Beecher Village Board Appoints New Clerk, Approves Environmental Justice Committee Role

By : Andrea Arens

The Village of Beecher Board of Trustees kicked off the new year at its January 12 meeting with several key decisions, including the appointment of a new village clerk and participation in a regional environmental initiative.

New Village Clerk Sworn In

The board unanimously approved the appointment of Denise Abbank as Village Clerk. After the vote, Abbank took the oath of office in front of the board and attendees.

“I’m honored to serve the residents of Beecher and look forward to working closely with the board to keep things running smoothly,” Abbank said after being sworn in.

Environmental Justice Committee Representation

The board also voted to designate the Village President as Beecher’s representative on the South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association (SSMMA) Environmental Justice Committee, with Trustee Charity Mitchell named as the alternate.

“This is a great opportunity for Beecher to have a voice in regional environmental issues,” said the Village President Marcy Meyer. “We’re still learning what the committee will entail, but it could open doors for grants and resources.”

Financial Updates

Trustee Krauss reported that variance reports for the previous month were included in the meeting packet. The board approved bills and payroll totaling $336,963.45.

Commission Reports

• Fourth of July Commission: Next meeting scheduled for January 14 at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hall.
• Youth Commission: Upcoming events include a Martin Luther King Day movie screening of the live-action Lilo & Stitch at Faith Church on January 20 at 10 a.m. Registration is open for the Daddy-Daughter Dance on February 7.
• Historic Preservation Commission: Meeting set for January 21 at 6 p.m. at the depot.

Public Works Update

Public Works crews continue leaf collection and plan a final pass in spring. Equipment is being prepped for full snow operations as winter weather approaches.

“We know residents didn’t get a full chance to clean up this fall, so we’ll make one last leaf pass in the spring,” said Public Works Director Matt Conner.

Other Business

The board entered executive session to discuss personnel matters following regular reports. No additional old business was presented.

The next Planning and Zoning meeting is scheduled for January 22 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall.