HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 07/23/2025 - Board of TrusteesBoard of Trustees Minutes Page 1 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
MINUTES OF THE JULY 23, 2025 SPECIAL MEETING OF
THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
VILLAGE OF OAK BROOK
APPROVED AS WRITTEN ON
AUGUST 12, 2025
1. CALL TO ORDER
The Special Meeting of the Village Board of Trustees was called to order by President Laurence E. Herman in the
Samuel E. Dean Board Room at 7:01 p.m. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
2. ROLL CALL
Clerk Netasha Scarpiniti called the roll:
PRESENT: Trustees Naveen Jain, Michael Manzo, Melissa Martin, James Nagle, A. Suresh Reddy, Edward
Tiesenga and President Laurence E. Herman
IN ATTENDANCE: Village Manager Greg Summers, Assistant Village Manager Joseph Mitchell, Information
Technology Director Tom Gilbert, Police Chief Brian Strockis, Public Works Director Tim O'Malley, Head
Librarian Jacob Post, Finance Director Marilyn Fumero, Fire Chief Kevin Fleege, Development Services Director
Rebecca Von Drasek, Sports Core Director Art Segura, and Village Attorney Michael Castaldo Jr.
3. PRESIDENT’S OPENING COMMENTS
President Herman recognized Resident Jim Boros for his generous and thoughtful donation of a painting of
Pawfficer Bandit to the Police Department. He acknowledged the receipt of a letter from Residents of the
Briarwood Subdivision expressing their appreciation for the Village’s efforts in improving their neighborhood
through the watermain replacement project, driveway reconstruction and the street resurfacing project. President
Herman expressed his gratitude for their kind words and continued partnership in enhancing the quality of life in
the Village. He announced that an article in the Chicago Tribune named Oakbrook Center as the 4th best Shopping
Center in the United States and discussed the Village’s partnership with Brookfield Properties. He thanked the
Board and Committee Members and praised Village Manager Summers and his staff for their dedication, long
hours and hard work navigating future options for the Sports Core.
A. Branding & Aesthetic Presentation by Civiltech
Public Works Director O’Malley stated that six slides were selected to feature unique design elements that
reflect the image of the Village of Oak Brook. He added that Civiltech Engineering developed concept
designs for the Village's roadway aesthetics and branding project, based on public input gathered through
ads, newsletters, and community meetings. The design’s objectives are to enhance the visual appeal of the
areas presented. Director O’Malley introduced Phil Hutchinson from Civiltech to present the concept.
Phil Hutchinson of Civiltech Engineering presented the concept designs with the intention of enhancing the
streetscape and the Village's identity. He stated that a few sites that were considered included Route 83,
York Road, 22nd Street, and the viaduct on 22nd Street under I-88. He proposed monument signage and
landscaping improvements. He referred to three design families blending natural stone, oak leaf motifs, and
controlled LED lighting. Mr. Hutchinson relayed public feedback favoring the detention basin, viaduct
improvements on 22nd Street with a combination of monument signage adding that a larger sign would be
placed at the corner of Route 83 and 22nd Street and a smaller pillar sign on the corner of 22nd and York
Road with the upgrades reflecting a modern yet community-rooted aesthetic appearance.
President Herman invited Development Services Director Von Drasek to introduce the Preliminary Board
Review of a Planned Development for 714 Enterprise Drive.
B. Burton Design – Preliminary Board Review of a Planned Development for 714 Enterprise Drive
Development Services Director Von Drasek stated that 714 Enterprise Drive was located in the office
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 2 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
research and assembly district where an interior design company occupying 2,500 sq ft was seeking the
Board's input regarding the Planned Development. She stated that the facility would include utilization of
the space during the evenings and weekends and introduced the presenter and owner of Burton Designs.
Diana Burton, owner and principal designer of Burton & Company Design Studio, shared her vision of a
dual-purpose space that would serve as an office and a hosting location for small private events limited to
evenings and weekends. She explained that the studio design featured multiple seating areas, a fully
functional kitchen, an inviting, upscale home-like atmosphere and could host up to 40 seated guests or 50
during standing events. She emphasized on-site staff presence during the events, ensuring smooth
operations.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Clerk Scarpiniti called the following speakers who signed up to come the podium:
Gerald McInerney shared his involvement with the Village and expressed concern about the future of the Sports
Core. He drew on his experience as a former Village Trustee, President of the Civic Association, as a parent and
the initiator of youth soccer in the area. He urged the Board to uphold their fiduciary duty to preserve the space for
community use and voiced his strong opposition to the Chic Chef deal suggesting a referendum allowing voters to
decide the fate of the Sports Core.
