Public Meetings - Oswego, Illinois

The August 4, 2025 regular meeting of the Oswego Village Board opened with a moment of acknowledgment for a tragic incident at Portillo's that occurred the previous week, leaving 13 people injured and a two-year-old child deceased. President Kaufman and Administrator Dan extended condolences to the family and gratitude to first responders. The board then recognized Imagination Print & Design as the July Business of the Month, celebrated the business's 15th anniversary and community involvement, and moved through routine business and a series of new business items. Consent Calendar - G.1 – Approved July 15, 2025 Committee of the Whole minutes. - G.2 – Approved July 15, 2025 Regular Village Board minutes. - G.3 – Approved July 15, 2025 Closed Session minutes (not released). - G.4 – Approved ordinances creating a new Class E-2 liquor classification and granting a Class E-2 liquor license to Barkville Buddies LLC at 174 S. Harrison Street. - G.5 – Approved an ordinance repealing Ordinance 24-69 for the 3.175-acre property at 1038 Harvey Road. - G.6 – Approved a resolution for Task Order No.1 with Layne Christensen Company for Well 4 maintenance ($102,000). - G.7 – Approved a resolution with Water Remediation Technology (WRT) for radium removal system operation and eventual decommissioning ($633,600 annually). - G.8 – Approved a resolution for a professional engineering services agreement with HR Green for the Harrison Streetscape Improvement Project ($205,086.25). - G.9 – Approved a resolution reducing the surety bond for Reserve at Hudson Crossing Building No.1 to $5,000, effective August 5, 2025. - G.10 – Approved a resolution reimbursing Oswego Township for Minkler Road paving (not to exceed $60,000). - G.11 – Approved the First Amendment to the Economic Incentive Agreement and the First Amendment to the Utility Agreement for 19 Jackson Street LLC (19 E. Jackson Street). - G.12 – Approved the First Amendment to the Economic Incentive Agreement for Premier Investments, LLC (76-78 Main Street). Bill List - Approved the bill list dated August 4, 2025 in the amount of $3,735,162.38. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during Public Forum. Discussion Items - J.1 – Taco Dale Cantina Liquor & Gaming License: Tina (Village Clerk) presented an application for a Class A-2 liquor license and a Class A-2 video gaming license for TDCantina Corporation d.b.a. Taco Dale Cantina at 123 W. Washington Street. The liquor license permits on-premise consumption with no food revenue requirement. The gaming license will become active six months after the business opens. Trustees asked clarifying questions about the activation timeline for gaming terminals. No public comment was offered. - J.2 – Hiring of Full-Time Police Training Coordinator: Police Chief Baston requested approval to hire a full-time training coordinator in the CY25 budget. He explained that a shared services agreement with Yorkville (20 hours per week per agency) proved insufficient; the department logged approximately 9,000 training hours last year and needs dedicated oversight for state, federal, and CLIA mandates, as well as in-house instructor certification and scenario‑based training (e.g., de‑escalation with paid actors). Yorkville has terminated the shared agreement and hired the current coordinator, who will leave in January 2026. The requested hire in November would allow a two‑month overlap for knowledge transfer. Cost for November and December 2025 is approximately $19,500. Going forward, the village will lose 50% reimbursement from Yorkville but gain a full‑time position. Trustees asked about the role's scope (not a former officer, manages training logistics, not actual instruction) and potential benefits for village-wide training. Chief Baston noted that a full-time coordinator could also improve officer performance metrics—citing a 0.04% use-of-force rate on over 26,000 calls in 2024 as evidence of effective training. - J.3 – Special Use Permit for Ogden Falls Receiving Station: Rod (Village Engineer) presented a request for a special use permit for a utility use to construct a water receiving station at the Ogden Falls Water Tower, part of the Lake Michigan Water Project. The improvements include a ground‑level storage tank, a pumping station, and a monitoring meter station. The buildings will feature brick accents and metal roofs. The site is set back behind Kickers Club, with landscaping and fencing planned as buffers. A public hearing was held; no one spoke against the proposal. Trustees discussed the aesthetics compared to a similar facility at Wolf and Fifth and confirmed landscaping plans. The Plan Commission had already recommended approval. Key Outcomes - J.1 – Taco Dale Cantina Liquor License: Motion to approve the ordinance increasing the Class A-2 liquor license passed unanimously on a roll call vote (4-0, with two trustees absent). - J.1 – Taco Dale Cantina Gaming License: Motion to approve the ordinance increasing the Class A-2 video gaming license passed 4-1 (Trustee Torres voted no; President Kaufman voted yes; two trustees absent). - J.2 – Full-Time Police Training Coordinator: Motion to approve the hiring of a full-time police training coordinator in the CY25 budget passed unanimously (4-0, with two trustees absent). - J.3 – Special Use Permit for Ogden Falls Receiving Station: Motion to approve the ordinance granting a special use permit passed unanimously (4-0, with two trustees absent). - All Consent Agenda items and the Bill List were approved unanimously.

