Public Meetings - Plainfield, Illinois

The Plainfield Village Board Committee of the Whole met Monday, March 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Village Hall Boardroom, 24401 W. Lockport Street. The workshop included public comments, a presentation on proposed Downtown Design Guidelines, and a review of the FY 2026-2027 draft budget and financial policies. No formal votes were taken on workshop items; the board approved minutes and later moved to executive session. Consent Calendar - The board unanimously approved the minutes of the Committee of the Whole Workshop of February 23, 2026, by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Justin Myers (M-Y-E-R-S), owner of the Plainfield Inn, asked the board to freeze the Village's 5% hotel tax for the Plainfield Inn until a decision is made on short-term rentals such as Airbnbs and VRBOs. He said competition should exist but on the same playing field, noting that Airbnb/VRBO operators do not pay the local 5% hotel tax and are not held to the same safety and tax standards. He expressed support for fair business competition, not for reducing taxes without addressing the unbalanced market. - Village Administrator Josh Blakemore explained that the Village's zoning ordinance is mostly silent on short-term rentals, that the Village has taken the position that they are not permitted, and that the Village has returned hotel tax checks from short-term rental operators. He said the UDO (Uniform Development Ordinance) will address the issue, but enforcement is difficult without an outright prohibition. - Several trustees expressed support for formally bringing the Airbnb/VRBO and hotel tax issue before the board. The mayor said the board would ensure Mr. Myers is notified when it is scheduled. - Michael Bordel, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), said the draft Downtown Design Guidelines are important and a good beginning but not inclusive enough; he noted the HPC has had no substantive input beyond a Zoom meeting and requested a Zoom meeting with the consultants before adoption. Discussion Items Downtown Design Guidelines - Staff and JLK Architects consultant Jennifer Foyt presented the proposed Downtown Design Guidelines for future development/redevelopment in a broader downtown area bounded by the DuPage River, Illinois Route 59, and Chicago Street. The guidelines cover general downtown-wide principles and three zones: the Lockport Street Corridor; Main and Des Plaines street corridors; and the Illinois/Oak Street area. The document includes zone-specific guidance on scale, materials, entrances, windows, awnings, lighting, signage, public art, case studies, terminology, and a visual reference guide. - Board members generally praised the document and said it will be useful for developers and decision-makers. Several trustees requested involvement of the Historic Preservation Commission and said the boundary may need to expand south of Chicago Street to cover potential historic district growth and residential areas. Some trustees cautioned that guidelines need to be clear enough to be enforced and not misused, while still allowing good design. - The police chief commented that alcove entrances have not been a public safety problem in Plainfield and that good entrance lighting should be included. - Trustees discussed public art review, referencing a mural on a downtown building; some trustees supported requiring board review of future murals/art, while one trustee criticized the mural as advertising an outside business. Staff noted that public art raises First Amendment considerations and that existing site plan review/sign ordinance may provide review authority. - Local architect/preservation professional Mr. Lambert corrected the record, noting the Village Board adopted design guidelines in 2002. He said JLK's draft is a good start but not yet sufficient: some concepts are vague and could be loosely interpreted, graphics/overlays need work, and the guidelines should permit thoughtful contemporary buildings while preventing inappropriate development. He offered to participate in discussions. 2026-2027 Draft Fiscal Year Budget and Financial Policies - Village Administrator Josh Blakemore and staff presented the FY 2026-2027 draft budget. The total all-funds budget is about $118 million, including approximately $44 million in the General Fund, $28 million in the Capital Fund, and $36 million in water/sewer totals. The General Fund budget is balanced. The budget proposes six new full-time positions. - Staff highlighted three updates to earlier drafts: (1) a transfer from the corporate/general fund to the capital fund, (2) a $10,000 increase in the water/sewer fund related to a potential IEPA lead-testing mandate, and (3) a new vehicle in the capital fund for a facility maintenance position. - The General Fund revenue summary for the $44.3 million budget shows sales and use tax at almost 30% and property tax at 22%; staff emphasized revenue diversification, a solid fund balance policy, and continued monitoring of state/federal fiscal impacts. - A trustee requested future property tax reporting to break out commercial and industrial property tax shares versus residential, noting the 22% figure can be mistaken as entirely residential. Staff said that information exists in budget documents and could be expanded historically. - Water/sewer fund includes about $14 million-$15 million in capital projects; the capital fund is supported primarily by home rule sales tax and utility tax. - The Village's Financial Policies were reviewed; they were originally formalized in 2010 and staff recommended no modifications this year. Staff answered questions about debt: the Village has IEPA loans, one debt service coming off the books next fiscal year, and credit ratings of Aa1 (Moody's) and AA+ (S&P). Key Outcomes - Minutes of the February 23, 2026 Committee of the Whole Workshop were approved unanimously. - The board agreed to bring the Airbnb/VRBO short-term rental and hotel tax matter before the board in the near future; the Village Administrator was asked to coordinate next steps and notify Mr. Myers. - No formal action was taken on the Downtown Design Guidelines. Next steps include additional consultation with the Historic Preservation Commission and potentially Mr. Lambert before the board considers formal adoption. - The FY 2026-2027 budget and Financial Policies will be considered at the April 6, 2026 Village Board meeting; the public hearing has been scheduled and published for that date. - The board unanimously approved a motion to adjourn to Executive Session under Open Meetings Act Section 2(c)(1) regarding appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of employees or legal counsel, with no intention to reconvene.

