Board of Trustees
Regular MeetingFlossmoor, IL · February 16, 2026
Minutes
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
Village Clerk Porter took roll. There was a quorum.
PRESENT: Mayor Nelson and Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers.
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT:
Ann Novoa, Finance Director Carl Estelle, Chief of Police
Scott Bugner, Director of Bldg & Zoning Douglas Merkle, Deputy Chief of Police
John Brunke, Public Works Director Matt Bert, Asst Fire Chief
Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager Joe Miller, Village Attorney
Jonathan Bogue, Asst Village Manager Stephanie Wright, Community Engagement Manager
GENERAL STATEMENT/RULES OF ORDER (Announced by Mayor Nelson):
The meeting was streamed via Zoom. Mayor Nelson reviewed the public comment policy, which
is available on the Village website.
RECOGNITIONS AND APPOINTMENTS:
Agenda Item #1: A Proclamation Declaring February 2026 as Black History Month
Mayor Nelson read the Village of Flossmoor’s Proclamation for Black History Month and
discussed the Village’s focus on recognizing teachers for the proclamation this year. The following
teachers are amongst those nominated for recognition and present to accept the proclamation:
• Mr. Brian Stanley: Director of Workforce Empowerment Initiative Grant at Prairie State
College. Mr. Stanley is a coach with Flossmoor Baseball & Softball and also coaches
basketball with HF Park District.
• Ms. Cheryl Shackelford: A Middle School Social Science Teacher at Chicago Public
Schools with 33 years teaching experience. Ms. Schackelford serves as a Social Science
chair and Student Council sponsor and offers mini book talks with her students. She has
been a Flossmoor resident for 36 years.
• Ms. Danielle Brasfield: Lead Teacher, CICS Wrightwood Middle School with a 24-year
teaching history. Ms. Brasfield is a published author and provides consulting on self-
publishing, editing, formatting and support for aspiring authors through Antoinette Books
& Educational Consulting, LLC.
Page 1 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
• Mr. Ron Wright: 6th Grade Math Teacher at Parker Junior High School. Mr. Wright
coaches multiple sports. He is an author and public speaker who focuses on financial
literacy education and has been a Flossmoor resident for nearly 21 years.
For more information about each of these educators, please go to the Village’s website:
https://www.flossmoor.org/409/Flossmoor-Black-History-Month
Agenda Item #2: Consideration of an Appointment to the Green Commission
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve the appointment of Courtney Tillman to the Village
of Flossmoor’s Green Commission. Trustee Mustafa so moved, Trustee Daggett seconded. Mayor
Nelson provided information about Ms. Tillman’s professional background and community
involvement and asked the Board for any questions or concerns. The Board expressed their
appreciation to Ms. Tillman for her willingness to volunteer and be an active part in our
community. A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
PUBLIC PRESENT WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD:
a. Jackie Riffice: Provided information about her book club and invited all to attend the next
meeting.
UPDATE FROM FINANCE DIRECTOR, ANN NOVOA: Mayor Nelson, before moving to
the Consent Agenda, requested Ann Novoa, Finance Director, to provide an update on Cook
County’s property tax disbursements. Finance Director Novoa advised that the Village has not
received any disbursements since the last board meeting. Mayor Nelson reported that they have
met with many Cook County officials about this problem and Cook County’s promises have not
been kept. Mayor Nelson requested the Board to sign a letter on behalf of the Village to send to
Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners to address Cook
County’s failure to distribute all of the property tax payments. The Board expressed outrage and
frustration at Cook County’s breach of the public trust and willingness to put the Village in
financial peril and unanimously agreed to sign and send to Toni Preckwinkle the proposed letter.
Page 2 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
CONSENT AGENDA:
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve Consent Agenda Items #3-5. Trustee Lofton so
moved, Trustee Dorsey seconded. Mayor Nelson asked if there were any items on the Consent
Agenda that were requested to be removed for discussion, and there were none.
A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND BOARDS:
Mayor Nelson wished everyone a Happy Lunar New Year and reported that Flossmoor’s
Community Relations Commission, Flossmoor Public Library, and HF High School’s
Mandarin program hosted a successful Lunar New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 14,
2026, at Flossmoor Public Library. Mayor Nelson recognized Community Relations
Commissioner, Molly Deugaw, for the extra steps she took to sponsor a Korean performer/dancer,
and for providing red envelopes, containing two-dollar bills to the children who attended the
celebration that are meant to bring good luck in the upcoming year.
ACTION ITEMS:
Agenda Item #6: Consideration of an Ordinance of the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County,
Illinois, Approving a Development Agreement by and between the Village of Flossmoor and
OBE Studios, LLC
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve Agenda Item #6. Trustee Daggett so moved, Trustee
Lofton seconded. Village Manager Wachtel presented this Action Item. Village Manager Wachtel
advised that the Brewers were applying for a Small Business Administration loan and had
additional steps that needed to be completed for this application process. Village Attorney Kathi
Orr revised the necessary terms in the Village’s agreement with the Brewers so that the Brewers
could pursue their financing. The proposal for this action item continues to be in line with the
Village’s economic incentive policies. The Brewers appeared before the Board to answer any
questions. Mayor Nelson asked the Board if there were any questions and the Board continued to
express support and excitement about this development project.
Page 3 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees: Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
Mr. Brewer expressed his thanks and appreciation to the Village of Flossmoor for supporting his
proposed business development.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Agenda Item #7: Discussion of a Vehicle Use Fee in lieu of Vehicle Stickers
Mayor Nelson invited Finance Director Novoa to present this discussion item. Finance Director
Novoa gave a presentation about the decline in vehicle sticker revenue that has taken place over
the past few years. Historically, this was the largest license and permit revenue received by the
Village to support general fund costs. Director Novoa provided information about the reasons the
Village needed funds from the vehicle sticker program, the decline in vehicle sticker funds, the
community response to having to pay for vehicle stickers, enforcement policies for vehicle
stickers, and alternatives to the vehicle sticker program.
Director Novoa recommended that the Village replace the vehicle sticker program with a vehicle
use fee that is collected through the utility billing system, by way of the fee being added to a
monthly utility bill. Director Novoa explained that monthly utility billing will be implemented at
the beginning of the fiscal year.
Mayor Nelson discussed the Village’s past enforcement attempts for the vehicle sticker program
and requested the Board for any comments and questions. The Board had questions about the
different methods the Village has used to enforce the vehicle sticker program, how the fees would
be applied to multi-car households, and the difference in fees for residences and businesses and
the central business district. Trustee Dorsey requested that the Village consider concessions for
senior citizens and those on a fixed income. The Board agreed with Director Novoa’s
recommendations to have an ordinance drafted to add the vehicle sticker registration fees to utility
bills. Attorney Miller stated his office would work to have the ordinance drafted for the Board’s
consideration at an upcoming meeting March.
Page 4 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
Agenda Item #8: Presentation of the Strategic Plan Update (May 2025 - January 2026)
Village Manager Wachtel provided the Board with a nine-month update on the Village’s Strategic
Plan that was adopted for the period of 2022 through 2026. The strategic plan, including updates,
can be found on the Village’s website at:
https://www.flossmoor.org/534/Strategic-Plan-2022-2026
The following list discusses significant accomplishments noted under different areas of the report
for the Strategic Plan update.
#1 Finances and Services:
• Infrastructure grant of $1,000,000: MWRD Stormwater Partnership Program participation
for Phase 5 of the Flossmoor Road Viaduct Drainage Improvements Project.
• Grants awarded to the Police Department include:
o $41,330 IDOT grant to conduct trafficenforcement operations throughout the year.
Since receiving this grant, officers have made 765 vehicle stops and issued 833
citations.
o $10,000 ComEd Powering through Safe Community grant provided for the
purchase of flashing beacons to increase safety measures for students and
pedestrians to safely travel across crosswalks at four busy locations.
o $42,000 Illinois Attorney General’s Organized Retail Theft Crime grant to
purchase closed-circuit security cameras to be installed within our retail corridors.
• Awarded the GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for
the 47 consecutive year.
• Grant of $250,000.00 through Senator Harris for capital infrastructure that has been
tentatively designated for the Dartmouth bridge project.
• Implementation of new technology for service delivery that includes a new customer
service portal to make online payments.
Page 5 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
• A new Graphic Information Services (GIS) project to collect data about Village assets,
inventory, and operations and to share this information with staff, the Board, and the public.
The GIS program includes a tree inventory and sign inventory, and information about the
Village’s tree management system.
#2 Infrastructure & Housing:
Highlights include the following:
• Completed the FY26 MFT Street Resurfacing Project at a final cost of $589,971.94. This
project included the asphalt resurfacing of 1.46 miles of streets, and other ancillary
pavement patching, ADA sidewalk repairs, curb and gutter repairs, and restoration.
• Completed the FY26 MFT Pavement Crack Filling Program at a cost of $31,679.39. This
project included the pavement crack filling of 10 streets at a total distance of 3.99 miles.
• Completed the FY26 Sidewalk Replacement Program at a cost of $95,465.61. This project
included the replacement of approximately 330 sidewalk squares on Western Avenue
between Flossmoor Road and Vardon Lane and at other locations throughout the Village.
• Substantially completed the Downtown Streetscape Project at an estimated final cost of
$2,098,058. The project was offset by an IDOT ITEP grant in the amount of $1,184,456.
• Completed the Flossmoor Road Sanitary Sewer Relocation Project at a cost of
$422,423. This project included the relocation of the public 15-in. sanitary sewer that ran
under the Civic Center Building from the public alley to the west and out to Sterling
Avenue. The project relocated the sanitary sewer to run west down the alley and south
across the east side of the vacant land in a public utility easement, adjacent to 2609
Flossmoor Road, and out to Flossmoor Road.
• Completed Phase 3 of the Flossmoor Road Viaduct Drainage Improvements Project, which
included the construction of the large-scale 84-in. storm sewer on Lawrence Crescent from
the Heather Hill basin to Maryland Avenue. The cost of this phase was $1,758,536, which
was offset by $1.5 million in DCEO grants.
• Began the engineering for the Dartmouth Bike Bridge Replacement Project. This project
includes the replacement of the Dartmouth Bike Bridge, bike path on both sides of the
bridge, and the bank stabilization of Butterfield Creek. The estimated project cost is
$690,800. The project will be partially offset by an IEPA Section 319 grant in the amount
of $111,600, which is meant to cover a portion of the cost of the bank stabilization.
Page 6 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
• Featured in Crain’s Chicago Business for being one of the few Chicagoland locations that
had a significant increase in home values in 2025. Flossmoor home values rose on
average 12% last year.
• Utilizing full authority to enforce compliance with the Village’s adjudication program for
enforcement of ordinances for property maintenance, the timeline for the remediation
process, and collection of fines.
#3 Economic Development & Business Retention:
Highlights include the following:
• Approved the construction of Chipotle and 7 Brew restaurants on a Meijer outlot with
construction beginning this spring and scheduled openings in the fall.
• Entered into a development agreement with OBE Studios for Villageowned properties on
198 Street.
• Continued to guide the development of Flossmoor Town Centre LLC, the proposed
development of townhomes and a cafe for the Village-owned property on Flossmoor Road.
• Continued to guide a development agreement with On-the-Fly Hospitality for their
proposal of Flossmoor Smokehouse restaurant for the Village-owned property at 19725
Governors Highway.
• Entered a Memorandum of Understanding with the Southland Development Authority to
market and secure letters of interest for Village-owned properties on Vollmer Road.
• Vigorously promoted and supported central business district businesses heavily throughout
the Downtown Streetscape Project with weekly construction updates, an interactive GIS
map, additional parking spaces, promotional signage, social media posts, enews features
and a special incentive program for shoppers and diners throughout the month of
September.
• Offered an economic incentive to provide an accessible restroom, plumbing for the
bathroom and sink, to Beyond Borders Cafe (1036 Sterling), which opened in summer
2025.
• Offered an economic incentive for HVAC replacement and Ansul System Repairs to
Flossmoor Social (1040 Sterling), which opened in fall 2025.
Page 7 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
#4 Inclusivity
Highlights include the following:
• Launched a yard sign initiative to foster community pride and promote the “Love
Flossmoor” message through the Community Relations Commission.
• Hosted a National Hispanic Heritage Month event in partnership with the Flossmoor Public
Library in September, modeled after the successful Lunar New Year event. The Village
collaborated with School District 161’s Bilingual Parent Action Committee to help shape
and coordinate the event. Feedback from participants indicated the program felt more
intentional, educational and meaningful than prior efforts.
• Various Green programs that are discussed in detail in the report.
• Intergovernmental Food Drive for township food pantries.
• Redesigned the printed Village quarterly newsletter for better readability, more graphic
interest and expanded calendar information. The newsletter is now planned, written and
designed in house.
• Partnership with Grand Prairie Services for mental health services on 911 calls.
#5 Staff
Highlights include the following:
• Filled seven vacancies in the Police Department: four full-time officers, one fulltime CSO,
one part-time records clerk and one crossing guard.
• Created a full-time CSO position by combining two part-time positions to enhance non-
sworn Police assistance, including traffic duties, downtown patrol and support with Police
technology.
• Continued the successful Fire Department Intern Program, demonstrating measurable
success and long-term value. To date, the program has produced 17 certified
Firefighter/EMTs and has strengthened a diverse pipeline of qualified candidates
committed to serving the community and the region.
• Adoption of new wellness program for Staff through personified health.
Page 8 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
Mayor Nelson thanked Village Manager Wachtel and Village staff for their hard work in achieving
the goals in the Strategic Plan and made specific mention of:
• Since 2021, the Village has received approximately $8.35 million in grants for capital
equipment expenses and infrastructure projects.
• The Board having approved for incentives for Flossmoor Social, and Beyond Boarders,
and the excellent publicity achieved by these two businesses that promotes the Village.
• Staff achievements, including the SHRM certification by Assistant Finance Director,
Malea Calvert.
Mayor Nelson asked the Board if there were any comments or questions. The Board expressed
extreme gratitude to Village Manager Wachtel and staff for meeting and exceeding the goals of
the Village’s Strategic Plan and the high level of success for these accomplishments. The Board
had much praise for the large number of grants the Village has been awarded for capital equipment
and infrastructure projects. The Board characterized the Village’s progress on its Strategic Plan as
a massive success.
OTHER BUSINESS:
Agenda Item #9: A Motion to go into Executive Session to Discuss the Employment of
Specific Individuals, Property Acquisition, and Litigation
Mayor Nelson called for other business and the Board responded as follows:
Trustee Rodgers: Expressed thanks to the Village for doing a great job.
Trustee Mustafa: In agreement that the Village is a “pretty cool place”, is glad to be here, and
thanked everyone for doing a great job. Recognized the Village’s Proclamation for Black History
Month and to further amplify this proclamation, honored Carter G. Woodson, who was the second
African American to receive a Ph.D from Harvard University. The accomplishments of Carter G.
Woodson include, on February 7, 1926, launching what is now known as Black History Month to
celebrate African American history and contributions.
Trustee Daggett: Thanked Mayor Nelson for attending the Cook County Board Meeting to put
pressure on Cook County to timely issue property tax payments. Expressed appreciation for Ms.
Riffice’s book club.
Trustee Dorsey: Proud to be a part of the Village.
Page 9 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
Trustee Lofton: No comments.
Trustee Mitros: Recognized Mayor Nelson for promoting the Village and working to achieve the
goals of the strategic plan.
Clerk Porter: No comments
Village Attorney Miller: No comments
Village Manager Wachtel: No comments
Mayor Nelson further announced the following:
• Wished Muslim friends and neighbors a blessed Ramadan, and Christian friends and
neighbors a blessed Lent.
• The next Village Board meeting has been rescheduled from March 2, 2026, to March 9,
2026.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: Mayor Nelson called for a motion to move to Executive Session, to
discuss the acquisition of property. Trustee Mustafa so moved, and Trustee Daggett seconded.
The motion passed by a unanimous roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
The Board entered into Executive Session at 8:39 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING: The Board returned from Executive Session and Mayor Nelson called
the meeting to order at approximately 9:07 p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor Nelson and Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT:
Page 10 of 11
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 16, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 16, 2026 7:00 PM
Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager
Jonathan Bogue, Asst Village Manager
Joe Miller, Village Attorney
ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
Mayor Nelson called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee Mitros so moved, seconded by
Trustee Daggett. All were in favor, none opposed.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at approximately 9:07 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Cecil E. Porter
Village Clerk
Page 11 of 11
Agenda
MAYOR: Michelle I. Nelson | VILLAGE CLERK: Cecil Porter | VILLAGE MANAGER: Bridget A. Wachtel
TRUSTEES: Gary Daggett | Kevin Dorsey | Rosalind Henderson Mustafa | George Lofton | James Mitros | Carolyn D. Rodgers
AGENDA
FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2026 • 7:00 PM • VILLAGE HALL
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85210894513?pwd=uZUHbLuNGHvJ6BUE21v70fK1RLbeBa.1
ID: 852 1089 4513 Passcode: 60422 Or join by phone (312) 626-6799
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
RECOGNITIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
1. A Proclamation Declaring February 2026 as Black History Month
2. Consideration of an Appointment to the Green Commission
PUBLIC PRESENT WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
CONSENT AGENDA
3. Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting Held on February 2, 2026
4. Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting Held on February 5, 2026
5. Presentation of Bills for Approval and Payment as Approved by the Finance Committee
(February 16, 2026)
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND BOARDS
• If you plan on attending a Village Board meeting and need an accommodation, please call 708-798-2300 or
TDD 708-647-0179 at least one full business day prior to the meeting. •
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, Illinois 60422 | Phone: 708.798.2300 | TDD: 708.647.0179 | Fax: 708.798.4016 | www.flossmoor.org
ACTION ITEMS
6. Consideration of an Ordinance of the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois, Approving a
Development Agreement by and between the Village of Flossmoor and OBE Studios, LLC
DISCUSSION ITEMS
7. Discussion of a Vehicle Use Fee in lieu of Vehicle Stickers
8. Presentation of the Strategic Plan Update (May 2025 - January 2026)
OTHER BUSINESS
9. A Motion to go into Executive Session to Discuss the Employment of Specific Individuals,
Property Acquisition, and Litigation
ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
• If you plan on attending a Village Board meeting and need an accommodation, please call 708-798-2300 or
TDD 708-647-0179 at least one full business day prior to the meeting. •
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, Illinois 60422 | Phone: 708.798.2300 | TDD: 708.647.0179 | Fax: 708.798.4016 | www.flossmoor.org
Packet
MAYOR: Michelle I. Nelson | VILLAGE CLERK: Cecil Porter | VILLAGE MANAGER: Bridget A. Wachtel
TRUSTEES: Gary Daggett | Kevin Dorsey | Rosalind Henderson Mustafa | George Lofton | James Mitros | Carolyn D. Rodgers
AGENDA
FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS
MONDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2026 • 7:00 PM • VILLAGE HALL
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85210894513?pwd=uZUHbLuNGHvJ6BUE21v70fK1RLbeBa.1
ID: 852 1089 4513 Passcode: 60422 Or join by phone (312) 626-6799
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
RECOGNITIONS AND APPOINTMENTS
1. A Proclamation Declaring February 2026 as Black History Month
2. Consideration of an Appointment to the Green Commission
PUBLIC PRESENT WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD
CONSENT AGENDA
3. Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting Held on February 2, 2026
4. Approval of the Minutes of the Meeting Held on February 5, 2026
5. Presentation of Bills for Approval and Payment as Approved by the Finance Committee
(February 16, 2026)
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND BOARDS
• If you plan on attending a Village Board meeting and need an accommodation, please call 708-798-2300 or
TDD 708-647-0179 at least one full business day prior to the meeting. •
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, Illinois 60422 | Phone: 708.798.2300 | TDD: 708.647.0179 | Fax: 708.798.4016 | www.flossmoor.org
Page 1 of 85
ACTION ITEMS
6. Consideration of an Ordinance of the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois, Approving a
Development Agreement by and between the Village of Flossmoor and OBE Studios, LLC
DISCUSSION ITEMS
7. Discussion of a Vehicle Use Fee in lieu of Vehicle Stickers
8. Presentation of the Strategic Plan Update (May 2025 - January 2026)
OTHER BUSINESS
9. A Motion to go into Executive Session to Discuss the Employment of Specific Individuals,
Property Acquisition, and Litigation
ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
• If you plan on attending a Village Board meeting and need an accommodation, please call 708-798-2300 or
TDD 708-647-0179 at least one full business day prior to the meeting. •
2800 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor, Illinois 60422 | Phone: 708.798.2300 | TDD: 708.647.0179 | Fax: 708.798.4016 | www.flossmoor.org
Page 2 of 85
Proclamation
WHEREAS, Flossmoor is a community steeped in history and energized by
diversity and inclusion in all its forms; and,
WHEREAS, Flossmoor is a community where we celebrate the differences that
are woven in our community fabric; and,
WHEREAS, as we commemorate Black History Month, it is important to celebrate
the contribution of Black Americans in every endeavor of American life; and,
WHEREAS, Flossmoor is fortunate to be the home of Black leaders in civic life,
arts & entertainment, science, medicine, industry and so many more fields; and,
WHEREAS, we are all indebted to those who came before us and those who make
Black history today; and,
WHEREAS, President Gerald Ford formally recognized Black History Month in
February 1976, encouraging America to take time to learn about the achievements and
contributions of Black Americans to our American landscape;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Michelle I. Nelson, Mayor of Flossmoor, do hereby
proclaim the month of FEBRUARY 2026 as:
“Black History Month”
and encourage Flossmoor residents to participate in Black History Month activities
throughout our community and schools in which we will learn about the achievements of
several Flossmoor Black residents who are business owners, finance professionals,
entrepreneurs or influencers.
Dated this 16th day of February 2026
_____________________________________
Michelle I. Nelson, Mayor
Page 3 of 85
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Nelson and Board of Trustees
CC:
FROM: Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager
DATE: February 16, 2026
RE: Consideration of an Appointment to the Green
Commission
With the Board's consent, Mayor Nelson will be making an appointment to the Green
Commission at the Village Board meeting on February 16, 2026.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding these appointments, please contact Mayor
Nelson before Monday evening.
Page 4 of 85
MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
Mayor Nelson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. and gave an introduction about the Village
of Flossmoor’s proud tradition of celebrating Black History Month. For Black History Month, the
Village is flying Pan-African flags, recognizing Black educators in the community, and will be
having a proclamation read at the next Board meeting. Mayor Nelson encouraged everyone to go
to the Village’s website to nominate friends and neighbors who are educators to be recognized for
Black History Month.
Village Clerk Porter took roll. There was a quorum.
PRESENT: Mayor Nelson and Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers.
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT:
Ann Novoa, Finance Director Carl Estelle, Chief of Police
Scott Bugner, Director of Bldg & Zoning Douglas Merkle, Deputy Chief of Police
John Brunke, Public Works Director Bob Kopec, Fire Chief
Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager Nicole Castagna, Asst to Vlg Mgr/Comm Mgr
Jonathan Bogue, Asst Village Manager Joe Miller, Village Attorney
GENERAL STATEMENT/RULES OF ORDER (Announced by Mayor Nelson):
The meeting was streamed via Zoom. Mayor Nelson reviewed the public comment policy, which
is available on the Village website.
RECOGNITIONS AND APPOINTMENTS: None
PUBLIC PRESENT WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD: None
Mayor Nelson requested Ann Novoa, Finance Director, to provide an update about Cook County’s
recent property tax disbursements. Ann Nova reported the following: (a) Cook County, as of the
date of this meeting, had issued two disbursements; (b) The Village has received a total of $2.1
million for its corporate taxing district, which is about 62% of what is anticipated from the second
installment property tax bills; (c) Cook County still owes the Village approximately $1.3 million
for its corporate taxing district, and this amount does not include what is owed for fire pension,
police pension, road and bridge, or the TIF districts. Cook County owes the Village about 50% of
the amounts due for each district; and (d) The Village is reducing spending until further notice
because Cook County is behind in issuing property tax disbursements.
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
Mayor Nelson recognized a representative from Cook County Commissioner McCaskill’s office
who was present at the Board meeting and also recognized Cook County Commissioner Donna
Miller for her assistance in attempting to resolve these issues. Mayor Nelson advised that she will
appear at the next Cook County Board Meeting to discuss the issues that are coming up because
of Cook County’s failure to make timely property tax disbursements. Mayor Nelson asked the
Board for comments regarding Finance Director Ann Novoa’s updated financial report, and there
were none.
CONSENT AGENDA:
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve Consent Agenda Items #1-4. Trustee Lofton so
moved, Trustee Mustafa seconded. Mayor Nelson asked if there were any items on the Consent
Agenda that were requested to be removed for discussion, and there were none.
A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
REPORTS OF COMMITTEES, COMMISSIONS AND BOARDS:
Mayor Nelson reported that Flossmoor’s Community Relations Commission is hosting a Lunar
New Year Celebration on Saturday, February 14, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Flossmoor
Public Library and all are welcome to attend.
ACTION ITEMS:
Agenda Item #5: Consideration of an Ordinance Approving an Amendment to a Final Plan
for a Planned Unit Development, a Special Use and a Plat of Re-subdivision -3900 Vollmer
Road (Chipotle and 7 Brew)
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve Agenda Item #5. Trustee Daggett so moved, Trustee
Mustafa seconded.
Scott Bugner, Director of Building and Zoning, along with Dan Abdo of Joseph Development,
LLC, presented this action item. Scott Bugner reported that the Plan Commission had a public
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
hearing and recommended approval for the construction of the proposed Chipotle restaurant
(www.chipotle.com) and 7 Brew (https://7brew.com).
Dan Abdo, Joseph Development, LLC, provided information about the project plans for Chipotle,
and he was joined by Christoper George, Who Brew, LLC, a 7 Brew franchisee. Mayor Nelson
advised that Mr. Abdo was behind other Flossmoor businesses, including Starbucks, AT&T, and
Jersey Mike’s that are each located in front of Meijer. Mr. Abdo discussed Joseph Development's
business, his family's connections to Flossmoor, and plans for the Chipotle restaurant. He
introduced Christoper George from Who Brew, LLC, who gave a presentation about 7 Brew and
its proposed business in Flossmoor.
Mayor Nelson asked the Board if there were comments and questions for Mr. Abdo and/or Mr.
George regarding Chipotle and 7 Brew. The Board inquired about the menus, drive-through
operations, safety, and the differences between 7 Brew and Starbucks, along with customer
demographics. The Board expressed tremendous support and appreciation to Mr. Abdo and Mr.
George for bringing these new businesses to the community.
A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees: Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
Agenda Item #6: Consideration of a Resolution of the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County,
Illinois Approving a Memorandum of Understanding (SDA)
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve Agenda Item #6. Trustee Daggett so moved, Trustee
Lofton seconded. This action item was presented by Brian Mott, an economic development
strategist with Southland Development Authority (www.southtlanddevelopment.org) and Edward
Peck of Edward Peck Design (www.epeckdesign.com). Mayor Nelson also recognized David
Agosto, a Flossmoor resident, for his work to bring this partnership to Flossmoor. Village Manager
Wachtel advised that the property for this action item was east of Meijer, and extended west to
Dunkin Donuts, and was owned by the Village. Mr. Mott and Mr. Peck provided background
information about the Southland Development Authority, their real estate development projects,
their in-house equity fund, and their concept design for a pedestrian-friendly retail and restaurant
development in Flossmoor that will focus on regional and local businesses. Mr. Peck also advised
the Board that he is an Olympia Fields resident, with children at HF schools, so he has a vested
interest in the success of this project.
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
Mayor Nelson asked the Board if they had questions for Mr. Mott and Mr. Peck. The Board
responded with questions about the types of businesses that would go into this project, and also
confirmed that the property size was sufficient for their plans. Mr. Peck advised that they intend
to have a mix of high-end retail establishments with cafes and restaurants, and that their focus will
be on regional Chicago businesses. The Board had high praise for Mr. Mott and Mr. Peck and were
pleased to have them bring to the community this urban streetscape concept. The Board looks
forward to seeing the results of their work, which will hopefully include letters of interest and
development proposals.
A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees: Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
Mayor Nelson, following this vote, expressed thanks to Village staff and Board members who
have worked to bring several Village-owned properties (four at present) to development.
Agenda Item #7: Consideration of a Resolution of the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County,
Illinois Approving the Purchase of Boilers for Village Hall
Mayor Nelson called for a Motion to approve Agenda Item #7. Trustee Daggett so moved, Trustee
Mustafa seconded. John Brunke presented this action item. Mr. Brunke advised that two boilers
in the mechanical room, which were responsible for heating and cooling, had failed. The boilers
were installed in 2011, reached the end of their useful life, and needed to be replaced as soon as
possible.
Mayor Nelson asked the Board if there were any questions for Mr. Brunke about the proposed
boiler replacement. The Board responded with questions about the need to replace the boilers, the
time required to complete the project, funding, the risk assessment, the life span for new boilers,
and the installation process. Village Manager Wachtel provided information about the funding and
why this project had to be completed now. The Board agreed to approve this action item.
A vote on the Motion was presented and passed unanimously by a roll call vote.
AYES: Trustees: Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
DISCUSSION ITEMS: None
OTHER BUSINESS:
Mayor Nelson called for other business and the Board responded as follows:
Trustee Mustafa: Inquired about the following:
• Alarm fee ordinance referenced under Consent Agenda Item No. 4. Village Manager
Wachtel responded that the purpose of the ordinance was to assist with keeping the Village
updated about residential alarm systems and permit holders. Chief Estelle stated that it is
impossible to know whether alarm fees recouped by the Village for false alarms cover the
costs and expenses of police officers that respond to false alarms. Village Manager Wachtel
further advised that the new ordinance differentiates between a resident fee and a
commercial fee, with the fee for commercial alarms being greater than the fee for
residential alarms.
• Building repairs at the library: Village Manager Wachtel advised that there are meetings
scheduled with contractors to address the floor issues and repairs. John Brunke reported
that they have met with the geo-tech engineer who referred them to the Lincoln Company.
The Lincoln Company recommended a survey of the first floor of the library to perform a
complete evaluation. Once the survey is done, they will receive a quote for the repair work.
Trustee Rodgers: Stated there continues to be residents who are uninformed about all of the
economic development, updated ordinances, and Village events, and asked if there could be a
moving banner added to the Village’s website that has news updates. Assistant Village Manager
Bogue responded that moving banners are used for emergency updates, and also that the website
has a news section that has regular updates. They will be rolling out a communications plan for
the new e-bike ordinance. Village Manager Wachtel advised that they must wait to send out
updates about economic development projects until plans are final, and they are always looking
for opportunities to connect with residents.
Trustee Daggett: Discussed the following:
• Alarm Fees: The Village has flexibility with waiving fees for false alarms. Village
Manager Wachtel stated that the alarm fee violations are meant to be a deterrent, and not a
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
money generating source for Village funds, and most of these false alarms stem from
technical issues.
• Economic Development: Expressed much appreciation and thanks to Mayor Nelson for
all the hard work that she has put into bringing economic development to the Village over
the past six years.
Trustee Dorsey: Echoed Trustee Daggett’s comments about Mayor Nelson’s successful efforts to
bring in economic development, and the work performed by Village staff, to bring the recent
projects to the community.
Trustee Lofton: Excited to see the new developments that Mayor Nelson, and residents, have
brought to the Village.
Trustee Mitros: Applauded Mayor Nelson’s great job over the past six years to bring economic
development to Flossmoor and stated that the Village has never seen this type of progress.
Suggested that the Village have a scrolling sign, like what is at Homewood-Flossmoor High
School, for Village announcements.
Clerk Porter: No comments.
Village Attorney Miller: Enjoys 7 Brew Coffee and is looking forward to seeing it in Flossmoor.
Village Manager Wachtel: No comments.
Mayor Nelson further announced the following:
• Thanks and appreciation to Public Works, the Fire Department, and the Police Department
for their work during the harsh winter months.
• Asked residents to go to the Trader Joe's website to request a location in Flossmoor.
• The Cricketeers raised the needed funds for the first Historical Marker in Flossmoor, and
this will be planned for the summer months.
• Recognized Peter Jordan, a Flossmoor resident, who is having a jazz concert on Valentine's
Day at the Logan Center in Hyde Park.
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS HELD ON FEBRUARY 2, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 2, 2026 7:00 PM
DRAFT
• Recognized a Daily Southtown article for featuring Tom Dobrez, author of “A More
Perfect Place,” which is about Flossmoor. Tom Dobrez is hosting events that include a
showing of his documentary that follows Flossmoor’s development.
• The Chicago Area Runners Association (CARA)(www.cararuns.org) has named
Flossmoor’s Hidden Gem Half Marathon as the 2025 CARA Race of the Year. The award
will be accepted at the end of February.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: Mayor Nelson stated there was no need for an Executive Session.
ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
Mayor Nelson called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee Mitros so moved, seconded by
Trustee Daggett. All were in favor, none opposed.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:31 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Cecil E. Porter
Village Clerk
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE VILLAGE BOARD
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS
HELD ON FEBRUARY 5, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 5, 2026 6:15 PM
DRAFT
Mayor Nelson called the meeting to order at 6:15 p.m.
Village Clerk Porter took roll. There was a quorum.
PRESENT: Mayor Nelson and Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers.
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT:
Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager Joe Miller, Village Attorney
Jonathan Bogue, Asst Village Manager
GENERAL STATEMENT/RULES OF ORDER (Announced by Mayor Nelson):
Mayor Nelson reviewed the public comment policy, which is available on the Village website.
PUBLIC PRESENT WISHING TO ADDRESS THE BOARD: None
EXECUTIVE SESSION: Mayor Nelson called for a motion to move to Executive Session,
pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(16) for self-evaluation, practices and procedures or professional
ethics. Trustee Mitros so moved, and Trustee Daggett seconded. The motion passed by a roll call
vote.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
The Board recessed to executive session at 6:17 p.m.
REGULAR MEETING:
The Board returned from Executive Session and Mayor Nelson called the meeting to order at
approximately 8:37 p.m.
PRESENT: Mayor Nelson and Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
Page 1 of 2
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MINUTES OF MAYOR NELSON AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES FOR THE VILLAGE BOARD
SPECIAL MEETING OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, ILLINOIS
HELD ON FEBRUARY 5, 2026
VILLAGE HALL February 5, 2026 6:15 PM
DRAFT
ALSO PRESENT:
Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager
Jonathan Bogue, Asst Village Manager
Joe Miller, Village Attorney
ADJOURNMENT OF MEETING
Mayor Nelson called for a motion to adjourn the meeting. Trustee Mitros so moved, seconded by
Trustee Lofton. All were in favor, none opposed.
AYES: Trustees Daggett, Dorsey, Lofton, Mitros, Mustafa, and Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
NAYS: None
The Special Meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:38 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Cecil E. Porter
Village Clerk
Page 2 of 2
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MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Nelson and Board of Trustees
CC:
FROM: Bridget A. Wachtel, Village Manager
DATE: February 16, 2026
RE: Consideration of an Ordinance of the Village of
Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois, Approving a
Development Agreement by and between the Village of
Flossmoor and OBE Studios, LLC
At the January 20, 2026, Board meeting, the Board approved a development agreement with Only
Believe Enterprise (OBE) Studios for the construction of Phase I of a film studio at 3638 198th Street
and 3648 198th Street, both Village-owned parcels.
As a reminder, OBE Studios, owned by Barry Brewer Jr., is interested in moving his studio location
from Merrillville, Indiana to Flossmoor, Illinois. In working with Mr. Brewer, these two parcels have
been identified to build the eastern campus of OBE Studios. Phase 1 of the campus will include
three buildings, which will include an administration/production building, a soundstage, and a
millhouse, as well as all internal roadways to support this first phase (referred to as the Project). Mr.
Brewer has a vision to expand to include a western campus in the future. Attached is a concept plan.
Following the Board’s approval, Mr. Brewer has continued to work through his financing plan, which
includes a Small Business Administration Loan. The SBA loan terms permit a borrower’s purchase
cost to contribute toward the loan financing structure even if the purchase agreement is forgiven as
part of an economic incentive, as in the case of this agreement.
Village Attorney Kathi Orr has been working directly with the SBA loan representative and Mr.
Brewer to draft the attached documents to address this matter. You will find attached:
1. An ordinance repealing the development agreement approved on January 20, 2026, and
adopting a revised development agreement that recognizes a purchase agreement in
Section 3.1.
2. Attached to the development agreement is a purchase agreement between the Village of
Flossmoor and OBE Studios for the purchase of 3638 198th Street and 3648 198th Street in
the amount of $250,000, which is the appraised value. The sale of this property occurs if the
buyer meets the conditions outlined in Section 2 of the development agreement.
Furthermore, the purchase agreement references an attached promissory note that forgives
the purchase amount of $250,000 when the buyer meets the conditions of development
outlined in Section 2 of the development agreement.
These modifications address the required terms of the SBA loan that OBE Studios is seeking and
preserve the Village’s economic development incentive of contributing the land toward the
development. All the documents have passed legal review, and we request that the Board approve
these documents at the February 16, 2026, Village Board meeting.
Strategic Initiative (s) Addressed
Page 39 of 85
3.3. Target development of vacant commercial properties
Page 40 of 85
Ordinance No. 2026 ___________
AN ORDINANCE OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS,
APPROVING A DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN
THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR AND OBE STUDIOS, LLC
WHEREAS, the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois (the “Village”) is a duly organized
and validly existing non-home-rule municipality created in accordance with the Constitution of the State of
Illinois of 1970 and the laws of the State; and,
WHEREAS, the Village is engaged in the revitalization of its commercial properties which
includes certain parcels of property located in the Village including 3638 198th Street and 3648 198th Street
identified by parcel numbers 31-11-303-007-0000 and 31-11-303-006-0000 (collectively the “Subject
Property”), all of which property the Village has owned for several years; and
WHEREAS, the Village has the authority pursuant to the laws of the State of Illinois, to promote
the health, safety, and welfare of its inhabitants, to prevent the spread of blight, to encourage private
development in order to enhance the local tax base, to increase job opportunities, and to enter into
contractual agreements with third parties for the purpose of achieving these goals; and
WHEREAS, OBE Studios, LLC, an Indiana limited liability company, (the “Developer”) is a
multimedia entertainment company specializing in film and television , had submitted a proposal to acquire
the Subject Property from the Village to construct a filming center in two phases, the first phase to consist
of three buildings including an administration/production building, a soundstage, and a millhouse as well
a the construction of internal roadways to support (the “Project’); and
WHEREAS, after a review of the proposed Project as presented by the Developer, the Mayor and
Board of Trustees of the Village concluded that the Project would bring a new industry to the Village in
furtherance of the Village’s plan for economic development, and therefore, the Village approved the
conveyance of the Subject Property to the Developer in accordance with the terms and conditions as set
forth in a Development Agreement by and between the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois and
OBE Studios, LLC, approved by Ordinance 2026-1 on January 20, 2026; and
WHEREAS, the Developer has now requested the Development Agreement as approved by the
Village be revised to include certain terms regarding the conveyance of the Subject Property in order to
meet the loan structuring requirements of the Small Business Administration (the “SBA”); and
WHEREAS, the terms required by the SBA do not, in any way, alter or amend the terms as agreed
by the Village and therefore, it is recommended that the Mayor and Board of Trustees repeal Ordinance
2026-1 approving the Development Agreement in the form attached to this Ordinance.
1
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NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Village
of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois, as follows:
Section 1: Ordinance 2026-1 approved by the Mayor and Village Board on January 20, 2026
is hereby repealed.
Section 2: That the Development Agreement by and between the Village of Flossmoor, Cook
County and OBE Studios, LLC, in the form attached hereto and made a part hereof, is hereby approved and
the Mayor and Village Clerk are hereby authorized to execute said Agreement and the Village Manager,
and the Village Attorney are hereby authorized to undertake all necessary action to implement its terms.
Section 3: This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its passage, approval, and
publication in pamphlet form as provided by law.
