Mayor Philip J. Suess | City of Wheaton Website
Mayor Philip J. Suess | City of Wheaton Website
City of Wheaton City Council met July 7
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
1. Call to Order and Roll Call
The regular Wheaton City Council Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by City Clerk Andrea Rosedale. Upon roll call, the following were:
Physically Present: Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilwoman Bray-Parker
Councilman Brown
Absent: Mayor Suess
Councilwoman Brice
City Staff Physically
Present: Michael G. Dzugan, City Manager
William Kolschowsky, Assistant City Manager
Dawn Didier, City Attorney
Jim Kozik, Director of Planning & Economic Development
Joseph Tebrugge, Director of Engineering
Susan Bishel, Public Information Officer
Andrea Rosedale, City Clerk
City Staff Electronically
Present: Nathan Plunkett, Street Superintendent
2. Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem
Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Weller seconded that Councilwoman Bray—Parker be appointed to Mayor Pro Tem for the evening’s meeting.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilwoman Bray—Parker
Councilman Brown
Councilman Clousing
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
3. Citizens to be Heard
John Truly emailed al|counci|@wheaton.i|.us on June 26, 2025, requesting their email to be reflected as public comment at the Council meeting noting support of Councilman Brown for his efforts to keep Wheaton’s local government focused on governance, referring to his vote for the reappointment of library members.
Laurie Metanchuk, 1303 N. President St., Wheaton Public Library Board President, highlighted library pride and leadership. She mentioned the library posted a Pride Month reading list on social media, which led to complaints from two councilmembers: one about the list, and the other from Councilman Brown about sexual content, division, negative energy, age appropriateness, and a Candyland-themed display. She highlighted the Wheaton Public Library's and Betsy Adamowski's achievements and urged people to contact her with performance comments. She reflected upon the June 16, 2025, council meeting when Councilman Brown voted against four Library Board reappointments. She stated the LGBTQIA community deserves representation in the library's collections and assured the library will continue this practice.
Rebecca Osterman, 1224 E. Liberty Dr., expressed support of the library and dissatisfaction against the recent efforts of Councilman Brown referencing content from a publicly shared email and comments made at the June 16, 2025, council meeting.
Elenor McNear, 203 N. Blanchard St., expressed support for the library and Wheaton community. She spoke against a recent email from Councilman Brown shared publicly and his council comments at the June 16, 2025, council meeting, noting the comments do not represent her or her family.
Kara Murphy, 222 N. Gary Ave., expressed support for the councilmembers, the diverse community, and many groups of Wheaton. She expressed disappointment in Councilman Brown. She challenged the Council and the community to learn more about people in the community from different backgrounds, experiences and groups to encourage knowledge and compassion.
Elizabeth Albert, 1017 Penny Ln., expressed dissatisfaction with Councilman Brown’s comments and email. She expressed support for the library and gratitude to the ancestors of Wheaton for providing the library.
Mark Taylor, 1605 E. Forest Ave., expressed support for the library and its offerings on various topics relating to all communities and groups. He expressed dissatisfaction in the library and the City Council for presenting itself as being in favor of a particular social group.
Glenn Korsirog, 280 W. Cole Ave., expressed dissatisfaction and concerns with the library's promotion of sexual orientations. He expressed support for Councilman Brown.
Karen Bomer, 366 W. Seminary Ave., expressed support for the library and the director and discussed Pride.
Jeanne lves, expressed dissatisfaction and concerns with the June 1st post from the Wheaton Public Library and the library’s presentation of material on display. She expressed support for Councilman Brown.
Dr. Kimberly Warren, 46 Stanley St, Winfield, expressed gratitude to the Council and support for the Wheaton Public Library and the comments shared. She asked the Council and community to support the library as a safe piace to provide resources and education to all who seek it.
Erik Heavey, 510 Wakeman Ave., expressed support for Counciiman Brown’s actions as a councilmember. He expressed support for the Iibrary. He stated the library is not a private business, and as a taxpayer funded entity used by everyone, the library should consider how material is presented. He encouraged grace on both sides when discussing concerns involving varying opinions to find solutions.
