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SUBMIT rEmarks

Supplemental Documents

1. rEmarks received for this meeting.
2. Council Questions for this meeting.

Meeting AGENDA

Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag

Roll Call

1. A. Motion: Allowing for Electronic Participation for the July 1, 2025 Village Council Meeting

Minutes of Council Meetings

1. MIN 2024-10525 A. Minutes: Village Council Meeting Minutes - June 17, 2025

Public Comments

Opportunity for public comments of a general nature, not related to an item on this meeting's agenda.

In order to allow as many speakers as possible and in the interest of adjourning the meeting by 9:00 p.m., please limit comments to 5 minutes in length, unless further time is granted by the Mayor.

Consent Agenda

1. BIL 2024-10652 A. Bills Payable: No. 6880 - July 1, 2025
2. COR 2024-10653 B. Claims Ordinance: No. 6609, Payroll - June 13, 2025
3. RES 2025-10813 C. Resolution: Approve an Intergovernmental Agreement with the County of DuPage, Illinois, for the Prentiss Creek Streambank Stabilization Project
4. MOT 2025-10820 D. Motion: Approve a Purchase of Bulk Rock Salt from Compass Minerals America, Inc.

Active Agenda

1. ORD 2025-10808 A. Ordinance: Approving an Amendment to Planned Unit Development #31 to Construct a Single-Story Credit Union with a Drive-Through
2. ORD 2025-10807 B. Ordinance: Authorizing a Special Use for 1807 Butterfield Road to Permit a Drive-Through
3. RES 2025-10802 C. Resolution: Approve a Master License Agreement with Ezee Fiber Texas, LLC for Use of the Village's Rights-of-Way for the Installation, Operation and Maintenance of an Underground Fiber Optics Telecommunications System

First Reading

1. ORD 2025-10819 A. Ordinance: Authorizing an Extension of Special Use Ordinance No. 6044 for 5133 Main Street to Permit Multi-Family Units on the Second Floor and a Parking Variation - View Presentation.
2. REP 2025-10821 B. Report: Discussion on Micromobility Devices

Attorney's Report

Pursuant to Section 2.5 of the Downers Grove Municipal Code, the following are presented for Village Council consideration:

1. An ordinance authorizing an extension of Special Use Ordinance No. 6044 for 5133 Main Street to permit multi-family units on the second floor and a parking variation.

Manager's Report

1. REP 2025-10814 A. Report: Long Range Planning Discussion

Mayor's Report

Council Member Reports

Adjournment

1. Call to Order

Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag

2. Roll Call

Council Attendance (Present): Mayor Barnett, Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt, Commissioner Gilmartin, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Davenport, Commissioner Sarver, Commissioner Roe

Council Attendance (Not Present): None.

Non-Voting: Village Manager Dave Fieldman, Village Attorney Enza Petrarca, and Village Clerk Rosa Berardi

3. Minutes of Council Meetings

MIN 2024-10525 A. Minutes: Village Council Meeting Minutes - June 17, 2025

MOTION: To Adopt Village Council Meeting Minutes of June 17, 2025, as presented.

RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully

SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt

AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Gilmartin, Davenport, Sarver, Roe, and Mayor Barnett

4. Public Comments

Ed Pawlik, resident, asked about the plans to fill the Mayor Pro Tem position.

5. Consent Agenda

BIL 2024-10652 A. Bills Payable: No. 6880 - July 1, 2025

COR 2024-10653 B. Claims Ordinance: No. 6609, Payroll - June 13, 2025

RES 2025-10813 C. Resolution: Approve an Intergovernmental Agreement with the County of DuPage, Illinois, for the Prentiss Creek Streambank Stabilization Project

RESOLUTION 2025-55

A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF AN INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE COUNTY OF DUPAGE, ILLINOIS AND THE VILLAGE OF DOWNERS GROVE FOR THE PRENTISS CREEK STREAMBACK STABILIZATION PROJECT

MOT 2025-10820 D. Motion: Approve a Purchase of Bulk Rock Salt from Compass Minerals

America, Inc.

MOTION: To Adopt the Consent Agenda of the July 1, 2025 Village Council Meeting, as presented.

RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully

SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt

AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Gilmartin, Davenport, Sarver, Roe, and Mayor Barnett

6. Active Agenda

ORD 2025-10808 A. Ordinance: Approving an Amendment to Planned Unit Development #31 to Construct a Single-Story Credit Union with a Drive-Through

MOTION: To adopt AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT #31 TO CONSTRUCT A SINGLE-STORY CREDIT UNION WITH A DRIVE-THROUGH, as presented. ORDINANCE 6127

RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully

SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt

AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Gilmartin, Davenport, Sarver, Roe, and Mayor Barnett

ORD 2025-10807 B. Ordinance: Authorizing a Special Use for 1807 Butterfield Road to Permit a Drive-Through

MOTION: To adopt AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A SPECIAL USE FOR 1807 BUTTERFIELD ROAD TO PERMIT A DRIVE-THROUGH, as presented. ORDINANCE 6128

RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully

SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt

AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Gilmartin, Davenport, Sarver, Roe, and Mayor Barnett

Mayor Barnett reminded all that Item A & B were related and had been discussed previously with no controversy.

RES 2025-10802 C. Resolution: Approve a Master License Agreement with Ezee Fiber Texas, LLC for Use of the Village's Rights-of-Way for the Installation, Operation and Maintenance of an Underground Fiber Optics Telecommunications System

MOTION: To approve A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A MASTER LICENSE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE VILLAGE OF DOWNERS GROVE AND EZEE FIBER TEXAS, LLC., as presented. RESOLUTION 2025-48

RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully

SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt

AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Gilmartin, Davenport, Sarver, Roe, and Mayor Barnett

Village Council Comments

Commissioner Gilmartin thanked Ezee Fiber for their interest in Downers Grove and asked them to keep in mind the concerns that were discussed surrounding this project.

7. First Reading

ORD 2025-10819 A. Ordinance: Authorizing an Extension of Special Use Ordinance No. 6044 for 5133 Main Street to Permit Multi-Family Units on the Second Floor and a Parking Variation

Village Manager Dave Fieldman introduced Planning Manager Jason Zawila. Mr. Zawilla used presented a PowerPoint presentation. He explained this is the first request for an extension and the petitioner has until November 14, 2025, to have the permit issued and it is good for one year after issuance.

Public Comments

Janet Winningham returned to the podium and expressed her disappointment in the extension request and requested the Council reconsider their request for parking spaces.

Village Council Comments

Commissioner Tully said the first request for extensions of special use permits are routinely granted and have been for decades.

Mayor Barnett said this is a reasonable request and noted that nothing with the special use has changed in any way.

REP 2025-10821 B. Report: Discussion on Micromobility Devices

Mayor Barnett said this will be treated like Long Range Planning discussions due to the amount of input provided by residents. He explained that residents have concerns with the safety when it comes to these devices and shared that this is the start of the process to set the rules for them. He said public comment will be taken at the end of the Council discussion.

Transportation Manager Emily Ericson presented via PowerPoint. She reviewed the topics of the discussion. She reviewed the Guiding DG Guidelines with regard to micromobility devices within the Comprehensive Plan and the Active Transportation Plan.

Police Chief Devries then presented via Power Point and explained that micromobility device types include: bicycles and other human-powered devices, low-speed electric bicycles, and low-speed electric scooters. He explained that low-speed electric bicycles are regulated by State law, whereas the low-speed electric scooters are prohibited - unless authorized by municipal ordinance. He spoke about “other devices” such as one-wheel devices, segway scooters and hoverboards and explained that these are not regulated by State law but are to be defined in a future ordinance. He spoke of “not applicable devices” such as children's toys and electric wheelchairs. He reviewed the prohibited devices which include off-highway motorcycles and mini-motorbikes and said they are prohibited by State law. He explained that the Police Department has educated the public on prohibited devices and have seen less of them in the area. He reviewed regulations by facility and device type in Downers Grove and in the surrounding communities. He spoke of the considerations for each classification of devices, including the pros and cons of each. He explained that there could be an increase in devices on the road after they are authorized by the Village, but shared that education will be key to control the behavior of operators, with an increase in enforcement as well.

Village Manager Fieldman then presented at the white board. He explained the Council will go through the exercise of slotting in the Village’s stance on regulations by facility and device type in the chart that was shared by Chief Devries. He said that this is the first step in the Council discussion, with the option of further discussion once an ordinance is put together.

Village Council Comments

Mayor Barnett introduced the discussion as the first step toward creating a Village ordinance on these devices. He said the Council is tasked with figuring out what fits for Downers Grove and what matches the Village’s values and expectations as a community.

