Village Council approves contracts for new police chief and public works director

During the Manteno Village Board meeting on April 21, 2025, significant discussions centered around the contracts for key village personnel, including the village administrator and the chief of police. The board deliberated on the implications of these contracts, particularly regarding salary adjustments and job security for the employees involved.

One of the main topics was the salary structure for the village administrator and the interim building inspector. Board members expressed concerns about the differences in salaries outlined in the contracts, noting that while some salaries were comparable, one was substantially higher. This led to discussions about the potential need for adjustments if a new inspector were to be hired, as the current interim inspector was receiving a stipend for managing both roles.

The board also addressed the importance of job security for the current employees. It was noted that if the contracts were not approved, there was a risk of losing these key personnel, which could destabilize the village's operations. The interim building inspector's role was highlighted as particularly crucial, with board members emphasizing the need for continuity in leadership.

In addition to personnel contracts, the meeting touched on the village's reliance on an outside consulting firm for inspections, which has been a cost-effective solution. The firm, BNF, was praised for its qualifications and the quality of its work, ensuring that the village meets necessary building codes.

The discussions reflected a broader concern for maintaining effective governance and transparency within the village. Some board members expressed a desire for more time to evaluate the contracts and the individuals involved, indicating a commitment to thorough decision-making.

Ultimately, the board voted to approve the contracts for the village administrator and the chief of police, with some members expressing reservations about the process and the need for further evaluation of personnel decisions in the future. The meeting underscored the delicate balance between ensuring stability in village leadership and the need for ongoing assessment of personnel effectiveness and compensation.