Jim Pursiey, 1901 S. Wiesbrook Rd., expressed support for the library and for Councilman Brown’s actions as a public servant and noted appreciation for his willingness to raise issues and voice concerns and hopes that it produces constructive dialogue.
4. Consent Agenda
Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Brown seconded that the following action be taken on the Consent Agenda items:
1. Approve the Minutes of the Wheaton City Council Public Hearing — June 9, 2025 (Vacation/Wilson Right-of—Way), as submitted.
2. Approve the Minutes of the Wheaton City Council Public Hearing — June 9, 2025 (Vacation/Willow Right-of-Way), as submitted
3. Approve the Minutes of the Wheaton City Council Regular Meeting — June 16, 2025, as submitted.
4. Adopt Resolution R-2025-50, A Resolution Approving a Plat of Easement Grant (Ka Subdivision).
5. Adopt Resolution R—2025-51, A Resolution Authorizing the Disposal of Certain Surplus Property (PW).
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
5. Adopt Resolution R-2025-52, A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of LED Streetlight Fixtures from TWG Infrastructure Solutions for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $81,405
Councilman Clousing moved and Councilman Weller seconded that R—2025-52, A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of LED Streetlight Fixtures from TWG infrastructure Solutions for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $81,405, be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan reported three bids were received for the replacement of 81 coach streetlight fixtures to continue efforts to replace older less efficient fixtures with LED ones.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
6. Adopt Resolution R-2025-53, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 545 with Precision Pavement Markings Inc. for Thermoplastic Pavement Marking Services through the Joint Purchasing Program with DuPage County for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $82,500 Councilman Brown moved and Councilwoman Robbins seconded that R-2025—S3, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 545 with Precision Pavement Markings inc. forThermoplastic Pavement Marking Services through the Joint Purchasing Program with DuPage County for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $82,500, be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan announced the replacement of about 430 items this year, mainly in the Northwest quadrant and some downtown streets. He highlighted the project is approximately $8,000 under budget.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Nays: None
Absent: Mayor Suess
Councilwoman Brice
Motion Carried Unanimously
7. Adopt Resolution R-2025-54, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 546 for Bulk Rock Salt through the DuPage County Joint Purchasing Solicitation with Compass Minerals America, Inc. to be Purchased on an As Needed Basis at the Price per Ton Set Forth in Compass Minerals America, lnc.’s Cost Proposal
Councilman WeHer moved and Councilwoman Robbins seconded that R—2025—54, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 546 for Bulk Rock Salt through the DuPage County Joint Purchasing Solicitation with Compass Minerals America, inc. to be Purchased on an As Needed Basis at the Price per Ton Set Forth in Compass Minerals America, Inc.’s Cost Proposal, be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan reported the City is using the joint purchase program with DuPage County for the purchase of salt. He noted the purchase price is 4% less than last year.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker
Councilman Ciousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
8. First reading of An Ordinance Amending the Official Motor Vehicle and Traffic Schedule VI (Chapter 70) for the City of Wheaton — Somerset Circle
City Manager Dzugan stated City staff received a request from residents along Somerset Circle who reported difficulty accessing their mailboxes due to vehicles parked in front of the mailboxes. He reported the ordinance would prohibit parking in front of the mailboxes to allow the residents to access them.
9. Receive Planning & Zoning Board Report Re: ZA #25-14/Special Use Permit Amendment, Rezoning, and Variations/ 314 W. Willow Avenue, 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue/ St. Michael Catholic Church
Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Brown seconded that Planning & Zoning Board Report Re: ZA #25-14/Special Use Permit Amendment, Rezoning, and Variations/ 314 W. Willow Avenue, 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue/ St. Michael Catholic Church, be received.
