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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1973 Committee of the Whole f f COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING November 28, 1973 1 rk The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Rauschenberger on November 28, 1973 in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members present were: Councilman Barnes, Bruneman, Doxey, Gilliam, Pearsaul, Verbic and Mayor Rauschenberger. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Margaret A. Glink; Corporation Counsel, Erwin Jentsch; and members of the staff. City Manager Authorized to Work with Harold Gossman Re: Lighting of Christmas Decorations. Harold K. Gossman, Executive Vice-President of the Elgin Chamber of Commerce, appeared before the Committee seeking their opinion of the Christmas Decorations in the downtown area and their thoughts regarding the lighting of the decorations due to President Nixon's recent message relative to the conservation of energy. Mr. Gossman explained that we do not have an electrical energy crisis here at the present time and the decorations are not large energy consumers. The decorations are connected to the street lighting system and he felt it foolish to purchase timers at a cost of $3,000 to $4,000 to restrict usage. Various suggestions and ideas were discussed by the Committee. Members decided to authorize the City Manager to work with Mr. Gossman for a joint decision on the matter. cpsk Report by Chief VanDeVoorde and Mr. Steve West Re: Ambulances Fire Chief George VanDeVoorde reported that an ambulance has been leased from Mid-West Professional Cars of Chicago at $25 per day. The Committee concurred to pay the same rate to Wait-Ross Allanson for use of their ambulance for back- up service. Chief VanDeVoorde reported that the ambulance service is operating reasonably well under the existing conditions and assured the Committee that service will improve. Mr. West gave a brief summary on the status of new ambulances and concluded by saying that hopefully' they will be presented at a ceremony, to the citizens of Elgin as a Christmas present. Staff Authorized to Proceed with Sidewalk Improvements on North Side of Chicago Street, Between Spring and Center Mr. James Spore, Director of Community Development, presented a sketch of the proposed sidewalk improvements and remodeling improvements by Neil's Paint Store and explained the proposal as per memorandum distributed to the Committee. The costs of the improvements to property owners along Chicago street are estimated as follows: City of Elgin - $4,700 Neil's - 7,727 \vow Y.W.C.A. - 3,159 November 28, 1973 2 r This estimate does not include the cost of trees or plantings proposed. The Y.W.C.A. Board of Directors are in favor of the improvements, however, they are operating on a tight budget and will decide the amount they can afford. Mr. Spore indicated that eventual plans call for similar plantings on the south side of Chicago Street. The Committee was hopeful that the Y.W.C.A. can assist in the project. They supported the proposal and authorized the staff to proceed with the improvements. Preparation of Specifications and Invitations to Bid for the Demolition of the Old St. Joseph Hospital Authorized Mr. Nelson felt the questionaire sent to area residents of the old hospital site would be well worth the effort to plan and develop a neighborhood park, even though little response has been received at this time. The Committee authorized the preparation of specifications and invitations to bid on the demolition of the old St. Joseph Hospital. Request of the Elgin Area Historical Society to Review House at Old St. Joseph Hospital Site Approved A request was received from the President of the Elgin Area Historical Society to discuss the availability of the house on the old St. Joseph Hospital site for use by the Society. Mr. Rob Roll, Planner, stated that the decision regarding the house will set the pace and mood for developing the park. The Society is considering using the house as a museum and display for their belongings. A fireproof area will be necessary. The Committee was hesitant to approve the acquisition by the society until plans and sketches of the proposed park can be reviewed. They authorized the City Manager to notify the Society that a decision cannot be made at this time until review of the plans is accomplished. The Committee approved of allowing the members of the Society to look at the building to decide if they are interested in acquisition. Request of Human Relations Commission for Joint Meeting Approved The Committee concurred to meet with the Human Relations Commission at the first work session held in January. DuKane Valley Council to Meet with Governor Walker Re: Fox Valley Freeway Mayor Rauschenberger reported that the DuKane Valley Council received a call