[PAGE 1]
13965
MINUTES of a regular meeting of the Mayor and the Board of Trustees of the Village of
1
Skokie, Cook County, Illinois held in the Council Chambers at 5127 Oakton Street at 7:30 p.m. on
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
Pledge of Allegiance led by Village Clerk Minal Desai
Mayor Tennes asked if there were any objections to Trustee Iverson participating remotely. Having none,
she confirmed that Trustee Iverson would participate remotely.
Call meeting to order and roll call.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Tennes.
Roll Call: Trustees Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy, Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy and Mayor
Tennes
Mayor Tennes recognized the passing of two longtime community members, Frank Ippolito, a longtime
member of the Public Safety Commission, and Deborah Arnold, a dedicated member of the Human
Relations Commission. She expressed gratitude for their many years of service to the Village and
extended condolences to their families.
Approval of consent agenda.
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda.
Moved: Trustee Kimani Levy Seconded: Trustee Pure Slovin
Ayes: Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy, Robinson
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
*Approve, as submitted, minutes of regular meeting held Monday, February 2, 2026
Omnibus vote
* Approve Voucher List #19-FY26 of February 17, 2026 Omnibus vote
Proclamations and Resolutions
Recognition, Awards and Honorary Presentations
a. D219 Dance Marathon
Mayor Tennes introduced a presentation on the District 219 Dance Marathon by sponsor Dena
Lichterman, English teacher at Niles West High School.
Students Ayan Khan (Niles North), Adam (Niles North), Isabella Valencia (Niles West), and Orly
Eisenberg (Niles West) provided an overview of the student-led nonprofit, noting its 24-year history and
more than $1.2 million raised. They outlined committee structure, fundraising efforts, and community
partnerships, and announced that the 2025–2026 primary beneficiary is the Niles Township Food Pantry,
with 10% of proceeds supporting the Education Foundation.
Mayor Tennes thanked the students for their efforts in raising funds to support important nonprofits in the
community. She asked when the Dance Marathon would be held, and the students responded that it is
scheduled for May 23.
Trustee Robinson thanked the students for their presentation and encouraged community support of their
fundraising efforts.
Trustee Iverson thanked the students for their impact and leadership.
Appointments, Reappointments and Resignations
a. *Resignation
Commission on Family Services: Marjorie Goran
Public Comment (3 minutes per person, maximum of 30 minutes)
Mayor Tennes explained that the public comment periods are for addressing the Village Board regarding
items not on the agenda for action. Each speaker is allotted three minutes, and the
Board will listen but likely not respond. She noted that normally they allow up to 5 speakers for agenda
items, but for the 4600 Main Street project, they would extend to 10 speakers - 5 in support and 5
opposed. During a 5-7 minute break, Deputy Village Clerk Luke and Clerk Desai would manage sign-up
sheets for speakers.
Lauren Grodnicki spoke about energy and sustainability.
Mayor Tennes called a recess for 5-7 minutes for speakers to sign up. The meeting resumed at 7:58 p.m.
638146

[PAGE 2]
13966
Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees
2
Monday, February 17, 2026 Page Two
Report of the Village Manager
a. Recommendation to Provide for a Rebate Program for Lead Service Line
Village Manager Lockerby presented a recommendation to establish a rebate program for lead service line
replacements. He noted that the Village’s 2022 program capped private costs at $3,090, with a financing
option.
Staff recommended a rebate program for approximately 230 homeowners who independently replaced
their service lines since 2022. Eligible homeowners would receive either a $750 cash rebate or a $1,250
utility bill credit for qualifying replacements completed from January 2022 to the present.
Recommendation to Provide for a Rebate Program for Lead Service Line Replacements.
Motion to concur with staff’s recommendation and request Board approval of the rebate program for lead
service line replacements.
Moved: Trustee Robinson Seconded: Trustee Lissa Levy
Ayes: Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy, Robinson
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
Trustee Schechter asked how the rebate amounts were determined. Finance Director Prendi explained that
the $750 cash rebate reflects immediate impact to the water fund, while the $1,250 utility bill credit is
recognized over time.
Trustee Robinson asked about the application process and language access. Director Prendi stated the
Village would notify approximately 230 eligible households by mail and provide an online and in-person
application process with required documentation. Village Manager Lockerby noted website information
can be translated.
Mayor Tennes summarized the three ways the village is addressing the unfunded mandate: households
along construction corridors can opt in with costs capped at $3,090; those not along construction routes
can apply for service with the same cap; and tonight's proposal provides some equity to those who already
completed work independently.
b.* Resolution 26-2-R-1614
Execution of Intergovernmental Agreement for Technical Assistance with Chicago Metropolitan Agency
for Planning.
Motion to approve the execution of an Intergovernmental agreement for technical assistance with Chicago
Metropolitan Agency for Planning.
