Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Administration topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board adopts ordinance allowing hearing officers to order injunctive relief after state law change
Summary
Trustees unanimously approved an amendment to the village code (section 40.025) to reflect a state law change that allows administrative hearing officers to issue injunctive relief as well as fines, enabling faster enforcement of code violations starting Jan. 1, 2026.
Trustee Peterson introduced an ordinance to amend section 40.025 of the village code to add explicit injunctive-relief authority for administrative hearing officers, reflecting recent state legislation that takes effect Jan. 1, 2026. Peterson said the change expands hearing officers' authority beyond fines so they can compel property owners to remediate code violations.
Village counsel explained the practical effect: previously, the village could impose fines but had to go to court for injunctive relief; under the law change, the hearing officer may order a party to cease noncompliant behavior or to take corrective action, with due process and enforcement mechanisms similar to a court order. Counsel described the change as a way to speed compliance and reduce the need for separate court proceedings.
Trustee Peterson moved and the board approved the ordinance by unanimous roll call vote. Attorney commentary at the meeting emphasized that procedural due process in hearings remains in place and that court remedies remain available if a party fails to comply with an order.