from Governor Walker requesting a meeting with members regarding the Fox Valley Freeway. Police Data Relative to Calls for Police Service from September 1, through November 20, 1972-1973 Distributed to Committee rDeputy Chief Lagerstrom pointed out a decrease from 151 calls for police service �• in the downtown area in 1972 to 85 calls in 1973.and yet, letters received are asking for more police protection in the downtown area. He explained that 2 to 5 I November 28, 1973 3 plain clothesmen were dispatched on the street immediately after the stabbing incident. The Department has flooded the area with uniformed officers and with the fine cooperation of the news media with the crime watch, apprehensions have been made. Councilmen Verbic felt that a 10 year comparison of crime in the suburbs should be made for an overall picture of crime patterns. He felt the best approach is crime prevention types of programs and uniformed personnel in downtown area. The Committee concurred. Mr. Nelson stated that since the stabbing incident, there has been more publicity on crime in the downtown area. The police created more alarm due to the passing around of a composite of the subject involved. He felt that publicity can do more harm to the City by giving us a bad reputation when we don't deserve such a repu- tation because of the low crime rate. Questionaire on Downtown Mall Distributed and Suggestions Made The results of questionaires completed by persons who attended the November 13, 1973 Public Information Meeting were compiled by Mr. Spore and distributed to the Committee. Members questioned sidewalk improvements on the east side of Grove Avenue, between Chicago and Highland Avenue. Mr. Spore explained that he will be assisting in the downtown beautification program. These improvements will be included in the pro- p" gram. He stated that this block was selected and felt that alot of improvements ( can be made at reasonable costs in this area. Committee members suggested promoting the use of municipal buses and the possibilities of working out a pass system with merchants. Suggestions were also made to run full page ads in the local paper to promote the use of buses, especially with the energy crisis and seasonal shopping. Mr. Nelson was asked to explore these suggestions with Mr. Gossman. .The Committee of the Whole Meeting was adjourned by Mayor Rauschenberger at 11:35 p.m. a. Ma gar A. Glink City erk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING December 5, 1973 4 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Rauschenberger on December 5, 1973 in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members present were: Councilman Barnes, Bruneman Doxey, Gilliam, Pearsaul, Verbic and Mayor Rauschenberger. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Margaret A. Glink; Corporation Counsel, Erwin Jentsch; and members of the staff. Stop Signs Authorized at Various Locations. The recommendations of the Traffic Committee relative to the installation of stop signs were reviewed. Five of the eighteen areas recommended presently have stop signs, however, they are not covered by city ordinance. Councilman Bruneman passed on a citizen's suggestion of placing a red flashing light on newly installed stop signs for a period of two weeks or 30 days to alert motorists. This suggestion was made due to the newly installed signs on Wing Park Blvd. at Lawrence Avenue. The Committee authorized preparation of an Ordinance providing for the installation of the aforementioned stop signs. Ordinance Removing Parking on Villa Street Authorized. A memorandum relative to parking on Villa Street was reviewed. The Traffic Com- mittee recommended the removal of parking on the south side of Villa Street from Liberty Street to the easterly city limits due to the existing hazardous condi- tions. Councilwoman Pearsaul was concerned that businesses would be effected by this action. The Committee, in discussing this matter, felt that adequate parking exists in the immediate area. Councilman Barnes felt that parking should be prohibited from St. Charles Street east. The concensus of the Committee was that not enough parking is available from St. Charles to Liberty, however, the Traffic Committee was asked to review this in the future. The Committee authorized the preparation of an ordinance prohibiting parking from Liberty Street to the easterly city limits for the December 12, 1973 Elgin City Council Meeting. They further directed that residents of the area be notified. Ordinance Providing for No Turn on Red Signs Authorized. Mr. Gary Miller, Assistant City Engineer, reviewed those intersections that the Traffic Committee felt creates conflicts with other vehicle or pedestrian move- ment and recommended prohibiting turns on red signals. A provision in the Vehicle Code allows the municipality to prohibit the turn on a red signal because of the dangerous circumstances of the intersections. _ P` These locations were reviewed with the State of Illinois and approval received. The State has indicated that it is better to wait on some intersections rather than post them now and decide to remove them at a later date. Those recommendation 5 by the Traffic Committee appear to be of primary concern. The State has provided signs and the city will perform the installation. After reviewing the various intersections, the Committee authorized preparation of the necessary ordinance. Councilwoman Pearsaul asked for a review of Liberty and Chicago Streets and suggested the installation of a delay signal to allow a left hand turn onto Chicago Street when approaching from Liberty Street in a southerly direction. Councilman Doxey reminded Committee members of the petitions received from re- sidents in the area of Park and Liberty Streets relative to the need for a safety crossing device at this intersection. The Engineering Department was asked to re- view this area again. Authorization Given to Proceed with Elderly Fare Reimbursement Program. Mr. Leo Nelson reviewed the guidelines for the Elderly Fare Reimbursement Pro- gram as provided by the Illinois Department of Transportation. Prior to appli- cation for reimbursement, the City is required to hold a registration of elderly persons and issue identification cards containing the name, address, age and social security number of each elderly person. The card system will hopefully be worked out with the system to be used by the V.I.P. Program for persons over 60 years of age. Those over 65 years of age may possibly be issued a different colored card for a reduction in bus fares. The bus driver must keep count of persons utilizing the program in order for the r city to receive the proper refund. Counters are presently installed on buses, [ therefore, this will be no problem and the State will allow this system. Mr. Nelson recommended the program as long as funds are available from the State. The Committee concurred to proceed with the Elderly Fare Reimbursement Program. Members again expressed a desire to give publicity on use of the buses for this year and to plan ahead for next year's shopping season. A suggestion was also made for the use of mud flaps to help keep buses cleaner. The gasoline shortage was discussed briefly in-terms of the Transportation Depart- ment and the Elgin to Aurora run. The Committee suggested that other cities along the route be asked to contribute gas to keep the line in operation should a des- parate situation occur. Meeting with Elgin Sanitary District Established. Mr. Nelson stated that the Trustees of the Elgin Sanitary District would like to meet with Council members to discuss the infiltration study of the north and south plants. A meeting was set for Tuesday December 11, 1973 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Con- ference Room. Dates Set for Budget Review. tow The Committee set the following dates for review of the 1974 Budget: 6 December 11, 1973 at 9:00 P.M. ; December 12, 1973 after Council and Liquor Control Hearing (if possible) ; December 15 at 12:30 P.M. ; and December 19 at 7:30 P.M. r 1974 Budget Distributed. The 1974 Budget was distributed to Committee members. Mr. Nelson made general comments with regards to the proposed Budget. Brief discussion was held at this time as members have not had an opportunity to read the document. A resolution calling for a public hearing on the Budget and placing same on file for public inspection will be presented at the December 12, 1973 Elgin City Council Meeting. The Committee of the Whole Meeting was adjourned by Mayor Rauschenberger at 9:30 P.M. Lt (e_ . c1 GL y[ i Margar t A. Glink City erk e COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING December 26, 1973 7 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Rauschenberger on December 26, 1973 at 11:15 p.m. in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Mem- bers present were: Councilman Barnes, Bruneman, Doxey, Gilliam, Pearsaul, Verbic and Mayor Rauschenberger. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Margaret A. Clink; Corporation Counsel, Erwin Jentsch; and members of the staff. Purchase of Gasoline on Day to Day Basis Rather than Contract. Mr. Robert Malm, Purchasing Agent, reported that Atlantic Richfield Company has indicated a willingness to supply our 1973 and 1974 gasoline and number 1 diesel fuel requirements on a contract basis. The prices, however, are not firm and the City would be obligated to buy at their prices in addition to no guarantee on quantities purchased. The City purchased gasoline in 1972 for $. 1164 per gallon and $. 