We Need Your Stories!

Mon – Thur: 9AM to 9PM | Fri – Sat: 9AM to 5PM | Sun: 1PM to 5PM
4613 N Oketo Ave, Harwood Heights, IL 60706 | 708-867-7828
Mon – Thur: 9AM to 9PM
Fri – Sat: 9AM to 5PM
Sun: 1PM to 5PM
4613 N Oketo Ave
Harwood Heights, IL 60706
708-867-7828

4613 N Oketo Ave, Harwood Heights, IL 60706 708-867-7828

Mon – Thur: 9AM to 9PM | Fri – Sat: 9AM to 5PM | Sun: 1PM to 5PM

My Account

Menu

December 18, 2025 Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes

by | December 18, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the Eisenhower Public Library District Board of Trustees December 18, 2025.

CALL TO ORDER

President Magnelli called the meeting to order at 7:41 P.M.

ROLL CALL

Present: Magnelli, Magnuson, Ringelstein, Ross, Parent, Krebs.
Absent:
Also Present: Wittmann, Bacarella, Blubaugh, V. Bitters, Clark, Furfori, Lewis, McPhillips, Sciaccotta, Stam, Tomzik, J. Pathmann, M. Chrabasz, M. Moran-Fath.

RECOGNITION OF VISITORS

Mary Jo Chrabasz and Michelle Moran-Fath were recognized.
Justin Pathmann with Rethink Owner Solutions was recognized.

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no comments from the public.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, THAT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING HELD NOVEMBER 20, 2025 BE APPROVED. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Director Wittmann reported that property tax income has not yet begun to be received. She noted that expenditures are at or under budget in the majority of categories and that overall spending is on track. She stated that the Library’s financial position looks strong overall.

APPROVAL OF CURRENT BILLS  

Trustee Krebs moved, seconded by Trustee Magnuson, THAT REGULAR PARKWAY CHECKS 32211 THROUGH 32261 TOTALING $79,231.63 FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER; MANUAL PAYMENTS TOTALING $30,822.76 FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER; MANUAL CHECKS THROUGH TOTALING $30,822.76 FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER; NOVEMBER NET WAGES TOTALING $156,025.70 NOVEMBER PAYROLL TAXES IN THE AMOUNT OF $64,737.04; AND NOVEMBER IMRF GOV ONE DEBIT IN THE AMOUNT OF $25,266.59. A Roll Call Vote on the Motion was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Island Withing A City—
Director Wittmann reported that Julie and she continue to meet regularly to address any editorial issues that we see from Jennifer Storelli. She said that they have also been making notes to identify potential photos that could be included at the beginning of each chapter, and relevant photos that can be printed with individual essays. At this point, she reported that they are not sure whether some of the proposed photos actually exist, or if they could take new photos of locations mentioned in essays.

Director Wittmann reported that Dan told her that he was able to secure the rights to print some photos from the Chicago Tribune for $200 and she thought that was reasonable amount. He corrected that, saying he received five photos for $300.

There will be an Island Within the City Committee January 15, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.

We are getting closer to do a read through and Jennifer is hoping to have it by January.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS 

FY 2024-2025 Annual Audit—
Illinois NFP AUDIT and TAX LLP filed our Audit Report and Annual Financial Report (AFR) with the State of Illinois Comptroller.

Per Capita FY2026—
Director Wittmann advised that they will go over The Per Capita FY2026 at the January Board meeting. The report is due on January 30, 2026.