The Plainfield Plan Commission met on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Village Boardroom. The meeting was originally scheduled for Tuesday but moved due to the primary election. Commissioners considered two major development cases: the Core5 Industrial project at the northwest corner of Johnson Road and Ridge Road (continued from March 3), and the Wheeler/Panattoni Industrial project at the northwest corner of Illinois Route 126 and Steiner Road. Both cases received unanimous favorable recommendations for annexation, rezoning, site plan review, and preliminary plat approval. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the March 3, 2026 Plan Commission meeting by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Pam George (Cherry Road, 30 years) expressed concern about the public hearing notification signs: they remained parallel to the road and still showed the March 3 date, and many had fallen due to wind. Staff noted signs were posted as required and would consider updating for continuations. - Peepas Terras (1998 Johnson Road, 65 years resident) expressed concerns about: - Traffic congestion on 143rd Street, noting that multiple warehouses are being built without adequate road capacity. - A statement he recalled from the mayor a year ago that industrial development west of Ridge Road would not occur 'in the near future,' which he feels has been contradicted. - Road maintenance on Johnson Road (potholes, crumbling edges) even with minimal truck traffic. - Biff George (1378 Cherry Road, 30 years) questioned: - The cumulative impact of truck traffic from multiple unbuilt warehouses. - The need for a grade separation (overpass) over the railroad tracks on 143rd Street. - Staff's finding that the development would not alter the neighborhood's character, which he called 'false.' - Eric Bernanke asked about pedestrian/multi-use path connectivity along 143rd Street east of Ridge Road. Staff confirmed funds are being collected from developments but the exact route is still undetermined. He also highlighted that Johnson Road (only 20 feet wide) is already crumbling from truck traffic and urged coordination between village, county, and township. - Nick Baych noted that the proposed commercial lots along Ridge Road are about four times the size of the 'local business' designation in the comprehensive plan's future land use map, which he said runs contrary to the plan. Development Report - Staff reported that the Village Board recently approved the annexation and zoning for the Dunkin' Donuts anchored development at the northeast corner of U.S. Route 30 and 135th Street. Discussion Items Old Business: Case 2120-121925 – Core5 Industrial (Johnson Rd. & Ridge Rd.) - The applicant, Liam Logan (Core5), presented a 1.2 million-square-foot industrial building on approximately 170 acres, plus four commercial outlots along Ridge Road. The industrial building would have 19.5% site coverage (low for the area). A 93-foot landscape buffer is proposed on the north side, exceeding the 60-foot code requirement. Existing tree lines on the west will be preserved and supplemented. - Traffic study by Emma Alvers (Kimley-Horn) included 10 background developments and projected that the site's trips can be accommodated with planned improvements. Turn lanes on Johnson Road are proposed, though not warranted by volume. - Staff (Jonathan Probe) supported all four requests, noting consistency with the trend of industrial development in the area (Midwest Warehouse, DHL, BP Trail, Trammel Crow, DSV). - Commissioner questions addressed: - Johnson Road improvements (to be determined in annexation agreement, likely matching the three-lane cross-section of 143rd Street east of Ridge). - Truck circulation: all truck traffic enters via the easternmost access point, circulates counterclockwise, and exits the western access point; cars use the middle access to avoid mixing. - Future parking: only the truck courts will be built initially; the western trailer parking is shown as 'future' and will be screened. - Building architecture: commissioners requested a staggered roofline and enhanced landscaping to break up the 2,000-foot-long facade. - Public hearing closed; all five subsequent motions passed unanimously. New Business: Case 2122-011426 – Wheeler/Panattoni (Rt. 126 & Steiner Rd.) - John Pagliari (Panattoni) presented a 1.2 million-square-foot industrial building on 75 acres. The design separates trucks (west side, entering from Rt. 126) from cars (east side, entering from Steiner Road). Over 500 feet of buffer exists between the building and residential properties across Steiner Road. A queue area prevents trucks from backing onto Rt. 126. - Staff supported the requests, noting the site is a logical extension of village boundaries (adjacent to Trammel Crow development to the north and existing village territory). - Commissioner comments focused on: - Aligning the eastern access point on Rt. 126 with the existing gas station's access (offset currently) to allow future full access if the road becomes village-controlled. - Enhancing the landscape buffer along Rt. 126, especially to screen