Passed by the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois,
this _____ day of ____________, 2026.
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAINED:
PASSED:
APPROVED:
PUBLISHED:
APPROVED:
___________________________________
Mayor
Attest:
_____________________________________
Village Clerk
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DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE VILLAGE
OF FLOSSMOOR, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS AND
OBE STUDIOS, LLC
THIS DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is entered into as of the
_______ day of _______________, 2026, by and between the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County,
Illinois, an Illinois municipal corporation (“Village”), and OBE Studios, LLC, an Indiana limited
liability company (“Developer”).
In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements set forth in this Agreement, the
Village and the Developer hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE 1: RECITALS
1.1 The Village is engaged in the revitalization of its commercial properties which
includes certain parcels of property located in the Village including 3638 198th Street and 3648
198th Street both parcels identified by parcel numbers 31-11-303-007-0000 and 31-11-303-006-
0000 (collectively the “Subject Property”), all of which property the Village has owned for several
years.
1.2 The Village has the authority pursuant to the laws of the State of Illinois, to promote
the health, safety, and welfare of its inhabitants, to prevent the spread of blight, to encourage
private development in order to enhance the local tax base, to increase job opportunities, and to
enter into contractual agreements with third parties for the purpose of achieving these goals.
1.3 The Developer is a multimedia entertainment company specializing in film and
television and has submitted a proposal to the Village to acquire the Subject Property from the
Village and to construct a filming center in two phases, the first phase to include a soundstage, a
production building, welcoming center and administration building as well as all internal roadways
to support the first phase (the “Project’).
1.4 After a review of the proposed Project as presented by the Developer, the Mayor
and Board of Trustees of the Village (the “Corporate Authorities”) have concluded that the Project
shall provide a new industry to the Village in furtherance of the Village’s plan for economic
development, and therefore, the Village is prepared to convey the Subject Property to the
Developer in accordance with the terms and conditions as hereinafter provided.
1.5 The Village believes that the development of the Subject Property with the use as
has been proposed, shall serve the residents of the Village with a unique business resulting in an
increase to the tax base of the Village and the taxing districts authorized to levy taxes upon the
Subject Property; new job opportunities for its residents; and, improve the general welfare of the
community and therefore the Village is willing to proceed as hereinafter set forth.
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ARTICLE 2: CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO THE CONVEYANCE OF THE
SUBJECT PROPERTY; DEVELOPER OBLIGATIONS
2.1 Upon execution of the Agreement, the Developer shall submit the following to the
Village on or before March 31, 2026:
(a) a planned unit development (“PUD”) plat in electronic format;
(b) a written application providing the way in which the Subject Property is to be
developed including detailed site plan of buildings, roads, and walkways;
(c) identification of existing natural and environmental resources and methods to
protect the physical amenities; and
(d) preliminary engineering information on existing; and proposed sanitary, storms
and water to service the proposed development.
2.2 On or before March 31, 2026, the Developer shall submit to the Village an
estimated budget listing all costs to be incurred to develop the Subject Property including all legal
fees; architectural, engineering and design fees; costs for the construction of the buildings,
including landscaping, signage and any other cost as may be required to complete the Project (the
“Project Budget”).
2.3 On or before April 30, 2026, the Developer shall submit to the Village proof of
financing in an amount equal to the Project Budget (“Project Financing”).
2.4 On or before June 30, 2026, the Developer shall submit to the Village for its
approval a Final Development Plan for the Project.
2.5 On or before September 30, 2026, the Developer shall apply for all building permits
required to construct the Project.
2.6 Within thirty (30) days of receipt of all required permits the Developer shall
commence construction of the Project and complete construction on or before September 31, 2027,
and have received certificates of occupancy for the Project.
2.7 In the event the Developer receives a Class 8 Real Estate Tax Incentive from Cook
County, the Developer agrees to enter into an agreement with the Village in the form attached
hereto as Exhibit A to annually reimburse the Village for any reduction in the Village’s portion of
the real estate taxes generated by the Subject Property.
2.8 In the event that environmental inspections, assessments, or reports conducted by
qualified professionals reveal conditions that (a) violate applicable environmental laws or
regulations, (b) pose a material risk to the environment, or (c) would require remediation or
mitigation effectors that are commercially unreasonable or cost-prohibitive, the Developer shall
have the right, at its sole discretion, to:
(i) Terminate this Agreement without penalty or further obligation, or
(ii) Renegotiate the terms of this Agreement.
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2.9 The Developer reserves the right to terminate this Agreement, at its sole discretion,
prior to the commencement of construction, in the event of circumstances beyond its reasonable
control that materially impact the feasibility or viability of the Project, including but not limited
to: (a) unforeseen environmental conditions or hazards; (b) changes in applicable laws or
regulations; (c) inability to secure necessary permits, approvals, or financing related to unforeseen
cost overruns; or (d) other force majeure events as defined in Section 7.4. In the event of such
termination, the Developer shall provide written notice to the Village, and the Developer’s liability
shall be limited to reimbursement of any non-refundable, third-party costs directly incurred by the
Village up to the date of termination, not to exceed $3,000.00.
ARTICLE 3: OBLIGATIONS OF THE VILLAGE
3.1 Within thirty (30) days of satisfaction of all of the obligations of the Developer as
required by Sections 2.1 through 2.5 above, and receipt of all required building permits to construct
the Project, the Village agrees to convey the Subject Property to the Developer in accordance with
the terms of that certain Real Estate and Purchase Agreement of even date herewith, by and
between the Developer and the Village in the form attached hereto As Exhibit C.
3.2 At the sole cost of the Developer, the Village shall deliver to the Developer at
closing a title insurance policy in the amount of $250,000 insuring title to the Developer subject
to all covenants and conditions of record. The Village shall not be responsible for the cost of any
survey, environmental investigations or closing costs on the transfer of the Subject Property to the
Developer. Conveyance of the Subject Property to the Developer shall be by recordable warranty
deed.
3.3 Upon conveyance of the Subject Property, the Village shall also adopt a Resolution
supporting a Class 8 Real Estate Tax Incentive to be approved by Cook County for the Subject
Property, in the form attached as Exhibit B.
3.4 At the sole cost of the Developer, at or prior to the conveyance of the Subject
Property, the Developer shall deliver to the Village security in the form of a performance bond or
letter to credit in the amount of $100,000 as security for the construction and completion of the
Project for a term commencing with the conveyance of the Subject Property to be released upon
the issuance of certificate of occupancy for the Subject Property.
ARTICLE 4: DEVELOPER’S OBLIGATIONS REGARDING
USE OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY
4.1 The Developer covenants and agrees to construct the Project and maintain the
Subject Property as required by all applicable Village Codes.
4.2 The Developer further warrants, covenants and agrees:
(a) To pay all fees, fines, licenses, taxes of any kind assessed against the Subject
Property, including real estate taxes; and, all fees, taxes or fines dues in
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connection with the operation of the banquet facility at the Subject Property.
(b) Not to sell, transfer, gift or convey the Subject Property prior to the issuance of
a certificate of occupancy without the consent of the Village; and
ARTICLE 5. REPRESENTATIONS, WARRANTIES, AND COVENANTS
5.1 To induce the Village to enter into this Agreement and to grant the rights herein
provided to the Developer, the Developer represents, covenants, warrants, and agrees, as the basis
for the undertakings on the Developer’s part herein contained, that:
(a) All representations and agreements made by the Developer in the Agreement are
true, complete, and accurate in all respects.
(b) The Developer is an Indiana limited liability company duly formed and existing
under the laws of the State of Indiana authorized to do business in Illinois, and the
Developer has the power to enter into, and by proper action has been duly
authorized to execute, deliver, and perform, this Agreement. The Developer will
do, or cause to be done, all things necessary to preserve and keep in full force and
effect its existence and standing as an Indiana limited liability company authorized
to do business in the State of Illinois.
(c) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement by the Developer, the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby, and the fulfillment of or
compliance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall not conflict with
or result in a violation or breach of any of the terms, conditions, or provisions of
any disclosure statement made, or to be made, on behalf of the Developer, or any
restriction, organizational document, agreement, or instrument to which the
Developer, or any of its partners or venturers, is now a party or by which the
Developer, or any of its partners or venturers, is bound, or constitute a default under
any of the foregoing.
5.2 The Developer further warrants there are no actions at law or similar proceedings
either pending or, to the best of the Developer's knowledge, threatened against the Developer that
would materially or adversely affect:
(i) The ability of the Developer to proceed with the acquisition of the
Subject Property and the construction of the Project;
(ii) The Developer's financial condition;
(iii) The level or condition of the Developer's assets as of the date of this
Agreement; or,
(i) The Developer’s ability to operate a full service filming studio.
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5.3 To induce the Developer to enter into this Agreement and to undertake the
performance of its obligations under this Agreement, the Village represents, covenants, warrants
and agrees as follows:
(a) All representations and agreements made by the Village in this Agreement are true,
complete, and accurate in all respects.
(b) The Village has the power to enter into and perform its obligations under this
Agreement and by proper action has duly authorized the Mayor and Village Clerk
to execute and deliver this Agreement.
(c) The execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement by the Village, the
consummation of the transactions contemplated hereby and the fulfillment of or
compliance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement shall not conflict with
or result in a violation or breach of the terms of any order, agreement, or other
instrument to which the Village is a party or by which the Village is now bound.
ARTICLE 6: ENFORCEMENT AND REMEDIES
6.1 Enforcement: Remedies. The Village may enforce or compel the performance by
the Developer of this Agreement, in law or in equity, by suit, action, mandamus, or any other
proceeding, including specific performance, including a demand of the security provided as
required under Section 3.4. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Developer agrees that it will not
seek, and does not have the right to seek, to recover a judgment for monetary damages against the
Village or any elected or appointed officials, officers, employees, agents, representatives,
engineers, consultants, or attorneys thereof, on account of the negotiation, execution, or breach of
any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
6.2 Notice; Cure; Self-Help. In the event of a breach of this Agreement by the
Developer, the Village agrees that, the Developer shall have thirty (30) days after notice of any
breach delivered in accordance with Article 9 to correct the same prior to the pursuit of any remedy
provided for herein; provided, however, that the 30-day period shall be extended, but only (i) if
the alleged breach is not reasonably susceptible to being cured within the 30-day period, and (ii)
if the Developer has promptly initiated the cure of the breach, and (iii) if the Developer diligently
and continuously pursues the cure of the breach until its completion. If the Developer shall fail to
perform any of its obligations under this Agreement, and if the Village shall have given written
notice of the default to the Developer, and if the Developer shall have failed to cure the default as
herein provided. In any event, the Developer hereby agrees to pay and reimburse the Village for
all costs and expenses reasonably incurred by it in connection with action taken to cure the default,
including attorney’s fees and court costs.
6.3 Any of the following events or circumstances shall be an event of default by
Developer with respect to this Agreement:
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(a) If any material representation made by the Developer in this Agreement, or in any
certificate; notice, demand to the Village; or request made by the Village in
connection with any of documents, shall prove to be untrue or incorrect in any
material respect as of the date made.
(b) The Developer's default in the performance or breach of any material covenant,
warranty, or obligation contained in this Agreement.
(c) The Developer’s breach of or failure to perform the covenants as set forth in Section
2.1 to 2.7.
(d) The entry of a decree or order for relief by a court having jurisdiction in the
premises in respect of the Developer in an involuntary case under the federal
bankruptcy laws, as now or hereafter constituted, or any other applicable federal or
state bankruptcy, insolvency, or other similar law, or appointing a receiver,
liquidator, assignee, custodian, trustee, sequestrator, or similar official of the
Developer for any substantial part of its property, or ordering the winding-up or
liquidation of its affairs and the continuance of any such decree or order un-stayed
and in effect for a period of 60 consecutive days. There shall be no cure period for
this event of default.
(e) The commencement by the Developer of a voluntary case under the federal
bankruptcy laws, as now or hereafter constituted, or any other applicable federal or
state bankruptcy, insolvency, or other similar law, or the consent by the Developer
to the appointment of or taking possession, by a receiver, liquidator, assignee,
trustee, custodian, sequestrator, or similar official of the Developer or of any
substantial part of the Developer' s property, or the making by any such entity of
any assignment for the benefit of creditors or the failure of the Developer generally
to pay such entity's debts as such debts become due or the taking of action by the
Developer in furtherance of any of the foregoing. There shall be no cure period for
this event of default.
6.4 The Village shall have the following remedies in the event of default by the
Developer:
(a) Demand payment of security provided under Section 3.5 in the event of default
prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the Subject Property.
(b) In case the Village shall have proceeded to enforce its rights under this Agreement
and such proceedings shall have been discontinued or abandoned for any reason or
shall have been determined adversely to the Village, then, and in every such case,
the Developer and the Village shall be restored respectively to their several
positions and rights hereunder, and all rights, remedies and powers of the Developer
and the Village shall continue as though no such proceedings had been taken.
(c) Demand payment in full of the value of the Subject Property appraised at $250,000.
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6.5 The Developer agrees to indemnify the Village, and all of its elected and appointed
officials, officers, employees, agents, representatives, engineers, consultants, and attorneys,
against any and all claims that may be asserted at any time against any of such parties in connection
with or as a result of (i) the Developer's development, construction, maintenance, or use of the
Subject Property; or, (ii) the Developer's default under the provisions of this Agreement.
