The Park Forest Village Board will meet on Monday, June 16, to address a full agenda. Key items include a vote on a proposed 1-percent grocery tax, the approval of the Village's budget for 2025–26, and finalizing the employment contract for the new village manager.
The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, located at 350 Victory Drive, and is open to the public.
Key Issues Up for a Vote
One of the most closely watched items is the board’s final vote on a proposed 1-percent local grocery sales tax. The measure is aimed at maintaining Village revenues as the state of Illinois prepares to phase out its own 1 percent grocery tax. If approved, the local tax would take effect Jan. 1, 2026.
Also on the docket is the formal adoption of the fiscal year 2025–26 Village budget, which outlines the financial priorities for the year ahead, including investments in infrastructure, technology, and community development.
Village Manager Transition
Monday’s meeting will also mark a transition in village leadership. Trustees are expected to approve a contract with incoming Village Manager Jon Kindseth. Under the proposed agreement, Kindseth will earn an initial salary of $196,000, with an increase to $200,000 following a six-month performance review. The contract includes a $500 monthly vehicle allowance and a severance package providing up to 12 months of salary under certain conditions.
Outgoing Village Manager Tom Mick, who is retiring after 27 years of service, will be formally recognized with a resolution of appreciation during the meeting.
Public Safety and Infrastructure Contracts
The board will also vote to ratify a new collective bargaining agreement with the Metropolitan Alliance of Police, Local #660, which represents Park Forest’s police officers. The agreement covers the years 2025 through 2030 and includes updates to wages, benefits, and work conditions.
Additionally, trustees are expected to approve a series of infrastructure and capital improvement contracts. These include:
- Installation of a new LED message board at Western Avenue for roughly $125,000
- Replacement of flooring at the Artist Walk building ($26,500)
- Water main sleeve installations and sanitary sewer lining projects totaling more than $500,000
- Engineering services for the Chestnut Street lift station design
The board will also authorize the disposal of surplus village vehicles through public auction and an expansion of the Illinois Strong Communities housing rehabilitation grant, extending its deadline through November 2026 and adding $211,200 in funding.
Residents Encouraged to Attend
Public comment is invited near the start of the meeting, and residents are encouraged to participate. Copies of the full agenda and supporting documents are available at Village Hall and on the village’s website.
Village officials noted that accommodations are available upon request for residents with disabilities by calling 708-283-5605 at least 48 hours in advance.