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MINUTES of a regular meeting of the Mayor and the Board of Trustees of the Village of
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Skokie, Cook County, Illinois held in the Council Chambers at 5127 Oakton Street at 7:30 p.m. on
Monday, February 2, 2026
Pledge of Allegiance led by Village Clerk Minal Desai
Mayor Tennes asked if there were any objections to Trustee Pure Slovin participating remotely due to
illness. Hearing none, she confirmed that Trustee Pure Slovin 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
Approval of consent agenda.
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda.
Moved: Trustee Lissa Levy Seconded: Trustee Robinson
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
Mayor Tennes welcomed new commissioners, including Tom Giller to the Commission on
Family Services and Ryan Tappel to the Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission and
were welcomed in absentia.
The Mayor also provided an overview of the Village’s appointment process, noting that
applications are continuously accepted and reviewed, with interviews conducted by the Mayor
and a trustee to align appointments with applicants’ skills and interests.
Mayor Tennes thanked members of the Commission on Family Services who were reappointed
that evening for their continued service.
*Approve, as submitted, minutes of regular meeting held Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Omnibus vote
* Approve Voucher List #18-FY26 of February 2, 2026
Omnibus vote
Proclamations and Resolutions
a. Black History Month – February 2026
b. National Mail Carrier Day and Shoshana Dorman Day – February 4, 2026
Mayor Tennes introduced the Black History Month proclamation, noting that Trustee Robinson would
provide comments before Trustee Kimani Levy read the proclamation.
Trustee Robinson noted the start of Black History Month and acknowledged his role as the first
Black elected trustee in village history, honoring Black leaders whose service has strengthened
the community. He recognized Trustee Kimani Levy as Skokie’s first Black woman village
trustee and expressed his honor in serving with her. Trustee Robinson also highlighted the
presence of Black leadership throughout Skokie and across all levels of public service.
Trustee Kimani Levy read the proclamation celebrating the achievements and contributions
made by African Americans to the village of Skokie's cultural, economic, political, and social
development.
National Mail Carrier Day and Shoshana Dorman Day – February 4, 2026
Mayor Tennes introduced the next proclamation recognizing February 4th as both National Mail
Carrier Day and Shoshana Dorman Day
Trustee Schechter read the proclamation recognizing postal carriers. Shoshana Dorman thanked
those in attendance for their support of her and her community work.
Recognition, Awards and Honorary Presentations
Appointments, Reappointments and Resignations
a. *Appointments
Commission on Family Services: Tom Giller
Sustainable Environmental Advisory Commission: Ryan Tappel
Technology Advancement and Transformation Commission: David Coyne as Vice Chair
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Monday, February 2, 2026 Page Two
b. *Reappointments
Commission on Family Services: Sandra deBettencourt, Michelle Friedman, Marjorie Goran,
Jo Hammerman, Rondell Merrill, Peggy Molina, Beth Negronida, Melissa Ponce, Erin Ryan,
Nancy Schwartz, Annie Shear, Phillip Shefren, Daniel Stalilonis, London Summerville,
Nancy Young, Shajan Jose as Vice Chair and Harold Primack as Chair
The board took a 5 minute at recess 7:50 p.m. and resumed at 7:55 p.m.
Public Comment (3 minutes per person, maximum of 30 minutes)
Jordan Campagna from the 5000 block of Elm Street, asked the board to place the Elm Street permit
parking issue on a future agenda for board review. Asked staff to review and clarify survey response
procedures. He submitted an Elm Street Permit Parking Review for Public record to the Board.
Elle Schwerin spoke about confusion over the permit parking process, encouraging clarity and
transparency in vote outcomes.
Imran Shah spoke about limits on public visual displays and ethics issues to be reviewed by independent
outside counsel.
Presentations and Reports
c. Strategic Plan Update by President/CEO of CP2 Consulting, Cory Poris Plasch
Cory Poris Plasch provided an update on the strategic planning process and progress since the last
meeting including finalizing targets, identifying implementation teams, conducting staff and public
engagement, and drafting vision and mission statements. She explained target criteria, implementation
team roles, and reported on feedback efforts. Also outlined next steps, including finalizing targets and
initiatives, developing project plans, and establishing a reporting structure to keep the plan active.
