HomeMy WebLinkAbout1984 Committee of the Whole Meeeting Committee of the Whole Meeting
rek January 9, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6:40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of
staff.
Request from Greater Elgin Area Musicians Association for
the City to participate financially in the Elgin Summer
Band Operation for 1984.
Mr. Frank Bruno, President of the Association advised the
Council the Association will furnish 20 players , including
the leader at a cost of $745 .00 per concert. The total
for 4 concerts will be $2980.00.
For 1984 the Music Performance Trust Funds will furnish onet
half ($ 1490.00) , if the City of Elgin will match this amount.
Rehearsal space is also to be furnished by the City in the
Hemmens Exhibition Hall .
Mr. Bruno pointed out that the attendance at the concerts
last year was excellent.
Councilman Schmidt asked if some of the concerts could be
scheduled for Lord ' s Park.
Mr. Bruno stated this would depend on the amount of contributions
they can obtain, but they would try to do something in this ', area.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andrsen
for the City to match the funds of $ 1490.00 and to provide the
Hemmens for rehearsal space. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion of Stetson Management Contract for the 1984 Swimming
Pool Operation.
Councilman Schmidt stated that he had asked Phil Bennet to supply
him with a list of the complaints received last year and in
looking this list over the complaints did not appear to be
anything major and he wondered if it might be just a case of
the first year operation .
Representatives from Stetson stated that the complaints were
small and they could be worked out . The Housekeeping and b th-
house problems have already been addressed in the new contract .
Councilman Schmidt asked about the complaint that the lifeguards
were rude to the patrons .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 9, 1984
Page 2
The Stetson people replied these employees were the same as
used by the City previously and Stetson has addressed this
problem.
Mayor Verbic asked if the Wing Park pool was the largest project
that Stetson has handled.
The Stetson people replied yes , but they now felt they have a
handle on the mechanism of the pool and the water quality and
they felt they could work out any other bugs .
Councilwoman Shales asked if Stetson had managed any other'
municipal pools .
The Stetson people replied Elgin is the only municipal pool
they are presently managing, but they do manage park district,
apartment and private pools .
Councilman Schmidt asked Phil Bennett if he was statisfie
with Stetson and did he feel that all the problems could be
worked out.
Phil Bennett stated that the city has experienced good
response from Stetson and have established a good working )
relationship with them and any problems could be overcome.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to continue the Stetson contract for one year
and to have same placed on the January 23rd Council agenda.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation to enter into a contract with Gluth Bros .
Construction, Inc. , for the repair of sanitary sewers in
Center Street from Franklin to Kimball and in Division
Street from Liberty to Porter.
The following quotations were obtained by the staff for repair
to the two sewers :
Center Division
Gluth Brothers $20, 790 $35 , 065
Sinnett Builders $22,497 $37, 377
Illinois Hydraulic $26,960 $41 , 360
The staff recommendation is to award the contract to Gluth.
Brothers for the repair to both sewers for a total cost of
$55,855 .
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the staff recommendations and to place the contracts
on the Council Agenda for January 23rd. Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays: None.
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 9 , 1984
Page 3
Recommendation to designate the Planning Committee as the
official public hearing body to conduct a formal public
hearing prior to the adoption of a "Business District Plan" .
Roger Dahlstrom advised the Council that at their direction
the Planning Committee and Planning staff have been working
toward the development of a proposed downtown revitalization
plan. Over the past six months these bodies have analyzed,
researched and reviewed relevant information from Elgin and
around the nation.
In order to properly evaluate the existing rough draft of
the plan and implementation concepts , it is the intention
of the Planning Committee to conduct one or more open forums
with downtown business concerns later this month; the Council
will be advised of the exact dates and times . In addition
to these meetings , Section 11 -74.3-2 of Chapter 24, Illinois
Revised Statutes , 1981 , requires one or more formal public
hearings to be held previous to the adoption of a "Business
District Plan." The Council could conduct this hearing
itself or assign the task to the Planning Committee.
Councilwoman Shales stated she was concerned that a lot of
people would not be involved in the plan and that interests
outside the inner retail core and neighborhood groups should
have a chance to comment.
Councilman Hansen stated that all property owners should be
invited to the work sessions .
Councilman Andersen stated that many of the present day
problems downtown were the result of some of the prime movers
and shakers who made the wrong moves and that the initial maps
he had seen for the current plan were the same as those presented
by Trkla several years ago.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that some of the maps may containthe
same concepts but the planning principles involved in the
staff generated plans expanded on Trkla ' s concepts .
Mr. Dahlstrom further stated that the Plan would not be
submitted to the Council until all the downtown groups have
been apprised.
Councilman Waters asked if a transcript of all the meetings
would be made.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated this would be done and the Planning 1,
Committee would be using the same procedure they used on
the Comprehensive Plan hearings .
(1.6' Councilman Hansen asked if it would be more effective to have
the Council act as the Public Hearing group because a transcript
can become dry and stale.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 9, 1984
Page 4
Roger Dahlstrom stated the Council would be invited to two
open meetings and one public hearing.
Councilman Hansen stated he could support the Planning
Committee as the hearing body if the Council were supplied
with all the information relative to these meetings .
Mr. Dahlstrom stated the Council would be kept fully advised.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to designate the Planning Committee as the official
public hearing body for the Business District Plan. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of a marketing proposal submitted by Dunham/
Nikolich Communications , Inc. to increase the convention
usage of the Hemmens Building.
Mr. Nelson stated that this proposal was introduced in 0
budget session and at that time received the Council ' s
semi -approval .
Councilman Hansen stated that at the time this proposal
was discussed it was his understanding that the Chamber
of Commerce would be handling the contract itself and
the City would increase the Visitors and Convention Budget
by $7, 500, to cover the cost.
Mr. Nelson stated this was his understanding also, but in
talking with Marianne Nelson and Ed Kelly they have indicated
they want the city to exercise the agreement, but they will
be working with the firm and our staff people on the project.
Mayor Verbic stated he would prefer giving them the money
and letting them assume the responsibility.
Mr. Nelson stated he would take this up with the Chamber
and bring it back to the Council on January 23rd.
Survey results of residents who favor and those who oppose
the improvement of South Weston as a cul -de-sac street 9t
Larkin Avenue.
The staff advised the Council the responses received were
broken down into two groups ; those that live in the one block
of Weston Avenue that would have the cul-de-sac and those who
live in the area surrounding the proposed improvement. Seventy
five percent (6 of 8) of those people who live on the block
with the proposed cul -de-sac are in favor of the proposal .
Eighty-seven (61 of 70) of the people who live outside the
area are opposed to the project.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 9, 1984
Page 5
The main concern of the overall neighborhood appears to
be the possibility of increased traffic on nearby streets
due to the cul -de-sac being considered.
Mr. Nelson asked if the cul -de-sac is eliminated how do
the neighbors feel about the street improvements .
Mr. Miller stated he had the feeling they want to go ahead
with the improvements , but he would like to meet with the
neighbors again when some cost estimates are available.
Councilman Schmidt stated that the calls he received which
favored the cul -de-sac gave a safety factor reason. The
residents felt that with a cul -de-sac the open space would
be reduced and would provide greater safety from robberies.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to approve the cul -de-sac between Larkin and Van.
Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt. Nays : Councilmen
Andersen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Approval of a City Council meeting schedule for 1984.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to make the following changes in the 1984 meeting
schedule:
May 28, 1984 should be changed to May 29, 1984.
December 10, 1984 should be changed to December 3, 1984
December 24, 1984 should be changed to December 17, 1984
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Report relative to the impact of removing parking metes .
Mr. Nelson stated the staff is still in the process ofl
developing a report and said report will be available for
the January 23rd meeting.
Status report on the communications system.
Mr. Nelson stated a meeting had been scheduled between
members of the administrative staff, consultants and
prospective bidders , on January 12, 1984, at 1 : 00 p.m. ,
to discuss specifications for the communications center.
Council members were invited to attend said meeting.
Request from the Gifford Park Association to waive the
rental fee for the Mark Twain Program.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to waive the $400.00 rental fee. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of he Whole Meeting
January 9, 1914
Page 6
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Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting
to go into the Board of Local Improvements Meeting.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None. The
meeting was adjourned at 7: 55 p.m.
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Marie Yearma 1 City C er
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�+ Committee of the Whole Meeting
E January 23, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6:40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic . Absent: Councilman
Gilliam.
Also present: Nelson, Jentsch, Yearman and members of staff.
Elgin Public Museum' s request that ISI be authorized to assist
with the preparation of applications for two federal grants .
The Council reviewed a request from N. J . Epping, Administrator
of the Elgin Public Museum, to work through the City with
International Systems on the preparation of two federal grants .
The first is a Museum Assessment Program Grant which would allow
the Elgin Public Museum to bring in an outside professional to
assess the Museum and help the Board of Directors and staff plan
the Museum' s development. The second is an Institute of Museum
Services Grant and is intended to assist museums with general
operational support.
rik Although neither of these grants would reduce the organization ' s
current dependence on limited funding from the City, both will
help the organization become more firmly established and will
help assure the organization ' s ability to continue the operation
of the Museum after the current contractual support from the
City expires .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
for International Systems to assist the Elgin Public Museum
in the preparation of two federal grants . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Request from the Elgin Area Historical Society that the City
extend the lease for Old Main.
Mr. Nelson pointed out to the Council that the present lease
provides that the restoration and occupancy of the first floor
shall be completed within 3 years from the date of this lease
and said lease does not provide for any extension.
Mary Huddleston, President, Elgin Area Historical Society, stated
that the Society has collected $261 ,473 .09, which leaves $88, 526 .91
left to go in order to complete Phase 1 . Mrs . Huddleston felt
that with an improved economy their drive can be completed and
the renovation begun in the not too distant future, but they
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 23 , 1984
Page 2
must first have approval of an extension to their lease.
The staff reviewed old main restoration cost estimates with
the Council that reflected the following:
First Floor $451 , 956
Second Floor 212, 388
Third Floor 154, 263
$820,000
Arno Gerbrecht stated that with $350, 000 the Society could
occupy the first floor. The Society may not be able to do
everything they desire but this would enable them to open
a fine museum on the first floor.
Mayor Verbic stated he was interested in having this project
completed, but was concerned the same thing might happen as
has with the bridge. The Mayor stated he knew it was difficult
to obtain the money and he wondered if the objective could be
reached in 1984.
Councilman Hansen stated that we owe it to this organization to
extend the agreement. The citizens of Elgin made a commitment
to this project through the buck-a-brick program.
Attorney Ben Rifen stated that the lease also provides for
the occupancy of the first floor by the Academy and they have
not done this . Mr. Rifken stated the present lease should be
dated, the signature of the Academy people obtained and an
extension for one year be granted for the fund drive.
Mrs . Huddleston stated that this drive can be completed and
they can get into the building but more time is needed.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to change Paragraph N of the current agreement to
provide that the restoration and occupancy of the first floor
shall be completed within five years from the date of this
agreement . Said agreement to be dated January, 1981 .
Councilman Waters suggested that the Council direct the staff
to negotiate the lease for an additional year in which to
raise the funds and to have the Academy participation.
Councilwoman Shales stated she would make an amendment to her
motion to have the lease extended for one year . Councilman
Hansen seconded said amendment. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Mayor Verbic called for a vote on the original motion. Yeas
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 23, 1984
Page 3
Mayor Verbic suggested that Attorney Gerbrecht and the City' s
Legal Department work together on this amendment and bring
same back to the Council .
Designation of certain routes in Elgin as Class II Highways
for use by large and/or heavy trucks .
Mel Dahl advised the Council that the Illinois Department
of Transportation has designated three highways or streets
in Elgin as part of the state system, Class II Highways .
They are: U.S . By-Pass 20, Illinois Route 31 from the
northern limits of Elgin south to Chicago and unmarked
Business Route U.S . 20 (Villa, Center, Highland, Chicago)
from Illinois Route 31 east to Lovell Road.
Mr. Dahl stated he was opposed to the last two because they
direct the heavy and large vehicles through the Central
Business District. Mr. Dahl suggested a change be made
in that Illinois Route 31 from the northern limits of Elgin
south to the By-Pass be included in the system and unmarked
Business 20 be deleted.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Schmidt to approve the staff ' s recommendation to remove
Villa Street and to include Route 31 as Class II Highway.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Proposed revisions to the Class J Beer and Wine Licenses.
Assistant Corporation Counsel Dan Blondin stated that the
proposed ordinance had been prepared in an effort to tighten
the regulations for the Beer and Wine License.
The proposed amendment called for the following:
1 . Elimination of sales of beer or wine to persons seated at
a counter or bar.
2. Requiring that the restaurant be engaged primarily in the
sale of food and that sales of beer and wine be incidental
to and accompany a sale of food.
3 . Contains language regarding the intent of the section.
4. Emphasizes that sales are for on-site consumption with
meals.
Councilman Hansen stated he agreed with the intent of the
amendment but he wondered if the Council wanted to eliminate
service at the counters as long as there was service of food.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 23 , 1984
rik P 4
Mrage. Blondin stated this was not a strong point and he would be
satisfied to strike this from the proposed amendment.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to place the proposed ordinance on the next Council Agenda. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
The Park and Recreation Board ' s recommended swimming pool rates
for 1984.
The Council reviewed the following recommendation:
1983 Proposed for 1984
Family pass $60.00 $70.00
Adult Coupons 10/$ 10.00 10/$ 11 .00
20/$20.00 20/$21 .50
Youth Coupons 10/$ 6. 25 10/$ 6. 75
20/$ 12.50 20/$ 13 .50
Daily Admissions :
Adult $2.00 $2.00
Youth 1 .50 1 .50
Councilwoman Shales stated she was opposed to the increases .
Mayor Verbic stated the Council should remember that many cities
have park districts and they levy taxes to help defray the costs
of their pools .
Councilman Waters stated he did not favor any increase on the
family passes or daily admissions , but would consider the increase
on just the coupons .
Councilman Hansen stated he hated to see the rates go up but that
he could support the Park' s Board recommendations .
Councilman Schmidt asked if a non-resident fee had been considered.
Mr. Bennett stated this had not been considered by the Park' s
Board at this time.
Councilman Hansen suggested that the Park' s Board look to the
non-residents using the pools , evaluate same and bring this
information back to the Council .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 23, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to raise the family passes to $65 .00 and to approved the other
recommended rates . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Shales and Waters .
Formation of HCD Downtown Economic Development Loan Review
Committee.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that this project utilizes Housing and
Community Development Block Grant Funds to effectively reduce
interest rates for business start-up/expansion and building
rehabilitation. The first of these demonstration projects
resulted in the establishment of Al ' s Cafe and Creamery. The
Al ' s Cafe project was chosen as a first attempt because it
appeared to have great potential for providing a substantial
downtown business improvement.
The decision to recommend assistance to Al ' s Cafe was made
administratively by City staff, and the staff feels that if
additional demonstration projects are to be initiated, they
should be reviewed and evaluated by a Loan Review Committee.
At this point in time, the Loan Review Committee could be
formed as an ad-hoc committee to carry out an HCD project.
If the incentive program is to continue in the future, the
composition of this group could be evaluated by the Council
based upon its performance.
The Loan Review Committee should be composed of individuals with a
combination of expertise in small business formation and operation,
finance, applicable federal regulations , and knowledge of the
basic downtown Elgin situation.
Mayor Verbic suggested that perhaps a Councilman should also
sit on this committee.
Councilman Hansen pointed out that a businessman, hopefully a
retailer, who is presently operating a business , should be
included. Also the Greater Downtown Commission may have one
of their members they would like on this committee.
Mr. Nelson suggested that the Council decide if they agree that
such a committee is necessary and then the Council could discuss
individuals for said committee in Executive Session.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve the formation of an HCD Downtown Economic Development
Loan Review Committee. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 23, 1984
Page 6
Payment of NIPC dues for 1984.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to pay the 1984 budgeted amount of $2300.00 as
and for the City ' s 1984 contribution to NIPC . Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Report relative to the impact of removing parking meters
from streets and/or parking lots .
Mr. Bolerjack reviewed with the Council a parking operations
study and alternates for the removal of parking meters .
Leo Nelson advised the Council that a letter had been received
from the Joseph Spiess Company, indicating their store would
cease retail operation on January 31st. Their corporate offices
and marketing would continue their operations in the store. They
will continue to operate the parking deck at no cost to the
public and will continue to furnish maintenance and to pay the
city for parking spaces at the south end of the deck for the
balance of their lease with the city.
Mr. Bolerjack stated that commuters will find this free parking
and it will put an impact on parking spaces .
Councilman Hansen felt it was time to do something on this and
asked if there was any count on all the city parking spaces .
Bolerjack stated there were 4100 parking spaces in the
downtown area including some private spaces .
Councilman Hansen stated that he viewed meters as a negative
hinderance to potential development of the downtown area.
Councilwoman Shales suggested four options : remove all street
meters , sell some of the outlining parking lots , permit parking
on Spiess deck, or make all parking free with time limits on
street parking .
Councilman Waters asked if there was any possibility that Spiess
might consider terminating the lease.
Mayor Verbic stated that 30 to 50 Spiess employees would continue
to use the deck parking.
Councilman Waters stated that the city is going to look at the
redevelopment plan for the downtown and it might be appropriate
to look at the parking meter situation while reviewing this plan.
Councilman Hansen suggested putting bags over the meters and
declaring a 90 day moratorium.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
January 23, 1984
Page 7
Mayor Verbic suggested that the staff get a report from the
downtown merchants as to the removal of the meters . Ask them
where their employees will park and if they will participate
in the parking enforcement.
Councilman Hansen suggested that the Legal Department research
to see if Spiess can abandon the lot without parking control .
Mr. Nelson stated he would bring further information back to
the Council , based on Councilwoman Shales ' options .
Storm Sewer Replacement ( Intermodal Transporation Facility)
Mr. Dahl advised the Council there is a 12- inch storm sewer that runs
through the approximate center of the site of the new
Transportation Facility under construction, which the RTA
and Madison Madison are recommending be replaced. Illinois
Hydraulic has submitted a proposal for the replacement in the
amount of $2100.00.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to authorize the replacement of this storm sewer and to accept
the proposal of Illinois Hydraulic. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
rbk Adjournment
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss acquisition of property,
appointments to boards and commissions and litigation. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned at
10: 10 p.m.
Marie 3T-ETT'l4 City Clerk
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 27, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m. , in the
Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members present: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman
Hansen.
Also present: Nelson, Jentsch, Roll and members of staff.
Recommendation for the Purchase of the Communications System
Bernie Ebstein of Sachs/Freeman Associates presented his recommendations for
the purchase of the communications system. He pointed out the fact that there
are a number of improvements in the system that is proposed as compared to the
system that was negotiated with Motorola last summer.
Councilman Gilliam asked Mr. Ebstein if the City needed the bidding process
to acquire an upgraded system.
Mr. Ebstein stated that all of the systems he has been involved with in the
past have been through bids.
Councilman Gilliam asked whether the bid specifications were slanted toward
one company.
Mr. Ebstein stated that they were not. There were two companies capable of
bidding, there are only two companies in the country who can bid on this
project.
Councilman Gilliam stated that since there are only two companies in the country
who are capable of bidding such a project, it appears the City did not have to
bid the project, it could have been negotiated.
Councilman Andersen asked Mr. Ebstein to compare the system that was bid on
with the system that was negotiated.
Mr. Ebstein stated that the systems were virtually the same, except for critical
differences in the use of fewer antennas on the tower and the console reliability
is greater in the subsequent system. The subsequent system also has improved
coverage of the system, particularly in the in-building coverage. This results
in the increased price.
Councilman Gilliam stated that it was his contention the City could have up-
graded the system without the use of the bidding process. He stated it could
have been negotiated without spending money on having bid specifications pre-
pared.
Councilman Andersen stated that he felt better because the Council did what
the law states by following the bidding process. It was right and proper to
go out for bid.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 27, 1984
Page 2
eft.
Mayor Verbic stated that he was unaware that there were only two companies
capable of bidding on the project, but was happy to have gone through the
bidding process. He felt the City acquired a better system through bidding
and in the long term that is better for the City.
Councilman Waters stated that the Council can not change what it did, but
can act on what is before them today. He then asked the Council to accept
the recommendations of Sachs/Freeman Associates as stated in its memorandum
of February 22, 1984.
Recommendation from the Planning and Land Use Commission Relative to
Electronic Game Centers and a Discussion of License Fees
Leo Nelson presented a recommendation by the Planning and Land Use Commission
regarding electronic game centers.
Councilman Shales stated that she was looking for some kind of licensing
procedures and specifications for off-street parking and bicycle racks.
Mayor Verbic stated that each application should be considered individually.
Councilman Waters stated that he did not want to be put in the position of
arbitrarily deciding each application, the applicants should have to fit
their request within the ordinances.
Councilman Shales asked to work on an ordinances to bring before the Council
that would address electronic game centers.
Proposed Agreement with Kane County for Road Improvements
Leo Nelson presented an agreement to the Council between the City and Kane
County which would share the cost of the South McLean Boulevard improvement
from Bowes Road to Hoppe Road.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt, to place the
agreement with Kane County on the Council agenda. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None,
Proposed Utility Easement for Fire Station No. 1
Leo Nelson presented a plat for a utility easement to service Fire Station
No. 1.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam, to authorize
the staff to prepare a resolution for the proposed easement. Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Proposal to Modify Traffic Signals at State and Chicago Streets
The Council reviewed a proposal to improve the traffic signals at State and
Chicago Streets which would help alleviate congestion on State Street when the
railroad gates are down by keeping a continuous green light for north and
southbound traffic on State Street.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 27, 1984
Page 3
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt, to prepare
a resolution for the improvement of the traffic signals at State and Chicago
Streets. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Proposed Improvement to Weston Avenue from Larkin to Van Street
Leo Nelson informed the Council that a meeting had been scheduled with the
residents of the proposed improvement on Weston Avenue on March 1 to discuss
the proposal.
City's Co-Sponsorship of the Valley Fox Trot for 1984
Leo Nelson presented a recommendation for the City's co-sponsorship with the
YMCA of the annual Valley Fox Trot. Mr. Nelson stated that the Valley Fox
Trot received the award of the Best Large Race of 1983 by the Chicago Area
Runners' Association.
Councilman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters, to co-sponsor
the Valley Fox Trot for 1984. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Proposed Adoption of the 1981 BOCA Fire Prevention Code
Leo Nelson presented a recommendation for the adoption of the 1981 BOCA Fire
Prevention Code. The statutes require that the code be placed on file with
the City Clerk for thirty days prior to adoption, which has been done.
Mayor Verbic requested more stringent requirements for the storage of flammable
liquids in manufacturing zones.
The Council requested that the staff investigate changes in the storage of
flammable liquids and bring their recommendations back to the Council for
further discussion.
Proposed 1984-1985 Cemetery Rates
The Council reviewed the proposed 1984-1985 cemetery rates as prepared by the
Public Property and Recreation Department.
Councilman Schmidt asked if this matter could be tabled and directed Phil
Bennett to send notice to local funeral directors and set a meeting to discuss
the proposed rates.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters, to table
the proposed 1984-1985 cemetery rates. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Proposed Revisions to the Subdivision Regulations
Leo Nelson presented the recommendations of the Home Builders Association of
Greater Chicago which have been prepared in ordinance form.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 27, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Shales asked if the local developers had had an opportunity to
review the changes to the subdivision regulations.
Mel Dahl stated that local builders were contact regarding the proposed
changes, but the City did not receive a response.
The Council directed the staff to contact the Fox Valley Home Builders to
get their input regarding the subdivision changes.
Discussion of City-Owned Property at 225 South State Street
Leo Nelson stated that a home, which was given to the City many years ago
for the use of the janitor of the west side parks, has recently been vacated.
In order to stay within the letter of the deed restrictions, it was the
recommendation of the staff to rent the home on the open market and take
the funds and put them in a fund for park development. There would be some
risk, as an heir could recover the property due to violation of the deed
restrictions. The alternatives would be to tear the house down, make it
a park office or find someone to occupy it within the deed restrictions.
Councilman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam, to try to
lease the home. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Shales and Waters.
Nays: Councilman Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
Discussion of the Police Accreditation Project
In response to questions raised by the Council regarding the Police Accredita-
tion Project, Leo Nelson presented an informational memorandum prepared by
the Chief of Police.
Councilman Andersen stated that the Council was told the study would not
cost any money and it has cost money indirectly. There are some unaddressed
issues such as trips out of town, etc. He asked when the project is completed,
what does it get for Elgin. Officers have been taken off the street to work
on this project.
Councilman Shales stated that having worked as part of a medical accreditation
program she understood how important it is to have such a program. The initial
process is time consuming, but once in effect requires very little time. She
stated she was pleased that the police department felt compelled to do such a
project.
Councilman Waters stated that the Council can not undue something it has
already made a commitment to do.
Leo Nelson stated that the work needed to be done with or without the accredita-
tion program. Several months in the future the Council will need to have to
make a decision on whether or not to apply for the accreditation, which will
cost $3,500.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 27, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Andersen asked how he as a Councilman can respond to the citizens
who ask how crime is being stopped in Elgin.
Chief Baird stated that burglary in Elgin is down 24% from 1983 and the
State's Attorney commented that the City of Elgin Police Department arrested
more felons than any other community in Kane County. Overall there has been
a 10o reduction in crime in Elgin in 1983. That is how we can respond to
the citizens of Elgin. He stated that the goal of the project is a more
effective delivery of the police services by making officers highly educated
and motivated.
Mayor Verbic stated that he favors the program. It appears to help the
officers in Elgin and may help officers in other communities.
Councilman Shales stated that she is pleased the police department has been
able to work within its budget.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt, to go
on to the regular Council meeting at 8:05 p.m. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
The Committee of the Whole Meeting Reconvened at 9:55 p.m,
Request to Burn House of State Street
Leo Nelson stated that the fire department has requested permission to burn
the house owned by Bob Soderstrom, with his permission, located on State
Street.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Shales, to permit the
burning of the house located on State Street. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Request to Waive Rental Fee by VIP
Leo Nelson presented a request from Gladys Larson that the Council waive
rental fees for the annual VIP fundraiser.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Council Schmidt, to waive the
rental fees. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Airlite Water Treatment Plant Credit
Leo Nelson informed the Council that the City can receive a credit of $700
for carbon dioxide storage equipment from the Airlite Water Treatment Plant
improvement.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters, to accept
(,.., the credit of $700 for the carbon dioxide storage equipment. Yeas: Council-
men Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Abstain: Councilman Shales.
7
Committee of the Whole Meeting
February 27, 1984
Page 6
Consideration of HCD Block Grant Hearing Committee
The Council considered the appointment of a hearing body fbr the HCD Block
Grant funds.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen, to appoint
the Planning Committee as the HCD Block Grant Hearing Committee. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays: None.
Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Shales, to adjourn
the Committee of the Whole to go into Executive Session to discuss acquisi-
tion of property and appointments to boards and commissions. Yeas: Council-
men Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:05 p.m.
Nancy Rol a, Acting City Clerk
',. Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 12, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m. , in the
Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members present: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters. Absent: Mayor Verbic.
Also present: Nelson, Jentsch, Roll and members of staff.
Appointment of Acting City Clerk
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Shales, to appoint
Nancy Roll as Acting City Clerk. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales and Waters. Nays: None.
Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem
Councilman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen, to appoint
Robert Gilliam as Mayor Pro Tem. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales and Waters. Nays: None.
Consideration of Proposal of Park and Reclamation Commission Relative to
the Softball Complex
Bob Hoffer of the Parks and Reclamation Commission discussed plans for the
completion of Phase II of the softball complex. He asked for the City's
support in the sum of $350,000 for lighting of the ballfields and security
and parking lot lighting. The estimated cost of completing the complex is
$1,009,100. The pledge of $350,000 by the City of Elgin will ignite the
sponsors and volunteers to complete the project. The Elgin Softball Associa-
tion plans to raise in excess of $60,000 by sponsoring a city wide raffle.
Volunteer labor and the support of the sponsors will help bridge the gap to
completion of the entire project.
Councilman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters, to furnish
the support requested by appropriating $350,000 for the completion of Phase II
of the softball complex. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam. Nays: None.
Discussion of Proposed Annexation Agreement for Elgin-O'Hare Business Center
Leo Nelson presented a review of the Elgin-O'Hare Business Center Annexation
Agreement. He stated that the sales tax issue has been a problem and it may
be more feasible for the City to put the money out up front through public
participation.
Roger Dahlstrom outlined the City's current development policy which when
applied to this project would include a 75% participation in the intersection
improvement, resurfacing of West River Road and oversizing of Airport Road.
♦► An alternative would be 100% participation by the City in the intersection
improvement as opposed to the 75%. With the mall precedent alternative, the
City would share in on-site development costs up to a maximum of 33%. This
alternative could include or exclude full urban cross section roadway improve-
ments to alternate Airport Road south of the commercial center extending east
to the end of the project site.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 12, 1984
Page 2
Roger Dahlstrom outlined an incentive policy which could be applied to other
commercial centers exceeding a minimum square footage. The incentive could
range from zero to $3.60 per square foot of retail space. He stated that if
the City is to participate in this project, it also needs some control over
the quality of the design.
The Council asked to have this item continued to a special meeting on March 19
or 21, 1984.
Proposed Amendments to the Off-Street Parking Lot Ordinance
Roger Dahlstrom stated that an incorrect figure of 5% was used for determining
interior landscaping requirements. The correct figure is 10%.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Shales, to adjourn
to the City Council Meeting. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam. Nays: None.
Reconvene Committee of the Whole Meeting 10:45 p.m.
Discussion of Proposals for Architectural Services to Develop Plans for the
Relocation of the Communications Center
Leo Nelson presented the bids of four architectural firms for the relocation
"' of the communications center. The bid of Kaltenbach and Ferenc was recommended,
it being the low bid and Kaltenbach and Ferenc were the original architects for
the construction of City Hall.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt, to place this
item on the agenda for March 26, 1984. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam. Nays: None.
Proposed Adoption of the 1981 BOCA Fire Prevention Code
The Council reviewed the 1981 BOCA Fire Prevention Code and the amendments
thereto, particularly the requirements for the storage of flammable liquids.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Shales, to place an
ordinance adopting the BOCA Fire Prevention Code with amendments on the Council
agenda for March 26, 1984.
Proposal to Replace Steps and Certain Sections of Sidewalk at the Lords Park
Pavilion
Leo Nelson stated that the low bidder, Wayne Zimmerman Construction, will honor
the price quoted last year with an additional one percent to cover the cost of
a performance bond for the replacement of steps and sections of the sidewalk
at Lords Park Pavilion.
Councilman Hansen questioned the requirement of a performance bond for small
projects and requested the Corporation Counsel check the dollar amount for
requiring bonds.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 12, 1984
Page 3
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen, to place this
item on the Council agenda for March 26, 1984.
Consideration of a Proposal from the Jaycees for the Operation and Management
of Camp Hawthorn Hills
Leo Nelson presented an agreement which was brought to the City by the Jaycees
for the operation of Camp Hawthorn Hills. The agreement requires the City to
pay the operating expenses of the lodge.
Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam asked if the staff might review the agreement with the
Jaycees to help control the operating expenses and to get a commitment from
the Jaycees as to their future plans.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen, to direct
the staff to review the agreement with the Jaycees. Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam. Nays:
None.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters, to include
in the review of the agreement the form of progress made in day camp avail-
ability and usage. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam. Nays: None.
Review of Proposal of Jacobs and Associates to Assist the City with a Telephone
System
Leo Nelson presented a proposal from Jacobs and Associates which would guide
the City in the purchase of a telephone system. The proposal includes the
review of the existing facilities, evaluation of specific requirements, prepara-
tion of specifications for a new system, evaluation of proposals and recommenda-
tions and assistance in the negotiations for a final contract.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen, to proceed with
the proposal. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and
Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam. Nays: None.
Consideration of Renewal of a Farm Lease with Collins Brothers
Leo Nelson presented a proposed lease with Collins Brothers for the Elgin
Mental Health Center property. The price, terms and conditions remain the
same as last year.
Councilman Hansen asked if this property could be leased under the bidding
process.
Leo Nelson stated that it could be leased under the bidding process. He
recommended that Collins Brothers be notified in the fall if this is the
diection the City would be taking, as there is some farmland preparation
procedures which take place in the fall.
Councilman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen, to place the
renewal of the farm lease on the Council agenda for March 26, 1984. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Gilliam.
Nays: None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 12, 1984
Page 4
Discussion of the Proposed Subdivision Regulations
Leo Nelson stated that Mel Dahl met with the Fox Valley Home Builders Associa-
tion to discuss their recommendations concerning the subdivision regulations
as proposed by the Home Builders Association of Greater Chicago. The Fox
Valley Home Builders Association accepted the regulations, but favored the
placement of sidewalks on both sides of the street rather than just one as
proposed in the regulations.
The Council favored the approval of the subdivision regulations with the
exception of the placement of sidewalks on only one side of the street.
Adjournment
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was adjourned at 11:30 p.m.
Nancy Rol ;
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6:40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Absent : Mayor Verbic.
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of
staff.
Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to appoint Ery Schmidt as Mayor Pro Tem. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Waters .
Nays : None. Abstained: Councilman Schmidt.
Continued discussion of the proposed annexation agreement
with Elgin Airport Property Ltd., for the development of
the Elgin-O ' Hare Business Center.
Councilman Waters stated that the meeting held on Friday
with the developers provided an opportunity to understand
the problems of the developer and the City, and as a result
of said meeting Councilman Waters and Councilman Hansen made
the following recommendations :
1 . The Council ' s original offer of $ 1 . 15 million would remain
the same. This money to be used for intersection improvements,
road extension and incentive money based on 350 square feet of
commercial development at $2.00 per square foot. If the develop-
ment does not generate the 350,000 square feet of retail space,
the developer would have to repay the city on a prorated basis
for the shortfall in retail space.
2. The city would give the developer 48 months to build out
or complete the retail stores and if they did not build at
lease 200, 000 square feet in that time, the developer would have
to repay all of the money to the city.
3. The City will assist the developer with all necessary land
acquisition necessary for additional right of way for road
improvements , but the developer will pay for the acquisition
of that property.
4. The city will accept the developer ' s concept to de-annex
from the city if the commercial end of the development fell
through, but the city will not deposit any money for the
developer' s use until he waives his right to de-annex. The
city also has the right to de-annex the project prior to
development.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 2
5 . The construction of automobile parking areas on the
shopping center site shall be reduced to a minimum 6 inch
compacted gravel bas if the developer is able to demonstrate
to the city that such 6 inch base is its standard specification
for similar developments in the midwest under similar soil
conditions .
6. If the developer is required to any over-sizing for storm
sewer facilities , the city will cooperate in getting reim-
bursements from other landowners . This is consistent with
developments
7. On site detention an agreement would be reached if
detention areas were designated on several lots and not on
a lot by lot basis .
8. The city would agree to establish a special service district
for this site in order to provide additional capital to the
developers for improvements designated as public benefits .
Attorney McCarthy, representing the Bread Company, located on
Route 31 asked if the proposed agreement stated where the
intersection would go, and would this include the Bread
Company property along with other property.
Councilman Hansen stated the State would have more imput on
this than the city would.
Both the Council and the Developers indicated their approval
of the proposed annexation agreement. Councilman Waters
suggested that to expedite the matter the Council set a
special meeting for Monday evening to act formally on the
annexation agreement.
Charles Burnidge stated their attorney could have the revised
annexation agreement ready on Friday in order that the Council
would have the weekend to review same.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to set a special Council Meeting on Monday, April 2, 1984, at
5 :00 P.M. , to act upon the revised annexation agreement. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : None.
Request from the Apostolic Christian Church that the extension
of water and sanitary sewer along Highland Avenue be deleted
from the church ' s annexation agreement.
Mel Schrock, representing the Apostolic Christian Church,
advised the Council that it has been determined that the area
to the west of the church could be served by extending the
sewer and water under Highland Avenue in the vicinity of Manhole
#23.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 3
Mr. Schrock stated by deleting the proposed sanitary sewer
along Highland Avenue and deleting a portion of the watermain
along Highland they would save some $ 15,000. In addition
there are three large trees which they would like to be able
to same. Mr. Schrock also pointed out that the extension
of these lines may never be used.
Hal Bowen, Almora Heights, stated that during previous testimony
the statement was made that the sanitary district system would
reach full capacity at the Apostolic site.
Gary Miller stated that the sanitary sewer system could serve
property in the northern part of Almore Heights and the
property west of the Apostolic site.
Counsel Jentsch stated that in order to amend the annexation
agreement the Council would be required to set a public
hearing and publication would have to be made.
Mr. Schrock indicated that their attorney Bud Heimburg could
have the amended agreement to the City Clerk by Friday, so
that publication could be made and the public hearing set
for April 23rd.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to add the April 23rd public hearing date authori -
zation to the Council Agenda for tonight ' s meeting. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : None.
Discussion of the proposed amendments to the Off-Street
Parking Ordinance.
Roger Dahlstrom reviewed with the Council the Planning
Department ' s proposed amendment to Chapter 19.44 II Off-
Street Parking, which included the following:
1 . New language for interior landscaping that provides an
amount of landscaping equivalent to current curb island
requirements .
2. Parking lot site plan demonstrating current ordinance
requirements for perimeter landscaping and curb islands .
3 . Parking lot site plan demonstrating an ordinance change
that would provide for reduced perimeter landscaping (75%
of each side of parking lot) and no curb island or interior
landscaping requirements .
4. Parking lot site plan demonstrating an ordinance change
that would provide for reduced perimeter landscaping (75%
of each side of parking lot) and interior landscaping
requirements in an amount equivalent to current curb island
requirements .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Hansen pointed out that in Exhibit D some curb
islands are reflected but he wondered if this would present
a problem with illegal ingress and egress .
Jerry Deering stated that we would be allowing two lanes of
traffic in and out.
Councilman Hansen stated he had a question whether that is
safe.
Councilman Hansen also pointed out a concern with Paragraph
A. , Snow Removal and Maintenance, because we should make
sure these things can be accommodated.
Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt asked if we could put trees around the
edge instead of hedge, which becomes a catch-all for rubbish.
Councilman Hansen stated this is not just a developer problem,
but it is also a user problem and we should require trees .
Councilman Waters stated that since the Planning Committee
had not reviewed the new language proposed in this amendment
that perhaps they should be permitted to do this .
