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 2025-10920 A. Minutes: Village Council Meeting Minutes - January 13, 2026
MOTION: To Adopt the Village Council Meeting Minutes of January 13, 2026, as presented.
RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully
SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt
AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Roe, Sarver, Davenport, Gilmartin and Mayor Barnett
NAYES: None
4. Public Comments
There were no public comments.
5. Consent Agenda
COR 2025-11050 A. Claims Ordinance: No. 6637, Payroll December 26, 2025
BIL 2025-11051 B. Bills Payable: No. 6920 - January 20, 2026
MOT 2026-11068 C. Motion: Approve a Contract with True North Consultants, Inc. for Environmental Engineering Services for Various Capital Improvement Projects
RES 2026-11076 D. Resolution: Approve a Contract Extension with Murphy Construction Services for the 2026 Sidewalk Rehabilitation Project
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING EXECUTION OF A FIRST EXTENSION TO THE CONTRACT BETWEEN THE VILLAGE OF DOWNERS GROVE AND MURPHY CONSTRUCTION SERVICES RESOLUTION 2026-05
MOTION: To Adopt the Consent Agenda of the January 20, 2026, 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, Roe, Sarver, Davenport, Gilmartin and Mayor Barnett
NAYES: None
6. Active Agenda
ORD 2025-11059 A. Ordinance: Approving a First Amendment to the Sales Tax Rebate Agreement Between the Village of Downers Grove and Downers Grove
Cars, LLC d//b/a Genesis of Downers Grove
MOTION: To adopt AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A FIRST AMENDMENT TO
THE SALES TAX REBATE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE VILLAGE OF DOWNERS GROVE AND DOWNERS GROVE CARS, LLC, as presented. ORDINANCE 6173
RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully
SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt
AYES: Commissioners Tully, Sadowski-Fugitt, Roe, Sarver, Davenport, Gilmartin and Mayor Barnett
NAYES: None
MOT 2025-11058 B. Motion: Approve a Contract with Stenstrom Petroleum Services Group for the Replacement of the Fleet Fuel System
MOTION: To adopt A Motion to Approve a Contract with Stenstrom Petroleum Services Group for the Replacement of the Fleet Fuel System, as presented.
RESULT: Motion carried unanimously by voice vote.
MOTIONED TO APPROVE: Commissioner Tully
SECONDED BY: Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt
7. First Reading
ORD 2026-11069 A. Ordinance: Rezoning Certain Property Located at 424 Hill Street
Community Development Director Stan Popovich presented using a PowerPoint. He explained this case involves the rezoning of the north side of this property from R2 to R4 to facilitate in the construction of a single-family home. He provided additional details about the property and the zoning in the area. Mr. Popovich noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of this case.
ORD 2026-11070 B. Ordinance: Amending the Zoning Ordinance of the Village of Downers Grove, Illinois, to Designate the Property at 1434 Butterfield Road as
Planned Unit Development #73 (Oak Grove Center)
ORD 2026-11071 C. Ordinance: Rezoning Certain Property Located at 1434 Butterfield Road (Oak Grove Center)
ORD 2026-11072 D. Ordinance: Authorizing a Special Use for 1434 Butterfield Road to Permit a Drive-Through
Mr. Popovich presented Items B-D using a PowerPoint. He displayed a map of the property and the drive-through lane details. He noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of this petition.
VILLAGE COUNCIL COMMENTS
Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt requested the landscaping be kept native.
Commissioner Gilmartin asked for clarification regarding the curb cuts, to which Mr. Popovich responded. Commissioner Gilmartin added that way-finding signs will be important for this location.
Commissioner Roe shared that he looks forward to supporting this.
Commissioner Sarver asked if the traffic issues at the Naperville location had been resolved. The petitioner responded by explaining that this location would not have the same traffic issues as the Naperville location because Naperville was the first location in the Chicagoland area - people were driving an average of 10 miles to get there. He further explained that this drive-through queue can accommodate up to 39 cars.
