% of budget; home rule sales tax was $2.65 million, or 85% of budget. These two items make up 42% of the overall revenue budget. Income tax (LGDF) was $4.8 million (81% of budget); food and beverage tax was $1.1 million (85%); interest revenue was $1.2 million, or 202% of budget. Sales tax revenue continued to grow year over year. - Water and sewer operating fund: The budgeted surplus was 4.5%, and the actual surplus was just over $3 million. Rates are being ramped up slowly to build reserves before Lake Michigan borrowing bond payments come due. Revenue was at 82% of budget and spending at 63%. Maintenance and contractual services spending was at 48% of target. The first $20 million bond sale closed in July. Water sales were just under $7 million on an $8.7 million budget (80%); sewer maintenance charges were $1.32 million on a $1.75 million budget (75%); interest earnings were $140,000 on a $75,000 budget (188%). Real estate transfer tax revenue in the water capital fund was over $1 million, or 139% of the $780,000 budget, above the original $400,000 annual projection. - Parking fund: Revenue exceeded spending by $38,000. Parking permit revenue was $83,000 (69% of budget); ordinance violation revenue was at 5% of budget, with expectations of significant increases after a new collection agency began. Expenditures were $38,000 on a $70,000 budget (54%), with maintenance and repairs lower than expected. - Other funds: The motor fuel tax excess fund balance was incorporated into the 2026 annual road program. TIF property tax revenue through September was $1.1 million, the same as last year. Capital fund tax revenue was $4.7 million on a $5.6 million budget (84%), mainly from home rule sales tax and impact fees; transportation development fees were $1.9 million on a $2 million budget (93%). In the municipal fleet fund, all purchases were at or below budget except one totaled police squad; insurance covered the totaled vehicle but not the full replacement cost, with fund balance covering the difference. - Trustee comments and questions: Several trustees praised the financial results and staff discipline, calling the numbers fantastic and thanking Andrea for budget rigor. A trustee requested a copy of the presentation and asked whether low grant payouts were a concern. Andrea responded that the main grants are related to Wolf’s Crossing and are recorded at year-end, making the low payout a timing issue rather than a concern. Closed Session - The board moved and seconded a motion to enter closed session for pending/probable litigation; appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of personnel; collective bargaining and salary schedule deliberations; and sale, lease, and/or acquisition of property. The board then recessed to closed session. Key Outcomes - The board received the CY25 Q3 financial update; no formal action was taken on the update. - The board later reconvened in open session, found no further business, and adjourned the Committee of the Whole. The regular board meeting was scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m.

The meeting was held on November 6, 2025, at Oswego Village Hall. The main agenda items were approval of the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes and a discussion on the update of the village's comprehensive plan, led by consultants from The Lakota Group. No public comments were made. The commission engaged in an extensive dialogue about Oswego's identity, challenges, and future priorities. Consent Calendar - Approval of September 4, 2025 Minutes: The minutes were unanimously approved (all present commissioners voted yes). Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Update Presentation: Sara Asfahani and Hannah Bader from The Lakota Group presented the process for updating the comprehensive plan, which was originally adopted in 2015. The presentation covered the planning team, three-phase process (assessment, vision, implementation), and community engagement strategies already underway, including stakeholder interviews, a steering committee meeting, upcoming pop-ups (e.g., Christmas Walk), and an online survey at OswegoCompPlan.com. Commissioners were invited to provide input on Oswego's unique character, challenges, and priorities. - Commissioner Discussion on Community Character and Challenges: - Several commissioners emphasized Oswego's small-town feel and strong community events (e.g., Fall Fest, Christmas Walk) as key assets. - The downtown area was seen as charming but constrained by State Route 34 running through it, creating traffic and walkability challenges. The riverfront was identified as an underutilized asset, with commissioners noting that the village owns limited land along the river (e.g., a parking lot). - A major challenge discussed was the dominance of residential development over commercial/industrial growth, leading to high property taxes and financial strain on the school district (which recently approved a $440 million bond). Commissioners expressed frustration with the lack of unique commercial destinations and the difficulty of attracting non-chain businesses. - Specific criticisms were leveled at the Reserve at Hudson Crossing development, which some commissioners called a "bad pill" that was rushed and did not integrate well with the downtown. - Commissioners highlighted the need for improved connectivity (sidewalks, bike paths) across subdivisions and along Wolf's Crossing, where safety concerns were noted. - Missing housing typologies were discussed, including bungalows and moderate-density multifamily that fits a small footprint. - The potential of the former Trapper property was raised, with commissioners urging that future development on that site be community-driven rather than developer-driven. - Consultant Feedback: The Lakota Group noted that they have heard strong community sentiment around downtown revitalization and growth management. They committed to analyzing comparable communities and bringing creative ideas to the table. Key Outcomes - Approval of September 4, 2025 Minutes: Unanimous (voice vote, all ayes). - Next Steps for Comprehensive Plan: The process will continue with additional stakeholder engagements (including a pop-up at the December Christmas Walk and an online survey). The consultants will produce a "State of Oswego" report early in 2026, followed by goal-setting and implementation phases. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for December 4, 2025 (Chairman noted he would be absent; Vice Chair Andy McCallum will preside).