loading docks, with undulating berms and varied plantings. - Improving building architecture with varying parapet heights and more glass on the south and east elevations. - Potential coordination with Trammel Crow for shared access on the west side. - Public hearing opened and closed with no public comments. - All four motions passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Core5 Industrial (Johnson/Ridge): - Public hearing closed (unanimous). - Recommended annexation as logical extension (5-0). - Recommended rezoning: Lot 1 to I-1 (Industrial), Lots 2-5 to B-3 (Highway Business) (5-0). - Recommended site plan review for Lot 1, subject to staff stipulations (5-0). - Recommended preliminary plat of Core5 Industrial Subdivision, subject to staff stipulations (5-0). - Wheeler/Panattoni (Rt. 126 & Steiner): - Public hearing opened, no comments, then closed (unanimous). - Recommended annexation as logical extension (5-0). - Recommended rezoning from default R-1 to I-1 (5-0). - Recommended site plan review, subject to staff stipulations (5-0). - Recommended preliminary plat of Wheeler Farm Subdivision, subject to staff stipulations (5-0). - Next meetings: April 7, 2026 (Plan Commission) at 7:00 PM; also Committee of the Whole Workshop on March 23, 2026 at 7:00 PM; Village Board Meeting on April 6, 2026 at 7:00 PM.

This was the regular meeting of the President and Board of Trustees of Plainfield, Illinois, held on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Village Boardroom. The meeting opened with comments on the successful St. Patrick's Day weekend events, including a parade, a one-mile run, and a pancake breakfast that raised over $1,000 for public arts. Several Village employees and community members were recognized for service milestones and contributions. The Board then conducted the business meeting, approving the consent agenda, several payment authorizations, and four public works items. Discussions included a contested legal fee payment, a telecommunications franchise agreement with a focus on underground vs. aerial fiber, an updated water model, and a traffic signal design for 143rd Street and Steiner Road. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda. - Approved minutes of the March 2, 2026 Board meeting. - Approved Bills Paid and Bills Payable reports for March 16, 2026. - Approved Cash & Investment, Revenue, and Expenditure reports for February 2026. - Approved Ordinance No. 3785, amending regulations for Administrative Citations. - Approved Ordinance No. 3786, amending regulations for Administrative Adjudication. - Approved Ordinance No. 3787, amending regulations for Parking, Standing, and Stopping. - Approved the 2026 Zoning Map. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the Public Comments period. Discussion Items - Tracy, Johnson & Wilson Payment ($561.00): Authorized without discussion. - Ekl Williams & Provenzale Payment ($3,506.25): Trustee Paniker questioned why the Village continues spending taxpayer money on this case and suggested settlement. The Mayor responded that the matter may be discussed in executive session. The motion to authorize payment passed 6-0. - Ripple Fiber Telecommunications Franchise Agreement: The Board discussed whether fiber should be installed underground or aerially. Trustee Ruwain advocated for underground installation to avoid unsightly overhead wires and protect trees. A Ripple Fiber representative said underground is possible but more expensive; the agreement already allows aerial attachment only where existing infrastructure exists. The Board generally supported underground installation where feasible, and the ordinance was approved 6-0. - 2026 Water Model Update ($98,200.00): Work Order 25-009 with Baxter & Woodman for updating the water model to simulate system hydraulics, support future growth, and substantiate Lake Michigan water allocation applications. Approved 6-0. - 143rd Street & Steiner Road Traffic Signal Design ($88,554.50): Work Order 26-005 for design of a traffic signal (recommended over a roundabout). The Board discussed pedestrian crossings: the design will include signal placement for potential future crossings on all four legs, but only two crosswalks will be installed initially to avoid costly rework. Trustee Ruwain raised safety concerns for pedestrians at signals vs. roundabouts. The work order was approved 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda and all payment authorizations approved unanimously (6-0). - Elevator upgrade at Village Hall awarded to Otis Elevator Company for $34,000. Approved 6-0. - Ripple Fiber Illinois LLC granted a telecommunications franchise agreement (Ordinance 3788) with an expectation that fiber installation will prioritize underground placement where feasible. Approved 6-0. - Baxter & Woodman work order for 2026 Water Model (not to exceed $98,200) approved 6-0. - Baxter & Woodman work order for 143rd/Steiner Road traffic signal design (not to exceed $88,554.50) approved 6-0. - Next meetings: Plan Commission on March 18, 2026 (Wednesday); Committee of the Whole Workshop on March 23, 2026; Next Village Board Meeting on April 6, 2026.

