HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-06-09 MinutesCALL TO ORDER
I. Village President Rick Krier called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m. and led the assemblage in
the Pledge of Allegiance.
Village Clerk Carol Fritzshall called the roll. Present were: Trustees Georgianne Brunner,
Roy Kogstad, Shel Marcus, Rita Minx, Dan Staackmann, and John Thill.
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Regarding the Minutes of the May 12, 2008 Regular Meeting, Mayor Krier asked if anyone
had any changes or corrections to the Minutes. Seeing none, Trustee Minx then moved,
seconded by Trustee Thill, to approve the May 12, 2008 Regular Meeting Minutes as submit-
ted. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS
NONE
V. SPECIAL REPORTS
a. Swearing In Ceremony for New Police Sergeant Daniel Steuber
Fire and Police Commission Chairman Mike Simkins, assisted by Police Chief Paul Tasch
and Trustee liaison Marcus, performed the swearing in of Daniel Steuber to the rank of Police
Sergeant. Mr. Simkins provided some background on Sergeant Steuber: He was born in
Minnesota and raised in Louisiana and Texas. After graduating high school, he entered the
Marine Corps Reserves and attained the rank of sergeant in five years. He was deployed to
Iraq in the Desert Storm operation and was a section leader in his regiment. Sgt. Steuber and
his wife moved to Chicago in 1993 and in 1995, he joined the Morton Grove Police Depart-
ment. He served as an Evidence Technician, Field Training Officer, Radio Relief Officer,
and Range Instructor. In 2003, he became a Special Operations Officer in the Investigations
Bureau and performed the duties of Youth Officer and Crime Prevention Officer. He also
became a member of NORTAF, a unit comprised of 13 northern Chicago suburban police
departments that target known burglars. In 2005, he became a detective. Sgt. Steuber has
received the Cook County Sheriffs Award of Merit and numerous other commendations.
The Board congratulated Sgt. Steuber as his wife pinned on his badge.
Minutesof June 9,..2008 Board Meeting.
V.
b.
Chairman Farkas presented this case. He said that the proposed installation would be joining
four other carriers on the water tower. Staff had a concern regarding a readjustment of the
landscaping and the anchoring of the platform, but both concerns were addressed in proposed
staff conditions. Several concerned parties spoke at the hearing; one person was concerned
about the electromagnetic field created by so many antennas; one was concerned about
removal of the antennas if they are no longer in use; and one person was concerned about
the potential health hazards of the antennas. All concerns were addressed at the hearing.
Another concerned party said he was researching whether the frequencies might have an
adverse effect on the Village's water supply within the tank by reason of ionization. One of the
Commissioners said that frequencies are non-ionizing plus the metal of the tank shields the
water from the antennas, which are directed outward. The resident was advised to bring his
research to the attention of the FCC if it revealed any adverse environmental effects.
The Commissioners voted unanimously to recommend approval of this Special Use Permit
request.
Mayor Krier said that he had had a conversation with Chairman Farkas about the Board
method of accepting the Plan Commission's report, which is currently done by a motion,
second, and roll call vote. This has often been found to be confusing to residents, who some-
times have the impression that the Board is voting on the actual request, rather than voting to
accept the Plan Commission's report. Corporation Counsel Liston researched this and found
there was no official reason to have a roll call vote in order to accept the Plan Commission's
report. Therefore, the Board will no longer do that.
c. Presentation by Chief Tasch Regarding Fourth of July Parking Restrictions and Safety
Precautions
Chief Tasch said that the Village's Fourth of July festivities would be taking place from July 2
through July 5, 2008. The parade will be at 2:30 p.m. on July 4`" and the fireworks will be held
at 9:45 p.m. The Village of Skokie holds their fireworks at Niles West High School a little ear-
lier. It is estimated that between 8,000 and 10,000 people will attend Skokie's and Morton
Grove's fireworks. Morton Grove's streets aren't designed for that kind of traffic congestion. It
can hamper public safety response times. Last year, the Village implemented a Traffic & Park-
ing Safety Plan in the Niles West neighborhood by establishing "no parking" on the hydrant
side of all east-west streets and on the east side of all north-south streets in the area between
Oakton and Monroe and Major to Austin. The "no parking" zones were in effect from noon
until midnight on July 4`". Signs were posted the day before and all impacted residents in the
area were sent a letter in advance explaining the restrictions and the reason for them. The
plan was a great success-the streets were clear, for the most part, and only 10 cars had to
be towed.
This year, the plan will be expanded slightly in the Niles West area and will be implemented
for the first time in the Harrer Park area. Chief Tasch worked with Chief Friel to determine the
area around Harrer Park that would have parking restrictions. In the Niles West area, there
will be no parking on the hydrant side of the east-west streets and the east side of the north-
south streets in the same areas as last year, and additionally, from Mulford to Keeney and
from Linder to Parkside.
SPECIAL REPORTS (continued)
Minutes ofJune 9, 2008 Board Meeting'
V. SPECIAL REPORTS (continued)
In the Harrer Park area, there will be no parking on the hydrant side of the east-west streets
and on the east side of the north-south streets in the area of Lincoln Avenue to Dempster and
Austin Avenue to the railroad tracks; from Dempster to Davis Street and from Mansfield to
Moody. Parking on both sides of the street will be allowed the entire length of Austin Avenue,
and Meade and Moody from Dempster to Davis. It will also be allowed on Georgiana Avenue
from Lincoln to Capulina and on Ferris Avenue from Lincoln to Dempster.
Letters will be mailed out to impacted residents within both the Harrer Park and the Niles West
neighborhoods, including residents within afifty-foot "buffer" zone of each neighborhood.
Signage will be put up on July 3rd.
Trustee Marcus asked whether violators would be towed, and if so, who would residents call
to retrieve their vehicle. Chief Tasch said that violators would be towed and they should call
the police department's non-emergency number. Lin-Mar Motors will be doing the towing.
Violators will be ticketed and towed and they'll have to pay the towing/storage fees in addition
to the ticket.
Mayor Krier commented that residents seemed to Tike having the Traffic & Safety Plan in place
last year.
VI. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only}
a. Nancy Canning. Ms. Canning said that there was an incident on her street last year on the 4`h
of July and the police responded immediately with four squad cars.
b. Steve Kropp. Mr. Kropp spoke regarding Ordinance 08-18 (Revoking the Special Use
Amendment for the Property Located at 6415 and 6421 Dempster and 8717 Lincoln). He said
that he is a managing member of The Preserves. He admitted that they were having problems
getting their financing in order. The Special Use Amendment expired and they thought they
could]ust renew it. He said the firiahding is ndw "imminent"arid pointed out that, if this project
doesn't go forward, it would easily be another 18 months before a project began in its place.
Mr. Kropp said he hoped to have a letter of intent regarding the financing of this project in the
next couple of weeks. He was asking the Board to allow The Preserves to continue. He said
he wasn't asking fora "bail-out", but needed more time.
Mayor Krier commented that Mr. Kropp has been very open (as the Board has been) and very
cooperative regarding this project.
c. Eric Poders. Mr. Poders said he had concerns about The Preserves project and felt the
Board should look at all the variables in the local and national economy. He said this project
has been in limbo for 2.5 years. He recommended against granting another extension and
said the project in its present state is an eyesore. He said that, if and when they get financing,
they should go through the (Special Use) process again. There clearly is no secure financing
right now.
d• Bill Simkins. Mr. Simkins urged the Board to grant The Preserves an extension, rather than
letting it go back to "square one". He said by granting an extension, there might be some
movement on it. He asked the Board to please consider an extension.
Minutes of JUne 9, 2008 Board Meetingf
VI. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only) (continued)
e. Dale Senensky. Mr. Senesky said he appreciated Mr. Kropp and this venture, and urged the
Board to give him more time. He did not feel it was an unreasonable request.
VII. PRESIDENT'S REPORT
...........Appointments
Mayor Krier asked for concurrence with the reappointment of Margaret LeHew to the Natural
Resources Commission. Trustee Minx moved to concur with this reappointment, seconded by
Trustee Thill. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner a~ Tr. Kogstad a~~e Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx .awe Tr. Staackmann awe Tr. Thill afire
2• Mayor Krier noted that the General Assembly had adjaurned and that the Public Safety
Pension Reform bill (HB 5088 / SB 2090) had passed, although it had not gone to the
governor yet for signature. He said this was a big step in solving the public pension crisis.