Omnibus vote.
c.*Phase I Engineering Services – Gross Point Road Resurfacing – Baxter Woodman,
Crystal Lake, Illinois - $388,000.
Motion to approve Phase I engineering services -Gross Point Road Resurfacing with Baxter Woodman,
Crystal Lake, Illinois in the amount of $388,000.
Omnibus vote.
d.*Phase I Engineering Services – Howard Street Resurfacing – Kimley-Horn and
Associates, Chicago, Illinois - $337,790.
Motion to approve Phase I engineering services for Howard Street resurfacing with Kimley-Horn and
Associates, Chicago, Illinois in the amount of $337,790.
Omnibus vote.
e.*Purchase of One Water Division Dump Truck – Transchicago Truck Group, Elmhurst,
Illinois - $129,631 and Koenig Body and Equipment, Inc., Peoria, Illinois - $61,786.
Motion to approve the purchase of one water division dump truck with Transchicago Truck Group,
Elmhurst, Illinois in the amount of $129,631 and Koenig Body and Equipment, Inc., Peoria, Illinois in the
amount of $61,786.
Omnibus vote.
f.*Request to Sell Surplus Vehicles and Equipment.
Motion to sell surplus vehicles and equipment.
Omnibus vote.
Report of the Corporation Counsel
Corporation Counsel Elrod reported that item e. was an ordinance making minor amendments to
administrative sections of the Village Code, specifically to allow for an outside law firm to serve as
corporation counsel in tandem with in-house lawyers. The in-house lawyers would report to both the
corporation counsel and village manager.
a. *Ordinance 26-2-C-4776
Motion to amend an Ordinance amending Chapter 10 of the Skokie Village Code pertaining to the retail
sale of alcoholic liquor. Item A is on the consent agenda for second reading and adoption. The first
reading was on February 2, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
638146

[PAGE 3]
13967
Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees
3
Monday, February 17, 2026 Page Three
b.*Ordinance 26-2-Z-4777
Motion to approve an Ordinance granting a special use permit to establish and operate an
automotive repair facility at 8255 Christiana Avenue, Skokie, Illinois in an M2 Light Industry
district. Item B is on the consent agenda for second reading and adoption. The first reading was
on February 2, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
c.*Ordinance 26-2-Z-4778
Motion to approve an Ordinance granting a special use permit to establish and operate an
automotive repair facility at 7240 St. Louis Avenue, Skokie, Illinois, in an M3 Industry district,
and relief from §118-218(b)(4)(c) of the Skokie Village Code. Item C is on the consent agenda
for second reading and adoption. The first reading was on February 2, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
d.*Ordinance 26-2-Z-4779
Motion to approve an Ordinance approving a plat of subdivision located at 5600 Old Orchard
Road, Skokie, Illinois, in an OR Office Research district. Item D is on the consent agenda for
second reading and adoption. The first reading was on February 2, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
e. An Ordinance amending the governance provisions of the Village Code concerning the
office of Corporation Counsel and the office of Village Manager. Item E is on the agenda for
first reading. The second reading will be on March 2, 2026.
Unfinished Business
New Business
a. Resolution 26-2-R-1615
Motion to approve a Resolution Approving a Modification to the Engagement Letter for
Corporation Counsel Steven M. Elrod of the Law Firm Elrod Friedman LLP.
Moved: Trustee Lissa Levy Seconded: Trustee Pure Slovin
Ayes: Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy, Robinson
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Tennes explained that on December 15th, the board had unanimously adopted a
resolution appointing Steven Elrod of Elrod Friedman LLP as Corporation Counsel in a hybrid
system with existing in house Counsel. The board had continued working on an arrangement
where a majority of work would be covered under a monthly retainer. A revised engagement
letter dated February 10, 2025, with a monthly retainer agreement was now before them.
Mayor Tennes reminded everyone that the Corporation Counsel's office would come in under
budget for fiscal year 2026 and the budget would be flat for fiscal year 2027, barring unforeseen
litigation.
Establishment of a Skokie Youth Commission.
Mayor Tennes introduced the proposed Skokie Youth Commission, emphasizing the importance
of youth engagement in local government.
Alex Franz, Assistant to the Village Manager presented the proposal, noting that staff began
exploring the concept in August 2025 and reviewed models from comparable Illinois
communities. He outlined the commission’s purpose to elevate youth voices and foster civic
engagement.
Assistant to the Village Manager Franz explained the commission would include 16 Skokie high
school students, appointed by the Mayor with Board consent, serving one-year terms aligned
with the school year and meeting bimonthly, with Annemarie Benuzzi as staff liaison. He also
summarized recruitment efforts and anticipated first-year activities, including orientation to
Village government, participation in community events, and preparation of an annual report.
