HomeMy Public PortalAbout02-08-2016 COW Minutes a 'iuq4-u4L C,
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole Workshop of the President and the Board of Trustees
Held on February 8,2016
In the Boardroom
Mayor Collins called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Present were: Mayor Collins,Trustee O'Rourke,
Trustee Peck, Trustee Wojowski,Trustee Bonuchi, and Trustee Lamb. Board Absent: Trustee Racich.
Others present: Brian Murphy,Village Administrator; Michelle Gibas,Village Clerk; Allen Persons,Public
Works Director; Jon Proulx, Planner;Ken Goska,Building Official; and John Konopek, Chief of Police.
There were approximately 12 persons in the audience.
Trustee Lamb moved to approve the Minutes of the Committee of the Whole Workshop held on
January 25, 2016. Seconded by Trustee Peck. Voice Vote. All in favor, 0 Opposed.
PRESIDENTIAL COMMENTS
Mayor Collins stated that he received the request from business owners to have a discussion regarding video
gaming on the agenda.
TRUSTEES COMMENTS
Trustee Peck questioned how taxes would allocated within the TIF District if the Library referendum of a 90%
tax increase in the library portion of the taxes is successful. Administrator Murphy stated that he believes that
the TIF District captures the increase within its boundaries,but he would do more research.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Mrs.Vicky Polito expressed concern and voice opposition to Video Gaming in the Village.
WORKSHOP
#1 VIDEO GAMING
Mr. Jay Darnell,T-Birds Liquors, stated that he met with local business owners regarding video gaming. Mr.
Darnell stated that he felt that video gaming was an add-on purchase. Mr. Darnell pointed out that video
gaming was approved in the areas surrounding the Village. Mr. Darnell asked the Village Board to consider
video gaming to allow the Plainfield businesses to compete with the surrounding businesses. Mr. Darnell
pointed out that the businesses that showed growth in Will County are the ones with video gaming.
Trustee O'Rourke stated the he was conflicted. He is open to supporting existing businesses,but expressed
concern with video gaming cafes. He stated that the he would need to know the details. Trustee Wojowski
stated that the Board would like to make the Village a destination and that will benefit everyone. He expressed
concern regarding which businesses would be eligible for a license. Trustee Lamb stated that he has yet to see
where video gaming has enhanced the local population. He is interested in helping local businesses succeed,
but does not feel that video gaming is the way to accomplish that. The goal is to be a destination and video
gaming is not a productive way to do that. Trustee Peck stated that he has spoken with economists that viewed
video gaming as bad for the economy. He also expressed concern regarding getting the revenue from the state
from video gaming. Trustee Bonuchi stated that several people have thanked her for not putting video gaming
in the Village. She supports businesses,but does not feel that this is the right way to help local businesses and
brings the wrong image to the Village.
Mayor Collins thanked Mr. Darnell for his presentation and read the reminders.
Trustee Lamb moved to adjourn. Seconded by Trustee Peck. Voice Vote. All in favor, 0 Opposed.
he me; ing adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Michelle Gibas,Village Clerk