Narcan (Naloxone) Use Policy—
A motion was made by Trustee Ross and, seconded by Trustee Ringelstein, TO APPROVE THE NARCAN (NALOXONE) USE POLICY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Bylaws Review—
Trustee Parent recommended that they table the Bylaws review until February. A motion was made by Trustee Parent and seconded by Trustee Ross TO TABLE THE BYLAWS REVIEW UNTIL FEBRUARY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Unpaid Leave of Absence—
The Head of Technical Services, Victoria Bitters has requested a one-month extension to Ivy Ramos unpaid leave. Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Magnuson, TO APPROVE A ONE-MONTH EXTENSION TO IVY RAMOS UNPAID LEAVE OF ABSENCE TO THE END OF FEBRARY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

The selection of a person to fill a public office, as defined in this Act, including a vacancy in a public office —Closed Session—
A motion was made by Trustee Krebs Seconded by Trustee Magnuson, TO CONVENE CLOSED (EXECUTIVE) SESSION 5ILCS 120/2 (C) (3) AT 7:50 P.M. TO DISCUSS THE SELECTION OF A PERSON TO FILL A PUBLIC OFFICE, AS DEFINED IN THIS ACT, INCLUDING A VACANCY IN A PUBLIC OFFICE. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried. A motion was made by Trustee Krebs seconded by Trustee Parent, TO RECONVENE THE REGULAR MEETING AT 8:29 P.M. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried.

Filling Trustee Vacancy—
A motion was made by Trustee Parent, Seconded by Trustee Krebs, TO APPROVE THE APPOINTMENT OF IRENE ZAPOROWICZ-SHORT AS LIBRARY TRUSTEE. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried. Trustee Magnelli will reach out to Irene.

NEW BUSINESS

Remodeling Plans for Various Areas of the Library—
Director Wittmann recommended that Trustee Magnelli address this item earlier in the agenda so that Justin Pathmann would not need to remain for the entire meeting.

Director Wittmann introduced Justin Pathmann of REhink Owner Solutions, who presented the library’s remodeling plans. Product Architect developed the plans, and the library collaborated with both Product and Justin during the creation of the teen space. Justin explained that Product prepared a master plan addressing all of the library’s needs, including converting a copy room into an office.

Justin presented a comprehensive budget, broken into seven project areas. Completing all seven projects in 2026 would cost approximately $2.221 million, including a 20% contingency. Phasing the projects over four years would result in annual expenditures of roughly $700,000, with a total estimated cost of $2.4 million, accounting for an 8% annual escalation due to economic conditions. At a high level, bidding could begin in late summer, with construction estimated to take seven months and full completion expected by April 2027. It was noted that issuing bids after the school year would be advantageous.

Justin reviewed each area of the remodeling plan:

  • Restrooms: all new plumbing, tile, countertops, toilets, and light fixtures, with new shut-offs and clean-ups included.
  • Workshop: renovations include a new office space for Peggy Tomzik to allow a more hands-on approach.
  • Kids Department: additional seating in the workroom will be added. 
  • Staff offices: Tony’s office will move into the second-floor copy room, and his current office will be converted into a book donation room.
  • Other renovations: upgrades to the workshop, lobby, desks, and flooring; a new nursing room; study labs with improved sound transmission; expansion of the Social Worker’s office; and a drive-up service/window (staffed before the library opens). A staff entrance to the back room will be created to reduce back-and-forth through Library Services, and the back-work island will be removed.
  • Lighting and ceilings: upgraded LED fixtures throughout, additional downlights in darker areas, and some ceiling work.
  • Social Services office: wall will be expanded to include an extra exit point.

Justin noted that the budget includes fees for architects, furniture, project management, and moving costs.

Trustee Magnelli inquired about the Café. Director Wittmann advised that the Café would be incorporated into the maker space, which will allow for multiple uses. A water source would remain, but the grease trap would be removed, as Cafés are generally not profitable in libraries. The space could be repurposed for programming, such as book clubs or fiber arts.

Director Wittmann also reported that a premade sound booth will be installed in the Workshop. The HVAC system in the Workshop will be upgraded to accommodate improved exhaust for the Glowforge and laser cutters.

Trustee Magnelli stated that it makes more sense to complete the project all at once and noted that it can be done without a referendum. Director Wittmann reported that she and Ellen met with Jamie Rachlin earlier that day and confirmed that the project is financially feasible. They could also obtain a debt certificate to fund the project, with borrowing costs comparable to the current bond. Jamie Rachlin could come to speak to the Board regarding the financial details. Director Wittmann added that it may also be possible to upgrade the second-floor bathrooms as part of the project.