The Oswego Village Committee of the Whole met on August 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Oswego Village Hall. The meeting focused on the financial audit for the stub period ending December 31, 2024, and the calendar year 2025 second quarter financial update. No public comments were made. Trustee Cooper and Novi were absent. Financial Audit for the Eight Months Ending December 31, 2024 - Billy Robinson, assistant finance director for 19 of his 25 years with the village, introduced Martha Trotter of the firm Sikich, who presented the audit for the stub fiscal year (May 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024). - Martha Trotter reported a clean unmodified opinion, the highest level of assurance, on the village's financial statements. No material weaknesses or instances of noncompliance were noted. - The audit included the implementation of GASBE Statement 101 on compensated absences, requiring a restatement of beginning balances to accrue additional liabilities. - The village also underwent a single audit due to grant activity, and all reports (annual comprehensive financial report, board communication, management letter, TIF examination report, single audit report) were issued. - The village has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 22nd consecutive year by the Government Finance Officers Association. - In response to a trustee question, Martha explained that fraud inquiries are standard part of auditing standards to gain employee perspectives. She also noted upcoming GASBE pronouncements related to capital asset disclosures. - Trustees praised the village staff for their professionalism and timely preparation, especially given the compressed timeline between fiscal year transitions. CY25 Q2 Quarterly Financial Update - Andrea presented the quarterly update for the six months ending June 30, 2025 (50% of the fiscal year). - General Fund: Revenue of $16.4 million and expenses of $11.0 million resulted in a surplus of $5.36 million. Revenues were at 58% of budget, expenditures at 38%. A transfer of over $500,000 to the capital fund for the public works facility expansion is pending later in the year. - Major revenue sources: Sales tax $5.1 million (58% of target), food and beverage tax at 56%, accessory permit revenue at 69%, and interest revenue at 137% of target due to conservative estimates and continued high rates. - Water and Sewer Operating Fund: Revenue $4.6 million, expenses $3.4 million, surplus $1.2 million. Revenues and expenditures at 43% and 44% of budget respectively (target 33% due to bimonthly billing). A $20 million bond sale closed in July for Lake Michigan connection. - Water and Sewer Capital Fund: Real estate transfer tax revenue was $714,000 (92% of $780,000 budget), inflated by a one-time large development transaction. Staff noted the annual baseline is now around $800,000, not the original $400,000 projection. - Parking Fund: Activity below expectations; permit revenue at $54,000 (45% of budget). Ordinance violation revenue low due to transition to a new collection agency, expected to recover. - Motor Fuel Tax Fund: High growth allotment exceeded expectations, creating a surplus to be discussed in the 2026 budget. - TIF Fund: A $3 million bond closed in July for the second parking facility, with reimbursement paid. The TIF district expires December 31, 2039; Andrea explained that development must generate enough increment to repay loans from other funds, or those loans become permanent contributions. Trustees emphasized the urgency of downtown development. - Garbage and Fleet Funds: Both trending on or below budget. - Trustees asked about potential concerns; Andrea noted no concerns for FY25 but expected the general fund to finish with an operating surplus. Sales tax growth is consistent year-over-year with seasonal variation. Key Outcomes - The audit and quarterly financial updates were presented for discussion; no formal votes were taken during the Committee of the Whole. - The meeting moved to closed session after adjournment for pending litigation, personnel, collective bargaining, and property matters. - The board took a 30-minute break before the regular board meeting.

