City of Yorkville City Council met Feb. 10.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
Mayor Purcell called the meeting to order at 7: 00 p. m. and led the Council in the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
City Clerk Contrino called the roll.
Ward I Koch Present
Transier Present
Ward II Plocher Present
Soling Present
Ward III Funkhouser Present
Marek Present
Ward IV Corneils Present
Hyett Present
Staff in attendance at City Hall: City Administrator Olson, City Clerk Contrino, Chief Jensen, Attorney Tornatore, Public Works Director Dhuse, Community Development Director Barksdale- Noble, Finance Director Fredrickson, Parks and Recreation Director Evans, Economic Development Coordinator
Gregory, Economic Development Director Dubajic Kellogg, EEI Engineer Sanderson, and Superintendent of Recreation Remus.
Staff in attendance electronically: Assistant City Administrator Willrett
Members of the public were able to attend this meeting in person as well as being able to access the meeting remotely via Zoom which allowed for video, audio, and telephonic participation.
A meeting notice was posted on the City’ s website on the agenda, minutes, and packets webpage with instructions regarding remote meeting access and a link was included for the public to participate in the meeting remotely:
1. The Zoom meeting ID was 821 1624 1803.
QUORUM
A quorum was established.
AMENDMENTS TO THE AGENDA
Mayor Purcell shared that City Administrator Olson will give a short presentation on data centers. He also clarified that a vote on the Meyer property, adjacent to the Caledonia subdivision, is not scheduled, as digital ABC News 7 reported in error. He further explained that it is not on the agenda.
PRESENTATIONS
Check Presentations
a. Yorkville American Legion Flags of Valor
Parks and Recreation Director Evans presented a check to the Yorkville American Legion Flags of Valor for$ 3, 000. He shared that the American Legion and the City work together for_the Legion’ s Memorial Day celebration and the Flags of Valor flag display in Town Square. Director Evans also stated that the fish fry will be starting next week. Commander Jeff, of the American Legion, thanked the Parks and Recreation staff for assisting in numerous events. He presented Director Evans, Superintendent of Recreation Remus, and Superintendent of Parks Sleezer each with a plaque of appreciation.
b. Knights of Columbus
Parks and Recreation Director Evans presented a check to the Knights of Columbus for$ 1, 500. He shared that the Knights of Columbus volunteer at many City events throughout the year, including the holiday celebration race.
Data Center Presentation
City Administrator Olson gave a presentation and status update on data center developments ( see presentation attached).
PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
CITIZEN COMMENTS ON AGENDA ITEMS
None.
CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council— January 13, 2026
2. Minutes of the Regular City Council— January 27, 2026
3. Bill Payments for Approval
530, 093. 61 ( vendors)
201, 328. 36 ( wire payments)
475, 127. 67 ( payroll period ending 01/ 30/ 26)
1, 206, 549. 64 ( total)
4. Resolution 2026- 13 Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement for Reciprocal Building Inspection Services Between the United City of Yorkville and Kendall County— authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute( PW 2025- 107)
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve the consent agenda. So moved by Alderman Soling; seconded by Alderman Koch.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Koch- aye, Plocher- aye, Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye, Transier- aye, Soling- aye, Marek- aye, Hyett- aye
REPORTS
MAYOR’ S REPORT
Ordinance 2026- 09 Approving a Minor Amendment to the Approved Planned Unit Development for Cl Yorkville, LLC
(CC 2026- 04)
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Approving a Minor Amendment to the Approved Planned Unit Development for Cl Yorkville, LLC and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute. So moved by Alderman Plocher; seconded by Alderman Soling.
Community Development Director Barksdale- Noble explained that the minor amendment to the previously approved PUD for Cl Yorkville, LLC is to revise the site and location of electrical substations and remove one building. Although the minor change to the PUD is typically approved administratively by staff, she explained that the petitioner has chosen to follow the pull review process under the Unified Development Ordinance and obtain formal approval from the City Council. Director Barksdale- Noble stated that the proposed changes include reducing the substation from 800, 000 square feet to 400, 000 square feet, eliminating Building 7, and reducing the total building size from 2. 4 million square feet to 2. 1 million square feet.