Trustee Magnelli asked Justin if he was confident in his budget estimates. Justin responded that he is very comfortable with the numbers but noted that market conditions and volatility could require adjustments. He added that the 20% contingency includes 10% allocated at the start to allow flexibility and maximize value throughout the project.

Director Wittmann noted that the library’s security cameras will need to be reconsidered in light of the planned changes.

Trustee Parent emphasized that all aspects of the project should be thoroughly reviewed. Justin clarified that the discussion is focused on the budget first, and the design will follow accordingly.

A motion was made by Trustee Ross, Seconded by Trustee Ringelstein, TO APPROVE TO PURSUE THE REMODELING PLANS NOT TO EXCEED 2.5 MILLION. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None.  ABSENT None. The motion carried.

Mary Jo Chrabasz left the meeting at 9:20 P.M.
Michelle Moran-Fath left the meeting at 9:22 P.M.
Jennifer Furfori left the meeting at 9:23 P.M.

Director’s Annual Evaluation—Closed Session—

Appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body.—Closed Session—
A motion was made by Trustee Krebs, seconded by Trustee Ross,
TO CONVENE CLOSED (EXECUTIVE) SESSION 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (1) AT 9:43 P.M. TO DISCUSS THE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION, DISCIPLINE, PERFORMANCE, OR DISMISSAL OF SPECIFIC EMPLOYEES OF THE PUBLIC BODY. A Roll Call Vote on the Motion was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried. A motion was made by Trustee Parent and, seconded by Trustee Magnuson, TO RECONVENE THE REGULAR MEETING AT 10:18 P.M. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Director’s Annual Merit Raise—
Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, THAT DIRECTOR WITTMANN’S YEARLY RATE BE INCREASED FROM $145,256.00 TO    $151,100.00 A Roll Call Vote on the Motion was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None.

Annual Merit Raise Recommendations—
Director Wittmann presented the annual merit raise recommendations based on employee evaluations from their supervisors.  Trustee Magnuson moved, seconded by Trustee Parent, TO APPROVE THE ANNUAL MERIT RAISES AS PRESENTED EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026. AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None.

Six Month Raise-Lauren Picciuca—
Trustee Krebs moved, seconded by Trustee Magnuson, TO APPROVE AN INCREASE TO LAUREN PICCIUCA’S SIX MONTH RATE FROM $18.00 TO $18.54 EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026. AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None.

Disposal of Surplus Library Personal Property—
Trustee Krebs moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, TO APPROVE THE DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS LIBRARY PERSONAL PROPERTY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Personnel Changes— 
Monika Wierzba was hired as a Circulation Services Clerk. Her first day will Saturday, December 27.

Review Minutes of Closed Sessions—
The Board reviewed the minutes of the closed sessions held November 16 (2), and December 21, 2000; January 18 (1), and March 22, 2001; February 21, 2002 (2); February 19 (2) and (3), March 18 (2), (3) and (4), April 8, and June 17, 2004 (1); January 20 (2), May 19 (2), and October 20, 2005; October 21, 2010; February 17, and December 15, 2011; April 19, May 17, July 19, and December 20, 2012; September 19, 2013, October 17, 2013, November 6, 2013, November 21, 2013, December 5, 2013, December 19, 2013, February 20, 2014 (1), May 15, 2014 (1), June 19, 2014 (1), July 17, 2014 (1), Nov. 20, 2014, Dec. 18, 2014 (1), January 15, 2015 (1), May 21, 2015, November 17, 2015, January 21, 2016, May 19, 2016, July 21, 2016, October 20, 2016, December 15, 2016 (1), December 15, 2016 (2), March 16, 2017, November 20, 2020, July 18, 2024 (1) July 18, 2024 (2), September, 19, 2024, November 21, 2024, December 19, 2024, June 26, 2025. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal and pending litigation of a specific employee. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (1).