Anne Huber appeared on behalf of the Friends of Oak Brook Sports Core and criticized the Board for allowing the
property rental and acting as a landlord. She further analyzed that if the Village acts in the capacity of a landlord it
needs to notify the York Township Assessor of a private business operating on public, tax-exempt land. She
warned that failure to do so could result in the Tax Assessor revoking the tax exemption and reminded the Board
of Illinois State requirements surrounding long-term land leases and questioned the classification of the agreement
as a "license." Ms. Huber spoke of a financial burden of high taxes to the residents resulting from the proposed
deal.
Chuck Barranco voiced his concerns with the proposed Chic Chef Agreement and criticized the Village's RFP
process. He questioned the overall transparency of the deal, promised investment, and questionable cancellation
terms. Mr. Barranco urged the Board to thoroughly analyze the deal's impact on the amenities and neighborhood
access.
Jonathan Campbell urged the Board to reconsider the proposed long-term lease with Chic Chef on the Sports Core
property and emphasized the land's legacy as an asset to the community. He warned of risks such as over-
commercializing the area and compared it to Chicago's controversial meter deal arguing that the agreement
prioritizes private interests over public ones. He urged the Board to pause the entire process and consider
alternative solutions as the proposed option does not serve the community or safeguard the Sport Core's future for
Oak Brook Residents.
Kathy Paskalides commended the Board for introducing a self-sustaining and profitable business model, finding it
to be a smart and sustainable solution for the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club. She criticized the opponents of the
proposal, highlighting years of financial losses and a lack of sustainability. She condemned opponents' inability to
adapt to change with an offer that provides fiscal responsibility into the future through private investment.
Elaine Zannis voiced her frustration with the Board's handling of public meetings, transparency of disclosed
documents and expressed her concern over the order of business as presented. She presented suggestions
addressing her concerns and pushed back on claims of Police and Fire not being subsidized with the use of the
General Fund.
Rhonda Bishlawi expressed her discontent over the Village's direction regarding the Sports Core space and
especially the Bath & Tennis Club emphasizing the unique value the space brings to the community. She shared
her disagreement with the proposal due to increased commercialization and urged the Board to fully consider all
public comments prior to voting. She advocated for the protection of the cherished public land and called the Bath
& Tennis Club a local treasure.
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 3 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Louis Paskalides spoke in favor of the proposal with Chic Chef arguing that it provides a long-term solution to the
financial challenges Sports Core has been facing for many years. He criticized the Village's use of funds for Sports
Core subsidization and emphasized the company's proven capability to successfully operate the banquet facility on
the premises. He preferred using private funds for renovations while the Village retains ownership rights, spoke
about the 2022 referendum that called for reduced taxpayer spending. He urged the Board to embrace a path
forward that will benefit the Village's finances and its residents for many future generations.
Ashley Stout stated that as an active member of the Bath & Tennis Club she had concerns over the Village's lack
of transparency, lack of true public engagement regarding the Chic Chef proposal, ineffective Board meetings and
lack of involvement with the Sports Core Committee. She challenged claims of resident support for the agreement,
questioned the legality of the proposed agreement, and pointed out the risks associated with the public-private
partnership including reduced green space, lower profits during the construction phase, and shortened community
access hours.
Ray Cesca spoke in opposition to the Chic Chef proposal stating that the option is a moral dilemma filled with
short-term financial gains and enormous risks with permanent damage to the Village's last pristine community
space. He criticized the Board for the lack of true public engagement and transparency and described the area as a
cherished haven for families and children. Mr. Cesca also mentioned a petition with a few hundred resident
signatures opposing the proposed deal and urged the Board to prioritize fairness, the community's voice in the
decision-making process, stewardship and to protect the space in its form for future generations.
Al Knuth urged the Board to postpone making a decision on the proposal to allow time for additional clarification
and collaboration surrounding the complex issue. He acknowledged the Board's efforts in finding a fair and
sustainable solution but stressed the need for more transparency, improved negotiations and suggested the creation
of a committee made up of residents to explore other alternatives. He expressed concerns on behalf of the
community regarding the long duration of the agreement and potential tax implications. Mr. Knuth called for
thoughtful action and unity.
