Kankakee County public meetings in 2025

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will review the 2025 Final Equalization Reports and consider State Exemption Applications. The meeting also includes a public comment period, discussion of any new or old business, and the adjournment of the 2025 session with opening of the 2026 session.

• Public Comment
• Review of 2025 Final Equalization Reports
• Adjournment of 2025 Board of Review Session and Opening of 2026 Session
• State Exemption Applications
• New Business

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review monthly financial reports from the Auditor and Treasurer, discuss cash flow, and consider amending fees and architectural service contracts. The committee will also authorize an intergovernmental agreement for animal and rabies control and adopt a new chapter of the county code regarding animals.

• Approval of November 2025 financial reports
• Amending Resolution 2025-12-09-213 Fees
• Amending Resolution 2025-09-09-168 Courthouse Architectural Services
• Authorizing execution of IGA for Animal & Rabies Control
• Adopting Chapter 10-Animals of the Kankakee County Code of Ordinance

Regional Planning Commission

The Regional Planning Commission will approve the minutes from the March 20 and September 3, 2025 meetings. It will hold Workshop #2 of the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan. The agenda notes that public comment remains limited to a total of 15 minutes.

• Approve minutes from March 20, 2025 meeting
• Approve minutes from September 3, 2025 meeting
• Conduct Workshop #2 of the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan
• Public comment time limit remains 15 minutes

Executive Committee

The committee will approve the November 19, 2025 minutes and hear monthly updates from the Health Department, Schools, Veterans Assistance Commission, County Administration, and Community Services. It will make several appointments and reappointments to local drainage districts and the Will‑Kankakee Regional Development Authority. The meeting also announces openings on the Kankakee Housing Authority, Farmland Assessment Review Committee, Regional Planning Commission, and several drainage districts.

• Reappointment of Jaeson Munyon to the Momence‑Pembroke Drainage District No 1
• Appointment of Brian Janssen to the Raymond Drainage District No 1
• Appointment of Eric Cavender to the Will‑Kankakee Regional Development Authority
• One opening on the Kankakee Housing Authority board
• Two openings on the Farmland Assessment Review Committee

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will open with a public comment period. It will consider state exemption applications and conduct hearings for 2025 appeals. The meeting will also include discussion of new and old business before adjourning.

• Public Comment
• State Exemption Applications
• 2025 Appeals – Hearings (see attached list)
• New Business
• Old Business

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The Highways, Waterways & Buildings Committee will consider resolutions to authorize the County Board Chairman to sign agreements for federal and state participation in two bridge replacement projects. The committee will also review a public bid opening for a Veterans Assistance Commission office remodel.

• Resolution for Bridge Replacement on County Highway 13 over Pike Creek
• Resolution for Bridge Replacement on County Highway 14 over Trim Creek
• Public Bid Opening for Veterans Assistance Commission Office Remodel Project
• Kankakee County Waterways Advisory Subcommittee Update
• Facility Dude Report

The committee accepted the lowest and most qualified bid ($88,438) for the Veterans Assistance Commission Office remodel, with a 13‑aye, 0‑nay vote. It also approved the county engineer pay estimates (13‑aye, 0‑nay) and passed two bridge‑replacement resolutions by voice vote. The Waterways Advisory Subcommittee’s river access agreement was accepted by voice vote, and the subcommittee was given permission to continue work on its other recommendations. An emergency purchase of a snow‑plow truck costing $47,542 was authorized.

• Accepted lowest bid ($88,438) for Veterans Assistance Commission Office remodel (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved county engineer pay estimates (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution for Bridge Replacement on County Highway 14 over Trim Creek (voice vote)
• Approved resolution for Bridge Replacement on County Highway 13 over Pike Creek (voice vote)
• Accepted River Access Agreement recommendation (voice vote)
• Granted Waterways Subcommittee permission to pursue Working Team Development and Mitigation recommendations (no vote recorded)
• Authorized emergency purchase of snow‑plow truck ($47,542) (no vote recorded)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The Kankakee County Animal Welfare Advisory Committee will review updates from Animal Control and consider several items related to the county shelter. Topics include a discussion of a shelter meeting led by Jamie and Kari, ideas for a memorial wall fundraiser, cooperative initiatives for the shelter community, and planning the committee’s focus for 2026. The meeting will also approve the November 12, 2025 minutes and set the agenda for the next meeting.

• Discussion for a shelter meeting – Jamie and Kari
• Memorial wall fundraising ideas
• Cooperative initiatives for the County’s Shelter Community
• Focus and direction for the AWAC – planning for 2026
• Approval of minutes – November 12, 2025

Criminal Justice Committee

The Kankakee County Criminal Justice Committee will meet on December 10, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. to receive monthly updates and reports from several criminal‑justice offices. Items include a Grand Jury Report and statistics, as well as updates from the chief judge, circuit clerk, state’s attorney, public defender, probation, sheriff/EMA, animal control, and coroner. The agenda consists of informational reports and a new/old business item, with no formal actions listed.

• Grand Jury Report (State’s Attorney’s Office – Jim Rowe)
• Grand Jury Statistics Report (State’s Attorney’s Office – Jim Rowe)
• Monthly update from Chief Judge Thomas Cunnington
• Monthly reports from Sheriff/EMA Department – Mike Downey
• Monthly reports from Animal Control – Kari Laird

The committee approved the November 12, 2025 minutes. It approved the judicial, circuit clerk, state attorney, public defender, probation, sheriff, animal control, and coroner reports, each by voice vote. Judge William Dickenson was appointed as the new Chief Judge effective Dec. 31, 2025. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 am.

• Approved November 12, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved departmental reports (judicial, circuit clerk, state attorney, public defender, probation, sheriff, animal control, coroner) (voice vote)
• Appointed Judge William Dickenson as new Chief Judge (effective Dec. 31 2025)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:17 am (voice vote)

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will hold hearings for 2025 property assessment appeals, reviewing complaints from various property owners regarding over-assessed valuations.

• Public comment period scheduled
• Hearings for 2025-000119 to 2025-000346
• Over-assessed complaints for residential and commercial parcels
• Hearings for 2025-000084 to 2025-000153
• Hearings for 2025-000172 and 2025-338

County Board

The Kankakee County Board will consider a range of items, including reappointments to committees, code amendments affecting occupancy taxes and fees, vehicle purchases, and two agricultural rezoning cases. It will also review the 2025 tax levy request and approve funding for the County Engineer’s salary. A key decision is authorizing the Chairman to sign a collective bargaining agreement with International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705 for maintenance workers.

• Authorize Chairman to sign collective bargaining agreement with International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705 (maintenance) (item 222)
• Amend Chapter 50, Article III, Section 50-66 – Hotel and Motel Operators’ Occupancy Tax (item 212)
• Amend Chapter 18, Section 18-1, Chapter 2 – Fees (item 213)
• Purchase of a 2026 Chevrolet 4500 Regular Cab 4x2 Cab and Chassis to replace a 2006 Ford F450 (item 215)
• Rezoning from A-1 Agriculture to A-2 Agricultural Estate in Section 07 of Limestone Township (ZBA Case #25-08) (item 219)

The board approved the October 2025 claims and department reports, adopted a consent agenda covering multiple reappointments, purchases, and code amendments, and approved two rezoning resolutions. It also approved the Tax Year 2025 levy request and authorized the chairman to sign a collective bargaining agreement with International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved October 2025 claims – 24 ayes, 0 nays
• Approved department reports – voice vote
• Approved consent agenda items (reappointments, purchases, code amendments, Vision Zero support) – 24 ayes, 0 nays
• Approved rezoning from A‑1 to A‑2 in Limestone Township (ZBA Case #25‑08) – voice vote
• Approved rezoning from A‑1 to A‑2 in Summer Township (ZBA Case #25‑09) – voice vote
• Approved Tax Year 2025 levy request (221) – 24 ayes, 0 nays
• Authorized chairman to sign collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 705 (222) – 24 ayes, 0 nays

Waterways Advisory Subcommittee

The subcommittee will review updates on the Aroma Park Dredging Project and the Map and Signage Project. Members will also discuss a river access agreement and a partnership development working team.