The Board also reviewed the minutes of the closed session held April 21, 2016, November 15, 2018, June 20, 2019, July 15, 2021, August 19, 2021, August 26, 2021, September 9, 2021, September 16, 2021, October 16, 2025, November 20, 2025, December 10, 2025, December 11, 2025. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the selection of a person to fill public office. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (3)

The Board also reviewed the minutes of the closed sessions held April 20, July 20, August 17 and November 16, 2006; May 10, 2007; February 19, March 19, 2009 and January 20, and August 25, 2011; and January 19, and December 20, 2012; January 17, 2013; August 8, 2013, March 29, 2015, April 16, 2015, May 21, 2015. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the setting of a price for sale or lease of property owned by the Library. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (6)

The Board also reviewed the minutes of closed sessions held February 20, 2014, April 17, 2014, May 15, 2014, June 19, 2014, July 17, 2014, August 14, 2014, September 18, 2014, October 16, 2014, November 20, 2014, Dec. 18, 2014, January 15, 2015, and February 19, 2015. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the probable or imminent litigation on behalf of the Library District. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (11).

The Board also reviewed the minutes of closed session held May 17, 2018, August 16, 2018, and October 18, 2018, July 18, 2019, October 17, 2019, February 20, 2025, November 20, 2025. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the security procedures and the use of personnel and equipment to respond to an actual, a threatened, or a reasonably potential danger to the safety of employee, students, staff, the public or public property 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (8).

Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, TO KEEP THE CLOSED SESSIONS CLOSED. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Any Other Business—
No Report.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT  

Director Wittmann’s Librarian report was discussed as items occurred on the agenda.

COMMUNICATIONS

A FOIA request was received from SmartProcure on December 9, 2025 requesting any and all purchasing records from 8/31/2025 to current.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Merry Christmas.
Happy New Year.
Happy Holidays.

ADJOURNMENT

Trustee Ross moved, seconded by Trustee Krebs, THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 10:21 P.M.

Categories: Board Documents.

December 18, 2025 Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes

by | December 18, 2025

The Regular Meeting of the Eisenhower Public Library District Board of Trustees December 18, 2025.

CALL TO ORDER

President Magnelli called the meeting to order at 7:41 P.M.

ROLL CALL

Present: Magnelli, Magnuson, Ringelstein, Ross, Parent, Krebs.
Absent:
Also Present: Wittmann, Bacarella, Blubaugh, V. Bitters, Clark, Furfori, Lewis, McPhillips, Sciaccotta, Stam, Tomzik, J. Pathmann, M. Chrabasz, M. Moran-Fath.

RECOGNITION OF VISITORS

Mary Jo Chrabasz and Michelle Moran-Fath were recognized.
Justin Pathmann with Rethink Owner Solutions was recognized.

PUBLIC COMMENT

There were no comments from the public.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, THAT THE MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING HELD NOVEMBER 20, 2025 BE APPROVED. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

FINANCIAL REPORT

Director Wittmann reported that property tax income has not yet begun to be received. She noted that expenditures are at or under budget in the majority of categories and that overall spending is on track. She stated that the Library’s financial position looks strong overall.

APPROVAL OF CURRENT BILLS  

Trustee Krebs moved, seconded by Trustee Magnuson, THAT REGULAR PARKWAY CHECKS 32211 THROUGH 32261 TOTALING $79,231.63 FOR THE MONTH OF DECEMBER; MANUAL PAYMENTS TOTALING $30,822.76 FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER; MANUAL CHECKS THROUGH TOTALING $30,822.76 FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER; NOVEMBER NET WAGES TOTALING $156,025.70 NOVEMBER PAYROLL TAXES IN THE AMOUNT OF $64,737.04; AND NOVEMBER IMRF GOV ONE DEBIT IN THE AMOUNT OF $25,266.59. A Roll Call Vote on the Motion was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Island Withing A City—
Director Wittmann reported that Julie and she continue to meet regularly to address any editorial issues that we see from Jennifer Storelli. She said that they have also been making notes to identify potential photos that could be included at the beginning of each chapter, and relevant photos that can be printed with individual essays. At this point, she reported that they are not sure whether some of the proposed photos actually exist, or if they could take new photos of locations mentioned in essays.