Roger Dahlstrom stated the Planning Committee would be meeting
on April 4th, and they could review this at that time and
then this matter could be brought back to the Council on
April 9th.
The Council indicated they would look at the proposed
amendments on April 9th, after the Planning Committee had
the opportunity to review same.
Discussion of the City Council ' s proposals for the use of
Housing and Community Development Block Grant funds for 1984.
Mr. Nelson advised the Council that the block grant hearings
are presently underway and the staff is aware of two potential
projects which the City Council may wish to propose. Both of
these projects would be eligible for HCD funding :
1 . Jackson Street Sanitary Sewer - estimated cost $ 100,000
2. South Grove Building - cost estimates underway
Councilman Gilliam pointed out that the Planning Committee
should be told that the Council has selected the above projects
for HCD funding. ( Further discussion follows on Page 5 & 6)
Proposed plans for the improvement of North McLean Boulevard from
Royal Boulevard to the C&NW railroad tracks.
Mr. RichardHampton of Hamton, Lenzini & Renwick, Inc. , reviewed
with the Council the proposed plans for the above improvement.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 5
Mr. Hampton advised the Council the proposed plans have been
submitted to IDOT for their approval and they would expect
to commence work on the improvement in June. The project will
take 50 days for completion, except for the signalization
which they expect to be completed in mid-October.
The total estimated cost of $488,078 .36, the City' s share is
$ 126, 198. 30.
The final construction cost estimate is higher than originally
anticipated due to the addition of miscellaneous major items
such as :
1 . Optical pre-emption devices on the traffic signals on all
four legs of the intersection at McLean and Royal .
2. New sidewalk and retaining wall at the southeast corner
of McLean and Abbott.
3 . New storm sewer at the intersection of McLean and
Weatherstone.
4. Additional resurfacing along Royal , east and west of
McLean.
Proposed plans for the improvement of Wing Street from State
Street to Weston Avenue.
Mr. Hampton stated the plans had just been approved and they
expected to award the bids on August 4th, and completion,
including signalization would be completed by January 1st.
Adjournment to Council Meeting - 8 : 10 p.m.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam, to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting
to go into the Council Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt.
Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 9: 15 p.m.
Further discussion of HCD Funding
Councilman Gilliam stated that the Planning Committee should
be advised of any items the Council might select for HCD funding.
Councilman Andersen asked if HCD funding would cover the removal
of some bricks .
Roger Dahlstrom stated this would not qualify.
Councilman Hanse asked if the downtown redevelopment plan
would qualify.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 6
Roger Dahlstrom stated the CEC will be making a presentation to
the Planning Committee.
Councilman Waters asked about the revolving loan project for
the rehabilitation of buildings and he stated that he agreed
with Councilman Hansen that the downtown redevelopment plan
should be considered.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to appropriate $ 150,000 to the downtown economic development
plan. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Shales, Waters and
Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : Councilman Gilliam.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to appropriate the necessary funds for the Jackson Street
Sanitary Sewer and the South Grove Building demolitation. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Pro Tem
Schmidt. Nays : Councilman Gilliam.
Bond requirements on public works projects .
Counsel Jentsch stated that in answer to the question brought
by the Council as to the requirement of a bond on small public
works projects, the statute literally requires that all contracts
for public works entered into by a municipality require the
posting of a bond. The bond is the source which suppliers and
materialmen may look to in case of non-payment by the contractor,
as no lien against the public improvement is given by law.
The Council could pass an ordinance setting forth the bond
requirements for public works contracts of the city and
specifically declaring that the state statute is inapplicable.
There can be no assurance that a supplier or materialman might
not seek to sue the city directly where it fails to require the
bond in the manner provided by the applicable statute.
Councilman Hansen stated it would not appeal to be practical to
do this on a $400.00 or $ 1 ,000 project.
Mike Sarrow stated he would have to talk to the bonding company
because he had no experience with bonds under $5,000.
Mr. Nelson stated the Council could pass an ordinance eliminating
a bond for projects under $5 , 000. Mr. Nelson stated staff would
bring back information re minimum costs for projects $5, 000 and
under.
Replacement vehicle tax.
Counsel Jentsch advised the Council that Public Act 83- 114
imposes a state tax upon the purchase by or on behalf of an
insurance company to replace a vehicle of an insured person
in settlement of a total loss claim. The state tax is $200
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 7
rik per vehicle and the Act exempts such purchases from the usual
sales tax.
Public Act 83- 114 authorizes municipalities to pass ordinances
imposing taxes in the sum of $50 for each such replacement
vehicle tax. Failure to pass an ordinance imposing a tax
will result in the loss of sales tax revenue previously derived
from such sales .
The Council directed that Counsel Jentsch prepare a replacement
vehicle tax ordinance for the next Council Meeting.
Recommendation from Jay Foss and Mike Sarro to purchase a used
tractor mowing unit for the cemetery.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to proceed with the purchase of this mowing equipment with the
vacuum attachment for the sum of $3,000. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Pro Tem
Schmidt. Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission to
reduce the number of mall- vendor licenses .
The Council was advised that John ' s Market had sold his lunch
rik wagon unit and the Greater Downtown Commission had voted to
allow for only one 12-month license for the sale of good
products . Ed Barnash from Enrico' s has applied for this
license.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters, to have an ordinance prepared reducing the mall
vendor licenses to one. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : None.
Equipment repair - Refuse Packer #275
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen,
to approve the repair of refuse packer #275 for the sum of
$4, 200. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : None.
Anti -Trust Legislation
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam, to support municipal governments from any anti -trust
liabilities. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Shales , Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : None.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
March 26, 1984
Page 8
Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters, to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss acquisition of
property. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Pro Tem Schmidt. Nays : None.
The meeting was adjourned at 10: 10 p.m.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6:45
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Councilman Schmidt arrived at 7 : 50 p.m.
Absent : None.
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
Request from NTN Elgin Corporation for City' s participation
in relocation of a storm sewer to facilitate NTN ' s planned
expansion.
The Council reviewed the request form NTN to have the city
participate in the amount of 15% or greater for the cost of
relocation of the storm sewer and to have the city abandon
the casement that the storm sewer now lies in.
NTN ' s expansion plans for Phase One in 1984 calls for a building
expansion of 43, 000 square feet, with an approximate cost of
1 .6 million dollars. 20 more employees would be hired by the
end of 1984 with a total average monthly payroll increase of
$32,400. 30 to 50 more employees would be hired by the end
•. of 1986 .
Phase Two calls for a building expansion of 64,000 square feet
and the hiring of an additional 80 to 100 people.
The storm sewer presently divides the NTN property where the
Phase One expansion would be and in order for them to use this
property to its fullest capacity, the storm sewer would have
to be relocated.
The rerouting of the storm sewer has been engineered to meet
city requirements and NYN has received two bids for this
project in the sums of $ 105, 108 and $ 122, 250.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen,
to participate in the cost of the sewer relocation. Said
participation to be limited to 15% of the low bid in the amount
of $ 105, 108. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Proposed replacement of the boiler at the Neighborhood Housing
Services Office.
The Council was advised that a State inspection of this boiler
was found to be in an unsatisfactory condition. Frank Kaiser
has reviewed the recommendations of the boiler inspector and
has inspected the boiler and is of the opinion that the deficiencies
are of such a serious nature and the boiler is in such poor
condition that it should be replaced.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
Page 2
Estimate replacement costs would be approximately $3200.00,
and since there are no monies specifically budgeted for this
unanticipated replacement payment would have to be made from
contingency funds .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters,
for staff to seek proposals for a replacement boiler. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Request by Neighborhood Housing Services to consider a
resolution permitting participation in the Governor' s Home
Town Awards Program.
The Council reviewed a request from Mary Camacho, Executive
Director of the Neighborhood Housing Services of Elgin, for
the city to participate by making application for the 1984
Governor' s Home Town Awards Program.
Ms. Camacho cited such accomplishments as the Neighborhood
Housing Service Program, the Historic District project, the
NHS office restoration, and the new Water Treatment Facility,
all of which she felt fall within the guidelines for this
rik award.
Mr. Nelson stated there was a resolution on tonight ' s Council
Agenda which is required in making application for this Award.
The Council indicated their approval of such passage in the
formal Council meeting.
Review of proposal for the acquisition of a word processing
system.
Mr. Nelson stated this item appears on the Council Agenda
under G ( 1 ) .
The staff reported that four systems were investigated (NBI ,
CPT, IBM, and Dictaphone) . The staff recommendation is to
award the bid to the low bidder, NBI , Inc. for a total cost
of $21 ,884 along with their monthly service maintenance
agreement of $ 169.00.
Continued discussion of proposed amendments to the Off-Street
Parking Lot Ordinance.
Roger Dahlstrom advised the Council that in accordance with
their direction the staff reviewed the proposed concepts with
the Planning Commission at their meeting of April 4th. The
Planning Commission concurred with the concept and felt that
it was consistent with their intent and wishes.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
"'` Page 3
In view of the Commission ' s intent regarding interior landscaping
requirements and in view of the confusion created by the current
language for interior landscapting (5 percent versus 10 percent
for calculating the amount of required interior landscaping) ,
the Planning Department has developed new language for the
proposed interior landscaping requirement. The new language
is based more specifically on the amount of interior landscaping
provided by the current curb island requirements. Additionally,
the department has prepared three parking lot site plans that
demonstrate the differences among current curb island and
perimeter landscaping requirements ; and ordinance change that
would provide for reduced perimeter landscaping and no curb
island or interior landscaping requirements; and finally, an
ordinance change that would provide for reduced perimeter
landscaping and for interior landscaping requirements consistent
with the intent of the Planning Commission' s recommendation :
A. For off-street parking lots containing more than two parking
rows, interior landscaping shall be required. The amount of
square footage to be given to interior landscaping shall be
determined by multiplying the number of unprotected or exposed
parking row ends by one hundred eleven square feet. End of
Parking ros that abut a required setback or a building shall
not be included in the calculation. Interior landscaping shall
be located in such a manner as to divide and break up the expanse
of paving and to define aisles and driveways.
B. Interior landscaped areas shall be defined by a perimeter
six inch by eighteen inch P.C . Concrete reinforced curb. Interior
landscaped areas shall be a minimum of one hundred eleven square
feet in area and a minimum of six feeth in width.
C. Within each interior landscaped area, one tree and four
shrubs shall be planted for each two hundred fifty square feet
of landscaped area, but no less than one tree and two shrubs
shall be planted in each area. Trees and shrubs may be clustered.
Those portions of the landscaped area containing no trees or
shrubs shall be landscaped with grass or other suitable ground
cover.
Councilman Hansen pointed out proposed amendment dated March
7, 1984, Exhibit A, the staff eliminated the requirement for
"at least one space for each one thousand square feet of gross
area" . Mr. Hansen stated he could see a problem down the road
where the useage may change or the number of employees might
change. Mr. Hansen suggested this could be changed to allow
one space for each one and one-half employees based on the
maximum number of employees on the premises during any working
period.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Hansen pointed out that on Page 19, proposed
amendment dated March 7, 1984, the following sentence "Sections
of depressed curb may be approved for the purpose of snow !
removal . Mr. Hansen suggested that this be changed to read
"Sections of depressed crub shall be approved for the purpose
of snow removal " .
Councilman Hansen pointed out that on Page 23, Section B. ,
proposed amendment dated March 7, 1984, "off-street parking
lots shall be effectively screened along 75% of each side,
excepting any side immediately adjoining the building which
the parking serves" . Mr. Hansen suggested that this be reduced
to 50%.
Councilman Hansen pointed out that on Exhibit A dated March
20, 1984, the last sentence of paragraph A which reads "
Interior landscaping shall be located in such a manner as
to divide and break up the rxpanse of paving and to define
aisles and driveways" . Mr. Hansen suggested that this sentence
be deleted.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he thought 50% screening was
out of bounds and 75% was more than fair because this is
important to the people who live around there.
Councilwoman Shales stated the she would like to see a
requirement for 100% screening in a B, M, or M1 District
when it abuts a residential district.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion to table this matter until
April 23rd, so there could be further imput. This motion
died for lack of a second.
Councilman Waters stated he was ready to vote on this tonight
just as it was presented by staff.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen,
to amend the proposal by incorporating one parking stall per
one thousand square feet of gross floor area or for each one
and one-half employees. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen, to amend the proposal by changing the sentence
"curb cuts may be removed for snow removal " to "curb cuts
will be removed for snow removal " . Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen
Gilliam and Waters.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
rk Page 5
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen, to incorporate in the requirement for screening
loading docks and off-street loading areas . Screening to
be 100% when adjacent to residential area and 50% on the
balance of the lot perimeter. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Gilliam
and Waters.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen,
to strike the last sentence of Exhibit A, Paragraph A, which
reads " Interior landscaping shall be located in such a manner
as to divide and break up the expanse of paving and to define
aisles and driveways" . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, Shales and Waters.
Abstained: Councilman Schmidt. Councilman Schmidt stated he
was abstaining because he had just arrived at the meeting and
did not have the opportunity to hear the prior discussion.
Change Order #1 with Irving Construction Co. , Inc. for the
fire station project.
The Council reviewed Change Order #1 , which consisted of the
following items :
rik 1 . Additional excavation operations to remove approximately
1 , 103.74 cubic yards of unsuitable material encountered at
design elevations and backfill with approximately 1 ,986.73
tons of CA- 1 Limestone - additional cost $21 ,490.00.
2. Increase specified roof insulation from 12" to 3" -
additional cost $5, 200.00.
3. Change 8" decorative concrete block and 8" plain concrete
block at the exterior walls to 8" decorative "T-Guard" insulated
concrete block and 8" plain concrete block "T-Guard" units -
additional cost $3,622.00.
4. Change color of mortar in walls above ceiling line, collar
joints and truck room from specified white to standard gray
color. Mortar strength shall remain Type "S" - deduction
$3, 700.00.
5. Change thermostats from that specified to American Stabilis
Inc. Superstat with lock and interface - additional cost $420.00.
6. Furnish and install tight seal control dampers in lieu of
standard dampers specified and for roof ventilators, EF- 1 and
EF-2 - additional cost $453.00.
'" This item is on the Council agenda for formal action.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
Page 6
tow Adjournment to go into Council Meeting - 8 : 15 p.m.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into the
Council Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 11 : 10 p.m.
Recommendation to accept a proposal submitted by Donohue &
Associates Inc. to evaluate and recommend methods for repairing
the combined Chicago Street sewer.
Three proposal were received to perform an evaluation of the
existing conditions and make recommendations for methods of
repair. The low bidder was Donohue & Associates in the amount
of $ 1 ,900.00, and the staff recommends the contract be given
to Donohue.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters,
to award the contract to Donohue & Associates at the above
stipulated amount. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation to enter into an agreement with Donohue &
Associates Inc. to clean and televise various sections of
sanitary and storm sewers .
In 1983 the Council awarded a contract to Donohue to clean and
televise approximately 44,000 feet of sanitary and storm sewers
at the firm unit price of $ .545/foot. The 1984 budget includes
$ 18,000 for cleaning and televising additional sewers throughout
the City and the staff is recommending approval of the contract
extension offered by Donohue, which provides for the same unit
price of $ .545 per foot.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters,
to approve the staff' s recommendation. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters. Nays :
None.
Proposal to join with the. Kane County Forest Preserve Commission
for the purpose of developing the Prairie Path from Prairie
Street south along the east bank of the Fox River to the
corporate limits.
Mr. Nelson stated he had been contacted by Phil Elfstrom regarding
the city' s participation in this proposal for the design of a
pedestrian and bike pathway along the segment of the Illinois
Prairie Path located within the Elgin corporate boundaries . The
Prairie Path right-of-way is owned by the State of Illinois and,
in Kane County, managed by the Kane County Forest Preserve
Commission.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
Page 7
The scope of this project consists of the design of a pedestrian
and bike pathway from the Elgin central business district south
to the Elgin corporate limits along the Prairie Path right-of-
way.
The County is going to apply for a grant and in order to do
this you must submit a preliminary plan with the grant
application. The deadline for filing said grant is June.
The cost to the city for their share of the preliminary plan
is $7750.00 and the cost to the city for the entire project
will be 25% of the total cost.
Mr. Nelson pointed out to the Council that this project would
enhance the South Grove Avenue area.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen,
for the City of Elgin to join in with the County for the
proposed project. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Status report and discussion of the North End Bridge Project.
Mr. Nelson advised the Council the City is still waiting for
the decision which will be rendered by the Seventh District
Court of Appeals as to the abandonment of the Northwestern
rbk Railroad right of way.
Discussion of constructing a roadway through Fountain Square
Plaza.
Councilman Andersen stated that in talking with most of the
landlords in the Mall , including Perlmans, they expressed
support for a roadway through the Mall . Perlman said that
anything would be better than what we have.
Councilman Andersen stated he had just visited Orlando, Florida
and they are tearing up theirs. Mr. Andersen said he did not
think the downtown is dead, but it won' t come to life without
some circulation down there.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she agreed with the concept
but asked where would the city get the money to do it.
Councilman Hansen stated that one problem this city has and
most cities have it and that is to say we made a mistake. Mr.
Hansen said he would rather admit the mistake and go on and
do something constructive.
Councilman Hansen further stated that the city spent 4 million
dollars on the Sears Building and it hasn' t brought about any
rft. retail activity. 3 million on a deck and $285, 000 to repair
the deck, all of which has had no effect. in other words a
lot of money has been spent down there and there have been
no results.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
Page 8
Councilman Hansen said he would not close his mind to opening
the mall up. The stores on Douglas and Chicago, where we
have traffic have some volumn of business. People just don' t
want to go into a Mall .
Councilman Andersen stated that he had talked with two individuals
who said they would do down there if the street was opened, one
of whom did 7 million dollars last year.
Councilwoman Shales said she was in favor of it, but has a
problem with the funding .
Councilman Andersen stated we had some money in the capital
improvement fund.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he would like to have some
figures as to what it would cost.
Mr. Nelson said the Council had previously been furnished
with some figures, but the staff needs to know what kind
of road we are talking about. Also will the people who
paid the assessment, or who are presently paying the assess-
ment want their money back, or will they sign waivers. Also,
will Home Federal want reimbursement for moving their facility.
/�► Councilman Hansen stated we should appeal to Home Federal not
to ask for any compensation.
Councilman Schmidt : We could offer to move this facility to
the other part of the mall on DuPage.
Councilman Hansen suggested that if a majority of the Council
feels the street should be put back in, then let Pete sketch
out a draft, give it to staff and have them bring back a cost
estimate.
Mayor Verbic suggested that the legal aspect of those who have
paid or are paying the assessment should be checked into.
Councilman Andersen stated that you won ' t know what they feel
until they are asked.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales,
that the staff explore the legal implications on the assessments
paid or due, talk with Home Federal as to the possibility of
moving their facility, have Councilman Andersen submit a sketch
of the roadway to staff, and have staff bring back some
suggestions as to financing. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Elgin Softball Association
Mr. Nelson stated this organization is seeking permission from
the city to sell their raffal tickets at City Hall .
The Council approved this request.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 9, 1984
Page 9
Discussion of converting the city' s current parking system
in the downtown area to a tree parking system.
Due to the lateness of the hour, the Council requested that
this item be placed on the April 23rd Committee of the Whole
agenda.
Adjournment
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters,
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned at 12:00 p.m.
Marie Yearma City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6:40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: Councilman Gilliam.
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
H.C . D. Block Grant Hearing Committee' s recommendations for
fiscal year 1984.
Roger Dahlstrom advised the Council that $3 .4 million dollars
for projects were submitted to the hearing committee, and the
City only has one-fourth of this amount to work with. The
hearing committee spent a lot of time in the review of these
projects and they had a tough job making their recommendations .
During the evaluation of the proposed projects for funding
there were a number of factors to be considered: ( 1 ) The
primary purpose of H.C . D. grant money is to benefit low and
moderate income persons ; to eliminate slums and blight ; and
to provide interim assistance (emergency assistance) .
All H.C .D. funded activities must comply with H.C. D.
eligibility criteria. Further, because of regulatory change
in relation to low and moderate income benefit and the
retroactive nature of the regulatory change staff has
projected that at least 60% of this year' s HCD allocation
should be targeted to low and moderate income benefit.
Mayor Verbic stated that the Council has had the opportunity
to review the hearing committee' s recommendations and he asked
for comments regarding same.
Councilman Schmidt stated that he was disappointed to see that
the $30,000 request from the Elgin Historical Society for Old
Main was not recommended and he would like to see this
reconsidered.
Councilman Schmidt also asked why it was necessary for the
Crisis Center to acquire a new site.
Gretchen Vapner, representing the Crisis Center stated that
their currect space is not only limited, but is also inappro-
priate. With the walk- in population expanding and the shelter
clients needing privacy, a place that would separate these
services is desirable. The proposed acquisition of 4 South
Gifford would provide double the amount of space.
Mrs . Vapner pointed out that since 1980 the number of residents
has increased from 205 to 492. The number of walk- ins from
320 to 1203. ( these figures reflect the year 1980 through 1983)
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 2
Councilman Schmidt questioned the number of people who are
from Elgin that are using this facility and suggested that
perhaps another facility could be situated in some other
community.
Mrs . Vapner stated that 70% of the clients are from Elgin.
Mayor Verbic asked where the other 30% are from.
Mrs . Vapner stated they were from northwest Cook County,
St. Charles, Dundee and Carpentersville. Of the 2200
walk- ins projected in 1985, she estimated 80% would be
from Elgin.
Councilman Hansen asked if any of these other communities
contributed any funds for these services .
Mrs . Vapner stated the various Township offices make
contributions .
Councilman Hansen stated the 4 South Gifford site will call
for special use zoning and it bothered him to appropriate
funds to acquire a building that is not zoned for the
intended use.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that if the special use was not
approved they would have to look for another site.
Councilman Schmidt stated that it would be his understanding
that if the Crisis Center acquired another site, their
present site would be sold, the proceeds of which would
come back to the city for some other program and the special
use at the present site would be eliminated.
Roger Dahlstrom stated this was correct.
Councilman Andersen stated there is a need in Elgin for the
Crisis Center. However, the criteria used by the hearing
committee was to make sure the recommendations would benefit
first the citizens of Elgin, secondly the citizens of Elgin
and thirdly the citizens of Elgin. Mr. Andersen stated he
thought a substantial number of people were looking to Elgin
for help instead of their own communities .
Charles Behrens stated that he was opposed to the Crisis
Center relocating at 4 South Gifford. Mr. Behrens stated
the Gifford Park District presently has seven service agencies
within their neighborhood and this would be a step back for
�r�► the neighborhood which is already saturated with social agencies.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 3
George Castillo stated he was also opposed to the site
proposed for the Crisis Center and he also questioned
the need for expansion. Mr . Castillo stated they already
have a site for this facility and if they keep taking on
more projects they will outgrow the proposed facility in
5 years time. Mr. Castillo stated that a policy should
be set up for funding the social agencies because right
now some of the agencies receive money while others have
received nothing. Mr. Castillo further stated that if
the present facility was limited to Elgin residents only,
the space would be adequate.
Councilman Hansen stated that if we are going to fund
every agency then the city should just turn all of the
HCD funds over to the United Fund. Mr. Hansen also felt
that a policy should be developed for the appropriation
of these funds to social agencies .
Mr . Castillo stated that he felt this agency will just
keep on expanding, taking on more services , which will
require more room in the future.
Councilwoman Shales felt the Council should have developed
some guidelines for the use of this money.
Mrs. Mary Huddleston, President of the Elgin Area
Historical Society stated they have received initial
donations of approximately $275 ,000 and their drive is
to continue to the end of May.
The funds being requested this year in the amount of $30, 000
will be utilized to purchase an elevator, exterior ramp,
miscelleanous handicapp speciality items, and stair relocation.
Mrs. Huddleston stated that the $97, 700 in previously allocated
block grant funds could be lost if the Council did not grant
this year ' s request .
Councilman Hansen stated that he could see where a lot of
grant block funds had been put into Elgin ' s eastside to
preserve the residential character and now we are going to
double the size of a social agency in the same area. Mr.
Hansen wondered if the Council had their priorities straight,
and he felt the residents in the Gifford Park District had
a real complaint.
Mayor Verbic stated he would like to see the $30, 000 allocated
to the Historical Society so they could complete the first
floor of the building. The Mayor suggested that deductions
be made from the following appropriations in order to make
elk up the $30,000 : Planning and Management $ 10, 000; Crisis
Center $ 15,000 and the Borden Square Project $5,000.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Hansen asked why the Jackson Street Sewer project
and the demolition of 156 South Grove was not recommended.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that the demolition project did not
qualify and the Jackson Street Sewer project may qualify
for funds received from the Job' s Bill Act.
Councilman Waters stated that if $30,000 is to be added to
the Historical Society, would a contract have to be let in
order to save the $97, 700 already pledged to this project.
Roger Dahlstrom stated this money would just be lost to
that project and not to the city, and if this happens we
would have to finance the elevator for that building from
other than HCD funds .
Councilman Hansen stated he felt it would be a tragedy
if we don' t stand by the Historical Society at this point,
because it will probably be the last chance to have a
building for these historical displays .
Councilman Hansen further stated that he would only vote
for the Crisis Center request if the proposed acquisition
were in another location.
rft. Mr. Nelson stated that the Council will have the final say
on what building is bought .
Councilman Schmidt made a motion that the Crisis Center
retain the site they presently occupy and any expansion
of services be done at a facility outside of Elgin. (This
motion died for lack of a second)
Councilwoman Shales stated we have 26 agencies asking for
help and she was experiencing difficuly in judging one over
the others . Mrs . Shales said she understands that the
proposed site is a good one, but she also understands the
neighbor' s viewpoint.
Councilman Andersen made a motion to give the Crisis Center
$ 100,000 for the acquisition of a facility at a location
other than 4 S . Gifford. ( This motion died for lack of a
second)
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen, to give the Crisis Center $ 100, 000 to purchase
a facility of their choosing, but out of the Elgin Historic
District. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt. Nays :
Councilwoman Shales and Mayor Verbic. Abstained: Councilman
Waters .
(oft
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Waters stated that the Planning Commission should
be commended for their work and time spent on this matter
and the Council should take the rest of the allocations
as recommended by the Planning Commission.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she would like to see the
U-46 acquisition and rehabilitation vocational program
considered. This request was for $80, 000.
Mayor Verbic suggested that perhaps this program could be
worked in conjunction with the rehabilitation of the new
facility for the Crisis Center.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen, to fund the U-46 Program with the amount of
$80, 000. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Waters .
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Schmidt, to fund the Elgin Historical Society with the
amount of $30, 000. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Waters .
Adjournment to Council Meeting - 8: 15 p.m.
r* Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Schmidt to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting for
the regular Council Meeting. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 10: 05 p.m.
Mayor Verbic stated that as a result of motions made and
passed the 1984 HCD funding would be as follows :
Administration $ 40, 000
Planning & Management 100,000
Acquisition & Rehabilitation of a
structure for the Community Crisis Center 100,000
C .B. D. Business Development Program 150,000
Borden Square Sity Improvements 175,000
Residential Rehabilitation Rebate Program 100,000
Elgin Historical Society 30,000
U-46 Rehabilitation Vocational Program 80, 000
Contingency 50,000
825, 000
It was also understood that when the present Crisis Center
facility is sold then the funds therefrom will be used for
for curb, gutter and sidewalk reconstruction.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 6
Status report on the acquisition of a building for the Head
Start program.
The staff advised the Council that part of the 1983 HCD program
was the acquisition of a structure for the Elgin Head Start
Program. A condition attached to this project was that the
acquisition be completed in a 10 month period.
Mr. Nelson stated the deadline for this project is May 19,
1984, and the staff is looking for some Council direction.
Pat Andrews stated that Plus, Inc. , has prepared and submitted
a preliminary application for building rehabilitation funding
to the Department of Health and Human Services. Representatives
of the Department of Health and Human Services are to visit
the Franklin School site, which is the site selected by the
Plus Board, on April 23rd.
The Planning Department staff has begun preliminary negotiations
with u-46 staff regarding the acquisition of Franklin School
and Plus is proceeding to obtain the necessary rehabilitation
funds, but it is unlikely that acquisition for the Head Start
structure could be completed by May 19th.
Mr. Dahlstrom pointed out that this site is also on the eastside.
E Mrs. Andrews pointed out that the Suds Laudry site was also
considered.
Mayor Verbic stated there were a lot of advantages to the Suds
property, such as the parking across the street , and he thought
the rehabilitation costs would be less than those at Franklin
School .
Councilman Hansen stated that he was opposed to the allocation
of $85,000 for this project last year and he still felt the same,
because it looks like you are spending $300,000 for a building,
when it is costing $30, 000 for rental facilities.
Mrs . Andrews stated the $30, 000 rental is just for office space
in Batavia and it is the intention of the Board to consolidate
this space with the proposed facility in Elgin.
Councilwoman Shales stated she would make a motion to delay the
deadline for another 4 months .
Councilman Waters stated he would second the motion if the intent
was that the Franklin site was being approved.
Yeas : Councilmen Shales and Waters . Nays: Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 7
Councilman Schmidt stated he was not sold on the idea that
Franklin School was a good site and he asked if anyone had
investigated the Phillips Auto Building or the Elgin Lumber
Mill Shop Building.
Councilman Andersen stated there is also the VFW Building.
Mayor Verbic stated that he agreed the Franklin School
Building was too old to invest all this money to rehabilitate.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Schmidt to extend the deadline for 4 months and have the
Board look for another site.
Councilman Waters stated by starting the whole procedure
over there would be no way they could meet the 4 month
deadline.
Councilman Andersen stated he would withdraw his motion.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to extend the deadline 8 months in order to have
the Plus Board seek another site. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Councilman Hansen stated that we should see what they pick
out for a site before any architectual study is made and
we should have a list of properties brought in that they
could purchase for $85 ,000.
Councilman Hansen also suggested that maybe the $85, 000
should be changed to $ 150, 000. The additional funding could
be re-examined next year.
Letter from the Gifford Park Association seeking clarification
of a recently proposed amendment to the off-street parking lot
ordinance.
The Council reviewed a letter from Mark Herzog who pointed
out that recent changes in the off-street parking lot ordinance
could cause substantial alterations to several landscaping
projects which are presently in process in their neighborhood.
Councilman Hansen stated these people have a legitimate concern
and he would make a motion to eliminate the 30 foot screening
adjacent to curbcuts for purposes of visual safety.
Councilman Waters stated he would second the motion.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
CommittQe of8 he Whole Meeting
Apri 3 ,
Page 8
Request from IDOT to acquire certain City-owned property for
the purpose of improving the Route 20 and Randall Road
intersection.
These properties are a part of Hawthorne Hill Park and the
State has offered the city $3800.00 for two parcels .
Mayor Verbic thought the offer was too low for 22 acres of
land.
Mr . Nelson stated that if you don' t see the value of the
public improvement then we should get an appraisal . The
staff could bring the plans back so you could see the entire
plan.
Councilman Waters asked what the cost of an appraisal would
be.
Roger Dahlstrom stated approximately $200.00.
Mr. Nelson reminded the Council that the city is presently
involved with IDOT negotiating certain requests in connection
with the Elgin Airport property and other public improvements
and if an issue is made of this project it might give them
a negative outlook to our future needs .
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to accept the IDOT offer for the sale of the subject
parcels . Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation to accept a roposal submitted by Novak,
Dempsey & Associates , Inc. for pavement evaluation and
management program.
The Council reviewed a proposal from the above firm for a
pavement evaluation program. They propose to evaluate 36
miles of pavement for a price not to exceed $24,000.
Mel Dahl advised the Council that with this information the
staff could begin to develop a systematic and rational
maintenance and repair program.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales, to have a resolution prepared for passage of said
proposal . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Acceptance of easements for existing sidewalk along the west
side of North McLean Boulevard.
The staff advised the Council that the right-of-way along the
elk west side of McLean varies in width. In addition, a right-of-
way easement exists along the outside edge of the westerly
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
elk Page 9
right-of-way. These uncommon circumstances at this specific
location confused the situation such that the new sidewalk
was placed on private property. The new sidewalk should have
jogged to follow the right-of-way line. The sidewalk was
mistakenly installed on a straight line connecting the
existing sidewalk at both ends of the subject properties ,
which is the correct procedure under normal situations .
During staff meetings with the three property owners involved,
three options were discussed which would eliminate the problem:
1 . Remove the sidewalk and replace it closer to the street
within the existing right-of-way easement.
2. Dedicate right-of-way to the City to a point one foot
behind the sidewalk.
3 . Grant the City an additional right-of-way easement to
add to the easement that already exists .
The property owners all agreed to the third option.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen, to have a resolution prepared for passage accepting
these easements . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Proposed contract for the sale of water to the Village of
Bartlett .
Mr. Nelson stated that the proposed contract is much like
the agreement the city has with the Village of Sleepy Hollow.
A projected revenue report showing the revenue from sales
and the revenue from surcharge for the next 20 years was
furnished to the Council .
Mr. Nelson stated the proposed agreement is acceptable to
Bartlett and it is to be presented to their Board tonight
for formal action.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters, to accept the proposed contract . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Proposed cemetery rates for 1984-85 .
The Council expressed their appreciation to Councilman
Schmidt for time spent with staff and representatives
of the funeral directors, which resulted in a amicable
decision on the proposed rates .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 10
'"° Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales , for an ordinance to be prepared for formal passage.
Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Status report on the proposed roadway through Fountain Square
Plaza
The Council reviewed a report submitted by Jim Bolerjack,
which reflected there are 42 properties and about 30 property
owners involved in this assessment district . Currently
there are 36 properties still paying, 6 have paid in full ,
and 23 property owners involved. Of the original $ 1 , 070,055
assessment, there remains $469, 149 to be paid.
Mr. Nelson stated the city would need to have some arrangement
worked out whereby the people still paying the assessment would
continue to pay and those who had paid in full would not seek
reimbursement from the City.
Mr. Nelson also pointed out that many of the improvments in
the mall area would remain even if the roadway was put in.
Counsel Jentsch stated that he had discussed this matter
with Chapman and Cutler and was advised a judgment could
be obtained against any property owner who refused to continue
to pay the assessment and that judgment would stand up in
court.
In order to avoid litigation Mr. Jentsch stated the property
owners could be encouraged to pay the assessment in full , or
the staff could develop a waiver or agreement which would
cover any reimbursement to the property owner.
Mr. Nelson stated the property owners might want to know
what kind of improvement is contemplated and the staff will
try to bring back some different options for the roadway.
Request for donation to Elgin Road Race Event
Mr. Nelson advised the Council the city had been asked to
donate $ 100.00 for this event.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen, to make the donation of $ 100.00. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Beautification Commission Meeting April 26th at 7 : 30 p.m.
Mr. Nelson stated the proposed Prairie Path would be
elk discussed at this meeting and the members of the commission
would like as many as the Council members to attend as is
possible.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
April 23, 1984
Page 11
Mayor Verbic stated he would like the matter of the
Dundee Avenue Corridor put on the Committee of the
Whole Agenda for May 14th. The Mayor stated he had
received letters from Harry Siegle and Ed Schock
relative to this matter.
Councilman Andersen also requested that the City' s
parking system also be scheduled for further discussion
on May 14th.
Adjournment
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss property acquitision.
Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned
at 11 : 55 p.m.
r"' Marie Yearman' City C er
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6:40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None.
Also present: Nelson, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff.
Proposal to close Chapel and Geneva Streets north of Villa.
Leo Nelson stated that this request comes as a recommendation
from most of the neighbors and neighborhood groups .
Roger Dahlstrom stated that this project was proposed and
supported by the Gifford Park Association and reflects concerns
regarding traffic volume and speed along these sections of
residential streets . In addition to safety concerns, it would
also seem that such a project would provide a more solid
neighborhood definition emphasizing the residential character
of this portion of the Elgin Historic District.
An element of the 1982 Housing and Community Development
Block Grant budget is a project involving the closure of two
streets on the near east side. These closures are proposed
for Chapel and Geneva north of their intersection with Villa.
A related benefit of this action is the expansion of both
G.A.R. and Davidson Parks .
New H.C . D. regulatory guidelines became available to the city
in late February, 1984. These guidelines combined with new
statistical information, which indicates the neighborhood
income status is no longer predominately low and moderate,
will effectively terminate the eligibility of street closure
project on June 13 , 1984. If the project is to be carried
out, a contract must be awarded by the Council on June 11th.
Councilman Hansen asked if on-street parking would remain the
same.
Roger Dahlstrom stated yes , the street width would remain the
same.
Councilman Andersen asked if this might hurt the resale of
property in the area.
Roger Dahlstrom stated it could, but some realtors have said
it could improve the sale of property.
Mrs. Frank Lullie stated that she was not in favor of closing
the street. Mrs . Lullie stated that she had lived at 161 S .
Chapel for 39 years and the only problem she noticed was the
Courier News employees taking up all the parking spaces.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 2
Ken Smeltzer, 475 Laurel stated he was in favor of the closure
and had submitted a petition with the names of residents, who
were also in favor of the project. Mr. Smeltzer felt that
closures do represent a value to the area.
Patricia Lembke was present representing her mother Mrs . Pratt
who lives at 153 S . Chapel . Mrs . Lembke expressed concerns
about parking and snow removal . Mrs. Lembke also pointed out
that traffic helped to deter crime and keeps loitering down.
Mr. Dennis Schoenbeck, 107 S . Chapel stated that the closure
will cause a problem in getting in and out of his driveway.
He was also concernced about snow removal if the street were
converted to a cul -de-sac.
Barbara Evans , 308 Fulton, stated that the street closure will
create a park like atmosphere and right now the residents risk
a businesslike atmosphere.
Linda Schoenbeck, 107 S . Chapel stated that she did not feel
closing the street would create a park atmosphere or enhance
the property. The closing will hinder the use of her driveway.
Mary Camacho, Executive Director of Neighborhood Housing,
said that she had done extensive research with the Planning
Department, Fire Department and had tried to address all of
the concerns to everyone ' s advantage.
Mayor Verbic stated that he had heard both pros and cons about
this project and he asked if there were any reports from the
police department as to the number of accidents in this
vicinity.
Roger Dahlstrom stated there was nothing out of the ordinary.
Councilman Waters stated that this project is consistent with
the comprehensive plan, but he was concernced about the
driveway situations and perhaps the staff should look at no
parking across from those driveways in question.
