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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977 Committee of the Whole Minutes COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 5, 1977 1 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, January 5, 1977 at 7:1n P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Barnes and Beckmann. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Use of the South Elgin Landfill. Attorney Ken Miles appeared before the Council on behalf of the South Elgin Village. Mr. Miles appealed to the Council to oppose the use of the landfill pointing out how close the proposed 55 acres was to the Village wells and re- sidences. Mr. Miles further stated he would be filing litigation challenging the EPA decision and would also file an appeal if necessary. The County of Kane and NIPC concur with South Elgin. Mr. Miles stated there were homes within inn yards of Waste Management site and he felt sure they would want to expand the size of this site in the future. Councilman West stated he had no objection to being a good neighbor even though it meant a $24,nnn favor, but in return we would expect some cooperation in getting the 911 system started. Mr. West said South Elgin has been a bottle- neck in going forward with this project. Mr. Miles stated he was not familiar with the project but would take it up immediately with the Village President. Mayor Verbic stated he was not in favor of using the landfill in view of the pending litigation and doubt as to feasibility. However, Mayor Verbic did stress to Mr. Miles to encourage the Village to participate in a proposed area-wide study of solid waste treatment center. Councilmen Gilliam, Schmidt and Strattan concurred with Councilman West and Mayor Verbic in that Elgin should not use the South Elgin landfill at this time. Review of the Elgin Sanitary District's Formula for the Sewer User Charge. Al Pagorski, Jack Lawson, Ed Haas, Bud Westphal, Lyle Brown and Don Schwegel appeared before the Council for a review of their formula for the sewer use charge. Mr. Pagorski stated a 2n% credit is given to all residential users for water they use to sprinkle lawns or wash cars, water which would not enter the sewer system and need treatment. Leo Nelson stated this formula does not cover a homeowner who has to water new sod. Mr. Schock of 369 N. Liberty thought the user formula should be based on a winter quarter or half a year when people do not water their lawns. Mr. Pagorski stated his staff surveyed 15nn user charge bills, 1n% of the users in Elgin and it was determined the winter formula would result in lower bills for only 18%. 75% of the bills would increase and 12% would stay the same. The Sanitary District thanked the Council for the opportunity to review this matter with them. January 5, 1977 2 Vacation of Clifford Avenue from Frazier Avenue south to the Sanitary District's Property. In order to construct a security fence along the northern boundary of the Sanitary District property, Clifford must be vacated. Rob Roll indicated this would be mutually beneficial to the City and Sanitary District. The Corporation Counsel was directed to draw up the necessary documents and provide for the easements in- volved for this vacation. Alley Vacation for Ace Hardware. The Corporation Council was directed to draft an agreement and provide for easements. Proposed Foundation and Pedestal for the James T. Gifford Bust. The Council reviewed a bid from Elgin Granite Works. Leo Nelson stated Mr. Rovelstead requested the Cold Spring Black Granite which is $6n4.nl more than the Carnelian Granite. Councilman Schmidt and Mayor Verbic favored the Balck Granite. Councilmen Gilliam, Strattan and West favored the Carnelian. The Corporation Counsel was directed to draw an agreement to install the Gifford bust in Carnelian omitting the Bicentennial Symbol. Miscellaneous Council Discussion. Corporation Counsel Jentsch asked the Council whether they wanted the Home Rule referendum placed on the primary ballot or the general election. The Council agreed to have this placed on the general election in April. (711 Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 P.M. eiL Marie Yearma , City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 11, 1977 r 3 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo Nelson on Tuesday, January 11, 1977 at 7:10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Barnes, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan and West. Absent: Councilman Beckmann and Mayor Verbic. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. 1977 Allocation of HCD Funds. The Council reviewed the Planning Committee recommendation which was as fol- lows: Acquisition of blighted and riverfront land. $ 175,000 Signalization of May and St. Charles Streets. 10,000 CBD Lighting Improvements. 50,000 Curb cuts and parking lot modifications for the handicapped. 10,000 Frazier and Clifford Junk Clearance. 10,000 \ Improvements to create recreational area facilities in Frazier, Clifford, Owasco area, such as basketball court and also volleyball court, etc. (not designated for or limited to junk yard site) 20,000 Development of St. Charles Street Park 35,000 Study of architectural and financial feasibility of Lincoln School as neighbor- hood center (feasibility study to be fol- lowed by further consideration of the con- cept by the Elgin Planning Committee, with citizens advisory committee and neighbor- hood groups) 40,00n Expanded funding for the tree planting program. 20,000 Poplar Creek playground facilities, in- cluding acquisition of 3.4 acres, grad- ing and preparation of land, and purchase of equipment. 50,000 Gifford Park 5,000 • January 11, 1977 4 Continuation of expanded funding of the 85,000 rehabilitation loan program. Administrative 25,000 Contingency 46,000 Leo Nelson pointed out to the Council that the Planning Committee had deleted the South Grove Development and made no provision for the gaging station and solid waste study which he considered top priorities. The Committee instead added the Poplar Creek Playground facilities and Gifford Park. Originally the Poplar Creek Association had only requested funding for a small recreation area but the Committee boasted the project to $50,000. Mr. Nelson further stated one Committee member felt strongly that the South Grove redevelopment should not be included because it was not in the spirit of the HCD program. The tree planting program should be watched because this might become a City wide pro- ject. Councilman Barnes asked if the Committee had any particular river front land in mind. Rob Roll stated, Raymond Street adjoining the Sanitary District property which is owned by Chicago Gravel and is not available. Mr. Nelson stated this land could not be developed because of flooding. Councilman Barnes stated that last year the Council was furnished with information from the agen- cies making application. We need some rational for the decisions that were made. Rob Roll stated he would get this information together with the minutes out to the Council on Friday. Mr. Nelson stated the Council could make their recommendation next week and there would be no problem with changing the Planning Committee recommendation. Progress Report on Kimball Street Bridge. Mr. Nelson stated he was meeting with the Benesch consultants on Thursday to go over the final plans before they are sent to Springfield. The Council asked that the bids set forth the costs of repairing the bridge under traffic and with the bridge closed. Bids should also be obtained on sub-structure and deck as opposed to complete repair. Mr. Nelson stated one phase could be done this next year. Councilman Barnes asked Mr. Nelson to find out what the time ele- ment would be if done in two phases. Progress Report on North End Bridge. Mel Dahl stated the bridge plans were reviewed by NIPC and they approved what was submitted by the Staff. Meetings with the Fox Valley Council of Mayors and Illinois Department of Transportation are also scheduled. H. W. Lochner have advised they will complete the environmental impact study by February and once the State officials agree a public hearing can be set. After the public hearing the City will be ready to apply for federal funding. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 P.M. Marie Yearm . , City Clerk /y COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING October 13, 1976 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson, on Wednesday, October 13, 1976, at 7:05 P.M. Members Present: Councilmen Barnes, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic . Also present: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman, and members of Staff. Absent: Councilmen Beckmann and Gilliam. Resurfacing of Parking Lot at Center and Division Streets. Mel Dahl recommended that this lot be resurfaced this year. The memo reviewed by the Council indicated an estimated cost of $3,200.00. Leo Nelson advised the Council the cost was $3,800.00 and there is money in the budget for this work. Mayor Verbic asked how long it had been since this was done. Leo Nelson replied not in the last four years . Councilman West asked how bad a shape is it in. Leo Nelson replied I have no idea but we can hold off and discuss this with Mel Dahl. Councilman Schmidt stated the lot was in bad shape. The Council agreed to go ahead with the project. Pitometer Associates Proposal to Remeasure Districts 1,2, and 3. Leo Nelson stated that back in the Spring Pitometer had suggested that this be done because they did anticipate some leakage and thought it advisable to look at these districts. Ron Zegers stated it will be well worth our while to have this done because it will increase the accuracy in billing. Leo Nelson cited a recent water leak in the main under the Kimball Street Bridge which went un- noticed for a period of time with the water going into the river. The Council approved having this study made . Hydro-Clear Corporation Cooperative Research Agreement. Leo Nelson stated Hydro-Clear wants to test a filter to determine its applica- tion to the water treatment field. There would be no direct benefit to the City but the data collected concerning organic identification would be available to us. Mayor Verbic stated he would be willing to cooperate for something that would enhance the City. Councilman West was not in favor of paying for employees working on this project and requested that the agreement provide for protection for the City's costs . Counsel Jentsch is to review the agreement and make the necessary revisions to include this protection. MISCELLANEOUS DISCUSSION NOT ON AGENDA: Elgiloy Co. Attorney Dave Cochran, representing the Elgiloy Co. , a subsidiary of Katy In- dustries, delivered all the necessary documents required for a bond sale. Leo Nelson stated that Corporation Counsel Jentsch had not had the opportunity to b0 October 13, 1976 review these documents and suggested the Council consider having a Special Council meeting next Wednesday to pass the necessary ordinance. Mr. Cochran indicated he was anxious to move ahead because of a commitment to an available bond purchaser whose money was set aside with no interest. Mr. Cochran stated representatives of the Company would be available for questions next week. The Council agreed to tentatively set the Special Council Meeting for next week. Halloween Chief Baird recommended that the Halloween hours for trick or treating be set for Friday, October 29th, between the hours of 4:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M. The Council concurred and Mayor Verbic will issue a proclamation setting forth the same. Vandalism Mayor Verbic pointed out several incidents of vandalism at his professional building and cited the success that Deerfield was having with their vandalism ordinance. The Mayor suggested that if we had a similar ordinance it might cut down on these incidents occuring throughout the City. Chief Baird advised he was in the process of developing a program similar to that in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. Counsel Jentsch stated he would obtain some sample vandalism ordi- nances and submit them to the Council for review. Proposed Annexation. Leo Nelson advised the Council of a forthcoming annexation proposal of the Fletcher Farm, consisting of 500 acres and a projected growth of 8,000. Mr. Nelson cautioned the Council against approving one unit at a time and suggested that a lot of time should be given to this project. Tyler Creek Water Shed Study. Leo Nelson passed this study out to the Council for review. RTA Buses Leo Nelson stated the RTA is ready to lease the City new GMC Buses for $1.00 per year. This is contingent upon the City using the RTA bus colors, providing insurance and maintenance. The twin coaches presently being used will be re- called. Mayor Verbic suggested checking to see if there are more strings at- tached. Leo Nelson advised the Council they did not have to decide tonight. North End Bridge. Leo Nelson stated that Lochner is ready for a public information hearing. The people who have property in this corridor would be invited and this procedure would be followed up with a public hearing. The information hearing was set for November 3rd and Lochner will conduct the hearing with our assistance. There are at least 200 of pieces of property involved. Councilman West favored a briefing session with Lochner before the meeting. Councilmen Barnes, Schmidt, Strattan and Mayor Verbic did not feel a briefing session was necessary. The Council requested that letters be sent out and publication made relative to said meeting. C 81 October 13, 1976 Methodone Study. Leo Nelson advised Mr. Bixler had called and stated they were still working on this matter. Mayor Verbic pointed out that we have some qualified board mem- bers on the Health Commission and they might be able to give some imput on this matter. Councilman Barnes did not feel this should be done until after the study was completed. Councilwoman Strattan suggested referring it to the Com- mission informing them of the status of the study. Mr. Nelson indicated the study should be available by November. Sewer Use Charge. Leo Nelson advised he had meet with the Elgin Sanitary District on Monday. They admitted the EPA had accepted the winter quarter rate as a basis for a year. The Elgin Sanitary District will get together with Dave Jepson to run informa- tion through to project what the rates would be if we use the winter quarter rate. They will advise the outcome of this meeting. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 P.M. Marie Yearma City Clerk C r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 19, 1977 5 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, January 19, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes Gilliam, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Beckmann and Schmidt. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Discussion re Allocation of 1977 HCD Funds South Grove Avenue Redevelopment Project: Mr. John Schmidtke stated that John Langum and other members of the Plan Commission felt that this project did not fit the spirit of the act. Mayor Verbic stated in view of the new civic center at the north end of the Central Business District and the Fountain Square Plaza it was very important that the south end be developed to foster downtown business. If the developed property is sold later on the funds could be returned back for other funding projects. It is not lost and will come back. Councilman Barnes stated he shared the Commission's concern that this project was not in the spirit of the act but he also felt the proposed storm water drainage and detention pond, which is ineligible for HCD funding was impor- tant and if the South Grove Avenue project could be funded under HCD to pro- vide other City funds for alleviating the flooding along Willard Avenue, he would support this other proposal. Mr. Schmidtke stated the Commission did not feel applying for money under one guise and using it for another was the way to get money for Willard Avenue. Janet Heinicke stated she did not participate in the initial work sessions but did attend the public hearings. Mrs. Heinicke felt the riverfront should be preserved and maintained to improve the community. She would have raised some questions about the South Grove project although she respected the wishes of the Commission. Councilman West stated that the City in the past had funded out of its general revenues several projects which could have been funded under HCD, so there is no reason to feel guilty about South Grove Avenue. The Council recommended $130,000 be designated for the South Grove Avenue Development. Acquisition of Blighted and Riverfront Land. Councilman Barnes asked if there was a breakdown as to what land is connected with the blighted housing area. Mr. Roll stated the Planning Commission desig- nated 5 parcels. One junk yard on State Street, three riverfront parcels and the Raymond Street wet area. Councilman Barnes stated the riverfront property is important but should not be given priority over other needs. The Council recommended $115,000 be designated for this project. January 19, 1977 6 CBS Lighting Improvements. Councilwoman Strattan stated she could see no logic in raising this to $50,000. Councilman West stated we should remember the on going costs. The Council recommended $30,000 be designated for this project. Curb Cuts and Parking Lot Modifications for the Handicapped. Councilman West stated he would like this implimented before the grant money arrives. The Council recommended $10,000 be designated for this project. Signalization of May and St. Charles Streets. The Council recommended $10,000 be designated for this project. Frazier and Clifford Junk Clearance. The Council recommended $10,000 be designated for this project. Development of Park and Recreation Area in Frazier, Clifford, Owasco Area. The Council recommended $20,000 be designated for this project. Development of St. Charles Street Park. Mayor Verbic stated he would like this started earlier in order to get something done this year. The Council recommended $35,000 be designated for this project. Study of Architectural and Financial Feasibility of Lincoln School as Neighbor- hood Center. Mr. Charles West stated they had 13 agencies interested in renting space right now. Mayor Verbic asked if this facility would be convenient to transportation. Mr. West this was an excellent spot for these service centers. Councilman Gilliam asked if we put $40,000 what else would we be committed to financially. Councilman Barnes saw nothing wrong, if feasible, in renovating the building and renting it to United Way Agencies. Leo Nelson stated $10,000 is for the study and $30,000 for rehabilitation. Mayor Verbic questioned if the building was worth renovating and what the cost of same would be. Leo Nelson stated the estimated cost may be from $550,000 to $750,000. Mr. Nelson felt it would be a shame to cut off funding after committees have spent so much time on the project. Janet Heinicke stated this project is in the spirit of the act. It might turn out not to be feasible but it does deserve your support. Councilmen Barnes, Strattan, and West agreed to designate $40,000 for this pro- ject. Councilman Gilliam abstained. Tree Planting Project. Councilman Barnes felt this amount should be revised because he considered it a low priority. Councilman West concurred. The Council recommended $5,000 be designated for this project. January 19, 1977 7 Poplar Creek Playground Facilties. Mayor Verbic asked why the Commission had raised the funding of this project. Mr. Schmidtke stated this area of town should receive some assistance. Mayor Verbic asked where the property was located. Mr. Roll stated immediately north of Huntington Park with no public access except for Bode Road. Mr. Keith Steffen, Poplar Creek Board Member stated recreational facilities were needed because of the large number of children in the area who presently played in the streets. After further discussion it was determined the wrong piece of property was being considered. Leo Nelson stated planned recreational facilities might be worked out with School District U46 in connection with the Parkwood school sites. Mr. Nelson stated he would get together with the school authorities. Gifford Park Project. The Council agreed not to fund this project which they felt was too low a priority. Old Main Project. Roger Dahlstrom stated construction or support of a museum is not qualified for HCD Funds. Mayor Verbic asked if there were other means of funding. Mr. Dahlstrom stated yes, it would be very advantageous for federal funding. It may qualify under the Public Works Act. Mr. Dahlstrom was requested to discuss this further with Mr. Sleeman. The Council made the following additional designations : Home Rehabilitation Program 105,000 Administrative Costs 25,000 Contingencies 46,000 Porposed Agreement for Implementation of Tyler Creek Watershed Study. The Council reviewed an agreement submitted by Alstot, March & Guillou, Inc. Leo Nelson suggested using $55,000 from the South Grove Development project for the watershed study and proceed with the gaging station at least. The Council approved said proposal. Renewal of Lease of 9 North Grove for City Bus Depot. Mr. Roll advised the rental for 1977 will be the same as last year, $450.00 per month. The Council directed this be put on the next Council Agenda. Proposed Rent & Fee Schedule For Hemmens Building. The Council approved the new suggested rates and directed it be placed on the next Council Agenda. Proposed Stop Signs on Market Street. The Council approved the Traffic Committee's recommendation to install stop signs at Larkin & Market and Lyle & Market. January 19, 1977 8 Review of Amendments to Residential Sections of Zoning Ordinance. Mr. Roll advised he was delayed in presenting this to the Council because the Corporation Counsel questioned several items. Corporation Jentsch stated that if this is passed sometime in the future you might want to change it because of an attractive appealing development. This would also affect future annexations. Mayor Verbic asked if the realtors had been advised. Mr. Roll replied that public hearings were held. Mayor Verbic asked if there was any reaction. Ery Jentsch stated only Pinehurst. Leo Nelson stated if we had this 6 months ago we would not be in court with Pinehurst. Progress Report on Proposed Parking Structure at Chicago and Spring Streets. Leo Nelson advised the Council the appraisals were completed. The Council again concurred that they did not want any cost of this project to be levied against the taxpayers. Leo Nelson stated a special assessment to the merchants could be arranged to get the financing plus the revenue generated by the facility. Mayor Verbic asked if there would be any survey made among the merchants. Mr. Nelson replied that there would be a meeting with the Traffic and Parking Ad- visory Committee and then a meeting with the merchants to see if they would be interested. The Council expressed no desire to use any City funds nor did they want another Douglas Avenue. Councilman West questioned if this was for parking space only or with retail space. Leo Nelson replied with retail space. The Council agreed to proceed subject to the foregoing stipulations. Progress Report on North End Bridge. Leo Nelson advised he and Mel Dahl had attended meetings last week with State and Federal officials who indicated they felt rather good about the north end bridge project. There were no questions and they apprised the project as well thought out. Mr. Nelson further advised he and Staff will meet on Friday with the Aurora- Elgin Council of Mayors to obtain approval for a $100,000 federal aid urban al- location for part of the engineering work on the bridge. Progress Report on Kimball Street Bridge. Leo Nelson advised the Council that Alfred Benesch & Associates would have the project ready for bid in March. However after a meeting with the Milwaukee Railroad this may not be possible because the railroad is requiring an agreement whereby there is a provision for temporary relocation of its signals, new sig- nals and a new grade crossing all to the expense of Elgin. Mr. Nelson thought this was unreasonable. The railroad is presently drawing said agreement for review. Mr. Nelson stated he did not know why the bridge project was rejected for funding under the Public Works Act, having ranked No. 432 out of 659 projects in Illinois, but thought it might have something to do with insufficient laborers. Mr. Nelson asked if in view of President Carter's anticipated $2 billion additional funds to the Public Works Act, would the Council want the project resubmitted. The Council agreed to re-submit the project. Rental of Ladder Truck. (74 Leo Nelson advised they could arrange to rent a 1954 ladder truck while the City ladder truck is in for repowering. The cost would be $50.00 per day not to ex- ceed $2,000. The Fire Chief felt it was important to have a ladder truck at Station #4. Councilman Barnes asked how long it would take to repower the City January 19, 1977 9 ladder truck. Deputy Wallace replied approximately 60 days. The Council ap- proved the rental of the ladder truck. Fireworks at Wing Park. Chief Baird stated his department had many problems with roadways blocked and some motorists parking in front yards of residences. Don Sleeman of the American Legion stated the Legion had been trying to find another place for its carnival and fireworks show but had not been successful and had decided not to hold the event this year. He stated the legion had expended about $2,500.00 annually for fireworks. Mr. Sleeman asked the city if they would be willing to share some of the funding for fireworks. Mayor Verbic asked what the cost would be. Mr. Sleeman replied about $2,500.00. Mayor Verbic felt that people look forward to this and he would like to do something. Councilman Barnes suggested the City contact the School District to see if Elgin High School field or Elgin Community College property could be used for a fireworks display. Councilman West asked if the taxpayers would want to pay for fireworks. Councilman Barnes stated this was a good family outing and we should find some funding. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:45 P.M. Marie Yearma , City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 26, 1977 10 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, January 26, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan and West. Absent: Councilman Beckmann and Mayor Verbic. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Reimbursement Ordinance for the Elgin Oaks Industrial Park. Gary Miller advised the Council when this project was designed approximately 160 acres was considered in the storm water runoff calculations. The developer was required to construct the detention area to service the entire drainage area. The detention area was oversized to handle property 30 acres outside the project limits. The Council agreed to approve a reimbursement ordinance so the developers could recover their initial construction costs when the adjoining property is developed. This reimbursement totals $16,309.02. Proposed Watermain Reimbursement to U.S. Shelter, Inc. Leo Nelson advised the Council this reimbursement amounting to $57,793.38 is for oversizing watermains in Parkwood Subdivision, which have accumulated since 1971. Although the city was approached for payment in 1976 this could not be handled because of insufficient funds in the budget. Mr. Nelson advised there are funds in the budget to pay this year. Mr. Miller has recomputed the figures and sub- mitted a revised figure of $57,793.38 instead of $60,545.38 to U.S. Shelter for their review. We assume they will accept this revised figure. Councilman West asked if there was any way payment could be held up in order to recover some of the damage they caused with storm water drainage. Mr. Nelson stated they did furnish a detention area and will participate in the Bode Road development even though those lots have been sold. The Council approved said reimbursement. Proposed Gaging Station at a Bridge Which Crosses Tyler Creek at Eagle Road. Mr. Mel Dahl recommended the location of the stream gaging station on property owned by the Fraternal Order of Eagles who have given verbal approval of this installation. The Council gave approval of this site for the gaging station. Briefing on Otter Creek Drainage Project. Bob Hogue reviewed with the Council a map showing three alternate drainage lines. The State will remove the culvert under Route 20. The following appropriations were made: County 19,000 IDOT 74,000 Dept. of Water & Resources 71,000 City of Elgin 174,000 337,000 January 26, 1977 11 The State will advise as to amount of money they have in budget for this pro- ject. The Staff proposed the following drainage line: Erie Street to Edgewood Right-of-Way to the proposed State of Illinois enlinement. The meeting adjourned for the Council Meeting at 8:00 P.M. Meeting re-convened at 8:40 P.M. Baxter & Woodman's Proposed Improvements to West Side Water Treatment Plant. Leo Nelson advised this proposal is being reviewed by Black & Veatch. Mr. Nelson stated he thought they had given the best solution without the necessity of closing the plant and this could increase the plant's capacity to 8 MGD. Mr. Nelson stated he would bring the matter back after he has received a report from Black & Veatch. City's Participation in Home Improvement Show. Mr. Nelson stated this would be a good apportunity to have a booth with infor- mation available by the Inspection Department to help the public in purchasing supplies or engaging services to comply with the Code. The booth would also provide information on fire protection and a Real Estate Research Represen- tative to explain the procedure on rehabilitation loans. The First National Bank has advised the cost of renting such space would be $125.00. The Council approved this project. Miscellaneous Discussion. Leo Nelson advised the Council the cost of thawing out frozen water lines was running between $3,000 and $4,000. Ron Zegers reported he had asked people who had frozen lines to let their water drip after thawing in order to avoid re-freezing. Most people objected to the expense of the water and sewer charge. Councilman Barnes thought they should be charged if the City has to come back a second time. Councilman West agreed. Councilman Gilliam asked if the City could do this. Counsel Jentsch felt the City had no legal obligation, you are spending other people's money to repair other people's property. It was agreed a charge would be made after the first service call. Leo Nelson passed out a letter from the City of Aurora inviting participation at a dinner on February 24th, at the Hilton Inn to kick off the Solid Waste Resource Recovery Study. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:55 P.M. Marie Yearman, City Clerk C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING February 2, 1977 12 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, February 2, 1977 at 7:10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None . Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Report by Mental Health Resources Center re Methadone Maintenance Program. Karen Mensching, Jim Bixler and James Renz appeared before the Council and stated the Forest Hospital was not interested in having a methadone center in Elgin. Mr. Renz reported 90% of users here are chippers that do not stay here, they come and go. Mr . Renz stated they had recently received a grant from the Dangerous Drugs Commission for day care for female adicts and they soon hoped to have a program for males. They presently provide arts, crafts, educational studies and food. The Mayor asked if these people know where to go, or if ad- vertising would help. Mr. Bixler stated the street grapevine is better than the newspapers Mr. Renz estimated it would cost about $75,000 per year for a methadone center because of Federal regulations. Mayor Verbic asked what is the number of successful cases . Mr. Bixler stated depending on employment and family life they have a 287, success rate . The Committee members expressed a hope that the partnership between the City Council and the Mental Health Resources Council can result in better meeting the needs of this area . Mr. Bixler stated there was a developing need, reassessment and determination of a dollar figure to be established and when this was done, the Committee would come back to the Council to make the necessary priorities. Discussion re Installation of Second Water Meter. Mr. Nelson explored the possibility of citizens installing a second water meter to avoid the sewer use charge, since the Sanitary District will not change their policy. Mr. Nelson stated we could adopt a policy where they would absorb any costs. They would require 2 remote readers, 2 accounts, 1 for water and 1 for sewer. The Council approved of this procedure unanimously. Discussion re Rehabilitation Loan Program. Rob Roll introduced Mr. Dick Starr of Real Estate Research Corp. Mr. Starr stated there is a growing awareness in major cities for the preservation of older homes . It just made good sense to save older stock and liveability de- pends on housing. Once you have passed a housing code, the City must play a legitimate role in helping to bring houses up to code. The City should think about standards, What is a decent house, Economics, and problems which a family may have . Mr. Starr cited a program where paint was provided to a neighborhood. Each home owner could get up to $100.00 worth of free paint if he would do the work within a year. In the case of senior citizens, try to provide labor for them. When confronted with building violations, try to have staff work with the February 2, 1977 13 people not just send out notices. Administration is very important to any pro- ject. Mr. Starr also made the following recommendations. Permit Office hours should be changed to allow working persons not to have to take off work; change (11161 policy from enforcement to assistance; the east side of Elgin would be an excel- lent site to start with; technical assistance should be provided and entice banks to particivate in loans on real estate in older neighborhoods . Miscellaneous Discussion Kimball Street Bridge. Mayor Verbic reported on a meeting with Assistant Secretary of Commerce, John W. Eden in Washington D.C. Councilman Beckmann also attended said meeting. Mr. Eden expressed surprise that Elgin was denied a grant and said he would re-evaluate the matter to see why Elgin received such a low rating. Mayor Verbic stated new money would be in the stream within 30 days. Congress is undecided on whether to fund the public works program with two billion or expand it to four billion. Mr. Eden indicated if it is four billion Elgin would have no problem getting a grant, if two billion the City's rating might be changed. Councilman West asked how long would we have to wait. Mayor Verbic replied we should know within 30 days. Councilman Barnes asked at what point have we lost construction. Mr. Nelson stated we are getting the final engineering plans and we will have to walk these through Springfield. We would be into March 1st so we could wait to see what Congress is going to do. Fireworks Program. The Council approved financial contribution with other organizations towards the cost of the 4th of July fireworks . Home Rule Ballot. The Council agreed the ballot should be in the form of a yes vote. Chamber of Commerce Brochure . The Council agreed to assist in the cost of the chamber brochure entitled the Elgin Community Profile Brochure . Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 P.M. 4.11-1-11-A-44"4-44---" Marie Yearman, City Clerk r 14 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING February 9, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, February 9, 1977 at 7:30 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None . Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Selection of Date for Presentation of Airport Study. The Council directed that Mr. John Lucas be invited to give his presentation on Wednesday, February 16th. City Vehicle Stickers. The Council agreed to extend the deadline for vehicle stickers to March 1, 1977. Discussion re Liquor Licenses . Mayor Verbic pointed out that in view of the population increase the city was in a position to issue 2 additional package goods liquor licenses. The Mayor further stated Osco Drug had made acplication for additional licenses in 1971 but under the present ordinance they did not qualify. Councilman Gilliam stated he had a problem with this because Osco already had one license . Councilman Beckmann stated he thought the Jewel-Osco was the best place to have the license. Councilman West did not feel Osco should have two licenses and he would like to see them move the downtown license to one of the other stores. Councilwoman Strattan stated that some criteria should have been established as was discussed seven months ago. Councilwoman Strattan requested that the Liquor Commission come up with a recommendation and that matter then be placed on a Committee of the Whole agenda for review in two weeks . The Council concurred. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M. Marie Yearman, City Clerk C 15 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING February 16, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, February 16, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Airport Study Presentation. Mr. Rob Roll introduced Mr. John Lucas of Arnold Thompson & Associates, who stated that after two years of study his firm recommended that the present air- port not be expanded. Mr. Lucas further stated there is a demand for larger aircraft in this area. Total facilities would require between 400 to 600 acres, this would cover a main runway from 5,000 to 6,000 in length; a cross- wind runway 3,900; a parallel runway of 2,700; navagation aid and aircraft storage facilities. Mr . Starr recommended location to the west of the river because of compatible land use; first priority preservation area to east; lower land costs and lower population densities. Mr. Starr stated their site selection was property bounded by Illinois 47, U.S. 20, Plank Road and Marshall Road in Plato-Rutland Township. The City would have to agree with the site selection, a master plan study would be needed for the recommended site, public hearings and a complete financial plan for that site . The estimated cost for a 600 acre site is $11,204,000 and could be funded as follows: Federal grants $8,400,000; State funding $604,000 and the City $2,200,000. Mr. Roll stated the Plan Com- e mission felt the new airport is necessary, the recommendation of Arnold Thompson & Associates should be accepted and the City should proceed with the Master Plan. Councilman Barnes asked if this would be providing service for a large portion of the metropolitan area and not just Elgin. Mr. Lucas replied, many users would live outside the City of Elgin and would attract industry to Elgin. Councilman Beckmann asked where the local $2,200,000 funding would come from. Mr. Lucas replied, from general obligation bonds or fixed base operations . Mayor Verbic asked if we waited would there be a problem with restricted land uses . Mr. Lucas replied that would be a problem. Mayor Verbic asked what if Crystal Lake goes ahead with an airport. Mr. Lucas stated that the State pre- fers the Elgin site and Elgin would tie up a considerable amount of air space. Crystal Lake is waiting to see what Elgin does. Mr . Tom Doxey stated if you put a major airport out there you will have all types of building along Rt. 47. The water supply is dropping out there and what about the property that would be taken off the tax rolls . Mr Lucas replied that suitable zoning would have to be worked out to protect the type of business allowed and arrangements made with the City for loss of revenue. Liz Liebert asked who is limiting the expansion in Schaumburg. Mr. Lucas stated the land itself. Ms. Liebert asked if the proposed airport would accommodate air freight. Mr. Lucas replied no. C February 16, 1977 16 Mayor Verbic questioned if this land would have to be acquired before 1978 in order to get full federal funding. Mr. Lucas replied the federal funds do not come from general tax revenues but from airport trust funds, tax on airline tickets, gas, and tires, either private or commercially. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 P.M. Marie Yearma , City Clerk e C 17 COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING February 23, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, February 23, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None . Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Discussion re Request for Financial Assistance for Legal Aid Bureau of Kane County. Mr. David Wolowitz, who is the current fulltime attorney of the Bureau stated that the Legal Aid provides counseling for indigent people throughout the County. The agency commenced operation in February, 1976, with money recieved from the State. The funds have now been exhausted. The funding to date has not been enough to keep the Agency going for the balance of this year. Attorney Jeff Rifken stated 307 of the services rendered are for Elgin people. Councilman Beckmann asked if the Agency had contacted the Elgin Township or United Way for Funds. Attorney Rifken stated they were asking $13,000 from this area. Council- man Gilliam asked what amount of money was being requested Attorney Rifken stated as much as we can get. Councilman Barnes thought a formula should be developed and applied to the various communities . Mayor Verbic thought that if each lawyer would take one case this would solve the problem. Attorney Wolowitz stated many lawyers have done this but it does not really take care of the demand, nor does every legal office afford the expertise needed. Mr . Nelson stated there is nothing for this in the present budget and it would be necessary to take it out of the contingency fund or review the budget to see if some lower priority item could be cut. Mayor Verbic asked if this was a one time request. Attorney Rifken stated he hoped not. Councilman Barnes felt this area was in terrific need and this would not be met by a lawyer referral and he was willing to consider this on a one time basis. Councilman Gilliam suggested going back to the budget to see what could be cut. Councilman West stated he would like a more firmed up request. The Council requested that the Agency Representatives come up with a firm formula and exact amount needed. Councilman Gilliam pointed out they should only consider this as an interest in the project and not a commitment of funds . The Representatives will come back with a revised proposal. The Meeting adjourned at 8:00 P.M. for the Regular City Council Meeting. The Committee Meeting of the Whole reconvened at 8:45 P.M. Discussion re Proposed Massage Parlor Ordinance. Councilman West asked if this ordinance would apply to the Y.M.C.A. Attorney Jentsch stated yes, if they employ someone not licensed by the State as a thera- pist. Mayor Verbic asked if we presently have problems in this area . Chief Baird said there had been inquiries about opening up such establishments in Elgin February 23, 1977 18 from areas where there had been problems he had recommended the ordinance to avoid having any problems with prostitution or heavy crime rate. Councilman Schmidt asked if this is a front for a health club. Chief Baird stated this ordinance would not interfere with a legitimate health club. The Council dir- ected that this item be put on the Council agenda . Discussion re Proposed Ordinance Providing for the Disposal of Lost and Stolen Property Held by the Elgin Police Department. The Council directed that this item be put on the Council Agenda . Discussion re Agreement with City of Aurora to Conduct a Feasibility Study for Regional Solid Waste Disposal and Resource Recovery Facility. Mayor Verbic stated he thought we should continue with this project to determine if there would be a solid waste system. The Council directed that a form of agreement to pursue this project be drawned. Disucssion of Research Agreement with Hydro-Clear Corporation. Attorney Jentsch pointed out that item 3 of said agreement had been revised to reflect reimbursement to the City for City personnel who may participate in this project. The Council directed that this item be placed on the Council Agenda . Discussion re Amendment to Liquor License Ordinance . Mayor Verbic stated two additional class B licenses could be issued at this time and as a result of the Liquor Commission Hearing on February 18, 1977, the Mayor thought Osco should be given an additional license because of the profes- sional way their sales are handled. Larry McKenzie indicated at this meeting that he was not in favor of giving Osco another license and this should be given to individual licensees . Councilman West stated he did not think Osco should be given another license. Councilman Gilliam stated he did not think it was fair to change the ordinance in order to give Osco another license. Mr. Mitchell of Osco Drugs stated the present ordinance does not allow them to apply for such a license and he did not think this was fair. He also pointed out there were other liquor stores in Elgin where they had two or three licenses . Councilman Gilliam stated now is the time to stop that. Councilman Barnes felt that anybody has the right to go into business, we are just to police the run- ning of these businesses. Councilman Gilliam stated the total ordinance should be looked at for changes. Attorney Jentsch stated we had gone through this last year. The licensees wanted to discuss further amendments but I have heard nothing further. Councilwoman Strattan asked the Corporation Counsel to write to the licensees and ask for written suggestions. Councilman Barnes thought these suggestions should first be reviewed by the Liquor Commission. Attorney Jentsch stated he would get these letters out to the liquor dealers. Discussion Proposed Ordinance Regulating Peddlers and Solicitors in Fountain Square Plaza. Jim Knowles, Chairman of the Mall Commission stated this ordinance will provide a control of solicitation in the Mall and the fees would help to compensate for (71116 cleanup and the cost of promotional activities. Councilman Barnes asked if the . February 23, 1977 19 Commission denied a license could that applicant then come to the Council. Attorney Jentsch stated you could provide for an internal review. Mayor Verbic wondered if the amount of the fees would prohibit the use of the Mall. Pat McCarthy, stated in talking with other groups $20.00 per day was not high, and that lower rates would invite numerous small groups. Councilman West and Schmidt wondered about the Salvation Army, Lions and other Civic Association solicitations . Pat McCarthy stated this would only be allowed in the Buck-A-Brick Booth, which would be enlarged. Councilman Barnes stated he thought there should be some rules as to who the licenses are issued to. Councilman Schmidt agreed and thought that before the Crisis Center was given the license for the hot dog wagon, the project should have been made know to the public for other bidders . After lengthly discussion the Council agreed to have the ordinance put on an Adjourned Council Agenda for Wednesday, March 2, 1977 at 7:00 P.M. Assistant Corporation Counsel Binninger was to work further with the Commission on charitable projects and rules for licensing. Discussion re Acquisition of 410 Acres from State of Illinois . Councilman West objected to Item 5 of the stipulations and conditions wherein it was provided that any income received by the City from the land would be the property of the State until the City had paid in full for the land. Attorney Jentsch will try to resolve this objection. Discussion re Acceptance of Maintance of Garden Quarter Watermains and Sanitary Sewer Lines . Mr. Nelson stated that if anyone in the Planned Unit Development has a water failure or water main break, it would be difficult to get service and it would mean other contractors working on City equipment which is not good. If this were done in this Planned Unit Development some criteria would have to be applied to each individual case. Councilman Barnes stated he agreed providing they come up to the City standards . The Council agreed to have the matter looked into. Discussion re Purchase of Seeding Machine for Spartan Meadows . The Council approved this purchase Discussion re Improvement to the Sound System in the City Hall Council Chambers. Leo Nelson pointed out we have a proposal from the Ancha Electronics, Inc . in the amount of $4,386.00, there is $3,500.00 in the budget for this project. The Council approved said proposal. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:35 P.M. Marie Yearman, City Clerk r #1.' March OF THE WHOLE MEETING March 10, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, March 9 at 7 : 08 P.M. , in the Council Con- ference Room of City Hall . Members Present : Councilmen Barnes , Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt , Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Also present were : City Manager, Leo Nelson; Acting City Clerk, Nancy Caspersen; and members of staff. Proposed Acceptance for Maintenance of Water Mains and Sewer Lines in Planned Unit Developments Leo Nelson suggested an ordinance or resolution be prepared accept- ing the maintenance of water and sewer lines in planned unit develop- ments , excepting those portions of the mains under the buildings or other structures . Mayor Verbic asked if there have been any problems with water and sewer lines in other planned unit developments . Leo Nelson was not aware of any serious problems in any of the develop- ments . Bob Hogue stated the engineers have inspected the lines at the time of installation and the only problem is the City does not know where the services are located since they are on private property. The planned unit developments would be required to furnish the City with plans showing the location of all services if this proposal is ill accepted. Councilman Barnes questioned the reasoning behind not including mobile home parks in the maintenance program. It was pointed out that mobile home parks are treated like industry; there is only one service line at the entrance of the park. It was the concensus of the City Council that a proposal be prepared and sub- mitted to planned unit development associations for feedback. Real Estate Research Corporation' s Proposal to Develop a Housing Rehabilitation rogram or Elgin Donald Wagner requested the endorsement of the City Council to take advantage of the services provided by Real Estate Research Corpora- tion, but at this time he does not know to what extent the Corpora- tion will be needed. Mayor Verbic asked if the City could do this project in house . Leo Nelson stated the project could be done more quickly if performed by outside consultants rather then in house. If an in-house study is considered, the cost factor of employing addi- tional personnel must be included. The City has two years of funding, so the program should be completed quickly. Roger Dahlstrom said he and other members of the Department of Community Development will be visiting Joliet to see their rehabilitation program and learn of their experience with Real Estate Research Corporation as far as their level of input, how far they went with the consultants and what kind of program they are carrying on. Mayor Verbic thought this type of study should be performed. March 9, 1977 0. Employee Pension Credits Jim Aydt stated the omitted service credit was more or less a clerical error which could be rectified by giving credit for omitted service to the six employees involved. The question arose of granting creditable service during military leave. Mayor Verbic stated that with the possible reinstatement of the draft, employees who are required to take a military leave should be protected by including that time as creditable service. The possibility of a deferred compensation plan in lieu of Social Security for the police chief is still at a discussion level . Jim Aydt pointed out that the institution of these three plans would not be particularly costly to the City of Elgin. Sanitary Sewer Repair at Lincoln Avenue and Logan Avenue It was the concensus of the City Council that the repairs to the sanitary sewer line be made by Illinois Hydraulic Construction Company. Miscellaneous Council Discussion The Sanitary District proposed an update of the Combined Sewer Study. Because the standards have been lowered since the last study, the anticipated cost would be lowered of solving the combined sewer problem. A letter was brought to the attention of the City Council from the Elgin Citizens Against Crime regarding solicitation of funds for the AIDS Project. Mayor Verbic invited the members of the Council to attend the welcome of the LaSalle Expedition Voyaguers on April 3 in New Orleans . A petition complaining of parking around Kimball Junior High School by residents of the area during city-sponsored softball games was presented to the Council . Leo Nelson said he has received no new information from the State of Illinois regarding the penal facilities at St. Charles and Valley View. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7: 50 P.M. ewL Nancy Ca(persen, Acting City Clerk r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING March 23, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, March 23, 1977 at 7:08 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. N.I.P.C. 208 Clean Water Program. Mayor Verbic announced one elected official was needed for this Committee. Councilmen Barnes and Beckmann stated they would check into this and advise . Committee of the Whole Meeting Change. Mayor Verbic suggested there be no meeting scheduled for April 6th due to the Easter vacation. The Council concurred. Proposed Policy for Accepting Water Mains and Sewer Lines for Maintenance in Planned Unit Developments . 1. Easements - To avoid making a survey and preparing easement plats for each utility line, it was recommended that a blanket easement be given to the City for access to the properties as necessary to maintain the facilities . It is not our intention to drive all over the property to maintain any of the facilities, but to use the most C direct route to the utility. Naturally, we may at some time have to have equipment on property over the utilities which could even be between buildings. 2. All water and sewer lines under dwelling units, garages, swimming pools and similar structures shall be maintained, repaired or restored by the property owner. These shall not be the maintenance responsibility of the City. 3. All facilities, as necessary, shall be inspected prior to acceptance for maintenance by the City. Any deficiencies shall be corrected by the property owner or association before acceptance for maintenance. 4 . As-built plans of all utilities shall be furnished to the City. These plans shall show the location of all water services, valves, hydrants and corporations . If possible, the location of each house sanitary lateral should also be shown. 5. The property owner shall be responsible for the individual sanitary sewer line from the building to the main sewer. 6. The property owner shall be responsible for the water service line from the building to the water main. 7. If water service leaks are not repaired in a reasonable length of time after notification, the City shall have the authority to turn off the water until such repairs are made. March 23, 1977 8. The City shall repair the main water and sewer lines (sanitary and storm) and backfill as nearly as possible to the original elevation, but the final restoration of the site shall be the responsibility of the property owner. This shall include but not be limited to parking lot pavement, sidewalk, patios, retaining walls, shrubs, lawns, and area lights . 9. There should be a contact person for each association so that in the event of an emergency, proper notification can be made . Leo Nelson stated the proposed blanket easement was made in order to avoid the expense of surveys and legals for each particular lot. Mel Dahl stated that Burnham Mill did not want a blanket easement. They proposed a 10 ft. easement along each utility. They would also like the City to work with the owner in restoring the property to its original condition. Leo Nelson stated they could go ahead with the easements over the lines and leave it up to the individuals as to which way they wanted to go. The Council agreed to proceed with the pro- posed policy. Water and Sewer Bill for Premises at 233 Center Street Owned by Mr. Edward Puklin. The Council was advised that Mr. Puklin presently owes the City $891.01 for water and $552 .39 for sewer. Atty. Puklin stated he had bought this property 15 years ago as an investment. He stated this bill was accumulated due to a tenant not paying the bill, which was the tenant's responsibility. Mr. Puklin further stated there were leaks which were not discovered because the tenant refused entry to the house. Mr. C Puklin said this was an unusual case and he would like some kind of an adjust- ment. Leo Nelson stated the only relief given in the past has been to extend the period in which to pay. Never in the past has a water bill been reduced. Councilman Schmidt asked if the tenants were screened. Mr. Puklin said yes but he had been accused of being discriminatory. Councilman Barnes stated he did not think the City has any responsibility to bail Mr. Puklin out, somebody else could ask the same thing. Councilman Gilliam stated he had been left with an unpaid water bill by a tenant and he had to pay it with no relief. After further discussion the Council voted unanimously to deny any relief. Mr. Puklin is to meet with Mr. Bolerjack to work out the terms of payment. The meeting adjourned for the Regular Council Meeting at 8:00 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 9:45 P.M. Progress Report on the Otter Creek Drainage Project. Leo Nelson advised the Council that the State of Illinois, Department of Transportation had agreed to build a new culvert under By-Pass 20. The State of Illinois, Department of Resources have agreed with our design. The County is going to build a 5 X 12 culvert under Randall Road. The State has $225,000 available for the remainder of the project. The City will only agree to de- sign the project and obtain right-of-ways . The State will give the City the funds in order to control the project. The Council agreed to proceed and have the necessary agreements prepared. • March 23, 1977 Progress Report on the Proposed Transportation Center . Leo Nelson stated the RTA is willing to go ahead. Mr. Barney Cunningham from the RTA will be here tomorrow to make out the application. Mr. Nelson further advised there may be a problem with the application for Commuter parking. They want to talk about the location of the coach yards, but they will proceed with the Transportation Center regardless of the coach yard issue. Mr. Nelson stated that Jerry Boose was very helpful in getting the City together with the RTA on this project. Mr. Nelson said he would have further information after meeting with the RTA officials this week. Proposal to Deny Parking Restrictions on McClure Avenue between Wing Street and Wing Park. The Traffic Committee reported to the Council that 48 letters were sent out to the residents for their input. 17 responses were received, 11 requesting a status quo, 2 each would like to see parking restrictions on 1) east side, 2) west side and 3) both sides . The Traffic Committee recommended that no action be taken at this time. The Council agreed with this recommendation. Proposal to Change the Name of Lovers Lane to Fox Lane. The Traffic Committee advised the Council this request came from the Kane County Highway Department due to the loss of the street sign on numerous occasions. It was their opinion this particular street name may have a special appeal to a certain age group. There is only one family living on the street and they have no objection to the name change. The Staff recommendation is to change the name to Fox Lane. The Council concurred and directed this be placed on the next Council Agenda. 1977 Contribution to N.I.P.C. Leo Nelson advised the contribution requested this year is $2,062.00 which re- presents .03 per cent of the Community's gross revenues . The Council approved the amount of this contribution. Cost of Repair to the Slade Avenue Water Treatment Plant. Leo Nelson stated they had received a figure from Rasmussen Steel not to exceed $7,200.00. Mr. Nelson further stated the Wall at the plant started to fall away, the brick veneer moved about 6' . At this time it is not known if there is any structural damage . The Council agreed to go ahead with this repair. Repairs to Boiler at City Hall. Leo Nelson advised the Council one of the boilers failed this winter due to heavy pitting in the base of the boiler. Frank Kaiser, Building Superintendent, obtained the following bids for the repair of the boiler. B & G Boiler & Welding $3,666.00 Jacobs Welding & Boiler 4,425.00 Atlas Boiler & Welding 6,350.00 The Council directed that the low bidder be selected to make said repairs . r March 23, 1977 Radio and Telemetry Equipment. The Council directed that Mike Sarro negotiate and purchase from Motorola the necessary radio replacements and telemetry equipment for the new Fire Department ambulance. Loyalty Day Parade . The V.F.W. Watch City Post No. 1307 requested permission to hold a Loyalty Day Parade on Sunday, May 1, 1977 . The Council approved this request and requested that the appropriate resolution be prepared. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:20 P.M. � Marie Yearn n, City_Clerk r C r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING March 30, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, March 30, 1977 at 7: 10 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Progress Report on North End Bridge . Mr. Bernie Guenther of H.W. Lochner & Associates reviewed design recommendations and advised it would not be necessary to rebuild the intersection at Big Timber and State. Channelization on south side of west approach could be changed to allow for two through lanes and one left-turn lane. A left-turn lane would be added to the north State Street approach. The signals must be modified to in- corporate the four-approach intersection. Soil investigations are now under- way to determine to investigate structure/embankment studies . The strip of land between the project and the Fox River, not needed for roadway, would be developed into a linear park. Mr. Guenther went on to explain the grade separ- ation ramp at Slade, Grove Avenue Connector, Access Plan, suggested treatment for closed streets, north side of Summit and Dundee-Summit-Gifford intersection. Varsity Drive from Rt. 20 to Rt. 19. Bob Schroeder, Jim Whalen and Joe Horace requested that the Council consider the possibility of extending Varsity Drive between Villa (Rt. 20) and Chicago Street (Rt. 19) . Leo Nelson stated that this project dates back to 1972 and was not pursued because one of the property owners died and estate proceedings tied it up. Mr. Horace stated this would provide a new highway at no expense to the City except for a bridge structure . This area is the last favorable site for commercial use such as bunching all automobile dealers together. The sales tax contributed to the City could be increased by allowing a automobile complex with class . It would also provide more jobs . If something is not done four of the automobile dealers downtown will move out of the City. A majority of the Council favored the project but thought it should wait until after the election. Proposed Change in Computer System. Mr. Nelson advised the Council this had been discussed for 1977 and funds were put in the budget. This would provide help to the Police Department and a bet- ter control on cash and investment of funds. The Council unanimously agreed to go ahead with this change . School Crossings at Liberty and Summit and Hill and Summit. Mr. Jim Kerrigan representing parents from the Columbia School boundaries and Lords Park Manor appeared before the Council to enlist help to prevent U46 from eliminating busing to Sheridan School. Mr. Kerrigan pointed out the danger for these children walking across Summit and stated that in 1976 there were 33 traffic accidents at the intersection of Liberty and Summit during school hours . Mr. Nelson stated the City would provide crossing guards at the a. March 30, 1977 intersections where the children cross Summit. The children could also use the underpass on Summit west of Hiawatha Drive. The Council considered sending a letter to the school board. Councilmen Barnes and Gilliam stated they would have to abstain being employed by U46 . Councilman West suggested a meeting with having two members of the Council and two members from the School Board. Coun- cilmen Strattan and West agreed to attend said meeting which was approved by a majority of the Council. Proposed Racket Ball Courts at Spartan Meadows Golf Course . Mr. Don Glaze petitioned the Council for permission to develop racket ball courts at Spartan Meadows. The concept was to add on to the present club house for these facilities . Mr. Glaze pointed out how poplar this was becoming, the fact that it would bring in revenue year round, while golf is seasonal. Phil Bennett stated he did not approve of this plan stating many of the golfers might resent this activity on the golf course. The Council asked if the Parks Board had been contacted. Mr. Bennett replied no. The Council then requested that Mr. Glaze secured proposed drawings of the project and submit the proposal to the Park and Recreation Board. Proposed Amendment to Sign Ordinance . Mr. Nelson advised the Council that Mr. Vern Earlbacher owner of the Yellow Cab Co. , in Elgin wished to petition for a variance which would allow him to keep the advertising signs on the back of his cabs . Mr. Nelson further stated that Earlbacher did not want to pay the filing fee. There would be no relief unless the Council wants the City to act as the applicant, otherwise he must pay the fee . Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan and West felt he should pay the fee. Purchase of Probeye Viewer. This item is included in the 1977 budget and will pinpoint the location of un- conscious persons in smoke or fire-filled rooms by detecting the differences in temperatures and its infrared viewing capabilities . The Council approved this purchase . Proposed Development of Fletcher Farm. Rob Roll advised the Council the current proposal included 10 acres for a elementary school, Jr. High and High School donation in cash, a park land dona- tion and a cash contribution toward a major detention area. They propose 10,080 single family and 900 multi-family with five to eight years for development. They have suggested 30 acres for commercial use . Mr. Roll suggested 15 acres for commercial use, he felt anything larger would be determental to South Grove Avenue and the downtown area. He also felt they should have nothing more than a neighborhood shopping center. Mr. Nelson advised the County Highway Depart- ment is apposed to commercial use so close to Randall Road. Lime Sludge Removal Contract. The Council was advised Schneider is raising his rate 10Q at each site but this will be the only increase this year. The Council agreed to enter into an agree- ment with this increase . • March 30, 1977 Drinking Water Standards. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that as a result of a meeting with United States E.P.A. , Illinois E.P.A. and Illinois Department of Public Health officials Elgin may not meet the standards for drinking water, because of the inadequate treat- ment capacity at the Slade Avenue Plant. Ron Zegers stated that when the plant is operating under its normal load the lime softening process is adequate to treat within standards the chemical elements, radium 226 and barium. However, this may exceed the standards when peak water demands occur during the summer. Mr . Nelson stated a new treatment plant is the answer. Lincoln and Logan Sanitary Sewer. The Council was advised as a part of the repairs it was necessary to purchase 140 feet of 16" sewer pipe for a total of $1,752.60. The Council approved pay- ment of this bill. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 11:30 P.M. r kle aA__p Marie Year an, City Clerk C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING April 13, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, April 13, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Confernece Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Chicago and North Western Railroad Request for City Participation in Recon- struction of Lawrence Avenue Grade Crossing. Leo Nelson advised the Council the estimated cost to the City was $2,500 and that in the past the City had participated. There is no obligation to do this but there are several other grade crossings in need of repair and the City is also working with them on the Sleepy Hollow - Big Timber crossing. Councilman West did not feel the City should help in this instance because the Railroad did nothing until they were advised by Resolution this crossing must be repaired. Mr. Nelson stated they were not asking for the $2,500 in cash but by way of in house employees. By doing it this way the City could get a bet- ter job done . Councilmen Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic voted to proceed with the City's participation. Councilwoman Strattan and Councilman West voted no. Request from Legal Aid of Kane County for Funds . Attorney Rifken and Attorney Bazos appeared before the Council and requested r the amount of $18,348.50 funding participation by the City which was based on a caseload formula. Councilman Barnes asked what amount would the United Way and Township give. Attorney Rifken stated the United Way sounded very favorable and suggested arranging for a meeting with the City and Township. The Mayor indicated he was afraid of setting a precedence for various other agencies. Councilman Barnes stated he had hoped they could get the funding from the Elgin Township. This in the past has been a major use of their revenue funds. Councilman Barnes further stated this is a worthwhile agency and he would like to wait to see if the Township could not fund it because the taxpayers might resent spending their money for this. Councilman West felt there were plenty of lawyers to take care of this and he did not want to spend the taxpayers money for this. Councilman Gilliam felt something should be given but $18,000 was too high. Leo Nelson agreed to attend a meeting with the Township and United Way and re- port back to the Council. Proposal from Burnidge and Cassell for Restoration of the Old Main Building. Mr. Charles Burnidge appeared before the Council and went over the program and cost analysis for the restoration of the Old Main Building. This was divided into the following catagories: (1) Analysis of the program furnished by Elgin Area Historical Society; (2) Code Analysis; (3) Structural Analysis of exist- ing foundations and building; Mechanical Analysis; Architectural research and design consideration for restoration; Site considerations; (4) Breakdown of ..- April 13, 1977 costs for exterior and interior restoration. The fee for these services to Burnidge and Cassell would be $4,500. Councilman Schmidt asked what the full cost would be. Mr. Burnidge did not know exactly what the program would be. A majority of the Council agreed to proceed with the preliminary architectural work. Councilman Barnes suggested the City look into federal funding for the project. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:05 P.M. Marie Yearma , City Clerk r C p COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING April 20, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, April 20, 1977 at 7:30 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic . Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Amendments to Regulations Governing Boiler Operations. Mr. Gale Puckett, Chairman of the Stationary Board, appeared before the Council and requested the following amendments be made to the present City Code: (1) There shall be a minimum of one stationary engineer for every two operating boilers. (2) No licensed person SHALL NOT: leave the boiler room unattended for any period exceeding 15 minutes; be further than 200 feet from the boiler room at anytime; display his license at all times; fight, gamble or be under the influence of drugs or intoxicating beverages when on duty; steal, cheat or falsify any record or log, or not maintain a log of alarms, pressure readings or mechanical breakdowns . Leo Nelson asked what places would be affected. Mr. Puckett replied, at least 2 hospitals . Councilman Barnes asked what was the origin of the information. Mr. Puckett replied, by personal experience in managing two boilers at Sherman Hospital. Councilman Gilliam asked what the standard procedure was in the area and expressed concern over the fact that this could affect a lot of people who might have to hire additional personnel. Mr. Puckett pointed out that a build- ing could b6 pJup and cause injury or death because of insufficient knowledge and a power engineer's license should be required. Councilman Gilliam stated there was a need to have the affected people come in to hear their side . Councilman West thought someone from the Fire Department should be represented. Councilwoman Strattan suggested sending out letters with a copy of the proposed amendments, requesting the information as to the location of their boilers and hourly wage paid to employee. Councilman Barnes asked if this could not be checked out with other States for procedure. Leo Nelson said this could be done through the Fire Department or Frank Kaiser This matter will come back to the Council upon receipt of the above requested information. Authorization to Purchase 25 Cubic Yards Leach Packer Body. This is in keeping with City Policy to purchase packer bodies through negotiation rather than formal bidding. The Council gave permission to proceed with negotiations for this purchase. April 20, 1977 Authorization to Enter into Agreement with Clarke Outdoor Spraying Company. The Council reviewed the 1977 proposal for a mosquito control program and di- rected that it be placed on the Council Agenda. Purchase of Case Endloader - Backhoe . The Council gave permission to proceed with the purchase of this item. Proposed 1977 Pool Rates. Leo Nelson stated the proposed rates had been recommended by the Parks Board. The last increase was in 1971. Councilman West asked about non-resident rates. Phil Bennett stated this was not discussed. He felt the facilities are not being used to the fullest capacity now but if this should happen they would consider the non-residents. Councilwoman Strattan suggested they make a head count this year as to non-residents using the facilities. The Council approved the rate increases. Recommended Boundary Agreement with Sleepy Hollow, East Dundee and West Dundee. Don Wagner, Community Development Director reviewed the Elgin Planning Committee recommendations with the Council. The Sleepy Hollow common boundary from the west would be the Northwest Tollway. East of McLean the City's northern boundary would follow the southern ridge line of Jelke Creek to Illinois 31. Sleepy Hollow's southern boundary would be Boncosky Road just north of the Creek. Leo Nelson stated the property along both sides of the creek could be a future Kane County Forest Preserve. The Council agreed to proceed with negotiations with Sleepy Hollow and West Dundee, but felt that the East Dundee plan needed further legal research, re- lating to the McGraw property. Support of Illinois Section of the Water Works Association. The Council agreed to support the two resolutions as proposed and requested that they be placed on the Council Agenda . Installation of Sidewalks around the Little League Diamond on the North and South Sides of Summit Street. Leo Nelson felt this was a safety feature and should be done . He stated the work could be done in house. The Council agreed to proceed with the project. Proposed Water Conservation Awareness Program. Ron Zegers pointed out the need for such a program in Elgin. He suggested public service announcements as well as some information for news articles. Councilman West asked that information pertaining to the water-sewer billing be included. The Council agreed that the City should have such a program. Senior Citizen Day. The Council agreed to provide free bus service on this day. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 P.M. Marie Yea an, City Clerk a COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING April 27, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Leo Nelson, City (11114 Manager on Wednesday, April 27, 1977 at 7:07 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes , Beckmann, Gilliam, Schmidt, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. John C. Friedland - Wing Street Improvements. Mr. Friedland was advised by letter that his claim for damages had been for- warded to Valley Engineering, the project contractor, for processing by them or their insurance carrier. Mr. Nelson advised the Council this was strictly a matter between the Friedlands and the contractor. Varsity Drive Bridge. Leo Nelson stated now election is over, Mr. Horace, Mr. Whalen and Mr. Schroeder would like to know what the City's intentions are for the Varsity Drive Bridge. In 1972 the City put $75,000 into the budget to construct this bridge. The cost today would amount to $150,000. Mayor Verbic felt the City should go ahead because the City would benefit sales tax from the sale of automobiles . Leo Nelson thought this may establish some prescedence for other developments presently pending. Chief VanDeVoorde stated it would be desirable to have a bridge regardless of who pays for it. Councilman Beckmann stated he thought the City should go ahead in the interest of bringing in new business and keeping the old business. Councilman West stated he agreed with building the bridge, but with a cost sharing basis. Councilman Gilliam wanted more information before spending $150,000. Councilman Barnes asked that Jim Bolerjack check to see what the past policy has been and then bring the matter back in one week. Request to Sweep Sear's Parking Lot. Leo Nelson stated this was being done at the present time for the Union National Bank and they were being billed on an hourly basis. Mr. Nelson wondered how far the City wanted to go with this service . Mel Dahl stated he would have to have more man power and he would like to do away with it. Councilman Gilliam stated we would have to stop doing it for the Union Bank also. The Council agreed to stop rendering this service . Proposed Parking Restrictions on North Melrose and Demmond. Leo Nelson stated the citizens in this area are upset not only with the parking for the City baseball games but with the parties that occur on the weekends. Thirty-three letters were sent out to the residents for imput. A majority of the residents favored prohibiting parking as follows: Demmond Street, north side, from North Melrose to McLean and North Melrose, east side, from Oakley Street to Demmond, between the hours of 5:00 P.M. and 9:00 P.M., Monday through April 27, 1977 Friday, from May 1 to September 1. The Council agreed to have an ordinance drawn reflecting this parking restriction. Councilman Barnes thought some message should go out to the baseball teams. Phil Bennett stated they had been given a warning and he felt they understood same. Mr. Nelson said that in addition the area would be policed six days a week. Request for Tree Removal. Mel Dahl had received a request from a Mrs. Sterba of 101 S. Melrose, to re- move 2 trees on her property. These trees had been severly pruned by Com- monwealth Edison and were very unsightly. Mrs. Sterba would replace these trees with a new variety that would only grow 25 feet in height. Leo Nelson stated the present policy allowed only the removal of dead or blown down trees, if we do this there may be others . Mel Dahl stated this was a unique case where the heart of the tree had been cut out. A permit for the replacement would be needed and an inspection would be made. The Council agreed to have the trees removed. City's Policy on Future Special Assessment Projects. Leo Nelson asked the Council if they approved of the procedures used in Area I or if there were any suggestions which could be applied to the Bode Road and Sleepy Hollow Road projects. Councilman Gilliam thought this should be put off until Area I comes out of court and it can be determined what is fair and equitable . Counsel Jentsch stated this would not give any proven formula because these two projects are not comparable to Area I. Councilman Barnes felt some mistakes had been made because of the necessity to change the formula in Area I. Leo Nelson asked if it would be better to have a public information hearing first. The Council indicated they would like this done, and requested the matter be brought back to them when more information relative to the two new projects is available . Request for Disabled Reduced Golf Fee. Phil Bennett stated he had a request from a Mr. Peabody requesting a reduced golf fee based on a statement from Dr. Simon which set forth that Mr. Peabody was not physically able to work. The Park and Recreation Board recommended adopting a policy subject to the following: 1. Applicant must be of legal age . 2. Applicant must furnish notorized affidavit affirming they are unable to work, full or part time, due to physical disability. 3. Applicant must furnish valid statement from a physician, stating applicant is physically disabled and unable to work. Councilmen Barnes, Beckmann, Hill, West and Mayor Verbic voted in favor of the policy change. Councilman Gilliam and Strattan voted op- posing same. Well Repairs . The Council approved repairs to Well #2 at Slade Avenue and Well #3A at Airlite Street. Ron Zegers stated he was having problems with G.E. Motors and would like to change to a Byran Jackson motor. The Council approved the repair of the G.E. Motor for $12,000 and would go along with the purchase of the Jackson motor for $27,000 if the money for such purchase could be found. • April 27, 1977 911 Phone System. Mr. Tom Flora from the 911 Task Force appeared before the Council requesting that the City initiate a draft plan for Elgin and the Elgin Area. This could be done in house with no outlay of cash until implementation. The Council felt they should be supplied more information as to costs of implementing such a system and some idea as to where this money would come . The Council did approve going ahead with draft plan at this time. Miscellaneous Discussion. The Council agreed not to meet on May 4, 1977 due to the Welcoming of the LaSalle Expedition II falling on the same day. Leo Nelson stated a meeting was to be held on Thursday, April 28, 1977, rela- tive to the proposed use of the Douglas Hotel. He will report back with the results of said meeting. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:25 P.M. (111114 Marie Yearman, City Clerk r i COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING May 11, 1977 C The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, May 11, 1977 at 7:10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Beckmann. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Disposition of Old Fire Station No. 2. Mr. Charles Zehner appeared before the Council and explained he was interested in the purchase of the old firehouse to be used as a theater and workshop. The City Manager stated the property had not been advertised for sale but had been appraised at $28,000 and the City would expect to get at least that amount. Mr. Nelson further stated that Centex had also shown an interest in purchasing the building. Mr. Zehner felt he could go as high as $30,000 but this would deplete his capital and leave him with very little cash to repair and bring the building up to code. Rob Roll pointed out they might be a problem with off-street parking accomdations. Mr. Zehner did not feel this would present any problem because the facility would only be used on Friday and Saturday nights and the commuter parking lot would be free to use at that tine. Leo Nelson suggested Mr. Zehner bring the matter back after he had some idea what his repair costs would be. Councilman Barnes stated while he had no objection to the theater concept, he thought the City should seek the highest bid and was reluctant to take it out of the bidding process. The majority of the Council felt this should go through the bidding process. Advertising Signs on Yellow Cabs. Mr. Vern Earbacher, owner of the Yellow Cab Company re-appeared before the Council stating he did not want to increase his rates to offset the loss of the sign advertising. Mr . Earbacher suggested the proposed higher rates be publicized to see what public response would be. Councilwoman Strattan asked what the difference would be with the increased rates and loss of sign revenue . Mr. Earbacher replied, the business would have to be increased and the rates increased to 70Q for the first flag plus 20F a quarter mile thereafter. Council- man Hill asked how many cabs were on the street during the day. Mr. Earbacher replied, there are 16. I could have 22 but there is no business and with the high cost it is not practicable. The City Manager stated Mr. Earbacher's main point was not wanting to pay the filing fee to have the matter reconsidered by the Land Use Commission. Mr. Earbacher stated he was willing to pay this fee if it allowed him to continue advertising with signs on his cabs . Corporation Counsel Jentsch pointed out there was no guarantee the Plan Commission would grant this request. Councilman West thought the Council could give some indication as to how they felt about it. Councilman Barnes felt there was no sense sending it to the Plan Commission if it was decided now. The City Manager stated that if the Staff prepared and filed this petition it would set a precedence. May 11, 1977 Mayor Verbic felt the rates should remain the same because of the type of people using the cabs . Marie Mitchell stated she felt the signs were not causing any harm and poor people could not afford a raise in rates . Mrs . Mitchell further stated she knew because she rode the cabs . On the first vote Councilmen Hill, West and Mayor Verbic voted to waive the filing fee. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam and Strattan voted no. Councilman Barnes later changed his vote to yes. The vote to waive the filing fee passed 4-2. Varsity Drive Bridge Project. Leo Nelson stated that in checking into the past the City had not participated in a bridge construction. However, in 1972 the City did appropriate 75,000 for the subject project. Mr. Robert Small stated that if the City did not think there was any merit to having a new road and keeping the Elgin car dealers in Elgin, the bridge should not be built. Mr. Small did not think the City should worry about what had been done in the past. Councilman Barnes felt the City should look into the past because of possible bridge projects in the future. Mayor Verbic thought the overall benefit would give the City a good return and it was important to keep the car business in Elgin. Councilman West felt it was to the City's advantage to keep the business here and if the proposed road were developed it might elim- inate having to build a 4 lane highway on Willard. Councilman Gilliam felt there was a need to discuss the project further with the auto dealers. Council- man Barnes stated he was opposed to setting a precedence but was willing to look into some public benefit. Councilmen Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic indicated they would be willing to look favorably on the project depending upon the savings realized between making Willard Avenue, 2 lane instead of 4 lane. The Staff is to prepare figures on the cast of a 2 lane as opposed to a 4 lane and bring back to the meeting next week. The meeting adjourned at 8:25 P.M., to proceed to the regular Council meeting. Meeting reconvened at 10:00 P.M. Status Report on City's Housing Rehabilitation Program. Roger Dahlstrom, City Planner, stated the Staff had determined they would not need the services of a consultant to implement this project and set forth the following formula: (1) Code Inspection (2) Applicant Eligibility (3) What type of Residences Qualify (4) Type of Repairs Eligible (5) Timing Requirements (6) Processing Mr. Dahlstrom thought he would have a draft ready to submit to the Council by mid June. May 11, 1977 Councilman Gilliam expressed concern that if a property was fixed up the owner could then sell at a profit. Mr. Dahlstrom stated they had considered occupancy requirements beyond rehabilitation and also a rent moratorium to lessen the rent increases. Councilman Barnes asked if we could legally deny someone because they do live there. Mr. Dahlstrom replied, we can basically set the rules. Councilman Hill suggested placing a lien on the properties and when the proper- ties are sold by an individual or through an estate the amount expended could be repaid the City. Mr. Dahlstrom said he would check on this and report back. Councilman Hill asked if something would be done during this construction year. Mr. Dahlstrom indicated that it would, the City would have the funds by mid June. Proposed Increase in Sewer Service Fees . The City Manager pointed out the City was receiving between 50 to 60 calls per month and our fees fell far below those of a plumber. The Council agreed to the raise in fees. Proposed Agreement with Illinois Department of Transportation for State Route Maintenance for Fiscal Year 1978. The Council approved said agreement. Miscellaneous Discussion. The City Manager advised the Agreement for the State Hospital property had been received. The Black & Veatch status report was scheduled for June 15th. The Council discussed the letter received from the Valley Belle's relative to the fee increase for the use of the Hemmens Building. Mayor Verbic thought the letter should be responded to pointing out the increase in costs. The City Manager stated the current loss was 70,000 per year. Councilman Barnes thought they should know there is no none for profit agency using the building with no fee. The City Manager suggested and the Council agreed that they be directed to the Hemmens Advisory Commission. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 P.M. aertet ) 1A Marie Yearm�n, City Clerk C .- COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING May 18, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo Nelson (1111116. on Wednesday, May 18, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Hill, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Gilliam and Strattan. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Welcome to Elgin Signs. Liz Leibert and Dick Rayner of the Elgin Beautification Commission appeared be- fore the Council and exhibited sketches of the carved wooden entrance signs pro- posed for Elgin. Mr. Rayner reported the following firms were contributing to- wards the cost of the signs: Leewards, Robert Hoffer, Ronald Jones, Home Federal Savings and Loan, First National Bank, Daily Courier News and Union National Bank. The Commission would like 4 signs installed with plantings by September and the remaining 4 next year. Mr. Rayner stated the firm of McFadzean and Everly would provide the planning service for $600.00 for the eight sites. The Commission requested that the City assume the responsibility for the instal- lation and maintenance of these signs . Councilman Beckmann stated he had no problem with the signs but wondered if the work to be done by McFadzean and Everly could not be done by the Staff. Phil Bennett stated this could be done but it would be a matter of timing. Liz Leibert stated each site would be different and professionals should be used to determine what planting should be used. Councilman West felt if McFadzean and Everly could produce a more maintenance free design, we will soon have the money spent back. Mayor Verbic felt the price quoted was well worth it for this pro- ject. Councilman Hill stated that having a professional landscaping layout would make it easier to obtain donations for the landscaping. Councilman Barnes voiced concern about the entrance areas you go through after passing the signs. Liz Leibert stated this would be the Commission's next project. Mayor Verbic thought the Commission had done a tremendous job in obtaining the contributions for the signs . Contribution to Varsity Drive Bridge. The Council was advised by the City Engineering Staff that the difference be- tween a four lane and a two lane on Willard Avenue, is $62,500. The City Manager stated that it should be considered if the roadway is not put on Varsity Drive, it could be developed into a horseshoe road and become indus- trial, which will not produce the sales tax it should. Mr. Nelson further stated this roadway would help if the proposed F.L.I.C. project goes through and in addition U-46 had expressed an interest in seeing Varsity Drive extended. Councilman West asked what the time schedule was. Bob Schroeder stated the engineering would start immediately but they would not be ready for the bridge until next year. Councilman Beckmann stated because of the large amount of revenue to be generated for the City, it should be put in next year's budget. A r majority of the Council agreed to go ahead, with stipulations as to dedication of flood plain land and a cost figure not to exceed $150,000. • May 18, 1977 Agreement to Enforce No Parking Restrictions on Housing Sites Owned and Managed By the Elgin Housing Authority. The City Manager said this agreement would be similar to the one with St. Joseph Hospital and the Poplar Creek Townhouses, and would provide the necessary fire lanes. The Council agreed to proceed with said agreement. Letter from Illinois Department of Transportation re Elgin Airport Project. The City Manager stated a Transportation Study Group came out yesterday to apologize for not being here during the airport hearing. They felt they let the City down by poor representation. Councilman Barnes and West both expressed they had not changed their minds and saw no reason to bring it back again. Councilman Beckmann said he would be open minded but would like the project pre- sented to the citizens in the form of a referendum. Councilman Hill felt that if the City was faced with the demise of our present air facility, we should perhaps go ahead with Phase II. Councilman West stated no decision could be made tonight becauseUAD Council members who voted against it were not here tonight. Councilman Barnes stated he was against the site selected and Judy and Bob should be contacted to see if they are willing to listen again. Councilman Hill felt the study has value whether it was implemented or not. The City Manager is to contact Councilman Gilliam and Councilwoman Strattan to see what their decision might be. Proposed Reimbursement Ordinance for the Elgin Oaks Industrial Park. Gary Miller advised the Council the developer had made improvements to the east and west of the Tollgate Road at Route 31 so as to provide proper lane widths and adequate merging distance to the two lane pavement north of this intersection. The developer is also obligated to construct a fully signalized as per their annexation agreement with the City. Gary Miller gave the Council a formula based on acreage, whereby when these properties are annexed they could reim- burse Rudloff. Gary Miller further stated the City is not obligated to do this but the developer had requested same and it did make good sense. The Council agreed to have such an ordinance prepared. Free Bus Ride on May 20, 1977. The City Manager stated as part of the R.T.A. 