1399 in 1973. Arco proposes to charge $.3000 per gallon at present. Mr. Nelson recommended that the City not enter into a contract and that gasoline be purchased on a day-to-day basis. Committee members concurred with Mr. Nelson's recommendations. Meeting with Pitometer Associates Re: Comprehensive Water Distribution Study Authorized. Mr. Nelson reported that he and Mel Dahl have met with representatives of Pitometer Associates and reviewed questions regarding their proposal to conduct a Com- prehensive Water Distribution Study. He asked that Council members meet with the consultants for their presentation and to answer questions of the Council. Mr. Nelson further explained that this firm was selected because they do not design water improvements and thus avoids any conflicts. Committee members questioned if such a study could be accomplished by the Engineer- ing Department and who had the expertise to make such recommendations in the past. The City Manager stated that he assumed staff members made recommendations rela- tive to new developments and Baxter and Woodman assisted in other areas. Mr. Dahl explained that such a study by experts in this field will provide an overall picture of our needs and goals over a 15 year period. The Committee authorized a meeting with Pitometer Associates on a Wednesday evening work session. Payment of Oversize Water Main to Leo Goldschmidt to Council. A letter was reviewed from Mr. Leo Goldschmidt, Developer of Tyler Bluff Planned Unit Development, requesting reimbursement of $1,497.00 for installation of over- size water main. The Committee authorized the request to be placed on the January 9, 1974 City Council Agenda. December 26, 1973 8 Snow Removal Operation Reviewed. Mr. Mel Dahl, Director of Public Works/Engineering, explained the entire operation of snow removal and snow plowing procedures to the Committee. The first step is to plow and keep open all main streets or the State Routes and major arterial streets. Secondary streets, which consist of 30% of city streets, are then plowed. In addition to all streets, sidewalks, bridges and parking lots must be maintained. Mr. Dahl presented a map illustrating the various snow routes and explained the operation from a personnel and equipment standpoint. Councilman Doxey stated that complainants have said this year was the worst snow maintenance job. He suggested that trucks get off of the main streets when traf- fic is busy and go to secondary streets until the traffic subsides. Councilman Doxey further stated that it appears as though the trucks are making unnecessary runs on the main streets and in essence he felt that a very unsatis- factory job was done during the last snow storm. Councilman Barnes questioned if an effort has been made to cut back on the snow removal program. Mr. Dahl stated that we have cut back on salting the streets in the subdivisions. Mayor Rauschenberger pointed out that the City has increased the number of streets substantially due to annexations and have not increased the equipment for snow removal. (74 Committee members criticized using trucks in the parks to remove snow for ice skating purposes before residential streets are cleared. Mr. Nelson stated that the staff would review the snow removal operation. Meeting Authorized with Barclay and Associates. Mr. Nelson asked that a meeting be held with Barclay & Associates to discuss their recommendations reagrding Wing Park Pool. The Committee concurred to meet with the firm during a Wednesday night work session. The Committee of the Whole Meeting was adjourned by Mayor Rauschenberger at 12:10 a.m. Margar A. Glink City /erk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 9, 1974 9 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Rauschenberger on January 9, 1974 in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members present were: Councilman Barnes, Bruneman, Doxey, Gilliam, Pearsaul, Verbic and Mayor Rauschenberger. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk Margaret A. Glink; and members of the staff. Opinion from Attorney General Re: Liquor Control Act. Mayor Rauschenberger presented an opinion from the Attorney General, William J. Scott, with regards to persons of the ages of 18, 19 & 20 to serve liquor in liquor establishments and asked that members review the document for discussion at the next work session. City Manager Authorized to Proceed Negotiations with Siegel & Roth for Water Main Extension and Vacation of Daniels Avenue. Mr. Gary Miller, Assistant City Engineer, presented various proposals for water- main extension along McBride Street to serve the Siegel & Roth property. He pre- sented a map illustrating the existing watermains and explained the objectives for the extension is to improve the water distribution and fire fighting system. Mr. Miller presented three alternate proposals but recommended the third as follows: Extend an 8" or 10" water main beginning at the 16" water main parallel and adja- cant to the existing 6" water main connecting at a southern point to an existing C 6" main. The cost of plan 3 is approximately $40,000. The City as well as Siegel and Roth should share in the cost of extension as these are the only benefactors. Mr. Miller further recommended as an option that the City bear the entire cost to connect two 6" watermains on either side of the railroad tracks at North Grove and McBride. This option will connect the existing watermains to form a more equal distribution system. The cost is approximately $10 - 15,000. Mr. Miller stated that the staff is presenting checking with fire and insurance companies to determine whether the 8" main is sufficient as they may recommend a 10" main. Mr. Nelson indicated there is a balance in the Water Main Extension Account to pay the City's share in the project. A special assessment project was ruled out because the Siegel and Roth property and City is the only benefactor and such a project will be more costly. Attorney John P. Callahan, Jr. , representing Mr. Siegel, questioned whether the City would pass a reimbursement ordinance providing that any commercial establish- ment desiring to utilize the larger water main would reimburse Mr. Siegel and the City. The Committee agreed to pass such an ordinance. Mr. Harold Siegel expressed his displeasure at the Council for voting unanimously to approve the petition and later tabling the ordinance. He reinterated his posi- tion and willingness to negotiate with Lhe staff regarding the water improvements. ' Attorney Callahan reminded Committee members that the use for the property is al- ready there. His clients petitioned the City to accommodate their request. The Special Use was needed only for the sale of materials. • January 9, 1974 10 Councilman Verbic stated that the petitioners met his criteria when they solved the safety factor of neighborhood children by agreeing to enclose the property. After considerable discussion, Committee members instructed the City Manager to meet with the A.I.A. and Mr. Siegel to work out the water main extension and vacation of Daniels Avenue negotiations with all due haste in time for the next Council meeting. Mr. Nelson stated that he would notify Mr. Siegel when the meeting is to be held with representatives of A.I.A. Proposed Bus Routes and Time Table Revisions Approved - Resolution to Council. Mr. William Perkins, Fleet Administrator of the Department of Transportation, ex- plained in detail the proposed bus routes, time table revisions, and entire Transportation Department system. Mr. Perkins answered questions from Committee members relative to the bus operation. The major change proposed was the relocation of the Hub System from Spring Street to both sides of North Grove Avenue between Highland and Chicago Streets. This move would allow additional time for the west side buses to get to the Hub because they would not get tied up in traffic and would avoid coming through the heart of the Central Business District. Eight parking spaces is involved on Spring Street. Mr. Perkins had not made a count of spaces involved on Grove Avenue prior to the meeting. Mr. Spore commented that his prime concern is that a detailed traffic study of the downtown area will be conducted. He would hate to see the Hub relocated and the C people become accustomed to the new location and then another change made due to the recommendations from the traffic study. In conclusion, Mr. Spore recommended that the Hub relocation be delayed until the study is completed. Mr. Perkins concurred with Mr. Spore's recommendations. Mr. Perkins explained the requests received for longer hours of operation on Mon- day and Thursday nights primarily due to the energy crisis. Committee members concurred to delay longer hours to see what happens with regards to the gas rationing program. The time table revision was approved by the Committee after explanation by Mr. Perkins, and a rate increase to 40for trips to Elgin Sweeper Company was also approved. Elgin Sweeper Company has agreed to pay the difference between 25 passengers and the actual number of passengers if the City will operate the run. Committee members approved the recommended increase for the hourly rate for charter service to $10.50. Mr. Perkins suggested a charge of $11.50 to $12.00 per hour for the 45 passenger buses. Mr. Perkins noted a profit potential for the Aurora run. The schedule was revised to hopefully make the run profitable. Communities all along the Valley want the service and are willing to subsidize the system. C Councilman Doxey commented that he felt that other communities should bear the ex- pense and pay more for operating the line. Mr. Perkins stated that the southern communities do pay more. He also noted that we may be eligible for a federal grant • January 9, 1974 11 for new equipment on this line. A meeting with the Illinois Department of Transpor- tation is scheduled soon. The Committee concurred to approve a