Councilman Hansen stated that he could support the project,
but he shared Councilman Waters ' concerns .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters,
for staff to prepare ordinances for the street closures and
have same placed on the May 29th Council Agenda. Yeas :
Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilmen
Andersen and Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
Slide resentation and discussion relative to the need for
improving the Route 25/Dundee corridor.
Bob Richardson, Planning Department, reviewed with the Council
a series of slides depicting the existing situation on Dundee.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 3
The slides revealed numerous signs posted to individual
establishments , residential property reverted into commercial
sites, tree banks which has disappeared , crumbling curbs,
Illegal parking, abandoned signs , car dealers using the
tree banks to park cars, and signs on utility posts .
Ed Schock advised the Council that he had lived on the east
side of Elgin for some 38 years and he asked that the improve-
ments called for in the comprehensive plan be implemented, and
that the property owners on Dundee and the City work together
on said improvements at little cost.
Councilman Schmidt stated he was in full agreement with Mr.
Schock and he would like the Council to look over the
code to see if we can do something about the furniture and
clutter standing outside the buildings .
Leo Nelson stated the staff would need some direction from
the Council , we could take sections of the street to deal
with property owners .
Councilman Hansen stated that perhaps a similar plan could
be worked out for Villa Street and North State Street. The
city should pick out a manageable section of the street and
start there.
Gary Miller stated the State has projected funds for Dundee
Avenue improvements from the tollway to Highland Avenue.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales, to have the staff bring back a proposal for the
Dundee corridor. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Councilman Waters stated that Mr. Schock is to be commended for
his efforts in bringing this matter to the Council .
Request for funding for the Borden Square Project.
Mr. Steven Wasilowski , Vice President of Stevens Associates,
thanked the Council for its recent allocation of Block Grant
funds for use in rehabilitation of the site at 200 Brook St.
The allocation of Block Grant Funds for the Boarden square
project has had a dramatic positive effect on the progress
of the project to date. However, without additional funding
it is unlikely that the project can proced.
This commitment will have a four-fold effect : ( 1 ) Demonstrate
the community ' s commitment to downtown Elgin; (2) Rehabilitate
an historic landmark structure, significant on a National level ;
(3) create jobs and revitablize downtown by creating a place
for residents and disitors to shop, stroll , and meet; (4)
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 4
Create new sales tax revenues and increase property values - thereby
increasing property tax revenues .
For purposes of distributing the costs, the funding is proposed
as follows :
$ 175,000 (6%) Block Grant Funds
$225,000 (7%) City Development Incentive
$2, 700,00 (87%) Private Investment
The City Development Incentive of $225, 000 is based on creation of
30,000 gross squre feet of retail space and 20, 000 gross square
feet of office space. This level of incentive is acceptable
considering the risks involved with such an undertaking . This
area of Downtown Elgin is underutilized and is actually experiencing
disinvestment. Without such public efforts, attracting private
investment to this location is unlikely.
Stevens Associates , Inc. will raise the remaining capital required
to complete the rehabilitation (approximately $2, 700,000) through
conventional sources. The developer anticipates placing this
remaining investment within ninety days after the additional
funding is approved by the City.
Roger Dahlstrom made a slide presentation of the subject property
for the Council ' s review.
Mayor Verbic felt it was very important for the Council to address
this project immediately because of the potential of jobs and
sales tax.
Councilman Schmidt agreed and said the city should be very positive
about the project.
Mayor Verbic stated tax incremental financing for the project
should be researched.
Councilman Waters stated he would support this and the staff
should explore tax incremental financing as soon as possible.
Councilman Hansen stated the project is manageable and they
city should make a commitment to see it through completion,
and tax incremental financing is the best approach.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that it would take six months to ascertain
whether the project qualifies for tax incremental financing. The
Planning Department could issue a Resolution of Intent, but the
entire matter needs to be researched by the Legal Department and
then brought back to the Council .
Mayor Verbic asked that the legal staff also research a situation
where the city advances the funds , then could the city be
reimbursed for such funds from tax incremental financing.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Hansen suggested that perhaps the city could look to
next year' s Block Grant Funds for reimbursement.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that if the city up-fronted the money we
would have to go through the 108 program and he would have to
see if that procedure is still allowed.
Mayor Verbic said he would prefer to put the money up front
and then work out the tax incremental financing.
Mr. Wasilowski stated the developers could work with a
firm commitment from the city for further financing.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
for the city to make such a commitment to the project and to
have the staff diligently search for funding or any alternatives,
and to commence a series of meetings with the developers. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendations from the Human Relations Commission to amend
the current Human Relations Ordinance by 1 ) adding an affirmative
action requirement for contracts with the City and 2) amending
Section 3. 12.090, Investigation and Complaint Procedure.
Olufemi Folarin reviewed with the Council a proposed Contract
Compliance Ordinance and an Amendment to the Investigation and
Complaint Procedure. Mr. Folarin advised the Council that HUD
is requesting that the city staff and Human Relations Commission
develop an affirmative action plan for contractors doing business
with the city. Mr. Folarin stated that he had requested sample
ordinances from other cities to use as guidelines in developing
this proposed ordinance.
Councilman Hansen asked if the proposed restrictions would
bring about problems in obtaining low bidders.
Mike Sarro stated that he had not had the opportunity to review
the proposed ordinance.
Councilman Gilliam stated he thought the biggest problem was
with large construction projects .
Councilman Waters stated that he tought we already had such an
ordinance and he would encourage the Council to consider this
proposed ordinance.
Mr. Folarin stated that in order to handle the complaints from
HUD and the State Human Rights Commission it was necessary to
amend Section 3. 12.090 which does not provide the necessary
enforcement power.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 6
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
for the staff to prepare the proposed ordinance and amendment
to the code and have them placed on a Council agenda. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Proposed Elgin Central Business District Plan
Mr. Nelson stated that it would be necessary to adopt this plan
if we are going to think about obtaining incremental tax financing.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that the public hearings were well attended.
The plan could be implemented over a period of years, it could
well take 15 years and it would not be impossible to change some
of the concepts of the plan.
Councilman Schmidt noted that there was nothing mentioned in the
plan relating to the roadway through the Mall .
Roger Dahlstrom stated that the Planning Commission did not
recommend this project.
Mayor Verbic asked if certain funding required such a plan.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated yes , for federal and state funding.
Mr. Nelson stated that you have to have the plan if you plan
to use condemnation and tax incremental ,
Mayor Verbic stated that it seems we put things down in words
and then there is never any implementation.
Councilman Waters stated that he shared the same concern. The
Planning Department and Planning Commission have done a good
job, and we should adopt the plan, establish a advisory commission.
The commission be directed to meet not less than once a month and
submit a written report to the Council from each meeting. The
report should provide an update of progress made, following the
outline of the plan submitted by the Planning Commissions , and
recommendations when the Council initiative is necessary.
Mayor Verbic stated he would prefer to have 5 individuals on the
commission that are not connected with the city or a city
commission.
Councilman Waters stated that we must have members from all over
the city for good representation.
Mayor Verbic asked that this matter be brought back to the next
meeting for further discussion of formation of the commission.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 7
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales,
to adopt the Central Business District Plan. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Continued discussion of altering the present public parking
system to provide for free parking.
Mr. Malm advised the Council the fiscal impact, which is based
on 1984 budget figures , shows that the current system is
anticipated to have an operating loss of $300,495. If no parking
fees were collected and parking were made free in all lots on
the street and at the Spring Street deck, the parking system
would have estimated operating deficit of $335, 055. So the
net fiscal difference between the current system and one which
there is free parking appears to be approximately $35, 000.
Councilman Hansen suggested keeping the paid parking on the
Spring Street Deck and Civic Center lot for long term parking
and making all the other lots free. This would give long term
paring and free parking and we would still have to control
parking in the Central Area. You might also want to expand
that Central Area.
Councilwoman Shales suggested that we remove all the downtown
meters and stated how can we justify maintaining lots for the
downtown businesses when others furnish their own parking.
Mr. Nelson stated that if free spaces are available they will
not park in the pay facilities, and this will raise the
assessment on the parking facility.
Councilman Hansen stated that eventually the burden of the deck
operation will have to be borne by the general taxpayer and
those in the assessment district.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
to have the staff bring back a financial impact plan, eliminating
all parking meters and keeping two controlled areas (deck and
civic lot) , also include staff time in concept of controlled
parking area. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Preliminary cost estimates for several different street routes
through the Mall .
Gary Miller reviewed with the Council preliminary layouts and
cost estaments for a roadway through the Mall . Plan #1 estimated
at $294,000; Plan #2 $344,000, and Plan #3 $524, 550.
Mr. Nelson passed out a form of Waiver of Rights with Respect
to the City of Elgin Special Assessment 75 TX 2703, which each
property owner in the Mall would be asked to sign.
Mayor Verbic and Councilman Schmidt asked if the staff could
take the waivers out for signature. Mayor Verbic stated that
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 8
your would almost have to have 100% who would be willing to sign.
Councilman Gilliam stated that we should really ask these people
which plans appeals to them.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to have the staff endeavor within the next two weeks to obtain
signatures on the Waiver of Rights . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Abstained : Councilwoman Shales .
Gary Miller stated that he could bring back plans that would
appropriate some parking places along the roadway.
Councilman Gilliam indicated he would like to see some feedback
on the various plans.
Proposals for Fourth of July fireworks display.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt,
to enter into a contract with Pyro-Mania Fireworks for the
Fourth of July. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Proeosed agreement with Elgin Sweeper Company to test a Diesel
Pelican Hydrostatic sweeper.
This is in response to a request from the Elgin Sweeper Company
asking if we would work with them in evaluating an improved
hydrostatic sweeper. Elgin Sweeper would furnish the sweeper
at no cost to the City. Our evaluation would be that of keeping
a simple operational daily log sheet and our operator and service
people would respond to questions regarding the performance and
serviceability of the equipment.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to have a resolution placed on the next Council agenda to approve
said agreement. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Proposal to build a structure at the Airlite Water Treatment Plant
to house the base-station repeater equipment for the new communi -
cations system.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to have this proposal put out for bid. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission to
permit the owner of the No Name Deli to locate eight to ten
tables in front of the restaurant so that customers may eat
their food outside on the Mall .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 9
Betsy Armistead advised the Council that at their May 7th meeting
the Mall Commission voted to refer this request to the Council
with the recommendation for approval . This recommendation
includes the service of beer and wine, provided that these
beverages are served with food.
Councilwoman Shales stated that Al ' s Creamery had made the same
request to her and she would like to see the request granted.
Counsel Jentsch suggested that some form of lease be prepared
in connection with the function of this operation in order to
have the city held harmless from liability and to make sure
the tables do not interfere with the function of the Fire
Department.
The City Clerk stated that the liquor liability insurance should
also be extended to cover the service of alcoholic beverages on
the Mall .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
for the legal department to draft a lease for the subject operation
excluding any rental charge by the city. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Proposal from Katherine Roundtree, owner of Kathy' s World, to
paint graphics on walls of downtown buildings with financing
from the City and the building owner.
Ms . Roundtree presented a slide demonstration of the various
buildings in the downtown area. Ms. Roundtree stated that mural
graphics are an innovative new sales technic that is rapidly
growing. Corporations are discovering that murals not only add
beauty to the atmosphere, but at the same time they expand the
self image.
Ms . Roundtree' s proposal provided that the city fund one-half
to three-quarters of the cost of advertising graphics .
The Council thanked Ms. Roundtree for her presentation.
Request by the Mayor to consider renaming Post Office Park.
Mayor Verbic stated that Dr. Rogers would be retiring from the
1st United Methodist Church after many years of service and he
thought it would be fitting if the Council renamed the Post
Office Park, Carleton Rogers Park.
Councilman Gilliam stated this would bring in more requests to
do the same thing for others .
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to have staff prepare a resolution renaming the park to Carleton
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 14, 1984
Page 10
Park. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion re Petition 6-84 which calls for the rezoning from
R-2 to B-3, several parcels of land on the east side of Summit
Street west of Waverly Drive.
The staff advised the Council that they had recently learned that
the principal land owner of 4 acres within the area subject to
rezoning under Petition 6-84 has negotiated an option for sale
to Oakcrest Residence as a site for an 80 unit elderly housing
facility to be subsidized by the federal government under the
Section 202 and Section 8 programs.
Considering the above, the Planning Department believes that if
the Council wishes to support the oakcrest application, they
may want to delay action on the ordinance assosicated with
Petition 6-84.
The Council agreed with withhold further action on Petition
6-84.
Adjournment
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into Executive
Session to discuss acquisition of property, litigation, boards
and commissions and personnel . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None. The meeting was adjourned at 1 : 15 p.m.
a / I i ./
Marie earma 's City C er
rik
Committee of the Whole Meeting
(ow May 29, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 : 35 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present: Malm, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he would like to make a statement
before the meeting started. Councilman Gilliam said that although
the Council had recently experienced difficulties and differences
of opinion, he was willing to make peace, bury the hatchet, let
bygones be bygones, all for the good of the City and its future.
Mayor Verbic stated that he had intended to say something along
the same lines and he was happy that Councilman Gilliam made
this statement and whole heartily agreed with him.
The Council indicated their concurrence with this statement.
Request from the Gifford Park Association to store items of
historical or architectural value from the buildings earmarked
for demolition at the Slade Avenue Water Treatment Plant.
The Council reviewed a request from the Association to have
the opportunity to remove items of historic or architectural
value from these buildings before they are bid out for demolition,
and secondly, to have the opportunity to use the old Slade
Avenue Water Treatment Building as a location to store these
items until they could be re-used in the Elgin Historic District .
Councilwoman Shales asked what type of distribution plan the
Association had in mind for these items .
Mark Herzog stated they would anticipate an initial collection
period of six months to a year before a program of re-distribution
would be developed and they had not worked this out yet.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales,
to approve the Association ' s request. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to install 4-way STOP
signs at Ryerson Avenue and Washburn Street.
The Traffic Committee advised the Council that some motorists
are using Washburn Street as a bypass route in order to avoid
(Pk the traffic signal at State and Walnut Streets . This has
caused a hardship to the residents and a safety hazard to the
youngsters who come to Ryerson Park. Last Fall eight families
from Ryerson and Washburn Streets sent a petition to the City
in this regard.
The use of Ryerson Park is expected to increase this year due
to the improvements made there last Fall and the staff is
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 2
recommending that 4-way STOP signs be installed at the intersection
of Ryerson Avenue and Washburn Street.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt,
to approve the staff ' s recommendation. Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
A proposal from Charles H. Schrader & Associates regarding grant
consulting services.
The Council reviewed a proposal from Charles H. Schrader to
research potential grant sources, prepare and present grant
applications . The general area of the grant research will be
in, but not limited to, state and federal funding programs.
In addition Mr. Schrader will perform agency contact work in
Springfield. For these services Mr. Schrader is to receive a
fee of $9, 000 for the year, and that fee will be paid monthly
or quarterly as mutually agreed.
Mayor Verbic introduced Phil Elfstrom, member of the Kane County
Board, who stated that the County had found Mr. Schrader to be
very successful in obtaining grants and he felt he would be very
instrumental in obtaining funds for the proposed Prairie Path.
Mr. Elfstrom stated he was very excited about the Prairie Path
project and he had reviewed the same with the staff and the
Beautification Commission. Preliminary figures for the project
are estimated at $600, 000. If the grant application is successful
LAWCON would pay $200, 000, the City $200, 000 and the County
$200, 000. The largest share of the money would be spent between
National Street and Prairie Street.
Councilman Gilliam asked what the difference would be between
Schrader & Associates and ISI .
Mr. Malm stated that Schrader has a good record on the State
level in securing grants .
Mr. Bennett stated that Mr. Schrader had been successful in
obtaining $200,000 for the ball diamonds and $47, 000 in trees
and shrubs for the City.
Mayor Verbic stated that he would urge the Council to consider
Schrader & Associates because of his expertise in processing
these grants.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen,
to have a resolution prepared authorizing the execution of the
Schrader proposal . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 3
Proposal from Paul A . Reaume Associates for the executive search
and recruitment services for a city manager.
Mayor Verbic introduced Paul A. Reaume and stated that the Council
have all had the opportunity to review the proposal submitted by
Mr. Reaume' s firm.
Mr. Reaume reviewed with the Council the services which would be
provided by his firm in the selection of a manager and he stated
that in 60 days they would be in a position to come back to the
Council with recommendations for 8 to 10 candidates for this
position. A selection of 5 or more candidates could then be
made for interviews .
Mayor Verbic asked if the Council would be interested in looking
at some other firm proposals .
Councilmen Gilliam and Hansen indicated they would be interested
in interviewing at least two other firms just to get a better
feeling of the process being offered.
Mayor Verbic suggested a special meeting on Tuesday, June 5th,
at 5 : 15 p.m. , to address two additional executive search proposals .
The Council indicated their approval .
* Continued discussion of the Borden Square project, including
F information on the possible use of Tax Incremental Financing
and Housing and Community Development Block Grant funding.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that the staff has researched the possible
use of HCD funding for this project . Federal regulations prohibit
a forward commitment or reimbursement of project costs with HCD
funds . It is possible to guarantee loans with future HCD fund
allocations under Section 108 procedures . However, this procedure
may not be a viable alternative for the following reasons :
1 . Section 108 guarantees may be used to assist the city in
obtaining financing only if the city has made attempts to obtain
such financing through other means .
2. The time frame may not be acceptable. Section 108 loan
guarantees require full compliance with standard HCD procedures
including notification for and hold of public hearings, publication
requirements, application submission ( including 30 day HUD review)
and environmental clearance ( 15-30 day HUD review) .
3. Section 108 loan guarantees are directed toward the acquisition
of real property or the rehabilitation of real property owned by
the unit of general local government. Therefore, Section 108 actions
fall under the authority of the Uniform Acquisition and Relocation
Policies Act of 1970. Consequently the project budget must include
provisions for relocation payments .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 4
tek 4. New federal regulations mandate that the majority of our HCD
funds be expended on activities that benefit low and moderate
income persons. If the city ' s FY- 1985 HCD budget includes similar
commitments to ongoing programs and our allocation remains constant,
only $ 190,000 will be available for a project like Borden Square
that derives its eligibility through removal of blighting influences.
HUD now has certain evaluating criteria which has not been used
before and the timeframe might be as long as 90- 120 days for HUD
to even process this application.
There is an option to the city to purchase the property, but we
don ' t know what the present leases are, nor how long they run.
The Tax Incremental Financing (TIF) could be very technical and
the process could take up to 18 months . A preliminary eligibility
report for this area could be produced in 30 to 45 days with a
maximum commitment of staff time. During this time period the
Finance Department and Planning Department would need to conduct
a Preliminary Financial Feasibility Analysis .
A resolution of Intent to Establish a Tax Incremental Financing
District appears to be a common element in a number of TIF plans .
While there is no reference to this document in the Statutes, it
has appeared in other references, and I would like the Legal
Department to research this .
TIF is a viable alternative because of the making of a commitment
to the entire area and not just one piece of property, and in
this instance the city would have to commit that entire area.
Councilman Waters stated that he was in favor of the TIF plan
and agreed with Roger ' s assessment that we should look at the
entire area, and direct the staff to proceed with the TIF plan.
Councilman Hansen stated that Roger' s memo mentions the establishment
of a TIF District could be 6 to 18 months depending upon the level
of staff time commitment and possible litigation and Mr. Hansen
asked where the litigation would originate from.
Roger Dahlstrom stated this is always a possibility.
Mayor Verbic stated that the flow chart indicated it would take
8- 18 months before the staff would know if this was a viable project.
Councilman Hansen stated the developers of this project should be
asked if this proposed timeframe would fit into their project.
Steven Wasilowski , Vice President of Stevens Associations, stated
that 30 to 45 days would not hurt the project and he also was in
favor of having the rest of the property within the subject block
improved.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales,
to have the staff proceed with the TIF feasibility plan. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request for $500.00 from the Northwest Municipal Conference
to retain exert counsel to assist in matters pertaining to
a new Illinois Bell franchise agreement.
Mr. Malm stated that the city is in the process of seeking a
telephone system to purchase, and the information we could
receive in reports from expert legal counsel on the issues
surrounding the IVT franchise agreements could be very
beneficial in this endeavor.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen,
to approve the $500.00 expenditure. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Request from the Police Department to participate in the Illinois
Criminal Justice Authority' s Police Information Management System.
The Council was advised that Joliet, Evanston, Schaumburg,
rm. DesPlaines and Arlington Heights, along with eight other suburban
departments, are currently using the Police Information Management
System ( PIMS) .
PIMS may directly search, by computer, one another ' s arrest files,
and in the near future, suspect, and method of criminal operation
files . With this capability, criminals who commit crimes in more
than one jurisdiction are more likely to be apprehended, because
the information compiled by each member department on the criminals
and their offenses is readily available to all member agencies .
Thus, PIMS increases the probability that multi -jurisdictional
crimes will be solved and makes the tasks of patrolmen and detectives
easier in doing so.
Should we affiliate, we would essentially eliminate the majority of
our present use with the city ' s computer. It is anticipated the
PIMS system will soon be regional in scope and conceivably involve
all Illinois municipalities .
Mr. Malm stated that if the Council were interested in the program
he could arrange for them to go to Schaumburg and inspect the
function.
Mr. Flora stated the member agencies pay a user fee of approximately
$3,000 per month.
01010.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 6
Mayor Verbic stated that if only a few communities are involved
the system would not bring back sufficient information and he
did not think that a lot of communities would come forward with
this amount of money.
Councilman Hansen stated he would be interested in reviewing the
system as a group, but he also pointed out that this is the third
new computer system recommended by the staff in three years for
the Police Department, none of which have been proficient.
Councilman Hansen further stated that he would be interested in
having the staff advise the cost of switching to this system and
to have such cost include labor costs .
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to have the Council inspect the Schaumburg system. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Citizen Complaint re City' s present Water System.
Mr. Dave Stites stated that in his neighborhood the water had a
bad taste, bad odor, and he thought that by selling water to
other communities may prove to be harmful to our city because
this would place a greater demand on the city' s deep wells and
would call for more use of river water.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he had also received complaints
from people living on Wright street as to the taste and odor of
the water.
Ron Zegers stated that his department has received a total of
35 complaints and the problems will cease after the Algae which
forms, due to changes in the river temperatures and the spring
thaw flushes this down stream, have been purified.
Governor' s Home Town Awards
Mary Camacho, Executive Director of Neighborhood Housing Services,
advised the Council that Elgin has been selected as one of five
finalists for the Governor ' s Home Town Awards . The awards will
be presented at a special banquest to be held at the Springfield
Hilton Hotel on Wednesday, June 6, 1984.
Ms . Camacho extended an invitation to the Council to attend said
presentation.
Status report by Ery Jentsch and Roger Dahlstrom regarding
annexation activities on Elgin ' s eastern boundary.
Mr. Jentsch stated that there are five non-contiguous pieces of
property between Elgin and the properties on Berner and Dale
Drive and it would be necessary for these five owners to expedite
a petition for annexation.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 7
elPIK Councilman Schmidt stated that one of these five owners had
contacted him and they were definitely interested in annexing
to Elgin.
Mayor Verbic suggested that perhaps the staff should contact
the five owners to get a feeling as to whether or not they
would be willing to execute such a petition.
Councilman Waters stated that he would make a motion that the
City should do whatever is necessary to put this annexation
in motion and we should not sit back and let Hoffman Estates
proceed with what he considered poor planning for the area.
Mr. Waters emphasized that Elgin should be aggresive in dealing
with this matter.
Councilman Hansen stated he would second this motion. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Planning Department to increase the rebate
incentive on non-owner occupant properties from 14 to 25%.
The staff advised the Council that to achieve and maintain a sound
housing stock in the neighborhoods located in the target area, non-
owner occupants ' participation into the program must be encouraged.
eik Presently the rebate program allows only a 15% rebate on eligible
repairs for non-owner occupant properties, and the staff is
recommending that the rebate percentage for rental properties,
non-owner occupied and/or owner occupied, be increased to 25%
provided that 51% of the units are occupied by low and moderate
income families . Consideration will be given to a two unit as
long as one unit is occupied by a low and moderate income person.
Mayor Verbic stated this was an excellent suggestion and it would
probably encourage more participation in the program.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt,
to approve the staff' s recommendation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Continued discussion of no parking requirements at the intersection
of North McLean and Royal Boulevards .
Gary Miller stated that the Council previously approved the no-
parking restriction along North McLean and Royal on April 23rd,
but the Council requested that parking be considered along Royal
Blvd.
This matter has been reviewed with the design engineers and ! DOT,
and we are all of the opinion that the parking must remain prohibited
on both sides of Royal , east of McLean and on the eastbound lane
of Royal , between Scott Drive and McLean.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 8
IDOT has concurred that parking may be permitted on the north
side of Royal between Scott Drive and North McLean Boulevard
should the Council so desire.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she thought removing all the
parking in residential areas was detrimental and a hardship
on the residents when they have company coming to their homes .
A citizen living in Eagle Heights stated that he used the north
side of Royal every day and he thought that by allowing parking
it would increase an existing hazardous situation.
Chief Baird also indicated his objection to parking on Royal .
The majority of the Council indicated they would prefer that
the no-parking restrictions remain the same as voted on on
April 23, 1984.
Police Record Files
Councilman Andersen called attention to the storage of boxes
containing old police records , which Mr. Andersen stated were
stacked in the hallway in the basement of City Hall in an area
accessible to the public.
rChief Baird stated he was not aware of this situation.
Frank Kaiser stated these records had been microfilmed and
the records were there to be burned. Mr. Kaiser stated that
because of incidents of burning and complaints of illness
from employees,who were under the impression the illness was
caused from the fumes, the burning could only be done at
certain times , and this was the reason for the accumulation
of the record boxes .
Chief Baird agreed these records should be locked up until such
time as they could be burned and he would take care of the matter.
Request from Councilman Andersen to temporarily discontinue the
Police accreditation process .
Councilman Andersen stated that subsequent to the time when he
requested that this item be placed on the agenda he had talked
with representatives of the International Association of Police
Chiefs about the program and at this time he would like to
withdraw his request.
Request from Betsy Armistead to obtain the rights to Irving
Berlin ' s Annie Get Your Gun for an Elgin Summer Theatre production.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to approve this request. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 9
Recommendation from the Planning Department suggesting a
recodification of the City' s zoning ordinance.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that the present zoning ordinance is very
old and does not allow for professional recommendations that
reflect present policy or any significant level of consistency
with the adopted Comprehensive Plan. Because of this situation
the staff is spending an inordinate amount of time on zoning
petitions. The present ordinance does not give sufficient
guidelines and often is a source of embarrassment at times .
Mr. Dahlstrom stated the time should be taken to update this
ordinance because of its vital interest to the community and
also because the staff has lost confidence in the ordinance.
Councilman Waters asked if the Planning Department was at full
staff.
Mr. Dahlstrom replied yes .
Councilman Hansen stated that he would assume that this would
require a lot of legal work and asked if there had been any
guidance from the Land Use Committee.
Mr. Deering stated that the Land Use and Planning Committees
would be involved.
Councilman Hansen asked if this would involve any rezoning of
existing properties in mass .
Mr. Dahlstrom replied yes .
Mayor Verbic asked if anyone remembered the problems two years
ago with trying to rezone property on Jackson Street, and the
outcry it caused.
Mr. Malm stated this could be contracted out to be done, but
the Council would need to decide if they want it done and then
by what means .
Councilman Gilliam stated he would be in favor of the recodification.
Councilman Waters stated he would look to recodification and explore
contracting it out.
Councilman Hansen stated he would like to see some outlines as to
suggested changes .
Mayor Verbic stated he did not want to have the populous upset as
they were before, but he did feel some changes are needed.
Councilman Hansen stated that the Chicago Home Builders Association
has spent a lot of time in reviewing our codes and he felt they
should also have some imput into this matter.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 10
Mr. Dahlstrom stated the staff would bring back some guidelines
for the Council ' s consideration.
Report from the Planning Department regarding the Dundee Avenue
corridor.
Mr. Dahlstrom advised the Council that the long term goal may be
to reform the Dundee Avenue strip into two commercial nodes . This
would allow for less exposure to and better control of interface with
nearby residential neighborhoods . This approach would also have
positive effects on traffic congestion.
The firststep in any redevelopment process is to determine the
precise nature of the problems . While most of us realize that
Dundee Avenue has environmental problems, most of us were still
surprised at the detail of thos problems as displayed in photos .
Mr. Dahlstrom' s memorandum demonstrated the data that was needed,
however, Mr. Dahlstrom stated that neither the Bureau of Inspection
Services nor Planning have the necessary manpower and perhaps
two summer interns under supervision could be hired to do this
work. This would provide the necessary detailed data at a
minimum cost and the coming summer season affords us the right
weather.
Mark Abate from the Elgin State Bank stated that something needed
to be done from the Tollway down to Kimball . He stated that the
Bank was doing everything they could do to enhance some high
caliber business to the area, but they were finding it difficult
because of the condition of the area. Mr. Abate stated he would
be happy to work with a commission and offered the bank' s
facility for any meetings .
Councilman Waters stated that the recommendation from the
Planning Department was reasonable and he would make a motion
to hire the two summer interns immediately.
Councilman Hansen stated he would second this motion, and he
would like to see the staff work with Mr. Abate because such
meetings could be very advantageous.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Councilman Schmidt asked if something could not be done immediately
about the stores who set their wares out on the sidewalk and tree-
banks .
Counsel Jentsch stated the current ordinance does prohibit this
on a public sidewalk.
Mayor Verbic stated that perhaps Mr. Abate and the staff could
rik invite some of the land owners to a meeting and show them the
slides which were presented to the Council .
Ed Schock suggested that the Northeast Neighbors Association and
the Gifford Park Association members be included in these meetings.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 11
Memorandum from the Planning Department regarding the possible
r". use of Economic Development Administration funds for financing
the proposed road through the Mall .
The Planning Department advised the Council that although they
had not yet received any information from Washington, D.C . ,
regarding the use of Economic Development Administration (EDA)
funds in support of a Downtown Mall road, the staff has undertaken
the necessary basic research.
Any application by the city for EDA assistance would be submitted
to Kane County for evaluation under their Overall Economic
Development Program (OEDP) . The staff has contacted the county
and discussed the Mall road project, and they were advised as
follows :
1 . The Mall road project appears to satisfy basic eligibility
requirements under federal regulations and the Kane County OEDP.
2. Kane County will not accept any EDA applications for FY- 1984.
3 . Fiscal Year 1985 applications will be accepted in September
or October of 1984.
4. The national budget for EDA in FY- 1985 will be $ 100 million,
however, the Kane County EDA budget figure is unknown.
5 . EDA funding is based on a 50/50 match up to a maximum of $ 1 .5
million, however, it is anticipated that the project funding ceiling
will be raised to $3.0 million.
6 . There is no way at present to evaluate the competitive strength
of the Mall road project.
7. As it is with most forms of federal assistance, a reimbursement
grant application is not feasible.
Mr. Malm stated that Gary Miller has sent a letter to the property
owners in Fountain Square Plaza, requesting that they attend a
meeting on Monday, June 4, 1984 at 5 : 15 p.m. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall , to discuss the road layouts and
waiver document.
Councilman Andersen stated that if we have to wait until 1985
for funding you can forget the project because there won' t be
anything left down there. Mr. Andersen asked that the Council
consider selling some of the city owned property on South Grove,
and using the proceeds for this project.
Mayor Verbic stated that trying to sell this property could
entail a great deal of time also, and he was not in favor
of financing the project through taxation.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29 1984
Page 12
Councilman Hansen asked what kind of value was placed on the
property the city owned on South Grove.
Roger Dahlstrom stated this would also present a problem because
part of that property was purchased with Block Grant Funds .
Mr. Dahlstrom further stated that if there was some participation
by the private sector it would provide greater flexibility for
HCD funding.
The Council indicated they would attend the Monday evening meeting.
Request from No Name Deli and Al ' s Creamery to place tables
outside their business establishment on the Mall
Mr. Malmsuggested that a form of lease be prepared so that
the city could set out certain provisions to be followed
by the lessee. Such items would cover not blocking fire
lanes , no accumulation of debris, and proper insurance
coverage to be extended to the area for such proposed use.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen, to have the staff prepare said lease, rental fee
to be set at $ 1 .00 per year. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
rik Informational
Mr. Malm distributed correspondence to the Council from Mary
Huddleston concerning Old Main, Illinois Department of Commerce
and Community Affairs concerning Home Town Awards Participants,
and from The Estes Company concerning National Street and Grove
Avenue.
Ethnic Fest
Councilman Andersen stated that he had been advised there was
damage to the trees and planters in the Mall which occurred
during the Ethnic Fest. The estimated damage amounts to $2,000.
Mayor Verbic suggested that the staff contact the Jaycees after
they have assessed the damages .
Committee of the Whole Agenda for June 11th
Councilman Hansen requested that the Parking meter matter be placed
on this agenda. Mr. Hansen also requested that the Subdivision
Ordinance be placed on an agenda for further consideration of
staff and Council .
Adjournment
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into Executive
Committee of the Whole Meeting
May 29, 1984
Page 13
Session to discuss Acquisition of Property, Litigation, Appointments
to Boards & Commissions and Personnel . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None. The meeting was adjourned at 11 : 05 p.m.
Marie Yearm Cit C erk
M
r
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 4, 1984
A special Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order
by Acting City Manager Robert Malm at 5 : 20 p.m. , in the Council
Conference Room of City Hall . Members present : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Absent : Councilman Gilliam.
Discussion with Mall property owners re construction of a
roadway through the Mall.
Gary Miller presented 4 road schemes, preliminary layout and
cost estaments .
Plan 1 - estimated cost $294, 000 (with optional diagonal
parking area $307,000) .
Plan 2 - estimated cost $344,000 (with optional diagonal
parking area $356,800)
Plan 3 - estimated cost $524, 550 (with optional drop off areas,
two full lanes of traffic and approximately 47 parking
spaces $ 1 , 553, 550
Howard Miller asked how any one of these plans would be financed.
Mayor Verbic stated that in Tacoma, Washington, they took the
Mall out at a cost of $550, 000, which was obtained by 30% from
the Mall people and 70% from HCD funding. In other cities
where they have taken the Mall out the merchants have participated
in the cost.
Councilman Hansen asked if diagonal parking would work in Plan 3 .
Mr. Miller stated yes, but he did not have the cost figures. Mr.
Miller further stated that you could take Plan 3 and put in
angle parking for about the same cost.
Councilman Hansen asked what the maximum amount of parking would
be using Plan 3 with diagonal parking.
Mr. Miller stated from 7 to 8 spaces .
Jack Shales stated that if Plan 4 were considered he did not
think that Home Federal would want their Kiosk moved in front
of the Centrum.
Mr. Miller pointed out that they may be other problems with
utility lines under this facility.
Ron Kilgore stated that he preferred Plan 3 with the alternative
parking spaces.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 4, 1984
Page 2
John Schalz stated he liked Plan 3 with 1 lane of traffic
and angle parking .
Councilwoman Shales stated she liked Plan 3 with 1 lane of traffic.
Mayor Verbic pointed out that during the winter there could be a
problem with snow removal with only one lane of traffic.
Mayor Verbic further stated that he had been in touch with
Congressman Corcoran and there is a Bill before Congress now
that would provide money for this purpose, and Congressman
Corcoran is to keep the Mayor advised of any progress in this
regard.
Mayor Verbic asked the property owners present if any of them
would be willing to participate financially in this project.
(There was no response)
Howard Miller asked if the Council thought any one of these
plans would change the situation in the Mall , because if it
would maybe some of the owners would consider participating.
Councilman Andersen stated that he knew of two firms that
were going to move if the roadway is not put in, and it is
rumored that Spiess is going to open up the first floor of
his store as an outlet.
Howard Miller stated that he thought that South Grove Avenue
would have to be developed so that this road would have some
place to go.
Councilman Andersen stated that the city should sell all of
their interest on South Grove, because the price is right
and there is somebody out there who would be interested
in coming in and taking it.
Councilman Hansen asked how much money the city had tied up
in property on South Grove.
Roger Dahlstrom stated about 32 acres with a present valuation
of $2.00 per square foot.
Milt Pearlman stated that he could not answer yes or no to the
project but that if everyone concurred he would bow to the
majority. Mr. Pearlman suggested that the city be agressive
and take the attitude that they really want to vitalize the
downtown area and he did not see a roadway at this time being
the revitalization needed. On a scale from 1 to 10 Mr. Pearlman
rated the road about a 4 and he suggested that the city should
gather the land up on South Grove, then a business may be
attacted here and then a road might be visable.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 4, 1984
Page 3
Councilman Hansen stated that this offer had been made to
Visa for $ 1 .00 per square foot, plus parking and street
improvements which could have cost 2 or 3 million and they
turned it down.
Mr. Pearlman stated this was not a viable customer for that
particular area and sometime for every 12 customers you might
make one sale.
Mayor Verbic stated that the city had spent $52 million during
the past several years in the downtown area to improve the
business climate, but this had not helped. Cose to $4 million
was spent on the ECC Building and this has not generated the
traffic that was anticipated.
Mr. Schalz stated that he was one of the promoters for the
ECC building downtown, but they had not helped his business,
it has only helped to eliminate parking spaces for his
customers .
Councilman Andersen pointed out that if nothing was done some
owners of vacant stores were considering boarding up the buildings
or tearing them down rather than to continue to pay taxes on
the property.
Councilman Andersen pointed to the difference on Chicago Street,
where there is parking and traffic and the amount of vacant
stores has been improved to where they only have one vacant
store.
A gentlman representing Mr. Roth stated that Mr. Roth is
interested in the roadway, but he did not want any further
assessment. Mr. Roth is also considering boarding up the
Woolworth Building, or razing it, if it is not sold.
Terry Dunning stated that we need to keep throwing the dice out,
they had found a buyer for the Penny building and although he
would like to see the roadway eventually he did not think that
now was the time.
Councilman Andersen stated that if they wanted to sit and let
the thing die, he was willing to go along with this .
Mr. Krasnick stated he was in favor of Plan 4, but did not want
any further assessments .
Mr. Rifken stated he was all for plan 4.
Mr. Schalz stated he was also for Plan 4.