City Manager Dzugan reported that staff placed a revised ordinance on the dais suggesting an amendment to Section Five to allow the applicant to seek a 12—month extension to the rezoning, variations and special use if the project does not begin within the first year. He noted that fundraising is a significant factor in the project’s funding and an extension option would be appropriate to consider.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker
Councilman Clousing
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
Pass Ordinance 0-2025-31, An Ordinance Granting a Rezoning, Parking Lot Setback Variations and Special Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of an Existing Special Use for a Building Primarily Devoted to Religious Worship with an Elementary School Use at 314 W. Willow Avenue to Include 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue. — St. Michael Catholic Church
Councilman Brown moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that 0—2025—31, An Ordinance Granting a Rezoning, Parking Lot Setback Variations and Special Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of an Existing Special Use for a Building Primarily Devoted to Religious Worship with an Elementary School Use at 314 W. Willow Avenue to include 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue. — St. Michael Cathoiic Church, be passed.
Councilman Weller made a motion to amend Section 5 of Ordinance 0-2025-31 to state, ”The special use, variations, and rezoning offered by this Ordinance shall become void unless construction for occupancy is substantially in progress within twelve (12) months of the date of this Ordinance provided however the applicant may seek a one-time twelve (12) month extension of the special use, variations and rezoning."
Amend Ordinance 0-2025-31, An Ordinance Granting a Rezoning, Parking Lot Setback Variations and Special Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of an Existing Special Use for a Building Primarily Devoted to Religious Worship with an Elementary School Use at 314 W. Willow Avenue to lnclude 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue. — St. Michael Catholic Church, be amended in Section 5 to say, “The special use, variations, and rezoning offered by this Ordinance shall become void unless construction for occupancy is substantially in progress within twelve (12) months of the date of this Ordinance provided however the applicant may seek a one-time twelve (12) month extension of the special use, variations and rezoning."
Councilman Weller moved and Councilwoman Robbins seconded that 0-2025—31, An Ordinance Granting a Rezoning, Parking Lot Setback Variations and Special Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of an Existing Special Use for a Building Primarily Devoted to Religious Worship with an Elementary School Use at 314 W. Willow Avenue to include 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue. — St. Michael Catholic Church, be amended in Section 5 to state, ”The special use, variations, and rezoning offered by this Ordinance shall become void unless construction for occupancy is substantially in progress within twelve (12) months of the date of this Ordinance provided however the applicant may seek a one— time twelve (12) month extension of the special use, variations and rezoning.”
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray~Parker
Councilman Ciousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
WHEATON CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
Pass Amended Ordinance 0-2025-31, An Ordinance Granting a Rezoning, Parking Lot Setback Variations and Special Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of an Existing Special Use for a Building Primarily Devoted to Religious Worship with an Elementary School Use at 314 W. Willow Avenue to Include 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue. — St. Michael Catholic Church
Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Weller seconded that 0-2025-31, An Ordinance Granting a Rezoning, Parking Lot Setback Variations and Special Use Permit to Allow the Expansion of an Existing Special Use for a Building Primarily Devoted to Religious Worship with an Elementary School Use at 314 W. Willow Avenue to include 221 S. West Street, 317 W. Willow Avenue, and 216 S. Wheaton Avenue. — St. Michael Catholic Church, be passed as amended.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
10. First reading of An Ordinance Amending the Wheaton Liquor Control Ordinance, Chapter 6 - Alcoholic Beverages Section 6-129 - Hours of Business — Generally Class R License
City Manager Dzugan stated a request was received to amend the hours of permitted liquor sales for Class R license holders to allow the sale of liquor on Sundays between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. He detailed the Class R license is the full-service salon and spa business classification.