The Plan Commission held a brief meeting on March 3, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Village Boardroom. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, one public comment, and a motion to continue a public hearing for a proposed annexation and rezoning case to a later date. The meeting adjourned at 7:05 PM. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the February 3, 2026 Plan Commission meeting were approved by voice vote with no opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - Diane Gary addressed the Commission regarding the case at the northwest corner of Johnson Road and Ridge Road. She indicated she came to speak on that case. The Chair informed her that the applicant had requested a continuance to the March 18, 2026 meeting. Ms. Gary asked if she could still comment that evening because she would be unavailable on March 18. The Chair directed her to submit comments via email to Jonathan so they could be included in the record. Discussion Items - Northwest Corner of Johnson Rd. & Ridge Rd. (Case 2114-091825.AA.REZ.SU.VAR.SPR.PP / 2120-121925.AA.REZ.SPR.PP): The Commission discussed a request to open and continue the public hearing for the proposed annexation and rezoning to the Wednesday, March 18, 2026 Plan Commission meeting. This case number appeared with a discrepancy: the agenda listed case 2114-091825.AA.REZ.SU.VAR.SPR.PP, while the motion made during the meeting referenced case 2120-121925.AA.REZ.SPR.PP. Key Outcomes - Motion to Continue Public Hearing: Commissioner Nicholson moved to open and continue the public hearing for the proposed annexation and rezoning (Case 2120-121925.AA.REZ.SPR.PP) to the March 18, 2026 Plan Commission meeting. Commissioner Campanella seconded. Commissioner Hynan stated he would abstain. The motion carried by voice vote with all other commissioners voting aye. The continuance sets the public hearing for the rescheduled Wednesday, March 18 meeting at 7:00 PM. Reminders - The Chair noted upcoming meetings: March 9 – Committee of the Whole; March 12 – Historic Preservation Commission; March 16 – Village Board; March 18 – Plan Commission (Wednesday).

The Village Board of Plainfield met on March 2, 2026 at 7:00 PM. The meeting covered approval of a new Dunkin Donuts development, relocation of Plainfield Fest to Bot Park with a waiver of village fees, approval of the summer farmers market, and several public works and police department contracts. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the Board Meeting held on February 2, 2026, approved. - Bills Paid and Bills Payable Reports for March 2, 2026, approved. - Cash & Investment, Revenue, and Expenditure Reports for January 2026, approved. - Reapproval of Hawk Auto Final Plat of Subdivision, subject to staff stipulations. - Reapproval of Final Plat of Resubdivision for Fairfield Townes. - Payment to Will County Governmental League of $25,077.45 for annual membership dues. - Legal fees for 143rd Street East Extension (October/November 2025) totaling $6,850.00. - Release of Argonaut Insurance Company Subdivision Bond No. SBP151086-001 in the amount of $25,000.00 for Chatham Square – Phase 6. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board. Discussion Items - Dunkin Development (NE corner 135th St & US Route 30): The board considered a package of six ordinances to annex approximately 5 acres, rezone from R-1 to B-3 Highway Business District, grant a variance for lot size and a special use permit for a drive-through, approve the site plan, and approve a preliminary plat. Staff and the Plan Commission recommended approval. Trustees questioned pedestrian connectivity (sidewalk stipulation in annexation agreement) and lighting (dark-sky compliant fixtures with 3000K temperature). The parking space at the west end was noted as removed. All six motions passed unanimously. - 2026 Plainfield Fest: The festival will move to Bot Community Park from July 17-19, 2026. The Riverfront Foundation, organizer, requested a waiver of the 50% cost reimbursement required under the village's special event ordinance. Historical reimbursement was 25% of net profits (capped at $17,500) and did not include fire department costs. Estimated village costs for 2026 are approximately $50,000, down from $60,000 in 2025 due to single-site operations and no road closures. Trustee Banucci, President of the Riverfront Foundation, noted that all festival profits (historically $80,000-$130,000 annually) are reinvested in village riverfront projects (e.g., $140,000 lighting project completed). The board discussed that the fire protection district was not previously reimbursed and that waiving fees this first year at the new location is appropriate. A request for an after-action financial report next year was made. Motion to approve with fee waiver passed unanimously. - Summer Farmers Market: Request to use the combined Village/Library parking lot at 15025 S. Illinois Street on Sundays from June 7 to September 13, 2026, 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The Planning Department noted a request from the adjacent Parsonage event center to keep the southernmost parking bay open for public parking. Trustee Sula expressed concern about reducing the market's footprint, as all three bays were used last year. Staff will coordinate with the organizer, Susie Bastanchi, to find common ground. Motion to approve the temporary outdoor use passed unanimously. - Public Works Items: - Awarded 2026 Landscape Maintenance Contract to Ramiro Guzman Landscaping, Inc. for $114,457 (lowest qualified bidder). Two bids were disqualified for lack of signature or pesticide applicator license. Discussion included tree mortality along Route 59 medians; contractor warranty covers replacements. - Approved replacement of Boiler 2 at Village Hall by Helm Service for $92,350 plus 10% contingency ($9,300), total not to exceed $101,650. - Authorized agreement with GFT for the 143rd Street Grade Separation Feasibility Study for an amount not to exceed $510,207. The study will take approximately 8 months and evaluate options for an overpass or