[0:00] So, it is now 5:00 pm here on Tuesday, January 13th. So, we will call to order

[0:06] the Golden Township regular board meeting uh for today, Tuesday, January

[0:10] 13th. Clerk, if you could Oh, sorry. Yes. Uh if you could call to order. Um

[0:17] sorry, getting out of myself. Call to order the meeting. Uh we'll

[0:22] begin with the pledge of allegiance after which we'll do

[0:28] pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the

[0:33] republic for which it says one nation indivisible.

[0:47] » Trusty Adamski >> here.

[0:49] » Trusty Bivian >> here. Trustee Gavin

[0:52] » here. >> Trustee Washington

[0:53] » here. >> Supervisor Guerrero

[0:55] » here. >> We have a quorum.

[0:57] » So, first on our agenda is approval of minutes. We've got three items under

[1:02] this section. So, we will be calling these uh to vote separately. Um that

[1:07] they're different nature. So, uh the first is approval for minutes of our

[1:12] regular town board meeting from last month, December 9th, 2025. Hopefully,

[1:17] everyone's had a chance to review them. questions regarding those minutes. If

[1:22] there are no questions, then I would ask for a motion and a second to approve the

[1:27] minutes of the regular town board meeting of December 9th, 2025. Second

[1:32] motion and second, Madam Cler. >> Trusty Gavin.

[1:35] » Hi, >> Trusty Adamski. Hi,

[1:37] » Trusty Bibian. Hi, >> Trusty Washington. Hi,

[1:39] » Supervisor Guerrero. I >> motion carried.

[1:42] » Good. This next item is a little bit different. The this will be for approval

[1:47] of the close session minutes of the regular town board meeting on December

[1:51] 9th, 2025. Likewise, if there are no questions, I'll ask for a motion and a

[1:56] second to approve. >> So moved. Second,

[2:00] » Trusty Washington. >> Hi,

[2:02] » Trusty Gavin. Hi, >> Trusty Adamsky. Hi,

[2:05] » Trusty Bivian. Hi, >> Supervisor Guerrero. Hi.

[2:08] » Motion carried. And finally, uh, last item to approve under minutes is the for

[2:15] the salt bid of the road district's bid opening on December 29th, 2025.

[2:21] Ask now if there is a motion and a second to approve the salt bid minutes.

[2:25] » So move second. >> Trusty Vivian.

[2:29] » Hi. >> Trustee Gavin. Hi.

[2:31] » Trustee Adamski. Hi. >> Trusty Washington. Hi.

[2:33] » Supervisor Guerrero. Hi. >> Motion carried.

[2:37] » Thank you. Um so that concludes the approval of minutes. We'll now enter the

[2:42] public comment portion of the meeting. This would be the time for any audience

[2:47] members any members of the public to come forth uh and address the any the

[2:51] township board. If we have any that's going once, going

[2:57] twice. Seeing none, we will conclude public

[3:01] comment portion of our uh agenda today and we will move forward now with the

[3:07] public hearing. So this public hearing is for the in regards to the amended

[3:12] budget and appropriation ordinance um number 4162025.

[3:21] Uh just to clarify this item here is not for us to vote. This is to open the

[3:28] public hearing which we are required to do so before approving uh the budget or

[3:33] any amendments to. Um so during this time I'll I'll ask uh the board for a

[3:40] motion and a second to enter the public hearing. We'll then entertain any uh

[3:45] feedback or participation from the public. Once that is concluded, then

[3:49] we'll ask again to um bring the public hearing to a close and carry on with the

[3:55] remainder of the agenda. So, is there a motion to recess the regular meeting to

[4:01] enter the public hearing uh for the amended budget and appropriations

[4:07] township ordinance number 416-2025? So, second a motion made by trustee

[4:13] Adamski and a second by trustee Gavin. and clerk to call the role.

[4:18] » Trustee Adamski, >> hi.

[4:20] » Trustee Gavin, hi. >> Trusty Vivian,

[4:22] » hi. >> Trusty Washington,

[4:23] » hi. >> Supervisor Guerrero,

[4:25] » hi. >> Motion carried.

[4:26] » Then at the show at 50:04 is the time. Um, and so at 504, we will commence the

[4:33] public hearing. >> There is anybody in the audience now

[4:37] that would like to speak on this agenda item uh regarding our budget amendments,

[4:42] now would be the time to do so.

[4:47] twice. Okay. Seeing none, then um so I accept

[4:54] the roll call from the regular town board meeting for this public hearing.

[4:57] Um just like to verify that in accordance with legal notice that uh the

[5:02] legal notice was published in the Joliet Herald News on Friday, December 12th,

[5:06] 2025. Um

[5:10] a separate public hearing will be held for the town budget. Um,

[5:16] but I think this will be considered at the regular town meeting. Just make sure

[5:21] that we've got all our uh uh everything checked off here.

[5:27] You've all had time to review the ordinance.

[5:31] » There any questions that you'd like to bring forth on the site?

[5:39] All right. So if there are no further comments uh and if there is

[5:46] no public guess >> what is the budget year

[5:49] » uh >> what is the run

[5:51] » uh what is the more asking for just the the total amount or what is the cycle

[5:55] the calendar >> calendar cycle uh April 1st so April 1st

[5:59] is when our fiscal year begins um the item on on this agenda is for an

[6:05] amendment to this year's uh budget which we approved back in we we started late.

[6:12] So, we approved this one in is that our June meeting?

[6:15] » June, sorry. >> Yeah. So, we're still still within the

[6:18] the legal limits of when it's allowed to be uh voted and approved on. Um but as

[6:24] as time goes on, it's pretty standard for township boards to make uh

[6:29] adjustments um for unanticipated costs, things that go over, things that come

[6:34] under. So, um, believe everybody's had a chance to to review what those changes

[6:39] are. >> I know we had a couple more people walk

[6:42] in, so we'll just ask one more time if there's anybody that would like to speak

[6:46] for the public hearing portion of the amended budget. Uh, now would be the

[6:51] time to do so. Seeing none, then there are no further comments, but request a

[6:56] motion to close the public hearing and reconvene the previously scheduled

[7:01] January 13, 2026 regular town board meeting.

[7:04] » So, Second. >> Trustee Gavin.

[7:08] » Hi. >> Trustee Washington. Hi.

[7:10] » Trustee Adamski. Hi. >> Trusty Bibby and Supervisor Guerrero.

[7:15] » Hi. >> Motion carried.

[7:17] » Then at 5:07 the public hearing was

[7:22] concluded.

[7:29] Uh with the public hearing portion now having come to a close, we will now

[7:34] return to our regular agenda and now would be the time that we would make a

[7:41] vote to adopt the amended general town uh budget for fiscal year 202526

[7:49] uh under the budget and appropriations ordinance number 416-2025.

[7:54] So, is there a motion and a second to adopt the amended budget?

[7:59] » So, move second. >> That's a motion made by Trustee Gavin

[8:02] and a second by Trustee Adamski. >> Madam Cler, could you call the role?

[8:06] » Trustee Gavin. Hi. >> Trustee Adamski. Hi.

[8:09] » Trusty Bivian. Hi. >> Trustee Washington.

[8:11] » Hi. >> Supervisor Guerrero. Hi.

[8:13] » Motion carried. [snorts]

[8:16] » Carrying on with our next agenda item. We've got two proclamations.

[8:21] » [clears throat] >> uh the first of which is a proclamation

[8:24] for Martin Luther King Jr. Day. I'll read that for the record now.

