HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008-12-08 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.
- II. Village Clerk Carol Fritzshall called the roll. Present were: Trustees Georgianne Brunner, Roy
Kogstad, Shel Marcus, Rita Minx, Dan Staackmann, and John Thill.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. Regarding the Minutes of the November 5, 2008 Budget Workshop, Mayor Krier asked if
anyone had any changes or corrections. Seeing none, Trustee Minx moved to approve the
November 5, 2008 Budget Workshop Minutes as submitted, seconded by Trustee Marcus.
Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
Regarding the Minutes of the November 24, 2008 Special Meeting, Mayor Krier asked if there
were any corrections or changes. Seeing none, Trustee Minx moved to approve the Novem-
ber 24, 2008 Special Meeting .Minutes as submitted. Trustee Marcus seconded the motion.
Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
c. Regarding the Minutes of the November 24, 2008 Regular Meeting, Mayor Krier asked if
anyone had any changes or corrections to the Minutes. Trustee Brunner pointed out that on
page 7, under Trustee Staackmann's report, item #1, 3`~ paragraph, the word "not".should be
deleted from the end of the last sentence of that paragraph.
Trustee Thill noted that, on page 6 of the Minutes, under Trustee Minx' report, item #1, the
address is incorrectly stated as "9733 Narragansett Avenue". It should be "8733". With those
corrections, Trustee Minx moved, seconded by Trustee Marcus, to approve the November 24,
2008 Regular Meeting Minutes as corrected. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
Minutes of December 8; 20D8 Hoard Mee6nu'
IV.
a. 2008 Tax Levv
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Village Administrator Joe Wade opened the Public Hearing on the 2008 Tax Levy. He noted
that this year, there is a 0% increase in the tax levy and just a slight increase for the Public
Library. He asked if any members of the public wanted to comment. Seeing none, Trustee
Brunner moved to close the Public Hearing, seconded by Trustee Minx. Motion passed
unanimously via voice vote.
b. 2008 Budget Request for the 2009 Calendar Year
Administrator Wade noted that the 2009 Budget has undergone considerable scrutiny by
the Board members and has been available to the public since approximately mid-October.
Mayor Krier invited anyone who wished to speak about the budget to do so. There were no
comments, so Trustee Brunner moved to close the Public Hearing, seconded by Trustee Minx.
Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
V. SPECIAL REPORTS
a. Presentation of Ernolovee AnniversaN Awards
Mayor Krier and Administrator Wade recognized the following employee anniversaries:
Robert Anderberg, 20 years service (Public Works)
Gloria Falkovitz, 25 years of service (Family and Senior Services)
Robert Green, 24 years of total (non-continuous) service (Public Works)
Theresa Selzer, 10 years of service (Family and Senior Services)
Norman Stromberg, 25 years of service (Police Department)
The Board joined Mayor Krier and Administrator Wade in congratulating them.
Vl. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only)
Eric Poders. Mr. Poders commended the trustees for their efforts to keep the tax levy
increase at 0%. He recognized that the Board had to do a "balancing act" in order to limit
~~;ase in the tax levy.
Regarding the November 24'" Board Meeting Minutes, Mr. Poders said that when he was
commenting on Ordinance 08-42, he said the woman who had been injured was injured on
Harms Road, not on Luna, as the Minutes erroneously state. He said that something should
be done to make Luna aone-way street though.
Regarding Agenda Item 8a, setting the Board Meeting dates for next year, Mr. Poders noted
that the meetings that are proposed to be cancelled due to holidays in 2009 are May 25,
September 28, and December 28. He wondered if those meetings could be rescheduled
and asked if the Village's ordinance mandated that the Board meet twice a month. He also
inquired about certain Boards and Commissions that don't meet regularly, specifically the
Economic Development Commission members were talking about changing from a monthly
meeting to every other month.
VI. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only) (continued)
Mr. Poders felt that Community & Economic Development Director Bill Neuendorf should
receive a salary increase for the extra work he's doing now in acting (in part) as the Village
Engineer. He felt Mr. Neuendorf is overworked and deserves the extra compensation.
Mayor Krier responded that there is nothing in the Village ordinances that says the Board must
meet twice a month. Further, there is always the option of calling a Special Meeting if one is
needed. The Board members have demonstrated their willingness to come in on other week-
night evenings or on Saturdays when a Special Meeting is needed.