The regular Village Board meeting of November 4, 2025 (7:00 PM) opened with a moment of silence for Tracy Lands, who died in an incident at Chick-fil-A on October 22. Proclamations honored Sergio Uribe Jr. and Ana Uribe for bravery in capturing a homicide suspect, the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Marine Corps, and Veterans Day. The board approved the Polo Crossing annexation and development, received a staff report on proposed e-bike/e-scooter regulations, and passed routine items including a $240,965 well pump repair task order and a $893,003.08 bill list. Consent Calendar - Approved Committee of the Whole minutes (October 21, 2025 and revised October 25, 2025) and Regular Village Board minutes (October 21, 2025). - Adopted Resolution setting Regular Meeting Dates for Village Board, Commissions, and Adjudication in Calendar Year 2026. - Approved Ordinance accepting a Plat of Easement at Hummel Trails Neighborhood 14. - Authorized a contract with Steve Piper and Sons, Inc. for Village Wide Tree Removal Services. - Authorized Task Order 2 with Layne Christensen Company for Well 4 Pump Repair in the amount of $240,965.00. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board during Public Forum or the public hearing for Polo Crossing. Discussion Items - E-Bike and E-Scooter Ordinance (Staff Report) : Chief of Police Jason Baston presented a proposed ordinance to regulate electric bicycles and scooters. Key provisions included age restrictions (14+ for Class 1 and 2 e-bikes, 16+ for Class 3; 18+ for e-scooters per state law), helmet requirements for riders under 18, prohibition of riding e-scooters exceeding 10 mph on sidewalks, and parental liability for violations. Fines would start at $75 for a first offense. Board members suggested modifications: lowering the e-scooter age to 16 (subject to legal review), raising the age for Class 2 e-bikes (with throttles) to 16, removing the proposed restriction on e-bikes in the historic downtown area, and exploring a safety certification class. Chief Baston agreed to research these changes and return with a revised ordinance within a few weeks. Education and outreach were emphasized as key to compliance. - Polo Crossing Development (New Business) : Carrie Hanson (Shappy Design) and Tom Drake (Drake Group) presented plans for a mixed-use residential project on 80.5 acres at Secretariat Lane and Wolf’s Crossing Road. The proposal included 320 units (120 single-family detached, 86 traditional lots and 34 “middle market” lots; 200 attached townhomes, duplexes, and triplexes), a 4-acre park site, a clubhouse with pool, and a 90-foot right-of-way dedication for Wolf’s Crossing Road. Total cash equivalent contributions to the village, park district, school district, and fire district were estimated at $5,576,878, including $1,664,000 in water connection fees. The developer agreed to construct the two south lanes of Wolf’s Crossing Road upon issuance of the 60th townhome building permit, accelerating the village’s timeline from 2031. A key debate centered on the requested deviation from the UDO’s 7.5-foot side yard setback to 5 feet for the 34 middle-market lots (45 ft wide). Some trustees opposed the tighter spacing, while others cited it as a small portion (10.5%) offering housing diversity. The developer noted the setback maintains proportional design. School impact was estimated at 170 students, with total school contributions just under $1 million. The board approved all related ordinances and resolutions (6-1, with Trustee McCarthy Lang dissenting). Key Outcomes - Approved Polo Crossing Annexation Agreement, Annexation Ordinance, Rezoning Ordinance, Preliminary PUD and Subdivision Plat, and Plat of Dedication for Wolf’s Crossing (all 6-1, Trustee McCarthy Lang dissenting). - Approved Consent Agenda and Bill List ($893,003.08) unanimously. - Directed Chief Baston to finalize e-bike/e-scooter ordinance incorporating board feedback; report expected within weeks. - Trustee Hughes proposed changing trick-or-treat hours to 4-7 PM for 2026 (since it falls on a non-school day); discussion deferred to Committee of the Whole. - Recognized Sergio Uribe Jr. and Ana Uribe with the Oswego Police Department Outstanding Citizen Award for their heroism on October 22.

