Government Center

719 S. Batavia Ave., Bldg. A

Geneva, IL 60134

Kane County

KC Executive Committee

Meeting Minutes

PIEROG, Allan, Bates, Berman, Davoust, Ford, Gumz, Kious, Kenyon, Lewis, Linder, Molina,

Sanchez, Strathmann, Surges, & ex-officio Tepe (County Vice Chair)

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

9:00 AM

County Board Room

Call to Order

Chairman Pierog called the meeting to order at 9:02 AM.

Roll Call

Chairman Corinne M. Pierog

Board Member Mavis Bates

PRESENT

Board Member Dale Berman

Board Member Mark Davoust

Board Member Michael Kenyon

Board Member Chris Kious

Board Member Anita Lewis

Board Member Jarett Sanchez

Board Member Cherryl Strathmann

Board Member Clifford Surges

Ex-Officio County Board Vice Chair Vern Tepe

Board Member Deborah Allan

Board Member Michelle Gumz

Board Member Michael Linder

Board Member Myrna Molina

REMOTE

ABSENT

Board Member Ron Ford

Also present: Co. Bd. Members Juny*, Lenert*, Roth; Fin. Exec. Dir. Hopkinson;

ITD/BLD Exec. Dir. Fahnestock & staff Files, Kash; PIO Mann; SOA Armstrong; State's

Attorney staff Frank, Ford, Shepro, Hunt*; Treasurer Lauzen; Auditor Wegman;

Undersheriff Johnson*; KCAC Admin. Youngsteadt*; KCHD CFO Snowden*; KDOT

Deputy Dir. Rickert; and members of the press and public including McGuire Woods

Senior Vice President, Greg Bales and Beacon News Reporter, Christian Smith.

(Committee Member Allan arrived remotely at 9:03 a.m.)

Remote Attendance Requests

Chairman Pierog announced the remote attendance requests for today's meeting. She

asked the Committee if there were any objections to Committee Members Allan, Ford,

Gumz, Linder, Molina attending today's meeting remotely. There were no objections.

Pledge of Allegiance

Chairman Pierog asked County Board Member Roth to lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

Approval of Minutes: May 29, 2024 & June 5, 2024

RESULT:

MOVER:

APPROVED BY UNANIMOUS CONSENT

Chris Kious

Public Comment (Agenda Items)

Kane County Resident, Aaron White, addressed the ordinance amending Section

2-47(A) (Order of Business) and Section 2-47(B) (Rules of Order) of the Kane County

Code. He spoke on the term "mulligan" in golf, which means the golfer had a bad shot

and needs a do-over. He believes that the County Board needs a mulligan with the

proposed revisions to the County Code. White stated that convictional wisdom would

dictate that a governing body would want to listen and engage with it's constituents.

According to the National Democratic Institute, active engagement in one's

constituency gives a more human face to the legislator. In White's personal experience

as a corporate trainer, the public forum is a dynamic space to share information

because it includes both verbal and nonverbal communication methods, which can

significantly impact the actual words spoken. White explained that when a Kane County

citizen is sharing their concerns with emotion it is very powerful. He asked the Board

what has compelled them to present a proposal that would decrease the time frame to

hear from their citizens. People elect officials and those officials are accountable to the

people. He stated that as Kane County citizens, we do not want our public comment

time reduced. Referencing the Mission Statement, White stated that Kane County is

committed to encouraging and valuing citizen input and involvement in governing so

that residents are proud to call Kane County home. These are the County

Government's own words, but this Board is encouraging the opposite with reducing the

public comment time. White suggested the Board increase the public comment time to

15 minutes for each speaker. He questioned the Board's logic on telling constituents

they do not want to hear from them by limiting public comment time. He stated that

these revisions to the County Code calls for a mulligan. A do-over is necessary.

Kane County Resident, Marian Knize, spoke on her appreciation of the Board for

moving Public Comment for on and off agenda items to the beginning of the meetings.

She suggested that the Board consider allowing a public rebuttal time period of the

discussed items on committee agendas, in order for the public to know that the Board

has heard their concerns. Knize addressed the Ordinance amending Section 2-47 (A)

and (B) of the Kane County Code regarding the decrease in total time allotted for public

comment from 45 minutes to 30 minutes, and a reduction in each speakers' time from

five minutes to three minutes. Knize stated that the County Board is supposed to be

working for the County's citizens, but have shown that they do not want to hear from

us. With a County of over 5K constituents, speakers should be given more time to

address their concerns. Knize stated she has sat through several County Board

meetings that have lasted over seven hours, because of the Board's confusion when

discussing items before voting on them. As constituents show respect to the County

Board during these meetings, Knize requested that the Board show similar respect by

not cutting the public comment time down to communicate their concerns. Constituents

find the efforts of the Board for additional censorship of public comment disheartening

and disrespectful. (Committee Member Sanchez arrived in-person at 9:11 a.m.)