Stan Douglas stated that the downtown is no longer a retail
center and never will be again and the property valuations
have been going down 13% per year.
` Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 4, 1984
Page 4
Jack Shales pointed out that financial assistance had been given
to the Airport developers and the Borden Square project and perhaps
some assistance could be given to the Mall property owners .
Councilman Andersen stated the city could do the same thing as they
did with the Airport developers, on the amount of assistance which
in this case is predicated upon the amount of retail space that
is occupied and the amount of sales tax derived therefrom. As
to the Borden Square project the city is still investigating
the possibility of grant funding.
Mayor Verbic stated that a Mall Roadway Questionnaire and a
Waiver of Rights with respect to City of Elgin Special Assessment
75 TX 2703 had been passed out to each property owner present
this evening and he would appreciate this being filled out and
returned to the Acting City Manager, Robert Malm.
The meeting was adjourned at 6 : 50 p.m.
0_1. 11
Yearm , City Cler <
r
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 5, 1984
A special Committee of the Whole meeting was called to order
at 5 : 10 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None.
Also present: Malm, Yearman and members of staff.
Proposal from Korn/Ferry International for Executive Search
and Recruitment Services for a City Manager.
Mr. Paul Schmidt, Vice President of the subject firm reviewed
with the Council his firm' s background, including the fact
that they are the world ' s largest executive search firm,
employing 287 people, with 34 offices throughout the globe.
Mr. Schmidt stated their proposal would include a position
analysis, recruitment, preliminary screening, candidate
evaluation, a detailed report and evaluation on approximately
five of the candidates most nearly meeting the specifications .
Mr. Schmidt proposed the following schedule for the performance
of this agreement:
1st and 2nd day - Meet with the Council individually and as a
group.
3rd and 45th day - Solicit, receive and acknowledge resumes .
45th and 60th day - Evaluate applications and interview best
qualified candidates .
60th day - Submit report on top candidates, with resumes,
exhibits and confidential evaluations .
For the work outlined in the proposal there is a fee of $ 11 ,000
for professional services, exclusive of expenses . Expenses,
such as for travel , communications, advertising, report
preparation and directly related costs are in addition and will
not exceed 35% of the professional service fee.
Liability to Korn/Ferry for services under this agreement shall
not exceed the ceiling price unless an increase is authorized.
Expenses for candidate travel to Elgin are not included in our
proposed fee.
Two monthly invoices will be submitted which will be payable
upon receipt in the amount of $5, 500 each for professional
services . Expenses will be billed in addition and shown as
a separate figure.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 5, 1984
Page 2
Councilman Gilliam asked how the firm would determine the amount
of money a candidate might want.
Paul Schmidt stated that in the first telephone call broad
percentages would be used, but no specific range because they
do not want the job to be based on any specific amount of
compensation.
Councilman Schmidt asked if,when it comes down to the final
4 or 5 candidates, would they be interviewed separately or
together.
Paul Schmidt stated this interview would be done separately.
Councilman Schmidt asked if the same questions would be asked
of each candidate.
Paul Schmidt stated they would establish a structure process that
satisfies the wants of the Council and that you are comfortable
with, and this would come from interviews with the Council .
Councilman Gilliam stated he would like to know how this firm
would deal with a Council that discharged the former city
manager by a 4 to 3 vote, where the philosophy of the Council
is undetermined and the reason for the discharge unexplained,
and an election of three members of the present Council will
be forthcoming next year. Would a prudent candidate consider
taking this position.
Paul Schmidt stated that they are skilled in dealing with
controversial issues and they are presently doing work for
Continential Bank, Republic Airlines and International Harvestor.
Of course it would be necessary for them to know why the former
manager was discharged.
Councilman Gilliam requested that when this was discovered he
would appreciate being told.
Paul Schmidt stated it would also be necessary to have a
consensus of opinion as to what the Council needs are. ;
Councilman Waters asked if we got down to 4 or 5 candidates
and if because of a Council split the firm would need feel
they could recommend would the Council be told and would it
be necessary to re-negotiate the fee.
Mr. Schmidt stated there would be no fee until a candidate
is secured.
(Mr. Schmidt completed his interview with the Council at this
ePik point and left the meeting)
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 5, 1984
Page 3
Mayor Verbic stated that he had talked with one of the Trustees
over in Glen Ellyn and he was pleased with the Korn/Ferry firm
who presented them with 8 final candidates .
Councilman Andersen thought the presentation made tonight was
more professional than the one given by Paul Reaume & Company.
Councilwoman Shales stated that cost wise they are just about
the same and she thought we could get a good job from either
one.
Councilman Waters stated that he thought there was very little
difference and we would probably get the same results from
either firm. Mr. Waters stated that he hoped the Council would
not depend on itself for imput only and that the staff and a
public representative group would be involved and their imput
included for consideration.
Councilman Gilliam stated he would like to see someone who
communicate with people because the community and the council
must be pulled back together.
Councilman Hansen stated he thought Councilman Gilliam had
overemphasized the Council split and there had been many votes
in which different council members sided together.
Councilman Hansen further stated that the residents are customers
of the city that are pretty much the same all over in their
desire for police, fire and related services .
Mayor Verbic stated he would direct the staff to put two
resolutions on the next Council agenda, one for Paul Reaume
Company and the other for Korn/Ferry and the Council could
make their selection at that time.
The special meeting was adjourned at 6: 15 p.m.
Marie Yearma City Clerk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
e". The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 :40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present: Maim, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
Briefing by representatives from Fox & Company on the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and the Management
Report.
Jeff Underwood representing Fox & Company stated that he
realized the Council had just been furnished with the
Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and the Management
Report and had not really had the opportunity to examine
same.
Mr. Underwood stated that it was the opinion of his firm
that the financial position of the city at December 31 , 1983,
and the results of its operations and the changes in financial
position of its proprietary fund types for the year then
ended, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles applied on a consistent basis except for the change,
with which we concur, in the method of accounting for compensated
absences as described in Note 11 to the financial statements .
Mr. Underwood pointed out that the City of Elgin was again
the receipient of the Certificate of Conformance in Financial
Reporting. Mr. Underwood stated that if after the Council
has had the opportunity to examine these reports they would
like to have him back for further discussion he would be
happy to do so.
Councilman Waters stated that in the past the staff has prepared
a response to the management letter and he wondered if this
would be done in this instance.
Bob Maim stated the staff could and would prepare this response.
Request by Bruce Dahlquist and an ad hoc committee for the City
Council to establish an Elgin Heritage Commission.
Mr. Bruce Dahlquist advised the Council that an ad hoc group
of Elginites representing a cross section of the community
began meeting and the goal of this group was to formulate a
method by which preservation information and policy might be
brought before the Council , city staff, property owners,
contractors, and the community at large.
Mr. Dahlquist requested that the Council consider the formation
of an Elgin Heritage Commission, the function of said commission
to be as follows :
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 2
1 . To promote the education of property owners, local governmental
elow. agencies and the public at large regarding the protection,
maintenance and preservation of architectural , historic and
cultural resources .
2. To explore funding, grant sources and tax incentives related
to the preservation of Elgin ' s urban environment.
3 . To stabilize and improve property values and enhance the
investment climate in older areas of the city.
4. To cooperate with agencies of local , regional , state and
federal governments in terms of planning policy and governmental
action.
5. To review and recommend structures or areas for the National
Register of Historic Places .
6. To have regular meetings and call special meetings as required.
Councilwoman Shales asked if the members of this Commission would
be appointed to same by the Mayor and Council .
Mr. Dahlquist stated yes and that he had furnished the Council
with a list of suggested members for the commission, which they
felt would serve well .
Mayor Verbic congratulated Mr. Dahlquist and his committee for
their time and effort in formulating a project which should
provide further enhancement to the city.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to have the staff prepare an ordinance establishing
said commission. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Request by the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission for $5, 000
to prepare a conceptual plan showing residential development
on South Grove Avenue.
Mr. Howard Miller advised the Council that the Greater Downtown
Elgin Commission were requesting these funds in order to obtain
conceptual drawings showing residential use for the South
Grove Avenue redevelopment area. Mr. Miller stated that
the Commission felt that residential use was the best and that
something modeled after Sandberg Village in Chicago could
be blended into that area.
Mayor Verbic stated that a national developer is coming to Elgin
tomorrow and this may change some of the thoughts and ideas for
the South Grove area. Mayor Verbic further stated that what
the Commission has in mind for this area is worthwhile and the
fact that $600,000 is going to go into the Prairie Path in the
area, will give new impetuous to the riverbank and surrounding
area.
•
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 3
Mayor Verbic felt this request should be delayed until after
the meeting with the national developer has taken place.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to table this request until the next meeting. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of a Resolution of Authorization required by the
Illinois Department of Conservation for the Prairie Path
Development.
Mr. Mal pointed out the federal grant is for $356,000, the
State ' s contribution would be $ 178, 000 and the County and
City' s share would be $89, 000 each.
Mayor Verbic stated that at this point the actual cost of this
project is unknown.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to submit the subject grant. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion of No Parking requirements on Wing Street from
Route 31 to McLean Boulevard.
Councilman Schmidt asked if the residents in this area had been
contacted to get their reaction.
Mayor Verbic stated they had not been involved up to this point.
Gary Miller stated that in meetings with IDOT earlier the staff
was somewhat led astray in that the plans called for a resurfacing
project, which the staff felt could be done in house. After a
subsequent meeting with the State the staff was advised that
three-fourths of the funds for the project would be furnished
by the Fed' s, and the project was expanded to include curb,
gutters, the lowering of the railroad tracks and a complete
new intersection at Route 31 .
Currently the State has advised they will not approve the
intersection improvements and the plans are being revised.
The project should be awarded later this year and there is a
possibility it will be finished this year.
The engineering report submitted to IDOT contained these no
parking recommendations which is consistent with IDOT and FHWA
policies and procedures, so we have no choice about the parking
if the city wants the Fed ' s money.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to concur with the staff ' s recommendation and to proceed with
the project accordingly. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committe of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 4
eft. Consideration of an early retirement program for City employees .
The Council reviewed a memorandum from Jim Aydt outling an early
retirement program for city employees, which provided for the
following:
1 . A voluntary program for vested IMRF employees who are age 60
or older during 1984.
2. Participants will be continued in the City' s group medical
program for up to two years (a maximum of 24 months or upon
reaching age 65) at no cost to the early retiree.
For eligible employees younger than age 63 continued medical
insurance coverage would be on a shared cost participation for
each month over the initial 24 months coverage until the retiree
is eligible for Medicare.
Mr. Mal stated that currently there are 13 employees eligible for
this program. There are advantages for the city and to the
employees who want to retire with a minimal cost of medical
insurance until becoming eligible for Medicare.
The replacement of these employees with new employees in lower
pay scales would save the City $ 140,357, plus 23 fewer weeks of
earned vacation leave, if all 13 employees elected to retire.
Councilman Hansen asked if it was legal to offer this type of
program just as a one time offer.
Mr. Aydt stated he had not checked this with the Legal Department.
Councilman Andersen stated that it looked to him like the city
would be forcing these people to make a one-time decision.
Counsel Jentsch stated that he had not had the opportunity to
review this matter and he would like to do so.
The Council agreed to review this matter again after the Legal
staff has had an opportunity to review same and render an opinion.
Request from the Village of Wheeling to contribute $ 1 , 000 to their
legal fund for continued litigation against the CCPA.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve this request. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Update on the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the North
End Bridge.
rft. Gary Miller advised the Council that Lochnar now advises that
the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the North End
Bridge project has been reviewed and approved by the FHWA.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 5
Lochnar has asked that the staff assist them with the final
"'' distribution of this report. This would involve making up
60 copies and distributing them to 35 different agencies,
we would also have publish the notice.
Mr. Malm suggested to the staff that they advise the Council
just where this matter is and obtain you approval re the
distribution of the report. The city will need to make a
decision now as to how we are going to go because the next
step would involve a public notice of the FEIS approval and
the preparation of a request for design of the facility.
Mayor Verbic stated this report covers the facility that would
cost 12.8 million and they are just about one year late with it.
Gary Miller stated that if we stop now you will cut yourself off
for funding of Phase 1 and it makes sense to proceed.
Councilman Andersen stated that if the city decides to go with
the design variance then what good is this EIS.
Mayor Verbic stated that we have just been sitting back waiting
to see what can be done about the railroad operation.
Councilman Waters stated that the Council voted three years ago
to have the staff complete the bridge project to this point
and the staff is correct in bringing it to the Council .
Councilman Hansen stated that a majority of the Council ' s
thoughts are for a smaller scale project. If we don' t distribute
the EIS he did not feelyou would have the authority to have a
bridge with a design variance.
Councilman Waters suggested that the Notice indicate that the
Council is nolonger in favor of this concept for the bridge.
Gary Miller stated that he had been furnished with the format
notice and he did not know if this revision would meet the
regulations.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to proceed to send out the notices and have same published. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Adjournment to Council Meeting - 7:55 p.m.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into the
Council Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 6
Committee of the Whole Meeting Reconvened at 10: 30 p.m.
for.-
Request to seek proposals to repair the Lord' s Park swimming pool .
The Council was advised that the concrete tank at Lord' s Pool is
deteriorating and needs repair. The estimated cost for this
work is $65,000. We currently have $40, 000 budgeted for this
work and there is an additional $ 18, 000 available if we put off
major repairs to the Wing Park tennis courts.
Mayor Verbic asked how bad the tennis courts were.
Mr. Bennett stated that they can be patched and recolored and
they could go another year.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen,
to proceed to obtain proposals for this project. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation to approve Change Order No. 2 for the Elgin
softball complex.
The Parks and Reclamation Commission requested that the outfield
fences and warning tracks at two fields of the project be extended
25 feet to make outfields of 300 feet. This distance would make
it possible to play United States Slowpitch Softball Association
as well as American Softball Association championship softball
games at the new facility.
The cost of expanding these two diamonds is $808.00 for an
additional 80 lineal feet of warning track ( including fence) at
a cost of $ 10. 10 per lineal foot. The present cost of the
project, with Change Order No. 1 , is $395, 326. Change Order
No. 2 would increase the cost to $396, 134, and the staff is
requesting approve of Change Order No. 2 in the amount of $808 .00.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to approve Change Order No. 2 in the amount of $808.00. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion of a petition from the faculty and students at Elgin
High School requesting a sidewalk along Route 19.
Mayor Verbic asked if anyone from the staff had talked to Mr.
Ziejewski to see what the status was for the improvement along
Route 19 to Willard Avenue.
Mr. Miller stated that this roadway improvement is not scheduled
under any of the 5-year state programs. Mr. Miller stated that
he was concerned about spending money for a sidewalk, if, in
rm. fact, a new roadway was to be put in, the new sidewalk would
not fit in with the height of a new roadway.
Mayor Verbic stated it looked like we were putting the cart
before the horse in this situation, if we put the sidewalk
in before the roadway improvement.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 1 1 , 1984
Page 7
Councilwoman Shales asked if there was any possibility that a
narrow walk path could be installed as a temporary measure.
Mr. Malm stated that he would check this possibility out with
the school , and he would check with IDOT regarding the road
improvement.
Continued discussion of parking system fiscal impacts.
The Council reviewed a memorandum from Jim Bolerjack which
reflected the differences between the current system, attendant
lots only and all free parking. A further suggestion was made
to compare the fiscal impact with and without the Spiess Deck
in the city parking system, since this parking facility will
be in the City parking system on or before July 18 , 1985.
Ed Doering stated that he had a business on the west side of
State St. , between Highland and Chicago, and if the meters
were taken out he would have to move his business because
his customers would never find a place to park.
Councilman Hansen stated he would like to make a motion to have
a trial situation providing for the following : ( 1 ) Leave the
meters on State Street (Route 31 ) ; (2) Have the trial period
commence with the opening of Elgin Community College, leaving
it in effect for 90 days . (3) Place plastic bags over all the
rft meters, keeping the attended Civic Center Lot and Spring Street
Deck as is and enforcing the time limits on the spaces designated
with a plastic bag over the meter.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she would second this motion.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Waters .
Update on the Universal Chemicals & Coatings, Inc. development
on Fox Lane.
Mr. Malm advised the Council that Mr. Chin of Universal Chemicals
& Coatings was anxious to being construction of their office and
factory site on Fox Lane, but they have run into three major
issues . The present watermain ends at the Knowles Electronics
site and Mr. Chin was under the impression that the city was
going to put this watermain in .
Mr. Miller stated this has not been done because to date the
city has not secured the necessary right-of-way from Miller-
Davis . Although the local Miller-Davis people have been
contacted they have refused to do anything about it saying
the city should contact their legal department.
Mayor Verbic stated that the City should do everything possible
to obtain this right-of-way because initially we told the
Universal people that this would be done.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 8
rft. Mr. Malmstated that there is money availabel in the Water Fund
for this project.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
for the staff to proceed to obtaining the right-of-way in order
to install the watermain. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Mr. Malm stated that the other two issues consisted of a road
to the facility and hook on to the sanitary sewers .
Councilman Hansen stated that Universal had a road through
there that could be used temporarily until a road is constructed.
The could pay their share at the time the road is constructed
or they could have a special assessment district formed and
payment could be made through assessment. Councilman Hansen
stated he would put this suggestion in the form of a motion.
Councilman Waters stated he would second this motion. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
The Council suggested that the staff set up a meeting with
Ed Kelly from the Chamber of Commerce and the Miller-Davis
people to work out the right-of-way requirements .
rik Continued discussion of the roadway through the Mall .
Mr. Malm stated that of the questionnaires sent out to the
property owners three had been returned. All three agree to
sign the waiver, but will not participate in the cost. One
favored Plan 3 and two favored Plan 4.
Councilman Andersen stated that another meeting should be
called and this time not only the property owners should
be present, but the merchants who are renting, because he
keeps hearing from them that if the roadway is not put in
they are not going to stay in the Mall .
Mayor Verbic stated that he had been in touch with Congressman
Corcoran recently and it seems there is a bill coming up that
would appropriate some money for this type of project. Mr.
Corcoran told the Mayor he would keep him informed of this matter.
Status report on the implementation of recommendations included
in the Homebuilders ' Association of Great Chicago Code Analysis
Report.
Mr. Malm stated that the revised subdivision ordinance is currently
in the Legal Department for editorial revisions .
Counsel Jentsch stated that they would have something on this to
the Council by early July. The off-street parking ordinance would
also be available to the Council , which has been amended as per
Council ' s direction.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 9
The Building Code, Fire Code and Basic Mechanical Code have
been reviewed by the staff, but have not been taken to the
Building Commission.
The Council had talked about replacing some of the expired
terms on the Building Commission with new blood, however,
no appointments have been made and there has been a problem
in finding applicants for these boards, who qualify under
the present ordinance.
Deputy Knust stated that almost every member on the various
commissions have had their terms expire.
Councilman Waters stated that perhaps the Council should
address the composition of these commissions and in that
way attract some people who might be willing to serve.
The Council agreed to put the building codes on hold until
the composition of the boards can be determined.
Discussion of the implementation of the Elgin Central Business
District Plan.
The Council reviewed a proposal submitted by Councilman Waters
which asked the Council to consider the following:
'' 1 . An advisory commission be appointed entitled the Elgin
Central Business District Redevelopment Commission.
2. The commission be appointed by the City Council with the
following representation:
a. Two Council members
b. Two downtown property owners
c. Two city staff members
d. Three community representatives
e. Executive Director, Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce
3 . The commission be directed to meet not less than once
a month and submit a written report to the Council from each
meeting . The report should provide an update of progress made,
following the outline of the plan submitted by the Planning
Commissions, and recommendations when Council initiative is
necessary.
4. The commission be directed to create subcommittees for the
implementation of sub-parts of the plan where appropriate.
5. The Council schedule time on the committee of the whole
agenda of no less than one meeting per month to discuss the
reports from the commission, presented by the Council representatives.
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Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 11 , 1984
Page 10
Councilman Waters pointed out that there has been no committee
reporting back to the Council and unless something is done
the Elgin Central Business District Plan will just be another
plan that will be placed upon a shelf.
Mark Herzog, a member of the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission
stated that instead of another committee being formed he felt
his commission could do the job. However, Mr. Herzog pointed
out that they have not been given any direction, nor did they
have any opportunity to give any imput to the Downtown Plan.
Mr. Herzog asked that the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission
be given this assignment, using the members they presently
have and increasing the members to conform to Councilman
Waters ' request.
Mayor Verbic suggested that the staff bring in the present
ordinance governing the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission
so the Council members could amend it to fit in with Councilman
Waters ' memorandum.
Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss Acquisition of Property,
Litigation, Boards and Commissions and Personnel . Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting adjourned at
12 : 30 a.m.
Marie Year an, City C erk
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
kfek June 25 , 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6: 35 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters.
Absent: Mayor Verbic. Councilman Gilliam arrived at 7: 10 p.m.
Also present: Malm, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff.
Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to appoint Councilman Andersen Mayor Pro Tem. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters . Nays: None.
Discussion by the Engineering Department of the Larkin Avenue
improvement project .
Mel Dahl advised the Council the proposed widening project
begins at a point directly west of McLean Boulevard and extends
to a point west of Airlite Street. The City ' s share of the
roadway work is 0% and the cost to the City for signals of
$8,625, plus pre-emption devices at a cost of $8,000, for a
total cost of $ 16 ,625.00.
In order for the City to enter into an agreement with IDOT for
this project it will be necessary for the City to: (a) pass a
resolution appropriating funds to pay for the signal work; (b)
pass an ordinance prohibiting parking along both sides of Larkin
Avenue between McLean Boulevard and the Route 20 By-Pass ; (c)
pass an ordinance prohibiting the discharge of sanitary and
industrial waste water into any storm sewer facility; (d) pass
an ordinance prohibiting future encroachments , and (e) adopt
a resolution approving the plans and specifications for the project.
Mr. Maim stated that the aforementioned resolutions and ordinances
appear on the regular agenda for tonights Council meeting.
Mel Dahl stated the bid date for this project is set for June 29th.
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee for the two-way
conversion of Spring Street.
Mr. Maim stated this conversion was recommended in the Barton-
Ashman study several years ago, but because of problems on the
part of Eby Brown, Ludwig Dairy and St. John' s Lutheran School ,
the one-way traffic pattern was left in place north of Division
Street. The matter was reviewed again recently at the request
of Councilman Andersen and also this conversion is provided for
in the Downtown Plan .
Mr. Alley stated that the most serious objector was Eby Brown
because they had 15 to 40 trucks per day ranging in length from
24 to 45 feet, loading and unloading at the dock on Spring Street,
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25, 1984
Page 2
and it was necessary for the trucks to face northbound while
backing . Truck drivers have a blind corner if they back to the
loading dock while the trucks are facing south, which would be
the normal procedure if Spring Street was changed to two-way.
Since that time the ownership of Eby Brown has changed. We have
talked to the new manager Mr. Roger Stettner and he advised that
in October they are going to make some extensive internal mofifi -
cations. After that they would be willing to work with the City
for the two-way operation.
Since the other abutting property owners were already in favor
of this change and Eby Brown has agreed, we would recommend
the conversion at this time.
Mr. Christensen, representing St. John ' s Lutheran School stated
that they did not want to stand in the way of progress , but they
have six buses and parents picking up students in the afternoon,
and if it were possible to eliminate parking on the school side
of the street, it might help them disperse the students into
the buses and cars .
Mr. Malm stated the staff could work out a lane plan and parking
plan and bring that back to the Council .
Councilman Andersen stated that if we are going to try and
implement this it should be done before school re-opens so
that if there are problems they can be worked out.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
for the staff to bring back a plan for the conversion, said plan
to be worked out with the people who are directly involved with
same. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and
Waters. Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Engineering Department that the Agreements
in Lieu of Special Assessment be executed for the Weston Avenue
improvement project.
Ralph Ridley advised the Council that all twelve signed agreements
for this project have now been received, and bids for the
construction of this project have been tentatively scheduled
for advertisement on June 28th, with a bid opening on July 17th.
The total cost of the project is estimated at $ 109,000, the City' s
share being $35,000, and it is expected that the project could be
completed by November 1st.
Councilman Hansen stated he would like to compliment Ralph for
his handling of this project. We have 12 happy homeowners and
everybody saved money.
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to have staff prepare a resolution approving said agreements .
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters .
Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25, 1984
Page 3
Request from the Police Department to become a member of North
East Multi -Regional Training Inc.
Deputy Heine stated that membership in this organization will
make considerably more training available to officers and employees
than is now realized, and the tuition costs for this additional
training will be fixed at the $2, 250 annual membership fee. Further,
state-of-the-art training will be made available to department
personnel on a more frequent basis, because the prepaid tuition
allows officers and employees to attend as many seminars and work-
shops as determined to be needed to address particular training
needs .
The total cost for the Department ' s 1984- 1985 membership is $2, 250.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
for staff to prepare the necessary resolution to enter into
membership with the subject organization. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays :
None.
Reconsideration of a request by the Greater Downtown Elgin
Commission for $5 ,000 to show conceptual residential use along
South Grove Avenue.
Howard Miller, representing the Commission, stated they would
like to funds to develop a conceptual drawing showing residential
use for the South Grove Avenue redevelopment area. Mr. Miller
indicated that a project similar to Sandberg Village in Chicago
could be the best utilization of this property. If the residential
use is there it would open the way for various type shops to
follow.
The Commission feels that it is necessary, when talking with
developers , to have something for them to look at. Kaltenbach
and Ferenc have submitted a proposal to the Commission for a
conceptual plan for a fee not to exceed $2, 500.
Councilman Hansen asked if it might be possible to furnish the
Commission with these funds by having them come out of HCD funds .
Roger Dahlstrom stated that he thought they could find this sum
in one of the budgets, or the Council might want to combine it
in market studies .
Mr. Miller stated the Commission did not want another study, just
a conceptual plan to show prospective developers .
Councilman Waters stated that he hoped the Commission would work
with Roger and the Planning Department on this project because
rik the project may prove to be eligible for incremental tax financing.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the request for funds , said funds to be appropriated
from HCD funds . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilman Gilliam.
Request that the City vacate an alley connecting Margaret Place
and Villa Street.
Syed Ally advised the Council that eight residents abutting an
alley have requested that the City vacate an unused portion of
the alley. It is a 16 foot wide north-south alley between
Watres Place and Illinois Avenue.
The north 200 feet cannot be vacated since it is used as an access
from Margaret Place to garages by eight households , four on each
side. Likewise, there is a concrete driveway on the south 120
feet that provides an access from Villa Street to a garage. The
middle 200 feet is not used for access purposes . However, there is an
underground telephone cable in the easterly half of the 16 foot
width, and if this portion of the alley is vacated Illinois Bell
would like a statement in the ordinance that they would maintain
their right of access .
Mr. Malm stated that if this property is vacated, it will be
equally divided between the property owners on each side and
the Council might want to consider whether or not they would
be interested in recovering some of the costs involved from
the beneficiaries , not so much in this case, but there is
another request for vacation of commercial property, which
the Council will consider and they might also want to consider
the costs involved.
Councilman Hansen stated that in the case of residential property,
such as the one before the Council tonight, this would probably
enhance the property and it will put it back on the tax rolls .
Mr . Hansen asked that staff prepare a list of the costs involved
in a vacation process and submit them to the Council for review.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt,
to approve the request, to have the ordinance prepared, subject
to Illinois Bell ' s easement requirement. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Engineering Department that Change Order
No. 3 be approved for the West Side Water Treatment Plant
improvements.
The Council reviewed Change Order No. 3 which provides for ten
items and represents a total increase of $9, 247. The staff
recommended that Change Order No. 3 be approved, which would
increase the total amount of Contract No. 5 with Seagren/Shales,
Inc. , from $794, 318 to $803, 565.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve Change Order No. 3 . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt and Waters . Nays : None. Abstained:
Councilwoman Shales .
Status report regarding the neighborhood situation at 472
Division Street.
Deputy Danielson advised the Council that he had met with the
resident on June 6th concerning this neighborhood problem.
Approximately 30 people attended and there was a general
discussion of existing problems, what the residents could do
to assist and what the City would do to implement enforcement.
Deputy Danielson stated that enforcement had been stepped up,
and whenever possible patrol cars were in the area . Some
improvement has been evidenced.
One individual has moved out of the subject premises , but some
of the problems remain and it is going to take more enforcement
and effort.
Discussion of membership composition on the Greater Downtown
Elgin Commission.
The Council reviewed the present ordinance covering the appointment
of the subject commission, together with the list of individuals
presently serving on said commission.
Councilman Waters stated that he would like to see the ordinance
changed to include a member of the Planning Department, and at
least three individuals from the community, who have no interest
in the downtown area.
Councilman Hansen stated that he did not have any objection to
this addition to the commission but he did not want to broaden
the commission and have it become too large.
Councilman Waters further stated that he would like for said
Commission to submit a written report to the Council once a
month providing an update of progress made relative to the
implementation of the downtown plan.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to have staff prepare an ordinance revising the composition of
the subject commission. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Engineering Department on proceeding with
the Chicago Street sewer repair.
The Council reviewed a recommendation from the staff to award a
contract for the preparation of the plans and specifications for
the repair of the combination sewer to Donahue & Associates . They
have the expertise and certainly the knowledge about the project.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25, 1984
Page 6
Donahue & Associates would prepare the necessary agreement
and that agreement would include a provision for a person from
their firm to provide 2 or 3 days of construction inspection
to supplement our own personnel in this unfamiliar construction
project. The cost would not exceed $ 10,000.
The Planning Department also pointed out that a large portion
of the funding necessary to construct this sewer repair can come
from Jobs Bill funds , bu that the transfer of excess funds to the
Chicago Street Combination Sewer Rehabilitation will have to be
made under City Council direction.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to proceed with the project and bring back the agreement for
the Council ' s consideration. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays : None.
Discussion pertaining to the composition of the Building Commission
and Building Committees .
Mr. Malm stated that Deputy Knust was ill this evening and could
not attend the meeting . Mr. Malm suggested that the Council
table this item until Deputy Knust could be present.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to table this matter until the July 9th meeting. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, and
Waters . Nays : None.
Briefing by Mel Dahl regarding the City ' s 1984 street improvement
program.
Mel Dahl advised the Council that the city will have several street
improvements under construction this summer and fall , which will include
those initiated by IDOT and the City. IDOT will have two projects
State Street, which is already under construction and Larkin Avenue.
We will have two Federal Aid Urban projects , north McLean and Wing
Street.
We have in the budget $439, 000 for repairing and resurfacing
various streets in Elgin. We are proposing to the Council that
we include some of the streets in the Country Knoll Subdivision
south of Larkin, some streets in the Parkwood Subdivision and
some streets at scattered locations on the east side of the river.
We would suggest Ann St. east of Hill , Franklin east of Liberty,
Congdon east of Dundee to the Kane-Cook line and Duncan north
from Dundee to north of River Bluff. The total mileage is about
3 .53 miles .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to approve the staff ' s recommendation for the 1984 street
improvement program. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays: None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25 , 1984
Page 7
Briefing by the Legal Department on the City ' s efforts to comply
with the Freedom of Information Act.
Dan Blondin, Assistant Corporation Counsel , reviewed with the
Council a proposed fee structure to be used in furnishing
information as required by this Act.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the proposed fee structure and for staff to prepare
an ordinance reflecting same. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales . Nays : Councilmen Waters .
Free Parking Program
Mr. Bolerjack stated that before the plastic bags are ordered to
implement the free metered parking program, two questions should
be clarified:
1 . Should plastic bags be placed on all 4, 5 and 10 hour lot
meters or should a Free Parking sign be placed in these lots .
Plastic bags with printed time limits can be used in the
library lot on a few meters with 30 minute and 2 hour limits .
2. Should time limits be enforced on 5 and 10 hour street meters
or should these be designated without time limits and marked
Free Parking.
It may take six weeks or more to receive bags with printing,
particularly if six different time limits are ordered. So the
sooner the bags are ordered the more certain we are in receiving
them on time.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam,
to order blue bags for the 4 and 5 hour meters , these meters to
be enforced parking . The 10 hour parking is not to be enforced.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales
and Waters . Nays : None.
Tyler Creek Shopping Plaza
Mr. Malm stated that Councilman Andersen had called attention to
the fact that the Shesler Ice Cream Shop in the subject shopping
center was planning to have their grand opening this weekend and
they had been advised this would not be possible because they
did not qualify for an occupancy permit.
Mr. Mal stated that the occupancy permit has been withheld because
the developer had not submitted a new site plan to the city which
reflected the new off-street parking revisions and two, the
public improvements have not been completed.
Counsel Jentsch stated the completion of the public improvements
should be covered by a performance bond.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated there would be no problem in issuing Shesler
a temporary occupancy permit.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
June 25, 1984
Page 8
Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into Executive
Session to discuss acquisition of property, litigation, appointment
to boards and commissions and personnel . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays :
None. The meeting was adjourned at 9: 50 p.m.
1..J1
Marie Yearm , City Clerk
r
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6: 35
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent: None.
Also present: Malm, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
Request from the Elgin Area Historical Society to use the Old
Main funds to initiate the restoration project.
Mary Huddleston, President of the Elgin Area Historical Society
advised the Council this Association had completed their fund
drive and they were successful in raising $350, 000. They
presently have a Building Committee working with Charles
Burnidge and they anticipate starting construction in October.
Mrs . Huddleston requested that the Council pass a resolution
releasing the balance of funds from Old Main ' s outside
restoration which are being held by the City. These funds
will be used to pay for preliminary architectural drawings
for the entire building at a cost of $34,440. According
to Mr. Bolerjack this fund contains approximately $31 , 550,
and the balance needed would be paid by the Historical Society.
Mr. Burnidge pointed out that he has suggested that they look
at the possibility of rehabilitating the second floor of the
building rather than the first floor for a number of reasons .
The second floor would enable permanent displays to be put
in place, it would enable greater flexibility for use on upper
and lower floors when completed, it would contain more usable
space for displays and meetings and it would cost less since
the second floor was mych less damaged by the fire.
Mrs . Huddleston stated that the Society had not decided if
they were going to go with this recommendation.
Mr. Malm stated that the lease agreement with the Society needed
to be redrafted and Dan Blondin was working on this .
Councilman Waters stated that in looking over the estimates it
appears we are talking about $820, 000.
Mrs. Huddleston stated that figure is estimated and covers all
three floors and it does not reflect any volunteer work.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to release the Old Main funds to the Elgin Area Historical Society.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 2
Request from the Human Relations Commission to send four members
to the National Urban League Conference.
Robert Johnson, representing the Human Relations Commission,
stated that during the past two years , the Commission has been
allowed to send representatives to the National Urban League
Conference, and the Commission was requesting that four members
of the Commission attend the Conference this year. The conference
is being held in Cleveland, Ohio, and the total amount being
requested is $3, 360 or $840.00 per person.
Councilman Hansen asked if any money for this type of expenditure
had been placed in the budget.
Mr. Malm stated the only amount budgeted was to cover Walter
Blalark' s expenses in attending this conference.
Councilwoman Shales asked if other Commission members were
given the opportunity to attend conferences with the expenses
therefor expended by the City.
Mayor Verbic stated no, but other commission members have asked
about this possibility.
Councilman Waters stated that in the prior two years , members of
this commission were allowed to attend these conferences because
we were in the process of establishing a urban league here in
Elgin and it was felt that the information obtained at these
conferences would be beneficial to this process . However, at
the time the expense was discussed there was concern expressed
that the Council would be setting a precedent.
Mr. Johnson stated that the Commission did raise some funds this
past year and this money went to the City.
Mike Sarro stated the City received $ 1 , 000 revenue generated by
programs put on by the Commission.
Councilman Hansen suggested that two people could bring back the
same amount of information as four people could.
Mayor Verbic asked if there was any reason for sending four people.
Mr. Johnson stated this would allow further exposure to some of
the other Commission members and since the Conference this year
is closer the expenses would be no more than they had in the past.
Mayor Verbic asked if Walter Blalark was included in the four.
Mr. John stated no. It would be four Commission members and
Walter Blalark.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 3
Mayor Verbic stated that he agreed it would be good experience
for anyone who had not attended the Conference previously, but
he also felt that this item should be addressed at budget time.
Councilwoman Shales stated that obviously there is no policy
established concerning attendance at these conferences and she
recommended that the Council adopt a policy that would be
equitable in that it would provide for other commission members
to attend educational meetings .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
to approve the request for $3, 360. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Consideration of executing an agreement with the Illinois
Department of Transportation for the Poplar Creek Levee project.
The Planning Department advised the Council that on May 9, 1983
the Council passed a resolution authorizing the submission of a
grant application under the Housing and Community Development
Act of 1974. One component of this grant budget was an $85, 000
amount for the acquisition of real property required for the
site of the above project.
The subject agreement verifies the State ' s intent to fund the
construction of the levee if the city will ( 1 ) acquire all
necessary easements and rights-of-way, (2) ' operate and maintain
the project, (3) make necessary alterations to utilities , and
(4) enforce adequate floodplain regulations .
Annual operation expenses are projected at $2, 700 and no utility
alterations will be necessary.
Mr. Malmstated this item is on the Council ' s regular agenda for
formal action.
Discussion regarding the Central Business District Economic
Development Program.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated that the 1983 Economic Development Program
was more or less a demonstration project and the staff is
recommending that a resolution authorizing said program be passed.
Mayor Verbic stated that in reviewing the names on the Economic
Development Loan Review Committee he did not see the name of
Dennis Ward and he thought the Council had asked that Mr. Ward
be placed on this Committee.
Roger Dahlstrom stated that at the present time Mr . Ward is not
sure whether he might be interested in obtaining a loan in
connection with the restoration of his building.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 4
Mr. Main stated the resolution was on the Council ' s regular
agenda for formal action.
Discussion of the rank structure and appointment process to
certain ranks within the Police Department.
Mayor Verbic stated that he had received many complaints from
most of the 80% of the Police Officers who opposed the Police
Reorganization Plan that was passed 1981 .
Some of the thoughts expressed to the Mayor included:
( 1 ) Lack of incentive for self improvement since they see only
one promotional position available to them.
(2) The reorganization has thus provided a negative effect on
a person ' s desire for advancement.
(3) Patrolman are the ones who serve and meet the public. Their
attitude will reflect their performance with the public.
(4) A person entering the police profession should strive to
go beyond the minimum expected of him.