[8:31] Whereas Martin Luther King Jr. Day observed on the third Monday of January

[8:35] honors the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. whose

[8:38] leadership transformed the fight for racial, economic, and social justice in

[8:42] the United States. Whereas Dr. King, a minister, scholar, and global advocate

[8:46] for human rights, was born January 15th, 1929 in Atlanta, Georgia. He dedicated

[8:51] his life to a philosophy of nonviolence and building a future embodied by the

[8:55] beloved community. His vision of our society achievable through a fundamental

[8:59] transformation of hearts and systems alike. And whereas Dr. King's words

[9:03] inspired countless individuals to participate in change, most notably with

[9:06] his I have a dream address, establishing him as a national symbol of hope,

[9:10] reminding the country of its responsibility to fulfill its

[9:13] foundational promises. Whereas Dr. King's leadership and advocacy helped to

[9:17] move the government into action, securing landmark civil rights

[9:20] legislation, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibited

[9:24] segregation and employment discrimination, the Voting Rights Act of

[9:27] 1965, which protected voting rights, the Fair Housing Act of 1968, which

[9:32] prohibited housing discrimination. Whereas at the age of 35, Dr. King

[9:36] received the ASEM Nobel Peace Prize and gained an international platform that he

[9:40] used to connect the issues of militarism, racism, and materialism.

[9:44] While controversial and unpopular at the time, Dr. King pushed for an end to the

[9:47] Vietnam War through speeches and anti-war demonstrations while also

[9:51] addressing class exploitation by creating the poor people's campaign. And

[9:55] whereas Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. brought his mission of advancing justice

[9:58] to Joliet during his visit on June 4th, 1965 when he spoke at a rally at

[10:04] Memorial Stadium, calling on the community to embrace racial integration

[10:07] and a true brotherhood grounded in moral and ethical action. Whereas this holiday

[10:11] is the nation's only federal day of service. Dr. King's dream of a just and

[10:16] inclusive society remains guiding light for generations, yet the work of turning

[10:20] that dream into a reality remains unfinished. Whereas racism and

[10:24] inequities persist in housing, wages, education, health, and access to

[10:28] opportunity, his legacy urges us to confront these injustices and work

[10:32] together toward a society rooted in dignity, equity, and shared humanity.

[10:37] And now, therefore, be it resolved that the board of Juliet Township Government

[10:40] proclaims January 19th, 2026, Spartan Luther King Jr. Day, Juliet Township,

[10:45] and encourages all residents to honor Dr. King for reflection, service, and

[10:49] continued commitment to justice for all to be adopted this 13th day of January,

[10:54] 2026. We have a motion and a second to

[10:58] approve. >> So move second.

[11:01] » Call the role. >> Trustee Gavin.

[11:03] » Hi. >> Trustee Washington.

[11:04] » Hi. >> Trustee Adamski. Hi.

[11:06] » Trusty Bibian. >> Hi.

[11:08] » Supervisor Guro. >> Motion carried.

[11:11] » Now at this time, uh we'll pause before continuing on to our next agenda item. I

[11:16] believe we are joined here by Deb Upshaw. Uh if you'd like to podium share

[11:21] a few words with us. Thank you for being here.

[11:28] » Good evening everyone and thank you for the invitation uh to

[11:33] speak about the proclamation and how it speaks to us today.

[11:37] When we reflect on this proclamation, we are reminded that Dr. Martin Luther King

[11:42] Jr.'s His dream was never meant to live only in history books or commemorative

[11:48] ceremonies. His dream was and still is a blueprint for communities like ours. A

[11:55] community that has endured decades of disinvestment.

[11:59] A community where grocery stores are absent,

[12:02] jobs are scarce, transportation is limited, and inequities are woven into

[12:07] daily life. A community that has been underserved. Not because lack of

[12:13] potential, but because of lack of access. For 35 years, the National

[12:18] Hookup of Black Women Incorporated Juliet chapter, a 501c3 organization,

[12:24] has stood in that gap, meeting needs that should never have existed in the

[12:28] first place. We've fed families, supported seniors, uplifted women and

[12:34] children, and work to restore dignity where systems have failed. In many ways,

[12:40] our work is a continuation of Dr. King's unfinished business. Dr. King's dream

[12:47] and today's reality. Dr. King fought for fair housing, living wages, quality

[12:53] education, accessible health care, and equal opportunity. He spoke boldly about

[12:59] poverty, economic justice, and the moral obligation to care for the most

[13:04] vulnerable. If he were to look at communities today,

[13:08] communities still battling food deserts, unemployment, undermployment, and

[13:14] structural inequities, he would recognize the struggle. He will

[13:19] see that while progress have been made, the promise of justice remains unevenly

[13:25] distributed. But he would also see the power of community-led organizations

[13:30] like ours. He will see neighbors feeding neighbors, volunteers stepping up, and

[13:36] leaders refusing to accept despair as destiny. He will see this dream still

[13:42] alive, carried forward not by speeches alone, but by service, advocacy, and

[13:49] collective action. We are working together toward dignity, equity, and

[13:55] shared humanity. The path forward requires all of us. Dr. King taught that

[14:02] justice is not the responsibility of a few but the calling of a community. We

[14:08] move forward a more equitable society when we invest in dignity, ensuring

[14:14] families have choice, respect, and access to healthy foods. We build

[14:19] pathways to opportunity through workforce development, education, and

[14:25] partnerships that open doors. We stand united. nonprofits, businesses, faith

[14:32] communities, and residents working side by side. We refuse to normalize inequity

[14:39] and instead commit to transforming it. Dr. King reminds us that the ark of the

[14:45] moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice. But it does not bend on

[14:51] its own. It begins because people like you, you, you and us, we pull ourselves,

[14:59] we together, we pull out, pull it with our hands, our hearts, and our

[15:04] unwavering belief in a better tomorrow. And that is our belief. And thank you

[15:08] for the opportunity. [applause]

[15:25] what you have written down

[15:33] just for the fragrance. We are joined also now by Judy Easley likewise like to

[15:39] take the podium and share a few words with us.

[15:42] Thank you for this proclamation and for the honor of accepting you today. On

[15:47] behalf of the NAACP and the community you serve, we are deeply grateful for

[15:52] this recognition of the life, legacy, and enduring work of Dr. Martin Luther

[15:56] King Jr. Dr. King was more than a leader of his time. He was a moral compass for

[16:02] our nation. His commitment to justice, equality, and nonviolent social change

[16:07] continues to guide us as we confront the challenges of today. He reminded us that

[16:12] prog progress does not come through silence or complacency but through

[16:17] courage, [snorts] collaboration and and an unwavering belief in the dignity of

[16:22] all people. This proclamation is not only a tribute to Dr. King's words and

[16:27] actions but also a call to action for each of us. Dr. King challenged

[16:32] communities to move beyond symbolic gestures and toward meaningful change.

[16:36] change that uplifts the marginalized, protects civil rights, and ensures equal

[16:41] opportunity in education, economic access, voting rights, and justice under

[16:46] the law. As an organization, the NAACP remains committed to carrying forward

[16:52] Dr. King's vision through civic engagement, advocacy, education, and

[16:57] community service. We continue the work of dismantling inequity and building

[17:02] bridges across differences. We understand that the work is not finished

[17:06] and that the responsibility to advance justice belongs to all of us. We thank

[17:11] the Joliet Township government for recognizing the importance of Dr. King's

[17:15] legacy and for standing with us and affirming that his dream still matters.

[17:20] May this proclamation serve as a reminder that justice requires action,

[17:25] equity requires intention, and uni unity requires effort. Let us honor Dr. King,

[17:31] not only with our words today, but with our continued commitment to service,

[17:35] fairness, and love for humanity tomorrow and beyond. Thank you.

[17:41] [applause]

[17:47] » Thank you.

