City Council Meetings

WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS MAYOR PWLIP J. 5UE5S COUNCILWOMAN ERICA BRAY‘PARKER i COUNCILWOMAN LEAH BRICE i COUNCILMAN ECOTT BROWN COUNCILMAN BRADLEY CLOUSING l COUNCILWOMAN LYNN ROSBINS i COUNCILMAN SCOTT WELLER WHEATON CITY HALL, COUNCIL CHAMBERS, 305 W WESLEY STREET, WHEATON, ILLINOIS 60187 Monday, March 2, 2026 1. Cali to Order and Roll Call The regular Wheaten City Councll Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Mayor Philip J. Suess. Upon roll call, the following were: Physically Present: Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Absent: None City Staff Physically Present: Michael Dzugan, City Manager William Kolschowsky, Assistant City Manager Dawn Didier, City Attorney James Kozik, Director of Planning and Economic Development Joseph Tebrugge, Director of Engineering Princeton Youker, Chief of Police Sean Walsh, Assistant Director of Public Works Susan Bishel, Public information Officer Andrea Rosedale, City Clerk City Staff Electronically Present: None 2. Presentation Mayor Suess presided over the swearing-in ceremony of Police Officer Sohail M. Ali, preceded by remarks from Police Chief Youker. 3. Citizens to be Heard Julie Evans, resident of Glen Ellyn, emailed allcouncil@wheaton.il.us on Monday, March 2, 2026, she noted Glen Ellyn’s approval of a 42—unit affordable supportive apartment development which will prioritize people with disabilities. She thanked the City Council for their care in updating the Group Care Home regulations and expressed her appreciation for how the needs, safety and rights of residents are addressed in the drafted code. She advised she is pleased to share Glen Ellyn’s supportive housing education and advocacy efforts. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 Deborah Suggs, 2102 W. Roosevelt Rd., spoke regarding the Roosevelt Road traffic signal and crosswalk near Marian Park and St. Francis. She stated that the City didn’t acknowledge $250,000 in funding organized by DuPage United from the 2024 State of lllinois budget in the City’s September 2024 resolution. She called on the City to recognize an additional $750,000 being organized by Senator Seth Lewis through Senate Bill 2807. She asked the City to work with DuPage United leaders led by Marian Park leaders to organize any gap funding needed to begin construction of IDOT’s Phase 3 and to promptly sign off on the intergovernmental agreement expected in late 2026 or early 2027. She expressed safety concerns and reflected upon past traffic and pedestrian accidents. Nancy Moore, 423 Wyndemere Circle, addressed the City Council regarding the Gary Avenue and Roosevelt Road projects. She noted the city’s financial support for Gary Avenue, but noted a lack of City commitment for Roosevelt Road, despite $250,000 secured from the state and the proposed $750,000 from a senate bill proposed by Senator Lewis. She stated the Roosevelt Road project could begin construction in late 2026 or early 2027 with the City’s approval of the intergovernmental agreement with IDOT, to ensure a protected crosswalk and traffic signal for Marian Park residents. Todd Sipe, Area Director of Operations for Mercy Housing overseeing Marian Park, 2126 W. Roosvelt Road, addressed the City Council as a DuPage United leader, supported by clergy and team members. He expressed the urgent need for a safe crossing at Roosevelt Road, noting safety concerns. He invited all City Council members to visit Marian Park to see the hazards and urged approval and commitment to begin construction of the traffic signal upon completion of phase two. Mayor Suess added to the discussion regarding the Marian Park project and stated the process is currently in phase two, which is land acquisition, managed by IDOT. He stated the phase may take up to two years, with progress dependent on property acquisition timelines. He reported the installation of a traffic light is not possible until the right turn lane at Roosevelt and County Farm Road is completed. He stated the City is aware ofthe $250,000 from Senator Lewis, which has not yet been received by the City of Wheaton, and noted there have been no changes to the agreement with St. Francis regarding the light's funding. He highlighted the Marian Park traffic light project differs from the Gary Avenue stoplight project, which was City—led and federally funded. He emphasized the traffic light near Marian Park is an IDOT project and subject to their constraints. He stated the City remains committed to working with community representatives and shares frustrations over the lengthy timeline and noted that significant progress has been made and the project is closer to completion than ever before. 4. Consent Agenda Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilwoman Bray—Parker seconded that the following action be taken on the Consent Agenda items: 1. Approve the Minutes of the Wheaton City Council Regular Meeting — February 17, 2026, as submitted. 2. Resolution R-2026—12, A Resolution Authorizing the Disposal of Certain Surplus Property (PD), be adopted. 3. Application for a Class A Liquor License —Sepcon LLC d/b/a La Plaza Taqueria —421 Town Square, be approved. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 4. Resolution R-2026—l3, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 599 with AT&T Corporation for Secondary internet Service for a Three—year Term and a Totai Amount Not to Exceed $35,639.28, be adopted. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 5. Pass Ordinance 0-2026-11, An Ordinance Amending City of Wheaton Ordinance No. E-3422 as Amended — Rice Lake Square Shopping Center — Seven Brew Councilman Brown moved and Councilman Weller seconded that 0—2026-11, An Ordinance Amending City of Wheaton Ordinance No. E-3422 as Amended — Rice Lake Square Shopping Center — Seven Brew, be passed. City Manager Dzugan informed the City Council that at the February 17 meeting, the City Attorney was instructed to draft an ordinance approving a Planned Unit Development amendment and Special Use Permit for the construction and operation of a 900 sq. ft. coffee stand, including permission for drive—thru sales. He advised the ordinance incorporates conditions from the Planning and Zoning Board, a revised Drive Thru Overflow Plan, and a provision for revocation of the Special Use Permit if queuing occurs on East Loop Road. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Nay$ None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 6. Receive Planning & Zoning Board Report Re: ZA #26-05/ PUD and Lot Area Variation/ 300 S. Main Street and 104-108 W. Willow Avenue/ Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans Councilman Weller moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that Planning & Zoning Board Report Re: ZA #26-05/ PUD and Lot Area Variation/ 300 S. Main Street and 104-l08 W. Willow Avenue/ Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, be received. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 City Manager Dzugan reported that the Planning and Zoning Board recommended approving a Special Use Permit for a Planned Unit Deveiopment to allow construction of a 4-story, 20-unit apartment building. He explained that the Board also advised that a group care home license would be required under updated provisions, which are on the agenda for a first reading. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously Motion to Direct the City Attorney to Prepare an Ordinance to approve Planning and Zoning Application ZA #26-05/ PUD and Lot Area Variation/ 300 S. Main Street and 104-108 W. Willow Avenue/ Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans Councilwoman Bray—Parker moved and Councilwoman Brice seconded a Motion to Direct the City Attorney to prepare an Ordinance to approve Planning and Zoning Application ZA #26—05/ PUD and Lot Area Variation/ 300 S. Main Street and 104—108 W. Willow Avenue/ Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans. Mike Andrews, 317 S. Hale St., expressed his support for Heros Homes. He highlighted the importance of maintaining architectural quality in new developments, especially at a prominent intersection like Main and Willow. He noted concerns with the distance of the west wall to neighboring properties and asked about property maintenance ofthe neighboring property due to the close proximity ofthe wall. He asked the developer and builder to use red brick for the new building, and like the Faywell project, include a decorative top and side architectural details, to avoid cement fiberboard to ensure continuity and to honor the veterans with a quality home. He emphasized the need for the building to reflect the neighborhood’s character and maintain a high standard of appearance. Lisa Upham, 130 W. Willow Ave., property and business owner, spoke in opposition of the proposed project. She expressed concerns that the south side of downtown Wheaton has seen an influx of housing developments, potentially limiting retail growth. She noted a demand for retail space and questioned whether the proposed project would better serve the local economy as retail rather than additional residential units. She raised issues regarding traffic flow, parking challenges, and the lack ofoutdoorspace in the building plan, suggesting such factors could contribute to loitering and safety concerns. She asked if the project could be relocated elsewhere in Wheaton in support of community needs and retail development. in response to Mayor Suess, Director Kozik stated the building would be fire protected with the short distance between the two properties on the west side. He stated that he would need to get back on an answer pertaining to the building maintenance on the other building due to the short distance. He advised 4 WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 there is no required setback with respect to space between buildings. He stated there is a deck planned at the top of the building and noted all units wouid have private balconies. in response to questions from Mayor Suess, Rizik Mohammad, representing the Midwest Sheiter for Homeiess Veterans (”MSHV"), stated that they are open to revising the pian to eliminate the curb cut on Wiliow and move parking access to the alley oniy. He confirmed the ownership of the property is a 50/50 split between MSHV and New Directions. in response to questions from Mayor Suess, Jason Fumo, representing New Directions, advised the company was started 3O years ago by the late founder of lnland Reai Estate. He stated the affordabie housing deveiopment company has deveioped projects across lilinois, inciuding a recent senior living development in Lombard. He noted the company has done some rehabs as weli. He stated that Urban Works is the architect. He reported the timeiine is dependent upon funding from the lllinois Department of Housing Authority (”IDHA") who granted the funding. Mayor Suess expressed concerns reiating to the chain linked fencing and buiiding materiais. Mr. Fumo stated the fencing was mesh for garage ventiiation and advised it couid be easiiy addressed. Director Kozik stated building materiais in the Downtown District are not required to be masonry based and confirmed the materiais selected compiy with the guideiines of the Downtown Design Guidance. in response