1. Bicycles and Human Powered Devices

Commissioner Gilmartin asked for confirmation that there are already regulations in place for bikes and human powered devices, to which Village Attorney Enza Petrarca confirmed there is. Commissioner Gilmartin asked if there is a specific reason why the towns listed in the chart were chosen. Manager Fieldman explained that those towns, located in DuPage County, already have ordinances on micromobility devices in place. Commissioner Sarver and Mayor Barnett both expressed surprise that Burr Ridge is the only town on the chart that prohibits bikes and human powered devices on sidewalks. Manager Fieldman said he would look into why Burr Ridge prohibits them further. The balance of the Council, except for Commissioner Sarver, supported allowing bikes and human-powered devices on sidewalks, except in prohibited areas like the downtown.

2. E-Bikes

Mayor Barnett noted regional consistency in regulations, to which Manager Fieldman attributed to State laws governing e-bikes. Mayor Barnett raised concerns about e-bike speeds, specifically that there are multiple classes with varying speeds. He said as he understood it, this would mean allowing e-bikes that could reach speeds of up to 28 mph on sidewalks. Manager Fieldman said that Staff’s general interpretation is that the towns listed permit e-bikes on the sidewalk, also noting that they did deep dive into the subject enough to know if they regulate by class of e-bike.

Commissioner Gilmartin questioned whether such speeds could be considered “low” and questioned if there was a way to identify e-bike classes. Attorney Petrarca clarified that e-bikes are required to have labels indicating their class, but warned these labels would need to be physically inspected to be read - classes could not be detected from a distance.

Commissioners Sadowski-Fugitt, Tully, Sarver, Davenport and Roe expressed opposition to allowing e-bikes on sidewalks. Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt said she is a firm no on sidewalk use regardless of bike class and also opposed their use on 8-foot-wide shared use paths, though she said she might reconsider for paths that are in the 10–15 feet wide range. She supported allowing e-bikes on streets. Commissioners Tully, Sarver, and Davenport agreed—supporting street use but opposing use on sidewalks and shared paths. Commissioner Roe raised questions about age restrictions on certain e-bike classes. He requested more information on the different classes of e-bikes, their speeds and age restrictions. Mayor Barnett expressed he was conflicted with allowing them on sidewalks because they could be peddled like a bicycle, but also expressed concerns of the potential for users to modify them to reach higher speeds.

Commissioner Davenport raised concerns about kids riding e-bikes too fast and was a no to allowing them on sidewalks. He also said that since there are not currently any shared use paths that run across town, he did not want to decide on shared use paths just yet.

Mayor Barnett framed the issue as one of transit, pointing out that the routes ideal for cars are often the same ones e-bike riders use. He expressed concerns about banning e-bikes from sidewalks without providing a safe alternative, as that would force them onto busy streets. He stressed that the ordinance that is written must clearly define expectations and enforcement measures.

Commissioner Gilmartin supported encouraging non-motorized transportation and noted that some bike riders may need the assistance e-bikes provide to avoid fatigue. He also cautioned against putting e-bikes in the same category as dirt bikes.

Mayor Barnett stressed that the ordinance that is written must clearly define expectations and enforcement measures. He and Commissioner Gilmartin supported allowing e-bikes on sidewalks and shared use paths.

Commissioner Roe remained undecided, seeking more information on shared use paths, while the rest of the Council opposed both sidewalk and shared use path access for e-bikes.

Mayor Barnett inquired about complaints received by the Police Department over the last few months, to which Chief Devries explained that the complaints received were specifically about illegal off-road vehicles, not pedal-assist e-bikes. Commissioner Sarver expressed concern that many complaints about e-bikes likely go unreported.

Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt said she observed kids riding motorized bikes at McCullom Park, and Commissioner Gilmartin requested insight into why Glen Ellyn allows e-bikes on sidewalks, also seeking clarification on e-bike classes. Chief Devries explained that Class 2 and 3 e-bikes have throttles, while Class 1 does not, though it can still reach speeds up to 28 mph.

Commissioner Sarver further asked if there were any complaints involving low-speed e-bikes hitting pedestrians on sidewalks. Manager Fieldman said Staff would need to look into this because calls for complaints versus calls to 911 for injuries are different.

Mayor Barnett emphasized that the complaints that were received did not involve pedal-assist e-bikes, noting his own uncertainty about the issue. Manager Fieldman summarized that while there is general consensus on allowing e-bikes, with pedals, on streets, more information and analysis is needed on the classes of bikes as they relate to the regulations of allowing them on shared use paths and possibly sidewalks.