(5) Selection for employment and promotion which are based on
merit should be done by The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners
composed of citizens who have no direct connection to the
department concerned.
(6) This plan should be modified to provide for the appointment
of the captains by the Board of Fire and Police Commissions .
Councilman Gilliam asked if this matter had been discussed with
Administration.
Mayor Verbic replied no he had not discussed it with anyone other
than police officers .
Councilman Gilliam stated he thought this was the first step toward
politicizing the Police Department. Telling people to bypass
supervisors and to go to the elected Councilman. This is a bad
step and a step toward the Chicago system.
Councilman Gilliam further stated that he thought a deal was cut
that no personnel changes would take place until the new City
Manager came in.
Mayor Verbic stated that the Council is just being asked to
consider taking the procedure back to what it was .
Councilman Hansen stated the proposal did not indicate personnel
changes .
•
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 5
Councilwoman Shales stated that in light of the Council ' s meddling
and their agreement not to make any changes until a new City
Manager was hired, she would ask that the matter be tabled at
this time.
Councilman Gilliam stated he would second this motion.
Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam, Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
Chief Baird stated that back in 1981 only 20% of the force was
in favor of the plan but that has changed and now there are 80%
for the plan. The Chief also pointed out the reduction in
crime and asked if that reflected malcontent.
Councilman Gilliam stated it was foolish to discuss this any
further if the votes were already there.
Councilman Hansen stated that he resented Councilman Gilliam' s
remarks and asked the Mayor to call him out of order. Councilman
Hansen stated that he voted against the plan in 1981 .
Councilman Schmidt stated that he also voted against the plan
in 1981 .
Councilman Waters stated he thought it was ironic that the
Council did not want an advisory group to assist in hiring a
city manager, but they did want to impose an advisory group
on the Chief.
Councilman Hansen stated that he had been contacted by many
police officers and they did not have one good thing to say for the plan
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to have the Corporation Counsel prepare an ordinance for the
Council ' s review. Said ordinance to provide for the appointment
of future captains by the Police and Fire Board. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen
Gilliam, Shales and Waters .
Request from NTN Corporation for $ 15,000 to help share the cost
of relocating a storm sewer.
Mr. Malm stated that Engineering still has to approve this project
and they expect to do this shortly.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve the $ 15, 000 payment to NTN Corporation. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 6
Consideration of executing an agreement with Illinois Bell
for the installation of an Elgin Historic District sign.
The Council reviewed correspondence from Illinois Bell in which
permission is granted for the City to use the grass area between
the sidewalk and the bushes on the west elevation of the Illinois
Bell Central Office building at 255 East Chicago Street, for the
purpose of erecting a sign titled Elgin Historic District for
an unspecified period of time.
Permission was granted subject to certain terms and conditions
outlined in said correspondence.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve said agreement . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Adjournment to Council Meeting - 7: 55 p.m.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
for the Council to adjourn to the regular Council Meeting. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 9: 10 p.m.
Status report by the Planning Department on annexation activities
near Elgin ' s Northeastern boundary.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated that 51 surveys concerning annexation to the
City were mailed and 32 were returned by the July 1st deadline.
Of the surveys received 45% of the property owners expressed an
interest in annexation to the City. 18% of the property owners
did not wish to discuss annexation with the City, and 37% of the
property owners did not return the survey by July 1st.
A fiscal impact analysis of the Berner Estates Subdivision to the
City identifies revenues to the City in the amount of $22, 156.00
per year and expenditures by the City in the amount of $ 171 , 193 .96
per year for an annual deficity to the City in the amount of
$ 149, 037.96 .
Mayor Verbic felt the staff should make follow-up contacts with
intervening property owners due to lack of contiguity with the
corporate limits .
Several residents of the Berner Subdivision spoke in favor of
being annexed to the City.
Request by Councilwoman Shales to consider changes in the leaf
burning ordinance.
The Council reviewed a memorandum from Councilwoman Shales, which
set forth the following proposals :
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 7
""'` ( 1 ) That the period for leaf burning be extended to s ten week
period beginning the first full week in October.
(2) That only one-half of Elgin be allowed to burn during any
one-week period. Those east of the river would be allowed to
burn the first and third weeks of October and November and
the first week of December. Those west of the river would be
allowed to burn the second and fourth weeks of October and
November and the second week of December.
(3) That provision should be made for handling non-compliance
with the ordinance.
Mayor Verbic stated that Aurora tried such a program and it
just created problems .
Councilman Hansen stated that the ideal situation would be not
to burn at all and he wondered how much time and expense it
would generate to collect them.
Mr. Malm stated this would be an enormous task because of the
number of curb miles in Elgin and the equipment which would
be necessary in order to perform said task.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
for the staff to bring back information on what other cities
are doing, or additional options . Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Discussion of a proposed 1984 General Obligation Bond Issue.
Mr. Bolerjack advised the Council that according to the airport
property annexation agreement, the City must deposit $ 1 , 115, 000
in escrow by October 12, 1984. A tentative bid date of August
27th has been scheduled with monies delivered in early October.
The following projects were discussed by the Council :
Airport property - incentive payment $ 700, 000
Airport property - traffic signals 415, 000
Softball complex - Phase II 350, 000
Otter Creek 900,000
Weston Avenue Street improvement 110,000
Borden Square development 225 ,000
Mall Road 1 , 000,000
Financing Costs 30,000
$3 , 730, 000
Mayor Verbic pointed out that we are obligated to the airport
projects, Otter Creek and Weston Avenue.
rft. Roger Dahlstrom stated that the Borden Square project may be
eligible for tax incremental financing.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 8
rik Councilman Hansen stated that a portion of the airport and Weston
Avenue project costs would eventually come back to the City.
The Council directed the staff to work up three financial
scenario' s ( 1 ) Airport, Otter Creek and Weston Avenue; ( 2)
Airport, Otter Creek, Weston Avenue, Softball complex and
Borden Square, and (3) Airport, Otter Creek, Weston Avenue;
Softball complex, Boarden Square and the Mall Road.
Mr. Malm stated he would have this information for the Council
at the next meeting.
Continued discussion on a proposed early retirement program
for City employees .
Mr. Malm stated that when this proposal was submitted to the
Council at the last meeting the Council requested that the
Legal Department check into the legality of the program.
Subsequently, the Legal Department has rendered an opinion
which reflects a clean bill of health.
Mr. Aydt stated that he had meet with 9 out of the 13 employees
who would be eligible for said program and 5 indicated they
were interested, 1 was not interested and 1 indicated they
might be interested.
Councilman Waters stated he was in favor of the program as
long as it was a one time offer and he was prepared to make
a motion for the staff to prepare an ordinance for the next
meeting. Councilman Hansen seconded said motion. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request from Kenneth Wright to vacate the Maple Avenue right-of-
way between Bent Street and Villa.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated the city has not utilized this property for
some time and the Traffic Committee is of the opinion that its
future use is highly unlikely. The property is not valuable
by itself because of the shape of the property. The property
is valuable to Mr. Wright because he can not expand his car wash
business without it . Mr. Dahlstrom suggested offering the
property for $ 1 . 75 to $2.00 per square foot.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to offer the property to Mr. Wright for $2.00 per square foot.
Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of changing the authorized strength of the Fire
Department.
The Council reviewed a memorandum from the Personnel Department
which outlined the need to amend the current staffing ordinance.
Councilman Hansen stated that it looked like the number of bodies
would remain the same and if a Chief was hired from the outside
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
Page 9
there would be one extra deputy and then the ordinance would
have to be amended to reduce that one deputy.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
for the staff to prepare an ordinance for the next meeting.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request by Councilwoman Shales to discuss a petition being
circulated regarding the Council -Manager form of government.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she had asked that this matter
be placed on the agenda because she would like to know what the
petition says, what it would mean and what effect it might have
on the hiring of a new city manager.
Mr. Bill Sarto stated that he was circulating the petition
which called for a strong mayor form of government. Mr. Sarto
stated that Elgin has become too large for the present form
of government, the city should be divided up into wards , with
the citizens being represented in each ward by an alderman.
Mr. Sarto further stated that he had more than enough signatures
and he hoped to file the petitions with the Circuit Clerk and
have this referendum placed on the November ballot.
Councilman Andersen asked Mr. Sarto if he had commenced this
petition drive at the request of anyone on the Council .
Mr. Sarto stated there was no one on the Council involved with
this petition.
Councilman Waters stated that he felt the city manager search firm
should be advised of this petition and the possibility of it being
on the November ballot, and that Mr. Slavin be asked to come in
and talk with the Council regarding same.
Councilman Hansen stated that he was not in favor of stopping the
process for a city manager search, but he had no objection to
talking to Mr. Slavin.
Mayor Verbic stated that he would get in touch with Mr. Slavin
and then report back to the Council .
Discussion pertaining to the composition of the Building Commission
and Building Committees .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to run a paid ad in the Courier citing the positions that are
open with a brief description of the positions, the qualifications
(elk required and information as to where to apply. Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 9, 1984
r Page 10
Absentee Voting for the November General Election
The City Clerk advised the Council that Dave Pierce, Kane
County Clerk, was requesting that the City agree to provide
absentee voting services at the City Hall for Elgin Township
residents .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to approve said request. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic .
Nays : None.
Adjournment
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into Executive
Session to discuss acquisition of property, litigation, appointments
to boards and commissions and personnel . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned at 11 : 10 p.m.
Marie Yearman VCit Cler <
C
I
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 23 , 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6 : 35
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members
present : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman Gilliam.
Also present : Acting City Manager Robert Malm, Corporation
Counsel Erwin Jentsch, City Clerk Marie Yearman, and members
of staff.
Invitation by Cook County to participate in the proposed 1984
Single-Family Mortgage Revenue Bond program.
The Council reviewed a letter from the Board of Commissioners
of Cook County, Illinois , inviting Elgin to participate in the
1984 single-family mortgage revenue bond program. Under Section
103A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 , as amended, local
governments may sell tax-exempt bonds for the purpose of
providing below market rate mortgage loans to principally
first time buyers.
Mr. Malm stated local governments may participate under the
County' s program by only adopting a resolution of authority
to the County. Such a resolution has been prepared by the
Legal department and appears on the Council' s agenda tonight .
Request by the Engineering Department to contract with Hampton,
Lenzini and Renwick, Inc. for Phas III Engineering on the Wing
Street Improvement project .
The Council reviewed a recommendation from the Engineering
Department to authorize the execution of the Phase III Engineer-
ing contract with Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Inc, for a
total of $51, 957 . 53 . The participation by the City will be
limited to 25% , or $12 , 989 . 38 .
Mr. Malm stated this item also appears on the Council agenda
for formal passage.
Consideration of a Joint City/State Agreement covering Phase III
construction and engineering for the Wing Street Improvement
project
Mr. Malm advised the Council the Federal Highway AdmInistration
requires that such an agreement be entered into before they
will reimburse Federal funds for Phase III construction and
engineering.
The appropriate resolution authorizing said agreement
appears on the Council agenda for formal passage.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
(Pk July 23 , 1984
Page 2
Off-Street Parking Lot Ordinance
Mr. Malm stated the the Legal Department has completed the
review and preparation of the comprehensive amendment to the
off-street parking lot ordinance.
The only substantive change provides for the phased occupancy
of a multiple unit development with collective parking facilities.
More specifically, this revision to the occupancy permit section
of the ordinance would allow the occupancy of individual units
of a shopping center prior to the completion of all required
site work. Temporary occupancy permits would be issued provided
that surfacing requirements have been met in support of the
unit to be occupied.
This ordinance appears on the Council' s agenda for formal passage.
Consideration of an agreement with Donohue & Associates for the
design and inspection of the Chicago Street Combination Sewer
Rehabilitation.
By memorandum the staff recommended to the Council that they
` approve the agreement with Donohue & Associates for design and
inspection for the Chicago Street Combination Sewer Rehabilitation
for a not to exceed price of $10 , 000 .
Mr. Malm stated this item also appears on the Council agenda
for formal passage .
Request from the developer of the Elgin-O'Hare Business Center
for an advance of certain funds and to execute an acceptance
of an assignment .
The Council reviewed a letter from Attorney Richard Heimburg,
representing the developer, inquiring as to the availability
of funds from the city prior to October 12 , 1984 to pay for
the cost of certain improvements .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve this request . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Discussion of the possible conversion of Spring Street to two-
way traffic.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
to table this matter for three weeks. Yeas: Councilmen Hansen
r Schmidt , Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: Councilman
Andersen.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 23 , 1984
Page 3
Recommendation from the Traffic Committee to install STOP
signs on Jewett Street at Standish Street .
The Traffic Committee reported there have been a number of
accidents at this intersection during the past nine months
and they recommended that Stop signs be installed on Jewett
Street and Standish Street .
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to approve this recommendation. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Sale of Congdon Avenue Properties .
Mr. Sarro advised the Council an appraisal was done on these
properties and they were valued at $23 , 000 each. The Planning
Department felt that represented an asking price and that a
realistic return is probably $20 , 000 each.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to put these properties out for bid with a minimum bid of
$21,000 . Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None .
Request to approve Change Order No. 1 for the Historic District
signs .
Mr. Sarro reported to the Council that the Gifford Park
Association is requesting that two additional colors (red and green)
be incorporated into the map area of Sign Face C to more clearly
designate present location and the walking tour and greatly
enhance the attractiveness of these particular signs.
The cost of changing the signs would increase the amount of the
contract from $10 , 252 . 80 to $11, 332 . 80 .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to approve the subject Change Order. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays: None.
Request from the Public Works Department to acquire parts to
to repair a roadgrader.
Mel Dahl advised the Council their Galion roadgrader is in-
operable because of needed repairs. The repairs can be made
in house but the cost of the parts is $2 , 000 . Authorization
of this expenditure is requested of the Council.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to approve this request . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt , Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
July 23 , 1984
Page 4
Adjournment
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into
Executive Session to discuss acquisition of property, personnel,
appointments to boards and commissions and litigation. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays: None. The meeting was adjourned at 10 :40 p.m.
Marie Yearma' , City Clerk
tow
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 13 , 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6 : 30
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members
present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman Waters .
Also present : Acting City Manager Robert Malm, Corporation
Counsel Erwin Jentsch, City Clerk Marie Yearman, and members
of staff.
Review and discussion of the Prairie Path Project
Mr. Guy Prisco, project designer for this project presented
for the Council' s review preliminary sketches of the proposed
project . Mr. Prisco stated the development of the section of
the Prairie Path located in Elgin will provide an open space
pathway link to portions of the Prairie Path already or in the
process of being developed south of Elgin. The proposed
Prairie Path design project is envisioned as a joint city/county
collaboration.
The segment of the Prairie Path to be designed consists of
approximately L . * miles from the Elgin Central Business
District to the Milwaukee Road and Chicago Northwestern
Railroad tracks near the southern corporate limits of Elgin.
The width of the Prairie Path right-of-way varies from 40 feet
to 210 feet .
The Mayor and Council thanked Mr. Prisco for his presentation
and although no formal vote was taken and indication of approval
was evidenced by the Council.
Request by the Friends of the Fen to discuss the status of
of the Bluff Spring Fen.
Mr. Steven Byers representing Friends of the Fen stated that
the Fen has enjoyed remarkable support from a wide variety of
local groups and individuals committed to preserving the Fen.
Mr. Byers reminded the Council that at a meeting two years ago
the Council expressed an interest in the Fen and the Friends '
activities . Friends of the Fen was encouraged to explore
preservation options with the Metropolitan Sanitary District
of Greater Chicago, specifically a lease of the Fen to the
City in conjunction with permanent dedication of the site as
an Illinois Nature Preserve. This option would provide use
of the Fen by local residents without incurring acquisition
expenses.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
r August 13 , 1984
Page 2
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to support the work being done by the Friends of
the Fen. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt , Shales , and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None .
Consideration of the Elgin VFW Hall as a possible location
for the Head Start preschool center.
Paul F. Kudlach, Acting Executive Direction of Plus, Inc. ,
stated their Board was requesting the Council ' s consideration
of and guidance concerning the potential acquisition of the
Elgin VFW Hall, located at 262 S. Grove for its Elgin Head Start
preschool center. The Council has previously granted $85 , 000
in Communit Development Block Funds for the purchase of said
center.
Councilwoman Shales asked what the cost of renovation would be.
Mr. Kudlach stated they would have to obtain a study for this
but they would be able to get the money for renovation if the
building was purchased.
Roger Dahlstrom stated he would suggest a structure analysis
of the VFW building and some written commitment on the costs
of renovating the building. Mr. Dahlstrom stated the city
use proceed with this project in the same manner they did with
the Great Elgin Senior Center in order to maintain control
over the premises.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam for Plus to proceed with negotiations for the building,
subject to the recommendations of Roger Dahlstrom. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales and
Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Request from the Jayne Shover Easter Seal Rehabilitation Center,
Inc. for $10 , 000 to help fund recreational services to the
disabled.
Peggy Muetterities, Executive Director of the Center stated
that they have approval for funding from United Way in 1985
for this program, but in addition they need this funding from
the City. They expect to have 200 participates in the program,
consisting of adults and children.
Mayor Verbic asked what the number of children were being
served by this program from out of town was and was there
any contribution by these other cities towards the program.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 13 , 1984
(1011- Page 3
Mrs. Muetterities stated they would be about 150 participants
from Elgin, and that the other cities were being asked to
contribute.
Councilman Gilliam asked how we can justify giving this money
with all the agencies that are in need of support .
Councilman Hansen suggested that the funds should come out of
the Parks and Recreation Department budget .
Councilwoman Shales stated the Council should be thinking about
the need in the community for such a program.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to turn the request over to the Parks and Recreation Department
for funding through their Department and let them come back with
a recommendation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None. Abstained: Councilwoman
Shales.
Consideration of the 1984 Tax Levy Ordinance as it pertains to
the "Truth in Taxation Act"
emk The Council reviewed a proposed resolution determing that amounts
of money estimated to be necessary to be raised by taxation upon
taxable property in the City of Elgin for 1984 is$6 , 200 , 561, which
is not in excess of 105% of the amount of ad valorem property tax
extended for the year 1983 against taxable property in the City
of Elgin.
It was also determined that the amount of money extended estimated
to be n ecessary to be raised by taxation upon taxable property in
Special Service Area Number Two for the year 1984 is $202 , 020 and said
amount is in excess of 105% of the amount extended upon the levy
for 1983 .
Councilman Hansen pointed out that next year this will have to
be raised to $385 , 000
Gunnar Carlson stated that he had prepared a study and submitted
same to the City which showed that the $4 . 00 rate would not be
enough and the City would have to meet a shortfall each year. Mr.
Carlson stated he was again asking the City to abolish this
District because the facility benefitted the entire city.
Mayor Verbic stated he would like information from the staff as
to what steps could be taken to declare this project a public
benefit .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 13 , 1985
Page 4
emk
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to have the staff check into the legality of declaring this
improvement a public benefit and the estimated costs thereof.
Yeas: Councilmen Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales and Mayor
Verbic. Nays: None. Abstained: Councilman Andersen.
Request from the developers of the Elgin-O"Hare Business Center
for certain considerations .
The Council reviewed requests from the developers to eliminate the
the posting of a completion bond or letter of credit in light
of the fact that , under the Annexation Agreement , the City is
coming up with a total of $2 , 615 , 000 to cover the cost of the
installation of public improvements for the project .
The second request has to do with the elimination of the deposit
of inspection fees . Hampton, Lenzini & Renwick have been hired
by the developer to do full inspection of the land improvements
and they are registered engineers known to the City and it would
seem the provisions of this ordinance can be met by the appoint-
ment of Hampton, Lenzini & Renwick to do the inspections required
thereunder.
Councilman Hansen did not think we should impose any more costs
on the developer than are necessary for our own protection and
the city will have staff review over these improvements.
Counsel Jentsch stated the Escrowee will not pay out until the
City authorizes them to do so.
Charles Burnidge asked if $32 , 000 could be taken from the escrow
account to pay for the inspection fees.
Counsel Jentsch stated this must be approved by the bond counsel.
The Council did not vote on this item but suggested that the
legal staff come back with some recommendation as to how to
handle this matter.
Continued discussion regarding the vacation of a portion of
Maple Avenue.
The Legal Department advised the Council that pursuant to their
direction the property owners abuting Maple Avenue ( Kenneth
Wright , Robert and James Schroeder and Bernard Cavitt ) were
advised the the City would vacate the street upon payment of $2 .00
per square foot . Wright and Schroeder responded that they
thought the price was too high.
Mayor Verbic asked if the staff felt this price was fair.
Roger Dahlstrom state there are all kinds of property values up
there, nobody else would be interested in this portion, but they
need it for expansion.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 15 , 1984
Page 5
rm.
The Council indicated they would like to keep the cost at
$2 . 00 .
Recommendation to enter into a contract with Producers Association
for the performance of Star Blast .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
to approve the above recommendation. Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays:
None.
Status report on the Mclntosch Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Project .
The staff advised the Council that the estimated cost per front
foot of this project is $66 . 32 for the standard 8 inch diameter
sewer. This cost is contingent upon the property owners paying
by a cooperative or special agreement . The Finance Department
advises the cost could be as much as 40% more if the project is
done by special assessment .
4 of thw 31 property owners signed a petition objecting to the
sanitary sewerand the staff is looking for some direction from
the Council as to how to proceed with this project .
tow The Council indicated they would like to have the staff meet
with these people again, pointing out the need for the sewers
and giving them the information as to the savings by entering
into an agreement with the city as opposed to forming a special
assessment district .
Review of design plans to improve certain peripheral CBD
parking lots.
The Council authorized staff to proceed with the plans , as
exhibited,
Consideration of two resolutions regarding the expenditure
of MFT funds .
The Council directed that these resolutions be placed on
the next Council agenda.
Consideration of approving Change Order No. 3 for the Eastside
Water Transmission Main.
The Council directed that this Change Order be placed on the
next Council agenda.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 15 , 1984
Oage6
(Pk
Consideration of approving Change Order No. 3 for Phase 1 of the
Elgin Softball Complex.
Mayor Verbic suggested that in view of the way the work has been
done on this project that the Council should not authorize any
further payments to the contractor, and the staff should arrange
to have the consultants present at the next meeting to discuss
all of the problems which presently exist .
Request by Elgin Eby Brown to use a portion of the right-of-way
for foundation footings for a proposed zero lot line building
addition.
John Schmidtke stated that the present ordinance requires a
setback of 15 feet and this would necessitate a variance.
The proposed location of the ramp and loading dock would
probably fall within 25 feet of the intersection.
Assistant Corporation Blondin suggested that all the parties
to this matter come in so the City could see just what they
would need and if same is possible.
Borden Square Update .
The Council was advised by Stevens Associates, developers for
the above project they had secured a private sector commitment
for $2 . 7 million to match a $400 , 000 level of public participation.
Stevens has engaged Stetson Services , Inc. , to market space
and negotiate leases for Borden Square.
Police Reorganization Plan
Councilman Hansen asked if there was any way the Police
Department could revert back to the way it was run before
the Captains program was put into effect .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
for the staff to draft an ordinance replacing the present police
organizational plan with the plan that called for sergeants smf
lieutenants , with testing for such positions to again be done
by the Police and Fire Board. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, and Shales.
Consideration of vacating a storm sewer easement involving the
Elgin Corproation expansion.
The Council directed that the staff proceed to have an
ordinance drawn and placed on the Council agenda for formal
passage.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 15 , 1984
Page 7
Adjournment
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss acquisition of property,
litigation, appointments to boards and commissions and personnel.
Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales
and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None. The meeting was adjournd at
11: 50 p.m.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 27 , 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 : 30 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall. Members
present :Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None. Councilman Gilliam arrived
at 7 :20 p.m.
Also present " Acting City Manager Robert Malm, Corporation
Counsel Erwin Jentsch, City Clerk Marie Yearman, and members
of staff.
Request from the Community Crisis Center for the City Council
to reconsider its restriction related to the location of a
proposed new facility.
Gretchen Vapnar advised the Council that after much looking on
the part of their Board they found the needs of the Center limit
choices in terms of amount of space needed, immediate need for
more space and limited relocation and renovation monies. The
further restriction of locating outside the Historic District
has all but eliminated any viable options .
Mayor Verbic stated the Center has the house at 600 Marguerite
in excellent condition, but he realized the have outgrown the
space provided there. The Mayor further stated that he felt
strongly about the work being done in the community by the
Center and he had tried to act as a conduit in purchasing
the U-46 property on Gifford which did not materialize.
Charles Behrens of the Gifford Park Association stated they
did not have anything against the Crisis Center and agreed the
community is in need of such services , but to say that 4 South
Gifford is the only place suitable he does not buy. Mr. Behrens
said there are presently 8 social agencies within their district
now and it is not fair to place another one there.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman Shales
to rescind an earlier restriction by the Council regarding the
Crisis Center move to 4 South Gifford.
Councilman Hansen stated he was all infavor of the Crisis Center
and the work that they do in the community, but the Council is
in the process of trying to correct the last twenty years of
bad placement of social agencies in the past . Councilman
Hansen asked how much money had been spent in renovating this
neighborhood.
(ow Roger Dahlstrom stated in excess of three million.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 27 , 1984
Page 2
Mayor Verbic called for the vote on the motion made and
seconded. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Schmidt , Shales and
Mayor Verbic. Nays: Councilman Hansen.
Request from Bruce Dahiquist for the City to file an application
to deignate Elgin as a Certified Local Government .
Mr. Bruce Dahiquist advised the Council the State of Illinois
Department of Conservation has just sent information regarding
the availability of federal funds for historic preservation
activities. Based upon federal guidelines , a portion of that
funding will be set aside for communities which are Certified
Local Governments . The concept of a Certified Local Government
will certainly be addressed in the final preservation ordinance
prepared by the Elgin Heritage Commission.
Mr. Dahlquist further stated the Commissions only chance to
take advantage of this is to file by September 4th , and he
suggested the Planning staff submit the application and then
the Heritage Commission will proceed to draft a preservation
ordinance for the Council' s review.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
for the staff to submit said application to the State. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Discussion regarding the possible conversion of Spring Street
to two-way.
The staff advised the Council that the primary purpose of streets
in the Central Business District should be to provide access to
the area, eliminate circuitous travel and to accommodate intra-
area trips . Emergency vehicles should be able to reach any portion
of the area in a reasonable direct manner. Spring Street
because of its continuity should play a major role in moving
traffic into the CBD.
Attorney Lyle Brown, representing Eby-Brown stated that Eby-
Brown would be moving from thier site by February 15 , 1985 ,
and they were requesting that this change be delayed until
such time as this move takes place.
Councilman Hansen stated he hoped to decision to move had
nothing to do with tampering with the street system and he
was in favor of granting the delay.
Councilman Waters stated he was ready to vote for the street
conversion, subject to the requested delay by Eby-Brown.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
em- August 27 , 1984
Page 3
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters to address this matter at an appropriate time as
deemed by staff. Yeas: Counilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt , Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Park and Reclamation Commission to install
a water line to the softball complex.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the above recommendation. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays:
None.
Discussion concerning the fiscal impact of abolishing the tax
levy for Special Service Area #2 .
The Council reviewed a memorandum from James Bolerjack assessing
the impact on various property owners and the City of the Special
Service Area #2 tax district did not have a tax levy.
Councilman Hansen felt it would be appropriate to discuss this
matter further during budget time.
Parking on Spiess Deck
Mr. Bolerjack stated that after talking with John Spiess
he was informed that John Spiess was only interested in
retaining a small number of spaces for employees to park
and he was not interested in any permit parking. Mr.
Bolerjack is to continue to negotiate terms with Spiess
and bring this information back to the Council.
Continued discussion of a reorganization of the rank structure
within the Police Department .
Mayor Verbic stated he would like to table this matter until the
next meeting.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to table this matter to the next meeting. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays: None.
Continued discussion regarding a leaf burning ordinance.
Mr. Malm stated the staff is still gathering information, Fred
Carlson is in the process of obtaining information from the EPA.
Couincilman Waters stated he supported the banning of burning
leaves because we are now in a position where it is necessary
to protect those in the minority.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
August 27 , 1984
Page 4
Councilman Hansen stated that if burning was going to be banned
then Public Works should come back to the Council with some
recommendation as to the cost of labor and equipment to pick
the leaves up.
Mr. Malm said it would be impossible to get the equipment in
time for this year.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to keep the ordinance to allow burning for this year. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Schmidt . Nays: Councilmen Hansen,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
not to allow burning of leaves. Yeas: Councilmen Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen and Schmidt .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to ban burning and implement a city awareness program for composts,
bagging, and for the staff to be prepared to pick up leaves at a
cost of no more than $100 , 000 , plus capital costs of $130 , 000 .
Yeas: Councilmen Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
(Pk Nays: Councilmen Andersen and Gilliam.
Variance from the Illinois Pollution Control Board for combined
sewer overflow treatment .
The Council reviewed a request from Al Pagorski for the City and
the Sanitary District to JOin in in obtaining this variance.
Additional engineering work is required for the variance
and the city and sanitary district each would be responsible
for 121 percent (estimated to be between $1, 565 and $1, 885 )
of the total engineering fees .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to above the Sanitary District request . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays: None.
Adjournment
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt , Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays: None. The meeting was adjourned at 10 : 55 p.m.
Marie Yearma City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 10 , 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6 : 40
p.m. , in the Councl Conference Room of City Hall. Members
present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman Schmidt .
Also present : Acting City Manager Robert Malm, Corporation
Counsel Erwin Jentsch, City Clerk Marie Yearman, and members
of staff.
Request by the Elgin Historical Society for the City to co-sign
an architectural agreement for the rehabilitation of Old Main.
The Council reviewed a letter from Charles Burnidge together
with contract documents for the interior rehabilitation of
Old Main.
Mr. Malm stated this agreement departs from the terms that the
Council and staff had previously discussed, it would call for a
bidding process and it would obligate the city financially.
Attorney Dan Blondin informed the Council that he has been
advised the Elgin Academy does not want any part or obligation
for this restoration.
Ben Rifken stated that since the city is the owner of the
building the Historical Society wanted them to be a part of
the agreement , but they have never implied there was any
financial aid expected.
Mr. Rifken asked that the Council consider omitting the Academy
from the lease and when the lease is signed the Society will
sign a contract with Burnidge omitting the city as owner.
Mr. Rifken stated the record should show that the Historical
Society in no way opposes, but encourages the use by the Elgin
Academy.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Coumcilman Andersen
for the city to pick up the $9200 . 00 cost in renovating the 2
rooms reserved for use by the Academy. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays:
Councilman Gilliam.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales for the City to sign the lease with the Historical
Society omiting the Elgin Academy from said lease. Yeas:
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
nays : Councilman Gilliam.
(00w- Update as to the status of the Hawthrone Hills agreement .
Attorney Dan Blondin stated that the city does not have any
prospects who are interested in this property.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 10 , 1984
Page 2
(Pk
Mr. Malm stated the bids which appear on tonight ' s Council
agenda were obtained to give the Council some idea of what
the renovation costs would be , but since there is no
interest in the site Mr. Malm suggested that the bids be
rejected. .
1984 tax levy ordinance
Mr. Malm stated the total amount of increase is 3 . 6%, and
this ordinance appears on the Council' s regular agenda for
approval. If the ordinance is approved as it is , the Council
will still have the option to abate it in December.
Consideration of renewing lease agreements for certain buildings
on South Grove Avenue.
Mr. Sarroadvised the Council the city currently has leases for
2 South Grove properties which expire at the end of this month
as follows:
Current tenntosed
138 S. Grove School District U-46 $1800/Mo. $1600/Mo.
141 S. Grove Heritage Auto Brokers $ 450/Mo. $ 450/Mo.
few Both leases would continue to have a 90 day cancellation
provision in the event the city would need these properties
as part of a larger redevelopment on South Grove Avenue.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, second by Councilman Hansen
to approve renewal of the subject leases . Yeas: Councilmen
Andersen, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Abstained: Councilman Gilliam.
Request from Councilman Andersen to discuss building a roadway
through the Mall.
Mr. Malm stated that Councilman Andersen had requested the
staff to obtain an estimate of costs to put a roadway in,
and such an estimate had been submitted by Illinois Hydraulic,
in an approximate amount of $694 , 641. 60 .
Councilman Andersen stated that he had seen lower estimates .
With the Gromer development going ahead down there now is the
appropriate time to open up the roadway. Chicago Street
is a good example where all the stores are now filled up and
it is due to the moving traffic on the street .
Mr. Malm stated he felt releases of waiver could be obtained
from the Mall property owners if there was no financial
participation or further assessment in opening up the Mall.
Councilman Waters stated he recalled very little response
on the part of the property owners, and the real question
is would they be willing to continue to pay the current Mall
assessment .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 10 , 1984
(Pk Page 3
Councilman Hansen asked if there would be any federal money that
could be used for this project . .
Mr. Dahlstrom stated he contacted the EDA office in Chicago and
they did not feel funding would be available for this project .
Mayor Verbic asked about State or Job ' s Bill funding.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated he could apply for this but you need some
commitment from the private sector which we can match.
Councilman Gilliam stated he believed we would have to pay for
this or it would not go. Councilman Gilliam stated he would
make a motion that the Council would be willing to pay for
the project if releases are obtained from the property owners.
Councilman Andersen seconded said motion.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam. Nays: Councilmen Hansen,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Abstained: Councilwoman Shales.
Councilman Waters stated the commission who are to implement
the downtown plan should be consulted first about this project
(Pk and their recommendation brought back to the Council.
Councilman Hansen stated he was not in favor of putting this
cost on the taxpayer' s back when we have already burdened them
with 4 million for the Sears building, 3 million for the parking
deck, 1 million for improvements to the Spiess deck and $100 , 00
for the Douglas and Spring Street improvements .
Councilman Waters made a motion to table this issue, which died
for lack of a second.
Councilman Andersen made a motion to put the project out for bids,
which died for lack of a second.
Councilman Hansen made a motion to make application for EDA funds
and to have the land on South Grove appraised, which died for lack
of a second.
Consideration of establishing standard fees for vacating City
property.
The Council reviewed costs submitted by the Enginering Department
and the Legal Department which are incurred in vacating City
property.
rCouncilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
for the staff to establish fees which will recover all costs
when vacating city property. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 10 , 1984
Page 4
Discussion concerning a proposed Gilberts Sanitary Sewer
Treatment Plant which would discharge into Tyler Creek.
Mr. Dahlstrom advised the Council that the Holiday Park Corporation
of DesPlained has proposed to develop a four hundred eleven unit
manufactured housing project on 75 acres of land located within
the corporate limits of the Village of Gilberts . The proposal
provides for the construction of a sanitary treatment package
plant with a point souce discharge into the headwaters of
Tyler Creek
Both the County of Kane and the Sanitary District of Elgin have
filed objections to the proposed wastewater treatment plan due to
the negative environmental impact on Tyler Creek.
The staff is recommending that the City of Elgin should also
file an objection with the IEPA.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
for staff to file an objection to this proPosal with the IEPA.
Yeas: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters ,
and Mayor Verbic.
Request by Councilman Hansen to discuss the 1985 budget process .
Councilman Hansen stated that in the past he has been opposed
to a line item discussion and he thought it was proper to
direct the staff to bring in a form of budget , projecting the
1984 expenditures plus a 4% increase. This would save many evenings
of haggeling over the budget .
Mayor Verbic stated he knew many cities who do this rather than
going through line items .
Councilman Hansen did not think the Council should rubber stamp
a budget , but should take it home and bring back ideas to the
Council.
Councilman Waters stated the Council would not get the best
recommendations from the staff by using this method and he
had no fault with the process we now have and have had in the
past . Councilman Waters pointed out it is the Council' s
responsibility to review the budget .
Councilman Gilliam stated this would be a guessing game for
the staff, this way they have guidelines .
Councilman Hansen stated he would make a motion to try his
suggested budget process this year. Councilman Andersen said
00ft. he would second the motion. Yeas: Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays: Councilman
Waters .
Committeeof the Whole Meeting
September 10, 1984
Page 5
Request to upgrade the aerial equipment in use at Fire Station
#1 with a 1977 American LaFrance Quint .
The Council reviewed an offer from Mr. Herb Weyers , representative
of American LaFrance, to buy a 102-Foot American LaFrance Water
Chief Quintfrom the Village of Broadview, for an estimated cost
of $160, 000. Mr. Weyers stated he would try to sell the city' s
present snorkel truct and it should bring between $70 , 000 and
$75 , 000 in the used apparatus marketplace. This program would
provide Elgin with the opportunity of acquiring a much more
versatile piece of apparatus for about $85 , 000 to $90 , 000 .
Mr. Malm stated it would make sense if we could meet the terms
with Mr. Weyers, and there was money in the budge to replace
the boom. The closed cab makes good sense and this would be
a younger unit .
Councilman Hansen asked if the last truck is paid for.
Mr. Bolerjack stated this was financed over 4 years but it was
paid off early with bond proceeds and it would have been paid
off in 1985 .
Councilman Hansen stated that he believed in buying new
equipment because it is most cost effective to buy new.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to try and buy the used unit from Boardview subject to the sale
of our present truck. Yeas: Councilmen Gilliam, Shales and
Waters. Nays: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen and Mayor Verbic.
Adjournment
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss appointments to boards
and commissions , personnel, acquisition of property and
litigation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays: None. The meeting was
adjourned at 10 : 30 p.m.
4
Marie Yearmanti,. City Clerk
S
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 7 : 10
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present : Malm, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
Consideration of amendments to the liquor control ordinance
recommended by the Elgin Liquor Commission.
The Council reviewed a draft amendment to the Elgin liquor
control ordinance containing the following proposed revisions :
1 . Elimination of bartender ' s permit requirement.
2. Elimination of the restriction on the nunber of Class A and
B Licenses which can be issued.
3 . Amendment of Section 6 .06.070 eliminating the option to pay
license fees in two installments and instead requiring a lump
sum payment at the time of application or renewal .
Elimination of prohibition on the issuance of a liquor license
to a person or business engaged primarily in the retail sale
of items other than alcoholic beverages .
Mayor Verbic : At the time we discussed these changes we began
our conversation with the fact that we have two catagories of
license, Class A and Class B, on which we have a limitation on
the number of licenses which have been issued over the years .
The Class B Licenses are currently based on a population factor,
one license for every 4500. After much discussion and listening
to people representing the package liquor establishments,we felt
that it would be best in order to accommodate a number of people
who have applied for licenses to open up the licenses for the
Class B Licenses .