Director Wittmann reported that Dan told her that he was able to secure the rights to print some photos from the Chicago Tribune for $200 and she thought that was reasonable amount. He corrected that, saying he received five photos for $300.

There will be an Island Within the City Committee January 15, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.

We are getting closer to do a read through and Jennifer is hoping to have it by January.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS 

FY 2024-2025 Annual Audit—
Illinois NFP AUDIT and TAX LLP filed our Audit Report and Annual Financial Report (AFR) with the State of Illinois Comptroller.

Per Capita FY2026—
Director Wittmann advised that they will go over The Per Capita FY2026 at the January Board meeting. The report is due on January 30, 2026.

Narcan (Naloxone) Use Policy—
A motion was made by Trustee Ross and, seconded by Trustee Ringelstein, TO APPROVE THE NARCAN (NALOXONE) USE POLICY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Bylaws Review—
Trustee Parent recommended that they table the Bylaws review until February. A motion was made by Trustee Parent and seconded by Trustee Ross TO TABLE THE BYLAWS REVIEW UNTIL FEBRUARY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Unpaid Leave of Absence—
The Head of Technical Services, Victoria Bitters has requested a one-month extension to Ivy Ramos unpaid leave. Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Magnuson, TO APPROVE A ONE-MONTH EXTENSION TO IVY RAMOS UNPAID LEAVE OF ABSENCE TO THE END OF FEBRARY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

The selection of a person to fill a public office, as defined in this Act, including a vacancy in a public office —Closed Session—
A motion was made by Trustee Krebs Seconded by Trustee Magnuson, TO CONVENE CLOSED (EXECUTIVE) SESSION 5ILCS 120/2 (C) (3) AT 7:50 P.M. TO DISCUSS THE SELECTION OF A PERSON TO FILL A PUBLIC OFFICE, AS DEFINED IN THIS ACT, INCLUDING A VACANCY IN A PUBLIC OFFICE. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried. A motion was made by Trustee Krebs seconded by Trustee Parent, TO RECONVENE THE REGULAR MEETING AT 8:29 P.M. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried.

Filling Trustee Vacancy—
A motion was made by Trustee Parent, Seconded by Trustee Krebs, TO APPROVE THE APPOINTMENT OF IRENE ZAPOROWICZ-SHORT AS LIBRARY TRUSTEE. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried. Trustee Magnelli will reach out to Irene.

NEW BUSINESS

Remodeling Plans for Various Areas of the Library—
Director Wittmann recommended that Trustee Magnelli address this item earlier in the agenda so that Justin Pathmann would not need to remain for the entire meeting.

Director Wittmann introduced Justin Pathmann of REhink Owner Solutions, who presented the library’s remodeling plans. Product Architect developed the plans, and the library collaborated with both Product and Justin during the creation of the teen space. Justin explained that Product prepared a master plan addressing all of the library’s needs, including converting a copy room into an office.

Justin presented a comprehensive budget, broken into seven project areas. Completing all seven projects in 2026 would cost approximately $2.221 million, including a 20% contingency. Phasing the projects over four years would result in annual expenditures of roughly $700,000, with a total estimated cost of $2.4 million, accounting for an 8% annual escalation due to economic conditions. At a high level, bidding could begin in late summer, with construction estimated to take seven months and full completion expected by April 2027. It was noted that issuing bids after the school year would be advantageous.

