Mental Health Funding, Firefighter Savings Approved

Introduction

On June 21, 2022, the St. Charles Government Operations Committee held a brief meeting addressing critical community and employee initiatives. Key decisions included the approval of funding for the 708 Mental Health Board for FY 2022-2023 and the establishment of a Section 115 Retirement Savings Plan for professional firefighters. The meeting also transitioned to Executive Session for collective bargaining discussions.

Administrative Update: Video Gaming

The meeting opened with a quick update on May 2022 video gaming information. No questions or actions were required, allowing the committee to move swiftly to the main agenda items.

708 Mental Health Board Funding Allocation

The committee reviewed a recommendation to allocate $612,003 in funding to the St. Charles 708 Mental Health Board, a property-tax-funded initiative supporting local mental health, substance abuse, and developmental disability programs.

Presentation Highlights

• Caitlin Paremba, Chair of the 708 Board, presented the board’s mission and application process.

• 19 organizations applied for funding, including two new agencies: Joshua Tree and Horsepower Therapeutics.

• Seven organizations will receive over $25,000, including AID, CASA Kane County, St. Charles Police Department, Ecker Center, Lazarus House, Lighthouse Recovery, and Tri-City Family Services.

• Mental health services demand increased 44% in 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Committee Discussion

• Concerns were raised regarding transparency and detailed reporting, including recipient lists, services provided, and number of residents served.

• Staff committed to posting board minutes online and providing supplemental funding information to City Council.

• A committee member requested the allocation be discussed fully at City Council rather than included in an omnibus vote.

The motion to approve the 708 Mental Health Board funding allocation passed unanimously.

Section 115 Retirement Savings Plan for Firefighters

The committee also considered establishing a Section 115 Retirement Savings Plan for the St. Charles Professional Firefighters Association IAFF Local 3322.

Plan Overview

• Designed to help firefighters save for healthcare costs prior to Medicare eligibility

• Allows tax-free investments and distributions for health-related expenses

• Funded entirely by employee contributions (paycheck deductions and vacation/sick time payouts)

• Minimal administrative impact on the city, with potential payroll tax savings

Committee members asked clarifying questions regarding costs and administrative responsibilities. The plan was unanimously approved, providing a secure, long-term benefit for city firefighters.

Executive Session: Collective Bargaining

Following the approvals, the committee voted to enter Executive Session to discuss ongoing collective bargaining matters, marking the conclusion of public discussions for the day.

Conclusion

The June 21 Government Operations Committee Meeting demonstrated the city’s commitment to both community well-being and employee benefits. By approving funding for the 708 Mental Health Board, St. Charles continues to address critical mental health needs heightened by the pandemic. Meanwhile, the Section 115 Retirement Savings Plan ensures professional firefighters have a structured method to prepare for future healthcare expenses. Both actions reflect the city’s dedication to responsible governance and community support.