The Village Board of Oswego held a regular meeting on July 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Key actions included approval of the consent agenda, a presentation on the countywide crime suppression detail, unanimous approval of two downtown economic incentive agreements (Bay 54 cocktail lounge and Taco Dale Cantina), and authorization of a comprehensive plan update contract with the Lakota Group. The meeting also featured the swearing-in of a new patrol officer and a certificate of recognition for a public works technician. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved Committee of the Whole minutes (June 24, 2025), Regular Village Board minutes (June 24, 2025), and Closed Session minutes (June 24, 2025, approved but not released). - G.4: Resolution approving changes to the Economic Development Incentive Award (EDIA) eligibility and program criteria. - G.5: Ordinance amending multiple sections of the Subdivision and Development Control Regulations. - G.6: Ordinance granting a variance for a six-foot privacy fence at 107 N. Madison Street. - G.7: Ordinance granting a Major Planned Unit Development amendment for the MJR Oswego development (Candy Cloud) at 2830-2834 US Route 34. - All consent items were approved unanimously via roll call. Recognitions & Appointments - Oath of Office: Patrol Officer Selim Smlatic was sworn in. He is 26 years old, a Batavia High School graduate, and previously worked as a videographer. His badge number is 97. - Certificate of Recognition: Joe McGillis, Public Works Technician, was recognized for his positive attitude, energy, and willingness to assist since his hire date of July 1, 2014. - Business of the Month: Imagination Print & Design was recognized (noted on agenda but not discussed in the transcript). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during Public Forum; it was closed after a brief pause. Staff Reports - Crime Suppression Detail (F.1): Chief Aston and Undersheriff Bobby Richardson presented a multi-agency task force operating since early summer. Key statistics (countywide, task force only): - 816 traffic stops - 544 citations written - 181 individuals arrested (arrestable offenses) - 80 gang contacts (certified gang members) - 187 search vehicles - 5 DUIs - 619 grams of cannabis, 3.2 grams of cocaine, and crack cocaine seized - Firearms and stolen vehicles (including a re-vined Jeep) recovered - Agencies involved: Kendall County Sheriff’s Office, Oswego PD, Montgomery PD, Illinois State Police, KCPAT (undercover), and CIT (overt team). - The task force uses overtime funding and has been described as a "force multiplier." Officials noted the operation has led to a relatively quiet summer and deterrence of gang activity. Future continuation depends on budget evaluation. New Business - J.1 – A2T Hospitality (Bay 54) at 57 Main Street: Owner Dan Thomas proposed a cocktail lounge in the former Bike Rack space. The project includes $142,000 in improvements (plumbing, ADA chairlift, second egress, bathroom renovations). The incentive package includes a grant and a $32,000 loan backed by a personal guarantee. The concept is a warm, lounge-style venue with eventual second-phase expansion upstairs (up to 60 additional seats). Opening targeted for late September/early October 2025. The board expressed strong support. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - J.2 – Taco Dale Cantina at 123 Washington Street: Owner Ilda Rodriguez proposed a higher-end Mexican-American concept with a full bar, replacing the former Tap House Grill. Total project cost $63,500; requesting $22,000 in grant funding for signage and a new walk-in cooler (instead of using the basement cooler). Trustee Cooper raised concerns about redundancy with other Mexican restaurants and prior village investment in the building. After discussion and clarification that the concept is distinct (dine-in, catering, American options), the board supported the incentive. Motion to approve passed unanimously. - J.3 – Comprehensive Plan Update Contract with Lakota Group: Staff recommended switching consultants after the previous contractor’s approach was deemed unsatisfactory. The new contract with Lakota Group is for $173,752. Subcontractor SB Friedman (economic analysis) will continue. Lakota President Scott Furratt emphasized community engagement by going to events (festivals, churches, schools) rather than holding public meetings. The board expressed disappointment in the prior consultant but supported moving forward. Motion to approve passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved as read. - Bill List: Approved for $4,705,583.32. - J.1 (Bay 54 Incentive): Ordinance approved (unanimous). - J.2 (Taco Dale Cantina Incentive): Ordinance approved (unanimous). - J.3 (Comprehensive Plan Contract): Resolution approved (unanimous). - Crime Suppression Detail: Board members praised the initiative; Trustee Novi indicated willingness to discuss additional funding at the October budget meeting. - Trustee Reports: Covered recognition of events (run/walk/ruck, softball game, cultural arts commission, sidewalk sale, school district easement for water main extension). President Kaufman highlighted the importance of community input for the comprehensive plan and noted upcoming events (park district ribbon cutting July 28). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Oswego Village Board Committee of the Whole met on July 15, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Oswego Village Hall to discuss the allocation of approximately $428,000 in surplus capital funds from the 2025 Annual Road Maintenance Project. The meeting included a public comment, staff presentations on four alternatives, and trustee deliberation leading to a consensus on fund use. Public Comments & Testimony - Jennifer Copina, a resident of Deer Path Creek, expressed opposition to a proposed dog path (referred to as the "Hunt Club" area) near her backyard. She requested the board not place the path behind her home and asked to be included in future discussions on the topic. Discussion Items - F.1 Considerations of Remaining Annual Road Maintenance Capital Funds – Village staff (Kurt) and project engineer Andre Jungman presented four alternatives for using a surplus of $427,000–$428,000 from the 2025 road maintenance project (original budget $3.1 million). The alternatives were: 1. South Harrison Street improvements: streetscape engineering ($205,000) and/or Benton Street connection engineering ($330,000) – both key projects from the 2015 comprehensive plan. Construction would be moved from 2028 to 2026-2027. 2. Temporary parking lots at Van Buren (20 spaces, $145,000) or Adams (17 spaces, $25,000) to serve local businesses. 3. Additional 2025 roadway resurfacing: Millstream Lane ($192,000), Whitewater Lane ($95,000), and Mill Road wheel-path patch ($25,000). 4. Reserve funds for a larger 2026 resurfacing program. - Trustees discussed trade-offs between advancing long-term downtown streetscape (Harrison) versus addressing immediate resident concerns about road conditions (Millstream, Whitewater, Mill Road). Trustee Cooper and others favored combining Harrison Street streetscape engineering with Millstream and Mill Road resurfacing, noting the total would be under budget. Trustee Kaufman supported prioritizing Harrison Street engineering to position for grants and development, while Trustee McCarthy Lang advocated for road repairs first to directly address resident complaints. Trustee Hughes suggested careful communication about project priorities. Trustee Novi raised the issue of the Wolf Crossing/Douglas Road extension but was informed it is not part of this discussion. Trustee Hughes also requested that streetscape standards be reviewed to allow wider sidewalks for potential café seating and festival use. Key Outcomes - The board reached consensus to allocate the surplus funds as follows: - South Harrison Street streetscape engineering: $205,000 - Millstream Lane resurfacing: $192,000 - Mill Road wheel-path patch: $25,000 - Total: $422,000, leaving approximately $6,000 under budget. - Staff was directed to begin engineering for South Harrison Street in fall 2025, with construction anticipated in 2026-2027. The Millstream and Mill Road work will be completed in 2025. - The board emphasized the need for clear public communication explaining the rationale for funding a downtown project over additional residential road repairs, noting that the unfunded Whitewater Lane will remain a priority for the 2026 program. - The meeting then moved into closed session for personnel, litigation, collective bargaining, and property matters. Following closed session, the Committee of the Whole adjourned.

The Oswego Planning and Zoning Commission met on July 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Village Hall to consider four public hearing items: a special use permit for a water receiving station, a variance for a fence, a major PUD amendment for commercial signage, and a text amendment to subdivision regulations. The commission approved all items as recommended, with one condition on the signage amendment. A public hearing on the text amendment was continued to the next meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting. Discussion Items Ogden Falls Receiving Station (Special Use for Utility) - Proposal: The Village of Oswego requested a special use permit to construct a high-zone water receiving station at 378 Ogden Falls Boulevard. The facility will include a new water storage tank, pumping station, and meter station to receive Lake Michigan water. The existing well house will be demolished after the new station is operational. - Public Input: Brad Reese, Assistant Public Works Director, reported receiving three phone calls from residents concerned about noise, construction hours, and safety. He explained that operational noise would be minimal (pumps indoors, generator only for backup) and that the new facility would use liquid bleach instead of chlorine gas, improving safety. A nearby resident requested construction start no earlier than 7:30 AM, but the village ordinance allows 6:00 AM starts. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners asked about noise, fencing (new eight-foot no-climb fence), and the role of the existing water tower (still needed for pressure and storage). No public testimony was offered during the hearing. - Outcome: The commission unanimously approved the special use permit subject to final engineering approval. 107 N. Madison Street (Variance for Fence) - Proposal: The homeowner at 107 N. Madison Street sought a variance from the UDO to allow a six-foot privacy fence in the corner side yard. The property is zoned R2 and includes a septic system that limits where fencing can be placed. The applicant agreed to set the fence 10 feet off the property line to avoid septic components. - Staff Recommendation: Staff supported the variance, noting that the setback minimizes impacts on neighbors and traffic sight lines. The health department approved the septic clearance. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners clarified that the variance allows the fence to be placed 12 feet further into the yard than normally permitted. No public testimony was offered. - Outcome: The commission unanimously approved the variance. MJR Oswego (Major PUD Amendment for Signage) - Proposal: The property owner (Richard Silverman, MJR Real Estate) requested a major PUD amendment to change the location and increase the size of two rear facade signs for Sherwin Williams and Candy Cloud at 2832-2834 US Route 34. The tenants needed larger signs because the rear of the building faces a major access route. - Staff Recommendation: Staff supported the location change but recommended limiting total rear signage to 58.2 square feet (based on a 1:1 ratio of sign area per linear foot of building facade, matching a previous tenant, Bibibop). This is larger than the UDO allowance but less than the applicant's request. - Commission Deliberation: Extensive discussion ensued about the actual dimensions and visual balance of the signs. The applicant noted that Sherwin Williams' national sign includes a blue backer that counts as sign area, making their sign 48 sq. ft. under their proposal, while Candy Cloud's sign would be 26 sq. ft. Commissioners were concerned about disproportionate sizes and agreed that the staff recommendation of 58.2 sq. ft. total, divided at the owner's discretion, was a fair compromise. - Outcome: The commission approved the major PUD amendment with the condition that the total square footage of the two rear signs not exceed 58.2 square feet. The applicant agreed to provide a rendering showing compliant sign sizes for the Village Board. Text Amendment – Subdivision and Development Control Regulations - Proposal: Staff presented a series of amendments to sections 2 and 8 of the subdivision regulations, including clarifications on landscaping, increased liability insurance ($1M to $2M), notice-to-proceed requirements, construction supervision, final acceptance including stormwater management, underground power lines, water/sewer line separation, surface flow language, and sump pump connections. - Commission Deliberation: Rod Zenner explained each change. Commissioners asked about historical issues with ponds and the insurance requirement. The hearing was kept open for further public comment at the next meeting. - Outcome: The commission unanimously approved the presented amendments and continued the public hearing to August 7, 2025. Key Outcomes - Ogden Falls Receiving Station: Unanimous approval of special use permit (subject to final engineering). - 107 N. Madison Street: Unanimous approval of variance for privacy fence. - MJR Oswego: Unanimous approval of major PUD amendment with condition that total rear signage does not exceed 58.2 sq. ft. - Text Amendment: Unanimous approval of proposed amendments; public hearing continued to August 7, 2025. - Next Meeting: Scheduled for August 7, 2025.

The Oswego Village Board held its regular meeting on June 24, 2025, at 7:00 PM at Oswego Village Hall (100 Parkers Mill, Oswego, Illinois). President Kaufman presided, and Trustees Cooper, Hughes, Koenig, McCarthy Lang, Novi, and Torres were present. Police Chief Jason Bassin led the Pledge of Allegiance. The board administered oaths to two new patrol officers, recognized a summer artist and the June Business of the Month, approved the consent agenda and bill list, approved two downtown development items, and later moved into closed session. No staff reports or old business items were presented. Oaths, Appointments, and Recognitions - President Kaufman administered the Oath of Office to Patrol Officer Trevor S. Hauck (badge number 95) and Patrol Officer Nicole A. Quiroga. - The board recognized Jenna Butler for the Village Hall Art Exhibit on display June 6 through August 14, 2025. - The board recognized Prairie Pals, a preschool and child care program operating under the Oswego Christian Foundation, as the June 2025 Business of the Month. Consent Calendar - Approved the June 10, 2025 Committee of the Whole and Regular Village Board minutes. - Authorized the release of certain closed session minutes. - Adopted amendments to the Oswego Municipal Code covering Title 1 Chapter 19, Title 3 Chapters 2, 7, 19, 31, and 35, and Appendix A. - Approved reducing project surety bond OHHNSU0836986 to $265,111.58 for earthwork for the Piper Glen Subdivision. - Amended Appendix A water tap-on fees. - Amended Section 6.09 submittal requirements and OSW-R-1 construction details in the Subdivision and Development Control Regulations. - Executed a contract with Schroeder Asphalt Services, Inc. for the Main Street ADA ramp and Harrison Street parking lot improvement project in the amount of $283,950.25. - Authorized Task Order No. 25-2 with Strand Associates, Inc. for the Booster Station Generator Project in the amount of $63,000.00. - Adopted Title 10 Unified Development Ordinance text amendments to Sections 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, and 13. - Approved the June 24, 2025 bill list in the amount of $1,024,197.83. - The consent agenda was approved unanimously, and the bill list was approved unanimously by a separate roll-call vote. Public Comments & Testimony - The public forum was opened and closed with no members of the public addressing the board. Discussion Items - Harrison Street Square Concept Plan (Item J.1): Village staff presented a concept plan for the two-acre property at 174 S. Harrison Street, consisting of an existing industrial building and two vacant lots. The proposal includes multi-tenant commercial reuse of the building, a large central open recreation space, eight small boardwalk-style shops along the railroad side, three commercial pads for food trucks, and a proposed dog park/dog bar. Staff noted that Harrison Street streetscape improvements are currently in the capital improvement plan within the next five years, but staff is exploring accelerating that timeline and may bring it to the Committee of the Whole in July. Jeff Miller of Watermark Engineering and project representative Mike Cardamone answered trustee questions. They described the existing building as roughly 10,000 square feet with Mike Cardamone retaining about 20 percent, and possible future tenants including restaurants, a bakery, smaller office/retail space, and a dog bar. The outdoor area would be open and free-flowing, with the fenced, off-leash dog run on the south side and leashed dogs elsewhere. Several boardwalk shops would be seasonal, with two or three anchor shops open more year-round. The project representatives