During a recent village board meeting, residents expressed significant concerns regarding public safety, transparency in local governance, and the handling of community development projects.

One resident raised alarms about the prolonged delays in repairing streetlights, emphasizing that the lack of adequate lighting compromises neighborhood safety and deters visitors from downtown. Village officials acknowledged the issue, noting their reliance on ComEd for repairs and the importance of resident feedback in addressing these concerns.

The meeting also featured heated discussions surrounding the village's controversial decisions regarding the Maplewood property. Martha Ritter criticized the village for what she perceived as bullying tactics against District 26, claiming that the zoning board's decisions favored certain developments while disregarding community input. She expressed frustration over the perceived lack of transparency and the village's approach to negotiations, suggesting that the community's concerns were ignored in favor of a predetermined agenda.

Christy Wagner echoed these sentiments, detailing her experiences with the village's handling of the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with District 26. She accused the village of using political pressure to achieve its goals and criticized the cancellation of public meetings, which she felt hindered community engagement and transparency. Wagner called for greater accountability in local governance, particularly regarding development projects that impact residents.

The meeting highlighted a growing demand among residents for improved communication and collaboration between the village and local entities, as well as a call for more responsible development practices that prioritize community needs. As discussions continue, the village faces increasing pressure to address these concerns and foster a more inclusive decision-making process.