to Mayor Suess, Mr. Mohammed confirmed $10.1 million in funding was received from the IDHA and noted the other 10% is from fundraising at the MSHV. He reported the MSHV also has 2O project- based vouchers from the Housing Authority. ln response to Councilman Clousing, Mr. Mohammed stated 100% ofthe units are project—based vouchers which is housing at—risk veterans for at least 30 years, the length of the vouchers. Councilwoman Robbins advised although she supports the MSHV, she will be voting against the proposed development of a 4-story apartment building as she did in 2022 for the Banner development. She stated her concerns mirror those she had ofthe Banner development, including congestion due to high-density housing, safety, and the preservation of Wheaton’s rich history and charm. ln response t0 Councilman Brown, Allison Orr, Executive Director ofthe Downtown Wheaton Association, stated that six to eight viable retail businesses, are seeking downtown specific retail space. in response to Councilwoman Brice regarding retail interest in the old Carlson space, Ms. Orr stated there is a ceiling which retailers can pay for rent or renovation. She stated the Rumpleshirtskin building wasjust formerly listed for sale over the weekend, noting development opportunity through the assembly of the two properties for a mixed-use commercial space or retail building. She advised retailers seek turnkey spaces and are not looking to build. Councilwoman Bray-Parker stated an important component to the success of this project is the Group Care Home License. Jamin Nollsch, Architect with Urban Works, commented upon the westside setback noting that one ofthe conditions of the Planning and Zoning Board’s report is that a five-foot easement be provided. WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 Mr. Mohammed advised they are already under contract for the property which has been vacant for five years. Mayor Suess expressed appreciation to the developers for accommodating the red brick, and parking with respect to the egress being off the ailey as opposed to Willow. Mayor Suess expressed his support of the project which brings housing to the downtown and addresses a need in the community with respect to the veterans. He confirmed the project would improve flood water mitigation greater than exists currently. Councilman Weller expressed his support of the project noting it is under the height restriction and is a smaller density than other projects. He noted it exceeds the parking requirements and improves water drainage. Councilman Clousing expressed his support for the project in line with the criteria laid out by Mayor Suess. He also highlighted the project’s economic stability through the 30—year contract with the federal government to provide funding for the veterans. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilman Weller Nays: Councilwoman Robbins Absent: None Motion Carried 7. First Reading of An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wheaton Chapter 26, Article 5 (Tobacco) Amendment to Sections 26-138. Possession by Minors Prohibited and 26-141. Vending Machines; Locking Devices City Manager Dzugan reported that the next four agenda items clarify and update the City Code concerning tobacco and alcohol regulations. He noted that all items are presented for a first reading and will be considered for final approval at the March 16 meeting. He remarked the proposed amendment increases the legal age for possessing any tobacco product from 18 to 21, aligning with the state statute, and prohibits the sale of tobacco from vending machines. 8. First Reading of An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wheaton Chapter 6, (Alcoholic Beverages) Amendment to Section 6-865. — Training Required City Manager Dzugan stated the proposed Ordinance reallocates the responsibility to maintain and provide proof of BASSET training certification to licensees for their staff. He explained this change resolves challenges faced by City staff to track and obtain BASSET training records from licensees. 9. First Reading of An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wheaton Chapter 6, (Alcoholic Beverages) Amendment to Section 6-875. Special Event Liquor License WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 City Manager Dzugan stated changes to the Special Event Liquor requirements include clarification where a special event with liquor may occur. 10. First Reading of An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City of Wheaton Chapter 6, (Aicoholic Beverages) Amendment to Section 6-127.(a) — Employment of Underage Persons City Manager Dzugan reported the Ordinance covers empioyment of underage persons, recognizing the City now has license classifications where there is alcohol consumption on premises that are not restaurants or hotels who may seek to hire servers that are 18-20 years of age. 11. Adopt Resolution R-2026—14, A Resolution Adopting Policies for the Use of the City Hall Council Chambers, Gamon Room and Conley Meeting Rooms Councilman Brown moved and Councilwoman Brice seconded that R—2026—14, A Resolution Adopting Policies for the Use of the City Hall Council Chambers, Gamon Room and Conley Meeting Rooms, be adopted. City Manager Dzugan referred to the February 23 Planning Session when staff introduced formal policies on the use of the Council Chambers, Gamon Room and Conley Room. He highlighted the proposed policy includes a provision to authorize exceptions regarding the use policy which may be reviewed by the City Council. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Pa rker Councilwoman Brice Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 12. Adopt Resolution R-2026-15, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 598 with Crossroad Construction, Inc. for the Windsor Channel Pedestrian Bridge (Butterfield Road) Repair Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceeded $135,855 and a 10% Contingency Councilman Weller moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that R—2026-15, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 598 with Crossroad Construction, inc. forthe Windsor Channel Pedestrian Bridge (Butterfield Road) Repair Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceeded $135,855 and a 10% Contingency, be adopted. City Manager Dzugan clarified seven bids were received from qualified IDOT contractors for structural steel repairs that are necessary on the Windsor Channel Pedestrian Bridge. He confirmed the low bid is $11,000 over the amount included in the 2026 budget, noting reserves in the Capital Project Fund to accommodate the additional cost. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray-Pa rker WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimouslv 13. Adopt Resolution R-2026-16, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 597 with H. Linden & Sons Sewer and Water, Inc. for the Willow Avenue Utiiity Improvements Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $527,975 and a 10% Contingency Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Weller seconded that R-2026-16, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 597 with H. Linden & Sons Sewer and Water, inc. for the Willow Avenue Utility improvements Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $527,975 and a 10% Contingency, be adopted. City Manager Dzugan reported five bids were received to replace an aging watermain and sanitary sewer main along Willow Ave. between West St. and Wheaton Ave. He noted the project was contemplated based upon the request of St. Michaels to vacate that portion of Willow Ave. for a campus expansion for which the City received $200,000 for the fair market value for the right—of—way. He confirmed the City’s intent was to reinvest the funds towards the upgrades and noted the City has reserves to cover the additional $43,000 above what was budgeted. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Councilwoman Bray—Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Nays: None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously 14. First Reading of An Ordinance Amending the Code of Ordinances of the City ofWheaton — Chapter 26 (Businesses), Article VI (Group Care Homes) City Manager Dzugan noted the City Council reviewed the subject of amending the Group Care Home provisions at various planning sessions, including on January 26. He highlighted staff’s recommendation to include an additional change since last reviewed to further define the City’s legislative intent. James Baugh, Wheaton resident and Board Member of Radical Hospitality Ministries (”RHM"), spoke to the City Council about concerns over proposed Group Care Home ordinance changes. He noted RHM filed a discrimination complaint after a license denial and believes the revisions may be retaliatory. He criticized WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 ”individual language including with specific needs,” arguing it c0uld unnecessariiy restrict care and housing access. He also expressed concerns that unclear definitions and the removai of oversight committees wouid reduce transparency and hinder support for vulnerable groups, urging the City Council to reconsider the ordinance’s wording. 15. Council Comment Counciiwoman Bray-Parker recognized Women’s History Month and America’s upcoming 250th anniversary, expressing her appreciation for the contributions of women, referencing Abigaii Adams’ plea ”remember to her husband to the ladies.” She gave special thanks to the women on City staff and in the wider community for helping make Wheaton a great place to live, work, and visit. Mayor Suess raised concerns regarding recent proposals and pending legislation from the Governor of lllinois in the lllinois State Legislature which would negatively affect the City of Wheaton and other municipalities. He noted key issues including the Governor’s proposed $60 million reduction in the Local Government Distributive Fund, which would decrease municipal funding. He noted further issues including a zoning proposal that would reduce the minimum lot size to 2,500 square feet, potentially devaluing existing properties and a proposal for property tax certainty for mega projects, such as the Chicago Bears Stadium, without similar considerations for ordinary residents. He questioned the rationale and beneficiaries ofthese proposals and urged legislatures to present clear plans to support municipalities rather than hinder them. 16. Approval of Warrant Councilwoman Bray—Parker moved and Councilman Brown seconded that Warrant No. 915 in the amount of $1,502,841.45, be approved. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Bray-Parker Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Councilman Weller Nays None Absent None Motion Carried Unanimously 17. Adjournment Councilwoman Brice moved and Councilman Brown seconded that the regular Wheaton City Council Meeting be adjourned at 8:12 p.m. Roll Call Vote: Ayes: Councilwoman Brice Councilman Brown WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS Monday, March 2, 2026 Mayor Suess Councilman Clousing Councilwoman Robbins Counciiman Weiler Councilwoman Bray-Parker Nay$ None Absent: None Motion Carried Unanimously Res ectfully submitted, Andrea Rosedale City Clerk Submitted for Approval: March 16, 2026 ’lO