Commissioner Davenport asked if the traffic study took into consideration other locations opening in the area. The petitioner said it did.
Commissioner Tully said he is happy with this parcel as the next location. He further stated that even though drive-throughs are abundant in this area, he thinks there is enough space for this and noted that it doesn’t require any additional conditions. The Commissioner also shared that he too is in favor of using native plantings, if possible.
ORD 2026-11073 E. Ordinance: Concerning the Monitoring of Immigration Enforcement Activities
Village Manager Dave Fieldman provided background details and an explanation of this ordinance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Robin Tryloff, a resident, spoke in favor of this ordinance and thanked the Council for their leadership in this matter.
An unnamed resident and daughter of an immigrant of Columbia, shared her fear of being detained and spoke in favor of the ordinance.
Hillary Denk, a resident, spoke in support of the ordinance and shared information on data she collected.
VILLAGE COUNCIL COMMENTS
Commissioner Roe thanked Staff for all the information provided in a short time frame. He requested two changes: (1) in the first paragraph (the preamble) he questioned whether the word “moral” was the appropriate term; and (2) he suggested adding the following sentence to Section 5: “Encourage the federal government to develop standards of conduct for immigration enforcement officers.” The Commissioner also asked Staff to confirm that resource information will be added to the Village website.
Mayor Barnett pointed out that the wording in the preamble may have come from the State Constitution. Commissioner Roe said that he stands corrected. The Mayor asked Staff to confirm the wording is from the State Constitution.
Commissioner Sarver agreed with Commissioner Roe, but agreed if the word is in the State Constitution, it should stay in the ordinance.
Commissioner Tully stated that ordinances should not be used to address the actions of other government officials - that is better reserved for a resolution.
Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt also thanked Village staff for their work. She shared that she had spoken with many residents and they understand the limits of the Village. She opined that it is the Village’s duty to support the Constitution and protect the community. The Commissioner addressed rEmarks that were submitted for this meeting.
Commissioner Davenport said due to recent events, he plans on supporting this even though he previously had concerns.
Commissioner Gilmartin shared his support for this and explained that the intent of it is to control what the Village can control. He said this protects not only the immigrant community but also the citizens of the United States.
Attorney Enza Petrarca clarified the last “whereas” clause addresses Commissioner Roe’s concern.
Commissioner Gilmartin asked if the last “whereas” clause precludes an additional resolution. Mayor Barnett said no, this sets it up.
Commissioner Davenport noted that the US was built by immigrants and we all come from immigrants. He shared that he does not think some of the actions being taken by ICE are justified.
Mayor Barnett said he doesn’t think there is a question about what is before the Council. However, he would rather this all be a resolution because he does not want anyone to think that any actions taken by the Council will make Downers Grove any safer than it already was. He said when it comes to ICE activities, the day after this is adopted by the Council, everyone will be in the same situation as they were the day prior to its adoption. He shared his opinion that this does not change any outcomes or Village activities - which is why he thinks this should only be a resolution. The Mayor added that the next conversation about this is expected to happen on Feb 3, when it will be on the Active Agenda.
8. Attorney's Report
Pursuant to Section 2.5 of the Downers Grove Municipal Code, Village Attorney Enza Petarca presented the following for Village Council consideration:
- An ordinance rezoning certain property located at 424 Hill Street.
- An ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance of the Village of Downers Grove, Illinois, to designate the property at 1434 Butterfield Road as Planned Unit Development #73 (Oak Grove Center).
- An ordinance rezoning certain property located at 1434 Butterfield Road (Oak Grove Center).
- An ordinance authorizing a special use for 1434 Butterfield Road to permit a drive-through.
- An ordinance concerning the monitoring of immigration enforcement activities.
