Kankakee City reports surge in permit applications after storm; staff processing and contractor registry expanded

Council members discussed a post-storm surge of permit applications and contractor registrations during the March 19 Kankakee City Council meeting. The chair noted February brought 97 permits totaling $18,522.97, and staff described sustained, intermittent periods of heavy demand at the code office.

Director Nelson told the council the office is processing some roofing permits immediately when applicants can wait 15–20 minutes, explaining, "we we processing it right then and there" to reduce unpermitted work. Staff said both online applications and in-person visits are being used and that contractor registration activity has increased substantially (a council member described registrations as having roughly quadrupled). To help residents avoid unregistered contractors, staff maintain a daily list of registered contractors and share it on the mayor’s Facebook page; staff said residents can call the office to verify a contractor’s registration if they prefer not to use Facebook.

Council members asked that a one-time notice about moving receptacles (related to an ordinance change) be placed on an upcoming agenda so residents receive a reminder. One council member raised a legal question referencing the "Myers Act" in relation to the timing of notices; council recorded the concern but did not resolve the legal question during the meeting. The council closed the meeting after the routine agenda.