Mayor Krier said, regarding Bill Neuendorf, that the Board very much appreciates him, as they
do all the department heads and Village staff, and wished they could give everyone more
money. He said that Mr. Neuendorf isn't the only person "wearing two hats' at Village Hall; in
fact, most of the employees are. Mayor Krier suggested that Mr. Neuendorf might be some-
what less overworked if he didn't have to respond to so many FOIA requests. He said that all
of the department heads go above and beyond their job.
Melinda Mulford. Ms. Mulford had some issues regarding the Minutes. Mayor Krier
suggested she bring them up later since this was for comments on the Agenda.
Regarding Ordinance 08-43 (the budget ordinance), she asked that, since the Village has
hired the Ciorba Group to do a sewer study regarding the flooding on the west side of town,
could they also do a study of the sewers in the area of Dempster and Central. Several of her
neighbors have been flooding recently.
Ms. Mulford said she went to the last Traffic Safety Commission meeting (regarding the traffic
problem at Theobald and Central) and found the Commissioners "less than concerned" about
the issue, so it .remains a concern.
She asked if the Board is planning on going ahead with the Dempster Street project in the
spring, and wondered what else besides an ambulance is included in the budget.
Mayor Krier responded that there has been no final decision yet regarding the Dempster
Street project. As far as the flooding, the sewer study on the west side is being done in a
specific targeted area. It will generally talk about the Village's. sewer system, but its main focus
is that particular area of town. As far as the ambulance, this year's budget will cover half of
the cost (like a down payment) and next year's budget will have to cover the other half.
c. A resident asked where he could pick up a copy of the 2009 Budget. Mayor Krier said that
it's on the Village's website.
VII.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
a. Establish Village Board Meeting Dates for Calendar Year 2009
Mayor Krier asked for the Board's approval for the following Board Meeting dates for 2009:
January 12 and 26; February 9 and 23; March 9 and 23; April 13 and 27, May 11, June 8 and
22, July 13 and 27, August 10 and 24, September 14, October 12 and 26, November 9 and
23, and December 14. Trustee Minx moved to approve those dates, seconded by Trustee
Brunner. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
VII.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT (continued}
b. Board and Commission Chairperson Appointments for Calendar Year 2009
Mayor Krier asked for the Board's approval of the following Board and Commission
Chairperson appointments for calendar year 2009. The appointments are for one-year terms
Advisory Commission on Aging: Noble LeHew
Appearance Commission: Deanna Gotta
Cable and Telecommunications Commission: Don Sneider
Community Relations Commission: Terri Cousar
Economic Development Commission: John Pietron
Board of Environmental Health: Raoul Smoczynski, Chair; Joseph O'Shea, Vice-Chair
Fire and Police Commission: Michael Simkins
Natural Resources Commission: Mary Busch
Plan Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals: Ron Farkas
Traffic Safety Commission: Norm Rocket
Trustee Minx moved, seconded by Trustee Marcus, to approve the Chairperson appointments
for calendar year 2009. Motion passed unanimously aria voice vote.
c. Establish Regular Meetings for Various Boards Commissions Committees, and Subcommit-
tees for Calendar Year 2009
Mayor Krier sought Board approval for the Meeting Schedule for the various Boards and
Commissions for 2009. The schedule is as follows:
Adjudication Hearings: convent at gam the second Wednesday every month in the Council
Chambers;
Advisory Commission on Aging. meets at 1 pm the second Tuesday every month at the Civic
Center;
Appearance Commission: meets at 7pm the first Monday of every month in the Council
Chambers;
Board of Environmental Health: meets at 7pm the first Tuesday of every month in the Trustees
Conference Room;
Cable and Telecommunications Commission: meets in the Council Chambers at 7:30pm twice
annually on the second Thursday;
Community Relations Commission: meets in the Trustees Conference Room at 7:30pm the
second Tuesday every other month;
Council of Condominium Associations: meetings vary and are on an as-needed basis;
Dempster Street Advisory Committee: meetings vary;
Economic Development Commission: meets in the Trustees Conference Room at 5:30pm the
third Wednesday every month;
Fair Housing Commission: meetings vary and are on an as-needed basis;
Fire and Police Commission: meets at Fire Station #4 at 7pm the fourth Tuesday every month;
Fire Pension Board: meets at Fire Station #4 at 3pm quarterly on the third Tuesday;
fJatural Resource Corrniission: meets in the Trustees Conference Rcom at 6pm the third
Monday every month;
Plan Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals: meets in the Council Chambers at 7:30pm the
third Monday every month;
Police Pension Board: meets in the Council Chambers at 5pm quarterly;
Real Estate Committee: meetings vary;
Traffic Safety Commission: meets in the Council Chambers at 7:30pm the first Thursday every
month.