Commissioner Davenport raised concerns about the safety of allowing high-speed e-bikes on sidewalks where pedestrians are present. Mayor Barnett noted that even traditional cyclists can pass pedestrians quickly and asked whether the current ordinance addresses reckless bike riding, to which Attorney Petrarca confirmed it does not.

Commissioner Gilmartin asked about a voluntary bike registration system the Village currently has in place. Attorney Petrarca responded that while it is technically still in place, it is no longer actively maintained by the Village. Chief Devries noted that residents can register their bikes under that system as part of an anti-theft initiative, allowing recovered bikes to be identified through serial numbers. Commissioner Gilmartin proposed requiring e-bikes to be registered with classification-specific, color-coded stickers.

Commissioner Davenport expressed concerns with enforcement and Commissioner Gilmartin noted that while many e-bikes are currently on sidewalks, they do not appear to be the source of the issues being reported and suggested it may not be a pressing problem.

3. Low Speed E-Scooters

Manager Fieldman said that low speed e-scooters are prohibited under State law, unless explicitly allowed by local ordinance.

Commissioner Davenport questioned how this works for towns where these scooters are widely available to rent. Attorney Petrarca clarified that it is due to those towns having ordinances that allow the use.

Commissioner Roe supported their use on streets, shared paths, and sidewalks for users over 18, noting that his own scooter reaches 25 mph.

Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt and Mayor Barnett also supported their use on streets, shared use paths and sidewalks, while Commissioner Sarver opposed allowing them on sidewalks.

Commissioner Gilmartin asked whether the Village must follow State law or if it can be modified. Attorney Petrarca explained that as a home rule municipality, the Village can be more restrictive, but being less restrictive would require justification.

Commissioners Tully and Davenport expressed support for allowing e-bikes and e-scooters on streets and shared use paths, but not on sidewalks. Commissioner Gilmartin questioned whether, if permitted, these devices must follow standard traffic rules or if separate rules would apply. Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt confirmed that according to the Village ordinance, e-bikes and e-scooters must follow existing traffic laws. Attorney Petrarca said this is consistent with the Illinois Vehicle Code.

4. Other Micromobility Devices (One Wheel Devices, Segway Standing Scooters, Hoverboards)

Manager Fieldman shifted the discussion to “other micromobility devices” and asked for Attorney Petrarca’s confirmation that they are not currently defined or regulated by State law or local ordinance. Attorney Petrarca confirmed there are no existing restrictions, meaning the Village would have to define these in an ordinance.

Mayor Barnett supported allowing these devices on streets, shared paths, and sidewalks. Commissioner Davenport asked why the Village needs to review these. Mayor Barnett and Chief Devries emphasized the need for definitions and regulations to clarify responsibility and procedures in accidents.

Commissioner Roe supported adding an age regulation for e-scooters.

The rest of the Council agreed on exploring options and setting guidelines.

5. Not Applicable Devices (Motorized Assistive Wheelchairs/Scooters, Ride-On Kids ATVs)

Attorney Petrarca clarified that these devices would be defined and it would be made clear in the ordinance that these are not subject to the same restrictions.

The Council then made additional comments on this process with Commissioner Davenport sharing that he is struggling with what the use of sidewalks should be and what they have been used for historically, sharing that above all, safety is number 1 for him. He also shared he is not firm in terms of how he voted. He is still listening and learning. He said there is not a great solution to this, but he has confidence they will land on what is right for DG. Commissioner Sarver echoed his concerns, referencing issues in other municipalities. Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt inquired about how long other towns have had regulations in place. Attorney Petrarca noted Hinsdale has had theirs the longest, for approximately 1 to 1.5 years, but had to tighten their restrictions. Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt requested more data from other municipalities. Mayor Barnett asked if organizations like the DMMC have relevant information, to which Manager Fieldman confirmed they do and he will follow up with other Village Managers on the subject. Mayor Barnett concluded by calling this a good start toward drafting an ordinance and invited public input.

Public Comments

Ann Kimpton, a resident representing residents of the McCollum and El Sierra neighborhoods, shared concerns about e-bikes and requested the Council be proactive in avoiding dangerous accidents. She suggested the Village team up with the Park District to make changes to some of the bike paths.

Paul Kimpton, resident, said there are high-energy devices, both gas and electric, ridden by kids under 18 years of age that race down the street and around McCullum Park. He said there is no enforcement and there needs to be.

Scott Richards, resident, shared as a pedestrian he has concerns about micromobility devices - especially in the downtown area. He encouraged education on the rules of the road for adult and child bicyclists.