estimated the project cost at roughly $1.2 million to $1.4 million, and said the building could be occupied in the fourth quarter of 2025 with the outdoor yard and tenant area coming in the third or fourth quarter of 2026. Trustees expressed strong support for the concept, praising its walkability, the activation of the southern end of downtown, and the potential for an Italian restaurant; the next step is Planning and Zoning Commission review for preliminary and final PUD approval. The board unanimously approved the concept plan. - Dog Park Special Use Permit (Item J.2): Village staff requested approval of a special use permit for outdoor recreation use to allow a dog park at 174 S. Harrison Street, associated with the applicant, Barkville Buddies. The business would include an indoor bar area and an outdoor fenced dog area. Outdoor recreation use requires a special use permit in the downtown district. The proposed dog park would be fully fenced with six-foot-tall aluminum fencing, limited to about 2,700 square feet, with an astroturf/grass surface and an overhead door connecting indoor and outdoor spaces; dogs would not be in the play area without their owners present. The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed the request on June 5, 2025. The board unanimously approved the ordinance granting the special use permit. Trustee and President Reports - Trustees welcomed the new officers, congratulated Prairie Pals and Jenna Butler, and highlighted upcoming events including the Venue 1012 concert, the July 4 holiday, a public safety cadets pork and chicken drive, and a run/walk/ruck event at Hudson Crossing Park. - President Kaufman congratulated the Oswego Panther softball team on winning the state championship, thanked the Park District for Prairie Fest, reminded residents of the July 4 fireworks at Prairie Point Park, and welcomed Taco Dolly and Crumble Cookie to downtown Oswego. Closed Session - The board unanimously moved into closed session for pending and 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. - No action was taken on closed session items after the board returned. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and the bill list were approved unanimously. - The Harrison Street Square concept plan was approved unanimously and will proceed to PZC preliminary and final PUD review. - The dog park special use permit at 174 S. Harrison Street was approved unanimously. - The board entered closed session; no subsequent action items were reported.

The Committee of the Whole met on June 24, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Oswego Village Hall to discuss proposed changes to the Economic Development Incentive Award (EDIA) program and the future of the village dog park, which must be relocated due to construction of a new public works facility. Discussion Items F.1 – Possible Changes to EDIA Eligibility & Program Criteria Kevin, the staff member presenting, explained that the EDIA program began in 2014 as a facade improvement program for downtown businesses and was revised in 2018 to include interior and exterior improvements. The program is funded at $8,000 annually, with grants capped at $40,000 (50% of eligible expenses). Recent applications for maintenance items (e.g., parking lots, painting) sparked discussion on what should be eligible. The Economic Development Commission (EDC) recommended allowing some maintenance items with a cap and creating clearer categories. Trustees debated the program's intent – beautification vs. long-term property improvements. Trustee Rochelle suggested creating two separate programs (facade vs. structural improvements). Trustee Hughes emphasized that improvements should be permanent and survive a business change. Trustee Novi questioned the need for a financial needs analysis. Trustee Torres advocated for keeping categories broad but excluding soft goods like furniture and dishware. Several trustees supported moving masonry, exterior painting, and windows/doors to fully eligible, and roof repairs to partially eligible. Parking lot improvements were discussed as partially eligible with a $5,000 cap. The group agreed to adopt the EDC's suggestions with those modifications and revisit after a strategic planning session. F.2 – Dog Park Operations and Location Considerations Kurt presented three potential relocation sites: Venue 1012, Hunt Club Water Tower property, and the Police Department campus. The existing dog park, built with inexpensive materials due to anticipated relocation, has card-access and water service. Usage data from Andrew showed an average of 10 card swipes per day (low 2, high 27). All trustees agreed to keep the dog park. Trustee Laude preferred the Police Department site for centrality but Chief raised concerns about limited parking, future need for the land for an evidence garage, and potential public perception. Trustee Coneg and others favored Hunt Club for its larger size (4 acres vs. current 1.5 acres) and isolation, though it lacks parking and is far from most residents. Trustee Torres suggested asking the Park District for land. The group decided to: 1) ask the Park District about potential land, 2) survey current dog park users on their preference between Hunt Club and Police Department, and 3) bring back more information on the Hunt Club site. Key Outcomes - EDIA Program: The board reached consensus to amend eligibility categories as follows: - Fully eligible: masonry, exterior painting, windows/doors. - Partially eligible (with a $5,000 cap): roof repairs, parking lot improvements. - Staff will prepare revised criteria and bring back for formal action after a strategic planning discussion. - Dog Park: The board directed staff to explore a potential intergovernmental agreement with the Oswego Park District for land, conduct a user survey, and return with more details on the Hunt Club site before making a final decision.

