Public Meetings - Plainfield, Illinois

The Plainfield Village Board convened on November 2, 2026, to address public concerns about the Old Town South project, consider special use permits for a cannabis dispensary drive-thru and a massage establishment, acknowledge the preliminary tax levy estimate, and approve several public works contracts. The meeting opened with presidential and trustee comments, followed by public testimony, then moved to the business agenda. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the October 19 board meeting. - Approved bills paid and bills payable reports for November 2, 2026. - Approved bond reductions for the Willow Run development (units 1 and 2), reducing Hanover Insurance bonds to maintenance amounts of $183,452.59 and $162,832.63 respectively. - Adopted Ordinance 3825, changing a street segment name from Coring Circle to West Cassandra Drive in Springbrook unit 3. - Authorized a software agreement with Granicus for single sign-on ($1,719.10) and annual subscription for website and GovDelivery ($28,473.22, with 5% annual increase, 5-year term). - Authorized a three-year software agreement with OpenGov for $172,043.71. - Approved payments for eminent domain services for the 143rd Street East Extension: $1,680 to Bravo Company Engineering and $4,000 to T Engineering Services. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Hennevery (resident of 2383 W Ottawa St) requested assurance that at least one more public meeting would be held for the Old Town South project, noting that 119 comments were submitted after the May 2026 meeting. Mayor confirmed another public meeting will occur before the final plan goes to the board. - Jim Hively expressed concern that after the next public meeting, residents might not have another chance to influence changes. Staff responded that comments can still be made until the project goes to bid. - Jennifer Durone (Dillman St) asked whether a bike lane on the road could be used instead of a path that would take yards. Staff indicated that option is being considered. - Cheryl Knapp questioned the necessity of a bike path given low bicycle usage on Ottawa Street and raised safety concerns about crossing Route 59, especially for children. She also noted that parking is already an issue at the pool and that removing on-street parking could create problems. - Carolyn Demet asked whether the next meeting would be an interactive discussion or a static open house. Staff said there will be opportunity for public input. Discussion Items Old Town South Project Update - The village is preparing a frequently asked questions document to be released in November 2026. - The next public information meeting is planned for early 2027 (likely January), before the project is put out to bid. - Construction will be split into two phases: an east half and a west half, with work beginning in 2027 and continuing through 2028. - The project has not yet gone to bid; the public will have a chance to see the updated plans and provide comments at the January meeting. - The bike path is required to connect Turtle Lake with the rest of the village, but its exact form (e.g., on-street vs. off-street) is still being finalized. Terabus Drive-Thru Special Use Permit - The board considered a special use permit for a drive-thru at Terabus, a cannabis dispensary at 16020 S Route 59. - The building has an existing drive-through lane (formerly a fast food restaurant), and the planning commission recommended approval after a public hearing. - The applicant (Mr. O'Hara) stated that 70% of their transactions at other locations occur via drive-thru, and the window would be for pre-ordered goods only. - Trustee Wachowski opposed the permit, arguing that customers should enter the store and that a drive-thru encourages easier access. She voted no. - Trustee Ruin supported the permit, citing accessibility for medical users who prefer not to enter a dispensary, and noted the state authorization. - Police Chief reported that the management met with police and no issues were found; the system includes ID scanning and pre-ordering. - Some trustees raised concerns about ID verification, but the applicant stated that external cameras zoom in and all products are pre-ordered. - The permit was approved by a vote of 4-3 (Trustees Sula, Keeper, Ruin, and Mayor Gadelis yes; Trustees Wachowski, Banucci, and Paniker no). Hand and Stone Massage Special Use Permit - Special use permit for a massage establishment at 13400 S Route 59 (former Massage MV location) was considered. - The planning commission held a public hearing and recommended approval. - The company is a reputable chain with multiple locations. - The permit requires compliance with background checks by the police department. - The motion passed unanimously. Tax Levy Preliminary Estimate - Finance Director Pleckham presented the preliminary 2026 tax levy estimate of $13,033,000, based on a projected 15% increase in equalized assessed value (EAV). - This amount is the maximum the village can levy; the board can later adjust the rate downward to collect less. - Acknowledging the estimate allows the village to capture any additional EAV growth. - The board voted unanimously to acknowledge the estimate. Public Works Projects - Salt Barn Engineering Design: Authorized a work order with Christopher B. Burke Engineering for design services not to exceed $59,780 for a 7,000-ton salt storage structure at the public works facility. - Emergency Weather Warning Sirens: Authorized the purchase of 20 new outdoor emergency warning sirens from Fulton Siren Services at a cost not to exceed $607,965. The purchase is supported by a $500,000 grant secured by Senator Capel. Existing siren poles will be reused, and the new sirens have a 30-35 year lifespan. - Sale of Surplus Equipment: Approved Ordinance 3828 authorizing the sale of ten surplus vehicles and equipment via Purple Wave online auction. Administrator's Report - Administrator Blake Moore highlighted the recent ribbon cutting for Woodman's, noting it is the largest new retail opening since 2008. The store will generate sales tax revenue and reinvigorate North Plainfield. - He confirmed that the village will contribute $12,500 toward the 2027 fireworks display, continuing the partnership with the park district. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda items were all approved unanimously. - Another public meeting on the Old Town South project is scheduled for January 2027; construction phases planned for 2027-2028. - The Terabus drive-thru special use was approved 4-3. - The Hand and Stone massage special use was approved unanimously. - The preliminary 2026 tax levy of $13,033,000 was acknowledged unanimously. - Authorized engineering design for the salt barn, purchase of emergency sirens (up to $607,965), and sale of surplus equipment, all unanimously. - Upcoming meetings: Plan Commission (Nov 3), Committee of the Whole Workshop (Nov 9), Regular Board Meeting (Nov 16).