Mayor Krier said the bill does not take anything away from current pension recipients. The
biggest accomplishment is that now there will have to be a study done by 25 communities on
how any pension changes would impact them financially before any pension legislation is
enacted Legislators are often told that pension changes are revenue-neutral when, in fact, to
municipalities, it's not. He pointed out that, in 1999, 3.9% of the Village's property tax revenue
when to public safety pensions; in 2007, that number increased to 33.6%. Mayor Krier credited
the work done by local mayors, the Northwest Municipal Conference, and the Illinois Municipal
League, all working together to get this legislation passed. He also acknowledged Senators
Silverstein and Schoenberg as co-sponsors of the bill.
VIII. CLERK'S REPORT
Clerk Fritzshall had no formal report but noted that there is a major dearth of election judges
for the upcoming November election. She asked that any residents interested in becoming an
election judge call her for more information either at her Niles Township office or at the Village.
Judges receive $150 for the day, but it's quite a long day!
IX. STAFF REPORTS
A. Village Administrator
Mr. Wade announced that the 2007 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report would be pre-
sented on June 25, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. and a Financial Policies Workshop would take place
immediately thereafter. Both are open to the public and will be held in the Trustees' Confer-
ence Room at Village Hall.
Mr. Wade announced that the Lehigh-Ferris and Waukegan Road TIF Districts' Annual
Reports to Governmental Jurisdictions would be held at 10:00 a.m. on June 26`h in the
Trustees Conference Room at Village Hall.
Minutes of June 9, 20086oard Meeting
IX.
STAFF REPORTS (continued)
A. Village Administrator (continued)
Mr. Wade noted that all of the July 4'h festivities, as well as the parking restrictions outlined by
Chief Tasch earlier this evening, would be detailed in the next issue of the Village newsletter.
Trustee Kogstad asked Mr. Wade if the date of the Financial Report and the workshop could
be changed. He felt that June 25'h was too soon for the Board to review all the information,
since they had just received a draft copy of the audit this evening. Trustee Kogstad was also
concerned that the Warrants for this evening included a payment to the auditors, even though
the Board had not yet received the final audit. He said he had called the auditing firm to get
information on the status of the audit and to get some preliminary numbers, and had been told
that the Village's administration would not allow them to give any information to any individual
trustees. The auditors also mentioned that they still were waiting for some answers from
Village staff, so the numbers in the draft audit may or may not be correct. Trustee Kogstad
said it was very disappointing that he was unable to get this information, especially since he is
the only trustee who understands the Village's finances. He felt that this was yetanother situa-
tion where the trustees are not being provided the information they need as elected
officials to make proper decisions, and cited the Goyal matter and the Bowman property as
two other examples of the trustees not being provided the complete picture.
Mayor Krier said that Trustee Kogstad was mis-characterizing the situation and making a lot of
assumptions. He did not feel it was appropriate for seven trustees to be calling the auditors-
that's why the Village has a Finance Director and a Village Administrator. He felt that there's
been abuse of that in the past. Mayor Krier said that tonight is the first chance all of the trus-
tees are getting to review the draft of the audit. He pointed out that it's a working document,
although pretty close to being final. He pointed out that a special report is done for Trustee
Kogstad that isn't done for anyone else. He said, "This is just how it works." Mayor Krier
commented that Trustee Kogstad was absent for a year and now thinks "there's a conspiracy
behind every door."
Trustee Kogstad said that he's the only trustee who calls the auditor-the auditor's time is not
taken up with seven trustees callingfiim. He saitl thattheauditor knowshim and asked, "Ifi
the staff and the "administration" can have the information, why can't the trustees-or some
of them?" Trustee Kogstad pointed out that the auditor works for the Corporate Authorities-
that is, the mayor and the elected officials-not the staff. As to the "special report" Mayor
Krier referred to, Trustee Kogstad said that the Board members used to receive a monthly
Treasurer's Report, a summary of the Village's financial status, prepared by former Finance
Director Scott Newkirk, but they have not been receiving that for the past several years.
What's taken its place is a 100-page "general ledger dump" which no one can understand.
Trustee Kogstad said he's been asking for a return to a monthly summary similar to what the
Board received in the past. It's not a "special report" only for him. It's a report that all trustees
used to receive until it was inexplicably ended.
Trustee Brunner and Trustee Minx pointed out that, if the auditor would have accommodated
Trustee Kogstad, then he would have had advance information and more time to peruse it-
which none of the other trustees would have had. That would not have been fair. She also
said that the Treasurer's Report that Trustee Kogstad was referring to was a confusing
document. Trustee Minx said that she was told that the way the Treasurer's Report had been
done was that Scott Neukirk would take numbers generated from the financial software and
plug them into a special report template to create the document. The information the trustees
receive now is an actual "dump" from the software, so there's no chance of transposing any
figures or putting numbers into an incorrect field.
