Village of Monee Board Meeting | September 24, 2025

Meeting Summary: The Monee Village Board of Trustees met on Tuesday, September 24, 2025, handling a mix of long-term planning and immediate operational needs. The board received a major presentation from Earthrise Energy regarding a proposed 2,400-acre solar farm that includes a $100,000 grant offer to the village. Trustees also debated a preliminary annexation agreement for a new trucking facility, expressing concern over pavement standards and de-annexation clauses.

On the administrative front, the board approved a five-year contract for the police union and appointed a new Deputy Clerk. Infrastructure remained a priority, with the board authorizing over $585,000 in payments for the new Public Works building and Firemen’s Park renovations, both of which have grand opening dates set.

Personnel Appointments:
The board unanimously approved the appointment of Jude Knabe as Deputy Village Clerk. Knabe was sworn in immediately by Village Clerk Michelle Powell-Johnson. Additionally, John Kapost was sworn in as the new Code Enforcement Officer.

Retirement Healthcare Resolution:
The board passed Resolution #2025-2 regarding a “Retirement Healthcare Funding Plan.” This administrative move implements a funding vehicle for retiree healthcare costs.

Salt Shed Cleanup:
During public comment, resident Joan Marek-Hollywood of Golf Vista Estates raised concerns about debris and dumping behind the village salt shed near her property. Public Works Superintendent Ed Johnson and Trustee Doug Horne assured her that once the department moves into the new facility in the coming weeks, the area will be cleaned and restored.

Annexation Rumors Dispelled:
Resident Wade Schroeder asked the board about rumors regarding the annexation of South Egyptian Trail down to Pauling Road. Village Attorney Larry Gryczewski clarified that while the village may look at future growth, there are currently “no plans of annexing up to Pauling Road.”

Property Tax Rebate Deadline:
Trustee Charles Rakis issued a final reminder that the deadline for the Property Tax Rebate Program is Friday, September 26, at 4:00 p.m. Checks will be available for pickup starting October 13.

Tornado Statistics:
Trustee Scott Youdris reported that Illinois has seen 115 tornadoes in 2025, the highest number in the nation. He urged residents to utilize National Preparedness Month to review their disaster plans and ensure they have emergency alerts enabled on their phones.