​Pledge of Allegiance:
Call to Order:
Roll Call:
 
Public Comments:
Approve Minutes:
 

• January 5, 2026 President Finn's Comments:
• 220 S. David Street- Possible home inspection?
• Approval of the release of escrowed funds and execution of an easement closure letter related to the sale of the Village water system
• Review/approve change to section 6.17 Sick Leave in the employee handbook-every 2 weeks 2.5 hours sick time accrued; max. 200 hours
• Lining of fields
• Tornado Siren for Dunlap Woods
• Susan Monte-CCES donation
• Rental fees for Community Building Attorney's Comments:

Maintenance Comments:
 

• Oil and Chip: Needs to be done as needed
• Review/approve improvements to septic system at ballpark Finance:
• Approval of Monthly Bills Streets and Alleys:

Water and Drainage:
Public Property:
 

• Permits

Parks and Recreation: Community Development: New and Old Business: Adjourn:

​Call to Order:
 
Pledge of Allegiance:
Roll Call:
 
Public Comments:
Approve Minutes:
 

• December 1, 2025 Public Hearing:
• Discuss/approve Special Use Permit requests for 212 S. David Street, 214 S. David Street, 216 S. David Street, and 220 S. David Street
• Approve Ordinance allowing Special Use within the Community Business District of Sidney Illinois; Ordinance #2026-0-01

President Finn's Comments:
 

• Discuss/approve changes to Section 6.5: Overtime Compensation of the Employee Policy Handbook
• Discuss/approve changes to Section 6.7: After-duty Emergency Call Out, Village Board Meetings
• Discuss/approve retro-active pay for maintenance staff for the pay period 11/24/2025-12/07/2025
• Time Clock Attorney's Comments: Maintenance Comments:
• Sidewalk snow removal Finance:
• Approval of Monthly Bills Streets and Alleys:

Water and Drainage:
Public Property:

• Permits

Parks and Recreation:
 
Community Development:
New and Old Business:
 

• Paid leave and Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Adjourn:

​The Village Board met on the above date for the regular monthly meeting and Public Hearing. The meeting was called to order by President Finn at 7:00pm followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call of those present. Trustees: Laurent, Harris, Schluter, Hooker, and Gadeken. Trustee Bickers was not present. Also present were Supervisor of Operations, Dustin Butts, Clerk Reinhart and Attorney Marc Miller.
Public Comments:The Goose and the Gander owners were present; inquired about a possible vendor fair in the Spring and whom they should speak with to set that up. President Finn directed them to Trustee Hooker, also a member of the Sidney Improvement Group to discuss further; Trustee Hooker invited them to attend an Improvement Group meeting for further discussion.
Cindy Shepherd was also present to follow up on BayWa "wish list". She states BayWa is still considering the requests and remains open to discussions about donations to the Village.
Approve Minutes: 
President Finn requested a motion to approve the minutes from the December 1, 2025, meeting. Trustee Schluter made a motion to approve the December 1, 2025, regular monthly meeting minutes as written, Trustee Laurent seconded the motion, the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Public Hearing: 
Discuss/approve Special Use Permit requests for 212 S. David Street, 214 S. David Street, 216 S. David Street and 220 S. David Street- President Finn opened discussion to the public; he and Attorney Marc Miller briefed those present on what would be happening at the hearing; Board would decide findings of fact and/or conditions to fill in the blanks on the permits prepared by the Miller and Hendren office; filling in the blanks will help the Board make their decisions and keep from having a bad impact on the community.
President Finn does not believe conditions need to be applied to all the properties in question as most are well kept and do not pose a risk to the community.
President Finn inquired if the permit would be issued to the property or the property owner; Marc states it would be with the property, but the Board can adjust the permit to apply to the owner and not the property, this change would require any new owners to the