underpass. Trustees noted the crossing is heavily traveled and near Fire Station 1. The project could cost $70-100 million for construction; the village aims to leverage grant funding and IDOT involvement. - Police Department Items: - Authorized purchase of three 2026 hybrid Ford Explorer Police Interceptor Utility vehicles from Ron Tirapelli Ford for $138,903 and graphics from Harmonic Design for $1,780, total not to exceed $140,683. Two vehicles will be fully marked, one unmarked for traffic unit. Equipment purchase will be brought separately when vehicles are closer to delivery. Discussion included the $70 per vehicle price difference with local dealer Rod Baker Ford; low bid was selected per policy. - January 2026 Police Operations Report was accepted. - Administrator's Report: Provided updates on state legislative proposals affecting municipalities, including erosion of local zoning control (governor's housing plan), reduction in LGDF funding, potential Tier 2 pension changes, and possible state efforts to recoup federal Medicaid cuts. Trustees expressed concern over state interference and urged communication with legislators. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items (a–h) approved unanimously. - Dunkin Development: Six ordinances approved unanimously (Ordinances 3781–3784, plus site plan and preliminary plat). - 2026 Plainfield Fest: Approved with fee waiver, July 17-19 at Bot Community Park (unanimous). - Summer Farmers Market: Approved for Sundays June 7–September 13, 2026, with staff to coordinate parking footprint (unanimous). - 2026 Landscape Maintenance Contract awarded to Ramiro Guzman Landscaping, Inc. for $114,457 (unanimous). - Boiler 2 Replacement approved for $101,650 (unanimous). - 143rd Street Grade Separation Feasibility Study agreement with GFT approved for $510,207 (unanimous). - Purchase of three police vehicles and graphics approved for $140,683 (unanimous). - Next meetings: Plan Commission March 3, Committee of the Whole March 9, Next Village Board March 16.

The Committee of the Whole Workshop of the Plainfield Village Board met on February 23, 2026, to discuss two funding requests (Heritage Corridor Destinations and the Plainfield Historical Society) and the draft 2026-2027 fiscal year budget. The meeting included staff presentations on capital projects, water and sewer operations, and budget summaries. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of the Committee of the Whole Workshop held on February 9, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the board. Discussion Items Heritage Corridor Destinations Funding Request - Bob Navarro, President of Heritage Corridor Destinations, presented a funding request of $18,000 annually for a basic partnership level (for communities without hotel properties). He reported that tourism in the Heritage Corridor generates over $1.3 billion in visitor spending, supports 10,800 jobs, and produces $381 million in payroll. Data from Zartico showed that 80% of Plainfield's visitors come from out of state, primarily for outdoor recreation, and 72% of visitor spending is on food and beverage. Trustees discussed the difference between the bureau's role (attracting outside visitors) and the Chamber of Commerce's role, and noted that Plainfield currently has no dedicated tourism marketing budget. The board took no formal action but expressed interest in gathering more information. Plainfield Historical Society Funding Request - John Dixon, Vice President of the Plainfield Historical Society, requested up to $300,000 in one-time assistance for underground utility connections, parking lot, and parkway improvements at their future museum property (15204 S. Illinois Route 59). The society has secured approximately $100,000–$115,000 in grants for the project. The total construction estimate is expected to be under $300,000, making the net request from the village potentially $135,000–$200,000. Discussion included the society's history of self-funding, the lack of a village subsidy for the past 49 years, and concerns about setting a precedent for other nonprofits. Trustees expressed general support for the mission but wanted to see actual bids before committing. The item will be revisited after bids are received (expected in 2–3 weeks) and after consulting with absent trustees. 2026-2027 Draft Fiscal Year Budget - Staff presented the proposed budgets for Capital Improvement, Motor Fuel Tax (MFT), TIF, Bond Fund, and Water/Sewer Funds. Key capital projects include: the 143rd Street East extension (on schedule for July 2026 completion, includes new traffic signals and tree planting), resurfacing of nearly 12.5 miles of roads, Old Town South improvements, new traffic signals (Boulevard Place/Costco, 143rd/Steiner, 135th/Ridge), Renwick Road reconstruction, replacement of the Mill Street water tower with a 1-million-gallon tank at Naperville Road and 143rd (construction in 2027), well house construction, and a salt storage building. The capital fund shows a $4.9 million deficit, partially offset by a $3 million transfer from the general fund. The water and sewer fund also projects a deficit, with revenues adjusted for a recent water rate increase. Staff reported that the village has secured nearly $100 million in grants since 2016. Discussion covered staffing additions (development engineer, assistant public works director, sewer operator, utility billing representative), the need for contract locating services, and potential regulatory changes (PFAS, phosphorus limits). The budget will be further refined and brought back for final approval in late March. Key Outcomes - No decisions were made on the Heritage Corridor or Historical Society funding requests; both will be discussed further after additional information is available (bids for the Historical Society project, and potential inclusion in the FY27 budget). - The draft fiscal year 2026-2027 budget will be revised based on board feedback and presented for final review at the next Committee of the Whole workshop on March 9, 2026. - The board expressed appreciation for staff's detailed presentations and expertise.