trial run on the increased schedule for the Aurora line until July 1. Mayor Rauschenberger suggested that cities and local newspapers in the Valley be notified of the change in service. Mr. Perkins suggested the use of signs at each intersection where the bus stops. The signs could be applied to the street signs and should be inexpensive. Various sign proposals were submitted to the Committee, however, the Committee chose to keep the signs simple and contain only the word BUS. In conclusion, the Committee concurred to authorize the preparation of a resolu- tion for the bus routes and time table revision as proposed. Chicago Street Beautification Project Approved. The Committee agreed to enter into a contract with the Y.W.C.A. to pay all costs of improvements for the Chicago Street Beautification Project. Since the funds of the "Y" are limited, the contract will provide for reimbursement to the City for the improvements over a five year period at no interest. Payments shall be made annually by the "Y" in payments equalizing one-fifth of the total cost. Con- struction is scheduled to begin in the spring of 1974, therefore, the first payment will be due in the spring of 1975. The estimated cost of the project is $3,200. Discussion on Power Pole Location at 1114 Larkin Avenue. (74 A request was received to relocate the power pole at 1114 Larkin Avenue, located in the parking lot of a small shopping complex because several people have back- ed their automobiles into it. The cost would be rather substantial because it would necessitate moving several other poles. The Committee, after reviewing photographs and discussing the problem, decided to let the property owner handle the problem. Street Name Chanfles Reviewed. The Committee reviewed a list of street name changes recommended by the Department of Community Development and gave their suggestions and comments. Mr. Spore was instructed to notify residents of the proposed changes and allow 30 days for residents to submit suggestions for renaming their streets. Closing Off of Lower Wellington Avenue Approved. The Committee concurred to close off lower Wellington Avenue extending from the Sanitary District lift station to Raymond Street due to the continual problems of uncontrolled dumping and health and housing problems. Compact Cars to be Purchased Under State Bids. r Mr. Robert Malm, Purchasing Agent, stated that the State of Illinois has received firm prices on compact cars. The difference between the bid price to the City and the State is $261.00. The low bidder with the State is Grand Spaulding Dodge. January 9, 1974 12 The Committee members authorized the preparation of a resolution authorizing the purchase of compact cars from the State of Illinois. Purchase of Cupola for Lord's Park Pavilion Authorized. A memorandum was distributed previously to Committee members from James Spore re- garding the most appropriate way to proceed on the Lord's Park Pavilion. Mr. Spore, John Schmidtke and Lee Sandvall concluded after several meetings that: 1) The Pavilion should be preserved in as nearly its present architectural appearance as possible. 2) Any repairs that are made should be done to restore the building for relatively long term use and not be of the "patch-on-patch" variety that will necessitate perpetual and extensive maintenance cost. The following recommendations were made: 1) The cupola should be replaced. After much thought and study, we feel that clearly the best approach on the cupola is to contract for the aluminum replica quoted at $4,256. This approach offers several significant advantages over repairing the original. First, from a practical standpoint, the new cupola will last indefinitely and require no maintenance for many years. Second, the new cupola will offer sub- stantial weight savings and thereby reduce the load on the pavilion roof. Finally, the cost of repairs to the original cupola will range from a low of $3,000 for "minimal" work to $7,000 for a total mill shop re- building. In going with the aluminum replica, we also would eliminate any risk of breakup during the lifting back in place operation. 2) In addition to the cupola rebuilding costs or the cost of the replica, the construction of a new deck or pad will be required for the cupola mounting. Cost of the pad is estimated at $1,500. A decision on the cupola should be made promptly since the quoted price on the replica is not firm beyond January 15, 1974. After considerable discussion by Committee members, the majority consisting of Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam, Pearsaul and Mayor Rauschenberger, agreed to pur- chase the aluminum replica cupola at $4,256 and the construction of a new pad or deck at $1,500. The preparation of a resolution providing for this purchase was authorized. 