properties to apply for their own permit. The Board agrees to the change; there was no vote taken.
Property owner to 214 inquired about parking in the rear of the buildings and questions the risk of parking there not having knowledge of where the septic systems are located. He has inquired if the rear of the properties can be parceled off to ensure parking is not atop a system or does not become more congested. President Finn does not believe 212 or 216 will cause an issue as they have not yet. Trustee Hooker inquired what type of business 214 would have and felt the "no overnight" parking signs were discussed last month, but a determination to remove or leave the signs was not made. 214 property owner stated his wife would have an auction house and coffee shop on site, possibly including consignment in the future. There is also an apartment located on site; an employee will live there.
Parceling the parking in the rear of the buildings was no longer discussed or voted on to
change or address.
Members of the Fire District were present to express their concerns over egress and easements if they were to have a call to any of the addresses as well as an overall concern to living quarters within any of the buildings; they expressed lack of suppression systems and partitions to stop a fire if one were to occur. All properties must at minimum have smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and clear paths to move through the buildings. Having been called to 220 in the past, they expressed serious concerns over lack of access to the electrical panel, no clear path through the building and extension cords running power throughout the space. The Board agrees they do not want a repeat situation, especially as the buildings adjoin with one another. Resident and Masonic Lodge member Mark Catron requested the property owners receive a copy of the Boards final decision for the properties and outline what is required for each. President Finn ensured they would all receive a copy of the Boards decision and it would outline expectations.
Trustee Schluter inquired how compliance would be enforced. Attorney Marc Miller responded stating that if the Village believes the property to be incompliant, the Village can obtain a warrant to enter the property. He also added the Board can add an inspection requirement to the permit; this would allow Maintenance or the Mayor to enter and inspect said properties on a yearly basis, or there is reason to believe the owner is not in compliance with the permit. Trustee Harris made a motion to approve the findings and decision as presented with the discussed changes allowing for the special use permit at 212 S. David Street, 214 S. David Street and 216 S. David Street, Sidney, Illinois. Trustee Laurent seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Discussion continued regarding 220 S. David Street. President Finn expressed concerns regarding the current life/safety issues at the property; although condemning a building

takes a lot, the condition of the building is not good and is getting worse. Goose and Gander expressed septic concerns; they currently pay for all maintenance to the system, which is shared with other buildings along David Street, 220 included; expressed concerns the system is only designed for 4 people and is already maxed out; allowing tenants would put more people on an already old and small system. Goose and Gander added, they have reached out to the Health Department, expressing their concerns. The Health Department has told them they can apply to have the system capped, blocking 220 from access, but they would likely deny the request. Trustee Harris made a motion to approve the finds and decision as presented with the incorporation of changes as discussed which denies a special use permit at 220 S. David Street, Sidney, Illinois; the motion was seconded by Trustee Laurent and carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Approve Ordinance allowing Special Use within the Community Business District of Sidney Illinois -Attorney Marc Millers office prepared Special Use permits, and an Ordinance was no longer needed.
President Finn's Comments: 
Discuss/approve changes to Section 6.5: Overtime Compensation of the Employee Policy Handbook- Brought to the attention of the Board per the Maintenance employees were not paid out overtime for the snow removal because it also fell during a holiday. Trustee Laurent made a motion to remove the wording "Sick days, holidays, vacation time, leave of absences, and other time off benefits are not counted as time worked for purposes of overtime"; Trustee Harris seconded the motion, the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Discuss/approve changes to Section 6.7: After-duty Emergency call Out & Village Board meetings - No changes were made to this section of the handbook; it was further acknowledged that when an employee leaves their home for an emergency call out to the Village, the employee should be compensated 2 hours minimum for their time.
Discuss/approve retro-active pay for maintenance staff for the pay period 11/24/2025-12/07/2025 - Trustee Harris made a motion to approve the overtime that was not paid in the pay period 11/24/2025-12/07/2025, for both maintenance employees; Trustee Laurent seconded the motion, the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Time Clock- Extensive time clock discussion was had. Trustee Schluter felt the time clock was not necessary, whereas Trustee Gadeken felt it was needed. After discussion, the time clock will remain; no vote was taken.
Attorney's Comments:
Nothing to report.
Maintenance Comments: 
Sidewalk snow removal-Trustee Laurent expressed adding snow removal on the Main Street sidewalk to the areas the maintenance staff already removes snow. He added this would not be an overtime situation and all/any snow removal from the Main Street sidewalk would be after the "regular" duties were complete. Maintenance Supervisor Butts does not feel this a wise decision as it will likely cause problems with residents who do not live along Main Street, but would like their sidewalks clear of snow as well; additionally, the wear and tear on the mower and the lack of coverage for the employee from the elements
is a concern. There was no vote taken at this time to add snow removal from the sidewalks along Main Street.
Finance:Approval of monthly bills - Trustee Hooker read the finance reports; there were no additions. Trustee Hooker made a motion to pay the monthly bills with no additions; Trustee Harris seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Streets and Alleys:Nothing to report.
Water and Drainage: 
Nothing to report.
Public Property:Nothing to report.
 
