The Community Room at the Beecher police station will be open for groups to use, but it won’t be turned into a party room.
Members of the Beecher village board on April 13 discussed policy for the room, located at 250 W. Church Road.
Village Administrator Charity Mitchell said the room should be used for community groups and not-for-profit organizations.
While the board tossed around the idea of charging fees for those who bring in food and drinks, the consensus was that food and drinks would not be allowed except for water and coffee.
“It was never an intention for it to be a party room,” said Mitchell, who added that two Homeowner Association groups in the area have already expressed interest in holding meetings there.
“The whole intent of that Community Room was to let the public come in and get them more comfortable with coming to the police station and using that as a meeting space,” Mayor Marcy Meyer said.
Temporary fix at intersection
Trustee Joe Tieri said that Will County officials have put up reverse rumble strips while the Illinois Department of Transportation is providing extra signs at the intersection of Church Road and Route 1.
That intersection has seen some terrible accidents over the years.
“We’re in Phase 3 of five phases,” Tieri said.
There is a plan for a roundabout to be completed in 2028 and this serves as a temporary fix until that project is completed.
Mental health checks for cops
The village will enter an agreement with Guardian First Responder Services to provide mental health screening services for Beecher police personnel.
According to Tieri, this will help promote officer wellness and maintain compliance with the SAFE-T Act, which requires regular mental health evaluations for officers.
The police department will also receive two rifle plates and active shooter kits courtesy of the United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association.
Circle-K closing
Meyer told the board that social media reports are saying the Circle K gas station at 1350 Dixie Highway will be closing on April 26.
Budget banter
The proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 is being finalized and there will be a public hearing scheduled at the next board meeting at 6 p.m. on April 27.