The Plainfield Village Board Committee of the Whole met on Monday, October 26, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Boardroom. Trustees and the Mayor conducted roll call, the Pledge of Allegiance, and unanimously approved the minutes from the October 12, 2026, Committee of the Whole Workshop. Trustee comments included a thank you to Dr. Chris Smith and the ASEC star team for a riverfront cleanup with 30 students. The meeting featured two major workshop segments: a detailed review of the proposed DHL Plainfield Logistics Centre Phase 2 and a preliminary estimate presentation for the 2026 Tax Levy. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes from the Committee of the Whole Workshop held on October 12, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board during the public comment period. A resident had previously called staff regarding lighting on the project. Discussion Items DHL Plainfield Logistics Centre Phase 2 (Case 2134-REZ.SU.SPR.PP) - Project Overview: The applicant and staff presented a proposal for a two-building logistics campus totaling approximately 2 million square feet on 140 acres at the northeast corner of Ridge Road and 143rd Street. The developer, DHL, detailed a development agreement worth an estimated $2.9 million in fees and credits for public improvements, including a path on Ridge Road, enhanced pedestrian crossings, and traffic signals. The project is projected to generate an estimated $3 million annually for local taxing districts and $26 million in total annual economic output. - Board Deliberations: The board expressed strong overall support for the project while focusing on enhancing mitigation measures. - Buffering and Setbacks: Trustee Rewain strongly advocated for shifting the buildings south to increase the buffer from the northern residential property line. The applicant noted the proposed 80-foot landscape buffer and a 270-foot building setback (five times the code requirement). The Mayor requested a mix of evergreen and deciduous shade trees in the buffer. - Lighting: The Mayor and trustees emphasized strict lighting controls, praising the applicant's commitment to zero foot-candles at the property line, a 3,000 Kelvin or lower color temperature, and a maximum 30-foot mounting height for light fixtures. - Traffic and Landscape: The board praised the preservation of an existing grove of trees and the use of naturalized detention basins. Trustee Keeper questioned truck traffic routing; the traffic engineer confirmed trucks are projected to primarily use the main 143rd Street access point. - Applicant Response: Vince Rosanova (attorney for DHL) and the project team noted the project's Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is 0.3, which is 60% of what the I-1 zoning permits, allowing for the enhanced setbacks and landscaping. The team agreed to evaluate a potential shift of the building footprint. 2026 Tax Levy Preliminary Estimate - Staff Presentation: Finance Director Tracy Pleckham presented the preliminary levy estimate. The village's property tax rate has remained steady near $0.44 per $100 of Equalized Assessed Value (EAV) for 20 years, equating to $629 annually on a $450,000 home. The total EAV has grown from $1.1 billion in 2006 to $2.56 billion in 2025, heavily driven by new growth. Staff recommended a preliminary levy estimate of $13.033 million, based on a 15% assumed EAV increment, representing a $1.7 million increase over the prior year. Proposed draft budgets were provided for the Tort Immunity, Audit, and Police Pension ($2.85 million funded, achieving a 78.2% funding rate) funds. - Board Reaction: Trustees praised the presentation and acknowledged the village's strong financial health. A cautionary note was raised by the Mayor that the village's reliance on new growth for revenue stability is not permanent, reinforcing the need for ongoing commercial and industrial tax base diversification. Key Outcomes - DHL Logistics Centre Phase 2: The board provided clear direction to the applicant to explore maximizing the northern landscape buffer, potentially by shifting the building pad south. The project enjoys broad conceptual support. Staff will work with the applicant on a revised site plan incorporating board feedback for a return to the Village Board. - 2026 Tax Levy: The board reached consensus to accept the $13.033 million preliminary estimate. This item will move to the November 2, 2026, Village Board meeting for approval. A follow-up workshop on the specific tax rate is scheduled for November 9, 2026.