Parks and Recreation:Nothing to report.
 
Community Development:Trustee Schluter expressed concerns that the General Code book was not updated. Clerk Reinhart assured him he is correct; the book has not been updated in several years, but the office and County are up to date, and she is currently working on the book/online access reflecting the same.
New and Old Business:
Paid Leave and FMLA- Paid leave or Sick leave will be added to the February meeting.
Adjourn: 
Trustee Harris made a motion to adjourn; the motion was seconded by Trustee Laurent; the meeting adjourned at 8:59pm.

Call to Order:
 
Pledge of Allegiance:
Roll Call:
 
Public Comments:
Approve Minutes:
 

• November 3, 2025 Public Hearing:
• Discuss/approve Special Use Permit requests for 212 S. David Street, 216 S. David Street and 220 S. David Street, Sidney, Illinois

President Finn's Comments:

• Approve terms and service agreement for Champaign County Animal Control
• Discuss/approve Orkin year in advance statement Attorneys Comments:

Maintenance Comments:
Finance:
 

• Approval of monthly bills Streets and Alleys:

Water and Drainage:
Public Property:
 

• Permits

Parks and Recreation:
Community Development:
New and Old Business:
 

• Paid Leave and Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Adjourn:

​The Village Board met on the above date for the regular monthly meeting and Public Hearing. The meeting was called to order by President Finn at 7:00pm followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a rollcall of those present. Trustees present: Laurent, Harris, Schluter, Hooker, Bickers and Gadeken. Also present were Supervisor of Operations, Dustin Butts, Clerk Reinhart and Attorney Gavin Gunter.
Public Comments:Legion member Bill Hensch inquired if the time capsule on Legion property, would be removed by the Village when it came time to do so this next year and if the Village would be placing a new one, if it would be located at the Village Hall. He added that when the current capsule is removed, it will need to be cut open as it is made of copper. The Board assured the Legion members present the Village would remove the capsule and ensure the hole is closed and if there is a new capsule created, it will be placed at the Village Hall. Mr.
Hensch also expressed concerns about road conditions for the carriage path for the Sidney Shop at Home. Since the snowfall there is a significant amount of ice still on the roads.
Dustin stated he would plow again to remove as much as possible as well as salt the carriage path. Dustin added there is only about¾ of a pallet left of salt and would need to purchase more if there would be additional salting for the carriages. The Board agreed to allow for the extra salt laid out as well as a purchase of more salt.
Mr. McLane was also present to remind the community that he will have a Pearl Harbor display during the Shop at Home from 4-Bpm as well as Sunday, December 7th from 10-4pm.
Also noted during public comments was the white Jeep Grand Cherokee parked on railroad property South of the post office. Clerk Reinhart stated she would call the railroad to have it removed.
Approve Minutes:President Finn requested a motion to approve the minutes from the November 3, 2025, meeting. Trustee Bickers made a motion to approve the meeting minutes from the November 3, 2025, regular monthly meeting, Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion, Trustee Hooker abstained from the motion as she was not present last month, Trustees Schluter, Laurent and Harris, were all ayes. The motion then carried.

 
 
Public Hearing:President Finn stated the Public Hearing would be moved to January 5, 2026, meeting date as the attorney was not present and an Ordinance was still being prepared, but although they could not vote, the Board could still discuss the properties. President Finn then outlined each property, some Trustees had questions:
216 S. David: Fix it Woodshop; has been there a longtime and is well kept. Trustee Harris inquired if the space was lived in, President Finn confirmed it is.
212 S. David: Two nice apartments inside and is also well kept.
President Finn went on to state these two properties do deserve a Special Use permit granted to them. Then moved on to the third property requesting a Special Use of their property, 220 S. David.
220 S. David: President Finn expressed this property does need addressed as it has presented numerous issues. Trustee Schluter inquired if the Village can issue a Special Use permit 216 and 212, but not 220. President Finn confirmed a permit does not have to be issued to all three properties. Trustee Schluter also inquired with business owners in attendance, how they feel about those to the North and South of their property. They expressed parking is used when it should not, obnoxious smells, trash/debris, stolen electricity. There was also an inquiry into 214 S. David and if the Village was aware there was an apartment there as well. President Finn stated the Village was not aware living quarters had been added to the building, but the Village would send a letter requesting a permit be filled out.
Before comments were closed, Gooses and Gander owners stated they had been "dressing up" business fronts and if there is additional interest please reach out.
President Finn's Comments:Approve terms and service agreement for Champaign County Animal Control -A new terms and service agreement was presented last month and moved to the December meeting as the Board had additional questions regarding billing and if there was still an annual fee. Clerk Reinhart stated at the November meeting that there had not been an invoice from the County Animal Control in some time, but she would investigate it. Upon looking into the matter, Clerk Reinhart explained at the December meeting that there was no longer an annual fee, and it has been replaced with a la carte fee as services are