Trustee Kimani Levy asked about staff workload and the Spirit Committee. Cory Plasch said the work is
a leadership opportunity and the committee’s role is still unclear.
Trustee Schechter asked how the plan would stay active. Cory Plasch recommended quarterly reporting
and implementation planning.
Mayor Tennes asked about public dashboards. Cory Plasch mentioned Envisio software and staff are
exploring options.
Report of the Village Manager
a. Recommendation for Adoption of Ordinance for Short Term Rentals (STR).
Ordinance 26-2-C-4775
Village Manager Lockerby explained it would be an 18-month pilot program as a stand-alone
ordinance not being codified, with any extension requiring Board approval. The Village would
monitor closely with updates at 6 and 12-month intervals.
Community Development Director Johanna Nyden outlined implementation details: STRs must register
under the new ordinance; eligibility limited to owner-occupied and pre-registered investor-owned units;
limits include one unit per block face and no accessory structures; registration requirements, enforcement
measures, and deadlines (April 1 for registration) were explained; rationale for the 5-night minimum stay
and 18-booking cap was presented.
Mayor Tennes clarified notice requirements, hearing and appeal processes, and eligibility rules for
investor-owned and owner-occupied units.
Trustee Robinson suggested involving the Housing Subcommittee for oversight and community input.
Trustee Lissa Levy asked about registration fee refunds (none) and fund allocation (general fund).
Trustee Iverson spoke about data limitations on STR usage and raised concerns about allowing business
activity in residential zones; Corporation Counsel confirmed home-based businesses must remain
subordinate to residential use.
Trustee Kimani Levy asked about the 5-night minimum. Director Nyden explained it was based on
community feedback and vendor research.
Trustee Schechter expressed concerns about STR concentration in lower-cost areas, the 300-day rental
loophole, and lack of disability accommodations.
Trustee Pure Slovin supported licensing and regulation but opposed the 18-booking limit.
Trustee Lissa Levy suggested increasing the 18-booking limit. Mayor Tennes defended the limit as
neighbor protection but left open for future review.
Trustee Pure Slovin suggested passing the ordinance to begin the process but holding a special
meeting for further review.
Mayor Tennes proposed approving it, gathering data through the registration process including
surveys, then holding a special meeting in June or July after avoiding busy April budget
hearings.
Dean Rauchwerger opposed STRs, noted other municipalities’ bans and proposed amendments:
neighborhood approval, 2 guests per bedroom, and limit to commercial districts.
Imran Shah opposed STRs due to housing availability, costs, safety, and enforcement burdens.
Shelly Patt emphasized STRs are not housing, raised affordability concerns.
David Dalka recommended property inspections before approval.
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Corporation Counsel Elrod clarified the amendments needed: changing "120 days" to "April 1,
2026" in sections 4C and 6E, changing "failure of a licensee" to "failure of any person" in section
10A1, and expanding notice to the entire block or 250 feet, whichever is greater.
Mayor Tennes noted the board will discuss this further in a committee of the whole in June.
Motion to concur with staff’s recommendation as amended and request Board approval to adopt the
Ordinance for Short Term Rentals.
Moved: Trustee Lissa Levy Seconded: Trustee Pure Slovin
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: Schechter
MOTION CARRIED
a. *Purchase of Directional Boring Machine – TT
Technologies, Aurora, Illinois – $190,212.
Motion to approve the purchase of Directional Boring Machine form TT Technologies, Aurora, Illinois in
the amount of $190,212.
Omnibus vote.
b. *Purchase of One (1) Water Division Service
Motion to approve the purchase of one Water Division Service Truck in the amount of $80,460.29.
Omnibus vote.
$80,460.29.
c. *Purchase of One (1) Mini Hydraulic
Excavator– Altorfer CAT, East Dundee, Illinois - $77,355.
Motion to approve a contract to Altorfer CAT, East Dundee, Illinois in the amount of $77,355 to purchase
one Mini Hydraulic Excavator.
Omnibus vote.
Report of the Corporation Counsel
Recommendation made by Corporation Counsel Steve Elrod that the Village Board adjourn to a closed
session at the end of this meeting to discuss personnel matters pursuant to section 2(c)(1) of the Illinois
Open Meetings Act.
a. *Ordinance 26-2-T-4771
An Ordinance providing for the installation and establishment of two-way stop sign and four-way stop
sign controls at multiple intersections. Item A is on the consent agenda for second reading and adoption.
The first reading was on January 5, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
b. *Ordinance 26-2-Z-4772
Motion to adopt an Ordinance granting a special use permit to allow religious assembly at 5050 Church
Street, Skokie, Illinois in a B2 Commercial district. Item B is on the consent agenda for second reading
and adoption. The first reading was on January 20, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
c. *Ordinance 26-2 Z-4773
Motion to adopt an Ordinance granting site plan approval to establish and operate a religious assembly
use on a one acre or greater site at 5050 Church Street, Skokie, Illinois, in a B2 Commercial district. Item
C is on the consent agenda for second reading and adoption. The first reading was on January 20, 2026.
d. *Ordinance 26-2-Z-4774
Motion to adopt an Ordinance granting a special use permit to allow a limited retail use at 7550 Linder
Avenue, Skokie, Illinois in an M1 Office Assembly district, and relief from Chapter 118, Section 118-
171(1)e of the Skokie Village Code. Item D is on the consent agenda for second reading and adoption.
The first reading was on January 20, 2026.
Omnibus vote.
e. Request for a Closed Session in accordance with paragraph 2(c)(1) of the Illinois Open Meetings Act
pertaining to the review and discussion of personnel matters.
Moved: Trustee Lissa Levy Seconded: Trustee Robinson
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
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Monday, February 2, 2026 Page Four
Unfinished Business
New Business
Trustee Pure Slovin read remarks connecting International Holocaust Remembrance Day and Black
History Month, highlighting shared lessons of historical injustice, resilience, and the importance of
remembrance in confronting racism, antisemitism, and prejudice.
a. Class G Liquor License Code Amendment Recommendation
Mayor Tennes, as Liquor Commissioner, explained that the village's two Class G liquor license holders
(Sketchbook Brewing and Take Flight Spirits) were currently restricted to serving only what they
manufacture. This was inconsistent with state code which would allow Sketchbook to also serve wine and
spirits, and Take Flight to serve wine and beer.
After receiving a request from Sketchbook's ownership and confirming Take Flight's interest, the
Mayor asked for Board approval to amend Chapter 10 of the Skokie Liquor Code to align with
state provisions. This would be a first reading with second reading scheduled for February 17,
2026.
Trustee Robinson asked if this was limited to just these two businesses. Mayor Tennes and
Corporation Counsel confirmed the ordinance would be generic, enabling any qualified business
to apply for the amended Class G license, with the Mayor as Liquor Commissioner having
authority to issue licenses.
Motion to approve of a Class G liquor license and to amend Chapters 10 and 46 of the Skokie Village
Code.
Moved: Trustee Lissa Levy Seconded: Trustee Robinson
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
Plan Commission
A. Plan Commission Case 2025-22P – Special Use Permit: 8255 Christiana Avenue.
Motion to concur with the Plan Commission to approve the request from Jafar Sangbrash for Special Use
Permit for an automotive repair facility in the M2 light industrial zoning district subject to all conditions.
Mr. Sangtrash works with local school districts to develop after-school programs for high school
students to learn basic vehicle maintenance and explore automotive repair careers. He clarified
during discussion that he currently has 2 students from mechanical classes working with him,
requiring them to attend Oakton College concurrently. He currently has students in Evanston and
intentions to reach out to Skokie districts.
Mayor Tennes commended the vocational training component.
Trustee Robinson excited about connecting career pathways for students, noting many high
schools seek connections with professionals for on-the-job experience.