The Oswego Village Board Committee of the Whole met at 6:00 PM on November 4, 2025, at Oswego Village Hall, 100 Parkers Mill. The meeting focused on FY2026 budget decisions and public comments on a proposed e-bike/e-scooter ordinance. The committee gave direction on the property tax levy, senior center funding, and a grocery-tax rebate on water bills; the e-bike/e-scooter discussion was deferred to the 7:00 PM regular board meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Sam Fagola, a Southbury HOA board member, expressed support for the village addressing e-bikes and e-scooters for the safety of pedestrians and young riders. He recommended lowering the ordinance threshold from 30 mph to 25 mph because residential streets and Southbury Boulevard are already 25 mph, and asked the village to specifically reference Oswego or park district bike paths because HOA declarations prohibit motorized vehicles on its walkways. He also asked whether motorized bikes would be prohibited; the village president said the police chief could address that during his comments. - David Rood supported Fagola’s comments. He questioned the phrase “only three crashes” involving e-bikes since 2021, saying there is no acceptable number of e-bike crashes. He also noted that if the speed threshold were 25 mph, riders under 16 would be prohibited on neighborhood streets, which would apply to most residential areas. Discussion Items FY2026 Budget Review - Finance staff (Andrea) reported several cleanup changes to the proposed FY2026 budget: removal of the Project Development Report; reduction of the Main Street water main budget after a 5% portion was found double-budgeted in both the TIF and water fund; reduction of the Wolf’s Crossing water main budget after an MFT-funded portion was double-budgeted; and a $100,000 reduction in police dispatch services from $465,000 to $365,000 based on the updated Kencom amount. - The updated EAV estimate from Kendall County was lower than the projection used at the October 25 budget workshop, requiring an additional $22,075 from the general fund to achieve a 2% levy rate decrease. - The 2024 EAV was $1,400,840,731; the 2025 estimated EAV is $1,541,185,255, a 10.02% increase, although the latest estimate was slightly lower than the projection used at the workshop. - With these changes, the projected FY2026 general fund surplus increased from $1,053,193 to $1,131,118. If the board takes no further action, the surplus remains in the general fund and the levy rate decreases by 2.0%. - The new fueling station will reuse the existing two 2,000-gallon fuel tanks; the originally planned tank capacity increase was not needed. - Debt call dates were reviewed: a small portion of the Series 2016 bonds is callable December 15, but those bonds carry 3% coupons and current rates are higher, so refinancing would not occur. Other call dates are in 2027 and later. - The parking credit card fee line item that appeared as $0 was corrected; staff said it was a formula error. Board members discussed the three outstanding budget items: - Several trustees supported the 2% levy rate decrease and the proposed $10,000 increase to the senior center contribution, from $50,000 to $60,000. - The grocery tax rebate proposal drew extended debate. Supporters said water rates are certain to rise because of the Lake Michigan connection project, residents are already feeling cost pressure, and the credit could be adjusted later. Trustees who preferred waiting argued the $600,000 could be used in the spring water-rate calculation to reduce the long-term rate path or pay down project principal, providing larger savings over time. - Staff noted that a one-time $50 check to each resident would be administratively difficult, but a line-item credit on the bill could be applied easily. The e-bike/e-scooter ordinance item was not substantively discussed; the board said it would be taken up during staff reports at the 7:00 PM regular board meeting. Key Outcomes - No formal board vote was taken; the committee provided direction by consensus and straw poll. - Committee consensus: keep the FY2026 property tax levy rate decrease of 2.0% in the budget. - Committee consensus: increase the annual senior center contribution by $10,000, to $60,000. - Committee consensus by straw poll (five in favor, one trustee opposed) to transfer $600,000 from the general fund to the water and sewer fund for a grocery tax rebate on residential water bills. The rebate would be $50 per account per year, shown as an $8 credit per bill, with the first credit appearing on the March 2026 bill for January–February 2026 water service. - Staff was directed to prepare the final budget ordinance for the November 18, 2025 vote with these items included, leaving an estimated general fund surplus of roughly $500,000.

October 25, 2025 – 9:00 AM | Oswego Village Hall The Committee of the Whole convened for a budget workshop focused on the Fiscal Year 2026 capital and operating funds. The meeting opened with a roll call and a unanimous vote to allow Trustee Jack Cooper to attend electronically. Following a presentation from the Cultural Arts Commission, the board received detailed budget briefings from staff covering capital funds (Wolf's Crossing, fleet, water/sewer), operating funds, debt service, staffing requests, and the general fund surplus. Key decisions included consensus on a 2% reduction in the property tax levy rate and direction to continue surplus allocation discussions at the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Electronic Participation: Approved unanimously (6-0) for Trustee Jack Cooper to attend remotely. (Trustee Cooper participated from Virginia on a work trip.) Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the Public Forum. Discussion Items Cultural Arts Commission FY 2026 Budget Request - Presenters: Anthony Pastor (Chair) and Michelle Myers (Commissioner) proposed a flat budget of $16,000, the same as last year. - Proposed projects: - Downtown student art banners ("Look Up As We Go"): $6,000 - New Lantern Walk (nighttime festival): $4,500 – planned for October 2026, possibly in partnership with the Park District for a farmers market after dark. - Utility box painting: $3,500 (pending ownership/permissions from ComEd) - Miscellaneous signage: $500 - Little Free Library program: ongoing, with two new libraries planned for installation next year. - Trustees expressed strong support, particularly for the Lantern Walk as a potential signature event. - Staff impact: The new Events Manager and Park District partnership are expected to manage the workload. Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Workshop – Capital and Operating Funds (Presented by Andrea, Finance Director, with input from staff.) Wolf's Crossing / Douglas Road - Segment 1: Completed. Segment at Harvey Road in progress. - PDR Update: A planned $750,000 Project Development Report (PDR) for 2026 is no longer required until the Wolf's Crossing at US 30 segment. This saves $750,000 in 2026 (though the funds will be needed later). - Segment 6 (Roundabout at Fifth Street): Grant application for Highway Safety Improvement Program in 2026; construction possible in 2028. - Segment 7 (Polo Crossing/Drake): Developer may build southbound lanes using impact fees; agenda item expected November 4, 2025. - Roth Road: Delayed to 2028 per developer schedule (Sonoma Trails agreement). - Five-Year Capital Fund Projection: Shows planned use of reserves; $750,000 removal lessens the planned reserve draw. Fleet Fund - Revenue: $1.45 million; Expenditures: $1.27 million; Surplus: $178,000. - Transfers: $1.25 million from capital fund (based on 20-year forecast). - Vehicles: 12 vehicles totaling $1.1 million, including: - 2 building/permit vehicles (compact pickup, compact SUV – new to fleet) - 4 police frontline squads (one with custom veteran-themed wrap, $8,000) - 5 public works vehicles (forklift, skid steer, forestry truck, two pickups) - $26,000 for fuel station engineering at expanded public works facility. - Inflation: 5% factor used in 20-year projection; costs expected to rise significantly. Water and Sewer Capital Fund - Revenue: Over $100 million (including $95 million in WIFIA/GO bonds). - Expenditures: $87.6 million; surplus is bond revenue to be spent in 2027. - WIFIA Loan: $70 million expected to close early 2026; federal shutdown may delay but staff has contingency plans (short-term borrowing from general fund, bank lines). - Projects: 9 projects totaling $87 million in 2026, including Lake Michigan connection, receiving stations, water main replacements, well security, SCADA upgrades, Tuscany Trail water tower rehab. - Lake Michigan Project: All figures are estimates; final costs will be known after bids close (next bid due Halloween 2025). Water rate discussion planned for spring 2026. - Sanitary Inspection & Maintenance: $450,000/year – historically flat but will need increases as infrastructure ages. Unfunded Projects - List includes Wolf's Crossing at US 30 ($26.97 million estimated, based on 5% inflation to 2029-30), Goodwin Drive, downtown railroad safety improvements (quiet zone – 90/10 grant potential), historic building renovations. - Priority: Wolf's Crossing at US 30 is the top legislative priority. A $1 million state grant (Representative Benton) is appropriated but not yet released; can be used for construction (not fully for engineering). Debt Service Fund - Transfers: $2.3 million from capital fund, $1.3 million from TIF fund (Hudson Crossing increment). - Total Payments: $3.6 million (increase due to additional parking deck bond and scheduled increase on police facility bonds). - Standing Debt: Series 2016, 2021 (police facility), 2019 (parking deck 1), 2025 (parking deck 2). Employee Benefits Fund (New for FY 2026) - Internal service fund to smooth unpredictable health insurance costs. - Expenditures: $3.5 million; Revenues: $4.7 million (to establish fund balance). - Employer/Employee Cost Share: PPO: 80% village / 20% employee; HMO: 95%/5%. Municipal Parking Fund - Revenue: $147,000; Expenditures: $121,000. - Ordinance fines budgeted at $40,000 (up from $8,000 actual in 2024) due to new mobile LPR enforcement; expected to drop to $20,000 in 2027 as compliance improves. - Fund Balance: Drawn down to $35,000 by end of 2026 due to loans for parking deck cameras/counters. Water and Sewer Operating Fund - Revenue: $106 million; Expenditures: $105 million (including bond flows). - Rate Increases (per ordinance): Water volumetric: 4%; Sewer volumetric: 3.8%; Fixed meter charge: 10.7%. - Reserves: Target 30% of operating expenditures; currently at that level. Staffing Recommendations for FY 2026 - Investigation Specialist (Police): Civilian (non-sworn) detective – backfill position cut three years ago. Cost less than sworn officer. Expected to hire retired detective. Only Naperville has similar role in the area. - Social Worker (Police): Full-time in-house social worker to handle mental health calls, officer wellness, and navigate complex service systems. Replaces one-day-a-week Kendall County resource that was overwhelmed. Expected to reduce police response to mental health calls and improve outcomes. - Utilities Compliance Manager (Public Works): Dedicated position to ensure state/federal regulatory compliance for water and sewer systems, especially post-Lake Michigan connection. - Net Budget Impact: $400,000 ($143,000 from water/sewer fund). General Fund Overview - Revenue: $30+ million; Expenditures: $29,149,637; Surplus: $1 million (includes full grocery tax revenue). - Fund Balance: Projected end 2025: $30 million; end 2026: $20.5 million (due to $10.53 million transfer to capital fund for public works facility expansion). - Target Fund Balance: $8.8 million (30% of subsequent year's operating expenditures); village remains $12 million above target. - Property Tax Levy: Required police pension contribution increases 17% to $2.2 million. Budget assumes a 2% rate decrease, leaving $272,148 gap covered by general fund. - Revenue Drivers: Sales tax increasing 19% ($1.625M); income tax up $300K; building permits up $220K; use tax decreasing $770K due to legislative reclassification (benefits village by applying home rule sales tax to reclassified revenue). Key Outcomes - Electronic Participation: Approved unanimously for Trustee Cooper. - Cultural Arts Budget: Presented; no vote (workshop). - Property Tax Levy: Consensus to reduce the levy rate by 2% (as already included in the budget). The decision is final and will be reflected in the November 18, 2025 vote. (Trustees Novi and Koenig expressed preference for flat levy, but majority supported the reduction.) - Surplus Allocation (Grocery Tax Revenue): Discussion deferred to November 4, 2025 Committee of the Whole or Staff Reports. Options include water rate credits, capital fund transfer, senior center increase, debt reduction, or holding in reserves. No consensus reached. - Next Steps: The budget workshop will continue on November 4, 2025, covering remaining general fund department slides and finalizing surplus allocation. The property tax levy ordinance will be voted on November 18, 2025.