Rajeev Nagpal echoed many of the previous comments and concerns; he questioned the idea of allowing a
transformation of the proposed magnitude, spoke about truck domination and over-commercialization of the area.
He urged the Board to consider a referendum and allow residents direct input, stressing the Board's responsibility
to the community and to uphold the Village's vision and values.
Amy Marr presented herself as a long-time multi-generational member of the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club and
voiced her strong opposition to the privatization of the facility, noting risks associated with leasing public land to a
relatively unproven company. She called for a referendum stressing the importance of transparency and public
input in making a decision involving a significant long-term agreement with Chic Chef.
Lyn Tietz shared her fond memories of the Bath & Tennis Club, spoke about the reconstruction after a fire in the
1970s, emphasizing the facility's historical value to the community. She raised doubts regarding the accuracy and
necessity of the proposed renovations and associated costs. She urged the Board to investigate the presented plans
thoroughly and keep in mind that the facility remains beloved by the Residents and should be preserved.
Joyce Antoniolli stated she is also a multi-generational member of the Bath & Tennis Club and shared her
cherished memories of time spent at the Bath & Tennis Club as a child. She went on to express her frustrations at a
suggested notion that many longtime residents support shutting down the facility. She shared her observations
regarding the current activities of Chic Chef, arguing that the influx of commercial vehicles compromises the
integrity of space. Ms. Antoniolli urged the Board to seek alternative options and to preserve the peaceful, friendly,
family-centered atmosphere at the Bath & Tennis Club.
Seana Scheid expressed concerns regarding the twenty-year lease agreement due to the vendor's lack of proven
financial success, shared her experience involving disruptive incidents during the events, including intoxicated
guests. She warned of children’s exposure to similar incidents in the future if the deals go through due to increased
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 4 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
commercialization. She urged the Board to consider a shorter internal managed plan that would preserve the
community's character for the future.
Michael Sheid shared his strong opposition to the proposed contract with Chic Chef; echoed comments made by
fellow residents and praised them for their thoughtful remarks. He encouraged the Board to redirect their focus
back to community-centered recreational activities and cautioned that unnecessary risks and incidents could
compromise the Village's name, character and values. Mr. Sheid urged Chic Chef to pursue independent
opportunities elsewhere and called for the Board to come up with a solution that prioritizes resident well-being
over profit and sports.
Joe Cantore read a letter sent by his wife Jacqueline Cantore to one of the Trustees. She expressed her strong
opposition to the proposed leasing agreement arguing that like her, many families view the Bath & Tennis Club as
a family-centered, peaceful haven that should remain publicly owned and free of commercialization. She raised
concerns with the legality of the lease, potential lawsuits, and safety concerns associated with overly intoxicated
guests attending events at the facility. Mr. Cantore echoed his wife's concerns highlighting his own experiences
with disruptive behavior by event attendees. He advocated for the preservation of the current atmosphere and
character of the Bath & Tennis Club.
Asif Yusuf voiced his opposition to the proposed Sports Core Lease Agreement citing negative impact on the
aesthetics of the area, negative economic impacts, and the legality behind the land ownership. He acknowledged
the need for improvements to the structures and shared his observation of the company's intentions to expand
banquet operations. Mr. Yusuf articulated his thoughts regarding the suggestion of financial crisis necessitating the
lease and criticized the current operating procedures allowing commercial trucks to be stored on public property.
He urged the Board to delay the vote and allow the public to decide through a referendum.
Lou Smeja echoed previously made comments adding that after viewing Trustee Tiesenga's video on the Chic
Chef proposal, she was concerned that the company was not trustworthy enough for the Village to allow this
operation on the premises. She voiced her opposition to the proposal and urged the Board to bring the matter to a
referendum.
Nancy Hayden opposed the proposed agreement with Chic Chef cautioning against strain on local resources due to
increased traffic associated with the events. She requested the Board consider going to a referendum, reflecting on
Paul Butler's legacy, the Village's peaceful character and the area's history while emphasizing that the space was
meant for family enjoyment. She believed alternative ways to revitalize the facility without sacrificing its charm
or residential value is warranted.
Clerk Scarpiniti stated that she received four letters with comments from residents that could not be present in
person but wanted their comments heard. She read letters from the following residents:
Ana Sisson expressed her firm opposition to the proposed contract at the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club arguing
that the operation violated the founder's original intent for the property to serve the residents. She mentioned
current operational issues and poor service and compared the deal to Chicago's privatized parking meter
agreements. She emphasized the negative impacts of prioritizing business over community needs and cautioned
against entering into a long-term lease agreement. Mrs. Sisson also offered alternative ideas to subsidize the
funding needed for facility repairs.