" Minutes of June 9, 2008 Boarcl Meeting.
IX.
STAFF REPORTS (continued)
A. Villaoe Administrator (continued)
Trustee Minx felt that Finance Director Partipilo had tried to give Trustee Kogstad the type of
report the Board was used to, but it was too easy to make errors that way. She also thought
the reason that staff had access to the preliminary audit report before the trustees did was
so that they could check all the numbers first because they're the ones who work with the
numbers on a daily basis.
Trustee Thill asked Administrator Wade if the figures on the preliminary audit report were
going to change. Mayor Krier said that the preliminary audit states that the numbers are
preliminary and tentative, and for discussion purposes only. He said that the preliminary audit
has already gone back and forth between the auditor and the staff, so these numbers are
probably close. Trustee Thill noted that it's a 113-page document.
Trustee Marcus said his impression was that Trustee Kogstad did not feel there was an
adequate amount of time to review this document prior to a June 25`" meeting. He wondered
if that was the case, and if the rest of the Board agreed. Mayor Krier stated that it's quite
difficult to get everyone together, so he just picked a date to go with and hoped ever~one
could make it. This date is actually changed; it was originally scheduled for June 2" .
Trustee Kogstad noted that there was no report available-draft or otherwise-on June 2"d
He said that, if this document is "preliminary.and tentative," how can the Board have a discus-
sion? He suggested the Board wait for the final audit report, pay the auditor once the final
report has been received, review the document over the course of two or three weeks, and
then meet with the auditor and go through the report. Mayor Krier said that the meeting on
June 25 was not just to review the draft audit; it was also to discuss the different accrual
methods. He said that it's not part of the contract with the auditors to have them meet with the
Board. He said that if Trustee Kogstad would have called him, he would have been happy to
work out a different date.
Trustee Brunner asked Mr. Wade or Ms. Partipilo if they knew if the numbers were going to
change.
Ms. Partipilo said that after staffs last look at the numbers this past Friday, the numbers
shouldn't change. All that's missing is the management discussion analysis and the transmittal
letter. All typos have been corrected and all the numbers foot. Mayor Krier asked about the
request for payment on tonight's Warrants. Ms. Partipilo clarified that it's a "progress billing",
not a final payment.
Trustee Minx asked, for the purposes of the Board's discussion, if any of the numbers did
change, would it negate or change any of the discussion. Ms. Partipilo said it shouldn't. The
Board is going to be looking at fund balances and the new way of reflecting the Waukegan
Road TIF's payback to the General Fund.
Trustee Marcus asked if the auditors would be available at the workshop scheduled for
June 25. Ms. Partipilo said they would.
Trustee Staackmann asked when the final audit would be ready. Ms. Partipilo said the analy-
sis has been prepared but staff is reviewing it and the auditor needs to review it once more. It
should be ready (although not bound) within a few days.
AAinutes of June 9', 20086oartl Meetin
IX.
STAFF REPORTS (continued}
A. Village Administrator (continued)
Mayor Krier said the numbers are basically 99% correct; it's the summary that still needs to be
reviewed. Ms. Partipilo said the final copy could even be included in next Friday's Board
packet.
Trustee Staackmann asked what the total for the audit is, considering tonight's payment is
$20,000. Mayor Krier said the contract is for approximately $26,000. Trustee Kogstad said
it's for $32,000 because there's a separate charge for the library and for the TIF.
Mayor Krier asked if there was any further discussion on the meeting date. Trustee Minx said
June 25 was fine for her. Trustee Staackmann said it would be fine if the Board received the
final audit in its packet on Friday, but if it wasn't available until later than that, maybe the date
should be postponed. Mayor Krier said, "Call me."
B. Corporation Counsel:
Ms. Liston had no report.
X.
A. Trustee Brunner:
TRUSTEES'REPORTS
Trustee Brunner had no formal report but wanted to read an important announcement from the
Village Sanitarian, Bonnie Burnett. The Food & Drug Administration (FDA) is requesting that
consumers refrain from purchasing or eating raw red plum tomatoes or raw red roma toma-
toes as they have been involved in reports of salmonella poisoning. Cherry or grape tomatoes
and vine-ripened tomatoes are not included in this warning-they are okay to eat. More infor-
mation can be found on the FDA's website or the Center for Disease Control (CDC)'s website.
