By: Diane Benjamin

Previous story, video works now: https://blnnews.com/2026/07/22/normal-township-stolen-land/

I wonder when the Normal Township Board will pass an ordinance returning the Stolen Land to the Indian Tribes mentioned in their monthly reading? It’s pointless to keep reading this every meeting on STOLEN LAND with no intention of giving it back.

Sorry, I’m just now getting back to this meeting. This won’t be the last story. I attended because this board had seven Special meetings since March 2026. https://normaltownship.org/index.php/clerks-office/board-agenda/

Six of the Seven meetings were illegal because they started before 6:00 pm. ilga.gov/legislation/TOWNSHIPS Code

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Since the minutes don’t reflect any members of the public attending, this part of the Township Code was likely violated too:

If this board holds any more illegal meetings I will recommend Official Misconduct charges against the entire board.

My Public Comment is on the video below.

I wasn’t expecting to walk in on a controversy, but I did. A reader emailed me about operations at the ARC with few details. Evidently, 2 long time employees were suddenly replaced. People were upset there was no communication. Of course Krystle Able was involved.

The Normal Township Senior Advisory Board was not notified before changes happened. Several board members asked why the board existed if they have no input. https://activityandrecreationcenter.org/senior-advisory-board

The speakers aren’t shown on the video because they didn’t speak from a podium. Most remained seated which means I couldn’t see them. You will be able to hear them. The meeting room is small, I estimate between 25 and 30 attended.

Supporters of the changes were present too. I think 3 ARC employees were present, including the director. She was promoted to this position and seems very enthusiastic. Many of the comments praised the ARC even if they disliked how the changes happened.

I’d really like to know why the cost is only $40 a YEAR to join when the website states over 50 activities are free. Even though membership exceeds 4000, they want more members including from surrounding towns. Normal Township taxpayers get the bills.

I can’t repeat enough that seniors love the ARC for social interaction. One gentleman spoke about being isolated at home before he joined.

If any readers know more, please comment!