rendered. The contract presented is just the Village's acknowledgement they would like to continue to receive animal control services, if needed. Trustee Laurent then made a motion to approve the updated terms and service agreement for Champaign Animal Control; Trustee Harris seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Discuss/approve Orkin year in advance statement-The Village has a contract with Orkin for pest control services; the Board was presented with an option to pay in advance for the year in the amount of $1382.40, saving the Village $57 .60 for the year. Trustee Bickers made a motion to approve the year in advance payment in the amount of $1382.40, Trustee Harris seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
 
 
Attorney's Comments:Nothing to report.
Maintenance Comments:Nothing to report.
Finance:Trustee Hooker read the finance reports; there were no additional bills added. Trustee Bickers made a motion to approve the monthly bills; Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall vote.
Streets and Alleys: 
Nothing to report.
Water and Drainage: 
Trustee Harris reported the travel softball team he oversees, would like to donate turf for the batting cage.
Public Property:There were no permits issued. Nothing to report.
Parks and Recreation:Nothing to report.
Community Development:
Trustee Schluter reported the Sidney Shop at Home would take place this weekend; The Goose and The Gander added, they had started serving coffee on Saturday's and would have coffee available this Saturday as well.
New and Old Business:Paid leave and Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) -Agenda item moved to next month's meeting.
Adjourn: 
Trustee Schluter made a motion to adjourn the meeting; Trustee Laurent seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.

​The Village Board met on the above date for the regular monthly meeting. The meeting was called to order by President Finn at 7:00pm followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call of those present. Trustees present: Laurent, Schluter, and Bickers. Gadeken arrived at 7:10 p.m. Also present were Supervisor of Operations, Dustin Butts and Clerk Reinhart.
Attorney Marc Miller was not present.
Public Comments:Legion member Bill McLane presented a letter acknowledging the Village is at the end of its contract with the Legion. Mr. McLane states they do not intend to sell the building; many expenditures since taking possession such as a new roof and boiler. Mr. McLane also inquired if the Village would be putting the Christmas tree up again downtown; Trustee Laurent confirmed they would. He added he will have a Pearl Harbor setup again this year for December 7th and will have WClA 3 present; not this year, but next he would like to see the Sidney Shop at Home moved to a different weekend. Trustee Schluter stated the 1st weekend in December is when the Shop at Home has always taken place and Laurent added coordination with other area communities, having their own "Shop at Home" events that same weekend would make it too difficult to move the date to a different weekend.
Laurent added that moving the warming station to a different location would be easier than moving the date.
Approve Minutes:President Finn requested a motion to approve the minutes from the October 6, 2025, meeting. Trustee Schluter made a motion to approve the meeting minutes from the October 6, 2025, regular monthly meeting, Trustee Laurent seconded the motion, the motion carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
President Finn's Comments:Approve updates for terms of service for Champaign County Animal Control - President Finn inquired if the Village paid an annual fee still? Both Trustee Laurent and Schluter would like to know what the Village pays per year. Clerk Reinhart stated the Village use to have an annual fee, but they have not received an invoice in sometime. Clerk Reinhart will inquire what the fee is and if the Village is still responsible for an annual fee. The matter will be addressed at the December meeting.