The Plainfield Plan Commission met on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Village Boardroom, with the meeting called to order at 7:02 PM. The agenda featured two public hearings for special use permits: one for a Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, and another to allow a drive-through at the Terrabis cannabis dispensary. Both requests received unanimous favorable recommendations from the Commission. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the Plan Commission meeting held on October 6, 2026, were approved by a unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered testimony on non-agenda items. Discussion Items Development Report - Angry Chicks: Staff reported that the Village Board approved a special use for a drive-through at Angry Chicks at its meeting on October 19, 2026. Public Hearing 1: Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa (Case 2149-092226.SU) - Request: A Special Use Permit to establish a massage establishment at 13400 S. Route 59, Unit 118, within the Jewel shopping center. The applicant was represented by Fahad and Donish Salim. - Staff Report: Steven Bravo, Village Planner, noted that the previous tenant (Massage Envy) was grandfathered in under older codes, but current regulations require a special use. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Position: The applicant expressed a desire to offer professional massage and facial services in a welcoming spa environment, emphasizing self-care and community integration. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners welcomed the business to the community. Commissioner Nicholson noted she was a former customer of the previous business and preferred the new location. Chairman Minnes commented on understanding the need for the special use given the change in tenancy. Public Hearing 2: Terrabis (Case 2150-092326.SU) - Request: A Special Use to reactivate an existing drive-through at the Terrabis cannabis dispensary located at 16020 S. Route 59, a former Hardee's restaurant. Nick Aramadis, co-founder and Chief Legal Officer, represented the applicant. - Staff Report: Steven Bravo explained that the property already had a Special Use for a cannabis facility (approved in March 2024). The request was solely to activate the drive-through following a June 2024 state law change allowing drive-throughs at dispensaries. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant Position: Mr. Aramadis stated the activation requires no new construction or change to the building's footprint. Orders are placed online in advance, with transactions conducted securely through a teller-style window and taking under two minutes. He shared that the company has completed over half a million such transactions in Missouri without incident and has similar approvals in Greyville, Woodstock, and Dixon. As of October 15, 2026, 490 people had expressed interest in the service. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners discussed queuing, traffic flow, pedestrian safety (the drive-through is on the south facade while the entrance is on the east), and hours of operation (to match the current 6 AM to 2 AM operation). Commissioner Heinen requested that staff work with the applicant to review striping, landscaping, and overall site conditions to ensure compliance with current codes. Commissioner Wagner related the transaction style to a pharmacy drive-through and expressed support for the application. Commissioner Discussion - Cooper's Hawk Traffic Circulation: Commissioner Heinen raised concerns about the traffic flow in the Costco subdivision, specifically the difficulty of accessing Cooper's Hawk by driving through multiple parking lots. He advocated for better primary access and circulation in future large-scale developments. - Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Chairman Minnes inquired about the inclusion of EV charging stations at new developments like Woodman’s, which recently opened, highlighting the current lack of such infrastructure in Plainfield. Key Outcomes - Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa: Recommended for approval by a 4-0 vote. - Terrabis Drive-Through: Recommended for approval by a 4-0 vote, subject to compliance with the Village Engineer and Plainfield Fire Protection District. - Next Steps: Both special use requests will proceed to the Village Board for final approval. The Terrabis case is scheduled for the November 2, 2026 Village Board meeting. - Next Plan Commission Meeting: Scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, 2026, due to the Election Day on Tuesday, November 3. - Meeting Adjourned: 7:51 PM.

The Village of Plainfield Board met on October 19, 2026, issuing proclamations for United Nations Day and National First Responders Day, and addressing business items including a disputed mural project, a land exchange to expand Settlers Park, and an insurance coverage gap for volunteer emergency personnel. Proclamations - United Nations Day (October 24): Recognized the efforts of the Zonta Club of the Joliet Area. A representative highlighted the club's global advocacy, including contributing over $33.5 million to UN partners for women's and girls' health, economic opportunity, and the prevention of gender-based violence. The club promoted their annual 16 Days of Activism campaign beginning November 25th. - National First Responders Day (October 28): Honored first responders including public works professionals. Public Works staff reported assisting Cook County with debris removal from summer storms, logging approximately 200 hours through the Illinois Public Works Mutual Aid Network. Trustee Comments - Trustee Paniker expressed condolences over a mass shooting in Oregon (28th of the year) and strongly condemned a thwarted plot against the Aurora Hindu temple, calling for stronger gun laws and local vetting. Mayor Argadellas responded that the village is enhancing patrols for local places of worship and emphasized community unity: "we are one Plainfield." - Trustees praised Public Works, PIMA, and CERT for their dedication, noting the involvement of the next generation of volunteers at recent community events like the Park District's haunted hayride. Public Comments & Testimony - OSS Star Group (Dr. Chris Smith): Requested board support for a student-led mural project to cover graffiti on an IDOT-owned bridge at Lockport and James streets. Mayor Argadellas strongly contested Dr. Smith's claim of having a permit to paint a mural, reading an IDOT letter aloud that authorized only graffiti cleanup on October 25th. The Mayor accused Dr. Smith of lying to the board and bypassing the Public Arts Council. The group was directed to proceed only with graffiti cleanup on October 25th and to consult with the Public Arts Council on any future mural proposals. - PIMA Insurance (Bob Waterich, Sgt.): Expressed deep frustration over a six-month delay in reimbursing a volunteer injured during an April 2026 training exercise. The village currently lacks workers' compensation or general insurance coverage for PIMA volunteers injured outside of vehicle incidents. Waterich called the delay "utterly unacceptable," warning