Council Raises Fighting Fines, Approves Fire Aid Agreement

Meeting Overview

On November 9, 2023, the St. Charles Government Operations Committee convened to address public safety, emergency services, and city financial operations. Key decisions included:

• Amendment to Title 9 Fighting Ordinance to increase fines.

• Approval of the updated Mavis Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (Fire/EMS) agreement.

• Authorization of a three-year professional auditing services agreement with CCK LLP.

The meeting reflected the city’s commitment to public safety, operational efficiency, and fiscal responsibility.

Title 9 Fighting Ordinance Amendment

Chief Keegan led discussion on amending Chapter 9.09: Fighting, part of the city’s Public Peace, Morals, and Welfare code.

Key Points

• Current fines: $500; proposed increase: $750 (maximum allowed under Illinois law).

• Amendment ensures enforcement even when victims decline to sign complaints or aggressors are unclear.

• Hearing officers retain discretion to levy fines between $0 and $750, reinforcing the police department’s zero tolerance policy.

The motion to raise the fine was approved unanimously, strengthening the city’s stance on public fighting and supporting safer community spaces.

Mavis Intergovernmental Agreement Approved

Chief Swanson presented the updated Mavis agreement, a statewide mutual aid system for Fire/EMS and specialized rescue operations.

Key Points

• Updates a 12-year-old agreement, formalizing mutual aid procedures.

• Protects the city from liability; each community responsible for its own resources.

• Proven effectiveness during events like the 2022 Phantom Run fire, which saw assistance from 24 communities.

The committee unanimously approved the agreement, ensuring continued rapid and coordinated emergency response.

Three-Year Auditing Services Contract

Bill Hannah, Director of Finance, introduced a three-year agreement with CCK LLP (formerly Sage) for professional auditing services.

Key Points

• CCK LLP has a proven track record in audit accuracy and responsiveness.

• Agreement spans 2024–2026, with modest fee increases: 1.9% for 2024, 2.7% for 2025–2026.

• Provides stability amidst expected finance department personnel transitions.

The motion passed unanimously, ensuring reliable oversight of city finances for the coming years.

Key Takeaways

The November 9 Government Operations Committee meeting emphasized:

• Public safety enforcement through updated fighting ordinance fines.

• Operational readiness via the updated Mavis Fire/EMS mutual aid agreement.

• Financial stability through a long-term auditing services contract.

These actions demonstrate St. Charles’ commitment to maintaining safe streets, robust emergency response, and sound fiscal management.

Conclusion

By strengthening enforcement policies, modernizing emergency aid agreements, and securing professional auditing services, St. Charles ensures the city is well-prepared for public safety, emergency coordination, and financial oversight. These measures reflect proactive governance and dedication to community well-being.