Rick & Caroline Ascher stated that they are active members of the Sports Core and voiced their opposition to the
Chic Chef Agreement mentioning violation of the original agreement made by Paul Butler when the land was
entrusted to the Village for public use. They warned of potential legal actions that the Board may encounter should
they choose to move forward without public input through a referendum.
Kelsey Anagnos sent a letter expressing her opposition to the privatization of the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club
and called for a referendum. She shared her concerns regarding the long-term agreement with Chic Chef, a
company having less operational longevity than the proposed lease itself. She noted current issues with poor
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 5 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
service, and the lack of evidence that the company is capable of handling a business of this scale. Ms. Anaganos
urged the Board to prioritize transparency, the needs and wants of the community, and take into consideration the
negative impact of this deal on residents.
Kathy Miller, a long-time member of the Sports Core Advisory Committee, opposed the long-term agreement with
Chic Chef. She urged the Board to preserve and protect public ownership and the Village's values, calling the
facility a precious gift that deserves thoughtful stewardship.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. Regular Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2025
MOTION: To Approve Regular Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2025
Motioned: Trustee Reddy
Seconded: Trustee Martin
VOICE VOTE: Passed
B. Regular Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of June 10, 2025
MOTION: To Approve Regular Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes of June 10, 2025
Motioned: Trustee Reddy
Seconded: Trustee Martin
VOICE VOTE: Passed
C. Regular Executive Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2025
MOTION: To Approve Regular Executive Meeting Minutes of May 27, 2025
Motioned: Trustee Reddy
Seconded: Trustee Martin
VOICE VOTE: Passed
6. CONSENT AGENDA
A. Accounts Payable for Period Ending: June 25, 2025 - $1,035,281.71
July 2, 2025 - $657,663.05
July 17, 2025 - $2,085,881.12
1. LEGAL SERVICES:
a) Ottosen, DiNolfo, Hasenbalg & Castaldo, Ltd. - Legal Services - May 2025 - $39,101.09 (FY25
YTD - $145,752.20)
b) Lamp Law LLC - Legal Services - May 2025 - $3,333.33 and June 2025 - $3,333.33 (FY25 YTD -
$19,999.98)
c) Clark Baird Smith LLP - Legal Services - May 2025 - $284.00 and June 2025 - $1,491.00 (FY25
YTD - $3,365.00)
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 6 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
TOTAL LEGAL BUDGET FOR 2025 IS $325,287.96
TOTAL LEGAL BILLS PAID FOR 2025 - YTD - $190,914.68
2. DuPage Water Commission - May and June 2025 - $495,633.20 and $620,837.80
3. Al Warren Oil Co., Inc. - Unleaded Gasoline, Invoice #W1753364 - $21,408.40
4. DU-COMM - FY25 Quarterly Dues, Invoice #19556 - $37,876.75
5. HFS Bureau of Fiscal Operations - Ground Emergency Management Transportation Program
Refund Quarters 3 & 4 of 2024 and Quarter 1 of 2025 - $262,783.23
6. BCI Entertainment - Taste of Oak Brook Drone Show, Invoice #70320250077 - $24,750.00
7. Federal Signal Corporation - Outdoor Warning Siren System Replacement, Invoice #8935892 -
$20,674.00
8. Cerniglia Co - Woodside/Forest Glen Watermain Improvements, Pay Application #1 - $836,345.25
9. Chicagoland Pool Management - 2025 Pool Management Services, Invoice #257015PM - $42,985.00
10. Axon Enterprise Inc - Report Management System, Invoice #INUS355115 - $85,620.00
11. Briarwood Lakes Community Association - Asphalt Reimbursement - $43,095.00
12. BCBS IL - Health Care Services - July 2025 - $236,745.99
13. Chic Chef Catering - June 16 through June 30 Poolside Payout - $30,522.30
B. Approval of Payroll Paydate: June 12, 2025 - $993,402.79
June 26, 2025 - $981,477.77
July 10, 2025 - $1,013,251.88
C. Village of Oak Brook – Monthly Financial Reports - May 2025
D. Village of Oak Brook – Monthly Financial Reports June 2025
Trustee Tiesenga asked to have item 6.A.13 removed from the Consent Agenda
MOTION: Motion to Approve the Consent Agenda and Authorize the expenditures as Presented with the
exception of Item 6.A.13
Motioned: Trustee Martin
Seconded: Trustee Manzo
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 6 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Nagle, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
7. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA
Trustee Tiesenga asked staff about the origin of the listed bill and which funds were used to cover this expense.