Kane County Resident, Cathy Flesburg, explained that after reviewing today's agenda,

she was disappointed. She thinks that the County Board would want to hear from their

constituents. She spoke on the County Board's large agendas compared to those of

other counties. She stated that constituents have brought things to the attention of the

Board because they cannot possibly read through the hundreds of pages of each

County Board agenda. Flesburg stated that if County Board Members are really here

for the people, they would want to hear from them. Kane County residents are

concerned and want to be heard. Flesburg explained that 45 minutes is not a long

period of time to hear from constituents when considering the length of these agendas.

She stated that if the County used the Legistar software correctly, it would be easier for

the Board to navigate the agendas more efficiently. Flesburg does not understand why

the Board would want to limit the public comments. She wished the Board would be

more transparent.

Brian Anderson, Sugar Grove, addressed the Ordinance amending Section 2-47 (A)

and (B) of the Kane County Code. He reminded the Board that if there were a

Republican Chair driving this agenda, he would be voicing the same comments. He

stated that equal time should be for both sides. Anderson played a recording from July

2023 of Madam Chairman stating the words, "because of their sacrifice, we have the

freedom and the right to speak, think, and have our voices heard without restraint." He

stated that he has spoken with Board Members from both political parties and for the

past ten years the County Board has allowed five minutes for on-agenda public

comments and three minutes for off-agenda items. Additionally, the online public

comment sign-up has been established since 2012. This precedence of consistency

has been set. Anderson reflected upon the Kane County Government's Vision and

Mission Statement. Within the statement, it states, "is to be accountable to We the

People." He stated what better way to be accountable to the citizens than allowing

them to come to Board Meetings to speak their thoughts and concerns without

restraint. Anderson stated he has been coming to Board meetings over the past 15

months to voice his concerns and opinions. At numerous meetings, many speakers do

not use up their allotted time of three or five minutes, with many others that do not even

speak. These public comments lead the Board meeting agendas and conversation to

lessen the length of the meetings. If the Board is saying that the 45 minutes for public

comment is causing a distraction, then the County Board has bigger issues than the

public coming up to speak. Additionally, Anderson stated that for most of the past 15

months, many speakers have voiced conservative views. On March 4, 2024, a Kane

County Democratic Board Office representative set a Call for Action. It has been stated

that there has been a group of people attending the County Board meetings becoming

successful at leading the Board to vote on certain items. Therefore, the Kane County

Democratic Board Office has asked members to show up and protest against these

matters. Anderson asked the Committee to debate the topic of decreasing the public

comment time frame, due to Freedom of Speech and not Madam Chairman's agenda

to squelch the speakers. Anderson stated that many of the speakers and people in the

audience have come from all parts of Kane County. This allows the County Board to

hear from all demographics that represent all 24 districts.

Kane County Resident, Roxane Shilka, addressed the Ordinance amending Section

2-47 (A) & (B) of the Kane County Code. She stated that the foundation of this country

is set on the Constitution and Freedom of Speech. The public comment is not a dialog,

but only a short-time frame for constituents' concerns to be heard. Shilka asked the

Committee the reasoning behind reducing the time frame for them to hear from their

constituents. With doing so, it appears as if the County Board wants to promote their

own agenda. When government entities are able to do so without accountability and

without hearing from the people, it puts them in the position as rulers and the people as

subjects. This is not how our government was instituted. The County Board Members

work for the people of Kane County and need to hear from them to keep accountability.

Shilka stated that if the County Board wants to change the ordinance, then the public

comment section time should be increased, due to no dialog. Again, the County Board

works for the constituents and should consider what they are about to do with this

amendment.

Mark Schrage, Elgin, spoke on the Ordinance amending Section 2-47(A) & (B) of the

Kane County Code. Referencing 16D within the County Code, he read, "In an event the

allotted time for public comment will be exceeded, based on the number of individuals

who have provided written notice of their intent to speak, the chairman shall have the

right to allow reasonable additional time for public comment on any single issue." This

is stated within the original version of this section of the Kane County Code, but has

now been struck. Schrage asked the Committee why this change would be necessary.

He read the proposed revision, "to alter the order of the speakers in order to ensure

that all viewpoints are heard." He stated that Kendall County allows 60 minutes for their

public comment section, which is five minutes per person. The Chairman of their

committees also has the right to increase the time, if necessary. Kane County Board

has done this in the past and Schrage shared his appreciation on this. He wished the

County Board would follow Kendall County's previsions.

