Call to Order/Roll Call/Introduction of Jenna Stutz
Chair Susan Ryan called the meeting to order at 7:35 a.m. Jenna Stutz, the new Workforce Board Manager, introduced herself and provided the Board with some career background information
Members Present
Dave Sabbathne
Jane Clark
Kevin Bass
Lisa Schvach
Susan Ryan
Others Present
Amy Everett
Jenna Stutz
Thaddeus Zychowski
Members Absent
Larry Blackburn
Tiffany Rotondo
Public Comment
- There was no public comment.
Approval of the March 2026 Minutes
Approval of the March 2026 Minutes:
- Motion to approve by Lisa Schvach
- Second by Dave Sabathne
- All ayes via roll call vote
- All ayes, motion APPROVED
- Access Minutes here
Local Policy Revisions—Individual Training Accounts, Self-Sufficiency, Priority of Service (APPROVAL)-- Thaddeus Zychowski
Thaddeus presented the proposed changes and provided an overview of the policies to the Board Members. Questions were taken from Board members. Lisa proposed a discussion to increase the nursing allowance beyond the $10,000 currently outlined in the approved policy, noting that this sector consistently exceeds that funding level.
- Motion to approve Lisa Schvach
- Second by Kevin Bass
- All ayes, motion APPROVED
Foundation Expenditures and Balance—Lisa Schvach
Lisa reported the current balance of the Workforce Innovation Board (WIB) account.
WIOA Title I Grants Update—Lisa Schvach
Lisa discussed challenges experienced this program year due to staff turnover in the County Finance department. She outlined corrective actions being implemented including technical assistance provision from DCEO. Lisa reported that she believes her staff are on track to hit the 80% requirement for the grant and that all staff are looking to accelerate spending in this final quarter. Lisa also shared updates on work-based learning and noted the proposed use of a third-party employer of record to expand client services. She requested support from WIB Board members in engaging the County Board on this matter. Susan and Jane offered support.
IWDS 2.0 Transition and Impact on our Processes-- Lisa Schvach, Thaddeus Zychowski, Dave Sabathne
Lisa, Thaddeus, and Dave explained the rollout process for the new case management system scheduled to launch in July and its anticipated impact on the day-to-day operations of the Career Center. Lisa recommended a follow-up discussion at the May meeting to address any challenges and proposed a working group to assist workNet staff in devising solutions where needed.
May Meeting Plan
For the May full Board meeting, the committee decided to select Workforce Development in the Community from the list of topics for upcoming meetings. The plan is to have a panel of representatives from employers or organizations who have workforce development efforts of note. workNet staff will also be invited to attend to learn more about how to connect job seekers to these initiatives. Additional discussion included how the Workforce Innovation Board (WIB) and workNet can better support one another, as well as the value of involving staff in WIB meetings to provide a clearer understanding of employee roles and responsibilities.
Old Business
Lisa provided an update on lease negotiations, noting that DPC is exploring potential relocation options with ROE. Lisa noted this would be a valuable opportunity to braid services with youth clients. She will keep the Committee informed of any developments.
New Business
Dave left the meeting so that the remaining members could review the One-Stop Operator purchase order renewal to extend the contract with the Western DuPage Chamber of Commerce through June 30, 2027. Members agreed to move forward with the contract renewal.
Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 8:36.