VII. PRESIDENT'S REPORT (continued)
Trustee Thill noted that the Natural Resource Commission is planning to vote on changing its
meeting schedule to meet every other month, instead of monthly. Trustee Brunner moved to
approve the above-noted meeting schedule, seconded by Trustee Minx. Motion passed un-
animously via voice vote.
d. Administrative Appointments for Calendar Year 2009
Mayor Krier asked for the Board's approval of the following Administrative Appointments for
calendar year 2009:
Village Administrator: Joseph F. Wade
Adjudication Officer: Elizabeth M. Rochford
Building Commissioner: Ed Hildebrandt
Community & Economic Development Director: William Neuendorf
Corporation Counsel: Teresa Hoffman Liston
EMA Coordinator: John Hill
Family & Senior Services Director: Jackie Walker-O'Keefe
Fire Chief: Tom Friel
Police Chief: Paul L. Tasch
Public Works Director: Andy DeMonte
Village Prosecutor: Nate Brenner/Frank Tennant
Mayor Krier noted that there is no Finance Director listed as Daniels Partipilo resigned. The
Village will be looking for a replacement, but in the interim, Assistant Finance Director Ryan
Horne will be the Acting Finance Director.
Trustee Minx moved to concur with the Administrative Appointments for 2009, seconded by
Trustee Marcus. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
e. Reappointments
Mayor Krier sought the Board's concurrence on the following reappointments:
Advisory Commission on Aging: Rachel Slotnik and Thomas Stockenberg, (3-years each)
Appearance Commission: Deanna S. Gotta, 3-year term
Community Relations Commission: Nancy Lanning, Linda Sosa, Terri Cousar (3-years each)
Board of Environmental Health: Joseph P. O'Shea, 3-year term
Natural Resources Commission: Mary Busch, 3-year term
Fire and Police Commission: Mike Simkins, 3-year term
Plan Commission/Zoning Board. Corina Keating, Dwight Roepenack (5-year terms each)
Traffic Safety Commission: Keith White, Theodore Sievert, Lee Tamraz (4-year terms each)
Trustee Minx moved, seconded by Trustee Brunner, to concur with these reappointments.
Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
f. Mayor Krier noted that the Historical Society is selling limited edition Christmas ornaments for
$5 each. The ornaments feature a picture of Grove School (which is now Village Hall). He
also wished everyone happy holidays.
VIII. CLERK'S REPORT
Clerk Fritzshall had no formal report, but wished everyone a happy and safe holiday season.
IX. STAFF REPORTS
A. Village Administrator
1. Mr. Wade reminded the assemblage that the Village Board Meeting scheduled for
December 22, 2007, was cancelled due to the Christmas holiday.
2. Mr. Wade announced that there would be a Special Board Meeting held at 7:00 p.m. on
Tuesday, December 16, to review development proposals for Site B (located at Capulina
and Ferris). The proposals include one from McShane Development for athree-story medical
facility; one from BrinShore Group, which would be townhomes fronting Ferris and affordable
senior housing toward the rear; and one from Alden for senior housing. He said it should be
an interesting and worthwhile meeting.
B. Corporation Counsel:
Ms. Liston had no report.
X.
A. Trustee Brunner:
TRUSTEES'REPORTS
Trustee Brunner had no formal report, but wished everyone a happy, safe, healthy holiday
season.
B. Trustee Kogstad:
Trustee Kogstad had no report.
C. Trustee Marcus:
Trustee Marcus had no report, but echoed Trustee Brunner's wishes.
D. Trustee Minx:
1. Trustee Minx presented Ordinance 08-43, Adopting the Budgets for All Corporate Pur-
poses of the Village of Morton Grove and the Morton Grove Library for the Calendar
Year Effective January 1, 2009 and Ending December 31, 2009.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
6
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D. Trustee Minx: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
1a. Trustee Minx explained that the Budget has been available for inspection at the office of the
Village Administrator, the Public Library, and posted on the Village's website since at least Oc-
tober 16, 2008. The Village's total budget is $51,574,586 and the Public Library's budget is
$3,034,607, for a grand total of $54,609,193. Trustee Minx moved to adopt Ordinance 08-43,
seconded by Trustee Brunner.
