Village credit card use may be restricted more

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CHANNAHON – The village board may be making some changes in the policies regarding use of the village’s credit card.

Several members of the village staff, as well as Village President Joe Cook, use the card. Current policy states use is only for village business and that receipts should be turned in for every charge.

Trustee Sam Greco Monday suggested tighter controls should be placed in the card’s use, including pre-approvals on all charges, and that those who use the card should remember that receipts are necessary on all charges.

“It’s time to review the credit card policy,” he said. “We’re accountable to the public.”

Trustee Judie Nash agreed with Greco and presented a list of nine months of charges to the board, in which several paid items reportedly had no accompanying receipts.

Nash had several suggestions for changes to make to the credit card policy, including:

• Tightening the travel policy with purpose of travel clearly stated and costs approved in advance.

• Submitting receipts and explanations of charges within two weeks of purchases.

• Detailed receipts for food and dining purchases.

• Charging flights, hotels, and other expenses to chains that offer discounted rates.

• Reporting outcomes of travel and meetings to the board.

Nash also suggested after the meeting that the board discuss whether or not incurring hotel expenses for nearby meetings, such as those in Chicago, should be allowed by staff and board members.

The board could take up the matter in a future meeting.

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