HomeMy WebLinkAbout1981 Committee of the Whole Complete Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 7 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, January 7 , 1981 , at
7 : 07 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Barnes , Gilliam, Hill , Kirkland,
Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie
Yearman, and members of staff .
Proposed purchase of two Defibrillator Units for two of
the City ' s Ambulances .
Included in the Fire Department ' s 1981 capital budget is
$ 12, 900 for the replace of two Lifepak IV Defibrillator
Units . The Fire Department solicited proposals from two
firms and the staff recommendation is to award this purchase
to the low bidder, Motorola, Inc. , for a total net price of
$ 12, 230 .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Chief Van De Voorde introduced Lt . Craig Eadler and Paramedic
Gary Connor.
Request for permission to sell Historical Book written by
Mike Alft at City Hall .
Mr. Nelson stated that he did not normally like to sell
anything over the counter at City Hall . However, in this
instance from the proceeds of the sale of each book, $ 1 . 00
is to be given to the Gifford Park Association, and $2 . 50
to the Elgin Historical Society . Mr . Nelson further stated
that the Gifford Park Association had been very active in
assisting with the clean up of the Old Main property, and
they were asking permission for the book to be sold at City
Hall .
The Council approved the sale of this book at City Hall .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7 : 15 P.M.
JiAMJA/c, /
Marie Yearma City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 14, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager, Leo Nelson, on Wednesday, January 14 , 1981 ,
at 7 : 05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Barnes , Gilliam, Hill , Kirkland,
Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic . Absent : None .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie
Yearman, Corporation Counsel Jentsch and members of staff .
Proposed Amended Agreement for professional services with
Trkla, Pettigrew, Allen & Payne, Inc.
Mr . Nelson stated that this amended agreement simply covers
the things they stated they would do including the Visa
proposal . The city would need to find out what C . E .C . is
willing to do insofar as the additional $40, 000 fee is
concerned .
Councilman Hill stated he would like concurrence from C . E .C .
and would agree to the amended agreement when this concurrence
is received .
Mayor Verbic stated that once the 450 calendar days ( time of
performance) is over, where do we go from there . The Mayor
felt we should have some direction from Trkla because he
was worried about the timeframe .
Councilman Barnes asked when Trkla was going to get together
with the Assessor or other taxing bodies to see if they would
go along with an assessment freeze.
Mr. Nelson stated it would be necessary for Trkla to talk with
these governmental units but he just wanted the Council to
approve the amended agreement so that he could go to C . E .C .
with it .
Mayor Verbic stated it looked like all of the council members
had some questions for Mr . Trkla .
Councilman Kirkland stated that he would be inclined to go
ahead with the agreement as it is .
Councilman Gilliam suggested that both groups get together
and have Trkla come out .
Councilmen Kirkland and Nelson stated they were willing to go
(7* ahead with the agreement now on the basis that C . E .C . will
pay half .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 14, 1981
Page 2
Mr. Nelson stated that from what the Council was saying they
agreed on the proposed amended agreement , but they wanted
the question of C . E .C . paying half the cost resolved, and
they also wanted another meeting with Trkla.
The Council indicated this was correct.
Mr . Nelson stated he would try to have Mr . Trkla out next week.
Proposed change order to the contract for the construction of
storage and maintenance buildings at Lord ' s Park and the
Public Works yard on Ann Street .
The Council reviewed the following additions , deletions and
modifications to the above contract:
Item 1 . The concrete foundations were designed for metal
buildings with simple columns . The buildings furnished are
constructed of rigid frames which, because of the lateral
forces , require reinforced pilaster foundation walls to
restrain those forces . ( Add $3 , 200)
Item 2. A fan was not included in the building at Lord ' s
Park because it was assumed that the one portion was only
for storage . However , it is also a work area and so there
should be a positive method of removing fumes . (Add $540. 00)
Item 3 . Included in the building at Public Works was insulation.
This building is being used for cold storage only and insulation
is not necessary. ( Deduct $3 , 170)
Item 4. The foundation walls for the building in Lord ' s Park
did not have to be placed as deep as planned and so the top
one-foot could be eliminated . ( Deduct $594.00)
The net deduction to the contract amount if $ 24. 00
The Council approved the proposed change order .
Proposed extension of a water main on Maple Street from Larkin
Avenue South .
Mel Dahl advised the Council that he had been contacted by
three homeowners in this area who were having problems with
their wells , and they were asking that the city extend a
watermain so they could hook on .
Mr. Dahl stated that the estimated cost of this project would
be $31 , 260, if done by a contractor, and $ 19,650 if it was done
in house .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 14, 1981
Page 3
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Councilman Hill thought a survey should be made to see just
how many people on the street would be interested in hooking
on .
Councilman Gilliam and Mayor Verbic concurred with Councilman
Hill .
Mr. Nelson stated the staff would check to see if there were
other interested parties and he would bring the matter back
with this information.
Miss Illinois Pageant
Mr . Nelson stated the staff would be meeting with the Chamber
of Commerce and the sponsors of the Pageant to discuss the
terms of an agreement, which would provide the use of the
Hemmens for the Miss Illinois/USA Pageant to be held March
3rd through March 7th.
The Pageant Sponsors have proposed that we give them the
convention rate for the use of the Hemmens , and that we
furnish bus transportation for the contestants to and from
the Chateau Louise, where the contestants will be staying ,
at no cost to them.
The full rental fee for the Hemmens is $ 2500. 00, the reduced
fee would be $ 1700. 00, and the estimated cost of the bus
transportation would be $ 1800. 00 .
Mr . Nelson further stated that the Hemmens Advisory Board does
not want to give them the reduced fee, and the staff would like
some direction from the Council before this meeting .
Marianne Nelson stated for the past two years this pageant has
been held in Joliet , where they were provided with free rooms ,
free food and free transportation . The reason for the move
this year is due to the renovation of the building used for
the pageant .
When an event of this kind is held in a community, there is an
opportunity for all the merchants to attract additional revenue,
and there will be a definite financial impact for the city .
Councilman Hill stated that he had no problem in going with the
reduced rental rate .
Councilman Gilliam stated he would go with the reduced rental
rate and try to negotiate the transportation cost .
Mayor Verbic stated he agreed with Councilman Gilliam.
Councilman Waters asked Mr . Nelson to do the best he could .
Councilman Barnes stated he would go with the reduced rental
rate, but nothing else .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 14, 1981
Page 4
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Councilwoman Nelson felt this was a great opportunity for the
city and we should proceed with it .
Mr . Nelson stated he would bring further information back to
the Council .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole , the meeting was adjourned at 7 : 50 P.M.
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Marie Yearman, ity Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 21 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday , January 21 , 1981 , at
7 : 06 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Barnes , Hill , Kirkland, Nelson
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman Gilliam.
Also present: City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie
Yearman , Corporation Counsel Jentsch and members of staff .
Proposed lease with the Elgin Area Historical Society for
Old Main.
Mr. Nelson stated that the proposed lease includes all the
items which were discussed sometime ago, and includes the
provision whereby the Historical Society will raise funds
for the restoration of the interior of the building for
use as a museum. The restoration and occupancy of the
first floor shall be completed within 3 years from the
date of this agreement and the restoration of the remaining
floors to be completed within 5 years .
Attorney Arno Gerbrecht stated the proposed lease is the
result of a number of meetings and it has been approved
by the Historical Society Board of Directors . As soon
as the lease is signed the Society will commence the task
of raising money for the interior restoration.
Councilwoman Nelson questioned who would be in charge of the
premises .
Attorney Gerbrecht stated that at this stage Clarence Reber,
who is Chairman of the Board of Directors , and who is considered
a highly responsible person, would be in charge .
Mr . Nelson stated that the elevator could qualify as a HCD
project at some future date .
Mayor Verbic asked if there was any understanding with the
Elgin Academy for restoration of their space at the same time
the remainder of the interior was being restored.
Charles Burnidge stated this had not been discussed and if the
doors to the Academy were closed you would not be aware of it .
Councilman Barnes stated that he agreed with the Mayor that it
would be nice if the Academy could restore their space at the
same time the remainder of the building is done, but he did
not want to hold the lease up at this time .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 21 , 1981
Page 2
The Council unanimously agreed to have the lease put on the
council agenda for formal approval .
Councilman Waters expressed his appreciation to the Elgin
Historical Society Board of Trustees for the excellent job
they have done.
Review of the H.C . D. Committee ' s recommendations for the
expenditure of 1981 Block Grant Funds .
The Council reviewed the H.C . D. Citizen ' s Hearing Committee
recommendations , which were as follows :
Curb, Gutter & Sidewalk Reconstruction N . S .A. $ 93 , 500
Watch Court Exterior Improvements 23 , 000
Observatory Park Improvements 10, 000
Elgin Senior Center Rehabilitation 50, 000
Street Lighting Improvements - N . S .A. 40, 000
Grolich Park Landscaping 13 , 000
Street Cut Off-Street Parking - N . S .A . 56, 000
Tree Planting - N . S .A. 10,000
Inspection Records Microfilming 16, 500
Residential Rehabilitation Program 250, 000
Neighborhood Housing Services 100, 000
Housing Code Inspection - N . S .A . 40, 000
Comprehensive Planning 80, 000
Administration 40, 000
Contingency 70, 000
$ 892, 000
Mr. Nelson stated that the Street Lighting Improvements -
N . S .A. , should not have been included because this system
is owned by Commonwealth Edison and there would be no
capital outlay. If the Council decided this should be
done, the City would just ask Commonwealth Edison to do
so and the service would be added to the city ' s operating
cost .
If this item was deleted, according to the Committee ' s report,
the request for continued planning in the downtown area was
the next highest priority item. This request was submitted
by Central Elgin Corporation .
Mr. Charles Burnidge, Chairman of the H.C . D. Committee, stated
that in asking Central Elgin Corporation where their priority
was on the package of their requests , they were informed,
planning first, landscaping and lighting.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 21 , 1981
Page 3
Councilman Barnes stated that if we allocated this $40, 000
to C . E .C . , for the purpose of planning , then the city would
in effect be paying the entire fee to the planning consultants .
Councilman Barnes suggested the $40,000 be added to the amount
allocated to the Residential Rehabilitation Program.
Mayor Verbic stated the question of more lighting in the down-
town area had been discussed previously and at that time the
hang-up was the merchant ' s contribution to the project .
Councilman Kirkland stated that he would not want to fund
the downtown lighting unless the stores agree to stay open
more consistently.
Councilwoman Nelson stated the additional lighting is a
safety factor and it should be considered. Once the lighting
is in it may encourage the stores to stay open and people to
come and shop.
Councilmen Hill , Kirkland, Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic
voted to allocate $20 , 000 to C . E . C . for planning in the down-
town area , and the remainder to lighting improvements in the
downtown area .
The Council commended the Committee for all their hard work
and meetings in order to arrive at the recommendations submitted
to the Council .
Mr. Nelson stated the lighting in the N. S .A. would be reviewed
and brought back to the Council .
Proposal to continue creek dredging program at the Spartan
Meadows Golf Course.
The Council approved awarding a contract to Schneider Excavating
to dredge approximately 2400of the creeks in Spartan Meadows
at an estimated cost of $6160 . 00.
Request from Illinois Bell Telephone Company to install a conduit
and cable in the same trench for the city ' s water mains across
the Fox River .
A majority of the Council felt that the city should be paid
some consideration by Illinois Bell for this installation
of their cable, and they asked that the staff negotiate this
with Illinois Bell and bring the matter back to them.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8: 15 P.M.
Marie Yearma , City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 27, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City
Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, January 27 , 1981 , at 7 : 05 P.M. ,
in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present:
Councilmen Barnes , Hill , Kirkland, Nelson, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Absent : Councilman Gilliam.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Proposed extension of contract with Trkla, Pettisrew, Allen
& Payne.
The Council reviewed an amended agreement for professional
services , which provided for :
Deleting Phase III of the original scope of services .
Replacing the deleted section with the following :
The consultant shall prepare a final report summarizing the
concept plan for downtown, based on the finds and recommendations
emerging from Phases I and II ;
Prepare a management plan for the marketing and packaging of
three agreed upon opportunity projects : (a) retail core , ( b)
South Grove office area , and (c) Villa/Wellington housing area .
Represent the City of Elgin in initiating contacts with and
in negotiating with prospective developers for the three opportunity
projects .
Work with the prospective developers to secure acceptable
physical development plans and to determine the financial
feasibility and desirability of removal of the southerly portion
of the Crystal Lake line .
The consultant ' s compensation is amended to increase the
consultant ' s compensation from $96 , 000 to $ 136,000 .
The time of performance is increased from 270 calendar days
to 450 calendar days from the date of execution of the original
contact .
Councilman Barnes asked how do you get the developers for housing
or office to come in .
Mr. Trkla stated he would be meeting with the First National Bank
people in a few weeks and they would then talk to developers , but
it was most important to have public effort .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 27 , 1981
Page 2
Councilman Barnes asked if this proposed amended agreement would
get us through the Visa project .
Mr . Trkla stated it may take longer especially if there are other
options .
The Council approved the proposed amended contract .
Proposed renewal of an agreement with International Systems , Inc . ,
for grant writing services .
Debbie Baker representing International Systems , Inc. , advised the
Council that the same contract was being proposed with no changes
in the substance of the contract or the fee. Ms . Baker also pointed
out that they had been successful in obtaining $ 23, 000 for a urban
park and recreation grant , and they had investigated 70 different
grant programs during the year.
The Council approved renewal of the agreement with International
Systems, Inc.
Proeosed agreement with H .W. Lochner & Associates for continued
engineering services on the Northend Bride project, and a proposed
Intergovernment Agreement with the Illinois Department of Trans-
portation relative to the Northend Bridge Project .
Mel Dahl advised the Council that the agreement for consultant ' s
services is identical to the draft previously submitted to the
Council during a Committee of the Whole Meeting on December 10 ,
1980, except for a completion date which has been deleted . Instead,
they have substituted daily time frams , which makes more sense
because we can not control the review time of FHWA.
There is a section in the IDOT agreement titled local agency
appropriation in which it states the city appropriated by
resolution the city ' s share of the cost of engineering which is
$50,643 . There is $52, 800 in the street budget to cover this
cost . The city will receive fifty per cent of the city ' s cost
from Kane County.
The staff recommended approval of both agreements and the
appropriation of $50,643 of city funds for its share of the
cost of engineering .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Proposal to complete the Design Work for Improvements to McLean
Blvd. between Eagle Road and Oakley Blvd.
Mr. Nelson stated that now that the Area I Assessment is out of
the courts and the improvements are to proceed as expected, the
section of McLean between Oakley and Eagle Road would leave a
gap in overall improvements to McLean Blvd .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 27 , 1981
Page 3
The firm employed by the city to design this section of improvement
was J . C . Uecker & Associates , and they have not been paid for any
of the design work they did in regards to the deleted section.
The staff is recommending that the Council authorize the payment
of $5,000 to J .C . Uecker and Associates for services rendered .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Donation of Training Equipment to the Fire Department by the Ladies
Auxiliary of the American Legion.
The staff advised the Council that the Ladies Auxiliary of the
American Legion have chosen to purchase the video training unit
with stand and the Bosic Skills for the EMT training program.
Video training unit price $ 2, 195 . 00
Stand for the unit 80. 00
EMT training program 795 . 00
Total donation to the Elgin Fire Department $ 3 , 070 . 00
The Council approved the proposed purchase of equipment and asked
that a letter of appreciation be forwarded to the Ladies Auxiliary .
Recommendation for additional resident engineering services
through Black & Veatch for the River Intake Structure/River
Crossings Contract.
Gary Miller advised the Council that the construction of the
River Intake and Pump Station and the Water Transmission Main,
which are both included in Contract #2, will require experienced
full -time inspection personnel . We feel we do not have the
manpower in our department , nor those with adequate experience
to assume the inspection duties on all these projects, which are
directly related to the new Water Treatment Plant .
The staff recommends that the Council authorize an agreement with
Black & Veatch for assistant resident engineering services with
the understanding that the total fee eventually to be paid will
be in the neighborhood of $ 100, 000.
Mayor Verbic felt this should have been included in the original
contract .
Councilman Waters wondered if it might not be better for the city
to hire an engineer.
Mr. Nelson stated we do not pay those kind of wages and after the
project is completed we would not need the services .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendations .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 27 , 1981
Page 4
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 10 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 4, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo
Nelson on Wednesday, February 4, 1981, at 7:05 p.m. , in the Council Con-
ference Room of City Hall. Members present: Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam,
Hill, Kirkland and Nelson. Absent: Councilman Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Also present: City Manager Leo Nelson, Acting City Clerk Nancy Johnson
and members of the staff.
Discussion of Remaining Work at the Greater Elgin Senior Center
John Schmidtke stated that three bids were received for the Life Safety
Code Work for the Greater Elgin Senior Center, with W. F. Wetzel Construc-
tion Corp. submitting the low bid of $187,764.00. He recommended the
contract be awarded to the low bidder. Mr. Schmidtke pointed out that
the work to be done under the contract is for code correction only, not
for aesthetics.
Janette Krupsaw of the Greater Elgin Senior Center stated that the Area
Council on Aging has allocated $20,000 for the Senior Center and another
$50,000 is being negotiated for the kitchen facilities. She also stated
that someone has volunteered to paint the interior.
The bid will be on the February 11 Council agenda.
Presentation of Annual Crime Statistical Report
Chief Baird stated that Elgin is an older community with a population mix
similar to that of Waukegan, Joliet and Aurora. He said there are no "high
crime areas" in Elgin, including the downtown area, and that the clearance
rate on crime in Elgin is well ahead of the national crime clearance rates.
Chief Baird outlined the 1980 crime figures for the downtown area to help
dissipate the fear that the downtown area is not safe. He stated in 1980
there were 57 property crime incidents in the CBD and 6 incidents in the
mall; 43 vandalism incidents in the CBD and 9 incidents in the mall. There
were 211 thefts in the CBD, consisting mainly of shoplifting and bicycle
theft.
The mall is the most heavily policed area in the city. Last year an addi-
tional officer was assigned to the mall from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. , which
was highly regarded by the retailers and professional in the mall area.
Chief Baird stated that the public is offended by the presence of foreigners,
the mentally disabled and the public drunk on the mall, none of which can be
remedied by the police department.
. • Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 4, 1981
Page 2
Chief Baird advocated that public drunkenness be made an offense. At
present, state law prohibits the incarceration of the public drunk and
communities that have practiced holding the public drunk have been sued
for holding them against their will. Detoxification centers are not
effective for the public drunk, as they are designed for those who want
to receive help and their program is disrupted by the public drunk who
has very narrow odds of rehabilitation. Chief Baird suggested that the
City Council adopt a resolution requesting the task force committee to
make public drunkenness an offense. The effect would be getting the drunk
off the street for a limited period of time and would also give the drunk
a place to go for shelter.
The staff directed the Corporation Counsel to draft a resolution.
Councilman Waters arrived at 7:40 p.m.
Proposed Repairs to Well 5A
Ron Zegers stated that Well 5A was pulled from service in August of 1980.
He stated the cost of repairing the pump is approximately $47,000 and to
airlift the pump would be an additional $35,000. He recommended the City
Council authorize the repair of the well and not airlift at present and
to schedule the well for repair in 1983.
e"' The Council concurred in the recommendation.
Request from American Little League to Release Funds for Lighting
Mr. Nelson stated that last year the City agreed to assist in the cost of
the installation of lights on the little league field. The American Little
League has now asked that the City release the funds so payment can be made
to Ron Jones Electric.
The Council agreed to release the funds.
Proposed Resolution Authorizing Application for Work Permits on State Highways
Mr. Nelson stated that each year the City Council must pass a resolution
pledging to hold the State of Illinois harmless for any damages that may
occur during work on any State highway.
The Council authorized placing the resolution on the February 11 Council
agenda.
Proposed Agreement with the Central Elgin Corporation
The Council approved the proposed agreement with the Central Elgin Corpora-
tion for the development and improvement of trade, commerce, industry and
residence within the City of Elgin.
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 4, 1981
Page 3
Proposal to Purchase Golf Carts for Spartan Meadows
Mr. Nelson stated that the 1980 budget appropriated money to buy golf
carts. Four 1977 models can be purchased for less than three 1980 or
1981 models, plus the 1977 model is identical to the 1975 and 1976
models already in use on the course.
The Council approved purchase of the four 1977 models.
Review of Finance Report Relative to Engineering Department Revenues
Mr. Nelson stated that the Engineering Department generated $154,289.80
for services rendered by the department.
Discussion of Fire Code Violations at City Garage
Mr. Nelson stated that there is some electrical work which needs to be done
at the city garage to alleviate fire code violations. The RTA has given a
verbal commitment to assist in the cost of eliminating the violations.
Discussion of Elgin Mental Health Center Property
Mr. Nelson stated that the staff is ready to proceed with the petition for
gravel mining on the Elgin Mental Health Center property. He asked the
Council when they would like to hear the petition and if they would like
any of the technical experts to be present.
The Council agreed to hear the petition on February 11 without the presence
of technical experts.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole,
the meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
.
Nancy L. Actinson, ing City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 11, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo
Nelson on Wednesday, February 11, 1981, at 7:07 p.m. , in the Council Con-
ference Room of City Hall. Members present: Councilmen Barnes, Gilliam,
Hill, Kirkland, Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None.
Also present: City Manager Leo Nelson, Acting City Clerk Nancy Johnson
and members of the staff.
Proposal to Purchase Computer Equipment
Mr. Nelson presented a proposal for the Finance Department to purchase
computer equipment. The equipment is used, but Dave Jepson stated the
equipment will have a maintenance contract and is offered at a considerably
lower price than new equipment.
The Council concurred in the purchase of the computer equipment.
Review of Amendment Agreement with the RTA
Mr. Nelson presented an Amendment Agreement for the Service Development/
Demonstration Grant Program. The amendment extends the grant period and
sets out a minimum fare structure.
The Council authorized the Amendment Agreement.
Review of an Agreement with the Illinois Department of Conservation
Mr. Nelson presented a covenant agreement between the Illinois Department
of Conservation and the City of Elgin for maintenance of Old Main. The
City already agreed to perform the maintenance work, but the agreement is
to fulfill federal government requirements.
The Council authorized the agreement.
Review of 1980 Investment Results
Mr. Nelson presented a memorandum from the Finance Department which stated
that the 1980 investment results were very good. The Council expressed
their appreciation of the efforts of the Finance Director in keeping the
City in good standing financially.
Review of Hemmen Movie and Concession Report
The Council reviewed a report from the Parks Department showing revenues
received from its movies and concessions. The total income received was
¢�,. $5,423.94.
f • •'y Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 11, 1981
Page 2
Discussion of Elgin Transportation Center
The Council reviewed a letter from the RTA which estimated the cost of
designing the transportation center so that two parking levels could be
added in the future. The Council opposed the two-level structure.
Review of Letter from the Gifford Park Association
The Gifford Park Association requested permission to donate the official
U.S. Department of Interior plaque stating "This property has been listed
on the National Register of Historic Places" to Old Main. The Council
expressed approval.
Miscellaneous
The Council agreed to cancel the Committee of the Whole Meeting for
February 18 as that is candidates night.
Mr. Nelson stated that the Parks Department has requested permission to
demolish the severely vandalized caretaker's house in Trout Park. The
Council authorized its demolition upon verification from Mike Alft of the
historical value of the stones used in the structure and if they should
be saved.
The Human Relations Commission and the NAACP is sponsoring a program on
black history in Elgin. They have asked to use the Hemmens rent free.
Past practice has been to waive rental fees when a City department is
involved in a program. The Council agreed to waive the rental fee.
Mr. Nelson stated that several years ago Barton/Aschman Associates
recommended changes in traffic on certain downtown streets, one of which
was making Spring Street from Kimball Street to Highland Avenue a two-way
street. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if the City staff should explore
this possibility. The Council favored exploring the change.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole,
the meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m.
Nance L. Jo son, Acts City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 25 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, February 25, 1981 , at
7 :05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Barnes , Gilliam, Hill , Kirkland,
Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None .
Also Present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie
Yearman, Corporation Counsel Jentsch, and members of staff .
Designation of the Elgin Historic District .
Chuck Behrens , President of the Gifford Park Association
stated that he was proud to present the proposed resolution
for designation of this Historic District , and that this
official recognition would serve as a source of civic pride
for many years to come .
Counsel Jentsch asked Mr . Behrens if his group understood
this resolution could only give recognition to the area
because the city has no mechanism to regulate the uses of ,
or initiate changes in structures in this proposed district .
Mr . Behrens stated they had not considered any regulatory
agency at this time and they feejthe recognition is enough
at this time .
Mr . Nelson stated the $ 15 ,000 in HCD funds had been set aside
for identifying signs primarily at street entrances in this
district .
Councilman Barnes stated that he had walked this area and it
was very well done , and if it stimulates people to upgrade
their property, so much the better .
The Council unanimously requested Corporation Counsel to
prepare the proposed resolution .
Proposed changes in the Residential Rehabilitation Assistance
Program.
Mr. Nelson stated that this program had been almost too sucessful
and because of such success the city is now facing a situation
where, based upon the current rate of expenditures , existing
funds may not last until June , 1981 when additional funds can
be budgeted . As of January 1 , 1981 there was approximately
$ 75 ,000 available to keep the program in operation.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 25 , 1981
Page 2
The Community Development staff recommended the following
changes to this program: The first change is in regard
to percentages to be paid on rebates to owner-occupants
who are eligible for the program. Rather than the 70 per-
cent maximum reimbursement as is now the case, it would be
reduced to 50 percent . The second change , which would
require a change to the ordinance , would reduce the 100
percent grant on repairs up to $3 , 500 for very low income
homeowners to $ 1 , 000 . A $ 1 , 000 grant should cover all or
a considerable portion of one major repair item.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation.
Proposed improvements to Illinois Route 58 between the
Fox River and Kane-Cook County lines .
In response to a letter from the Illinois Department of
Transportation, dated January 27 , 1981 , pertaining to the
resurfacing and modernizing the traffic signals on Illinois
Route 58 from the Fox River to the Kane-Cook County line,
the Council approved the project in concept .
Prior to any construction the city will receive a formal
agreement setting forth the obligations and responsibilities
to be assumed by the city, at which time the city can make
a final determination whether or not to continue with the
project .
Change Order No. 1 for the Spring Street Parking Facility.
The Council approved Change Order No. 1 , which read as
follows :
Excavation and Backfill due to rubble $ 17 , 394.00
Lean Concrete Fill 6 , 047 . 50
Pier Extension 1 ,409. 52
Footing Extension 2,606.96
Proposal Request 102-Sprinkler/Standpipe 1 , 375 . 00
Addition Telephone Outlets 479. 00
$29, 311 . 98
Contract price prior to this change order $ 2, 255 , 569 . 00
Increase resulting from this change order 29, 311 . 98
Current contract price $2, 284,88O. 98
Proposed reimbursement to the Windsor Development Corporation
for oversizing a watermain .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation that Windsor
Development Corporation be reimbursed a total of $5 , 692. 24
for the watermain oversizing in Century Oaks Manor Homes .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 25 , 1981
Page 3
Proposed reimbursement to the Big Timber Development
Corporation for oversizing a watermain.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation that the Big
Timber Development Corporation be reimbursed a total of
$ 2, 759. 75 for watermain oversizing .
Proposals for the July 4th Fireworks Program.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation to use
Chicago Fireworks Company, their proposal being basically
the same as 1980. They have included additional oriental
shells and they are offering a program of 385 units at a
price of $5 , 500.
Mayor Verbic suggested that someone might be interested in
sponsoring this event each year and thought maybe the Chamber
of Commerce could investigate this .
Mr . Nelson stated that it is unlikely someone will want to
spend $5, 500 with business the way it is today.
Councilman Gilliam stated the odds are nobody will want to
do it , so we should go ahead.
Proposed easement for the lime residue transmission main
through Chicago Rawhide Company ' s property on Route 31 .
Gary Miller advised the Council that the proposed easement
includes both a permanent easement and a temporary construction
easement . The easement runs along the south side of Big Timber
Road and then continues in a southerly direction along the west
side of the Chicago Rawhide complex to Wing Park.
Mr . Miller further stated the staff would proceed with
negotiations with Chicago Rawhide representatives , and a
plat would be available for future discussions .
Purchase of New Check Signer .
The Council approved the purchase of a used Cummins Model
253 Check Signer for $ 1 , 836 . 50.
Request from the Village of Hoffman Estates to the Northeastern
Illinois Planning Commission .
The Council reviewed correspondence from NIPC in which they
advise they have a request from the Village of Hoffman Estates
for an amendment to the 208 Water Quality Management Plan . The
request is for a change in the boundaries of the Barrington
and Elgin Facilities Planning Areas to accomodate sewer service
to the proposed Beverly Development .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 25 , 1981
Page 4
Mr . Nelson stated that the city would have an opportunity
to address this request but the time is short because this
would have to be done by March 4th .
The Council felt the proposed request would have an adverse
impact on Elgin and the city should respond to this request
vigorously .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7 : 55 P.M.
Marie Yearman City Clerk
r
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 4, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday , March 4, 1981 , at
7 :05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Barnes , Hill , Kirkland, Nelson and Waters .
Absent : Councilman Gilliam and Mayor Verbic .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie
Yearman, Corporation Counsel Jentsch and members of staff .
Request reply for a museum grant through International
Systems , Inc.
The Council reviewed a staff application for a museum grant
from the Institute for Museum Service Program, Department of
Health, Education & Welfare . The purpose of the grant would
be to continue expanding existing educational programs , and
to help the department meet increasing operation costs .
Ken Schultz stated if the grant were received next year, the
total hours could be increased from 562 hours to 761 public
hours and from 360 to 448 educational hours .
Councilman Barnes asked if there was a need for additional
hours .
Mr . Schultz stated they have had many requests for tours
and Saturday hours as well as requests for evening hours .
Councilman Barnes asked if anyone kept a record on the number
of visitors to the museum.
Mr. Schultz stated a log has been maintained and this reflects
an increase of visitors in the last two years .
The request to apply for the museum grant was approved.
Proeosed amendment to the ordinance providing for emergency
towing and the towing of abandoned vehicles .
Mike Sarro stated that some questions had been raised on the
proposals submitted to the towers last year, and the ordinance
has now been amended as follows : The vendors did request raising
rates , the staff felt the increase was reasonable , and the
ordinance now provides for the tower to furnish some services
to the city at a reduced charge , and for a five dollar increase
in all charges except for storage which has been increased by
two dollars .
The proposed amendment was approve.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 4, 1981
Page 2
Acquisition and installation of playground equipment at
various locations .
Included in the 1980 capital budget was $50 ,000 for new
playground equipment to be installed at Wing and Lord ' s Park.
The project was delayed because of the uncertainty as to whether
we would receive our 4th quarter share of the 1980 Federal
Revenue Sharing funds (out of which this project was to be
funded.
The total proposed expenditures for a total quantity of 14
pieces of playground equipment is $22, 296 . 35 , with all 5 bidders
being awarded at least one item. The balance of the total
appropriation is available for the removal of some obsolete
equipment in both parks and the installation of these new
pieces .
Mr. Sarro and Mr . Bennett stated they were very comfortable
with the bids as proposed.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendations .
Change Order No. 2 for the Water Treatment Plant .
The first item covered the changes requested following the
BOCA plan review. The addition of a new electrical circuit
for a range to be installed in the lunch room. The installation
of a section of the future 16 inch high service discharge piping
within the chemical and filter building , and a gas service
installation credit .
The change order will result in a net increase to the contract
of $ 36, 149. 00 .
The Council approved Change Order No. 2
Request from the Model T Ford Club to donate $ 250 toward
the 11th annual rerunning of the Elgin National Road Race .
Ken Kresmery representing the Model T Ford Club, stated
that the Club is again sponsoring the 11th rerunning of the
Elgin National Road Race on June 13th and June 14th . Last
year 154 antique automobiles participated along with 400
guests coming to Elgin for the day.
This year , Mr. Kresmery estimated there would be between
300 and 450 cars participating , and it will bring a lot of
people to Elgin for this event .
Mr. Kresmery advised the Council that the Chamber of Commerce
had made a donation of $ 150.00 and the Ramada Inn donated
$ 100. 00. Mr. Kresmery asked that the city donate $ 250.00 .
A donation of $ 250.00 was approved .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 4, 1981
Page 3
Request to vacate a portion of the northeast corner of
Larkin and Edison Avenues .
Mr. Nelson stated that this request was sent to Engineering
and Traffic and it was their recommendation to grant the
request .
The Council approved this request.
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to increase the
speed limit on Kimball Street from the Fox River to Dundee
Avenue .
The speed limit on Kimball Street between the Fox River and
Dundee Avenue is 25 mph in accordance with the code . This
is restrictive and not appropriate for a facility such as
Kimball Street .
The Traffic Committee recommends that the speed limit be
increased from 25 mph to 30 mph. Since 30 mph is the statutory
speed limit, no signing will be necessary .
The Council approved the recommendation.
Request to support a Tollway Feasibility Study for the proposed
Elgin-O ' Hare expressway.
Mr . Nelson stated the Mayor had received a letter from the
DuPage Planning Commission requesting this support . Mr . Nelson
said he had not looked into the matter closely but the Mayor
had asked that the request be brought to the Council .
Councilman Waters stated the letter indicated that Elgin had
previously supported the project.
Mr. Nelson stated this support might have been for the Freeway
and not the Tollway. Mr . Nelson asked the Council if they
would like further information together with data on the exact
location of the proposed tollway .
Councilman Barnes stated he would like further information
because he had a problem with another highway to O ' Hare .
Mr. Nelson stated he would obtain additional information and
bring this back to the Council .
Policy statement by the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce relative
to the proposed changes in the Illinois Unemployment Insurance
Program.
Mr . Nelson stated this was just an informational item whereby
the Chamber supports changes in the Illinois Unemployment Insurance
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 4, 1981
r Page 4
Act, which will , within reason slow down the outflow of
Unemployment Insurance monies .
Mr. Nelson stated he would attempt to secure a copy of
the Bill and bring it to the Council .
Discussion relative to the continued bus operations in view
of the RTA ' s financial problems .
Mr . Nelson stated he had talked with Jerry Boose and it seems
there is some feeling that the RTA is pushing for a shutdown
in an attempt to make the General Assembly and Mayor Byrne
move . Mr . Nelson felt this was as much a political problem
as a financial one .
Mr. Nelson said the Council would need to decide if we want to
carry the RTA, which has always been from two to three months
behind in reimbursing the city. They certainly should pay
interest on the money that the city has to use . The city
could carry the RTA but there could be a problem in June
when our cash flow is low. Mr. Nelson stated he did not
think the shutdown would last long and the RTA would pay
us when they have the money.
Councilman Hill asked how does the RTA say this .
Mr. Nelson stated it was said orally.
Councilman Barnes felt we should be thinking about routes
outside the city and where service is not being used in Elgin.
Councilman Waters asked if we have flexibility with the bus
drivers on the Crystal Lake route .
Mr. Nelson stated they are our employees and there is no
obligation to continue to employ them.
Councilman Hill asked if there was any way we could afford
a reduced service .
Mr . Nelson stated the out of town runs could be cut .
Councilman Waters felt the city had an obligation to maintain
the service in Elgin.
Mr. Nelson stated that if the Council did not want to make
a decision tonight they could meet again before March 23rd,
to discuss the matter further . The Council agreed this
might be a better idea, than making a decision tonight ,
because something may come up in the meantime to change the
RTA situation .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 4, 1981
Page 5
Condensate Return Line , Sear ' s Building
Frank Kaiser reported to the Council that the boiler return
condensate line in the Auto Center Buildings has eaten away
to a point that there is no return water going back to the
boiler .
The Council reviewed four proposals for this repair work,
and the staff recommended the low proposal of $2, 575 be
awarded to Siegrist and Sons .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole , the meeting was adjourned at 8 : 20 P.M.
Marlen , City C erk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 11 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, March 11 , 1981 , at 7 : 05 P.M. ,
in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present:
Councilmen Barnes , Gilliam, Hill , Kirkland , Nelson, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff .
Housing and Community Development Block Grant Budget for 1981 .
Mr . Nelson stated that earlier budget estimate of $892, 000,
was , based on information received by the City, going to be
reduced to $860,000, and it would be necessary to consider
cuts in the budget totalling $32, 000.
The Council reviewed the budget with Roger Dahlstrom and they
reduced said budget as follows :
Curb Gutter & Sidewalk Reconstruction - N . S . A. Reduction
from $93 , 500 to $80, 000 $ 13 , 500
Street Cut Off-Street Parking - N . S .A.
from $56, 000 to $50, 000 $ 6, 000
Tree Planting - N . S .A.
from $ 10, 000 to $8 , 000 $ 2, 000
C .B . D. Mall Lighting
from $ 20, 000 to $ 16, 500 $ 3 , 500
Contingency
from $ 70, 000 to $63 , 000 $ 7 , 000
Total reduction $32,000
Change Order for additional work at the Elgin Senior Center .
A 4" sewer line and a 1 " gas line were found buried within a
masonry wall at a location scheduled to be a new opening between
the two buildings , and it was necessary to relocate these lines .
Subsequent to this work, an unknown electrical feed was cut
during core drilling for plumbing work, the location was unknown
as it was buried in the old concrete floor .
To date , additional charges incurred due to these hidden lines
total $2, 575 .00. Sufficient funds exist for this expense in
the H .C . D. funded project .
The Council approved the proposed change order .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
• 'March 11 , 1981
Page 2
Change Order No. 2 for work at the Lord ' s Park Maintenance
Building .
The contract lists one interior wood 8 ' x 7 ' overhead door
in the seperation wall between the storage area and the
mechanical work room. The wood overhead door is listed in
the contract at $ 260. 00 installed . The Fire Inspection
Department has requested this door be replaced with Labeled
Steel door to make the door area compatible with the 2 hour
rating of the seperation wall .
By reason of this change order, the contract cost shall be
increased in the amount of $ 1 , 044. 00 .
The Council approved the proposed change order .
Evaluation of costs associated with the employees insurance
program.
The staff advised the Council that a meeting was held with
Corporate Policyholder ' s Counsel in early December for the
purpose of having them conduct an in depth study of the city ' s
overall insurance program. Both carriers , Washington National
Insurance , for our health insurance, and Banker ' s Life and
Casualty for our group life program, were contacted and asked
to cooperate in this study . Banker ' s Life did not respond
while Washington National voluntarily contacted CPC upon
being notified of this study .
As a result of this study the staff recommended that the life
insurance program be awarded to Washington National . There
will be an immediate savings for the year of $6 ,847 . 20, and if
no claims occur the city will receive a divided of return at
the end of the premium year of another $ 10, 000.
The city should continue with the current conventional medical
coverage with Washington National but will closely examine their
"Minimum Premium" proposal when available which could yield an
additional $5 ,000 to $ 10, 000 in investment income.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Request to purchase a traffic signal controller.
The staff recommended that since McLean Boulevard carries nearly
four times as much traffic as Highland Avenue, the signals on
McLean should remain green until there is a call for green lights
on Highland Avenue by the presence of vehicles . This is not
possible with the controller in place at the intersection of
McLean and Highland.
For the past two years funds have been budgeted for a controller
for this intersection, and there is $6, 500 in the 1981 budget .
The Areal 1 project calls for widening the intersection and
relocating the controller so this would be an ideal time to
install the new controller.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 11 , 1981
Page 3
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Agreement with IDOT for the improvement of Illinois Route
25 at Dundee Avenue, Liberty Street and Page Avenue intersection.
Mr. Nelson stated there have been problems at this intersection
with the northbound traffic , and although this intersection
was designed by the State , they are making plans to improve
the intersection in an effort to curb the numerous accidents
which have occurred . The city ' s share for this improvement
would be $8700. 00, and there is a resolution appropriating
this amount on tonight ' s agenda for formal action by the
Council .
The Council approved the aforementioned agreement.
Municipal legislation introduced in the 82nd General Assembly.
Corporation Counsel Ery Jentsch supplied the Council with a
summarization of pending legislation .
Meeting re proposed redevelopment in downtown Elgin .
Mayor Verbic stated that he , Leo Nelson, Councilmen Hill and
Kirkland, George Perruco and Stan Douglas met with Nick Trkla ,
Bill Brown of Arthur Rubloff Company, and three representatives
of the First National Bank of Chicago.
Mr . Trkla made a thirty minute presentation on the development
of the Visa facility on South Grove Avenue .
Mayor Verbic stated that while they did not say yes to the
proposal , they did not say no, and he felt they might be holding
back because of the present economic situation. The Mayor
stated that the property taxes for the area on South Grove
are now about $75 , 000, construction of the office complex would
bring that figure to approximately $463 , 000 per year .
The Mayor further stated that if Visa decides not to become
involved in this project, the city should pursue other developers .
Mr . Nelson stated the First National representatives had nice
things to say about Elgin and he was encouraged because they
asked questions for about another half hour .
The Bank representatives stated they would examine the material
supplied by Mr . Trkla and they would contact Mr . Brown within
the next 30 to 90 days .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7 :45 P .M.
Marie Yearmi , City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 18, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, March 18, 1981 , at
7: 05 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Gilliam, Hill , Kirkland, Nelson,
Waters and Mayor Verbic . Absent : Councilman Barnes .
Also present : Nelson , Yearman , Jentsch , and members of staff .
Proposed improvements to Douglas Avenue between Highland and
Chicago.
Mr . Nelson stated that representatives of the property owners
and merchants were here tonight to make an improvement proposal
that was less expensive than was planned for this area some 5
or 6 years ago.
Mr. Ron Kilgore stated his group felt there had been some
adverse publicity about this area and they were desirous of
making a community improvement and had joined forces to see
what could be done .
The project consists of the addition of twelve street trees and
planters together with a complete sidewalk resurfacing and curb
and gutter construction. To complete the new look and make it
correlate to Fountain Square Plaza the proposal calls for the
installation of new light poles and fixtures . These new poles
would be of the same type used at the north end of the plaza area
and along Grove Avenue south of the Clock Tower.
Mr . Kilgore stated that they feel this will have a positive effect
on the downtown business area and provide an indication to their
customers and all the people of Elgin that they do care about
the Central Business District and have faith in its future .
Mr . Kilgore outlined the following improvements :
1 . Sidewalks prepared and resurfaced with 5/8" rustic terrazzo
from curb to storefronts , a distance of approximately 530
lineal feet .
2 . New curbs and gutters .
3 . Four corner sidewalks at street intersections paved in brick
to match plaza.
4 . Twelve planters complete with new curbs , gutters , topsoil ,
trees and stone boulders .
5 . Six new street lights ( poles and fixtures) at present locations .
6 . Surveys and construction documents for competitive bidding .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 18, 1981
C Page 2
The proposal set forth the City of Elgin ' s estimated cost of
the improvement to be $57 , 500 and the property owners ' $53 , 800.
David White stated this type of improvement could be done
immediately and would enhance the area and would also tie into
the Mall .
The proposal also included the removal of all the parking meters
from the block, instituting the old system of marking the tires
on the cars . At the end of one hour a courtsey ticket, and after
that a $ 1 . 00 parking ticket .
The group asked that the city give them a ten year repayment
period, but they would want to start immediately and would
expect to finish the project by June 1st .
Councilman Waters asked if all of the property owners and
merchants in this area were willing to underwrite this project .
Mr . Kilgore stated that a petition has been signed in the
affirmative except for the 5 Douglas property which is tied
up in a trust , but the other merchants are willing to absorb
the cost for this property.
David White stated they would like the city to see if something
could be done to make them put in sod on the vacant lot because
at the present time it is being used as a parking lot .
Councilman Gilliam stated he liked to proposal but he would
like to have the staff ' s recommendation on the financial end
of it .
Mr . Nelson stated the only problem might be working out the
legal mechanics of how the city can collect , and Mr . Jentsch
was not aware of the proposal until this afternoon . There is
no money in the budget but this could be included in the
bond issue anticipated later this Spring for some other improvements .
The Council stated they liked the proposal and asked the staff
to work out the financial aspect and bring same back to them.
Proposed City Support for CROP Workday Project Scheduled for
Saturday, April 11th.
Marge Zawadzki representing CROP stated that workers would be
recruited through local churches to help clean-up the parks and
public areas in Elgin while raising money for CROP World Hunger
Projects/Elgin ' s Faith Pantry . Citizens will also be asked to
act as a sponsor for one or more persons for the Work Day. 25%
of the proceeds will go to Elgin ' s Faith Pantry and the remainder
to CROP.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 18, 1981
Page 3
r
Mr. Nelson stated the staff was asking for permission to offer
city personnel to assist with the project .
The Council approved the CROP project.
Proposed purchase of computer equipment for Police Department .
The Council reviewed a staff request to purchase the following
Data General Computer Equipment : ( 2) D200 CRT ' s at $ 1 ,950 each ;
( 1 ) OS Subassembly at $ 200 ; ( 1 ) Asynchronous Line Controller at
$ 150; and ( 1 ) 128 KB Memory Board at $5, 250. The total equipment
cost at this time is $9, 500.
Chief Baird stated he had been advised that the city has received
an initial cash request for $ 21 , 053 from the Kane County Planning
and Crime Analysis Grant , and this purchase could be made with
those funds .
The Council approve the purchase of the aforementioned equipment .
Proposed conversion of Spring Street between Highland and Kimball
from a one-way northbound to a two-way street .
The staff advised the Council that Spring Street will be widened
on the east side between Highland and Chicago in order to provde
two southbound and two northbound through lanes and one exclusive
left turn lane at Highland along with the construction of the
Spring-Chicago Parking Deck. The east side of Spring Street will
also be widened between Highland and Division in order for the
two northbound through lanes to merge . It is logical to convert
Spring Street between Division and Highland into a two-way
street in conjunction with the parking deck improvements .
Mr . Nelson pointed out that most of the affected property owners
were in favor of the two-way. St . John ' s Lutheran School was
not in favor of it but they agreed to cooperate and give it
a try. The major problem seems to be with Eby Brown, who have
from 15 to 40 trucks per day loading and unloading at the dock
on Spring Street .
Mr . Nelson stated he had heard that Eby Brown is negotiating
with Ackemann ' s for the purchase of their warehouse and if this
is accomplished Eby Brown could change their trucking method.
Mr. Michael , representing Eby Brown, stated they would have
the same situation as Shedd Bartusch and this would really
present a hardship. Mr . Michael also stated they had made
an offer to Ackemann ' s sometime last Fall but that nothing
had come of it . Mr. Michael did not feel that even if they
purchased this property from Ackemann ' s that it would relieve
their trucking problem
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 18, 1981
Page 4
Councilman Hill suggested the city put this matter on hold for
one year to see what Eby Brown could work out .
Mr. Nelson stated the two-way should be extended one block north
at least to accommodate the new parking facility, scheduled to
be opened November 1st .
Councilman Kirkland stated that if the two way street is tied
into the new parking facility the two-way should commence on
November 1st .
Councilman Hill suggested that the two-way down to Kimball
commence on November 1st .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8: 00 P.M.
arie Yearm�n City y Clerk
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ti
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 19, 1980
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City
Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, February 19, 1980, at 7 :05 P.M. ,
in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present :
Councilmen Barnes , Gilliam, Hill , Kirkland, Nelson and West.
Absent : Mayor Verbic.
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie Yearman,
Corporation Counsel Jentsch , and members of staff .
Preliminary design report on the Spring Street Parking Facility.
Mary Smith of Carl Walker and Associates , reviewed with the
Council a preliminary design report on the Spring Street Parking
facility. Ms . Smith stated that when this was previously discussed
the need for two stair wells and the estimated cost of the elevators
was raised by the Council . Ms . Smith stated they felt the need for
the two stair wells was essential for proper function and safety
of the facility . The estimated cost for the elevators was $60, 000
each.
Ms . Smith pointed out that vertical pedestrian access is provided
for by stair and elevator towers located at the northwest and
southwest corners of the facility. The towers are constructed
with glass walls alongside the stairs facing Chicago and Highland
and glass backed elevators facing Spring Street . The elevator
waiting area will not be separated from the stair enclosure so
that a very open, secure area can be provided. In order to meet
code requirements for fire exits , doors will not be provided from
the parking structure to the towers , except at the top level ( to
prevent blowing rain and snow from getting into the towers . )
Additional glass panels have been added at the entry/exit levels
so that the cashier will have visual contact to monitor activity
in the towers .
Ingress and egress to the facility will be located at both ends
of the structure and served by the one way pair consisting of
westbound Highland Avenue and eastbound Chicago Street . No access
will be provided to Spring Street . As part of the project, Spring
Street will be converted to two way traffic on four lanes between
Grove Avenue and Kimball Street, except in the block immediately
adjacent to the parking facility . The roadway at this location
will be widened to accomodate five lanes so as to provide a left
turn lane from northbound Spring Street to westbound Highland Avenue.
Mr. Nelson stated there are two problems the city presently has
in connection with this project. There is no court date on the
appeal case and this could be dragged out. Because of the current
bond market and the litigation the city could not be in a position
to sell the bonds needed for the project.
i
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 19, 1980
Page 2
Ms . Smith stated they could continue with the design work and
just keep it until the city was in a position to proceed.
Councilman Gilliam asked how much money would be involved if
the project was just put on the shelf .
Ms . Smith stated $80, 000.
A majority of the Council instructed Ms . Smith to proceed with
the design stage.
Councilman Gilliam did not want the project to go beyond the
design stage .
Proposed tow-away zone on North Grove Avenue between Chicago
and Highland.
Mr . Nelson stated that the City Transportation Department has
requested that the Bus Loading Zone on North Grove Avenue between
Highland and Chicago Street be designated as a Tow Away Zone .
At present parking is restricted from 6 : 00 A.M. to 9 : 30 P.M. ,
Monday through Friday and 6 : 00 A .M. to 6 : 30 P.M. on Saturdays .
In spite of this restriction, some motorists park their vehicles
at the above mentioned location and lease them indefinitely.
When the buses come, they are inconvenienced due to cars parked
at the curb side. Although tickets have been issued to the
illegally parked automobiles , it has not helped matters to an
appreciable extent .
The staff has recommended that an ordinance be adopted for
designating North Grove Avenue from Chicago Street to Highland
Avenue as a Tow Away Zone between the hours of 6 :00 A.M. -
to 9:30 P.M. , Monday through Friday and 6 : 00 A.M. to 6 : 30 P.M. ,
on Saturdays .
The Council approved the staff recommendation.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8 : 15 P.M.
Marie Yearm , City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 25 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
Assistant City Manager Bob Malm on Wednesday, March 25, 1981 ,
at 7 : 30 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Hill , Kirkland, Nelson and Waters . Absent :
Councilmen Barnes , Gilliam and Mayor Verbic .
Also present : City Clerk Marie Yearman, Corporation Counsel
Jentsch, and members of staff .
Proposed Chicago and Northwestern Railroad right-of-way
abandonment .
The staff advised the Council that the Chicago and Northwestern
Railroad is requesting permission from the Interstate Commerce
Commission to abandon that portion of their right-of-way which
extends from Elgin to Crystal Lake . Specifically, within the
City of Elgin, the right-of-way abandonment extends from the
city limits ( near the tollway) to 470 feet north of the center
line of Slade Avenue .
The staff met with representatives of the Nature Conservancy
to discuss ways of acquiring this right-of-way for public use .
The Nature Conservancy is a national privately funded, land
conservation organization, which has undertaken a program
called the Fox River Conservation Union , which is geared to
assist communities that wish to acquire land for public use .
The Nature Conservancy recommended that the following steps
be taken :
1 . Submit a letter to the Interstate Commerce Commission in
Washington, D. C . , expressing interest in the right-of-
way and requesting , if abandonment is awarded, the estab-
lishment of a 180-day period in which to make a decision
on whether or not to purchase . This letter must be in
Washington by the first week in April .
2 . During the 180-day period the city and the Nature Conser-
vancy can come to terms on purchase arrangements .
The 180-day period commits Elgin to nothing, however, it allows
the city and the Nature Conservancy time to make the necessary
arrangements if the city wishes to acquire the Elgin portion
of this right-of-way, which would extend the city ' s open space
holdings along the Fox River .
The Council approved submitting the recommended letter to the
Interstate Commerce Commission, and directed staff to bring
this matter back to them within 180 days .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 25 , 1981
Page 2
Request to apply for a grant to install two power producing
windmills on the Spartan Meadows Golf Course .
The staff advised the Council that the city and Elgin Community
College are collaborating on a grant to install two power
producing windmills on the Spartan Meadows Golf Course . It
is expected that these two units will produce between 40,000
and 50,000 kwh/year. This power would be divided between the
golf course and the college . The golf course will be able to
use the power during the golf season, and during the winter
the power will be sold to Commonwealth Edison and those revenues
will help support appropriate technology classes at the college.
The city ' s share of the grant would be basically in kind,
however, if inflation causes price increases we may fall
short approximately $ 1 ,000. The in kind match would include
Community Development staff time for planning , and public
works ' time and materials for the necessary concrete pads
and trenching for electrical cable .
The college ' share would be staff time for grant preparation,
as well as providing the equipment and manpower necessary to
film the entire project .
The staff would be asking for the maximum grant amount of
$50,000.
Councilwoman Nelson stated she did not see any merit to this
projectand felt that if Elgin Community College was interested
they should try to obtain the grant .
Councilmen Kirkland and Waters were supportive of the request .
The request was denied for lack of a majority vote .
Vital Statistic Records
The Council was advised the State Department of Vital Statistics
was going to remove the birth and death records from the city
of Elgin and give them to the County Clerk. This action will
result in the city losing between $ 18 , 000 and $23 , 000 per year.
Councilman Hill asked if there was anything the City could do.
Mr. Malm stated a letter protesting this action had been sent
to the State to no avail .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8 : 50 P.M.
II
Marie Yearman City Clerk
em-
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 1, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City Manager Leo
Nelson on Wednesday, April 1, 1981, at 7:10 p.m. , in the Council Conference
Room of City Hall. Members present: Councilmen Gilliam, Hill, Kirkland,
Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Barnes.
Also present: City Manager Leo Nelson, Acting City Clerk Nancy Johnson
and members of the staff.
Proposal to Install Additional Perimeter Fencing Around Public Works Yard
Mr. Nelson presented a memorandum from Mel Dahl stating that the removal
of the Reinardt Building at the Public Works yard left an opening in the
perimeter fencing. There was $2,100 appropriated in the 1981 budget for
additional fencing. Two proposals were received, both under the $2,100
figure.
The Council approved the request for additional fencing.
Proposal to Replace a Spare Motor for Well #2 at the Slade Avenue Plant
0.10`' Mr. Nelson presented a memorandum from Ron Zegers stating that the cost
of repairing the G.E. motor is approximately $13,655. A rebuilt Byron
Jackson motor would cost approximately $16,852. It has been the experi-
ence of the water department that the Byron Jackson motors require fewer
repairs.
The Council approved the purchase of a Byron Jackson motor.
Proposed Agreement with Kaltenbach and Ferenc for Douglas Avenue Streetscape
The Council reviewed a proposed agreement for the design of Douglas Avenue
by Kaltenbach and Ferenc. Mr. Nelson stated that at present it is not known
where the funds will come from to finance the project, but he will know by
the April 8th meeting. He asked the Council if they preferred going ahead
with the agreement or holding it until he can show them the funding.
The Council requested placing the agreement on the April 8th Council agenda.
Proposed Agreement with J. C. Uecker $ Associates, Inc. to Complete Design
of Improvements to McLean Boulevard
Mr. Nelson stated that bids will be taken April 15 for Area One; the proposed
contract is for the design of McLean Boulevard between Eagle Road and Oakley
Boulevard. This project will be done only if the contract for Area One is
let. Mr. Nelson asked the Council if they wanted to proceed with the con-
eft- tract or wait until after April 15 when it's determined if Area One will
proceed.
The Council opted to wait until after April 15 to consider the contract with
J. C. Uecker & Associates, Inc.
Committee of the Whole
April 1, 1981
Page 2
Proposed Lease with Elgin Pee-Wee Football League, Inc.
Mr. Nelson stated that the Pee-Wee Football League was interested in a longer
term of lease than the four year lease that was originally proposed, as they
will be making improvements to the building.
The Council favored proceeding with the lease.
Highlights of Miss Illinois Pageant
Ed Spurr presented a 10-minute video tape recording of the highlights of the
Miss Illinois Pageant at Hemmen Auditorium. He said about 15 minutes of the
90 minute presentation was devoted to Elgin.
Councilman Barnes arrived at 7:30 p.m.
Discussion of City's Street Lighting Policy
Mr. Nelson stataed that in the 1975-76 survey, most of the citizens of Elgin
felt street lighting was adequate. The 1980 survey showed that people's
attitudes are shifting and they seem to want more and better lighting.
Presently, the policy of the City is a light at every intersection and no
mid-block lighting except at a hill or curve. He pointed out that there are
some intersections in Elgin that have no street lights. The cost of a pole
and the hook-up of power is approximately $700. Mr. Nelson asked how the
Council would like to proceed.
It was the concensus of the Council that intersection lighting take priority
over mid-block lights and that the City determine the cost of lighting the
unlit intersections then bring the figures back to the Council.
Discussion of Temporary Mining of Sand and Gravel at Former Elgin Mental Health
Center Property
Mr. Nelson stated that the proposed ordinance for temporary mining of sand and
gravel at the former Elgin Mental Health Center property was mailed to the
attorneys representing Knowles Electronics and Burnham. Both attorneys
responded in writing.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he would like an opportunity to read and study
the letters before further discussion.
The Council agreed to continue the matter to April 8.
Discussion of Zoning of K-Mart Property
Councilman Hill stated that he wanted to discuss K-Mart zoning in the Committee
of the Whole. He said he thought the Council should direct the Legal Department
to contact the owners of the property and work out an agreement between the City
"I" and the owner of the property so the property would revert back to its prior
zoning. He suggested de-annexing the property.
Committee of the Whole
April 1, 1981
Page 3
eft
Attorney Jentsch suggested discussing the matter in executive session, as
presently there is pending litigation.
Councilman Barnes agreed that until a decision is made to end litigation,
any discussion should be in closed session.
Attorney Jentsch stated that he would like to inform the Council of the
status of the pending litigation in closed session, then the Council could
continue discussion at an open or closed session after hearing all the
facts.
The Council agreed to discuss the pending litigation in closed session.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole,
the meeting was adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
Nancy L. Johnson, ting City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 22, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City
Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, April 22, 1981 , at 7 : 05 P.M. ,
in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present :
Gilliam, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie Yearman ,
Corporation Counsel Jentsch and members of staff .
Proposed Farm Lease for the Elgin Mental Health property with
Collins Brothers .
Mr . Nelson stated this lease is basically the same as last
year, except a rental increase to $ 16 . 00 per acre. A resolution
authorizing the execution of this lease is on tonight ' s Council
agenda, subject to the Council ' s approval of same .
The Council approved the proposed farm lease .
Request from the Elgin Choral Union to be considered for the
1982 City Vehicle Sticker .
The Council reviewed a request from the Elgin Choral Union that
they be considered for inclusion on the 1982 city vehicle sticker .
The Choral Union also submitted a sample logo for the Council ' s
consideration .
The Council approved the Choral Union ' s logo for the 1982 vehicle
sticker .
Proposed No Parking area in front of the Second Baptist Church
at 280 Franklin Blvd.
The Council reviewed a request from the Second Baptist Church
to restrict parking in front of the church. The church has
experienced emergencies and have been confronted with no parking
space for emergency vehicles .
The staff recommended that a No Parking space for 22 feet be
granted in front of the church .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Proposed Change Order No. 2 for the Spring Street Parking Facility.
The Council reviewed Change Order No. 2 which included an
additional floor drain, a change of expansion joint system, and
the purchase of 8 preformed detector loops . By reason of the
proposed changes the contract price would be decreased by a
total of $2, 742 . 00, and the contract price would be reduced
to a total of $ 2 , 282, 139.00.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 22, 1981
Page 2
rik The staff has reviewed and checked all the material submitted
relative to the changes , and recommend approval of same .
The Council approved Change Order No . 2
Request from the DuPave County Regional Planning Commission
to support a feasibility study for the development of the
E 19in-O' Hare corridor as a toll highway .
The Council reviewed a request from the DuPage County Regional
Planning Commission that each community in the Elgin-O ' Hare
corridor adopt a resolution endorsing a feasibility study of
the proposed toll facility and forward it to the State
Legislature .
Councilman Gilliam stated that after reading the material he
did not feel there was any real advantage for Elgin, and he
did not think there was a chance of the project going through.
Mayor Verbic stated he thought the city should prepare such
a resolution and send it down because there was nothing wrong
with cooperating with our sister cities , and there was no
financial commitment .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she would go along with this as
long as there was no money involved .
Councilman Kirkland stated he had no problem as far as the
resolution was concerned but down the road he would question
some of the proposed interchanges .
Councilman Waters stated he was against participating in the
project .
Mr . Nelson stated he could have the resolution drafted and it
could be presented to the Council on Mayl3th, when a full
council was present .
The Council is to reconsider this request on May 6th .
Request from IDEA requesting the removal of all street parking
meters .
Mr . Nelson stated he realized there was a great deal of material
passed out to the Council tonight on this subject and it would
be difficult to read this and make a decision tonight and all
he expected was some indication of the Council ' s position on
removing the meters .
Although the first request received from IDEA proposed that all
on-street parking meters be removed, a follow-up request was
received by the City today which stated the IDEA committee is
interested only in those spaces designated presently as customer
spaces now metered.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 22, 1981
C Page 3
The IDEA communication further stated that should the removal
of ten-hour meters used for employee parking prove a financial
hardship to the city, the IDEA would not object to those meters
remaining in place .
Mr . Bolerjack pointed out the estimated loss of revenue , not
only in the Parking Operating Fund and the related impact on
the General Fund , but also in the Spring Street Parking Operating
Fund and the effect on Special Service Area #2 Tax District .
Based on estimates the losses that would be realized for the
balance of 1981 and 1982 amount to $ 204, 115 in the General Fund
and $34, 000 in Special Service Area #2 .
The removal of the 632 on-street parking meters will result in
an annual loss of revenue of $55 , 100 . The total loss of parking
revenue from all sources is estimated to amount to $ 150, 580, or
a loss of 50 . 5% of previously anticipated revenues .
The proposed removal of the parking meters will result in some
savings in expenditures , but the savings realized will not equal
the loss of revenue . These savings amount to one full - time
employee and possibly some overtime hours resulting in a net
savings of $20, 185 .
Councilman Gilliam stated he would like to do something about
the meters but he did not see how the city could withstand a
$ 151 , 000 loss in revenue .
Mayor Verbic felt that many of the meters designated were in
areas too far from the central business district .
Councilman Kirkland stated there might be a need to take off
parking on the streets in order to force people to use the
parking lots .
Councilwoman Nelson suggested that the meters be bagged to see
what kind of a trial run we might have, before going to the
expense of removing meters .
Councilman Waters suggested that the staff work with the IDEA
committee on their second proposal .
Mayor Verbic agreed with Councilman Waters and asked that only
specific areas around the immediate downtown area be considered.
Mr . Nelson stated he would work with the committee and bring
this proposal back to the Council , but the Council should be
prepared to consider a loss in revenue .
Proposal to sell 1231 Larkin Avenue .
Mr. Nelson advised the Council this parcel of land consisting
of 2 . 13 acres was purchased approximately six years ago at a
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 22, 1981
eh Page 4
Cost of $91 ,400. 00. The property was purchased based on a
recommendation from Barton & Aschman, which proposed extending West
Chicago Street to join Larkin Avenue at Weston and making Chicago
Street one-way eastbound and Highland one-way westbound from downtown
to McLean Blvd .
Mr. Nelson further stated that the staff is recommending that the
parcel on which the house sits be sold at this time, and there
are four other parcels which could be sub-divided and sold, still
retaining the right-of-way for the Larkin/Highland couple.
The Council reviewed the engineering maps , which reflected
the right-of-way corridor , and they decided that at this point
in time the house and lot upon which it stands should be put
out for bid .
Appointments to Liquor Commission
Ery Schmidt and Donald Waters are to serve on the Elgin Liquor
Commission for a period of six months .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9: 15 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
r
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City
Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, May 6 , 1981 , at 7 : 05 P .M. , in
the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present :
Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt , Waters ,
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie Yearman,
Corporation Counsel Jentsch , and members of staff .
Request from the Elgin Teener League to assist the League with
a fence repair at the Trout Park baseball diamond .
The Committee reviewed a request from the Elgin Teener League
for assistance in repairing a section of fence at Trout baseball
park. The request asked that the city replace the fence or
furnish the materials and they would replace the fence . The
League furnished the following estimates :
Fox Valley Fence - installed 9 gauge chain link $423 . 00
Heritage Ozone Fence installed 9 gauge chain link 375 . 00
Peerless Fence Erectors installed 463 . 00
materials only 288 .00
The staff recommended the city go with Peerless Fences ' quote
of $ 288. 00 for materials only and the League could proceed at
their own pace .
Councilman Schmidt pointed out that the Peerless quote did not
specify whether this was 9 gauge chain link.
Councilman Hansen suggested giving them $ 250 . 00 and letting them
do the installation .
Councilman Waters stated that since this is a city park we should
do the whole thing .
Councilman Gilliam suggested the city go with the low bid from
Heritage, which covers installation and materials , in the amount
of $375 . 00 .
The Committee approved Councilman Gilliam ' s suggestion .
Request from the Elgin Classic Little League for the City ' s
financial participation with the replacement of the present
lighting system at the League ' s field located in Wing Park.
The Committee reviewed a request from the Elgin Classic Little
League for the city ' s participation in updating the existing
lights on the League field in Wing Park.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6 , 1981
Page 2
Mr . Nelson stated the upgrading covered the lights only and the
present poles would remain, and that in the past the city had
participated in the American Little League lighting program,
by paying one-half the cost , and in the Elgin Teener League
program paying $ 10 , 000 or one-third of the cost .
Mayor Verbic pointed out that Mr . Kadlec estimates the total
cost of the project in his letter to be $5504. 00, but does
not specify what financial arrangements they want .
Councilman Gilliam stated the city should not participate any
more than has been done before.
Councilman Hansen asked in whose budget this money would be
available.
Mr . Nelson stated this item was not budgeted and it would
probably have to come out of the Park' s budget. Mr . Nelson
further stated he would bring this matter back to the Committee
after he has discussed the same with Mr . Kadlec.
Proposed change order for the Clifford-Owasco Park project .
The Committee reviewed a change order for the above project ,
which indicated additional base material and drainage tile is
needed at the east end of the basketball court to prevent
deterioration of the asphalt paving . The staff concurs with
the consultant ' s recommendation , and the contract sum will be
increased $ 1 , 900 .00 by this change order , and the new contract
amount will be $97 , 888. 00 .
The Committee approved the proposed change order .
Discussion relative to the North End Bridge project .
Mayor Verbic stated that as a result of a meeting with the Kane
County Council of Mayors he feels the city will have to work as
fast as we can if we want to proceed with the North End Bridge ,
because even though 4 . 5 million has been allocated for the project ,
at least one Urban Council member has indicated alternative list
of projects be prepared if Elgin ' s bridge is not built .
Mayor Verbic further stated that he thought all the Committee would
like to have the two phase bridge construction , but you have to face
reality because costs of the entire project have now risen to nearly
$ 20 million, and proceeding with two phases would most likely
require a city investment of $ 10 million . The hopes of receiving
federal funding are nil because of the President ' s budget cutting .
Mel Dahl stated that he would be meeting with the Federal Highway
Administration next week to determine the costs of a study on
Slade Avenue only and he did not anticipate what the FHWA would
say because we have never really studied Slade Avenue in respect
to a one phase project .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6 , 1981
Page 3
Councilman Hansen stated that he has always been opposed to a
one phase only, and before proceeding we need to determine if
the city is willing to spend $ 10 million in local funds someday
to complete the connection street.
Councilman Gilliam stated the expenditure of that much local
money is crazy, and we should proceed with the environmental
study because if we back off now the bridge will be gone
forever .
Mayor Verbic stated that if we don ' t use the money which is
allocated they will give it to some other communities .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she agreed with Councilman Gilliam
that we should proceed with the environmental study.
Councilman Kirkland asked if the study would include Summit
Street.
Mr . Nelson replied it would not include Summit and the agreement
which was previously submitted to the Council would have to be
rewritten .
Councilman Hansen stated he was opposed to building one phase
only with the possibility of not being able to go ahead with
phase two. Mr. Hansen also felt it would be detrimental to
dump all this traffic onto Slade Avenue.
Councilman Waters stated the time for the hard decision on the
bridge project will come soon enough and there is no sense arguing
about this until the Council sees the results of an impact study.
Councilman Gilliam stated the commitment has to come after the
environmental study is done .
Councilman Schmidt stated he thought we are more or less in the
dark without the environmental study .
Councilmen Gilliam, Nelson , Waters , Schmidt and Mayor Verbic
indicated they were in favor of going ahead with the environmental
impact and traffic study
Proposed City' s annual State Route Maintenance Agreement with the
Illinois Department of Transportation .
Mr. Dahl advised the Council that IDOT has proposed that Larkin
Avenue from approximately the entrance to Fire Station 2 west to
Airlite and Chicago Street from Willard Avenue east to Lovell
Road be included in the new maintenance agreement. Elgin would
receive $41 , 599. 57 in 1981 assuming the City Council concurs in
the additions , otherwise it would be $37 , 396.40.
The cost of maintaining the highways in Elgin is not as great
as the money Elgin received , and the staff recommends the City
approve the agreement with the additions .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6, 1981
Page 4
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation.
Proposed 1981 Street Resurfacing Program.
The Council reviewed a memorandum from the Engineering Department ,
which set forth the streets to be resurfaced with M. F . T. funds
under the 1981 resurfacing program, as follows :
Airlite Street
Easy Street
Grandstand Place
Jane Drive
Joseph Court
Lyle Avenue
Maple Lane
Oakmont Drive
Surrey Court
Thomas More Drive
In addition the following streets have been selected for resurfacing
with non-M. F . T. funds :
Abbott Drive
r Fleetwood Drive
Getzelman Drive
Bordon Drive
Hunter Drive
Stonehurst Drive
Councilman Schmidt noted that the majority of the streets selected
for repair were on the west side and he wanted to know why nothing
was being done on the east side .
Mr . Nelson stated the streets are selected throughout the city
on a most needed basis . Mr . Nelson further pointed out that
funds had been appropriated under the HCD program to improve
streets in the Neighborhood Strategy Area on the east side.
The Council approved the 1981 street resurfacing program.
Request to prepare and submit an application for funds to develop
baseball diamonds at the Elgin Mental Health Center site .
Mr . Nelson stated this was merely authorization for International
Systems to prepare and submit an application for baseball diamonds
grant, which if successful could produce between $650, 000 and
$700, 000.
Councilman Hansen asked if these proposed diamonds were on the
same site being proposed for mining .
Mr . Nelson stated the diamonds are located on a part of the site
which is not being considered for mining because it has been
established there is no gravel beneath that portion of land .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6, 1981
r Page 5
Councilman Hansen asked how many diamonds are presently in use.
Phil Bennett stated there were 20 or 22 presently.
Mr. Nelson stated there was a need for additional diamonds to
serve the number of teams that want to play, and many of the
diamonds are presently on school property in residential
neighborhoods , which has resulted in the city receiving many
citizen complaints because of the parking and traffic in these
neighborhoods . Mr . Nelson further stated that within the next
week a group of players is planning to appear before the Council
with regard to the present status of baseball diamonds .
The Council approved the application for the baseball diamond
grant .
Request to preeare and submit an application on behalf of the
City ' s museum in Lord's Parl<.
The Council approved making application for a grant under the
Illinois State Museum program.
Recommendation to retain the engineering firm of Wiss , Janney,
Elstner and Associates to prepare e Tans and specifications for
the restoration of the Spiess Parking Deck surface .
By way of memorandum the staff advised the Council there is
severe spalling occurring on that part of the Spiess Deck
owned by the City . The spalling does not affect the structural
integrety of the deck at this time , but it could should it
continue .