• Aroma Park Dredging Project
• River Access Agreement
• Map and Signage Project update
• Kankakee & Yellow River Basin Development Commission updates
• Illinois Conservation Police update

The subcommittee approved the minutes from the October 3, 2025 meeting. It adopted a revised river access agreement to be presented to the Waterway Committee. It recommended allowing subcommittee members to volunteer for tasks delegated by the Waterway Committee. It also approved a recommendation to prepare for ice jams and spring flooding and adopted the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Approved minutes of October 3, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended revised river access agreement to Waterway Committee (unanimous)
• Recommended allowing subcommittee members to volunteer for Waterway Committee‑delegated tasks (unanimous)
• Recommended preparation for ice jams and spring flooding (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Subcommittee meeting schedule (unanimous)

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will meet to hear appeals and consider state exemption applications. The meeting is scheduled for December 2, 2025, at the County Administration Building.

• Public comment period
• Hearings for 2025 property tax appeals
• State exemption applications
• New and old business
• Adjournment

Board of Review

The Board of Review will hold a public comment period, consider state exemption applications, and conduct hearings on 2025 appeals. Additional agenda items include new business and old business.

• Public Comment
• State Exemption Applications
• 2025 Appeals – Hearings
• New Business
• Old Business

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review financial reports, including a short‑term rental tax presentation and the 2025 levy request. It will consider an amendment to County Code Chapter 18, Section 18‑1 concerning fee structures. An executive session will address authorizing the board chair to sign a collective bargaining agreement with International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705.

• Short‑Term Rental Tax presentation
• Tax Year 2025 Levy Request
• Amendment to County Code Chapter 18, Section 18‑1 – Fee Structures
• Executive session to authorize collective bargaining agreement with IBT Local 705
• Monthly Claims – October 2025 (Auditor)

The committee approved adding short‑term rental properties to County Code section 50‑66, allowing a 5% tax similar to hotels and projecting about $30,000 in annual revenue (12‑1). It also approved the October 2025 monthly claims, the Treasurer and Collector reports, and the Tax Year 2025 levy request, each passing with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes. Members voted 13‑0 to amend fee structures in County Code Chapter 18, raising paper copy, marriage, and liquor license fees. The committee entered two executive sessions on pending litigation and collective bargaining matters and authorized the board chairman to sign a collective bargaining agreement with International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 705 (each 12‑0).

• Add short‑term rentals to county code section 50‑66 (12 ayes, 1 nay)
• Approve October 2025 monthly claims (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approve Treasurer and Collector reports (voice vote)
• Approve Tax Year 2025 levy request (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Amend fee structures in County Code Chapter 18 (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Enter executive session for pending litigation (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Enter executive session for collective bargaining matter (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorize chairman to sign collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 705 (12 ayes, 0 nays)

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will approve the October 22, 2025 minutes and receive monthly updates from Information Services, the Health Department, schools, the Veterans Assistance Commission, the County Administrator, and Community Services. It will appoint individuals to the Zoning Board of Appeals, GIS Committee, Regional Land Bank Authority, and County Housing Authority, and announce openings on several drainage districts and commissions. The committee will also consider a proposed amendment to the Recorder’s Statute concerning fraud and the referral process.

• Appointment of Michael Dauphin to the Zoning Board of Appeals
• Appointment of Angela Morrey to the Geographic Information System (GIS) Committee
• Opening on the Regional Planning Commission
• Opening on the Kankakee County Housing Authority (Tenant)
• Amending the Recorder’s Statute regarding the Recorder’s fraud and referral process

The committee approved the amendment to the Recorder’s Statute with a roll‑call vote of 12 ayes and 0 nays. Minutes from the October 22, 2025 meeting were approved by voice vote. Several departmental reports were accepted and filed by voice vote. All listed appointments and reappointments to various boards and committees were approved by voice vote.

• Approved amendment to the Recorder’s Statute (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved October 22, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Accepted County Assessor’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Accepted County Clerk’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Accepted Recorder’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved appointment of Michael Dauphin to the Zoning Board of Appeals (voice vote)
• Approved multiple GIS Committee appointments and reappointments (voice vote)
• Approved appointment of Felicia Riley to the Kankakee County Housing Authority as a Tenant (voice vote)

Planning, Zoning & Agriculture

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee will review two requests to change land use from A1 Agriculture to A2 Agricultural Estate. The body will also discuss the Stormwater/MS4 Program and a proposed resolution for the Vision Zero Action Plan.

• ZBA Case #25-08: Rezoning 4054 N 6500 W Rd from A1 Agriculture to A2 Agricultural Estate
• ZBA Case #25-09: Rezoning 9673 E 6000 N Rd from A1 Agriculture to A2 Agricultural Estate
• Vision Zero Action Plan proposed resolution
• Stormwater/MS4 Program discussion

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review meeting on November 18, 2025 will include public comment, review of state exemption applications, and hearings on numerous 2025 assessment appeals. Over‑assessed and stipulation appeals for properties such as Phillips Roberta (docket 2025‑000032) and Long Joanne A. Halpin (dockets 2025‑000033, 2025‑000034) are scheduled. The board will also address any new and old business items before adjourning.

• Public Comment
• State Exemption Applications
• Over‑Assessed appeal – Phillips Roberta (docket 2025‑000032)
• Stipulation appeal – Long Joanne A. Halpin (docket 2025‑000033)
• New Business

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee will meet to review biddings, lettings, and pay estimates. The body is considering resolutions for two new Chevrolet chassis vehicles and the appropriation of funds for the County Engineer’s salary.

• Purchase of a 2026 Chevrolet 4500 Regular Cab 4x2 cab and chassis
• Purchase of a 2026 Chevrolet 6500 Regular Cab 4x4 cab and chassis
• Resolution Appropriating Funds for the Payment of the County Engineer’s Salary
• Aroma Park Sediment Management Project Update
• Kankakee County Waterways Advisory Subcommittee Update

The Highways, Waterways & Buildings Committee approved the October 16, 2025 minutes, the county engineer’s pay estimates, and appropriated funds for the engineer’s salary. It also approved the purchase of a 2026 Chevrolet 4500 Regular Cab 4x2 and a 2026 Chevrolet 6500 Regular Cab 4x4 to replace older vehicles. All motions passed unanimously with roll‑call votes of 10 ayes and 0 nays. The committee combined and approved the facility, financial, and building reports.

• Approved October 16, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved county engineer pay estimates (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Appropriated funds for county engineer’s salary (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved purchase of 2026 Chevrolet 4500 Regular Cab 4x2 (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved purchase of 2026 Chevrolet 6500 Regular Cab 4x4 (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Combined & approved facility, financial, and building reports (voice vote)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The committee will receive updates from Animal Control Director Kari Laird. Members will discuss fundraising ideas for the Kankakee County Animal Control, including a memorial wall, and cooperative initiatives for the shelter community.

• Fundraising ideas for Kankakee County Animal Control, including a memorial wall
• Discussion regarding a shelter meeting between Jamie and Kari
• Cooperative initiatives for the County’s Shelter Community
• Determination of focus and direction for the AWAC

Criminal Justice Committee

The committee will receive monthly updates and reports from the Chief Judge, Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff/EMA, Animal Control, and Coroner's Office. The State's Attorney will present Grand Jury reports and statistics.