9. Manager's Report
INF 2026-11066 A. Information: Discussion of the Proposed Design for the Linda Kunze Plaza
Director of Engineering Scott Vasko presented this item using a PowerPoint presentation. He reviewed the existing and proposed plaza - providing an explanation of the changes and improvements to be made. He shared renderings and reviewed the proposed project schedule.
Public Comment
Jennifer Kunze, daughter of Linda Kunze, complimented the proposed plaza and thanked all that worked on it. She shared that her family is thankful for this and her mom would have been honored if she was still with us.
Council Comments
Commissioner Davenport shared that he thinks uniformity is good when it comes to the types of materials that are used in the plaza. He shared his appreciation that no parking spaces would be lost. He asked if the east side landscaping would be impacted. Mr. Vaskot said that Staff had not discussed this to date, but any changes would probably be due to the addition of native plantings. He recommended lighting on the fountain - dark sky compliant if possible. The Commissioner asked if another updated proposal will be seen before it goes out to bid. Mr. Vasko said any updates can be brought back to Council once the project is further along.
Commissioner Tully said it's important that Linda Kunze’s family is happy with this and he thinks it is a terrific concept. He asked if the plaques that are currently hung will be reused and if there would be an additional dedication. Mr. Vasko said yes to both.
Commissioner Gilmartin said he likes the proposed plans and supports the materials being tied back to the existing building. He asked if the fountain will be repurposed or if it will be new. Mr. Vasko said he thinks new, based on the fact that it will be moved
Commissioner Roe said he likes what he sees, especially all of the additional seating to accommodate patrons of the Farmers Market.
Mayor Bartnett said he agrees with the brick tone being more similar to the train station brick. Commissioner Gilmartin added that at least some of it should match.
Manager Fieldman said that Staff will continue to work on this in-house and with the consultant. It would be brought back to the Council for review after the updates have been made.
INF 2026-11110 B. Information: Discussion of the Proposed Public Art Program
Manager Fieldman presented this item using a PowerPoint. He provided background information on the proposed Public Art Program and explained there would be a phased approach to roll out the Program -with Phase 1 including movable art that will be introduced to the 3 pedestals in the flexible amenity areas. He reviewed the guiding principles of the Council - noting what had been changed and added based on Council direction. He provided a list of the Phase 1 locations and presented the concept of purchasing premade art, noting that he was looking for Council direction as to whether this is something they would like to pursue. He gave examples of the proposed premade public art, categorized by site characteristics and themes.
Public Comment
Kevin Lark, President and founder of the Macho Monument Project, said that he decided to speak after looking at the images of the art in the Village Council meeting packet. He requested the Council approve art created to honor Macho Man Randy Savage - art that aligns with the Council’s view.
Another member of the public that works at Orange and Brew requested that the Council support Kevin Lark’s proposal.
Ms. Denk returned to the podium and said she likes the idea of public art, but does not like the art that has been suggested. She wants art that connects with the community.
Council Comments
Commissioner Sadowski Fugitt said her preference is for the Council to take their time on this and not purchase premade art. She wants it to be connected with the community.
Commissioner Tully said he doesn’t disagree with anything that was said, but explained that this is like staging a home and he is ok with purchasing premade art, if it is temporary. He noted that it will be some time before the Council agrees on what they want long term and what they choose may take over a year to be built. He further shared that the proposed premade art will be used as a test for the pedestals in the flexible amenity areas - the Council can learn from it and replace it with what they choose moving forward. The Commissioner reminded everyone that Phase 1 only includes three pieces of art and eventually there will be 30 pieces. He said the pedestals may not even be built by May, so the Council may have more time to make decisions.
Commissioner Sarver she would like guidelines on how decisions should be made.
Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt said the cost of the premade art could be up to $200k - a high cost for something that will be used as a test.