2. Trustee Brunner also thanked Jackie Walker O'Keefe once again for all her efforts in helping
the Village obtain its newest para-transit vehicle-a 22-passenger bus with a wheelchair lift.
This is an $81,000 vehicle which was paid for with State and Federal funds; the Village did
not have to pay anything! As of June 4, the Village has submitted an application for another
similar vehicle. Trustee Brunner said the Village is grateful to Ms. Walker-O'Keefe for aII her
hard work.
3. Trustee Brunner noted that the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County will be receiving
the "Outstanding Government Recycling Program" award on June 11, 2008.
B. Trustee Kogstad:
Trustee Kogstad had no report.
Minutes of June 9; 2008 Boartl Meetin'
X. TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
C. Trustee Marcus:
Trustee Marcus congratulated newly-promoted Police Sergeant Dan Steuber once again
and complimented the Fire and Police Commission and its chairman, Mike Simkins, on the
excellent job they do. He said the Village can be proud of this Commission's efforts.
D. Trustee Minx:
Trustee Minx presented Ordinance 08-18, An Ordinance Revoking the Special Use
Amendment for the Property Located at 6415 Dempster, 6421-6457 Dempster, and 8717
Lincoln Avenue, and to Rescind an Extension of Time to Commence and Proceed with
Construction of a Planned Unit Development.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
Trustee Minx explained that that this ordinance will allow for the revocation of an amendment
to the Special Use Permit approving a planned unit development for this site which allowed for
a time extension for the progression of construction.
No financing has been secured and no construction schedule has been created, which is the
reason the Village is considering this revocation. Trustee Minx moved to approve Ordinance
08-18, seconded by Trustee Brunner.
Trustee Marcus said he has mixed emotions about this ordinance because Steve Kropp has
proven to be a good friend to the Morton Grove community over the years. Mr. Kropp is very
civic-minded, which is greatly appreciated. Trustee Marcus said he would be open to
considering an extension except that it did not seem to jibe with his fiduciary duties as an
elected official. He pointed out that the property in question has gone through much turmoil.
The Village has been asked for a finite date, and in fact, heard early this evening that there
could be a "letter of intent" within the next two weeks. He wondered if that meant a
solidification of the funding to pursue the project. His concern was that the Board has the
responsibility to come to a decision. If Mr. Kropp and his partners cannot get the financing,
the Board would be doing a disservice to the residents by not going forward with this
revocation. Trustee Marcus noted that there has been "plenty of time" to resolve this matter,
and asked Mr. Kropp if his group could come up with a specific "drop dead" date.
Trustee Minx said that she, too, has been pondering this, realizing the group has had many
setbacks, but feeling that the Village needs to be consistent with how it manages its laws and
ordinances. If this same situation has happened with another developer and the Board had
revoked its Special Use, then it needs to do the same thing in this case. She felt the Board
should go forward with the Special Use revocation, but should also be willing to call a Special
Meeting to grant a Special Use if Mr. Kropp's group can show proof of financing in the near
future. She did not want the project floundering, but felt the Village needed to be fair and
equitable.
Trustee Brunner said she agreed with Trustee Marcus and said she felt for Mr. Kropp's
group's predicament. She said that, if there was a firm commitment that the financing would
be in place, they probably wouldn't be having this discussion, but, in fact, the financing is still
"up in the air". Trustee Brunner noted that the group has basically had an extra year to get this
together because of the group's reorganization and the Village's grant of an extension.
Trustee Brunner said the Board has to be careful not to set a precedent with "considerations'.
Minutes of June 9; 20086oard Meeting'
X.
D
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee Minx: (continued)
Trustee Staackmann said he could remember that property back when it was Li'I Abners and
Parfais. He agreed that it was very important that the Village maintain the integrity of its
ordinances. He said it sounded like the Board was willing to do whatever it could, however.
He told Mr. Kropp, "If you get the financing, we're here for you." He said it was in the Village's
best interest to work with Mr. Kropp's group as best it could while maintaining the integrity of
its ordinances.
Trustee Thill said he would like to see the Village consider giving Mr. Kropp some sort of letter
of intent, basically stating what Trustee Staackmann said. He felt it would be an honorable
thing for the Board to do.