We also discussed all point sales and also the elimination of
bartender permits . All point sales are prevalent throughout
the State of Illinois and across the country.
The consensus at that point was to increase and open up the
Class B licenses to anyone who was eligible, and as long as
there was only one other restrictive license left, and that
was a Class A, that Class A also should be opened up for
anyone who wished to go into the retail sale of alcohol .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 2
rink Councilwoman Shales : I voted to have this presented to the
Council for discussion, but I did mention that evening, and
I am still interested in pursuing some manner of control so
that if we do open it up, I am not comfortable with opening
it up entirely, I would like to have some type of control .
We talked about the Rockford ordinance which charges $ 10,000,
or some other kind of fee, creating a new license. The other
way is to tie to the square footage of the establishment for
new licenses, so that not every small corner grocery store
or gas stations , or individuals could open up a liquor store.
Councilman Schmidt : Did the Commission when they want to
open this up, as in a grocery store or drug store, does that
mean it would be in a certain section of the store, purchased
24 hours a day, or what did they have in mind.
Mayor Verbic: No they would have to abide by our liquor hours
as far as the sale of liquor and from my observation of stores
throughout the country I have noticed the liquor has been
placed in one particular location. In other words they do
do not have it scattered throughout the stores , but they have
it in one location within the store.
Councilman Schmidt : So that area could be closed off .
Mayor Verbic : Yes . We have that presently with the Osco
Stores . The amendment provides for the elimination of this
provision and would allow the Class B license holder to
have it wherever he would like it throughout the store.
Councilman Schmidt : That would also mean that any check-out
person can take the money for the sale of any liquor, and this
could be mixed in with the groceries . Is that correct.
Mayor Verbic : That is correct .
Tom Hoppe : Is ' nt there any age limit for people who can sell
liquor.
Councilman Gilliam: Are you sure there is ' nt any State law
on how old you have to be in order to sell liquor.
Counsel Jentsch : Mr. Mayor, I will have to review that.
Mayor Verbic : Corporation Counsel stated we would have to go
by the State liquor law and if it is stated in there that it
has to be a certain age we would have to abide by it in the
City of Elgin.
eik
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 3
"'` Attorney Ben Rifken : I am specifically representing Len Didier,
James Osborne, Nick Garris , James Griffin and Jerry Block.
There are certain views and observations that these gentlemen
have expressed to me and I think that some of them have some
validity, and certainly we have an ax to grind, but everyone
in this situation has an ax to grind.
There is no question that during the last three years the
attitude of this country relative to alcohol has changed. That
certainly is true in regard to the country and this city' s
approach to the handling of driving under the influence, or
alcohol abuse with minors and the other growing problems that
are in this community.
For us at this time as a community to all of a sudden open up
the control of this area of our lives would go against certainly
the National trend and also it would go against the grain of
everything that has been going on in this city in regard to
the law enforcement relative to this problem, not for many
years , but certainly for the last few years .
There is a recognition by everyone that the development down
at the South end of Grove Avenue is good for everybody, including
my clients in the long run. It is something that the City needs
r and we understand the commercial concern of the people going in
there relative to the licenses that they want. However, it
would be counter-productive in the long run to merely open it
up and open up pandora ' s box. This really makes no sense, I
think some hardened decisions have to be made and I think there
certainly have to be more meetings where we can talk about what
many of these alternatives are, but if this result of this is
no limits as to the number of liquor outlets in this city,
certainly we are going to have problems for the regulators that
that we pay from the Council in regards to the Fire Department,
Police Department and the Agencies having to do with alcohol
abuse. Because that is true I think we should think very slowly
and broadly as to what the implications are.
Where are the real problems of abuse, where can they most easily
happen. Usually not in the large stores because the large stores
have large staffs , there is certainly a better means to observe
people in and out of parking lots, because they are well lighted
parking lots, that is just a given. If there is going to be
abuse, the abuse is going to come most probably at very small
establishments . If there are no limits on these establishments
we are going to have a great many marginal people getting into
the business . Now those marginal people will get into the
business not necessarily because they know what they are doing,
but because the opportunity is there. They will probably last
for a year or two, but as we all know who are businessmen and
who have made decisions with our own money, if there is a cash
flow problem towards the end of a business and things are
falling apart, it will be very difficult to not look the other
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 4
way when minors either are paying other people to buy liquor
for them, or going in buying liquor themselves . If in fact
the City has a situation where these outlets can be anywhere
and everywhere and they are not limited at all , it seems to
me we are asking for grave trouble and it would be something
that would be very difficult for this Council later on to
justify.
My clients know that even with the expansion into the new
development that there is still a chance that it will be
difficult for them to remain in business . That is a challenge
that they are willing to take on, but they don ' t think that
it is necessary that they and their investments be involved
in an attack from not only new larger competitors from a
development area that is necessary, but also from smaller
competitors who are really getting into it for all of the
wrong reasons .
We think that probably the best approach for this , realizing
that development down there should go, because it is good
for everyone, would be to set up a special district. If
there is a need at this time for several of the stores in
this new development to have liquor licenses it seems to me
that we can sit down and we can write a proper statute that
fulfill the constitutional requirements and allow this
problem to pass without instead reacting with a broad rush,
which in the long run would hurt all of us .
We would suggest that since this is something that is going
to be talked about in the next several weeks that my
organization be given the opportunity, because there are many
possible alternatives . We would like to have imput with the
Council in drafting a new ordinance that would allow for the
need. Mr. Gromer and Walgreen need a license, but that does
not mean that we have to change the entire structure of our
City relative to our approach towards alcohol .
We are willing to work with you, a lot is at stake for us , my
clients have been dealing with the City for many years, based
upon certain assumptions that the City has given to them
relative to the cost of the licenses and the need for the
restrictions , and that certainly has been involved in their
initial costs for buying businesses, or putting cash up for
businesses . We think there is room for compromise and we
would hope that you would allow us to work with you.
Councilman Waters : I would direct a question to Corporation
Counsel Jentsch. What has been proposed and I guess Jeff if
I understand correctly, you propose this in terms of a special
district, creating the perimeter of a special district as
opposed to an ordinance city-wide. I would assume that one
of the concerns that we would have to deal with would be
any kind of an ordinance that would be discriminatory to
someone else within the community that might feel they had
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 5
rft the same provisions , the same rights or privileges therefor.
Is an ordinance on the basis of a special district a possibility.
Counsel Jentsch: I am not prepared to tell you whether it is
or is ' nt. I think that you have been correctly speculative
that there are problems , there may be cases of unreasonable
classifications , discrimination, but I have not looked at it
and I do not know if it is possible to do so within the scope
of the liquor laws .
The same would apply to the question of the $ 10, 000 fee, I
understand that the City of Rockford has done it, but I have
not investigated whether or not it is appropriate or not,
especially in view of the recent developments in the area of
anti trust, but obviously the purpose of the $ 10,000 is a
licensing control and that is what the anti trust is all about
not doing.
Councilman Waters : My recollection of earlier discussion of
this was that a prescription based upon size of operation
would not be discriminatory that there could in fact be a
sound basis for such an ordinance.
Counsel Jentsch : There could be another type of license based
upon size. At one time I think the Council did use such a
proposal . At one time there was a proposal to issue licenses
to supermarkets with not less than 20,000 or 30,000 square feet,
as an additional license.
Councilwoman Shales : We now have a license that says that any
restaurant that seats 150 or more automatically gets a license.
Counsel Jentsch : There are no restrictions on the number of
such licenses .
Councilwoman Shales : Could we do the same thing with package
liquors that any store, or drug store, that has x number of
square feet would automatically get a liquor license. The
others would stay as they are, the ones we presently have.
Counsel Jentsch: Those are very difficult questions and we
would have to spend a considerable amount of time in order
to answer them intelligently.
Councilwoman Shales : I would like to have this and the
Rockford procedure looked into.
Richard Gromer: I appreciate the chance of making a presentation
again and sort of reviewing what we said to the Liquor Commission
last week.
(ow
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 6
Our development on National Street depends upon a number of
things, one is that we are able to get a liquor license, not
because we need it to run a supermarket, but mainly because
I am confident the consumers and citizens of Elgin would like
to at certain times purchase beer, wine and other products
along with food products . We feel that it rounds out what
a supermarket is all about. To be successful you need a
large store, you need the products that the customer want
to shop, groceries, meat, produce, bakery, flowers , delicatessen,
beer, wine, liquor and maybe other new things . There are a lot
of new things coming along almost every week.
In no way would I say this to put a hinderance or handicap
on my fellow independent businessmen in Elgin there are a
lot of good ones that we have here. We are near the bottom
of the list on our application for a liquor license that I
came to you sometime ago on, at the preliminary planning for
our National Street Clock Tower Plaza Development. Since
that time we have changed our direction just a little bit,
we are having next to us another major tenant, and a very
ordinary and regular business neighbor to the supermarket,
because you can see them all around the City of Elgin, and
our neighbor there will be Walgreen Drug .
Walgreen Drug ' s operation is such that they would not come
to Elgin, nor would they be my neighbor, without being able
to have their full fledged, full line of products in a
grocery store, which includes package liquor, and I guess
I could say selfishly I would like to have no body sell groceries
around town and limit the number of supermarkets .
It is critical to the financing of our project, in fact it is
vital , that the financial institution financing this large
project needs Walgreen ' s lease as well as ours . We could not
get the financing for our project without a Walgreen lease
and therefore I ask that the City Counci consider and adopt
a resolution that was passed by the Liquor Control Commission
several days that would fill the needs for our project.
I would also like to speak to the point of all point sales .
In the modern merchandising in supermarkets it is quite common,
and ordinary, and regular to sell and merchandise of beer and
wine throughout the store. Not every place but maybe with the
deli or the cheese department, we would have a line display.
Surely when you saw the plans for our store we are going to
have a separate check out counter for liquor itself, and if
you go out into the neighboring towns you will see that they
have it right on the grocery shelves .
I am sure there is some age restriction on the people that can
work and if you check this out it is probably an adult, right
now I guess it is 18 years of age, it might go to 21 and we
see no problem with that in our operation. Again I would ask
that you adopt a modern liquor ordinance for the City of Elgin
that would put us on a par with other progressive cities of
our size, in and around our State and throughout the United States.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 7
Councilman Schmidt : Did I understand you correctly that on this
all points for the check out counter that for the hard liquor
you would have a special counter, but you would like all points
for beer and wine.
Richard Gromer : It happens to be that our design has a separate
location for hard liquor. We would like it and we think it is
appropriate that the other products like beer and wine would be
on display and merchandised and available throughout the store.
Councilman Gilliam: I would like to see if we could develop
something that would accommodate Mr. Gromer and maybe even
some of the bigger stores that we have already allowed to have
a liquor license, but I am opposed to the smaller B ' s being
wide open. I don ' t have any trouble with the grocery stores .
I don ' t have any trouble with the all point sales that does
not bother me, but to have Class B licenses unlimited where
any body can get one, I have trouble with that one. I hope
that we can direct the Corporation Counsel to look into some
type of alternative, bring it back to us to work out.
Councilman Hansen: Councilman Gilliam, how would you select
or determine which size establishment you wanted to permit to
be in business .
Councilman Gilliam: I think Councilwoman Shales made a statement
regarding square footage as one means of doing it. I think that
is the only means I can think of right now, but I think that if
we can direct the Corporation Counsel there may be some other
means .
Councilman Hansen : I would presume that the square footage would
have to be small enough to accommodate a Walgreen Drug store.
Councilman Gilliam: I am interested in the Legal Department
finding a way so we could issue these licenses without opening
the B licenses up. I am sure there is a way to do it. I don ' t
know the answer to that Councilman Hansen.
Councilman Schmidt : I don ' t know if you can answer this or if
the City Clerk can. How many grocery stores do we now have
waiting for licenses .
Marie Yearman: Three for Eagle, one for Gromer, one for Walgreen,
one Revco, one for K-Mart , one for Zayre, and Len Didier, owner
of Town West has had an application on file for two years for
an additional Class B license. I have also had inquiries from
all of the Gas & Grubs, White Hen Pantrys and 7- 11 .
Councilman Gilliam: It is possible that we could say that a
store could have a license that would have x amount of square
footage, i .e. , Osco, K-Mart, Eagles, they have a certain amount
of square footage and I think there is a minimum for grocery
stores .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 8
Mayor Verbic: I think the law of supply and demand would come
in at that particular point. I don ' t think that anyone con-
templating selling liquor with the liquor license cost, dram
shop and all the expenses associated would even think about
going into the business .
Councilman Gilliam: You mean the smaller stores . I don ' t think
dram shop costs that much.
Mayor Verbic : It was explained to us last week that the overall
profit amounted to 2%, that was mentioned several times .
Councilman Gilliam: If you look at the 7- 1l , White Hen what
do you see but young kids hanging around there playing the
video machines and I hate for us ---- I think Mr, Rifken made
a point that you hate to see Elgin have a liquor store on
every corner, in every place that you go to buy gas or bread,
you have a liquor store . I don ' t think Elgin is ready for that.
Councilwoman Shales : I am very supportive of opening it up,
but I am also supportive of some kind of control so that it
is just not opened up to every little establishment that wants
to experiment in selling liquor.
Councilman Gilliam: It is possible that we could ask staff
rik to find some sense of direction out of this meeting. To bring
us back something that would accommodate Mr. Gromer and also
if we have to, open up to some of the bigger stores , but also
to put some control on it like Councilwoman Shales had talked
about, and maybe discuss it further in the next two weeks .
Councilman Hansen: I think that is probably a good idea, I
would encourage the staff, I think Jeff Rifken brought up a
really good point, that being that the liquor interest in
town would like to be a part of the discussion and not necessarily
in this forum, but perhaps in a smaller forum. The negotiations
should not be done just between the staff and Mr. Gromer, we
all want his development to come into Elgin, but I think it
should include the other points of view too.
Councilman Gilliam: I think that previously we had an advisory
member for the Liquor Commission from the liquor industry for
imput into their meetings and I think if we could put that back
into form, to have at least some spokesman to represent the
liquor dealers , rather than just having three or four people
just come in.
Councilman Hansen : I think the issue is somewhat divided. I
admire the people that Mr. Rifken represents , they realize
that something is going to happen here and they want to be a
part of the discussion.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 9
elk Attorney Rifken: That is correct and we assume, at lease we
would hope, that the meetings would involve all three entities .
Mayor Verbic: Mr. Gromer, what is the time limitation for
your development.
Mr. Gromer : I think that from what I have heard here tonight
there is no problem with a time limit. Walgreen ' s representative
is here tonight and it is important that he feelscomfortable
with what is being proposed.
The Walgreen representative indicated his approval .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Shales
that the Corporation Counsel review the Rockford method of
requiring an initial license fee and the possibility of a
new license catagory based on square footage. This
information to be shared with Attorney Rifken and a representative
from the liquor industry. The Corporation Counsel would then
bring back a proposal to the Council for their consideration.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic . Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting adjourned for regular Council
meeting. 8 : 05 P.M.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to commence the
regular Council meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 10 : 40 p.m.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
that because of the late hour the Council meet no longer than
11 : 30 p.m. , and that any unfinished items be held over for
a special meeting, or scheduled for the next Committee of the
Whole Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam, Shales and Waters .
Nays : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
Proposed ordinance amending the list of one-way streets in the
City of Elgin.
This proposal was tentatively approved by the Council on August
27, 1985, with the stipulation that the conversion be delayed
until Eby-Brown Company moves from their building at 177
Douglas by February 1 , 1985.
Councilman Andersen suggested that an ordinance be prepared
for the next Council meeting providing for the conversion of
Spring Street to two-way. Said Ordinance would not be
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 10
effective until February 1 , 1985, but the staff would have
lead time to get the necessary materials needed for this
project.
Mayor Verbic stated that the weather will really dictate when
this can be done.
Councilwoman Shales asked when the Council is going to address
Douglas Avenue.
Councilman Waters suggested that this matter be put on the
next Committee of the Whole agenda.
The Council agreed to have the Spring Street conversion
ordinance prepared for the next Council meeting.
Discussion of a Qroposed lease agreement for Old Main with
the Elgin Historical Society.
Processed at regular Council meeting.
Consideration of executing a covenant a?reement between the
Illinois of Conservation, Neighborhood Housing
Services and the City of Elgin for the NHS office.
Processed at the regular Council meeting.
folik
Continued discussion of the rank structure and appointment
process to certain ranks within the Police Department.
Councilmen Schmidt and Hansen and Mayor Verbic indicated
that when this procedure was passed by the Council in 1981
they voted against it and it was still their opinion that
this responsibility should be that of the Police and Fire
Board testing. Mayor Verbic stated that he consistently
hears nothing but discontent for the program from the
police ranks .
Councilman Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to have an ordinance prepared for the next Council
meeting whereby the organization of the Police Department
would revert back to what it was in 1981 . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Hanse, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen
Gilliam, Shales and Waters .
Consideration of a proposal from Donohue & Associates, Inc.
to investigate and recommend solutions to the water infiltration
problem at Wing Park Pool .
Councilman Schmidt asked if the staff was proposing to have
this work done before winter and if so was this practical .
Mr. Malm stated Phase I of the proposal would just furnish the
City with information relative to Donohue ' s findings and
recommendations for repairing the pool . The staff anticipates
the actual repair work would have to be done in the Spring.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 11
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
eift to approve Phase I . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Councilman Waters stated that he would be willing to make a
motion to approve Phase II at this time. Councilman Hansen
seconded this motion. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Consideration of participating in the Illinois Criminal Justice
Information Authority ' s Police Information Management System
( PIMS) .
Mr. Malm stated the 1985 equipment lease, maintenance and user
fee for this program is $40, 596.00. This cost will be offset
by $7, 311 .00 which is currently expended annually by the City
for LEADS service. Due to PIMS being interfaced with LEADS ,
all PIMS terminals serve as LEADS terminals . This will in
effect give the Department nine LEADS terminals as opposed to
its currently existing one terminal .
Councilwoman Shales stated she thought the program was excellent
and something we should have.
Councilman Waters stated this is the kind of thing you assume
most departments have and it will benefit the department and
the community.
Mayor Verbic questioned the user cost in two year ' s time.
Mr. Malm stated there would be no increase in the user fee this
year, but you can not predict what would happen in the future.
Mayor Verbick asked how many people could use the computer.
Tom Flora stated that the State will assist with the training
and they would be using the same number of staff as the
department presently has .
Councilman Hansen stated that he would support this program with
the hope that this will do the job because this is the fourth
computer system since he had been on the Council .
Mr. Malm stated that if they can ' t make this system go, they can ' t
make any of them work and they would have to go back to the hand
system.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to have a resolution prepared authorizing this participation.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 12
""'' Discussion regarding authorization to sell the Police
Department ' s Data General computer.
The Council was advised the City had permission from the federal
and state authorities to sell this computer. The city would
be obligated to reinvest the proceeds of the sale in a computer
dedicated for police use. The proceeds could be invested in the
PIMS program and this requirement would be satisfied.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters to authorize the sale of this computer. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion regarding the bids on a proposed new telephone
system for the City of Elgin.
Mr. Malmfurnished the Council with a status report which
indicated that a new phone system under a lease/purchase
agreement of three years beginning January 1 , 1985 can be
paid for with the City' s additional franchise revenue and phone
bill savings , and beginning in 1988 the City will have a phone
system that is paid for and $78, 384 to use for other City projects .
Mr. Malm stated that more favorable financing is being solicited
from other financial institutions and the maintenance contract
is also a negotiable item with AT&T and when this is completed
the information will be given to the Council .
Consideration of Change Order No. 2 for the Summit Street Fire
Station.
The Council reviewed the following Change Order:
Eliminate telephone system - $ 10, 150.00
Install floor drain in kitchen area per request
of Chief Van De Voorde - bring drain flush with
underside of floor. + 80.00
Eliminate the mastic application of roof
insuraltion in hot steep asphalt. Insulation
to be mechanically fastened only. - 975.00
The new Contract Sum including this Change Order will be
$941 ,941 .00
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the subject change order. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 13
'' Request by the Police Department to make formal application for
the Accreditation Program for Law Enforcement Agencies .
The Council was advised that at the time of formal application
the City would be required to execute a contract between the
City and the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement, Inc.
Additionally, the City would be expected to submit one-half of the
final cost associated with this program. This initial one-half
fee is $ 1 , 875 .00. The second half fee would be due later in the
program. For practical reasons , we would request that the entire
$3 , 750.00 associated costs be approved along with the approval to
consummate the contract.
Mayor Verbic asked if anything had been paid previously towards
the $3 , 750.00.
Eric Isom stated nothing had been paid and the project was 80 to
85% completed and this amount will be the only sum paid.
Councilman Hansen stated that there has been a substantial amount
of manpower time spent on the project and this also means money.
Councilman Hansen asked what has been spent in manpower hours to
date.
Eric Isom stated there was about 100,000 personnel time and this
is close to what was estimated.
Councilman Hansen stated this is substantially more than was
originally presented to the Council in the beginning.
Chief Baird stated 95% of the time would have been expended in
daily and long range planning without the program.
Mayor Verbic stated that he had read where this type of program
was outlawed in California .
Eric Isom stated he did not hear that the program was outlawed
but he was aware that in California they have a very progressive
system in education and they do not appreciate anyone telling
them what to do. There was some minor resistance in New York
to the program but that was settled.
Councilman Hansen stated that he read the same article the Mayor
referred to and it also mentioned that the California Police
Chief ' s Association was against this program.
Councilman Hansen asked what the anticipated maintenance costs
for the program would be.
Eric Isom stated that he could not put a dollar figure on this
but every program must be maintained.
Mr. Malm stated that as the laws change so do the procedures .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 13
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
re. to approve the staff ' s request to make formal application for
the Accreditation Program. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Hansen.
Request from the Rotary International for a police officer to
apply for the Group Study Exchange program.
Chief Baird stated there would be no expense to the department
other than our continuation of the officer ' s salary during the
ten week sabatical leave. An ad hoc selection committee of
patrol officers and supervisors would assist in the selection
process of the officer.
Mayor Verbic pointed out that there would be a loss of an
employee for a ten week period and he did not see the advantage
of this officer spending this time in a foreign country where
their problems may be completely different than those present
in our country.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the staff ' s request. Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam,
Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
and Mayor Verbic.
Discussion concerning the possible early takeover of the Spiess
Parking Deck by the City of Elgin.
The Council reviewed the guideline for an agreement between the
City and Joseph Spiess Company for an early takeover of the
parking deck, which was the result of conversations between
Mr. Bolerjack and Mr. Spiess .
Mr. Bolerjack stated that the deck is presently costing us revenue
and the equipment up there is deteriorating, and the City could
make some money just from an operational point.
Councilman Hansen stated that it was his understanding that the
Spring Street parking facility on many days does not bring in
enough revenue to pay for the attendant. Councilman Hansen asked
how the staff could justify putting an attendant on the Spiess
Deck.
Mr. Bolerjack pointed out that more customer parking will be
provided on the deck rather than almost total employee parking.
Councilman Hansen pointed out that Spiess is paying the expenses
now and there was no sense putting a man up there when the
revenue would not be enough to pay his salary.
Mr. Malm stated that that the Council had asked Mr. Bolerjack
to cut a deal with John Spiess and if this was not satisfactory
that ' s fine.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
September 24, 1984
Page 14
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to do nothing about the deck at the present time and wait to
see what the results of the free parking program reflect. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Baseball Complex
Mr. Malm advised the Council that construction was not proceeding
according to instructions given to the contractor. The staff is
recommending serving a letter upon the contractor informing him
that is this work is not completed by October 3rd the City will
take over the project and finish it in order to keep the validity
of the grant which is in the amount of $40, 000 to $50, 000. If
the City is forced to take over the contract, the contractor
would be sued and his bonding company notified.
The Council agreed that the staff should proceed with their
recommendation.
ECC Awnings
Councilman Hansen asked what the current status of this matter
was .
Mr. Malm stated the staff had checked with the architect and
the direct cause of the bending in the structure is not known,
but it is suspected that they could have been used as a chinning
bar. However, the contractor stated repair would be made by
October 3rd.
Possible conversion of Geneva Street into a two-way street and
the prohibition of parking on the east side of the street.
The Council reviewed a recommendation from the Traffic Committee
that Geneva Street be converted to a two-way street between
Chicago and Villa Streets , and that parking be prohibited on
the east side of Geneva Street within the same limits .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the above recommendation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
Adj ournment
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into Executive
Session to discuss appointments to boards and commissions, personnel ,
acquisition of property and litigation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None. The meeting was adjourned at 11 : 55 p.m.
Marie Yearma , City Clerk
.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 8, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 : 35 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman Gilliam.
Also present : Malm, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff .
Presentation by representatives from the Chamber of Commerce
regarding the status of marketing activities designed to
increase the convention usage of the Hemmens Building.
Marianne Nelson from the Elgin Chamber of Commerce reviewed
with the Council a contract with Dunham/Nikolich Communications ,
said contract was previously approved by the Council and
provided a maximum amount of $500.00 per month for one year,
or $6 , 000 and $ 1 , 500 for expenses . Services provided by Dunham
for the months of February, March, April and May total $2,000
and there are expenses of $482. 58 .
Mrs . Nelson stated that in May the Chamber became aware that
Dunham/Nikolich had taken on the Taste of Chicago and did not
have the time to devote to this project. The agreement was
cancelled mutually being agreed upon by both Dunham and the
Chamber.
Mrs . Nelson further stated that the Chamber now has the
opportunity to engage Diane Ramsey for two days a week. Ms .
Ramsey supplied the Council with a detailed folder outling
the development of the Elgin Hotel Center and the Free
Transportation Loop in conjunction with the Hemmens facility.
Mrs . Nelson asked the Council to direct the funds ear-marked for
Wayne Dunham to Diane Ramsey. Mrs . Nelson stated how important
it was to have an individual to market the Hemmens Building
during it ' s down time, Monday through Friday.
Mayor Verbic asked if any clients had been realized from Dunham.
Mrs . Nelson stated they have 30 documented names and Mr. Dunham
has indicated he would turn over a list of 300 names .
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to turn over the balance of the funds appropriated for Dunham/
Nikolich to be used for the employment of Diana Ramsey. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Request from the developers of the airport property for the City
to act as applicant for the construction and maintenance permit
eft for the improvements to Route 31 and Tollgate Road.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 8, 1984
Page 2
Charles Burnidge stated that IDOT had requested that the City
act as the applicant because of the maintenance part of the
permit and the fact that a small part of Route 31 right-of-way
will need to be acquired and the city could act upon this under
eminent domain.
Mr. Burnidge stated the developers would be responsible for the
indemnifying bond as provided in the annexation agreement.
Mr. Malm stated that Counsel Jentsch reviewed the application
and felt that the city is protected by the bond and indemnification.
Mr. Burnidge stated the Venture Store should be completed by
March, 1985, Service Merchandise has acquired space and the
developers will be announcing another 90,000 square foot
building soon.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to approve the developer ' s request . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Status report from the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission
regarding the implementation of the Downtown Plan .
Mr. Malm stated this report was requested on a monthly basis
by Councilman Waters .
Roger Dahlstrom stated he and members of the Planning Department
met with the Commission on October 1st. The staff presented
information having to do with recent concepts which can be
utilized.
Information concerning tax incremental financing and the low
interest rate loan program was also given to the Commission.
Architectural drawings on the South Grove area are being
withheld until further meetings with Mrs . Harris , who recently
spoke to the Council regarding a housing development in that
area . These drawings will be submitted to the Commission at
the next meeting .
The Planning staff attempted to bring all the recent conceptual
information to the Commission at this meeting and advised them
that the Planning staff is willing to work with them.
Councilman Waters stated that it was his hope that the Commission
would soon be able to adopt a workable plan.
Presentation by the Engineering Department of a proposal to
improve National Street in the vicinity of the Gromer development.
Gary Miller reviewed with the Council the engineering plans for
for the improvements in the subject area . Mr. Miller estimated
the costs at $300, 000, which includes $80, 000 for traffic signals .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 8, 1984
Page 3
Mr. Miller stated that Phase 1 of the project should be completed
next Spring and Phase 11 could be under construction next Spring.
Dick Gromer stated that he was very pleased with the plan.
Mr. Malm stated that the Job ' s Bill money could be used for
Pahse 1 and the 1985 Budget will reflect the amount needed
to complete the project.
Mr. Gromer requested that a letter from the City be sent to
The Estes Company confirming that the City will begin Phase 1
in November, 1984, by expending approximately $60,000 for
improvements for curb, sidewalks and tree plants on the North
side of National Street, and Phase 11 of the improvements, which
will include new traffic signals , resurfacing the street and
making curb, sidewalk and tree planting improvements on the
South side of National Street, will commence sometime early in
1985.
That the City has budgeted $250,000 for the Phase 11 improvements
and if necessary approval from HUD or other interested parties
is obtained, the City will accept a dedication as a public
street of Tower Court.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales, to provide the staff with the necessary authority to
forward a letter to the Estes Company, outlining the above
commitment. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of filing a Preliminary Grant Request to the
Economic Development Administration for a road through the Mall .
Roger Dahlstrom submitted to the Council a copy of a Preliminary
Grant Request to the Economic Development Administration. Mr.
Dahlstrom advised the Council that although he had initially
considered an International Systems effort in drafting this
proposal the staff felt, in this instance, they would have the
greatest chance of success . This is primarily due to timing
considerations . Kane County and the Economic Development
Administration have indicated that the most desirable sequence
of events for grant request review would be the following :
1 . Submission of request to Economic Development Administration
for preliminary review.
2. Submission to the Kane County Economic Affairs Commission.
3 . Submission of final request to Economic Development Administration
pending EDA preliminary approval and Kane County Economic Affairs
Commission endorsement.
The next regularley scheduled meeting of the Kane County Commission
is set for October 25, 1984, and EDA generally requires approximately
2 weeks to comment on a preliminary grant request.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 8, 1984
Page 4
The staff has attempted to tie the Mall Road into other positive
actions and initiatives takeing place in Downtown Elgin. It is
their hope that representing the project as an integral part of
a larger effort will compensate for our lack of private sector
financial commitment to this specific action.
Review of proposed text amendment, adding "Antique Automobile
Restoration" to the B- 1 special use list, and proposal by the
Planning Department to begin a comprehensive amendment to the
zoning ordinance.
Mr. Malm stated these proposals are the result of a request
by the Council two weeks ago for the staff to prepare a report
regarding the feasibility of adding "Antique Automobile Restoration"
to the B- 1 Community Business District.
In the interim Attorney Lyle C . Brown has filed a petition
on behalf of Edwin G . Haas and William B. O ' Rourke requesting
the Planning Commission to consider an addition to Section
19. 28.030 of the Elgin Zoning Ordinances whereby a special use
in the B- 1 District would allow as follows :
Garage for the sole and exclusive purpose of restoring
and reconstructing antique automobiles , being automobiles
of at least 20 years of age and/or similar foreign
collectible cars, with no outside storage of automobiles
permitted.
This petition is scheduled to be heard by the Plan Commission
at their regular meeting on October 17, 1984.
The Council also reviewed a conceptual framework for a compre-
hensive amendment to the Zoning Ordinance. The staff pointed
out there has not been a comprehensive amendment to the zoning
ordinance since March of 1962, and during the last 22 years
there have been 228 rezonings, excluding zoning through
annexation, and 84 individual text amendments .
A comprehensive amendment to the zoning ordinance with regular
comprehensive reviews can eliminate a number of problems and
significantly reduce the number of rezoning petitions .
Councilman Waters stated that he thought the plan for process
was well laid out and there would be plenty of time for review.
Councilman Hansen stated that he agreed with Councilman Waters,
but he would like to see all the drafts so the Council could
read them and give imput to same.
Consideration of Change Order No. 1 and Final for the Spartan
Meadows parking lot.
eimk Ralph Ridley advised the Council that when the contractor for this
project excavated the area of the approach they found a portion of
existing drainage culvert had separated.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 8, 1984
Page 4
This separation undermined the existing approach causing a void
which had to be repaired. The contractor excavated the faulty
culvert joint and a City crew made the necessary repair. The
cost of this extra work to excavate and backfill the problem
area amounted to $889.45 .
The original contract for this project was $ 12, 107. 50, and
because of this Change Order No. 1 , the final contract price
will be $ 13 ,096.95.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to approve the subject Change Order and to have same placed on
the next Council agenda. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen
Schmidt, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Recommendation from the Corporate Policyholders Counsel , Inc.
regarding the City ' s 1984- 1985 insurance program.
Mike Sarro reviewed with the Council the renewal proposals
received from Arthur J . Gallagher Company together with the
recommendation from Ronald E . Seaver, President of Corporate
Policyholders Counsel , Inc.
Mr. Seaver suggested that since the city embarked upon this
program with the idea that we would retest the marketplace
in approximately 5 years , it is my suggestion that we schedule
this for re-eamination about April 1 , of 1985, with the idea
in mind that we should probably seek competitive proposals
for the renewal date on October 1 , 1985.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve the proposal . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request by the Water Department to make certain modifications
in the lime residue line lauching station.
The Water Department would like to launch swabs that are more
dense and have plastic reinforcement on the outside. This will
produce a better cleaning action and insure the cleanliness of
the lime residue transmission main.
In order to accomplish launching of the more dense and plastic
coated poly pigs , revisions to the launching station are
required. Two quotes were sought and the recommendation is
to accept the low quote of $2350.00.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the subject request at the low quote of $2350.00.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 8 , 1984
Page 5
Consideration of a recommendation from the Park' s Department
' to proceed with the evaluation of the Lord ' s Park Swimming
Pool .
Mr. Bennett advised the Council that he had evaluated two proposals,
one from Ralph Burke and Associates and one from Barclay and
Associates .
These proposals basically provide the same service, however,
Burke is somewhat more elaborate.
Both firms have excellent reputations and Mr. Bennett recommended
proceeding with Barclay and Associates at a cost of $ 1800.00.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to approve the staff ' s recommendation and to have this item
placed on the next Council agenda. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Petition re arking in the South Jane Drive and Allison Street
neighborhood.
The Council reviewed the subject petition which reflected a
problem with high school students parking from 2 to 10 cars
each day in front of residences .
eft. Mr. Malm advised the Council that he would present this
petition to the Traffic Committee for their consideration.
Adjournment
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
made a motion to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss appointments to Boards &
Commissions . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting
was adjourned at 8 : 05 p.m.
Marie Yearman,lCity C er
S
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 22, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 : 35 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shaales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Councilman Gilliam
arrived at 6 : 45 p.m. Absent : None.
Request from the Greater Elgin Senior Center to use approximately
$4, 000 in HCD funds for improvements to their heating system.
The Planning Department advised the Council the city previously
provided some energy efficiency assistance for the subject
building through the HCD program. The original specifications
for the work were assembled with the goal of minimizing heating
plant modifications and cost. The specifications were aimed at
improving heating quality in priary use areas .
These modifications have proven to be insufficient to address
heating quality in office and restroom ( secondary use) areas
and the Senior Center is requesting that the city authorize the
expenditure of approximately $4, 000 in additional HCD funds
for further improvements to the heating system at their building.
Sufficient HCD funds are available for this project.
Mr. Mal stated that the amount expended last year on this project
amounted to $ 15, 000.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the subject request. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of participating with IDOT to modernize the
traffic signals at Larkin Avenue and McLean Blvd.
Mr. Malm stated this improvement will provide an eight phase
system with the ability to sensor whether a green arrow is
warranted and thus improve the traffic flow at this location.
The cost to the city for this improvement is approximately
$6,900 and the total cost of the project is estimated at
$92,000.
Gary Miller stated the city had initially requested this
improvement and the State concurred in the need for same,
and this would be a major improvement to a major intersection .
Councilman Andersen suggested that the intersection of Highland
and State be looked into, and Councilman Schmidt stated that
the intersection of Dundee and Summit be looked at also.
Mr. Malm stated the Larkin/McLean agreement was on the regular
Council agenda and the Council could address it in that meeting.
a
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 22, 1984
Page 2
Resolution authorizing Memorandum of Agreement for Borden
Square Corporation.
Counsel Jentsch stated that this resolution was presented
to the city on Friday, but that he was not advised of what
the project consisted of and he had asked to have the
principals present tonight to explain the project. The
resolution provides for the issuance of $4, 500, 000 in
industrial revenue bonds .
Mr. Emil Wasilowski , President of Stevens & Associates
stated that he realized they were moving too fast and he
asked that this matter be delayed for two weeks in order
that he could present the project format properly. Mr.
Wasilowski stated that he would work with Mr . Dahlstrom
and then the matter would be brought back to the Council .
Consideration of amending the existing salary plan for
administrative sergeants and lieutenants .
The Council reviewed a memorandum from Deputy Police Chief
Warren Heine in which he stated that prior to the implementation
of the rank of captain in 1981 , police lieutenants and sergeants,
depending on their individual assignment with the department,
were each paid at two different salary ranges . Since shift
supervisors received holiday additional pay because of their
shift assignments , the differences in these pay levels were
designed to equitably compensate administrative supervisors
who did not receive the holiday additional pay.
With the return of the lieutenant/sergeant rank structure to
the department, Deputy Heine recommended that the administrative
salary ranges for lieutenants and sergeants assigned to
administrative duties be again established.
Councilman Andersen suggested that the Council let the new City
Manager look at this policy and make his comments to the Council .
Councilwoman Shales stated that this is something that was under
the old structure and if the Council went back and changed the
structure, why not go all the way and include this policy, which
was in effect under the old structure.
Councilman Hansen stated that he had a problem with the rational ,
and he would like that area explored and explained further .
Councilman Schmidt suggested that perhaps the new City Manager
could explain the rational .
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to delay taking any action on this recommendation
until after the new City Manager is in place and gives
his recommendation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen,
Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, Shales
and Waters .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 22, 1984
Page 3
Report regardin? the reaction of property owners to the proposed
McIntosh subdivision sanitary sewer project.
Syed Ally advised the Council that the latest response from the
27 owners of the 55 lots was as follows :
In favor - 11 Owners - 21 Lots
Not in favor - 11 Owners - 21 lots
Unable to reach - 4 Owners - 10 lots
Will advise by Dec. 31 , 1984 - 1 Owner - 2 lots
Mr. Miller stated he felt there would be a lot of opposition
to this project. The estimated cost is $66.00 per foot so a
60 ' lot could cost $4,000, and some of these people have paid
$2,000 for new septic systems .
Councilman Hansen asked when the new detention facility would
be completed.
Mr. Miller stated they hoped to start construction next
Spring.
Councilman Hansen asked if some of these problems would be
eliminated when the detention facility is in place.
Mr. Miller stated yes . This improvement should eliminate the
standing water on the properties and lower the water table.
Councilman Hansen stated the Larkin Avenue improvements should
also help out and the cost of the proposed sewers might be
reduced once the detention facility is completed.
Mayor Verbic pointed out that the City had the same circumstances
when it came to installing the sewers in Century Oaks and you
might risk higher costs by delaying the project. The Mayor also
pointed out that several existing septic systems are not function-
ing properly and this could initiate a health problem.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to table this project until after the detention facility is
completed. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt ,
Shales and Waters . Nays : Mayor Verbic.
Discussion regarding repairs to the National Street Bridge.
Mel Dahl advised the Council that sometime last year someone hit
a concrete pylon on the National Street bridge with sufficient
force that the concrete is shattered near the base just above
one of the piers . The pylon is on the south side and is the
second one from the west. It is leaning out. The pylon is not
a structural member so the bridge is in no danger.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 22, 1984
Page 4
001P. Joseph J . Nickels of Carl Walker & Associates has submitted
a letter proposal to prepare the necessary engineering details
and specifications for the restoration of the pylon. They
estimate their cost for the work to be $3, 500.
Councilman Hansen asked if the City could not just get some
concrete men in to repair this because Walker would charge
20% of the project cost.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Schmidt to accept the proposal of Joseph J . Nickels . Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of renewing the Employee Assistance Program.
The Council reviewed the proposal to continue The Employee
Assistance Program with Tom Skiles & Associates, together
with an audit submitted by Fox & Company. Said audit
reflected the following :
Number of participants verified 12
Participant not verified 1
Councilman Hansen stated he thought that last year when
r this matter was discussed a majority of the Council indicated
they would go along with it for one more year and then
consider letting the United Way come up with a proposal .
Mr. Hansen pointed out that we have spent $445 .00 per contact
with Skiles and he would like to see what the local United
Way could offer for a similar program.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to have the staff investigate this type of program with the
United Way and bring back this information to the Council .
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion regarding the possible conversion of Douglas Avenue
to two-way.
Mr. Malm stated the staff was looking for some direction re
the possibility of making Douglas Avenue two-way. The staff
could explore the Barton-Aschman report and send notices to
those businesses that would be effected and there may be need
of a traffic count.
Councilman Hansen asked who requested this change.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she did because she did not
understand why Douglas had to be one-way.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 22, 1984
Page 5
Mayor Verbic suggested that perhaps the Traffic Committee
should conduct a survey and set up a meeting with the
merchants and businessmen. The Traffic Committee could
then bring their findings to the Council .
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to have the Traffic Committee explore this conversion
by survey and contact with the merchants and businessmen.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen , Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request for adjustment in the Transportation Director ' s and
the Garage Supervisor ' s salaries .
Mr. Aydt advised the Council that late in 1983 the Garage Manager
resigned and, as a temporary measure, the day to day direction
of the garages passed to the Public Works Department for Ann
Street and the Transportation Department for Crystal Street.
This division not only followed the functional lines of the
equipment serviced but the physical location of the two garages .
During the past several months , Ray Moller has implemented a
number of changes which has resulted in the reduction of 2
full -time positions , both through attrition. Another change
is recommended for next year when a higher classified employee
retires . The replacement employee will be hired at a lower
job classification.
Mr. Aydt recommended the following changes :
Transportation Director from 46A $36, 329 to 50A $39, 516
Assistant Garage Manager from 34C $28, 132 to 37C $29,916
Councilman Hansen said he had a problem increasing the
Transportation Director ' s salary.
Mr. Malm stated the Director will now be supervising additional
mechanical work as well as the bus operations and that the
number of employees had been reduced from 9 to 7 .
Councilman Andersen stated that he thought this recommendation
as well as the recommendation for the reorganization of the
Public Works Department should be reviewed by the new City
Manager.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
that all administrative changes be delayed until the new City
Manager comes in. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Councilman Waters stated the staff should be commended for
reducing the staff and they should be recognized for the efforts
that have been made.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
October 22, 1984
Page 6
Proposed RTA Suburban Bus Division Budget for 1985
Mr. Moller supplied the Council with a review of the proposed
budget which includes fare increase alternatives , the 1985
capital program, new service/service improvements/service
restructuring/service reductions .
A public hearing on the 1985 budge is scheduled for Friday,
October 26, 1984 at 7 : 30 p.m. , in the Kane County Government
Center.
A majority of the Council concurred that a representative
should attend the meeting and object to the proposed fare
increases , elimination of the Saturday service on the
McLean bus route, and recommend that improvements be made
in the Carpentersville bus service rather than in the Aurora-
Elgin bus route.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
for a representative to attend the subject meeting . Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Information request for November 12th Committee of the Whole
Meeting .
Councilman Hansen requested that the staff bring to the meeting
imput received from the Chicago Home Builder ' s Association
re the City of Elgin Subdivision Ordinance.
Adjournment
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into the regular Council Meeting . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned at
8 : 05 p.m.
Marie Yearman City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 12, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 : 40 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present : Malm, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff .
Recommendation by the Elgin Economic Development Commission
to modify certain fees and procedures associated with the
issuance of industrial revenue bonds .
Edward Kelly, Executive Vice President of the Elgin Chamber
of Commerce, was present at the meeting to represent the
Elgin Economic Development Commission and to present the
Commission ' s recommendations to the Council .
Mr. Kelly pointed out that much discussion has been held
during the past several years regarding hiring of Paul Speer
& Associates to conduct an investigation of the applicant for
industrial development bonds , and to negotiate on behalf of
the city the terms under which the bonds could be issued.
This policy has been a great irritant to lenders, developers
rik and others .
This matter was brought into sharper focus when the purchase
of Universal Chemical & Coating bonds by American National
Bank of Chicago was discussed.
The Commission conducted a survey of 19 cities and only Elgin
and Joliet hire outside consultants to conduct a credit and
financial investigation or perform other duties .
Since this study was made the Commission has learned that the
Illinois Development Finance Authority has discontinued hiring
outside consultants
After careful examination of this information, the Elgin
Economic Development Commission unanimously approved the
following recommendation to the City Council :
1 . That the City of Elgin discontinue hiring Paul Speer &
Associates , or any other outside consultants .
2. A non- refundable deposit be set at $2, 500. The city
would set a minimum number of hours this fee would
cover, and then set a rate for any additional hours
required. Such rates , and what costs would be included,
would clearly be stated in the application form.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 12, 1984
Page 2
3 . Since the city is charging a non- refundable deposit and
recovering extra costs , it was recommended to discontinue
charging issuance fees . This would hopefully send a
clear signal that Elgin wants new business and local
expansion.
Counsel Jentsch suggested that the Council might want a
survey made to ascertain whether or not any cities had
experienced defaults , and if so what effect this had
on the city ' s bond rating and ability to sell bonds .
Counsel Jentsch further stated that the Council will have
to address the new regulation of a bond cap and they might
want to determine who you want to encourage as opposed to
a first come first served.
Counsel Jentsch stated he thought there could be some effect
on the bond rating in the case of a default, but it would
take approximately three weeks for him to obtain this
information.
Councilman Hansen stated that none of our surrounding
competitors use outside consultants and the city ' s accounting
firm had told him there would be no accounting to denote a
default because this would be against the bond holder.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to approve the recommendations of the Elgin Economic
Development Commission.
Councilman Waters asked if the Economic Development Commission
would be willing to review the bond applicants and give their
recommendation.
Mr. Kelly stated that the Commission would be more than happy
to assist in this process .
Councilman Waters asked if this step could be added to the
recommended process .
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to amend the motion on the floor by providing that
the Elgin Economic Development Commission review the bond
applicants and give their recommendations to the Council .
Yeas : Councilman Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt Shales, Waters
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Gilliam.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 12, 1984
r Page 3
Mayor Verbic stated that he thought it was important for the
Corporation Counsel to obtain the information concerning the
city' s rating and past experience in cities where they have
had bond defaults .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen directing the Corporation Counsel to obtain this
further information. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic . Nays :
None.
Consideration of requests from School District U-46 and
St. Mary ' s Church to change snow route parking restrictions .
Gary Miller advised the Council that parking along the south
side of East Chicago Street in front of the U-46 Administrative
Offices is prohibited from November through March. Additional
parking in this area is warranted and U-46 has requested that
the City eliminate that parking restriction. It has been
requested by U-46 that standard snow route signs be installed
within this specific block. Parking would thus be permitted
until we experienced a two inch snowfall .
Reverend Binsfield, Pastor of St. Mary' s Church of Elgin
eik has requested some changes in the parking restriction on the
west side of Gifford Street between DuPage and Prairie Streets .
At present parking is restricted November through March. The
church has services Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings .
They also have other activities during the week, and the Pastor
is requesting no parking November through March except during
scheduled church services .
Since the general public except the church members would have
no idea when the church services are, some other sign with a
more specific message is more appropriate .
The Traffic Committee recommended that parking be permitted
on the west side of Gifford Street between DuPage and Prairie
Streets on Saturdays from 4PM to 7PM and on Sundays from
8 AM to 1 PM.
Councilwoman Shales stated that although she agreed with
the parking recommendations she wondered why St. Mary ' s
did not want the snow route signage, which is not a year
round restriction and is just for November through March.
Mr. Miller stated the church wants to be able to park
there on Saturday and Sunday.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 12, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Schmidt stated that both U-46 and the Church
have off-street parking and yet the residents have to
observe no parking on snow routes .
Mr. Malm stated that if the Council approves the recommended
changes the ordinance providing for these changes could be
added to the agenda at tonight ' s Council meeting.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to place this ordinance on the Council Agenda for tonight ' s
meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. Abstained: Councilman
Gilliam.
Report on discussion concerning amendments to the Liquor
Control Ordinance.
Counsel Jentsch advised the Council that he had met on
October 9th and again on October 16th with Jeff Rifken,
representing anumber of existing license holders and Ted
Schnell , representing the proposed Gromer Center on National
Street.
At the October 9, 1984 meeting, Jeff Rifken indicated that
his clients had no objection to a relaxation of the ordinance
ft. to permit two package licenses at the proposed National
Street Gromer Center, but were opposed to any further relaxation.
Ted Schnell indicated that the potential license holders at the
proposed National Street Gromer Center, particularly Walgreens ,
were apprehensive about a limited amendment which would permit
only two licenses at National Street. That apprehension was
based upon the potential for litigation by other supermarkets,
drug stores , etc. , who have in the past sought liquor licenses
and who were denied licenses . Their fear was that no rational
basis for treating others similarly situated could be found
and that the delay and uncertainty of litigation would
discourage them from going further with their proposal .
In accordance with a request from Mayor Verbic a survey was
made of other communities to determine the extent to which
unlimited licenses are permitted. The result of said survey
reflected that 38 communities have unlimited number of package
liquor licenses , 12 communities with unlimited number of licenses
other than package liquor . Dixon - has a drug and grocery store
license. Joliet - no limit on number of licenses issued. Each
application is considered on an individual basis by the liquor
commission; their recommendation is made to the Council as to
whether the particular application is in the best interest of
the City. Oak Lawn - limitation on number of liquor licenses .
Rockford - Limited number of A and B licenses (packaged) which
em
., may be transferred one time after which a Z license (packaged)
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 12, 1984
Page 5
egok must be obtained which are unlimited in number but carry a
$ 10, 000 application fee. Evanston - limitation on number of
liquor licenses issued.
Councilman Waters pointed out one paragraph where the
Corporation Counsel stated that the Council should also be
aware of the experience of other communities where supermarkets
have not necessarily sought the full range of liquor sales
but have sought and applied for beer and wine licenses only.
Counsel Jentsch stated they did not choose to sell the
complete line, not by virtue of the ordinance, but because
they just wanted to sell beer and wine.
Councilman Andersen stated that he had talked with the
people from Eagle and they stated that they were only
interested in selling beer and wine.
Counsel Jentsch further advised the Council that he believed
it was possible to pursue the following alternatives :
1 . Eliminate the restriction on package liquor licenses
entirely or increase the number substantially.
2. Require a special license fee for new licenses and permit
a single transfer of an existing license without payment of
a special application fee .
3 . Establish a minimum square foot requirement for licensees
whose principal activity is other than the sale of
alcoholic liquor.
Councilman Waters stated he could be supportive of Alternate 3
because of the suggested level of activity and the number of
people in the area which lends to enforcement of the sale of
this product. Enforcement in the smaller establishments would
be much greater.
Councilman Andersen did not think this would make any
difference when it comes down to enforcement .
Councilman Gilliam stated that past history dictates that
the younger people learn where to buy by word of mouth.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he had a real bad problem with
Alternative 1 which would allow it in gas stations and all
over the city.
The Council indicated no interest in Alternative 1 .
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 22, 1984
Page 6
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to go with Alternative 2, requiring a $ 10, 000 special
application fee. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt
and Shales . Nays : Councilmen Gilliam, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Adjournment to Regular Council Meeting - 8 : 20 p.m.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to adjourn the Commission of the Whole Meeting
to go into the regular Council Meeting. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened - 9 : 15 p.m.
Presentation by Ernest W. Akemann with regard to the Area
Two Taxing District .
Mr. Akemann stated that the purpose of this presentation
was to convince the present members of the City Council
that the continued imposition of this tax is unfair to the
Area 2 property owners and should be abolished, and it
should be abolished no matter what the city' s decisions may
be on other parking areas .
Mr. Akemann ' s complete report is on file with the City Clerk,
the following remarks are excerpts contained in the subject
report :
" 1 . You ignored the law and unfairly drew the boundary of
the area to be taxed.
2 . You, thereafter, removed property from this area, to-wit,
the Sears Building , at one moment the Kretschmer Building, now
not used for a church, thus increasing this burden - and any
further removal will increase the tax burden further.
3 . You changed the entire concept of the building by removing
its supposed principal source of revenue, to-wit, rental of
stores .
4. You interjected your meter department without discussion
or agreement of the owners .
5. You reneged on the representation that you would integrate
it into your parking system and continue to budget $50, 500
annually for its support as promised by the gospel according
to Walker.
6. You have made the Area 2 owners the sole support of the
project instead of a backup support limited to $25,000 annually
as represented by the Walker report.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 22, 1984
Page 7
rw- 7 . You have made unconscionable charges against Area 2 owners
for city services that have not cost the city one penny of
additional cost.
8 . You have not integrated this project into your parking
program, but have, instead, segregated it from your parking
program.
9. You have eliminated meters throughout your parking area,
paved the Spiess deck for free public parking, and enforce
only sporadically the so-called one or two hour zones so
that the city is virtually parking free, resulting in rentals
in this project going downward to the point that rentals are
often less than the temporary employees pay for collecting them.
10. You, not the owners, precipitated this delay resulting in
increased cost.
All of the foregoing has resulted in taxes to Area 2 as follows :
I . We should have paid not to exceed $25 , 000 x 7, or $ 175 ,000.
for the first seven years , but we have paid in excess of
$ 730, 000 already.
2. Any reasonable extension of the figures published in the
Daily Courier News will result in a cost of in excess of five
times the represented cost - already, the first seven years
exceeds twice the proposal for the first ten years , and the
first bond was just retired.
3 . We are already near the four point maximum rate, and this
could result in a cost of close to eight times the original
representation to these Area 2 taxpayers .
4. So that this project sold to the Area 2 owners will cost
if continued at the very least a minimum of five times that
which was represented and up to a possible eight times that
which was originally represented to them - all of the foregoing
being a result, not of any action by the Area 2 owners , but
being solely the responsibility of the City of Elgin.
I do not believe that in good conscience you should continue
the Area 2 taxing district for even one more year . "
A majority of the Council stated that this matter would be
addressed during the budget review.
Monthly report of activities within the Greater Downtown Elvin
Commission, including a request by the Commission for the City
to purchase holiday decorations .
rik Mr. Dahlstrom reported to the Council activities which were
recently discussed by the Greater Downtown Elgin Commission
concerning the implementation of the Central Business District
Plan.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 22, 1984
Page 8
The Council also reviewed a request from this Commission for
Downtown Christmas Decorations . These decorations would include
Italian lights for Carleton Rogers Park, lights and natural
wreathes for Douglas and Highland Avenues and Chicago Street,
and Christmas trees to be used in the fountain at the north
end of the Mall . The allocation of $3, 000 for these decorations
was requested.
Councilman Schmidt stated that in placing the wreathes this year
some care be taken because they were facing the wrong way last
year.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to approve the Commission ' s request. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of making application to participate in the
Illinois Enterprise Zone Program and a report from the Planning
Department regarding the Rental Rehabilitation Program.
Roger Dahlstrom advised the Council that in considering the
future Industrial Revenue Bond caps , perhaps the most significant
of all state incentives is the $ 100 million Illinois Development
Financing Authority set-aside of bonding for Enterprise Zone
rft. businesses .
In reviewing the various optional local incentives the staff
believes that most of these could be incorporated into an
Elgin Enterprise Zone while maintaining a favorable cost/benefit
ratio. Provisions of other listed incentives are basically
consistent with proposals in the adopted Comprehensive Plan and
the Elgin Centel Business District Plan. Some of the suggested
local incentives are already in place; Community Development
Block Grant funding, housing rehabilitation grants and reduced
interest rate business and rehabilitation loans .
After examing the Enterprise Zone legislation and application
package we have determined that a competitive submission could
be assembled for the area shown on the attached map. This
area of the city meets the unemployment criteria for program
participation and demonstrates a relatively high incidence
of low income and poverty household status . The assembly of
such an application would consume an estimated 80-90 hours
of staff time in order to meet the December 31 , 1984 deadline
for submission. The primary ongoing staff commitment would be
focused on monitoring and record keeping. It would be necessary
for us to carefully track and report on trends and progress
within the Enterprise Zone. Once a format is established, this
monitoring task could be handled by a part-time planning intern
at a one-half person ( . 5) equivalent.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 22, 1984
Page 9
Mr. Dahlstrom further advised the Council that the city is
eligible to apply for funding under the Rental Rehabilitation
Program. The staff believes this program could be beneficial
to the city , it is applicable to a number of the older
neighborhoods, and $ 100, 000 represents a minimum application
budget.
The Rehabilitation Rental Program contains no provisions for
administrative expenses , all funds must be applied to
rehabilitation. Additional staff positions for Rehabilitation
Rental Program operation could not be charged to our Housing
and Community Development Block Grant administrative budget.
The recommended procedures leads us to believe that the city' s
participation in this program would require a minimum of one and
one-half ( 1 . 5) additional staff positions .
Mayor Verbic suggested that perhaps overtime by the present
staff could accomplish the workload instead of hiring additional
help.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated that the program does not overlap any
information or program operation that we now have and it
would take additional fulltime staff people to do both
aa .
Mayor pplic Verbic tions stated that the maximum amount the city could
expect to receive for the Rehabilitation Rental Program would
be $ 100, 000.
Councilman Hansen stated that the city would be spending
$50, 000 to get $ 100,000 back.
Councilman Waters asked if the South Grove area could be
included in the Enterprise Zone.
Roger Dahlstrom stated yes and they would want to look at
National Street to determine where the city could cross over
and pick up additional areas .
Mayor Verbic stated he would like to see the staff proceed with
the Enterpise Zone application but stay away from the Rental
Rehabilitation Program for the time being .
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales for the staff to proceed with the Enterprise Zone
Application prior to December 31 , 1984. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 22, 1984
Page 10
Discussion regarding the analysis of subdivision regulations
by the Home Builders Association of Greater Chicago.
The Council reviewed the staff ' s recommended changes to the
Subdivision Regulations , Chapter 18 , Elgin Municipal Code.
The proposed changes are the result of staff meetings, and
meetings with The Home Builders Association of Greater
Chicago.
Counsel Jentsch stated the Council could adopt the proposed
amendments and then the staff could proceed with work on
the comprehensive changes to the zoning ordinance.
Councilman Hansen stated that he was in favor of putting
the recommended changes into ordinance form so at least
people will then be able to use it.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to direct the staff to incorporate the subdivision
regulation changes into ordinance form, and that the staff
be further directed to make a comprehensive review of the
subdivision and zoning portion of the Municipal Code.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request to increase the service fee charged by local businesses
for processing City water bills .
The Council reviewed a request from Richard Gromer for the
10c per item service charge for processing water bills be
increased to 25c .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to approve Mr. Gromer ' s request. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : Councilman Schmidt.
Consideration of accepting a grant of easement for a sanitary
sewer from Universal Chemicals .
The staff recommended that the Council formally accept the
grant of easement for sanitary sewer. The easement will
permit the extension of a sanitary sewer north to Fox Lane
at a later date.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters to approve the staff ' s recommendation and to have
an ordinance for said easement on the agenda of the next
Council meeting. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
•
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 22, 1984
Page 11
Consideration of accepting a right-of-way dedication from
Universal Chemicals .
The staff advised the Council that this right-of-way dedication
is consistent with the City ' s eventual plan for a 80 foot
right-of-way along Fox Lane and it was their recommendation
to accept said right-of-way.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam for staff to bring back an ordinance accepting
said right-of-way. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic . Nays :
None.
Consideration of acquiring traffic signal equipment for the
conversion of Spring Street to two-way.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Waters to approve the purchase of traffic signal equipment
from Bell & Gastus in the amount of $2236 .90. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of an agreement with Kane County for snow
removal / ice control on Big Timber Road from State Street
to Randall Road.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to approve the subject agreement subject to
additional insurance being provided by the County. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
1985 Budgets
The 1985 proposed budgets were distributed to the Council .
The first meeting to review the budget was set for November
26th at 5 : 00 p.m.
Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Schmidt to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss appointments to boards
and commissions, personnel , acquisition of property and
litigation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
The meeting was adjourned at 11 : 00 p.m.
Marie Yearman, City C er <
Committee of the Whole Meeting
rft. November 26, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 5 : 24
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales
and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman Waters .
Also present : Malm, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff.
1985 Budget Discussion
Mayor Verbic asked the staff of there was any report available
on the bagged meter program and the reaction to same by the
citizens and merchants .
Mr. Bolerjack stated that the telephone calls that he received
were mixed reactions . Three calls he received from merchants
indicated that they wanted the meters because there was no
enforcement of the two hour limit.
Mr .Malm stated that previously he had suggested to the Council
that a survey be made to address this matter, but there was
no direction given by the Council at that time. Mr. Malm
further stated the staff could furnish the financial impact
of this program, but it would be difficult to evaluate the
program without a survey of the downtown merchants .
Councilman Hansen stated that he had received several good
comments.
Mayor Verbic stated that we should have the survey from the
merchants to see if it has done any good.
Councilman Hansen stated that the best logic he could see in
keeping the meters would be a steady decline in revenue and
next year you would have a hard time keeping the revenue because
less and less space would be used and the overhead would continue
to rise.
Mr. Malm stated that the projections contained in this budget
were made on the assumption that the Spiess Deck, Civic Lot
and Spring Street Parking Deck would remain attended and the
meters on the street removed.
Mr. Bolerjack stated that customers are leaving the Parking Deck
as free spaces become available.
Councilman Hansen stated that he did not know if the reduction
in rented spaces have been reduced by free spaces or by less
business activity. Councilman Hansen stated that he personally
has never had a problem obtaining a parking space downtown and
he could see where next year the city would not be able to trade
dollars . Spring Hill , Elgin O ' Hare Center and Tyler Creek Plaza
all provide free parking.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26, 1984
Page 2
Mayor Verbic stated that the Council should also remember that
the Big Timber Commuter will be finished in the Spring and this
will take more parkers from the downtown area.
Councilman Hansen stated that these commuters will no longer be
part of the downtown parking system and the budget costs should
be cut by removal of the meters and there should be more
vigorous enforcement of overtime parking . Councilman Hansen
further suggested that perhaps the cost of an overtime ticket
should be increased because at the present time an offender
is not brought into court unless he has received 5 overtime
tickets , or a total of $ 10.00 in fines .
Mayor Verbic stated that the Council should also address what
is going to be done with the Spiess Deck.
Councilman Hansen suggested that the Spiess Deck become an
attended lot along with the Spring Street Deck and Civic Lot
until they reach a point where they are not paying the costs
of operation and then it is time to open the gate.
Councilman Hansen asked if it would be possible to give the
deck back to Spiess .
Councilman Andersen pointed out that he has difficulty with
the structural integrity of the deck and the fact that you
cannot get any emergency vehicles or snow removal equipment
on it.
Mayor Verbic stated he still thought the Council needed a survey
with the imput on the trial parking program.
Councilman Hansen stated that he was convinced it is going to
cost the city for metered lots and he was ready and willing to
declare the Spring Street Deck a public benefit. Councilman
Hansen further stated that he felt it was the city ' s responsibility
to provide parking downtown.
Councilwoman Shales stated she was willing to make a motion that
all of the street meters be removed in the downtown area.
Councilman Hansen stated he would second that motion.
Councilman Schmidt thought the Council should have the survey
before making this decision.
Mr. Malm stated he could possibly have the survey available
to the Council at the next budget session.
Councilwoman Shales suggested that the staff also survey the
churches in this area relative to their members paying a fee
for using the Spring Street Deck on Sundays because most other
churches have to provide their own off-street parking facilities .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26, 1984
Page 3
Councilman Schmidt and Mayor Verbic indicated they would
rather keep that out of the survey.
Councilman Schmidt suggested that the Corporation Counsel
research whether or not the city has to take back the Spiess
Deck.
Councilman Schmidt stated he would make a motion that the
Council wait until 1985 to do anything about the Spiess Deck
and in the meantime have the Corporation Counsel research
the city ' s position relative to taking over the deck, or
declining to take over the deck.
Councilman Andersen stated that he would second this motion.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None . Present : Councilman Gilliam.
Councilwoman Shales stated that if the city declares the
Spring Street Parking Deck a public benefit we may be
asked to do that same thing for the Mall .
Councilman Hansen pointed out that there was a super majority
of people in favor of the Mall and in the case of the Parking
Deck this was not true . There were strong objections to the
parking deck and those objectors sued the city in an effort
to halt the construction of this facility .
Councilwoman Shales stated that she had a problem with declaring
all of the facility costs a public benefit, but she could see
declaring a portion of it public benefit. Mrs . Shales further
stated she would also like some legal opinion as to the Mall
investors asking for the same relief because she had heard
some conversations where this was discussed.
Counsel Jentsch stated that the Mall is an assessment area and
judgements have been entered on all properties located in that
area and you cannot undue a judgment by declaring it a public
benefit.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he would be willing to make
some adjustment on the parking deck, but not the whole thing .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to abate $200, 000 on the Spring Street Deck. Yeas : Councilmen
Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Gilliam
and Shales . Abstained : Councilman Andersen.
The Council will re-address this portion of the budget when the
survey is available and Councilman Waters is present.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26, 1984
Page 4
Discussion concerning an agreement with IDOT for the modernization
of the traffic signals at Larkin Avenue and McLean Boulevard.
Mr. Malm pointed out that in previous discussion of this
improvement IDOT had indicated the City' s share of the work
to cost $6,900. The City has now received a formal agreement
for this work from IDOT which reflects the City ' s share to be
$ 1 , 993 .
Mr. Malm stated the Resolution approving this agreement, a
Resolution approving the plans and specifications , and a
no parking Ordinance are on tonight ' s Council agenda for
formal passage, and these documents must be executed and
mailed to IDOT before November 30, 1984, or the project
will be dropped from the program.
The Council indicated they would proceed with the project
in the Council meeting.
Request from Lutheran Social Services of Illinois to enter into
an agreement for the use of Fire Station #3 .
The Council reviewed a letter from Mary Goebel , Project Director
of Sunnyside Adult Day Care in which she advised the city that
the Lutheran Social Services of Illinois had assumed operation
of the senior day care formerly operated by the Greater Elgin
Denior Center. At the present time they are leasing second
floor space from the Senior Center for this program and this
space will not be available after December, 1985 as the Center
will want the use of this space. The second floor space also
prevents the taking of clients either in wheelchairs or using
walkers because of evacuation procedure requirements .
After learning about the availability of the firre station and
a visit to same it was determined that with modifications the
station could be used to provide adult day care services .
Mr. Malm stated previously when a fire station was available
for disposal by the city it was done on a bid basis . The
city has received inquires from Katy Industries and four other
individuals concerning the subject facility.
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois have no funds to purchase
this property and they are asking for some nominal lease
arrangements for the building.
Pastor Linstrom stated it was true they did not have the money
to purchase the property but they would negotiate a lease.
Mr. Sarro stated that while the city does not have an appraisal
for the building it has been anticipated that the building could
be sold for $30,000.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26, 1984
Page 5
Mayor Verbic stated at the time the new fire station was
discussed it was anticipated that the city could obtain
$ 100,000 for the sale of this property and the Congdon
Avenue property.
Mayor Verbic further stated that Katy Industries could enhance
the property and perhaps provide additional jobs . The Mayor
suggested that the staff work with Pastor Lindstrom in finding
another location.
Councilman Hansen asked if Ed Kelley at the Chamber of Commerce
had any inventory of available space and that this might be
pursued.
Councilman Schmidt asked if this would enhance Katy' s business
or their parking lot.
Mr. Malm stated he assumed they want it for parking because
it abuts their present parking lot.
A majority of the Council indicated they would like this
property put out for bids .
Request by the Elgin Public Museum to use the services of
ISI to obtain certain grants .
Nancy Epping requested that the Museum be allowed to work
through the City of Elgin with International Systems on the
investigation and preparation of the following grants :
Institute for Museum Services - General Operation Support up
to $5,000 .
Institute for Museum Services-Special Projects under $7, 000
National Endowment for the Humanities-Museums and Historical
Organizations Planning Grant up to $25 , 000.
National Endowment for the Humanities-Division of Education-
Humanities Programs for the Nontraditional Learners .
National Endowment for the Humanities-Youth Project up to $30, 000
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to approve the above mentioned request; Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
r
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26, 1984
Page 6
Consideration of a Contract Compliance Ordinance recommended
by the Human Relations Commission.
The Council reviewed a proposed ordinance and equal employment
opportunity/affirmative action policy statement submitted by
the Human Relations Commission for Council approval .
Councilman Andersen stated that he had several calls from
contractors who saythe proposed requirements will add to
the cost of any contract they might negotiate with the city.
Robert Johnson stated that the ordinance just asks that
employees are hired in such a way that minorities and women
are not under-utilized and hiring practices conform to the
affirmative action program.
Councilman Gilliam asked what he would do that was different
if he were a contractor .
Walter Blalark stated that most of the text in the ordinance
was taken from the State ordinance and that he would be the
person dealing with the equal employment opportunity/affirmative
action policy statement, which the contractor would be asked
to sign.
Councilman Hansen asked what the reasoning was to have the
policy statement in addition to the ordinance itself. Mr.
Hansen also asked if any of the contractors had seen this
proposal .
Mr. Blalark stated that he had been requested by staff to
work up the policy statement.
Mr. Malm stated he had requested an organizational statement.
Mr . Blalark stated he had arranged for a meeting with the
contractors and Councilwoman Shales was the only one who
showed up for the meeting .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen that the staff, Human Relations Commission and Legal
Department bring back one workable document for the Council ' s
review.
Councilman Schmidt thought the Council should stick with the
recommended ordinance.
The Mayor called for a vote on Councilman Gilliam' s motion.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Schmidt.
Adjournment to Council Meeting . - 8: 10 p.m.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
that the Council adjourn to the Council Meeting. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and
Mayor Verbic.
,
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26, 1984
Page 7
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 9 : 30 p.m.
Continued discussion of the proposed amendments to the
Subdivision Regulations .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the proposed amendments to Title 18 Subdivisions in
Public Works Department and Planning Department Memorandum of
February 21 , 1984 and Revisions of November 20, 1984.
Councilman Hansen also asked that a letter be sent to the
Home Builders Association of Greater Chicago thanking them
for their assistance in this matter.
Mr. Malm stated this could be done and a copy of the ordinance
could also be forwarded when it is formally passed.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request to purchase certain spare parts for the Water
Department from Wallace & Tiernan.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to approve the above request. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Consideration of acquiring a distilled water system for
laboratory use at the Riverside Water Treatment Plant.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to approve the distilled water system at the
Riverside Plant. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam,
Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Request to provide bus service to the Fox Valley Nursing
Center and Elgin Estates .
Mr. Moller advised the Council the extension of bus service
to the Fox Valley Nursing Center, the South Elgin Manor,
and Elgin Estates would not result in additional operating
costs and he suggested that the service change be tried for
3 to 6 months in order to determine the impact on ridership.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the above mentioned request. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Request from the Library Restaurant to construct an awning
over the sidewalk in front of their restaurant.
Mr. Malm advised the Council there was already an ordinance
in place to take care of this request and that no action
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 26 , 1984
Page 8
emb. was required of the Council .
Request for preparation of resolution to change the form
of city government .
Councilman Hansen asked that the Corporation Counsel prepare
a resolution for the Council to act upon changing the form
of government of the City of Elgin to a strong mayor form
of government. Councilman Hansen requested that this resolution
be placed on the Council ' s agenda for December 10th.
Discussion of Water Department Budget
Mr. Malm stated the Water Department ' s budget has been
prepared to provide for an increase in the water rates
from 87 per 100 cubic to $ 1 .09. One of the reasons for
the proposed rate increase is that there will be no transfer
from the Water Bond Fund to help finance the 1985 Budget.
The principal contributors to the increase in estimated
expenditures are anticipated costs for chemicals and electricity.
The staff provided the Council with a survey of water costs
in nearby communities which showed that Elgin is substantially
lower even with the proposed increase than those communities
rft lying east of Elgin.
Ron Zegers also advised the Council the city has been losing
about a million gallons of processed water a day, out of an
average daily production of about 9 million gallons , to leakage
whose sources are unknown at this time. Mr. Zegers stated this
was the reason for the requested leakage survey which the
Council just approved to be done by Donohue & Associates .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to approve the increased water rates . Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the Water Department budget. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Budget Meeting
The Council agreed to meet on November 28, 1984 at 5 : 30 p.m.
for further discussion of the 1985 budget.
Adj ournment
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go into
Executive Session to discuss appointments to boards and commissions,
personnel , acquisition of property and litigation. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gillia , Hansen, Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned at 10: 50 p.m.
Marie Yearman, City Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 28, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order
at 6 : 00 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales and Mayor Verbic. Absent : Councilman
Waters .
Also present : Malm, Yearman, Jentsch and members of staff.
Continued discussion of proposed 1985 Budget
Compensation for Elected Officials
The Council reviewed a memorandum from the Personnel
Department dated November 14, 1983, which reflected a
survey ( "Naperville Study") of 29 communities varying
in size between 30, 000 and 50,000 in population. Of
these responses 21 were from Council /Manager communities
with the Mayors receiving an average of $3 , 700 per year
and Council members, an average of $ 1 , 550 per year.
A few of the Council members indicated they would consider
raising the Council compensation to $450.00 per month for
the Mayor and $300.00 per month for the Council members .
`'' However, since the Mayor had to leave the meeting for a
medical emergency and the Council was short one member,
the Council decided to re-address this matter with a
full Council .
City Manager ' s Office
Councilman Andersen questioned the need to purchase a word
processing unit at a cost of $7 , 310 for a part-time secretary.
Mr. Malm stated this employee does typing for other departments
in City Hall , as well as employee group contracts and this
equipment would assist her in performing these tasks .
Councilman Hansen stated that for six months the city has
been operating with an Acting City Manager and one Assistant
City Manager. Mr. Hansen noted that things had been moving
smoothly and he suggested that perhaps one Assistant City
Manager ' s position could be eliminated from the budget.
Councilman Gilliam asked Mr. Malm how the workload had been
functioning.
Mr. Maim stated that thing3 have been going well but there
were projects that were not being followed through because
he did not have the time.
Mr. Hansen asked if Mr. Maim would elaborate on these projects .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 28, 1984
em. Page 2
Mr Malm stated some of these projects include the Cable TV
franchise extension, productivity, organizational planning
and personnel negotiations . Mr. Malm further stated that
he did not feel he could address this issue because it was
his job that was involved.
Councilman Hansen stated this was not the case because
there was another Assistant City Manager in the Personnel
Department.
Councilman Gilliam stated that if the Council were going to
discuss personnel cuts they should do so when a full Council
is present because otherwise the same subjects will have to
be re-discussed again.
Councilman Hansen stated that he would agree there should be
a full Council .
Councilman Schmidt questioned the reason for tonight ' s meeting
if everything was going to be held up for a full Council .
Councilman Hansen stated they could move forward with the
budget making a list of the items each Council member felt
should be referred to a full Council meeting .
Boards and Commissions
Elgin Chamber of Commerce
Mr. Malm pointed out that the Chamber has not hired anyone
for the Economic Development Commission, there was one
individual hired for this position, but he only stayed two
weeks, and the city has been paying the Chamber in advance,
on a quarterly basis for this position employment.
Councilman Hansen stated that the city should not be expected
to reimburse the Chamber for a position that has not been
filled and there should be some accountability from the
Chamber .
Councilman Gilliam stated that the amount of money paid in
advance to the Chamber for this vacant position could be
applied to their budget for 1985 .
Councilman Hansen stated that there has been no reports or
feedback from the Chamber regarding any economic development
and the city has contributed $20, 500 to the Chamber for
Tourism and the Dunham Contract and $33, 500 to hire an
individual for economic development. Mr. Hansen stated
that he was concerned that they have not done anything
for this year in this regard and yet the city has paid
them.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 28 , 1984
Page 3
Councilman Hansen asked how staff would feel about taking
on this job.
Mr. Malm stated the staff would jump at it because a lot
of the developers would rather come to the city first,
because we have the zoning information, etc. , but this
does not mean they do not enjoy working with the Chamber.
Councilwoman Shales stated that maybe the Chamber works
better with the industry that is already here and perhaps
the city should handle the new developments .
Mr. Malm stated that he had an article regarding the
economic development being handled by cities and he would
send a copy of same to the Council .
Councilman Hansen stated that hiring our own man appealed
to him and this would enable the Council to have monthly
reports and closer status reports .