[17:58] I had one night in my home because I was little when he came to

[18:04] my oldest brother had the honor. He is just out of the military

[18:11] and he came home to bury our brother. But because he was a military cop,

[18:18] he was one of the ones that was standing on the podium as a bodyguard. So he got

[18:22] a chance to be Dr. King. Also, Ferdan Range because he had CDL license

[18:32] was a chauffeur for the Limy that day. Um, Vernon Boss,

[18:40] Sydney Edwards, two black police officers were also on the podium. Two

[18:45] people that I grew up with, grew up with, Vern being one of my brother's

[18:50] oldest and closest friends and Sydney Edwards being mentor and like a stepdad

[18:56] to me. So, as a 10year-old,

[19:03] I remember that when he came to Jo, >> but it's hard to find anything in the

[19:09] archives. I do have one picture

[19:14] and it's a picture we don't know who took it, but Dr. King was standing with

[19:19] a bunch of ministers. I recognized two of them.

[19:26] Reverend Walton was one and Reverend Bondor was the other. There was three

[19:31] others in the picture that I did not know, but I have that picture in my

[19:35] manual. So, I remember that moment when he was a

[19:39] child.

[19:42] The only thing I would like to add is that in today's environment, it is so

[19:47] important that we come together, that we stick together and [snorts] not let

[19:54] what's going on in the world um make us feel we have nothing to say

[20:02] or nothing to do. It comes from all of us working together, standing up for

[20:10] each other, and uh not only remembering Dr. King's legacy, I can say personally

[20:18] coming from Mount Zion Baptist Church, Pastor Dr. Isaac Singleton was one of

[20:25] those pastors. And that's where I get my commitment to serving in the community

[20:32] is coming up in that environment. And we must re remember it's not about a black

[20:39] person. It's not about a brown person, a white person. It's about humanity. all

[20:46] of us

[20:53] lot of history here in Julia that might not have known about. So definitely I

[20:58] think the context study would like to to see any of those photos or documents if

[21:03] you got them.

[21:10] » I don't think I can follow up on that. >> [laughter]

[21:14] » Amen. >> We'll uh we'll we'll follow up with with

[21:18] our next proclamation um which is proclamation recognition of

[21:24] National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Um so I'll read that into the

[21:30] record now and follow me like a a motion and a second to approve. Uh so this

[21:36] proclamation reads, "Whereas January is recognized as human trafficking

[21:40] prevention month, a time to learn the signs of human trafficking and

[21:44] strengthen our shared commitments and this crime. Whereas this month honors

[21:47] the efforts of individuals and organizations committed to preventing

[21:50] human trafficking, uplifts the voices of survivors and remembers those whose

[21:54] lives were lost in justice. Whereas the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of

[21:58] 2000 affirmed the national priority of preventing trafficking, protecting

[22:02] victims, and prosecuting traffickers. These principles are now used by

[22:05] countries around the world. Whereas while human trafficking can affect

[22:09] people of all backgrounds, individuals experiencing abuse, violence, economic

[22:13] hardship, housing instability, or social isolation face a heightened risk of

[22:17] exploitation. Whereas human trafficking is closely linked to other forms of

[22:20] violence and exploitation and is often driven by shared conditions, including

[22:25] limited access to resources and environments that fail to provide safety

[22:28] and support. And whereas human trafficking, including forced labor and

[22:31] sex trafficking, threatens public safety, violates human rights and harms

[22:35] millions of adults and children worldwide. And whereas the United States

[22:38] Department of Labor has identified 158 goods from 77 countries that are

[22:42] believed to be produced using child labor or forced labor in violation of

[22:47] international standards. Whereas national data indicate that

[22:50] black women and girls account for approximately 40% of women trafficked in

[22:54] the United States while about 24% are Latina LGBTQIA plus individuals

[22:59] particularly transgender women of color are also disproportionately

[23:02] [clears throat] impacted by sex trafficking and whereas an estimated

[23:05] 27.6 million people remain vulnerable to traffickers who often exploit poverty

[23:11] instability and crisis. Now therefore be resolved that the board of Julia

[23:15] Township government proclaims January 2026 as National Human Trafficking

[23:19] Prevention Month in Julia Township encourages all residents to learn the

[23:23] science of trafficking and join in efforts to protect the freedom and

[23:25] well-being of every person to be adopted this 13th day of January 2026.

[23:31] I have a motion and a second to approve uh this proclamation.

[23:35] » So move second. >> Madam clerk, you call the role.

[23:38] » Trustee Gavin. Hi. >> Trustee Adamski. Hi. Trusty Bibian.

[23:42] » Hi, >> Trusty Washington. Hi,

[23:44] » Supervisor Guerrero. Hi. >> Motion carried.

[23:47] » Uh, up next uh is an amended 2026 holiday calendar for Trolia Township of

[23:53] Government. Um, and we added in New Year's Eve also. Um, and kind of brought

[24:00] this into line with what our neighboring townships uh their schedule are. So, uh,

[24:05] there is a motion and a second to approve the amended 2026 holiday

[24:10] calendar. Some move. Second. Call the role.

[24:14] » Trustee Washington. >> Hi.

[24:16] » Trusty Adamski. >> Hi.

[24:18] » Trusty Vivian. >> Hi.

[24:19] » Trusty Gavin. >> Hi.

[24:20] » Supervisor Guerrero. >> Hi.

[24:22] » Motion carried. >> U. Up next. So we will have now a

[24:28] resolution number 20261 reporting the the determination of the

[24:34] Joliet Township Board's review of close session minutes pursuant to section 2.06

[24:38] six of the Illinois Open Meetings Act. That's quite the title. Uh so in uh in

[24:45] short, this is um in approval of past close session

[24:50] minutes. Uh we have reviewed those those close session minutes and every so often

[24:57] we need to make a determination as to whether or not those close uh session

[25:02] minutes can be released to the public. um and then what to do with the uh

[25:07] verbatim recording of said minutes. So if you look in the schedules A and B

[25:14] that accompanied this agenda item, uh we had close session meeting minutes

[25:20] spanning back from January 10th, 2023 uh to most recently July of 2025.

[25:27] made the determination that uh two, three, four, five, six meetings

[25:33] um would remain confidential uh not to be released. And under schedule B, we've

[25:40] got recordings of minutes spanning all the way back to 2013. These were

[25:45] previously approved for release, but the recording still exists. And so this will

[25:49] authorize us now to dispose of recording as it's no longer necessary. Um,

[25:56] back to schedule a the close session minutes that we will not be releasing uh

[26:03] the suggestion was made to us by the legal council that these call sessions

[26:07] were still recent enough uh and were pertinent to uh matters that were still

[26:13] still recent still kind of affecting ongoing operations uh and so the

[26:18] recommendation was made not to release those. Any questions regarding um close

[26:23] session minutes or content of this agenda?

[26:27] There's no further questions, then I would ask for a motion and a second to

[26:31] approve resolution number 2026-01. >> So,

[26:38] it's been motion and seconded. Call the RO.

[26:42] » Trusty Gavin. >> Hi.

[26:43] » Trusty Bibian. Hi, >> Trusty Adamski. Hi,

[26:46] » Trusty Washington. Hi, >> Supervisor Berero. Hi.

[26:49] » Motion carries. Uh this next item uh ordinance number

[26:54] 417-2026 establishing a records retention and

[26:59] disposal policy. Uh this is basically just to bring in all of our different

[27:04] programs and departments uh to have of a standardized policy um that's in

[27:10] compliance with uh state law and any other statutory requirements.

[27:15] um it's been shared with the different program um you know different department

[27:20] heads of of each program they been made made aware of this um so everybody will

[27:27] kind of be following a standardized uniform policy any questions regarding

[27:31] this ordinance

[27:35] there's no questions and I will ask if there is a motion and a second to adopt

[27:40] ordinance number 417-2026

[27:45] Second call.

[27:47] » Trustee Adamski. >> Hi.

[27:49] » Trusty Gavin. Hi. >> Trusty Vivian. Hi.

[27:51] » Trusty Washington. Hi. >> Supervisor Guer.

