Meeting Summary and Briefs: New Lenox Village Board of Trustees for Dec. 8, 2025

New Lenox Village Board of Trustees Meeting | Dec. 8, 2025

Overall Meeting Summary
The New Lenox Village Board of Trustees met on Monday, December 8, 2025, for a regular meeting that focused heavily on financial planning and zoning issues. The Board unanimously approved the 2025 Tax Levy, which requests just over $4 million while projecting a lower tax rate for residents. Trustees also initiated discussions on phasing out impact fee reductions to better support village services amidst ongoing growth. In zoning matters, the Board reviewed several special use requests and advanced ordinances related to truck terminals and a new hotel tax. Mayor Tim Baldermann praised staff and volunteers for the successful “Christmas in the Commons” event held over the weekend.

Hotel and Motel Tax Proposed
The Board held a first reading for an ordinance amending the village code to establish a Hotel and Motel Accommodations Tax. With a hotel currently under contract near the Crossroads Sports Complex, Mayor Baldermann stated that a 10% tax—comparable to surrounding communities—is necessary. “This is the type of revenue that we need to bring in… to help get us back to that property tax rebate for our community,” Baldermann said.

Truck Terminals Removed from C-3 District
Trustees advanced an ordinance that would remove “truck terminals” as a permitted use in the C-3 General Business District. Staff explained that because truck terminals are currently permitted in C-3, they are also allowed in C-7 districts. The amendment aims to prevent truck terminals from locating along major commercial corridors like Route 30 and Route 6.

Crossroads Sports Complex Updates
The Board approved two items related to the Crossroads Sports Complex. First, a resolution authorizing an incentive program agreement with Gordon Food Service (GFS) was passed. The program offers a 6% rebate on food purchases, which is expected to return $10,000 to $15,000 annually to the village. Second, the Board approved the purchase of new wayfinding and safety signs from Integrity Signs to help first responders and visitors identify specific gates within the complex.

Massage Therapy Special Use
The Board moved forward with a special use request for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) at 12410 Horseshoe Drive. The ordinance would allow a massage and aesthetics establishment to operate within the Plank Trail Industrial Park. The business owner has provided necessary state licensing, and the Plan Commission recommended approval.

Extensions Granted for Solar and Leasing Projects
Two extensions were granted for existing projects. Dimension Energy received a six-month extension for a special use permit to install a roof-mounted solar energy facility at the FedEx/Unilever building on Berens Drive due to engineering delays. Additionally, GM Leasing at 1751 Ferro Drive was granted a one-year site plan extension, with the petitioner citing a downturn in the trucking industry as the reason for construction delays.

Christmas in the Commons Success
During official reports, Mayor Baldermann celebrated the opening weekend of “Christmas in the Commons,” thanking the Public Works department, Police, Fire, and CERT volunteers for their work in the cold weather. He noted the event was well-attended and urged residents to support the local vendors at the market. Trustees echoed his sentiments, noting the positive impression the event makes on visitors.