The Beecher Village Board of Trustees took decisive action on critical infrastructure and grappled with a chronic public nuisance issue at its meeting on June 9. The board unanimously approved over $35,000 in emergency repairs for Well #5 after a video inspection revealed significant corrosion and a failing valve that threatened the well’s operation. For more details on the necessary repairs, see the full story.

Officials also discussed pursuing stronger legal action against a Catalpa Street property owner who has ignored years of complaints and citations regarding junk in the yard and unsanitary conditions from dog waste. The board is consulting its attorney after exhausting standard code enforcement measures. A complete report on the long-running issue is available here.

In other business, the board received an update on the new Public Safety Facility, which is nearing completion despite minor setbacks with the roof and garage floor. The board also discussed downtown development initiatives, approved monthly bills, and heard reports from various village departments.

Bills Approved
The board approved the payment of bills and payroll totaling $104,129.17. The motion was made by Trustee Todd Kraus and seconded by Trustee Brian Diachenko. The accompanying treasurer’s report noted that May month-end combined accounts for the village and commissions totaled $4,708,610.70.

Police Commission Restructuring Debated
The board discussed restructuring the Police Commission after a state law change prevents elected officials from serving as voting members. The committee had recommended reducing the commission from five to three members, consisting of the police chief, the village administrator, and one member of the public. Concerns were raised about having two staff members and only one public member, with suggestions to consider two public members and either the chief or administrator. The board will continue to discuss the structure.

Concert in the Park a Success
Trustee Brian Diachenko reported a successful Concert in the Park on the previous Saturday. The weather was favorable until the very end, and attendees enjoyed the music. Diachenko thanked Coach John Kypuros and the soccer program for providing volunteers to cook and serve food at the event.

EMA Launches Online Request Form
The Beecher Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has launched a new online form to streamline requests for traffic control at community events. Assistant EMA Director Dale Murray demonstrated the form, which will be available on the village and EMA websites. Organizers are asked to submit requests at least 10 days in advance to allow for scheduling.

Annual Torch Run Announced
Trustee Joe Tieri announced the annual Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics will take place on Wednesday, June 18. Participants will meet at the CVS at 10:30 a.m. for a short, slow run. Following the run, hot dogs and hamburgers will be served at the new police station.

July Brush Collection Canceled
The board agreed to cancel the brush collection scheduled for Tuesday, July 1. The cancellation is necessary to allow Public Works staff to focus on preparations at Fireman’s Park for the village’s Fourth of July festival, which begins the following day.

Resident Questions New Home Construction
A resident expressed concern to the board about the construction process for a new single-family home at the corner of Caroline and Orchard. The resident, citing his construction experience, questioned the sequence of work, noting that materials were on site before a foundation was dug or a stake survey was completed. Administrator Charity Mitchell confirmed the plans were approved and that the village’s inspection contractor, Safebuilt, will ensure all codes are followed.

Scooter Safety Discussed
President Marcy Meyer briefly raised the issue of electric scooters in the village, noting they have become a problem. She stated that many riders are not stopping at intersections, creating safety hazards, and that the scooters are not legal on sidewalks or roads under state law. No formal action was taken.