Trustee Schechter asked about the relocation reason; Mr. Sangtrash explained they had outgrown
their Evanston location.
Motion to concur with the plan commission 2025-22P – Special Use Permit: 8255 Christiana Avenue
subject to all conditions
Moved: Trustee Lissa Levy Seconded: Trustee Robinson
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
B. Plan Commission Case 2025-23P – Special Use Permit: 7240 St. Louis Avenue.
Motion to concur with the Plan Commission to approve the request from Eduardo Romero for a special
use permit for an automotive repair facility in the M3 industrial zoning district be approved subject to all
conditions.
Moved: Trustee Robinson Seconded: Trustee Iverson
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
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C. Plan Commission Case 2025-26P – Subdivision: 5600 Old Orchard Road.
Trustee Robinson in support of the project and hoped other municipal buildings would follow
suit. Mayor Tennes applauded Cook County partners for the initiative.
David Dalka requested that authorization be withheld until concerns about homeless under the
expressway are addressed.
Motion to concur with staff’s recommendation to grant the subdivision at 5600 Old Orchard Road subject
to all conditions.
Moved: Trustee Robinson Seconded: Trustee Kimani Levy
Ayes: Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter, Kimani Levy
Absent: None
Nays: None
MOTION CARRIED
Public Comment (3 minutes per person, maximum of 30 minutes)
David Dalka spoke AT&T Fiber infrastructure, trespassing by Metropolitan Family Services
despite prior police reports. He requested enforcement action related to the trespassing and stated
potential demands for leadership changes if the matter was not resolved. Also referenced Illinois
code regarding removal of the Village Manager and called for Board consideration of the issue.
He passed out a memo to the Board.
Don Marchman spoke about communication issues for residents in the southwest corner of
Skokie on Ionia, not receiving village notices, lack of notification regarding tree trimming on his
street and requested restoration to village mailing and notification lists.
Mayor Tennes asked Mr. Marchman to provide contact information for follow-up by Village
Manager Lockerby.
Village Manager Lockerby addressed comments regarding a homeless individual near Golf Road
and the Edens Expressway, noting extensive village, health and human services team, co-
responding team and IDOT involvement, repeated service offers, and the need to balance
assistance with individual choice and constitutional rights.
Citizens comments by email.
Howard Sproull-Global warming caused by CO2 is fictional trash talk, STR mystery sausage.
Bob Kusel-Letter for the record regarding proposed ordinance on Short Term Housing-Feb. 1 email.
Emi Yamauchi-Comment on Short-Term Rental Ordinance
Mr. Jinsky Jean Pois-Alex Pretti Shooting
David Dalka-Fiber internet at 9330 Lorel
Elisabeth Elliott and Dirk Morr-6751 Ionia Ave.-pattern of missed services for the half block of N. Ionia
Ave.
Dimitri & Niki Syllantavos-snowplow issue that caused a damage to our car & missed recycled garbage
pickup.
Dean Rauchwerger-STR/Transient housing issue-Fwd: further input-opposing Airbnb rentals in Skokie-
unnecessary & detracting from the Skokie Residential Community.
Adjournment
Motion to move to go into Closed Session at 9:54 p.m. and adjourn the main meeting immediately upon
the adjournment of closed session.
Motion to adjourn: 9:54 p.m.
Moved: Trustee Kimani Levy Seconded: Lissa Levy
Ayes: Kimani Levy, Robinson, Iverson, Lissa Levy, Pure Slovin, Schechter
Nays: None
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
Closed Session
The Closed Session started at 9:58 p.m.
Present were Mayor Tennes, Clerk Desai, Trustees Iverson, Kimani Levy, Lissa Levy, Robinson,
Schechter and Pure Slovin. Also present were Manager Lockerby, Assistant Manager Wyatt and
Corporation Counsel Elrod.
The meeting ended at 10:33 p.m.
Approved:
______________________
Village Clerk Minal Desai
Approved:
__________________
Mayor Ann Tennes
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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.
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