1 b. Trustee Staackmann said that Mayor Krier had asked for recommendations and he had sub-
mitted several, including funds for a fagade program, a squad car, and carpeting in Public
Works. He wondered about the status of those recommendations. Mayor Krier said those are
items that could be Budget amendments. Trustee Staackmann said they could be "pending"
once a final decision has been made on Human Resources.
1c. Trustee Kogstad wanted to amend the budget pursuant to changes he had presented at the
budget workshops. He had provided the Board with an outline on October 30 and it was also
included in the trustees' packets on November 20. He wanted to amend the budget to reclas-
sify $375,000 from the General Fund to the Capital Projects Fund to be used for street im-
provements. He so moved; seconded by Trustee Marcus for purposes of discussion.
1d. Trustee Thill asked what the purpose would be to do that. Trustee Kogstad said that there is
revenue that has come in that is not reflected in the Budget; he would like to see that revenue
be used to improve and repair Village streets. He noted that former Village Engineer Ryan
Gillingham had prepared a schedule of the Village's streets, listing their condition from "best"
to "worst". While the Village has been working on some of its streets, many still need work.
There is currently only $150,000 budgeted for streets; Trustee Kogstad said he would like to
amend the Budget to add $375,000 to that.
1e. Mayor Krier asked where the $375,000 would come from. Trustee Kogstad noted that, as the
Board went through the Budget, there were some income items not included. Those items that
have already come in or are anticipated to come in would actually increase the funds that
would be available, so the "loss" to the Village would be negligible. Actually, this would just
mare properly reflect the money coming in. Trustee Kogstad said that, at the October 30
budget workshop, one example was the sale of surplus equipment. The budget says it will be
$10,000, but $17,000 has already been received. That extra $7,000 is not reflected in the
budget. Trustee Kogstad said it's that and other similar things that could comprise the
$375,000 he's asking for.
1f. Mayor Krier agreed that this was discussed at the budget workshops, but pointed out that not
everyone on the Board agreed with Trustee Kogstad's analysis or projections.
1g. Trustee Brunner cited the $45,000 the Village received from the Solid Waste Agency of North-
ern Cook County (SWANCC) for the recycling program. She said that the Village has to pay a
"true up" of what it owes SWANCC (for excessive garbage over what the Village committed to)
so the amount t~~ill end up being less than $45,000. Trustee Brunner reminded the Board that
the recycling program won't be as successful in 2009 in terms of pay-out because the price of
recycled paper per ton has plummeted. She also noted that the Village has paid over ahalf-
million dollars out of reserves for clean-up related to storms that occurred in the past 18
months. She was concerned about taking even more out of the reserves (for the street im-
provements) and then being unable to pay for any future unbudgeted expenses. Trustee
Kogstad responded that the Village is going to be receiving 75% of that back from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
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D. Trustee Minx: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
1 h. Another case in point, Trustee Brunner stated, is the Beckwith Road bridge project. It was
budgeted at $99,000 last year and is now estimated to cost $275,000. The increase will partly
be paid for using funds from other projects that came in under budget. Trustee Kogstad said
those funds are also coming from the reserves.
1 i. Trustee Marcus said that he had seconded Trustee Kogstad's motion for the purpose of
discussion because he felt that it's important to talk about these things. He commended
Trustee Kogstad for his efforts and for bringing to light a number of areas for the Board to
consider. He felt the budget should be approved as it stands, and didn't feel it was right to
move $375,000 from the General Fund per Trustee Kogstad's motion. He said that he was
very concerned aboutthe Village's streets, and equally concerned about its aging water and
sewer system. But, because of the state of the economy, he felt the Village needs a tight
budget, yet one that's able to maintain the current level of Village services. Trustee Marcus
said he would not support the motion on the floor, and felt that a better way to proceed would
be to take a look at how things stand half way through 2009.
1j. Trustee Staackmann asked if Trustee Kogstad's motion could be tabled'. Corporation Counsel
Liston said that if the motion is tabled, the Board would not be able to vote on the budget
ordinance. She suggested a review of the budget in four to six months' time with an eye
toward making some adjustments, if projections allow.