Trustee Marcus said that what he was hearing was that the Board wanted to maintain the
integrity of its ordinances and not grant any special consideration. So the action would be to
vote for revocation, while acknowledging that, if the developer comes back to the Board within
a specified time with proof of financing, the Board is willing to call a Special Meeting, if
necessary, to discuss and grant a Special Use.
Mayor Krier agreed. He told Mr. Kropp the Board was passionate about maintaining its laws,
but everyone's heart was with him. He did not think the Board should provide a letter of
intent, but felt the Village had bent over backwards to help Mr. Kropp and now had to act. If
Mr. Kropp comes back within a few days, weeks, or even a month, and has the financing, the
Board will figure out the fastest way to reinstate the Special Use.
Trustee Staackmann said the Board would make sure Mr. Kropp received a copy of the
Minutes of tonight's meeting reflecting everyone's comments. Mayor Krier said Mr. Kropp
could also have a copy of the DVD of tonight's meeting.
Trustee Kogstad asked Corporation Counsel Liston if there was any way the Board could
codify its intent. She said that, if the Board sees fit to revoke the Special Use, there is a
statutory process that must be followed to issue a new Special Use. There are ways the Board
can expedite the matter, but the Plan Commission would have to be involved. She didn't think
anyone on the Board wanted to usurp the actions and authority of the Plan Commission.
Trustee Thill asked Mr. Kropp if he had any idea about the timing of obtaining financing. He
did not. Mayor Krier suggested the Board leave it open-ended and reiterated that the Board
would do whatever it took to help Mr. Kropp, within the law.
Mayor Krier called for the vote on Ordinance 08-18. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner aye Tr. Kogstad awe Tr. Marcus aye
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill a,~re
2. Trustee Minx next presented Ordinance 08-22, Amending Titles 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,
and 12 of the Village of Morton Grove Code by Removing the Individual Fines and
Establishing a Fine Section.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
" - Minutes of June 9, 2008 Board Meetin'.
X. TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
D. Trustee Minx: (continued)
Trustee Minx explained that, in 2007, Village staff began to review the Village's fines and
penalties in an effort to determine if they were consistent with State statute and other munici-
palities' fees and fines. Staff determined that the Village's fines and fees required an increase
in the general penalty and other specific fines to be consistent with other towns. Staff also felt
that placement of all the fines in one section of the Municipal Code would allow for a more
efficient review of such fines and penalties by Village staff, the Village's adjudication system,
and by residents and businesses. This ordinance also grants the Village Administrator the
authority to enter into stipulated settlements for violations which are settled prior to the
designated hearing date. The stipulated settlement for parking tickets shall be $10 if paid
prior to the initial due date on the citation, $15 if paid after the initial due date but prior to the
administrative hearing, and $20 if paid on the date of the administrative hearing.
Trustee Minx moved, seconded by Trustee Thill, to approve Ordinance OS-22.
Trustee Brunner thanked Corporation Counsel for making the corrections she had suggested
in the previous meeting.
Mayor Krier thanked Administrative Intern Peter Falcone for all the work and research he put
into this ordinance. He then called for the vote on this ordinance. Motion passed: 6 ayes,
0 nays.
Tr. Brunner aye Tr. Kogstad a~ Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx awe Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill aye
Trustee Minx introduced for a first reading Ordinance 08-23, An Ordinance Granting a
Special Use Permit in the Village of Morton Grove for Property Located at 8820 National
Avenue for a Commercial Wireless Antenna Installation.
She explained that this ordinance was pursuant to the Plan Commission report read out earlier
this evening: The applicant has fd~mally requested that the second reading be waived.
Trustee Minx moved to waive the second reading, seconded by Trustee Thill.
Trustee Brunner pointed out that the address in the ordinance's title read "8220 National"
instead of "8820 National" and asked that it be corrected.
Trustee Marcus asked what impact it would have on the project if the Board did not waive the
second reading.
Dennis Schumerhorn of Black and Veatch, representing the applicant (Cricket
Communications), said that Cricket was planning to introduce service in early December. He
said that even two weeks makes a difference in the construction schedule. Mr. Schumerhorn
said that, while a delay wouldn't be fatal, the applicant hoped that having gone thru several
public hearings in the course of the Procedural Control process would make the Board
consider its request to waive the second reading favorably.
Mayor Krier called for the vote on the motion to waive the second reading. Motion passed:
4 ayes, 2 nays.
Tr. Brunner awe Tr. Kogstad a~ Tr. Marcus nay
Tr. Minx aye Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill awe
to
Minutesof June 9, 2008 Board Meeting)
X.
D.
Trustee Minx: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee Minx then moved to approve Ordinance 08-23 as corrected, seconded by Trustee
Brunner. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner ~ Tr. Kogstad aye Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill
4. Trustee Minx brought forward Resolution 08-36, Authorizing the Exclusion of the Village
of Morton Grove From the Cook County Urban County Program for Community
Development Block Grant Funding.
She explained that this will allow the Village greater flexibility in its pursuit for Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding. The State of Illinois provides grant funding for
community development programs and the Village may apply for funding only if it affirmatively
excludes itself from the Cook County Urban County Program. Village staff has recommended
that the Village formally exclude itself so it may independently pursue block grant funding from
the State. Trustee Minx moved, seconded by Trustee Brunner, to approve Resolution 08-36.
Trustee Thill asked Mr. Wade if staff really believed the Village would receive grant funds from
the State. Mr. Wade said yes, staff believed it and wanted to give it a shot. He noted that the
Village can always go back to Cook County at a later time. He added that it's been a while
since the Village received any Cook County black grant funding.
Trustee Marcus asked how long the Village had been involved with the Cook County block
grant program. Mr. Wade said it's been many years, but this is a new opportunity. Trustee
Marcus said, considering the State's finances and the County's finances, that the Village
would have to have really good luck to actually get any funding.
Mayor Krier called for the vote on Resolution 08-36. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner aye Tr. Kogstad a~~e Tr: Marcus aye
Tr. Minx aye Tr. Staackmann aye Tr. Thill
5. Trustee Minx congratulated the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy
(NIPSTA) on its excellent and successful Public Awareness held this past Sunday: It was very
well attended, despite the weather, and everyone there seemed to be enjoying themselves,
She aslo thanked the Morton Grove employees who worked the event, and said she hoped
that NIPSTA would do this again next year.
E. Trustee Staackmann:
Trustee Staackmann presented Ordinance 08-19, Amending the Village of Morton Grove's
Unified Development Code, Sections 12-3-3C1d, 12-4-2D1c, 12-4-3D, 12-5-3A, 12-5-5A,
12-5-7C, 12-5-SA, 121-7-2H3, 12-7-3E, 12-9-1B2i, and 12-16-4C7.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
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Minutes of June 9, 20086oard RAeetin`
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee Staackmann: (continued)
Trustee Staackmann explained that these miscellaneous text amendments will correct and
clarify certain provisions, and keep other sections current with State law. He moved to adopt
Ordinance 08-19, seconded by Trustee Thill. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad aye Tr. Marcus afire
Tr. Minx aye Tr. Staackmann aye Tr. Thill
Trustee Thill
Trustee Thill presented Ordinance 08-21, An Ordinance Establishing the Prevailing Rate
of Wages for Laborers, Mechanics, and Other Workers in the Village of Morton Grove
Employed in Performing Construction of Public Works for the Village.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
Trustee Thill explained that the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act requires contractors and sub-
contractors to pay laborers, workers, and mechanics employed on public works projects no
less than the general prevailing rate of wages as established by the Village. "Public works"
projects, as defined by the Act, mean all fixed works constructed by any public body, or paid
for wholly or in part out of public funds. The Act requires that each year, in June, the Village
must investigate and ascertain the prevailing rate of wages. He moved, seconded by Trustee
Minx, to adopt Ordinance 08-21. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad aye Tr. Marcus aye
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill aye
XI. OTHER BUSINESS
NONE
XI I. WARRANTS
Trustee Minx presented two Warrant Registers: for May 27, 2008, the Warrants totaled
$497,097.18; and for June 9, 2008, they totaled $928,577.37, for a grand total of
$1,425,674.55. She moved to approve the Warrants as presented, seconded by Trustee
Marcus.
Trustee Thill noted that, in the June 9`" Warrants, there's an item for $263 for aboard-up on
Warren and another item of $1,750 to Rich the Handyman at 9116 Marmora. He asked for an
explanation of those items. Corporation Counsel said that police officers had to break in to the
house on Warren to respond to a call. The board-up company needed to be paid and the
estate hasn't paid yet so the estate will reimburse the Village. Regarding the house on
Marmora, the house hasn't been kept up and the Village's Adjudication Officer had issued an
order directing the Village to make the necessary repairs to the house, so the Village will now
have a lien against that property.