The Village of Plainfield Committee of the Whole Workshop convened on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Boardroom. The meeting focused on the draft Fiscal Year 2026-2027 budget for the Streets Department and General Fund Revenues. Trustees also handled routine appointments and heard a comment from a trustee regarding a peaceful student protest. Consent Calendar - Appointment of Chair: Trustee Wojowski was appointed as this evening’s Chair by unanimous vote. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 26, 2026, Committee of the Whole Workshop were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public offered comments. Discussion Items - Streets Department Budget Presentation: Superintendent Tony Torres delivered an in-depth overview of the Streets Division, covering its three sections (streets, forestry/grounds, and fleet). Key statistics included: 450+ miles of roadways, 330 miles of sidewalk, 7,000 regulatory signs, 50 traffic signals, over 25,000 parkway trees, and 4,000+ streetlights. The division has 16 CDL drivers, 1,300 completed work orders year-to-date, and has deployed for 11 snow events totaling 19 deployments, using over 2,200 tons of salt and 2,500 operational hours. Challenges highlighted: aging fleet (15 units over 20 years old, 77 units between 10-15 years), aging workforce, and inadequate salt storage (three open bins). A proposed solution is a 7,000-ton salt storage barn with a lean-to for brine operations, estimated at over $2 million. A $300,000 grant from Senator Durbin’s office has been awarded but requires an application process. The barn would allow bulk salt purchasing and support anti-icing operations. The division also discussed training programs (CDL in-house, Arborist certifications, stormwater inspectors) and a five-year equipment replacement plan. - Budget Details: Finance staff presented the proposed FY27 Streets budget, a 9% increase over the adopted FY26 budget. The increase includes 2.5 new positions: two maintenance workers (one streets, one combined streets/forestry) and a development engineer funded 50% from streets and 50% from water/sewer. Year-to-date expenditures are at 66% of the current budget. Salary adjustments reflect a realignment of coding between streets and forestry. Contractual services for snow removal are proposed at $575,000, unchanged from the current year. A new line item for an OSHA hearing conservation program was added. Health insurance renewal rates are not yet finalized (preliminary 19-21% increases for PPO/HMO). - General Fund Revenues: Revenue projections show sales tax as the top source (nearly 30% of the budget), property tax (22%), and income tax (increasing). Year-to-date general fund revenues are at 93% of the budget through approximately 75% of the fiscal year, driven by property tax (100% collected) and building permit fees (139% of budget due to high activity). The proposed FY27 General Fund budget is 11% higher than adopted, consistent with estimated current year figures. Use tax is declining due to changes in internet sales tax reporting; some of that revenue is expected to shift to sales tax. Cannabis dispensary sales tax revenues are recorded in the capital fund. Refuse fees (charges for services) grow with household accounts (now 15,000-16,000). Franchise fees from cable/telecom continue a long-term decline. Building permits are conservatively budgeted at $2.5 million after two years above $2 million. - Trustee Comments: A trustee thanked Plainfield police officers for ensuring a peaceful protest by high school students on the prior Friday. Multiple trustees expressed strong appreciation for the Streets Department’s work in snow removal, beautification, and overall village maintenance, noting its positive impact on public safety and quality of life. Key Outcomes - The Board received the presentations and took no formal action; the budget process continues with future meetings. - Upcoming Schedule: - February 23, 2026, 7:00 PM: Next Committee of the Whole Workshop (capital and water/sewer budgets). - March 2, 2026, 7:00 PM: Village Board meeting. - March 9, 2026: Potential additional budget review (if needed). - April 6, 2026: Public hearing and possible adoption of the FY27 budget. - The salt storage barn project will be included in the capital budget, to be presented on February 23. - Staff will continue to monitor health insurance renewal rates and provide updates.