The staff recommended the city enter into an agreement with the
firm of Wiss , Janney Elstner and Associates for engineering services .
Their fee for the work is $25 , 000 with an additional lump sum
of $6, 000 should we have to improve the drainage in order to
remove the surface water more quickly.
Mr . Nelson stated the budget contains $250,000 for this project
and we need to get the bids out to see just what the cost is
going to be .
Mayor Verbic stated that he said in November and December that
he was very much against footing this bill without finding out
what caused the problem. The Mayor reminded the Council that
back in 1975 the staff recommended the use of Khem Comp Cement,
and the city spent between $30,000 and $35 , 000 for this material
which was suppose to give a longer life .
Mayor Verbic further stated that we need to find out who is
responsible and check the situation out on a legal basis .
Mr . Nelson stated that he agreed the City should find out who
is responsible and we may get a better idea who that is from
this proposed study, but in the meantime I don ' t think we should
sit back and watch the deck deteriorate further.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6 , 1981
Page 6
Councilman Schmidt stated he felt we have an Engineering Department
in Elgin and they should be able to handle the job and why do we
always have to get outside engineers .
Mel Dahl stated that he was a civil engineer, not a structural
engineer, and that his department does everything they can in
house, but if they can not do it he recommends someone to the
Council because that is his job .
Mr. Nelson stated they do not have the expertise to do this type
of project and they are not ashamed to admit it . They are also
tied up with other projects which takes up all their available
time. If you are going to go to court you have to go with the
experts , you can believe the defendants will have the experts .
Councilman Gilliam stated he felt the city should proceed to
repair the deck and they would need the information from this
study to determine who was responsible .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she felt the city had learned a lot
and they should proceed to repair the deck.
Councilman Waters and Councilman Kirkland agreed the city should
proceed with the study and repair of the deck.
Councilman Hansen stated he thought the study to be made by
Janney, Elstner and Associates should be designed for law
suit purposes , and that the staff should talk with the contractor,
and design engineer for the deck.
Summer Council Meeting Schedule .
During the months of June , July and August the Council agreed
to meet only on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month.
The Committee of the Whole meeting will commence at 6: 30 P.M.
Crisis Center Skate-A-Thon
The Council approved a request from the Crisis Center to close
off Riverside Drive and the parking lot south of the Crocker
on June 7th for their fund raiser .
McGraw Wildlife Tour
The Council agreed to tour the McGraw Wildlife site on Wednesday
May 13th, between 1 : 00 and 3 : 30 P.M.
Resolution opposing Elgin Mental Health Center as site for adult
correctional facility.
In response to a letter received from Senator Friedland, the
Council directed the staff to prepare a resolution opposing
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 6, 1981
Page 7
the use of the Elgin Mental Health Center as a adult correctional
facility. Said resolution to be forwarded to the Governor, State
Senators and State Representatives .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 25 P.M.Marie Yearma , City Clerk
C
C
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 13 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, May 13 , 1981 , at 7: 06
P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
Present : Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt,
Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie Yearman,
Corporation Counsel Jentsch , and members of Staff .
Annual Financial Report
Mr . Nelson passed out the Annual Financial Report for the year
ended December 31 , 1980 .
Mr. Phil Augustine of Elmer Fox & Company was present to answer
any questions addressed to him by the Council .
Councilman Hansen noted the usual management letter was not
included in said report.
Mr. Augustine stated this would be forthcoming within the next
few days .
The Council indicated they did not have any questions to raise
at this time and would like to have to opportunity to look into
the financial report and come back with questions , if any.
Elgin Classic Little League ' s request for City ' s participation
in replacement of the present lighting system at the League ' s
fieldlocatedin Wing Park.
Mr. Nelson stated that since the last Committee of the Whole
Meeting, at which time this matter was discussed, he had met
with Mr . Kadlec . Mr . Kadlec indicated they would appreciate
the Council ' s initial offer of one-half, or $2750 . 00 of the
total project cost , which is estimated to be $5 , 504. 00.
The Council approved the city ' s participation in the amount of
$2750. 00
City ' s share for the installation of temporary traffic signals
at State Route 31 and Tollgate/Airport Roads .
On November 12 , 1980 the City Council passed a resolution concurring
with the State ' s engineering investigation and evaluation that the
installation of traffic signals was warranted at this intersection.
This same resolution urged IDOT to install temporary signals pending
a permanent installation and the city was willing to cooperate and
assist with the temporary signals . On December 10th the Council
was informed of IDOT ' s willingness to proceed and that the city ' s
share of the cost would be about $ 7, 500 . 00 .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 13 , 1981
Page 2
The city has now been billed by IDOT in the amount of $7 ,430.61 ,
which is the city ' s share, and the staff recommended payment out
of the MFT funds .
The Council approved said payment.
Replacement of the retaining wall at the parking lot located at
Villa and Fulton .
The replacement of this wall at the Lot D (Fulton & Villa) parking
facility has been discussed for several years . Preliminary designs
were prepared, but because of the work load, and the fact that the
existing wall appeared that it would remain in place for a couple
of more years, these designs were not completed. At the present
time sections of the existing wall have or will collapse and a
new wall should be constructed .
The staff recommended to the Council construction of the steel
bin-type wall , the estimated cost to be about $ 26, 000 to $27 , 000.
There is $27 , 000 in the budget for this work.
The Council approve the staff ' s recommendation for this project .
Bids received for the repair and modernization of housing units
operated by the Elgin Housing Authority.
Mr . Nelson advised the Council this material was referred to
them as a matter of information and that the staff is presently
working on an agreement whereby the Block Grant Funds would be
transferred to the Elgin Housing Authority, and they would make
direct payment to the contractors .
Roger Dahlstrom stated he would expect to have an agreement to
the Council by May 27th.
Illinois Municipal League Legislative Bulletin
Mr. Nelson stated this also was an informational item, but pointed
out that the Illinois Municipal League is quite concerned about
some of the proposed Bills .
Mayor Verbic stated that the Council should work with the elected
representatives on the bad Bills .
The Impact of removing parking meters in accordance with IDEA ' s
revised request .
Mr. Bolerjack advised the Council that as the IDEA map is currently
presented, the remainder of 1981 and 1982 losses and costs are pro-
jected to be $ 126 , 845 in the General Fund and $24, 500 in Special
Service Area #2. The additional property tax rate to finance these
losses will amount to $0.034 per $ 100 assessed valuation in the
General Fund and $0 . 38 per $ 100 assessed valuation in Special Service
Area #2 .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 13 , 1981
Page 3
The General Fund will also incur other losses and extra costs
as follows :
The revenue losses from parking tickets . These losses from
parking tickets are projected to be $8, 000 for the seven months
in 1981 and $ 15 , 000 for the full year in 1982 .
The cost of installing time zone signs .
The effects on the Spring Street Parking Deck includes an
assumption that 18% to 20% or $ 17, 000 of the current operating
revenues will be lost . This assumption seems reasonably when
you consider the 131 free spaces within the cone of influence
of this facility. The cost increase of $4, 000 is an estimate
of the increased administrative overhead that would be allocated
to the Spring Street Facility.
The proposed removal of the parking meters will result in some
savings in expenditures , but the removal of 289 meters from the
1 , 398 currently in operation is only 20. 7%. Employee savings
are primarily the result of less overtime and the reallocation
of overhead cost to the Spring Street Parking Deck.
Councilman Hansen stated this report indicates eliminating one-
fourth of the meters would reduce the income by 50%, and the study
seems to be based on a lot of assumptions . In 1979 the income was
about equal to the expenditures and the meters could have been
taken out at that time.
Mr. Nelson stated we are justtrying to give you cost implications ,
we are not suggesting this is something you should not do.
Ed Doring , of B & D Office Machines on Stated Street, objected
to the removal of meters because he felt commuters would take all
of the spaces used by his customers .
Mr . Nelson stated he had also received an objection from the Postmaster,
who did not want the meters removed on Grove Court because people
would use these spaces for other than post office business .
Stan Douglas , Director of the Central Elgin Corporation, stated the
idea of free parking is in reaction to the parking offered by Spring
Hi ] ] Mall and Fox Valley Center. The proposal would help entice
persons into the downtown area to shop, and in turn increase the
volume of sales tax revenues to the city.
Mayor Verbic stated that the downtown has lost beteen 21 and 23
business establishments and he felt the people from the State
Hospital and the derelicts wandering around downtown were to
blame and not the parking meters .
The Mayor also felt that the present parking fines are not high
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 13 , 1981
Page 4
enough to deter persons from overstaying the time limits . The
Mayor suggested raising the fine to $5 .00 .
Chief Baird stated he felt the parking fine has a negative effect
on out of town persons coming into Elgin to shop and any increase
of fines could turn persons away from the downtown area .
Stan Douglas stated IDEA ' s proposal for a $2 . 00 ticket also mentioned
the possibility of allowing accumulating tickets .
Councilwoman Nelson felt the plan was a worthy experiment and
the Council should proceed with it .
Mr. Nelson stated that a conservative approach would be to take out
the meters in increments and see what happens .
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was adjourned because of the
regular Council Meeting.
The Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 11 : 55 P.M.
Because of the late hour the Mayor suggested the matter of the
meter removal be continued until next week. He suggested that
rik the Council read over the material which had been furnished
and that they have definite questions or suggestions for next
week.
The Committee of the Whole meeting was adjourned at 11 : 58 P.M.
•
cJ
Marie Yearma , City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City
Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, May 20, 1981 , at 7 : 00 P.M. ,
in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present:
Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie Yearman,
Corporation Counsel Jentsch , and members of staff .
Miss Illinois Pageant
Jack Collins appeared before the Council and advised them that
his committee had been successful in bringing the Illinois Pageant
to Elgin this year . For the past 15 years the Pageant has been
held in Aurora .
Mr. Collins stated there would be 40 contestants , together with
their families , who would be coming to Elgin, and it is antici -
pated between 300 to 500 people will attend this event.
Mr . Collins said he was looking for donations to the scholarship
fund and he asked if the city would contribute $500.00.
The Council approved a donation of $500. 00.
Resolution of appreciation on behalf of the Interfaith Task
Force for its voluntary efforts on Saturday, April 11th .
Mr. Nelson stated this project had proved to be very successful ,
and he thought the proposed resolution was in order.
The Council approved the proposed resolution .
Lime residue transmission main easements across Chicago Rawhide
property.
The Council reviewed the proposed temporary construction easements
and permanent easements , which have been granted by Chicago
Rawhide Manufacturing Company.
Councilman Gilliam asked if the city were required to purchase
this land what the estimated cost would be .
Mel Dahl stated it would have run into several thousand, and this
was really a nice gesture on the part of Chicago Rawhide.
Mayor Verbic asked that a letter be sent to Rawhide expressing
the city' s appreciation.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
Page 2
Material testing services for Area 1 improvements .
The staff advised the Council that certain sections of the Area
I improvement consist of the removal and replacement of unstable
soil which will require the expertise of a soils engineer . The
staff invited A & H Engineering to submit a proposal for testing
of materials and soil engineering services , and received a proposal
in the amount of $27 , 571 . 50 .
The staff felt this proposal was reasonable and comparable with
similar services provided by other consultants such as Quality
Assurance Testing, which is providing the testing services for
the new water treatment plant, and Walter H. Flood Company,
which is testing materials for the Spring Street parking deck.
Leo Nelson stated that we know we have bad soils in there and the
staff needs to know what medial means can be taken to correct
this . Our people would be doing the field work and inspection.
Mayor Verbic questioned why the staff did not secure a second
proposal .
Mel Dahl stated that they have so many projects going now they
did not want to spend a lot of time analyzing bids . The price
for labor is the same and they are all comparable.
Councilman Waters asked if there were any local companies that
could perform this service .
Mr . Dahl stated not in this area .
Mr . Nelson stated that if the Council wanted the staff to start
this practice of securing several bids it could be done .
• Councilman Waters stated he thought there should be a second bid
on a project this size, but it seemed like we were under the gun
with this one .
Mr . Dahl stated they are doing the work already.
Mayor Verbic stated he was not aware it was too late and suggested
securing a couple of bids hereafter .
Additional Street Lighting
The Council reviewed a request from Jane E. Cook, Vice President
of the Northeast Neighborhood Association of Elgin, which asked
that the Council consider the need for improved lighting on North
Spring Street in the block from Slade south to Lincoln, and one
additional light mounted on the existing pole near the south line
of 833 N . Spring Street . Adding one luminaire in the vicinity
of 620 N . Spring would bring all of Spring Street into compliance
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
r Page 3
with the surrounding blocks .
Mr . Nelson stated the staff needs to consider this intersection
and then establish a policy for mid-block lighting and what the
cost would be .
Councilman Kirkland felt the city should give priority to the
pole near Sherman Hospital .
Councilman Gilliam felt the people in Blackhawk and other sub-
divisions where there was no mid-block lighting would be in
asking for additional lighting, and the Council should wait
for some general policy.
Mayor Verbic stated he agreed with Councilman Gilliam that if
we do it for one we must do for all .
Councilman Hansen stated the criteria is different in this
instance.
Councilman Waters stated the priorities should be for the
intersections .
The staff prepared a list of 14 intersection without street
lights and with existing power poles , and a list of 29
intersections without street lights and without existing power
poles .
The Council agreed to proceed with the installation of lights
at the 14 intersections with existing poles , and the staff is
to contact Commonwealth Edison for a cost estimate for the
installation of individual poles , wire and lights and bring
this information back to the Council .
Purchase of Rescue Air Bags .
The Council approved the purchase of a three-bag power lifting
system from the low bidder , Great Lakes Fire & Safety Equipment
Company, for a total price of $ 1700. 00
Proposed lease of the Big Timber commuter station site for farming .
Mr. Nelson stated that last year the city entered into an agreement
allowing Hagemann Farms to farm approximately 10 acres at the pro -
posed Big Timber Commuter Site at no cost . Hagemann has advised
the city they wish to farm again this year and the staff feels
there will be no problem because the project would probably not
proceed this year because of the RTA problem. The city has
reached an agreement that Hagemann pay $ 102. 00 per farmed acre .
The Council approved the proposed lease as presented by staff .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
Page 4
Acceptance of Highland Avenue from McLean Boulevard to Randall
Roadforstreet maintenance .
Mr . Dahl stated that he thought there are advantages in having
the maintenance responsibility for Highland Avenue . We get
most of the calls relative to plowing any way and the County
will pay us to do it . The roadway was resurfaced a year ago
and is in excellent condition, and the staff recommends
acceptance of the maintenance of Highland Avenue .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Request to develop a grant pro osal through International
Systems Inc. , in the area of efficient use of police resources .
The Council approved a staff request to develop a grant proposal
in the area of $40,000, through International Systems , Inc. , to
conduct studies in police agencies to further technological
development and to improve manpower allocations .
North End Bridge
Mr. Nelson stated that Bernie Guentner from H . W. Lochner , Inc. ,
is present tonight and some decision should be made as to how
we are going to proceed with the North End Bridge .
Mr. Guentner stated that the memorandum furnished to the Council
on the North End Bridge tells the whole story, but if any of
the Council had specific questions , he would be glad to answer
them.
Mr . Guentner said the additional impact studywould cost about
$ 120, 000 more to complete . The total for the project , if the
Council would go with Slade Avenue , would run about $ 12 Million,
while the Summit proposal would cost $ 16 . 7 Million . A east-west
one street connection using Summit and Seneca streets may bring
the cost of the Summit project down because the city would not
have to acquire as much right of way to widen the two streets .
Mayor Verbic the city would get a better deal for the money
through the Summit plan.
Mr. Guentner stated the cost would be split by Kane County, which
would provide $2 . 3 million; the FWHA providing $4.6 million, and
the city, which would foot the remaining $ 10 million.
Mr . Nelson estimated the city tax rate would increase about 40
per $ 100 assessed value to foot such a bond issue .
Councilman Hansen indicated the present inflation rate may increase
the cost of the project to $ 20 million by the time it is put out
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
Page 5
for bid and he did not think Elgin would be able to come up with
this amount of money, and with the present facts before us , it
does not look like a feasible project.
Mayor Verbic felt the city would be facing the same problem in
the years to come as it is now, and as long as we have the
$4. 5 million we have to plan for the future and think in terms
of completing the bridge . Once the required paperwork is done
and the project is ready for bid we should be in a priority
position to received federal funds .
Councilman Kirkland and Councilwoman Nelson agreed with the
Mayor and stated the project is worth the risk of obtaining
the federal money.
Councilmen Waters and Gilliam stated they agreed with Councilman
Hansen that it is not realistic at this point .
Councilman Schmidt agreed to go ahead with the study as long as
there was no obligation on the city ' s part to spend the $ 10 million.
Mayor Verbic asked Mr. Guentner to submit monthly progress reports
on the environmental impact study because the Kane County Urban
Council of Mayors has been upset with the lack of information
from the city .
Proposed repair of Column Pipe Well 2A
The column pipe which carries the water out of the well from the
pump and also services as the support of the weight is pitted
badly. Inspection indicated that about 380 feet of the pipe
should be replaced .
Two bids were secured and it is the staff ' s recommendation to
purchase 380 feet of pipe from the low bidder, Layne Western
at a cost of $9, 576 .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Further discussion relative to the removal of parking meters in
the downtown area .
Mr. Nelson stated that he thought that after the previous
discussion the Council at this point might be ready to decide
which meters should be removed .
Councilman Schmidt suggested the Council follow down the map
of proposed free spaces .
Grove Court - removal of 18 meters and establishing 15 minute time
zone. Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland and Schmidt voted yes .
Highland Ave. by Grove Court - removal of 11 meters with a 30-
minute time limit . Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland and Schmidt
voted yes .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
Page 6
State Street (West Side) - Councilman Gilliam suggested these
meters remain because of their distance from the downtown area
and enforcement would be difficult. Councilmen Gilliam, Kirkland,
Nelson, and Waters voted to keep the meters at this location.
State Street ( East Side) - Treat the same as the West side of State.
Spring Street between Dexter and Division - removal of 6 meters
and establishing 1 hour time zone. Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen,
Kirkland and Schmidt voted yes . Councilman Waters voted no.
Division Street between Spring and Center - removal of 7 meters
on south side of street and 10 meters on the north side of street,
with a 2 hour limit . Councilmen Hansen. Kirkland , Schmidt and
Mayor Verbic voted yes
Riverside Drive - removal of 89 meters with a 1 hour limit.
Unanimously approved by Council .
Councilman Hansen stated he questioned the city ' s use of parking
meters as a revenue source because the concept of parking meters
is to control parking . The record show the city never made a
profit on parking revenues until 1979 , when the rates were increased .
Mr . Nelson stated the meter revenue was kept within the system
and used to pay off the bonds issued for the Civic Center Parking
lot.
The Council approved a $2 . 00 parking fine and directed that the
staff prepare a courtsey letter to be sent to first offenders .
The Mayor felt the parking fine should be raised to $3 . 00, but
other Council members pointed out that it would be raised to
$3 .00 after 48 hours .
A total of 299 meters are to be removed and staff was directed
to draw the appropriate ordinance .
Proposed Police Reorganization Plan
Deputy Chief Warren Heine stated the rank of sargeant would be
eliminated under the new plan and the existing sargeants would
be appointed to lieutenant by the Board of Police and Fire
Commissioners . A pool of 16 lieutenant supervisory officers
would be created from which the chief would appoint all division
and watch commanders .
In addition a new position of captain would be created, and all
those persons chosen to be in supervisory positions would be
promoted to the rank of captain .
The appointments by the chief are advantageous to the department
because the department would then staff key positions with
productive leadership, oriented supervisors , who subscribe to
progressive management philosophy, provide flexibility of
assignments and place management expertise where it is needed
most .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
Page 7
Mayor Verbic stated that a maverick person with new ideas may
not be able to move up the ladder if his ideas differ with the
top personnel . The Police and Fire Board is an independent
citizen ' s body which can interview potential top level candidates
and made a recommendation of two to three persons to the chief .
Chief Baird stated he would not mind mavericks that offer
affirmative ideas , but there are those in the department
with negative attitudes that want to scuttle the ship.
Councilman Gilliam stated that the chief ' s proposal operates
the department like a business . The system should provide
a better working relationship and better talent within the
department . The Fire and Police Board does a good job, but
they can ' t judge the key things like personality or mobility.
Councilman Schmidt stated he opposed the plan because he saw
it as the first step in an effort to abolish the Police and
Fire Board.
Councilman Hansen stated that the Police Department is not a
business and should be subject to a third party ' s audit of its
appointments to key positions . Councilman Hansen also felt
the Police and Fire Board should have been approached for
their opinion .
Chief Baird stated this matter was originally scheduled for
executive session and he felt it would have been improper to
discuss the plan with anyone else prior to bringing it to
the Council .
Mayor Verbic asked Chief Baird why he had waited 9 years to
present these changes when he must have known after a few years
who was competent and who was not .
Chief Baird stated he was taken on a sleigh ride and he suggested
they go into executive session if the Mayor wanted to get into
personalities .
Councilman Hansen questioned the effect of the changes on the
morale of the department , since 22 policement have resigned
or left the department in the past two years .
Chief Baird stated that many of the 22 left the department because
they were fired, were asked to quit or left for what they thought
were greener pastures .
Councilmen Gilliam, Kirkland, Nelson and Waters voted in favor
of the reorganization . Councilmen Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor
Verbic voted against the proposal .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 20, 1981
Page 8
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10 : 55 P.M.
Marie Yearman , City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 27 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, May 27, 1981 , at 7 : 00
P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present : Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland , Nelson, Schmidt ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic . Absent : None .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson, City Clerk Marie Yearman,
Corporation Counsel Jentsch, and members of staff .
Proposed Resolution supporting a feasibility study for the Elgin-
O ' Hare corridor .
Mr . Nelson stated that this matter was reviewed back in April ,
a proposed resolution having been forwarded to us by the DuPage
County Planning Commission, asking Elgin to join other communities
in supporting a feasibility study for the Elgin-O ' Hare corridor .
The resolution has been prepared and is on the Council Agenda
for passage tonight .
Councilman Hansen asked if there would be any Elgin money
involved.
Mayor Verbic stated there was no money involved at this point
and he did not feel there would be any harm in cooperating with
the other communities in supporting the feasibility study .
Councilmen Gilliam and Waters stated they still felt there was
no real benefit in this project for Elgin .
The Council did not indicate whether the resolution should
remain on the agenda , or whether it should be removed.
Appellate Court ' s decision in the Brodner, et al . -v- City
ofElgincase .
Counsel Jentsch stated that when the 0-District Zoning was
added to the Elgin City Code, the owners of seven parcels of
land filed suit challenging the reclassification of their
property from business district zoning to office district
zoning .
Judge Krause granted the motion of the City to dismiss the
complaint on the grounds that the property owners ' consent
was not required for city initiated reclassification and
that the various plaintiffs had failed to exhaust their
administrative remedies by seeking reclassification of their
individual properties . The property owners appealed the
dismissal and the Appellate Court affirmed the dismissal .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 27 , 1981
Page 2
Councilman Hansen stated that he had spoken with Mr . Brodner
and was advised that Mr. Brodner has decided not to build his
factory in Elgin .
Counsel Jentsch pointed out that these property owners could
come back on a individual basis .
Bid for a liquor concession at the Hemmen ' s Auditorium.
Mr . Nelson stated the sole bid received by the city was on
the Council Agenda tonight and he wondered if the Council
had any question concerning same.
Mr. Don Koepke , President of Liquorland Enterprises , Inc. ,
who is the sole bidder, stated that he was not aware of
the amendment to the liquor ordinance , which specified
that no alcoholic beverages other than wine shall be sold
or delivered at events for which admission is charged and
which are open to the general public. Mr . Koepke stated it
was his understanding that rather than just wine, alcohol
beverages across the board could be sold .
Counsel Jentsch stated the Council , at the time the ordinance
was amended , did not want a full line of alcoholic beverages
available .
Mike Sarro stated the concession agreement does not stipulate
that only wine be made available for public admission .
Phil Bennett stated this amendment was requested because they
did not want this service available to rock concerts .
Mr . Koepke indicated he was still interested in the concession
but he would find this confining because many people do not
like wine .
Mayor Verbic stated he would be in favor of amending the
ordinance to provide for the sale of alcoholic beverages .
Councilman Gilliam stated he was opposed to the public being
able to come in and buy alcoholic beverages , but if it would
take this amendment to do the job right, he would go along
with it .
Councilwoman Nelson stated it was against her better judgment
but she would go along with the amendment.
Councilmen Hansen , Schmidt and Kirkland approved the amendment .
Mr. Koepke indicated that he understood that the bid would
be approved tonight , but the amended ordinance would not be
presented until the next Council meeting on June 10th .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 27, 1981
Page 3
Discussion re RTA situation .
The Council reviewed a summary of receipts and disbursements
in the transportation fund, which indicated and estimated
amount due from the RTA as of May 31 , 1981 , to be $ 140, 383 •
Mr. Moller reported the city has enough fuel to keep the buses
running to a week from this Saturday . Mr . Moller also stated
the fuel supplier has indicated they would continue to supply
the fuel if the city will assume responsibility for payment
of same .
Mayor Verbic asked if the city could limit the routes to those
using maximum riders in order to extend the available fuel .
Mr. Nelson stated that it is up to each carrier as to how far
they want to go. When this was discussed in April the Council
indicated they would be willing to go on a week to week basis .
Councilwoman Nelson stated we should be thinking about saving
services in order to stretch the fuel .
Councilman Gilliam asked if there was any contingency plan
after the gas is gone .
Mr. Nelson stated we owe it to the people to give at least
two days notice of any shut down of services .
Councilman Gilliam suggested the staff develop a plan.
Discussion re cemetery.
Councilman Schmidt stated that over the weekend he had received
fourteen calls and one letter regarding the deplorable conditions
at the cemetery. Councilman Schmidt further stated that the
citizens are being charged for perpetual care, but they are
not getting their money ' s worth . The weeds are ankle deep,
they are higher than the markers , and it looks worse than Potter ' s
field .
Mr. Nelson stated that he had been out to the cemetery because he
too had received some calls . The east edge of the cemetery is in
bad condition and the staff is sending someone out there to see
what has to be done . The staff will get back to the Council with
a recommendation on this matter .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 15 P.M.
Marie Yearman , city clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, June 10 , 1981 , at 6 : 30 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present: Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson , Schmidt, Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson , City Clerk Marie
Yearman, Corporation Counsel Jentsch, and members of staff .
Change Order #3 to our contract with W. F . Wetzel Construction
Corp . for life safety code work at the Elgin Senior Center.
Mr . Nelson stated this change order just reimburses the city
from the HCD funds for water service billing by the city.
The Council approved the subject Change Order.
1980 Census Neighborhood Statistics Program.
Roger Dahlstrom reviewed with the Council a map, which reflected
the proposed neighborhood boundaries . Mr . Dahlstrom pointed out
that the city is broken down into 13 census tracts , and the staff
is presently attempting to redraw the boundaries so we could get
information that is normally only at the census tract level .
All neighborhoods for which data are to be provided must be
officially recognized through : a municipal law or similar legal
or administrative action ; a letter from the locality ' s highest
elected official to the Director of the Bureau of the Census ;
or written certification from a central neighborhood council
or coalitition representing all of the neighborhoods in the
locality.
All areas within any given neighborhood must be considered part
of that neighborhood only, no portion of the locality may be
included in more than one neighborhood .
A mechanism must exist whereby concerned residents within a
neighborhood are assured the opportunity to present their views
on municipal matters to city officials . Examples of such
mechanisms are : Elected or appointed representatives , neighbor-
hood councils , citizen associations and neighborhood liaisons
to city hall .
Councilman Hansen asked if there was any cost to the city for
this project .
Mr . Dahlstrom replied no. Mr . Dahlstrom stated at this time he
was only asking for the Council ' s concurrence on the proposed
boundaries .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
r Page 2
The Council approved the proposed boundaries .
Proposal to assist the Elgin Housing Authority through HUD' S
Comprehensive Improvement Assistance Program.
Mr. Nelson stated that last year the Elgin Housing Authority
applied to the 1981 Housing and Community Development Block
Grant Committee for $ 109 , 000 in funds , which would enable
them to replace badly worn major applicances and plumbing
fixtures throughout their 150 senior citizen units and 105
family units . Due to the number of HCD proposals and limited
funds the hearing committee could not recommend such a request .
It would appear that the Comprehensive Improvement Assistance
Program could supply funds for such improvements and the staff
is asking the Council ' s approval to instruct the city ' s grant
consultants , International Systems , to proceed with a grant
proposal for the Elgin Housing Authority. This would preclude
the Elgin Housing Authority from seeking 1982 HCD funds .
The Council directed the staff to proceed with this grant
proposal .
A report from the Finance Department estimating the City ' s
operating losses for transportation.
The Council reviewed a report of estimated operating losses
for the period June 1 , 1981 through August 31 , 1981 , which
reflected an accumulated loss of $443 , 860 by August 31 , 1981 .
Mr . Nelson stated that the Governor has refused to release
the sales tax funds until he is shown a plan as to how these
funds will be spent . Jerry Boose advises there are a couple
of plans contemplated, and Elgin is included for some payment ,
but at this time we do not know what the amount of payment
would be .
Mr . Nelson passed out a copy of a letter which was sent out
on Monday to municipalities, which the City of Elgin Transportation
Department serves . This letter reflects the transit losses in
providing service to these communities and suggests the City of
Elgin may be requesting their participation in the funding of
the transit expenses if the RTA ' s funding problems are not
resolved.
Mr. Nelson stated the Council would have to decide if they
wanted to continue to carry the operating losses , of if they
wanted to discontinue service to the communities outside of
Elgin, they should give these communities the opportunity
to see if they wanted to contribute . Mr. Nelson pointed out
that the city should know by next week what decision has been
made for the sales tax money .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
Page 3
Councilwoman Nelson stated we should stay on top of the situation,
but that she was not in a position to make a decision tonight
relative to cutting the service.
Councilman Hansen suggested cutting out inefficient runs and
perhaps running the buses once an hour instead of every half
hour.
Mayor Verbic suggested cutting down the night service and
giving the other communities a time limit on their decision
to contribute for the service .
Councilwoman Nelson stated that she had no objection to
cutting down the night service .
Mr. Nelson pointed out that if all the out of town routes
were shut down we would be faced with laying off 16 out
of 41 drivers , and eliminating the use of 10 buses . Mr.
Nelson suggested waiting until next week to see what happens
to the sales tax money, and writing letters to other communities
asking for their prorata share .
Mayor Verbic stated that all these communities were contributing
for this service in 1975 .
Councilman Kirkland stated the letters should set a deadline
for the service and we should allow time for the communities
to have a meeting to make a decision.
Mr . Nelson suggested their responses must be made by next
Wednesday and the service cut off date be June 30, 1981 .
Councilman Hansen felt the sharing of cost to the communities
should be retroactive.
Councilman Waters and Councilwoman Nelson stated they were
not ready to cut services tonight .
Herbert Gross asked the Council how does the city know that
the present bus routes are the best routes .
Mayor Verbic stated this was established by a study made by
the Transit Director.
Councilman Hansen suggested that the city consider the use
of our computers for a car pool service to the citizens in
the event of a shut down.
The Council agreed to meet on Wednesday, June 17th, to
reconsider this matter.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
Page 4
Proposal to construct the Lime Residue Transmission Main
through Area I .
The Council reviewed a staff recommendation from the Engineering
Department, which stated that the Area I Special Assessment
Improvement and The Lime Residue Transmission Main are two
separate projects . However, the Lime Residue Transmission
Main, from the New Water Treatment Plant to the Permanent
Lime Slduge Lagoons at the Elgin Mental Health Site, is to be
installed along Weston Avenue in Area I .
It is essential that the transmission main be installed along
Weston Avenue ( from Oakley Blvd . to Larkin Ave . ) before the
street improvements in Area I are completed.
The underground utility contractor for the Area I project
(Gluth Bros . ) has submitted a quote in the amount of $72 , 153 . 00
for the installation of that section of the transmission main.
The staff stated they believed the single proposal from Gluth
Bros . will save time , save money and lessen the amount of
interference between contractors, and the staff recommended
acceptance of the Gluth proposal .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
License from the Chicago and Northwestern Transportation
Company for the Lime Residue Transmission Main .
The Council approved proceeding with and obtaining a license
from the Chicago and Northwestern Transportation Company for
the line residue transmission main .
Right of Entry Permit from the Chicago and Northwestern
Transportation Company to drill test holes .
The Council approved proceeding to obtain the right of entry
permit from the Chicago and Northwestern .
Request from the Greater Elgin Senior Center to provide free
parking for three buses operated by the Senior Center .
The Council reviewed a request from the Greater Elgin Senior
Center for permission to park three of their buses in the last
three spaces in the lot on Geneva Street across from the center .
The Senior Center also requested that then they move into their
new quarters in August or September that they be allowed to
reserve spaces in the Sears lot or the city lot directly across
the street from the center .
The Council approved this request .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
Page 5
A request from the Elgin Economic Develoement Commission
to share the cost of the " Invest in America ' s Cities" program
to be held in Zurich, Switzerland.
The Council reviewed a request from the Elgin Economic
Development Commission to participate in an " Invest in
America ' s Cities Show in Zurich, Switzerland, which is
being sponsored by the U . S . Conference of Mayors .
To co-sponsor this project with the Elgin Area Chamber of
Commerce , the city ' s share would be $ 2, 500, and Ed Kelly
would be representing the city.
Mayor Verbic felt this was a good investment for the city,
and pointed out that there are four foreign firms who have located
their plants in Elgin .
The Council approved participating in this project .
Proposal to provide for monthly permit parking in certain
off-street parking lots .
The Council reviewed a memorandum from James Bolerjack relative
to various unmetered parking lots owned by the city. Mr .
Bolerjack stated that the city has 239 spaces in four unmetered lots
and these spaces are in direct competition with the city ' s
metered lots . The lots in question are:
South Grove and Prairie ( currently available for lease)
Sears lot at South Spring and Fulton (currently 2 hours free)
Sears lot - South side of Fulton (currently free)
South Grove - East side (currently available to lease
Mr. Bolerjack suggested leasing space in the South Grove and
Prairie lot for $ 15 .00 monthly, or $ 120. 00 per year. The
Sears Lot - Spring and Fulton could be changed to one-hour
parking , which would be consistent with the enforcement of
the new customer parking on Fulton and other east-west streets
in the area . The Sears Lot - South Side of Fulton should be
leased for $ 15 . 00 per month or $ 120.00 per year . South Grove
- East Side lot , spaces should continue to be leased for
$ 10.00 per month .
Councilman Schmidt asked if there would be any possibility of
moving the city bus terminal to the lot behind Schneider ' s
Bowling Alley, instead of having it in the conjested area
that it is now. This should also generate more foot traffic
in the Mall .
Mayor Verbic stated this would have to be studied because of
the bus schedules
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
Page 6
Mr. Nelson stated the westerly buses would have a problem
keeping their schedules , but the staff could look into this
and bring a report of their findings back to the Council .
Councilmen Gilliam, Kirkland, Nelson and Waters approved
the staff ' s recommendation for the four parking lots in
question .
Recommendation to convert Spring Street between Division
and Kimball Streets to a two-way street, effective June 1 ,
1982.
The Council reviewed a request from the Traffic Committee
to convert Spring Street , between Kimball Street and Division
Street , into a two-way operation effective June 1 , 1982 .
Mr. Nelson stated this matter was reviewed in March of this
year and at that time the Council only acted on the two-way
operation between Highland and Division. At that time the
Council indicated they would be in favor of continuing the
two-way operation to Kimball Street , and Mr . Nelson asked
if the Council was ready to act on a resolution to provide
that this operation would be effective June 1 , 1982 .
Councilman Schmidt asked why the recommendation was made to
change this when the present operation has been running
efficiently for a number of years .
Mr . Nelson stated this was being recommended because it would
help relieve some of the conjection on Douglas and Dundee ,
and it would provide better access to the new parking facility
on Spring Street .