Justin reviewed each area of the remodeling plan:

  • Restrooms: all new plumbing, tile, countertops, toilets, and light fixtures, with new shut-offs and clean-ups included.
  • Workshop: renovations include a new office space for Peggy Tomzik to allow a more hands-on approach.
  • Kids Department: additional seating in the workroom will be added. 
  • Staff offices: Tony’s office will move into the second-floor copy room, and his current office will be converted into a book donation room.
  • Other renovations: upgrades to the workshop, lobby, desks, and flooring; a new nursing room; study labs with improved sound transmission; expansion of the Social Worker’s office; and a drive-up service/window (staffed before the library opens). A staff entrance to the back room will be created to reduce back-and-forth through Library Services, and the back-work island will be removed.
  • Lighting and ceilings: upgraded LED fixtures throughout, additional downlights in darker areas, and some ceiling work.
  • Social Services office: wall will be expanded to include an extra exit point.

Justin noted that the budget includes fees for architects, furniture, project management, and moving costs.

Trustee Magnelli inquired about the Café. Director Wittmann advised that the Café would be incorporated into the maker space, which will allow for multiple uses. A water source would remain, but the grease trap would be removed, as Cafés are generally not profitable in libraries. The space could be repurposed for programming, such as book clubs or fiber arts.

Director Wittmann also reported that a premade sound booth will be installed in the Workshop. The HVAC system in the Workshop will be upgraded to accommodate improved exhaust for the Glowforge and laser cutters.

Trustee Magnelli stated that it makes more sense to complete the project all at once and noted that it can be done without a referendum. Director Wittmann reported that she and Ellen met with Jamie Rachlin earlier that day and confirmed that the project is financially feasible. They could also obtain a debt certificate to fund the project, with borrowing costs comparable to the current bond. Jamie Rachlin could come to speak to the Board regarding the financial details. Director Wittmann added that it may also be possible to upgrade the second-floor bathrooms as part of the project.

Trustee Magnelli asked Justin if he was confident in his budget estimates. Justin responded that he is very comfortable with the numbers but noted that market conditions and volatility could require adjustments. He added that the 20% contingency includes 10% allocated at the start to allow flexibility and maximize value throughout the project.

Director Wittmann noted that the library’s security cameras will need to be reconsidered in light of the planned changes.

Trustee Parent emphasized that all aspects of the project should be thoroughly reviewed. Justin clarified that the discussion is focused on the budget first, and the design will follow accordingly.

A motion was made by Trustee Ross, Seconded by Trustee Ringelstein, TO APPROVE TO PURSUE THE REMODELING PLANS NOT TO EXCEED 2.5 MILLION. A roll call vote was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ross, Magnuson, Parent, Ringelstein, Krebs. NAYS None.  ABSENT None. The motion carried.

Mary Jo Chrabasz left the meeting at 9:20 P.M.
Michelle Moran-Fath left the meeting at 9:22 P.M.
Jennifer Furfori left the meeting at 9:23 P.M.

Director’s Annual Evaluation—Closed Session—

Appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body.—Closed Session—
A motion was made by Trustee Krebs, seconded by Trustee Ross,
TO CONVENE CLOSED (EXECUTIVE) SESSION 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (1) AT 9:43 P.M. TO DISCUSS THE APPOINTMENT, EMPLOYMENT, COMPENSATION, DISCIPLINE, PERFORMANCE, OR DISMISSAL OF SPECIFIC EMPLOYEES OF THE PUBLIC BODY. A Roll Call Vote on the Motion was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None. The motion carried. A motion was made by Trustee Parent and, seconded by Trustee Magnuson, TO RECONVENE THE REGULAR MEETING AT 10:18 P.M. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Director’s Annual Merit Raise—
Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, THAT DIRECTOR WITTMANN’S YEARLY RATE BE INCREASED FROM $145,256.00 TO    $151,100.00 A Roll Call Vote on the Motion was taken and the results were as follows: AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None.

Annual Merit Raise Recommendations—
Director Wittmann presented the annual merit raise recommendations based on employee evaluations from their supervisors.  Trustee Magnuson moved, seconded by Trustee Parent, TO APPROVE THE ANNUAL MERIT RAISES AS PRESENTED EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026. AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None.