Commissioner Davenport said that he agrees with Commissioner Tully, reiterating the current discussion was about the three spots in the flexibility amenity areas. He also noted that though he doesn’t think a Mancho Man monument should be located in the flexible amenity areas, the plaza located on the other side of the tracks may be a good location. He said he thinks $200k is a lot of money for temporary art and if the Council moves forward with premade art, it should fit in with a nature theme. He also agreed that the pedestals may not be ready by May.
Commissioner Gilmartin shared that he thinks it would serve the Council best to get a better idea of when the flexible amenity areas will be completed, so they can work backwards from that date.
Commissioner Roe agreed with a Macho Man monument but shared that he does not think this is the Phase for it.
Commissioner Tully reiterated that the Council does not have a motion before them and this is just a discussion. He said that nothing should be purchased until the flexible amenity areas are complete.
Manager Fieldman clarified that a motion would be brought before the Council to approve the purchase of premade art before anything is purchased. He said he is still seeking Council direction.
Commissioner Gilmartin said the process by which this art is selected is important. He thinks a process needs to be put in place on this.
Mayor Barnett said he thinks this was Staff’s way to jump start this process and this would come back to the Council via a motion if the Council wanted to take it the route mentioned. The Mayor said he isn’t worried about the pedestals sitting without anything on them - he’d rather take the extra time needed on this and figure out the timeline before moving forward.
Manager Fieldman said he appreciated the Council’s feedback. He noted this will take more time and that the Council is not in favor of the pre-purchased art idea.
REP 2026-11114 C. Report: Priority Action Item Update
Manager Fieldman presented this item using a PowerPoint. He explained this is the Council’s work plan that takes the Council through the second quarter of 2027. He noted that all of the projects are in the green and are moving along as scheduled. He spoke about the Downtown Flexible Amenity Area project and explained that only one bid was submitted for the bid opening. He said Staff will look into any possible options to continue this project in 2026 and will provide the Council with updates. Next, he spoke about the Attainable Housing Study and explained that in a conversation with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, he was notified that the MMC is expecting to receive the funding for the Homes for a Changing Region program. He said once the organization collects applications for funding (around April), the Village will apply. As for the next step, Village staff will begin to collect data and If the Village is selected by the MMC, the project will be handed to them. Manager Fieldman then provided details about the enhanced Village Council engagement of Village Boards and Commissions.
10. Council Member Reports
Commissioner Tully complimented Deputy Village Manager Mike Baker and Tish Powell, with Republic Services, on the open and transparent ad hoc presentation they led regarding the Village’s new Solid Waste Contract at the last Coffee with the Council. As the newly appointed Council liaison to the Downtown Management Corporation, he provided a report that included highlights from the January 15, 2026, Board meeting. He reminded everyone that the Ice Festival will take place downtown from January 30 through February 2. The Commissioner commented on the increasing number of visitors that have come to the downtown area. He emphasized that many of the businesses that will be located near the future flexible amenity areas, are interested in working with the Village in terms of the timing and coordination of the project - he expressed their concerns about the construction process possibly affecting their business revenue.
Commissioner Davenport said as the Council liaison to School District 99, he met with the Board President and shared the district’s concern about students that have parents that have been detained by ICE while they were at school. He said there are processes in place by District 99 to support those families and he thinks that’s important. The Commissioner shared that one of the other district focuses is absenteeism, as this has an effect on how the school is rated.
Commissioner Roe reminded everyone that the Village is still collecting used Christmas lights. He also noted that February 14 is the deadline for the public to make their selections related to the new Village Solid Waste Contract.
Commissioner Sadowski-Fugitt said she is the Village Council liaison to the Park District and does not have a report yet, as she is waiting to hear back from the Board President.
11. Mayor's Report
There was no Mayor’s Report.
12. Adjournment
Mayor Barnett asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.
MOTION: To Adjourn the January 20, 2026, 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, Roe, Sarver, Davenport, Gilmartin and Mayor Barnett
NAYES: None
The meeting adjourned at 8:36 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Rosa Berardi
Village Clerk
