Villa Park adopts paid parental leave policy for village employees

The Village of Villa Park’s Board of Trustees on July 23 adopted a resolution establishing a paid parental leave policy for village employees.

Manager Reedus presented the resolution, saying the village determined it is advisable and in the village’s interest to adopt a paid parental leave policy for employees. Trustee Cordova moved the resolution; Trustee Sabri seconded. The resolution passed by voice vote.

During discussion Trustee Cordova raised three concerns: (1) whether the policy includes hardship exceptions for circumstances such as involuntary termination, disability or family relocation; (2) whether any repayment or “clawback” provisions comply with Illinois wage laws; and (3) whether a graduated forgiveness schedule for repayment should be considered. Trustee Cordova suggested a model with full repayment if an employee leaves within 12 months, partial forgiveness after 12–18 months, and further reduction up to 24 months.

Manager Rivas (commenting during the discussion) pointed trustees to page 62 of the meeting packet, which states the Village Manager has exclusive authority to interpret the policy and that corporate authorities may amend or rescind the policy. Staff also noted the policy was drafted to avoid clawing back the first week of leave that is governed by the Illinois Paid Leave for All Act; repayment language would apply only to the additional village-provided weeks.

Trustees said the policy will be implemented through normal personnel processes and that staff will ensure compliance with Illinois wage-payment rules.

The resolution passed; trustees did not adopt additional amendments at the meeting but discussed returning with clarifying language if needed.