's promotion of National Transpor- tation Week they had requested free bus rides between the hours of 12 noon and 1:00 P.M. on May 20, 1977. The R.T.A. would pay for the operating expense. The Council gave their approval. Miscellaneous Discussion. The Council reviewed an open space status report prepared by Roger Dahlstrom. The Council was advised there is a delay in finalizing the Clifford-Owasco site because the State decided they wanted an archaeological investigation made on this site. Councilman Barnes did not understand what they expected to find and suggested that a letter be written pointing out the number of people living in that area and the need for a Park. •4 May 18, 1977 The City Manager advised the Council the City had received three applications for a self-service gas station. Chief VanDeVoorde stated his department had no problem with the dispensing of fuel. The City Manager stated the present ordinance prohibits self-service dispensing. The Council was asked if they wanted to continue with the present ordinance, release the prohibition or amend the ordinance to allow this type of service following the rules set down by the State. The Council agreed to having an amended ordinance drawn following the State regulations. The City Manager advised the Council the Chicago Fireworks Co. , had been re- commended as a possible vendor for the July 4th fireworks display. Mr. Nelson suggested pursuing the matter and making arrangements with Elgin Community College to have thedisplay on their grounds. The Council approved unanimously. The City Manager advised the Council U-46 is willing to give the City their choice of Lincoln School or Wing School. There will be another meeting to see what should be suggested to the Council. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:10 P.M. VLA � Marie Yearma , City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING May 25, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, May 25, 1977 at 7: 10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan and West. Absent: Mayor Verbic . Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Combined Sewer Overflow Study. Albin Pagorski, General Manager of the Elgin Sanitary District advised the Council that the U.S. EPA and Illinois EPA have stated that the combined sewer study prepared by Warren & VanPraag in 1975, is no longer valid and should be updated. Federal requirements on combined sewers have since that time been re- laxed making the findings of the first study obsolete. Leo Nelson stated that at the time of the first study, we protested that the requirements were ex- cessively high but they would not listen. Councilman Barnes asked why we could not be reimbursed the 757. of the $84,000 paid for the study. Mr. Pagorski stated that the EPA will not repay the local governments until the study is up- dated. Councilman West stated they have a gun at our head and we have to com- ply. Councilman Barnes thought they should do some evaulation before making the standards, and that a letter be written to them pointing out that we are now out $84,000, it will cost $77,000 to upgrade the study, none of which is our fault. Councilman West stated he thought we should also point out we would appreciate their not changing the standards. Councilman Hill thought the Warren & VanPraag proposal should be submitted to the EPA to see if this is what they want. The Council unanimously agreed a letter should be directed to the EPA requesting payment for the first study and approval of the Warren & VanPraag proposal. Improvements Proposed for State Routes 58 and 25. The Council reviewed a letter of understanding from the Illinois Department of Transportation relative to proposed improvements for State Routes 58 and 25. Leo Nelson saw no objection to the content thereof and suggested the City should go ahead because there is a high accident rate at this intersection. Councilman Barnes thought it would be nice if they could do this during the summer because of the children crossing Route 58 in the Fall to attend school. Bob Hogue stated they were trying to see if this could be done and he would bring back a status report to the Council. The meeting adjourned at 7:50 P.M. for a Board of Local Improvement Meeting. The meeting reconvened at 9:00 P.M. Miscellaneous Discussion. Vacation of Forest Avenue. The Council approved this vacation of Forest Avenue east of Teft Avenue. The r Floras, to the North would purchase 41 feet at $10.00 a foot. Mr. Schmidt, the owner to the south will purchase 25 feet at $10.00 per foot. May 25, 1977 Sound System for Mall. Leo Nelson stated the 1977 budget has allocated $10,000 for various projects in the Fountain Square Plaza. The Mall Commission considers a sound system the number one priority. Gary Miller stated he had received a quote from Ancha Electronics for a PA system and microphone at a cost of $1,646.00. Mr. Nelson said this would improve the sound at the centrum. Councilwoman Strattan asked if the groups objected to bringing in their own equipment and what would be the cost of a sound system for the entire Mall. Leo Nelson replied, the cost would be $20,000. All the groups do not have this equipment and would have to rent it, thats why it is so important. Councilman Barnes asked who would control this equipment. Leo Nelson replied, the City. Councilman Barnes thought it would be alright to go ahead with just this equip- ment now but nothing further until the entire Mall cost has been established. Ceta Program. Leo Nelson advised the Council the City could avail themselves of additional help in getting the river banks cleaned, the junk yard at Clifford-Owasco cleaned, additional people for the Parks and Public Service Department by en- listing in this Ceta summer program. Councilman Barnes asked what the City obligation would be when the project is over insofar as retaining the employee. Leo Nelson replied, this is only tem- porary, when the project is over there is no obligation to retain the employee. The Staff will develop some projects, Ceta will pay the entire salary and will pay up to 107 on needed equipment. The Council approved going ahead with the program. Energy Information Center. Leo Nelson reported he had received a request from the Division of Energy to provide suitable space for an information booth for a 2 month period, furnish a telephone, and provide a Ceta employee to man the booth. To offset the cost of these items, the State will pay the City $250.00. The Council agreed to have this explored to see what could be done. Sewer Study. Leo Nelson reviewed Dr. Simon's letter in which he introduced a new sewer system process which he expected to be patented. Mr. Nelson pointed out the flaws in said system. Councilman Barnes asked if Mr. Nelson had talked to Al Pagorski. Mr. Nelson referred to the letter from the district under date of May 13th. Mr. Nelson asked if the Council wanted to have Dr. Simon present at a work session. Councilman Beckmann and West stated they would be willing to listen to Dr. Simon. Councilman Gilliam stated he was not willing to listen. Mr. Nelson was directed to ask Dr. Simon if he would like to talk to the Council. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:44 P.M. cox;Q Marie Yearma , City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 1, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, June 1, 1977 at 8: 10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Lincoln School Committee . Mr. Chuck West advised the Council after going through the Wing School his Com- mittee thought this would be a much better site than Lincoln School. It would be much better for the services to be offered, the building is in better shape, the building is larger and it is available. Mr. West asked permission to have the study changed to Wing School. Councilman Gilliam asked what further architectural additions would be compared to those submitted tonight. Mr. Chuck Cassell replied that the estimate sub- mitted contained just roughed in figures. Leo Nelson reminded the Council $10,000 had been allocated from the HCD funds for the study of architectural and financial feasibility for this project. Councilwoman Strattan asked if they were just asking for the same allocation and just changing school sites. Mr. West replied yes. Leo Nelson stated the Eastside Neighbors were disturbed at the change of schools site. Mrs. Keilsmier representing the association stated they were concerned about what would happen to Lincoln School. Councilman Barnes noted that on the sketch submitted 7 or 8 agencies were mapped in and he wondered how many were really interested. Mr . West stated he did have letters of commitment but this would be contingent on the rental cost to the agencies. This could be better determined after the feasibility study. Council- man Barnes stated he would not want the building rebuilt unless someone is wil- ling to go into it. Councilman Barnes further stated some determination should be made about the Lincoln School. Councilman West asked what the available park- ing provisions were at the two school sites. Mr. West stated there were 39 spaces at Wing and Lincoln School exceeded this. Leo Nelson stated Wing has the better building and Lincoln has a better site. Mayor Verbic reiterated his position and objection to the high cost of restor- ation for old buildings . The Mayor pointed out the current costs ahead for the "Old Main" building and other priorities. The Mayor also pointed out that these agencies would be moving leaving other old buildings vacant. Mr. West stated the purpose in securing other space was to try and help these agencies reduce their operating costs and divert this saving for their services . The Council agreed to change to study to the Wing School. The Council thanked the people from the Eastside Neighbors for coming to the meeting. Mrs. Kielsmier expressed the need of a Community Park and stated they would attend the School Board meeting relative to the disposition of Lincoln School. r June 1, 1977 House Numbers on Curbs . Mr. Paul Hardt requested permission to paint addresses, white background with black numbers, on the curb in front of residences. Leo Nelson pointed out that Mr. Hardt understood the paint to be used would have to be approved by the City Purchasing Department. Paul Hardt, a college student from Elgin, stated he expected to go into sub- divisions throughout the City painting each residence curb and asking for a contribution. The Council approved this project. Proposed Skateboard Ordinance. Leo Nelson reviewed articles from nearby communities and it appeared Oak Park was the only community to have a skateboard ordinance . Councilman West asked the Council to consider extending this ordinance to the streets because of incidents he had seen happen on Lawrence and McClure, he also considered it a risk for the motorist and did not want to wait until some- one was killed. Councilwoman Strattan asked what were the problems in Elgin. Leo Nelson stated he was only aware of one complaint, that being from the downtown merchants. Chief Baird stated he was not aware of any complaints, except in the Central Business District. Chief Baird further stated he did not think it could be enforced in the city streets with or without an ordinance, and he did not feel a fine would be a deterent. Councilman West reminded the Council they had passed an ordinance against ice cream vendors to keep the children out of the r street. Councilwoman Strattan stated she was opposed to any skateboard ordinance, they were being sold here and some place should be provided for their use. Councilman Barnes stated he was opposed to extending the ordinance because he did not feel it would prevent accidents. All but Councilman West opposed ex- tending the ordinance to include the city streets. Sewer Rodding - Suburban Sewer. Attorney Mark Muscarello appeared before the Council with Carl Peterson, the owner of Suburban Sewer. Attorney Muscarello stated that the City in providing sewer rodding to the citizens were putting Mr. Peterson out of business and the City should not be in competition with private businesses. Mayor Verbic stated the City service was discontinued in 1974 but was started again in 1975 after citizens started calling and complained about the service they were getting. Mr. Peterson stated he could get to any job within an hour. Leo Nelson stated that an hour could be serious with a backed-up sewer. Mr. Nelson further stated that when the City crews go out on a call and establish the sewer problem is within the jurisdiction of the homeowner, it is difficult to tell them they must call someone else in, when they are already there with the necessary equip- ment. Councilman West stated he was opposed tai free enterprise and thought the City should look at some form of regulation. Councilwoman Strattan felt the City June 1, 1977 should raise the fees from $30.00 to $60.00, which is what Mr. Petersen charges, and then see who the public calls. Councilman Barnes stated he was not ready to vote on this issue. Councilmen Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill and Mayor Verbic voted to retain the city service. 1977 Proposed Resurfacing Program. Leo Nelson stated the City proposed to use Tapesable for resurfacing the fol- lowing streets: St. Charles from Rt. 20 to Villa, Ann from Hill to Liberty, Raymond Street, Waverly from Summit to Joslyn, Ball from Crystal to State, Crystal from Ball to Wing, Alfred from Lawrence to Demmond, Melrose from Lawrence to Demmond, Demmond from Aldine to McLean, Royal from Abbott to McLean, Braeburn from Todd Farm to Century Oaks and Century Oaks from Parkview to Robinwood. Councilman Barnes questioned why Raymond Street was selected. He stated he had seen this street and it appeared to be a darn good street. Mel Dahl stated it did need repair between Dwight and Hastings and he had reconsidered doing the entire street. Mayor Verbic asked how many miles need resurfacing. Mel Dahl replied, 57 miles need some work. Mayor Verbic felt this program should be up- dated next year. Commonwealth Edison and Northern Illinois Gas Franchise Agreements. Leo Nelson reviewed proposed amendments to the two subject agreements. The amend- ments set forth additional services to the City. The Council approved said amend- ments and directed that the necessary resolutions be placed on the Council Agenda. Miscellaneous Discussion Clara Howard Park. The Council approved the purchase of playground equipment amounting to $2,485.00. Repairs to Deep Well #2 at Slade Avenue Plant. The Council approved the purchase of 560 ft. of pipe to replace the existing pipe for a total cost of $5,136.66. Energy Information Office. The Council approved renting the Milt Perlman store on Fountain Square, for $300.00 monthly, from June 1, 1977 through August 31, 1977. Black & Veatch The Council agreed to meet with Black & Veatch on June 22nd at 6:30 P.M. Fund Raising Golf Event. The Council approved the establishment of a one Par 3 hole at Spartan, with prizes of from one to three golf balls. Participation $1.00. Funds collected to be applied towards balls and course improvements. r June 1, 1977 Lord's Park Swimming Pool. Phil Bennett advised the Council this pool may be delayed opening because of fik water pipe replacement due to frozen pipes . Councilman Beckmann stated he thought the pipes should have been inspected more carefully to make sure all water had been drained in the Fall. Mr . Bennett stated it was a human error. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:00 P.M. k•)\ovti..44.1 Marie Yearman, City Clerk r C S � COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 8, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor Verbic on Wednesday, June 8, 1977, at 7:00 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Beckmann. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of the staff. Policy for Acceptance of Certain Improvements in P.U.D. The Council reviewed a resolution establishing a policy for acceptance of certain improvements in planned unit developments. Section 7 of said resolution provided that the City shall not be responsible for site restora- tion in the event of necessary repairs such as parking lot pavement, sidewalks, patios, retaining walls, shrubs, lawns and lighting systems, which may be disturbed as a result of necessary maintenance or repair. Councilwoman Strattan thought the agreement as previously discussed did provide the site would be put back in order. Mr. Nelson stated this was correct. Corporation Counsel Jentsch stated he would revise the resolution to provide the City would be responsible for street parking lot pavement and sidewalks, which might be disturbed as a result of necessary maintenance or repair of the sewer and watermains. The revised resolution is to be brought back to the Council. Request for Parking Lot at the Northwest Corner of Crystal and Highland. Mr. Edward Dohring presented to the Council a letter signed by ten business men located between Highland and Chicago on State Street, requesting a parking lot at the northwest corner of Crystal and Highland. Mr. Dohring stated such a lot was badly needed for the owners, leasers and customers of these businesses. Mr. Nelson wondered if these people were aware that the proposed transporta- tion center would include overhead parking facilities. Mayor Verbic thought the acquisition and improvement cost of this parking site could be directed to the new transportation modular. Councilman Barnes thought the parking deck was the better idea and we should proceed with it. Mr. Nelson said the RTA wanted this included in their 1978 budget. Mr. Dohring agreed this would be better and stated he would contact the owners of property to see if they would be willing to participate. Stop Signs on Wellington Avenue at Lake Street. The Council received a recommendation from the Traffic Committee to install stop signs on Wellington Avenue at Lake Street. This request was made by Plywood Minnesota at 192 Wellington because on several occasions motorists have applied brakes to avoid traffic on Wellington and have slid and landed on the front steps of the Plywood building. The Council approved this recommendation and directed it be placed on the Council agenda. June 8, 1977 Use of New Fire Department Drill Facility by Neighboring Fire Departments. The Council reviewed a request from Chief VanDeVoorde to afford neighboring fire districts the use of the new drill facility. Counsel Jentsch stated that some provision would have to be made where the City would be held harmless in the event of any injury. The Council approved the request subject to Counsel Jentsch's recommendation. Fourth of July Fireworks Display. Leo Nelson advised the Council that Elgin Community College is willing to provide musical entertainment prior to the fireworks display. Phil Bennett stated that based on other proposals received he would recommend Chicago Fireworks Company. Mayor Verbic asked if any effort would be made for contributions. Mr. Nelson stated the Courier would run a story and hope- fully donations would be made. The Council agreed to go ahead with the Staff recommendation. Application for Funds to Develop Lincoln School Site as a Park. Mr. Nelson advised the Council there was 1.1 million Housing and Community Development funds available because some cities did not use the money and it is now open for competition. July 8th is the last day to file, and two public hearings are required. Mr. Nelson suggested that the matter be heard by the Plan Commission on June 13th and by the Council on June 22nd. The Council gave its approval to proceed. Miscellaneous Discussion. Chief VanDeVoorde advised the Council, the Elgin Rotary Club had donated $5800.00 for the purchase of a life pack system for the Fire Department. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that Virgil Cook and Son of DeKalb had sub- mitted the lowest bid to IDOT for the installation of a traffic control signal at St. Charles and May Streets. The amount of this bid was $32,395.60. The City's share is loo and there is $10,000 budgeted in the Housing and Community Development funds. The Council agreed to a resolution being drawn to concur with IDOT in awarding the bid to the subject contractor. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that he, Councilman Barnes and Edward Kelly, from the Chamber of Commerce, had attended the Task Force meeting at the Elgin Mental Health Center. There is a seventeen page report which Mr. Nelson will have copied and distributed to the Council. Mr. Nelson stated it is difficult to do anything because you don't know what the State is going to do. Councilman Barnes thought the State may make it easier to release patients. Mr. Kelly stated there are small groups who are thrown out when they are not ready for release and there must be a better solution. June 8, 1977 Mel Dahl gave a status report on the Lincoln/Logan sewer repair and indicated they were having difficulty finding sound pipe to connect onto at the east end. Mr. Dahl exhibited photographs.showing the poor condition at the exist- ing clay pipe east toward Cedar Avenue. The pipe can only be seen over 20 feet at any one time and any decision would have to be made every 20 feet instead of the entire length of the line. Councilman West reported that he had received a response from Congressman McClory with reference to the sewer study. Congressman McClory had not met with the EPA but intended to do so and would advise us. Mr. Nelson stated the Sanitary District had submitted a similar letter to the Illinois EPA requesting the funds which had been spent on the first study and a review of the second study prepared by Warren $ Von Praag. Meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. kAt.,i_O Marie Year""' , City Clerlc r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 15, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, June 15, 1977, at 7:00 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan and West. Absent: Mayor Verbic. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Method for Assessing Costs of Sidewalk Construction and Repair. The Council reviewed an alternate method of assessment for the repair and construction of sidewalks prepared by Corporation Counsel Jentsch. This method could be used instead of a special assessment procedure and would provide that in the event the owner fails to repair the sidewalk, the City is authorized to proceed to do the work and issue vouchers bearing interest of 6% annually in payment of such repair. The vouchers to be paid solely out of a special taxation which would be covered by ordinance and levied against the property owner. Leo Nelson stated the City has received calls on defective and dangerous sidewalks and at the present time the City only has a voluntary program. Counsel Jentsch stated that any injuries which may occur due to defective sidewalks are the responsibility of the City. Leo Nelson pointed out the insurance company would like a routine sidewalk inspection. Councilman Gilliam asked, how the property owners could be made to pay if the sidewalks belong to the City. Leo Nelson replied it was the same situa- tion as the streets. Mel Dahl distributed a sidewalk survey broken down into two classifications, hazardous and very hazardous. Leo Nelson stated the City's present policy on costs is 50 - 50. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they wanted to continue this policy or follow the suggested procedure. Councilman Hill stated there was no great demand for vouchers, why not let the City raise the money to pay the contractors and let the property owners pay the City back. Councilman Barnes felt the City is open for lawsuits and we would have to go 50- 50. Councilman West felt the people who do it themselves on a voluntary basis should be given a break. In other words, voluntary 50 - 50 or if not voluntary 25 - 75. Councilman Beckmann felt the people in the central business district did not repair their sidewalks because of the vault situation. Mr. Nelson stated if they were going to use the vaults a concrete wall should be erected. If they were not going to use the vault, they should be filled up. W. Nelson asked the Council if they agreed that the City should have such a sidewalk program and if so, the financing could be checked into. The Council agreed there was a need for a program. W. Nelson is to bring this matter back with a financing procedure. June 15, 1977 Proposed Agreement for Engineering Services with Everett Scheflow. The Council reviewed an agreement with Everett Scheflow for services in connection with the improvement of Willard Avenue from Chicago Street to Villa Street, providing storm drainage improvements to provide a drainage outlet for the Route 19 improvement. Leo Nelson felt this should be a special assessment project. Councilman Barnes thought if a residential developer is required to set land aside for a detention area, this should also be applied to a commercial developer. W. Nelson stated the developers were donating land for the detention area. Rob Roll pointed out that any commercial developer is required to donate land for a detention area. Councilman Hill asked if this would be an improvement for next year. Mr. Nelson replied, yes. The Council approved the agreement. Proposed Watermain Extension Along McLean Boulevard. Leo Nelson pointed out that the Easter Seal is going to expand their facility and in order to qualify for federal funding they must install sprinklers. Mr. Nelson felt it would be a hardship to have them install a new well system to comply with the requirements, when the City will be extending this line to the State Hospital property in a year or so. The total cost of the watennain would be $51,000, the cost allocated to Easter Seal $3,578.00. The Council agreed to put this project in the 1978 budget. Proposed Parking and Retail Space Structure. Several members of the Traffic and Parking Advisory Committee appeared before the Council to seek approval for the parking deck and retail space at the Highland, Chicago and Spring Street site. The Committee asked that the City pay for the site acquisition, anticipated to be $300,000 and street improve- ments of approximately $75,000. The remainder of the project $1,780,000 would be funded by a special service district. Councilman West asked the committee if over one-half of the district was interested. Paul Zumkeller stated they had not made any contracts because they wanted to see what the Council would do. Councilman West recalled what had happened with the Douglas Mini Mall and the fact that the City was stuck for the engineering costs. George Perucco stated he did not know of any objectors at this point. Councilman Barnes pointed out that for the past two years the parking lot revenue reports showed a decline and he had a problem justifying the need for a parking deck at this time. Leo Nelson stated they would like to go ahead and hold a meeting with all the property owners to see if they want to go ahead and the Committee would like to advise at this meeting what the City's participation might be. Councilman West thought in view of the possible Homart Development it was important to establish shopping habits in Elgin and if the City received funds for the bridge, it would free up some revenue funds which might be used for this project. June 15, 1977 Councilman Barnes pointed out the City was sitting on top of two buildings now and according to the revenue reports this project does not warrant the City spending money on it at this time. Councilman Gilliam stated he was interested in proceeding. Councilman Barnes stated he was willing to participate to the extent of 15% of the building and intersection improvement. Councilwoman Strattan stated she did not con- sider this a top priority item and would not be for the project unless the funds were generated from other sources and not from the City budget. Council- man West did not want the money assessed to the taxpayers. Councilman Hill stated he was for it if the City could find the money, also he did not feel revenue money was the solution. Councilman Hill also stated he thought the parking fine should be raised from 51:4 to $1.00 and the parking rates raised from 54 to 104. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam, Strattan and West all agreed with Councilman Hill's suggestion to raise the fine from 504 to $1.00. Mr. Nelson said this should bring in an additional $30,000. Councilman Barnes suggested that Mr. Nelson call Councilman Beckmann and Mayor Verbic to see how they feel. Mr. Nelson said he would do this. Mr. Nelson said the Committee would meet with the people in the service district on June 28th. Miscellaneous Discussion. The Council reviewed a proposal for a Jaeger Water Pump. Mel Dahl stated that in connection with the Lincoln/Logan sewer repair they were experiencing difficulty with pumps. It was necessary to order a Jaeger Water Pump, the cost of which is $3,920.20 and if the Council did not approve this purchase, it could be used on a lease program. The Council approved this purchase. Leo Nelson invited the Council to a luncheon at which Senator Percy would be present on July 6th, at the Ramada Inn at 11:30 A.M. The Elgin Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring this event. Meeting adjourned at 9:30 p.m. 11111Z)‘itali-446. 1);114eili r i COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING June 22, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, June 22, 1977 at 6:40 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic . Absent: None . Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Water Treatment Plant Project. Leo Nelson advised the Council that Bill Gibbs and Ken Jacob were present to give an update on the design plan and to answer any questions the Council might have. Mr. Gibbs advised the Council that since 1975 costs have risen from 107. to 16% because of the inflation. Before the project can go any further they need to proceed to the acquisition of the plant site . It is anticipated it will take an additional 8 months for the design and 2 years for construction or approximately 3 years for completion. Councilman West asked, you quoted construction costs, is that todays cost? Mr. Gibbs replied yes . Councilman West stated, then they could be higher in two years. Councilman Barnes asked, if there was a regionalization of water control by the State, what is potential of N.I.P.C. or State changing the plans we have? Mr. r Briggs stated, the State has no authority to develop a plan for the City. Coun- cilman Barnes asked if they could designate us as a water supplier. Mr. Briggs said he was unable to predicate at this time. Laws may be adopted to control water resources. Councilman Barnes asked if they could limit us. Mr. Jacobs said these are questions that are not for the engineers, they should be checked out by the Corporation Counsel. Leo Nelson stated that with the new bill the State could determine which source to draw water from and how much. Mayor Verbic asked what type of study had come up in your evaluation as to sur- face water use . Mr. Briggs replied that they had not seen anything that would cause a change in their recommendation to the City. Mayor Verbic asked how many tests were made of the Fox River water . Mr . Briggs stated they did not make any tests but took the N.I.P.C. recommendations . Councilman Barnes asked who would assist us in making the decision to draw water. Mr. Briggs replied that someone is going to decide the source and quantity ac- cording to the new bill. They were recommending use of deep wells and Fox River water, or the use of both of them. Mayor Verbic questioned why an application was never submitted for Lake Michigan water, as was done in cities as close as 10 to 12 miles from Elgin. Mr. Briggs stated they had gone to all the State Agencies and were told by the authorities the allocation of water would be limited because of an international agreement with Canada so they saw no point in putting this into the report if it was not practicable . However, Mr. Briggs stated there was nothing wrong with the City making such application. June 22, 1977 Mayor Verbic stated there was a bill now to change the allocation of water to take care of other cities after 1980. Mr. Briggs thought this was a political r solution and not an engineeringsolution. Mr . Jacobs stated that what one new community would get, somebody else would have to give up. Leo Nelson stated we are talking about a treatment plant not the source. Council- man Beckmann asked why we did not file an application and went on to say this plant capacity was to far into the future, we don't know where our sources will come from, the feasibility study is not adequate, the citizens cannot afford this and it should be done in phases. Councilman West stated, this body did not instruct them to file for a permit and we know exactly where the water is coming from, the deep wells. Councilman West futher stated this discussion may have taken place at one of the many many meetings Councilman Beckmann missed. Councilman Hill stated the possibility of getting Lake Michigan water is zero. He doubted they would even consider Elgin unless the City had fully explored the use of the Fox River. Councilman Hill went on to say the City of Chicago is pumping and distributing to the Communities and some Communities are already bit- terly complaining about the cost. Councilman West stated that some suburbs have sued Chicago over its water rates. Leo Nelson stated it should not be overlooked that the lake water would be untreated and we would still have to treat it. Councilman Barnes asked if there was anything to show we do not need that capacity. Mr. Briggs and Ron Zegers both replied in the negative . Councilman Hill cited the recent TV Channel 2 report on the quality of the river water. Mr. Gibbs stated this was sensational journalism and there were a number of agencies concerned with public health and they will regulate treatment supplies to protect the public. Councilman Hill asked how the site acquisition was progressing. Leo Nelson said they were meeting with Judson College tomorrow and that one would have to be settled first. A site must be established before they can go ahead with the engineering. Mr. Jacobs said you are exceeding the capacity of the west side plant and there is no room for enlargement. Councilman West asked what decision do they need tonight. Leo Nelson replied, they need to know if you are going to change your decision for a 16 million gallon per day plant. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan and West voted to proceed with the plant. Councilman Beckmann and Mayor Verbic did not agree with this size treat- ment plant and instead suggested a phase construction project. The meeting adjourned for the Council meeting at 8: 10 P.M. The meeting reconvened at 9:00 P.M. Liquor Control Commission. ICorporation Counsel Jentsch advised the Council that in checking some Illinois Supreme Court cases, wherein a commission was created consisting of the Mayor June 22, 1977 and two Councilmen, without a referendum, it was found to be unconstitutional. Councilman Beckmann said he brought this to the attention of Counsel Jentsch after attending a Mayors meeting in Chicago. Several Mayors attending this meeting stated our present situation is not legal. Councilman Beckmann sug- gested that a letter be sent to the Attorney General to let him know the pre- sent form we have and see if this should be changed. Counsel Jentsch stated we could write to him but he would be just rendering an opinion. Councilman Gilliam asked if the present commission made a decision will they challenge and say we are acting illegally? Counsel Jentsch stated yes, its a question of division of power between the Mayor and Commission and al- though the Supreme Court cases do cast a shadow over our Commission, I do feel it is defensible. Mayor Verbic said this was a thankless job and he preferred to have others set- ting in on the meetings . The Council agreed to continue its present commission until tested in Court. The Council, except for Councilmen Gilliam and Strattan agreed to write to the Attorney General. Councilmen Gilliam and Strattan felt they would only be get- ting an opinion, which would still have to be tested. Mayor Verbic asked for volunteers to replace Councilman Gilliam and West who have completed one year on the Commission. Councilman Barnes stated that he did not want to serve on the Commission, but if no one would volunteer he supposed he would have to. Mayor Verbic said, alright how about Barnes and Strattan. Councilman Beckmann said that if Council- man Barnes did not want to serve he would volunteer. Mayor Verbic said, alright Beckmann and Strattan. Councilman Gilliam said, if it is true that Ron is work- ing for the Mayor's campaign I have a problem with this. Councilman Beckmann stated he was only helping the Mayor. Mayor Verbic stated he had many volunteers and Ron is helping me on a voluntary basis with no compensation. The time he spends, between looking for a job, is minimal compared to what our requirements are for people who are going to help. Councilman Beckmann stated he would de- cline and Mayor Verbic stated, then make it Barnes and Strattan. Board of Local Improvement Board. The Council discussed reappointments for Councilmen Barnes, Beckmann and Strattan. Several members of the Committee thought it would be a good idea to have a seven member board. It was also brought up that maybe this board could be other than Council members. Corporation Counsel Jentsch is to check the ordinance for re- quirements and report back to the Council. Proposed Agreement With Commonwealth Edison to Provide Electrical Service at Well 5A. The Council approved the proposed agreement. Tennis Reservations. The Council reviewed a request to drop the reservation system for the remainder of the summer. The revenue from June 1, 1977 through June 13, 1977 amounted to $7.00, while expenditure amounted to $130. The Council agreed to drop the re- servation system. 1 June 22, 1977 RTA Grant Reduction. Leo Nelson stated that in order to off-set the reduced RTA budget he would sug- gest deleting the RTA Country Bus Service, which is operating at a loss, and increasing the fares by five cents. The Council approved the deletion and in- crease. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 P.M. Marie Year n, City Clerk C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING July 13, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, July 13, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Housing Rehabilitation Program. Roger Dahlstrom and Ken Johnson explained the proposed Rehabilitation Rebate Program which included a program outline, a list of eligible improvements, a rebate schedule, effectuation procedures, information sheet on steps to obtain a rebate and a neighborhood structure summary. The first target area being: The boundary of the Census Tract 8513 is defined as follows: North Liberty Street between Jefferson Avenue and Franklin Street; Franklin Street between North Liberty and North Porter Street; North Porter Street between Franklin Street and East Chicago Street; then South Porter Street between East Chicago and Laurel Street; then Laurel Street between South Porter Street and Healy Street; then Healy Street between Laurel Street and Villa Street; then Villa Street between Healy Street and St. Charles Street; then St. Charles Street between Villa Street and Watch Street; then Watch Street between St. Charles Street and Wellington Avenue; then Watch Street extended between Wellington Avenue and the Chicago and Northwestern Railroad; then the Chicago and North- western Rail Road between Watch Street extended and Prairie Street; then Prairie Street between the Chicago and Northwestern Rail Road and Villa Street; then Villa Street between Prairie Street and Fulton Street; then Fulton Street between Villa Street and Geneva Street; then Geneva Street between Fulton Street and Division Street; then Division Street between Geneva Street and Center Street; then Center Street between Division and North Street; then North Street between Center Street and Spring Street; then Spring Street between North Street and Kimball Street; then Kimball Street between Spring Street and Brook Street; then Brook Street between Kimball and Seneca; then Seneca Street between Brook Street and North Grove Avenue; then North Grove Avenue between Seneca Street and Jefferson Avenue; then Jefferson Avenue between North Grove Avenue and North Liberty Street. Councilman Barnes asked if any problem was anticipated because in order to ob- tain a rebate the applicant must submit paid bills and some people might have a problem paying the bills. Mr. Dahlstrom stated he had checked this with other cities and there was no problem. Councilman Hill proposed that a resolution be prepared and put on the next Council Agenda. Dixon - Wahl Property. Leo Nelson discussed a letter received from Attorney Richard Imming relative to a proposed purchase from the City of 4 feet of the City's lot on which the loading July 13111977 dock attached to the Wahl building now exists. In December 23, 1970 a lease was executed between Louis Wahl and Emily Wahl, and the City of Elgin covering the subject westerly 4 feet. Leo Nelson stated that the former tenant Graf's Beverages had relocated and the present proposed use would not involve the large trucks which did present a problem with the neighbors. Rob Roll stated the purchaser would rather acquire the property instead of leasing. Mr. Nelson pointed out that once the property is sold it would end the City's control. Mr. Nelson stated that Mr. Imming would like to come in and discuss this matter with the Council. The Council agreed to have Mr. Imming and the purchaser come in on July 20th. Kane County Legal Aid Contribution. The Council reviewed a letter from Wilbur G. Smith, President of United Way of Elgin in which Mr. Smith advised the United Way Board had approved a projected allocation of $7,000 to the Kane County Legal Aid. Mr. Smith urged the City of Elgin and Township to consider matching this $7,000 allocation. Mr. Nelson stated the United Way contribution may be predicated on the City and Township giving the same amount. Councilman Hill stated he had read that the Council had previously turned this down and he wondered what was the reasoning. Leo Nelson stated this was not a flat denial, it was suggested they approach the United Way first and then the Township. Mayor Verbic stated that it had been suggested that perhaps the lawyers in town could each take two of the 143 cases in our area and handle them. Taking tax money to certain groups could open up requests from many agencies . Councilman Barnes stated that at that time there were three requests for dona- tions and the Council turned them all down. Councilman Barnes wondered if the taxpayers wanted the City to go into this with their money. ThaGouncil directed Mr. Nelson to advise the United Way of their decision not to contribute to this Agency. Request for an Opinion from Attorney General Scott Relative to Councilman Beckmann's Residency. Mayor Verbic stated he had spoken to Attorney Riesch in the Attorney General's Office and Attorney Riesch advised he doubted if the Attorney General would render an opinion on this matter. Councilman Hill felt a letter containing the facts should be submitted to the Attorney General and the Kane County State's Attorney. Councilman Beckmann stated he had no objection to sending the letter but objected to the letter Councilman Hill had prepared because he did not consider it factual. Mayor Verbic suggested that Councilmen Beckmann, Hill and Counsel Jentsch set down and draft an acceptable letter. Meeting adjourned for Council meeting at 8:00 P.M. July 13, 1977 Meeting reconvened at 10:25 P.M. Miscellaneous Discussion - North End Bridge. 174 Leo Nelson advised Lochnor & Associates were ready to come out and discuss land acquisition for the proposed North End Bridge. Mr. Nelson suggested this meeting be held in Executive Session next Wednesday night at 7:00 P.M. The Council con- curred. Sewer Study. Councilman West stated he had been assured by the State E.P.A. Office that they would recommend to the U.S. E.P.A. to issue reimbursement prior to the second study. They felt this would be agreeable and suggest the City submit an appli- cation for a grant to cover the second study. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 P.M. Marie Yearmn, City Clerk r C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING July 20, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, July 20, 1977 at 8:10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilwoman Strattan and Councilman West. Dixon Avenue - Wahl Property Attorney Richard Imming appeared before the Council and stated that Mrs. Wahl has a contract to sell this property, which was formerly occupied by Graf's Beverages, to a Mr. Tatatman. This offer to purchase is contingent on the ability to purchase the necessary land from the City to have control of the loading dock. W. Tatatman is in the business of automotive parts and would require only two trailer loads a month. W. Imming understood the land would have to be advertised and put up for bid. W. Tom Tatatman stated his business would service garages and dealers. Mr. Tatatman has talked with the immediate neighbors and fully realizes the problems with the prior tenant. W. Tatatman suggested buying enough land so trailers could go in and out without disturbing the tree bank. Councilman Barnes asked if the lease could be re-negotiated. W. Imming said the term of the lease could be a problem and the sale is conditional upon the acquisition of the property. Councilman Hill asked if the City had need of this property. Leo Nelson stated only to protect the tree bank and surrounding neighbors. Councilman Barnes stated he had no objection if the City had no use for the land and it would not involve the tree bank. Councilman Gilliam stated he would like to hear from the residents. Councilman Beckmann, Hill and Mayor Verbic agreed to go ahead. Attorney Imming stated he would approach the neighbors, show them the drawings and attempt to have them sign a consent. Removal of Parking of the South Side of Cooper Between Center and Prospect The Traffic Committee recommended, due to the expansion of Sherman Hospital across Center Street, that in consideration of safety, parking be prohibited on the south side of Cooper between Center and Prospect Streets. The Council approved this recommendation and directed that the proper ordinance be prepared. Policy for the Sale of Water by Truckload Leo Nelson stated there were a number of people using this system. Last week 150,000 gallons were sold. Ron Zegers recommended the following rates: 5.00 minimum 5.00/1,000 gal. first 5,000 gal. 3.00/1,000 gal. second 5,000 gal. 2.00/1,000 gal. over 10,000 The Council approved this recommendation. July 20, 1977 Policy for the Sale of Water to Developers and Institutional Users Leo Nelson stated in the past the City has allowed developers and schools to obtain water from a hydrant and meter and last year some property owners wanted to do the same thing. Part of this problem was solved by installing a second meter. Ron Zegers felt the homeowner should have to put in the second meter if they want to avoid the sewer charge. Councilman Hill felt that with the ability to install a second meter he could not understand tapping into fire hydrants and having hoses stretched out on the streets. Leo Nelson stated the staff would attempt to work out some equitable policy. The Council concurred. Reconsideration of Alley Vacation North of Highland Between Heine and Triggs Rob Roll stated that Mr. Wahl, owner of the property immediately south of the alley needed six feet of the alley to come within 10% of the land needed to build. Mr. Roll suggested it would be best to vacate the whole thing. Don Wagner stated that in talking to some of the neighbors they were against it because of Area I. Leo Nelson inquired if it were possible to vacate half the alley. Counsel Binninger stated this was possible. The Council requested that letters be sent out to the residents and that the matter be placed on the agenda for further consideration. Misc. Discussion Name for North End Bridge Leo Nelson discussed a request from the Elgin Veterans Coordinating Council to name the North End Bridge the "Veterans Memorial Bridge". Councilman Hill stated the naming should be reserved to a committee at ground- breaking time. Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam and Mayor Verbic felt the request should be honored because of the generosity of these groups in participating for the purchase of the new ambulance and equipment. A resolution is to be prepared for the August 10th meeting. Gail Borden Library Leo Nelson stated they have received a request to store the library vans in the public works yard during the hours we are open. The Council approved this request. Proposed Building Commission The Council received a proposed ordinance that was prepared in May, 1976, in order to consolidate a number of the present boards. At that time letters were sent out to the contractors to which there was no response. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they felt it merits further consideration. - w July 20, 1977 Councilman Hill stated he liked the reformed approach as opposed to tacking on to something. Leo Nelson stated as you add boards you expend costs. Mayor Verbic stated, the contribution to Elgin is the most important thing. Councilman Hill felt there should be a new balance between the trades and experts in the building field. The present advisary boards have to some extent have been industry dominated, where their members have a vested interest in the recommendations to the Council. Mayor Verbic suggested a meeting with all these people to try and work out something agreeable. Leo Nelson advised the Council he had received word from IDOT that they would resurface all of Business 20 with the exception of the immediate downtown area. Mr. Nelson further advised he was meeting with the RTA officials on Tuesday to discuss the proposed storage yards. Councilman Barnes stated he still preferred that the yards remain downtown as opposed to being moved to a site east of Randall Road. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 P.M. Marie Yea , i.ty lerk r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING July 27, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, July 27, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Hill, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Gilliam and Strattan. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Bode Road Special Assessment. Leo Nelson reviewed this project with the Council which would include from East Chicago Street to Poplar Creek Drive. There is a portion of the properties along the south side of the road east of Stonehurst Drive which are not in the City limits. Mr. Nelson stated that the City could cutback at Stonehurst or attempt to assess properties outside the City limits. Mayor Verbic asked how many feet were involved outside the City limits. Leo Nelson stated approximately 700 feet and said property was owned by a Mr. Schramm. Mr. Nelson suggested that the City contact Mr. Schramm regarding this project because Mr. Schramm had indicated he would like to have zoning for duplexes . Mayor Verbic thought he might also want to enhance his property with this improvement. Councilman Barnes asked what the proposed improvements were. Mr. Nelson stated, widening of Bode Road 48 feet, curb, gutter, sidewalks and storm sewers at a cost of $847,000. Councilman Barnes wondered if it would be possible to assess them as they annex. Mr. Nelson stated this would be difficult, however, the pre-annexation agreement could be one way but in the meantime the City would C have to pick up the tab. Councilman Barnes thought the City should sound out Mr. Schramm. Mayor Verbic hoped Mr . Schramm would see the value involved. Leo Nelson asked if Mr. Schramm does not agree should the City cut the project off at Stonehurst. The Council approved this procedure . Proposed Big Timber Commuter Station Site. Leo Nelson stated that his meeting with the RTA was very disappointing. The City has been waiting 4 or 5 months to see a model and we were under the im- pression we would see a three dimensional model of the proposed landscaping. The model exhibited showed no landscaping and they stated they did not under- stand this was to be done, yet this was in their minutes . They felt this was a minor detail and were insistent that the site be reviewed. Leo Nelson further stated he had the feeling that the commuter parking lot on the west side may be held up by the RTA pending the RTA's requested site for the railroad yards. The RTA will revise the model and want to come out for a meeting with the City. Mr. Nelson pointed out this proposed site is outside the City limits and he would hope the County would side in with Elgin and reject the rezoning needed for the yards . Mr. Nelson suggested that an invitation to the meeting with the RTA be extended to the Eagle Heights Homeowner's Association and the Century Oaks West Home- owner's Association. The Council agreed. C July 2/, 1977 Recreation Area at the Intersection of Poplar Creek Drive and Bode Road. Leo Nelson stated that last Fall a representative from the Poplar Creek Town- house Homeowners Association had appeared at a Committee of the Whole Meeting pointing out the need for a recreational site . The Human Relations Commission is now involved because a group of people from this area have also asked their assistance in obtaining this recreational site. The City contacted U.S. Shelter and District U-46 to see if we could grade this site, mow it, put up back-stops and welcome the children to play. U.S. Shelter and U-46 have given their approval. The Council approved this project. Miscellaneous Discussion Kimball Street Bridge. Leo Nelson advised the Council he had been notified this project will receive an additional $57,000 under the Federal Public Works Act. This amount brings the City's total grant to $337,000. Audit Mr. Nelson advised the Council the 1976 Audit would be available next Wednesday. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7:50 P.M. r Marie Year n, City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING August 10, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, August 10, 1977 at 7:00 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Gilliam. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Parking Restriction on South Side of Souster Avenue. Leo Nelson stated the Traffic Committee had received complaints about the traf- fic congestion on Souster Avenue and that some of the residents had requested tree bank parking. Mr. Nelson pointed out the difficulty in getting emergency equipment there if cars were parked on both sides of the street. The Council approved the recommendation from the Traffic Committee to remove parking from the south side of Souster Avenue. Leo Nelson said he would have this item on the next agenda. Proposed Alley Vacation Between Hamilton and McClure Avenues from High Street to Lawrence Avenue. Leo Nelson said that letters were sent to all property owners concerned. Thir- teen responded, ten people were in favor of the vacation and three were opposed. Syde Ally stated the three opposed because of vegetable gardens, a fence and part of a shack was extended on the 12 foot wide strip. The Council approved the vacation. Proposed Poplar Creek Flood Plain Improvements. Bob Hogue advised the Council of his meeting with Mr. Gary Clark, from the Illinois Department of Water Resources, relative to the proposed improvements on Route 20 and Willard Avenue. This would involve the construction of an earth levee approximately 1400 feet in length which would provide a 100 year flood protection. The City would be required to obtain the land, the cost of which was estimated by the State to be $20,000. The State would pay all the other costs which they estimate to be $125,000. Councilmen Barnes and Beckmann questioned the water channeling south of Villa and by the Shakeproof site. Bob Hogue said he would have to check this further with the State because they did not get into channel improvements downstream. Leo Nelson asked if the State was saying that no one could build there. Mr. Hogue replied only if they meet the criteria . Councilman Barnes asked if the Horace Motors site was involved. Mr . Hogue said yes some of his land would be in the flood way. Mayor Verbic wondered if the State Engineer who wrote the study could come out and meet with the Council be- cause it looked like we may rectify a problem in one area and create many prob- lems in other areas . Mr. Hogue will arrange to have the Engineer meet with the Council. • August 10, 1977 Policy re Parking in Parkway and Tree Bank Areas. Bob Hogue presented a slide program showing various types of tree bank parking throughout the City. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if the existing ordinance should be enforced or removed, and called attention to the traffic hazards and blocking of sidewalks . Mr. & Mrs. Leonard Peterson of 529 Hill exhibited pictures of treebank park- ing which has caused problems in their neighborhood. They also stated that the people in the residences get tickets for this and the people in business get a warning. Councilman Barnes asked if the ordinance was enforced what would happen to the many businesses dependent upon parking. Mr. Nelson stated it should be pro- hibited where it blocks the sidewalks and some policy should be developed re- lating to pedestrian and automobile safety. Mayor Verbic suggested that the Traffic Committee and Police Department might be assistance. Mr. Nelson stated he would bring this matter back to the Council. Meeting adjourned for Council Meeting 8:00 P.M. Meeting reconvened at 10:25 P.M. River Bluff Street Lighting. Mel Dahl reported that he had met with the residents in this area, 22 people attended this meeting. Fifty one percent of these people were in favor of maintaining the ornamental system and they were agreeable to a special tax district to pay for same. The Council agreed to having a public hearing date set. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:50 P.M. Marie Yearmn, City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING August 3, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, August 3, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Gilliam. Also present were: City Manager, Leo Nelson; City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. 1976 Audit Leo Nelson passed out the 1976 Audit for the Council's review and asked if the Council would like to meet with the auditors to go over same. Mayor Verbic thought a meeting with the auditors might help to acquaint Councilman Hill with the budget. Councilman West thought this would be a waste of time. Councilman Barnes said the Council could help Councilman Hill. Leo Nelson suggested the Council review the audit and then go through it with Jim Bolerjack. Affirmative Action Plan. The Council reviewed the City's proposed Affirmative Action Program and a let- ter from Eber Jernberg, chairman of the Elgin Civil Service Commission, who stated the Commission will continue to adhere to the program. Mr. Nelson also passed out for review a profile as to implementation of the program. Mr. Nelson said a statement from the Board of Police Commissioners had not been received and the Council agreed to wait for this before proceeding. Proposed Elgin Plumbing Commission. The Council reviewed a letter from the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors which set forth a suggested Plumbing Commission. Councilman Barnes thought it would be better to move toward a single board or Commission rather than create a new board. Leo Nelson suggested the Board of Appeals could be enlarged to add people re- presenting the consumers . Councilman Hill thought the plan proposed by the Staff lacked definition as to what the Council wants to do and it would be worthwhile to have the opinion of the plumbers. Councilman Beckmann asked who would be added to the Board. Leo Nelson replied it could be electrical contractors, trades people and citizen members, it could be constructed anyway the Council might desire. The majority of the Council favored having an electrical commission, warm air heating commission, examining board of stationary engineers and a proposed plumbing commission to serve as an advisory boards to the enlarged building board. Each commission would have a chairman who would sit on the enlarged board. Councilman Barnes suggested the Board be called the Elgin Building Commission instead of the Elgin Board of Appeals. C • August 3, 1977 Mr. Elliott asked when the Plumbing Commission would be formed. Leo Nelson re- plied hopefully in a couple of weeks. Parkway Trees Infected with Cottony Maple Scale. Leo Nelson stated he had received calls from homeowners who wanted to treat their trees but they felt it would not do any good unless everyone with in- fected trees did the same. Phil Bennett stated this should not be of great concern because the disease is cyclical and would leave and unlike the Dutch Elm disease it would not permanently damage the trees. Proposed Parks Master Plan. Leo Nelson advised the Council the Park's Board had completed their review of the Master Plan. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they would like to see the Master Plan before scheduling the public hearings. Phil Bennett stated he would like to schedule all three public hearings at the Hemmens Building because of the parking and additional facilities . One meet- ing would be for the east side, one for the north side and one for special interested groups. Mayor Verbic thought there would be a problem with attendance by having three hearings . Phil Bennett stated the Parks' Board wanted as much public input as possible. Councilman Barnes thought the Plan should be reviewed prior to the hearings. Waiver of Fee for Zoning Hearings for Community Concern for Alcoholism. The Council reviewed a letter from John Modaff, President of Community Concern for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse, which requested that non for profit organizations be exempt from zoning petition fees. Leo Nelson stated the ordinance makes no destinction for anyone seeking re- zoning and relief cannot be given without changing the policy. Mayor Verbic suggested a letter be sent pointing out the cost of the Court Reporter. Mr. Nelson thought he understood that. Councilman Barnes stated he was against granting any relief, if you gave it to one you would have to do it for all of them. The Council agreed not to change the present policy. Green Area Between Miller-Davis Industrial Park and Forest Drive. Mr. Frank Holden from Northern Illinois Gas advised the Council they are pre- pared to grade and seed its 85 foot easement between the Industrial and the homes on Forest Drive. Mr. Holden also stated they would have no objection to the homeowners putting in small gardens in this area but would not permit trees because of the underground gas pipes . The Staff is to ascertain what amount of reimbursement is due Miller-Davis for water mains and determine if they will voluntarily landscape their 15 foot strip August 3, 1977 or if the reimbursement should be used to accomplish this . The Council asked the Staff to pursue this matter further. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 P.M. for a Public Hearing. The meeting reconvened at 9: 10 P.M. Business Licenses . Leo Nelson advised the Council the immediate need is to adopt the State of Illinois rules for food service. Although all restaurants must abide by the rules the Sanitation Department has no comprehensive set of rules or regulations, and are unable to prosecute without an ordinance . It was also recommended the automatic food vending machines be licensed, not to be inspected but just raising revenue. Councilman Barnes suggested this matter be taken up with the Board of Health, they being the hearing body. Councilwoman Strattan thought the people involved should be advised. The Council agreed the Board of Health should review this matter and give their input. Miscellaneous Discussion. The Council approved the payment of $10,000 to Heider Electric for the City's share of the cost of the lighting at the Trout Park baseball field. (7111 Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:55 P.M. Marie Yearman, City Clerk r • Committee of the Whole Meeting August 17 , 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson, on Wednesday, August 17 , 1977 , at 7 : 05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members Present: Councilmen Barnes , Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill , Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Also present were: City Manager , Leo Nelson, City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Wing School - Community Service Center Mr. Charles Cassell and Mr. Charles West attended the meeting to update the Council relative to the feasibility of remodeling the Wing School into a community service center. Mr . West stated he had met with several agencies to see what , if any, cost factors could be changed and to determine what rental these agencies were presently paying. The agencies are now paying between $3 . 50 and $7 . 50 per square foot . Mr . West suggested a rental of $4.60 per square foot , which would include maintenance and utilities . Mr. Cassell reported the financial feasibility study did not look good but the people doing the study did same based on figures we gave them and Mr. Cassell felt more homework should have been done. Mr . Cassell further stated these agencies would have more facilities offered to them than they presently have. Off-street parking would be available, this site could accommodate 40 cars and the tenants would also have central air , carpeting and window coverings . The building could house 10 agencies and would have a board room and a equipped duplicating room. These rooms would be used by the tenants on a pro- rata share basis . Councilman Hill asked who would run the building . Mr . Cassell stated the agencies could run it themselves . Councilwoman Strattan was not sure a 40 car parking lot was enough. Mr . Nelson stated the City ' s commitment would be to guarantee a mortgage of $403 , 000, if the projection is correct . Councilman West asked what would happen if the agencies lost their funding . Mr. West stated they have more agencies wanting space than we have space for and there would probably be a waiting list . Councilman Gilliam asked what the difference would be to build a new building . Mr. Cassell said with the present cost structure between $35.00 and $50. 00 per square foot or at $40.00 approximately $ 1 , 160,000 for 29 square feet . Councilman Hill stated he was bothered with the word competitive and wondered if the City should be competitive with private interests . +E a August 17 , 1977 Mayor Verbic stated he objected to the City being the landlord, the parking lot being inadequate and the building being too old. Councilman Barnes stated he was reluctant to subsidize these agencies but if their services were to deteriorate it would throw a greater burden on the City . It is a great location in terms of services but not parking. Councilman Barnes further stated that he was not ready to turn this down because it still had some possibilities . Councilman Barnes asked what chance this might have for HCD funds . Mr. Wager stated it would depend on whether the agencies qualify. Leo Nelson reminded the Council that the acquisition costs had not been discussed. Mr. Cassell looked to the Council for approval to proceed with architectural feasibility study . Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Strattan and West agreed to proceed with this study. Councilman Hill did not feel the financial study justified proceeding any further . Mayor Verbic reiterated his comments relative to the age of the building and inadequate parking . Sale of Four Feet of City Property on Dixon Avenue Attorney Richard Imming presented a plat of survey relative to the purchase of four feet of property to permit the widening of a driveway leading to a loading dock on Mrs . Emily Wahl ' s property on Dixon Avenue. The plat indicated the required area to be re-worked for a new drive, repair and replacement of retaining walls and curbs . The Council approved the sale and directed a resolution be presented at the next Council meeting authorizing publication for bids . Proposed Ordinance Creating a Building Commission Leo Nelson advised the Council that Frank Holden of Northern Illinois Gas checked with his firm relative to serving on this board. The Company would not permit him to serve as a member representing Northern Illinois Gas but would have no objection to him serving as an individual . Mr. Nelson further explained this draft as presented tonight is only a part of the ordinance and did not include setting up the various boards . Councilman Hill pointed out the ordinance provided that the commission could appoint the board members and he felt this should be up to the Council . Councilman West stated that on Page 2 of the proposed ordinance the commission will only have the power that is given by the Council . Councilman Hill suggested if the board appointments were made by the Council it might be more appealing. Councilman West suggested letting the Commission suggest names for the boards . August 17 , 1977 Councilman Hill asked George Elliott , of Elliott Heating and Plumbing, if the proposed ordinance sounded satisfactory to him. Mr. Elliott stated it sounded fine. Mr . Nelson asked the Council if this proposed ordinance was alright so far . The Council approved same. Mall Christmas Decorations Mr. Nelson reviewed a request from James Knowles , Chairman of the Fountain Square Plaza Commission , to spend $5, 341 . 55 of its budget for additional Christmas decorations . The Council approved said request . Landscaping Area Between Miller-Davis Industrial Park and Residences Along Forest Avenue Mr . Nelson advised the Council that after examination of the Miller-Davis annexation agreement it was established the agreement provided only for a buffer , no trees and it does not recite any particular plan , just open space. Councilman Hill , who had attended the annexation hearing could not understand how this could have happened because at the hearing the people were given assurances and lavish promises that this would be done. Rob Roll stated that unfortunately the proper language was not included in the annexation agreement , performance bond or ordinance. Mr . Nelson stated that Northern Illinois Gas was prepared to come in and clean up their easement area . The Council asked Mr. Nelson to have Northern Illinois Gas go ahead with their portion of the work. Effective Date for Increased Parking Fines Mr . Nelson explained it would take from 60-90 days to obtain the increased $ 1 .00 parking fine tickets . He suggested the ordinance be prepared to be acted upon now and make the effective date January 1 , 1978. The Council agreed to have this item placed on the Council agenda. Proposed Agreement with U46 for Bus Services Mr . Nelson advised the Council that Mr. Skelly of School District U-46 had stated the District cound not afford to pay more than $ 14. 75 per hour. The City breaks even at $ 16 . 32 per hour . Mayor Verbic thought the City should at least get their money back. Mr. Nelson stated he would have to talk further with the School District . 401 • ; August 17 , 1977 1978 City Vehicle Stickers Mike Sarro stated this was the first year the bids exceeded $ 1500.00 and he would like to put this item on the agenda so the stickers could be ordered at this time. The Council approved same. Proposed Amendment to Subdivision Ordinance Establishing Policy for Completing Certain Public Improvements Mr. Nelson stated that in August, 1973 , Jim Spore sent out letters to developers setting forth that building permits would not be issued until certain improvements were done. The subdivision ordinance provides that builders may get permits if they are conforming and no has challanged this letter. The Council directed that the staff work up an amendment for passage. Miscellaneous Discussion Mr . Vern Erlbacher advised the Council that due to the loss of revenue from the signs on his cabs and the rising costs , it was necessary for him to ask for an increase in fares . Mr. Erlbacher said he would need 90 for the first 1 /8 mile and 10 for each additional 1 /8 mile thereafter. Corporation Counsel Jentsch instructed Mr. Erlbacher to give the City Clerk a written request for the fare increase and the Council could act on same at the next Council meeting. Master Park Plan Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they had any feeling on the public hearings . Councilman West stated that if the Park' s Board wanted to hold the hearings they should but he did not feel there was a need for three public hearings . The Council agreed to have the Park' s Board hold one hearing and see if there was a need for more hearings . Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 30 P .M. Marie Yea man, City Clerk C t COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING September 7, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, September 7, 1977 at 7: 10 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None . Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman, and members of staff. Proposed Bus Route Changes. Leo Nelson stated that back in June the Committee had reviewed some proposed bus route changes and indicated approval of same. The changes were submitted to the R.T.A. They approved the McLean Route and modified the North State Street route to retain the 6:40 A.M. trip because of a slight increase in ridership. Ray Moller stated the changed routes are as follows: McLean Blvd. Provide service continually throughout the day. Operate Saturday service on an all day basis . Extend the route to Forest Avenue. North State Street. Eliminate the 7:10 A.M. and 3:45 P.M. trips. Add service at 11:45 A.M. and 5:15 P.M. Operate Saturday service . (711kThe 5:15 P.M. trip would not commence until the service to Carpentersville is commenced. The Council approved the proposed changes . Consideration of Affirmative Action Program. Leo Nelson stated the matter had been held up pending reaction from the Civil Service Commission and Police Department. The Civil Service Commission has given their approval and although the Police Department has not responded by letter they did not see any problem with the program Councilman West wondered what effect this would have in obtaining a low bid. Mr. Nelson stated that anytime you are using federal funds you would run into this and it would not be easy. Mr . Nelson suggested it could be used as a prequalification. Councilman West asked if this would become a part of our specifications . Mr. Nelson replied yes. The Council approved the program and directed it be placed on the Council Agenda. Proposed Parking Restriction on Cooper Avenue. Mr. Nelson advised the Committee the City received a petition sign by 20 people requesting a parking restriction on the south side of Cooper. A telephone survey September 7 , 1977 was made to see if the restriction could be made on the north side of the street instead because parking is now prohibited on the north side of Cooper between Spring and Prospect. All but three families agreed. Mr. Nelson stated this problem is due to the Sherman Hospital construction and parking becoming more difficult all the time. The police reports indicate most of the parkers are Sherman employees . The Council approved this request and asked that the people who signed the petition and Sherman be notified that this will be on the next agenda . Proposed Health and Housing Administrator. Mr. Nelson stated the need for a Health and Housing administrator whose qualifi- cations would include a Masters Degree in Public Health, two years experience as a food service inspector and registration as a Public Health Sanitarian with the State. Mr. Roll recommended the salary for this position be placed at $15,408 - $18,924 which would be a competitive figure. Mr. Nelson stated there were some people interested in the position and he felt this would strengthen our Health Department efforts . The Council approved the recommendation. Proposed Inclusion of Engineering Fees for Special Assessment Projects in 1978 Budget. Leo Nelson explained that some engineering firms are not paid until after the first voucher is paid and as result some bills are two years old before any payment is made. Mr. Nelson asked if the project looks like it would not go ahead within a reasonable period of time that the payment for these bills be included in the budget. Councilman Hill asked if this would be covered in a special assessment. Mr. Nelson replied yes . Counsel Jentsch stated the City would have to pay them if the project was abandoned. The Council approved this request . Proposed Contract with Rasmussen Steel Company for Cemetery Vault Repair. The Council approved this contract. Proposed Agreement Relative to the Otter Creek Drainage Improvement. Leo Nelson reviewed a proposed agreement with the City, Township, Division of Water Resources, Division of Highways and Department of Transportation. Councilman Gilliam asked what the project timetable was. Bob Hogue stated he thought they could start in December, 1978. September 7, 1977 Councilman Barnes asked what the City commitment would be. Mr. Nelson replied acquisition costs. Mr. Nelson is to have project Engineer in to discuss same with the Council. Meeting adjourned for Council Meeting 8:00 P.M. Meeting reconvened at 9:15 P.M. Proposed Agreement With Disco Oil Co. Relative to Willard Avenue Detention Area. Mr. Nelson stated this project go back two years. The retention area would take care of the other side of Route 19 up to Bode Road. This is land that Mr. Small cannot develop and he is willing to dedicate five acres, an easement for storm sewer leading away from the detention area. Mr . Roll stated the City could not get Route 19 approved by the State without solving this problem and flood plain property should be under City management. Mr. Nelson stated this was a good agreement and the detention area would help other properties and not just Mr . Small's property. The Council agreed to pro- ceed with this agreement. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:40 P.M. r 4\1004 Marie YearmaY, City Clerk C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLX MEETING September 14, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Leo Nelson, City Manager on Wednesday, September 14, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent Councilman Beckmann. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman, and members of staff. Accessibility to Alley off Center Street between Lovell and Center Streets . Mrs. Margaret Stajek and Mrs. Shirley Seisser appeared before the Committee to ask the City's assistance with a problem that the property owners have with alley access between Center and Spring Street. Mrs. Seisser stated for years the residents have made use of the entry to this alley off Center Street but recently a property owner by the name of Lenart who owns approximately 12 X 16 feet off the Center Street entrance have installed posts on the edge of their property, making it impossible to use this entrance. Leo Nelson advised the Council this alley is owned by the City except for that portion owned by Lenart. The Committee reviewed a petition signed by 7 property owners whose property backs up to this alley who strongly favor that the City ownership remain as it is . Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they would like the City to assist these neigh- bors in trying to resolve the easement problem. The Council agreed to the City assisting with this problem. Proposed Elgin Building Commission. The Committee reviewed a proposed ordinance creating the Elgin Building Com- mission. This Commission would include a representative from the Plumbing Committee. Fred Smith stated he objected to another Board being formed. Mr. Nelson stated this was not another Board being formed, it simply changed the name of the present Board and included a representative from the newly created Plumbing Committee. Councilman Barnes stated this Board could review all opinions and not just the electrical aspect and would represent all the people who want to buy homes that are safe. Councilman Hill stated the electrical commission was doing a good job and they should not worry about any review. The Building Commission would just review a matter before it came to the Council. Councilman Hill asked if there would be a reappointment of any existing member on the Board. Mr. Nelson replied no. Ron Jones stated there had been some problems with the City inspectors involving code inspections. r . September 14, 1977 Mr . Nelson stated this should be discussed by the Commission and then brought to the Council. The Council approved this ordinance and directed it be placed on the Council Agenda. Parking Restriction on Hickory Place. Mr. Nelson advised the Council the northbound traffic on Gifford is not allowed to make a left turn at Summit, and cars are turning left at Hickory Place . The street is only 30 feet wide and this turning activity is an accident poten- tial. oten- tial. The Traffic Committee recommended that parking be prohibited from the north side of Hickory Place between Dundee Avenue and Gifford Street. The Council approved this recommendation and directed that the appropriate ordinance be drawn. Miscellaneous Discussion. Leo Nelson advised the Committee that Trygve Rovelstad had requested another dedication of the Gifford Bust because the first dedication was held on July 4th and was poorly attended. Mr. Nelson further advised he had received a letter from Mr. Warner, of the Pioneer Memorial Fund, and Mr. Warner did not feel it was necessary to repeat this. Councilman Barnes suggested that Mr. Nelson write Mr. Rovelstad and suggest this would put a hardship on Mr. Warner to travel to Elgin again and the City felt the monument had been properly dedicated. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:50 P.M. Marie Yearmai4, City Clerk r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING September 21, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Leo Nelson, City Manager on Wednesday, September 21, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Confer- ence Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic . Absent: None. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Poplar Creek Project. Mr. Don Vonnehme, Acting Director of the Division of Water Resources stated that proposed Poplar Creek levee could reduce the yearly flood damage by $125,000. A field study would have to be made to ascertain whether a pumping station would be necessary. The State would pay for the construction of the levee and the City would be responsible for obtaining the right-of-way and maintenance of the area. Mr. Nelson stated he did not think obtaining the necessary right-of-way would be difficult since the property is in the flood plain and can not be used for building. Mr. Vonnehme stated that if the field survey could be done by October they could have the plans to the City by January or February. Councilman Barnes wondered what this would do to the area south of the stream. Mr. Vonnehme stated that if flooding occurs the levee would not make it worse in up or downstream areas. Mr. Nelson stated that if the city was assured there would be no further flooding because of the project he did not see how we could lose by accepting this proposal. The Council agreed to go ahead with the project in the meantime Mr. Vonnehme is to check the urbanization table and report back to Mr. Nelson. Proposed Agreement With Burnidge & Cassell for Wing School Project. Mr. Nelson stated that several weeks ago the Council gave approval to go ahead with the architectural feasibility study and this proposed agreement covered same. Mr. Nelson also advised the Council that the School Board had authorized ap- praisals for the Wing School building and he thought it was fair to say there will be an acquisition cost which will effect the impact cost factor. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they would prefer to sit on this architectural study until such time as we get the acquisition cost. The Council agreed to wait for the acquisition cost figures . Proposed Changes for Bus Fare Structure. Mr. Nelson referred the Council to the letter from the RTA which set forth a revised fare policy for children and student fares. The Council approved the new rate structure. September 21, 1977 Request from the Courier News for a Halloween Parade. The Council reviewed a request from the Courier News to conduct a Halloween Parade downtown on Sunday, October 30th beginning at 2:00 P.M. Mr. Nelson stated that the trick or treat night could be held on the same day. The Council approved this request. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M. atm Marie Yearm , City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING September 28, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Leo Nelson, City Manager on Wednesday, September 28, 1977 at 7:10 P.M., in the Council Confer- ence Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Beckmann, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman West. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Chamber of Commerce Proposed Convention and Tourism Program. Ed Kelly, Liz Leibert, Aubrey Neville and Rick Jakle presented a slide and in- formational study of a proposed convention-visitor program. Mr. Kelly stated that the convention-visitor business is the third largest in- dustry in Illinois. The economic benefits to Elgin would include: increased job opportunities, increased sales tax, increased motel room and property tax collections and increased business for hotels, motels, restaurants, retail, service, automotive, financial and professional businesses . Mr. Kelly submitted a proposed budget as follows: Promotional Materials $ 15,300 Information Booth 4,000 Equipment 600 Travel 2,500 Telephone 1,200 Postage 1,500 CSupplies 2,000 Mailing Lists - Merberships 1,000 Office Space 975 Administrative & Clerical 12,500 $ 41,575 The Council agreed to provide $20,000 of $41,575 to start the program in 1978. Sherman Hospital Watermain Improvement. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that due to the abandoment of the 6-inch water- main in Center Street because of the hospital expansion it had been recommended by Mel Dahl that a 10-inch watermain be installed on Cooper and an 8-inch water- main on Slade. Instead of stopping the new 10-inch at Center Street this would continue east to Prospect Blvd. This would improve the efficiency of the system in that area. The cost of installing the new watermains made necessary by the abandomment of the 6-inch main and because of additional flow requirements should be borne by Sherman Hospital. The cost of extending the 10-inch main one more block east should be borne by the City because of the benefit to the City. The Council approved the recommendation given by Mel Dahl. The Committee Meeting of the Whole adjourned at 8:00 P.M. for the Regular Meeting. C September 28, 1977 The Committee Meeting of the Whole Reconvened at 9: 15 P.M. Commuter Parking Mass Transportation Capital Grant Agreement. Rob Roll stated that State and Federal funds would pay for 90% of the total project costs. The project would expand the National Street Station from 50 parking spaces to 112 spaces and construct the Almora Station at Big Timber and Randall Road to provide 250 spaces . Mr. Roll further stated that it appeared the RTA may want to continue the coach yard at the existing site for another five years which would mean the Chicago Street improvements could not be made . Mr. Roll hoped because of inflated costs, since Elgin applied for the grant, that some of the money could be deverted to the National Street improvements and construction of the Almora Station. Councilman Barnes asked what our responsibility would be once the lots are developed. Mr. Nelson stated the maintenance would be ours. The Council approved the agreement. Proposed Increase for Bus Charter Rates. The Council reviewed the proposed changes in bus charter rates. Mr. Nelson advised the RTA would not subsidize this service and the city could not operate in the red. Councilman Barnes asked if these figures were at a break even point. Mr. Nelson replied yes . The Council majority approved the increased rates. Councilwoman Strattan ab- stained. b- stoined. Ad journment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 P.M. OL Q o t}L1�t.(.dC LTJ Marie Yearma City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING October 5, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, October 5, 1977 at 7:20 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Beckmann and Strattan. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Proposed Serving of Alcoholic Beverages at the Hemmens Auditorium. The Council reviewed a request from the Hemmens Advisory Committee to permit the sale of alcoholic beverages for wedding receptions, conferences and small conventions. Mr. George Sotos of the Blue Moon did not feel the City should go into com- petition with the liquor industry. Mr. Sotos felt his business would be greatly affected if he lost any weddings to the Hemmens Building. Councilman Hill stated he did not think it was the intention to have the City run a bar but did not see anything wrong if a group wanted to have a bar main- tained by a liquor license holder. Councilman Hill further stated that the City does want to rent out the building and he has been told the City has lost conventions because of this situation. Councilman Barnes stated he saw no problem as long as the City is not involved and it was restricted to weddings and private affairs . rCouncilman West stated he did not think you have to use booze as a hook to draw people to Elgin and that this was a public and family place . Councilman Gilliam stated he was apposed at this time and he did not believe liquor was a means of survival. When people come to conventions they come to learn not drink. Don Smith, Manager of the Hemmens Building, stated about a dozen events a year are not held here because of the policy. Mr. Nelson stated that Liz Leibert of the Chamber of Commerce had offered to make a task study involving all parties that would be affected by any change in policy. Mrs. Leibert would bring the results of that study to the Council for further consideration. A majority of the Council agreed to have Mrs . Leibert proceed with this study. Agreement Between the City and the Vecchio Land Corporation for Sanitary Sewer Maintenance. Mr. Nelson stated that this involved a private sewer easement which serves 5 or 6 homes. About a year ago when the retaining wall was falling in Mr. Vecchio tried to erect a new one and succeeded in breaking the sewer line. In the meantime Mr. Vecchio died and Mr. Muscarello and Mr . Ritt are representing the parties. V f October 5, 1977 This proposed agreement provides the easement would remain private but the maintenance of same would be assessed to the party owners. Councilman Barnes stated that if the parties were in agreement we should proceed. The rest of the Council approved this project. Proposed Installation of Storm Sewer from Illinois Rt. 19 to the Proposed Willard Avenue Detention Area. Mr. Nelson explained that McGrath is going to proceed to develope his pro- perty, it is important that the City install the sewer lines before the parking lot is put in. Mr. Everett Scheflow, Professional Engineer, suggested three plans as follows: Alternate 1. Install both sewers now. $74,000 Alternate 2. Install one sewer now. 40,000 Alternate 3. Install one sewer now, second 97,500 sewer in future Mayor Verbic wondered if this would not be included with the State improvement. Mr. Nelson stated no this is our obligation even if Rt. 19 goes through. Councilman Barnes asked when the detention area would be completed. Mr. Nelson stated the 1978 budget will include the design funds and hopefully by 1979 we will have the funds to build. The Council approved going ahead with alternate 2. Bluff City Cemetery Office Building Hook-On to Sanitary Sewer. Mr. Nelson stated that $4,000 was in the budget to pave the wide driveway that leads to the vehicle and equipment stalls at the Cemetery Office Building. The Cemetery Office Building is on a septic system and for the past four or five winters the septic system has frozen. Mr. Nelson recommended this be corrected by annexation to the Sanitary District, the only cost would be annexing and recording the annexation and a connection fee of $100.00 plus installation costs of $3,400.00. The Council approved this project. Proposal to Perform Necessary Survey Work for New Water Treatment Plant. The Council approved a proposal from W. A. Rakow & Associates covering survey work for the new water treatment plant. Proposed Air Conditioning Unit for New Computer Room. Frank Kaiser, Maintenance Supervisor, advised the Council of a problem with excess heat coming from the computer equipment. During certain times of the year the building system will most likely be on the heating cycle and will w a October 5, 1977 not be able to afford the cooling requirements of the computer room. The reason for this condition is that the basic office spaces are in need of heating in order to offset the heat loss due to outside temperatures. In order to produce the temperature and humidity which a computer room requires Mr. Kaiser suggest a separate self contained package system, mounted within the computer room. The cost estimated for this system is $7,200.00. Councilman West suggested a smaller unit with sun reflectors on the windows . Dave Jepson stated they were using the sun reflectors now and it did not help. Councilman Barnes wondered if there wasn' t some way to try and save this energy. Mr. Jepson stated we would soon be into the winter months and the computers would provide heat for the area. The Council agreed to the purchase of the self contained package system. Proposed Amendment to Existing Governmental Agreement Between Municipalities Participating in the Fox Valley Bus Route. Mr. Nelson advised the Council the proposed amendment would make the RTA the grant applicant instead of Aurora . Elgin is not eligible to be the grantee because of problems with Section (C) . The grant would effect the replacement and addition of five buses now in use and would expand bus service in the Fox Valley. The Council agreed to have this item placed on the Council agenda. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:45 P.M. Marie Year n, City Clerk r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING October 12, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, October 12, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic . Absent: Councilman Gilliam. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Aerial Mosaic for Conference Room Wall. Mr. Nelson stated that Council had asked that another company be checked for prices. In checking this out it was ascertained that Sidwell did not prepare the present mosaic. This one was prepared by Chicago Aerial Survey. The two bids obtained were Chicago Aerial Survey, $1,700.00 and Sidwell Company, $3,090.00. Mr. Nelson stated he needed a decision now because Chicago Aerial proposed a new flight this November. The money for this project is in the 1978 budget. The Council agreed to award the bid to Chicago Aerial Survey. Lester Witte & Company Management Letter for 1976. Mr. Nelson stated that some of the things mentioned in the letter were discussed last year and there was a need to improve . Mr. Nelson felt that with the addi- tional help in the Finance Department they should be able to close the books and get the audit done sooner. Councilman Barnes asked what was being done about the audit of the Community Development Funds . Leo Nelson stated that this audit had already been authoried. The cost is between $700.00 and $800.00 and will probably not be done on time this year. The Council agreed it would not be necessary to have a representative from Lester Witte and Company here to go over the audit. Proposed 1978 Budget. Mr. Nelson stated the budget was fairly on schedule and should be available by the end of this month. Mr. Nelson asked if the Council had any project that they thought should be put in or deleted. Mr. Nelson further stated that costs are going up, some that we have some control over and others we do not. The City has been advised the insurance premium may go up to $760,000 and a Bill was recently enacted which requires that all employ- ees must be covered under unemployment compensation. Councilman Hill stated he did not think we should accept what the agent says about the insurance and that other insurance agents should be invited to bid. Councilman Hill also thought we should try to hold the line on any tax increases. October 12, 1977 Counsel Jentsch stated that a number of municipalities are becoming self-insured but this would involve hiring a staff to handle and process any claims. Councilman Barnes stated that he had talked with an insurance agent and they are not seeking this kind of business. Rather than put this out for bids, get an agent in to see if self-insured is feasible . Councilman Barnes also stated that we should do everything possible to hold down taxes because incomes have not gone up very much in this city. Proposed Productivity Improvement. Mr. Nelson passed out a publication relative to productivity improvement pre- pared by Booz, Allen & Hamilton. Mr. Nelson stated that fewer than 5% of Cities have participated and they have had good results . Mr. Nelson felt this program was well worth pursuing and it could be done with federal funds and the C.E.T.A. program which would defer the hiring of people for departments. Councilman Barnes asked if U46 had been contacted because they conducted one of these programs and we could see what it has done for them. Proposed Repairs to Second Boiler at City Hall. Mr. Frank Kaiser, Maintenance Superintendent, advised the Council that the second boiler in City Hall was in need of a new bottom. Mr. Kaiser submitted the following proposals for that work: r B. & G. Welding $ 4,266 Cruise Boiler 4,680 Jacob's Welding 4,425 Atlas Boiler 3,455 Mr. Kaiser assured the Council that all of the aforementioned companies were reputable. The Council directed the bid be awarded to the low bidder. Miscellaneous Discussion, Serving of Liquor in the Hemmen's Building. Mr. Nelson reminded the Council that at the last meeting it was decided that he should call Councilmen Beckmann and Strattan relative to proceeding with the Task Force Study relative to the serving of liquor in the Hemmen's Building. Due to Councilman Beckmann's resignation, Councilwoman Strattan is the swing vote . Councilwoman Strattan stated she was not ready to agree to this at this point. Liz Leibert stated the Chamber of Commerce was not advocating the sale of liquor but had merely offered to conduct the study. October 12, 1977 Special Water Meter Reading. Mr. Nelson advised the Council the City had been conducting a special water reading program to see if the meters were reading accurately. In a couple of cases there was a high degree of error and the manufacturer of these meters is no longer making them. Mr: Nelson stated we need to know what we are going to do about the bills . Councilman Barnes asked if all the remote meters had been checked. Ron Zegers replied that the whole west side was left. Councilman Barnes asked if we would also check the non-remote . Mr . Zegers replied yes. Councilman West asked if we would replace the old meters . Mr. Nelson replied that this is a continuing program. Councilman Barnes proposed that we cut the bill in half because we are respon- sible for the faulty meters . Mr. Nelson stated that in some cases the property has changed hands and it would not be fair to bill the new owner and this should be prorated. Adjournment. There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M. r Marie Yearm n, City Clerk C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING October 19, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, October 19, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None . Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. 1978 Fourth of July Carnival. The Fox Valley Kiwanis Club of Elgin has requested permission to operate the 1978 Fourth of July carnival at Wing Park. Mr . Nelson pointed out that last year the North End Business Men's Association operated this carnival but they indicated they only wanted to do this for one year and to date no one else has requested permission except the Kiwanis . Councilman Barnes asked if there were any problems last year. Mr. Nelson stated none other than the normal problems but he did think this should be held at Elgin Community College. The majority of the Council felt there was no problem in granting permission to the Kiwanis wherever they decided to hold it. Proposed Change of Speed Limit on Bode Road. The Traffic Committee recommended that due to the recent land development such as Parkwood Village and Parkwood Subdivision that the speed limit on Bode Road from Teft Avenue to the easterly City limits be reduced to 35 miles per hour. Mayor Verbic pointed out this could also be a problem with the new Lord's Park School which is scheduled to open next week. The Council agreed to have an ordinance prepared reducing the speed to 35 miles per hour. Proposed Agreement for Installation of Automatic Gates and Flashing Signals at the Grade Crossing at Raymond Street and the Milwaukee Tracks. Leo Nelson stated this would be a three party agreement with the City's parti- cipation costing $5,000 and this would not include any repair of the grade crossing. Councilman Barnes stated that was the worse part of it, if we are going to do this and contribute $5,000 now is the time to do something. Councilman West stated that we agreed after the Lawrence Avenue project that we would not pay for any ashphalt repair if they would not play ball. Councilman Hill asked if it was proper to hold up the signalization for road repair. 4 • October 19, 1977 Councilman West stated it was not proper for them to let their crossings go either. Mayor Verbic and Councilman Barnes thought the project should go ahead but pressure should be put on the railroad to repair the crossing. Mr. Nelson stated that they need our sponsorship and we could simply tell them if they want our participation they will have to improve the crossing. Mr. Nelson suggested that this project be held until a November meeting to see what can be done in the meantime. The Council agreed to this suggestion. Proposed Engineering Agreement with Alfred Benesch and Company for the Reha- bilitation of the Kimball Street Bridge. Mr. Nelson stated the City would be taking bids on November 1st and the Council would act on this on November 9th. Mr. Nelson pointed out that engineering firm who does the designing usually does the inspection also. Councilman Barnes stated he thought it was a good idea to have the same firm do the inspection. Councilman Hill felt the fees were outrageous. Mr. Nelson stated that these were not salaries but a Company charge and that normally an engineer would be salaried at $32,000 per year. Mayor Verbic stated if the same firm did the designing and inspection they would be more familiar with the job. Mr. Nelson stated we will have inspection on this. Councilman West felt it might cost less to have an inspection firm do it. Mr. Nelson stated there are firms who just do inspections. Mayor Verbic stated that you might have to have another firm examine the design and pay extra for that. Councilman West stated then we should bid it. Mel Dahl stated that these people have the expertise in the renovation of bridges, which is new to us . The fee is such that if you go back and check the fees in the past, this fee is not exorbitant. Mayor Verbic asked what the estimated time schedule was for the bridge repair. Mr. Dahl stated they were stipulating ten months in the bid but it would make a difference if the bridge were closed or open. A majority of the Council agreed to go ahead with the Benesch Company. r October 19, 1977 Proposed Bus Policy for Transportating Senior Citizens to and from Special Events. Mr. Nelson reminded the Council that this had been discussed several months ago but was put off until Ray Moller could talk to Galdys Larsen. Mr. Moller stated he had discussed the proposal with the Kane County Senior Citizen's Council and they looked very favorably upon it. Councilwoman Strattan asked if there had been any discussion regarding the handicapped. Mr. Moller stated this had not been discussed but they would try to facilitate some accomodations if there was a need for it. Councilman Barnes asked what this would mean cost wise . Mr. Moller stated it would not have too much effect we are talking about a $20.00 or $30.00 loss. Mayor Verbic felt we should cooperate and assist these senior citizens. The Council agreed to approve the policy. Porposed Ordinance Regulating Parking on Tree Banks. Mr. Leonard Petersen of 529 Park Street, asked why the City wanted to change and ordinance that prohibits tree bank parking. r Mr. Nelson stated because the Council ordered us to do it to allow certain tree bank parking under certain circumstances. Mr. Petersen stated there was nothing in the proposed ordinance which would help his problem which was a residential area across from a commercial area. Mr. Petersen pointed out that cars belonging to Harrah's Autos are parked on the tree bank and on the street and these cars are not licensed. Councilman Barnes asked if cars parked on a lot are licensed. Mr. Bolerjack replied, if they have a State Dealer License they are licensed by the City. Councilman Barnes stated that the City presently has a problem enforcing the ordinance because of the present policy. Councilman West stated, what would happen if we just leave the present ordinance on the books and enforce it giving a period of time for those paved areas to be put in grass areas. Mayor Verbic stated this would be too rough on those places who had been in business a long time and are dependent on these areas. Councilman Barnes stated the people on Villa would have a problem because they have no place to park, and he was not sure tearing out the concrete would solve the problem. October 19, 1977 Councilman West asked if it could be restricted to cars with State and City tags. Chief Baird thought this would be difficult because blanket stickers are used. The Council agreed to have the proposed ordinance placed on the Council agenda. Councilman West stated that something should be done to stop the paving of tree banks. Mr. Nelson stated that the City is not issuing permits to do this. Councilman West thought there should be some publicity on this to create aware- ness. Proposed Policy for Billing Customers Who Have a Defective Remote Water Meter. Mr. Nelson stated that a person who has a faulty water meter should only be billed for the period of his residency. The resident's bill would be adjusted to cover both the water and sewer charges . If the remote meter is not working and cannot be repaired, it would be removed and the resident would be given a credit for same. If the adjusted figure is large the resident would be given a period of time to pay same. The Council agreed to go ahead with the policy as presented. RTA Request for Feeder Bus Service. Ray Moller advised the Council he had recently meet with the RTA representatives who are requesting that the City of Elgin provide a commuter train feeder bus service for Bartlett, Streamwood and Hanover Park. This service would operate during the A.M. and P.M. and would serve the train stations in Bartlett and Hanover Park. To provide this service it would require 3 additional bus drivers and 4 addi- tional buses. Mr . Moller stated there has been a lot of need expressed by residents for this service. Mr. Nelson stated the City should not get involved unless the RTA is going to pick up the costs. The Council approved the project only if the RTA picked up the costs. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 P.M. Marie Yearman City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING October 26, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, October 26, 1977 at 7:15 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Street Improvement - U.S. Route 20 (Business) . The Council reviewed the following estimated improvement costs: Highland - Larkin Avenues Clifton Avenue to State Street Federal - State Cost $ 500,000 City of Elgin Share 27, 100 Villa Street DuPage to Cook County Line Federal - State Cost 600,000 City of Elgin Share 42,350 Villa Street Cook County Line to Peck Place Federal - State Cost 500,000 City of Elgin Share Not Known C Mr. Nelson stated these funds are available as a result of a government agree- ment which frees up money from the freeway funds . Councilman Barnes asked what about sidewalks? Mr. Nelson stated that this has not been resolved at this time. Mayor Verbic stated that if the federal government tells us what has to be done they should pick up the storm sewer, curb and gutter improvements. The Mayor thought the City should try to get all the help we can. Mr. Nelson stated if we don't agree they will take the money somewhere else. Mr. Nelson felt this was a tremendous opportunity but what bothered him was that the State wanted the City to take over the maintenance. Mel Dahl stated the original intent was to just resurface Route 20 and that he had no problem with taking over the maintenance, primarily because of the bene- fit to the City of Elgin. Leo Nelson stated that we could leave the curb and gutters for later or let them go ahead with the areas that have curb and gutters and then see what could be done with the other areas. Councilwoman Strattan stated she would like a letter directing that they do something about curbs and gutters. Councilman Barnes pointed out that a lot of the area on the north side of Route 20 has curb and gutter. October 26, 1977 Mr. Nelson stated that Mr. Cavitt did a lot of that and to be fair the other people would have to pay or its an inconsistent policy. If we put curb and gutters in it should be a special assessment. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they would approve going ahead and agree in principal and see what the policy is towards sewers and sidewalk. The Council agreed to proceed on this basis. Budget Books. Mr. Nelson advised the Council the budget books were incomplete tonight but they could be passed out with the additional information and be sent out on Friday. The Council felt it would be better to hold the books until Friday when the material was complete. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7:55 P.M. 412-4J1-4N-61-44—C Marie Yearman, City Clerk r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING November 16, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, November 16, 1977 at 8:25 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Nelson, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Recommendation that the Elgin Currency Exchange Sell City Stickers. The Elgin Currency Exchange has requested that they be allowed to sell the 1978 City vehicle stickers . They are going to sell the Illinois license plates. Councilman Gilliam expressed concern as to the fee they would charge. Mr. Nelson stated they would only be able to charge 25o as provided by ordinance. The Council approved this recommendation. Recommendation to accept the storm water detention area in Lord's Park Manor Subdivision. The City Engineering staff has conducted a final inspection of the detention area and it was found that the detention area has been constructed substantially in accordance with the plans and specifications as approved by this department. Mr. Nelson indicated the developers would like the City to accept the detention area for future use and maintenance. Mr. Nelson stated he hoped this site could be developed into a park area. The Council approved this recommendation. Recommendation to Extend City's Contractual Payments for the State Street Improvement. Mr. Dahl advised the Council that the total project cost was $1,200,909.75. IDOT pays $340,000 and the City has already paid $500,000. This leaves a balance of $360,909.75 to be paid by the City in monthly installments of $20,834. Mr. Nelson stated the City had received a notice from the State that this is due and the money is in the budget. The Council approved this recommendation. Proposed Agreement with W. A. Rakow and Associates to Design the Varsity Bridge. Mr. Nelson stated that W. A. Rakow will also do the design engineering for the developers and it would make good sense to let them do the Citys . The estimated cost for this design is $5450.00, however, there would be no formal action on this until 1978 after the proposed budget has been approved. Recommendation from Traffic Committee to Eliminate the No Parking Restriction on the East Side of Heine Avenue from Lawrence Avenue North. November 16, 1977 Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the residents of this area have petitioned the City to lift this parking restriction. The petition contained the signatures of fourteen residents. Mr . Nelson explained that in the past there had been a problem when the then church located at 345 Heine had a small parking lot com- pared with the number of members . This property has been sold and the parking problem that used to exist before no longer applies . The Council directed that the appropriate ordinance be prepared for the next Council meeting to lift this restriction. Recommendation to Pull Pump and Motor in Well #3A for Inspection and Possible Repair. Mr. Zegers stated that this pump was installed by Layne Western last year and is warranteed for one year. However, inorder to ascertain whether the repair cost is their responsibility it will be necessary to pull the pump. The Council approved this recommendation. Letter from NIPC requesting a $2,500 Contribution for 1978. Mr. Nelson stated that this was the usual annual request for funds . Councilman Hill asked if we just give them what they ask for and Mr. Nelson stated this is how it had been done in the past. Mr. Nelson told the Council they could review the request again when the bill comes in. Councilman Barnes thought this is a small contribution that is well spent. Review of City Tree Removal Policy. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the City is receiving a number of calls from citizens to have the City remove box elder trees and chinese elm trees . Phil Bennett stated that the prime concern are the box elder bugs. Councilwoman Nelson thought it might be a good idea if the citizens would replace these trees with a better tree. Councilwoman Strattan felt this would open pandora 's box and the request to re- move trees would extend to the many other trees people might not like. Councilman Hill stated that in prior years when there was a dutch elm disease problem, the City had a referendum for a forestry tax. Councilman Gilliam and Mayor Verbic objected to any forestry tax. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam, Strattan and Mayor Verbic voted to retain the present City policy of removing only dead trees or hazardous trees. Recommendation to Install Bus Shelters in Four Locations. Ray Moller advised the Council that the RTA is willing to make these shelters available to the City. The RTA would like the City to install the Shelters and bill them for the costs. November 16, 1977 Mr. Moller stated that the City would be responsible for the maintenance of the shelters but they are attractive and virtually maintenance free. (76 Mr. Moller proposed erection of the shelters at Fleetwood Drive and Second Street, Wing Street in front of Gromers, on the corner of Lawrence and North McLean and on the corner of Weston and Van Streets . Councilman Barnes asked how these sites were selected and Mr. Moller stated that these sites are the heaviest loading stations . Councilman Barnes thought the people owning property at these sites should be notified and Mr. Moller said he would do this. Councilwoman Strattan expressed the need for such a facility at the Elgin Community College. Mr. Moller stated he would go out to the College and check this. The Council approved this recommendation. Review of the Proposed Bode Road Special Assessment Project. Bob Hogue advised the Council that the plans for this improvement have been completed and the assessment rolls have been prepared. Mr. Hogue stated they were now in a position to have the matter set for a public hearing. Mr. Hogue reviewed the following figures with the Council: Total Project Cost $ 837,678. 18 Estimated Public Benefit 489,074.00 Estimated Property Owner 348,604.00 E U.S. Shelter will pick up $153,000 of the property owner's share. A citizen living on Highbury and Stonehurst stated that they did not need a four lane highway because they were having a problem with high speeders now with the two lane. Mr. Hogue stated that the speed was being reduced from 45 to 35 miles per hour and that the widening of the highway will not provide the means for a raceway. Mr. Hogue stated it was necessary to look at what we will need in the future so it will not be necessary to rebuild the highway twice. Mr. Nelson stated he would check with the Corporation Counsel relative to the requirements for setting the public hearing date. Miscellaneous Discussion. Board of Local Improvements . Mayor Verbic stated that the Board of Local Improvements needed an additional member since Ron Beckmann was a member of this Board before he resigned. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam and Strattan stated they had served on this Board for two years and they would like to be replaced. November 16, 1977 Councilmen Hill and Nelson stated they would serve. Councilman West stated he felt this Board should be comprised of the full Council since the issues must be acted upon by the Council. Mr. Nelson is to discuss this matter also with the Corporation Counsel. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:15 P.M. A,n hi.Q) .P Ll J-L. r I Marie Year n, City Clerk r r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING November 30, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, November 30, 1977 at 7:15 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Nelson, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic . Absent: None. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman; and members of staff. Proposed Traffic Signal Improvement at Lovell Road and U.S. Route 20. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that Illinois Department of Transportation pro- poses to construct the entire improvement at their cost. The City will pay for the electric used for the operation of the traffic signal. The Council approved this project. Proposal to Increase the Number of Fire Lieutenants from Sixteen to Nineteen. Mr. Nelson stated that this proposal had been included in the 1978 budget. Councilman Hill stated that he had attended all the budget meetings and did not recall discussing this. Councilman Gilliam stated that it was discussed and this would not be an addi- tion to Staff. Chief VanDeVoorde stated that it is necessary to have an officer in charge at all times and at the present time three additional officers were needed on Rescue #2. Councilwoman Strattan asked what the additional cost would be. Mr. Aydt advised the Council the additional cost would be $840.00 per man per year. The Council agreed to have a revised ordinance placed on the Council Agenda . Proposed Resolution Submitted by the Aurora-Elgin Council of Mayors Suggesting, that Chicago Area Transportation Study be Designated as the Metropolitan Plan- ning Organization for the Six County Area. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the Council of Mayors were requesting that Elgin pass a resolution requesting that the Govenor designate Chicago Area Transportation Study as the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the six county area as opposed to Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission. Mr. Nelson stated that these local people have better control and he felt Chicago Area Transportation Study would be more responsive. Councilman Barnes asked as to what project this would apply. Mr. Nelson stated that Chicago Area Transportation Study would review FACU funding and transportation plans for the six county district. Mr. Nelson fur- ther stated that Chicago Area Transportation Study is now designated as the Metropolitan Planning Organization on a temporary basis and this would make it permanent. November 30, 1977 Mel Dahl stated that they have been very good about funding and they have con- trol over all the projects. Mr. Dahl further stated that their people really ( know whats going on and it is a good organization. Councilman West asked if we participated would it be detrimental in our rela- tionship with Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission? Mr. Nelson did not feel there would be any problems. The Council approved the proposed resolution and directed it be placed on the Council Agenda . Proposal to Install Fountain Square Plaza Parking Signs . Mr. Nelson advised the Council that Illinois Department of Transportation had refused to let the City install a sign on state routes which directed people to the Fountain Square Plaza because they felt it was promoting a commercial en- deavor . The State would permit a limited number of signs that have the Foun- tain Square Plaza logo on it directing the people to parking facilities . Councilman West thought the City should follow the States suggestion and add "Plaza Parking" in addition to the logo. The Council agreed to use the above legend and proceed with the installation of signs . Review of Proposed Traffic Circulation Plan when the Kimball Street Bridge is Closed. r Mr. Nelson advised the Council that a map of this proposed traffic plan would be made into maps and published in the newspapers. Mr. Nelson further stated he would like to open up this plan on December 28th, so that it will give people a chance to see if it will work. Extra police would be out to direct the new traffic pattern. Councilwoman Nelson stated that the people have already been told that this change would not take place until January 3rd when the bridge is closed and starting it on December 28th would only tend to confuse people. Councilwoman Nelson also thought it might be necessary to put out a handbill because a lot of people might not see the map in the paper. Councilmen Hill, Gilliam, Strattan and West approved the traffic pattern change effective December 28th. Councilmen Barnes, Nelson arid Mayor Verbic voted that the effective date be January 3rd. V.I.P. Christmas Party. The Council reviewed a request from Gladys J. Larson, V.I.P. Coordinator, for three City buses to assist the senior citizens with transportation to the party. They would need the buses to pick up passengers at 1 P.M. , and return them after 5 p.m. The Council approved this request. November 30, 1977 Miscellaneous Discussion Kane County Action Committee. Mr. Nelson advised the Council this Agency would like Elgin to sponsor an ap- plication for UMTA funds to be used for the dial-a-bus service and expand the service to include the handicapped. Mr. Nelson was not sure how much of an area would be involved but felt it would not just be Elgin and might include Carpentersville, Dundee and South Elgin. Mayor Verbic stated that they have had a lot of problems and questioned their capability. Bob Malm stated that substantial improvements had been made recently. Councilwoman Nelson thought this would be a conflict of interest because the City is running a bus system. The Council agreed they would look at a proposal. 1st Baptist Church of Elgin. Mr. Nelson stated that this church had requested the use of the City's bucket truck in order to pull a rope through their flag pole. The Council approved this request. Well 3A Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the failure of this well, reported to the Council at a previous meeting, turned out to be the responsibility of Layne- Western and their would be cost to the City for this repair. However, upon examination of the cable in this well it was noted the armoured coating was exposed in several places. Ron Zegers recommended that this cable be replaced. The cost of replacing this cable is $4,800.00. The Council approved this expenditure. 16 MM Projector. Mr. Nelson stated that this item is included in the 1978 budget but this de- partment would like to order it now because they need it for Christmas films. The Council approved this expenditure. Old Main. Mr. Nelson passed out a recommendation from this Commission and stated a meeting would be scheduled after the first of the year to discuss same. 1978 Recreation Programs. The Council reviewed a recreation program proposal for 1978, which indicated the existing programs, proposed programs, income and expenditure for same, to ascertain the need of an additional staff person. . • . November 30, 1977 Mayor Verbic thought they should start out with a few of the new programs with the existing staff and see what the participation would be. The Mayor also pointed out that the "Y" offers many of the same programs. Mr. Nelson stated that a lot of people cannot afford the "Y" memberships . Councilman Gilliam suggested that the Council be given the opportunity to re- view this proposal and be prepared to make a decision at the next meeting. Christmas Turkey The Council approved the purchase of turkeys for employees. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 P.M. ct.,_; . C , Marie Yearman, City Clerk C r COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING December 14, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, December 14, 1977 at 7 :10 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Nelson, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Proposed Increase in Cemetery Fees. The Council was advised that at the present time the Bluff City Cemetery is losing money. Service fees have not been increased since 1970 and Seasonal Care fees have not been increased since 1960. Mr. Bolerjack proposed the following: 1. Burial cost at $160.00 if the funeral arrives at the cemetery by 3:00 p.m. weekdays. 2. Burial cost at $175.00 if the funeral is before 4:00 p.m. Funerals are often scheduled for 2:30 p.m. or 3:00 p.m. , and arrive at the cemetery from 3:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. , which requires some overtime. 