Councilman Schmidt stated this was going to present problems
for the St . John ' s school bus and for Eby Brown and he thought
the city should leave well enough alone. Councilman Schmidt
pointed out that the city might be creating another Shedd-
Bartush situation .
Councilman Kirkland stated he was under the impression this
conversion was to take place as of January 1st .
Mr . Nelson stated that it would be too difficult to restrip
during the winter .
Councilman Hansen stated he felt more consideration should
be given to Eby Brown ' s problem, they have been good business
residents , have really cleaned up their area and he would
hate to see them move from Elgin .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
Page 7
Mayor Verbic suggested that the staff contact Mr . Michael
of Eby Brown and see if he has been able to resolve the
problems since the Council met with him in March.
Councilman Gilliam stated that this conversion ties in with
what we are doing downtown, and Councilmen Kirkland, Nelson
and Waters indicated they were in favor of going ahead with
the conversion .
Mr. Nelson stated that he would contact St . John ' s to see
what could be done to eliminate their problems .
Development Grant for the proposed baseball complex at the
Elgin Mental Health Center site .
Mr . Nelson stated a resolution was not necessary for the
matter at this time and that he would bring this back to
the Council at a later date .
1981 Summer Youth Theater.
The Council approved a staff request to revise the budget
figure from $ 1 ,000 to $2 , 150 for rayalties and book rentals
in connection with the presentation of West Side Story.
Fire Department Ladder Truck #4
Chief Van De Voorde advised the Council that the National
Testing Company of Danbury, Connecticut, tested Truck #4
on Monday, June 8, 1981 , for structural safety. They have
recommended that the truck be removed from service since
damage and wear have rendered it unsafe for continued use .
Chief Van De Voorde stated he felt this was an emergency
situation and it is important to replace Truck #4 as soon
as possible , because we have hospitals and high rise buildings
on bath sides of the river.
Councilman Hansen stated we can not afford to risk life or
property and he would support the Fire Department 100% in
replacing this fire truck, which is worn out .
Mayor Verbic stated this truck is 24 years old and has seen
its service .
The Council agreed to purchase a new ladder truck at a cost
of approximately $200,000 .
Mr . Nelson stated he would bring back this matter as soon
as some figures were compiled.
t '
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 10, 1981
Page 8
Final report for the Valley Fox Trot event.
The Council reviewed the final report covering the Valley Fox
Trot event , which showed a deficit of $701 . 10. Mr. Nelson
stated this amount is being reimbursed by Bob Hoffer.
The Council directed the staff to send a thank you letter
to Mr. Hoffer .
Fan Failure/Cooling Tower
The Council approved the amount of $ 1 ,888 to cover the cost
of repairing one of the fan units on the cooling tower that
services City Hall and the Hemmens Building.
Removal of parking meters
The Council directed that the ordinance covering the removal
of parking meters be- amended to include the removal of meters
on North Douglas between North and Kimball Streets . This
request was through Stan Douglas .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole , the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 55 P.M.
Q(7_,-, 1 )
Marie Yearman , City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
elk
June 17, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, June 17 , 1981 , at
6 :45 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson,
Schmidt, and Waters . Absent: Councilman Gilliam and
Mayor Verbic.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of
staff.
Request from Tidy Carpets requesting permission to conduct
its annual tent sale .
Mr . Nelson advised the Council they could formally approve
this request in the recessed Council meeting tonight , if
they so desired.
The Council indicated they would approve the request tonight .
Request from the Police Department to acquire additional computer
equipment .
The Council reviewed a request from the staff to purchase
computer equipment totalling $23 , 120. At the beginning of
1981 the city received a grant in the amount of $21 ,053
from the Kane County Criminal Justice Commission for the
purchase of additional computer equipment, and the staff
requested permission to expend an additional $ 2, 067 for
the balance of this equipment at this time .
Mr . Nelson stated there was $2, 000 available in their
budget .
The Council approved the staff ' s request .
Recommendation to sell City owned property located at
1231 Larkin Avenue .
At a Committee of the Whole meeting on April 22, 1981 , the
Council reviewed a staff recommendation that the parcel of
land upon which a vacant house stands be sold, retaining
the right-of-way for the Larkin/Highland couple . The
Council approved the staff ' s recommendation and suggested
that the house be put out for bid .
The staff brought back to the Council for their further
consideration the following:
Dedication plat for additional right-of-way for Larkin Ave. ,
which would facilitate the anticipated intersection improvement
at Larkin and Clifton.
A survey defining the parcel of land the city would like to sell
at 1231 Larkin Avenue and ,
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 17, 1981
Page 2
A market evaluation of the property at 1231 Larkin Avenue,
prepared by Jerry Hoover .
Mr. Nelson pointed out that Mr . Hoover suggested a minimum
bid of $23, 500 or $ 24, 500 . Mr . Nelson stated it is not a
good time to try and sell property but the house is just
sitting there vacant , and it would be nice if it could be
sold .
Councilman Hansen stated that he was all for getting the
property back on the tax rolls .
Mr . Nelson asked the Council what minimum they would like
to establish on the bid .
Councilman Kirkland suggested the property might have more
value if it were zoned "0" Limited Office District, as is
the property across the street , as well as having a gas
station one block to the east .
Councilman Hansen felt there might be a problem having the
city rezone the property to up the selling price .
Mr. Nelson stated they could have the Land Use Committee
take a look at this and give their recommendation, and
also have Jerry Hoover give an evaluation with the "0" zoning .
Councilman Waters suggested the staff obtain the additional
information and bring it back to the Council .
Proposal from American LaFrance to the city to purchase a
100 foot aerial ladder truck.
The Council reviewed a proposal submitted by American LaFrance
covering one American LaFrance Custom Century Series Rear-
. Mounted Aerial Ladder Apparatus , complete with 100-foot high-
capacity ladder and hydraulic outriggers with 18-foot spread,
for $206 , 947 . 00. The trade- in allowance for the old Truck 4,
as is , where is, with damaged ladder acknowledged is $7 , 500 . 00,
making the total cost of the new truck $ 199,447 . 00 .
As a result of a mid-year budget review, the Budget Committee
has examined the revenues and expenditures of the Federal Revenue
Sharing Fund, and estimate a balance of $ 143,065 should be
available at the end of 1981 . Mr . Nelson stated that he would
recommend that the $40, 000, required for the down payment on
the new ladder truck come from this fund .
Mr. Nelson further stated that American LaFrance is forwarding
an agreement to the city, which would cover the balance due, but
rik a local bank has indicated they can beat the terms offered by
American LaFrance.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 17 , 1981
Page 3
Councilman Hansen asked what interest rate was being offered
by American LaFrance .
Mr. Nelson stated twelve and a quarter per cent .
Councilman Waters asked when the city could expect delivery
of the new truck.
Chief Van De Voorde stated delivery should be made the end
of July or the first week in August .
Mr. Nelson thought the Council should wait until they have
the information concerning the terms from both the bank and
American LaFrance .
The Council concurred with Mr . Nelson ' s recommendation .
Request for a vacation of an alley running east and west
from Douglas to Spring Street between Dexter and North .
Attorney Lyle C . Brown, who represents Elgin Eby-Brown
Company, advised the city that his client intends to acquire
Ackemann ' s warehouse and connect it to the existing building
of Eby-Brown. This would provide additional operating space
for an expanding business , as well as to provide receiving
relief from Spring Street .
Attorney Brown requested that the city consider the vacation
of the 12 foot alley presently lying between the North half
and the South half of Block 5 .
Mr. Nelson stated a similar request by Ludwig Dairy for a
alley vacation was approved previously, and he did think
this might help out the situation with the two-way traffic
conversion on Spring Street .
The Council approved the proposed vacation, and Councilman
Schmidt stated he would like to have Hawley Michaels meet
with the Council to discuss whether or not he had a solution
to the loading dock problems .
Discussion re transit services .
Mr. Nelson stated that in response to letters sent to the
various communities outside Elgin who are receiving transit
services, Aurora would not make a commitment , St . Charles
and Batavia said no, Geneva and South Elgin have the matter
under consideration , Carpentersville, Crystal Lake, Algonquin,
and Hanover Park said no, and East and West Dundee, Lake in
the Hills , Streamwood or Bartlett have not responded.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 17 , 1981
Page 4
Mr. Nelson said there was some indication the the Spring Hill
Mall owners may consider funding the 803 Carpentersville route
for a thirty day period .
Councilman Waters asked if the letters conveyed the fact that
the service would be discontinued.
Mr. Nelson stated absolutely, July 3rd would be the last day.
However, Mr . Nelson pointed out that if the 805 route between
Elgin and Crystal Lake was discontinued , this would effect the
service to Willow Lake and Davis Park.
Councilman Schmidt asked if the service to Willow Lake and
Davis Park could be consolidated with another city route.
Mr. Nelson stated the route could be reconstructed to cover
these areas .
Councilman Waters asked what the RTA owes the city at this
point .
Mr. Jepson stated about $ 175 ,000.
Councilman Waters stated he was reluctant to cut the services
at this time but in view of the response received from these
other communities obviously they do not feel any responsibility
to continue the services .
Mr. Nelson stated that all the Council had to do this evening
was direct that an ordinance be prepared for passage next week
discontinuing the service outside of Elgin. Mr . Nelson felt
this might make the other communities realize that something
is going to be done .
Councilman Hansen stated that he was all for the bus service
and he felt the city was demonstrating more feeling than the
surrounding communities . However, Mr . Hansen felt that even
if the RTA survives its system will be greatly changed and
there will be no obligation on the part of the new regime
to repay the city .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she thought the Council should have
an ordinance in hand ready to proceed next week, and that the
out of town service should not be extended beyond July 3rd.
Councilman Hansen stated he would like to see the city eliminate
the five out of town routes , eliminate the night service, raise
the fares , and cut the day runs to one hour instead of half-hour.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 17, 1981
Page 5
Counsel Jentsch stated the city could not increase the fares
under the current agreement with the RTA.
Councilman Hansen stated then the city should petition the
RTA for the increase .
Mr. Nelson stated that perhaps at this point the Council
should deal with just the out of town service .
The Council unamiously voted to have an ordinance prepared
discontinuing the out of town service and reconstructing
the 805 route .
Mr . Nelson stated it would be his suggestion at this time
not to disrupt the night service, but wait until July 1st
or July 3rd to see what will happen with the RTA.
Councilmen Nelson and Waters concurred with this suggestion.
Councilman Hansen pointed out that according to the figures
there are only two or three people using some of these night
services, and it would be cheaper to give them cab fare than
run a bus . Councilman Hansen said he would like to provide
as much service as possible with the least amount having to
be borne by the taxpayer .
Ray Moller stated he felt there was going to be a solution
for the RTA and he asked that the Council hold off any
disruption in the Elgin service .
Mr . Nelson stated there is a great deal of feeling that
something will happen by July 1st and he hoped to Council
would not disrupt the service until at least then .
Councilman Waters stated he thought it is premature to cut
in town services because he was hopeful the city will get
its money.
Councilmen Hansen and Schmidt were in favor of discontinuing
the night service, Councilman Kirkland stated he was not
ready to vote on this tonight, but that he would go along
with having an ordinance prepared for passage next week.
Councilmen Nelson and Waters were opposed to the cut in
night service .
Tour of New Water Treatment Plant .
The Council agreed to tour the new water treatment plant on
July 29th at 4: 00 P.M.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 17, 1981
Page 6
Opening of Renovated Lord ' s Park Zoo
The Parks & Recreation Board extended an invitation to the
Council to attend the Lord ' s Park Zoo formal grand opening
on Saturday, July 11 , 1981 , at 11 : 00 A .M.
Proposed policy for refunds on golf passes .
Mr . Nelson stated there had been several occasions where
a season golf pass was purchased and early in the season
the purchaser was injured, suffered a heart attack or died,
and up to now the city has not set a policy for refunds
in such instances .
The Parks and Recreation Board has requested that they
be allowed to deal with such a situation on a case by
case basis .
The Council approved the Board ' s request .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole , the meeting was adjourned at 8 : 55 P. M.
VALAJ-16-4-0-.)
Marie Yearma City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 24, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on Wednesday, June 24,
1981, at 7:40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members
present: Councilmen Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Absent: Councilman Gilliam.
Also present: Acting City Manager James Aydt, Acting City Clerk Nancy Roll,
Corporation Counsel Erwin Jentsch and members of the staff.
Discussion of Out-of-Town Bus Service
Mr. Aydt presented the City Council with a letter from the Village of Car-
pentersville stating that they would assist the City of Elgin in the funding
of the Carpentersville commuter route for 30 days at a cost of $3,426. Spring
Hill Mall agreed to pay East and West Dundee's share of $1,000.
The Council agreed to set a special meeting date of July 2, 1981 at 5:00 p.m.
to discuss transportation service, following the June 30th deadline for a
bail out program of the transportation system.
Discussion of Second Amendment to Valley Creek Annexation Agreement
Mr. Aydt presented the City Council with a revised Second Amendment to an
Annexation Agreement for Valley Creek. At the public hearing on June 10,
Valley Creek expressed concern over the language in the agreement which could
require Valley Creek to construct both on-site and off-site stormwater control.
The revision waives on-site detention requirements of 200 acres of Valley Creek
and changes the City's land acquisition deadline for the Tyler Creek Detention
Basin from December 31, 1983 to December 31, 1982.
Discussion of Public Hearing Date for Deannexation
The City Council reviewed a memorandum from the Corporation Counsel asking that
they set a date for a public hearing for the deannexation of property commonly
referred to as the K-Mart property. The Council agreed to set the public hear-
ing on July 22, 1981.
The Council recessed at 8:10 p.m. for the Regular City Council Meeting.
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was reconvened at 9:20 p.m.
Report from Police Department Concerning Petition re Noise Pollution
Mr. Aydt stated that the Council received a petition from Century Oaks area
residents regarding noise pollution.
Warren Danielson stated that he met with Mrs. Cooper regarding the petition
complaining of excessive noise in the Fairwood Court area. The complaint
Ae'• centered around a loud vehicle and noisy parties. The police department
talked with the owner of the vehicle who agreed to drive more quietly. They
also talked with the landlord, who in turn spoke with the tenants accused of
the excessively noisy party. A follow-up discussion between the police depart-
ment and Mrs. Cooper revealed that the noise problems have pretty much ceased.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
,,, June 24, 1981
Page 2
Consideration of Contracts for the Performing Arts
Mr. Aydt stated that the programs have been very well received by the schools
and have been a money making proposition.
The Council agreed to go ahead with the performing arts series.
Consideration of Amendment to the Official Pay Plan for Position of Assistant
Corporation Counsel
Mr. Aydt presented the Council with a memorandum regarding adjustments to the
official salary plan. He stated that the availability of attorneys is greater
today than five years ago and market conditions indicate lowering the salary.
Mayor Verbic stated that Jim Binninger was a very capable and well-like attorney
with five years at the City of Elgin. The Mayor questioned whether someone with
experience would come to the City at this salary.
Corporation Counsel Jentsch stated that he interviewed applicants ranging from
student interns to attorneys with 5 - 6 years experience and that there are more
attorneys than positions available.
e► Councilman Hansen stated that the legal budget is quite large due to the City
suing its own citizens with their money. He suggested the City not become
engaged in so much litigation. Councilman Hansen also stated that he favored
a reduction in the legal department budget, possibly by eliminating the position
of Assistant Corporation Counsel.
Councilman Waters supported the recommendation of lowering the salary for
Assistant Corporation Counsel from 44B to 34B.
Councilman Schmidt stated that if the City needs an Assistant Corporation Counsel,
he would support the salary change.
Mayor Verbic concurred in the salary change.
Mr. Aydt stated that the court prosecution done by the Assistant Corporation
Counsel is obvious, however, much of what is done by the Assistant Corporation
Counsel is not seen but saves the City money by averting lawsuits.
It was the concensus of the Council to set the salary of the Assistant Corpora-
tion Counsel at 34B.
Miscellaneous
Mr. Aydt informed the City Council that the Police Department will have a display
on the mall to promote public relations.
Mr. Aydt stated that the City will observe the 4th of July on July 3. Council-
man Schmidt asked that someone be available to answer the telephone at the
cemetery on Friday, July 3.
t
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 24, 1981
Page 3
Mayor Verbic stated that he received several telephone calls from businesses
in Area 1 complaining that road construction has blocked access to their
businesses.
Mr. Aydt said he would discuss the problem with Mel Dahl to see what could
be done to make businesses accessible during the construction and would
inform the Council of Mr. Dahl's recommendations.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of the Whole,
the meeting was adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
Nancy Ko Actinty Clerk
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING
July 8 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, July 8, 1981 , at
6 :40 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland,
Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present : City Manager Leo Nelson , City Clerk Marie
Yearman, Corporation Counsel Jentsch and members of staff .
Letter from retired Fire Lieutenant Al Ross , offering to
include the Elgin Fire Department as a recipient of funds
which may exceed the amount of money which he hopes to
receive in a raffle of his home and business .
The Council reviewed a letter from Mr . Ross in which he
stated that he was experiencing difficulty in trying to
sell his home and as an alternative to trying to sell
it on the open market, he would like to try and raffle
it off. Mr . Ross proposed to sell 2500 tickets at $ 100. 00
each, from which proceeds he would receive $ 150, 000 and
the other $ 100, 000 would be split between the Elgin Fire
Department and the Elgin Turners .
Mr. Nelson stated that he told Mr . Ross he thought this
was a very generous offer, but after talking with the
Corporation Counsel , he was advised raffles are in violation
of the State Criminal Code .
Mr . Ross felt this would be his problem and he wanted to
know if the City would accept the proceeds and if he could
advertise the fact that the City would be receiving these
proceeds .
Mayor Verbic felt this would be like opening pandora ' s box,
• especially in view of how many homes are for sale , and he
did not feel it was the proper thing to do.
Councilman Schmidt agreed that this was this up and coming
thing today, but agreed it would open up the situation to
others .
Councilmen Hansen , Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor Verbic
voted against the City being involved in a raffle .
Proposed removal of parking restrictions on the west side of
Jackson Street from West Highland Avenue to West Chicago Street .
Mr . Nelson stated this parking restriction was made because
of a bus route . The street was 32 feet wide and it was difficult
to maneuver the buses , if cars were parked on both sides . This
bus has now been re- routed, and the reason for the parking
restriction no longer exists . The staff recommended removal
of the parking restriction .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 8, 1981
Page 2
Continued discussion of the proposed sale of City owned
property at 1231 Larkin Avenue.
Mr. Nelson stated that at a previous meeting the Council
had discussed an evaluation by Jerry Hoover, evaluated the
proposed lot with R-2 single family zoning at approximately
$ 24, 000. He evaluated the adjoining potential R-2 lot
fronting on Larkin at $ 15 , 000 for a combined value of the
two lots , sold separately, between $38, 500 to $40, 00 . At
that time the Council requested that Mr . Hoover make an
evaluation of the property with 0-zoning.
Mr . Hoover felt the lost with the house, having 0-zoning
would be worth $4,000 to $5 ,000 additional , or $ 27 , 500
to $ 29, 500. The staff felt the ajoining potential lot
fronting on Larkin Avenue would be necessary to have an
adequately sized site for office development . This lot
has a value of approximately $ 25 , 000. The anticipated
lots fronting on Larkin with 0-Limited office zoning would
then have a combined value ranging from $52, 500 to $54, 500.
Councilman Schmidt did not feel the City should go into the
business of rezoning property which they own .
Mayor Verbic felt the persons buying the property should come
in for any rezoning , because it looks like we are going it
to further our own financial benefit .
Councilman Gilliam stated that other citizens would do it
to upgrade their property and the Council would be negligent
not to get as much money as we could for the citizens . If
we akay it as a body for comeone else, why should we deny
the city the money .
Councilman Waters stated that usually the petition, which
would go before the Land Use Committee, provides for the
use of the land, and this is required of other citizens .
Councilman Hansen stated the city should not be in the real
estate business and we should let enterprise work it out.
Mr . Hansen also felt that the other lot should be sold,
or perhaps all of it should be sold, but the staff should
make sure it is excess land .
Councilman Hansen, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor Verbic voted
against instituting a petition for rezoning , but agreed
the two lots should be sold.
Status Report of the 911 system.
Chief Baird stated the city of Elgin filed their tentative 911
plan with the Illinois Commerce Commission on September 11 ,
1978. The plan stated that it was our intent not to implement
a 911 system until selective routing was available and federal
or state funding was obtainable to finance the project.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 8, 1981
Page 3
Prior to our filing the tentative plan in 1978 South Elgin
officials were contacted in regard to a consolidated communi -
cations system and the implementation of a 911 system. They
were not desirous of exploring such an arrangement at that
time.
Because of the volume of calls South Elgin receives, that in
turn would have to be re- routed , Chief Baird recommended that
the city staff be allowed to pursue talks with South Elgin
to engage in a joint dispatch operation and then proceed with
a 911 plan. Should these talks not be productive then we are faced
with selecting one of two alternatives .
Continue to operate as we presently are doing i .e. : a joint
police , fire , ambulance dispatch service for the City of Elgin,
which works well without any form of 911 service .
Implement a 911 system without selective routing and the
attendant re- routing of emergency calls for service to the
proper police or fire jurisdiction .
Tom Flora stated that the Village ' s participation in such an
arrangement three years ago would have lessened costs of
emergency calls to the City of Elgin . In 1978 an emergency
call cost $2 .83 , with South Elgin participating the cost would
have dropped to $ 2 . 29. There are 16 different police and fire
jurisdictions that share the six Elgin telephone exchanges .
Without emergency calls for fire, police or ambulance service
the calls would have to be re-routed to South Elgin and the
15 other jurisdictions .
Chief Van De Voorde stated that he was involved with the proposed
911 system initially and at the time South Elgin was approached
they indicated they did not want any part of Elgin doing their
dispatching .
Chief Baird stated that the Kane County Sheriff ' s Department
is in the process of converting to a 911 system in the northern
part of the county, excluding the Elgin exchange area. When
this is complete Elgin and its exchanges will be the only area
in the county not to have a 911 system, and it would be a self-
defeating purpose to implement a basic 911 system only to have
to re- route emergency calls to the appropriate jurisdiction.
Mr . Flora advised the Council the selectively routed system
would cost $ 174 , 180 initially, $45 , 565 monthly or $546, 780 per
year . The cost of a basic 911 system would cost $ 2, 168 initially,
$384.85 monthly or $4,618 . 20 per year .
Mayor Verbic stated that he has not had any complaints on the
rik service that has been rendered by our present system and he
thought we were doing the job and nothing would be gained by
going ahead with this .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 8, 1981
Page 4
Councilman Hansen indicated he would like to see the project
explored with South Elgin again .
Councilman Waters felt it was premature to say we should not
talk to South Elgin again.
Councilwoman Nelson felt the subject should be brought back
in two weeks and gone into with more depth .
Councilmen Kirkland and Schmidt felt the staff should discuss
the matter with the South Elgin officials .
Councilman Gilliam voted no on talking with South Elgin.
Comprehensive review of the Casa Linda Townhouse complex
at Beverly Terrace and Sharon Court .
The Council reviewed staff reports which were the result
of a recently conducted inspection of the above mentioned
complex, as well as the previous history of the project .
Fred Carlson stated that all the building were unfit for
human occupation because of the degree to which they lack
maintenance or are in disrepair, are unsanitary, vermin
or rodent infested or contain unsafe equipment .
Deputy Chief Danielson stated that the police department
constantly receives complaints of burglaries , thefts ,
vandalism, fights , etc. Information has been received of
drug trafficing and possible fencing of stolen property
occurring on the premises . Attempts over the years to
rehabilitate the area has been futile , and it would be
his recommendation to condemn the project .
Chief Van De Voorde stated the idea of people living in such
a terrible environment is repugnant . The complex should never
have been built as it was on a flood plain. Water and leaking
basements have always been a problem. The complex has seen a
series of new owners over the years and although repairs have
been made, it seems the situation gets progressively worse .
The Chief further stated that the best thing that could happen
would be to acknowledge the whole idea an abject failure and
to bulldoze the buildings once and for all .
Mr . Carlson stated that the present owner , Richard Wanland,
has been one of the more responsive owners out there and
when the pressure is put on he reacts until the funds run
out . Mr . Carlson also pointed out there was an outstanding
water bill in the amount of $8 , 000 for this complex.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 8, 1981
Page 5
Councilwoman Nelson asked how many units were rented and what
would become of these families should the Council condemn the
complex.
Mr. Nelson stated we are not relocating anybody, but just
discussing the possibilities for action . The problem has been
with us for a long time and as you can see from the staff
reports occupies enough of our time and we are just looking
to bring this thing to an end if we can .
Mayor Verbic stated that he had visited the site and had
never seen such bad housing before .
Councilman Gilliam suggested that maybe all the units should
be shut down.
The Council unanimously agreed to have the Corporation Counsel
prepare a resolution for the next Council meeting, declaring
the complex a public nuisance.
Ryan , d/b/a Paul ' s Tap -v- Liquor Control Commission
Corporation Counsel Jentsch advised the Council that on appeal
the Appellate Court reversed the trial court and reinstated
the revocation order.
The license holder has 21 days from the date of the Appellate
Court opinion (June 30, 1981 ) in which to seek a rehearing
and 56 days in which to apply to the Supreme Court for leave
to apply. Rehearings and leave to appeal to the Supreme
Court are usually not granted.
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was recessed at 7 : 55 P. M.
for the regular Council Meeting .
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was reconvened at 12 : 20 P.M.
School Buses
The Council approved the sale of two buses to the U-46 School
District and the leasing of two buses to the District . These
buses belong to the City of Elgin and are not part of the
RTA equipment .
Water Treatment Plant Tour
Mr . Nelson stated that the Council had previously arranged for
this tour to be held on July 29th, which is the same day that
the Elgin Chamber of Commerce would be holding their annual
golf outing .
The Council agreed to change the date for the tour to
September 9th at 4: 00 P.M.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 8, 1981
rik Page 6
1981 Mid=Year Budget Report
The Council reviewed a mid-year budget report prepared by
Dave Jepson, which indicated that the 1981 revenues are
expected to be $ 14 , 552,045 and expenditures $ 14, 791 ,485 .
The excess of expenditures over revenues in 1981 will reduce
the cash balance on December 31 , 1981 to an estimated
$ 1 , 016 , 260. The 1982 expenditures are projected to exceed
revenues by $630,000 which will reduce the cash balance at
December 31 , 1982 to an estimated $ 385, 000. If the balance
is reduced to this level , it will be approximately $ 1 , 000,000
less than the amount recommended by our auditors in their
1980 management letter. It is a warning sign when expenditures
exceed revenues and this fact will affect the financial position
of the city if the trend continues . We believe that the
continued trend of expenditures exceeding revenues is serious
and we think it is important to point it out at this time,
prior to the preparation of the 1982 budget .
Mr. Nelson stated this report is not new and this had been
forecast before . This matter was being brought up now because
the bids are out for the vehicle application and the fee for
same should be discussed. In addition the city must pass a
a tax levy ordinance by mid-August, to be recorded in each
county no later than the second Tuesday of September .
Mr . Nelson suggested that the Council might want to consider
a levy on the high side , go through the budget, and then the
levy could be reduced in December .
Mayor Verbic asked what the staff recommendation was on the
fee for vehicle stickers .
Mr. Nelson stated the staff had not developed one yet .
Councilman Gilliam stated he would prefer to deal with this
with all the Council members present .
The Council suggested that the staff have the material ready
for the meeting on July 22nd .
Councilman Hansen suggested that perhaps the city should consider
using federal revenue funds instead of continuing with capital
improvements .
Mr. Nelson suggested that perhaps the Council could hold a
special meeting on the first Wednesday in September to work
on alternatives relating to revenues , and staff recommendations .
r
•
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 8, 1981
Page 7
Discussion re the RTA
Mr. Nelson stated that the RTA General Manager Bernard Ford had
contacted him asking what it would take for the city to reinstate
the out of town and night service .
Mr . Nelson said he had the feeling the Council would want the
RTA to pay the $250, 00 in outstanding debts , plus $ 135,000
advance for a 30-day service period and some consideration
of the lost investment income. Mr. Nelson felt that they
would want to negotiate.
Mr . Nelson stated that Jerry Boose had contacted him and
asked that we forget the money due as of July 6th and start
over again.
Mayor Verbic felt it would be wrong for us to forget the money.
Councilman Hansen stated that if they are not going to stand by
their promises we should cut it further to reduce our losses .
Ray Moller stated that it woudl be unwise to reinstate service
until it was reasonable certain that the RTA or a restructured
agency would be able to pay its bills . Any kind of disruption
in service on a recurring basis is unwise.
Mr. Nelson will contact the RTA and advise them they will have
to pay its debt to the city in full and provide advance payments
for future services .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 1 : 10 A.M.
. q
Marie Yearma , City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by City
Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, August 12, 1981 , at 6 : 40 P.M. ,
in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members Present:
Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland , Nelson, Schmidt and
Mayor Verbic.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff.
Discussion re Combined Sewer Overflow Study undertaken by
the City and the Sanitary District .
Al Pagorski of the Elgin Sanitary District introduced Tom
Rowlett, Project Manager for Donohue & Associates , who would
give the Council an up date on the combined sewer overflow
study, which they were conducting .
Mr . Rowlett explained this update was necessary because since
1975 many of the standards have been changed, and his firm was
in the process of doing two studies , one federal and one state ,
in order to determine what compliances are required. In this
connection Mr . Rowlett stated they would be able to use the
material contained in the 1975 study, and also the material
contained in the basic 208 plan.
Mr . Rowlett stated they were in the process of monitoring the
sewers at four locations , sampling the wet weather flows and
the dry weather flows . They are also working with N . I . P.C . ,
and expect to meet with that commission next week.
Councilman Hasen asked what the cost of the study was .
Mr. Rowlett stated this amount was293 , 000 of which 75% was
federally funded, 12-% to be paid by the Sanitary District ,
and 122% to be paid by the city .
Mayor Verbic asked if they had any idea when the study would
be completed.
Mr . Rowlett stated they would like to have two additional
large rainfalls , but they expected they would have some
results by March or April .
Discussion re new communications center for Fire and Police
Department .
Chief Baird introduced Bernie Epstein and Greg Stone of Sachs/
Freeman Associates , Inc. , consultants for the proposed communi -
cations center .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12, 1981
Page 2
Mr . Epstein stated that currently the police and fire departments
utilize one frequency each for the bulk of communications , mainly
dispatching . There are four other channels available for inter-
departmental , emergency and other uses . The dispatch channels
are suffering from a severe problem of congestion and there is
poor car to car coverage, especially when the system is filled.
There is a need for two channels in the fire department and
four police channels , two for dispatch , one for dectective
use only, and the other for administrative functions .
Mr . Epstein further stated there is a trend throughout the
country to equip policemen with portable radios . The trend
has been away from the hand held walkie-talkie type radios
to the personal portables whose microphones fasten to the
officer ' s shirt collar. These radios provide better communi -
cations and faster transmission of emergency information .
Mr . Epstein stated the new system with the personal portables,
repeaters and separate channels would cost about $830, 000. In
addition about $30,000 in remodeling work would have to be done
to the EOC room to prepare it for the new communications center .
Councilman Schmidt asked what the increase in personnel would
be in connection with the new center .
Mr . Sachs stated that would depend on how many calls there
were and how quickly they were answered. Mr. Sachs estimated
that 4 operations and 1 supervisor would be needed during
the peak time, 3 operators and 1 supervisor on the other
shifts and 2 operators and 1 supervisor on the midnight shift.
Councilman Hansen asked how old the present equipment was .
Mr. Sachs stated the equipment was between 10 or 11 years old
and both systems suffer from the age of the equipment .
Chief Baird stated the system is alive but not too well .
The Council asked that the matter be deferred until Mr. Sachs
furnished them with written reports of the study.
Mr . Nelson stated that the Council will have to decide if they
want to spend $830, 000 and where this money will come from.
Councilman Hansen requested that a history of response time
accompany the report from Mr. Sachs .
Proposed parking changes on the south side of Slade Avenue from
Douglas Avenue to Prospect-Street .
Now that the Sherman Hospital Deck is completed the staff
advised the Council , the following recommendations were being
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12, 1981
Page 3
made as the result of a meeting with staff , Sherman Hospital
and NNA representatives :
Cooper Avenue be changed back to two-way traffic between
Spring and Prospect Streets ;
Diagonal parking be eliminated on the south side of Cooper
Avenue between Spring and Prospect Streets and parallel
parking be allowed at the same location;
Diagonal parking be discontinued on the west side of Prospect
Street between Cooper and Slade Avenues and parallel parking
allowed;
Parking restrictions on the east side of Prospect Street from
Cooper Avenue to Slade Avenue be lifted in order to allow
parallel parking .
The Council requested that an ordinance be prepared to reflect
the above-mentioned amendments .
Proposed parking and traffic flow changes in the vicinity of
Sherman Hospital .
The staff advised the Council that both Sherman Hospital and
NNA have recommended that parking be prohibited from the
south side of Slade Avenue between Douglas Avenue and Spring
Street and between Center Street and Prospect Street .
The Council requested that an ordinance be prepared to reflect
the above-mentioned amendment .
Proposals for roof repairs to Fire Stations #2 and #3 .
The Council reviewed the staff ' s recommendation to award the
repairs to Station #2 to Lamp, Inc. /Elgin Roofing for $ 1437 . 00 ,
and the reroofing of Station #3 to Action Roofing Co. , for
$2450 . 00. The re- roofing of Station ##5 is to be delayed until
next year so that sufficient funds could be specifically budgeted.
Mayor Verbic asked if there was any guarantee on the roof at
Fire Station #2 .
Capt . Stan Sphatt stated there is no guarantee on a flat roof
after two years .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Emergency repairs to Well ##4 at the Slade Avenue Water Treatment
Plant .
The Council approved the proposed expenditure of $ 10,628 for
repairs to Well #4 at the Slade Avenue Plant .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12, 1981
Page 4
Proposed relocation of sidewalk on the east side of McLean
Blvd . , between Eagle and Oakley .
The Council reviewed a recommendation from staff for a property
line sidewalk on the east side of McLean between Eagle and
Oakley. This section of sidewalk is one block directly north
of Kimball Junior High School and the number of school children
within the immediate area , coupled with the traffic volumes
and speeds along McLean is enough to warrant a change in the
sidewalk location .
Of the 6 property owners involved , 3 have responded requesting
that they be notified prior to any further action on the part
of the city.
Mayor Verbic felt the Council should listen to what these
people have to say and they should be invited to the meeting .
The staff stated they would send letters to these property
owners inviting them to attend the meeting at which this
proposal would be discussed.
Proposal to reconnect the sanitary sewer service to the Elgin
Super Auto Parts , Inc . , as part of the Willard Avenue Storm
Water Detention Project .
Gary Miller stated that he and engineers ' from the Sanitary
District had inspected the existing sewer and at this time
there were no signs of any back-up. Mr . Miller stated he
would keep an eye on this matter and if any problem should
develop, he would bring this back to the Council .
Recommendation to continue with the Tyler Creek Detention
Project by authorizing a contract with Guillou & Uecker,
Inc.
Mr. Nelson stated that we were at a point where the project
was completed to the point that land acquisition would commence
and the Council might want to consider extending the agreement
with Guillou for the expert testimony they could supply in
court .
The staff recommended that favorable consideration be given
to the proposed contract which would allow the project to
continue .
The proposed contract amount of $ 28,650 was not budgeted in
1981 , and it appears that only 65% of that cost would be needed
in 1981 , or $ 18,625 , and the balance could be budgeted in 1982.
The Council approved the proposed agreement covering the Third
Phase of this project .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12, 1981
Page 5
Proposal to purchase parkin equipment for the Spring Street
Parking Deck.
The Council approved a staff recommendation to purchase the
parking equipment for the Spring Street Parking Deck from
Cincinnati at a cost of $ 37 ,883 .
North End Bridge Progress Report submitted by H .W. Lochner
& Associates .
This material represents Progress Report No. 2 covering the
work completed on the North End Bridge through July 24 , 1981 .
Request by The Greater Elgin Senior Center to place a lien
against the building at l0T South Grove by borrowing $30,000
from the First National Bank to make certain improvements .