Trustee Kimani Levy expressed support and asked about ensuring diversity. Assistant to the
Village Manager Franz explained the proposed 16-member commission would include
representatives from local public and private high schools, plus at-large members, with broad
recruitment efforts across student groups.
Mayor Tennes noted she would share the initiative with her faith leaders council. Trustee Pure
Slovin called it an exciting initiative and asked about the selection process; Mr. Franz stated
appointments would follow the standard mayoral appointment process, with additional applicants
kept engaged for future opportunities.
638146

[PAGE 4]
13968
Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees
4
Monday, February 17, 2026 Page Four
Trustee Lissa Levy asked about background checks; Mayor Tennes clarified the commission
would consist of youth members with staff liaison Annemarie Benuzzi and suggested interviews
could be conducted via Zoom.
Trustee Robinson voiced strong support, highlighting the value of civic engagement. Mayor
Tennes and Trustee Iverson emphasized encouraging participants to share their experiences with
peers.
Tom Whitaker suggested participation qualify for National Honor Society service credit. Mayor
Tennes indicated the Village would explore the idea with the schools.
The ordinance will return for second reading on March 2, 2026.
Plan Commission
a. Plan Commission Case 2025-12P – Planned Development Site Plan Approval for
4600 Main Street.
Planning Manager Kate Portillo presented a request on behalf of Arie Crown Day School and
Fulton Street Companies for planned development approval at 4600 Main Street.
Planning Manager Kate Portillo presented a request for planned development site plan approval
for 68 townhomes on a 3.92-acre R4-zoned site. The Plan Commission recommended approval
(8-0, 1 absent). The project meets density requirements and includes four underground
stormwater systems.
Public benefits include two publicly accessible park areas, two public EV chargers, and
permeable pavers. One relief request was presented to reduce the northern drive aisle width from
24 feet to 20 feet. The developer proposed a $450,000 cash payment in lieu of on-site affordable
housing units. Proposed building height is 32 feet plus a 3-foot parapet (exempt).
Katie Jahnke Dale, DLA Piper, representing the developer, stated the site plan is unchanged from
2023 approval, with updated elevations featuring over 50% masonry materials and compliance
with open space and surface requirements.
Ross Babel, Fulton Street Companies, introduced the development team and stated they had
engaged with neighbors over the past six months. He described outreach efforts following
community meetings and email exchanges.
Fire Chief Eschner confirmed the project meets international fire code requirements and that
emergency vehicles, including the ladder truck, can access the site.
Trustee Schechter read a statement opposing the proposal, citing lack of park space, limited
community benefits, and absence of on-site affordable housing, and requested the developer
return with a redesigned plan.
Representatives from Fitzgerald Architects outlined proposed sustainability measures. The
developer stated financial constraints prevent inclusion of on-site affordable units and that added
density would be required to offset costs.
Corporation Counsel Elrod advised that requiring on-site affordable units would require
returning to the Plan Commission due to notice requirements.
Trustee Pure Slovin in support of the development, citing economic investment, property tax
benefits, fee-in-lieu contribution, aesthetic improvements, and reduced traffic compared to the
former school use.
Trustee Iverson acknowledged community concerns and financial constraints, noting the long-
term balancing of interests.
Trustee Robinson confirmed fire safety compliance and received the developer’s commitment to
pursue local contractor participation.
Ten public speakers addressed the board (five supporting, five opposing):
Tom Whittaker spoke agaist the planned development.
Brian Levinson spoke in favor of the planned development.
Ken Marley spoke against the planned development.
Tali Gevaryahu spoke in favor of the planned development.
Lauren Grodnicki spoke against the planned development.
Mark Hartman spoke in favor of the planned development.
Dr. Sarah Franks spoke against the planned development.
Daniel Garden spoke in favor of the planned development.
Valyn Franks spoke against the planned development.
Mindi Zissman spoke in favor of the planned development.
Mayor Tennes announced that public comment was closed, noting the period had been extended
from five to ten speakers and all registered speakers were heard.
638146

[PAGE 5]
13969
Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees
5
Monday, February 17, 2026 Page Five
Mayor Tennes advised David Dalka public comment had now closed.
Mayor Tennes stated that if the project is approved, a draft ordinance will return to the Board.
Mayor Tennes asked Corporation Counsel Elrod to address financing protections and additional
standard provisions to be included in future land use ordinances.
Corporation Counsel Elrod stated that, should the Board move forward, the forthcoming
development ordinance will include comprehensive protections for the Village. He noted the
ordinance will require proof of financial viability, including loan commitments and
documentation, prior to issuance of building permits and again before vertical construction.
Corporation Counsel Elrod also stated the ordinance will include detailed construction
management requirements, including on-site supervision, posted contact information, designated
truck routes and parking, fencing, and additional best-practice provisions to protect the Village
and neighboring properties.
A motion to concur with the plan commission 2025-12P – Site Plan Approval: 4600 Main Street
Moved: Trustee Robinson Seconded: Trustee Pure Slovin
Trustee Schechter moved to amend the proposal to remove the waiver permitting a fee-in-lieu
payment and instead require the inclusion of four on-site affordable housing units.
Moved: Trustee Schechter Seconded: Trustee Lissa Levy
Ayes: Lissa Levy, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: Iverson, Pure Slovin, Robinson, Mayor Tennes
MOTION FAILS
A motion to concur with the plan commission 2025-12P – Site Plan Approval: 4600 Main Street
Ayes: Iverson, Pure Slovin, Kimani Levy, Robinson
Absent: None
Nays: Lissa Levy, Schechter
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Tennes acknowledged the difficulty of the discussion and thanked attendees for
maintaining decorum. She stated the Village would work with the developer to minimize
construction impacts and expressed confidence the developer would be a good neighbor. She
also noted the Board will review the inclusionary housing ordinance at a future committee
meeting.
Presentations and Reports
a. Downtown Hotel Status by Rodney Lewis, Attorney for Polsinelli.
Rodney Lewis provided an update on the stalled Oakton Street hotel project. He reported
productive meetings with lienholders and contractors, with commitments to reduce or release
claims to facilitate resolution. Seven hotel developers have expressed interest. Staff anticipates
preparing a development package within approximately three months.
Village Manager Lockerby and Rodney Tonelli confirmed the structure remains salvageable
following recent structural analysis. Manager Lockerby also clarified that $4.5 million in
previously approved TIF funding remains allocated to the project, with no funds spent.
Mayor Tennes noted that Corporation Counsel Elrod has been involved in the discussions.
Submission of Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report (CAPER) for
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Year 2024 for Public Comment.
Justin Malone, Neighborhood and Housing Coordinator, explained this was an additional public
comment period for the same CAPER report presented in December, as requested by HUD
especially given potential federal shutdowns. No members of the public offered comments.
Public Comment (3 minutes per person, maximum of 30 minutes)
David Dalka referencing Reverend Jesse Jackson and asked Village leadership to focus on
fairness and equality. Spoke about public safety concerns and community standards.
Emi Yamauchi commented on the hotel update, asked for careful review of developer finances,
and concerned about neighborhood impacts from the earlier development decision.
638146

[PAGE 6]
13970
Meeting of the Mayor and Board of Trustees
6
Monday, February 17, 2026 Page Six
Public Comments by email
The undersigned neighbors of 4600 Main St.
Ellen Weber-PC Case 2025-12-4600 Main Street/Fulton Street Market
Dr. Sarah Franks, DNP, BSN, RN, CIC and Stephen V. Rebarchak-The 4600 Main Street
Property
Glenn McElfresh-Protecting Public Health and Small Business: Request for a Hemp Beverage
Carve-Out Skokie
Julie Naumiak-STR Pilot Program
Irina Kudinok-STR Proposal
Sarah Fertig Trauben-Skokie Must Name T his For What It IS: A Hate Crime on Oct. 7th’
Lisa Gotkin-Please vote yes for Sketchbook to expand license
Joe Nowik-Skokie Youth Commission
Tom & Veronica Whitaker-4600 Main St.
Susan Phillips and Henry Lotsof-Public Comment for the 2/17/26 Village Board Meeting re:
4600 Main St.
Howard Sproull-GLOBAL WARMING IS REAL!!
Arthur Linsner and Carolyn Kuechler-4600 Main Street
Rena Thompson-Development of former Arie Crown Site
Matt Temkin-Public Comments-2/17/26, 4600 Main
John and Daniela Larionesi-Concern about police patrolling Skokie
Kimberly Polka-4600 Main Street: Fee in Lieu
Jinsky Jean Pois-Skokie Ethics Commission (February 11,2026)
Ken Marley and the neighbors of 4600 Main St. 4600 Main St: Community Opposition Letter
Adjournment 10:17 p.m.
Moved: Trustee Pure Slovin Seconded: Trustee Kimani Levy
Ayes: Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy, Robinson
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
Approved:
______________________
Village Clerk Minal Desai
Approved:
__________________
Mayor Ann Tennes
Items marked with an asterisk (*) indicate they are part of the Consent Agenda that contains routine items or items which have already been discussed by the
Mayor and Board at a previous public meeting and require a second reading. Items on the Consent Agenda are passed in one vote at the beginning of the Board
Meeting. Prior to the vote on the Consent Agenda, the Mayor will inquire if there is any matter which anyone wishes to remove from the Consent Agenda. If there
is an item on the Consent Agenda which you wish to address, please inform the Mayor at that time you wish to remove it from the Consent Agenda.
638146