it is harming morale and reducing volunteer availability for events. The Village Administrator acknowledged the issue and stated the village is researching insurance policies, though formal documentation was requested and Waterich stated it was already provided to Commander Novak. The board directed staff to expedite a resolution. Discussion Items - Angry Chicks Matter Drive-Thru: The board approved a special use permit for a drive-thru at a former Wendy's location on Route 59. The site had been vacant over six months, triggering the need for a new permit. The Plan Commission recommended approval. The board approved the permit (Ordinance 3823) unanimously. - Marquette Land Conveyance: The board approved an agreement to acquire a 2.91-acre parcel from Marquette Properties at the southeast corner of Van Dyke and Village Center Drive to be added to Settlers Park. In exchange for the land, the village will waive up to $1.8 million in building permit fees for the adjacent Cornerstone development. The developer confirmed the waivers strictly cover the land cost and carrying costs. The board approved the agreement (Resolution 1876) unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously, including minutes, financial reports, bond reductions for the Riverstone development (Phase 1: from $4.56M to $3.82M, Phase 2: from $2.01M to $553k), contracts for Hydrovision Technology ($255,229), chemical supply for the wastewater treatment plant ($1.39/gal for Alum), stormwater ejector controls at the police station ($34,545), and ordinances for Special Service Area 55 and PSEBA procedures. - Mural Project: The group does not have permission to paint a mural. They were directed to clean the graffiti as permitted by IDOT and to work with the Public Arts Council for any future mural proposals. - PIMA Insurance Gaps: The board formally acknowledged the issue and committed to expediting a review of insurance options for village volunteers. - Radio Donation (Ordinance 3824): Approved donation of surplus police radios to Will and Grundy County EMAs. - Next Meeting: The next Committee of the Whole meeting is scheduled for October 26, 2026, and the next regular business meeting is scheduled for November 2, 2026, both at 7:00 PM.

The Village of Plainfield Board of Trustees held a Committee of the Whole Workshop on Monday, October 12, 2026. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, public comments from a prospective business owner, a presentation of the Fiscal Year 2026 audit by Sikich CPA LLC, and an update on the Fiscal Year 2027 General Fund budget. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the Committee of the Whole Workshop of August 10, 2026 by unanimous voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. Harder (spelled H A R T E R), a Plainfield resident and prospective business owner, spoke along with his wife and business partners. He expressed support for opening a family-friendly arcade in the former Peter Ruby location at Plainfield Plaza (zoned B1 – Neighborhood Convenience Business District). He noted that current zoning lumps arcades with pool halls and billiards, and requested the board's support to separate arcade use from pool halls and allow arcades in B1 districts. He emphasized the time sensitivity due to competition for the lease and a goal to open by May 2027. The Mayor expressed strong support for local small business and stated that staff would work internally to find a path forward, noting the ongoing zoning code rewrite but the ability to amend on the fly. Discussion Items Fiscal Year 2026 Audit Presentation Jim Savio of Sikich CPA LLC presented the annual comprehensive financial report for FY 2026. Key points: - The village received an unmodified (clean) audit opinion – the highest level of assurance. - No material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in internal controls were identified; no instances of non-compliance were noted. - General Fund unassigned fund balance was nearly $14 million, an increase from $13 million in FY 2025, representing 40% of current year expenditures (about a five-month reserve), in line with village policy. - Revenues exceeded expenditures by approximately $10.6 million (up from $9.4 million in FY 2025). Net change in fund balance after transfers was about $1.3 million. - IMRF pension funded ratio improved to 96% (from 90% prior year); Police pension funded ratio jumped to 90% (from 76%) due to strong investment returns ($13.5 million investment income). - The Water and Sewer Fund posted operating income of $275,000 before non-operating revenues. - Outstanding debt included $1.16 million in general obligation bonds and $5.88 million in IEPA loans plus $7.9 million in revenue bonds for water and sewer. - The single audit (required due to $1M federal expenditures) covered the Route 143 East extension and TIF districts; all compliance opinions were unmodified. - Trustee Panicker asked about internal controls and cannabis sales tax data. Staff noted controls include separation of duties and walkthroughs by auditors; cannabis revenue data is protected due to only two dispensaries, but staff will provide available information. Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Update Ms. Pleckham provided an update on the General Fund budget. Highlights: - The FY 2027 General Fund revenue budget is $44 million. Revenue sources are diversified: state revenues (including income tax) make up 47% ; property taxes 22% ; refuse fees 15% ; building permits and franchise fees, etc. - State revenues: Municipal sales tax is 61% of state revenues (up from 54% due to shifting online sales from use tax to sales tax). Income tax is 38% . - Sales tax in the corporate fund is on track at 44% through September (42% of fiscal year elapsed). - Use tax is declining but budgeted appropriately; income tax at nearly 50% through September. The special census added 5,200 people, yielding approximately $955,000 per year additional income tax and motor fuel tax revenues ($184 per person). - Building permit revenue at 54% of budget through September (down from exceptional levels last year, but not a concern). - Local motor fuel tax at 44% ; franchise fees declining annually (now $175,000 through September, down from $600,000 in FY 2022) due to cord-cutting. - Refuse fees (pass-through) at 50% ; property tax collections nearly 100%. - Expenses: Overall at 42% of budget; police department at 51% largely due to pension funding ($2.77 million of $2.85 million budgeted already expended). - The tax levy discussion will begin at the next workshop, with a target preliminary estimate approval on November 2, public hearing December 7. Key Outcomes - The board will bring the FY 2026 audit to the regular board meeting for formal acceptance. - The Mayor and board voiced support for the proposed arcade zoning change and directed staff to work internally to find a solution, given time sensitivity. - Staff will provide additional information on cannabis sales tax revenues and investment income to the board. - Upcoming meetings were announced: Village Board business meeting October 19, Plan Commission October 20, next Committee of the Whole Workshop October 26.