11. Adopt Resolution R-2025-55, A Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code (2025 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program)
Councilman Weller moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that R—2025-55, A Resolution for Improvement Under the Illinois Highway Code (2025 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program), be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan reported the City is required to approve this resolution identifying the expenditure of Motor Fuel Tax funds for the City’s annual Road Program.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
12. Adopt Resolution R-2025-56, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 550 with R.W. Dunteman Company for the 2025 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $5,867,457.70 and a 5% Contingency
Councilman Brown moved and Councilman Weller seconded that R—2025-56, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 550 with R.W. Dunteman Company for the 2025 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $5,867,457.70 and a 5% Contingency, be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan reported the City received two bids for the Road Program this year, noting bids came in high at $1.5MM over budget. He reported staff made some adjustments to the work, deferring Chase and James Court, which were heavy in utility costs, particularly the replacement of water mains. He stated since the City is close to receiving the water risk analysis report, staff decided to wait before expending the amount on water mains. He reported with the reductions; the project remains $206,000 over budget and possibly an additional $300,000 with the %5 contingency.
In response to Councilman Weller, City Manager Dzugan stated a number of factors can contribute to the increased cost over budget, including the timing of bids, an increase in material costs, and estimating.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Nays: None
Absent: Mayor Suess
Councilwoman Brice
Motion Carried Unanimously
13. Adopt Resolution R-2025-57, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 537 with Electrical Resource Management, lnc. dba TWG Program Management for Professional Engineering Services for Phase 3 Construction Resident Engineer Services on the 2025 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $83,200
Councilman Weller moved and Councilwoman Robbins seconded that R-2025—57, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 537 with Electrical Resource Management, Inc. dba TWG Program Management for Professional Engineering Services for Phase 3 Construction Resident Engineer Services on the 2025 Road, Sewer, and Water Rehabilitation Program for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $83,200, be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan reported five bids were received for professional services with the Road Program this year. He noted due to staffing limitations, the City required assistance for this year’s program to ensure it is managed effectively.
In response to Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker, Director of Engineering Tebrugge reported there is no specific answer to why the bids range greatiy, noting that on occasion companies are further away and therefore there may be additional costs for travel time. He noted TWG is a local Wheaton company.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
14. First reading of An Ordinance Amending the Wheaton City Code, Chapter 10 — Special Events, Amusements and Entertainments, Article II — Special Events and Chapter 42 — Offenses and Miscellaneous Provisions, Article IV — City Parks
City Manager Dzugan stated the ordinance concerns City Parking Lot 3, the Pavilion, and the Public Plaza areas on Maine and Liberty. He reported the ordinance was drafted following the Council's discussion on June 23, 2025.
City Manager Dzugan noted he included a brief summary of key points using Al. Councilman Clousing found the summary excellent. Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker appreciated the clear indication that the summary was Al—generated and reviewed by staff for accuracy. City Manager Dzugan confirmed that staff will continue providing Al summaries for longer ordinances and memos.
15. Adopt Resolution R-2025-58, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 547 with Via Meridiana Contractors, LLC for the Wheaton Public Library Plaza Rehabilitation Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $829,442.03 and a 10% Contingency
Councilman Brown moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that R—2025—58, A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Agreement No. 547 with Via Meridiana Contractors, LLC for the Wheaton Public Library Plaza Rehabilitation Project for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $829,442.03 and a 10% Contingency, be adopted.
City Manager Dzugan reported that five bids were received for the Public Library renovation project, with the project coming in approximately $260,000 under the estimated cost. He mentioned that the City received a grant of $750,000 from Congressman Casten a few years ago to offset a significant portion of the project cost. He stated the Library Board reviewed the bids and recommended to the Council to accept the base bid along with three alternative bids. He noted the alternatives include the canopy structure, replacing the ADA ramps, and the replacement of the stairs and sidewalk on the south side of the plaza.
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker suggested consulting the Bicyclist and Pedestrian Commission for feedback on the downtown Wheaton bike repair station and the Environmental improvement Commission on lighting brightness.
Councilman Brown thanked members of the public who spoke during the meeting, stating their opinions are welcomed and appreciated. He emphasized the diversity of views expressed is part of what makes Wheaton a great community. He shared a personai story about a lifelong gay friend currently battling cancer, noting he booked a fiight to visit him and express sadness together. He stated he resents the implication from some in the community that he is not supportive of others, underscoring that he would always be there for his friend or anyone in need.