Approve Ordinance #2025-0-05 "An Ordinance adopting an annual 3% pay increase for Village employees" - Trustee Schluter inquired why there was a need for an Ordinance when the Board has already approved the 3% cost of living for the Village employees. Clerk Reinhart explained that the bookkeeping office has requested something more than the minutes previously provided, so Attorney Marc Miller's office put together an Ordinance authorizing the 3% raise through May of 2031. Clerk Reinhart will also provide the minutes which discuss the 3% cost of living raise, to the bookkeeping office. Trustee Schluter then made a motion to approve Ordinance #2025-0-05, an ordinance adopting an annual 3% pay increase for Village employees, Trustee Bickers seconded the motion, the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall vote.
Approve 2025-2026 Tax Levy Ordinance #2025-0-06- The Board reviewed the Tax Levy Ordinance provided by Attorney Marc Miller's office. Trustee Laurent made a motion to approve the annual Tax Levy ordinance#2025-O-06, Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion, the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Golf Cart Discussion -Small golf cart discussion was had to discuss if rules for usage and permitting needs adopted. The Board believes there is not a way to police the issues the Village has, which are not often and if there are issues, Champaign County Police can be contacted to address the issues.
Discuss/approve Christmas Eve as a paid holiday with offices closed -President Finn believes Christmas Eve should be added as a paid holiday for the Village and the offices be closed that day; if there were to be an emergency, there will be individuals available.
Trustee Schluter noted there is a new Federal holiday the Village does not acknowledge, and Christmas Eve could be observed in its place. Trustee Bickers made a motion to add Christmas Eve as a paid holiday for Village employees, Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion, the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
Discuss variances for downtown properties -President Finn states the properties must be advertised in the paper 15 days prior to the Village holding a Public Hearing on the matter of approving variance requests received from property owners within the downtown portion of South David Street. Properties 212, 216, and 220 South David Street have all requested a variance to allow tenants to reside in commercially zoned properties. Trustee Schluter noted he was unaware there was someone residing at the 216 South David address. President Finn added the property is owned by the Masonic Lodge and will be granted a variance, but we need to post to the public. President Finn went on to explain the other addresses listed:

212 South David's owner, William Marshall, was told by the previous President he could create living quarters at the address; there are two units, with one already being occupied. Trustee Bickers inquired if this was the address Justin was living at, President Finn confirmed, adding he has never been a problem.
220 South David-President Finn read letters received from the owner of 220 South David Street which state there is an active business in the location and lists another resident as the shop owner. President Finn would like to know if anyone has seen hours posted or shopped at this store. There of course is no store, but President Finn states the property is set up for a business and shop quarters attached. Variances have been granted in the past to this property, but not to this property owner. If this owner would like to have a resident, there needs to be an active business. Additionally, the owner will need to have a variance approved and show there is an active business present at the property.
President Finn stated Clerk Reinhart will send letters to the property owners making the requests, advertise in the paper and approval of the variances will be moved to next month's meeting agenda.
President Finn closed his comments acknowledging the thank you note received from the Bickers family.
Attorney's Comments:Attorney not present, nothing to report.
Maintenance Comments:Supervisor of Operations, Dustin Butts reported Kevin Dodd had completed his annual drain maintenance; there were bad tiles found over 10 feet deep, he and Kevin will be addressing. Dustin also reports numerous letters have been sent to the owner and tenant of 102 S. David Street. requesting the tenant not park in certain areas of the parking lot to allow the Village maintenance to access the Village sign on the corner of Main and David Streets. The tenant believes the sign to be his sign and the Village to be renting it from him. The Board agrees this not to be true, and the sign is owned by the Village; the Village has the letters and has always maintained the sign. Trustee Gadeken added when Little Bear had a business there the Village had a lease agreement with him allowing him to use it for this business advertisements, but after his passing the letters were returned to the Village
and the Village has resumed using said sign.
President Finn added the bus stop has been repeatedly damaged by someone "kicking" out the panels. It is believed this is happening at night and is not a child and if it is a child, they are older than those that are at the bus stop. Trustee Laurent suggested additional

cameras could be added, but the parking lot lights will likely not allow an individual to be seen. Dustin stated he and Eric will be adding metal strapping to the outside to strengthen the walls, Trustee Laurent stated he would talk to Brian Curtis about the camera system and if additional cameras are an option as well.
Finance:Trustee Hooker was not present. President Finn read reports. There were no additional bills. Trustee Schluter made a motion to approve the monthly bills with no additions; Trustee Laurent seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall
vote.
 