Janet Winningham, thanked Commissioner Sarver for bringing up the notion that the absence of complaints does not mean the absence of incidents. She expressed concerns about the safety of these devices and stressed they should not be allowed in the downtown area..

Mayor Barnett said the Council appreciates all of the input they received from the public. He said the Council is trying to set rules that will develop expectations. He said this will set up the enforcement of the Police Department. He asked all to be reasonable with their expectations.

Commissioner Davenport asked for clarification about actions taken by the Park District during COVID that banned even human-powered devices at McCollum Park. Manager Fieldman said those rules were set by the Park District, not the Village. Mayor Barnett explained the Park District sets the rules in their parks. Commissioner Davenport asked if some of the complaints about McCollum Park may be better directed to the Park District. Manager Fieldman said that Staff is in communication with the Park District and will communicate tonight’s discussion with them as well.

8. Attorney's Report

Pursuant to Section 2.5 of the Downers Grove Municipal Code, Village Attorney Enza Petrarca presented the following for Village Council consideration:

1. An ordinance authorizing an extension of Special Use Ordinance No. 6044 for 5133 Main Street to permit multi-family units on the second floor and a parking variation.

9. Manager's Report

REP 2025-10814 A. Report: Long Range Planning Discussion

Manager Fieldman said this is the continuation of the discussion of the 2025-2027 Long Range Plan. He reviewed the Key Recommendations Summary. He explained that Supplemental Report #2 is available online with updated information. Manager Fieldman explained that calls with the Council have resulted in additional alternative revenue source options including a rise in what the Village charges for Natural Gas Tax, Electricity Tax and Hotel Tax. He then provided three options to the Council that staff framed up involving only HRST and HRS and F&B Tax. Manager Fieldman explained that the fund types these revenues are applied to could be addressed on a year to year basis. He said the goal is to draft a plan after the Council’s discussion.

Village Council Comments

Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt voiced support for Option 3 and expressed interest in revisiting revenue increases for operations or pensions in the future, though she does not support changes now. She opposed both the Natural Gas and Electricity Taxes, as they could burden residents already struggling economically. She also opposed the Amusement Tax, noting that it includes more than just streaming. She said she would like to re-evaluate tax changes in a couple of years.

Commissioner Sarver also supported Option 3 and shared she is open to a Hotel Tax and learning more about Real Estate Transfer Tax Stamps. Similar to Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt, she opposed the Natural Gas and Electricity taxes due to concerns for vulnerable populations.

Commissioner Gilmartin supported the Natural Gas and Electricity Taxes, citing the fact that rates have not increased in over two decades and that the cost to residents would be miniscule. He argued that the tax is justified due to the utility use of public rights-of-way and sees it as less harmful to economic development than higher Food and Beverage or Home Rule Sales Taxes. He also supported raising the Hotel Tax and favored a flexible approach to the Amusement Tax, such as applying more to streaming and less to other activities. He said he has not yet taken a position on Food and Beverage or HRST - this is pending further Council discussion. In terms of the Real Estate Transfer Tax Stamps, he said he could be open to it but he thinks it is unlikely to pass a referendum.

Commissioner Roe opposed the Real Estate Transfer Stamp, considering it too burdensome and unlikely to succeed. He said he is also against the Natural Gas and Electricity Taxes. He supported the Hotel Tax and said he is open to HRST and Food and Beverage Tax increases under Options 1 or 2, but cautioned against raising rates higher than neighboring municipalities.

Commissioner Tully initially supported a modest increase to the HRST (0.5%) - a lower percentage than even Option 1- and said he is not in favor of broadly raising taxes across multiple categories. He said has concerns about issuing debt instruments during this time of economic uncertainty. He said he is not as ambitious to get as much as they can from each category and suggested having some pause with this. He said he can get on board to support Option 1 and may be open to supporting Option 2. He said he is open to considering a Hotel Tax but believes the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) should be consulted.

Mayor Barnett said he supports Option 3 and appreciates the flexibility of directing revenue toward pension smoothing. He shared the concerns raised by Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt and preferred not to pursue Real Estate Transfer Tax Stamps, viewing it as unlikely to pass a referendum. While open to the Amusement Tax in the future, he said he wants more information before acting on it. He supported the Hotel Tax with EDC input and opposed the Natural Gas and Electricity taxes, citing concern for residents with financial burdens. He said he favors targeting discretionary spending areas like HRST and Food and Beverage tax.