ARTICLE 7: GENERAL PROVISIONS
7.1 The Developer acknowledges and agrees that (i) the Village is not, and shall not be,
in any way liable for any damages or injuries that may be sustained as the result of the Village's
review and approval of any plans or improvements or as a result of the issuance of any approvals,
permits, certificates, or acceptances for the development or use of any portion of the Subject
Property or the improvements and (ii) the Village's review and approval of any plans and the
issuance of any approvals, permits, certificates, or acceptances does not, and shall not, in any way
be deemed to insure the Developer, or any of its successors, assigns, tenants, or licensees, or any
third party, against violations or damage or injury of any kind at any time.
7.2 The Developer shall hold harmless the Village, and all of its elected and appointed
officials, employees, agents, representatives, engineers, consultants, and attorneys from any and
all claims that may asserted at any time against any of such parties in connection with (i) the
Village's review and approval of any plans or improvements or (ii) the Village's issuance of any
approval, permit or certificate. The foregoing provision, however, shall not apply to claims made
against the Village as a result of a Village event of default under this Agreement, claims that are
made against the Village that relate to one or more of the Village's representations, warranties, or
covenants under Section 5.3 and claims that the Village, either pursuant to the terms of this
Agreement or otherwise explicitly has agreed to assume.
7.3 The Village shall be under no obligation to exercise rights granted to it in this
Agreement except as it shall determine to be in its best interest from time to time. Except to the
extent embodied in a duly authorized and written waiver of the Village, no failure to exercise at
any time any right granted herein to the Village shall be construed as a waiver of that or any other
right.
7.4 Time is of the essence of this Agreement, provided, however, a party shall not be
deemed in material breach of this Agreement with respect to any of its obligations under this
Agreement on such party’s part to be performed if such party fails to timely perform the same and
such failure is due in whole or in part to any strike, lock-out, labor trouble (whether legal or illegal),
civil disorder, weather conditions, failure or interruptions of power, restrictive governmental laws
and regulations, condemnations, riots, insurrections, acts of terrorism, war, fuel shortages,
accidents, casualties, floods, earthquakes, fires, acts of Gods, epidemics, quarantine restrictions,
freight embargoes, acts caused directly or indirectly by the other party (or the other party’s agents,
employees or invitees) or similar causes beyond the reasonable control of such party (“Force
Majeure”). If one of the foregoing events shall occur or either party shall claim that such an event
shall have occurred, the party to whom such claim is made shall investigate same and consult with
the party making such claim regarding the same and the party to whom such claim is made shall
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grant any extension for the performance of the unsatisfied obligation equal to the period of the
delay, which period shall commence to run from the time of the commencement of the Force
Majeure; provided that the failure of performance was reasonably caused by such Force Majeure.
7.5 This Agreement may not be assigned by the Developer without the prior written
consent of the Village unless such assignment is to a legal entity in which the Developer holds all
ownership interest.
ARTICLE 8. TERM
This Agreement shall be in full force and effect upon its execution by the parties
and terminate upon the issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the Subject Property.
ARTICLE 9. NOTICES
All notices and other communications in connection with this Agreement shall be
in writing and shall be deemed delivered to the addressee thereof (a) when delivered in person on
a business day at the address set forth below, or (b) on the third business day after being deposited
in any main or branch United States post office, for delivery by properly addressed, postage
prepaid, certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, at the address set forth below, or (c)
by facsimile or email transmission, when transmitted to either the facsimile telephone number or
email address set forth below, when actually received.
Notices and communications to Developer shall be addressed to, and delivered at, the following
addresses:
With a copy to:
OBE Studios, LLC
8762 Louisiana Street
Merrillville, IN 46410
Notices and communications to the Village shall be addressed to and delivered at these addresses:
With a copy to:
Village of Flossmoor Ottosen DiNolfo Hasenbalg & Castaldo, Ltd.
2800 Flossmoor Road Attn: Kathleen Field Orr
Flossmoor, Illinois 60422 2441 Warrenville Road, Suite 310,
Attn : Village Manager Lisle, Illinois 60532
By notice complying with the requirements of this Article, each party shall have the right to change
the address or addressee, or both, for all future notices and communications to such party, but no
notice of a change of address or addressee shall be effective until actually received.
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ARTICLE 10. IN GENERAL
10.1 No modification, addition, deletion, revision, alteration, or other change to this
Agreement shall be effective unless and until the change is reduced to writing and executed and
delivered by the Village and the Developer. No term or condition of this Agreement shall be
deemed waived by any party unless the term or condition to be waived, the circumstances giving
rise to the waiver and, where applicable, the conditions and limitations on the waiver are set forth
specifically in a duly authorized and written waiver of such party. No waiver by any party of any
term or condition of this Agreement shall be deemed or construed as a waiver of any other term or
condition of this Agreement, nor shall waiver of any breach be deemed to constitute a waiver of
any subsequent breach whether of the same or different provisions of this Agreement.
10.2 No claim as a third party beneficiary under this Agreement by any person, firm, or
corporation shall be made, or be valid, against the Village or the Developer.
10.3 This Agreement shall constitute the entire agreement of the Parties; all prior
agreements between the Parties, whether written or oral, are merged into this Agreement and shall
be of no force and effect.
10.4 This Agreement is to be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall
be deemed an original but all of which shall constitute the same instrument.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties have executed this Agreement as of the dates set
forth below their respective signatures, to be effective as of the date first written above.
VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR
Attest:
By: __________________________ By: _____________________________
Mayor Village Clerk
Date: ___________________, 2026
OBE Studios, LLC
By: __________________________
Date:__________________________, 2026
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EXHIBIT A
Resolution No. 2026- ____
A RESOLUTION OF THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR,
RICH AND BLOOM TOWNSHIPS, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS,
IN SUPPORT OF CLASS 8 DESIGNATION
WHEREAS, the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois (the “Village”), is a duly
organized and validly existing non-home rule municipality created in accordance with the
Constitution of the State of Illinois of 1970 and the laws of the State; and,
WHEREAS, the property immediately north of 198th Street and West of Central Avenue
in Flossmoor, Illinois, and consisting of 7.3 acres; and
WHEREAS, as hereinafter identified (the “Properties”), have been in need of development
in accordance with zoning limitations and all applicable building codes of the Village for more
than a decade; and,
WHEREAS, OBE Studios, LLC, an Indiana limited liability company, has acquired the
Properties located along 198th Street, Flossmoor for the purpose of developing a multimedia
company with filming studios including a production building, soundstage, welcoming center and
an administration building (the “Development”) which will make a significant contribution to the
development goals of the Village; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the Village do find that, but for the Class
8 incentive, this Development is not economically viable and that major capital is needed to
construct the Development on the Properties and thereby warranting the benefits of Class 8 tax
relief; and,
WHEREAS, the Village of Flossmoor supports the Class 8 Eligibility Application to be
filed with Cook County Assessor for the Development on Properties located along 198th Street and
requests Class 8 tax relief.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the
Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois, as follows:
Section 1. The preambles above are incorporated herein; and further,
Section 2. The Village of Flossmoor supports and consents to the application for Class
8 for the Properties located along Governors Highway, Flossmoor, Illinois, identified as parcel
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EXHIBIT A
numbers 31-11-303-006-0000 and 31-11-303-007-0000 to be filed with the Cook County
Assessor’s Office.
Section 3. That this Resolution shall be in full force and effect from and after its
passage and approval as provided by law.
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
PASSED:
APPROVED:
PUBLISHED:
Approved this ____ day of _______________ 2026.
Mayor
Attest:
Village Clerk
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EXHIBIT B
AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE VILLAGE OF FLOSSMOOR, COOK
COUNTY, ILLINOIS AND OBE STUDIOS, LLC
THIS AGREEMENT by and between the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois,
an Illinois municipal corporation (“Village”), and OBE Studios, LLC, an Indiana limited liability
company (“Petitioner”), is dated this ___day of 2026.
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois (the “Village”), is a duly
organized and validly existing non-home rule municipality created in accordance with the
Constitution of the State of Illinois of 1970 and the laws of the State; and,
WHEREAS, the Petitioner is the owner of certain property commonly known as 3638
198th Street, Flossmoor, Illinois and identified by parcel nos. 31-11-303-006-0000 and 31-11-303-
007-0000 (the “Subject Property”) upon which the Petitioner intends to construct and to operate a
filming studio with several buildings (the “Development”) on the Subject Property; and,
WHEREAS, the Petitioner has filed a petition seeking the Village’s endorsement of an
application for the Class 8 Real Estate Tax Incentive for the Subject Property with the Cook County
Assessor’s Office; and,
WHEREAS, Petitioner did present its petition to the Mayor and Board of Trustees of the
Village (the “Corporate Authorities”) at the Village Board Meeting on ___________, 2026, which
included a provision committing the Petitioner to execute a “make whole” agreement thereby
agreeing to reimburse the Village on an annual basis in the amount of the reduction of its portion
of real estate taxes on the Subject Property; and,
WHEREAS, the Corporate Authorities have duly considered the petition and the
Petitioner’s commitment to reimburse the Village in an amount equal to the reduction in real estate
taxes which would have otherwise been paid to the Village had the Class 8 designation not been
granted and find it to be in the best interests of the Village to proceed as hereinafter provided.
NOW THEREFORE, IT IS HEREBY AGREED by the parties hereto as follows:
Section 1: The preambles hereinabove set forth are incorporated herein as if fully
restated.
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EXHIBIT B
Section 2: The Village hereby agrees to support and consent to the Petitioner’s
application for a Cook County Class 8 Real Estate Tax Incentive (the “Class 8 Designation”) on
the condition that the Petitioner agrees to reimburse the Village for any loss in real estate taxes
suffered by it as a result of the Class 8 Designation as provided in Section 3 below.
Section 3: The Petitioner hereby covenants and agrees to annually reimburse the
Village in an amount equal to any reduction of its portion of the real estate taxes on the Subject
Property by reason of the granting by Cook County of a Class 8 Designation for the Subject
Property and the portion of all other funds on behalf of which the Village collects or receives real
estate taxes (the “Reduction”).
Section 4. The Petitioner and the Village agree that the amount of the Reduction shall
be paid to the Village within thirty (30) days of receipt of the second installment real estate tax bill
for the Subject Property.
Section 5. All notices and other communications in connection with this Agreement
shall be deemed to have been delivered to the addressee thereof if delivered by email when
confirmed in writing by personal service or deposited in any branch of the United States post office
at the following address:
Village of Flossmoor: Petitioner:
2300 Flossmoor Road OBE Studios, LLC
Flossmoor, Illinois 60422 8762 Louisiana Street
Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager Merrillville, IN 46410
708-798-2300
Section 6. This Agreement shall commence upon its execution and terminate after the
Reduction for the final year of the Class 8 Designation has been paid to the Village.
Section 7. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be
deemed an original but all of which shall constitute the same instrument.
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EXHIBIT B
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this Agreement effective as
of the day and year first above written.
Village of Flossmoor, Cook County,
an Illinois municipal corporation
Mayor
Attest:
Village Clerk
Petitioner:
OBE Studios, LLC
Manager
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EXHIBIT C
REAL ESTATE PURCHASE AGREEMENT
This REAL ESTATE PURCHASE AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made,
entered into, and effective on the date that both parties have executed this Agreement
(the “Effective Date”), by and between the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois, an
Illinois municipal corporation (the “Seller”) and OBE Studios, LLC, an Illinois limited
liability company (the “Buyer”).
Background Information
A. Seller is the owner of a certain tract of real property, containing
approximately 7.3 acres, located at 3638 198th Street, Flossmoor and 3648
198th Street, Flossmoor, identified by parcel numbers 31-11-303-006 and -
007, together with all appurtenances and hereditaments thereto, shall be
referred to as the “Property”.
B. Seller desires to sell to Buyer, and Buyer desires to purchase from Seller,
all of Seller's right, title, and interest in the Property, at the price and on the
terms and conditions hereinafter set forth.
NOW THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the parties hereby agree to the foregoing
Background Information and as follows:
ARTICLE I
PURCHASE AND SALE OF PROPERTY
1.01 Agreement. On the terms and conditions set forth below, and in
consideration of Buyer’s delivery of $250,000, Seller hereby agrees to sell the Property
to Buyer and Buyer hereby agrees to purchase the Property from Seller, pursuant to the
terms and conditions set forth in that certain Development Agreement by and between
the Buyer and Seller dated _____________, 2026, (the “Development Agreement”) which
terms and conditions are hereby incorporated into this Agreement.
1.02 Development of Property. Buyer agrees to develop and improve the
Property in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Development Agreement.
Buyer agrees that construction of the Project, as defined in the Development Agreement,
shall commence upon satisfaction of conditions of Sections 2.1 through 2.5 of the
Development Agreement and receipt of all required building permits (the
“Commencement Deadline”). If Buyer does not commence construction on the Property
on or before thirty (30) days after the Commencement Deadline (subject to casualty and
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EXHIBIT C
force majeure) the Seller’s remedy for such failure to commence construction may be to
terminate the Development Agreement, upon written notice to Buyer.
ARTICLE II
PURCHASE PRICE
2.01 Amount of Purchase Price. The purchase price for the Property shall be
$250,000 (the “Purchase Price”), payable to Seller as set forth below, with no prorations,
credits, allowances and other adjustments unless specifically provided for herein.
2.02 Payment of Purchase Price. The Purchase Price shall be paid pursuant
to a promissory note executed by Buyer in favor of Seller in substantially the same form
as attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit A.
ARTICLE III
EVIDENCE OF TITLE
3.01 Title Commitment. Buyer shall obtain from Meridian Title Insurance
Company, at Buyer’s expense, a commitment (the “Title Commitment”) to issue an
American Land Title Association Owner’s Title Insurance Policy (the “Title Policy”),
certified to at least the Effective Date of this Agreement, in the full amount of the Purchase
Price. To be acceptable to Buyer, the Title Commitment shall show the Seller having good
and marketable title to the Property, and shall commit to insure said title free and clear of
the standard printed exceptions contained in Schedule B of the Title Commitment and
Title Policy and free and clear of all liens, charges, encumbrances and clouds of title,
whatsoever, except the following:
(a) Those created or assumed by Buyer;
(b) Zoning ordinances, legal highways and public rights-of-way which do not
interfere with proposed Project to be constructed at the Property;
(c) Easements and restrictions of record acceptable to Buyer which do not
interfere with the Buyer’s proposed use of the Property.
3.02 Endorsement at Closing. At the Closing and as a condition of Closing,
Buyer shall obtain an endorsement to the Title Commitment updating the Title
Commitment to the Closing Date and showing no change in the state of the title to the
Property. After Closing, a final Title Policy that comports with the foregoing terms and
conditions shall be issued in the amount of the Purchase Price. The entire cost of all
commitments and final title insurance policy in the amount of Purchase Price provided in
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EXHIBIT C
accordance with this Agreement shall be paid for by Buyer who shall be responsible for
any Title Policy endorsements requested.
3.03 Survey. Seller shall, at its sole cost and expense, obtain a current
boundary survey of the Property (the “Survey”), prepared by a surveyor registered in the
State of Illinois, and provide a copy to Buyer.
3.04 Defects. In the event that an examination of either of the Title
Commitment (including any endorsements) or the Survey obtained hereunder discloses
any matter adversely affecting title to the Property, or if title to the Property is not
marketable, or if the Property is subject to liens, encumbrances, easements, conditions,
restrictions, reservations or other matters not specifically excepted by the terms of this
Agreement, or in the event of any encroachment or other defect shown by the Survey (the
foregoing collectively referred to as “Defects”), Seller shall have a reasonable time, not to
exceed 30 days after written notice thereof, within which to cure or remove any such
Defects. In the event Seller is unable to cure or remove the Defects within said 30-day
period, Seller shall immediately give notice to Seller’s inability to Buyer and thereafter,
Buyer shall have 10 days after receipt of such notice within which to make its election
either:
(a) To accept title to the Property subject to such Defects; or
(b) To withdraw from this transaction and terminate the Development
Agreement, pursuant to the terms as provided in Section 2.9 thereof.
ATICLE IV
DEED AND OTHER DOCUMENTS
4.01 General Warranty Deed. Seller shall, at the Closing, convey fee simple
title to the Property to Buyer by a duly and validly executed, recordable general warranty
deed (the “Deed”), free and clear of all liens and encumbrances, except those permitted
pursuant to the provisions of Section 4.01 hereof.
4.02 Subordination Agreement. Seller agrees that Seller’s right to payment
under the Installment Promissory Note (in the form of Exhibit D), and all lien rights shall
be subordinate to all rights of Buyer’s primary and secondary lenders, including First
Source Bank and the Small Business Administration.
4.03 Other Documents. Buyer and Seller agree that such other documents as
may be legally necessary or appropriate to carry out the terms of this Agreement shall be
executed and delivered by the appropriate party at Closing. Such documents shall
include, but not be limited to, a closing statement, the most recent real estate tax bill(s),
if any, a certificate as to Seller’s status under the Foreign Investment in Real Property
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EXHIBIT C
Tax Act, Seller’s affidavit regarding liens (mechanic’s or other), unrecorded matters and
parties in possession and, if requested, Seller’s affidavit regarding the warranties and
representations set forth in Article XI thereof.
ARTICLE V
INVEMENT DEDUCTION
Investment Deduction. To the extent allowed by law, Seller agrees to
support Buyer’s applications for use of the Investment Deduction through the Urban
Enterprise Association.
ARTICLE VI
POSSESSION AND INSPECTION
6.01 Possession at Closing. Buyer shall be entitled to full and exclusive
possession of the Property as of the Closing Date.
6.02 Inspections and Development Approvals. For a period of seventy-five (75)
days following the Effective Date of this Agreement (the “Inspection and Development
Approval Period”), Buyer, and Buyer’s employees, agents and contractors, shall have the
right to physically investigate the Property, including, without limitation, entering any
portion of the Property from time to time to take measurements, make inspections, make
boundary and topographical survey maps, geotechnical, environmental, wetland,
woodland and other studies. Buyer shall pay the cost of performing any measurements,
inspections or tests performed on the Property by or on behalf of Buyer. If Buyer does not
proceed with the Closing, at Seller’s request and Buyer’s sole expense, Buyer shall
restore the affected portions of the Property, and any improvements thereto, to as near
the condition which existed prior to the commencement of Buyer’s site investigation as is
reasonably practical. Buyer shall defend, indemnify and hold Seller harmless from any
claim again Seller by Buyer, Buyer’s agents, employees, contractors, or any other person
or entity invited onto the Property by Buyer, for personal bodily injury, death or personal
property damage while conducting the site investigation of the Property. Buyer shall keep
the Property free from any liens for any labor or material furnished to Buyer in connection
with the site investigation of the Property. For and during the continuance of this
Agreement, Seller shall afford all representatives of Buyer free and full access to the
Property, for inspection and examination, at reasonable times.
During the seventy-five (75) day period as set forth above, Buyer shall be entitled
to pursue, and obtain, a variance, special use exception, rezoning, etc., if required, in
Buyer’s sole discretion, that Buyer may need to fully develop the real estate for Buyer’s
intended use.
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EXHIBIT C
ARTICLE VII
CLOSING
7.01 Closing Date. The purchase and sale of the Property shall be closed (the
“Closing”) within 30 days after satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Sections 2.1
through 2.5 of the Development Agreement and the Buyer’s receipt of all required building
permits for the Project as defined in the Development Agreement (the “Closing Date”).
The Closing shall be at such time and place as Buyer and Seller may mutually agree
upon.
ARTICLE VIII
APPORTIONMENTS AND ADJUSTMENTS
8.01 Adjustments at Closing. On the Closing Date, Buyer and Seller shall
apportion, adjust, prorate and pay the following items in the manner hereinafter set forth:
(a) Seller’s Expenses. Buyer shall pay Sellers expenses including:
(i) the fee charged by Escrow Agent for conducting the Closing; and
(ii) the cost of furnishing the Title Commitment and Title Policy in the
amount of the Purchase Price.
(b) Buyer’s Expenses. Buyer shall, at the Closing (unless previously paid), pay
all of the following expenses:
(i) the cost of any endorsement to the Title Policy in addition to or above
the title insurance coverage in the amount of the Purchase Price;
(ii) the recording fees required for recording the general warranty deed;
(iii) the fee charged by Escrow Agent for conducting the Closing.
(c) Brokers. Seller and Buyer each hereby warrants and represents to the other
that it has not engaged or dealt with any broker or agent in regard to this
Agreement. Seller and Buyer shall indemnify and hold harmless the other
from and against any other claim by any party claiming through Seller or
Buyer, respectively, for any real estate sales commission, finder’s fee,
consulting fee, or other compensation in connection with the sale
contemplated hereby and arising out of any act or agreement of such party.
The indemnity obligations set forth above in this section shall survive both
the Closing of the sale contemplated hereby and any termination of this
Agreement.
5
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EXHIBIT C
ARTICLE IX
WARRANTIES AND REPRESENTATIONS OF SELLER
9.01 Warranties and Representations. Except as otherwise set forth in the
Closing Documents and this Agreement, including without limitation any and all
warranties, representations, covenants and agreements set forth in this Agreement,
Seller makes no representation or warranties to Buyer and the Property is being conveyed
‘AS IS, WHERE IS, WITH ALL FAULTS’. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in addition to
any other representation or warranty contained in this Agreement, Seller hereby
represents and warrants as follows:
(a) The execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement, and the
consummation of the transaction contemplated hereby, will not result in any
breach of, or constitute any default under, or result in the imposition of any
lien or encumbrance against, the Property, under any agreement or other
instrument to which Seller is a party or by which Seller or the Property might
be bound;
(b) Seller has not received any notice, either orally or in writing, of any change
contemplated in any applicable laws, ordinances or restrictions, or any
judicial or administrative action, or any action by adjacent landowners,
which would prevent, limit or in any manner interfere with the proposed use
of the Property;
(c) Seller has no knowledge of any fact or condition which would result in the
termination or limitation of the existing access to the Property from abutting
public roads;
(d) No other person or entity other than Seller currently owns or has any legal
or equitable interest in the Property, and no other person or entity other than
Buyer has or will have any right to acquire the Property, or any portion
thereof;
(e) All taxes payable with respect to the operation, ownership or control of the
Property which are allocable to the period ending on the Closing Date, and
all prior periods, shall be or have been paid by Seller, and Seller shall be
responsible for the timely filing of all returns or other documents required by
any taxing authority claiming jurisdiction with respect to any such taxes;
(f) The execution, delivery and performance by Seller of this Agreement and
the performance by Seller of the transactions contemplated hereunder, and
the conveyance and delivery by Seller to Buyer of possession and title to
6
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EXHIBIT C
the Property have each been duly authorized by such persons or authorities
as may be required, and on the Closing Date, Seller shall provide Buyer
and Escrow Agent with certified resolutions, or other instruments, in form
satisfactory to Buyer, evidencing such authorization;
(g) Through and until the Closing Date, Seller shall not enter into any covenant,
restriction, encumbrance, right of lien, easement, lease or other contract
pertaining to the Property;
(h) Seller shall not, without the prior written consent of Buyer, alter the natural
topography and vegetation currently existing on, in or about the Property,
including, but not limited to the cutting, burning or removal of any trees,
removing any minerals or topsoil, dumping or any soil, fill or other matter, or
altering the natural flow of any water courses located on the Property;
(i) To the best of Seller’s knowledge, there are no laws, ordinances,
regulations, covenants, conditions or restrictions pertaining to or
encumbering the Property which would, in any way, impair, interfere with or
prevent Buyer’s intended use of the Property;
(j) Seller is not a “Foreign Person” as that term is defined in the Foreign
Investment in Real Property Tax Act.
9.02 Breach of Warranties Prior to Closing. If, during the pendency of this
Agreement, Buyer determines that any warranty or representation given by Seller to
Buyer under this Agreement shall be untrue, incorrect or misleading, in whole or in part,
the same shall constitute a default by Seller hereunder. In such event, Buyer may give
written notice thereof and shall thereafter be permitted to exercise the remedies set forth
in Section 3.01(e) above, including the right to terminate this Agreement.
ARTICLE X
NOTICES
10.01 Notice Procedure. Any notices required hereunder shall be in writing, shall
be deemed effective upon transmittal, may be transmitted by the parties’ respective legal
counsel, and shall be transmitted by (a) personal service, (b) reputable overnight delivery
service, (c) facsimile (confirmed receipt), (d) email transmission, or (e) certified mail,
postage prepaid, return receipt requested, and shall be addressed to the parties as
follows:
(a) If intended for Seller to:
Village of Flossmoor
2800 Flossmoor Road
7
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EXHIBIT C
Flossmoor, Illinois 60422
Attn: Village Manager
BWatchel@flossmoor.org
With a copy to:
Ottosen DiNolfo Hasenbalg & Castaldo, Ltd.
Attn: Kathleen Field Orr
2441 Warrenville Road, Suite 310,
Lisle, Illinois 60532
kfo@ottosenlaw.com
(b) If intended for Buyer to:
OBE Studios, LLC
8762 Louisiana Street
Merrillville, IN 46410
barrybrewerjr@gmail.com
With a copy to:
ARTICLE XI
GENERAL PROVISIONS
11.01 Governing Law. This Agreement is being executed and delivered in the
State of Illinois and shall be construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the
State of Illinois. For all litigation, disputes and controversies which may arise out of or in
connection with this Agreement, the undersigned hereby waive the right to trial by jury
and consent to the venue and jurisdiction of the court of Cook County, Illinois.
11.02 Time of Essence. Time is of the essence of this Agreement in all
respects. Any time period providing for the performance of the parties’ obligations herein
which would otherwise end on a Saturday, Sunday or national holiday shall be extended
to the next succeeding business day.
11.03 Invalidity. In the event that any provision of this Agreement shall be held
to be invalid, the same shall not affect in any respect whatsoever the validity of the
remainder of this Agreement.
8
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EXHIBIT C
11.04 Waiver. No waiver of any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be
deemed, nor shall the same constitute a waiver of any other provision, whether or not
similar, nor shall any such waiver constitute a continuing waiver. No waiver shall be
binding, unless executed, in writing, by the party making the waiver.
11.05 Headings. The section headings contained in this Agreement are for
convenience only and shall not be considered for any purpose in construing this
Agreement. As used in this Agreement, the masculine, feminine and neuter genders, and
the singular and plural numbers shall be each deemed to include the other whenever the
context so requires.
11.06 Seller’s and Buyer’s TIN. Seller’s tax identification number is
__________________. Buyer’s tax identification number is _______________.
11.07 Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of
which when executed and delivered shall be deemed an original, but such counterparts
together shall constitute but one and the same document.
11.08 Assignment. This Agreement may not be assigned.
11.09 Attorney Fees. In the event either party hereto brings or commences legal
proceedings to enforce any of the terms of this Agreement, the successful party shall then
be entitled to receive from the other of said parties, in every such action commenced, a
reasonable sum as attorneys’ fees and costs, including all fees and costs incurred upon
any appeals, to be fixed by the court in the same action.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be
duly executed on the dates set forth below, respectively.