The Oswego Village Board held a regular meeting on October 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The meeting included honorary street designations for James Detzler and Ralph Ross, recognition of Purcell Ace Hardware as Business of the Month, a public forum with strong opposition to the proposed Traughber Estates redevelopment, and an extensive discussion and feedback session on the revised concept plan for that site. The board also approved the consent agenda and bill list. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (7-0) the following consent items: - October 7, 2025 Committee of the Whole and Regular Village Board Minutes - Resolution for final acceptance of earthwork and release of surety bond for Piper Glen Subdivision - Ordinance approving final PUD for 3200 Orchard Road (10,000 sq ft commercial center) - Resolutions authorizing construction contracts: $9,466,000 for Lake Michigan Receiving Stations (IHC Construction Co.) and $3,506,300 for a 1 million gallon ground storage tank (DN Tanks, LLC) - Ordinance approving final PUD for Sonoma Trails Amenity (pool, clubhouse, pickleball courts) at 2330 La Cote Drive - Resolution for geotechnical and material testing services agreement with GSG Consultants, Inc. - Ordinance renewing/amending the intergovernmental boundary agreement with Plainfield - Ordinance accepting a plat of easement for a path at Hummel Trails Neighborhood 14 - Bill list dated October 21, 2025, in the amount of $7,226,802.18, approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony Several residents of the historic downtown neighborhood spoke in strong opposition to the proposed redevelopment of the former Traughber Junior High School site (12 acres at Route 71 and Washington Street). - Don Draxler (25 Garfield Street) opposed the project, citing traffic congestion on Route 71, Washington Street, and Plainfield Road; increased cut-through traffic on neighborhood streets; negative impact on property values; and the quiet character of the area. He asked if a traffic impact study had been conducted and about allocation for Section 8 housing. - Mike Reynolds (Franklin Street) opposed the project, raising concerns about high-density rental vs. homeowner occupancy, unanswered questions on townhome sale prices, rental costs, subsidized housing, environmental impacts (noise, pollution), parking adequacy (estimated 360–400 cars for 202 units), traffic safety near Oswego High School, stormwater detention management, and increased traffic on Franklin Street. - Dominic Libertori (78 Polk Street) called the developer either incompetent or deceitful for low estimates of residents, a five-story building inconsistent with historic homes, and a “maximum density” approach. He urged the board to follow the planning commission’s recommendation to deny the concept and to reject the proposal, stating the community opposes it and concerns are legitimate. - Catherine Cobian (179 Franklin Street) expressed deep concern about traffic safety at the intersection of Franklin and Route 71, historic character, out-of-scale architecture, property value decline, noise and light pollution, and urged reconsideration or smaller-scale housing. - Rich Willard (55 Park Street) acknowledged growth but argued the proposal does not fit the historic district; he supported traffic and infrastructure studies. Discussion Items - Honorary Street Designations (D.1 & D.2) – Resolutions were approved unanimously to designate North Madison Street as “James Detzler Honorary Street” and Polk Street as “Ralph Ross Honorary Street.” Family and Historic Preservation Society members joined for photos. - Business of the Month Recognition (D.3) – Purcell Ace Hardware, owned by John Purcell (also Mayor of Yorkville), was recognized for 20+ years in Oswego, customer service, and community involvement. - Concept Plan – Traughber Estates School Site Redevelopment (J.1) – The board heard a presentation from the developer team (JM Development and Cortigan Clark) and School District 308 Superintendent Dr. Andalib Kulgati. The revised concept plan includes: - 202 total units: 172 rental apartments (80 in a five-story building along Route 71, 92 in three three-story buildings) and 30 for-sale townhomes (two-story) - Increased green space from 1.55 to 3.53 acres, walking paths, a clubhouse, pool, gazebo, dog park, and 270 parking spaces - Townhomes rotated to front Franklin Street with gable ends, a park buffer, and additional landscaping with mature trees (8–10 ft tall) - Developer committed to open-book finances, benchmark clause for TIF incentive sharing, a traffic study, stormwater detention compliant with Kendall County code, and no Section 8 or project-based vouchers - Discussion Highlights: - Village President Kaufman read a resident petition with nine concerns and addressed police staffing (adequate, 57 officers) and school overcrowding (Dr. Kulgati confirmed enrollment is slowly declining; impact of multifamily estimated at ≤30 school-age children due to unit mix of studios, one- and two-bedrooms). - Trustees Novi, Hughes, Koenig, McCarthy Lang, Cooper, and Torres gave feedback: appreciation for changes but strong dislike for the five-story building; desire for more owner-occupied units, lower density, and unique architectural design that respects the historic neighborhood. - Developer agreed to take feedback back and consider reducing the five-story or adding more townhomes, pending further analysis and consensus on