The Plainfield Plan Commission met on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at 7:01 p.m. in the Village Boardroom, 24401 W. Lockport Street, Plainfield, Illinois. The meeting covered approval of the September 15, 2026 minutes, a development report, a public hearing for a drive-through special use, and a detailed review of Articles 7 and 8 of the draft Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). The meeting adjourned at approximately 8:48 p.m. Approval of Minutes - The Plan Commission unanimously approved the minutes of the September 15, 2026 meeting by voice vote. Development Report - Staff reported that Core 5, the industrial project at the northwest corner of Ridge Road and 143rd Street, was approved by the Village Board the previous night. Changes since the Plan Commission review included moving screening farther north to Plainfield Road and creating a larger berm, and a neighboring property owner at Cherry Hill Road and Plainfield Road intends to purchase the residential portion of the property and keep it agricultural. - Staff also followed up on a commissioner’s prior concern about Bartels Auto Clinic; code enforcement has conducted drive-by checks and is monitoring parking availability. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the allotted public comment period. - Rich Brouwer, owner of 59 Auto Repair, testified during the Angry Chickz public hearing. He stated that a subdivision agreement among his property, Thornton’s, McDonald’s, and the corner office building shares maintenance costs for the common drive/access area, but the Angry Chickz restaurant property was not part of that agreement. He expressed concern that every customer vehicle would use the shared drive without contributing to maintenance. He said he had contacted the applicant’s architect three weeks earlier and received no answer as of a 2:00 p.m. call that day. He stated he had no objection to the business, but wanted the shared maintenance issue addressed. Discussion Items Angry Chickz Special Use – 15732 S. Route 59 (Case 2148-090126.SU) - Staff planner Steven Barello explained that the building, constructed around 1997 as a drive-through restaurant, did not have a special use for the drive-through because it was not required at the time. The drive-through has been in and out of use, and a special use is now required for the tenant to operate. - Bavia, a representative from KPNG Architects and Engineers and the applicant, testified that Angry Chickz is a chicken-focused franchise with no current Illinois locations and that the first location he worked on opened in Aurora. - Commissioners asked about drive-through orientation, access, and landscaping/code compliance. Staff said permits are still under review and a landscape plan could be requested. - Staff acknowledged the applicant’s shared-drive issue and said the village would work with both parties to find an amicable resolution, including possible cross-access and maintenance agreements. - The Plan Commission voted 5–0 on a roll call vote to recommend approval of the special use, subject to compliance with the Village Engineer and the Plainfield Fire Protection District. The favorable recommendation will go to the Village Board. Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Review – Articles 7 and 8 - Consultant Mike Hoppen from Tesca Associates and Jake from Sightline presented the next UDO installment. Ansel Glink provided legal review. The draft covers zoning districts in Article 7 and uses in Article 8. - Community engagement results were reported: 485 survey responses, with 45% saying current housing types are sufficient, 30% saying they are not, and 30% unsure. Accessory dwelling unit feedback was mixed. The National Night Out booth drew 200–250 people. - Proposed district changes include consolidating existing residential districts into R1, R2, R3, and R4; removing unmapped or underutilized districts such as RE and TN; merging B5 and the B5 overlay into C1, BT and parts of B1 into C2, and B3 and parts of B1 into C3; and adding a parks and open space district. - The consultants said the UDO removes outdated bulk standards, proposes new initial and total impervious coverage limits, and creates more realistic lot sizes, including R1 minimums around 10,000 square feet and R2 in the 7,000 to 10,000 square foot range, to reduce reliance on PUDs and variances. - Commissioner comments and positions included: - Requests for side-by-side comparisons of existing vs. proposed standards in future drafts. - A suggestion to create visual maps and strategy diagrams to help boards and the public understand the zoning changes. - Concern that rear elevations of homes visible from public roadways should include architectural articulation, not just front and corner side facades. - Discussion of whether the 45% total impervious coverage limit is realistic for larger lots with pools and decks; some commissioners suggested matching R1’s total to R2’s 50%. - Caution about requiring green roofs because of higher insurance costs, while encouraging solar-ready design and concealed rooftop conduit. - Support for modernizing home-based businesses and fence regulations, and for consolidating accessory structure rules into a 1,000 square foot total footprint without limiting the number of structures. - On short-term rentals, the draft includes a placeholder special use provision for C1/C2 dwellings. Commissioners differed: one commissioner objected to government restrictions on renting private property, while another noted the need to distinguish commercial-scale