News Briefs from the Will County Board June 18 Meeting

Monee Church Designated Historic Landmark
The Will County Board unanimously voted to designate St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Monee as a historical landmark. Member Judy Ogalla, a Monee native, praised the decision. “If you ever have the opportunity to go out to Monee, you’ll find that if you walk in the church, it’s very welcoming,” she said, highlighting its beautiful stained-glass windows and community use.

County to Purchase Land in Monee for New Facility
On a close 11-9 vote, the board approved the purchase of property in Monee for a new county animal control facility. The resolution authorizes the acquisition of parcels along Governors Highway and the Hellman Subdivision. Member David Oxley had requested the item be sent back to committee for further review of the county’s existing property, but the motion to approve moved forward.

Two Bars Approved in Frankfort Area
The board approved two special use permits for bars in the Frankfort area. The first was for a property at 7905 W. Lincoln Highway in Frankfort, and the second was for Noble Ctr Lincoln IL, LLC, at 19816 S. Harlem Avenue in Frankfort Township. Both passed with broad support.

New Lenox Truck Terminal Gets Green Light
A special use permit for a truck terminal at 16720 Haven Avenue in New Lenox Township was approved by the board. The applicant, MN Invest Group LLC, received approval on an 11-9 vote.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance Amended
The board approved an amendment to the county’s zoning ordinance related to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), often called “granny flats” or “in-law suites.” The changes affect sections detailing accessory uses and methods of creation.

Solar Project Extensions Granted
First extensions were granted for four previously approved commercial solar energy facilities, giving developers more time to move forward. The projects are located in Crete, Peotone, Homer, and Channahon townships.

Appointments to METRA and Cemetery Boards
The board confirmed the County Executive’s appointment of Brian Shanahan to the METRA Commuter Rail Board. It also approved two appointments to the Lockport Cemetery Association.

Board Leaders Call for Meeting Efficiency
Following several protracted debates, board leadership and members called for improved efficiency. County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant announced she would begin enforcing speaking time limits, and Speaker Joe VanDuyne urged members to come better prepared. “Our agenda does come out 48 hours before the committee,” VanDuyne said. “As board members, we’re expected to be prepared whether you’re on that committee or not.”