economic feasibility. - Staff (Dan, Kurt, Ryan) clarified stormwater and sanitary sewer improvements, TIF mechanics, and the property’s decade-long unsuccessful marketing; demolition costs estimated at $3–5 million, currently costing school district $250,000/year in maintenance. Key Outcomes - Honorary street resolutions and Business of the Month were approved unanimously. - Consent agenda and bill list were approved unanimously. - No vote was taken on the Traughber Estates concept plan. The board gave clear direction for the developer to revise the plan (especially regarding the five-story building and owner-occupied mix) and for staff to begin working with the developer, school district, and financial consultants to develop a TIF incentive plan and conduct required studies (traffic, market, fiscal impact) for future board consideration. - The board emphasized that any final approval would require a formal application, public hearings, and detailed agreements. Closed Session - The board adjourned to closed session at approximately 10:30 PM to discuss pending litigation, personnel, collective bargaining, and property acquisition (items M.1.a–d). No action was reported after closed session.

The Committee of the Whole met on October 21, 2025, at 6:00 PM to conduct the first portion of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget workshop, focusing on the village’s five capital funds. The workshop reviewed 42 projects and 12 vehicles totaling over $125 million. The session lasted approximately one hour and was followed by a brief break before the regular board meeting; remaining budget items will be taken up on Saturday, October 25. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. One resident, Don Draxler, submitted a speaker slip but deferred his remarks to the regular board meeting. Discussion Items Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Fund - Overview: The TIF fund is intended to spur development in blighted areas. It currently operates at a deficit because infrastructure costs (roads, water mains, parking garages) were spent before new developments generated sufficient increment. Revenue is estimated at $2 million, expenditures at $4.3 million, yielding a planned deficit of $2.249 million. The fund starts 2026 with an $11 million balance and is projected to end at $13.3 million. - Outstanding Loans & Debt: Outstanding TIF loans total just over $11 million (primarily from the capital fund). Debt service on two parking garage bonds (Series 2019 – $13 million; second garage – $3.6 million) is $1.3 million in 2026. Final bond payments are due December 2041. Bond payments are backed by increment from the Reserve at Hudson Crossing, with a developer backstop. - Key Projects: - Harrison Streetscape Reconstruction ($1.93 million) – streetscaping, resurfacing, curb consolidation, 104 angled parking spaces, and bump‑outs for café dining. Funded by a loan from the capital fund. - Downtown Silo Parking & Lighting ($275,000, with $250,000 state DCEO grant) – adds 25 parking spaces along South Adams Street and installs 18 programmable LED fixtures on the silo/granary structure. The grant was redirected from a previously planned sidewalk project. - Second Parking Deck ($156,000 for capital improvements) – construction ongoing, completion fall 2026. Village will own/maintain two floors. Operational budget increase of $7,200 in 2026. - Beautification Grant for Reserve at Hudson Crossing ($325,000) – for exterior improvements per redevelopment agreement. - Water Main Replacement on Main Street – 5% of the project lies within the TIF district, so TIF will cover that share. - Clarifications: Trustee Koenig emphasized the “if not for” principle: without the TIF, the area would remain underdeveloped. Staff noted that the senior living development (expected to generate $500,000/year in increment) is delayed due to issues between owner and contractor, not the village. Increment from completed projects takes 1–2 years to appear on tax rolls. Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Fund - Overview: Revenue projected at $1.825 million, expenditures at $2.95 million, a planned deficit of $1.125 million. The fund balance is approximately $3.5 million (policy minimum is $750,000). The deficit is a planned use of excess reserves. - Expenditures: $2.75 million for the annual road program (street maintenance and upgrades) and $200,000 remaining for Wolf’s Crossing from Rebuild Illinois grants. High‑growth allotments from IDOT estimated conservatively at $150,000 (hopeful for $170,000). - Questions: Trustee Hughes asked for detail on the $2.7 million public improvements; Public Works indicated it covers annual street maintenance across the village. The increase in cost is due to doing more streets, not just material price increases. Capital Fund - Overview: Revenue budgeted at $32.74 million (including $10.53 million transfer from the general fund for the public works facility, $10.6 million in grants for Wolf’s Crossing, $2.16 million other grants, and $5.4 million in home rule sales tax). Expenditures are $34.8 million, a deficit of $2.06 million. The fund starts 2026 with $19 million and ends at $17 million. - Fund Balance Policy: The policy recommends maintaining a reserve equal to next year’s scheduled capital improvements (estimated at $25.6 million). The actual ending balance of $17 million is below that, largely due to Wolf’s Crossing and the public works facility. The village is drawing down reserves but remains in strong fiscal health compared to peers. - Major Projects: - Wolf’s Crossing at Douglas Roundabout – $16.198 million (includes engineering). Phase 2 of the project. - Public Works Facility Expansion – $10.53 million in 2026 (from general fund transfer), with an additional $14.725 million expected in 2027 (also from general fund reserves). No bonding; entirely cash‑financed. - Annual Road Maintenance Program – part of the capital fund (the $2.75 million in MFT is separate). - Other Facility Projects: $714,000 total, including police evidence garage ($180,000, of which $150,000 is a state grant), ARC flash report corrections ($30,000 engineering + $250,000 future maintenance), fall protection corrections ($60,000 total), police air handler ($50,000), village hall lunchroom relocation ($190,000 over two years), village hall parking lot maintenance ($273,700), generator replacement ($190,000), design manual update ($198,000), police radios ($36,000), and Taser replacements ($44,700). - Happy Tales 2.0 Dog Park – $125,000 for relocation to a site near the Hunt Club water tower. - Semi‑Quincentennial Celebration – $100,000 for a 250th anniversary event (likely July 4, 2026) and commemorative infrastructure. The planning group includes police and fire districts. - Long‑Term Outlook: A cash‑flow projection shows the capital fund balance declining into 2029, assuming no additional general fund transfers. Staff emphasized that this is speculative and that sales tax growth and future transfers could improve the picture. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the workshop was informational and deliberative. - The board will continue the budget workshop on Saturday, October 25, 2025, covering remaining capital fund projects and operating funds. - The village will proceed with the public works facility using cash reserves, avoiding debt. - The downtown silo parking project will move forward using the redirected DCEO grant, with minimal village cost. - The TIF fund’s reliance on capital fund loans was acknowledged; repayment of those loans (expected by 2041) will replenish the capital fund. - Staff will provide a follow‑up on the projected TIF fund surplus at the end of the TIF life. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:00 PM for a five‑minute break before the regular board meeting.

The regular Village Board meeting on October 7, 2025, opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, roll call, and recognitions, followed by public comments, staff reports, and consent agenda approval. Key discussions included a boundary agreement with Plainfield, pedestrian protection measures, and the Senior Center funding request. Recognitions & Appointments - Oath of Office: Brian Holstead was sworn in as a Patrol Officer for the Oswego Police Department. He had previously served at another department but fulfilled his goal of working for Oswego. - Employee Service Awards: Nicholas Carrington (5 years, Police Department) was recognized in absentia. Dan Di Santo (10 years, Administration) received a service award; trustees praised his leadership and mentorship. - Business of the Month: Ron Westphal Chevrolet was recognized for 45 years in the community and ongoing sponsorship of local events. Public Comments & Testimony - Motorized Scooters/Bikes on Bike Paths: Al Gagenheimer, Sam Figola, and Tom Kabatski (all residents of Southbury) expressed safety concerns about children riding motorized scooters and bikes at high speeds on bike paths and sidewalks. They noted a lack of enforceable ordinances and asked for a team effort with the village to educate residents and create clear rules. The mayor confirmed that the Police Chief will bring an ordinance for discussion at the November 4 Committee of the Whole meeting. - Old Traver Development: Mary Murray (131 East Tyler Street) opposed the proposed 200-unit rental development at the old Traver site, stating it is out of character with the single-family neighborhood. She raised concerns about traffic, school bus access, long-term maintenance of rental units, and the impact on the historic downtown area. She urged the board to consider alternative designs. Staff Reports - Oswegoland Senior and Community Center Presentation: Executive Director Michelle Bergeron provided an update. The center serves 1,756 unduplicated individuals annually, with over 36,000 visits (duplicated). They have 89 volunteers and 6 staff. The center received a $2.5 million state grant for an elevator and renovations. Bergeron requested $60,000 in operating funding from the village for the upcoming fiscal year, up from $50,000 the previous year. The mayor noted that the budget outlook is improving and will be discussed at the October 25 budget workshop. - Pedestrian Protection Discussion: Staff (Rod Zenner) presented options for requiring pedestrian protections (bollards, planters, raised masonry) at new commercial buildings to prevent vehicle intrusions. The village currently requires protection for outdoor seating areas. Staff recommended adding requirements for storefront windows less than 2 feet above grade and for daycare playgrounds. Trustees favored planters for aesthetics and flexibility. Direction was given to draft text amendments for future code changes. Consent Calendar - Approved as read (9 items) except item G9 which was pulled for separate discussion. Items included minutes, liquor license increases for Arandas Tacos and Mason Wok & Sushi, surety