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Minuteeof June 9i.20086oard Meeting)
XII.
XIII.
WARRANTS (continued)
Trustee Brunner said she had emailed Finance Director Partipilo a question about an expense
check for one of the trustees that was listed in the May 27th Warrants and everyone had re-
ceived their expense checks around May 12th. Ms. Partipilo had explained that the expense
check in the May 27th Warrant Register was a replacement check, and Trustee Brunner had
asked that it be so designated in the Warrant Register.
Trustee Kogstad noted that the second check had been returned to the Village Administrator.
He also had a question about the "Rich the Handyman" line item. Corporation Counsel said
there's already a $75,000 judgment in the Village's favor against this property. Since the
Village is paying this bill, in the June adjudication session, she expected that there would be
an additional favorable judgment for the Village to recover the cost of the handyman service.
Mayor Krier said that this is becoming more prevalent because of the economic downturn and
the higher number of houses in foreclosure. The Village is trying to get court approval to
maintain some of these properties so the neighborhoods stay looking good.
Trustee Kogstad also wondered why the $20,000 payment to the auditor was coming out of
the Water Fund, rather than the General Fund. Ms. Partipilo said that only a portion should be
charged to the Water Fund, it's usually an 80/20 split. She said that correction would be
made. Trustee Kogstad said the budgeted amount for the audit was $36,000 total-$28,000
from the General Fund and $8,000 from the Water Fund. He said that, in the material the
trustees had received tonight, the amount was $32,200. Ms. Partipilo said that the Budget
had been prepared prior to the Village's awarding the contract to Sikich (the auditing firm).
Trustee Kogstad also asked about a $50,000 payment to Energy Savings in the May 27'h
Warrants for electric services. He wondered about that. Director of Public Works Andy
DeMonte said that, since the deregulation, the Village no longer receives electricity from
Commonwealth Edison at its pump houses; instead, a private company goes out on the
market and sells the Village electric power. Trustee Kogstad asked if the $50,000 was for one
month. Ms. Partipilo said that it's for the period 11/2007 thru 4/10/2008. The billing was in
arrears due to a corporate name change or a buy-out. Trustee Kogstad also asked, regarding
the June 9`h Warrants, about a payment of $214,666 to the Bank of New York for payment of
interest on bonds. She saidthis was for the 2007 Lehigh=Ferris TtF bonds. The payment was
for the period from 11/01/07 thru 6/01/07.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad afire
Tr. Minx afire Tr. Staackmann afire
Mayor Krier called for the vote on the Warrants, as amended to reflect the 80/20 split in the
auditor's payment. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Marcus a~Le,
Tr. Thill awe
NONE
XIV.
ADJOURNMENT/EXECUTIVE SESSION
There being no further business, Trustee Minx moved to adjourn to Executive Session to
discuss personnel, labor negotiations, and real estate. Trustee Marcus seconded the motion.
Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad aye Tr. Marcus afire
Tr. Minx aye Tr. Staackmann afire Tr. ThiII
13
Minutes of June 9,.20086oard Meeting
XIV. ADJOURNMENTIEXECUTIVE SESSION (continued)
The Board adjourned to Executive Session at 9:21 p.m.
Mayor Krier then called the Executive Session to order at 9:30 p.m. In attendance were:
Mayor Krier, Clerk Fritzshall, Trustees Brunner, Kogstad, Marcus, Minx, Staackmann, and
Thill. Also present from Village staff were Corporation Counsel Liston, Village Administrator
Wade, and Economic Development Director Neuendorf.
There being no further business, Trustee Staackmann moved to adjourn the Executive
Session. The motion was seconded by Trustee Minx and approved unanimously pursuant
to a voice vote at 10:35 p.m. Trustee Minx then moved to adjourn the regular meeting. The
motion was seconded by Trustee Marcus and approved unanimously pursuant to a voice vote
at 10:36 p.m.
PASSED this 23rd day of June, 2008.
Trustee Brunner
Trustee Kogstad
Trustee Marcus
Trustee Minx
Trustee Staackmann
Trustee Thill
APPROV~ by mr~ thjs 2d.~rd day of June, 2008.
Richard Krier, Village President
Board of Trustees, Morton Grove, Illinois
APPROVED and FILED in my office this 24th day of June, 2008.
u ,~,
Carol A. F itzsiiall, Village Cler
Village of Morton Grove
Cook County, Illinois
Minutes by Tertsa Cousar
14