City Council Meetings

WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS MAYOR PE HUP j, SUESS COUNCILWOMAN l;|'<ICA BRAY-PARIQR j COUNCILWOMAN LiiAf-i BRICK I COUNCILMAN SCOI I BROWN COUNCILMAN 8RADLEY CLOUSING ICOUNCILWOMAN LYNN ROBBINS I COUNCILMAN 5COI'I WELLER WHFATON CITY HALI , COUNCII CHAMBFRS, 50.5 W WFSI FY STRFFT. WHEATON, IIII INOIS (IOIt‘W Monday, July 21, 2025 1. Call to Order and Roll Call The regular Wheaton City Council Meeting was called to order at 7:01 p.m. by Mayor Philip J. Suess. Upon roll call, the following were: Physically Present: Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Absent: None City Staff Physically Present: Michael G. Dzugan, City Manager William Kolschowsky, Assistant City Manager Dawn Didier, City Attorney Jim Kozik, Director of Planning & Economic Development Vince Laoang, Director of Public Works Robert Lehnhardt, Director of Finance Princeton Youker, Chief of Police Sarang Lagvankar, Senior Project Engineer Susan Bishel, Public information Officer Andrea Rosedale, City Clerk City Staff Electronically Present: None 2. Presentations Mayor Suess read and presented a Proclamation to Allison Orr, Downtown Wheaton Association Executive Director, in honor of Downtown Wheaton Day, a celebration dedicated to uplifting Wheaton’s local economy and supporting local and regional entrepreneurs. Allison Orr thanked the Mayorand City Council and many other community organizations that support the City’s Central Business District and its ”Best entrepreneurs. She reported that the Downtown Wheaton Association was also recognized as the Downtown Atmosphere” for the second year in a row. Mayor Suess presided over the Wheaton Police Department Swearing—in Ceremonies for Deputy Chief Karl V. Dillenkoffer, Lieutenant Daniel M. Salzmann, and Sergeant Michael H. Sheahan. Each ceremony was preceded by remarks from Police Chief Princeton Youker. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July 21 , 2025 3. Citizens to be Heard Michelle Sheahin, 1171 Champion Forest Ct., thanked the Mayor and City Council for all that they do for the City of Wheaton to make it a great piace to live. She expressed support of the Wheaton Pubiic Library, library staff, library board members, and library collection. She expressed dissatisfaction with recent comments from counciimembers regarding a library Facebook post and communications from counciimembers related to content of library dispiays. Tammy Harris, expressed support of the Wheaton Pubiic Library, Pride Month dispiay, and library coiiection. Ella Tracy, recounted a harassment incident she experienced Friday evening at Northside Park. She expressed dissatisfaction relating to the response from the Wheaton Police Department. She feeis the community shouid promote LGBTQ acceptance to educate the public regarding the topic. Oiivia Zamis, recounted Ella Tracy’s harassment incident she witnessed Friday evening and dissatisfaction with the lack of support received from the Wheaton Police Department and Wheaton North High School. She hopes the incident can serve as an example to create change to prevent others from experiencing similar situations. Betsy Prange, expressed dissatisfaction with Councilman Brown and Councilman Clousing’s use ofthe City email and their positions to criticize the library director. She reviewed the ordinances and policies of surrounding cities pertaining to ethics and expressed her desire to advocate for updates to the City of Wheaton’s ordinances and policies relative to the scope of authority of the counciimembers. She expressed support for the library and HB2789. Matt Vlasman, 404 W. Franklin St., stated that the views of Councilman Brown do not represent him as a constituent. He read emails sent to Library Director Betsy Adamowski on June 4 by Councilman Brown and Councilman Clousing pertaining to LGBTQ content posted by the library on Facebook and the library’s reading lists and displays. He expressed dissatisfaction with the content of the emails sent in the capacity ofa councilmember. Lisa Brennan, 108 E. Jefferson Ave., expressed support for people of race and the LGBTQ community in Wheaton. She expressed support of the library and the library’s collection. Mackynzie Combs and Elsie Porter thanked Mayor Suess for hosting a luncheon with them and their friends earlier this week. They thanked City Attorney Didier and Director Schulz for their kindness and answering their questions during the luncheon. They thanked Mayor Suess for his impact on the City of Wheaton. Mayor Suess thanked Ms. Combs and Ms. Porter for leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Darien Zamis, 912 N. Washington St., expressed support for the Wheaton Public Library and expressed dissatisfaction with the opinions of Councilman Brown and Councilman Clousing. She shared concern for the events recounted by Ella Tracy at Northside Park. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July 21, 2025 4. Consent Agenda Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Weller seconded that the following action be taken on the Consent Agenda items: 1. Approve the Minutes ofthe Wheaton City Council Regular Meeting —July 7, 2025, as submitted. 2. Pass Ordinance 0—2025-32, An Ordinance Amending the Official Motor Vehicle and Traffic Schedule Vl (Chapter 70) for the City of Wheaton — Somerset Circle. 3. First Reading of An Ordinance Amending the Official Motor Vehicle and Traffic Schedule Vi — (Chapter 70) for the City of Wheaton Scott Street. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 5. Pass Ordinance 0-2025-33, An Ordinance Amending the Wheaton Liquor Control Ordinance, Chapter 6 — Alcoholic Beverages Section 6-129 — Hours of Business — Generally Class R License Councilwoman Bray-Parker moved and Councilman Brown seconded that 0—2025-33, An Ordinance Amending the Wheaton Liquor Control Ordinance, Chapter 6 — Alcoholic Beverages Section 6—129 — Hours of Business - Generally Class R License, be passed. City Manager Dzugan stated the ordinance was unanimously recommended by the Liquor Commission to amend the permitted hours for liquor service on Sundays for Class R license. He reported the Class R liquor license is for full-service salons and spas. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July 21 , 2025 6. Pass Ordinance 0-2025-34, An Ordinance Amending the Wheaton City Code, Chapter 10 — Special Events, Amusements and Entertainments, Article II — Special Events and Chapter 42 — Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions, Article lV — City Parks Councilman Brown moved and Counciiman Clousing seconded that 0—2025-34, An Ordinance Amending the Wheaton City Code, Chapter 10 — Special Events, Amusements and Entertainments, Article ii — Special Events and Chapter 42 — Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions, Article IV — City Parks, be passed. City Manager Dzugan stated the ordinance amends the City Code pertaining to the use of Parking Lot 3, the pavilion on Lot 3 and the adjacent Public Plaza Areas. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Nayy None Absent None Motion Carried Unanimously 7. Approve Reappointments and Appointments to City Boards and Commissions Mayor Suess moved and Councilman Weller seconded that Carol Bruns be appointed to the Commission on Aging, Michael Hodel be reappointed to the Community Relations Commission, Jim Wozniak be reappointed to the Environmental lmprovement Commission, John Corcoran and Grace Holzhaeuer be appointed to the Historic Commission, for three-year terms through July 21, 2028, and Ralph Holmen be appointed to the Library Board for a term through June 30, 2026, and Philip Spittler be appointed and Chris Dabovich and Cecilia Horejs be reappointment to the Planning and Zoning Board for five-year terms through July 21, 2030. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July21, 2025 8. Adopt Resolution R-2025-59, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 551 with Ramirez Group, LLC for the Public Works Trench Drains Replacement Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $410,500 and a 10% Contingency Councilwoman Bray-Parker moved and Councilwoman Brice seconded that R-2025-59, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 551 with Ramirez Group, LLC for the Public Works Trench Drains Replacement Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $410,500 and a 10% Contingency, be adopted. City Manager Dzugan reported the receipt of four bids for replacement of the trench drain system at the main Public Works garage. He stated the Facilities Assessment Study identified this as a critical replacement, although it was not identified in the 2025 Budget as the study had not yet been completed. He noted the Building Renewal Fund is able to fund the project. Roll Cali Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Counciiman Brown Mayor Suess Counciiman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Counciiman Weller Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 9. Receive Planning & Zoning Board Report Re: #25-19/ Front Yard Setback Variation/ 337 E. Prairie Avenue/ Nussbaum Councilman Brown moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that Planning & Zoning Board Report Re: #25-19/ Front Yard Setback Variation/ 337 E. Prairie Avenue/ Nussbaum, be received. City Manager Dzugan stated the report from the Planning and Zoning Board unanimously recommended the approval of a front yard setback variation of 114.87 feet in lieu ofthe required 155 feet. He noted the variation stems from the ordinance’s requirement to average setbacks of adjacent properties. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July 21 , 2025 Pass Ordinance 0-2025-35, An Ordinance Granting a Front Yard Setback Variation to Allow the Construction and Use of an Addition, on a Certain Piece of Property Commonly Known as 337 E. Prairie Avenue - Nussbaum Councilman Weller moved and Councilman Brown seconded that 0—2025—35, An Ordinance Granting a Front Yard Setback Variation to Allow the Construction and Use of an Addition, on a Certain Piece of Property Commoniy Known as 337 E. Prairie Avenue - Nussbaum, be passed. Councilman Weller noted that given the exceptionai depth to the property, it makes sense to move forward with the requested variation. Roll Cail Vote: Ayes: Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 10. Pass Ordinance 0-2025-36, An Ordinance Vacating of a Portion of the Willow Avenue Public Right- of-Way St. Michael Catholic Church Councilman Brown moved and Councilman Weller seconded that O-2025—36, An Ordinance Vacating of a Portion of the Willow Avenue Public Right-of-Way St. Michael Catholic Church, be passed. City Manager Dzugan reported the Council approved Ordinance 0-2025—31 authorizing a petition for St. Michael Catholic Church for rezoning from C-4 CBD Perimeter Commercial to l-2 institutional, 4 perimeter landscaping setback variations, and a special use permit to aliow the expansion ofthe existing special use for a building primarily used for religious worship and a school. He noted a major component ofthe plan is the vacation of Willow Ave. He stated the ordinance would vacate the right-of—way based upon a number of conditions. in response to Councilwoman Bray-Parker, City Manager Dzugan stated the primary traffic improvement will be an enhancement to the pick up and drop off at the school facility to reduce the backup on West Street as well as bus pick up and drop off onsite. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July 21, 2025 Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimouslv 11. First reading of An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wheaton Chapter 6, (Alcoholic Beverages) Class M Liquor License Classification City Manager Dzugan stated a request was received to permit the sale of craft distiHed spirits along with wine among the products sold under a Class M liquor license. He stated the Liquor Commission recommended the approval of an additional Class M Plus license to permit these sales. 12. Adopt Resolution R-2025-60, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 552 with KWCC, Inc. for the Water Division Building Exterior Renovation Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $1,366,650.00 and a 10% Contingency Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that R—2025—60, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 552 with KWCC, Inc. for the Water Division Building Exterior Renovation Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $1,366,650.00 and a 10% Contingency, be adopted. City Manager Dzugan stated three bids were received for the exterior renovation of the Water Division Building on Reber St. He reported the Council approved moving forward with the facade presented in Option one at the April 2024 Planning Session. He confirmed the bids came in under budget and noted TIF 3 revenues will fund the project. In response to Councilman Weller, Director Laoang confirmed the project would begin this year, however the completion ofthe project is to be determined. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 13. Adopt Resolution R-2025-61, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 553 with Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. for Professional Engineering Services for a Traffic Calming Study for the Intersection of Harrison Avenue and Washington Street for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $17,600.00 and a 10% Contingency Councilwoman Bray-Parker moved and Councilman Brown seconded that R-2025-61, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 553 with Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. for Professional Engineering Services for a Traffic Calming Study for the Intersection of Harrison Avenue and Washington Street for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $17,600.00 and a 10% Contingency, be adopted. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July21, 2025 City Manager Dzugan announced three bids were received for a traffic calming study at the intersection of Harrison and Washington. He explained that this study marks the City’s initial effort to address a traffic concern using a traffic calming approach. He reported staff had conducted multiple studies at the intersection and found that previous solutions are insufficient. He noted that drivers on Harrison generally exceed speed limits, whiie drivers on Washington are not patient. He stated the City may look to possible infrastructure changes to improve conditions at this specific location. Councilwoman Bray-Parker noted she is happy the City is moving forwa rd on the study and acknowledged the neighborhood’s patience as the City works to implement a solution. Councilwoman Brice agreed with Councilwoman Bray-Parker’s statement noting that the traffic, speed and stop signs have come up a lot with her residents as well. Councilman Clousing stated he is hopeful with the possibility of this approach being a roadmap to develop a creative solution that may be implemented at other intersections in the City. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 14. Adopt Resolution R-2025-62, A Resolution Authorizing Execution of a Supplemental Agreement Between the City of Wheaton and the Union Pacific Railroad for Beautification Purposes Along Railroad Right-of-Way Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilwoman Brice seconded that R-2025-62, A Resolution Authorizing Execution of a Supplemental Agreement Between the City of Wheaton and the Union Pacific Railroad for Beautification Purposes Along Railroad Right-of-Way, be adopted. City Manager Dzugan stated a portion of the new Prairie Path just north of Parking Lot 3 was constructed on railroad property, a result of confusion from three different surveys. He stated through the City Attorney’s efforts, working with a consultant attorney, the City was able to work with Union Pacific to amend the beautification lease to include the area so that potential exposure is removed. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July 21, 2025 Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimouslv 15. Receive Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2024 Councilman Clousing moved and Councilwoman Brice seconded that the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2024, be received. City Manager Dzugan introduced Anthony Cervini, Partner from Sikich CPA LLC, to present the 2024 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report. Anthony Cervini provided an overview of the audit process, and the reports issued. He congratulated the City on receipt ofthe Government Finance Officers Association Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financiai Reporting for the 42nd consecutive year. He reported the Independent Auditor’s Report issued a clean unmodified opinion on the City’s financial statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, which is the highest level of assurance that can be provided by auditors. Additionally, he provided a summary of the financial results of the City for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 16. Council Comment Councilwoman Bray-Parker encouraged the community to attend the DuPage County Fair. She mentioned recent comments from residents and noted the oath that councilmembers took to support the US Constitution, state Constitution, the City of Wheaton, and the commitment to facts, research, and best practices. She expressed appreciation for the trained librarians, comparing their use of industry standards and best practices to those of the Engineering Department and Public Works Department, which she supports. She suggested that the Council focus on being positive, welcoming, and inclusive in the City of Wheaton. Mayor Suess acknowledged the importance of individuals exercising their right to express their opinions, views, and thoughts. He noted that during such discussions, it is crucial to listen to people, respect differing opinions, and avoid judgment. He pointed out that disagreements are inevitable and emphasized the need for respect and professionalism when others share their views. Mayor Suess stated that both the Council and citizens have the right to express their views. He encouraged the community to progress from their dialogue and discussion and to reflect on their objectives. The City of Wheaton has a history of WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, July21, 2025 inclusiveness, exemplified by being a stop on the Underground Railroad and passing the first fair housing ordinance in lllinois. He clarified that the Council’s goal is to maintain a community where everyone feeis proud, safe, comfortabie, and included. 17. Approval of Warrant Councilwoman Bray-Parker moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that Warrant No. 900 in the amount of $2,239,851.85, be approved. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 18. Closed Session Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Brown seconded to go into closed session at 8:30 pm for the purpose of discussing Land Acquisition SILCS 120/2(c)(5) and Personnel — City Manager Evaluation 5lLcs 120/2(c)(1). Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown MayorSuess Councilman Clousing Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously The City Council returned to the open portion of their meeting at 8:58 p.m. 19. Adjournment Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that the regular Wheaton City Council Meeting be adjourned at 8:59 p.m. Voice Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller 1O WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday,July21, 2025 Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimousiv Respectfuliy submitted, WWW Andrea Rosedaie City Cierk Submitted for Approvai: August 4, 2025 11