SELLER: BUYER:
By: By:
Name: Name:
Title: Title:
Date: , 2026 Date: , 2026
9
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EXHIBIT A
INSTALLMENT PROMISSORY NOTE
$ 250,000
For value received, OBE Studios, LLC (“OBE”), the undersigned, promises to pay to the order of
the Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois (the “Village”) the sum of two hundred fifty
thousand dollars ($250,000), at such place as the holder hereof may direct in writing, with interest
upon the unpaid principal balance at the rate of 0% per annum from the date of this instrument
until satisfaction of Sections 2.1 through 2.5 of the Development Agreement by and between the
Village of Flossmoor, Cook County, Illinois and OBE Studios, LLC (“Development
Agreement”) and issuance of all building permits required to construct the Project as defined in the
Development Agreement.
This note is unsecured. This note may be prepaid in full or in part on any interest-paying date.
The maker waives demand, presentment, protest, notice of protest and notice of nonpayment or
dishonor of this note, and consents to extensions of the time of payment of this note.
No delay or omission on the part of the holder hereof in the exercise of any right or remedy shall
operate as a waiver thereof, and no single or partial exercise by the holder hereof of any right or
remedy shall preclude other or further exercise thereof or of any other right or remedy.
Upon conveyance of the Subject Property, as defined in the Development Agreement, the
undersigned shall receive full forgiveness of this Promissory Note.
This Promissory Note is unsecured and fully subordinate to all repayment and lien rights of the
·undersigned's primary and secondary lenders, including the Small Business Administration.
Signed and delivered in Flossmoor, Illinois, this _____day of ________________, 2026.
By:
Title: ______________________
1
Page 66 of 85
MEMORANDUM
TO: Bridget Wachtel, Village Manager
CC:
FROM: Ann Novoa, Finance Director
DATE: February 16, 2026
RE: Discussion of a Vehicle Use Fee in lieu of Vehicle
Stickers
The Vehicle Sticker revenue is historically the largest license and permit revenue the Village
receives. This permit revenue supports General Fund costs, including general infrastructure
maintenance performed by Public Works. The Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds alone cannot
sustain the costs of infrastructure maintenance due to the ever-increasing costs, and with the
increase in the number of electric vehicles, this revenue has declined. Historically, the Village
has had to rely on a portion of General Fund revenue for this purpose. In addition to the local
MFT revenue, Vehicle Sticker revenue is one of the revenues to help fill the gap for not only
maintenance, but also capital projects that are funded through the General Fund.
In today’s policing environment with the number of databases available, local vehicle
registration is not the first resource used by the Police Department to identify a vehicle’s owner.
Because of this and all the other previous reasons mentioned, many municipalities have
eliminated local vehicle stickers. However, the maintenance of our roadways and infrastructure,
as well as the public works personnel and supply costs, cannot be absorbed within a tax-capped
levy. The Village must consider other permitted fees that can offset these costs. Whether a
resident has one car or four (or even no cars), they need the roadway and its infrastructure to be
fit for driving, deliveries or travel. Whether you are a resident or non-resident, the public needs
– and will want to see - maintained infrastructure to travel to the commercial uses in our
community; it conveys safety and desirability.
We have seen a steady decline in Vehicle Sticker revenue starting in FY21, with a roughly
$18,000 decline annually, with FY2025 being only $169,000, $80,000 less than FY21. Pre-
COVID, the Village was bringing in a steady $240,000 of revenue, with $280,000 being the
highest. Between personnel time, software, and materials, the Village's overhead cost to
administer the Vehicle Sticker program is approximately $40,000 (This only encompasses the
time for the Finance Department, excluding PD enforcement hours). Every year, staff is chasing
vehicle sticker compliance.
Factors to consider about the Vehicle Sticker program include the amount of overhead this
annual registration imposes on the Village, the dwindling compliance among residents which is
unfair to those who are compliant, the costs of administering compliance through Secretary of
State checks and police enforcement, and the general aggravation the program creates overall.
Vehicle stickers are the source of one of the most negative customer service interactions at the
municipal level.
Page 67 of 85
Tonight’s discussion focuses on restructuring this revenue stream to ensure adequate funding for
infrastructure maintenance. The proposed solution is to replace the annual vehicle sticker
revenue with a Vehicle Use Fee, collected through the utility billing system. This fee would
support Public Works’ street and sidewalk maintenance costs. This approach, which has been
implemented in other Illinois communities, offers an innovative way to sustain critical revenue
while reducing administrative burdens.
Adding the fee to the utility bill eases administration for the Village and simplifies the
transaction for the customer. On each monthly utility bill, a fee would be added, like the
Stormwater fee. This fee would be applied to both residential and commercial properties. The
following is the staff’s suggested fee structure:
• $5 per month on single-family homes
• $5 times the number of residential units on multi-family dwellings (per month)
• $5 times 10% of the number of parking spaces (per month) for non-residential properties
• 5% of the monthly utility bill for each commercial account holder in the B-5 Central
Business District to account for businesses that rely on public parking rather than parking
lots they own
As a reminder, this restructured fee model spreads the costs to maintain infrastructure between
residential and commercial users. If we utilize this redefined fee structure, we can estimate that
the revenue collection would be approximately $260,000 annually. This amount of annual
revenue equates to 0.6 miles of street resurfacing or the replacement of 900 sidewalk squares.
Additionally, staff believe the ease of administering this fee, coupled with the removal of the
vehicle sticker process, will lead to an improved customer/resident experience.
Year Revenue
Pre-COVID Peak $280,000
FY2021 $249,000
FY2025 $169,000
Projected (Vehicle Use Fee)$260,000
Staff recommends that the Board hold a discussion on this subject at the February 16 Village
Board meeting. Staff will be specifically looking for the following direction:
• Should the Village discontinue the Vehicle Sticker program in favor of a Vehicle Use
Fee, starting May 1, 2026?
Strategic Initiative (s) Addressed
1. Finance and Services: 1.2. Assess additional revenue opportunities beyond property taxes
Page 68 of 85
MEMORANDUM
TO: Mayor Nelson and Board of Trustees
CC:
FROM: Bridget A. Wachtel, Village Manager
DATE: February 16, 2026
RE: Presentation of the Strategic Plan Update (May 2025 -
January 2026)
In April 2022, the Village of Flossmoor adopted its Strategic Plan for the period of 2022-2026. The
planning document recommends regular assessments of the plan's progress and results. This
process helps approach the Strategic Plan implementation as a project and not day-to-day business.
Staff has provided reports to the Village Board at Board meetings to share what activities and
programs have supported the strategic priorities and what next steps will be taken. Attached is a
report from May 2025 through January 2026 for your review. Staff is very proud of the work we have
been able to achieve in support of the Board's strategic priorities. Staff welcomes the Board's input
on the report.
Page 69 of 85
Strategic Planning Update
May 2025-January 2026
Page 70 of 85
INTRODUCTION
In April 2022, the Village of Flossmoor adopted its Strategic Plan
for the period 2022-2026. This plan was facilitated by Forrest
Consulting and crafted with stakeholder input through a
community survey, two community input sessions, and
interviews with elected officials and staff leaders. There were
five strategic goals determined by this process:
FINANCES & SERVICES — To continue financial planning and
develop greater revenue to support delivery of top-notch
core services through a balanced budget.
INFRASTRUCTURE & HOUSING — To increase property
values by improving the Village infrastructure, beautifying
the community and assure a high-quality housing stock.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & BUSINESS RETENTION — To
engage in an economic development program for added tax
revenue and to attract and retain businesses that meet
residents’ needs.
INCLUSIVITY — To foster a united and engaged community
by a commitment to inclusion through fair and impartial
opportunity and access.
STAFF — To promote excellence in service delivery.
This update provides a progress report on goals and action
steps from May 2025 through January 2026.
Page 71 of 85
#1 Finances & Services
Develop greater revenue to support the delivery of top-notch core services through a
balanced budget.
Action Step / Initiative Responsibility Timeline
1.1 Identify what core
services/programs/areas
Finance Director,
are inadequately funded,
Manager, Mayor
by how much and 1st Priority
& Board
prioritize these needs
against other existing
services
Finance Director,
1.2 Assess additional
Manager, Mayor
revenue opportunities 2nd Priority
& Board
beyond property tax
1.3 Pursue revenue Manager, Mayor
opportunities that are & Board 3rd Priority
significant and attainable
1.4 Continue financial
planning to consistently Finance Director,
achieve a balanced Manager &
general fund budget not Department 4th Priority
dependent on fund Directors
balances, anticipate
needs & address risks
1.5 Work with SSMMA and
other groups to address
property tax issues,
revenue opportunities,
Mayor &
unfunded mandates and 5th Priority
Manager
burdensome regulatory
requirements that do not
contribute to the quality
of services local
government is providing
Page 72 of 85
#1 Finances & Services
Major Accomplishments
(1.1) Implemented internal solutions in the (1.3) Worked to garner grants for security
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) projects. Grants awarded to the Police
project. The internal solutions that were Department include:
deployed include our street sign inventory
and parkway tree database. $41,330 IDOT grant to conduct traffic-
enforcement operations throughout
(1.1) Started digitizing records as the Village the year. Since receiving this grant,
moves to a document management system officers have made 765 vehicle stops
(DMS). This project started with clerk files and issued 833 citations.
and building permits and will eventually $10,000 ComEd Powering through
lead to streamlined processes and faster Safe Community grant provided for
document production requests. the purchase of flashing beacons to
increase safety measures for students
(1.2) Implemented a 10% late-fee on and pedestrians to safely travel across
Accounts Receivables to encourage timely crosswalks at four busy locations.
remittance to the Village for monies owed. $42,000 Illinois Attorney General’s
Organized Retail Theft Crime grant to
(1.2) Implemented the 1% Local Grocery purchase closed-circuit security
Sales Tax, effective Jan. 1, 2026, to maintain cameras to be installed within our
sales tax revenue despite changes in Illinois retail corridors.
State law.
(1.4) Awarded the GFOA Certificate of
(1.3) Worked to garner grants for Achievement for Excellence in Financial
infrastructure projects, including: Reporting for the 47th consecutive year.
$1,000,000 MWRD Stormwater (1.4) Realigned the Capital Equipment
Partnership Program participation for schedule with an early sale of an engine,
Phase 5 of the Flossmoor Road Viaduct which overall reduces the Fire
Drainage Improvements Project. Department’s fleet from four engines to
three engines in a 20-year cycle. The
(1.0) Implemented update to financial subsequent ordering of a new engine will
software, BS&A Cloud, in June. Using this provide reliable emergency response for
software allows for expanded modules and many years. This strategic investment
features, such as Business Registration, offers long-term benefits, including
online payments and licensing. reduced maintenance costs, increased
operational capability and enhanced
service.
Page 73 of 85
#1 Finances & Services
Major Accomplishments, continued
(1.4) Approved a noteworthy Employee (1.0) Continued to take a leadership role in
Insurance Renewal rate in July during a very standing up a a newly consolidated dispatch
volatile insurance market, while not center of 12 South Suburban municipalities.
jeopardizing coverage options. Efforts have been centered around not only
the physical location of the new center, but
(1.5) The Mayor, Manager and Finance also the business and operational
Director relentlesly lobbied Cook County components.
regarding releasing agency tax receipts and
diligently monitored and accounted for the
receipt of local funds.
Looking Ahead
Presenting a transition to a Vehicle Use Fee in place of vehicle stickers this spring.
After having completed the Five-Year Anaylsis, the Board requested further discussion
on the additional revenue Places for Eating Tax at a meeting this spring.
Expecting a go-live date with BS&A Payments, ensuring better services and improving
customer service.
In the planning phase of moving to monthly utility billing to improve cash flow and
assist customers with more manageable and predictable utility bills.
Page 74 of 85
#2 Infrastructure & Housing
Increase property values by improving the Village infrastructure, beautifying the
community and assuring a high-quality housing stock.
Action Step / Initiative Responsibility Timeline
2.1 Implement phases of Mayor, Board,
the storm sewer and Finance Director &
street refurbishment Public Works Co-1st Priority
projects as funding Director
becomes available
2.2 Identify and Mayor, Board,
implement water and Finance Director &
sanitary sewer system Public Works Co-1st Priority
improvements as funding Director
becomes available
Mayor, Board,
Manager,
2.3 Identify and prioritize
Public Works
opportunities for 2nd Priority
Director & Building
beautifying the Village
Department
Manager,
Public Works
2.4 Undertake
Director & Building As prioritized
beautification projects
Department
2.5 Assure maintenance Attorney &
of residential properties, Building
Ongoing
including foreclosed Department
homes
2.6 Promote Flossmoor to
Manager 3rd Priority
attract homebuyers
Page 75 of 85
#2 Infrastructure & Housing
Major Accomplishments
(2.1) Completed the FY26 MFT Street (2.2) Completed Phase 3 of the
Resurfacing Project at a final cost of Flossmoor Road Viaduct Drainage
$589,971.94. This project included the Improvements Project, which included
asphalt resurfacing of 1.46 miles of streets, the construction of the large-scale 84-in.
and other ancillary pavement patching, storm sewer on Lawrence Crescent from
ADA sidewalk repairs, curb and gutter the Heather Hill basin to Maryland
repairs, and restoration. Avenue. The cost of this phase was
$1,758,536, which was offset by $1.5
(2.1) Completed the FY26 MFT Pavement million in DCEO grants.