1 k. Trustee Staackmann confirmed that the budget can, in fact, be amended in 2009. Corporation
Counsel Liston said the Board has to pass a budget by the end of the year. Once approved,
the budget can, at any point, be amended. Trustee Staackmann then asked Acting Finance
Director Ryan Horne when the Finance Department would have a "good snapshot" of 2008
actual expenses and revenue for the official audit. Mr. Horne said that, by late February or
early March of 2009, they'd have a good idea. The paperwork is usually ready for the auditors
around the first of April.
11, Trustee Kogstad said, regarding the Village's water and sewer system, monies for that are
in a separate fund, rather than the General Fund. He felt that the 2008 budget is going to end
up having a 38% fund balance-the Village's goal is a 25% fund balance. Trustee Kogstad
projected that the Village will have an extra five or six million dollars over budgeted revenue
when all is said and done with 2008. In the face of that, $375,000 is not significant. His
motion is simply to "true-up" Village revenue and actually put it in the budget. Sales tax in the
budget has been projected lower to be more realistic. Trustee Kogstad felt it wasn't too much
to ask to help maintain the streets.
1 m. Trustee Staackmann asked Andy DeMonte, how much lead time Public Works would need,
should the Board increase the funding for street repair in 2009. Trustee Staackmann said he
knew it took time to decide on the streets, go out for bid, etc., and wondered how much lead
time would be needed. Mr. DeMonte agreed with Trustee Kogstad that there is an obvious
need for street repair. He said, regarding lead time, that if the Board adjusted the budget
early in 2009, Public Works would concentrate on streets that need resurfacing, rather than
reconstruction. Reconstruction projects require significant lead time (about a year).
Mr. DeMonte said there are a number of resurfacing projects needed. If Public Works was
notified in March or April, that would work. Trustee Staackmann said that some of the street
resurfacing projects might also require infrastructure improvements. Mr. DeMonte agreed,
noting that those would then require additional engineering. He was confident that there was
enough work to be done to capitalize on any additional funding for streets.
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X.
D. Trustee Minx: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
1 n. Trustee Brunner said maybe the proposal would be if there's an overage in revenue; the
Board should definitely put some street reconstruction projects into the 2010 Budget. Trustee
Staackmann said he felt that the Board should look at the budget again in late February to see
what can be done.
10. Mayor Krier called for the vote on Trustee Kogstad's motion to amend the budget by moving
$375,000 out of the General Fund and putting it into the Capital Projects Fund. Motion failed:
2 ayes, 4 nays.
Tr. Brunner B~ Tr. Kogstad afire Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann a rye Tr. Thill roa
1 p Mayor Krier then called for the vote on Ordinance 08-43. Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 nay.
Tr. Brunner aye Tr. Kogstad ~ Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill afire
2 Trustee Minx then presented Ordinance 08-44, An Ordinance Levying and Assessing
Taxes for the Village of Morton Grove, Cook County, Illinois, ffor the Fiscal Year
Beginning January 1, 2009 and Ending December 31, 2009.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
Trustee Minx explained that, with budget expenditures of $51,574,586, the amount necessary
to be levied for 2008 property taxes is $12,006,873. By law, the Village is required to levy an
additional $2,264,388 for debt service payments authorized by general obligation notes and
bonds, far a total levy (before abatement) of $14,271,261. However, the Board intends to
adopt several resolutions that will immediately abate $2,264,388 from the levy, resulting in
the net levy, as intended, of $12,006,873. Trustee Minx moved, seconded by Trustee Staack-
mann, to adopt Ordinance 08-44. There was no discussion. Motion passed: 6 ayes,
0 nays.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad aye Tr. Marcus aye
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill afire
Next, Trustee Minx presented several abatement resolutions. First was Resolution 08-64,
Tax Abatement Resolution for 2008 Tax Levy Relating to Ordinance 07-26.
She explained that on October 8, 2007, pursuant to Ordinance 07-26, the Village Board issued
$9,200,000 in general obligation bonds, Series 2007. The bonds were issued as general
obligation bonds in order to obtain more favorable interest rates. That ordinance provided that
the levy of taxes for the year 2009 include sufficient funds to produce $763,00 for principal and
interest payments. It is necessary to pass this abatement resolution in order for the County
Clerk not to collect this amount. Trustee Minx moved to approve Resolution 08-64, seconded
by Trustee Brunner. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner ayre Tr. Kogstad ~ Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx afire Tr. Staackmann awe Tr. Thilt
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X.