Alan Dominic, Executive Director of the Greater Elgin Senior
Center, stated he was here tonight to obtain permission from
the Council to obtain a loan from the First National Bank
in the amount of $30,000 . Since the city has completed its
part in the new building it is now the Center ' s responsibility
to complete the project and these funds are needed to accomplish
r that .
Counsel Jentsch stated he thought the deed contained some
restrictions in this regard and he would like to have the
opportunity to review this matter .
The Council asked that this matter be tabled until August 26th.
Douglas Avenue and Lawyer ' s Building Lot
Mr . Nelson stated that the Douglas Avenue property owners have
the feeling that if the construction strike is not over with
by September 14th, it is unlikely they will start at all .
The property owners would like something done with the vacant
lot on Douglas , and they have been informed by the administrators
of the trust for said property that the lot could be leased for
$ 1 . 00 per year, but this lease could be terminated at any time
and the property reclaimed . The property owners are prepared to
assume this risk, fix it up and maintain it . Mr . Nelson also
pointed out that this could become a gathering spot .
The Council stipulated that no benches be placed in the area
and Councilman Kirkland asked if something could be done about
the wall of the building to the east of the vacant lot .
Councilman Kirkland suggested that maybe the hot dog wagon
could be placed on the lot .
Mr. Nelson will bring this matter back when a lease is available
for the Council ' s review.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12, 1981
Page 6
Councilman Hansen stated that he had several items he would
like to bring to the table.
Why are the meters still in the downtown area .
The clock is not working in the Mall area .
The sidewalk in Advocate Park is in bad shape.
There is a sunken vault on Spring Street which needs attention.
Mr . Bolerjack stated the meters have not been taken out because
he does not have the signs yet .
Mr . Nelson stated the sunken vault might require some court
action and he would have staff check on the sidewalk and
Mall clock.
Councilman Hansen asked if there was any updated report on
the RTA situation and what the present deficit was .
Dave Jepson stated the RTA owed $ 285 , 260 as of the end of July
and this amount would be increased by $30,000 this Friday. The
last payment received from the RTA was $52, 000 and this was
for the month of June.
Mr . Nelson stated he had talked with Jerry Boose, who advised
the amount of these payments should go up. Mr . Nelson said
he would be meeting with the RTA and would see what could
be done to zero this out .
Councilman Hansen suggested that maybe some type of report
could be prepared for the Council ' s next meeting.
Proposed width of Highland Avenue in Area I Improvements .
The Council reviewed a request from staff to reduce the width
of Highland Avenue, between Weston Ave . , and Wing Park Blvd . ,
from 44 feet , as shown on the plans , to 40 feet . This request
was made for three reasons :
Saving 16 trees along the north side of Highland Avenue.
Conformity with the pavement width east of Wing Park Blvd .
Cost savings of $5 ,620 .00
The Council approved the staff ' s request .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 12, 1981
Page 7
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 11 : 00 P.M.
`arae Yearman,\ City C er
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 26, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order
by City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday , August 26, 1981 ,
at 6 : 35 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland,
Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman
Schmidt .
Also present : Nelson , Yearman, Jentsch , and members of
staff .
Discussion re either a curb line sidewalk or a property
line sidewalk on fhe east side of McLean Boulevard between
Eagle Drive and Demmond Street .
Mr . Nelson stated this matter was being brought to the
Council because the staff is presently reviewing a preliminary
set of plans for the sidewalk located on the east side of
McLean Blvd . , between Eagle Drive and Demmond Street . The
existing sidewalk is adjacent to the existing edge of the
pavement . This section of sidewalk is to be removed and
replaced in order to widen McLean to four lanes .
It was the staff ' s intent to relocate the sidewalk along
the property line and thereby create a parkway between the
new sidewalk and the new curb line .
Letters were sent to the six property owners who are directly
effected and three responses have been received to date, all
three responses stated they wished to maintain a curb line
sidewalk.
Gary Miller stated that some ten or fifteen years ago when
the city was involved with sidewalk improvements the sidewalk
location were located depending upon various conditions such
as trees and right of ways . As in the case of the sidewalk
on the west side of McLean between Highland and Lawrence , the
city chose to put in curb line in order to save 19 trees .
However, the design for the other side of the street within
this block calls for a property line sidewalk.
The change to a property line sidewalk would be an important
safety improvement and the elimination of any section of curb
line sidewalk along a major arterial street such as McLean
is a major safety improvement for the community.
Mayor Verbic stated that there is a curb line sidewalk in
front of his office and during the winter the salt from
the street destroys the grass and bushes .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 26 , 1981
Page 2
Mayor Verbic further stated that when you look at the area
in question from the corner it looks like you are only
changing one block and it might be better to leave it curb
line.
Councilwoman Nelson stated she felt it was like opening up
a can of worms when you ask the property owners about it .
If they want it left that way, leave it . There are good
arguments for both sides .
Councilman Kirkland stated he would leave it curb line but
would make the sidewalk wider, either 6 feet or at least
5 feet .
Mayor Verbic stated that having the sidewalk wider would
help with the snow in the winter .
Councilman Hansen stated he would have preferred not asking
the property owners and he asked if we would let them tell
us what to do if we are tampering with the streets . If the
city owns the property they should be able to say what is best .
Councilman Hansen asked that the staff bring back some
guidelines to follow for future projects .
Councilmen Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic voted to leave
the curb line in with a five foot sidewalk. Councilmen
Hansen and Kirkland voted for the tree bank sidewalk.
Reimbursement of oversized watermain installed in the
Highfield Place Subdivision .
The Council authorized reimbursement to First Federal Savings
and Loan Association of Elgin in the amount of $60,812. 00
for oversized watermains in Highfield Place Subdivision .
Reimbursement of oversized watermain installed in Unit No. 1
of the Valley Creek Subdivision .
The Council authorized reimbusement to Valley Creek of Elgin
in the amount of $ 15, 559 . 00 for oversized watermains in Unit
No . 1 of Valley Creek Subdivision .
Memorandum from Counsel Jentsch relative to the Greater Elgin
Senior Center ' s request to secure a $30, 000 loan by placing
a lien against the property at 101 South Grove .
Mr . Jentsch advised the Council that at the time the Senior
Citizen Center was purchased, through HCD funding, they entered
into a written agreement with the City of Elgin which provided
among other things that the Greater Elgin Senior Center would
not mortgage , refinance or allow any lien or encumbrance on
the building or property without the express approval of the
City of Elgin .
• Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 26 , 1981
Page 3
Councilman Waters asked what arrangements had been made
for the repayment of the loan .
Mr. Dominic, Director of the Senior Center stated they
planned to apply for some outside grants and do some
fund raising .
Councilman Hansen asked what would happen in the event of
a foreclosure, and could HCD funds be sued to pay off the
lien.
Roger Dahlstrom stated the since the building was purchased
with HCD funds a foreclosure could not be allowed to take
place nor could the property be used for any other purpose .
It would also depend on whether or not this money was spent
for items that are eligible for HCD funds .
The Council reviewed a resolution consenting to the mortgage
which appears on the regular agenda at tonight ' s meeting .
Memorandum from Counsel Jentsch relative to Brock Hotel
Corporation ' s request to extend a Memorandum of Agreement
with the city for the purpose of issuing revenue bonds .
Mr . Jentsch advised the Council that the extension of this
agreement at this time does not obligate the city to issue
the bonds, but merely extends the time in which the parties
will work toward an agreement concerning the terms and
conditions of the issue . The transaction, of course, will
be subject to approval by the City Council and will require
the passage of an ordinance by the City Council authorizing
the issuance of bonds .
Mr . Jentsch stated in approving this extension the Council
would just be stating that they are willing to keep the
project alive, and that this like some other revenue bond
matters are pending because of the present market conditions .
Mr . Nelson stated he would like to see this project go
through because it would be good for Elgin.
The Council agreed to act on this resolution at the regular
Council meeting tonight .
Memorandum from Counsel Jentsch relative to the effect of a
liquor license revocation .
Mr . Jentsch stated that recently several members of the Council
inquired about the issuance of a liquor license to the purchaser
of a liquor establishment after revocation of the seller ' s
license, and he had advised those who inquired that the liquor
control act ( I11 .Rev. Stat . , Chapter 43 , 156 prohibits the
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 26, 1981
Page 4
issuance of a license for the premises for a period of one
year after revocation .
Mr. Jentsch pointed out to the Council in the case of Crazy
Horse , Inc . v. Byrne, App. 52 Ill . Dec. 865 , 422 N . E . 2nd
1074, this decision was affirmed by the Appellate Court .
Discussion relative to the sale of property owned by the
city at 1231 Larkin Avenue .
Mr. Nelson stated that when this matter was discussed
previously the Council rejected the proposal to rezone
the property to 0-zoning, and there was further discussion
about the selling the piece with the house situated on it
together with the lot to the west of the residence .
In order to comply with the plat act it will be necessary
to subdivide the property and in order to do this it would
be necessary to go to the Land Use Commission . According
to Jerry Hoover the property would be more valuable if
subdivided into two lots .
The Council approved the proposed subdivision and directed
the staff to take the matter to the Land Use Commission .
Modification of bus service on North and South McLean bus
routes .
The Council reviewed two modifications which were recommended
by Ray Moller, Transit Director, namely:
1 . Extension of bus service to the new Davis Road
Medical Building .
2 . Reduction of mid-day and Saturday service from
half hour headway to hourly headways .
Mr . Moller stated that the implementation of the modified
route would reduce operating hours by 12 hours and operation
miles by 1 , 150 miles for a two week period, resulting in a
cost saving of approximately $ 1 ,650 .
The Finance Department reported that as of July 31 , 1981 , the
balances due for all services from the RTA was $ 289, 324.
Mr. Nelson stated that in talking with Jim Cole and Jerry
Boose of the RTA there was an indication that the RTA would
like to resume the Elgin/Aurora Service . Mr . Nelson stated
he advised them that any arrearage would have to be brought
to date and some arrangements for advance payments made.
Mr. Nelson further stated a meeting was being scheduled by
the RTA and he and Ray Moller would attend this meeting ,
and bring back to the Council the results of same .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 26, 1981
Page 5
Discussion relative to possible sale of water to the Village
of Bartlett .
Mr. Nelson stated he had received a letter from Glen Koehler,
President of the Village of Bartlett, in which Mr . Koehler
requested a meeting with the Council to discuss the possible
purchase of water from Elgin .
Councilwoman Nelson stated that should the Council agree to
do this the Village should have to pay a higher fee for the
water.
Ron Zegers stated that the Village of Sleepy Hollow is
presently paying 1 . 25% higher that our rate at the present
time .
Mayor Verbic thought that before any commitment is made the
staff should look into the potential growth in Bartlett .
Councilman Hansen asked that prior to any meeting that the
staff provide the Council with some data on the Sleepy Hollow
water useage .
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
September 2, 1981
The Committee of the Whole meeting was called to order
by City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, September 2,
1981 , at 6: 30 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of
City Hall . Members present: Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen ,
Kirkland, Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent:
Councilman Schmidt .
Also present : Nelson, Yearman , Jentsch and members of
staff .
Video tape of Well No. 4 at the Slade Avenue. Plant .
Captain Burkart from the Fire Department ran a video tape
of Well No. 4 at the Slade Avenue Plant showing a depth
of 1300 feet and the area of recirculating sand and/or
particles .
Ronald Zegers advised the Council the pump and motor were
repulled from Well ##4 and results indicate that the pump
was sandlocked .
Mr . Zegers pointed out one possible solution would be to
bore the hole to 15" in diameter from 822 feet down to
1300 feet, which should decrease the up lift velocity in
the hold and allow the material to settle downward . This
would be very costly and the investment in this Well at
Slade Avenue may not be practical because of close proximity
of the Wells .
The recommended alternative is to hook the pump and motor
to the starter and check for proper rotation and then set
the pump and motor back to 700 feet . Normally if the pump
is started with the right rotation it will run while pumping
the sand and over a period of days will pump the sand out
and also produce enough wear in the pump to reduce the
chance of sandlock.
Mr. Zegers advised that costs are being reviewed and this
information will be brought back to the Council .
Police Response Time Study.
Mr. Nelson passed out to the Council a Police Response Time
Study for their consideration .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 2, 1981
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Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7 : 05 P.M.
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Marie Yearmar}, City Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 9, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by Mayor
Verbic on Wednesday, September 9 , 1981 , at 6: 55 P.M. , in the
Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Council -
men Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Absent : Councilman Gilliam.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman , Jentsch, and members of staff .
Proposal to authorize omitted Illinois Municipal Retirement
Fund service credit on behalf of three employees .
The Council approved a staff recommendation authorizing omitted
Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund Service Credit for Jerry
Rotundo, Wayne Schultz and Gary Whitcomb, whose earnings were
not reported while working in part-time positions .
Recommendation to change from 30 minute to one hour four
parking meters on the west side of State Street between Chicago
and Highland .
Mr . Nelson stated that the city recently received a letter from
Nautilus Aerobic Concepts regarding the meters at the above site.
There are currently eight meters, which are 30 minutes .
The staff recommended converting the middle four meters from
30 minutes to 1 hour for the following reasons :
It would help several of the businesses on the west side of
State Street ;
It would reduce the parking turnover, which would help the
traffic flow;
By leaving the meters on each end at at 30 minutes , it would be
easier to park for the faster turnover customers .
Request from the Fox Valley Chapter of the Model T Ford Club
to use the 19134 City Vehicle Sticker to commenorate the 75th
year of the Model T. Ford .
The Council approved a request from the Fox Valley Chapter of
the Model T Ford Club to have the 1984 city vehicle sticker be
in honor of the 75th year of the Model T Ford .
Proposed parkin restrictions on certain streets in the area
of Sherman Hospital .
The staff advised the Council that although the parking deck at
Sherman Hospital has been completed, the residents in the area
are of the opinion that hospital employees are still using the
streets for parking . The residents are opposed to Sherman
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 9, 1981
Page 2
Hospital employees parking in front of the residents ' homes .
Sherman Hospital charges its employees 25 cents per day for
using the deck which may be a deterrent to come of the employees
in using the deck.
The Traffic Committee recommended that an ordinance be adopted
toprohibit parking from 9 : 00 A .M. to 10: 00 A .M. , and 3 : 00 P.M.
to 4: 00 P.M. , Monday through Friday at the following locations:
Douglas Avenue-West side adjacent to 940 Douglas Avenue ( 231
ft . south from the centerline of Cooper Avenue;
Douglas Avenue-East Side in front of 935 Douglas Avenue ( 191 .4
ft . south of the centerline of Cooper Avenue) ;
North Spring Street-West side from River Bluff Road (west leg)
to 850 N . Spring St . ( 165 ft . south from the centerline of Slade
Avenue;
North Spring Street-East side from River Bluff Road (east leg)
to Cooper Avenue;
Center St . -West side from River Bluff Road to Cooper Avenue;
Prospect Boulevard-Both sides from River Bluff Road (west leg)
to Slade Avenue;
Cooper Avenue-South side from Douglas Avenue to North Spring
Street ; and
Cooper Avenue-Both sides from Prospect Blvd. to St . John St .
The Council approved the Traffic Committee ' s recommendations ,
directed that an ordinance be prepared, and requested that
notices be mailed to interested parties .
Memorandum from the Corporation Counsel relative to statutory
residency requirements for certain municipal officers and
employees .
Councilwoman Nelson suggested that this matter be tabled until
the next meeting in order to give the Council members a chance
to review Counsel Jentsch ' s memorandum.
Letter from the Illinois Department of Conservation returning
our application for funds to develop ball diamonds at the Elgin
Mental Health Center Site .
Mr . Nelson stated this item was informational and was self-
explanatory.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 9, 1981
Page 3
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 7 :40 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 23, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order by
City Manager Leo Nelson on Wednesday, September 23 , 1981 ,
at 6 : 35 P.M. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland,
Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor Verbic . Absent : None.
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to change certain
parking meters at the Kimball Street Parking lot north of the
Gail Borden Public Library.
The Council approved a recommendation from the Traffic
Committee that the municipal code be amended to provide for
four 2-hour meters for the benefit of the handicapped people
who use the Gail Borden Public Library.
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to locate YIELD
signs along Lincoln Avenue at the intersection of certain
streets .
The Council approved a recommendation from the Traffic
Committee that in order to enhance safety, yield signs be
posted for both northbound and southbound traffic on St .
John Street, Augusta Avenue and Cedar Avenue , yielding to
the traffic on Lincoln Avenue. Speed checks are also to
be made on the traffic in this vicinity .
Recommendation from the Staff to accept Western Union ' s
conduit system located on the Chicago Street Bridge between
State Street and Riverside Drive .
The Council approved a recommendation from Staff to assume
ownership of the Western Union Conduit System.
Discussion of the City ' s perpetual care policy at the Bluff
City Cemetery.
Mr . Bolerjack informed the Council that the present ordinance
establishing fees for the cemetery includes a provision that
perpetual care shall be paid on the entire lot prior to
setting headstones or monuments on any portion thereof . For
example, if perpetual care had not been paid on a lot
containing 12 grave spaces , the estate of a deceased would
have to pay for care on all 12 spaces , or $ 1200. 00. The
current fee for perpetual care on a grave space without care
is $ 100.00 . This would have to be paid before a monument
could be set on any grave in the lot .
Mr . Nelson stated this policy was initiated in 1970 and while
it does create public relations problems it does bring in a
great deal of money, and Elgin is one of the few cities
nationwide that uses no tax dollars to provide maintenance
for it ' s cemetery.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 23 , 1981
Page 2
Mr . Bolerjack stated an alternative to the existing policy
would be to allow perpetual care payments on single graves ,
but at a rate 22 times the established care fee for thos
spaces without any care . A monument could be set by paying
$ 250.00 for a single grave care rather than the $ 1 , 200 fee
now required on the entire lot .
On lots where seasonal care has been maintained, the estate
would pay the perpetual care rate of $ 100 for only the grave
space to be used. Seasonal care would be permitted to be
continued on the remaining spaces .
Councilman Kirkland suggested that the staff should prepare
some information as to how much revenue would be lost by
changing the policy.
Councilman Hansen suggested that it might be better somewhere
down the road to stop billing for annual care because the
cost of doing this may exceed what is being collected .
Councilman Waters felt that there was a need to collect
something from the people who did not pay anything for
annual care because it was not fair to the people who did
pay .
Councilman Schmidt suggested that the staff prepared something
that lessens the impact on the people who have paid for
annual care .
Continued discussion of the City ' s residency policy for City
Employees .
Councilman Gilliam stated that when this was discussed
previously he had indicated that he was opposed to any
changes and at this point he had not changed his mind .
Mr. Nelson stated the request was merely for a little
relaxation in the policy in order to secure employees with
skills for certain jobs . Mr . Nelson cited securing an
assistant for the Water Department Director, which took
over a year, because of the residency ordinance .
Councilman Gilliam stated he still felt that people paid by
the residents of Elgin should live in Elgin and these people
know before they take the job what it involves . There is
nobody putting a gun to their heads and making them take the
job .
Councilman Hansen felt it was a tragic mistake to change
the 1973 ordinance, and we are running these people back
and forth like a yo-yo. The ordinance in 1973 was satisfactory
and I feel the policemen and firemen want the same treatment
that is given to others , and I will not vote to give them
less .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 23 , 1981
Page 3
Councilwoman Nelson stated the ordinance should remain the
same as it is presently because the Council should not be
disrupting lives .
Councilman Schmidt fell the ordinance should stay the way
it is .
Councilman Kirkland stated he felt the ordinance should be
changed so the residency requirements applied only to those
individuals set forth in the state statutes . Councilman
Kirkland further stated it would not bother him if any
employee , including police and fire, were to reside any
where outside of Elgin .
Councilmen Hansen and Waters agreed to eliminate any
residency requirements other than those people required
to live within the city under the state statute, and
no residency requirements for police and fire.
Mayor Verbic stated he could not go along with an all -
world concept of allowing city employees to live anywhere .
The Mayor pointed out that he had voted against the present
ordinance and that he had felt comfortable with the 1973
ordinance .
Councilmen Hansen, Kirkland and Hansen suggested that the
residency matter could be handled by the City Manager, in
an administrative approach .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she agreed that it should be
under the direction of the City Manager.
Councilman Kirkland suggested keeping the Residency
group in the ordinance and eliminating the rest of the
employees . Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, Nelson, Schmidt
and Waters .
Councilwoman Nelson suggested leaving the ordinance as it
is and having the City Manager handled it administratively.
Nays : Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland , Schmidt and Waters .
Mayor Verbic suggested the 1973 ordinance boundaries be kept .
Councilman Hansen suggested putting the policemen and firemen
in the geographic area and taking the balance of employees out .
A review of the North End Bridge Progress Report N. 3 .
Mr. Nelson stated the material he had furnished to the Council
represented Progress Report No. 3 covering the work completed
on the North End Bridge through August 21 , 1981 .
Mr . Nelson further stated that Lochner & Associates were
ready to hold a public meeting and he wondered if the Council
would like to have Mr . Guentner come out prior to that meeting
for a briefing .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 23 , 1981
Page 4
Mayor Verbic felt there should be some financial commitment
because a public meeting might be after the fact if there
is no money available for the project.
Councilman Gilliam stated he thought the briefing and public
meeting should be held at the same time because there would
be a lot of questions from the public .
Leo Nelson stated the briefing session could be held
separately and at that time the meeting would not be opened
up to the public for question or comment .
The Council agreed to have Mr . Guentner come out for a
briefing .
Lighting in the Mall
Mr. Nelson stated that originally the city put aside
$ 16, 500 in HCD funds to help defray the expense of installing
additional lighting in the Mall . The merchants were to
pay the other $ 16, 500. The merchants now feel that the
city should pay the entire cost .
Councilwoman Nelson stated that originally she felt and
stated that the city should pay for this .
Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Nelson and Mayor Verbic approved
the additional $ 16 , 500 for the Mall lighting . '
5 Douglas Avenue Landscaping Project .
Councilman Kirkland asked what the present status was for
this project .
Mr . Nelson stated that he thought this was going to be
included with the street project .
Councilman Kirkland stated he would like to go ahead with
the lot only and have something done before Christmas .
The Council approved Councilman Kirkland ' s recommendation.
RTA Status Report
Leo Nelson stated that he had received a telephone call
from Jerry Boose who informed him the RTA had passed their
1982 budget and Kane County is to receive 5 . 7 million .
Mr. Boose stated the City of Elgin should by next week
receive all of the monies that are due, and we should
be ready to restore the services .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 23 , 1981
Page 5
Mayor Verbic asked Ray Moller if he had made any evaluation
of the routes and services .
Mr . Moller stated that he had not prepared any formal
recommendation but this could be done based on the
ridership records .
Mr . Nelson stated the RTA may take the position that if
they pay for the route we should run it .
Mr . Moller stated they may feel differently now and we
should determine what rides are necessary .
Reeves/Oldsmobile-Cadillac
Councilman Hansen stated that based on a rumor he had heard
he made a trip down to Reeves and learned that they would be
leaving Elgin . They have purchased the Skorberg building
on Route 25 , and the sales tax generated by their business
will now go to the county.
Councilman Hansen stated that he was suprised to learn that
he was the first person from the city to make any inquiry
regarding this matter .
Councilman Hansen felt that since the Chamber of Commerce
and CEC Corporation are supported with contributions by
the city there should be some responsibility on their part
to keep up on what is happening in the downtown area . The
loss of sales tax from this one business could amount to
$50, 000 per year and while the city does have a consultant
trying to attract new business to the downtown, someone
should be trying to keep the businesses that are here now
from moving out .
City of Elgin/Chamber of Commerce participation at business
convention in Zurich Switerland .
The Council approved letting the Chamber of Commerce pay
Leo Nelson ' s way to the business convention in Zurich
Switzerland.
Rental of Sear ' s Building .
The Council reviewed a request from A & M Flea Market requesting
that they be permitted to rent the Sear ' s Building on Saturdays
and Sundays .
Mayor Verbic stated he could remember the merchants complaining
when a flea market was permitted to use the Hemmens Building .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 23 , 1981
Page 6
e‘ Councilman Hansen stated he would like to see this property
back on the tax rolls and the staff should check with Trkla
regarding this .
Councilman Waters felt the downtown merchants should be
contacted to see what their objections might be to renting
the building .
Mr. Nelson stated be would try to bring Trkla in on October
7th .
Conduction of Council Meetings .
Councilman Schmidt pointed out that the meetings were becoming
disrespectful and embarrassing and if the meetings were on
television, he would get up and walk out . Councilman Schmidt
felt the Mayor should exercise more control .
Mayor Verbic thanked Councilman Schmidt for his suggestion.
Adj ournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10: 40 P.M.
Marie Yearman , ity Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
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October 7, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
7 : 10 P.M. , on Wednesday, October 7, 1981 , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff .
Review of the status of the North End Bridge with Mr . Bernie
Guentner of H. W. Lochner, Inc .
Mr . Guentner advised the Council they are nearing completion
of updated studies on the North End Bridge and they were now
at the point where the Federal Highway Administration and the
Illinois Department of Transportation were urging that another
public hearing be held . These agencies feel that the public
should be advised of the project status, along with any changes
that have been made in the past year or so.
Mr. Guentner suggested an Open House format with hours ranging
from Noon through 9 :00 P.M. Lochner would staff this meeting
along with members of the City staff, and they would prepare
maps and illustrations for viewing by the public .
Councilman Kirkland thought that the Council was going to
have more information concerning the project than was presented
so that the Council would have this imput before opening this
up to the public.
Mr. Guentner stated there were still some studies which were
not fully completed at this time .
Mr. Nelson suggested that the Council have Mr. Guentner come
back to the Council one week in advance of the public hearing .
The Council agreed to have Mr. Guentner come back on the
4th of November for further imput and then set November 12th
for the public hearing .
Letter from I -DEA requesting a revision of time limits for
on-street parking in the downtown area.
The Council reviewed a letter from Dorothy Cochran, Chair-
person of I -DEA, which recommended that the present limit
of thirty minutes is too short of duration for the average
user of the space, and therefore the limit should be increased
to one hour at all spaces currently posted thirty minutes .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 7, 1981
Page 2
Councilman Schmidt stated that he had received calls from
senior citizens who wanted to time in the Sears lot changed
from one hour to three or four hours . These citizens
participate in the various Senior Center activities and
find that one hour parking is not enough.
Mr . Nelson stated that Marshall Schneider, owner of the
bowling alley had also requested that the time limit be
increased in the Crocker lot .
Councilman Waters stated that he was in favor of the 1 -DEA
recommendations .
Councilman Kirkland pointed out that when the new parking
facility is completed we should have some consistency in
street parking, and we should get people used to parking
in that facility.
Councilman Hansen felt the shoppers should have something
to say about where they must park, the idea is to keep them
happy so they will shop here .
A majority of the Council agreed to change the parking on
the street to one hour and to three hours in the Crocker
and Sears lot .
Memorandum from the Corporation Counsel relative to proposed
changes by the Congress of legislation regulating the issuance
of industrial revenue bonds .
The Corporation Counsel pointed out that a letter from Borge
and Pitt, Attorneys, set forth that if the Rangel Bill is
passed it would eliminate all small issue industrial develop-
ment bonds subject to the $ 10,000,000 limitation after
December 31 , 1983 . In addition the Bill would, effective
December 31 , 1981 , limit the issuance of industrial develop-
ment bonds for commercial use to certain economically distressed
areas, as determined by certain criteria of the Department of
Housing and Urban Development .
This Bill would also require public hearings on each small
issue industrial development bond issued, and an annual
report from each state on its industrial development bond
issues .
Mayor Verbic suggested that a letter be sent to Congressman
McClory informing him that if this bill is passed it would
restrict the issuance of industrial revenue bonds after
December 31 , 1983 .
Resurfacing of Liberty Street from Ann Street to Oakland.
Mel Dahl advised the Council that the State hag agreed to
Pay for the center 10 feet involved in this project.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 7, 1981
Page 3
Mr . Dahl felt this was a fair offer and it should not be
turned down.
The Council approved the project.
Senior Center request for space to park buses .
Mr. Nelson stated the Senior Center has requested permission
to park their four buses in the lot south of Fulton. We
are presently allowing Plus Inc. parking space in the Civic
Lot. The Council approved this request .
Senior Center request for loading zone on Fulton Street
The Council approved a request from the Senior Center for a
loading zone on Fulton Street for their buses to use when
transporting senior citizens to and from the Center .
Lawyer ' s Building
Mr. Nelson stated that although an agreement had been sent
to the attorney ' s for this land trust , said agreement had
not been returned as of this date . Mr. Nelson further stated
it would be possible for the City to proceed to sod this area
upon receiving verbal permission from these attorneys . The
cost of sodding this area is approximately $2, 000 .
A majority of the Council agreed to proceed with this project .
Lighting for the downtown area
Mel Dahl exhibited illustrations of lighting fixtures proposed
for the downtown area. The cost could run between $24, 000 and
$ 15 ,000. Mel Dahl stated that he would bring back sample
fixtures next week and he hoped to have some fixtures in place
in the Mall for the Council ' s review.
Performing Arts for Young People Family Concert
A family concert is planned as part of the Performing Arts
for Young People Spring Series , on February 27th. This concert
is being presented by The Elgin Symphony Orchestra at a cost
of $2,000 to the City.
The symphony has offered to help promote this event through
their regular season concert programs and special mailings
The staff was requesting approval of the Council in order to
take advantage of this offer and the Council approved same.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 7, 1981
Page 4
Scheduled meeting with Nick Trkla
Mr. Nelson reminded the Council that the meeting scheduled
with Nick Trkla was on October 8th, at 4:00 P.M. , in the
Home Savings & Loan Association Board Room.
Status Report on the RTA
Councilman Hansen requested a status report on the RTA situation.
Mr . Nelson stated that the City had received a check from the
RTA in the amount of $307, 000. Said amount will cover all the
arrearage and Mr . Nelson said they have not asked us to restore
the services at this time .
Status report on unfinished building adjacent to St. Joseph
Hospital .
Mr. Wagner stated that an NTA had been issued and this site
is a periodic problem for the city. The access was boarded
up, but kids have been tearing this out .
Mayor Verbic stated it was his understanding the building
was being sold and the new owner would finish the project .
Status on Budget
Councilman Hansen expressed that he thought this was a good
time to give some imput before the budget is prepared.
Councilman Kirkland stated the Council should be thinking
about additional sources of revenue.
Councilman Hansen stated the Council has not indicated to
staff how the budget should go and they should look at all
the departments to see where the emphasis should be put .
Councilman Gilliam stated that he felt the Council had given
the staff direction in indicating they wanted a bare-bone
budget, and the Council should now wait for the budget and
then delete or keep it the same.
Mayor Verbic felt the City Manager should be given three
choices at this point, in dealing with the preparation :
( 1 ) a 5% higher budget; ( 2) a 0 budget ; or a 5% reduction
budget .
A majority of the Council indicated they wanted to wait for
the budget to brought to them by the staff .
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 7 , 1981
Page 5
Leaf Burning
Mrs . Beverly Goldenstein appeared before the Council requesting
that leaf burning in the city be denied. Mrs . Goldenstein
stated that she has a daughter who is asthmatic and her
health is seriously effected by the leaf burning . Mrs .
Goldenstein asked that the citizens be required to bag
their leaves .
Mr. Nelson stated that one of the reasons for the leaf burning
was to reduce the cost of hauling the leaves away.
Mrs . Goldenstein asked the Council to reconsider this matter.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8 : 35 P.M.
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Marie Yearman , City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 14, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
7 :05 P.M. , on Wednesday, October 14, 1981 , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt and Waters . Absent :
Councilman Gilliam and Mayor Verbic.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman , Jentsch and members of staff.
Proposed Idea House to be built in Parkwood near Elsin High
School .
Mr. Ed Sorenson, President of U . S . Shelter and also President
of Home Builders Association of Greater Chicago, reviewed
with the Council a concept for an Idea House to be built on
land owned by U . S . Shelter . This project will received both
regional and national attention and will have national companies
involved.
Mr. Sorenson pointed out that this home would include such
different ideas as steel studding , the means of making an
1100 square foot house larger by greater use of space, 5/8
sheetrock on the ceiling, interior steel partitions , romex
wiring and hubless cast iron for plumbing . Mr. Sorenson
stated although many of the items contained in this type
of home would not comply with the city ' s present code, none
of the code changes would entail anything not covered by the
BOCA or National Plumbing Code.
The home would be provided with 83% efficiency appliances which
are not on the market yet and the home will be brought to the
market as a more attractive home at a more moderate price . An
interest has been expressed by a national television channel ,
who would like to do a tv special in this area.
Mr. Nelson stated this is an effort by the Builder ' s Council to
hit the lower end of the housing market for people who are having
difficulty buying a home .
Mr. Sorensen stated the house should sell for around $65 ,000
and it should take about one year for construction.
The Council approved proceeding with this project .
Proposed vacation of an alley east of Prospect Boulevard.
The Council reviewed a staff memorandum which stated that Mr.
John Gazdik of 707 Prospect was the owner of three lots which
front the alley and that he had approached the city for this
vacation . The owner of the fourth lot , Mr . James Ege of 304
Lovell was not in favor of vacating the alley.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 14, 1981
Page 2
It was the consensus of the staff that it was in the best
interest of the city to vacate the three lots in question
because the city would be relieved of maintenance responsi -
bility, liability and the real estate would be added to the
tax roll . If vacated the 12 foot alley would be divided
equally to the adjacent property owners .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation.
Licensing of raffles by local ordinance .
Mr. Nelson stated this was initiated through calls received
by the Mayor relative to possible raffles conducted through
a church.
Corporation Counsel Jentsch advised the Council that during
the last session of the General Assembly amendments were made
by House Bill 158. Governor Thompson exercised his amendatory
veto and returned the bill to the General Assembly. In addition
to the amendments discussed in the veto message, House Bill 158
would permit but not require establishment of limitations on
the aggregate value of prices , maximum value of each prize,
maximum price for chances and maximum number of days during
which chances may be sold.
Counsel Jentsch stated that before we could prepare an ordinance
covering raffles we must know what the Statute says .
Councilman Hansen stated he thought the matter should be deferred
until the Statute has been amended , and the Council concurred
with Councilman Hansen.
Proposed ordinance establishing residency requirements for
otticers and employees of the City of Elgin.
The Council requested that this matter be tabled until a meeting
when the full Council is present to discuss same .
Special Meeting to discuss amendments to the Open Meetings Act .
The Council agreed to meet on November 4th to discuss the
amendments to the Open Meetings Act .
Citizen' s Complaint
Mr. Nelson passed out correspondence addressed to the Council
from Mr. Edward Kross .
Mr . Kross was present and advised the Council that the reason
he had written the letter was he felt that for the last five
years the City ' s Inspection Department had been harassing him.
Mr. Kross stated that the City had taken him into court twice
and both times the case was dismissed by the Judge .
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 14, 1981
Page 3
Jerry Deering stated that the first time Judge Cadwell dismissed
the case because Mr . Kross indicated he was going to move, and
the second case was dismissed in August of 1980 by former
Assistant Corporation Counsel Binninger. Mr . Deering stated
he did not have any information as to why Mr. Binninger
dismissed the case.
Mr. Deering stated that just today he and Mr. Kross had met
and had worked out some agreement on this matter.
Mr. Nelson stated he did not have any of the facts relative
to this matter, but he would investigate same and bring back
that information to the Council .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 8 :00 P.M.
Marie Yearma City Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 21 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
7 : 10 P.M. , on Wednesday, October 21 , 1981 , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Absent : None .
Also present : Nelson , Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Proposed agreement with Trkla, Pettigrew, Allen & Payne, Inc. ,
for technical and professional services to assist with down-
town development projects .
Mr. Nelson stated that the proposed agreement was an extension
of two prior agreements with this consultant and that Mr . Trkla
was present to answer any questions .
Councilman Kirkland stated that when Trkla was hired in 1980
the Council was looking for a consultant that could develop
a plan and then implement that plan for the downtown area. The
Council at that time acknowledged that it was not too late
to save the downtown area.
To date we have a plan from Trkla, however, there has been no
luck since March in securing a commitment from Visa, a third
retailor, or a housing project , because of the present economy.