 
Streets and Alleys:Nothing to report.
Water and Drainage:Trustee Harris was not present. Dustin reported on the White Street culvert stating the culvert just needs to be filled in as there will not be any change if it is dug out.
Public Property:Nothing to report. No permits were issued.
 
Parks and Recreation:Nothing to report.
Community Development:Trustee Schluter reported that the final limb pickup had been posted online. President Finn stated the sidewalk repairs looked good.
New and Old Business:Just prior to adjournment, Mr. McLane inquired if the Sidney Improvement Group would be the entity coordinating the opening of the time capsule this next Fourth of July. Trustee Laurent stated they likely would but was unsure at this time. He also added that he believes there to be individuals living next to the post office; there are always bicycles present. He also suggested the bicycle rack be moved from the west side of the road to the east to accommodate their bikes. President Finn stated this could not happen as the property located to the south of the post office is owned by the railroad not the Village and there is not enough space on the sidewalk.

​ 
Call to Order:
 
Pledge of Allegiance:
Roll Call:
 
Public Comments:
 

• Susan Monte -Champaign County Environmental Stewards donation for Hazardous Waste Collection Facility
• Cindy Shepherd - Communication from BayWa; solar community contribution Approve Minutes:
• October 6, 2025 President Finn's Comments:
• Approve updates terms of service for Champaign County Animal Control
• Approve Ordinance number 2025-0-05 "An ordinance adopting an annual 3% pay increase for Village employees"
• Approve 2025-2026 Tax Levy Ordinance number 2025-0-06
• Golf Cart discussion
• Discuss/Approve Christmas Eve as a paid holiday with offices closed
• Discuss variances for downtown properties Attorney's Comments:

Maintenance Comments: Finance:

• Approval of monthly bills Streets and Alleys:

Water and Drainage:
 

• White Street culvert

Public Property:
 

• Permits

 
Parks and Recreation: Community Development: New and Old Business: Adjourn:

​Call to Order:
 
Pledge of Allegiance:
Roll Call:
 
Public Comments:
 

• Cindy Shepherd- Communication from BayWa; solar community contribution Approve Minutes:
• September 2, 2025 President's Finn's Comments:
• Approve Ordinance number 2025-0-04 "An ordinance adopting building regulations, expedited removal of hazardous buildings, swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs, nuisances, weeds, garbage and debris, inoperable or unlicensed motor vehicles, parking and storage on private property, and penalties and special assessment codes for the Village of Sidney to be known as the Sidney Maintenance Code"
• 3% cost of living raise for employees
• Approve 2026 IML Risk Management Annual Premium Attorney's Comments:

Maintenance Comments:
Finance:
 

• Approval of monthly bills
• 2024 Audit approval Streets and Alleys:
• Approve bid for sidewalk repair Water and Drainage:
• White Street culvert
• Discuss Solicitor Ordinance (Ordinance No. 2023-0-6) Public Property:

• Permits

Parks and Recreation: Community Development: New and Old Business: Adjourn:

The Village Board met on the above date for the regular monthly meeting. The meeting was opened by President Finn at 7:00pm followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a rollcall of those present. Trustees present: Laurent, Harris, Schluter, Hooker and Gadeken. Trustee Bickers was not present. Also present were Supervisor of Operations Dustin Butts, Clerk Reinhart, Attorney Marc Miller and Assistant Gavin Gunter.
Public Comments:Cindy Shepherd was not present to discuss communication from BayWa Solar.
Resident and business owner Bret Franzen was present to inquire about the addition of or replacement of the business sign that was once located on Main Street. The Board seemed unsure why the sign was removed but noted most of the business that were on the sign no longer exist. The Board agrees a new sign should be erected or if the old one is still in good condition, it can be used. Dustin will investigate the condition of the sign and if the smaller signs are still present. Further discussion in the future will be had on what the cost will be to be on the sign or if there will be a cost associated with the sign.
Approve Minutes:President Finn requested a motion to approve the minutes from the September 2, 2025, meeting. Trustee Schluter made a motion to approve the meeting minutes from the September 2, 2025, regular monthly meeting, Trustee Laurent seconded the motion, the motion carried with all ayes on a roll call vote.
President Finn's Comments:Approve Ordinance number 2025-0-04 "An Ordinance adopting building regulations, expedited removal of hazardous buildings, swimming pools, spas,and hot tubs, nuisances, weeds, garbage and debris, inoperable or unlicensed motor vehicles, parking and storage on private property, and penalties and special assessment codes for the Village of Sidney to be known as the Sidney Village Maintenance Code" -Small discussion was had, few residents and business owners spoke out or had questions. Areas of the maintenance code that were discussed were Section 3-5-4: Recreational Vehicles and Section 3-5-6: Business Related Unsheltered Storage of Inoperable or Junked Vehicles.
Section 3-5-4 raised concerns because some individuals plug in their recreational vehicles prior to a trip or may have family stay in the vehicle while visiting a resident. Attorney Marc Miller suggested a possible permit for the number of days an individual may have their unit

