Development News for Lemont, Illinois

Mayor Recognizes Public Servants and Announces Summer Events

The mayor highlighted several public service recognition weeks and events. Public Service Recognition Week honors federal, state, county, local, and tribal government employees. The village celebrated its clerk, Charlene Smolen, for her 42 years of service, and deputy clerk Janet Shhatz. Economic Development Week was recognized, highlighting the impact of professionals like Jason Barry and his staff. National Police Week was observed to honor law enforcement officers, including the Lamont Police Department and Chief LCO. National Public Works Week was also celebrated, recognizing Ralph Bakula and his department for maintaining village infrastructure. Various upcoming summer events in Lamont were announced, including concert series, cruise nights, car shows, and the farmers market.

Residents Voice Concerns on Development, Infrastructure, and Zoning Oversight

During the public comment period, residents raised concerns about various local issues. Dave Wilks highlighted odor alerts, OSHA website discrepancies, road maintenance issues on High Road, debris blocking a culvert, and problems with road patching and resurfacing, particularly concerning the 135th Street corridor and truck traffic relief from Smith's Road. He also criticized the zoning meeting for Copper Ridge, citing numerous addendums and perceived lax oversight by the board regarding narrower streets, setbacks, and drainage. Laura Regal spoke about the Copper Ridge West proposal, expressing concern that 14 deviations from established standards represent a substantially altered project. She questioned who absorbs the long-term costs of these deviations and argued that Lamont's impact fees are lower than in other municipalities like Planefield, where developments contribute more significantly to growth costs. Regal urged the board to ensure accurate and fair pricing of growth to avoid current residents subsidizing future development.

Lamont Police Recognized During National Police Week; 'Cop on a Rooftop' Event Announced

National Police Week was observed to honor law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty and to show appreciation for those who protect communities. The Lamont Police Department and Chief LCO were recognized for their role in safeguarding citizens. Additionally, Officer in Charge of the Illinois Special Olympics, Chief Glinos, announced the annual 'Cop on a Rooftop' campaign, where officers will be stationed at two Dunkin Donuts locations on Friday to support the Illinois Special Olympics.

Village Board Approves Consent Agenda Items and Liquor License Increase

The village board approved several items on the consent agenda, including the purchase of water meters from Ferguson Enterprises LLC and softener salt from Compass Minerals and Midwest Salt LLC for fiscal year 2027. Additionally, they approved a professional services agreement with HR Green and the village of Lamont for general consultation services for fiscal years 2027-2028. A separate ordinance, 0-31-26, amending the Lamont Municipal Code to increase the number of class A3 liquor licenses for IGWT Restaurants Incorporated was also approved.