bond reduction, flow monitoring services contract ($56,800), Lake Michigan assistance amendment ($10,000), change order for Wolfs Crossing Watermain ($55,727.75), subdivision code amendments, Unified Development Ordinance amendments, and fee schedule updates. Discussion Items - Boundary Agreement with Plainfield (G9): The proposed agreement generally follows the existing 20-year boundary line but adjusts a section on 119th Street. A farm property (Arnmore Farms) currently in Oswego's planning boundary is adjacent to Plainfield utilities. The owner requested inclusion in Plainfield to allow near-term development. Trustees agreed it makes sense to cede the property to Plainfield due to utility proximity and to be good neighbors. Staff will negotiate and bring the revised agreement back at the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved (unanimous roll call). - Bill List Approved (October 7, 2025, $1,649,626.85) unanimously. - Pedestrian Protection: Staff directed to develop text amendments for new commercial buildings requiring bollards, planters, or raised masonry at entrances and low storefront windows, and to consider daycare playground protection. - Boundary Agreement: Staff to negotiate with Plainfield to move the farm property into Plainfield's planning boundary; item to return at the next regular meeting. - Senior Center Funding: To be considered during the October 25 budget workshop; staff will provide updated financial information.

The Oswego Village Board Committee of the Whole met on October 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Village Hall. The primary discussion focused on the Special Events Program update and planning for 2026, including the future of the venue concert series and staff workload. The board also considered improvements to the Village Board on Your Block program. A separate agenda item on pedestrian protection was deferred to a subsequent board meeting. Discussion Items Special Events Program Update and Planning Discussion Community Relations staff presented a detailed recap of 2025 events, including the legislative breakfast, state of the village, Wine on the Fox, summer concert series, movies under the stars, Fourth of July fireworks, National Night Out, and Christmas Walk. Key financial highlights: - Wine on the Fox, the most profitable event, generated approximately $60,000 in surplus despite lower attendance due to cold weather. - The venue concert series struggled: without the final September concert (which had high attendance), the series would have exceeded expenditures by over $20,000. The series overall was close to breaking even for the first time since opening. - Movies under the Stars attendance ranged from 200-300 per movie; equipment malfunctions led to rental costs, expected to be covered by sponsorships in 2026. - Fireworks and Christmas Walk generate little to no revenue. Staff emphasized the significant time commitment: the community relations team spends 75-100% of their time on events, leaving limited capacity for other duties such as communications, HR, and social media. The department has a pending hire for an events manager. Four options for the venue were presented: 1. Revert to free/low-cost community use with no staff-run events; movies under the stars could return to Village Hall. 2. Move to three free Thursday night concerts, similar to movies under the stars, with patrons bringing food/drink and select vendors. 3. Host one post-Labor Day event (e.g., a music festival) in partnership with community organizations; movies under the stars could remain at the venue or return to Village Hall. 4. Explore hiring an outside entertainment firm to run the venue (staff expressed low feasibility for this option). Board discussion included concerns about staff burnout, the purpose of the venue as a community asset, and the financial losses relative to staff time. Trustee Hughes favored Option 1, noting it would free staff for other priorities while still allowing community use. Trustee Novi preferred Option 3 (a single post-Labor Day event) but acknowledged the need to first address staffing. Trustee Torres supported Option 4 (outsourcing) but others doubted its viability. There was broad agreement to reduce fee barriers for third-party venue rentals and to allow the incoming events manager to evaluate and recommend a long-term plan. Village Board on Your Block Integration The board discussed combining the Village Board on Your Block program with existing high-attendance events such as Prairie Fest, National Night Out, Hometown Expo, and the senior center meeting, rather than holding separate neighborhood events that saw low turnout. This was seen as a way to increase resident interaction with trustees without additional staff burden. Key Outcomes - The board reached a consensus to pursue Option 1 (revert the venue to free/low-cost community use) as an interim measure, pending the hire and recommendations of the new events manager. - Staff will immediately work to reduce fee barriers and promote the venue for third-party rentals. - The Village Board on Your Block program will be consolidated with Prairie Fest, National Night Out, Hometown Expo, and the senior center annual meeting, eliminating standalone neighborhood events. - The pedestrian protection discussion (agenda item F.2) was deferred to a future board meeting. - The meeting adjourned after the Committee of the Whole session, with a five-minute break before the regular board meeting.