plugged in. The Board believes this is more to address those that are living in their recreational vehicles and not those that are preparing for a trip or may have family stay short term for a holiday visit on their property. Against the advisement of the attorney, the Board would rather address case by case.
Section 3-5-6 raised concerns as there is a business owner that has several vehicles parked on property that do not move quick and are not stored within a structure. Attorney Marc Miller stated per the Ordinance the business owner has 30 days to work on the vehicles and move them from the property. The Board suggested photos be taken every 30 days to ensure the vehicles are actively being worked on and are moving from the property in a timely manner.
In closing his comments regarding the Ordinance, President Finn has requested that if in the future electricity is being stolen from the Village or a private citizen, he is to be informed immediately. Clerk Reinhart expanded on this by adding there was an individual downtown that had plugged in to a business next door; the business owner was present at the meeting to emphasize he had cut the cord and added a receptacle cover that would not allow this to happen again in the future. President Finn then requested a motion to approve Ordinance number 2025-0-04 as written. Trustee Laurent made the motion to approve Ordinance number 2025-0-04 as written; Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall vote.
3% cost of living raise for employees -Clerk Reinhart discussed the 3% cost of living raise that was approved in 2020 but has not been applied to any employee. She stated for the bookkeeping office to apply it, they would like, in writing, which employees should receive this 3% cost of living raise and when it should be applied. The bookkeeping office would like this sent to them at the beginning of each fiscal year. The Board and Village attorney, Marc Miller do not believe sending it each year is warranted, stating the minutes should be sufficient for the bookkeeping office to apply the raise to the Village employees each year, but for clerical purposes Marc's office will be putting together an Ordinance to be presented and passed at the November meeting that will reflect the 3% cost of living wage to be applied to each Village employee at the beginning of each fiscal year, through the year 2031, at the time the Ordinance will need to be updated or revised. Clerk Reinhart then inquired about the raises that had not been applied and if the Village was willing to "back pay" for the missed raises. The Board was not willing to go back to 2020, but they did agree to retroactively pay each Village employee, except for the new hire, Dustin Butts, effective May 1, 2025, to current. Trustee Harris made a motion to approve Marc Miller's office preparing a 3% cost of living raise to be presented at next month's meeting and for the Current Village employees, except for new hire Dustin Butts to be retroactively paid

from May 1, 2025, to current. Trustee Laurent seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall vote.
Approve 2026 IML Risk Management Annual Premium -After small discussion Trustee Harris made a motion to approve option number 1, the early pay 1o/o discount, in the amount of $21,791.41. Trustee Matt Laurent seconded the motion; the motion then carried on a roll call vote.
Attorney's Comments:Attorney Marc Miller introduced his new assistant, Gavin Gunter and stated he would provide the 2026 Tax Levy at the November meeting.
Maintenance Comments:Supervisor of Operations, Dusitn Butts reported Kevin Dodd will be coming later this month foryearly drainage clearing and cleaning. President Finn added that dumpster day went well, Dusitn did a great job.
Finance:Auditor Neil Kuester was present to present the 2024audit; there was nothing significant to report and he will send both the 2023 and 2024 digital copy tomorrow so they can be posted online. Trustee Laurent made a motion to approve the 2024 audit as presented; Trustee Harris seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall vote. Trustee Hooker added and additional motion to pay for the 2024 audit in the amount of $15,150.00 as well as the regular monthly bills; Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a rollcall vote.
Streets and Alleys:Bids were opened by Trustee Gadeken for sidewalk repair. All bids were for the same scope of work, tear out and restoration. The Village will be responsible for the seeding after work is complete.
Illinois Excavation Septic Concrete LLC -$13,504.00 Millikan Masonry-$11,875.52
Milton Concrete and Excavation -$15,469.60
Illini Concrete Raising-$7,900.00
 