D. Trustee Minx: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
4. Next was Resolution 08-65, Tax Abatement Resolution for 2008 Tax Levy Relating to
Ordinance 02-30.
Trustee Minx explained that on July 8, 2002, pursuant to Ordinance 02-30, the Village Board
issued $5,300,000 in general obligation promissory notes, Series 2002. That ordinance
provided that the levy of taxes for the year 2008 include sufficient funds to produce $420,506
as the debt service payment for 2009. The 2009 Budget allocates revenue from the
Waukegan Road TIF Fund in the amount of $420,506 to repay that debt service. Therefore,
the amount of $420,506 is abated from the tax levy for calendar year 2009. Trustee Minx
moved to approve Resolution 06-65, seconded by Trustee Thill. Motion passed: 6 ayes,
0 nays.
Tr. Brunner ~ Tr. Kogstad awe Tr. Marcus aye
Tr. Minx awe Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill awe
5. Next was Resolution 08-63, Tax Abatement Resolution for 2008 Tax Levy Relating to
Ordinance 99-1.
Trustee Minx explained that, on February 8, 1999, pursuant to Ordinance 99-1, the Village
Board issued $15,495,000 in general obligation bonds, Series 1999. That ordinance provided
that the levy of taxes for the year 2008 include sufficient funds to produce $1,343,945 as the
debt service payment for 2009. The 2009 Budget has allocated revenue from the Local Option
Sales Tax of the Village in the amount of $440,000, and revenue from the General Fund of the
Village in the amount of $35,000 from accumulated interest earnings, and revenue from the
Water/Sewer Fund in the amount of $335,986 to repay that debt service. Therefore, the
amount of $1,343,945 is abated from the tax levy for calendar year 2009. Trustee Minx
moved, seconded by Trustee Thill, to approve Resolution 08-63. Motion passed: 6 ayes,
0 nays.
Tr. Brunner awe Tr. Kogstad awe Tr. Marcus awe
Tr. Minx aye Tr. Staackmann afire Tr. Thill aye
Lastly, Resolution 08-66, Tax Abatement Resolution for 2008 Tax Levy Relating to
Ordinance 98-41.
She explained that, on September 28, 1998, pursuant to Ordinance 98-41, the Village Board
issued $3,165,000 in general obligation promissory notes, Series 1998A. That ordinance
provided that the levy of taxes for the year 2008 include sufficient funds to produce $269,896
as the debt service payment for 2009. The 2009 Budget has allocated revenue from the
Waukegan Road TIF Fund in the amount of $269,896 to repay that debt service. Therefore,
the amount of $269,896 is abated from the tax levy for calendar year 2009. Trustee Minx
moved to approve Resolution 08-66, seconded by Trustee Thill. Motion passed: 8 ayes,
0 nays.
Tr. Brunner ~ Tr. Kogstad a rye Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx afire Tr. Staackmann awe Tr. Thill awe
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D. Trustee Minx: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee Minx announced that the Morton Grove Firefighters Association is sponsoring a
holiday food drive through December 19. Collection points include Prairie View Center,
Village Hall, the Civic Center, and Dominicks. Residents are encouraged to bring in non-
perishable foods or donate funds (payable to the Morton Grove Firefighters Association).
Everything collected will be distributed to local families in need on December 20. This drive
helped 30 families last year, and hopefully will be able to help more families this year.
8. Trustee Minx wished everyone a safe, happy, healthy, holiday season.
E. Trustee Staackmann:
1. Trustee Staackmann announced the loss of Frank Selzer, a true community activist, who died
this week. He was a former commander of the American Legion, served as a Park Commis-
sioner, and was founding director of ESDA. He was a great person and a great volunteer who
will be missed.
2. Trustee Staackmann wished everyone a safe and happy holiday.
F. Trustee Thill
1. Trustee Thill presented Ordinance 08-42, Authorization to Amend the Legal Speed Limit
on Central Avenue Between Church Street and Golf Road Within the Village of Morton
Grove.
This is the second reading of this ordinance.