[27:54] » Motion carries.

[28:00] [snorts]

[28:10] Order here. U. Next on the agenda then we'll have

[28:15] ordinance number 418-2026 establishing a township asset inventory

[28:21] and control system. Um, in summary, as we've been picking our way through uh

[28:28] some improvements to the building, some renovations, we have uh put bluntly just

[28:34] stuck. Uh so you know we some of which has already been disposed of things that

[28:42] are either broken or um it's not not in good condition but we do have uh a lot

[28:47] of things that are still in good shape that were expensive when we purchased

[28:52] them. And so we want to make sure that even if they are no longer in use or um

[28:57] you know no longer of need to us that we're disposing of those properly. Um,

[29:02] so this will allow us to create an inventory system. Deputy clerk has uh

[29:08] started to to prepare some of the work for that. Um,

[29:13] identifying items in township possession uh that are valued at above $200. Um, so

[29:22] those will be catalog inventory. We have a a uh code uh basically a barcode or QR

[29:28] code system uh that will allow us to ate that into a digital spreadsheet for

[29:33] easier management. Um, and then if we make determination that anything that we

[29:38] have that we no longer have use of, uh, that's valued at over $200, um, we'll

[29:44] follow through with a a standard policy of how to get rid how to properly uh,

[29:48] rid ourselves of that inventory. Whether that be putting it up for for bid, u

[29:54] transferring ownership over to a different entity, or making the

[29:58] determination that while this item might have been valued at 200, $500,000 at the

[30:04] time of purchase, because of depreciation, it's no longer valued at

[30:07] that amount and we can just simply dispose of it. Um, so that'll that'll

[30:12] just help us overall um get a better sense of what is in our possession, what

[30:17] we do have ownership of, identify where there might be some needs to replace

[30:21] things or modernize things um as we as we go through our renovations throughout

[30:26] our multiple buildings. Any questions regarding this ordinance?

[30:32] And if there are no questions, I'd ask for a motion and a second to adopt

[30:37] ordinance number 418-2026. >> Some moved.

[30:41] » Second. It's been a motion and seconded. Trust clerk, please call the role.

[30:46] » Trusty Washington. >> Hi.

[30:47] » Trusty Gavin. Hi. >> Trustee Adamski.

[30:50] » Hi. >> Trusty Vivian.

[30:51] » Hi. >> Supervisor Guerrero.

[30:52] » Hi. >> Motion carried.

[30:55] Uh, next item is ordinance number 419-2026

[31:00] establishing rules and procedures for township meetings. Uh, we did previously

[31:04] have an ordinance on already on on file for um rules procedure for township

[31:11] meetings for updating those rules and so by adopting this ordinance will

[31:16] effectively replace the uh the previous ordinance. Um

[31:22] uh highlights would include uh we actually upped the time limit previously

[31:27] was three minutes. We've increase that to to four minutes. That's in line with

[31:32] what the uh COLette has. Uh we also just kind of clarified some of the the

[31:36] language on what the rules of procedure are. um just to ensure that we're having

[31:43] a a smooth uh meeting that any public participation is directed to the board

[31:49] as a whole. Uh trying to avoid anything that would be inflammatory or

[31:55] derogatory, anything of that nature. Um so not too many not a not a major change

[32:02] to what we had previously. Uh it's really more of a revision to to what the

[32:06] rules of procedure were. Any questions uh on campus here with this or

[32:14] there are no questions and I'll ask for a motion and a second to adopt ordinance

[32:18] number 419-2026

[32:26] » who was >> okay so motion made by trusty Gibian and

[32:31] second by trustee

[32:36] » motion made by trusty Gavin Second by trusty Vivian.

[32:40] » Trustee Gavin. Hi >> Trusty Bivian. Hi

[32:43] » Trusty Adamski. Hi >> Trusty Washington. Hi

[32:45] » Supervisor Guerrero. Hi. >> Motion carries.

[32:48] » Thank you. >> Uh this next item I ask for this to be

[32:52] added to the agenda just as a review uh to be able to bring this forth for open

[32:57] discussion uh with the entirety of the board. Um, so I I'm at this time not

[33:03] asking for a motion for approval or to bring this board to a to a vote. Uh, but

[33:09] did want to have the opportunity to discuss this openly. Um, this ordinance

[33:13] number 420-2026 regulating weeds, grass, bushes, trees,

[33:18] ponds, establishing fees for leans and releases, designating authorized

[33:22] officials, and repealing ordinance 381-2022

[33:26] resolution 2002-7. Um so a little bit similar to our

[33:32] previous item by bringing this forth we are updating um what we had previously

[33:40] um streamlining the process and bringing it into a a singular item. This would uh

[33:46] is in regards to uh bond enforcement. So uh while it's going to do a whole lot of

[33:54] it throughout the year, it is uh one of the responsibilities of township to

[33:58] enforce um regulations on nuisance properties. Um so when the determination

[34:07] has been made, we typically get a report, right? A neighbor will call in.

[34:11] I will go visit the the location. We'll make a determination if the property is

[34:16] in fact a nuisance property. Um with the shortenance kind of streamlines

[34:21] that that process a little bit uh and allows us to establish a lean which

[34:26] would allow us to recover some of the cost incurred during that process. It is

[34:33] in some sense uh grant a little bit of an extension or u

[34:42] interpretation of executive power and it is involving a fee, right? Uh and so

[34:49] They anticipated that there might be some resistance to this or some push

[34:52] back. Uh which is why I'm bringing this forth just as a discussion item today.

[34:56] Get some feedback from the board on on what your thoughts might be.

[35:02] » I mean I'm all for property maintenance and

[35:07] these are probably the best way to enforce property maintenance

[35:11] » especially because within here you give time for warning and people have time to

[35:15] correct something on their own. >> Yeah. Yeah. I I didn't want this to feel

[35:20] like it was just an outright punitive measure that we're going to be punishing

[35:24] people for letting their grass grow a little longer than usual, right? That's

[35:29] that's not the intention of this. Um but uh just to draw your attention to if you

[35:36] guys have it guess additional copy uh page four for me it' be article six fees

[35:44] uh section 6.1 allows for an administrative fee of $150

[35:50] per property for each notice of lean filed. Section 6.2 two, um, upon

[35:57] satisfaction of all amounts due under noticeable leave, including principal

[36:00] amount, administrative fee, recording fees, and other applicable costs,

[36:04] property owners shall then pay a release fee of $75.

[36:09] Um, >> is this for vacant properties as well as

[36:15] properties that are inhabited? >> Um, it it should cover

[36:20] as it's written. >> Although it's not

[36:24] someone living in the township whose neighbor rents this property, but they

[36:29] got chicken roosters far and she wanted to know if they're

[36:38] anything that addresses that. >> I don't think that that would be

[36:42] something that we would enforce. I think that would be county land use

[36:57] » I guess. So I know that's bringing forth any sort of

[37:02] fees or or fines can sometimes be uh little controversial, right? Nobody

[37:07] wants to be met with extra. Nobody has wants to have to pay money that they

[37:12] didn't have to pay before. So, I wanted to bring this forth to get some feedback

[37:16] we could uh bring this back at at our next uh next

[37:22] month's meeting kind of finaliz the dollar amounts seem okay to everyone

[37:29] here.

[37:32] » And again, you're giving people a warning to correct the issue.

[37:40] You have to have some skin.