Russ Whitaker shared that they would be seeking a site development permit imminently, with construction starting this quarter. They expect power delivery by next year. Alderman Funkhouser asked whether they would consider reducing building heights ifthey returned for a further amendment. Mr. Whitaker explained they would reduce it to one story from two two- story buildings if so. Mayor Purcell asked when construction begins on buildings, how many jobs are expected during construction. Mr. Whitaker stated that they will get that material to the Mayor. Alderman Soling asked why they reduced the substation size. Mr. Whitaker stated they were able to get into the final engineering drawings and dial things in.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Plocher-aye, Funkhouser-aye, Corneils- aye, Transier-aye, Soling- aye, Marek-aye, Hyett-aye, Koch-aye
Ordinance 2026- 10 Authorizing the Acquisition of Easements for the Construction of Improvements to the City’ s Water System (Rally Homes, LLC)
(CC 2026- 05)
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Authorizing the Acquisition of Easements for the Construction of Improvements to the City’ s Water System( Rally Homes, LLC) and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute. So moved by Alderman Funkhouser; seconded by Alderman Marek. City Administrator Olson explained that the easement is necessary for the Lake Michigan water project and will cost$ 5, 000, plus closing costs.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye, Transier- aye, Soling- aye, Marek- aye, Hyett- aye, Koch- aye, Plocher- aye
Ordinance 2026- 11 Authorizing and providing for an installment purchase agreement for the purpose of financing the costs of certain water system capital projects in and for the United City of Yorkville, Kendall County, Illinois, and authorizing and providing for the issuance of a not to exceed$ 50, 000, 000 debt certificate, Series 2026, of said city evidencing the rights to payment under such agreement, prescribing the details of the agreement and certificate, and providing security for and means of payment under the agreement of the certificate.
(CC 2026- 06)
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance authorizing and providing for an installment purchase agreement for the purpose offinancing the costs of certain water system capital projects in and for the United City of Yorkville, Kendall County, Illinois, and authorizing and providing for the issuance of a not to exceed$ 50, 000, 000 debt certificate, Series 2026, of said city evidencing the rights to payment under such agreement, prescribing the details ofthe agreement and certificate, and providing security for and means of payment under the agreement ofthe certificate and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute. So moved by Alderman Transier; seconded by Alderman Koch.
Finance Director Fredrickson explained that the ordinance would authorize the City to borrow up to$ 50 million as interim financing. Two options were presented: borrowing a lesser amount( example provided of$ 35 million), spending proceeds as needed, and investing unused funds to offset interest costs, which would result in estimated carrying costs between$ 10, 000 and$ 80, 000 or more depending on investment returns and the duration funds remain outstanding; or borrowing the full$ 50 million through a debt certificate with Huntington Bank at an interest rate of 3. 83%, rather than utilizing the WIFIA loan program, which is currently at 4. 82%. The recommended option would result in estimated annual interest savings of approximately$ 500, 000, or approximately$ 2 million through December 30, 2029. Finance Director Fredrickson further noted that minor revisions to the ordinance were emailed earlier that day. The revisions included removing the bank as paying agent, with the City serving in that capacity, and refining the optional redemption notice period from 5- 60 days to 30- 60 days. He stated that the debt certificate may be redeemed, in whole or in part, without penalty at any time after January 15, 2027, regardless of which financing option is selected.
Mayor Purcell clarified that the motions given were for the staff’ s preferred option of$50 million. Mayor Purcell also clarified that this is a bridge and not additional money on what was already borrowed. Alderman Transier asked whether these funds can be used for items that have already been completed and for which the WIFIA proceeds have not yet been released. Finance Director Fredrickson said that it is correct and that he is looking to focus on the DWC watermain transmissions, as they have larger deposits.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Corneils- aye, Transier- aye, Soling- aye, Marek- aye, Hyett- aye, Koch- aye, Plocher- aye, Funkhouser- aye
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE REPORT
Ordinance 2026- 12 Authorizing the Grant of Certain Easements for the Construction of Improvements to the City’ s Water System
PW 2026- 09)
Alderman Soling entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Authorizing the Grant of Certain Easements for the Construction of Improvements to the City’ s Water System and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute; seconded by Alderman Marek.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Transier- aye, Soling- aye, Marek- aye, Hyett- aye, Koch- aye, Plocher- aye, Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT
Ordinance 2026- 13 Amending the Yorkville City Code Permit Fee- Plan Review Fee Schedule)
(EDC 2026- 12)
Alderman Koch entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Amending the Yorkville City Code Permit Fee- Plan Review Fee Schedule) and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute; seconded by Alderman Marek.