Councilman Kirkland asked the following questions : Should we
keep Trkla or hire a fulltime employee for the Community Development
Department . We need salesability which Trkla has and there is no
one in house which has this experience. Do we need closer
supervision and accountability. Can the private sector do it
all . The private sector cannot do it all , they cannot raise the
money or offer uniform opinions , they have not even been able
to deal with uniform hours for the stores .
We need a consultant to make contacts and to be tenacious . If
the city doesn ' t do something we will have a decayed-to-death
downtown.
The concept of an enclosed mall has never been considered by the
Council , but this concept has been kept alive because eliminating
this option would prevent Trkla from even getting in the door of
most of the contacts we are paying him to make to attract the
new major retailers .
Councilman Kirkland felt that Trkla should continue to be
retained by the city, but there should be closer accountability,
and that the city should have a plan available to implement
should the economy change.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
' October 21 , 1981
Page 2
Councilwoman Nelson stated that the city needs retail sales
and we need a leader. Trkla has proven he is a good leader
and we should stick to the leader we have.
Mrs . Nelson further stated that she saw people in the audience
which gave her great hope for the city of Elgin.
George Perucco, representing Central Elgin Corporation, stated
we should have a professional consultant and he would recommend
that Trkla continue in this capacity. Mr. Perucco further
stated that they have financially supported this endeavor in
the past and they would continue to contribute toward the
fees for the consultant ' s services .
Dick Gromer stated that he was dedicated to build on the Watch
Factory site and make a commitment to the downtown area. Mr.
Gromer further stated that he had used three consultants on
this project and planned to use more. The success of this
operation will be enhances by the success of South Grove Avenue .
Mr. Gromer said he had never been asked to contribute financially
but that he would be willing to do this .
Ron Kilgore, representing Chuck Hines stated that he had been
here 33 years and although there are some things wrong with the
city, there are a lot of things that are right . Mr. Kilgore stressed
that we must have a common goal because if we lose the downtown
area it will cost us more in the long run when people go to
other towns that ' s revenue that we are not getting and that
means people are going to pay increased taxes .
Councilman Schmidt asked the City Manager if he felt we were
really getting our money ' s worth.
Mr . Nelson stated that this is the kind of effort where results
are not guaranteed . This is an iffy thing and you have to decide
if you want to continue to roll the dice or walk away from the
table.
Councilman Waters stated that we are going to do this and any
other debate is just posturing for the public . I know this is
not a politically popular decision to make, but it is the best
thing for the city to do. Councilman Waters thought the staff
and Trkla should work more closely together and there should be
more accountability than in the past .
Mr . Trkla stated that he concurred with Councilman Waters and
this would also be his recommendation .
Councilman Hansen stated that he took exception to the statement
that any debating is just posturing for the public. Councilman
Hansen further stated that he had talked to more voters than
anyone else in the room and he was convinced taxpayers are not
willing to make a four or six million dollar investment in a
closed mall .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
' October 21 , 1981
Page 3
Councilman Hansen indicated he was going to vote against this
extension because none of the proposed projects are feasible
in today' s economy and he was against keeping the meter running.
Councilman Hansen stated he was not saying the plan was bad,
but reality says we cannot implement it now, and the city should
take accountability of the whole city and not just the downtown.
John Spiess stated that he did not want to beat a dead horse,
but the city is about ten years too late. In the 1950 ' s there
was a downtown redevelopment committee that recommended such
things as a mall and increased parking , but the City Council at
that time would not do anything about it , and their powers were
needed for condemnation .
Mr . Spiess stated he was laying this on the line and that because
of the publicity in the last election he went back to their
consultant to look into some other options , concerning other
locations . We still have to weigh our options but what the
Council decides here to night will have an effect on what we
decide to do, and of course profitability is .a factor too.
Mr . Spiess further stated that they were willing to support this
study with their donation, but we must bring in another major
retailer to get the small businesses to follow or the downtown
is lost.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he was going to vote to continue
to support Trkla because he had also talked with the voters and
he felt that part of leadership is not to led but to lead and
he wanted to lead and show responsibility.
Councilman Gilliam further stated he was not sure it was the
right decision, he was shaky on it, but he did not feel we
could walk away and quit . If we close down Trkla, the business
will be on the first train out of here . I don ' t have any alternatives
but I know that if we are not willing to try something, we might
as well put a bullet in downtown ' s head and kill it .
Mayor Verbic stated he did not feel the downtown can compete with
the malls that are all within a short distance of Elgin. We just
can ' t get people to do downtown anymore and I just don' t think
we can wait three or four years for development. I think we
have to save what we ' ve got now.
We have got to get other people besides Visa interested in the
South Grove project . We need more one-way streets in the downtown
area so we can get people to circulate through the downtown. People
who go to Spiess to shop, using the parking deck and never go to
any of the other stores . Also the presence of certain undesirables
in the downtown has an adverse affect . We should address the
problems downtown and keep what we have .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 21 , 1981
Page 4
Herbert Gross stated that no one had addressed the problem of
where have the customers gone . There has been no imput from
the consumers and he felt the community should be approached
first to see if it might be poor inventories , poor services ,
or what the problem is and why the people are not coming down-
town.
Mr. Trkla stated the city is at a crucial point and all of these
alternative plans represent situations where someone must be
convinced to do something . You are at the point that is most
vulnerable, and you are in the very narrow confines of trying
to negotiate developer interest with the public watching you.
Councilmen Gilliam, Kirkland, Nelson and Waters voted for the
extension of the Trkla agreement . Councilman Schmidt and
Mayor Verbic voted against the extension, and Councilman Hansen
stated he would cast his formal vote at the Council meeting
next week.
Change Order No. 1 with Leininger-MidStates Paving Company
for the Otter Creek project .
The Council reviewed a request from the contractor to eliminate
the four cast in place manholes specified for the 60 inch
storm sewer along Erie Street . Precast manholes are suggested
in lieu of structures constructed in place . The change to
precast manholes will save time during actual construction
and represents a savings of $2, 147. 00 . The Division of Water
Resources have also approved this change.
The Council approved Change Order No. 1 for the Otter Creek
Project .
Bids for work at the City Hall and Hemmens Buildings .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation to award these
capital improvements to the low bidders as follows : City Hall
Lounge Conversion to W. F . Wetzel Construction for $2176 . 00,
and Hemmen ' s Exhibition Hall Doorway Replacement to Elgin Key
and Lock for $2,969. 10.
Letter from John Early relative to the issuance of industrial
revenue bonds for the Elgin Holiday Inn project.
The Council reviewed a letter from Attorney Early, which
indicated that this corporation is continuing to attempt to
find sources for the placement of the full issue so that it
can proceed with the entire project . In an effort to show
its committment both to the proposal and to the city, the
corporation requested that 2 . 5 million of the 10 million in
revenue bonds be issued immediately with the remaining 7 .5
million deferred until such time as placement can be found.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 21 , 1981
Page 5
Counsel Jentsch advised the Council they just want to start
the project in case some of the federal laws are changed and
they are just talking about acquisition of property and
completion of renovation and improvements to the existing
facilities .
The Council approved the request from the Brock Hotel
Corporation.
Proposed alley vacation, as requested by the resident of
661 South Street .
The resident of 661 South St. , Mr . Phillip Seyller, has
requested the vacation of a portion of an alley fronting the
southwest end of his property. The owner of the other property
that fronts the same portion of the alley is Mr. Wesley Clabough
of 182 Gertrude St . Mr. Clabough was contacted and he is in
favor of the City vacating the alley.
The staff recommends vacating the alley.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation.
Fountain Square Plaza Li_phting Replacement .
The Council reviewed the following quotes from suppliers :
Moldcast $427 each, total $25 ,620*
Delivery 4-8 weeks
* 10% price increase Oct . 31 , 1981
Crouse-Hinds LRL $861 each, total $51 ,660
Delivery 6-8 weeks
Crouse-Hinds PMS $325 each, total $ 19, 500
Delivery 3-4 weeks
The staff recommended the city purchase the Crouse-Hinds PMS
because of the price and because people can see the light
source which also gives the mall the appearance of being
brighter.
Mr. Dahl stated we do have lights on the mall and we will have the
Christmas lights up by Thanksgiving so that there will be additional
light on the mall . Therefore, we could bid these luminaires and
maybe they will come in a little cheaper.
Mr. Nelson stated that unless these are bid we could not use the
block grant funds , and we would have to use the general fund
instead.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 21 , 1981
Page 6
Councilwoman Nelson stated she thought the city should go ahead
and purchase the Crouse-Hinds PMS right away, because we have
promised additional lighting in the mall and it would be very
disappointing not to have them at Christmas time .
Councilman Hansen stated that we would not lose the grant money
and he felt we should support Councilwoman Nelson.
Councilman Gilliam and Waters agreed the luminaires should be
bought now.
Change Order No. 4 - Spring Street Parking Facility.
The Council reviewed Change Order No. 4 which comprised of
changing the linseed/epoxy to silene, at a cost of $4, 212.
Gary Miller stated the original specifications called for
two coats of sealer but because of the strike delay and the
on coming adverse weather, in order th apply this sealer the
temperature would have to be at least 600. In order to heat
up the concrete the cost would be between $ 10, 000 and $ 15, 000.
The silene sealer could be used no matter what the weather
might be .
The Council approved the recommended Change Order from Carl
Walker .
Economic Growth and Poplulation Plan.
Mr. Nelson distributed the Economic Growth and Population Plan
to the Council .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 50 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 14
who contracted with them and wet their house down and let the
other one burn down . I don ' t believe in that sort of thing,
but I do think that in some manner that the Eagles and the
South End Tap should be responsible and we should tell them
either they will be or we truly will not respond. It is not
a popular decision to make when a building is burning down
to let it burn down and I think we should face it up front
before it happens .
Councilman Gilliam stated, I think we should send a letter
to these people and notify them that they have x amount of
days to get a contract with us , or they are out there on
their own .
Mr. Nelson stated, we either have to have an agreement, or
have them annexed, or just tell them we can' t protect them
any longer .
Mayor Verbic stated, I think Bob has made an adequate suggestion,
and we should follow through.
The Council instructed the staff to send a contract to the
Eagles and South End Tap with a dollar amount as suggested
by Councilman Hansen . The Council also instructed the staff
to proceed to annex those properties surrounded by city
F property.
Authorization to seek requests for proposals to design the
ten diamond baseball complex at the Elgin Mental Health
Center.
Mr . Nelson stated, I understand that last Wednesday there were
representatives from the Continental Little League here asking
for consideration of property at the Elgin Mental Health Center
and indicating they were prepared to pay for the ball diamonds .
That being the case I also understand you are prepared to have
us design that ball diamond complex so that we can tell them
where their diamonds are and what kind of plans to build to.
Is that a fair question, are you asking us to get proposals
to find out what that will cost us to design that complex.
Councilman Schmidt stated, since this was discussed I received
a phone call from Mr . Paul Wolfe , who is with the Kane County
Board, and he informed me that we could secure 20.9 acres
along the riverbank, which would be an ideal spot to develop,
at no cost to us , for at least three to five baseball diamonds .
The land is there, there is $24, 198 in an account to develop
this area, and the lane that leads down to it could be made
into a road, promised by the State. Don ' t you think it would
warrant having the staff look into this .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 15
Mr . Nelson stated, is the Kane County Forest Preserve just
offering their property to the Continental Little League to
build diamonds down there, because sometime we forget that
as city residents and taxpayers we are also county taxpayers .
I guess what I am saying is why should we be involved at all .
They are a public body also and these residents and representatives
of Continental Little League, I assume live in Kane County,
why can ' t Kane County just let them use the land for the ball
diamonds .
Councilman Hansen stated, maybe the Mayor, Mr . Schmidt and
one other councilman would like to meet with the county, and
include the staff too.
Mayor Verbic stated, I think that Paul Wolfe should meet with
Phil and Leo and let ' s get this off the board one way or the
other.
Mr. Nelson stated, I hear you saying that we should pursue
this Kane County property.
The Council indicated a positive response.
Discussion of the proposed amendment to the residency ordinance .
Councilman Hansen stated, there might be three possibilities
here . This ordinance as it is , or the one that was in effect
from 1973 to 1980, or the present one .
Councilman Kirkland stated, I read this and I did ' nt see
any problem, I thought it did represent pretty much where
we were aiming toward in the other meeting .
Councilman Gilliam stated, my position has been that we leave
it just the way it is right now.
Councilman Schmidt stated, I concur with you Councilman Gilliam,
mainly because the present ordinance has not even been into
effect one year.
Councilwoman Nelson stated, I have always thought we should
leave it as it is .
Mayor Verbic stated, well I voted against the one in 1980
and I thought the 1973 ordinance was doing an excellent job
the way it was, and in seven years time there was nothing
that came up to cause any serious problems .
Councilman Waters stated, I think on the other hand those
comments don ' t reflect the problem which brought the issue
back to us and that was the problem of trying to recruit
personnel to the city employ in specific occupations, where
this ordinance was the one which was a hinderance to their
coming into the employment of the city.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 16
Councilman Hansen stated, I prefer the 1973 ordinance, that
was my preference that I stated the other night, and I still
prefer that .
Councilman Waters stated, what is it in the 1973 ordinance
that is desirable over this .
Councilman Hansen stated, the only thing that bothers me
on this one here is I think we are really placing a heavy
burden on the City Manager and staff on recruitment in
the exception area. I can see some problems in handling
that administratively.
Councilman Waters stated, the 1973 ordinance requires
everyone to either live in the Class I or Class II residency,
and I am saying for those employees who are not in the Class
I catagory of what advantage is it to the city that they live
in the Class II .
Councilman Hansen stated, from my point of view it gives them
a wider range in life style selection.
Councilman Waters stated, what is being proposed here opens
it up all the way. It eliminates a Class II requirement
except for police and fire . The 1973 would require them
to be in the Class II boundary. What advantage would it
be to have a secretary living in the Class II boundary.
Councilman Gilliam stated, I would like to make a motion
that we leave the ordinance as is . Councilman Schmidt stated
I would second that motion. Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam,
Nelson and Schmidt . Nays : Councilmen Hansen , Kirkland, Waters
and Mayor Verbic.
Councilman Hansen stated, I will make a motion that we go
back to the 1973 ordinance . Councilman Kirkland seconded
said motion .
Councilman Kirkland stated, Elmer, all we can do is ask
again , what is the advantage you see over 1973 over 1981 .
Councilman Hansen stated, I am a little unfortable with the
( g) section.
Councilman Kirkland stated, well then lets take that out.
Councilman Waters stated, if ( g) were taken out, Leo, have
you exempted the positions from this that you were having
difficulty with .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
. - November 4, 1981
Page 17
Mr. Nelson stated, I think for the most part, although these
positions will change from time to time, depending upon who
you are trying to recruit, but for the moment most of the
ones I am having difficulty with are out of here. If you
take (g) out fine, as Elmer suggests sometimes it may create
hardships, you don' t have to worry about whether that
discretion of whether you recruit in or out .
Councilman Kirkland stated, I agree with ( g) out I think it
comes closer to what we want than the 1973 does .
Mayor Verbic stated, we have a motion and second on the
1973 ordinance . Yeas : Councilmen Hansen, Schmidt and
Mayor Verbic . Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, Kirkland, Nelson
and Waters .
Councilman Waters stated, I would move that the ordinance
as prepared be submitted to the Council for consideration
at the next meeting .
Councilman Kirkland stated, I would make an amendment that
we delete ( g) . Councilwoman Nelson seconded said motion.
Mayor Verbic stated, we will vote on the amendment to the
propsed ordinance. Yeas : Councilmen Hansen, Kirkland,
Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Gilliam,
Nelson and Waters .
Mayor Verbic asked the clerk to call the roll on the
ordinance as amended. Yeas : Councilmen Hansen, Kirkland,
Schmidt and Waters . Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, Nelson
and Mayor Verbic.
Spring Street Parking Deck
Mr . Nelson advised the Council the parking deck will open
on November 23rd, but the delivery of the equipment is
not expected to be received until after the first of the
year. Mr. Nelson asked the Council for approval to let
the Christmas shoppers park free as long as the equipment
to collect the fees was not going to be available .
The Council approved Mr . Nelson ' s suggestion and Councilman
Hansen requested that the public be made aware that the
parking would be free .
Budget Review
The Council agreed to meet on November 16th, at 6 : 30 for
their first review of the budget .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole , the meeting was adjourned at 11 :30 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, November 4, 1981 , at 7 : 05 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hamsen, Kirkland , Nelson , Schmidt , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman , Jentsch, and members of staff .
Presentation by Bernie Guentner of H. W. Lochner, Inc . , of
the North End Bridge alternatives in preparation for the
public information meeting scheduled for Thursday , November
12 , in the Hemmens Exhibition Hall .
Mr . Guentner reviewed with the Council designs showing the
location of the project, descriptions of the proposed
improvement and a design variant .
Mr. Nelson stated that this was a preview of what is to take
place next Thursday and is merely a briefing for the Council .
Following the subject review with the Council , Gary Miller
( asked if a second follow-up meeting would be held prior to
FF the public hearing .
Mr . Guentner stated they would anticipate holding a public
hearing next June and any comments received would be included
in the EIS study, a draft of which would be available to the
public.
Discussion re Edward Kelly and Leo Nelson' s trip to Switzerland
to attend the trade fair.
Edward Kelly, Executive Director of the Elgin Chamber of Commerce
state that he wanted to thank the Council on behalf of the Chamber
for the support of this trip, because without it , it would not
have been possible , and for Leo Nelson going sharing his time
and talent , I could not have handled the responsibilities without
Leo.
Mr . Kelly further stated that as far as he was concerned the trip
was successful , they have two prospects who have scheduled visits
here later on this month, or in early December and if their plans
are consummated it would result in a little over two million
dollars in additional payrolls , plus the property taxes that
would be generating, which will certainly more than compensate
for the trip.
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Committee4of19h1 Whole Meeting
NovemberPage 2
Discussion of City ' s liquor ordinance.
Councilman Gilliam stated, maybe we should start off by
explaining some of the concerns that the Liquor Commission had,
or maybe summarize it for the rest of the Council , and then take
it from there .
Mayor Verbic stated, I don ' t believe you have the letter or
the information which I sent to the Council so let me take
a couple of minutes and read the letter, so you have a better
understanding of what we are going to discuss this evening.
It has been several years since the City Council reviewed the
provisions of the Elgin Municipal Code relating to alcoholic
liquor dealers . In particular recent events cause me to
request that the City Council review the provisions of the
ordinance and in particular those portions of the ordinance
restricting the number of licenses and prohibiting the issuance
of a license to any person or firm whose principle business
is the retail sale to the general public of products other
than alcoholic liquor.
The ordinance currently limits the number of Class A and Class AA
licenses authorizing the sale of liquor for consumption on the
premises (Class A) and the sale of package goods in addition
to sales for consumption on the premises (Class AA) to a maximum
of 30 . Class B package stores are limited to 13 in number .
All Class A or AA licenses have been issued and 12 Class B
licenses have been issued .
The Liquor Control Commission has received applications for Class
B licenses from Gromer ' s Supermarket for 101 National Street,
Osco Drug Store for 820 Summit Street and Carmelo and Joseph
Villaneua for 117 West Chicago Street , Additionally, applications
for Class A or AA licenses for undetermined premises have been
received from four other applicants .
The City Clerk has also received letters from Eagle Discount
Supermarkets requesting a license to sell beer and wine at
925 North Liberty Street and 306 S . McLean Boulevard and a letter
from Richard Saffold who operates a restaurant at 415 East
Summit seeking permission to sell beer and wine . His restaurant
is not large enough to qualify for a Class E license.
The City Clerk has also received telephone inquiries from K-Mart,
Aldi ' s, White Hen, Angelo' s and two gas/food mart stations seeking
to sell beer and wine .
As you may know, the west side Osco received a Class B License
by constructing an addition with a separate entranceway from
the remainder of the store . Osco by similar remodeling of its
east side location could seek to transfer its existing Class B
license for its downtown location in the event that no other
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 3
Class B licenses are available . The end of liquor sales at
the downtown store would very likely result in the closing of
that store in the near future .
The application of Carmelo and Joseph Villaneua for the available
Class B license was made prior to the Osco application for a
Class B license .
I have been advised by the Corporation Counsel that the liquor
ordinance does not permit the granting of a Class B license to
Gromer ' s Supermarkets because of the prohibition of licenses
to persons or firms whose principle business is the retail sales
to the general public of products other than alcoholic liquor.
That obstacle could be overcome if Gromer ' s were to construct
a separate liquor store as part of its proposed convenience
food center, but the prohibition on the number of Class B
licenses might result in the unavailability of a license.
In view of the circumstances and the fact that it is quite common
to authorize the sale of alcoholic beverages by persons or firms
whose principle activity is the sale of products other than
alcoholic beverages to the public at retail , such as supermarkets
and drug stores , I believe that the City Council should review
the existing ordinance and give consideration to its amendment.
e". Amendments that the Council may wish to address are eliminating
the restriction on the number of licenses which may be issued,
increasing the number of licenses which may be issued, eliminating
the prohibition on issuing licenses for premises where the
principle activity is the sale of non=alcoholic beverages ,
creation of beer and wine licenses and creation of a new class
of licenses permitting licenses to be issued for supermarkets
and drug stores with a minimum square gootage of 20, 000 square
feet , thereby limiting, in practice, the number of such licenses
to large retailers .
I would like the Council to address this subject in the near
future and suggest that the matter be placed on the agenda of
the Committee of the Whole for November 4, 1981 , or on such
other date, as early as possible, when all members of the
Council will be present .
Councilman Hansen stated, I am curious , in view of the present
ordinance, as it is written, licenses to persons or firms whose
principle business is retail sales of other than alcoholic
liquor, how did the Osco organization circumvent this ordinance,
if they in fact did .
Mayor Verbic stated, the one downtown goes back a long period
of time and that was one that was apparently grandfathered. The
one on the west side complied with the present city rules whereby
they built an attachment to their present building but with a
separate entrance and exit and a special means to monitor these
sales .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 4
Councilman Hansen stated, does the Osco operation meet the
ordinance as it is written todate.
Counsel Jentsch stated, as I understand they have established
the liquor sales as a separate entity, apart from the sale of
food and other items . You can ' t go out the the same check out
counter, it is physically separated from the rest of the store,
although there is a common point of entrance and it has a
separate entrance which would permit you to go in and out
without entering the food store .
Councilwoman Nelson stated, it seems we have come to an impass
and I believe we should give a little thought to whether we
are going to harm or help Elgin . I think we have a recommen-
dation here where we should change that part of the law, this
is not a state law, it ' s an Elgin law. I think this is something
we have to change because the times have changed .
We don ' t want Osco to quit downtown, moving that license out
and we don ' t need another empty store . I think the trend is
to the type of thing that Gromer is going to build. I am
very much in favor of opening this up to discussion and
have a recommendation to the Liquor Commission that we change
this part of the ordinance.
Councilman Schmidt stated , my question is why all of a sudden
do all of these supermarkets want to become involved in the
liquor sales . It seems that all these years they have done
very well without that part and I for one cannot see these
big conglomerates coming in and pushing the little dealers
out of the way. At this point I would not be in favor of
any changes .
Councilman Kirkland stated, I agree with Lucille in terms of
I think this has to be opened up some. I suppose this comes
down to what kind of set up can you arrange that will not
cause the small retailer the largest kinds of problems . When
I was on the Liquor Control Commission and when we talked
about Osco on the westside and then possibly in the future
on the eastside, we required them to have a separate entrance
and a separate store in effect , for their liquor sales and
the reason we did that is to protect the small retailer some .
Gromers is the reason I think we are here on this and one of
the questions I have is how do they feel about having liquor
in the store with the sale of groceries versus a separate
operation, like we required Osco to set up. I am wondering
if the small dealer ' s concern is basically being under-cut
in terms of price, whether Gromers having to have the liquor
in the store proper to be bought, in effect with groceries
through grocery lines, would really make it better for small
retailers to compete because you could compete on the basis
of having more convenience . When you have a separate store
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
r Page 5
they can under-cut you in price and they also have the
convenience to cause you real problems .
Jerry Mowwinski stated, I have the type of business that deals
with liquor industry and just the opposite seems to happen.
When the big people move in they lower the price of liquor
in order to attract people into the store to buy the high tag
items and it really hurts the small retailer. In many other
communities a large retailer has come in and it has reduced
the volume in the local liquor store by as much as fifty per
cent, and it almost puts him out of business .
Stan Douglas stated, when we first began to work on the down-
town redevelopment project and we had an expressed interest
from Mr . Gromer and his organization to participate in a
development project . One of the major concerns in the design
and layout of that store was how we were going to address the
liquor issues , because today ' s modern supermarkets generally
has a department within that store that sells liquor .
In the little community I lived in in Will County, which had
2 ,000 population, it had a grocery store which was owned by
a gentleman, very similar to Mr. Gromer. It was a small
grocery store , it had a package liquor goods department within
the store, there was not a separate entrance to the liquor
department, the sales clerk the checkout clerk had no problems
enforcing the state liquor laws on age, and in that little
town they also had a liquor store , that did survive , continue
to do business , and as a matter of fact I think they may have
opened up another one .
We could go to many other communities and find that today ' s
modern grocery store , with single check out lanes , with
multiply check out lanes , where liquor is sold within the
store , is a matter of convenience to the consumer.
The power that the City Council has in control of licenses
is to protect the citizens of the community and I do not
understand how the restriction of the sale of alcohol by
businessmen of the quality and caliber of Mr. Gromer is
going to protect the citizens .
Dennis Ward stated, I do not currently hold a liquor license,
I have not applied for a liquor license, but I do represent
as a CPA several of my clients who have liquor stores and
Class A and AA licenses .
From a standpoint of economics I think it is a very sorry
state when my clients ask me, as an accountant , to stand
before the City Council and try to indicate what their
financial constraints are and what their concerns are . My
initial reaction to this kind of a change is that it is
either under three reasons for trying to make or alter our
existing liquor licenses .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 6
One it could be another indication of your frustrations to
come into grips with the economically balanced city budget .
Secondly you could be under the impression that this will
lower the liquor price to the consumer, thereby helping the
citizen, or thirdly, and I would not consider this to be
the case , but it is a political play , geared towards achieving
a predetermined result . That is make someone think you are
going to kill them when you only hurt them and they will
probably end up thanking you .
I don ' t see and I challenge you to present it to me how
this will increase the income to the City of Elgin in
issuing an additional liquor license for the purposes of one
store. One store who I might add has a liquor store one block
immediately east , one block immediately north and you can just
cross the river to the Walnut Inn . So in less than a quarter
of a mile radius we have three existing liquor licenses .
don ' t know why it is not feasible to offer one of those existing
licenses a place within this mall , or shopping center complex.
Dick Gromer 'stated, we feel that it is very important that we
be able to offer package liquor to our customers who wish to
shop with us at that location . In many communities right
near Elgin, throughout the State of Illinois and even through-
out the entire country, the modernsupermarkets in the cities
who are aggressively promoting business will offer and make
it possible for supermakets to promote and sell products that
the customer really wants to buy in a supermarket .
We don ' t ask that any other people are prohibited from selling
liquor only we would just like to also be able to sell it . If
the customer chooses to buy it elsewhere that is their decision.
I am asking the City Council to consider drafting an ordinance
that would meet not only my needs but the needs of other retailers
in the City of Elgin.
I would ask for a separate ordinance and a study of the fees .
First of all that all of the provisions of the Class B liquor
license that we would be obligated to conform with. I ask
this for your consideration, it is very important for me in
the development of our National Street project .
Councilman Gilliam stated, I have the same frustrations as
everyone else and I have a compromise that I would like to
present to the Council and the liquor people, realizing that
I am trying to get the best of two worlds . One, I think that
we as a Council should support Mr. Gromer and help the develop-
ment downtown , which is badly needed. My suggestion would bt
that we establish a square footage number, say 40,000 - 50,000
square feet, and those places that have that footage would be
eligible to get a license, and anything below that would not,
and that would be a separate classification. Then leave the
B licenses as they are now and just create another catagory
just for the larger developments , because if we are going to
have larger developments coming in we should have a special
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 7
catagory just for a large development, and that would avoid
every ma and pa operation trying to come in and get a license.
I think that would have a tendency to solve the problem for
Mr . Gromer and for those on the Council who don ' t want to
open up pandora ' s box and have everybody else trying to get
a license.
Jim Griffen stated, why not open it up to the little guy, why
restrict the little guy. Whether you leave it at 13 B license
and create 6 XYZ licenses it adds up to the same thing. You
are saying to use the square footage as the basis for the new
license and all of these people who want the new license meets
those qualifications . So what you are doing now is a form
of discrimination against the little guy.
Len Didier stated , I am the new owner of Town Liquors and there
are two cases in point . One I have invested just recently quite
a sizable sum of money . To survive in this business as was
brought out by an accountant present, one has to work hard.
One has to understand the business and one must make his bank
commitments . Case point two, opening up any further liquor
licenses , whether they be large or small , still creates the
problem of the Class B license. There are only so many
groceries that can be sold to the x number of people in Elgin,
there is also only so much liquor that can be sold to this
community .
There are a number of Class B licenses owned by individuals
who must make a living. To restrict that person ' s ability,
or the amount of dollars that can be made, by advancing
licenses , I don ' t understand. The answer still remains as
to whom you care to address further business in the community.
To whether you want to protect the present situation and have
a liquor control or whether you are going to open it up further,
which would enlarge the chances and the police force, and
everything else to be able to control the liquor, and in turn
hurt the man who presently has a Class B license .
Henry Gould stated, what I really want to address myself to
are some facts that were thrown around by Mr . Gromer which
left unchallenged. I don ' t think that Elgin wants the climate
of South Florida here . There are very few small retailers in
South Florida most of them are giant liquor chains that own
small stores . Its true they sell liquor in the supermarkets ,
but it is just not the same situation that you have here.
I don ' t know how much more, after the other Osco store opens,
the retailers in this town can handle. You are just going to
have 13 bankrupt businesses is what you are going to have. I just
don ' t have much further to go. I have Osco to contend with,
when they place an order they are placing a chain order, they
are already a volume dealer . I place an order and I buy for
my little store,
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 8
Donald Koepke stated, we are talking about liquor control laws
here and we should emphasize the word control . The whole idea
is to control the dispensing of alcoholic beverages . Why
control , to prevent persons who have already had too much to
drink from buying more and to prevent underage persons from
purchasing liquor. Liquor stores are equipped and are used
to handling these two consistently arising problems .
Minors know there are two good sources of liquor for them, and
I get this from the minors . One is a supermarket or drug store,
the other is a failing liquor store. They go to drug stores
and supermarkets because typically the person checking them
out is not going to demand two identifications while a line
of people is waiting to check out . Another reason to get
liquor in a supermarket or drug store is that the check out
persons , in many cases , are their peers , and if she or her
boyfriend wants to remain part of the accepted crowd she had
better check them through without a hassle.
Giving licenses to other than liquor stores will allow drug
and grocery stores to sell wine , beer and liquor at ridiculous
prices to bring in traffic . Look at the full page ad Osco
has in tonight, those are good prices , the ones on the shelf
are not. When you increase the number of licenses and allow
Osco, Gromer or Eagle to use liquor as a promotional item,
you are creating several small business failures .
Councilman Hansen stated, I can appreciate Councilman Gilliam ' s
desire to help Mr . Gromer and our downtown and I think that we
all share that goal , but I really don ' t think that we can mesh
these two issues together . What we decide here will have some
very long range effects on liquor control for not just the
immediate future but for years and years to come . I would
hate to have it said that this body decided this issue on
a one time desire, I just don ' t think that is good legislation.
No one here tonight has told me how we can only help Mr. Gromer
and not open up liquor sales to every grocery chain , if we
open it up to a grocery chain I can ' t see how you can keep the
KMart from selling liquor, they have groceries in their KMart
store. I think that is a very difficult thing to define and
control . I would like to hear some more discussion and see how
we can help Mr . Gromer and not open this whole thing up to
what I fear to be a pandora ' s box.
I can ' t help but read the first paragraph of the ordinance
providing for the regulation of the sale of alcoholic liquors
at retail and it says : Whereas the sale of alcoholic liquors
at retail in the City of Elgin is a matter effecting the
public health, safety and welfare of the citizens of the City
of Elgin, and I think that we have a responsibility to put a
little better control on liquor than we do on the sale of
milk or bread, or furniture, or gasoline.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 9
Councilwoman Nelson stated, we are not here to regulate the
morals of the city and I believe we are here for another reason
entirely and the best judgment is to improve Elgin and I am all
for it. I am willing to gamble on the one ordinance of the
largest place . I like bringing the square footage out of the
20,000 up to 50,000, or whatever we have to put it at . We
can change this , if we can sit here and change it for Mr. Gromer
right now, we can change it back for something else if it is ' nt
working out for us . I have nothing in mind but the betterment
of Elgin.
Councilman Waters stated, I think that one of the things that
has been said, • at least suggested, is that one of the motivations
for the city even considering this is the possibility of
increasing the revenue, and I think we all have to assume that
if any changes are made in the ordinance and new licenses are
created, we are not anticipating any increased sales in alcoholic
beverages , certainly our intent would not be to encourage increased
consumption of alcoholic beverages . So we are talking about
disbursing sales to a larger number of retail merchants if we
open up the licenses in some manner or other. On the other
hand it seems to me that 13 is an arbitrary number and there
is nothing magical about the number 13 and perhaps we have been
over protective by holding to that rather arbitrary number.
One of the things that I think have not been mentioned, or at
least talked to at any extent , and the proposal to open up
this type of a license to a grocery store operation is that
there is a convenience factor there . We are saying that we
are keeping the market at the same level and we are opening
it up to other merchants . One of the advantages is that it
is convenient to the shopper, there are some shoppers who
would purchase beer or wine as a part of their grocery shopping,
and it would be more convenient for them to do it in that
manner than it would for them to go to a separate outlet.
I would suggest that with what Bob has suggested that we
consider as an option to that two things . One would be that
it be limited to a beer and a wine selection, as an option
for consideration. I think that the other thing I would
suggest with that is we look at some kind of a control rather
than having the liquor available on the shelf and sold through
the regular check out process that we look at some kind of a
control mechanism that gives the city some control that is
built into the current ordinance, and was mentioned earlier.
I don' t know how much farther we want to go with the discussion
tonight, I think we have perhaps said what we are going to say
tonight and I would suggest that perhaps what has been said are
options and they be prepared in writing, along with that which
Mr. Gromer has suggested to us , give us an opportunity to look
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 10
(01".- at that in writing and look at the impact on the different
outlets in the community, and schedule another time for a
discussion to continue this after we have had an opportunity
to have these options placed in our hands in writing.
Councilman Gilliam stated, I would agree with Councilman
Waters on the fact that I think we have discussed it as much
as we can . I think we have had the imput from both Mr. Gromer
and also from the other liquor dealers and I would like to
have some more time to have more discussion with individuals
to get more feedback and then bring it up again at the next
Committee of the Whole Meeting .
Mayor Verbic stated, we have heard everything tonight and it
probably would be best to incorporate the thoughts into something
viable to read and then work accordingly on what we decide to do.
Review of amendment to the Open Meetings Act, which will go
into effect on January 1 , 1982.
Counsel Jentsch stated, I suggested that we review the provisions
of the open meetings act because in the last session of the
General Assembly it was amended. The act as amended becomes
effective January 1 , 1982. The substance of it has not changed
much, but the rules of procedure have been increased and the
penalties for non-compliance are greater than they were prior
to the amendment .
The Statute says that all legislative, exeuctive, administrative
or advisory bodies are subject to the act . That includes Boards ,
Commissions , Committees , sub-Committees, Boards of Trustees , and
City Councils , are subject to the act .
A meeting occurs whenever a majority of a quorum of a public
body gather for the purpose of discussing public business . In
the case of the City Council of the City of Elgin, which consists
of a Mayor and six Councilmen, the quorum is four, and therefore
a majority of that quorum would be three. So any meeting of
three or more members of the City Council for the purpose of
discussing public business is a meeting subject to the provisions
of the open meeting act .