The Oswego Village Board met in regular session on June 10, 2025, at Oswego Village Hall, beginning at 7:00 PM or immediately following the Committee of the Whole meeting. The board approved a consent agenda, a separate water easement resolution, the June 10 bill list, and a contingency-fee legal services contract for AFFF PFAS litigation. The meeting also included recognitions and proclamations, a first-quarter financial update, and one public forum comment. Recognitions & Appointments - Village President Ryan Kaufman read a proclamation in memory of Richard ‘Dick’ Miller, a 98-year-old Navy veteran and Bronze Star recipient who served on the USS Drexler during the Battle of Okinawa and died May 25, 2025. The president called Miller a personal hero. - The board honored Bob and Mary Patterson and the Chris Patterson Memorial Foundation for bringing the Illinois Fallen Wall to Oswego from May 9 to June 6, 2025, and for their work honoring Illinois service members killed since September 11, 2001. - Mason Trayser, an Oswego East High School student, received the inaugural Outstanding Citizen Award. On April 25, 2025, he dove 12 feet underwater to rescue a fellow student who was drowning and not moving. - Employee Service Awards were presented to Michael Barajas and Police Chief Jason Bastin for 20 years of service with the Oswego Police Department. - The board proclaimed June 14, 2025 as Flag Day and June 2025 as Pride Month in the Village of Oswego. Public Comments & Testimony - Carlos Sesta, a resident new to the village, praised the community survey, saying it was ‘spectacular’ and that many results were ‘significantly above regional or national levels.’ He suggested clarifying whether the survey’s ‘social media/Facebook’ finding means Facebook specifically or social media generally. - He expressed concern about a local church’s public social media rhetoric, which he described as unwelcoming, and said he emailed the church and would forward the email to the board. - He asked the village to consider preserving a roughly 150-year-old tree at the future District 5 fire station site along Wolf’s Crossing, potentially incorporating it into the project, as a way of preserving the past during expansion. Staff Report: Quarterly Financial Update - Finance Director Andrea Lamberg, who recently earned the Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) designation, presented first-quarter results for calendar year 2025. - General operating fund revenues were just under $7.5 million and expenditures were $5.4 million, producing a $2 million surplus. The budget had projected a $575,000 deficit because of a one-time transfer to the capital fund for the new public works facility; excluding that transfer, the budget was balanced with a small surplus. - General fund revenues were at 26% of budget and expenditures at 19% of budget. All departments except IT/GIS were under the 25% spending target; IT/GIS was at 25% because annual maintenance and licensing fees are paid early in the year. - Sales tax revenue was $3.6 million, or 30% of budget; income tax (LGDF) revenue was $1.5 million, or 25%; food and beverage tax revenue was $351,000, or 26%; building permit revenue was $276,000, or 28%. - The water and sewer operating fund had revenues just under $3 million, expenses just under $1.5 million, and a $1.48 million surplus. The budgeted surplus was $4.5 million, planned for the Lake Michigan connection and future debt service. Revenues were at 28% of budget and expenditures at 24%. - A $20 million bond sale, originally scheduled for mid-June, was expected to occur in July to cover the first six months of planned spending for the Lake Michigan connection. - Water sales were $2.4 million, or 27% of budget; sewer maintenance revenue was $456,000, or 26%; interest earnings were 86% of budget because DuPage Water Commission payments were delayed; and real estate transfer tax revenue was $183,000, or 24% of budget, outperforming the original annual projection of $400,000 and the current budget of more than $700,000. - In response to trustee questions, Lamberg said water revenue was ahead because of rate increases and higher-than-budgeted pumpage; she agreed to analyze whether sales tax growth is outpacing population growth. She said a state change in how online sales taxes are accounted for increased sales tax and decreased use tax, with a net positive impact, and that the grocery tax change taking effect January 1, 2026 is not a concern for the 2025 budget. New Business: PFAS Litigation Legal Services Contract - Staff presented a resolution authorizing a contract for legal services related to AFFF PFAS litigation, involving firefighting foam containing PFAS ‘forever chemicals.’ The proposed contract would allow two law firms to test the village’s raw water supply for PFAS and, if contamination is found, help compile a damages claim. - The village would pay no out-of-pocket costs; the attorneys would receive one-third of the gross amount recovered plus litigation expenses, and only if the village achieves a successful recovery. The village may terminate the contract at any time with written notice. - Trustees described the arrangement as a ‘win-win’ and a ‘no-brainer,’ noting there is no cost or financial risk to taxpayers. The board approved the resolution unanimously by 6-0 roll-call vote. Consent Calendar and Other Actions - The board approved the consent agenda as read by 6-0 roll-call vote, including minutes, closed session minutes approved but not released, a Class C liquor license decrease for Mason Wok and Sushi, a $107,856.00 contract with Trico Mechanical Inc. for the Public Works trench drain replacement project, final acceptance of Starbucks/Valvoline improvements at Orchard Plaza, a contract with Steve Piper and Sons Inc. for village-wide stump grinding and restoration, a Piper Glen Phase 1 surety bond reduction to $792,144.10, and the Sonoma Trails Phase 2 final PUD and subdivision plat. - Item G.9, final acceptance of earthwork for Piper Glen Subdivision and release of project bond, was pulled and will be brought to a future board meeting. - Item G.4, a resolution approving an agreement to convey a water easement to the village, was considered separately. Trustee Jen moved to approve it subject to resolving an outstanding right-of-way issue not reflected on the plat, related to the 2012 Illinois 71 widening; the board approved it unanimously by 6-0 roll-call vote. - The board approved the bill list dated June 10, 2025, in the amount of $1,172,259.52, by 6-0 roll-call vote. Trustee Reports and President’s Report - Trustees thanked the honorees, praised Bob and Mary Patterson for the Illinois Fallen Wall, and congratulated Chief Bastin and Commander Barajas on 20 years of service. They also highlighted Mason Trayser’s lifesaving actions, the upcoming Prairie Fest, and the Sonoma Trails Phase 2 ribbon cutting. - A trustee shared a personal connection to Pride Month and said the village has been a welcoming community; another trustee said she would like to see more visible Pride recognition, such as pride flags in the community or at Village Hall. President Kaufman said a flag display could be discussed later, while noting that allowing one flag can raise issues about allowing others. - President Kaufman reported attending the Aurora Pride Parade, thanked staff and veterans volunteers, and encouraged residents to attend Prairie Fest.

The Oswego Village Board Committee of the Whole met on June 10, 2025, at 6:00 PM to discuss the 2025 Community Survey findings and potential changes to water tap-on fees for residential development. No public comments were made. The board gave direction to staff on both items. Discussion Items 2025 Community Survey Presentation - Jason Morado, director of community research at ETC Institute, presented the fourth biennial community survey for Oswego (conducted via mail and online, 606 completed surveys, margin of error ±3.9%). - Key findings: Satisfaction increased in 68 of 113 areas since the 2023 survey; Oswego rated above the U.S. average in 55 of 60 areas; top overall priorities were traffic flow/congestion and management of village finances. - Trustee questions addressed methodology (demographic weighting, response mode breakdown), request for crosstabs by age, length of residency, and renters vs. owners; interest in AI sentiment analysis of open-ended comments. - Discussion noted that while communication ratings improved, residents may lack context on village finances; the increase in satisfaction with financial management was attributed to recent board actions like reducing property tax rates and paying off debt. Proposed Water Tap-On Fee Changes - Dan (staff) reviewed the history of water tap-on fees: $5,000 per residential unit in 2007, increased to $7,200 in 2010, lowered to $2,200 in 2015, and now proposed to increase by $3,000 to $5,200 per unit for all residential types (single-family, townhome, apartment). - Comparison with competitive communities: Yorkville current fees $7,500 (rising to $10,500 by 2028), Plainfield $3,300 for single-family/townhomes and $0 for apartments. Oswego’s total fees are $24,000 for single-family, $15,000 for townhomes, $13,000 for apartments—within market range. - Staff recommended no increase to commercial tap-on fees (currently $3,750, unchanged since 2007) to incentivize business growth. Trustees generally agreed, noting commercial users pay more through volumetric rates and large meter fees. - Trustees expressed support for the $3,000 residential increase, citing fairness to existing residents who bear water system upgrade costs, while acknowledging potential impact on housing affordability. Discussion noted that affordable housing requires separate incentives. Key Outcomes - The board reached consensus to direct staff to prepare an ordinance increasing residential water tap-on fees by $3,000 (to $5,200 per unit) for the next regular board meeting. No increase to commercial tap-on fees at this time. - Staff will also provide additional crosstab data from the survey (by age, length of residence, renter/owner) and explore AI analysis of open-ended comments.