Alderman Funkhouser questioned how the proposed fees were being justified, noting that fees are intended to correlate with actual staff review and inspection costs. Using a CyrusOne building example of approximately 287, 000 square feet, he referenced the estimated$ 1. 52 million in total fees and sought clarification on how that amount aligns with anticipated staffing and consultant expenditures.
Community Development Director Barksdale- Knoble responded that, based on experience with prior large projects such as Bright Farms and Costco, inspection demands have been substantial and are expected to increase significantly for hyperscale facilities. She indicated that projects of this scale may require up to approximately 300 inspections per building, including daily and weekly on- site presence, as well as intensive monitoring of construction, traffic, and noise compliance. Community Development Director Barksdale- Knoble stated that two additional internal positions are being proposed to manage the increased workload. Consultant services may also be necessary for specialized review areas, including medium- and high-voltage electrical systems and other technical components for which the City currently lacks qualified personnel.
City Administrator Olson stated that the consultant rates discussed during preliminary outreach were significantly higher than standard internal hourly costs. The proposed fee structure includes an increase in the base building permit fee and the addition of a mechanical, electrical, and plumbing( MEP) inspection fee for buildings exceeding 200, 000 square feet. Community Development Director Barksdale- Knoble indicated that the fees are intended to recover actual and anticipated costs associated with review, inspection, and compliance oversight, and are not intended to serve as a revenue- generating mechanism.
Alderman Koch noted that the matter had been reviewed by the Public Works Committee and recommended for approval.
Alderman Funkhouser emphasized the importance of ensuring the fees are justified and correspond to actual expenditures. He inquired whether the City would review the fees post- project to confirm alignment with costs and whether any significant overages would be retained or otherwise addressed. City Administrator Olson responded that such determinations would be subject to Council direction and noted that historically, excess building permit revenues have been designated for one- time expenditures rather than ongoing operational costs.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Soling- aye, Marek- aye, Hyett- aye, Koch- aye, Plocher-aye, Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye, Transier-aye
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE REPORT
No report.
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE REPORT
No report.
PARK BOARD
St. Patrick’ s Day Celebration
Parks and Recreation Director Evans shared that the Yorkville St. Patrick’ s Day Celebration is on Saturday, March 14, 2026. More information can be found on the City’ s website at https:// www.yorkville.il.us/632/ St-Patricks-Day-Celebration.
Margaritas En Mayo
Parks and Recreation Director Evans announced that Margaritas En Mayo will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026. More information will be shared as it becomes available.
PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
Yorkville School District 115
(PZC 2025- 14& EDC 2025- 85)
Ordinance 2026- 14 a. Annexing Certain Territory Located Generally North of River Road, West of Game Farm Road, and East of Eldamain Road, to the United City of Yorkville
(Yorkville School District 115)
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Annexing Certain Territory Located Generally North of River Road, West of Game Farm Road, and East of Eldamain Road, to the United City of Yorkville( Yorkville School District 115) and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute. So moved by Alderman Marek; seconded by Alderman Soling.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Marek-aye, Hyett-aye, Koch-aye, Plocher-aye, Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye, Transier- aye, Soling- aye
Ordinance 2026- 15 b. Authorizing the Execution of an Annexation Agreement and Between the United City of Yorkville and Yorkville Community Unit School District 115
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Authorizing the Execution of an Annexation Agreement By and Between the United City ofYorkville and Yorkville Community Unit School District 115 and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute. So moved by Alderman Soling; seconded by Alderman Marek.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Hyett- aye, Koch- aye, Plocher- aye, Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye, Transier- aye, Soling- aye, Marek- aye
Ordinance 2026- 16 c. Approving the Rezoning to the PI Public Institutional Zoning District of Certain Territory Located Generally North of River Road, West of Game Farm Road, and East of Eldamain Road( Yorkville School District 115)
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to approve an Ordinance Approving the Rezoning to the PI Public Institutional Zoning District of Certain Territory Located Generally North of River Road, West of Game Farm Road, and East of Eldamain Road( Yorkville School District 115) and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute. So moved by Alderman Hyett; seconded by Alderman Koch.