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 7 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Finance Director Fumero explained that the Village collects the funds on a gift card for the members purchasing
food at the poolside Cafe and the funds are deposited into an escrow account and every few weeks the funds are
paid out to Chic Chef. She added that the funds are prepaid to the Village.
MOTION: To Authorize Payment to Chic Chef Catering - June 16 through June 30 Poolside Payout - $30,522.30
Motioned: Trustee Martin
Seconded: Trustee Reddy
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 6 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Nagle, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
8. BOARDS AND COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
9. ACTIVE BUSINESS
A. Ordinances & Resolutions
1. Ordinance S-1724, An Ordinance Approving Preliminary Design for Licensee Food, Beverage, and
Banquet Facilities Renovations and Expansion As Well As Public Pool, Tennis and Office Renovations
at The Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Clubhouse, and Adopting a Future Process to Coordinate Village
Approval of Final Design In Substantial Conformity With the Approved Preliminary Design, and
Amendments to the Licensee Agreement to Operate the Food, Beverage, and Banquet Facilities Upon
Completion of Construction of the Final Design as Approved By the Village
Trustee Jain made a motion to move the Trustee Initiative Agenda Item 9.Brequiring a referendum as the
First Item on Active Business.
President Herman addressed the topic by clarifying why the Agenda was structured to list the Trustee
Initiative Item at the end adding that the Agenda is compiled by Staff with final approval from him prior
to release. He noted that strict procedures set forth in the Village are followed and that a number of
Illinois municipalities prohibit Trustee Initiative Items on the agenda due to potential disruption.
However, the Village allows these items to appear on the agenda with the understanding that they appear
at the end. While this was not an issue in the past, he expressed his understanding that the two items
were directly related and potentially contradictory, and the affirmative vote of one could possibly make
the other irrelevant. Placing the Ordinance first on the Agenda ensures procedural logic and the
particular order of items was chosen to maintain order and transparency.
MOTION: To Switch the Order of the Agenda Items and move Item 9.B - Trustee Initiative as the first
Item under Active Business
Motioned: Trustee Jain
Seconded: Trustee Tiesenga
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 3 Trustees Jain, Nagle, Tiesenga
Nays: 4 Trustees Manzo, Martin, Reddy, President Herman
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 8 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Motion Failed
President Herman discussed the original Item under Active Business listed as Ordinance S-1724. He
spoke in favor of the agreement with Chic Chef to rebuild, renovate and redesign existing facilities in
desperate need of improvements previously funded by the Village. He argued that entering into the
presented long-term agreement was fiscally responsible with the presented self-sustaining business
model, noting the long history of financial strain on the Village in attempts to maintain the Sports Core.
He added that the model involves an investment of eight million dollars by a private entity and no cost to
the Village, thus reliving the burden on taxpayers. He addressed community concerns highlighting
negotiating terms to include ending offsite catering, removal of the “Oak Brook Manor” brand, giving
the Village full control of the use of the Clubhouse Monday - Thursday, hosting monthly community
gatherings by the Community Engagement Committee, and offering residents a 50% discount on event
bookings Monday through Thursday. He noted contractual safeguards including a guaranteed minimum
annual revenue to the Village, a performance bond, and a unilateral ability to terminate the agreement.
He spoke about additional parties involved in the project, including experienced contractors and
architects, directing everyone to the websites chicagoarchitect.org and levelconstruction.net to learn
more about the investors. He insisted that the agreement does not provide transfer rights to anyone else
or allow changes in ownership in the LLC without prior Village consent. President Herman credited Chic
Chef for turning an annual loss into a profit, boosting memberships to record levels and asserted that the
Sports Core space will remain as a beloved space and that the proposal offers a pathway to its
preservation and fiscal responsibility for future generations. President Herman mentioned that a lawsuit
involving this proposed Ordinance has been filed against the Village and encouraged the Board to refrain
from commenting on the pending litigation to prevent any statements that could influence or prejudice
the case. He opened the floor for Trustee discussion.
Trustee Jain expressed his appreciation for all the public involvement and feedback. He shared a
PowerPoint presentation raising concerns regarding the following: the process of bringing the Chic Chef
proposal to fruition, lack of financial diligence and transparency, lack of communication with the Sports
Core Advisory Committee, exclusion of meaningful resident engagement, the Board’s approach towards
the self-funding alternative, financial and contractual diligence behind the proposal, inconsistencies in
released versions of the agreement, lack of considerations for the long-term financial and operational
risks against limited benefits and financial gains, inconsistencies in financial configurations, and lack of
clarity regarding the identities of the investors. Trustee Jain heavily critiqued the financial implications
of the deal and concluded by expressing his disappointment in the leadership feeling misled and left
uninformed as a Trustee while stressing the importance of making informed decisions to ensure a future
Sports Core for generations to come.
Trustee Reddy expressed his gratitude to the Village President and members of the community for their
engagement and participation. He reflected on past efforts by the Village to preserve the amenities. He
mentioned financially successful operations under President Herman's leadership, acknowledged Chic
Chef for their collaboration with the Village and commitment to address community concerns and a plan
to double the number of trees removed during construction. He asked Village Manager Summers to
clarify the logistics of truck delivery operations near the site, public safety, and allowance of off-site
events mentioned in exhibit B. He asked Village Attorney Castaldo to clarify whether the terms of the
proposed agreement violate the original deed dated 1977 or its intended outlook.
Village Manager Summers clarified the operational points by stating that outside catering and off-site
catering have been eliminated, thereby significantly reducing truck traffic and the remaining trucks are
obligated to be parked within a designated, enclosed compound. He confirmed that the Village shall
retain unilateral authority to terminate the agreement without cause after 10 years, provided a 12-month
notice is given. Village Attorney Castaldo stated that the firm's opinion has been disbursed to the Board
previously and that he does not believe that the terms of the proposed lease agreement violate the 1977
deed.
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 9 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Trustee Nagle continued to direct questions directly to staff, reiterating that the information asked about
is something the public has the right to know, and that he has the right to obtain responses from staff who
report to the Board. When Assistant Village Manager Mitchell could not provide Trustee Nagle with a
clear and adequate answer, he stressed the significance of fiduciary responsibility and transparency. He
emphasized that the overwhelming number of residents opposed the Ordinance, raised concerns
regarding leasehold interest on tax-exempt public land possibly triggering property tax obligations.
Trustee Nagle mentioned implication of failure to notify the assessor, questioned the legal obligations
surrounding the framing of the agreement as a “license” versus a “lease”, possibly jeopardizing the
Village's Tax-exempt status. He expressed his frustration over being denied the opportunity to question
the investor directly in a public setting and urged fellow Trustees to reconsider the Ordinance
considering public statements of opposition, lack of transparency surrounding the investor identities, lack
of financial backing and legal risks involved in moving forward with the proposed deal.
President Herman addressed Trustee Nagle's comments regarding the financial aspects of the Ordinance
by clarifying that under the current contract the deal shall not move forward until there is approval of a
post-construction bond in place which cannot be obtained without first obtaining the financing for the
business.
Trustee Nagle emphasized the need for trust, financial accountability, and transparency among all parties
involved in the transaction. He offered to personally fund labor costs associated with improvements to
the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis Club facilities. Trustee Nagle made a motion to have Trustee Jain and
Trustee Martin go back to the drawing board, listen to all Resident feedback and consider alternate ways
to make the Bath & Tennis Club self-sustaining, to come up with funding for improvements, and to
preserve community harmony while upholding legal and ethical standards.
Trustee Nagle restated his Amendatory motion to say that Trustee Jain with a consulting background and
Trustee Martin with a PhD in Accounting take a few weeks to converse and come up with different
solutions and a more holistic and unifying approach.
Trustees Reddy and Manzo asserted that the proposal has been thoroughly debated and they opposed
further delay in postponing the vote.
Trustee Martin acknowledged the lack of satisfaction with various aspects of the proposal and the
substantial amount of time invested by the Trustees in deliberating the topic. She cautioned that endless
pursuit is search of perfection may hinder the Village’s ability to move forward with progress and urged
the Board to pursue progress with the community’s best interest in mind.
Trustee Jain spoke in support of reevaluating alternative solutions arguing the lack of meaningful,
structured discussions on the financial assumptions and expressed serious concern behind speculative
models that were presented. He argued that by exploring additional proposals there may be a significant
opportunity to reach a consensus and unify the Board and the community once again.
Motion: To have Trustees Jain and Martin collaborate and explore alternative solutions
Motioned: Trustee Nagle
Seconded: Trustee Tiesenga
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 2 Trustees Jain, Tiesenga
Nays: 4 Trustees Manzo, Martin, Nagle and Reddy
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Failed
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 10 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Trustee Nagle reversed his position due to lack of interest from Trustee Martin to be involved in further
evaluation of the already exhausted and thoroughly deliberated topic.
President Herman returned to the original motion on the table asking Trustee Martin to continue the
discussion.
Trustee Martin delivered an explanation of her position in supporting the proposal mentioning decades of
experience and involvement with the Sports Core while expressing her clear dedication to community
values and fiscal responsibility to the Village. She highlighted persistent deferred maintenance issues at
the Bath & Tennis Club elaborating on the fact that the proposed agreement offers a viable solution to
address those concerns while providing capital investment and a reliable stream of income for future
upkeep without direct cost to the Village. She addressed resident concerns regarding commercialization
and building expansion by stating that the banquet events have coexisted for years within the recreational
space and assured the public that the benefits of the proposed changes outweigh risks. She urged the
community to move beyond the fear-based narrative and to focus on preserving the Sports Core for
future generations, noting the safety hazards with the current facility including gas leaks, and outdated
systems. She stated that if approved, she looks forward to further collaboration regarding the tennis and
pool areas during the next phase of improvements.
Trustee Tiesenga thoroughly examined selected recitals from the draft Ordinance raising objections to
their accuracy and questioned their legal implications. He disputed the following recital numbers as
written: 6, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, and 28. After a scrupulous review of each recital he
stated that they contain inaccuracies and cannot be endorsed as fully true and correct by trustees voting
in favor of this transaction. He closed his arguments stating that the documents lack transparency,
fiduciary rigor, and contain ethical concerns while citing professional standards.
Trustee Manzo defended his position in favor of the proposal while addressing a wide range of
previously mentioned concerns, historical inaccuracies, misconceptions, and misinformation. He
emphasized the lack of need to use taxpayer dollars, highlighted clear commitment to fiscal
responsibility, long-term planning and financial transparency. Trustee Manzo called the motion on the
table for question.
Motion: To vote call the motion for question
Motioned: Trustee Manzo
Seconded: Trustee Martin
Trustee Jain asked for clarification on the motion for question made by Trustee Manzo.
Village Attorney Castaldo clarified that the motion is a deciding vote on whether there is an agreement
on taking a vote on the originally presented Ordinance or not.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 4 Trustees Manzo, Martin, Reddy and President Herman
Nays: 3 Trustees Jain, Nagle, Tiesenga
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
President Herman requested a roll call vote on the originally presented motion, Ordinance S-1724 as
written.
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 11 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Motion: To Approve Ordinance S-1724, An Ordinance Approving Preliminary Design for Licensee
Food, Beverage, and Banquet Facilities Renovations and Expansion As Well As Public Pool, Tennis and
Office Renovations at The Oak Brook Bath and Tennis Clubhouse, and Adopting a Future Process to
Coordinate Village Approval of Final Design In Substantial Conformity With the Approved Preliminary
Design, and Amendments to the Licensee Agreement to Operate the Food, Beverage, and Banquet
Facilities Upon Completion of Construction of the Final Design as Approved By the Village
Motioned: Trustee Reddy
Seconded: Trustee Martin
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 4 Trustees Manzo, Martin, Reddy, and President Herman
Nays: 3 Trustees Jain, Nagle, Tiesenga
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
2. Resolution R-2308, A Resolution Authorizing and Approving the Execution of a Purchase Order to
Nobletech, LLC, for the Purchase of a Microsoft 365 NCE RFQ GCC License for FY25
Information Technology Director Gilbert explained that a three-year contract with the current cloud
solution provider is ending this year and after requesting quotes for four cloud service providers Nobletech,
LLC came in with a lowest quote and a commitment to hold the same pricing for three years.
Motion: To Approve Resolution R- 2308 as written
Motioned: Trustee Manzo
Seconded: Trustee Reddy
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 6 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Nagle, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
3. Ordinance G-1274, An Ordinance Amending the Village of Oak Brook Code of Ordinances, As Amended,
Title 4, Chapter 1, Section 8A to Decrease the Number of Authorized Class A-1 Liquor Licenses By Two
to Forty-Two for NAANSENSE and Blackberry Market
NAANSENSE 1715W 22nd St., Oak Brook, IL
Blackberry Market 1600 16th St., Suite 1A, Oak Brook, IL
Trustee Nagle recused himself and returned after the vote.
