Board discusses reimbursement for Long Shadow stormwater project; committee recommends conditions

The Village Board discussed a single application submitted under the village's 2024 stormwater reimbursement fund ordinance at its Jan. 21 meeting. The project—identified in meeting materials as the Long Shadow project—was reviewed by the public works committee, which recommended the application met policy requirements and that the board consider funding it under the ordinance.

Scott Marquardt, who presented the committee recommendations, said the ordinance sets a reimbursement cap at $10,000 or 50% of a project's cost, whichever is less. The committee recommended that any reimbursement be made only after submission of paid invoices and lien waivers to protect the village and that the village consider recording a notice against the property title documenting the reimbursement and reminding future owners of ongoing maintenance obligations.

Trustees discussed the unusual history of the site: the storm system is not village or township owned but stems from earlier development and, according to trustees, some current owners were unaware of pipes running under their yards. Trustee Boettner (who has engaged with residents there) urged board consideration and closer contact with the property owners to confirm actual costs and receipts before any reimbursement.

Village legal counsel advised that the village could record a brief document on title stating a reimbursement was provided and summarizing any maintenance responsibilities; such a recording would be informational and would not create a cloud on title but would help future record searches.

There was no final funding decision at the Jan. 21 meeting. Board members asked staff to reach back to the Long Shadow applicants to verify invoices and to prepare an action item for a forthcoming meeting that would include the committee-recommended conditions (paid invoices, lien waivers and a recorded notice if the board chooses).