[37:50] So this is my warning. There there are also provisions

[37:56] included in here um where we we have the the the authorized um uh guess officials

[38:06] with within the ordinance would have the discretion to be able to wave those

[38:09] fees. Um it's uh kind of request of of the applicant. it's determined that they

[38:16] have their financial hardship. Um, elderly property owners, we kind of take

[38:22] that all into account and approach it with a holistic consideration. Um, so

[38:27] this isn't necessarily just a blanket. Everybody's going to have to pay an

[38:31] extra $250 a year now because we just really love to find people. That's not

[38:37] the the approach that we're bringing. Um, but again, nobody nobody likes

[38:43] fines. It's not So, how many warnings before um go

[38:50] through the process of putting a property

[39:03] number

[39:11] under notice requirements article Uh,

[39:16] township shall notify the owner of the existence of the nuisance and

[39:21] inform the owner or association of the township's intention to abate the

[39:26] nuisance on a date certain if the owner fails to take appropriate action within

[39:30] seven days of set notice.

[39:39] So we would yeah upon this being brought to our attention I would go out make the

[39:45] determination if it if it is in fact nuisance property we'll give them

[39:49] written notice they would have then seven days u to abate the the issue um

[39:57] if the there's failure to to bring it into compliance within seven days then

[40:03] that would allow us to to initiate the lean

[40:07] with again the consideration that we can wave that it circumstances dictates it.

[40:16] » Any any questions then regarding this? That was smoother than I thought it

[40:21] would be. Um, a question for legal. Then we we place this on the agenda as just

[40:28] as a discussion item, but if the seems that we're in agreement, can we still

[40:34] move this to a vote tonight or should we just wait until our our next board

[40:38] meeting? >> It probably would have been better to

[40:42] say rem review and possible adoption. >> Sure. Since it was on the agenda,

[40:49] » it's probably safer then to >> separately state it on the agenda next

[40:53] time for adoption >> to to pass this since

[40:56] » you probably could, but you know me, I've always advised to be cautious.

[41:00] » Sure. >> Somebody challenges it.

[41:02] » Practicality, none of this really goes into effect until summertime.

[41:06] » Um so we've got some time still. >> Absolutely.

[41:09] » Yeah. Um okay, good. We'll we'll leave this as a discussion item. um with the

[41:15] intent to return this uh to next month's agenda.

[41:20] So that would be all for new business items

[41:26] and that brings us to now the reports section of our meeting. Um

[41:34] so in order of appearances listed uh we'll begin with our lead transportation

[41:40] coordinator Leo Har.

[41:50] My printer didn't wait before coming here. Um, good evening everyone. So for

[41:56] transportation program I mean every every month is

[42:01] a lot of trips. uh for December of uh last year we completed a total of uh 839

[42:08] trips just 39 less than November and out of those 839 trips 254 were senior

[42:16] trips. In addition um we helped the Salvation Army Community Center to

[42:23] transport children uh you know children to the YMCA for the Christmas break.

[42:28] Um and that was very much December kind of slow

[42:34] month for us. Uh our final numbers for 2025

[42:41] uh the transportation program completed a total of 10,137

[42:46] trips with all partnerships seniors and special requestes.

[42:52] And out of this 10,37 trips 36 were senior trips which now will be going to

[43:01] the W County dial program starting next month. So, what we've been doing is

[43:06] we've been telling our seniors to uh if they have not used that program

[43:11] before is to call them. We provide them with the phone number if they struggle

[43:16] with uh technology too because the have a

[43:21] option for seniors to fill out information on their website. All we ask

[43:25] is for their permission for us to fill out the forms and then we [snorts] can

[43:29] scan it to the world county program. So um I'm sure that those

[43:37] not helping you know not transporting seniors to medical appointments is going

[43:41] to have a some kind of like an impact in our program. But um we are looking to

[43:50] uh bring more organizations into our transportation so we can continue with

[43:56] services for our community.

[44:02] » Oh, I want to add started this Friday we have a mar training.

[44:09] » One more time the total number of rides for the year

[44:12] » 10,137.

[44:15] That's right. >> So,

[44:18] » that's a lot. And you said it's only with what, nine, seven. Nine drivers.

[44:26] » So, good job. >> Kuds.

[44:28] They're doing the hard work. [applause]

[44:36] » I emailed it to you. My parents didn't work.

[44:39] » Up next, then ask for our general assistance director, Patricia.

[44:53] So, we did not have any outreach events last month. Um, but last month, Sue

[44:58] Boston did retire after 22 years with the township. While we will miss Sue, I

[45:04] am pleased to announce that uh after conducting interviews with several

[45:07] applicants, Jesse Stiff agreed to step into the position and will now serve as

[45:12] a general assistance caseworker/workfare investigator. I think Jesse is going to

[45:18] be the perfect fit for for the position. I'm thrilled to say that we filled four

[45:24] boxes for the Toys for Tots campaign. And again, I appreciate all the

[45:28] donations that were made to help us accomplish that goal.

[45:32] Alejandra and I uh both completed our certifications for VITA. We have

[45:38] prepared our packets and Isabelle submitted an article to the Herald News

[45:42] which was published last week. So, we've already got residents that are coming in

[45:46] picking up their tax packets. Our first outreach last month for the

[45:51] lie season was a great success. You never know what you're going to get when

[45:56] it's a week away from Christmas and you hold something like that. But we

[46:00] actually had 26 township residents. Um, special thanks to Isabelle for spamming

[46:05] that message on Facebook and on our website to ensure that the residents

[46:10] knew where to come for help. Our next live event will be on January 21st from

[46:15] 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Um, later on when Ivan speaks, he is

[46:21] going to be talking about the budget amendment uh being requested for GA. And

[46:26] I just wanted to point out that that is a consequence of our having provided

[46:30] nearly twice the amount of assistance in 20 25 than what we did in 2024.

[46:36] Uh many things factored into that, most notably that most of the surrounding

[46:41] social service agencies simply did not have funds or they had very limited

[46:45] funds in 2025. Um the biggest driving factor, however,

[46:50] was that the previous administration against my advice uh raised our

[46:54] qualifying income from from 110% of poverty level to 150%.

[47:01] That was just way overboard. Um the raise in

[47:06] income saw us serving clients that not only normally would not qualify at the

[47:10] township, but they were also over income for other social service agencies as a

[47:17] scenario that never should have existed. Um township is always your option of

[47:23] last resort. When you can't get help anywhere else, you go to the township.

[47:28] It should never be that you're over income for everybody else's program and

[47:32] that you come to the township. And that's the position that we found

[47:35] ourselves in. Um I make an annual adjustment to our qualifying income

[47:40] guidelines every January when the new poverty guidelines are published and

[47:45] Caesar and I will be making that adjustment sometime this month and we

[47:49] will return back to 100 110% once those numbers are available.

[47:55] Other than that, it's just business as usual.

[48:04] » Moving right along, our animal control director, Whitney.

[48:19] December was a particularly busy and successful month highlighted by a strong

[48:23] increase in cat and kitten adoptions. A total of 43 cats and kittens found homes

[48:27] during this month reflecting continued community engagement and demand for

[48:31] adoptions. For reference, last December we only adopted out 20 cats. So it was

[48:36] more than double. [clears throat] On December 12th, we

[48:40] were grateful to receive a large donation from the Rust United's car

[48:43] club, which included cat litter, dog and cat food, and other essential supplies.

[48:47] In addition to these inind donations, they also collected and contributed

[48:51] monetary donations to support our program. We greatly appreciate their

[48:55] generosity and continued community support. Throughout December, Lyanna and

[48:59] I worked closely with our database provider, PPoint, to trade staff on a

[49:03] new mobile checkout feature for adoptions and to prepare our system for

[49:07] full implementation. While this has been an ongoing [snorts] process, we're

[49:10] nearly ready to fully roll out this feature. Mobile checkout will provide

[49:14] notable cost savings, particularly with microchipping as the cost for microchip

[49:18] is reduced to $5 using the mobile checkout compared to $14 without it.

[49:23] This feature will be available for adopters who have a valid email address.

[49:27] As this busy year came to a close, we are proud to share that 628 animals were

[49:32] adopted in 2025, an increase from 597 in 2024. This growth the hard work and

[49:38] dedication of our staff as well as the continued support from our community. We

[49:42] look forward to building up this momentum as we move into

[49:47] any questions.

[49:54] » We'll call our finance director.

[50:03] Um, I'll start with the amended budget since Pat made a shout out. Um, we did

[50:08] have to transfer over some funds for uh shelter utilities

[50:14] to increase appropriations in the GA budget

[50:17] 46,000 dollars. So that's just coming from the

[50:23] general town fund. General Town went out 125,000 um in appropriation. So, it's

[50:30] just uh like in ending balance, not you know in between line items like most of

[50:35] the other changes were. Um a couple other factors that played into that. We

[50:40] did have a new rates come in from for 2026. Um one of those rates is suda suda

[50:48] state unemployment tax. Um we were previously at 1.75. We are now at 5.55

[50:54] which is dramatic increase. Um they have a formula that calculate um the rate on

[51:01] we just had a lot of benefit charges last year resulted from

[51:06] one of our programs that ended. Um yeah, another rate change was IMRF. We've been

[51:12] steady at the low what percentage point for since I've been here. Uh and it it

[51:19] went up. It's not a lot. It's 2.2. It's not as drastic as the unemployment rate,

[51:23] but it still, you know, needed some changes. Those changes were taken care

[51:27] of in the amendment. You know, kind of got lucky it was doing at the same time

[51:31] just, you know, took care of that. Um, but that's it for the amendment changes.

[51:35] Other than that, it's January. You know, people already asking for the W2. So,

[51:40] I'll be busy with those 1099s to any of the vendors that we paid out over $600

[51:46] will get 1099 from us. Other than that, that's

[51:52] all I'm in for for J. Any questions?

[52:05] here tonight. So, we'll skip ahead to program

[52:09] and policy coordinator Tyler.

[52:20] » Good evening everybody. I just have a couple quick updates for us on how we're

[52:24] doing. One of the big changes this month has been uh the transition into the

[52:29] access world county program with our transportation department. I know Leo

[52:32] touched on how all the great work we've been doing this year. Leo, myself and

[52:36] the county met last week just to keep talking about the specifics of this

[52:39] transition, how we can make sure writers are able to kind of move from one

[52:43] service to the other smoothly with the least amount of trouble. Um so that's

[52:47] going really well. We're excited to We also needed to kind of warn the county

[52:51] about the quantity to expect from us. Um, as Leo highlighted, we did nearly

[52:55] 10,000 rides last year. Uh, the entirety of W County did about 16,000 last year.

[53:00] So, our addition is a sizable change for them. So, we're trying to make sure the

[53:04] whole process doesn't get flooded in the as we transition. Um, other thing we've

[53:09] been working on is the as part of the purchase of the Luis Race Center, um, we

[53:14] ended up owning a number of properties in the area. Um, and myself have been

[53:18] lead meeting with the city engineers, various stakeholders to explore

[53:22] different ideas for how to develop that area and how to make sure the community

[53:26] continues to grow. Um, we haven't really come to any major decisions. We're just

[53:30] really exploring options right now. So, I don't have anything specific to

[53:32] report, but we're looking at ways to kind of change up the area and keep

[53:36] helping uh the neighborhood thrive. Lastly, uh this is uh we are working

[53:42] later this month hopefully to uh have a food pantry popup out of the Louis Ray

[53:46] Center. Um we're currently looking sometime in the last week of January. Um

[53:50] so make sure to keep an eye out for that as we get everything finalized.

[53:54] » That's all I've got. Any questions?

[54:01] [snorts] >> Jumping over to the next column, our

[54:04] violence prevention convenor Garcia.

[54:13] Hello. Hello. Good evening everyone. >> Um so really quickly just some stats

[54:18] around the violence prevention work that we've been doing. Uh in the month of

[54:21] December we closed tracking about 51 incidences of violence uh across Will

[54:26] County. Um two of which were gunshot wound surviving victims um and one fatal

[54:32] stabbing unfortunately. Uh this month so far we're tracking 10

[54:36] incidences uh of violence uh within Will County

[54:41] uh programmatically across the region that we partner with which again is as

[54:45] far east as like the Ind uh Illinois Indiana state border and as far north as

[54:51] uh Wisconsin Illinois uh borders. We're seeing a lot more traction and

[54:56] communication from our regional partners that are also doing this uh RPSA

[55:02] violence prevention work. Um so as a result of that in December we seen about

[55:07] six applications come in for flex funds uh and we were able to disperse about

[55:11] $30,000 worth of financial assistance to the families that have been impacted by

[55:15] gun violence in their in the respective areas. Uh and this month alone already

[55:20] in the first two weeks of January we've got the same number six applications so

[55:23] far we're able to disperse up to $30,000 just within these six applications. And

[55:30] with the communication that we've had this week from the partners, it looks

[55:33] like January is probably going to be our biggest month um for how much we're able

[55:38] to provide assistance. Um so that's I think that's a tribute to all of the

[55:43] collaborative partnerships that we've been uh working on internally and

[55:47] externally because we're getting the word out. I think that speaks to the

[55:50] community awareness campaigns that we've been leading um over the past three

[55:54] months. partnership with PAT creating a flyer

[55:58] for us to distribute. Um, Juan giving us great ideas on how to make access easier

[56:05] uh to the to the resources that we have in this program.

[56:09] Um, something else that I kind of realized uh with specifically our area

[56:15] here in greater Joliet and Will County is that under this grant, we don't have

[56:20] a youth development organization. So to your point um

[56:26] Trusty Washington, the preventative approach uh

[56:31] is not complete for our area without having a youth development grantee under

[56:36] this grant. So since we are coming up to the end of this grant year in uh March

[56:42] of this year, so just in two short months, um what we're going to propose

[56:45] to the state is that we need a youth development grantee within our area. Uh

[56:51] right now we have our convenor grantee which is us the township. We have our

[56:54] behavioral health grantee which is uh Haiti. I think she's up after me. Um and

[56:59] we have a violence prevention service provider grantee in our area which is

[57:02] Illinois youth and family services. But we don't have a youth youth uh program

[57:07] devel development program grantee. So we're going to propose to the state that

[57:13] we need one right. We need some additional uh funds allocated for our

[57:16] region so that we can um expand the work to be more preventative as opposed to

[57:22] this reactive >> question. No, I actually talk to you

[57:28] later. >> Yes, ma'am. Well, yeah, we're going to

[57:31] ask for it when we get it and we'll see who can apply for it.

[57:35] » Oh, >> yeah.

[57:38] Um so yeah, as I mentioned, uh we just closed quarter three of this grant year.

[57:44] Um so the report everything is ready and with Ivan support and a Caesar um we're

[57:49] all working Haiti and myself all working to submit the um continuation

[57:54] application so that we want to extend this program um that the township has

[58:00] been leading through uh March of 2027. Uh so it's looking good. they make it

[58:05] sound like it's it's almost uh a certainty that we will be able to extend

[58:10] the services in the program. Um so I think that's the main updates that

[58:16] I had for violent prevention efforts for December January.

[58:23] » Thank you. >> Thank you. Can I can I I was inspired

[58:26] earlier. I think the our speakers left but um I don't know if you all knew of

[58:31] Dr. King's many legacies. He left a set of principles for us to uh try to live

[58:37] by and as the violence prevention uh convenor I think I I would offer them to

[58:42] you. A lot of folks surprisingly have not heard of these val these principles.