Motion: To Approve Ordinance G-1274 as written
Motioned: Trustee Martin
Seconded: Trustee Manzo
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 5 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Nagle, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 12 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Absent: 0 None
Recuse: 1 Trustee Nagle
Motion Passed
4. Resolution R-2309, A Resolution Approving the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and Authorizing the
Purchase of Deicer Salt from Compass Minerals
Motion: To Approve Resolution R-2309 as written
Motioned: Trustee Martin
Seconded: Trustee Manzo
Due the disruption in the room President Herman asked attendees to continue the conversations in the
hallway and asked Public Works Director O’Malley to present the Resolution.
Public Works Director O’Malley presented a resolution to waive competitive bidding for the purchase of
400 tons of deicer salt. He highlighted recent changes to include purchases split between DuPage County
and the State of Illinois to ensure a reliable supply at competitive pricing.
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 6 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Nagle, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
B. Trustee Initiative: Ordinance calling a special election to be held in and for the Village of Oak Brook,
DuPage and Cook Counties, Illinois, on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, to determine the following public policy
question pursuant to 10 ILCS 5/28-1 et seq: Shall the Village of Oak Brook, DuPage and Cook County,
enter into [the Addendum] between the Village and [Chic Chef Catering, Inc.] substantially as posted on
the Village website. Said Addendum is available for public review at the Village Clerk’s Office, 1200 Oak
Brook Road, during regular business hours.
Trustee Jain removed the item claiming irrelevance after Ordinance S-1724 has been approved.
10. BOARD UPDATES
Trustees Reddy and Martin forwent their opportunity to speak in the interest of time.
Trustee Manzo congratulated Brookfield Properties for being named the fourth best shopping center in the nation
and the Police Department and getting the Village fantastic press.
Trustee Tiesenga asked Information Technology Director Gilbert to pull up a photo of the Brio train set from the
Oak Brook Public Library, while sharing a story about the train set’s usage and recent community efforts in
repairing its broken bridge. He commended Library staff for collecting the train set daily usage data and
emphasized the value in the data-driven decisions jokingly suggesting that a same train set could be used at the
Bath & Tennis Club to increase usage of amenities and memberships. He thanked Head Librarian Post and the
Friends of the Library for their efforts.
Trustee Jain congratulated Police Chief Strockis on his progressive initiatives and the Library on the update and
the wonderful enhancement of the very popular train set. He expressed his frustration and disappointment with the
fellow Board members, calling the Board the worst functioning Board he's encountered despite the presence of
very intelligent individuals. He accused the Board of lack of progressive vision, condemned imposition of property
taxes on residents, and expressed his feelings regarding his engagement in public service, ability to contribute his
ideas and his legacy by serving on this Board.
Board of Trustees Minutes Page 13 of 13 Special Meeting of July 23, 2025
Trustee Nagle extended a warm shoutout to his son-in-law, Adrian, an Oak Brook Police Detective recovering
from a clavicle injury. He congratulated the management and staff of Oakbrook Center Mall, praising their
exceptional contributions to the community. He congratulated his wife, Tely, for receiving the prestigious
American League Association Mother of the Year award, an honor previously given to notable recipients such as
Hillary Clinton and Meryl Streep. He shared that Tely is currently volunteering at an orphanage in Mexico
following a demanding trip to Africa, expressing his pride and congratulated her on her dedication and service.
11.ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Motion: To Adjourn the Special Board of Trustees Meeting of July 23, 2025, to Closed Session at 10:28 p.m.
Motioned: Trustee Reddy
Seconded: Trustee Manzo
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 6 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Nagle, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 0 None
Motion Passed
President Herman reminded everyone that since there is no other Village business the meeting will Adjourn from
the Upper-Level Conference Room following the Closed Session.
12.ADJOURNMENT
Motion: To Adjourn the Special Board of Trustees Meeting of July 23, 2025, at 10:52 p.m.
Motioned: Trustee Manzo
Seconded: Trustee Reddy
ROLL CALL VOTE:
Ayes: 5 Trustees Jain, Manzo, Martin, Reddy, Tiesenga
Nays: 0 None
Abstain: 0 None
Absent: 1 Trustee Nagle
Motion Passed
ATTEST:
Netasha Scarpiniti
Village Clerk
/s/ Netasha Scarpiniti