Jacobs Concrete & Excavating- $6,500.00

Trustee Harris inquired why the bid for Milton had changed so dramatically in cost. Dustin clarified that the original bid that was turned in was not for the appropriate scope of work and needed adjusted; after adjusting the bid to meet the requirements of the Village, the bid increased significantly.
Trustee Gadeken added there are stumps present that were not removed, sparking tension, per the Village has paid for stump removal along with the trees that have been removed. Trustee Gadeken then clarified the stumps had been removed but the roots remain which have caused damage to the sidewalks. Trustee Gadeken then made a motion to accept Jacobs Concrete & Excavating bid in the amount of $6,500.00 for the sidewalk repairs. Trustee Harris seconded the motion; the motion carried with ayes from Trustees Harris, Gadeken, Schluter and Laurent. Trustee Hooker abstained. He closed his comments by stating he and Dustin would be working on the sidewalks and would like to follow up every three months to ensure the sidewalks are maintained going forward.
Water and Drainage:White Street culvert- Trustee Harris stated he has not had time to discuss this drain with Dustin but would like to investigate what the issue may be. He added he believes the tile belongs to the County but would like to further investigate. Trustee Harris requested the item be moved to next month's meeting.
Discuss Solicitor Ordinance (#2023-0-6) - The Board would like signs added to the entrances to Sidney addressing the requirement for solicitors to register at the Village office. Clerk Reinhart added if individuals are presenting themselves without ID from the Village, then they have not registered; the only thing the Village can do is alert them to the fact they are violating a Village Ordinance and the company they are with may be subject to penalties.
Public Property:Trustee Bickers was not present. Permits were read by Trustee Gadeken.
Permit #810 was issued for a house build at 205 Linda Lane in the amount of $150.00
Permit #811 was issued for a shed at 10 James Court in the amount of $50.00
Parks and Recreation:Trustee Laurent was present but had nothing to report. Trustee Harris stated the batting cage had arrived, but he does not plan on hanging until the Spring; it is currently being stored at his home but can move it to the Village shed if the Board would prefer.
Community Development:
Trustee Schluter reported dumpster day went well, apologized he was not present and noted Senator Chapin Rose would be at the Sidney Village Hall the following week on Wednesday October 8, 2025, for "Traveling Office Hours".
New and Old Business:President Finn inquired about abandoned alleys in the Village and the Boards thought on whether a resident can add a fence where the alley once was or if they still need to follow the property lines. The Board expressed the location was not going to present a problem if the resident were to add a fence; President Finn will follow up with the resident.
Trustee Hooker inquired if a resident would be able to sell cookies downtown or if there was a permit requirement. The Board advised there would be no permit required as the individual is not selling for profit, but rather for benefit/fundraising.
 
 
 
 
Adjourn:Trustee Schluter made a motion to adjourn the meeting; Trustee Gadeken seconded the motion; the motion then carried with all ayes on a roll call vote. The meeting was adjourned at 8:41pm.

​Call to Order:

Pledge of Allegiance:
Roll Call:

Public Comments:

• Susan Monte-Champaign County Environmental Stewards -Household Hazardous Waste Collection Facility Contribution
Approve Minutes:

• August 4, 2025-Regular Monthly Meeting
• August 18, 2025 -Special Meeting President Finn's Comments:
• Approve Ordinance number 2025-0-04 "An ordinance adopting building regulations, expedited removal of hazardous buildings, swimming pools, spas, and hot tubs, nuisances, weeds, garbage and debris, inoperable or unlicensed motor vehicles, parking and storage on private property, and penalties and special assessment codes for the Village of Sidney to be known as the Sidney Maintenance Code"
• 220 S. David Street
• Fall Dumpster Day
• Discuss/approve stump grinding at 101 N. Scarborough
• Approve removal of tree at 202 Alley Street
• Approve new tornado siren for Dunlap Woods Attorneys Comments:
Maintenance Comments: Finance:
• CD's Maturing
• Approval of Monthly Bills
 
• 2024Audit approval
• Hometown SIG Christmas Streets and Alleys:
• MFT closeout documents Water and Drainage:
Public Property:

• Permits
Parks and Recreation: Community Development: New and Old Business:
• 202 E. Main
• 313 E. Byron
• 412W.Main Adjourn: