NW Illinois News

City of Lanark City Council met Sept. 16.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

MEETING CALLED TO ORDER/ROLL CALL-Lanark City Council met in regular session at the Lanark City Hall at 7 p.m. Roll call taken by Marilyn Heller, City Clerk, showed Alderpersons present were Brad Knutti, Ethan Lartz Mark Macomber, Justin Rausch, Alisha Metz, and Jim Plock.

Mayor Jeri Rogan was present and presiding.

Others present were: James Green, Melissa Dauphin, Laura Koser, Brandon Koser, John Borota, Nick Mosca, Ryan and Morgan Mueller, Attorney Ed Mitchell, Treasurer Deb Throop, Chief Troy Randall, Clerk Marilyn Heller, and Maintenance Manager Jason Alvarado.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE-was led by Alderperson Brad Knutti.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES - MOTION was made by Alderperson Brad Knutti and seconded by Alderperson Justin Rausch to accept the minutes of the September 2, 2025 meeting as presented with spelling corrections. Motion carried by 6 aye votes. Aye votes; Alderpersons Brad Knutti, Justin Rausch, Ethan Lartz, Mark Macomber, Jim Plock, and Alisha Metz.

PUBLIC COMMENTS- James Green, Melissa Dauphin, Brandon Koser, and John Brorota voiced their concerns about a growing rat infestation around their properties. They reported seeing rats during daylight hours, with several being caught in live traps. Residents cited property at 623 North Broad Street, where chickens are kept and a large uncontained compost pile exists, as a likely source of the problem due to the food and shelter it provides for vermin. Residents expressed frustration over the financial and emotional burden, including over $1,000 in pest control costs, reduced quality of life, and declining property values. There were also complaints about strong odors, increased presence of skunks, and the lack of timely action taken despite previous reports and code violations. They requested the city to revoke the chicken ordinance or, at a minimum, to immediately revoke the permit for the property in question.

Ryan and Morgan Mueller are considering purchasing the property at 507 E. Franklin and inquired about the possibility of using it for an auto mechanic shop. The property is currently zoned residential, so a special use permit would be required for any commercial activity. City officials explained the permit process, which includes: submitting an application and a $150 fee, creating a site plan and nature of the proposed business, gathering signatures from at least 50% of property owners within 250 feet who are in support, and notifying surrounding property owners and holding a public hearing.

Officials clarified that the process could begin before the property is purchased, allowing potential buyers to gauge feasibility. No formal decision was made during the discussion, but the city encouraged the applicant to gather the required documentation and petition support before proceeding.

CHICKEN ORDINANCE – POSSIBLE ACTION – Council members discussed the seriousness of the issue and previous efforts to control compost piles and regulate minimum property upkeep. The council acknowledged that other chicken permit holders are not causing issues that they have been made aware of, so the decision was not to ban chickens citywide. However, the council agreed to inspect the chicken permit holders in their wards.

A Motion was made by Alderperson Brad Knutti and seconded by Alderperson Jim Plock to revoke the chicken permit at 623 N. Broad and to be cleaned up by September 30, 2025. Motion carried by 6 aye votes. Aye votes; Alderpersons Brad Knutti, Jim Plock, Ethan Lartz, Mark Macomber, Justin Rausch, and Alisha Metz.

BEEHIVE VARIANCE – POSSIBLE ACTION – Nick Mosca requested permission to place two beehives on a commercially zoned apple orchard, about 50 yards from any residential area. The intent is to support orchard revitalization and provide a community/environmental benefit. Council members discussed that while many cities allow beekeeping, most require hives to be registered with the Department of Agriculture, which handles inspections and enforces safety and nuisance regulations. The council agreed they would not approve a special use permit immediately, as the city ordinance needs to be amended first to allow for beekeeping under a special use. Once the ordinance is updated, the applicant can formally apply. There was general support for the idea, especially given the size of the property and its potential for agricultural use, and no strong opposition was raised. The matter will move forward once the ordinance is drafted.

LIBRARY BOARD APPOINTMENTS – ACTION REQUIRED – A Motion was made by Alderperson Brad Knutti and seconded by Alderperson Alisha Metz to appoint Jocelyn Lilly to the Library Board, filling the seat vacated by Marissa Clenney. Motion carried by 6 aye votes. Aye votes; Alderpersons Brad Knutti, Alisha Metz, Mark Macomber, Justin Rausch, Jim Plock, and Ethan Lartz.

DELINQUENT UTILITIES – ACTION REQUIRED – Council reviewed the updated list of delinquent utility accounts for shut offs on October 1st. The council also went over some properties from the previous month that had been shut off and were later reconnected after partial or full payment. One property owner, Freeport Portfolio, remains unreachable, and liens have been filed on their properties. Another property’s water shut-off location is still undetermined, and further efforts are being made to locate it. A Motion was made by Alderperson Brad Knutti and seconded by Alderperson Mark Macomber to proceed with shut offs for 1 through 14 if no payment is made. Motion carried by 6 aye votes. Aye votes; Alderpersons Brad Knutti, Mark Macomber, Justin Rausch, Alisha Metz, Jim Plock, and Ethan Lartz.

ABANDONED/BLIGHTED PORPERTIES – POSSIBLE ACTION- The council addressed properties on the blighted property list, noting 315 W. Claremont has been cleaned up and 323 N. Broad needs to be added. Letters citing ordinance violations and giving a two-week deadline for compliance are being prepared for properties on list including 237 Westside Ave. The council then turned to animal-related ordinances, including issues with livestock, chickens, and rabbits within city limits. They debated whether to remove or revise the rule allowing livestock on parcels over 1.5 acres and discussed whether animals like goats or chickens should be restricted or banned. Concerns were raised about nuisance animals like rabbits, with suggestions to restrict outdoor enclosures and keep animals like rabbits indoors or in backyards only.

Lastly, ordinance committee to review and revise the broader animal ordinance, including nuisances, fines, and alignment with agricultural regulations for things like beekeeping.

CITY WEBSITE – POSSIBLE ACTION – Tabled - A preliminary discussion was held regarding proposals from two website vendors: Star Media and Bell Star. Both vendors presented initial information and answered key questions, especially regarding hosting, ownership, and content migration. Star Media provided sample websites, and Bell Star shared past work for local entities. Both proposals included basic pricing, but more accurate cost comparisons will be available after vendors receive additional technical details. The committee agreed more internal discussion is needed before making a decision. A meeting will be scheduled soon to review sample sites, compare vendor pros/cons, and clarify collaborative opportunities (e.g., with the Chamber or Library).

LEVY – POSSIBLE ACTION – Attorney Ed Mitchell presented the ordinance for the Levy. A motion was made by alderperson Mark Macomber and seconded by Alderperson Brad Knutti to approve Ordinance # 1018, An Ordinance Levying the Annual Taxes for the City of Lanark for the Fiscal Year Beginning April 1, 2025 and Ending March 31, 2026. Motion carried by 5 aye votes and 1 abstain. Aye votes; Alderpersons Mark Macomber, Brad Knutti, Alisha Metz, Jim Plock, and Ethan Lartz. Alderperson Justin Rausch abstained.

EMPTY LOTS – POSSIBLE ACTION – A proposal was presented to improve the vacant city-owned corner lot at Broad and Locust. Phase 1, targeted for Spring, would involve the City removing gravel and asphalt, grading the site, laying topsoil, establishing a lawn, and installing a hydrant for future utility and beautification needs. Phase 2, led by a local fundraising group, may include building a pavilion or shelter in collaboration with groups like the Lions Club and Lanark Community Foundation, which has expressed continued interest.

Concerns were raised about whether grass would grow due to potential buried debris or drainage issues, but it was believed that with proper watering and erosion control materials, a lawn could be established successfully. The Farmer's Market currently using the lot will need to be temporarily relocated, with the possibility of returning later. The project is not yet approved but will be tabled until spring budgeting discussions.

SOLICITORS PERMITS – POSSIBLE ACTION – Tabled - The city has seen an influx of commercial solicitors, especially from solar companies, raising concerns among residents and officials. A proposal was introduced to adopt an ordinance similar to the Village of Shannon, which bans all commercial door-to-door solicitation, while still allowing charitable, religious, political, and non profit soliciting. Concerns were raised that current permits may give the impression the city endorses these businesses, and some solicitors have falsely claimed city approval. The proposed ordinance would also include an opt-in list for residents who do wish to be solicited commercially. Most officials expressed support for the change, and legal review was requested to adapt the language into a formal ordinance for vote at the next meeting.

STANDING COMMITTEES AND BOARDS-POSSIBLE ACTION- Economic Development - The Gaga ball pit installation was completed and already well-used by kids (one low dent noted) and received positive feedback. A community Halloween golf cart/UTV light parade is being planned for fun and visibility. Streets and Property – will have a meeting next Tuesday at 6pm. Chip and-seal work is underway —final touches scheduled, with striping to follow in a few weeks. Water and Sewer - construction continues with routine updates; a cut gas line was quickly resolved. Ordinance – The council discussed how to fairly and effectively notify residents of nuisance violations. They agreed on a two-week timeline per enforcement stage, starting with a clear, detailed warning letter that includes contact info for the alderman, mayor, and city hall. While personal service is most effective, they may also post notices on doors and send follow up letters. A progressive fine schedule was proposed, with increasing penalties (e.g., $100, $250, $500) for unresolved issues.

REPORTS-EMPLOYEES, ATTORNEY, CLERK, TREASURER, ALDERPERSONS AND MAYOR Maintenance Manager Jason Alvarado - Water Main Project: The team is preparing to tie in the new line to the existing water main but ran into issues with old valves that need replacing — not originally part of the project. Jason recommended replacing three of them using general funds and ordering through J&R for cost savings. Approval is pending from Reed. A resident asked about installing bat houses to control mosquitoes. It was noted bats are federally protected, so caution is needed, but placing bat houses on private property is acceptable and seen as beneficial.

The leaf pick up schedule will be coming out, and Heritage Center seconded bid fell through so he his hoping Dollinger will starting soon.

Jason secured a better quote for water tower cleaning—$8,500 (down from $8,950 and much lower than a $12,800 competitor). The company can complete the work within two weeks and was given the go-ahead.

Chief Troy Randall – Conducted a taser training exercise noting all officers involved were paid and certified.

Alderperson Jim Plock - 114 Claremont - a fence and a utility pole now block proper driveway access. The homeowner claims a professional survey confirmed the fence is correctly placed,

but no one has seen the actual survey. The homeowner currently drives over the curb to access the driveway. The council discussed the possibility of cutting the curb but agreed that they need to review the survey first before making a decision. Attempts to contact the homeowner for documentation have been unsuccessful so far.

Attorney Ed Mitchell - provided updates on two key issues: Grocery Tax Ordinance: The ordinance required by October 1st was initially rejected due to missing a red seal. A second version was sent with tracking, received, and properly filed—this matter is now resolved. Fox Property: A long-standing issue dating back to 2010. A lien was placed for unpaid water bills, followed by a demolition lawsuit in 2013. The city was eventually paid $13,000 by Anita Fox to settle costs, and the lawsuit was dropped in 2014. Mowing issues resurfaced around 2019, with some payments made, but no current liens are active. There may be environmental concerns (like a buried tank), but it's not the city’s problem unless it becomes a hazard. Mayor Jeri Rogan- Shannon Mayors Meeting this Saturday.

ADJOURNMENT-MOTION-was made by Alderperson Brad Knutti and seconded by Alderperson Justin Rausch to adjourn at 9:13 p.m. Motion carried by 6 voiced aye votes.

 https://lanarkil.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/09162025-City-Council-Meeting-Minutes.pdf