Kane County Resident, Mike Rice, stated he is running for congress in the eighth

district. He explained that he would be speaking to the Committee today as if they

worked for him, because they do. Rice stood before the Committee not just as a

concerned citizen, but a champion for one of the most fundamental rights, free speech.

Free speech is the cornerstone of the country's democracy, yet, here he stands

debating whether to allow the public a voice in their community. Frankly the very notion

that we need to defend this is embarrassing and appalling. Rice stated that when the

freedom of speech is suppressed, it is not just silencing words, but trampling on the

core principles that the nation was built upon. Suppression of free speech is the

hallmark of tyranny or the behavior of arrogant leaders who believe they are above the

people they are supposed to serve. Rice stated that these changes reek of elitism and

gross misunderstanding of the County Board's role of public servants. He asked the

Committee if they believe they are so enlightened that the voices of the public are mere

noise to be dismissed. Such arrogance is not only unfounded but dangerous. This

would lead to a disconnect between the government and the governed, which will foster

distrust and resentment. When speech is suppressed, it tells the people their opinions

do not matter, that their concerns are trivial, and that their lives are inconsequential.

Rice stated that this arrogance has no right in a democratic society. The power the

County Board holds is not a divine right, but a responsibility bestowed by the people.

Rice questioned what the Board is so afraid of. He asked if it was the fact that the

public might point out the flaws within policies and/or highlight failures. Rice announced

that this is exactly what needs to happen in a democracy. The public must be able to

voice their constructive criticism. Rice stated that the suppression of free speech is not

just an act of cowardice, but a betrayal of the oath taken by each Board Member and

an insult to the intelligence and dignity of everyone they represent. Rice reminded the

Committee that this is a democracy not a dictatorship. He urged the Committee to

abandon this path of arrogance and embrace the true spirit of public service. He asked

the Committee to allow the public to speak, listen to their voices, and recognize in

those voices lies the strength and resilience of the Kane County community. Anything

less than this is a disservice and disgrace.

Public Comment (Non-Agenda Items)

Kane County Resident, Kathy Showalter, spoke on the freedom of speech and

Independence Day. She questioned what happened to Independence Day and

freedom of speech. She wondered what society is trying to teach the children.

Showalter is a grandmother of nine children and has taught them the importance of

using their voices. She addressed how Board Members have continued to run Kane

County, inefficiently. She wondered why the County Board cannot listen to their

constituents or even make eye contact with those addressing them. Additionally,

Showalter stated that an election is coming up. We will make a difference. We are not

going away. We have been at meetings consistently. She explained that the County

has numerous candidates and the constituents will ring the County Board's bell.

Kim Sieber, Geneva, voiced her love for America. She recalled her husband's shirt that

states, "Remember Normal". She explained that this was not a political shirt, but a

reminder of how times used to be back in the 1950's where it was safe and

uncomplicated. She explained in the 1960's, God was taken out of schools,

government, and the country. She would like God to be put back into these areas.

When she heard about Louisiana and Oklahoma imposing legislation to include Bible

teachings in public schools, she grew excited. She does not believe Illinois would be a

state to do this, but why not Kane County. Sieber stated that the Bible is America's

history and based on biblical principles. She recalled being taught the Bible in public

school. At this time, everyone was safer, healthier, and happier. Sieber would love for

this to be established back into public schools. She spoke on the potential increase of

Kane County residents, if such a policy was passed establishing Bible teachings in

public schools. Sieber explained that last time she addressed the Committee, she

asked for more time for public comment, without even knowing about the consideration

of decreasing the time frame. She stated that this is supposed to be a free country, not

communist.

Kane County Resident, Zora Slapak, stated that she can never hear the County Board

Members speak and requested that everyone use their microphones. She explained

that she immigrated to the United States in 1969 from Russia. She lived under a

socialist government. When Slapak arrived in America, her father said to her, "Kneel,

kiss the ground, and be happy you are here." She asked the Committee if they know

what it truly means to have freedoms. She questioned if the County Board thinks

regime is a good thing. Slapak will not allow the government to tell her what she can or

cannot do. She recalled her time living under such regime in Europe for 21+ years.

Slapak asked the Committee to give the residents that freedom and to not give any

rules against freedom of speech. She requested that all people, no matter who they

are, to get together as one as God's children. We, the people, do not want control, but

to listen to one another and work together.

Michelle Bettag, Campton Hills, recalled that on January 4, 2024, a group of citizens

came to a Board meeting addressing their concerns on illegal immigrants coming into

Kane County. She stated that most of these concerns were brushed off by the County

Board and Madam Chairman Pierog. In March 2024, County Board Member, Rick

Williams, wrote a proclamation opposing sanctuary status of Chicago. This was a

simple proclamation protecting Kane County citizens and amenities. The vote on this

proclamation was 11-11, with Madam Chairman Pierog's vote being the deciding factor.

