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Board modernizes notice for unclaimed completion bonds, moving long lists online
Summary
The board adopted ordinance 2024-091 to amend the building code so that unclaimed completion-bond lists (bonds capped at $5,000) are posted online with periodic newspaper notices directing the public to the list. Staff said the current paper ad runs multiple pages and that staff will explore additional outreach such as email reminders.
The Vernon Hills Village Board on July 9 adopted ordinance 2024-091 to change how the village notifies the public about certain unclaimed completion bonds tied to construction permits. Under the existing code, the village must publish the full list (including permit-applicant names, permit numbers, addresses and bond amounts) twice a year in a newspaper, producing a multi-page advertisement that staff said few people read.
The approved amendment lets the village keep the full list on its website and publish a short newspaper notice twice a year directing the public to the online list. Staff emphasized the change applies to a specific class of completion bonds that are capped at $5,000 and are typically unclaimed because permit holders fail to call for a final inspection.
Trustees asked whether staff follows up with permit holders directly; staff said the villages' permitting system typically collects about 1,500 permits and inspections annually and that roughly 100 items per year end up on the unclaimed-bond list. Staff said it could explore automated email reminders and would return with data breaking down bond types (water heaters, siding, roofing) to identify public-safety priorities.
The ordinance passed by roll call; trustees also asked staff to check the village process for final-inspection follow-up to reduce hazards such as improperly vented water heaters.
This article is based on statements made during the board's July 9 regular meeting.