The general rule is that the meeting must be public, there are
a number of designated exceptions , not all of them apply to
municipal bodies , some of them apply to other governmental
agencies . The first exception to the general rule that all
meetings must be public is that you may meet to discuss elective
negotiating matters with employees or their representatives .
The second exception is the discussion of the acquisition of
real property, either by purchase or lease, that is a continuation
of the exception that existed prior to the amendments . The
third exception include meetings to discuss litigation against
or on behalf of the public body.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 11
Where no litigation is filed or pending the minutes of the
executive session have to recite the basis for the finding
that there is something eminent and pending. In other words
you can ' t just speculate about filing a suit, or whether
somebody might file a suit . There must be some grounds for
believing that such action is going to take place, and that
has to be recorded in the minutes .
Another exception to the rule that the meeting must be open
are sessions to consider information regarding the appointment ,
employment or dismissal of an employee or officer, and that
exception applies in the case of individuals , not generally
talking about positions that are going to be eliminated or
added, but when you are talking about taking action with
respect to a particular person you may discuss that matter
in executive session.
Sessions to hear testimony on a complaint against an employee
or officer to determine its validity is another specific
exception.
Conciliation of unfair housing complaints of discrimination
may take place in executive session.
The appointment of people to fill vacancies on the City
Council is included as an exception and made be had without
a public meeting.
All of these matters may either be discussed at a closed
meeting or during a closed portion of an otherwise open
meeting.
There is also an exception for consultation with the public
body' s attorney, but you cannot use the attorney as an excuse
to hold the closed meeting, it must be of a geniune issue to
be discussed with him.
What is new in terms of procedure is how you establish closed
meetings, or closed portions of meetings . In order to have a
closed meeting the members of the City Council must take a
vote at a public meeting to hold a closed meeting. You may
establish a series of closed meetings by a single vote , but
each meeting must have the same agenda and that series of meetings
cannot extend for more than ninety days passed the date on which
the vote is taken.
The motion that is made has to specify the specific exception
that applies . In other words you won ' t be able to say I move
that we meet in executive session, you will have to say to
discuss the acquisition of property, to discuss so and so, to
discuss with the attorney particular matters . There must be
specification of the matter to be discussed.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 12
The record of each vote must show the vote of each member and
the specific exception recorded by the clerk.
You can close a part of an open meeting by taking action at
that same meeting . However, the requirements are the same
you still have to have the motion, you have to identify the
exceptions that you are going to address in the closed session,
there has to be a record of the vote taken and the purpose of
the meeting. Only the topics specified in the motion may be
discussed in the closed session of the meeting . The staff
would have to be advised beforehand that there are certain
matters and what they are about so that you vote intelligently.
The amendment adds provisions for the taking of minutes , it
now provides that all public bodies must keep written minutes
of all meetings , open or closed. The minutes must record the
date, time and place of the meeting, the members present or
absent , and must generally describe all matters proposed,
discussed and decided, and there must be a record of the
vote taken. It would seem to me that in the Committee of the
Whole you are going to have to start making motions as to
what action the Committee is actually voting on . The minutes
have to show the vote taken on a particular subject.
In the case of an open meeting the minutes must be made available
to the public for public inspection within seven days after
their approval by the public body. In the case of closed
meetings the minutes may not be made available to the public
until the public body determines that confidentiality no longer
requires that they be keep secret . At some point they have to
be made available. In the one case you have seven days after
they have been approved and in the other case at some point
you have to determine that it is no longer necessary to keep
them from the public and they must be made available to the public.
There are also requirements for notice of meetings that have
been expanded to include the closed meeting, although we
indicated there was going to be a meeting. All meetings
require notice, Whether it is Committee of the Whole meetings ,
Council Meetings , any meeting of a Board, Committee, Sub-Committee,
anything acting on behalf of the City of Elgin.
The first requirement is the same as has existed in the past .
At the beginning of each calendar year there must be published
an annual schedule of regular meetings , including the dates,
times and places . Special meetings may not be held on less
than 24 hour notice, with an agenda of the special meeting .
The act does permit emergency meetings qualified by the term
bona-fide with notice as soon as practiable prior to the meeting,
and with notice to any news media requested.
You must also give 24 hour notice of any re-scheduled or re-
convened regular meeting, and an agenda is required, except
that you don ' t have to give the written notice when it is
announced at the original meeting and there is no change in
the agenda.
» Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 4, 1981
Page 13
The type of notice required is the notice must be posted at
the municipal building or the place of meeting, copies must
be given to any news media, making an annual written request.
You can change the regular meeting dates , but only after ten
days notice by publication.
Councilman Hansen stated, my only comment would be that we
employ Attorney Jentsch as our corporation counsel and
think it would behove us to have him monitor us and keep us
out of trouble for the first few months as we get adjusted
to this , it may not be as bad as we think.
Counsel Jentsch stated, I am sure there will be some cases
that will develop that will give us more direction than the
statute does .
Discussion of the City ' s position relative to fire protection
and ambulance service to the Eagle Lodge, which is located
outside the City at 1600 Eagle Road .
Mr . Nelson stated, this a matter of how we go about dealing
with the Eagles Lodge , and more generally other properties
that are in a similar situation. Apparently back in the late
sixtys the Elgin Fire Department, with other neighboring
departments and Fire Protection Districts , went through a
lenghty process of trying to identify all properties that
were in a no man ' s land, or properties not within the
jurisdiction of a Fire Protection District, or in our case
the City of Elgin ' s Fire Department .
I guess they were successful in getting 80 or 90% of those
properties to be brought under the protection of one of the
cities . However, some properties remained out and the Eagles
Lodge was one, and it apparently has never been covered by
any jurisdiction for fire protection .
Chief Van De Voorde stated, what brought this to our attention
was the recent fire in Aurora and the denial of services to
the plant that did burn down and it was our opinion, as it was
ten years ago, we should face this issue prior to that happening .
We are just not capable of denying services to someone in need
if the emergency exists , but I think the other people should be
responsible too and we are trying to draw their attention to it .
The dilemma is that the good people of Elgin who are paying
for our department are deprived of that assistance when it
is sent out of town to assist other people who are paying
no one, and it seems very unfair to me , particularly in light
of the fact we feel that we are undermaned as it is .
The only other exception to sending equipment out of town is
mutual aid, but that is a two-way street because we can expect
help then and if we have a contract which helps at least share
the burden of the cost . It is very difficult to deny assistance,
some departments go as far in some areas to respond to someone
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, November 11 , 1981 , at 7 :05 P.M. , in the Council
Chambers of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen Gilliam,
Hansen, Kirkland , Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Absent : None.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Acquisition of an evidence van through a donation from Elgin
American Legion Post #57 .
Mr . Nelson stated, as we all know the American Legion has
been very generous with their funds and especially benefiting
the city and particularly the Police and Fire Departments
over the years . This is another one of their gifts .
Mayor Verbic stated, I think the American Legion should be
thanked not only for what they are doing on this particular
case, but for all the other contributions they have made to
the Police and Fire Departments in the past . It is wonderful
to have an organization like the American Legion who believe
so much in the City of Elgin .
Authorization to enter into agreements for Spring productions
of the Pertorming Arts for Young People Series .
Mr . Nelson stated, as you know this has been a very successful
series since it ' s inception a couple of years ago. The attendance
is outstanding, I believe Betsy mentions in her memo that the
average attendance per performance is 746 young people .
We need to enter into agreements now to get our schedules set
for Spring . The series does pay for itself , the children who
pay for the tickets pay for the cost of the series , it does
not cost the city anything.
The Council indicated their approval of the proposed agreements .
Proposed amendment to the annexation agreement with Biggers
Chevrolet .
Mr. Nelson stated, the Corporation Counsel has met with
officials from Biggers and their attorney and this is the type
of agreement that Biggers can live with and as we know the
car dealerships are having difficult times , and they are again
asking for a postponement of the requirement to resurface their
lot, among other things , but they have agreed to at least
dedicate the right-of-way that was a condition that we had
wanted in the amendment to the annexation agreement .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 2
rCounsel Jentsch stated, as you will recall you had a public
hearing in May or June and some of these items were left
unresolved, and you directed me to meet with them, which I
have done and the memo is simply a report on the results of
that meeting .
They continue to insist that they are unable to obtain a bond
to secure their performance in doing the necessary paving and
in light of the news that Long Chevrolet, the second largest
Chevrolet dealer, is going out of business , could indicate
their representations are true .
Mayor Verbic stated, I think he indicated that when he was here
in May or June. I certainly would concur that economic times
would dictate financial embarrassment for a car dealer like
this to come up with a bond, and from the two letters which
we have enclosed it would indicate to me that with his promise
and his personal bond should probably suffice .
Counsel Jentsch stated, he is prepared to dedicate the right-
of-way and to agree to a special assessment for the improvement
in an amount to be determined and to waive any rights they have
to object to this . The only problem would be if the amount
established turns out to be sufficient at the time you actually
proceed with the special assessment, if and when you do.
Councilman Waters stated, I would just express a concern with
this , it would seem to me that if this were approved on a
personal letter of credit, or a personal assurance of some
type, this is establishing a precedent for other petitioners
coming before the city, and I guess I fail to see how we can
make the distinction between this particular situation, even
as much as we might want to, and another situation brought by
another petitioner under entirely different circumstances , but
asking also to have a personal bond or commitment as opposed
to a security bond .
Mr. Nelson stated, normally you would not be faced with this
situation because in most instances property owners annexing
to the city under these kinds of conditions would have paved
and developed the parking lot . The problem was created when
we the first time around agreed to allow them to delay the
paving of that parking lot .
Gary Miller stated, they installed it illegally it was not
part of the original contact plan , the storage area was not
contemplated by the original plan they just went ahead and
did it .
Councilman Hansen stated , I was out an looked at Mr . Bigger ' s
operation and parking lots and the only way that I think we
can get some relief here is to take a good look at the ordinance
that requires him to pave a storage lot . This is not a parking
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 3
(p. lot . It is really a storage lot to inventory cars and it is
not accessible by the public . If I read the transcript right
he does ' nt even want it to be accessible by his own employees
except on a very limited basis . So it is an outside storage
lot .
I think that possibly we could get the Engineering Department
to look and see if there is another alternative to an outside
storage lot that would not require blacktopping. You can look
at a very large blacktopped area sometimes as a more undesirable
thing from an environmental standpoint because it does require
a lot more drainage capacity.
I am all for parking lots that are used by the general public
but this is not really a public parking lot used by the public.
Gary Miller stated, I think we are looking at an ordinance
that we have been living with for the last ten years, times
have changed, the economic conditions have changed and you
may well wish toreconsider and go with a seal coat application
as compared with a paving application, which would yield the
same kind of end result in terms of less dust and less gravel ,
and still satisfy the concerns about air polution and so forth.
If you would like we can take a look at that and come back
with a recommendation. I think now is the time, when you
start talking about Long Chevrolet, it may be time for us
to consider some fallback measures to try and help the
situation.
Mayor Verbic stated, I would agree that economic times dictate
another approach to this situation and we should consider the
overall sales tax revenue which we generate from Biggers .
Gary Miller stated, if we were to meet the code as it exists
right now we would require that they surface the storage area.
If you would like to compromise, because of unusal circumstances
we could see the seal coating of that lot . On the other hand
as a fallback position we have lived with that gravel storage
yard for the last three or four years illegally and to the best
of my knowledge it has ' nt caused any real harm or damage .
The storage yard drainage, the gravel drainage, that which runs
off into a detention area that was constructed by Biggers
originally, I think per the memo that you received, they have
agreed to clean out and reshape that detention area . So
think we could live with the gravel storage yard, we would like
to see the seal coat, we would prefer the surfacing . We think
that the right-of-way acquisition is a major accomplishment ,
We think that the participation in the future Lovell Road
improvement is a major accomplishment, so it is a compromise
on both sides .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 4
Councilman Kirkland stated, I think I would rather live with
the gravel rather than set a bad precedent .
Councilman Hansen stated, I still think we should look at the
ordinance as it applies to potential followers because then
we would not really be making an exception.
Councilman Waters stated, do I understand that assuming that
issue is set aside the remaining issue is whether they pay
a cash upfront or wait for the special assessment for the
improvement of Lovell Road, that ' s the key issue.
Counsel Jentsch stated, they will agree to a special assessment
in an amount, which apparently has not been determined yet, and
to waive any rights to object. You are estimating their cost
today, you may not do the project for five years and five years
from now the amount that they have agreed to may not be what
you otherwise propose to assess them. On the other hand they
are agreeing not to object to the assessment .
Councilman Gilliam stated, could ' nt we say if you are willing
to pay whatever the assessment is plus interest . If the
other people said their money was in the bank drawing interest
then he should be treated the same way.
Mayor Verbic stated, Counsel Jentsch I think you should express
our thoughts to them on this .
Mr. Nelson stated, there could be accrued annual interest based
upon the estimate, which is something like a reimbursement
ordinance . Maybe in view of the fact that you are willing
to waive the surfacing of the parking lot they may be more
receptive to a formula that we could put into the agreement .
Request from the Chairman of the Elgin Beautification Commission
to designate the Commission as the City agency responsible
for the maintenance and preservation of the botanical gardens
located in Trout Park.
Gil Nore, Chairman of the Elgin Beautification Commission stated,
as you may be aware Trout Park, which has been under Parks and
Recreation for a number of years , has had a problem with the
botanical gardens . With recent vandalism, costs rising in the
budget, the maintenance of Trout Park botanical gardens itself
has fallen to the bottom of the list for Parks and Recreation.
The Beautification Commission would like authority to function
as manager of Trout Park botanical . Part of this would be to
raise funds and solicit community involvement in the restoration
of the botanical gardens . Such things as restoring the trails ,
needed fences and signage.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 5
We feel this is something that could be done without cost to
the city, and it will also will preserve a very valuable
resource to this area.
Mayor Verbic stated, I think that is very well said and you
as Chairman of the Beautification Commission and the members
should be congratulated for taking a task which I feel is a
very large one.
Mr . Nelson stated, Gil is right, Trout Park is distressed
and I think they are quite optimistic about the volunteer
help to go in. We are not really losing them, they are
the City of Elgin Beautification Commission, but they wanted
it known generally and publically that they will be the
managing agency for it . We have no problem with that in
fact we will be working with them and assisting them.
The Council indicated approval of the Commission ' s request.
Request from the Village of Sleepy Hollow to purchase
additional water from the City prior to the completion of
the new Water Treatment Plant .
Mr. Nelson stated, our present agreement with Sleepy Hollow
calls for the additional sale of water to Sleepy Hollow when
the plant is completed. They are apparently having some
difficulties with their own supply and they are prepared to
buy additional water . We have no problem except that sometimes
in the summer, although that has not been true the last two
summers , we get into a period where people do a lot of
sprinkling and that puts a demand on our water supply and
although we have never had to impose a real ban it could
happen.
They are prepared to go back to their own well system, if
that ever does happen, and that would only be in the summer
of 82, the plant should be done I believe by July or August
of 82. After that we were prepared to sell them all the water
they wanted within the limits of that agreement in any event .
If you want to consider this request we could prepare an
amendment to the agreement or whatever is required by the
Legal Department and proceed on the basis that they would,
if necessary, go back to their well system if we ran into
a dry period and had to impose a ban .
Counsel Jentsch stated, perhaps Mr . Zegers could ask their
attorneys to submit an amended agreement .
Mr. Zegers stated, I will get in touch with them.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 6
The Council indicated approval of this request .
City ' s annual Energy Conservation Report pursuant to the
Federal grants received for energy audits during 1979 and
1980.
Mr. Nelson stated, this report is mainly for your information,
and to make you aware that we are aware of energy conservation
and are making every effort to conserve energy.
Copy of Open Meetings Act as amended.
Mr. Nelson stated, you had requested from the Corporation Counsel
a copy of the amended open meetings act and again this is merely
a matter of information. I believe at a later time Ery has
more to discuss with the Council on this act .
Counsel Jentsch stated, I will want to review the Council
procedures as they are affected by the open meetings act .
An agreement with the Elgin Township to participate in the
Workfare Program.
Mr. Nelson stated, I do have some additional information and
I don' t know if you want to agree to that tonight. I know
Corporation Counsel has reviewed the statute and you should
be aware of the fact that if these people work for us we
cover them under our Workmen ' s Compensation Program. We pay
them no salary but we are obligated to this program.
Counsel Jentsch stated, you also have to pay them for any work
that they perform in excess of the amount they are required to
perform under their Township assistance . After they make up
whatever obligation they have to the Township, if they work
in excess of that you will have to pay them the State minimum
wage. If someone is injured in the course of their work they
would be treated like any other employee and eligible for
Workmen ' s Compensation.
Councilman Gilliam stated, I think it is worthwhile looking
into.
Mayor Verbic stated, I agree with you, it should be looked
into, it ' s an opportunity to possibly open the door for people
who will be given this chance to participate in a Workfare
Program, which should be a benefit to them and a positive
contribution to payments that have been received.
Councilman Hansen stated, I would like to see us pursue it,
it has a good end goal and if we could implement it and make
it work I think it would be a benefit to both the City and
the Township.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 7
Mr. Nelson stated, there are tasks that these people could
perform and we are prepared to have them work. It will vary
from season to season and it will depend upon how many people
are available on this Program .
We could bring it back to the next Committee of the Whole
agenda and give you more precise information and then have
it on the agenda for the 24th.
Review of the City ordinance permitting the burning of leaves .
Fred Carlson, Public Health Officer for the City of Elgin,
stated, the first page of our report is our annual geometric
mean for particulate since 1968 , and you can see that since
1973 , we have been below or met the secondary air quality
standard. I think the two important years are 1979 and 1980
when we have had opening burning and we have still met or
have been below the secondary standard.
Mr . Nelson stated, when I brought this to your attention a
few weeks ago I called your attention to the citizen ' s survey
that was conducted in the Fall of 1980, that was after two
seasons of burning, and about 2500 people responded to that .
The questions was asked as to whether they would favor the
continuation of burning of leaves and I believe 74% of the
people who responded indicated that they would prefer to
continue to burn leaves as a method of disposal .
Mrs . Beverly Goldenstein stated , I would like to comment on
that 2500 people, that is a very poor sampling of the overall
population, we have 63 ,000 people . That is a misleading
statement that you made at the last Council meeting that
attended, where you stated that 70% of the people in Elgin
approved open burning of leaves .
I have a report from the Illinois Institute of National
Resources , which I received from the pollution control board
in Chicago and it is entitled advisory report on potential
health effects of leaf burning .
Mrs . Goldenstein proceeded to read several statements from
this report . ( note this report is on file with the City Clerk) .
Mrs . Goldenstein stated, since Elgin cannot enforce any kind
of leaf burning ordinance, people burn in streets , they burn
on sidewalks , they light up fires at 5 and 6 o' clock at night,
nobody does a thing about it .
I would suggest that we just bag our leaves and clean the air
in Elgin because I am tired of hiding in my home because the
air around my house is not fit to breath.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 8
Councilman Schmidt stated, I have received letters and phone
calls regarding this problem that we have with the leaf burning.
However, I think that this one bears that I should repeat what
this gentlemen told me on the phone this morning, he did ask
me to give his name .
Mr . Emil Ehlers of 868 Schuler who has emphysema so bad that
he can walk only about 100 feet before he has to pause to
rest . He loves the smell of burning leaves and when it begins
to effect his condition he goes in the house . He does not
feel that everyone should be effected by the burning of the
leaves for a condition effecting so few.
Councilwoman Nelson stated, as you know I voted against the
burning of leaves and I think we have all winter to change
this ordinance and I hope that we do modify it, or change
it , or go entirely to a pickup of leaves .
Councilman Waters stated, the majority of people who have
contacted me have been in the support of the burning of
leaves , but I do have a close personal friend whose small
child has been in the hospital twice and at least on one
occasion it was attributed directly to the burning of leaves
in the neighborhood. I am sensitive to that , I don' t know
what we can do as an alternative but I think that over the
winter months perhaps the city staff and the Council can
address itself to this issue and look at what some of the
other communities have done and see if there are some
alternatives that might be considered.
Councilman Kirkland stated, I would agree with the comments
that people are ignoring the burning hours and the location
they are supposed to use, and I think that has to be looked
at .
I am not ready to step back and say no burning of leaves , but
I think the ordinance bears looking at in terms of either
finding better ways for parts of the city to burn, at certain
times rather than the whole community being opened up for two
full months .
Councilman Hansen stated, I agree with Mrs . Nelson, I would
like to see us look at it this winter and I think to help
us do that maybe we could get some reports from the people
who are charged with enforcing the present ordinance, and
what the Fire Department ' s experience has been and if we
could get a handle on the cost from the Finance Department,
might help us address this later on .
Councilman Gilliam stated, I think if we are going to discuss
it or change it the proper time to do that is during budget
sessions .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 9
Mayor Verbic stated, I was ' nt thinking in terms of adding
the pickup. I would agree with Councilman Kirkland, because
you are talking about $75 ,000 as far as total costs . I was
just thinking about a volunteer situation .
Mr. Nelson stated, if we were to go back to the old system
we would have to consider more equipment than we have today.
We could not do it with our existing equipment .
Review of liquor ordinance.
Mayor Verbic stated, I do have an ordinance which I instructed
the Corporation Counsel write up for Council discussion this
evening whereby we could discuss some of the information which
was received, and further discuss some of the classifications,
and then probably discuss this ordinance, which you have had
an opportunity to look at . This is actually an amendment to
the present ordinance .
I understand that Attorney Rifken is representing the Class
B liquor license holders .
First of all I would like to address the information that
was sent to each one of us to try and get some imput from
the Council in regards to any material here which they feel
was pertinent or could be used for the City of Elgin.
We had a long discussion last week, quite a few of the present
liquor owners and the Council all had a chance to exchange
discussion and I think we do not want a rehash on the whole
license factor tonight, but probably just address any changes
which Council members feel are necessary, important, or
address the ordinance which I did instruct the Corporate
Attorney to write up, which I would like to read for you .
An Ordinance amending the classes of licenses and the fees
therefore as established by the alcoholic liquor dealers
ordinance.
Whereas , pursuant to the Constitution of the State of Illinois ,
1970, the City of Elgin is a home rule unit authorized to
exercise any power and perform any function relating to its
government and affairs ; and
Whereas , the number, kind and classification of licenses for
sale at retail of alcoholic liquor is within the government
and affairs of the City of Elgin as a home rule unit .
Now, Therefore, Be It Ordained by the City Council of the City
of Elgin, Illinois , in the exercise of the home rule powers
of the City of Elgin :
Section 1 . That Section 6 . 06 . 050 of the Elgin Municipal Code,
1976, as amended, establishing the classes of licenses and fees
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 10
therefore be and is hereby amended by adding the following:
"J . Class I for the retail sale of alcoholic liquor on
premises where the principal business is the retail sale to
the general public of products other than alcoholic liquor
provided ( 1 ) that more than sixty (60%) percent of the licensee' s
gross annual revenue has resulted from retail sales of goods
other than liquor ; and (2) that no more than twenty ( 20%)
percent of the total floor area of the licensee ' s premises
is devoted to the sale of alcoholic liquor; and ( 3) that the
licensee ' s premises exceed twenty thousand ( 20,000) square feet
in total floor area devoted to retail sales, two thousand
dollars" .
Section 2 . That this ordinance shall be in full force and
effect ten days after its publication in pamphlet form by
authority of the City Council .
Do any of the Council members have any questions in regard
to this .
Councilman Schmidt stated, after being handed this and going
over it I don ' t believe that I could vote for an ordinance
such as this , because in my mind it is not only opening it
up for one particular person, such as a grocery store, but
it seems like we have quite a few businesses in town that
have 20,000 square feet and according to this they could
take 20% of that floor space and put in liquor.
Councilman Waters stated, I think the point Councilman Schmidt
is making is this ordinance is not restricted to supermarkets ,
it ' s restricted to square footage. Is that your intent Mr.
Mayor , that it would be open to any business that would have
20, 000 square feet.
Mayor Verbic stated, yes .
Councilman Kirkland stated, I think we have all thought about
this a whole lot since last Wednesday ' s meeting. I think Elmer
Hansen was right when he said there is no way to let Gromer
have a license without hurting the small businessman, and
it does come down to the issue of whether we should open up
this ordinance.
I have talked with a few liquor dealers this weekend and at
one point it was indicated this was coming up fast and I
don ' t think it is coming up fast, I think it has been fairly
well known for several months that Gromer has been looking
at that site and it has been known that they would be asking
for a liquor license, and I don ' t think they have done anything
except ask for a liquor license.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 11
I think competition is the name of the game in most all products ,
there are big and small stores competiting side by side all the
time and in that kind of process marginal operators , both big
and small , do not make it and should not make it. As far as
Elgin is concerned we are not like a town in a mountain valley,
with no big towns around, we are in the path of growth from
Chicago, and I think we have to keep that in mind .
If we discourage big businesses from doing things which I think
is the trend for them to be allowed to do, that is national
chains , franchises and of course very sucessful local businessmen,
first of all they go to the cities around us , and that has
already happened, and the next thing is customers start to
drift over there, and the final thing that happens is that
small businesses start to drift over there because that is
where the traffic is . I don ' t think we can discourage progress
from occurring and I just don ' t see the problem of liquor being
sold in a liquor store and the ordinance being opened up.
We don' t protect other businesses and I don ' t know why at some
point we decided to protect the liquor stores , but I don ' t
see the protection on limiting the number of stores . My
personal feeling is to open it up but I am willing to look
at compromises .
Councilwoman Nelson stated, I am going to vote for an ordinance
which I think is good and I think this one is good. Mr. Gromer,
I hope that you get what you want and I know that every one of
you who sell liquor out there are good businessmen and will
try to take it all away from him.
Councilman Waters stated, perhaps this will sound like a
reiteration of what I said last time and that ' s probably
because it is very similar to what I said before, but having
given thought over the week I guess I am beginning to feel
more confident in my thoughts that I had at the time. If you
will recall I mentioned at that time that we are not promoting
greater volume in sales by opening up the licenses, obviously
we are spreading the same market across more retail outlets,
if we open up additional licenses . On the other hand the
number twelve is an arbitrary number and that has been a
monopoly and there is ' nt anything magical to the number twelve.
We have not addressed the convenience to the shopper, that has
been mentioned to me by a number of people who have contacted
me over this past week, and I think there is something to be
said about providing access in a grocery store as a convenience.
The problem that I have with what is being proposed is two-fold.
We are being asked to add an additional license, which at this
point we don ' t have , but we are also being asked to provide
direct sales across the counter with other items , without the
security, without the protection, that is at least is assumed
to be built in with the arrangements that were made through
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 12
Osco Drug Store and with the closed liquor licenses as we have
them.
I frankly could not support the ordinance as it has been proposed,
I am feeling most comfortable right now with one of two approaches.
We either add a license and award that to Gromers , but maintain
a restriction, as is included with the present ordinance, or
we create a new ordinance that would be restricted to beer and
wine, and would restrict the sale across the counter.
Mayor Verbic stated, we have other problems that have to be
looked at immediately. We have no Class B licenses available
and we must address the problem downtown with the Osco Store,
and this may as well be brought out now. If they are not
given a license for the east side store and they have to
transfer the one for the downtown store to the east side
they will close the downtown store . They have done this
in many other cities throughout the State of Illinois and
for those of us who are looking for downtown stores to remain,
this is a very critical point to address , and we have no
alternative at this point but to think in terms of increasing
the Class B licenses . You have two things to address, number
one are the applicants and number two is the essential need
of creating more licenses so you don ' t lose another store
downtown .
Councilman Gilliam stated, I would like to see Mr. Gromer have
a license , the problem that I have is that to legislate him
a license opens up the door for everyone else in the City of
Elgin, and that bothers me. I have been opposed to having
every grocery store in town sell liquor . I think we have
an avenue and I think Councilman Waters made mention of that .
We do have an avenue of Class B licenses and I think that
would be the best way to go rather than open up everything
to every grocery or retail store in town. I would rather
see something with a Class B license than to try and go to
opening up a new classification.
Mr. Gromer is about two years away and normally in that time
span there is going to be some Class B licenses available
for him. As a matter of fact I had one gentlemen tell me
he would be willing to negotiate his license, so I think
things will be available for him with the mechanism that
we have now rather than trying to legislate a whole new
law that is going to change the whole City of Elgin .
Stan Douglas stated, I think that in response to Mr . Gilliam' s
suggestion that Mr. Gromer go ahead with his plans on the
hopes that some point in the future he would receive a license,
I don ' t believe that would be a tenable situation as far as
Mr. Gromer is concerned . The magnitude of the project and
the dollars involved would obviate that type of approach .
think that anyone in his position would demand that the ability
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 13
to sell package liquors in the store would have to be guaranteed
him before he proceeds further .
Attorney Ben Rifken stated, I thought that the problem confronting
this situation was my good friend Dick Gromer, who was contemplating
opening up another fine store, and I thought that was the problem.
I found out that the problem was Osco, because I learned through
the grapevine that the Osco Store on the west side of town had
a Class B license. Then I found out that the east side Osco
has already made plans to take advantage of what they think
will be a new license opportunity and open up the east side
in advance . The racks are there, the liquor is coming in and
its an ultimate conclusion .
I don ' t feel that for them, for a corporation that has no
connection with this community , except for payment of rent ,
that they deserve the consideration of up-setting all these
good people who have Class B liquor licenses .
Now to get back to Mr . Gromer, I think he can do business in
that location with a Class B , I agree with Mr . Gilliam. Very
frankly if he has to have that as a letter of intent to get
financing these things could be worked out. However, I think
that the Gromer situation is more than just a Class B license .
I think Dick Gromer really wants to have another form of
merchandising and that ' s where you buy the liquor . He would
probably like to have the beer around the store, he would like
to have displays around, and I don ' t think that Elgin is ready
for that.
You talk about the consumer ' s regard, I have not heard a word
yet from the churches of this town and I am amazed because
they have always been vocal when it came to a question of liquor.
Does that mean that Elgin has now changed, that we don ' t care
who sells liquor or where it is sold.
I feel that what we have now should be maintained, if Mr. Gromer
has expansion he should do so under a Class B license. He
should not have an advantage over the Osco Store on the west
side .
Attorney Jeff Rifken stated, my statements will be directed
on at the ordinance that was passed out at the beginning of
the work session . I realize that you have not had much time
to look at it either because it was drafted by Attorney Jentsch
at the request of the Mayor .
There is reversed discrimination that is built in with this
ordinance as it is . Under this ordinance only the large
businesses would not be restricted to a limited number of
opportunities or licenses . This ordinance does not in any
way change the other Class B restrictions . Now that means
that a small businessman would still have to be limited
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 14
in their business opportunities and being able to sell liquor
in the City of Elgin. They would be still be limited to the
13 Class B opportunities . There is no such limitation to the
large corporation that wants to come into the city if we
have a J license .
Now that is not fair and it may not be legal but it also
makes no sense. I don ' t understand what possible reason
there would be for the Council , who with the police power,
are suppose to regulate alcohol for the protection of its
citizens . This is based on a moral foundation and nothing
here has been said about that .
This whole issue became public last week and I think this
Council ought to give itself an opportunity to really find
out what the churches do think about this and find out what
the people in the community think, and give the people who
have the most to lose and the most to gain in the situation
a little time to get together with them and come up with
something that might be workable and moral for the government
to do.
Dick Gromer stated, I have had nothing but encouragement on
this project at 111 National Street and I think there is one
thing that is being overlooked. Really I have very little
or no interest to reproducing the McLean Blvd. shopping center
down on National Street with a strip of 18 stores . Yes we
do want a supermarket and we want a large first class one .
We are looking at a concept down there that has to be modern,
new and exciting and one that is forward looking and one that
you have really not even seen yet . If we wanted to be landlord
or occupy that property with, and we do have shown by a large
national chain drug company and a large mass merchandising
company, I don ' t think that is what would be successful there .
I would not want to be a part of it, we are looking at something
that is more exciting and one that will draw customers and
interest and to do that the concept that we are asking for
and that was exhibited is a large store with shopping facilities
in it that our customers have shown they would like, which
would include other than the stores that went into the supermarket
years ago.
We cannot wait two years, my company has an option on this land
and we have expended a large sum of money already and unless we
have something down soon , we are in the design stage now and
unless we know where we are going we will either lose interest
or have to abort or abandon the project .
The total concept, the total design is what we are asking for
and the ordinance that I read tonight I think is modern, its
the way things are being done in supermarkets and stores in
progressive towns all over the country, and I see no reason
• � r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 15
why Elgin could not adopt one similar to that presented here
tonight.
Dawn Larson stated, I am a homeowner and taxpayer and parent .
I believe very strongly in a neighborhood and neighborhood
businesses . Since the proposed expansion of the liquor control
ordinance is geared primarily to the use of grocery and drug
stores , I personally thought that one might assume that most
grocery and drug stores would be in favor of such a measure.
Therefore, today I decided to speak with other grocery stores
in Elgin, and drug stores , which have been here for as long
as Mr . Gromer has been. I visited personally 18 neighborhood
grocery and drug stores today and I have a letter signed by
all 18 of them and I would like to read that letter to you
now.
To all Elgin City Council Members :
Regarding the proposed liquor ordinance changes we hereby
would like to express our feelings against such a measure
and further more recommend that the City Council reconsider
the implications of passing such an ordinance and expansion.
As owners/operators of local grocery and drug stores we feel
that at this time such an expansion is inadvisable and not
in the best interest of residents of the City of Elgin, nor
favorable to the small independent grocery and drug store
owners .
Liquor control is intended to do just that . Its to control
the sale and distribution of alcohol . Extending this
privilege is also relaxing the control and it should be
considered. Ordinances such as liquor are in effect to
protect the public and the citizenry of Elgin . We feel
that the proposed expansion would do more damage than good
and further more that there is no benefit whatsoever to
the residents of this community by doing so. Therefore
we are against expanding the ordinance and urge the Council
to vote against it .
Mrs . Larson stated, this letter has been signed by the owners/
operators of Bonins , Stettners , Mann ' s, Warner ' s , Juby ' s,
7- 11 , Chuck' s Superette, Manor Pharamacy, LaLatina, Stop &
Go, Elgin West Pharamacy, Roth ' s , Dino' s and Fox Valley
Pharamacy.
Councilman Gilliam stated, is it possible, without trying
to delay this thing, that we take this matter, table it ,
a week or two, and try to find some compromise solution
where we can satisfy the liquor dealers , Osco and Mr. Gromer.
There has to be some middle ground for both sides and I
think we should try to find it before we make a final
decision
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 11 , 1981
Page 16
Councilman Waters stated, I would suggest also that we
table this or postpone this discussion to give us some
time to look at some alternatives and see if there is ' nt
some middle ground for the Council .
Mayor Verbic stated, since there are three or four Councilmen
who would like to hold off any further discussion this evening
will someone make a motion .
Councilman Gilliam stated, I would like to make a motion that
a committee be established , comprised of a representative from
the Class B licensees , Mr. Gromer, the Mayor and our Attorney,
to try and make a recommendation to the Council .
Councilman Kirkland stated, I will second that motion .
Councilman Waters stated, I would suggest the City Manager
be a part of that committee .
Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic . Nays • None.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole , the meeting was adjourned at 11 : 15 P .M.
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4 -
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 18, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, November 18, 1981 , at 7 :05 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee torohibit parking
on certain sections of North McLean BoulevardPas a result of
the Area 1 improvements .
The Traffic Committee recommended to the Council that parking
be prohibited at the following sections of North McLean Blvd :
(a) East side from Maple Lane to Lawrence Avenue; and
(b) West side from Maple Lane to Wing Street .
At this time, with four lanes of traffic on McLean it is unsafe
to have any parking on North McLean on either side between Maple
Lane and Wing Street .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation.
Request from Attorney James C . Hallock to appear before the
Council to discuss the granting of an easement for his client ' s
garage, which is located partially on the Gifford Street right-
of-way .
Attorney Hallock stated that he was representing Mr . and Mrs .
O ' Day, owners of the property in question, and that at the time
the O ' Days purchased this property they were not aware that
part of the garage was on the right-of-way.