Department of Buildings - no discussion.
Community Development - no discussion.
Police Department
Several Council members pointed out an increase of 5.8%
in this budget.
Mr. Malm stated there is $20, 000 in capital improvements,
$58, 000 for police pension funding and 5% in salaries and
overtime.
Councilman Andersen stated that the reserve officers are
currently earning $6 .30 per hour, with no increase in 3
years , and the proposed increase this year is 20 per hour.
Mr. Andersen proposed that this increase be raised to $ 1 .00
per hour.
Fire Department
The proposed budget of $3, 274, 350 is $ 184, 700 less than
1984 and is attributed to a $ 173 , 325 drop in personnel
services, made possible due to a reduction in the pension
funding and a decrease in overtime.
Councilman Schmidt pointed out that the fire hydrants in
the city were badly in need of re-painting.
Acting Chief Sphatt stated they were presently working on
this with the Water Department.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 28, 1984
Page 4
Public Works
Mayor Verbic pointed out that the Engineering Department
budget was 15% higher than 1984.
Mr. Malm stated that last year they operated with one
position short and it was being proposed to fill that
position this coming year.
Mayor Verbic also pointed out a position change of a
Civil Engineer from Class I to II .
Councilman Gilliam suggested that the staff prepare a
list of all the positions changes proposed in the budget
so that the Council could discuss them collectively
instead of on an individual basis .
Mayor Verbic stated that he would also like to call
attention to the need for patching on Chicago Street
and he would like to see this made a high priority
for next Spring.
The Council also discussed increasing the curb and sidewalk
budget by $ 10,000.
City Clerk
The Council agreed to purchase a new typewriter, transcriber
and 4 legal file cabinets for this office. Councilman
Hansen also suggested that a full Council discuss taking
the City Clerk out of the Finance Department.
Councilman Andersen asked where you could put 4 file
cabinets in the Clerk' s Office.
Mr. Malm stated there was a space shortage in both the
Clerk' s Office and the Legal Department and this problem
was going to be addressed.
Legal Department
The Council agreed to the purchase of a new typewriter
in addition to the proposed capital outlay in this department.
Schedule for next Budget Session
The Council agreed to meet on December 6th at 5 : 30 p.m.
Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss Appointments to
Boards and Commissions and Collective Bargaining Matters .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
November 28, 1984
Page 5
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales
and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None. The meeting was adjourned at
9: 10 p.m.
M a i e Ye rma C i ty Clerk
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
6 : 08 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present: Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Shales,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Councilman Gilliam arrived at
6 :45 p.m. Absent: Councilman Schmidt.
Also present: Malm, Yearman and members of staff .
Further discussion of the proposed 1985 Budget.
Public Property and Recreation
Mayor Verbic asked if there had been any problems with the
Stetson contract during the past season.
Mr. Bennett stated there were no complaints or problems .
Mr. Malm stated that Stetson provided more staff.
Mayor Verbic asked what the revenue status was for this season.
Mr. Bennett stated that the loss was reduced $3, 000 for a
total loss of $49, 000 for this year.
Mr. Malm stated the city has reduced the loss by $ 15, 000
since Stetson was hired to operate the pools .
Mayor Verbic asked what the revenue was for last year.
Mr. Malm replied there was $8, 500 for 1983
Mayor Verbic asked if there were any recommendations on fees
to be charged in 1985 .
Mr. Bennett stated they did not have any recommendations as yet.
Mr. Bennett surther stated there was a loss in teenager attendance
throughout the country and it seems that waterslides seem to
attract this age group and the staff is looking into this .
Mr. Malm stated the staff has been looking for a contractor who
would put the slide in on a contractural basis so that the city
would not have to put out the capital outlay.
Councilman Hansen asked if Stetson had been contacted in this
regard.
Mr. Malm stated they had been contacted but they declined.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
Page 2
Mayor Verbic felt it was important to pursue this activity
in an effort to bring back the swimming interest of this
age group.
Mayor Verbic stated that because Elgin will be celebrating
150 years this year the city might be able to obtain monies
through contributions to provide a larger fireworks display.
Mr. Malm stated the Sesquicentennial Committee had appropriated
$25,000 for fireworks but he did not know if they intended to
handle this separately.
Mr. Bennett suggested that perhaps there could be two displays
instead of just one.
Mayor Verbic stated this might be possible because there were
plans to have two parades, one on July 4th and the other on
Labor Day.
Councilman Waters stated he would suggest some other site for
for the display and not ECC .
Mayor Verbic stated the Committee has been thinking about
Maroon Field because of the seating and traffic access and
he could talk to the Committee about two displays instead
of one.
Mayor Verbic referred to the $ 10, 000 request by the Jayne Shover
Easter Seals Rehabilitation Center for a special recreation program
for the handicapped. The Mayor suggested that perhaps the
United Way could assist with this request.
Councilwoman Shales stated this was not possible because all
the 1985 United Way allocations have already been made. Mrs.
Shales also stated that the city is going to have to provide
handicapped recreation in the future and this might be a good
time to start.
Mr. Bennett stated that he had received a call from the Shover
staff asking if they could make use of the Hawthorne Hills site
this summer, they were not interested in the lodge, just the
site.
Councilwoman Shales pointed out that the Recreation Department
could not even hire one staff member for $ 10, 000, and Shover
would be providing the staff for a program that will soon
be mandated.
Councilman Hansen asked why they have requested that site when
there are other larger sites available in our parks which are
presently maintained. Councilman Hansen said he believed
rft. handicapped people do better when they are out in society
as opposed to a site just for them.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
Page 3
Mayor Verbic stated he would rather see them use their staff
egik in one of our parks .
Councilman Waters stated the $ 10,000 requested is for something
that is not a specific program and he was concerned that we
would be budgeting maintenance costs for them instead of the
city contracting for such a program, and this could be a
yearly request.
Councilwoman Shales stated the request is for their recreation
program and not physical therapy and the intent for the money
was made clear when Peg Muetteries made her presentation to
the Council .
Mayor Verbic stated that once you start such a contribution
you would not get rid of it and he would rather give the
money to the city ' s recreation department so that other
associations could have use of the program as well .
Councilman Waters asked if it was possible that they could
tell us what they intend to provide.
Councilwoman Shales stated that we could develop a contract
for these services to show other agencies that we are not
subsidizing.
r Councilman Hansen stated he would be interested in the total
handicap budget and information as to who is using these
services .
Mayor Verbic noted that part-time employee earnings had been
increased to cover the additional maintenance at the ball
diamond complex and he wondered if the ball clubs had been
contacted to see if they would take care of the maintenance.
Mr. Malm stated the staff felt this would be covered by the
fees that are charged to the ball clubs .
Councilman Hansen asked if the fees cover the costs now.
Mr. Malm stated they do now but it must be figured differently
when the lights are put in.
Mayor Verbic stated the budget calls for replacement of three
vehicles and previously he had mentioned the possibility of
establishing a pool for cars .
Mr. Malm stated that each of the replacement vehicles had
been inspected by the Budget Committee and that there
presently are three pool staff cars now, one of which is
the City Manager ' s car. The requested vehicles are needed
raw for work related activities .
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
Page 4
Councilman Hansen stated he did not see any capital item for
equipping neighborhood parks and he thought it was ludicrous
that we had 1 .6 million in this budget and we cannot spend
$ 10,000 to $ 15 , 000 in equipment for these small neighborhood
parks.
Mr. Bennett stated staff had requested $ 125, 000 for the park
site in Valley Creek and had been turned down.
Councilman Gilliam suggested that the staff bring back some
low figure for the development of these parks .
Councilman Hansen suggested that we give the department
$25,000 for this purpose.
Mayor Verbic stated that he had several calls concerning the
bow and arrow incident in Lord ' s Park.
Mr. Bennett stated that he hoped this is a isolated incident
and nothing like this would happen again.
Mr. Malm stated the anticipated increase in revenue for the
Hemmens Building was 11%.
Councilman Hansen stated there was about a $ 130,000 shortfall
and he asked if there were any bookings as a result of a
contract with Dunham.
Mr. Malm replied there had been no bookings as a result of
this contract.
Councilman Gilliam stated that he had been approached by Dick
Gromer relative to the absence of ovens in the kitchen at the
Hemmens .
Ed Spurr stated he had also talked to Dean Thornton about this
and had looked into the cost of purchasing ovens which is
estimated at $9, 000.
Councilman Gilliam stated that perhaps we could generate more
business for Hemmens if they had ovens instead of warmers .
Mr. Spurr stated that Mr. Gromer is the only caterer who has
had this problem at Hemmens . The logic in not furnishing
ovens previously was so the Hemmens would not be competiting
with the local restaurants .
Betsy Armistead stated that she had been advised that Gromer
could possibly do at least one luncheon or dinner per month.
Councilman Gilliam thought the purchase of the ovens should
be put on the hope list.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Hansen stated that he had already heard many
comments about Elgin Community College being in direct
competition with the local restaurants with their gourmet
program.
Mrs . Armistead stated that the Hemmens could not attract
groups of 500 to 600, it would be more like 200 to 300 people.
Councilmen Gilliam and Waters asked that the ovens be put on
the list.
Mr. Malm stated the golf courses had a good season and the
staff may be bringing back recommended rates for 1985.
Councilman Gilliam stated the staff should take them to the
Park' s Board first.
Mayor Verbic stated that the requests from the Elgin American
Little League, Elgin Babe Ruth Teener League and Elgin
National Little League sounded like legitimate requests and
they should be considered.
Councilman Waters stated we should summarize these requests
down to a dollar figure.
Mayor Verbic stated Mr. Bennett should bring in estimates
of the costs .
Councilman Hansen stated he thought the Council should set
a dollar figure.
Mayor Verbic suggested between $ 18, 000 to $20,000.
The Council reviewed a proposal for the plant care at the
Hemmens building and a recommendation from the Hemmens
Advisory Committee.
Mr. Spurr stated the present maintenance man does not have
the expertise to deal with the plants and there are problems
with diseased plants .
Councilman Hansen stated that the plant care is accountable
for 2% of the shortfall at the Hemmens and someone from staff
should be able to handle these plants .
Mr. Malm stated he agreed we should be able to get someone from
the department to maintain the plants and he suggested they
would do that in house.
The Council reviewed the request for certain lighting improvements
in Gifford Park.
Councilman Gilliam stated there is another group over on
Melrose who are asking for the same thing.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
Page 6
Councilman Hansen asked if this could be considered mid-
block lighting.
Councilman Gilliam stated this should be checked out.
Mayor Verbic asked if the Gifford Park lighting improvement
could be a part of the community block grant funds .
Mr. Malm stated he would get this information and some
plans and costs involved in this project.
Mayor Verbic suggested that perhaps the Council would rather
try National Center Institute for grants rather than using
ISI again. The Mayor pointed out that National Center had
been successful in obtaining 10% of $200,000,000 for housing
rehabilitation in other cities.
Mr. Malm stated that the major difficulty with ISI is they
are not a lbbbying group. National Center goes through the
political process .
Councilman Gilliam stated that he would be concerned about
the amount of time spent by staff in writing grants .
Mr. Malm stated the staff could do this if National Center
will provide the oversight and review.
Councilman Hansen stated that he thought further negotiations
should be held with regard to the Prairie Path because he
did not like the presentation that was made by Phil Elfstrom.
Mr. Hansen stated that some effort should be made to assist
the businesses in the area of the Prairie Path. Councilman
Hansen stated that he would be willing to make a motion that
a letter be written to Mr. Elfstrom expressing our displeasure
with a carbon copy going to all the Elgin Board Members . (No
second to this motion)
Mayor Verbic stated he thought this project was a step in the
right direction for South Grove. The city has not seen the
plans and we have not appropriated any money for this project
and that will have a lot to do with the final decision.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Gilliam
to approve the Christmas gifts to employees and board members.
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None. (Councilman Waters left the meeting at
8 : 00 p.m. )
Councilman Gilliam stated he had heard rumors that the Elgin
Academy may be moving their facility because of problems
with space and parking.
(ow
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6, 1984
Page 7
Mr. Malm stated they are looking at expansion and some of
their clientel would like to move from their present area
to more open space. Mr. Malm further stated that he has
had meetings with their staff to encourage them to remain
here.
Mayor Verbic stated he would like a status report on the
Tyler Creek funding from the State.
IBM Computer System - Carol Schambach advised the Council
the current system was bought in 1982 and at the present
time this system is exhausted. The IBM 38 system would
take care of future needs for the next 10 years .
Councilman Hansen asked what the resale value of the current
system would be.
Mr. Bolerjack stated he thought $20, 000
Mayor Verbic felt the staff should look into leasing this
equipment.
Mr. Malm stated if the Council would budget the money the
staff would bring back the recommended method of procurement
Purchase of leaf removing equipment - Mayor Verbic stated
he was against this purchase and believed that people will
use bags for their leaves.
Dredging Lord ' s Park Lagoons - Mr. Malm stated that one lagoon
to the north of the pavilion is so backed up it presents a
poor appearance and odor problem and may even effect the ice
skating.
Councilman Hansen stated he would rather have fewer things
well maintained than a lot of things that are not maintained
and we should maintain what we have.
Sewer Repairs - The sewer televising indicate that the city
could easily spend $75, 000 for emergency repirs.
National Street Improvements - Councilman Andersen asked how
do we know anything is doing to go down there.
Mr. Malm stated that he has a meeting with Estes tomorrow and
although we have committed this amount to this budget we don ' t
have to spend it unless the projects go.
City Hall North Remodeling - Mr. Malm stated this work would
be done after the Fire Department has moved out and there
should be additional space available for someone from
general government. Additional space for the Legal Department
and City Clerk ' s office was also discussed.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 6 , 1984
Page 8
Police Pistol Range - Mr. Malm stated the amount budgeted
will provide badly needed slides which are presently broken,
replace some controls and purchase of other equipment.
Councilman Hansen stated that it is important that the police
have good markmenship and this equipment will help them keep
current.
Reroofing of Fire Station #2
Mayor Verbic asked when the Fire Department acquired this
station.
Acting Chief Sphatt stated they moved in this site in 1977 .
The facility has a flat roof and the guarantee on the roof
was only good for two years . The roof has been patched 3
times .
Mayor Verbic stated that he had the name of an individual
who does this type of work and he would give that information
to the staff.
Lord ' s Park Pavilion - Mr . Malm stated that the porch, stairs
and other outside features are rotting out and the structure
is bably in need of repairs .
Mayor Verbic stated that the city has spent over $100,000
on this building already and perhaps now is the time to
tear it down.
Tyler Creek Erosion - Mel Dahl stated that there is a storm
sewer pipe that runs out of Country Knoll in the area of
Thomas More Drive and drains across the south portion of
Mrs . Burnidge ' s property into Tyler Creek. As a result
Mrs . Burnidge is losing property by her house due to
erosion from this drain.
Funds have been appropriated to correct this situation.
Councilman Hansen asked that the staff secure the sales
tax revenue figures derived from the downtown area .
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Shales and Mayor Verbic . Nays :
None. Councilman Waters left the meeting at 8 : 00 p.m. , and
Councilman Gilliam left the meeting at 9 : 30 p.m. The
meeting was adjourned at 10 : 30 p.m.
-
Marie YearmanI City C er
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 10, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at 6 : 05
p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall . Members
present : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Absent : Councilman Schmidt. Councilman Gilliam arrived
at 7 : 00 p.m.
Budget Session
Community Development - HCD Funding
Roger Dahlstrom stated he anticipated the amount of HCD Funding
for 1985 would be approximately $900,000 and since the Council
has previously decided they would be the hearing body in 1985
they should be aware that this process starts in January.
Councilman Hansen asked if it would be advisable to set the
ground rules ahead of the hearings .
Councilwoman Shales stated she thought this was necessary in
order that the agencies that are going to apply will know what
funds are or are not available.
(01".. Mayor Verbic requested that Mr. Dahlstrom prepare some recommendations
as to procedures and submit same to the Council .
Councilman Hansen stated that this should be done early in January.
Federal Revenue Sharing -
It is estimated the City will receive $695,000 in 1985 and $550,000
of this money has been appropriated for the Tyler Creek Detention
project.
Lord ' s Park Pavilion
Mr. Malm stated there is a problem with the structure in that the
wood is rotting throughout.
Mayor Verbic questioned putting more money into the structure as
opposed to building a new structure.
Mr. Malm suggested that perhaps it would be best to have the
structure evaluated to see what is needed and what the costs
for same would be.
Councilman Hansen stated there is a limit as to how much renovation
the city can do. Currently the city is involved in the renovation
(01". of Old Main and we will be spending money each year on this project
for years down the road. If the pavilion is only used for meeting
rooms the Council should consider that we have the Hemmens Building,
Library, etc. , for that purpose.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 10, 1984
Page 2
Councilman Hansen stated the important consideration is the
building cost effective and should the city continue spending
money on this old structure.
Councilwoman Shales suggested that the staff seek an evaluation
or appraisal of the structure.
Mr. Bennet stated that the building is used heavily for recreation
programs .
Mr. Malm stated that the bottom line is what the emotional value
of the building is to the city .
Mayor Verbic stated that in addition to an appraisal Mr. Bennett
and perhaps the Park' s Board should give a recommendation.
Councilman Hansen stated he would like to know what it is costing
to maintain each year and what the city has spent on the structure
in the last 10 years .
Mr. Malm stated he would bring this information back to the Council .
Gifford Park Lighting
Roger Dahlstrom stated he did not think this would qualify for
HCD funding because some $80,000 in HCD funds had already been
e.. spent for this site.
Mark Herzog stated he would like the Council to consider this as
a capital outlay because the request is basically for security
purposes .
Mayor Verbic suggested that the staff contact ISI to see if there
is any money available for this type project.
Councilman Hansen asked that since the park was developed by
a consultant (Nowak) why the lights were not included in that
development.
Mr. Bennett stated that lights were discussed but he did not
remember why they were eliminated.
Councilman Hansen stated that had they been included with the
park development the cost would have been about one-half.
Mayor Verbic suggested that the staff research this with ISI
or see if the project could qualify for HCD funds .
Councilman Hansen stated he felt the project should be given
consideration in 1985 with HCD funding or perhaps the staff
could try to work it into the Park' s and Recreation budget.
Councilman Gilliam stated that if the city could not get the
funding from ISI or HCD he thought the Council should allocate
the funding in the budget.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 10, 1984
Page 3
Councilman Waters stated he had difficulty with that proposal
because he thought the staff should have the opportunity to
look into their priorities .
Councilman Gilliam stated he was willing to wait until December
17th to make a decision in order to give the staff this time.
Mr. Malm stated that the staff would verify the cost of the project
and this information would be given to the Council on December 17th.
Contribution of funds in support of the NHS operating budget.
Mr. Malm stated this request is from the NHS Board who are asking
that they be allowed to use the interest earned from their
revolving loan fund to help offset administrative costs. These
funds would provide approximately $ 13, 000.
Councilman Gilliam asked if this then becomes an annual request.
Mark Herzog pointed out that other NHS programs use this system
and the lenders felt it would relieve their responsibility.
Councilman Hansen stated that the original scenario laid out the
ground rules and the Council at this point does not know if the
operating budget has decreased or increased. Councilman Hansen
said he would like to know if the budget has changed.
Mark Herzog stated the fund raising has been short.
Mr. Malm stated that the lending institutions have two elements
of financing (a) their own contribution, which is on target and
(b) community fund raising, which has a shortfall .
Councilwoman Shales felt the Council should be furnished information
showing how the money is to be used, what the budget was for last
year and some other accounting data to back up this request.
Mayor Verbic stated that he agreed with Councilwoman Shales that
the Council should have this additional information before making
any decision.
Councilman Gilliam said he would also like to know if this is a
one time thing.
Councilman Waters suggested a matching fund arrangement.
Councilman Hansen stated the program was sold to the Council on
a certain formula and now they are asking to change the formula.
Mark Herzog stated that he would come back to the Council on
December 17th with further information.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 10, 1984
Page 4
Reduction in contribution to the Chamber of Commerce from
$33, 500 to $21 , 200.
Mr. Larry Weyers and Ed Kelly representing the Chamber reviewed
with the Council a summary of the 1984 Economic Development
Activities . Mr. Weyers pointed out that Elgin is now the ninth
largest industrial city in Illinois in number of firms, and has
surpassed Aurora as the number one industrial city in Kane County.
In 1977 we ranked 17.
Fifty-four new businesses have located here in 1984 and two have
committed for 1985. This is a total of 885, 000 square feet,
resulting in an increase of $61 ,000 in city property taxes ;
1040 additional jobs and increased payrolls of $ 16,640.00.
Councilman Gilliam stated he felt one of the concerns the
Council has was the fact that the Chamber had not hired
an Economic Development Director.
Mr. Kelly stated the Commission will be meeting next week and
will discuss the status of hiring an economic development person
and that he would propose a concerted effort to hire such a person.
Councilwoman Shales stated there should be some ground rules
established as to who serves on this commission and the person
who is hired must work closely with the City staff. Councilwoman
Shales stated she would also like to see a budget and accounting
of how the money that is given to the Chamber is spent.
Councilman Andersen felt that if the economic development person
worked out of City hall he would be representing Elgin and not
the Elgin area. Mr. Anderson pointed out that the only time
we hear from the Chamber is when they come in at budget time
and he was concerned because Elgin is on the threshold of the
best ten years we could have, and we need someone to go out and
shake the bushes .
Councilman Hansen stated that he was concerned with the lack of
information and communication, for example the Council did not
know that the Chamber did not have an economic person on board,
and he considered this poor accountability.
Mayor Verbic stated that if the City hired such a person it
would increase our budget. Right now the 600 members of the
Chamber are contributing to this position. The Mayor suggested
that the City contribute $21 , 200 to the Chamber this year and
in January discuss these concerns with the Chamber staff.
To continue free parking in the CBD on the streets .
Mayor Verbic stated that after reading the CBD parking policy
survey it was evident that the respondents wanted the free
parking policy to continue. The respondents also indicated
a lack of follow through on enforcement and they stated that
some people are parking all day.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 10, 1984
Page 5
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to continue the CBD free parking, raise the parking ticket to
$5.00, leave 7 meters on the West side of State Street, keep
the attended lots in place and request staff to bring back a
recommendation for better enforcement. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
To modify the organization structure as it pertains to the
Office of the City Clerk.
Councilman Hansen stated most of the work in this office is
done for the Council and there is no logic in having the
City Clerk in the Finance Department.
Councilwoman Shales stated that the City Clerk is appointed
by the Mayor and Council and it would seem logical to have
this position under the Council .
Councilman Waters stated if this were done the Clerk would
not have any day to day supervision.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to place the City Clerk position under the City
Council . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
fir. Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Waters .
To increase the pay for reserve police officers by $ 1 .00 per
hour.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve the increase for reserve police officers . Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
To increase funding for the sidewalk and curb replacement program
by $ 10,000 .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Andersen
to approve the additional $ 10,000. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Budget Meetings Schedule and Adjournment of Meeting
The Council agreed to meet on December 17th at 5 : 00 p.m. and
on December 20th at 4 . 00 p.m. , for further review and passage
of the 1985 budget.
Councilman Andersen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to go
into Executive Session to discuss collective bargaining. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
i
I
Marie Yea man City C er
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
The Committee of the Whole Meeting was called to order at
5:45 p.m. , in the Council Conference Room of City Hall .
Members present : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Absent : None.
Also present: Malm, Yearman, Jentsch, and members of staff.
Further discussion re abatement of $200, 000 tax levy from
Specia Service Area I Spring Street Par ing Dec .
Councilman Gilliam stated that he would be willing to
support one-half of the $200, 000 abatement, but he did
not think the other $ 100, 000 should be passed on to the
citizens .
Councilman Hansen stated that he disagreed because after
reading Mr. Ackemann ' s report the property owners in this
service area were told their obligation would be to pay
$25,000 per year. Mr. Hansen stated he was in favor of
continuing to charge $25, 000 and abating the balance, or
$ 175, 000.
Councilman Andersen stated that previously he had abstained
from voting on this issue, but subsequently he has received
an opinion from the Corporation Counsel and the Attorney
General ' s Office which revealed there would be no conflict
of interest if he did in fact vote on the issue.
Mr. Carlson stated that the Council is not correcting an
evil that was wrong from the beginning and he urged an
abolishment of the taxing district stating the debt should
be paid by the users of the facility and the general revenue
fund of the City.
Mayor Verbic asked if this assessment were reduced to $25, 000
could a future Council change it.
Counsel Jentsch stated that future Councils could change this
by increasing or decreasing the levy because the tax district
continues .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen to abate $ 175, 000 of the tax levy from the Special
service Area #2. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen, Schmidt,
Shales and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilman Gilliam and Waters .
Further discussion re acquiring additional cooking equipment
Mayor Verbic called attention to Mr. Gromer ' s letter of
December 17th, in which he urged the upgrading of the kitchen
equipment in the lower level of the Hemmen ' s building.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 2
Mr. Gromer stated that they have catered a number of events
at the Hemmens Building, but if the kitchen were upgraded
he felt that more use of the facilities could be made.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to add $ 10,000 to the budget for the purchase of ovens and
refrigerator/ freezer equipment. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Further discussion re increased stipend of elected officials
to $450.00 per month for the Mayor and $300.00 per month for
the Council .
Mayor Verbic stated he felt that the people who are elected
serve because they want to serve the citizens in any capacity
they can, and there are some other cities who don ' t pay
anything. The Mayor pointed out that the Council ' s expenses
are paid and the basic salary is not an inducement for the
office. The Mayor felt the Council should keep the salaries
as they presently are.
Councilman Waters stated that concurred with the Mayor and
if financial incentative was the issue this would not be
enough.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Schmidt
to increase the Council stipend. Yeas • Councilmen Gilliam
and Schmidt. Nays Councilmen Andersen, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Present : Councilman Hansen.
Elimination of the Assistant City Manager ' s position in the
City Manager ' s Office.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Waters
to table this issue indefinitely. Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam,
Schmidt, Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilmen Andersen, Hansen
and Mayor Verbic.
To make certain lighting improvements in Gifford Park
Mr. Malm stated that the engineering estimate for this
improvement was $29, 000.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated that he was concernced that this project
would not qualify for HCD funds because that park was a part
of a previous block grant fund project.
Councilman Schmidt asked what the reason was for the project
to call for so many lights .
Councilman Gilliam stated it helps with security.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 3
Councilman Hansen stated he would support the project if it
qualified for HCD funding. Councilman Hansen stated he also
has a problem with the consultant who conceived the project
without the lights and it appeared to be another case of
no accountability.
Mayor Verbic stated that if the project is not approved for
HCD funding the Council should take another look at this .
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales for the City to pay the $29,000 for the project if
it does not qualify for HCD funding. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilmen
Hansen, Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
To contribute funds in support of the NHS operating budget
Councilman Hansen stated the Council could look forward to
requests for increase each year.
Mayor Verbic stated there was a 10% increase in salaries .
Mark Herzog stated the only increase is in staff salaries
and with the workload Elgin could use three NHS offices
throughout the city because there is a lot of work to get
into revitalization and code enforcement.
Councilwoman Shales stated that she would be willing to
support the use of the interest earned on the NHS Revolving
Loan Fund to offset administrative costs .
Councilman Hansen agreed with Councilwoman Shales stating
this would be a fixed and controlled amount.
Councilman Waters asked if these funds were audited.
Mr. Dahlstrom stated there is a private audit and a federal
audit.
Mayor Verbic stated he would like to see a more concerted
effort toward fund raising.
Councilman Waters made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to provide in the budge an amount equal to the interest earned.
Fifty per cent of the money to be a basic grant and the other
fifty per cent in matching funds . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays :
None.
To hire an additional attorney in the Legal Department
Mr. Malm stated that the Council had previously been furnished
with a list of suits that are presently pending.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 4
(00- Counsel Jentsch stated that since the city became self- insured
there had been a savings in insurance premiums , but we have
accummulated a large number of cases and there are a number
of substantial cases that must be tried. The Legal Department
is finding it difficult to keep up with these cases and the
time will come when the Assistant Corporation and Counsel
Jentsch will both be trying cases and they would not be
available to the Police Department or other departments
for counsel .
Councilman Andersen stated that a year ago the Council was
criticized when they wanted the Corporation Counsel to become
fulltime, now we are looking at three fulltime people. Mr.
Andersen stated he would go for a part-time counsel for
additional help.
Councilman Hansen stated that if we hired a fulltime person
it would be forever and if we needed additional representation
he was in favor of something on a part-time basis with some
local attorney.
Councilman Schmidt asked if it would be possible to send out
a letter to some of the local attorneys to see if there is
any interest and what the cost might be.
Councilman Gilliam asked if the Council was thinking about
farming the work out what the difference in cost was as
opposed to hiring somebody fulltime.
Counsel Jentsch felt that someone with limited experience
could be hired for $ 18,000 to $20, 000. If the work were
farmed out it could cost $75 .00 per hour.
Councilman Hansen stated that he would like to see some
proposals because he thought there were some young attorneys
who would not charge $75 .00 per hour.
Counsel Jentsch stated that if the Council did not want to hire
someone fulltime, then they could hire someone to take over
the prosecution cases which would take Dan Blondin out of
City Court 2 or 3 days per week.
Councilwoman Shales made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to hire an additional fulltime attorney, or an
attorney to handle the City Court cases , whichever is most
cost effective. Yeas : Councilmen Gilliam, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : Councilmen Andersen and Hansen.
Purchase of a word processor for the City Manager ' s Office.
Councilman Schmidt stated he thought it would be more
advantageous to have this type of equipment available to
a fulltime employee and this was a lot of money to spend
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 5
for an office where the employee is part-time.
Mr. Malm stated this employee does typing for all the various
city departments and is going to school on her own time to
learn word processing. Mr. Malm suggested that the staff
could look into some other type of equipment at a lower
cost.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to approve the purchase of a word processor. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Waters .
Nays: Councilman Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
Mr. Malm advised the Council a summary of budget changes
amounted to $52,000 and he asked how the Council wanted
to finance this amount.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to take the funds earmarked for the Lord ' s Park
Lagoon dredging and apply them to the $52, 000. Yeas :
Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays . None .
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Andersen that the staff seek proposals for repair of
the Fire Station #2 roof instead of seeking proposals
for a new roof . Mayor Verbic stated he would like to
know why this present roof was only guaranteed for two
years . Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
The following capital improvements are to be kept in the
1985 budget :
Tyler Creek Erosion
Lord ' s Park Pavilion
Police Pistol Range Equipment
Remodeling for City Hall
Energy Management System - City Hall
Leaf Pickup Equipment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
for the Council to hold a special Council Meeting on December
20, 1984, at 4: 00 p.m. , for the purpose of passing the 1985
Budget as amended. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion concerning the proposed extension of the Cable
Television Franchise Agreement.
Mr. Malm reviewed the proposed amendment to Ordinance S935
which appears on the regular Council agenda. Mr. Malm pointed
out that this agreement provides that the operator ' s cable
system shall have a capacity of 36 channels, which shall
• Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 6
include 2 educational access channels , broadcast elevision
reception, consistent with the rules and regulations of the
Federal Communications Commission, local origination pro-
gramming, and time and weather information.
The operation shall construct, install and activate an
institutional cable system providing service and $40, 000
in equipment for those governmental buildings , schools,
libraries and hospitals to be served by the cable system.
Upon request of the City, the operator shall provide an
emergency override capacility for the cable system, at
operator ' s cost, which will permit the City to interrupt and
cablecast a message on all channels simultaneously in the
event of disaster or public need.
Operator agrees to supply the City with Port-a-Pak equipment
at operator ' s cost, in a value not to exceed $30, 000, upon
request by the City for such equipment.
The Operator agrees to pay the City for the privilege of
operating a CATV system a fee of 5% of all gross revenues
and on or before January 15, 1985 the Operator shall pay the
City a lump sum payment of $ 1 ,000,000 as an advance upon
said franchise fees to be paid.
Councilman Hansen stated that he had only one concern expressed
to him and that was the Easter Seal organization was concerned
they will have to share a common teleathon with the Aurora
organization.
Mr. Malm stated the Aurora Easter Seal organization has no
standing and if the Elgin Easter Seal organization did not
want to join in with Aurora they will not have to. Aurora
does not have a studio.
The Council indicated they would act formally on this
ordinance in the Council meeting.
Consideration of Change Order No. 1 for the National Street
improvement project.
The Planning Department advised the Council that as part of
the Housing and Community Development Block Grant Program
the City of Elgin is required to establish an annual Minority
Business Enterprise (MBE) goal . The MBE goal for 1984 is
$35,000. In order to meet this goal a "minority set aside"
was establishedfor the National Street improvements . In
selecting the lower cost alternative for the improvements the
work eliminated as $ 15, 510 of minority work. After discussions
with HUD it was determined that contingency funds from the
1983 BCD budget could be used to support an HCD Jobs Bill
project. Therefore, if a change order is approved to provide
for the full scope of National Street improvements the City
will be able to achieve $35, 000 in MBE contract awards.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 7
Awarded project costs $76,450.80
Engineering and Inspection Costs 7, 500.00
Proposed Change Order 15, 510.00
Proposed Project Cost $99,410.80
The Council indicated they would act formally on this
Change Order in the Council meeting.
Request from the First National Bank of Elgin to increase
the vehicle sticker service fee from 25 cents to 50 cents .
Mr. Malm indicated a resolution had been prepared approving
this request and it appears on the Council agenda .
The Council indicated they would act formally on this
resolution in the Council meeting.
Discussion regarding a proposed agreement with Kane County
to provide snow removal and ice control on Big Timber Road.
Mr. Malm advised the Council that the Kane County Highway
Department had advised the staff that since the County is
self insured they are unable to comply with the request
from the City to co- insure the City on the County' s
insurance policy.
Mayor Verbic asked if it is worth the risk to do this
without the insurance coverage.
Mr. Dahl stated the city only recovers their costs in
removing the snow.
Mayor Verbic stated he did not feel the city should do this
if there is no insurance because it would just take one
bad accident and then the city would be liable.
Counsel Jentsch stated that he would be satisfied if the
County would provide a provision in the agreement that
would indemnify and hold harmless the city from any claims .
Mayor Verbic asked that the staff contact the County to see
if this is possible and make this information available for
the meeting on Thursday night.
Discussion on the proposed acquisition of a telephone system.
Mr. Sarro stated that representatives from AT&T and Continental
were present tonight to give a short presentation. Illinois
Bell is not represented based on the staff ' s recommendation
to award the contract to AT&T. Mr. Jacobs, the consultant
was unable to be present this evening.
Mr. Sarro stated that AT&T was the low bidder, Illinois Bell
the second low bidder and Continental the third low bidder.
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 8
Continental and Illinois Bell proposed the same system
except Continential would use the present wiring system
with supplemental wiring to make their system work.
Illinois Bell would want to put in all new wiring and
the staff feels the existing wiring is acceptable. The
recommendation is to award the contract to AT&T with the
idea that some additional dollars be allowed for some
changes .
Councilman Hansen stated he was concerned that the consultant
was not present this evening and he asked if it was necessary
to award the contract this evening.
Mr. Sarro stated the proposals contain prices that are only
good through this year.
Councilman Hansen asked what the city paid the consultant.
Mr. Sarro stated $3,000.
Mayor Verbic stated that due to the hour the different
representatives could address this matter in the Council
meeting.
Adjournment to Council Meeting. - 8 : 25 p.m.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to adjourn to the Council Meeting. Yeas Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and
Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Committee of the Whole Meeting reconvened at 10 :45 p.m.
Consideration of abating certain costs connected with the
Spring Street, DuPage and Fulton streetscape project.
The staff advised the Council their estimate for this project
was $355, 504.90. The bid came in at $276, 250.67, while the
actual construction cost was $252, 388. 38. The staff recommended
that an abatement be made to the property owners in accordance
with the actual construction cost.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman Hansen
to approve the staff ' s recommendation. Yeas : Councilmen
Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor
Verbic. Nays : None.
Consideration of certain agreements for the Performing Arts
for Young People Series .
(P. The Council reviewed a contract with Joan Ballenger and
Associates for two performances on April 3, and April 4,
1985, for a fee of $2,000, and a contract with The Roadside
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 9
Theater for two performances on March 12, and March 13 ,
1985, for a fee of $3, 500.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Gilliam to have a resolution prepared for these contracts .
Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales ,
Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
Discussion concerning solicitation of professional services
for the 1984- 1986 audits .
Mr. Bolerjack advised the Council that the City' s timetable
to complete the audit is May 3rd for 1984, and April 15th for
1985 and 1986. To accomplish these dates , all firms invited
to bid must be property staffed with experienced personnel ,
and Mr. Bolerjack recommended that five of the following
firms be selected to submit proposals :
Arthur Anderson and Company, Chicago
Coopers and Lybrand, Chicago
Fox and Company, Elgin
Karrison and Byrne, Wheaton
Peat, Marwick, Mitchell and Company, Chicago
Touche Ross, Chicago
Councilman Hansen noted there was only one Elgin firm
recommended and he asked if the other firms in Elgin
know that this work is available.
Mr. Malm stated that Fox and Company have done the auditing
for 6 years.
Mayor Verbic stated there are at least 4 big firms in Elgin.
Councilman Hansen suggested that the staff solicit bids from
these Elgin firms , excluding Fox & Company.
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to submit bids to the local firms and the 5 recommended
firms, excluding Fox & Company. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen,
Gilliam, Hansen, Schmidt, Shales , Waters and Mayor Verbic.
Nays : None.
Consideration of acquiring a check encoder/endorser for use
in the Finance Department.
Councilman Hansen made a motion, seconded by Councilwoman
Shales to approve the purchase of a Burroughs Encoder/
Endorser Machine for $737 .00. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen
Gilliam, Hansen, Shales and Waters . Nays : Councilman
Schmidt and Mayor Verbic.
, y
Committee of the Whole Meeting
December 17, 1984
Page 10
rft. Adjournment
Councilman Gilliam made a motion, seconded by Councilman
Hansen to adjourn the Committee of the Whole Meeting to
go into Executive Session to discuss appointments to
boards and commissions , personnel , acquisition of property
and litigation. Yeas : Councilmen Andersen, Gilliam, Hansen,
Schmidt, Shales, Waters and Mayor Verbic. Nays : None.
The meeting was adjourned at 11 : 00 p.m.
Marie Yearma , City Clerk
r