[58:47] Uh so principle number one is nonviolence is a way of life for

[58:51] courageous people. I think that principle is important because nowadays

[58:54] the people who are perpetrating violence think that they're more courageous, more

[58:58] brave or more strong because they're perpetrating violence. whereas not

[59:03] acting in violence is a lot harder I think. So if we're able to do that uh

[59:09] Dr. King believed that we were more courageous if we were able to live

[59:12] nonviolent. The second one is I think what uh Trusty Washington we've talked

[59:18] about in the past and what we're working towards is the beloved community is the

[59:22] framework and the foundation of the future. So we want to bring in more

[59:25] partnerships, get the community more involved um towards building a better

[59:31] future for greater Joliet in our partnering uh regions.

[59:35] Um what I have here is it says attack forces of evil but I think it's speak

[59:41] out against contest and disagree with forces of evil as opposed to persons

[59:46] doing evil. And that would be hard to do, right? You want to say that person's

[59:50] doing these bad things, but that in itself is kind of a violent accusation.

[59:55] Whereas we want to acknowledge the things being done are not right, right?

[59:59] Or unjust. Number four is accepting suffering without retaliation,

[1:00:04] which just sounds difficult to do, >> but if we're able to achieve that, then

[1:00:09] we will be contributing to peace as opposed to perpetrating more the cycle

[1:00:14] of violence. um accepting suffering without retaliation for the sake of the

[1:00:19] cause to achieve the goal. I think there was a lot of controversy

[1:00:24] for Dr. King on that one, right? But I try to live by it too. Uh avoid internal

[1:00:31] violence of spirit as well as external violence. And as uh as a therapist

[1:00:36] myself, I think that's our own inner selft talk. If you get frustrated with

[1:00:40] yourself, disappointing yourself, angry at yourself, you're being violent

[1:00:43] towards yourself. But trying avoid that. Uh the last one is the universe is on

[1:00:49] the side of justice. So if you believe it, we can achieve it, right? So I just

[1:00:54] want to earlier when the speakers before they left, I was like yes. Um but I just

[1:00:59] wanted to close with that. Uh thank you. If there's no question for the updates,

[1:01:03] thank you. >> Thank you. [applause]

[1:01:10] Then right up next we'll have our behavioral health team director uh Katie

[1:01:15] Martinez.

[1:01:21] » Good evening everyone. So currently the program is serving um 21 individual

[1:01:28] clients. Um this month of January we have completed three intakes so far. So

[1:01:32] that number should be increasing um for the next quarters to come. We have We

[1:01:36] connected with the Lincoln school to restart our second round of group

[1:01:40] therapy, increasing it from two groups um last quarter to now four groups this

[1:01:45] upcoming um this month of January. So, we're just working out the final details

[1:01:50] so that we can start providing uh four groups in total to the school at

[1:01:55] Lincoln. Um in December, I participated in two professional training courses

[1:02:00] focused on trauma and juvenile delinquency as well as domestic violence

[1:02:04] and trauma. These trainings support continued skill development and ensure

[1:02:08] evidence informs care for the populations we are currently serving.

[1:02:12] Additionally, I have been working closely with Anna, the executive

[1:02:15] assistant, to revamp our reporting process in order to capture the most

[1:02:19] accurate data possible. This is to support the completion of accuracy for

[1:02:24] quarter 2, which we'll be submitting this um Thursday, and to make sure all

[1:02:28] future quarters are more in compliance and that we're providing accurate data.

[1:02:42] Director of human resources, Dr. Erica Waters.

[1:03:02] Good evening. >> Happy new year.

[1:03:05] » 26

[1:03:08] last year. [laughter] >> Wait, I'm to say that.

[1:03:12] » I know, right? My new year.

[1:03:18] » It's been to the 31st. >> Oh, sorry.

[1:03:28] » Um like earlier, so the organizations that did come for the proclamation. I'm

[1:03:33] a member of both the National Hookup of Black Women and NAACP women. So, yeah.

[1:03:40] Uh yes, I am grateful for MLK uh as well because it reminds us that leadership

[1:03:47] doesn't start with us and it won't end with us. But Dr. King lived with

[1:03:51] courage, conviction, and service even when it cost him everything. And as a

[1:03:56] leader today, I don't compare myself to his greatness. I align myself with his

[1:04:00] responsibility to serve people, speak truth, and leave the door open wider

[1:04:04] than I found it. So, as we go into this new year, um human resources, uh you

[1:04:13] know, my job is really good. Like, I love y'all. Uh but we focus on

[1:04:19] leadership development, safety, and compliance, and workforce planning as we

[1:04:23] close out 2025 and prepare for 2026. The leadership training continued with an

[1:04:28] emphasis on accountability, communication, and supervisory

[1:04:32] effectiveness. Uh safety efforts include ongoing coordination with Torma and

[1:04:38] Narcan training followup with them uh with an additional sessions scheduled

[1:04:43] for January 16th. There has been no reported safety incidents in the last

[1:04:48] past 30 days. Let's keep that up. uh reflecting strong adherence to safety

[1:04:53] protocols, HR continues personnel file audits, attendance and approval reviews

[1:04:59] and benefits and leave administration to maintain compliance. Upcoming priorities

[1:05:04] include finalizing personnel file reviews, implementing the summer

[1:05:08] internship program with our partners and releasing the January 2026 coral HR

[1:05:14] newsletter highlighting 2025 accomplishments.

[1:05:18] I give y'all a more longer version. I didn't want to do that to the people.

[1:05:22] So, any questions for me? >> Good. Good to see y'all again in 2026.

[1:05:30] » Thank you.

[1:05:35] » And we'll have our hear from our senior leazison Wallace.

[1:05:40] » Absolutely. Um

[1:05:45] » well last part of uh December after our meetings I was talking to veterans that

[1:05:49] came to our lunchon I've been talking about our tax service program there's an

[1:05:54] old senior service calendar for the first time I I've called and called and

[1:06:01] called and called and uh I saw a lady at a senior group last Thursday that goes

[1:06:06] down there quite frequently and she was really not sure how much staff to

[1:06:13] I leave messages and there's no response.

[1:06:17] Um, so I'm going to get some flyers for our

[1:06:22] tax service program. I'm going to start handing those out the

[1:06:26] rest of this month in the month of February.

[1:06:29] Um, there was a few groups that didn't meet

[1:06:33] this month. They take off January, but February have 10 meetings.

[1:06:41] That's all we have to go to. So, if you have any questions, just don't hesitate

[1:06:46] to ask me.

[1:06:50] » Thank you.

[1:07:00] » So, for December, we were working with the state archivist office regarding

[1:07:04] record retention management in order to stay compum.

[1:07:09] records that like including election records and records from the

[1:07:12] transportation and private prevention programs that weren't added on the

[1:07:16] records retention schedule before. So now as we had our first bid opening for

[1:07:22] the road district and our first grass cutting lean that we had to file um and

[1:07:28] then as you all heard one all of the ordinances the ordinances 417420 that

[1:07:34] were on the agenda today so we're thankful for that and the website's been

[1:07:39] updated on the clerk's office page. Um, and then a section on the website has

[1:07:44] been included about election dates. So, that's on there. And then the

[1:07:48] organizational charts and other documents that need to be on display

[1:07:51] have been updated as well.

[1:07:56] Questions?

[1:08:06] Um I think everyone got through really the

[1:08:11] highlights that I wanted to share previously. Um so I guess just looking

[1:08:16] ahead uh well tonight we approved our amended budget uh and we're already

[1:08:21] considerations for the upcoming fiscal [snorts] year uh starting on April 1st.