The Plan Commission met on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 7:02 PM in the Village Boardroom to hold a workshop on the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Recommendations Report presented by consultants Tesca Associates and Sightline. Commissioners also approved the minutes from the December 16, 2025, joint meeting with the Zoning Board of Appeals. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes of the Joint Zoning Board of Appeals and Plan Commission meeting of December 16, 2025, were approved by voice vote (all ayes) after a correction: Commissioner Capanella was incorrectly listed as absent on page 2 but noted as present on page 3 (he arrived 14 minutes late). Chairman Minnes noted the passing of co-host Ken Deluk after that meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present, and no public comments were offered. Discussion Items - Unified Development Ordinance Recommendations Report: Mike Hoffman (Tesca Associates) and Jake (Sightline) led a presentation outlining proposed changes to the UDO. Key discussion topics included: - Reorganization: The proposed structure consolidates administrative procedures (Articles 1–5), subdivisions (Article 6), zoning districts (Articles 7–8), and development standards (Articles 9–11) with a new glossary (Article 12). - Combining Plan Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals: Commissioners expressed general support for merging the two bodies into a single “Planning and Zoning Commission” to streamline meetings and eliminate procedural overlaps. Questions about the name and public recognition were raised, but the consensus was favorable. - Zoning Administrator Role: The consultant recommended clearly outlining the zoning administrator as a single staff point person, consolidating previous titles (e.g., village planner, community development director). No reduction in staff is intended. - Administrative Adjustments: Expanding staff-level approval for minor variations (e.g., 10% of bulk standards) to reduce the number of applications requiring Plan Commission review, while maintaining appeal rights. - Plan Unit Development (PUD) Process: Modernization includes removing mandatory PUD triggers by project type/size, revising the review steps (concept, preliminary, final plan), and ensuring the village obtains desired public amenities earlier in the process. Concerns were raised about late disclosure of costly off-site improvements; staff noted that such improvements are often addressed in annexation agreements rather than PUD negotiations. - Zoning Districts: Proposes four residential districts (R1–R4), three commercial districts (C1–C3), two industrial districts (I1–I2), and a new Open Space (OS) district to replace the existing A1 Agricultural district (since no active farming remains). The Traditional Neighborhood (TN) and other unused districts would be eliminated. Commissioners discussed lot sizes (current average 8,000–9,000 sq ft) and the desire to allow smaller lots by-right to reduce reliance on PUDs. Concerns were raised about preserving opportunities for higher-end custom homes versus production homes; staff suggested using concept plan guidance and possibly PUD conditions to achieve diversification. - Uses: Use categories to be consolidated into broader baskets (e.g., personal services), with separate regulation for cannabis and adult uses. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and sustainability features (e.g., solar panels, rain cisterns) would be explicitly permitted. - Parking: Recommendations include reducing minimum parking requirements, considering maximums (especially for big-box retail like Kohl’s), and possibly removing off-street parking requirements for downtown. Commissioners cautioned against removing requirements that could create future parking crunches for high-demand uses. - Landscaping and Signs: Emphasis on native species, stormwater management, tree diversity, updated buffer yard standards, and exterior lighting controls to reduce light pollution. Sign regulations will be reorganized for content neutrality and include a master sign process for large commercial developments. - Community Outreach: A resident survey will be launched for about one month, supplemented by pop-up events and website materials. The Recommendations Memo will be made public after incorporating feedback from this meeting. Key Outcomes - Unified Development Ordinance Recommendations Memo: Commissioners offered feedback as noted above; additional written comments may be sent to staff. The memo will be finalized and published in February 2026. - Next Steps: The consulting team will proceed with drafting the UDO in phases, returning to the Plan Commission in approximately three months with specific sections. Community outreach (survey and pop-ups) will begin immediately. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 8:25 PM. The next Plan Commission meeting is scheduled for February 17, 2026.

