Committee Approves Scarecrow Weekend, Fireworks, Radio Sale

The Government Operations Committee met on August 1, 2022, addressing community event approvals, fire department equipment sales, and reviewing video gambling license policies. Key decisions supported public safety, event management, and inter-city cooperation.

Meeting Overview

The brief 7-minute meeting focused on routine administrative items, public event approvals, equipment disposal, and a discussion on refining video gambling license policies.

Date: August 1, 2022Duration: 7 minutes 46 secondsLocation: Government Operations Committee Meeting

Administrative Items

The committee reviewed Fuel Tax Revenue for June 2022. This was presented for information only and did not require any votes.

Decision: Administrative fuel tax report acknowledged.

Community Event Approvals

Scarecrow Weekend Street Closures

The Police Department requested street and parking lot closures for Scarecrow Weekend, scheduled for October 7-10, 2022. Two committee members abstained due to Rotary Club involvement. The closures were approved.

Decision: Street closures approved.Action Item: Implement closures during event dates.

Wedding Fireworks Display

The Fire Department requested approval for a fireworks display at St. Charles Country Club on August 20, 2022. Approximately 800 devices, all smaller than four inches, will be launched from the country club property. The request was routine and approved.

Decision: Fireworks display approved.Action Item: Fire Department to coordinate event safety.

Fire Department Equipment Sale

The Fire Department recommended the sale of 10 surplus VHF portable radios to the Maple Park Countryside Fire Protection District for $500. These radios were outdated analog devices no longer used by St. Charles. The sale addresses supply chain challenges for Maple Park and provides a beneficial solution for both parties.

Decision: Sale approved.Action Item: Complete transfer of radios to Maple Park.

Video Gambling License Policy Review

A council member raised concerns over the current video gambling license policy, particularly regarding street visibility of machines. Enforcement is currently reactive, responding to violations after they occur.

Proposed Change:

• Require submission of floor plans with license applications, similar to liquor licensing.

• Enable proactive review and approval to ensure compliance and accountability.

Action Item: Staff from Community Development and the Police Department to review and propose a revised policy for future committee consideration.

Attendees and Speakers

• Chair: Patrol

• Committee Members: Kalamaris, Weber, Fesner, Bancroft, Lencioni, Vanguard, Ed, Brian, Todd, Dave

• Fire Department: Chief

Conclusions

The August 1 meeting emphasized community engagement, safety, and inter-city cooperation. Approvals for Scarecrow Weekend and the fireworks display facilitate local events while ensuring public safety. The sale of surplus radios supports resource sharing with neighboring districts. The review of video gambling policies highlights proactive governance to improve compliance and oversight.

Final Verdict: The committee efficiently approved routine community events and resource transactions while addressing long-term policy improvements.