Councilman Brown expressed his objection to the use of proclamations for specific people groups which are presented by the Mayor, stating such actions are not a function of the City Council as a whole. He shared that he reached out to Betsy Adamowski, Executive Director of the Wheaton Public Library, to raise concerns regarding how the library handled June Pride Month programming. He acknowledged that while some may have perceived his outreach as an attack, he views it as a necessary part of civic discourse and his role as a Councilmember.
He stated that he is not bothered by opposing viewpoints expressed during the meeting, as he understands that representing differing perspectives is part of the responsibility he accepted when being elected to the City Council. He clarified that Library Board members are appointed by the Mayor and that Council approval is ceremonial. He noted that he had communicated his concerns and intentions to the Mayor in advance of the meeting, and therefore, his vote on the reappointments should not have come as a Surprise.
He commended the library as beautiful and valuable but explained that his critiques of its programming and metrics are not new, as he has raised similar concerns in the past. He reiterated his questions are part of his duty as a Councilmember. He encouraged the public to recognize that both their emotions and his own reflect personal opinions, and that he, like his colleagues, is committed to representing the entire community. He concluded by thanking all who participated in or observed the meeting and expressed his willingness to continue conversations with residents.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker
Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Nays: None
Absent: Mayor Suess
Councilwoman Brice
Motion Carried Unanimously
16. Council Comment
Councilman Weller acknowledged his wife Christina's 39th birthday. He noted that the past few weeks have been busy with activities and celebrations, and residents often express their gratitude for their service, which is appreciated. He also mentioned that their families make sacrifices quietly alongside them and thanked his wife for her support 0n Monday nights.
Councilwoman Robbins acknowledged the recent activities including the Wheaton Fieid of Honor, which featured 2025 flags in Seven Gables Park, the fireworks and drone show, and the Fourth ofJuly Parade with 67 entries. She expressed her gratitude for Wheaton pride, emphasizing the excellence of the City, its events, and its residents. She extended her appreciation to everyone who participated and those who contributed behind the scenes.
Councilman Clousing acknowledged Rudy Keller and the volunteers who coordinate the Wheaton Field of Honor, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to participate in a flyover of the event.
Councilman Clousing affirmed his support for Councilman Brown's right to express an opinion, noting that there are strong viewpoints on both sides of social issues. He mentioned that he was the second email received by the Library’s Executive Director and expressed uncertainty as to why he was not addressed in tonight's discussion. He expressed his surprise at the pornographic and sexually explicit material promoted by the Library’s Facebook post and noted that the Library Director appeared equally surprised and promptly removed the content.
He clarified that Councilman Brown did not make the emails public, as they were directly sent to the Library’s Executive Director. He stated regardless of one's views on the matter, the material was highly sexually charged. He noted the library is a publicly funded institution and it is his belief that such content should not be promoted. He thanked Councilman Brown for providing a voice on this issue.
Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker praised the 4th ofJuly events, including the Municipal Band's Kaboom show and the Field of Honor T—shirts. She thanked all City of Wheaton members for organizing and planning these public celebrations.
17. Approval of Warrant
Councilwoman Robbins moved and Councilman Clousing seconded that Warrant No. 899 in the amount of $1,398,046.38, be approved.
Roll Call Vote:
Ayes: Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray-Parker
Councilman Clousing
Nays: None
Absent: Councilwoman Brice
Mayor Suess
Motion Carried Unanimously
18. Adjournment
Councilman Brown moved and Councilwoman Robbins seconded that the regular Wheaton City Council Meeting be adjourned at 8:07 p.m.
Roll Cali Vote:
Ayes: Councilman Brown
Mayor Pro Tem Bray—Parker
Councilman Clousing
Councilwoman Robbins
Councilman Weller
Nays: None
Absent: Mayor Suess
Councilwoman Brice
Motion Carried Unanimously
https://www.wheaton.il.us/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07072025-2891
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