March 2, 2026

Call to order at 7:00 pm by President Mat.

Members answering roll call, President Mat, Tom Smargiassi, Angie Niehaus, Mike Tichler, Noah Liebenstein, Tim Martens, Jamie Melville, and Cheryl Liebenstein.

The minutes from the February meeting were reviewed and accepted without dissent, by Tom. Second by Angie. Motion Carried.

Tim made a motion to pay all bills as presented. Motion second by Tom.  Motion carried.

No transfer of funds needed.

Tim made a motion to approve the treasurer report as presented. Second by Angie. Motion carried.

MAINTENANCE

VISITORS

Andrea Winter, Executive Director, Greater Freeport Partnership, was present to speak with the board and give a brief outline of what they do and how they can help within Stephenson County. The partnership works on Economics, Tourism, Business attraction, and Enterprise zones within the county. The partnership can also help with grants and applications. They had five businesses that applied for grants of which three was approved. These business grants helped to expand their services. Andrea noted that they will help business with startup and ongoing service. She noted the school referendum and will speak with Mike Schiffman regarding the Enterprise Zone and which businesses still have ongoing tax abatements. Andrea did note that Pearl Valley Eggs is done with their five-year tax abatement and she believes there is only Queso Cheese Factory for any tax abatement within the school district.

Brian Nott, Fehr Graham was present to see if the board wanted to proceed with the Engineering Agreement contract for the Crack Seal of the streets. Brian noted the contract has $7,300 for expense, with an additional $8,500 for inspections during and after the project is complete. Brian noted that crack sealing some of the streets will extend the street life by three to five years.

Motion was made by Tom to approve the Engineering Agreement contract with Fehr Grahm for the Crack Sealing Street project.  Motion second by Mike.  Motion carried.

Brian presented an estimate of $116,000.00 to remove the old 4 inch main on Lumar and replace it with a six-inch line. Mike made a motion to approve Fehr Graham for the watermain replacement and allow Fehr Graham to let bids for the work.  Motion second by Tim.  Motion carried.

 There was a question by Tim regarding the use of an Auto Flush Hydrant on Greenfield Dr. Brian said it is a definite benefit to use.  President Mat noted

that we had a study done on the looping of this area at the dead end. Requested that Brian check for the study and email it to him.

FINANCE/TIF FINANCE

No report

WATER AND SEWER

Water has been shut off on Goldmine resident. Discussed putting a lien on the house but determined it was too costly for the bill due. Will try to recoup the amount due if the property is sold.

STREETS/ALLEYS/LIGHTS/SIDEWALK

Discussed under visitor with Brian Nott-Fehr Graham

BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS

Rob noted he bought 100 trees and will use as wind blocks on the vacant flood properties.

Rob will post for summer help and the committee will set up interviews.

The new mower is in.

CEMETERY

The flag poles are leaning. Rob said he would be able to straighten them without hiring Freeport flag to do it.

POLICE

Geraud is still interested in the parttime position.  He was told he will need to reapply after his medical leave is done.

Cheryl will post for Part-time Officers on the village website and Facebook.

LIQUOR

License renewals will go out this month.

Old Business

On April 1st IRWA will host a “Plant of the Year” ceremony in Peoria. Pearl City has been notified as a finalist for the award.  Rob will be attending and we will cover the cost of a hotel room for the night.

New Business

President Mat will not be available for the April 6th meeting. The board will have our April meeting on March 30th. Notices will be posted.

 Motion to adjourn at 8:00 by Noah.  Second by Angie. Motion carried.

Attest: Cheryl Liebenstein, Village Clerk