Those expecting some fireworks at the Lemont-Bromberek Combined School District 113A meeting were not disappointed Wednesday, Sept. 30.

At one point during budget discussions, the meeting got so raucous School Board President John Wood had police called after a disruptive meeting attendee refused to leave.

One resident said the School Board was not being honest about fund balances during public comments in regards to the budget.

School Board president John Wood urged the resident to make an appointment with district officials for specifics on her questions.

“Come in, and we can show you everything that’s going on,” he said.

Another resident, Hank Olenick, yelled from the audience for Wood to “answer the question.”

Wood again said citizens are welcome to come and talk to district officials, to which Olenick said,

“You don’t know.”

Wood banged the gavel.

“Your childish antics will not be tolerated,” he told Olenick. “This meeting is for everybody, not just for you. You really have to maintain composure and act in a respectful manner.”

Olenick continued to speak over Wood.

Wood admonished him.

“We’re trying to conduct a professional meeting,” he said. “I’m going to have to ask you to leave.”
Olenick refused and told Wood to “bring it on.”

Wood instructed another district official to contact the Lemont police.

Police officers showed up at about 8:15 p.m. When officers asked if he wanted Olenick removed from the meeting, Wood said no.

“I will defer it at this time, however I will ask that we act mature for the rest of the meeting,” he said.

Olenick did not cause any more disruption during the meeting.