Hoffman casts new night court

Night court is coming to Hoffman Estates starring former state Sen. Cheryl Axley.

Trustees Monday appointed Axley as the village's administrative hearing officer, meaning the former 33rd District state senator will represent Hoffman Estates when prosecuting those who violate village laws.

Those cases range from underage drinking of alcoholic beverages to not purchasing a vehicle sticker to noise violations. The violations bring fines between $10 and $750.

In addition, Mayor William McLeod said those cases will now take place at the police station instead of the Rolling Meadows court facility. Cases will be heard on the first and third Mondays of the month at night.

"We're making it more convenient for residents," McLeod said.

McLeod said many residents wouldn't travel to Rolling Meadows. Village Manager James Norris estimates the village could generate between $315,000 and $400,000 annually in fines from missed court dates.

A Republican and Mount Prospect resident, Axley was appointed to the Senate in 2005 and was also the Elk Grove Township clerk. Voters chose Democrat Dan Kotowski over Axley for the Senate seat in the 2006 election.

Village Attorney Art Janura nominated Axley for the post, lauding her reputation as an attorney. The agreement can be terminated at any time. Her first day is Feb. 4, McLeod said. She'll be paid $200 per hour in minimum two-hour sessions.

Trustee Raymond Kincaid cast the only vote opposing the hire.