rentals from occasional rentals. Staff said it remains a placeholder and the village can decide whether to regulate them outside zoning. - Uses discussion included new housing types such as cottage, three-unit, and four-unit dwellings; mixed housing in districts; treatment of places of worship under RLUIPA; updated home-based business rules; corner stores; professional office location rules in the downtown; body art and massage establishments; and expanded use tables. - Staff and consultants stated that Article 7 and 8 comments will be reviewed, zoning map work will occur in October and November, and the next UDO presentation will cover parking, landscaping, signs, and additional definitions. General Discussion - Commissioners noted that Woodman’s is now open and praised the project. Staff provided informal updates on the former Walmart parcel, where development groups have expressed interest, and on the Coles property, where a potential user is interested but the existing lease continues. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 15, 2026 Plan Commission minutes. - Recommended approval of the Angry Chickz special use to the Village Board, subject to the two stipulations, by a 5–0 roll call vote. - Received the UDO Articles 7 and 8 review without a formal vote; directed staff and consultants to incorporate commissioner feedback and return with comparison tables, further rear-elevation design language, and future sections.

The Plainfield Village Board convened on Monday, October 5, 2026, for a regular business meeting. The major action was the reconsideration and 5-2 approval of the Core 5 / Rot Farm industrial development. The board also honored officers with a life-saving award, proclaimed Constitution Day and Cybersecurity Awareness Month, extended the data center moratorium, and approved its annual winter operations contracts. Awards & Proclamations - Life Saving Award: Chief Miller awarded Sergeant Matt Lehman and Officer Alejandro Lopez a life-saving award for their swift CPR and AED response on July 22, 2026, which successfully resuscitated an unresponsive male. - Constitution Day: Mayor Argadellas proclaimed the 239th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution. DAR members accepted the proclamation. - Cybersecurity Awareness Month: October 2026 was proclaimed Cybersecurity Awareness Month in Plainfield. Consent Calendar The board approved minutes, bills, Resolution 1874 (CDBG amendment), Ordinance 3816 (admin adjudication), a $62,009.81 software maintenance agreement with Central Square, $650 in legal fees, and the release of an $856,421.50 letter of credit for Autumn Glen. Public Comments & Testimony - Doug Zimney stated he is purchasing the 42-acre buffer property and will allow Core 5 to construct a substantial berm and landscaping on it at no cost to the village. - Bill Nolan (former law enforcement) urged the board to reject the project, stating residents are "your greatest asset." - Andrew Olson (Grand Park) criticized the developer's noise study, noting the parking lot is elevated 24 feet above the road base and the top 22 feet of the 48-foot building will be visible. - Kristen Olson (1,434 feet from the site) demanded four legally-binding conditions: solid concrete wing walls, phase-one construction, white noise backup alarms, and a permanent landscape maintenance bond. - Elon Keller said she was excluded from Core 5 outreach meetings held in the private Grand Park clubhouse. - Frank Keller (Keller Farm) warned the project would trigger a "domino effect" of warehouses west of Ridge Road. - Jack Olson (planning graduate) argued the project defied economic logic and that public participation constituted the lowest rung of Sherry Arnstein's ladder: "manipulation" rather than genuine outreach. - Nick (VHV) argued the infrastructure, including grade separation, is not ready. Core 5 / Rot Farm Development The board removed the item from the table following the motion to reconsider. Developer John Leinbaugh presented enhancements, including 16-foot concrete wing walls, a 6-foot berm with double evergreens, and $3 million for Johnson Road. Staff confirmed letters of support from Oswego SD 308 and Plainfield SD. - Trustee Sula cited the rapid pace of industrial development (11.6M of 20M projected SF approved) as her reason for voting "no." - Mayor Argadellas argued the market dictates timing and the village needs the industrial tax base to fund services. Votes (5-2): Approved the annexation agreement (Ord. 3817), annexation (Ord. 3818), rezoning (Ord. 3819), site plan, and preliminary plat. Trustees Sula and Wojowski dissented. Data Center Moratorium The board unanimously extended the data center moratorium an additional 180 days. Public Works - Snow Contractors: Approved eight contractors for the winter season. - Salt Purchase: Authorized a 2,500-ton salt purchase from Midwest Salt ($115.18/ton) and a 1,200-ton emergency backup from Compass Minerals America. - Tree Planting: Approved 151 parkway trees from The Fields on Caton Farm for $50,000. Executive Session & Litigation The board went into closed session to discuss pending litigation. After reconvening, it authorized a settlement agreement with Ione Real Properties. Other Actions & Upcoming Meetings - Reappointed Michael Bordel, Suzanne Derrick, and Candace Schultz to the Historic Preservation Commission. - Approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for window replacements at the Mueravek Orthodontic building on Main Street. - Upcoming: Plan Commission (Oct 6), HPC (Oct 8), COW (Oct 12), Business Meeting (Oct 19).

The Plainfield Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) held a special meeting on September 24, 2026, at 1:00 PM. Commissioners present included Chairman Bordel, Derrick, Failing, Olson, Rapp, Schmidt, and Schulz. The commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a historic Main Street property, discussed a potential Commercial Street landmark, and approved the 2027 meeting schedule. No public comments were made. Chair's Report Chairman Bordel reported that a property owner on Commercial Street has requested a potential local landmark designation for a house built circa 1852–1854 in an early settlement area. Staff will investigate the feasibility of the request. Discussion Items - Certificate of Appropriateness (Case 2127-070426) – 23842 West Main Street: - Purpose: The applicant sought a COA to replace two ground-floor windows and second-floor doors on the south elevation (originally listed as east in staff report, corrected during discussion) of the historic structure. - Materials Review: Staff identified and the commission approved specific compatible products: the Marvin G2 Ultimate Double Hung window (aluminum-clad wood with wood interior) and the ThermaTrue Smooth Star S2000 fiberglass door. A commissioner consulted the State Historic Preservation Office, which preferred aluminum-clad wood but deferred to the local commission. A commissioner noted that a local quote for the specified windows, door, and installation totaled $12,501. - Shutters: The commission specified that shutters must be either repaired existing wood shutters or new wood shutters sized and positioned to match the historic originals. PVC or plastic materials were explicitly prohibited. - Compliance: Concern was raised about whether the building department would verify the specific product requirements. The commission added a condition requiring a pre-construction meeting with the contractor to ensure the selected products meet the COA. - 2027 Meeting Schedule: - Staff recommended removing pre-set Landmark Development Design Committee (LDDC) meetings from the official 2027 schedule, as historically more LDDC meetings are canceled than held. The commission agreed, with the understanding that LDDC meetings can be called as special meetings as needed. The standard HPC meeting dates remained mostly unchanged from 2026. Key Outcomes - Agenda & Minutes Approved: The meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 27, 2026, special meeting were unanimously approved. - Certificate of Appropriateness Approved: The commission voted to recommend approval of the COA for 23842 West Main Street, contingent on a letter of agreement specifying the approved products and requiring a pre-construction meeting. The roll call vote was recorded as 6–0 in favor (Commissioners Failing, Olson, Rapp, Schmidt, Schulz, and Chairman Bordel voting yes; Commissioner Derrick's vote was not read into the transcript). - 2027 Schedule Approved: The 2027 meeting schedule was approved via voice vote, excluding pre-set LDDC dates. - Administrative Approvals: Chairman Bordel noted that two demolition permits unrelated to the main agenda had been approved administratively. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned following the completion of business.