Madam Chairman refused to vote, which hindered the proclamation from moving

forward. Bettag explained that County Board Member Young wrote another

proclamation opposing non-citizens from voting in elections. This proclamation made it

through the Public Service Committee, but was not included on the Executive

Committee meeting or County Board for a vote per Madam Chairman. Bettag recalled

a Wall Street Journal article that was published on June 22, 2024, titled, "What

Happens When Migrants Arrive in American Suburbs?" WIthin this article, Kane

County, Illinois, was listed as a county most affected by the migrant issue. She quoted

the article, "In Kane County, Illinois, outside of Chicago, their migrant number jumped

from 17 to 3,496 from 2020 to 2023." The article explained the strain on the schools,

housing, medical, and other amenities/resources. Bettag explained that Kane County

has been recognized on a national level for it's pressing migrant issue. She stated that

these illegal immigrants have been responsible for murdering numerous United States

citizens, everyday. Kane County schools are receiving one to two new students daily.

Bettag spoke on the FOIAs sent to Madam Chairman's office requesting all

communications to/from Chicago. She stated that this issue has been ongoing for a

long time. Bettag asked when Madam Chairman Pierog would protect Kane County

citizens.

Silvia Schrage, Elgin, announced she was running for the Kane County Board. She

stated she was present at today's meeting to tell a story of how she tried to patronize

an Elgin business when ordering name badges. She explained that this particular

business, Anderson Engraving, had been in Elgin for 67 years, but in January 2024,

they had to close their business and move to Kingston, Illinois. Schrage recalled all of

the work this business had done for Kane County, such as trophies and badges for

public schools. The owner had no choice, but to move his business out of Kane County

because he could not afford it. Schrage recalled one positive thing out of this. She

stated thanks to the fuel tax increase not being approved, he still offers free delivery.

Even though, this business owner was driven out of Kane County, he still seeks to

serve the citizens. Scharge quoted President Reagan, "Almost all the world's

constitutions are documents in which governments tell the people what their privileges

are. Our constitution is a document in which We, the People, tell the government what

it is allowed to do." However, back in the 1960's, it seems as if this was beginning to

reverse the order of this system, through more rules, regulations, and taxes. The

government continues to take more of the citizens' money, more options, and more

freedoms.

Monthly Financials (K. Hopkinson)

Monthly Finance Reports

Committee Member Gumz requested that the Legislative Update be moved up

after the Monthly Financial Reports and the Public Information Officer Report.

Chairman Pierog accepted this request.

Fin. Exec. Dir. Hopkinson stated the monthly financial reports were on file. She

announced that the 2023 Audit has been completed. She reported that the

County's General Fund's balance has dropped by $11M from FY2022 to

FY2023. A large portion of the $11M is the increase in operating expenses and

the purchase of the new election equipment. Hopkinson explained that the

$17.5M voucher that the County will be receiving from the Illinois Department of

Commerce and Economic Opportunity has been issued, and the County is

awaiting it's arrival of the check. The Finance Department has been working with

the County's Bond Counsel, Financial Advisor, and the Treasurer's Office to

prepare all the necessary information for the closing. Hopkinson explained that

the County Board will not need to take any action due to an ordinace that was

passed in February 2024. She stated that when this money is received, along

with any interest that has been in some of the County's Longmeadow Bond

Construction Funds, will be put into escrow. Once this is completed, the Kane

County Division of Transportation (KDOT) will no longer have to make debt

service payments or principle and interest payments. Hopkinson explained that

there will be a second installment awarded to the County of $12.5M for the

Longmeadow Parkway project some time next year. The County will need these

additional dollars to fully pay off the debt accrued with the project. Hopkinson

addressed questions and comments from the Committee.

Hopkinson explained that the County cannot call the debt, which means when

debt is issued, a promise is made to the bond holders that they will receive

interest payments for a certain amount of time. Since this cannot happen, the

bond holders cannot be paid their full principle amount until 2028. In the

meantime, the $17.5M will be given to the County's trustee, Zion Bank, and they

will be responsible for making the principle and interest payments to the bond

holders until the call date in 2028. Hopkinson hopes that by then, the County will

have the additional $12.5M to fully pay off the bond holders. She added that

while the trustee has this money, they will be investing it in order to earn interest.

Madam Chairman Pierog explained that this money that is being awarded to the

County will save tax payers approximately $50M. Hopkinson added that KDOT

will also save RTA Sales Tax Revenue due to not being responsible for the

principle and interest payments.

Hopkinson highlighted that there has been legislation introduced that will impact

the County. On January 1, 2026, the state-wide 1% grocery tax will be

eliminated. Currently, the County receives a portion of this state sales tax.

Hopkinson explained that the Illinois Department of Revenue is unable to

provide an estimate on the financial impact this tax elimination will have on

counties. She shared a presentation on the Allocation of State Sales Tax

Collections. She provided a Sales Tax Allocation Example. Currently, retailers

collect an 8% discount amount for collecting the sales tax on behalf of the state.

Once the tax is eliminated, retailers will collect a fixed amount of up to $1K per

month, which could minimize the overall amount retailers receive from the state.

Hopkinson spoke on the elimination of the grocery sales tax during the Covid-19

Pandemic. While looking into how this affected the County, she found that it

essentially stayed stable and had no large financial impact.

Additionally, Hopkinson spoke on the 2023 Actual Interest Earned. Last year,

the County collected $18,763,019 in interest. Historically, the County has

distributed interest earned funding across the majority of it's funds. Hopkinson

reviewed the allocation of the interest earned cash across the County's

departments/offices. She noted that KDOT receives the most at about $7M. The

County's General Fund received approximately $3.6M. Hopkinson spoke on the

resolution regarding the authorization of issuance of a Request for Proposals

(RFP) for a countywide strategic plan that was included in today's packet. Also

included in today's agenda packet is a resolution regarding the cost of transition

audits. A County's statute states that if any changes occur within a department

head and/or elected official position, the County must conduct a transition audit

of the previous head/elected official. Hopkinson stated that transition audits have

not been conducted in several departments/offices. She explained that a quote

was requested from the County's audit firm on how much transition audits would

cost. This is up for the Committee's vote today. Lastly, Hopkinson announced

that on Monday, July 1, 2024, an RFP was issued for annual audit services. The

County just concluded their five-year contract with the last audit firm. The County

is seeking a one-year contract with a four-year option.

Hopkinson addressed the FY2025 budget schedule. She stated that the County

will proceed with the budget calendar as presented. All County

Departments/Offices will present their proposed budgets to their home

committees throughout the month of July. Hopkinson stated that the Finance

Department has created standard reports within the accounting software that all

departments/office can utilize. The Finance Department has recommended that

each department/office include the two standardized reports within their budget

presentations that will show Budget to Actual Trend Information and detailed line

items on what each will include in their FY2025 budget. Lastly, the Finance

Department has asked all departments/offices to submit their final budget

changes on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. She noted that no more changes would be

accepted after this date. This will allow the Finance Department to finalize the

FY2025 Budget.

PIO Update (J. Mann)

PIO Mann provided an update on the activities of her office. She thanked all County

Board Members and staff who participated in the Swedish Days Parade. She stated

that there are upcoming parades in Algonquin, Montgomery, and Sugar Grove that

volunteers are needed to participate in. She asked everyone interested to contact her

directly. Mann announced that the American Red Cross was pleased with the last Kane

County Government Blood Drive. They anticipated to collect about 22 units of blood,

but was able to collect 29, which could save a potential of 87 lives. Kane County

Government will host additional blood drives in August, September, and October. Mann

announced that the Illinois Tollway will be at the Government Center on September 17,

2024, and the Illinois Secretary of State will be present on September 13, 2024. She

stated that community outreach continues through the County's FaceBook page and

Kane County Connects, such as a poll asking residents for their favorite ice cream

flavor. Mann explained that she has begun a new initiative of developing an internal

Kane County Government newsletter. The newsletter will be for County

departments/offices to share events, accolades, and/or items of importance. Mann

hopes to have the first issue available on August 1, 2024. Lastly, Mann has continued

to work on the grand opening event of Longmeadow Parkway in September 2024.

Chairman Pierog commended the internal newsletter in order to keep employees

informed.

Chairman Pierog moved to the Legislative Update.

10.

Old Business

Review of the 2006 Strategic Plan (R. Fahnestock)

ITD/BLD Exec. Dir. Fahnestock mentioned that in today's agenda, the Committee will

vote on a resolution that will authorize the issuance of a request for proposals for a

Countywide Strategic Plan. He presented the review of Kane County's 2006 Strategic

Plan. He reviewed the timeline of the Strategic Plan process. The plan was initiated in

2005. The final adoption date of the plan was November 14, 2006. Fahnestock shared

a chart depicting the participants that helped develop the Strategic Plan. He spoke on

the 7-Phase Strategic Planning Methodology: Initiate Project, Envision Future, Assess

Environment, Prioritize Issues, Formulate Strategies, Determine Financing, and

Finalize Strategic Plan. Fahnestock reviewed the participation process. There were 49

interviews conducted with County Board Members, Elected Officials, Department

Heads, Strategic Plan Steering Committee Members, and the public. The interviews

ensured diverse input and comprehensive understanding of the County's needs,

concerns, and strengths. Fahnestock reviewed the Sub-Working Groups Key

Initiatives, such as Operation and Organizational Structure, Capital and Facilities,

Resources, and Growth and Development. He spoke on the Retreat and Detailed

Planning Session. This session was held on June 2, 2006. During the retreat,

participants engaged with in-depth discussions and collaborative planning to refine the

strategic objectives and formulate actionable strategies. As a result, Kane County

adopted the Strategic Plan on November 14, 2006 with implementation considerations

of action plans, resource requirements, and timelines. The key successes of this plan

was innovative strategies, enhanced communication, and comprehensive planning.

Fahnestock reviewed the Key Plan Accomplishments as of 2012. The

accomplishments included increased transparency and accountability as well as

improved financial health, capital investments, community initiatives, public safety

initiatives, and Riverboat Grant Program. Fahnestock stated that the purpose of the

developing a Countywide Strategic Plan is to guide the County on making decisions

that would affect the County and the agreed upon vision. The County utilized this 2006

study and the wisdom of the Board to guide the County through the mentioned

projects. Fahnestock spoke on the benefits other surrounding counties have had with

having a strategic plan that is continually revisited. He stated that developing a

strategic plan will benefit the County departments, elected official offices, and the

County Board as they guide staff through their decision-making process and execution.

It will also create a platform for the County Board to communicate with elected officials

about the County's strategy and visions. Fahnestock addressed questions and

comments from the Committee. Much discussion ensued.

Madam Chairman Pierog spoke on investing in the County's communities. She

explained that the public will be a part of developing a Countywide Strategic Plan. She

spoke on the proposed revisions to Kane County Code, Section 2-47(A) and (B). She

asked the Committee for their input on increasing the public comment to 45 minutes

from 30 minutes. She added that properly submitted written statements would be

included within the agenda packets for review. The time increase will heighten the

number of speakers from about 11 to 15. The Committee provided consensus on

increasing the public comment allotted time from 30 minutes to 45 minutes.

Additionally, Pierog stated that this Committee will be voting upon a revision to the

Kane County financial policies related to travel expenses of Board Members. Currently,

the Board has a State statute and a County code that tells them that a financial

reimbursement would be approved, as long as proper documentation is submitted.

Pierog noted that there is not a policy in place that would evaluate appropriate travel

expenses to be paid by taxpayers' money. She noted that this type of policy is currently

being worked on. She added that up until this point, the County Board/Auditor's Office

can only evaluate a personal expense voucher once proper documentation is

submitted.

11.

12.

New Business

None.

Preliminary County Board Agenda:

------------------------------------------------ CONSENT AGENDA ------------------------------------------------

Finance

Authorizing Revision to the Kane County Financial Policies Related to Travel

Committee Member Berman asked the Committee if there were any resolutions

they would like to remove from the consent agenda. Committee Member Surges

removed items 20 through 22.

Berman motioned to move resolutions one through 19 forward, Tepe seconded.

Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

Authorizing External Audits Pursuant to the County Auditing Law 55 ILCS

5/6-31005 and Related Budget Transfer

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing the Issuance of a Request for Proposals for a Countywide Strategic

Plan

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing a Contract for Kane County Building Management Professional

Carpet Cleaning Services with Tiles in Style DBA TAZA (BID# 24-034-KK)

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Janitorial Services for Kane County Facilities with Eco Clean

Maintenance, Inc. (BID# 24-038-TS)

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing a Contract Extension for Kane County Pest Control Services with

Chem-Wise Pest Management (BID# 36-020)

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing a 24-Month Agreement with Vetro, Inc. for Vetro Fibermap Operator

Enterprise for the Kane County Information Technologies Department

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing a Security System Service Contract for the Juvenile Justice Center

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Execution of Memorandum of Agreement Between County of Kane,

Kane County Sheriff, and Policeman’s Benevolent Labor Committee (Kane

County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Unit)

10.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Additional Funds from FY2024 Budget for Kane County Annual Roof

Inspection, Repair, and Replacement Services with Weatherguard Roofing

Company (BID# 23-054)

11.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Additional Funds from FY2024 Budget for Mill Creek SSA Brush

Pick-Up Services with Trees "R" Us (BID# 02-020)

12.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Additional Funds from FY2024 Mill Creek SSA Budget for Kane

County Mill Creek SSA Engineering Firm Services with Hampton, Lenzini and

Renwick, Inc. (HLR) (RFP# 23-016)

13.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Approving the Purchase of a Replacement Vehicle for the Kane County Sheriff’s

Office

14.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing the Purchase of Juvenile Justice Center Vehicle Cameras

County Board

15.

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Blue Cross/Blue Shield and Cigna as Kane County’s Group Health

and Dental Benefit Provider for 2025

16.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Approving the 2025 Monthly Health and Dental Contributions

County Board

17.

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Updated Capital Projects from the Capital Fund

County Board

18.

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Authorizing Creation of Ogden Gardens No. 2 Special Service Area Fund #5316

County Board

19.

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Vern Tepe

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Approving County Board Personal Expense Voucher Reimbursement Request

20.

Chairman Pierog recused herself from the following three votes. Committee

Ex-Officio Tepe lead the conversation and votes for these three items.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Mavis Bates

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Clifford Surges

Ron Ford

NAY:

ABSENT:

Approving County Board Personal Expense Voucher Reimbursement Request

County Board

21.

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Jarett Sanchez

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Clifford Surges

Ron Ford

NAY:

ABSENT:

Approving County Board Personal Expense Voucher Reimbursement Request

22.

Committee Member Surges explained that he has had conversations to try to

understand and establish some rules and/or governance between when the

County Board would approve mileage reimbursements versus not approving

them. He spoke on different events/meetings that County Board Members have

the option to attend and if those types of travel are appropriate for

reimbursement. He would like to have guidelines in place to equip the Board

with these decisions on whether to approve a PEV, or not. Discussion ensued.

Committee Ex-Officio Tepe was in agreement with Surges on the County having

established guidelines associated with PEVs. He believes that the County Board

should have a policy in place addressing larger expenditures. Tepe relinquished

the Chairman position back to Chairman Pierog. Discussion ensued on the

development of a Travel Reimbursement Policy.

County Board

RESULT:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Michelle Gumz

TO:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Clifford Surges

Ron Ford

NAY:

ABSENT:

Human Services

Approving the 2025 Holiday Schedule for Kane County Offices

County Board

RESULT:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Clifford Surges

Dale Berman

TO:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Transportation

Approving Adopt-A-Highway Applicants

Committee Member Davoust motioned to move the following three resolutions

forward, Surges seconded. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

County Board

RESULT:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Mark Davoust

Clifford Surges

TO:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Approving a Contract for Construction with Precision Pavement Markings, Inc. of

Pingree Grove, Illinois for 2024 Kane County Urethane Pavement Marking

Program, Kane County Section No. 24-00000-04-GM

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Mark Davoust

Clifford Surges

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Approving a Supplemental Appropriation for Plank Road Highway Safety

Improvement Project from Engel Road to Waughon Road, Kane County Section

No. 19-00524-00-SP

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Mark Davoust

Clifford Surges

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Mark Davoust,

Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Michael Linder, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl

Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

AYE:

Ron Ford

ABSENT:

------------------------------------------END OF CONSENT AGENDA ------------------------------------------

Chairman Pierog asked the Committee to move items two, three, and four forward

before the discussion on item one began. The Committee obliged. (Committee Member

Davoust left at 10:53 a.m.)

Amending Section 2-47(A) (Order of Business) and Section 2-47(B) (Rules of

Order) of the Kane County Code

Much discussion ensued. Committee Members voiced their opinions on the

proposed public comment time limit and order of business.

Committee Member Linder motioned to amend Exhibit A, Section 16C, to state,

"A person who has provided proper notice of their intent to speak at a scheduled

meeting will be allowed not more than three (3) minutes to address the county

board. Unless extended by a majority vote of the board members present, the

total time for public comment at a scheduled meeting shall be limited to forty-five

(45) minutes." Committee Member Bates seconded this amendment. Much

discussion ensued. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote. (Committee

Member Linder left at 11:08 a.m.)

ASA Frank summarized that all speakers would be limited to three minutes to

speak with a total time frame for public comment of 45 minutes. Speakers that

want to speak off and/or on agenda will now have the same allotted three

minutes to address the Board.

Committee Member Sanchez motioned to amend Exhibit A, Section 16C, to

include, "Unless extended by the Chairperson of the County Board, a Chair of a

Committee, or a majority vote of the board members present, the total time for

public comment at a scheduled meeting shall be limited to forty-five (45)

minutes." Committee Member Strathmann seconded. Discussion ensued.

Motion failed by 5-6 roll call vote.

Further discussion ensued on the efficiency of scheduled meetings and agenda

structure.

Committee Member Sanchez motioned to amend Section C: Agendas. He would

like a fourth provision to be added that would state, "Committee meeting

agendas shall be approved by the respective committee chairperson(s) after

receiving submissions from departments and elected offices, any item requested

by the committee through discussion and/or consensus, and any items

forwarded from a previous committee." Committee Member Allan seconded.

Discussion ensued. Motion passed 7-5 vote.

County Board

RESULT:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Dale Berman

Chris Kious

TO:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Corinne M. Pierog, Deborah Allan, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis,

Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, and Cherryl Strathmann

AYE:

Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Michelle Gumz, Michael Kenyon,

Clifford Surges, and Vern Tepe

NAY:

Mark Davoust, Ron Ford, and Michael Linder

ABSENT:

Authorizing Appointment of Election Judges

Committee Member Sanchez introduced this resolution. Sanchez addressed

questions and comments from the Committee.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Jarett Sanchez

Clifford Surges

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Michelle Gumz,

Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis, Michael Linder, Myrna

Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and

Vern Tepe

AYE:

Mark Davoust, and Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Appointment of Member of the Board of Review (Timothy J. Sullivan, MAI, SRA)

SOA Armstrong provided further information on this resolution. The following two

resolutions were motioned to be approved together by Sanchez, seconded by

Berman. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.

County Board

RESULT:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Jarett Sanchez

Dale Berman

TO:

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Michelle Gumz,

Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis, Michael Linder, Myrna

Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and

Vern Tepe

AYE:

Mark Davoust, and Ron Ford

ABSENT:

Appointing Additional Members to the Board of Review

SOA Armstrong provided additional information on this resolution.

County Board

RESULT:

TO:

MOVED FORWARD BY ROLL CALL VOTE

County Board

Jarett Sanchez

Dale Berman

MOVER:

SECONDER:

Deborah Allan, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Michelle Gumz,

Michael Kenyon, Chris Kious, Anita Lewis, Michael Linder, Myrna

Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Cherryl Strathmann, Clifford Surges, and

Vern Tepe

AYE:

Mark Davoust, and Ron Ford

ABSENT:

13.

14.

Executive Session (If Needed)

None.

Committee Reports

Madam Chairman's Comments

None.

Legislative Update

McGuireWoods Vice President, Greg Bales, provided a Legislative Update. In

Springfield, they did pass a budget that projects $53.2B in revenue with a planned

spend of $53.074B, which will create a $200M surplus. This budget includes a couple

new revenue proposals, including taxes on video games. One of the main bills that was

passed in favor for Kane County was SB3173, which is legislation that authorizes

permission for local units of government to lease fiber or broadband infrastructure.

Bales stated that they were able to successfully negotiate with the telecom, cable

association stakeholders, and the farm bureau about property rights concerns. He was

pleased to work with Senator DeWitte and other sponsors that stepped up from the

County's delegation in support of this. He noted that Governor Pritzker has this bill on

his desk and has 60 days upon passage to sign it. He anticipates this bill being signed

by the Governor this summer. Additionally, McGuireWoods worked on legislation

regarding property issues. This legislation has been placed on an agreed upon list in

the Senate, which means everyone within the chamber agrees upon and votes yes.

Bales noted that there is only one "no" vote. At the end of the session, a road block

was hit for this piece of legislation. Bales hopes to resusitate this legislation over the

summer and fall and maybe pick it back up in the Veto Session. He spoke on the

potential revenue that the Fiber Bill could provide the County. In Washington,

McGuireWoods worked with County staff on the FY2025 Federal Appropriation

Process. In working with staff, there were five projects selected: $475K chosen by

Congressman Krishnamoorthi for technology and equipment updates for the State's

Attorney's Office, $2.6M from Congressman Foster for the Coroner's Office forensic lab

project, and $200K from Senator Duckworth for emergency radio upgrades for the

Department of Transportation. Bales stated that Senator Durbin echoed Foster's

request for the Coroner's Office forensic lab within the Senate. Additionally, Senator

Durbin submitted $1.8M for roadway improvements at Randall Road and Illinois Route

72. Bales was pleased to see these five Kane County projects picked. He noted that

projects being picked is the most important hurdle that any federal request faces. He

reported that they are waiting for the 12 appropriation bills to be released that include

the mentioned projects. The Senate is supposed to take on appropriation bills after the

Fourth of July holiday break. Bales stated there will be "speed bumps" along the way,

such as contention in the House called Policy Riders within the budget bills. He

suspects that the Senate will have a bipartisan package coming out. After these are

passed, they will need to be reconciled. Therefore, as an election year, Congress may

see continued resolutions on the budget passed in November. McGuireWoods will

continue to work with County departments/offices on items. They are pleased with the

progress they have made for the County, so far. Chairman Pierog congratulated the

Legislative Committee and those who worked on these items. Bales and KDOT Deputy

Dir. Rickert addressed questions and comments from the Committee. Discussion

ensued.

Chairman Pierog moved back to Old Business.