Development News for Crest Hill, Illinois

Crest Hill City Council Meeting Covers Leitz Memorial Anniversary, Water Commission Update, New Hires, and Festa Italiana Plans

The city council meeting began with roll call, followed by a special presentation by State Representative Natalie Manley regarding the 84th anniversary of the dedication of the Leitz Memorial. The resolution commended the city of Crest Hill for its dedication to maintaining the memorial, which honors a Czech village destroyed by Nazis in 1942. The memorial serves as an international symbol of resistance. The council also acknowledged the incorporation of Leit, Illinois into Crest Hill in 1960, establishing a sister city bond. Following this, a presentation was made regarding the Grand Prairie Water Commission, a joint project with five other municipalities (Romeoville, Crest Hill, Joliet, Shorewood, Shanahan, and Manuka) to bring Lake Michigan water by Fall 2030. The city won a water conservation contest in 2023. The meeting also included the introduction of three new public works employees: John Robinson (Superintendent of Operations), Derek Quinn (Water Superintendent), and Trina Trimble (Superintendent of Wastewater). Seven consent agenda items were approved, including minutes, permit waivers for Festa Italiana, parade road closures, liquor license waivers, a pay request for Fur Pale Construction USA LLC, Civic Plus website agreements, and the adoption of the City of Crest Hill Brandstar Standards Guide. Dan Brandolino, chairman of Festa Italiana, provided details about the upcoming 26th annual festival, highlighting its status as the best festival in Will County and announcing new hours and menu offerings. Mayor Solomon reported on the 38th annual Veterans Memorial Day ceremony and the 31st Police Memorial ceremony. City Treasurer Jamie Maloya presented payroll and list of bills for approval. Public Works Director Gary Richardson requested and received approval for emergency repairs for booster pumps at wells 4 and 9. City Engineer Ron Weedman provided an update on the division street project, noting it is ahead of schedule for completion before the 4th of July and will involve additional excavation due to underlying material. He also addressed a malfunctioning monument sign on Broadway. Public comment included concerns about litter around the Leitz Memorial and clarification on water sources. The council then moved into executive session to discuss personnel matters, real estate purchases, and collective bargaining.