[1:08:26] So we're already kind of laying the groundwork to uh plan around next uh

[1:08:31] next fiscal year. Um, as you saw in in the amendments tonight, uh, you know,

[1:08:38] our expenses have increased and so without really getting into the

[1:08:42] particulars or or the details just yet, um, you know, we're we're really trying

[1:08:49] our our our best to uh continue all of our services, make sure that there isn't

[1:08:54] a a lapse in service. Um but getting creative with uh kind of adapting some

[1:09:03] programs how they operate. Um a very good example is our our transportation

[1:09:08] program. Uh so we will be retaining a a fleet of vehicles even though we are uh

[1:09:14] transitioning some of our ridership over to uh the county style ride service. So

[1:09:19] um it's that sort of uh that sort of thinking um really having to get uh

[1:09:24] creative with some of these solutions to ensure that no matter what happens, we

[1:09:29] continue to provide those services to the public. Clearly, there's there's a a

[1:09:34] demand, there's a need uh for for these to be addressed. Um but we're we're

[1:09:39] trying our best to to do those within the the constraints of our of our

[1:09:43] limited budgets. Um since really the only way for us to increase revenues

[1:09:48] would be to increase taxes and nobody wants to do that. So, um I'll be meeting

[1:09:54] uh hopefully with uh each each one of the trustees individually uh over the

[1:09:58] weeks to come um to discuss kind next year's budget. It's never never too

[1:10:04] early to start. Uh so we do have a couple of months to prepare and and

[1:10:09] bring that to order for April 1st fiscal year. Um but again, we'd like to have

[1:10:15] those conversations started now well in advance uh so we're ready to kind of hit

[1:10:19] the ground running. Um, we've made some, uh, good building improvements that's

[1:10:26] kind of been on ongoing. Uh, so we'll expect to see some improvements to our

[1:10:32] first floor lobby here at our main office very soon. Um, continued

[1:10:38] improvements at the Louise Ray uh, center. We've got designs for animal

[1:10:42] control building. Um, so you know, I I kind of touch on uh capital improvements

[1:10:48] every time we're here, but these are long-term projects that take many months

[1:10:52] to complete. So, uh, glad to see progress being made on on those fronts.

[1:10:57] And again, um, thanks to to all of our, uh, different employees, our our

[1:11:03] department heads. Uh, none of this work is possible without you guys. And so,

[1:11:06] I'm very grateful for for all of you. Um, we're going to make sure that we

[1:11:10] continue to provide u, you know, excellent service to to all of our

[1:11:14] township residents.

[1:11:20] So, we'll carry on with the remainder of the agenda as I'm sure everyone's

[1:11:26] anxious to wrap up here and get home. So, uh, first would be approval of cash

[1:11:35] receipts. Cash receipts for uh the month of

[1:11:39] December totaled $142,121.93.

[1:11:45] Is there a motion and a second for the approval of cash receipts?

[1:11:49] » So move second.

[1:11:52] » So that's a motion by trusty Gavin, second by Trusty Adams.

[1:11:57] » Trusty Gavin. Hi, >> Trusty Adamski. Hi, Trusty Vivian. Hi,

[1:12:01] Trusty Washington. Hi, Supervisor Guo. Hi. Motion carried. Moving [snorts] on

[1:12:07] now to expenditures. Uh the general town fund for the month of December, uh

[1:12:12] expenditures total $367,66.90.

[1:12:18] There a motion and a second to approve the expenditures for general town fund.

[1:12:22] » So move second. >> Trustee Washington.

[1:12:26] » I. >> Trusty Gavin. Hi.

[1:12:27] » Trustee Adamski. >> Hi.

[1:12:29] » Trusty Bivian. >> Hi.

[1:12:30] » Supervisor Guo. Hi. >> Motion carried.

[1:12:34] Next is our capital fund for the month of December. Expenditures total $32,816.

[1:12:41] There a motion and a second to approve these expenditures. So move

[1:12:45] » second.

[1:12:48] » Trustee Gavin. Hi. >> Trusty Bivian.

[1:12:50] » Hi. >> Trustee Adamski. Hi.

[1:12:52] » Trusty Washington. Hi. >> Supervisor Guerrero.

[1:12:54] » Motion carries. >> Next is our general assistance fund for

[1:12:58] the month of December. expenditures total $41,78455.

[1:13:05] Is there a motion and a second to approve uh these expenditures?

[1:13:09] » So move second. >> Trustee Gavin.

[1:13:13] » Hi. >> Trustee Washington. Hi.

[1:13:15] » Trustee Adamski. Hi. >> Trusty Vivian.

[1:13:17] » Hi. >> Supervisor Guerrero.

[1:13:19] » Hi. >> Motion carried.

[1:13:21] Road and Bridge Fund for the month of December had expenditures totaling

[1:13:25] $99,854.72.

[1:13:29] » A motion and a second to approve. >> So move.

[1:13:34] » Trusty Washington. >> Hi,

[1:13:36] » Trusty Gavin. Hi, >> Trusty Adamski. Hi,

[1:13:39] » Trusty Vivian. Hi, >> Supervisor Guerrero.

[1:13:41] » Hi. >> Motion carries.

[1:13:44] and patrol fund for the month of December uh expenditures total $12,1358.

[1:13:51] Is there a motion and a second to approve these expenditures?

[1:13:54] » So move second. >> Trustee Gavin.

[1:13:58] » Hi. >> Trustee Adamski.

[1:13:59] » Hi. >> Trusty Vivian.

[1:14:00] » Hi. >> Trustee Washington.

[1:14:02] » Hi. >> Supervisor Guerrero. Hi.

[1:14:04] » Motion carries. >> And [snorts] finally our senior fund

[1:14:07] expenditure for the month of December total $1,080.

[1:14:12] Is there a motion and a second to approve?

[1:14:14] » So second >> trustee Gavin. Hi

[1:14:18] » Trusty Bivian. Hi >> Trusty Adamski. Hi

[1:14:21] » Trusty Washington. >> Hi.

[1:14:23] » Supervisor Guerrero. >> Motion carries.

[1:14:27] » Thank you. So that concludes uh expenditures and bills for approval for

[1:14:32] this month. The final item on our agenda is a uh to be held in close session. So

[1:14:39] just as advisory to our audience, we will be entertaining a motion uh to

[1:14:44] enter close session to discuss personnel matters. Uh upon conclusion of close

[1:14:50] session, we'll return, but since there are no longer any agenda items um for

[1:14:55] the open session, this is effectively the conclusion of our meeting. Um but

[1:15:02] for our board formally, we will be looking for a motion and a second to to

[1:15:08] to uh suspend our open meeting and enter close session to discuss personnel.

[1:15:13] » So second that's a motion by trustee Adamski and a second by trustee Gavin.

[1:15:19] Madam >> cler call the role.

[1:15:20] » Trustee Adamski. >> Hi.

[1:15:22] » Trustee Gavin. >> Hi.

[1:15:23] » Trusty Bibian. >> Hi.

[1:15:25] » Trusty Washington. >> Hi.

[1:15:26] » Supervisor Guerrero. >> Hi.

[1:15:28] » Motion carried.

[1:15:37] Okay, so we are once again recording um

[1:15:43] we have returned from our close session and are now looking to

[1:15:52] really only one one thing left uh with everything on our agenda having been

[1:15:57] addressed. Supervisor, do you want to say that there is nothing to vote on uh

[1:16:01] that arose in the closed session? Just for the record, even though I just said

[1:16:05] it. [snorts]

[1:16:07] » So, um so for the record of our close session meeting, there was nothing

[1:16:13] required a vote. Um so, we are now returning to our public session. Is that

[1:16:19] sufficient? >> Yes.

[1:16:21] Um, so unless there's any closing thoughts, uh, everything on our agenda

[1:16:27] has been covered. Only item that is left is adjournments.

[1:16:31] » I have a motion and a second to adjurnn. >> So second,

[1:16:37] » Trusty Gavin, hi, >> Trusty Washington. Hi,

[1:16:39] » Trustee Adamski. Hi, >> Trusty Bibian. Hi,

[1:16:42] » Supervisor Guerrero. Hi. >> Motion carries

[1:16:46] at 73.

[1:16:52] I got to

January 13, 2026 Township Board Meeting

Transcript