The Board of Trustees met on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 7:00 PM in the Boardroom at 24401 W. Lockport Street. The meeting included approvals of routine items, a public hearing for a Dunkin' Donuts development, authorization for events and expenditures, and reports from village departments. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the January 5, 2026 board meeting. - Approved the Bills Paid and Bills Payable Reports for February 2, 2026. - Approved the Cash & Investment, Revenue, and Expenditure Reports for December 2025. - Adopted Resolution No. 1866 abating the 2025 Tax Levy for the General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2014. - Authorized the Village Administrator to execute the annual software renewal agreement with OpenGov in the amount of $51,975. - Adopted Resolution No. 1867 authorizing the Village President to execute the Mutual Aid Intergovernmental Agreement with the Illinois Emergency Services Management Association. - Authorized the Village President to execute a license agreement with the Plainfield Riverfront Foundation for storage at the Plainfield Emergency Management Facility. Public Comments & Testimony - Natalie Garling, Vice President of Plainfield Marching Arts Boosters, introduced the organization and invited the board and community to a Community Day event on Sunday, February 15, 2026 at 3:00 PM at Plainfield Central High School. She noted the organization is self-funded and expressed hope for future village support. The board welcomed the presentation and several trustees expressed appreciation. Discussion Items - Tracy, Johnson & Wilson Payment: Authorized payment of $654.75 for legal services. (Unanimous vote) - Ekl Williams & Provenzale, LLC Payment: Authorized payment of $3,033.45 for legal services. (Unanimous vote) - Dunkin' Donuts Development (Case No. 2114-091825.AA.REZ.SU.VAR.SPR.PP): - Staff reported on a proposed new Dunkin' Donuts at the northwest corner of 135th Street and US Route 30, across from Walker Grove Middle School. The site requires annexation, rezoning to B3 Highway Business, a variance for minimum lot size (requested 37,000 sq. ft. vs. required 43,560 sq. ft.), a special use permit for a drive-thru, and site plan approval. Access includes a right-in/right-out on US 30 (approved by IDOT) and a full access on 135th Street with a left turn lane. - Trustees expressed concerns about pedestrian safety, especially for students crossing from the school. Staff confirmed that crosswalks and sidewalks will be required as part of the annexation agreement, and that outlot maintenance responsibilities would be assigned to lot owners to prevent future pothole issues. - The Plan Commission held a public hearing on December 16, 2025, with no public testimony, and recommended approval. - The board opened and closed a public hearing with no additional public comments. - Vote: Unanimously adopted the Plan Commission's findings of fact and directed the Village Attorney to prepare ordinances for annexation, rezoning, special use permit, and variance. - 2026 Cruise Nights: Approved the event series (every Tuesday from June 2 to August 18, 2026, 5:30–8:30 PM) with road closures and waiver of standard fees, based on the event's long-standing history and community value. The event's organizer, the Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce, requested the fee waiver. (Unanimous vote) - 2026 Healthy Driven Harvest Kidz Run, 5K, 10K: Approved to be held Sunday, September 27, 2026 at 8:30 AM, with road closures and waiver of standard fees, in lieu of a $2,500 donation to PIMA (Plainfield Intergovernmental Mutual Aid). (Unanimous vote) - 2026 Spooktacular: Approved to be held Saturday, October 24, 2026 (corrected date from agenda's October 23), 11:00 AM–1:00 PM, with road closures and waiver of standard fees. (Unanimous vote) - 2026 Plainfield Homecoming Parade: Approved for Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 9:00 AM, with road closures. This event is exempt from the special event ordinance. (Unanimous vote) - 2026 Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony: Approved for Monday, May 25, 2026 at 10:45 AM, with road closures. Exempt from the special event ordinance. (Unanimous vote) - Public Works Reports: - Authorized the Village President to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with Wheatland Township Road District for cost sharing on the 2026 Non-MFT Street Improvement Program (resurfacing 127th Street east of 59). (Unanimous) - Authorized the Village President to sign a 10-year Intergovernmental Agreement with Na-Au-Say Township Road District for exchange of personnel, equipment, and materials. (Unanimous) - Authorized Amendment No. 1 with Strand Associates, Inc. for construction engineering services for the West Electric Park OSLAD Improvements, increasing the total to $68,100 (not to exceed). The contractor remobilized and project substantial completion expected by April 30, 2026. (Unanimous) - Police Department Reports: - Authorized purchase of two Ford Interceptor SUVs from Currie Motors ($90,684) and police graphics from Harmonic Design ($890), total not to exceed $91,574, for replacement of two patrol vehicles totaled in crashes. Funding will come from insurance reimbursements, police capital fund, and asset forfeiture account. (Unanimous) - Authorized a 3-year agreement with Dacra Tech for digital citation software at $1,500/month for up to 500 citations, $3 per citation beyond that. The software will allow online payment for local ordinance violations; processing fees will be paid by violators. (Unanimous) - Administrator's Report: Budget preparation for FY27 continues; Census Bureau exempt from government shutdown; hopes to finish by February. - Engineer's Report: Report submitted; no additional discussion. - Building Department Report: December 2025 report submitted; no additional discussion. - Public Works Report: As above. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and payment authorizations were approved unanimously. - The Dunkin' Donuts development was approved subject to annexation and zoning ordinances. - All four community events (Cruise Nights, Harvest Run, Spooktacular, Homecoming Parade, Memorial Day Parade) were approved, with fee waivers for the first three. - Intergovernmental agreements with Wheatland Township and Na-Au-Say Township were approved. - The engineering amendment for the park project was approved. - Police vehicle purchase and software agreement were approved. - Next meeting: Committee of the Whole Workshop on February 9, 2026; next regular Village Board meeting on March 2, 2026.