McHenry Times

City of Crystal Lake Youth Commission met March 13

Here are the minutes provided by the commission:

1. Call to Order

Commissioner Benton called the meeting to order at 4:05 p.m. Thursday, March 13, 2025.

2. Roll Call/Attendance

Commissioners Lauren Wolfe, Charlie Ann Benton, Leo Camasta, and Andrew Cioper were present.

Mayor Haig Haleblian, City Councilmember Denise Smith, Fire Rescue Chief Craig Snyder, and Deputy City Manager Nick Hammonds were also present.

3. Approval of Minutes from the February 13, 2025 Meeting

Commissioner Camasta moved to approve the minutes of the February 13, 2025 meeting.

Commissioner Cioper seconded. Upon voice vote, motion passed.

4. Public Presentation

Commissioner Benton asked if there was anyone in the public who wished to speak on an item not found on the agenda. No one wished to speak. Commissioner Benton closed public presentation.

5. Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department Discussion

Commissioner Benton introduced the agenda item for discussion: The Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department. Fire Rescue Chief Craig Snyder introduced himself to the Commission. Chief Snyder discussed the coverage area of the Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department, the number and variety of response calls handled by the Department, and an overview of the general duties and requirements for the job.

Chief Snyder stated that the Crystal Lake Fire Rescue Department serves over 57,000 residents in Crystal Lake, Lakewood, and the Rural Fire Protection District. He discussed the role of the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) where area fire departments work together to ensure coverage for any scale and scope of response incidents.

Chief Snyder stated that the City has seen an increase in calls in recent years, with many calls pertaining to trips and falls and mental health checks. He stated that the Fire Department responds to approximately 21 calls per day. Chief Snyder also discussed the staffing levels for the Department, the schedule, and number of staff on shift at any time.

Chief Snyder stated that the Fire Department, and the fire service in general, needs more new firefighters to come into the career. In the past, there were dozens of applicants for one open firefighter position. Now there are numerous positions for every applicant applying.

The Commissioners and Chief Snyder went on a tour of the facility. The group viewed the apparatus bay and living quarters for staff. The group discussed the use of each piece of equipment. Chief Snyder provided an overview of the facilities and the costs for each piece of equipment. 

6. School Surveys and Announcement

Deputy City Manager Hammonds stated that he has contacted District 155 regarding a potential school assembly for the Youth Commission. A response has not been received at this time. The Commission will continue to pursue opportunities this spring and in the fall. The Commission discussed the City website and the youth survey, which will be linked to the new brochure created by Commissioner Johnston. The Commissioners will disseminate the brochure and promote youth at their schools to complete the survey.

7. Open Discussion

Commissioner Cioper inquired about the items that require City Council approval. Mayor Haleblian and Councilmember Smith reviewed the parameters that dictate when Council approval is required.

Councilmember Smith inquired the Commissioners for feedback on future presenters.

Commissioner Benton stated that an attorney or a person with a legal background would be great.

Councilmember Smith stated that she will contact the newly elected State’s Attorney, Randi Freese, to see if she will attend an upcoming Commission meeting.

8. Adjourn

There being no further business, Commissioner Cioper moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:35 p.m.

Commissioner Camasta seconded the motion. On voice vote, all present voted yes. Motion passed.

https://www.crystallake.org/home/showpublisheddocument/24033/638775646688130000