3. Saturdays are on overtime, so the additional cost of $50.00 is quite reasonable. Men are not called in unless there is a funeral. With burial fees of $175.00 to $225.00, plus the new vault setting fee of $50.00, the losses can be eliminated and the cemetery would be more competitive with other cemeteries. Councilman West thought if there was a problem with funerals arriving after 4:00 p.m. , that a work force could be scheduled to start work later and be available for these funerals without overtime. Mr. Nelson stated that maybe during the winter months this could be done. Mr. Bolerjack stated that much of this work cannot be done too far in ad- vance of a funeral because of cave-ins and vandalism Councilman West suggested giving overtime to workers for the early morning funerals because there are fewer of them. Mr. West further stated that after talking to several funeral directors, they preferred to pay a larger amount for all funerals and have the fee remain the same for funerals after 4:00 P.M. Councilman Barnes stated that he had no problem with the proposed fees if they would put the cemetery on a sustaining basis . Councilman Hill asked if the new fees would go into effect on January 1st. Mr. Bolerjack stated this would be the effective date . Councilwoman Nelson stated she would like to stick with the fees as outlined by Staff and the employees should be joggled around to be there at the busy time. December 14, 1977 Councilman Barnes and Mayor Verbic indicated they would like to try this the way it was proposed. Proposed Vacation of Countryside Drive. Mr. Charles Cassell advised this street was only one block long and that both the owners on the east and west side have agreed to this vacation. Mr. Roll advised that this matter was discussed in 1971 during the original hearing with no opposition. The Council approved having this placed on the Council agenda for formal action. Proposed Ordinance Refining the Powers and Duties of the Commission of Human Relations. Walter Blalark stated that the changes in this ordinance related to including the physically handicapped, the complaint procedure is more clearly set forth, fair housing and employment will be included in one ordinance and there will only be one commission. The ordinance would protect against discrimination of race, color, creed or religion. Councilman Barnes asked if there were any penalties attached to any findings of the commission. Mr. Blalark stated that the Commission does not have that power. If this or- dinance were passed it would try to tell people what the Commission is trying to do but it would not be enforced. The Council approved having this ordinance placed on the agenda for formal action. Discussion re Old Main Project. Leo Nelson stated that this matter was not on the agenda tonight for any com- mitment by the Council. Having just set up the preliminary hearings for the HCD funds, the Old Main Committee wanted to know if they could submit a let- ter and study for the HCD funds without offending the Council. Councilman Hill stated he thought they should be free to apply for funds just like anyone else. Mayor Verbic wondered if they had applied for any federal funding. Mr. Nelson stated that Roger Dahlstrom is looking into this but has not come up with anything because we do not presently have the final regulations for HCD funds . The Council had no objection to the Old Main Committee submitting their appli- cation. Proposed 1978 Golf Rates . The Council reviewed a copy of the proposed 1978 rates as recommended by the Park and Recreation Board. December 14, 1977 Mr. Nelson pointed out that the suggested increase in fees is modest. The biggest increase being junior and senior passes at Wing Park, $45.00 to $52.50. Green fees at Wing and Spartan (Sr. & Youth - 18 holes) from $3.00 to $4.00 and (Sr. & Youth - 9 holes) from $2.00 to $3.00. Mayor Verbic stated that in view of the decrease in the sale of season tickets he wondered if this increase was warranted. Vic Masi stated that the many improvements to the courses will justify the in- crease and these rates are still the lowest in the area. Mr. Nelson stated that money has been made on the golf rounds and not the passes. Mayor Verbic felt the fees should be stablized until the courses are being fully used. Mr. George Adams felt the City should take advantage of the free V.I.P. adver- tising which would inform senior citizens how they could play during the week on off hours. Mr. Adams stated that they can play 18 holes at Randall Oaks for $2.75 before 12:00 p.m. , and that a 507 increase will knock out the average senior citizen and the $3.00 fee will discourage people . Mr. Adams also sug- gested that the senior age should be changed to 62 instead of 65 because of the many early retirements. Councilwoman Strattan asked if this recommendation by the Park's Board was pre- pared by the Staff and given to the Board to act on. Mr . Nelson stated this was prepared by the Staff but the Board made some changes in the proposed rates. Councilwoman Strattan felt the imput was inadequate and this should go back to the Board and have Mr. Adams appear before the Board. A majority of the Council agreed with Councilwoman Strattan's suggestion. Proposed Recreation Program. Ken Schultz advised the Council that he had made a short survey to see what the response was to the many classes being offerred. Mr. Schultz stated that he heard, "its about time" and "how nice it is to have the City doing this". There have been 90 children and 45 adults sign up for classes in January. Total re- gistrations as of last Saturday are 142. Mr. Schultz felt because of the size of the department and the projected activities they were in need of another full-time person. Mr. Nelson stated the response had been favorable and yet we do not even come close to what surrounding Parks have and if we are behind in any area it is recreation. Councilman Hill stated that he did not appose the program but he did question whether or not the present staff could implement this program and keep abreast of what happens . Mayor Verbic asked if a CETA employee could be used to fill this position. December 14, 1977 Mr. Schultz stated this could not be done because they would lack the skills that the programs call for. Mr. Schultz further stated that he and Vic Masi were the only staff responsible for the recreation program and they were wearing thin. Mayor Verbic stated that he would like to see a strong recreations) program but was remiss about hiring an additional staff person. Councilman Barnes stated he was inclined to go ahead with it but it seemed the Council was in favor of expanded programs but not for spending the money it requires . Councilwoman Strattan felt the programs had not been monitored to see if there was a need or if the public felt a benefit from them. Councilwoman Strattan also felt that many of the programs were duplicated at the Y.M.C.A. and in the schools. Councilwoman Nelson thought the program was too large and it might require 10 men to handle it. Councilman Gilliam stated he would like to see the programs generated and then have the department ask for additional staff. The Council agreed to go ahead with the expansion of the programs. The Council did not approve the hiring of an additional staff person. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they wanted the $20,000 left in the budget un- til this could be reviewed in May or June. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam and Nelson voted yes. Councilmen Hill, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic voted no. Proposal for Solid Waste. Mr. Nelson pointed out to the Council a savings of $54,350 if the City would approve the disposing of domestic refuse at the Woodland Land Fill located in South Elgin as apposed to taking it to Mallard Lake south of Keeneyville. Mr. Dahl stated that he called the Illinois EPA in Springfield and was told that Woodland Land Fill is a good landfill and is well operated. They are not in jeopardy of having their permit revoked. Mr. Nelson pointed out that the real question is, do we want to continue being a good neighbor when we are presently paying over and above the cost because of the distance the trucks must go. Mayor Verbic asked what the current status was on litigation. Mr. Fred Norlog of Woodland Landfill stated that all outstanding suits were satisfied or would be within the next few months and that they do have permits to operate from the EPA and County. Mr. Nelson said there was a pending suit in the Appellate Court. Mayor Verbic stated he was interested in saving the $54,000 but thought the C City should wait for the Appellate Court decision because they may act dif- ferently. December 14, 1977 Councilman Gilliam asked what would happen if we entered into a contract with them and then the Court ruled against us. Mr. Nelson stated we would then go back to Mallard Lake, Councilman West stated in a news release the Mayor of South Elgin stated it would be hard to resist this savings and he was not going to appear at our meeting. Councilman Hill stated it was difficult to pass up a $54,000 savings . Councilman Barnes stated he approved of the savings but thought we should get a letter from their attorney advising the present status of the court case. Councilman Gilliam suggested that Mr. Norlog secure said letter and bring the matter back to the Council. Work Program for the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Nelson stated that he thought Don Wagner's outline of process and proce- dural steps was the first effort to scape out a rational plan and time frame work. Don Wagner stated he did not think the staff was familiar with a plan and he tried to give them some given direction. Mr. Wagner further stated that the basic work should be done within six months, 13 weeks for exhibits and 13 weeks for public hearings and the technical work should be completed by August. Mayor Verbic stated he hoped this can be kept to schedule. elk Miscellaneous Discussion. Mr. Nelson advised the Council the Chamber of Commerce Dinner would fall on January 11th. The Council agreed to cancel the meeting on January 11th. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:20 P.M. Marie Yearman, City Clerk C COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING December 21, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, December 21, 1977 at 7:05 P.M., in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Nelson, Strattan. and West. Absent: Councilman Hill and Mayor Verbic. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of the staff. Proposed Waste Disposal Services. Corporation Counsel Jentsch stated that he had talked with the attorneys for Woodland Landfill and had ascertained that there are presently two appeal cases. One deals with the Illinois Pollution Control Board's dismissal of the South Elgin case against the operators and the other deals with the Illinois Pollution Control Board to validate the dismissal of the complaint for failure to appear. Both matters are pending in the Appellate Court which has not as yet set a date for oral arguments. Mr. Jentsch went on to say that there would not be any changes in the operation of the landfill through 1978. Councilmen Barnes, Nelson, Strattan and West agreed to go ahead and work out an agreement with Woodland Landfill in order to save the $54,000 difference in costs. Proposed Fire Protection Agreements . The Council reviewed the annual agreements which reflected the following rate changes: 1977 1978 Dexter Thread Mills $ 7, 120 $ 7,520 Illinois Tool Works 10,340 12,410 DeSoto Chemical 3,020 3,300 Brady Redi-Mix 1,610 1,750 Leo Nelson stated that the proposed changes in rates were based on increased assessed valuation. Councilman Barnes asked if this will cover our costs. Leo Nelson stated that it is hard to determine the costs, what they are paying for is actual standby time. You pay to have protection there if needed and to lower the insurance rates. The Council agreed to have these agreements on the Council agenda for formal action. Proposed Agreement With Illinois Department of Transportation for Intersection Improvements. Leo Nelson and Mel Dahl reviewed with the Council the State's proposal for in- tersection improvements and traffic signalization at Liberty and Chicago Streets. The cost of this improvement would be prorated as follows: Federal Funds 70%, State Funds 22.57 and City 7.5%. December 21, 1977 Mel Dahl stated that this agreement is satisfactory but he and Bob Hogue did have some questions and recommendations regarding the plans which could be worked out with IDOT. The Council agreed to proceed with this project. Request from Elgin Classic Little League to have City's Electrical Department Install Lightbulbs at its Diamond in Wing Park. The Council approved the aforementioned request. Review of Ordinance Rezoning and Granting a Special Use for the Moose Club Property at 925 S. McLean. Leo Nelson pointed out the following conditions set forth in Section 2 of said Ordinance: 3. that no building permit shall be granted until an adequate municipal water supply is available and adequate provisions for sanitary sewer service assured. 4. that construction of the proposed institutional headquarters shall be commenced within three years of the effective date of this ordinance . Mr. Nelson stated that at the time the Council imposed the time limit there was some indication there might be some problems with school district property. Mr. Nelson further stated that this organization will not be under construction by June, 1978 and they are asking for an amendment or no action on the time limit. The water line may be extended down to the State Hospital property but the pro- blem is with the sanitary sewer service. The City could not deny septic sewer system if it came up to code because there is no sewer service available. At the present time the Easter Seal Association is planning to expand their septic system. Councilman West suggested that the Ordinance be amended to delete "adequate provisions for sanitary sewer services" in paragraph 3 and delete paragraph 4 altogether. Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam, Nelson and Strattan approved this amendment. Proposed Expansion of the Official Parking Lot in Front of the Civic Center. Leo Nelson advised the Council that this request came from the Police Department because of crowded conditions. However, since placing this on the agenda the Staff has looked at other property in the neighborhood that looks better than this . Mr. Nelson asked that this matter be put off for a couple of weeks. Proposed Tax Abatement for the Spring and Chicago Street Parking Deck. Mr. Nelson stated the proposed tax abatement was to drop the rate from $3.39 per $100.00 assessed valuation to $1. 10. The Ordinance which was passed leving the December 21, 1977 tax at $3.39 was to pay for the first year's interest on the debt. At this time it was thought this project would be under construction. Mr. Nelson further stated that it would be hard to take if we taxed the full amount when nothing is being done . Mr. Bolerjack stated that this tax levy would generate about $49,100 and that will be used for engineering costs. Mr. Nelson stated that the rate will have to go up the second year when con- struction is underway. The Council approved the proposed tax abatement. Miscellaneous Discussion. Marathon Sponsored by the Elgin Area Life Underwriters. Mr. Nelson stated that there was a request to hold this event on Sunday, May 28th at 8:00 A.M. It would consist of 10 miles commencing in the Mall. The Council approved this request. Bus Repair. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that 4 of the larger GMC Buses which have mileage of over 200,000 miles are in need of repairs. The estimated cost is between $1,000 - $3,000 per bus. The actual cost will not be known until the buses are torn down. Councilman Barnes asked if this would be better than replacement. Mr. Nelson stated this was better because the RTA will subsidize our losses. The Council approved the repair of these buses. Airlite Water Treatment Plant. Mr. Nelson stated that Baxter and Woodman have submitted changes and plans to bring this plant's capacity up to 8 million gallons per day. They will pick up any additional costs. Councilman Barnes thought it might be better to settle with them and forget the 8 million gallons per day because that might cause other problems . Mr. Nelson stated that he was satisfied with the proposed increase in water and did not feel this plan would cause any operational problems. The only concern is that from time to time they will have to shut the plant down. The Council approved having the engineers proceed with this project. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the e1me\eting was adjourned at 8:00 P.M. W\0.. R Marie Yearm , City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING December 28, 1977 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager, Leo Nelson on Wednesday, December 28, 1977 at 7:05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Nelson, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Proposed Installation of Temporary Traffic Signals at the Intersection of Big Timber, Sleepy Hollow and McLean. Mr. Nelson stated there was no question that this intersection warrants traffic signals and this intersection is included as a major improvement project. When people drive through this intersection at peak traffic times, the traffic backs up on McLean. The temporary signal heads could be used elsewhere when permanent installation is made. Mel Dahl stated that we would also have to furnish the wooden poles and the cost of all materials should be about $3,000. Mr. Nelson said the labor would be done in house and the materials could be used again. Mayor Verbic stated this would be the same arrangement as we have at Fleetwood and McLean. The Council approved the project. Review of Industrial Revenue Bond Ordinance. Leo Nelson stated that the reason the Chamber of Commerce was asking for a re- view of this Ordinance was because of what is happening in other communities . It was pointed out that we are one of four who have any charge. Mr. Edward Kelly, Executive Vice President of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, stated that he had been working with two industrial prospects who are seeking Industrial Revenue Bond Financing. Both the prospects and the Economic Develop- ment Division of the State of Illinois stated that most other Illinois cities do not charge a fee. Elgin is presently charging a $3,500 non-refundable deposit and a $5,000 minimum financing fee for a total of $8,500 on a $500,000 project. Mr. Kelly stated he had contacted 15 Chamber offices and with the exception of Joliet none charged a fee. Rockford has a standing committee known as the Muni- cipal Industrial Bond Financing Committee. This Committee is comprised of fi- nancial experts who review the request, and give their recommendations to the Economic Development Commission, who in turn communicates its recommendation to the City Council. As a result of the above information, the Economic Development Commission makes the following recommendations to the Council: December 28, 1977 1. The City of Elgin eliminate the financing fee requirement. 2. A refundable deposit of $3,500 be required to cover any direct costs on the part of the City of Elgin or the Economic Develop- ment Commission. 3. The Economic Development Commission create a Municipal Industrial Bond Financing Committee comprised of financial experts who would be on a standby basis to review the financial position of any pros- pect and recommend whether or not the City should approve the re- quest. Councilman Barnes stated that he thought that Paul Spear & Company had recom- mended the financial review. Corporation Counsel Jentsch stated that he was the one who had recommended a method of reviewing the financial position of any prospect. Mr. Jentsch stated it does not have to be Paul Spear but it should be some responsible organization to evaluate these requests. Mr. Nelson stated that perhaps some of the representatives of financial institu- tions who are serving on the Board would volunteer their services and form a committee to review these applications at no cost to the City so there would be no necessity to charge the applicant. Councilman Hill felt that in a situation where the industrial revenue bonds failed, the City credit rating would be effected, and we must have a committee to say this is a sound situation. Councilman Gilliam stated he could live with the recommendation if we kept the financing consultant. Mayor Verbic felt that we had many qualified people from the Savings and Loan Associations in Elgin who might be willing to serve on a financing committee. Councilman Gilliam stated that this would cause a conflict of interest because of the benefits they would receive and it should be an outside group. Councilman Hill stated that banks are not underwriters of industrial bonds and we should look to the underwriters because they have done the study before agreeing to become the buyer. Councilman Barnes stated he thought it had to be an outside evaluation but he would be willing to look at the finance fee and to charge only what it costs. Councilman Hill suggested the Ordinance be changed to have only out of pocket expenses. Mayor Verbic asked Mr. Kelly when he talked to the other Chamber offices did they discuss what experience they have had by providing for the use of bonds. Mr. Kelly stated he did not have any statistics, the main concern was the amount of the fees being charged. It was felt that it should only take $3,500.00 for financial investigation. Any cost by the City for preparation of legal doc- uments would be paid for by the client, subject to review by the Corporation Coun- sel. December 28, 1977 Councilman West stated he felt we should go outside but should try to reduce the fees. Mayor Verbic felt that there are people in this town who are capable of serving and we should not have to go outside. Mr. Kelly suggested that a deposit of $3,500.00 be made to cover any financial check that might be needed. Councilman Hill suggested that we have the underwriters give a recommendation and if they feel it necessary have a financial study made. Mr. Nelson suggested a further meeting with the Development Commission and Chamber to work up some guidelines and bring it back to the Council. Proposed Water Rates. Mr. Nelson stated that he would like to have the increased rates considered for approval at the January 4th Council meeting. This is the time to do that be- cause it is good in terms of reading meters for the bi-monthly reading. Councilwoman Strattan asked about the sewer charges. Mr. Nelson stated the billing of sewer charges would remain the same for water and sewer. The Council directed that this be placed on the January 4th agenda. Review of Proposals Submitted to Planning Committee for Next Year's HCD Program. Mr . Nelson stated this review was just information as to the proposals received for HCD funds along with your proposals in the budget. Councilman Gilliam stated that he wished we could do something for the Poplar Creek Recreation Area, we said we would look at it but we never have. Mr. Nelson pointed out that they have the use of the school site on Bode Road which is being maintained and there are signs that say the area is available for children's use. Councilman Gilliam stated that there is a serious need and they could use some equipment, such as swings on an elementary level. Councilman Barnes thought we should talk to them first because it might not be good at that site because it is too far for the Children to walk. Councilman Gilliam wondered if there was any place for a park within that site. Rob Roll stated there was a Tot Lot put in there two years ago. Councilman Gilliam stated that they have been here asking since then and we should think about it. Mayor Verbic stated that if we could do it for Clara Howard Park we should be able to do something there. December 28, 1977 Mr. Nelson suggested that he discuss this matter with Edla Grenzebach. Miscellaneous Discussion. Mayor Verbic informed the Council that he had a discussion with Don Webb of the Elgin Housing Authority regarding the recent releases on the radio and in the newspapers. Mr. Webb gave the Mayor a copy of an agreement (a copy of which was given to each Council member) . Mr. Webb indicated to the Mayor that this agreement was only tentative and had not been acted upon. Councilwoman Nelson stated that this agreement was the first one received by the EHA and it provided that Elgin would have control of the units after five years . This agreement was approved by the EHA Board on a vote of 3-1 and she said her copy of this agreement was signed by Don Webb. Councilwoman Nelson stated that after the first draft was approved the CHA changed the agreement so that Elgin would not have control of the units for 10 years. This revised draft was voted down 3-2 but the CHA told the news- papers it was approved. Mayor Verbic stated that Mr. Webb had informed him that there was no agreement signed and they had only agreed to talk about it. Councilman Gilliam stated that Mr. Webb was blowing smoke and was trying to get a contract. Councilman West stated he felt the EHA should have advised the Council and let us know what was going on at least at the Staff level. Elgin does its fair share and then some which is more than I can say for some other communities in this area who don't want them. They should be spread around. Councilman Hill asked if they had any minutes that they could furnish to the Staff. Councilwoman Nelson stated they could ask Mrs. Griffeth for the minutes. Mayor Verbic stated that this was a very unpopular issue and that he would try to set up a meeting between the EHA and the Council. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9:25 P.M. Marie Yearman City Clerk COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING January 4, 1978 The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, January 4, 1978 at 7:10 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members Present: Councilman Barnes, Gilliam, Hill, Nelson, Strattan, West and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None. Also present were: City Clerk, Marie Yearman and members of staff. Proposed 1979 City Vehicle Sticker . Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the Elgin Beautification Commission had re- quested that the City consider using the new entry-way sign on the 1979 vehicle sticker. The Commission felt these signs will become a recognized symbol creating an in- creased awareness of the appearance of the city. The Council approved this request. Proposed Amendment Relative to Green Fees for Youth and Senior Citizens . Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the Park and Recreation Board had recommended the following rates: $2.25 for nine holes and $3.25 for eighteen holes until 2:00 p.m. After 2:00 p.m. they would pay the regular fees of $3.25 for nine and $4.25 for eighteen. (74 These rates are for week days only and shall be applied at both courses. People eligible for the new rates shall be Youth, V.I.P. Card Holders and Seniors over 65 years of age. The Council approved this recommendation. Discussion re Restoration of Old Main. Don Sleeman stated that their Committee was here tonight to report on the use- ability of the building. Mr. Sleeman asked if the $150,000 should be used at this time for the repair of the building exterior and then seek funding for the interior. Dan Withers stated that in January of last year it was decided to do this in stages but this committee was to bbtain total cost figures for the complete restoration of the building. Mr. Withers further stated that it was originally thought that some volunteer help could be obtained from the trades but in talking to the architect it was pointed out that it would be too difficult to accomplish this with volunteer help. Mr. Withers said that the Committee had done their job in getting the costs and they were under the impression that once they had the figures there might be some funding from the government. . Mr. Withers stated he did not understand why the matter of the City holding title to the land had not been resolved. _.s' January 4, 1978 Counsel Jentsch stated that there is a problem with a title restriction that calls for the facility to be used for educational purposes exclusively and he was waiting for a response from the Chicago Title & Trust Company to his as- sertion that the title company's guarantee to the city was ambiguous. Councilman West asked if there was any federal money available for the exterior of the building. Roger Dahlstrom stated that because of the H.C.D. regulations it was question- able that money could be allocated for this project. Mr. Dahlstrom said that he had contacted other agencies, including the Illinois Department of Conser- vation, who does allocate funds for restoration projects, and they will not accept applications until April. Councilman Barnes stated that he had real problems in principle in taking H.C.D. money and putting it into this project. That is money Elgin can use for some- thing other than an historical museum. Councilman Barnes thought that the Council were misled or naive in the beginning on how much this project would cost. Councilman Hill stated that the report did not project any revenue that might be generated by a museum or any projected annual budget figures which would be required to maintain the facility forevermore. Mr. Withers asked if it was not the understanding that the City would maintain the building. Mr. Nelson stated yes. Mr. Sleeman stated they were asking the City to accept the project on its merits and then their committee can try to obtain financing that would allow the building to be completed. Mr. Harry Lange stated that it seemed to him that the Council was referring this back to the Committee and he thought the Council should act on this, not the Committee. Councilman Hill stated he thought the Committee should come up with some means of financing because he was not prepared to do that. Councilman Barnes stated he thought it was the Council's job to see how im- portant this is to Elgin. He thought it would be nice to have a museum but not at the cost of $500,000. Councilwoman Strattan stated that public relations wise they would be in trouble to spend $150,000 and not come up with the other money. She also felt there are many things in the city with priority over a museum and she was not willing to make a commitment. Councilwoman Strattan shared Councilman Barnes' feelings on using H.C.D. funds for this project. Councilwoman Nelson stated that she thought the project did not have enough interest momentum and that people in the Community thought it was foolish for the City to go ahead with it. She stated she would vote no if it came up for a vote. Mike Alft stated that he had proposed that the building be used for some uni- versal purpose but the Committee voted to use it only as a museum.and that the architects had stated the building could be used for other purposes. Mr . Alft January 4, 1978 further stated that the Committee is asking to improve the exterior with the $25,000 federal funds and $150,000 gift. Mr. Alft pointed out that the money could not be returned and what would the City do with the money. Mayor Verbic felt there would be help given by the original fund raisers and possible grants. He did not think the project should be disposed of without further considerations . Mr. Nelson felt that no one was prepared to make a decision tonight and that maybe the Committee should go back to the original funders. He also stated that this should be viewed as two projects. The City accepted the concept and gave blessings to the buck-a-brick program. The building is registered as a landmark so it would be difficult to tear it down. The Committee decided to meet with the original fund raisers and report back to the Council. Proposed Resolution for Development Within Tyler Creek Watershed. Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the study calls for the construction of a detention area west of Randall Road. Any developers in this area would be required to contribute toward the cost of this detention area. Councilman Barnes asked if all the money for this project would have to come from the City. Mr. Nelson stated they hoped to get some legislation for State funding and there would be a substantial contribution from the developers of Valley Creek. The Council agreed to proceed with this project. Miscellaneous Discussion. Kimball Street Bridge. Bob Hogue stated that because of the work being done by Illinois Bell the de- molition operating would not commence until the week of February 14th. Mr. Hogue stated that inspite of the delay the contractor was very optimistic about being able to reopen the bridge next fall. Bode Road Improvement. The Council reviewed a letter from the Parkwood Village Association opposing the widening of Bode Road from two lanes to four lanes. Elgin Housing Authority. Mr. Nelson introduced Mike Kaiser as a new member of the Human Relations Com- mission. Mr. Kaiser stated that members of the Commission were receiving telephone calls from people who stated they had been on the Elgin Housing Authority lists for dwellings as long as six years. January 4, 1978 Mayor Verbic stated that if we could not take care of our own how could they expect us to take care of others. Councilman Hill stated he thought the Corporation Counsel should be directed to gather as much information as we are entitled to have from the Elgin Housing Authority. He felt that they were in violation of the open meeting act and it should be referred to the State's Attorney. Councilman West stated he would second a motion to do this if it were put forth at the reconvened Council Meeting. Adjournment There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Marie Yearma , City Clerk r r