150 Foot Extension of Parking Deck Approved. Mr. James K. Spore, Director of Community Development, presented plans for the construction of a 150' extension for the parking deck proposed by John Spiess. He explained that this extension will provide a total of 44 additional parking spaces at a net increase of $77,000. This new proposal has not been discussed with Mr. Spiess but it is hopeful that he will reimburse the City the sum of $32,000. Mr. Spore stated that an extension at this time, while the 2nd story deck is under construction, will be the least expensive ever. • January 9, 1974 13 Mr. Nelson noted that this proposal may not be workable with Mr. Spiess due to legal problems involved with taxes. Another alternate was presented which provides for an additional extension to ac- commodate 39 cars. The cost would become rather expensive due to the necessity of constructing posts, etc. This alternate is estimated to cost $140,000. During the review of the plan Councilman Barnes suggested another walkway be con- structed going from the deck to Grove Avenue on the north side of the Crocker Theatre. Committee members approved the 150' extension on the parking deck. Barton-Aschman Selected as Consultant for Mall Design. Considerable discussion occurred relative to the selection of a consultant to de- sign the mall. Councilman Doxey and Bruneman opposed retaining Barton-Aschman because or their work on the traffic study. The majority of the Committee, however, accepted the recommendation of the City Manager and Mr. Spore and approved the selection of Barton-Aschman as the most qualified to design the mall. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam, Verbic and Mayor Rauschenberger comprised the majority. The preparation of a resolution was authorized to be presented to the Council. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned by Mayor Rauschenberger at 11:45 p.m. Margare A. Glink City C rk C U COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 23, 1974 14 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Rauschenberger on January 23, 1974 in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members present were: Councilman Barnes, Bruneman, Doxey, Gilliam, Pearsaul, Verbic and Mayor Rauschenberger. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Margaret A. Glink; and members of the staff. Status of Schroeder Property Discussed. Mr. Erwin Jentsch, Corporation Counsel, reviewed the status of the Schroeder pro- perty pending before the courts. The petition, filed by adjacent property owners is set for hearing on January 31, 1974. After explaining the details of the mat- ter, Mr. Jentsch asked for direction from Committee members. The question to be decided was whether the City agrees with property owners that Mr. Schroeder is in violation or do we dismiss ourselves from the case? The Committee authorized the Corporation Counsel to proceed with having the City dismissed from the case. Councilman Barnes suggested that the City work towards getting the property owners to agree to the time limit on the excavation of materials. Presentation of Parking Deck Design for Riverside Drive. Mr. Charles Kaltenbach and Mr. Thomas Ferenc presented and reviewed the preliminary plans for the design of the Parking Deck over Riverside Drive. Mr. Donald Anderson, Structural Engineering Consultant was also present to answer questions of Committee members. The majority of the discussion held involved the quality of steel and the cost thereof, as well as maintenance costs. The Committee directed Mr. Kaltenbach to obtain price estimates on various qualities of steel and present a comparison of the materials over a twenty year period. Mr. Kaltenbach was further instructed to meet with Mr. John Spiess to obtain a decision on the extension of the parking facilities. This major decision must be reached prior to placing the order for the steel. Committee members were concerned with the proposed traffic flow. After consider- able discussion, Mr. Kaltenbach stated that specific drawings on traffic flow will be presented in the near future. Committee members expressed their hopes of obtaining the material estimates by January 30, 1974. Economic Base Study Authorized. Mr. David Romain, Department of Community Development, was present to explain the proposal from the Institute of Urban Life to complete a substantial portion of the Economic Base Study which is a part of the Comprehensive Plan. The Cost of the study will come from the HUD Grant received in 1973. Copies of the proposal were distributed to Council as well as a detailed presen- tation made by Mr. Romain. % January 23, 1974 15 The Committee concurred to authorize the study with the survey of place of work omitted at a cost of $3,885. This matter was referred to Council for official (7' action. Meetings Authorized To Discuss Proposed Changes in Bus Routes and Schedules. Mr. William Perkins, Fleet Administrator explained that various groups have res- ponded to the proposed changes in the bus routes and schedules and meetings have been held regarding these matters. The Illinois Department of Transportation also requested that changes in schedules and rates be submitted to them prior to taking effect. A petition was submitted by Attorney Mark Muscallero and residents of North Grove Avenue objecting to the relocation of the HUB to North Grove Avenue. The resolution providing for the change in bus routes and schedules was deleted from the Council Agenda due to the aforementioned conflicts. Mr. Perkins asked that official Council action be delayed until additional meetings with industry and concerned citizens can be held. In addition, a survey will be conducted to determine the needs of people with regards to transportation. Discussion then occurred regarding the relocation of the HUB system. Mr. Scott Magnuson, Manager of the Greyhound Bus Terminal was present to explain his intentions of relocating the existing terminal and asked Committee members for their opinions. He presented several tentative locations including the following: 1) Vacant Gasoline Service Station at Spring and Dexter; 2) Ace (714 Hardware Building on Kimball Street; and 3) Mr. Burger Building on Route 25 and Elma Avenue. The most sought after location, however, was the vacant lot on North Grove Ave- nue. Mr. Magnuson stated that he would like to purchase the land and construct an attractive terminal that is serviceable to Elgin. Both Mr. Perkins and Mr. Magnuson discussed this location in terms of providing centralized transportation for the City buses, Greyhound and taxi stands. This location is desirable from a standpoint that it is within walking distance to the train depot. Mr. Perkins explained that there would be 13 Greyhound buses per day, however, City and Greyhound buses would be at the terminal together only four times per day. Mr. Perkins added that Mr. Magnuson mentioned that the City may want to share the terminal facilities with Greyhound, as well as the expenses. Councilwoman Pearsaul stated her concern over spending thousands of dollars on the downtown beautification program and at the same time allow all of the un- attractive buses in the next block. After further discussion on the HUB relocation, The Committee agreed that meet- ings should be held between Mr. Perkins and concerned citizens and facts should be presented to illustrate how the merchants will benefit from the changes. Mr. Nelson pointed out that there is a community benefit at stake in this matter. January 23, 1974 16 Approval Granted to Receive Bids on Certain Items. Committee members concurred to approve receiving bids on the following items: (a) One Animal Control Truck (b) Five Sirens and P.A. Units (c) One Pickup Truck for the Pads Department Committee members felt that the purchase for the animal control truck should be the smallest vehicle possible to do the job. Councilmen Bruneman and Doxey op- posed the purchase of this vehicle. Items Distributed. A. A copy of the notice of meeting and program planned by the Illinois Municipal League to be held on Saturday, January 26th was distributed for informational purposes. B. A copy of the Attorney General's opinion relative to the legality of persons who are 18, 19 and 20 years of age to work and/or serve in establishments licensed under the Illinois Liquor Control Act. No discussion occurred. Meetings Scheduled. The City Manager submitted a list of ten meetings and asked that dates be scheduled with various concerns for meetings to be held. With regards to meeting with the Hemmens Committee, Councilwomen Pearsaul noted that she has received complaints because the City does not provide dishes, and tables, etc. for the Hemmens Building and therefore many groups cannot utilize the facilities. Mrs. Pearsaul felt these items are necessary if the building is to be successful and added that perhaps an interested group can provide these items in the future. The City Manager noted that a decision should be made prior to the February 6th public hearing on the formation of a special service district as to the City's share in the project and also what percentage of participation the City will pay on the engineering and design of the downtown beautification project. Mr. James K. Spore indicated the precedent set by other communities have been 1/3. The following meeting dates were set: 1) Pitometer Associates - Wednesday, January 30, 1974 at 7:00 P.M. 2) Human Relations Commission - Wednesday, January 30, 1974 at 8:30 P.M. 3) Discuss R.T.A. with Mr. Herbert Hansen on Wednesday, February 6. The City Manager announced that dedication ceremonies for the new heliport will be held at Sherman Hospital on Thursday, January 24 at 3:00 P.M. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned by Mayor Rauschenberger at 11:30 P.M. Margar A. Glink City erk