Attorney Hallock stated the O ' Days were in the process of selling
this property and the buyer was insisting the matter be straightened
out.
Attorney Hallock did not feel an easement would solve the problem
and he asked that the city consider giving a plat of vacation .
Mr . Nelson stated there was no easy answer to this situation
because the city should not just vacate a right-of-way in any
instance, and althought the city does not have a specific plans
in this instance, such a move would set a precedence.
Councilman Schmidt asked if some sort of lease arrangement could
be worked out for the right-of-way area .
I
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 18, 1981
Page 2
Mel Dahl stated a lease arrangement might work out because in
time the garage would deteriorate .
Councilman Gilliam asked if a lease arrangement would be
acceptable to the purchasers .
Attorney Hallock stated he would approach the purchasers on
the lease arrangement .
The Council suggested that Attorney Hallock work with the
city ' s legal department to see what can be accomplished and
then bring the matter back to them.
Letter from the Illinois Department of Conservation commenting
on the restoration of Old Main .
Mr . Nelson stated this was an informational item for the Council .
Sear ' s Building
The Council approved a proposal from Burnidge & Cassell for
Phase 1 architectural and engineering services to determine
the feasibility and cost of remodeling this building for use
by the Elgin Community College .
Mr. Cassell stated the cost of Phase 1 would be in the neighborhood
of $ 1 , 000 and same could be accomplished within two to three weeks .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee of
the Whole Meeting , the meeting was adjourned at 7 : 50 P.M.
Marie Yearm , City Clerk
C
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 24, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called of order on
Tuesday, November 24, 1981 , at 7 : 10 P.M. , in the Council Conference
Room of City Hall . Members present: Councilmen Hansen , Kirkland,
Nelson, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Councilman Gilliam
arrived at 7 : 30 P.M.
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
138, 156 and 141 South Grove Avenue Property Financing Proposal .
The Council reviewed a recommendation from the Finance Department
for the re-financing of the above property. The purchase price
of $ 250, 000 was financed by a five year installment loan agreement .
Terms of the agreement called for a monthly payment of $2, 706 . 20
for 60 months and a balloon payment of $ 173,618.41 on November
15 , 1981 . The balloon payment was to have been included in a
general obligation bond issue during 1981 , but unfavorable
municipal bond markets in 1981 precluded this option.
Proposals for a $ 150, 000 five year installment loan were sent to
seven financial institutions and two responses were received,
one from the First National Bank of Elgin and one from Elgin
State Bank, who both responded that they were not in a position
to take on any additional tax free loans at this time .
In follow-up discussions with the Continental Bank and First
National they indicated they would consider making the loan , but
the rate would not be as favorable as we would want . In order
to minimize the cost to the City the following plan was developed:
The principal amount of the requested loan was reduced to $ 100, 000
and the term of the loan was reduced from 5 years to 37 months .
An interfund loan of $ 150,000 from the General Fund would be made
to the Downtown Redevelopment Fund on November 15, 1981 . This
amount along with a $23 ,618.41 transfer from Federal Revenue
Sharing would be used to pay the balloon payment on November 15, 1981 .
The new $ 100,000 loan would be dated December 1 , 1981 , with the
first installment due on January 2, 1983 . The remaining two
installments would be due January 2 , 1984 and January 2 , 1985 . The
proceeds of the loan would be used to reduce the interfund loan
from the General Fund.
On January 2, 1982, Federal Revenue Sharing monies ($50,000
recommended in the 1982 budget for the installment that was
previously anticipated November 15 , 1982) would be used to repay
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 24, 1981
Page 2
the balance of the interfund loan to the General Fund .
Funds would be appropriated in the 1983 Budget for the installment
due January 2, 1983 .
Because First National and Continental indicated some interest
in making the loan, a proposal was requested for a $ 100 ,000 loan
for 37 months .
First National responded with a proposal that called for 12% simple
interest , but with no prepayment option . Continental proposed a
loan that would have an interest rate that would float at 70% of
the prime rate and the city would be required to pay legal fees
associated with the loan which would be a minimum of $5 , 000.
The staff recommendation is to accept the proposal from the First
National Bank.
Mayor Verbic stated the city has paid out $86 ,000 in interest up
to this point and now we are talking about an additional $24,000,
which is a lot of interest for this small purchase . The Mayor
suggested that this could fall under the Federal Revenue Sharing
Funds and the city should get rid of these payments and interest .
Dave Jepson stated that the city has the revenue funds invested
at a rate higher that the 12% interest fee and that we don ' t
know what is going to happen with the revenue funds in the future .
Mr. Jepson also pointed out that there is a need to repay the
General Fund .
Mayor Verbic stated that if there were any way possible he would
prefer paying this off.
Mr. Nelson stated that they did not like borrowing money, but if
we don ' t have the cash there is no alternative .
Councilman Schmidt asked if there was any way possible for this
loan to be negotiated where there would not be any prepayment
penalty.
Mr . Jepson stated he could go back to the bank and try to negotiate
this , but he was limited as to what proposals they would make .
Mr . Nelson stated the staff was going to ask the Council to adjourn
the Council Meeting tonight to next Wednesday night in order to
take care of the Flender bond issue and it might be possible for
the staff to go back to the bank and see what they are willing
to offer and then bring it to the Council next week.
Councilman Hansen stated he was also disturbed with the no pre-
payment clause.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 24, 1981
Page 3
Mayor Verbic agreed the staff should try to re-negotiate the
prepayment clause .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she thought the city should accept
the First National offer because the staff has the prime judgment
and the Council should not play around with this .
Councilman Kirkland stated he would be willing to cautiously go
ahead with the staff ' s recommendation.
Councilman Waters stated he would be willing to trust the staff ' s
recommendation .
The Council ' s vote for this issue was 3-3, the staff will contact
the bank and bring the matter back at next week' s adjourned meeting .
Request from Hanover Township to authorize the Township to seek
funds through the Community Development Block Grant/Urban County
program.
The Council reviewed a letter from the Hanover Township in which
the Supervisor stated that they were seeking a grant from Cook
County for the purpose of building a Township office building
and perhaps buying a bus for their senior program.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that the city would not be competing with
the issuance of any of this money.
The Mayor stated this could be accomplished by a motion at
tonight ' s Council Meeting , and the Council agreed to have
this matter added to the agenda .
Temporary Construction License Agreement from School District
U-46 to install the lime residue transmission main along Melrose
Avenue from Demmond to Oakley.
John Early, Attorney for District U-46 , in a letter to the City,
advised he had changed the agreement from an easement to a license
in order to expedite the adoption of the agreement by the School
Board . Mr . Early also stated this will accomplish the purpose
intended without forcing the School District to go through the
cumbersome procedure required under the School Code if an actual
interest in the land were being transferred.
The Council approved the proposed license agreement .
Request from Community Development to send Shedd ' s Food Products
petition for rezoning back to the Land Use Committee for review.
Mr. Nelson stated that because of the change in the traffic movement
at this site, the Community Development Department was suggesting
that this petition be referred back to the Land Use Committee. At
the original hearing there was a lot of testimony dealing with
the traffic and in all fairness to the Land Use Commission they
•
Committee2 +f g 1Whole Meeting
NvemberPage 4
should have the opportunity to review this with the petitioner .
At a recent meeting with the Traffic Committee the petition proposed
a substantially different traffic flow plan for the West Highland
Avenue off-street loading facility and the Traffic Committee will
be making a recommendation on the proposed traffic flow plan within
a week.
The Council agreed to refer this matter back to the Land Use
Commission.
Request from the Northwest Suburban Mass Transit District to
adopt a resolution requesting the RTA to Cully fund the Milwaukee
Road ' s commuter service .
The Council reviewed a letter from Edward Kelly, Executive Vice
President of the Elgin Chamber of Commerce, which stated that
the Northwest Suburban Mass Transit District is asking all cities
served by the Milwaukee Road to take similar action .
Mr . Nelson stated that there is presently no purchase of service
agreement between the RTA and the Railroad and this situation is
holding up the Elgin commuter station, because IDOT and the
Milwaukee Road refuse to release any funds until this agreement
is formulated.
The Council approved the request to adopt the aforementioned
resolution.
Authorization for pension service credit for employees previously
barred by age .
Mr. Aydt advised the Council that Senate Bill 930 entitled
"Compliance with Federal Age Discrimination Act" amends the
IMRF law to conform to the amendments to the Federal Age
Discrimination Act effective January 1 , 1979 . That Act as amended
prohibits employers from mandatorily retiring employees prior to
age 70 and requires that older employees received substantially
the same fringe benefits as younger employees , including pension,
death and disability benefits .
Mr . Aydt stated there were six employees who would qualify to
gain IMRF benefits for this period of time , if they choose to
pay their share, but in order to do this the Council would have
to pass a resolution at tonight ' s meeting .
The Council approved having this resolution added to the agenda
for tonight ' s meeting.
The Committee of the Whole recessed at 7 :55 P.M. for the Board
of Local Improvement and Council Meetings .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 24, 1981
Pages
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 8 :45 P.M.
Proposed NHS Systematic Code Inspection Service.
Roger Dahlstrom, Senior Planner, submitted to the Council a
draft resolution and agreement to be entered into by the City
and the Neighborhood Housing Services of Elgin, Inc. , for the
operation of a systematic code inspection program.
Mr . Dahlstrom stated these drafts were being presented so that
the Council would have a chance to make comments and give imput .
The agreement provides that the city agrees to form a Property
Maintenance Code Board of Appeals with authority to interpret
the intent of and provide for variances from the BOCA Basic
Property Maintenance Code , and Mr . Dahlstrom stated it would
be the responsibility of the Council to establish this Board.
Charles Burnidge , representing the NHS Board stated the initial
approach would be dealing with the safety of the buildings as
far as the code compliance and the hazards existing in the buildings .
Some of the housing which was built before 1939 does not fit
into the existing code and the program is intended to deal with
these problems . Mr. Burnidge felt this program will be well
received .
Mr. Dahlstrom stated that coffees ' were being held throughout
this area in order to acquaint the residents with the program.
The Council felt that the Board should consist of one member of
the Health and Housing staff , one member from the Fire Department
and one member from the neighborhood .
Councilman Hansen stated he thought there should be some constructive
compromises set forth .
Councilman Waters suggested that the staff have a resolution
prepared and submit same to the Council for approval .
Request to proceed with the improvements at the Airlite Water
Treatment Plant in accordance with the 1980 bond issue .
The Council reviewed a memorandum from staff requesting that they
be allowed to proceed with the following improvements , which were
included in the Water Improvement Bond Issue of 1980 :
Chlorine facilities including dock for chemical handling . $ 120, 000
Odor Control System 54,000
Improvement to clarifier walls 40, 000
Replacement of lime feeders and slakers 120, 000
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 24, 1981
Page 6
Replacement of carbon dioxide chemical system $ 105,000
Chemical feed system improvements 20,000
Instrumentation and controls 105 ,000
Total $ 564, 000
The Council approved the above and foregoing improvements
Copy of the IEPA ' s decision relative to the Beverly project
located in Hoffman Estates north of the Tollway.
Mr . Nelson stated this was an informational item and it was
his understanding that Hoffman Estates did plan to appeal
this matter.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 9 : 20 P.M.
actM.�
Marie Yearma City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 2, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, December 2 , 1981 , at 7 : 25 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen , Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Absent: None .
Request from the Kane County Highway Department that the
City maintain Big Timber Road from Randall Road to State
Street free of snow and ice during the winter months .
Mel Dahl informed the Council that the County had contacted
him inquiring as to whether the City would be receptive to
the idea of performing the necessary operation to keep Big
Timber Road, from Randall Road to State Street free of snow
and ice this winter . The County would reimburse the City
the cost of labor, equipment and material .
Mr. Dahl stated he had no problem with this arrangement
because we are already doing some of this on our own because
our trucks must travel most of Big Timber in order to get
to the City streets north of Big Timber.
The Council agreed to having an agreement drafted to enter
into in accordance with the above terms .
Request from Kane County Highway Department to modify the
drainage structure under Randall Road as part of the Otter
Creek project .
Mr . Dahl advised the Council that the County has contacted
the city with reference to the construction of a concrete box
culvert to carry Randall Road over Otter Creek. The City has
the channel improvements both upstream and downstream from
this box culvert and the City ' s contractor has the downstream
channel opened sufficiently so it can carry some water away
from the culvert work site . The County ' s contractor must
excavate a couple of feet below the flow line of the channel
in order to construct the bottom of the box culvert . In the
process , they must dewater that excavation site, because there
is so much water and silt .
The County has contacted the Illinois Division of Waters
Resources and is proposing to substitute two 78- inch diameter
corrugated metal pipe for the concrete box culvert . The
corrugated metal pipe can be satisfactorily placed with the
water present . The Illinois Division of Water Resources has
indicated their approval of this substitution .
I
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 2 , 1981
Page 2
The two pipes should adequately carry the water under Randall
Road . However, it appears that instead of a 0. 1 foot rise in
the water surface upstream of the box culvert, there will be
something like a 0. 5 rise with the use of the pipe culverts .
This should not be a problem because all of the water will be
contained in the channel and will not flood adjacent land.
The staff recommends that the City concur in the change as
proposed by the County.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to remove Stop
signs on Duncan Avenue at River Bluff Road.
The Traffic Committee advised the Council that the traffic volume
on Duncan Avenue is more than five times the traffic on River
Bluff and there is no apparent justification for the traffic
on Duncan to stop. The Traffic Committee recommended that
Stop signs on Duncan at River Bluff be removed .
Councilwoman Nelson stated that she thought this was the
wrong time of the year to start this because many people
are accustomed to this Stop, and with the ice and snow
during the winter it could be the cause of many accidents .
Jane Cook asked the Council how this action was initiated,
because none of the nearby residents knew anything about
it until this evening . Mrs . Cook pointed out that many
children use this crossing going to and from school , and the
elimination of the Stop sign could be dangerous tor them.
Ronald Kilgore stated that he had resided on River Bluff for
over twenty years and he did not see any valid reason to
remove the stop signs . Mr . Kilgore added that he had never
seen a backlog of cars at this intersection due to the stop
signs . Mr . Kilgore stated there is a steady stream of children
going to school , who use this intersection and this would
provide a dangerous situation for them and instead of removing
this Stop sign they should add another one .
Councilman Hansen asked if there was any criteria for a
school crossing guard at this intersection, because he would
want that information before voting on this issue .
Gary Miller stated he would gather further information as to
how many children use this crossing and possible use of a
crossing guard , and then bring the issue back to the Council .
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 2 , 1981
Page 3
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to install
Yield signs at certain intersections along Parkview Drive.
The Traffic Committee advised the Council that recently
there have been a number of accidents along Parkview Drive
in Old Century Oaks .
Although there are no physical barriers to obstruct visibility,
some motorists fail to yield right-of-way to the cross traffic .
Yield signs will alleviate this problem.
The Traffic Committee recommended that Yield signs be installed
at the following intersections along Parkview Drive :
Crestview Drive and Oakdale Drive
Meadow Lane
Hillcrest Road ( east leg only)
The Council approved the Traffic Committee ' s recommendation .
Spring Street Parking Deck
Mr. Nelson advised the Council there had been some interest
shown by individuals who would like to lease spaces in this
parking facility. However, the request was also made that
the parking facility be opened prior to 9: 30 A.M.
Councilman Hansen stated that he had received two calls from
businessmen who had customers call on him at 8: 00 A.M. , and
they were upset because they were not able to park in the
facility .
Mr . Nelson stated that this problem arises because the
businesses all open up at different hours .
Stan Douglas stated that he had not heard any complaint
from the retailers , but that he had checked the parking
facility on Friday and the highest number of cars parking
there was 42 .
Councilman Kirkland stated that if the parking facility is
not being filled up then some of the policies should be
changed.
Ron Kilgore stated that we should get in as many parkers as
possible and as much exposure as possible .
Councilman Hansen suggested that the lower level be kept
empty for the shoppers and the upper levels be rented out ,
and that reasonable hours should be established.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 2 , 1981
Page 4
Mr. Nelson asked the Council how they would feel about
opening the facility at 7 : 30 A.M. , leasing out the top
two levels , leaving the two lower levels for shoppers ,
and issuing a refund to anyone who bought a new monthly
parking rental in other city lots for December, if they
apply for said refund within one week.
Councilman Gilliam stated he was not in favor of the
refund . Councilman Waters stated that he was not in
favor of changing the opening hours , but that if this
was done he would consider the refunds . Councilwoman
Nelson voted against the refunds . Councilmen Hansen,
Kirkland, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic voted in favor of
the change in hours and refunds .
Stan Douglas advised the Council that if the rental
rate for parking in 1982 could be established, they
could start processing the rentals now.
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the
Committee of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned
at 8: 50 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
C
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 9, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, December 9, 1981 , at 7 : 20 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland , Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Absent : None .
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff .
Ado)Dtion of revised building codes as recommended by the Elgin
Building Commission.
Mr. Nelson stated that John Schmidtke, Chairman of the Elgin
Building Commission, was present and would briefly address
this matter.
Mr . Schmidtke stated that the BOCA Code is reissued every three
years, but the city is currently operating under the BOCA Code/
1975 . The 1978 code was reviewed by the staff but it was
never submitted to the Council for their approval . The Building
Commission has now completed it ' s review of the 1981 BOCA Code,
which deals primarily with changes in the construction of
atriums, open wells and malls ; and provides for advances in
fire protection, detection and suppression for high rise
construction .
Chief Van De Voorde stated that Deputy Fire Chief Knust and
Captain Burkhart had worked with the Commission and while
there were no significant changes to the Fire Prevention Code,
this was an updating of the code .
Councilman Hansen pointed out that the Council had just recently
approved some variations from the code for a model house being
constructed in Parkwood, and Councilman Hansen asked what
mechanism the Commission had to implement these variations into
the code, should they be sucessful in this project .
Mr. Schmidt stated that if these variations were successful the
Commission would have the authority to bring them to the Council
for further consideration .
Mr . Nelson pointed out that the Council can also submit a request
for modifications to the Commission.
George Elliott stated the most significant changes to the
Illinois State Plumbing Code provided that plastic pipe for
water service could be used from the buffalo box at the street ,
under the foundation to the meter in the house , and Type M
Copper Tubing for hot and cold piping could be distributed
in the house .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 9, 1981
Page 2
Corporation Counsel Jentsch stated that prior to the passage
of an ordinance providing for the revised building codes , a
resolution should be passed by the Council reflecting that
three copies of the B .O. C .A. Basic Building Code/ 1981 ; S . B .O.C .
Residential Building Code/ 1977 ; Illinois State Plumbing Code/
1976 and the Fire Protection Code/ 1976, be placed on file in
the office of the City Clerk for public inspection and
examination for a period of thirty days .
The Council directed the Corporation Counsel to prepare said
resolution for the December 23rd Council meeting .
Proposed improvements to Sears Building.
Charles Burnidge of Burnidge , Cassell and Associates , stated
that when he was last before the Council he had explained
that this project would be broken down into two Phases .
Phase I - Building Program
Floor Area Requirements - the feasibility study reflects
approximately 80,000 square feet of floor space, Elgin
Community College has indicated they would need 60,000
square feet .
Functional Relationship of Uses - Elgin Community College is
currently preparing this information.
elk
Parking Requirements - The College would hope to provide on
site parking for staff with student parking satisfied by on
street parking and municipal parking lots . A drop off lane
for public use, adjacent to a major entrance would also be
desirable.
Interior and Exterior - The College feels the interior spaces
must be finished to compare favorable to their existing campus
and the exterior be asthethically pleasing and inviting.
Mechanical and electrical requirements - mechanical and
electrical systems must be designed to satisfy the code
requirements as well as the needs of occupants , which
would include a central air conditioning sustem. The existing
mechanical and electrical equipment will be evaluated for
potential reuse .
Mr. Burnidge submitted the following summary of services to
date:
1 . Meeting with Elgin Community College staff .
2 . Inspection of existing building.
3 . Preparation of Building Program outlined above .
4 . Procurement of existing architectural drawings from Sears .
25 hours at $45 .00 per hour or $ 1 , 125 . 00
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 9, 1981
r Page 3
Phase II - Building Evaluation and Preliminary Estimates
1 . Survey the existing building to determine its general
condition including the structural , mechanical and
electrical systems .
2. Building code analysis .
3 . Schematic floor plans and site plan to illustrate the
nature and scope of the proposed remodeling .
4 . Outline specification to define the major materials
and systems .
5 . Drawing of the exterior of the building to illustrate
the extent and character of the exterior remodeling .
6 . Preliminary estimate including structural , mechanical
and electrical systems .
7 . Preparation of a final report and presentation to the
City Council .
Fee: $ 12, 000 plus reimbursable printing , long distance
telephone and travel expenses .
Mr . Burnidge estimated that Phase II would take approximately
one month to six weeks to complete.
Councilman Hansen asked if the information being secured by
these studies could be used in other areas in the event the
Elgin Community College project does not go through.
Mr . Burnidge indicated the information was useable for other
than the Elgin Community College venture .
The Council directed Mr . Burnidge to proceed with Phase II
of the project .
Request from resident at 207 Michigan Street to establish a
parking space in front of her residence for the handicapped.
The Council reviewed a request from the above resident who
has a handicapped child in the household who has to be taken
for treatments several times a week, and apparently there is
a problem taking the child to the car when somebody else is
parked in front of the house.
Mr . Nelson stated that if this is permitted in this instance
there could be other requests .
rik
The Council approved the request for the handicapped parking
space at 207 Michigan Street .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 9, 1981
r Page 4
Progress Report No. 5 for the North End Bridge Project .
Mr . Nelson stated this was just an informational item for
the Council to review.
Consideration of a resolution acceptin? the proposal of Black
& Veatch for engineering services for improvements to the
west side water treatment plant .
Mr . Nelson stated that this item has been discussed with the
Council and we now have a proposal from Black and Veatch. If
the proposal meets with the Council ' s approval , the resolution
and proposal should be added to the Council ' s agenda for
tonight ' s meeting .
The Council agreed to have the aforementioned resolution and
proposal placed on the Council agenda .
Status report relative to negotiations with Lawn Engineering
Company.
Mr . Nelson passed out for the Council ' s review a draft agreement
with Richard Turcan, d/b/a Lawn Engineering. Under the
proposed agreement Lawn Engineering would handle the day to
day operation and maintenance of the cemetery. This would
include functions normally incidental to a cemetery such as
burials and lawn care . As basic compensation for this service ,
the City would pay $ 145 , 800 . 00 in 1982 and $ 157 ,464. 00 (an
increase of 8%) or $ 158,922. 00 (an increase of 9%) in 1983 .
Lawn Engineering would have the use of the existing buildings
while the City would be responsible for maintaining said buildings
so they are structurally sound and free of leaks . The City
would also be insuring the building against loss due to fire
and other casualty.
Still unsettled and being negotiated are the following items :
1 . When will commissions on installment purchases of graves
with perpetual care be paid--at time of sale or when the
City received enough from the purchase to cover the
commission. The solution to this matter may require that
the City perform credit checks of prospective purchasers .
2 . What specifically will be Lawn Engineering ' s responsibility
for the Avenue of Flags display.
3 . Mr . Turcan insists upon a clause allowing him to terminate
the agreement on sixty (60) days notice . The City orginally
wanted to set term but counterproposed a ninety (90) day
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 9, 1981
Page 5
termination clause with a penalty provision.
4. Which items of existing cemetery equipment will be
purchased by Lawn Engineering and on what terms .
5 . What type of security device will Mr . Turcan be required
to post to cover employees handling money in which the
City has an interest .
Mr. Nelson stated that Mr. Turcan was present to address any
questions the Council may have .
Councilwoman Nelson asked Mr. Turcan how long he had been in
this type of business .
Mr . Turncan replied 14 years .
Councilman Schmidt asked how many cemeteries Mr . Turcan
presently had under this type of agreement .
Mr . Turcan replied four .
Councilman Schmidt questioned the fact that Mr . Turcan was
planning to sell flowers , wreaths , plants , monuments and
markers .
Mr . Turncan stated he would like to make this merchandise
available, and he planned to have a display of said items
in the cemetery office, or he would contact lot owners by
mail and let them know this service was available .
Councilman Schmidt felt this would be going into competition
with the florists and monument trade within the city.
Mr. Turcan stated this service had been well received in
past experiences , especially for those people who lived
out of State and who wanted to order something for the
graves here .
Councilman Waters asked if any other companies had been given
the opportunity to bid on this type of arrangement.
Bob Mal stated they had investigated other companies , the
staff looked into hiring a cemetery director and they did
search other villages for suppliers of this service , but
it was difficult to find someone who would provide the full
line of services .
The Council indicated they would like to have review time
on the proposed agreement .
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 9, 1981
Page 6
Fire Protection Agreements with South End Tap and the
Eagle Club.
Dan Blondin , Assistant Corporation Counsel , submitted to
the Council for their approve proposed fire protection
agreements for the South End Tap and Eagle Club. The
proposed agreements would run through 1982 at a cost of
$ 1050 .00 for the Eagle Club and $ 1500 .00 for the South
End Tap .
The Council approved the proposed agreements .
Adjournment
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
C
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 16 , 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Wednesday, December 16 , 1981 , at 9 : 35 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt , Waters and
Mayor Verbic . Absent : None .
Also present : Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Proposed stop sign on Fairwood Court at Fairwood Drive
The staff advised the Council that recently the Elgin Police
Department reported a number of close calls at the intersection
of Fairwood Court and Fairwood Drive .
In these instances the motorists on Fairwood Court failed to
yield right-of-way to those on Fairwood Drive . Some residents
on Fairwood Court have called in requesting a stop sign on
Fairwood Court .
For safety considerations the staff recommends that a stop
sign be placed on Fairwood Court at Fairwood Drive .
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Proposed Pipe Line Agreement between the City of Elgin and the
Milwaukee Railroad as part of the Burnidge/B1_9 Timber Industrial
Park Development .
Gary Miller advised the Council that they had reviewed and
approved the engineering plans for the Burnidge/Big Timber
Industrial Park located on Big Timber Road. The drainage plans
for the project included specific downstream improvements which
are required within the Milwaukee Railroad right-of-way.
The developer, Burnidge Brothers , agreed to do the necessary
work as required . Our office made an offer to secure the
required permits since we have had previous conversations with
the railroad regarding the proposed commuter parking lot , which
is east of and adjacent to the industrial park.
Councilman Hansen asked why the city must enter into the
contract with the railroad as a third party if the developer
is assuming all the costs .
Gary Miller stated that the railroad will not enter into an
agreement with just the developer , but all costs and the actual
work will be provided by Burnidge Brothers .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 16 , 1981
r Page 2
Review of the bids taken for the Development of the Lime
Sludge Disposal Facilities including the Lime Residue
Transmission Main.
Mr . Nelson asked that this item be deferred until the meeting
next week.
Informational Item for the Council ' s Consideration
Memo from Staff Members at ECC to Burnidge and Cassell relative
to the College ' s Space Allocation requirements for the Elgin
Sears Building .
Extension of hours for bars on New Year ' s Eve .
Councilman Gilliam asked the Council to consider extending
the hours that a bar may be opened on New Year ' s Eve to
5 :00 A .M. Councilman Gilliam stated this had come to him
as a request from several liquor licensees .
Councilman Gilliam also requested that it not be necessary
for the bars to lock their doors at 2 :00 A .M. , because he
felt this was a safety hazard .
Chief Van De Voorde concurred with Councilman Gilliam and
stated he did not like the idea of any group of people being
locked into an establishment .
Several of the Council members asked Chief Baird if the change
in hours would present a problem for his department .
Chief Baird did not feel he could give an accurrate feeling on
this at this time , but he did think this should be looked at
on a year to year basis .
Counsel Jentsch stated that this change would have to be
presented in the form of an amendment to the present liquor
ordinance .
The Council directed that said amendment be prepared .
List of Energy Conservation Measures
The Council reviewed a recommendation from the staff relative
to energy conservation measures . The recommendations are geared
to savings of natural gas and not electricity. All recommendations
have a ten year or less pay-back period.
Selected engergy saving projects recommended by Beling Engineering
Company for the City of Elgin have cost firgure of $369, 754. The
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 16 , 1981
Page 3
staff requested $49, 710 funding for 1982.
Mayor Verbic asked if block grant money could be used for
these projects .
Mr . Nelson stated he did not know but he would check into
this .
The majority of the Council agreed that the availability
of block grant funds should be investigated.
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
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 22, 1981
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order on
Tuesday, December 22, 1981 , at 7 :05 P.M. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Gilliam, Hansen, Kirkland, Nelson, Schmidt and Waters . Absent:
Mayor Verbic .
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff .
Recommendation to award the contract for the construction
of Lime Residue Disposal Facilities to Ryan, Inc . of Wisconsin
as the lowest responsible bidder .
Mr. Nelson stated that this bid was on the Council ' s agenda
to be awarded tonight and that in all probability Mr . Riemer,
of J . S . Riemer, Inc . , and his attorney, would be present at
the meeting . Mr . Nelson further stated the Council has a
letter from Black & Veatch supporting Gary Miller ' s memorandum
and recommendation .
Councilman Waters asked if Counsel Jentsch had reviewed this
matter .
Mr. Nelson replied yes and that he concurred with the staff.
Councilwoman Nelson stated that in other instances the lowest
bidder was not found to be the best for the job .
Mr. Nelson stated he just wanted to make the Council aware that
Mr . Riemer and his attorney would be present .
Ordinance adopting the 1982 budget
Mr . Nelson stated this ordinance was on the agenda tonight for
the Council ' s consideration and he wondered if the Council had
any questions regarding same.
The Council indicated they did not have any questions at this
time .
Proposal for rehabilitation work at the Neighborhood Housing
Service Office .
Mr. Nelson stated that Roger Dahlstrom was present to respond
to any questions the Council may have regarding the repairs
which are anticipated.
The work for this project are included in the block grant funds
for this year and if possible the staff would like to proceed.
The Council directed the proposals be included with the other
bids appearing on the agenda for tonight ' s meeting .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 22, 1981
Page 2
Checking Accounts at the Union National Bank
The Council reviewed a memorandum from James Bolerjack which
advised that the City has received a letter from the Union
National Bank stating that the City will be required to pay
bank service charges for the month of December. This would
mean that the Union National Bank would be the only bank in
town charging the city a service charge .
The First National Bank has indicated that there will be no
service charges if we transfer these bank accounts to them.
This will be put in writing as a guarantee.
The staff recommended transferring these accounts to the First
National Bank because in addition to the above remarks , the
city currently receives more free services from the First
National Bank than any other bank.
The Council approved the staff ' s recommendation .
Proposed amendments to the Liquor Control Ordinance.
Counsel Jentsch advised the Council that after lengthy discussion the
Liquor Control Commission directed him to prepare drafts of two
alternative ordinances to be submitted to the Council for their
consideration .
In keeping with this direction Counsel Jentsch submitted the
following to the Council :
Alternate 1 : establish a new class of licenses for food and
drug stores , or combinations thereof, with retail floor area
not less than twenty thousand square feet and with other
restrictions limited to three in number .
Alternate 2 : amend the provisions for Class B license to allow
one license for each 4000 inhabitants , or fraction thereof, and
providing that food and drug stores or combinations thereof, with
minimum retail floor area of not less than twenty thousand square
feet and with other restrictions .
Councilman Waters stated that he felt after reviewing the Jewel
Osco operation under the B license, he did not feel this was
the intent of the ordinance . A separate corporate entity was
created in order for them to get their license and this simply
amounted to an artifical separation .
Rather than maintain this artifical separation, Councilman Waters
felt a new license should be created and the concerns and protection
that the Council desired could be incorporated into said new license.
Councilman Schmidt stated he would like to see the B licenses
remain as is and increase the number of such licenses by lowering
the population requirement . Councilman Schmidt stated he thought
creating a new license could get out of hand and he had no problem
with the structure of the present B licenses .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 22, 1981
Page 3
Councilman Kirkland stated he did not feel that either ordinance
went far enough for him, and at sometime in the future the Council
may find themselves having to go all through this again.
Councilman Kirkland objected to artifical values being placed on
the licenses, which means they are being sold, and that is not
the ordinance intent .
Councilwoman Nelson stated she thought the B licenses should be
left alone and a new license should be created.
Councilman Hansen stated that he did not agree with the twenty
thousand square feet restriction and the limitation to drug and
grocery stores . Osco has a nice operation and it was Councilman
Hansen ' s understanding that Osco is happy with the conditions
of the B license and that this ordinance is similar to the one
they conform with in other stores throughout the State, which
says something for our ordinance.
Councilman Hansen did not feel the city could expect good control
exercising the square footage restriction and the Council should
build a license that will protect the welfare of the citizens .
Councilman Hansen stated he would support increasing the number
of B licenses .
Councilman Gilliam stated that he has always been against selling
liquor in drug or food stores , but this is a case of economic
reality, and in this instance he felt like he had a gun at his
head.
Councilman Gilliam suggested increasing the present B licenses
by two, keeping it as it is , and letting Mr . Gromer have the
same guidelines as Osco.
Councilman Hansen stated he thought the license for Gromer should
be backed up by a letter of intent .
Councilman Schmidt asked if the letter of intent to Gromer would
not have to show where he intended to use the license.
Councilman Gilliam thought the Council should seek the advice
of Corporation Counsel as to the legality of a letter of intent .
Councilman Waters suggested that this matter be tabled until an
opinion could be obtained from the Corporation Counsel and until
a full Council was present .
The Council agreed to meet on January 19, 1982 to discuss this
matter further .
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 22 , 1982
Page 4
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Proposed extension of the agreement for drainage improvements
to Otter Creek.
The Council approved a supplemental agreement extending the
time of completing this project to December 1 , 1982 .
Proposed amendment to our agreement with the Village of Sleepy
Hollow for the sale of water to the Village .
The proposed amendment to the agreement with Sleepy Hollow
provides that Elgin must give primary consideration to the Elgin
customers and if in the event of a water shortage, either due to
unusual heavy demand for water in Elgin and/or Sleepy Hollow, or
due to malfunction of equipment in Elgin and/or Sleepy Hollow,
Elgin may ask and Sleepy Hollow shall comply to discontinue
usage of water from Elgin for customers that are east of Sleepy
Hollow Road . Elgin agrees to give 12 hours notice of such
discontinuance of service east of Sleepy Hollow Road. Sleepy
Hollow agrees to maintain the existing well system on a standby
basis in operable condition . Sleepy Hollow further agrees to pay
Elgin for such service in accordance with the provisions set
forth in this agreement .
The Council approved the proposed amendment .
Authorization to proceed with a Irant application for operating
funds to be used at the Lord ' s Park Zoo.
The Council approved the staff ' s request to apply for a grant
for general operating support funds for the Lord ' s Park Zoo.
Recommendation to establish parking rates and monthly parking
fees for the Spring Street Deck.
The staff recommended to the Council that the parking rates be
kept at the same rate as those in the Civic Center Lot . Permit
fees for parking on the third level or under cover would be
$25 . 00 per month , and parking on the fourth level or open spaces
$20.00 per month .
Mr . Nelson stated he did not think that overnight parking should
be encouraged and no more than 150 spaces should be offered for
rental .
Mr. Nelson further stated that if the Council approved the staff ' s
recommendations, an ordinance could be prepared for the next
Council meeting.
The Council directed that an ordinance be prepared in accordance
with the staff ' s recommendations .
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Development of a schedule of City Council meetings for 1982 .
The Council agreed to meet on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of
each month. If necessary the 5th Wednesday in March, June,
September and December, could be used for special meetings ,
but only those items on the agenda calling for a special
meeting could be discussed .
Work sessions in July designated to work on the budget could
be scheduled as a special meeting .
The new meeting schedule for 1982 would also provide that the
Committee of the Whole Meeting commence at 6 : 30 P.M. , and the
Council Meeting commence at 8:00 P.M.
Intersection Street Lighting
Mr . Nelson stated this was an informational item regarding
the installation of additional street lighting at various
intersections throughout the city.
When cost estimates are available this item will be brought
back to the Council for further consideration .
Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Committee
47' of the Whole, the meeting was adjourned at 10: 10 P.M.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
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