The Beecher Village Board passed a major overhaul of its governmental structure at its meeting on July 14, approving ordinances that dissolve the Planning and Zoning and Beautification Commissions and resize the Police Commission. The move is part of an effort to streamline the village’s operations. For more on this significant change, see the full story here.

In another major discussion, trustees considered moving the village’s banking relationship to a new institution and implementing an annual bidding process for financial services. The proposal from the finance chairman aims to increase competition and ensure the village gets the best value. Read the complete article on the potential banking changes here.

The board also received a positive update on the cleanup of a nuisance property on Catalpa, which had been the subject of numerous complaints. Other business included reports on successful community events and progress on the new Public Safety Facility.

Well #5 is Back Online
The Public Works Department reported that the extensive reconstruction project on Well #5 is complete. The pump has been replaced, and the well has been back online and running for a couple of weeks, resolving a critical infrastructure issue for the village.

Public Safety Facility Nears Completion
Final work is underway at the new Public Safety Facility. Chief Terry Lemming reported that an epoxy coating is scheduled for the sally port floor on July 18th. Privacy slats and gates for the facility’s fence are on order and expected to be installed within the next few weeks.

National Night Out and Open House Set for August 5th
Trustee Joe Tieri announced that the annual National Night Out event will be held on Tuesday, August 5th, at the new Police Station. The event will also serve as an open house, giving residents their first official look inside the new facility.

Fourth of July Fest Deemed a Success
Trustee Todd Kraus provided an update on the village’s Fourth of July festival, reporting that it is anticipated to be another successful year, though final financial numbers are not yet available. Kraus extended a heartfelt thank you to the Fourth of July Commission volunteers for their hard work.

Youth Commission Kickoff Breaks Attendance Record
Trustee Jessica Smith reported that the Youth Commission’s “Kickoff to Summer” event on June 7th was the most successful to date, with over 200 people in attendance. She thanked the Lions Club for donating and serving food for the event.

Beecher to Address Scooter Violations
Trustee Joe Tieri stated that he and the police chief are developing a plan to address the illegal use of scooters in town. He noted that residents have asked what the village plans to do about the issue. The chief will prepare a flyer outlining the “do’s and don’ts” of scooter use according to state law, which will be discussed at the committee level.

Knights of Columbus Tag Days Approved
The board had no objections to a request from the Knights of Columbus to hold their annual Tootsie Roll Drive, or “Tag Days,” from September 19-21. The clerk will provide the organization with the village ordinance regulating such collections.

Village Approves $306,380 in Bills
The board approved the payment of bills and payroll amounting to $306,380.31 since the last meeting. The board also approved the treasurer’s report for the period.