Commissioner Davenport echoed the need for more information on the Amusement Tax and input from the EDC on the Hotel Tax. He said he wants to better understand the implications of the Natural Gas and Electricity taxes, which he believes may be a declining source of revenue. He said he is not yet ready to take a firm stance on HRST or Food and Beverage Tax but supports using them to help fund pensions, while uncertain how much should go toward other initiatives like Guiding DG.

Manager Fieldman explained the process taken by the LRP team to frame up the packages presented and asked for time to work with the team to draft a strategy to fund the budget. Mayor Barnett emphasized the need to determine which revenue "buckets" (e.g., HRST and Food and Beverage tax) the Council is willing to consider manipulating.

Commissioner Davenport expressed interest in all revenue options except the Real Estate Transfer Tax Stamp, which he believed would fail at referendum.

Commissioner Gilmartin raised a question about whether out-of-state natural gas and electricity providers still pay local taxes, to which Mayor Barnett noted that utility taxes are not discretionary for residents. Commissioner Gilmartin argued that a $1/month cost from the Natural Gas and Electricity Tax is minimal compared to what residents spend on Food and Beverage Tax and HRST. He said this small increase could fully cover the $700,000 pension obligation or any of the other projects on the list. He emphasized that Food and Beverage tax increases would affect residents more directly.

Mayor Barnett noted that the pension burden ultimately falls on the Village, but stressed the importance of funding it in a way that includes contributions from non-residents. He also mentioned the state-mandated pension funding requirements as a driving force behind exploring bonding and other revenue sources.

Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt said she would like to revisit the Natural Gas and Electricity Tax soon if it is not adopted now, noting that Downers Grove’s rates are currently lower than neighboring municipalities. However, she expressed concern that utility tax increases could lead to rent hikes, particularly during a time of economic strain in the Country. She acknowledged that utility rate hikes like water and stormwater were planned by the Village, but argued that now is a bad time for additional utility tax hikes. Commissioner Gilmartin pointed out that utility companies offer assistance programs for low-income and elderly residents and encouraged the Council to consider that in future discussions.

Mayor Barnett asked how Downers Grove’s utility tax rates compare regionally, and Commissioner Gilmartin confirmed they are much lower. The Mayor concluded that a deeper dive into the issue is needed. Commissioner Gilmartin emphasized that safeguards could be implemented to protect vulnerable populations if an increase in the tax were to move forward.

Commissioner Davenport suggested that because the Natural Gas and Electricity Tax has been left for so long, the Council should have a discussion on it. Mayor Barnett noted the tax has been intentionally left unchanged in past discussions, possibly due to other revenue sources like the Food & Beverage tax being discussed instead..

Commissioner Tully highlighted differing Council member views and past decisions tied to pension funding strategies. Commissioner Gilmartin remarked that the Natural Gas and Electricity Tax has rarely been addressed and seems untouchable.

Mayor Barnett emphasized to all that this discussion is part of the normal process of reaching consensus, which takes time and multiple meetings.

Manager Fieldman added that Staff will repackage relevant issues and present them again in the context of Priority Action items at an upcoming LRP meeting.

Public Comments

Janet Winningham agreed with the Food and Beverage Tax, especially with the implementation of outdoor dining. She encouraged the Council to discuss Commissioner Tully’s idea of deferring certain projects to a later time.

Commissioner Gilmartin spoke of the Food and Beverage tax in Naperville, where the downtown district’s tax is higher than other areas of town. Commissioner Davenport noted this is also the case in Lombard’s downtown area. Mayor Barnett asked that Staff look into why the Food and Beverage tax rate is higher in certain downtown areas. Manager Fieldman said Staff will look into this.

10. Mayor's Report

There was no Mayor’s Report.

11. Council Member Reports

Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt spoke of the Grove Foundation Golf Outing to take place Saturday, September 6th at 1:00 p.m. at the Belmont Golf Club and the 4th of July parade.

Commissioner Gilmartin wished all a safe and happy 4th of July.

Commissioner Tully spoke to the success of the Rotary Grove Fest and thanked the first responders for keeping everyone safe. He wished all a Happy Independence Day and said the Parade kicks off at 1:00 p.m. and the fireworks start at 9:30 p.m. on Friday. He told all to stay hydrated because of the hot weather.

12. Adjournment

Mayor Barnett asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.

MOTION: To Adjourn the July 1, 2025 Village Council Meeting.

RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.

MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully

SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt

AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Gilmartin, Davenport, Sarver, Roe, Mayor Barnett

The meeting adjourned at 9:58 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Rosa Berardi

Village Clerk