Crack Filling Program at a cost of
$31,679.39. This project included the (2.2) Completed the Flossmoor Road
pavement crack filling of 10 streets at a Sanitary Sewer Relocation Project at a
total distance of 3.99 miles. cost of $422,423. This project included
the relocation of the public 15-in.
(2.1) Completed the FY26 Sidewalk sanitary sewer that ran under the Civic
Replacement Program at a cost of Center Building from the public alley to
$95,465.61. This project included the the west and out to Sterling Avenue. The
replacement of approximately 330 project relocated the sanitary sewer to
sidewalk squares on Western Avenue run west down the alley and south
between Flossmoor Road and Vardon Lane across the east side of the vacant land in
and at other locations throughout the a public utility easement, adjacent to
Village. 2609 Flossmoor Road, and out to
Flossmoor Road.
(2.1, 2.4) Substantially completed the
Downtown Streetscape Project at an (2.4) Began the engineering for the
estimated final cost of $2,098,058. The Dartmouth Bike Bridge Replacement
project was offset by an IDOT ITEP grant in Project. This project includes the
the amount of $1,184,456. replacement of the Dartmouth Bike
Bridge, bike path on both sides of the
(2.1) Continued the engineering for Phase 1 bridge, and the bank stabilization of
of the Water System Improvements Butterfield Creek. The estimated project
Program. This phase includes the cost is $690,800. The project will be
replacement of the water SCADA system, partially offset by an IEPA Section 319
which automates and controls the Village’s grant in the amount of $111,600, which is
water-distribution system. The project meant to cover a portion of the cost of
budget is $680,561. the bank stabilization.
Page 76 of 85
#2 Infrastructure & Housing
Major Accomplishments, continued
(2.4) Successfully added four outdoor (2.6) Completed the Historic Homes of
temporary sculptures in the Village. Flossmoor project, which is now
accessible as an interactive GIS map on
(2.5) Continuing to monitor vacant and the Village website. This project identifies
foreclosed homes both through our 30 of the most architecturally significant
agreement with Hera Registry, as well as homes in Flossmoor, and it will, hopefully,
with our active code enforcement to draw attention to Flossmoor as an
identify vacant properties that have not architectural gem in Chicagoland.
yet been registered.
(2.6) Featured in Crain’s Chicago Business
for being one of the few Chicagoland
locations that had a significant increase in
home values in 2025. Flossmoor home
values rose on average 12% last year.
Looking Ahead
Development of a lead water service replacement program. Funding will be determined
once the program scope is finalized.
Implementing all three phases of the water-supply improvements, as defined in the Capital
Program.
Completion of Phases 4 & 5 in the Flossmoor Road Viaduct Drainage Improvements
Project.
Page 77 of 85
#3 Economic Development & Business Retention
Engage in an economic development program for added tax revenue and attract and
retain businesses that meet residents’ needs.
Action Step / Initiative Responsibility Timeline
3.1 Update published Mayor, Board,
economic development Manager Co-1st Priority
plans & Attorney
3.2 Engage or hire
Mayor, Board
economic development Co-1st Priority
& Manager
personnel as needed
Manager, Mayor,
3.3 Target development of Board, Attorney
vacant commercial and Per the plan
properties Building & Zoning
Administrator
3.4 Explore partnering with
a developer for Manager, Mayor,
Per the plan
development of vacant Board & Attorney
land on Vollmer Road
Mayor, Board,
3.5 Develop pre-approved Manager, Attorney,
commercial development Finance Director
2nd Priority
project incentives, ready and Building &
to offer Zoning
Administrator
3.6 Categorize and Mayor, Board,
prioritize types of Manager and
3rd Priority
businesses that best fit Building & Zoning
community needs Administrator
Manager &
3.7 Engage in a program
Economic
to attract businesses that After 3.6
Development
best fit community needs
personnel
Manager and
3.8 Develop a business-
Building & Zoning Ongoing
retention program
Administrator Page 78 of 85
#3 Economic Development & Business Retention
Major Accomplishments
(3.3, 3.7) Approved the construction of (3.7) Offered an economic incentive for
Chipotle and 7 Brew restaurants on a HVAC replacement and Ansul System
Meijer outlot with construction beginning Repairs to Flossmoor Social (1040
this spring and scheduled openings in the Sterling), which opened in fall 2025.
fall.
(3.8) Vigorously promoted and supported
(3.3) Continued to guide the development central business district businesses
of Flossmoor Town Centre LLC, the heavily throughout the Downtown
proposed development of townhomes and Streetscape Project with weekly
a cafe for the Village-owned property on construction updates, an interactive GIS
Flossmoor Road. map, additional parking spaces,
promotional signage, social media posts,
(3.3) Continued to guide a development enews features and a special incentive
agreement with On-the-Fly Hospitality for program for shoppers and diners
their proposal of Flossmoor Smokehouse throughout the month of September.
restaurant for the Village-owned property
at 19725 Governors Highway. (3.8) Hosted Willette LeGrant, the U.S.
Small Business Administration Illinois
(3.3) Entered into a development District Director, for a tour of downtown
agreement with OBE Studios for Village- businesses in May.
owned properties on 198 Street.
th
(3.3) Entered into a Memorandum of
Understanding with the Southland
Development Authority to market and
secure letters of interest for Village-owned
properties on Vollmer Road.
(3.7) Offered an economic incentive to
provide an accessible restroom, plus
plumbing for the bathroom and sink, to
Beyond Borders Cafe (1036 Sterling), which
opened in summer 2025.
Looking Ahead
Working with SDA and other developers to develop other available properties.
Page 79 of 85
#4 Inclusivity
Foster a united and engaged community by a commitment to inclusion through fair
and impartial opportunity and access.
Action Step / Initiative Responsibility Timeline
4.1 Identify and pursue Mayor, Board &
marketing activities to Community Relations Co-1st Priority
highlight Flossmoor’s diversity Commission (CRC)
4.2 Define “an inclusive Mayor, Board,
community” and identify fair Manager’s Office & 2nd Priority
and impartial measures to CRC
achieve inclusivity
4.3 Implement measures to Mayor, Board,
achieve inclusivity Manager’s Office & After 4.2
CRC
4.4 Identify and pursue
activities to build Mayor, Board,
communications, Manager’s Office & 3rd Priority
understanding & unity among CRC
residents across the Village
4.5 Assess current
communications with Manager’s Office &
residents and identify ways to Department Directors 4th Priority
communicate more
effectively
4.6 Implement methods for
more effective Manager’s Office &
After 4.5
communications with Department Directors
residents
4.7 Support Flossmoor’s
residents through inclusive Manager’s Office &
After 4.2
and accessible events, Department Directors
services & activities
4.8 Provide access for MWBE Mayor, Board,
contractors to be included in Manager’s Office & With 4.3
the procurement process Department Directors
4.9 Maintain, enhance and Mayor, Board,
foster community safety Manager’s Office & Co-1st Priority
Police & Fire Depts. Page 80 of 85
#4 Inclusivity
Major Accomplishments
(4.1) Continued outreach efforts through (4.7) Hosted a National Hispanic Heritage
the Community Relations Commission at Month event in partnership with the
information booths at events, such as Flossmoor Public Library in September,
Juneteenth, Back-to-School Bash and the modeled after the successful Lunar New
Hidden Gem Half Marathon. Year event. The Village collaborated with
School District 161’s Bilingual Parent
(4.1) Launched a yard sign initiative to Action Committee to help shape and
foster community pride and promote the coordinate the event. Feedback from
“Love Flossmoor” message through the participants indicated the program felt
Community Relations Commission. more intentional, educational and
meaningful than prior efforts.
(4.6) Redesigned the printed Village
quarterly newsletter for better readability, (4.7) Completed the 2026 MLK Day of
more graphic interest and expanded Service, which featured 25 programs.
calendar information. The newsletter is New projects included the H-F Park
now planned, written and designed in District’s From Service to Solidarity
house. program, a community art project with
the Public Art Commission and a new
(4.6) Added a Green Tip of the Month partnership with the South Suburban
from the Green Commission to the Humane Society. Despite weather-
monthly enewsletter, providing practical, related cancellations impacting a small
accessible ways residents can incorporate number of projects, the event
sustainability into their lives. demonstrated continued growth
through expanded partnerships, a
(4.7) Partnered with Grand Prairie broader range of programs and
Services, a local mental and behavioral sustained community engagement.
health provider, to implement Mobile
Crisis Response services. The Mobile (4.7) Continued to prioritize Community
Crisis Response Team (MCRT) provides Risk Reduction initiatives focused on
onsite services two days per week and prevention, education and public
24/7 emergency crisis response. This engagement. These efforts by the Fire
partnership has improved outcomes for Department include CPR, first aid classes
approximately 20 individuals experiencing and school-based education programs.
mental health crises by connecting them
with appropriate care, while allowing (4.7) Deepened the relationship between
emergency responders to focus on core the Green Commission and Flossmoor
public safety functions, reinforcing a SD161 by creating a pollinator patch at
coordinated and compassionate response Parker Junior High School. This project
to community needs. was funded by a $1,000 grant from
ComEd.
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#4 Inclusivity
Major Accomplishments, continued
(4.7) Continued the partnership between (4.8) Continued to include diverse
the Green Commission and H-F High School business goals and requirements on
by working alongside students in the H-F grant-funded projects when the
Community Organic Garden. This funding agency has provided direction
collaboration provided hands-on learning and requirements. One example of
opportunities, while reinforcing the this is the Flossmoor Road Viaduct
importance of local food systems and Drainage Improvements Phase 3
environmental stewardship. In addition, the project that utilized $1.5M in DCEO
Commission remained steadfast in its grant funds and had a Business
commitment to expanding tree canopy Enterprise Program goal of 18%
coverage on the H-F campus. Identified by Minority Business Enterprise and 10%
the Chicago Region Trees Initiative as one of Women Business Enterprise.
the Village's hottest areas due to limited
tree canopy, the campus presents a critical (4.9) Adopted an ordinance on e-bikes
opportunity to reduce environmental and e-scooters to keep residents
impact. By increasing shade and improving aware and safe.
air quality, the planting of five new trees will
help cool the campus, support long-term (4.9) Continued to make strategic
sustainability and enhance student well- investments in technology, apparatus
being. and equipment in Police & Fire
Departments in order to strengthen
(4.7) Offered a Spirit Wear Swap during the emergency response capabilites, while
Back-to-School Bash in partnership with the maintaining responsible fiscal
Flossmoor Public Library. stewardship.
(4.7) Hosted a successful fall tree planting (4.9) Created a new webpage and
with the Green Commission and volunteers, accompanying brochure regarding
including the H-F Football team and how to recognize identity scams.
coaches. Information is geared toward seniors,
but applicable to all. Efforts were part
(4.7) Offered green education opportunities of the Police Department’s Safe
at events, such as OAKtoberfest, Pumpkin Seniors initiative.
Smash and the Hidden Gem.
(4.9) Increased staffing through quality
(4.7) Partnered with the Flossmoor Public lateral and new officer hires, which
Library and H-F Park District in a food drive allowed for reimplementation of the
to replenish food pantries at Bloom & Rich D.A.R.E. program. D.A.R.E. is vital to
Townships during the SNAP benefits crisis in increasing positive Police Officer
the fall. relationships with our youth and
educational institutions.
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#4 Inclusivity
Looking Ahead
Continue working with the Flossmoor Public Library to create inclusive programming
and events throughout the year.
Partnering with the Village of Homewood & the H-F Park District for an inclusive cross-
community clean-up event in April.
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#5 Staff
Promote excellence in service delivery.
Action Step / Initiative Responsibility Timeline
5.1 Assess and adjust
Mayor, Board,
staffing as needed in light
Manager and
of the need to focus the 1st Priority
Department
staff on delivering
Directors
top-flight core services
5.2 Develop and
implement a customer
service program and
promote a culture of Manager and
service in a collegial Department 2nd Priority
environment with Directors
resources to succeed and
motivated to provide a
high level of performance
5.3 Develop and
implement a program to Manager,
recognize and retain Department
3rd Priority
capable staff members Directors, Mayor &
where employees feel Board
appreciated
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#5 Staff
Major Accomplishments
(5.1) Filled seven vacancies in the Police
Looking Ahead
Department: four full-time officers, one full-
time CSO, one part-time records clerk and
Actively working to update antiquated
one crossing guard.
customer-service processes to motivate
(5.1) Created a full-time CSO position by staff to perform at high levels.
combining two part-time positions to
enhance non-sworn Police assistance,
Working to fill current open positions
including traffic duties, downtown patrol
and support with Police technology. in Public Works & the Police
Department.
(5.1) Continued the successful Fire
Department Intern Program,
Planning increased security measures
demonstrating measurable success and
long-term value. To date, the program has in the Building Department and station
produced 17 certified Firefighter/EMTs and improvements in the Police
has strengthened a diverse pipeline of
Department.
qualified candidates committed to serving
the community and the region.
(5.1) Sponsored a Police Officer who
received his Arson Investigator
Certification, which better equips the Police
and Fire Departments to identify when fires
are intentionally set and helps bring
arsonists to justice. Flossmoor Arson
Investigators also serve on a multi-
jurisdictional team, which strengthens
Flossmoor’s interdependent relationships
with partner agencies and provides more
effective, collaborative arson investigative
power for the South Suburbs.
(5.3) Implemented a new employee
incentive program through Personify
Health.
(5.3) SHRM certification was earned by the
Assistant Finance Director.
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