Meeting Overview The Plainfield Village Board convened on September 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM (CDT) to consider a range of agenda items including land development proposals, public works equipment purchases, and a downtown lighting upgrade. The meeting began with a proclamation for National C Tracks Think Train Week, public comments, and then proceeded through consent and regular agenda items. Several items passed with split votes, reflecting differing views among trustees on land use and community engagement practices. Proclamation & Board Comments - Trustee Wojowski read a proclamation declaring September 21–27, 2026 as National C Tracks Think Train Week, emphasizing rail safety. Trustees shared personal remarks on respecting trains and safe practices. - Trustee Panucci reported attending the Plainfield Fire Protection District open house and commended first responders. - Trustee Sula raised a question about shelter-in-place protocols for youth sports teams using school fields when the school is closed. Police Chief responded that the department offers ALICE training to the Park District and other organizations, and suggested developing a specific protocol for parent coaches. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Hanneberry (238 West Ottawa Street) requested an update on revised plans for the Old Town Self Improvements project and asked for advance notice of meetings with published plans. - Greta Keller (Plainfield resident) addressed community engagement challenges, particularly regarding the Core 5 development at Ridge and 143rd. She advocated for more accessible outreach methods (e.g., focus groups, workshops, social media) and noted that many young residents are unaware they can attend board meetings. She expressed concern that the board finds email outreach ineffective, calling for expanded engagement efforts. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda (unanimous). - Approved the Consent Agenda including: - Minutes of August 17 board and executive session, and September 14 special board meeting. - Bills paid/payable reports for September 21. - Cash & investment revenue/expenditure reports for August. - Resolution 1874 (application to Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program). - Intergovernmental agreement with CMAP for corridor plan (not-to-exceed $24,000). - Reapproval of final plat for Fairfield Ridge Towns. - Release of several bonds (Berkshire Hathaway, Fidelity, Cooper’s Hawk, PANDEXPRESS). - Payment for legal services for 143rd Street East extension ($250). (All consent items passed unanimously.) Discussion & Action Items 1. Payment to Echo Williams & Provenzale – Authorized $17,501.21 for services. (Unanimous) 2. Blue Stem Subdivision – Multiple ordinances and a preliminary plat were considered: - Ordinance 3811 – Annexation agreement for 119th St & 248th Ave. (Unanimous) - Ordinance 3812 – Annexation of 40 acres. (Unanimous) - Ordinance 3813 – Special use permit for planned development. (Unanimous) - Preliminary Plat – Approved 5–1 (Trustee Ruin opposed, citing an outlier lot on 248th Ave that he believed did not fit the subdivision and could create future problems). The developer (Pulte) explained the lot was over one acre, intended to attract custom home builders, and was shaped by floodplain boundaries. Trustee Sula commended the inclusion of pedestrian crosswalks. The motion carried with Trustee Ruin dissenting and all others in favor. 3. Helix Engineering Site Plan – Approved site plan for an office/retail complex at 24420 West Lockport Street. (Unanimous) 4. Bruce Gin Variants (15665 South Van Dyke Road) – Ordinance 3814 approving variances to allow accessory structures exceeding 1,000 sq ft and a 5-ft front-yard fence. Debate focused on the dead-end Van Dyke Road and future trail connections. Staff clarified that Van Dyke Road will remain a stub (no extension to Renwick due to bridge design). The variances were requested to accommodate a pool on an irregular lot, and the property owner offered to donate right-of-way for the village’s utilities and path. Vote: 4–2 (Trustees Ruin and Panucci opposed; Trustees Kiefer, Paniker, Sula, Wojowski in favor). 5. Indian Oaks Estates Resubdivision – Approved final plat for Unit 6, Outlot A. (Vote: 5–1, Trustee Ruin opposed.) 6. Historic Preservation Grant – Approved $2,500 grant for 23822 West Lockport Street. (Unanimous) 7. Public Works Items - Brine Equipment Purchase – Authorized $36,760.72 for a Camion brine tank applicator and 5,000-gallon storage tank. (Unanimous) - Backhoe Purchase – Authorized $187,750 for a Case 590 Super End Loader/backhoe to replace a 25-year-old unit. (Unanimous) - 135th & Ridge Road Traffic Signal – Approved contract with Van Mac Electric for $707,408.45 plus $35,000 contingency (total not to exceed $742,408.45), and construction engineering services with Christopher B. Burke Engineering for $89,910. Both passed unanimously. - Downtown Decorative Lighting Upgrade – Approved contract with Utility Dynamics for $237,800 plus 5% contingency ($249,800 total). Trustee Sula moved to table the item for two weeks to allow input from downtown businesses and to address her lighting engineering questions, but the motion lacked a second. After debate, the item passed 5–1 (Trustee Sula opposed). Staff noted the fixtures are 3,000K (same as Old Town area) and meet IES standards with slight over-illumination for pedestrian safety. - Safe Routes to School – Phase 2 Engineering – Approved $147,071 work order with Baxter & Woodman for sidewalk design near Central Elementary and St. Mary Immaculate Parish. (Unanimous) - Video Pipeline Inspection Camera – Authorized $104,113.65 for a MiniCam Protus Light system to inspect sewers in-house. (Unanimous) 8. Police Chief’s Report - Surplus Property Disposal – Approved Ordinance 3815 declaring four vehicles surplus: two donated to fire department for training, two auctioned. (Unanimous) - West Law Subscription – Authorized a 36-month subscription with Thomson Reuters for online legal research at $27,545.28 total (annual payments). (Unanimous; trustee Sula asked about AI component, not known.) 9. Reports and Reminders – Administrator, management, engineer, planning, building, and public works reports were acknowledged. Trusteee Panucci commended police department training. Upcoming meetings: Committee of the Whole Sept 28, Coffee with the Mayor Sept 30, Village Board Oct 5. Executive Session - Motion to adjourn to executive session to discuss pending litigation passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All consent items passed unanimously. - Blue Stem preliminary plat approved 5–1 (Ruin opposed). - Bruce Gin variances approved 4–2 (Ruin, Panucci opposed). - Indian Oaks resubdivision approved 5–1 (Ruin opposed). - Downtown lighting upgrade approved 5–1 (Sula opposed). - All other motions passed unanimously. - Two motions to table (lighting and public input) failed for lack of a second or insufficient support. - Next steps: Staff to proceed with awarded contracts and design work.