Algonquin may hold court on certain violations

Algonquin officials want to make it more convenient for both lawbreakers and law enforcers when it comes to appealing certain fines.

Trustees Tuesday night discussed holding court once a month in village hall to hear appeals on violations of municipal building, zoning and health codes, as well as certain parking fines.

The court also could handle cases related to the proposed impound fees and drivers caught running red lights on camera.

Village board members are scheduled to vote on approving the ordinance at Tuesday's board meeting.

"It would be a convenience for residents because they would no longer need to travel to the county building (in Woodstock) for an appeal," Assistant Village Manager Jenna Kollings said. "There would also be cost savings and increased productivity for our staff and police who won't have to sit in court until their case is called."

Instead, the village would sign a contract with a municipal law judge who would preside over the cases once a month.

"It is a winnable situation for people that are scofflaws for staff because it would save time in traveling to court," Trustee Jerry Glogowski said. "And it is added revenue for the village."

Today, Kollings said, when a resident pays a fine a large percentage of the revenue rolls back into the county court system, leaving Algonquin a small portion.

For example, if a resident pays a $100 fine for violating the village's water restriction code, the county collects $75 with the village collecting $25.

But with a municipal court, the village would realize 100 percent of the fine.

However, Kollings said bringing in revenue is not the purpose of the proposed court.

"Other communities have shown that municipal courts expedite the process of getting issues resolved quickly and efficiently," said Kollings who said local towns such as Lake in the Hills, Palatine and McHenry have implemented similar courts. "It's more productive and not intended as a money maker."

Village officials are still working on final details and start-up costs of the system, which would include a contract with a judge, civil court software, as well as anticipated administrative tasks.

Kollings said the fines and penalties collected from the court are expected to at least cover the start-up costs.