Six Month Raise-Lauren Picciuca—
Trustee Krebs moved, seconded by Trustee Magnuson, TO APPROVE AN INCREASE TO LAUREN PICCIUCA’S SIX MONTH RATE FROM $18.00 TO $18.54 EFFECTIVE JANUARY 1, 2026. AYES Magnelli, Ringelstein, Magnuson, Parent, Krebs, Ross. NAYS None. ABSENT None.

Disposal of Surplus Library Personal Property—
Trustee Krebs moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, TO APPROVE THE DISPOSAL OF SURPLUS LIBRARY PERSONAL PROPERTY. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Personnel Changes— 
Monika Wierzba was hired as a Circulation Services Clerk. Her first day will Saturday, December 27.

Review Minutes of Closed Sessions—
The Board reviewed the minutes of the closed sessions held November 16 (2), and December 21, 2000; January 18 (1), and March 22, 2001; February 21, 2002 (2); February 19 (2) and (3), March 18 (2), (3) and (4), April 8, and June 17, 2004 (1); January 20 (2), May 19 (2), and October 20, 2005; October 21, 2010; February 17, and December 15, 2011; April 19, May 17, July 19, and December 20, 2012; September 19, 2013, October 17, 2013, November 6, 2013, November 21, 2013, December 5, 2013, December 19, 2013, February 20, 2014 (1), May 15, 2014 (1), June 19, 2014 (1), July 17, 2014 (1), Nov. 20, 2014, Dec. 18, 2014 (1), January 15, 2015 (1), May 21, 2015, November 17, 2015, January 21, 2016, May 19, 2016, July 21, 2016, October 20, 2016, December 15, 2016 (1), December 15, 2016 (2), March 16, 2017, November 20, 2020, July 18, 2024 (1) July 18, 2024 (2), September, 19, 2024, November 21, 2024, December 19, 2024, June 26, 2025. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal and pending litigation of a specific employee. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (1).

The Board also reviewed the minutes of the closed session held April 21, 2016, November 15, 2018, June 20, 2019, July 15, 2021, August 19, 2021, August 26, 2021, September 9, 2021, September 16, 2021, October 16, 2025, November 20, 2025, December 10, 2025, December 11, 2025. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the selection of a person to fill public office. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (3)

The Board also reviewed the minutes of the closed sessions held April 20, July 20, August 17 and November 16, 2006; May 10, 2007; February 19, March 19, 2009 and January 20, and August 25, 2011; and January 19, and December 20, 2012; January 17, 2013; August 8, 2013, March 29, 2015, April 16, 2015, May 21, 2015. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the setting of a price for sale or lease of property owned by the Library. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (6)

The Board also reviewed the minutes of closed sessions held February 20, 2014, April 17, 2014, May 15, 2014, June 19, 2014, July 17, 2014, August 14, 2014, September 18, 2014, October 16, 2014, November 20, 2014, Dec. 18, 2014, January 15, 2015, and February 19, 2015. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the probable or imminent litigation on behalf of the Library District. 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (11).

The Board also reviewed the minutes of closed session held May 17, 2018, August 16, 2018, and October 18, 2018, July 18, 2019, October 17, 2019, February 20, 2025, November 20, 2025. It was determined that the need for confidentiality still exists for these closed sessions pertaining to the security procedures and the use of personnel and equipment to respond to an actual, a threatened, or a reasonably potential danger to the safety of employee, students, staff, the public or public property 5ILCS 120.2 (C) (8).

Trustee Parent moved, seconded by Trustee Ross, TO KEEP THE CLOSED SESSIONS CLOSED. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried.

Any Other Business—
No Report.

LIBRARY DIRECTOR’S REPORT  

Director Wittmann’s Librarian report was discussed as items occurred on the agenda.

COMMUNICATIONS

A FOIA request was received from SmartProcure on December 9, 2025 requesting any and all purchasing records from 8/31/2025 to current.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Merry Christmas.
Happy New Year.
Happy Holidays.

ADJOURNMENT

Trustee Ross moved, seconded by Trustee Krebs, THAT THE MEETING BE ADJOURNED. A voice vote was taken and the motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 10:21 P.M.

Categories: Board Documents.