• Grand Jury Report and Statistics Report from State’s Attorney Jim Rowe
• Monthly reports from the Sheriff/EMA Department
• Monthly reports from the Public Defender’s Office
• Monthly receipts of money from the Coroner’s Office

The Criminal Justice Committee approved the October 15 minutes and the monthly reports from the Circuit Clerk, State Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff, Animal Control, and Coroner offices. All approvals were passed by voice vote. The committee then adjourned the meeting at 8:18 a.m.

• Approved October 15 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Circuit Clerk monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved State Attorney reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Animal Control monthly report (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:18 a.m. (voice vote)

County Board

The County Board will discuss the combined annual budget and appropriation ordinance for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The meeting includes several appointments, resignations, and the disposal of surplus equipment.

• Combined Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for 2025-2026 Fiscal Year
• Amendment to County Code regarding Health Department Food Service Establishment Licenses and Fees
• Resolution for the Illinois Housing Development Authority’s Strong Communities Program for 15 LandBank properties
• Authorization to hire Smith, Koelling, Dykstra and Ohm, P.C. for FY2025 financial audit
• Renewal agreement with Alliant Insurance for liability, auto, inland marine, cyber, and worker's compensation

The Kankakee County Board approved the combined annual budget and appropriation ordinance for fiscal year 2025‑2026. It also approved a 3.3% renewal increase for Alliant Insurance coverage and hired an external firm to audit the FY 2025 financial statements. Additional approvals included health spending account contributions, a health department licensing amendment, and acceptance of an Illinois Housing Development Authority program.

• Approved Combined Annual Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for FY 2025‑2026 (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved renewal of Alliant Insurance policies with 3.3% increase (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved hiring of Smith, Koelling, Dykstra and Ohm to audit FY 2025 financial statements (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved Health Spending Account contributions (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved amendment to Health Department Food Service Establishment Licenses and Fees (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved acceptance of Illinois Housing Development Authority Strong Communities Program Round 2 (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved claims for September 2025 (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Appointed Steven Taden to fill County Board District #21 vacancy (21 ayes, 0 nays)

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will hear public comments, consider state exemption applications, and conduct first reviews of 2025 appeal cases. The meeting also includes new and old business items before adjournment.

• Public Comment
• State Exemption Applications
• 2025 Appeals – First Reviews
• New Business
• Old Business

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will hold a public comment period, consider state exemption applications, adopt the final list of 2024 certificates of error, conduct first reviews of 2025 appeals, and hold hearings on 2025 appeals as listed in the agenda. The meeting is scheduled for 8:30 AM at the County Administration Building, First Floor Conference Room.

• Public comment period
• State exemption applications
• Final list of 2024 certificates of error
• First reviews of 2025 over‑assessed appeals
• Hearings on 2025 over‑assessed appeals (see attached list)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kankakee County Zoning Board of Appeals will review two rezoning requests. One request seeks to change the classification of 4054 N 6500 W Rd from A1 Agriculture to A2 Agricultural Estate, filed by AB Wendling LLC and Brent and Anita Wendling. The second request seeks the same classification change for 9673 E 6000 N Rd, filed by Natson II LLC and applicant Chance Marcotte. Both items will be considered during the public hearing portion of the meeting.

• Rezoning of 4054 N 6500 W Rd, Kankakee, IL from A1 Agriculture to A2 Agricultural Estate (Petition by AB Wendling LLC/Brent and Anita Wendling)
• Rezoning of 9673 E 6000 N Rd, Grant Park, IL from A1 Agriculture to A2 Agricultural Estate (Petition by Natson II LLC and applicant Chance Marcotte)

Board of Review

The Board of Review is meeting to review state exemption applications and certificates of error. The body will conduct first reviews and hearings for 2025 property tax appeals.

• Hearings for 2025 appeals including docket 2025-000001 (BRUER JEFFERY S & LORI A)
• Hearings for 2025 appeals including docket 2025-000004 (GREEN MARY)
• Stipulation hearings for 2025 appeals including docket 2025-000005 (HARPIN DANIEL & BONNIE)
• Stipulation hearings for 2025 appeals including docket 2025-000006 (GIANCARLO, PETER A & JOHNSEN, DA)
• State Exemption Applications review

Finance Committee

The Kankakee County Finance Committee will consider authorizing the County Board Chairman to sign a renewal agreement for the county's liability, inland marine, workers' compensation, and cyber insurance. The committee will also approve the September 18, 2025 meeting minutes and review monthly audit and treasury reports for September 2025. Additional items include a cash flow update, FY26 budget discussion, and approval of the 2026 county‑funded HSA benefit.

• Authorize signing agreement to renew liability/inland marine/WC/cyber insurance package
• Approve minutes from the September 18, 2025 meeting
• Auditor Colton Ekhoff presents September 2025 monthly claims
• Treasurer Nick Africano presents September 2025 Treasurer and Collector reports
• Approve 2026 Kankakee County funded HSA benefit

The committee approved the county’s liability, inland marine, workers’ comp and cyber insurance renewal with a 3.3% cost increase. It also adopted the FY26 balanced budget, the September 2025 monthly claims, the audit engagement letter for the SKDO, and the 2026 employee HSA benefit funding. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved liability/inland marine/WC/cyber insurance renewal (3.3% increase) – 11 ayes, 0 nays
• Approved September 2025 monthly claims – 11 ayes, 0 nays
• Approved combined Treasurer and Collector reports for September 2025 – voice vote
• Approved SKDO audit engagement letter for FY25 ($102,000) – 11 ayes, 0 nays
• Approved FY26 balanced budget – 11 ayes, 0 nays
• Approved 2026 county‑funded HSA benefit ($500 single, $1,000 family) – 11 ayes, 0 nays

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will review and discuss the September 17 minutes, receive monthly updates from multiple departments, and consider a proposed fee increase for the Environmental Health Food Ordinance. It will also handle appointments, resignations, and numerous board openings. No final decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Approval of September 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Proposed fee increase for the Environmental Health Food Ordinance
• Appointment of Jim Schopf Jr to the Kankakee Waterways Advisory Subcommittee
• Resignation of Matthew Olszewski from the Kankakee Regional Land Bank Authority
• Openings on the Regional Planning Commission, GIS Committee, and several drainage districts

The committee voted 11 ayes to 0 to approve the proposed fee increase for the Environmental Health Food Ordinance. It also approved disposal of surplus IT equipment, and approved the appointment of Jim Schopf Jr. to the Waterways Advisory Subcommittee along with two resignations. Several departmental reports were accepted and filed.

• Approved fee increase for Environmental Health Food Ordinance (11 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved disposal of surplus IT equipment (voice vote)
• Approved appointment of Jim Schopf Jr. to Kankakee Waterways Advisory Subcommittee (voice vote)
• Approved resignation of Matthew Olszewski from Kankakee Regional Land Bank Authority (voice vote)
• Approved resignation of Brian Porter from Zoning Board of Appeals (voice vote)
• Accepted Health Department report and filed it (voice vote)
• Accepted County Assessor’s monthly report and filed it (voice vote)
• Accepted County Clerk’s monthly report and filed it (voice vote)

Planning, Zoning & Agriculture

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee will review the Building Report for August and September 2025 and discuss the Stormwater/MS4 program. It will consider the Recycle Coach initiative, an overview of HB 4120 (4116) and SB25, and the Strong Communities Program Round 2 land bank. The committee will note the resignation of Brian Porter from the Zoning Board and announce an opening on the Zoning Board of Appeals.

• Building Report: August & September 2025
• Stormwater/MS4 Program Discussion
• Recycle Coach initiative
• Overview of HB 4120 (4116) & SB25
• One opening on the Zoning Board of Appeals

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee voted 9-0 to approve using Land Bank grant funds for the Strong Communities Program Round 2. Earlier, the committee approved the August and September building reports by voice vote and combined them into a single report, also by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved August and September building reports (voice vote)
• Combined and approved building reports (voice vote)
• Approved access to Strong Communities Program grant funds (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Board of Review

The Kankakee County Board of Review will hear public comment, review state exemption applications, and consider certificates of error. It will also conduct first reviews of 2025 appeals and address any new or old business items before adjourning.

• Public Comment
• State Exemption Applications
• Certificates of Error
• First Reviews of 2025 Appeals
• New Business

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee will meet to review biddings, lettings, and engineer pay estimates. The body will discuss additional IDOT funding for specific infrastructure projects and receive updates on waterways and building facilities.

• CH 23 (Guertin Street) Reconstruction in St. Anne: $3,000,000
• CH 14 Bridge over Trim Creek: $320,000
• CH 13 Bridge over Pike Creek: $250,000
• Aroma Park Sediment Management Project update
• Kankakee County Waterways Advisory Subcommittee update

The committee adopted the September 11, 2025 minutes by voice vote. It approved the County Engineer pay estimates, waiving the reading, with a 13‑aye, 0‑nay roll call. The Facility Dude, financial and building reports were combined and approved by voice vote. The meeting was then adjourned by voice vote.

• Approved September 11, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved County Engineer pay estimates, waived reading (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved Facility Dude, financial and building reports (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Criminal Justice Committee

The Kankakee County Criminal Justice Committee will meet on Oct. 15, 2025 at 7:30 a.m. in the 4th Floor Board Room, 189 East Court Street. The committee will receive monthly updates and reports from the Chief Judge, Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff/EMA, Animal Control, and Coroner’s offices. The meeting will also include a public comment period and consideration of new or old business items.

• Judicial – Chief Judge Thomas Cunnington: Monthly Update
• Circuit Clerk’s Office – Sandi Cianci: Monthly Reports
• State’s Attorney’s Office – Jim Rowe: Grand Jury Report and Statistics
• Public Defender’s Office – Ed Pentuic: Monthly Reports
• Sheriff/EMA Department – Mike Downey: Monthly Report

The Criminal Justice Committee approved the September 10, 2025 minutes and approved the monthly reports from the Sheriff, Coroner, State Attorney, Probation, and Animal Control departments. The committee also approved a state grant for a Mental Health Court and the disposal of surplus equipment. All motions passed by voice vote.

• Approved September 10, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff Downey monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved combined Coroner Gessner report (voice vote)
• Approved combined State Attorney Rowe reports (voice vote)
• Approved state grant for Mental Health Court (voice vote)
• Approved Probation report (voice vote)
• Approved Animal Control report (voice vote)
• Approved disposal of surplus equipment (voice vote)

Board of Review

The Board of Review will meet to process state exemption applications and certificates of error. The body will also conduct first reviews of 2025 appeals.

• State Exemption Applications
• Certificates of Error
• 2025 Appeals – First Reviews

County Board

The County Board will consider agreements for employee medical and dental insurance and the continued funding of an employee assistance program. The board is also deciding on several commission reappointments and the appointment of Nathan J Benoit to District #28.

• Insurance agreements with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois and Delta Dental
• Funding for Allone Health Employee Assistance Program
• Amendment to Animal Control Ordinance Section 18-1, Chapter 10
• Appointment of Nathan J Benoit to District #28 of the Kankakee County Board
• Disposal of surplus equipment for the Sheriff’s and Maintenance Departments

The County Board filled the District 28 vacancy by appointing Nathan J. Benoit with a 22‑0 vote. It approved the August 2025 claims and the consent agenda unanimously. The board also authorized medical and dental insurance agreements, continued funding for Allone Health, amended the Animal Control Ordinance, and approved the State Attorney’s Appellate Prosecutor Program for FY2026.

• Appointed Nathan J. Benoit to County Board District 28 (22‑0)
• Approved August 2025 claims (23‑0)
• Combined and approved consent agenda items (23‑0)
• Authorized Blue Cross Blue Shield medical insurance agreement (22‑0)
• Authorized Delta Dental dental insurance agreement (22‑0)
• Approved Allone Health as Employee Assistance Program carrier (22‑0)
• Amended Animal Control Ordinance §18‑1, Chapter 10 (22‑0)
• Approved State Attorney’s Appellate Prosecutor Program FY2026 (22‑0)

GIS Committee

The GIS Committee will approve the minutes from the July 11, 2025 meeting. It will receive updates on several ongoing projects, including the 2025 Orthophotography Project, GIS Server upgrades, a Planimetric Data update, and the ArcGIS Parcel Fabric migration. The committee will also consider new member appointments and set dates for future meetings.

• 2025 Orthophotography Project
• GIS Server Upgrades
• Planimetric Data Update
• ArcGIS Parcel Fabric Migration
• Member Appointments

The GIS Committee could not approve the previous meeting's minutes because a quorum was not present. No formal actions on project updates or appointments were taken; those items were noted for future meetings. The meeting was adjourned after a motion and second.

• Minutes not approved (no quorum)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Waterways Advisory Subcommittee

The Waterways Advisory Subcommittee will review updates on the Aroma Park Dredging Project and the Kankakee & Yellow River Basin Development Commission. It will also hear the Illinois Conservation Police and Map and Signage Project updates. Additional items include an All Hazards (Code Red) discussion, potential funding solutions, and plans for future meetings.

• Aroma Park Dredging Project
• Kankakee & Yellow River Basin Development Commission Updates
• Illinois Conservation Police Update
• Map and Signage Project Update
• All Hazards (Code Red) Discussion

The subcommittee approved the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting. They decided to keep the bi‑monthly meeting start time at 8:30 a.m. Members unanimously approved a recommendation to pursue sustained funding for mitigation, restoration, and long‑term resilience of the Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers. The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 a.m.

• Approved August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Retained bi‑monthly meeting start time at 8:30 a.m.
• Approved recommendation to pursue sustained funding for Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:10 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Review

The Board of Review will meet to address property tax matters. The agenda includes reviewing state exemption applications and certificates of error.

• State Exemption Applications
• Certificates of Error
• 2025 Appeals – First Reviews

County Transportation Committee

The Kankakee County Transportation Committee will meet on September 30, 2025 to approve the minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting. It will discuss the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement (CVP) Program, receive an HSTP Coordinator update, and review agency transportation needs, accessibility issues, and provider status reports. The agenda also includes public comment, media questions, and scheduling of the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from the July 29, 2025 meeting
• Discuss the Consolidated Vehicle Procurement (CVP) Program
• HSTP Coordinator update
• Review agency transportation needs and accessibility issues (METRO, SHOW BUS)
• Update on program status of transportation providers (SHOW BUS rural, METRO urban)

Board of Review

The Board of Review will meet to discuss property tax matters. The body is scheduled to review state exemption applications, certificates of error, and 2025 appeals.

• State Exemption Applications
• Certificates of Error
• New Property Requests
• 2025 Appeals – First Reviews

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will discuss renewing the county’s medical and dental insurance policies and continuing the Employee Assistance Program. Members will also consider a proposal to increase the animal‑control fee. Additional items include monthly claims, treasurer and collector reports, and a cash‑flow update.

• Renewal of Kankakee County Medical Insurance
• Renewal of Kankakee County Dental Insurance
• Continuation of Kankakee County EAP Plan
• Proposal for Fee Increase – Animal Control
• Monthly Claims – August 2025

The committee approved remote attendance for two members, adopted the August 21, 2025 minutes, and approved the renewal of county medical and dental insurance. It also approved continuation of the Emergency Assistance Plan, an animal‑control fee increase, August claims, and combined treasurer and collector reports. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved remote attendance for Mr. Hunter and Ms. Polk via Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved August 21, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved renewal of county medical and dental insurance (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved continuation of the current Emergency Assistance Plan (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved animal‑control fee increase proposal (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved August 2025 monthly claims (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved combined County Treasurer’s Report, Collector’s Report, and September resolutions (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:41 a.m. (voice vote)

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee will review several commission reappointments and new appointments. The body will also discuss the 2026 holiday schedule and a resolution supporting HB 2341.

• Reappointments to the Merit Commission, Historic Preservation Commission, Animal Welfare Advisory Committee, Kankakee River Conservancy District, and Exline Creek Drainage District
• Appointment of Kevin Sullivan to the Historic Preservation Commission
• Resolution to Support HB 2341
• Establishing the Holidays for 2026
• Discussion of Website ADA Compliance Standards

The Executive Committee approved the 2026 holiday schedule and a resolution backing HB 2341, which provides additional state money for county health and well‑being programs. The committee also approved a slate of reappointments and new appointments to various commissions. All motions were carried by voice vote.

• Allowed Mr. Carrico to attend via Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved August 20, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Accepted and filed departmental reports (voice vote)
• Approved reappointments and appointments to commissions (voice vote)
• Approved 2026 holiday schedule (voice vote)
• Approved resolution supporting HB 2341 (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:01 a.m. (voice vote)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Kankakee County Historic Preservation Commission will meet to consider landmark designations and a Certificate of Appropriateness. Items include the B. Harley Bradley House and Lorenzo and Hazel Smith House as potential landmarks, and the Foerster House Certificate of Appropriateness. The commission will also receive reports on an intergovernmental agreement for the Village of St. Anne, the county courthouse, and an update on the 2023 CLG grant. No final actions are recorded in the agenda.

• Review of B. Harley Bradley House landmark status
• Review of Lorenzo and Hazel Smith House landmark status
• Certificate of Appropriateness for Foerster House
• Report on Intergovernmental Agreement for Village of St. Anne
• Update on 2023 CLG Grant

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The Highways, Waterways & Buildings Committee will review biddings and lettings, discuss the County Engineer’s pay estimates, and consider resolutions. It will receive updates on the Aroma Park Sediment Management Project and the Waterways Advisory Subcommittee. The committee will also hear building reports and items proposed to be declared surplus.

• Review of biddings & lettings
• County Engineer’s pay estimates discussion
• Aroma Park Sediment Management Project update
• Kankakee County Waterways Advisory Subcommittee update
• Building reports and items to be declared surplus

The committee approved the County Engineer pay estimates by a roll‑call vote of 11 ayes and 0 nays. It also approved the August 14, 2025 meeting minutes and combined several building reports. Chairs were declared surplus for sale, and Ms. Parker was permitted to attend via Zoom. The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 a.m.

• Allowed Ms. Parker to attend via Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved August 14, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved County Engineer pay estimates (11 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved Facility Dude, financial, and building reports (voice vote)
• Declared chairs surplus for sale (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:15 a.m. (voice vote)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee will review updates from Animal Control and discuss a shelter meeting led by Jamie and Kari. Members will consider fundraising ideas, including a memorial wall, and cooperative initiatives for the county shelter community. The committee will also address the focus and direction of the AWAC, review old business, and set the agenda for the next meeting.

• Discussion for a shelter meeting – Jamie and Kari
• Fundraising ideas, including a memorial wall
• Cooperative initiatives for the County’s Shelter Community
• Updates from Animal Control (Kari Laird)
• Agenda discussion for the next meeting

The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee unanimously approved the August 13, 2025 meeting minutes. Members agreed to negotiate the sale of the former shelter location with the identified purchaser. The discussion of a November open‑house at the County Administration Building was tabled. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Agreed to negotiate sale of former shelter location
• Tabled discussion of November 12 open‑house meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Criminal Justice Committee

The Criminal Justice Committee will hear monthly updates from the county’s judicial, circuit clerk, state’s attorney, public defender, probation, sheriff/EMA, animal control, and coroner offices. It will consider the animal control department’s proposal to raise its service fees. The committee will also review items the sheriff/EMA department recommends declaring surplus. The meeting includes public comment and approval of the August 13, 2025 minutes.

• Animal Control – proposal for fee increase
• Sheriff/EMA Department – items to be declared surplus
• State’s Attorney’s Office – Grand Jury Report
• Approval of minutes from August 13, 2025
• Monthly reports from Judicial, Circuit Clerk, Public Defender, Probation, and Coroner offices

The committee approved the August 13, 2025 minutes and approved monthly reports from the Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, and Sheriff/EMA departments, each by voice vote. It also approved the declaration of surplus sheriff vehicles. The animal control fee‑increase proposal was moved to the Finance Committee for further consideration. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 a.m.

• Approved August 13, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Circuit Clerk’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved State’s Attorney’s Grand Jury reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff/EMA monthly reports (voice vote)
• Approved declaration of surplus sheriff vehicles (voice vote)
• Moved animal control fee‑increase proposal to Finance Committee (voice vote)

County Board

The Kankakee County Board will discuss architectural services for the courthouse remodel and engineering for a bridge replacement on County Highway 14. The board is also reviewing several zoning requests and the sale of county property at 1270 Stanford Drive.

• Agreement with Cole Jarvis for architectural services for the Kankakee County Courthouse remodel
• Professional services agreement with Hampton, Lenzini & Renwick, Inc. for bridge replacement on County Highway 14 in Momence Township
• Sale of county property located at 1270 Stanford Drive, Kankakee, Illinois
• Rezoning from R1-Residential to C2-General Commercial in Section 12 of Bourbonnais Township
• Contract renewals with Paylocity for benefits, timekeeping, and third-party administration services

The Kankakee County Board filled two board vacancies, approved multiple reappointments, and adopted several resolutions including a bridge design contract, Paylocity service contracts, a courthouse remodel architect, and the sale of County land at 1270 Stanford Drive. All motions passed unanimously (25‑0) or by voice vote. The meeting also recorded openings on various commissions and a board member resignation.

• Approved appointment of Roger Koerner Jr (District 10) and Kenneth Lewellen (District 14), 25‑0
• Approved reappointments and new appointments on drainage districts and Board of Health, 25‑0
• Approved bridge design services contract for County Highway 14, 25‑0
• Approved Paylocity contract renewal for benefits & timekeeping and COBRA/FSA/HSA services, 25‑0
• Approved architect agreement with Cole Jarvis for courthouse remodel, 25‑0
• Approved sale of County property at 1270 Stanford Drive, 25‑0
• Approved extension of broker services agreement with Nugent Curtis Real Estate, LLC, 25‑0
• Declared vacancy in Board District 28, voice vote

Board of Review

The Board of Review will meet to discuss state exemption applications and certificates of error. The board is scheduled to approve the 2025 Board of Review Rules and Procedures.

• Approval of 2025 Board of Review Rules and Procedures
• State Exemption Applications
• Certificates of Error

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee approved the minutes from June 18, 2025, and the July 2025 monthly claims. It also approved the Treasurer’s and Finance Department reports. The committee authorized the County Board Chairman to sign an agreement with Cole Jarvis for architectural services on the courthouse remodel, limited to $250,000. All motions were carried with unanimous votes where recorded.

• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved July 2025 monthly claims (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved Treasurer’s and Collector’s reports for July 2025 (voice vote)
• Approved Finance Department reports (voice vote)
• Authorized County Board Chairman to sign architect agreement for courthouse remodel, not to exceed $250,000 (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Allowed Mr. Hunter and Ms. Polk to attend via Zoom (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:17 a.m. (voice vote)

Executive Committee

The committee approved the renewal of the Paylocity contract and its COBRA/FSA/HRA TPA service proposal by a roll‑call vote of 11 ayes and 0 nays. It also approved an amendment to County Code Section 2-62 to update committee listings. Additional actions included approving Zoom attendance for two members, accepting several monthly reports, and confirming numerous appointments and reappointments.

• Approved Paylocity contract renewal and COBRA/FSA/HRA proposal (11 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved amendment to County Code Section 2-62 (voice vote)
• Approved Zoom attendance for Mr. Hunter and Ms. Munday (voice vote)
• Approved minutes from July 16, 2025 (voice vote)
• Accepted Health Department report (voice vote)
• Accepted Veterans Assistance Commission report (voice vote)
• Approved appointments and reappointments for multiple drainage districts and commissions (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:07 a.m. (voice vote)

Planning, Zoning & Agriculture

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee will review three specific land-use petitions in Bourbonnais and Bonfield. The body will also discuss the Zoning Ordinance and the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan.

• ZBA Case #25-05: Variance for lot width reduction at 6374C N 4150 Rd W, Bourbonnais
• ZBA Case #25-06: Rezoning from R1 Single-Family Residential to C2 General Commercial at 4084 N 1000 W Rd, Bourbonnais
• ZBA Case #25-07: Rezoning from A1 Agriculture to RE Rural Estate at 5869 W 2000 N Rd, Bonfield
• Stormwater/MS4 Program discussion
• Introduction of the Comprehensive Safety Action Plan

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee approved the June 17 minutes and the combined June‑July building reports. It also approved a lot‑width variance and three rezoning applications, all by voice vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 17, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved combined June and July building reports (voice vote)
• Approved variance at 6374C N 4150 Rd W, Bourbonnais (voice vote)
• Approved rezoning at 4084 N 1000 W Rd, Bourbonnais (voice vote)
• Approved rezoning at 5869 W 2000 N Rd, Bonfield (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:46 a.m. (voice vote)

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The committee approved the County Engineer pay estimates by a 10‑aye, 0‑nay roll‑call vote. It also approved a professional services agreement supplement with Hampton, Lenzini & Renwick, Inc. for additional bridge‑design work costing $6,000, also by a 10‑aye, 0‑nay roll‑call vote. Building and facilities reports were combined and approved by voice vote, and the meeting was adjourned at 9:41 a.m.

• Approved County Engineer pay estimates (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved $6,000 bridge design supplement for CH 14 (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved minutes from July 10, 2025 meeting (voice vote)
• Approved Zoom attendance for Ms. Amber Turner (voice vote)
• Approved combined building, facility, and financial reports (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:41 a.m. (voice vote)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The committee will receive updates from Animal Control Director Kari Laird. Members will discuss a potential public meeting at the County Administration Building in September and ways to support Kankakee County Animal Control through fundraising.

• Discussion of a public meeting at the County Administration Building in September
• Fundraising and support ideas for Kankakee County Animal Control (KCAC)
• Cooperative initiatives for the County’s Shelter Community
• Determination of focus and direction for the AWAC

Criminal Justice Committee

The committee will receive monthly updates and reports from various county justice agencies. This includes reports from the Chief Judge, Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff/EMA, Animal Control, and Coroner’s Office.

• Grand Jury Report and Statistics Report from State’s Attorney Jim Rowe
• Monthly receipts of money from Coroner Bob Gessner
• Monthly reports from Sheriff/EMA Department, Animal Control, and Probation

The Criminal Justice Committee approved the July 9 minutes and a series of monthly reports from the Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff/EMA, and Coroner offices. It also approved a motion to let a member attend the meeting by Zoom. The meeting was adjourned after these actions.

• Allowed Mr. Hunter to attend by Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved July 9, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Circuit Clerk’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Combined and approved State’s Attorney’s Grand Jury reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff/EMA monthly report (voice vote)
• Combined and approved Coroner’s monthly reports and receipts (voice vote)

County Board

The board approved the consent agenda, reappointing several drainage district members and appointing new members to various boards. It also approved bridge replacement agreements for County Highway 13 over Pike Creek and County Highway 14 over Trim Creek, each by a 20‑aye vote. Additional actions included authorizing a real‑estate sale agreement, setting the State’s Attorney and Public Defender salaries, disposing surplus equipment, and declaring a vacancy on the Board.

• Approved consent agenda with reappointments and new appointments (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved bridge replacement on County Highway 13 over Pike Creek (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved bridge replacement on County Highway 14 over Trim Creek (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized real‑estate sale agreement and price amendment (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Set State’s Attorney annual salary (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Set Public Defender annual salary (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved disposal of surplus equipment for State’s Attorney’s Office (voice vote)
• Declared vacancy in District 14 of the County Board (voice vote)

Waterways Advisory Subcommittee

The Waterways Advisory Subcommittee reviewed updates on education, safety, and restoration projects, and discussed upcoming tasks such as project identification and funding research. No formal approvals, denials, or votes on policy items were recorded. The meeting was adjourned by a motion that received unanimous support.

• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously (all members present in favor)

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee approved the June 2025 auditor claims with a 12‑aye, 0‑nay roll‑call vote. It also combined and approved multiple appointments and reappointments, and accepted the Treasurer’s June reports and the meeting minutes. All motions passed by voice vote except the auditor claim approval, which was recorded as a roll‑call vote.

• Approved June 2025 auditor claims (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Combined and approved all listed appointments and reappointments (voice vote)
• Combined and approved Treasurer’s June 2025 reports (voice vote)
• Approved June 18, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Allowed Mr. Hunter to attend via Zoom (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:58 a.m. (voice vote)

GIS Committee

The GIS Committee approved the combined minutes from the January 10 and April 11, 2025 meetings. The motion was made by Mr. Kerkstra, seconded by Mr. Heiden, and passed unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 10:32 A.M. after a motion by Ms. Gadbois was seconded by Mr. Long.

• Approved combined minutes from Jan 10 and Apr 11, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:32 A.M. (motion carried)

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The committee approved the meeting minutes and the county engineer pay estimates. It adopted two resolutions authorizing the County Board Chairman to sign federal agreements and appropriate bridge funds for replacements on County Highway 13 over Pike Creek and County Highway 14 over Trim Creek. The committee also combined and approved the building reports and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved county engineer pay estimates (14 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution for Bridge Replacement on County Highway 13 over Pike Creek (14 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution for Bridge Replacement on County Highway 14 over Trim Creek (14 ayes, 0 nays)
• Combined and approved building reports (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the June 11, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. The meeting was adjourned at 4:09 p.m. with a unanimous voice vote. The proposed paver project for a memory wall was kept tabled pending further planning.

• Approved June 11, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:09 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)
• Paver project for memory wall remains tabled (no vote recorded)

Criminal Justice Committee

The committee voted to allow Mr. Hunter to join the meeting by Zoom. It approved the June 11 minutes and the monthly reports from the Circuit Clerk, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff/EMA, and Animal Control departments. The meeting was adjourned at 8:17 a.m.

• Allowed Mr. Hunter to attend by Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved June 11, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Circuit Clerk’s Office reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender’s Office report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff/EMA Department monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Animal Control monthly report (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:17 a.m. (voice vote)

County Board

The board authorized two agreements for capital improvements at the Kankakee County Courthouse and approved the purchase of a hovercraft for fire districts. It also modified a state housing grant, approved May 2025 claims, and adopted the consent agenda. Additionally, a vacancy was declared for District #10 and remote attendance was allowed for a member.

• Approved remote attendance for Mr. Hunter (voice vote)
• Approved claims for May 2025 (21 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved consent agenda (21 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized agreement with Bear Construction for courthouse improvements (20 ayes, 1 nay)
• Authorized amendment of grant with Illinois Dept of Commerce for courthouse improvements (21 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized purchase of hovercraft with River Equipment Grant Fund (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Modified Illinois Housing Development Authority Strong Communities grant (20 ayes, 0 nays)
• Declared vacancy in District #10 of County Board (20 ayes, 0 nays)

Finance Committee

The committee approved the May 22, 2025 meeting minutes by voice vote. It approved the May 2025 monthly claims with a roll‑call vote of 10 ayes and 0 nays. The Treasurer’s and Collector’s May 2025 reports and the FY2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report were each combined and approved by voice vote. The meeting was adjourned at 10:11 a.m. by voice vote.

• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved May 2025 monthly claims (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Combined and approved Treasurer’s and Collector’s May 2025 reports (voice vote)
• Combined and approved FY2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:11 a.m. (voice vote)

Executive Committee

The committee combined and approved a list of reappointments, new appointments and one resignation with a voice vote. Motions to accept the May 21 minutes and several departmental monthly reports were also carried by voice vote. A motion allowing Mr. Fetherling to attend via Zoom was approved. The meeting was adjourned at 9:43 a.m.

• Approved combined appointments, reappointments and resignation (voice vote)
• Approved Zoom attendance for Mr. Fetherling (voice vote)
• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Accepted Health Department report (voice vote)
• Accepted County Assessor monthly report (voice vote)
• Accepted County Clerk monthly report (voice vote)
• Accepted Recorder monthly report (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:43 a.m. (voice vote)

Planning, Zoning & Agriculture

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee approved the Kankakee Regional Land Bank's request to use up to $20,000 of SCP Round 2 funds and recommended it to the full board. The committee also approved the April 15 minutes, the April and May building reports, and a motion to allow two members to attend via Zoom. The meeting was adjourned at 9:27 a.m.

• Approved April 15 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved April and May building reports (voice vote)
• Approved Zoom attendance for Ms. Munday and Mr. Fetherling (voice vote)
• Approved SCP Round 2 grant request up to $20,000, recommended to full board (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adjourned meeting (voice vote)

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The committee approved Bear Construction as the manager for the courthouse capital‑improvement project and authorized the $6 million state grant needed for the work. It also approved the purchase of a rescue boat for the Limestone Fire Protection District, set a highway honorary designation, and completed routine approvals such as the meeting minutes and pay estimates.

• Allowed Mr. Fetherling to attend via Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Bear Construction as courthouse construction manager (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved execution of $6 M grant agreement for courthouse improvements (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved County Engineer pay estimates (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Designated County Highway 2 as “Honorary George Washington Jr. Roadway” (voice vote)
• Approved purchase of Limestone Fire Protection District rescue boat up to $75,000 (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:36 a.m. (voice vote)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the April 9, 2025 meeting after correcting a spelling error, using a unanimous voice vote. No other motions were adopted; the remainder of the meeting consisted of updates, reports, and discussion of upcoming events and projects.

• Approved April 9, 2025 meeting minutes (voice vote, unanimous)

Criminal Justice Committee

The Criminal Justice Committee approved the May 14 minutes and allowed Mr. Hunter to attend via Zoom. It approved or combined and approved monthly reports from the judiciary, clerk, public defender, probation, sheriff/EMA, animal control, and coroner offices. The meeting was adjourned at 8:04 a.m.

• Allowed Mr. Hunter to attend by Zoom (voice vote)
• Approved May 14, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Combined and approved judicial and clerk reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff/EMA report (voice vote)
• Approved Animal Control report (voice vote)
• Combined and approved Coroner Office reports (voice vote)

County Board

The Kankakee County Board approved a series of resolutions covering claims payments, a consent agenda of reappointments, and several infrastructure and technology contracts. All motions passed with overwhelming support, most 22‑0 and one 21‑0. The board also removed a pending appointment resolution from the consent agenda with a 21‑1 vote.

• Approved claims for March and April 2025 (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved consent agenda reappointments and appointments (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Removed Michael Bossert appointment resolution from consent agenda (21 ayes, 1 nay)
• Authorized renewal of electric load aggregation agreement (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized resurfacing of County Highway 41 (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized bridge design agreement for County Highway 37 (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized county engineer’s salary agreement (22 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized new voter registration system software license (21 ayes, 0 nays)

Waterways Advisory Subcommittee

The subcommittee voted to approve the revised by‑laws governing the Waterways Advisory Subcommittee. It also approved a recommendation to create detailed mapping of the Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers, including safety signage and QR codes. Both motions were supported by all members present. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved revised subcommittee by‑laws (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to map Kankakee & Iroquois Rivers (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee adopted a six‑year electric aggregation contract with MC2 Energy, voting 10 ayes and 0 nays. It also approved the March and April 2025 monthly claims (9‑0) and combined the Treasurer’s and Collector’s reports for February‑April (voice vote). An amendment adding Fund 095 to ARPA Resolution 2024‑12‑10‑180 was adopted unanimously (10‑0). The minutes from March 20 and April 17 were approved by voice vote.

• Approved six‑year MC2 electric aggregation program (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved March & April 2025 monthly claims (9 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved combined Treasurer’s and Collector’s reports for Feb‑Apr 2025 (voice vote)
• Amended ARPA Resolution 2024‑12‑10‑180 to add Fund 095 (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved combined minutes from March 20 and April 17, 2025 (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:43 a.m. (voice vote)

Executive Committee

The committee approved an updated Kankakee County Expense/Travel Reimbursement policy, requiring claims to be submitted within 30 days. It also combined and approved a list of appointments, reappointments and resignations. Both actions were carried by voice vote.

• Approved updated Expense/Travel Reimbursement policy (voice vote)
• Combined and approved appointments, reappointments and resignations (voice vote)
• Approved minutes from April 16, 2025 (voice vote)
• Amended agenda to place Schools after minutes (voice vote)
• Amended agenda to place County Administrator after Legislative (voice vote)
• Accepted and filed Schools report (voice vote)
• Accepted and filed Health Department report (voice vote)
• Accepted and filed Veterans Assistance Commission report (voice vote)

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The committee accepted the lowest responsible bidder, Kankakee Valley Construction, for the County‑25‑00000‑03‑GM road project with a unanimous 12‑0 vote. It also approved the County Engineer’s pay estimates and three resolutions: matching funds for Highway 41 resurfacing, design funding for the Sugar Island Bridge replacement, and salary appropriation for the County Engineer. All votes were unanimous.

• Accepted lowest responsible bidder (KVCC) for County‑25‑00000‑03‑GM road contract (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved County Engineer pay estimates (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution for $139,000 county match to resurface Highway 41 (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution to sign engineering agreement and fund design of Sugar Island Bridge replacement (12 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution to appropriate funds for County Engineer’s salary (12 ayes, 0 nays)

Criminal Justice Committee

The Criminal Justice Committee approved a motion to let Ms. Munday attend the meeting by Zoom. It also approved the April 9 minutes and a series of departmental monthly reports, including those from the Circuit Clerk, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff/EMA, Animal Control, and Coroner offices. The committee approved the declaration of surplus vehicles and adjourned the meeting at 8:22 a.m.

• Approved Zoom attendance for Ms. Munday (voice vote)
• Approved April 9, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Circuit Clerk’s combined reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation’s monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff/EMA monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved declaration of surplus vehicles (voice vote)
• Approved Animal Control’s monthly report (voice vote)

County Board

The County Board approved remote attendance for a member and moved the Certificates of Appreciation to the top of the agenda. It adopted the consent agenda, which included 13 board and district appointments. The board also approved several resolutions, including a collective bargaining agreement with the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police, a road use agreement for the Essex Substation, zoning map amendments, a variance in Pembroke Township, and a motor‑vehicle lease with SHOWBUS. An executive session was entered to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved remote attendance for Mr. Fetherling (voice vote)
• Amended agenda to place Certificates of Appreciation first (voice vote)
• Approved consent agenda with 13 appointments (24 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved resolution authorizing Chairman to sign Essex Substation Road Use Agreement (voice vote)
• Approved amendment to collective bargaining agreement with Illinois FOP (24 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved ZBA variance for Pembroke Township lot width (voice vote)
• Approved motor vehicle lease with SHOWBUS for county transportation (24 ayes, 0 nays)
• Entered executive session on pending litigation (24 ayes, 0 nays)

Finance Committee

The Kankakee County Finance Committee met on April 17, 2025 but did not have a quorum because state law requires members to attend in person. Consequently, no votes or approvals were possible, including the March 20, 2025 minutes and the financial reports presented. All items were discussed but remained unacted upon.

• Approval of March 20, 2025 minutes not approved (no quorum)
• Monthly claims not voted on (no quorum)

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee approved a motion to let two members attend via Zoom and approved the March 19 minutes. It accepted departmental reports from Health, Veterans Assistance, Assessor, Clerk, and Recorder. The committee combined and approved a list of appointments, reappointments and one resignation for various district boards. All actions passed by voice vote.

• Approved Zoom attendance for Mr. Fetherling and Mr. Carrico (voice vote)
• Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Accepted Health Department report and filed it (voice vote)
• Accepted Veterans Assistance Commission report and filed it (voice vote)
• Accepted County Assessor’s monthly report and filed it (voice vote)
• Accepted County Clerk’s monthly report and filed it (voice vote)
• Accepted Recorder’s monthly report and filed it (voice vote)
• Approved appointments, reappointments and resignation listed (voice vote)

Planning, Zoning & Agriculture

The Planning, Zoning & Agriculture Committee approved the March 18 minutes, the March building report, a variance for Lynn III LLC, and the 2025 zoning map. It also accepted the Historic Preservation 2024 report and approved a lease amendment with SHOWBUS for a new 2024 bus and removal of buses 10 and 11. All motions passed by voice vote except the lease amendment, which passed 11‑0.

• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved March 2025 building report (voice vote)
• Approved ZBA variance 121-99.e for Lynn III LLC (voice vote)
• Adopted 2025 zoning map (voice vote)
• Accepted Historic Preservation 2024 report (voice vote)
• Approved SHOWBUS lease amendment adding new 2024 bus and removing buses 10 & 11 (11 ayes, 0 nays)

GIS Committee

The GIS Committee did not have a quorum to approve the January 10 minutes, so they were placed on the next agenda. Committee members received updates on the hydrographic survey, ortho image, GIS server upgrade, and sidewalk planimetric data projects. The committee was informed that the Kankakee County Board approved raising the GIS recording fee from $17 to $30, to be reviewed every two years. No votes or formal decisions were recorded by the committee.

Highways, Waterways, & Buildings Committee

The committee voted to amend Ordinance 2024-04-09-01, changing the Waterways Advisory Committee size from nine to ten members. The County Engineer pay estimates were approved by a roll‑call vote of 13 ayes and 0 nays. Several routine motions to combine and approve reports and minutes were carried by voice vote.

• Amended Ordinance 2024-04-09-01 to increase Waterways Advisory Committee members to ten (voice vote)
• Approved County Engineer pay estimates (13 ayes, 0 nays)
• Combined and approved meeting minutes (voice vote)
• Combined and waived reading of pay estimates (voice vote)
• Combined and approved reports (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:30 a.m. (voice vote)

Animal Welfare Advisory Committee

The Animal Welfare Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 12, 2025 meeting by voice vote after a motion from Dale Bush and a second from Susan Sheets. Members agreed to create a strategic communication plan, assigning Abby Smith to assist with the AWAC Facebook project and Carol Webber to locate local festivals for outreach. The committee will discuss a potential new board member with Administrator Kari Laird, with Abby Smith to provide an application form. The next meeting is scheduled for May 14, 2025 at the KCAC building.

• Approved March 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Abby Smith assigned to assist with AWAC Facebook project
• Carol Webber tasked to find list of local events and festivals for May meeting
• Members agreed to develop a strategic communication plan to improve public perception
• Abby Smith and/or Chairman Tinker Parker to discuss potential new board member with Administrator Kari Laird
• Abby Smith to provide a candidate application form for board consideration
• Scheduled next meeting for May 14, 2025 at KCAC building
• Adjourned at 4:30 p.m.

Criminal Justice Committee

The Criminal Justice Committee approved the March 12 minutes and a series of monthly departmental reports, including those from the Circuit Clerk, State’s Attorney, Public Defender, Probation, Sheriff, Animal Control, and Coroner offices. A motion was passed to let Ms. Munday participate via Zoom. The meeting was adjourned at 8:29 a.m.

• Approved Zoom attendance for Ms. Munday (voice vote)
• Approved March 12, 2025 minutes (voice vote)
• Approved Circuit Clerk monthly reports (voice vote)
• Combined and approved Grand Jury reports (voice vote)
• Approved Public Defender monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Probation monthly report (voice vote)
• Approved Sheriff/EMA monthly report (voice vote)
• Combined and approved Coroner reports (voice vote)

County Board

The board unanimously approved a collective bargaining agreement for Kankakee County corrections officers with the Fraternal Order of Police. It also adopted several rezoning changes, updated the fee schedule for the Recorder’s Office, and approved a digitization services contract. Additional actions included budget amendments and a service agreement with SHOWBUS for rural transportation. All motions passed by voice vote or a roll‑call vote of 25‑0.

• Approved collective bargaining agreement for corrections officers (25 ayes to 0 nays)
• Approved amendment to Predictable Fee Schedule for Recorder’s Office (25 ayes to 0 nays)
• Approved agreement with Docufree for digitization services (25 ayes to 0 nays)
• Approved amendments to 2023‑2024 annual budget and appropriation ordinance (25 ayes to 0 nays)
• Approved rezoning A1 Agricultural to I1 Light Industrial in Manteno Township (voice vote)
• Approved rezoning A1 Agricultural/RE Rural Estate to RE with horse‑setback variance in Otto Township (voice vote)
• Approved rezoning I1 Light Industrial to RE Rural Estate in Otto Township (voice vote)
• Approved purchase of service agreement with SHOWBUS for rural public transportation (25 ayes to 0 nays)

Waterways Advisory Subcommittee

The subcommittee voted to approve the amended by‑laws that add a new member to represent the Indiana Commission. It also approved a motion to create a mapping project for the Kankakee and Iroquois Rivers, including signage and QR codes. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved amended by‑laws adding new Indiana Commission representative (unanimously)
• Approved river‑mapping project for Kankakee & Iroquois Rivers (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimously)

Finance Committee

The committee unanimously approved the collective bargaining agreement for the FOP Corrections Officers contract covering Dec 1 2024‑Nov 30 2027. It also approved the monthly claims, FY2024 budget amendments, a recorder fee increase to $82, and a Docufree digitization agreement. All motions passed with roll‑call votes of 10 ayes and 0 nays, except a few items approved by voice vote.

• Approved FOP Corrections Officers contract (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved monthly claims (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved FY2024 General Fund & Special Fund budget amendments (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved recorder fee increase to $82 (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved Docufree agreement for record digitization (10 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved monthly resolutions for March 2025 (voice vote)
• Approved Treasury monthly resolutions (voice vote)