Motion approved by a roll call vote. Ayes- 8 Nays- 0
Koch- aye, Plocher- aye, Funkhouser- aye, Corneils- aye, Transier-aye, Soling-aye, Marek-aye, Hyett-aye
CITY COUNCIL REPORT
No report.
CITY CLERK’ S REPORT
No report.
COMMUNITY& LIAISON REPORT
No report.
STAFF REPORT
No report.
MAYOR’ S REPORT( cont’ d)
Public Works and Parks Department
Facility Update
Public Works Director Dhuse reported that the above-ground fuel tanks were installed this morning. The building is currently expected to open in July 2026.
Lake Michigan Water
Project Update
(CC 2025- 09)
Mayor Purcell shared that the last bid should be opened in the middle of March, by which time the City will know most of the project costs. Alderman Koch asked whether, once the bids are submitted, they can be changed, and City Administrator Olson said yes through the standard change order process.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Alderman Marek inquired about monitoring traffic on Boombah Boulevard to address 18- wheelers traveling through the area. Chief Jensen explained that the complaint was on Caledonia Drive and Corneils Road. He reported that the police department spent 33. 33 hours surveying traffic from January 14th to February 9th. There were 14 traffic stops between Caledonia Drive and Corneils Road, of which 10 were traffic control device violations. Chief Jensen stated that the trucks were from different businesses, including Canadian ones, and were going to Menards and Bright Farms. One of the drivers was lost because he used his phone’ s GPS rather than a GPS designed for truck drivers. Chief Jensen explained that GPS for truckers costs money and that, often, truckers do not want to pay, so they use a standard GPS. This results in the absence of appropriate alternate routes.
Chief Jensen also shared that the Yorkville Police Department will be hosting its Polar Plunge on Sunday, March 1st
CITIZEN COMMENTS
Leesa Poss stated that her children and grandchildren live in the Caledonia area near the proposed site and expressed concern about proximity to residential homes and potential impacts to well water. She questioned whether contaminants could enter private wells and asked why a data center is necessary in Yorkville. She referenced the Illinois Constitution and stated that data centers differ significantly from residential neighborhoods.
Diana Cafi stated she is not opposed to economic growth or technology but believes residents deserve full transparency about potential impacts. She cited research on documented health effects and raised concerns about air quality standards, diesel generator testing, binding noise requirements, water consumption, and public health impacts. She suggested requiring mandatory health impact reviews, legally binding noise limits, annual reporting on water and pollution metrics, and the formation of an oversight committee. ( Diana passed out information during the meeting, which is attached.)
Joe Besco, a resident of the Countryside subdivision, stated he is 100% opposed to data centers. He expressed concern that the benefits appear primarily financial rather than community- based. He questioned what is happening to the city’s character and said he would contact City officials. He stated he does not believe the project would be useful to residents.
Anna asked whether the Council had conducted independent research and urged consideration of long term health and environmental consequences. She raised concerns regarding air pollution, generator emissions, light pollution, potential cancer risks, and irreversible environmental impacts. She asked Council to consider public health over profit and to evaluate cumulative impacts before making a decision.
Astra Felix stated that she will submit follow- up questions to City staff and the Council. She asked about the impact on property values, comparisons between farmland and data center land uses, and whether Council would consider requiring developers to purchase properties within a certain radius if property values decline. She also raised concerns regarding debt repayment, water rate increases, and whether residents may bear financial burdens before revenues are realized. She requested that decisions be tabled until additional information is provided.
John Flisk, owner of Legacy Equestrian Center on Ashe Road, stated he has experienced significant stress related to the proposal and expressed concern about potential impacts on his business and livestock. He stated horses are sensitive to environmental changes and indicated the project could affect his operations. He referenced actions taken in other communities and stated he does not believe the project is appropriate near residential or agricultural properties.
Jeremiah Teusink, a resident of Corneils Road, asked about building height limits and visibility from nearby homes. He expressed concerns regarding water and sewer capacity, electrical infrastructure demands, and whether existing systems can support the development. He asked about noise mitigation measures, including chiller locations and setback distances, and requested additional presentation materials outlining both benefits and drawbacks.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
None
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Purcell entertained a motion to adjourn the City Council meeting. So moved by Alderman Plocher; seconded by Alderman Soling.
Motion unanimously approved by a viva voce vote.
Meeting adjourned at 8: 58 p.m.
https://www.yorkville.il.us/ArchiveCenter/ViewFile/Item/6654