1a. Trustee Thill explained that the Traffic Safety Commission had recommended this to create
a safer environment for residents living on Central Avenue as well as the general public. This
will reduce the speed limit from 35 mph to 25 mph on Central between Church Street and
500 feet south of the Golf Road center line. Trustee Thill moved to adopt Ordinance 08-42,
seconded by Trustee Minx.
1b. Trustee Brunner asked if the Traffic Safety Commission had considered reducing the speed to
30 mph instead of 25 mph. Trustee Thill said they did, but all in all thought that it would be
better for the speed limit to be 25 mph between the two. Trustee Brunner wondered where
"500 feet south of the Golf Road center line" is. Trustee Thill said that it's a State statute that
there must be a 500 feet zcne for speed adjustments. Mayor Krier asked Mr. Denton±e tc
explain where the 25 mph zone would start south of Golf. Mr. DeMonte said it would be
approximately around the entrance to the stables there. The 500 foot zone provides "notice"
that there's a speed adjustment ahead. He did not think a 35 mph speed would be ticketable
in the 500 foot zone. Trustee Brunner felt that Beckwith is more residential than Central and
yet the speed limit on Beckwith is 30 mph. Trustee Thill said it was because of the driveways
and cars backing out onto Central. Trustee Brunner said the same thing happens on
Beckwith. She felt the Village was being inconsistent.
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X.
F. Trustee Thill: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
1c. Trustee Thill said that the neighbors had been promised that the "rumble strips" would be
removed and markings put in instead. That's not in the ordinance, so he asked Mr. DeMonte
if that was going to happen. Mr. DeMonte said it wouldn't happen until the street was
resurfaced, but the proper striping would be put on the road.
1 d. Trustee Brunner moved to amend Ordinance 08-42, changing the speed limit to 30 mph
instead of 25 mph. Trustee Marcus seconded the motion.
1e. Trustee Staackmann asked what the vote of the Traffic Safety Commission was. Trustee Thill
said it was 6-0. Trustee Staackmann said that the Commission voted unanimously for 25 mph.
1f. Trustee Brunner pointed out tha±the Board of Environmental Health had voted unanimously
for a total smoking ban, but the Board decided against that.
1g. Trustee Marcus said it's the Board's job to weigh the recommendations of the advisory
commissions with overall consistency of Village policies. He concurred with Trustee Brunner
that it was inconsistent to have Beckwith be 30 mph and Central be 25 mph. He said it might
be impossible to have across the board consistency, but he felt°that going to 30 mph, rather
than 25 mph, would not have a significant impact on safety, but would be more consistent.
1 h. Trustee Staackmann said that, since this is the second reading of the ordinance, if the Board
is going to amend the speed limit, he felt the ordinance should be tabled so the residents, in
all fairness, can have a chance to weigh in on the Board's proposed change. Therefore, he
moved to table Ordinance 08-42 to the next Board Meeting. The motion was seconded by
Trustee Minx and passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner awe Tr. Kogstad awe Tr. Marcus aye
Tr. Minx afire Tr. Staackmann aye Tr. Thill afire
2 Next, Trustee Thill presented Resolution 08.67, Authorizing the Extension of a Contract
with Lyons-Pinner Electric Company for the 2009 Maintenance of Street Lighting ~
Traffic Control Signals.
He said that, in 2005, the traffic signal and street lighting maintenance program was
competitively bid and awarded to Lyons-Pinner Electric Company. That contract included a
provision that allowed for extensions in one-year increments under the same terms and
conditions as the original contract. The estimated contract amount is $22,795.20 for routine
maintenance.
Trustee Thill moved to approve Resolution 08-67, seconded by Trustee Minx.
Trustee Thill asked Mr. DeMonte if that was a fixed amount or did it depend on the quantity of
maintenance and repairs. Mr. DeMonte said it was a fixed amount, strictly for maintenance.
The cost would go up if there was storm- or accident-related damages to repair. He said the
Village paid $70,000 last year because of such damage.
Mayor Krier called for the vote on Resolution 08-67. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner ~ Tr. Kogstad ~ Tr. Marcus
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill afire
t2
X.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee Thill: (continued)
3. Trustee Thill then brought forward Resolution 08-68, Authorizing the Execution of a
Service Contract with Municipal GIS Partners (MGP) for Geographical Information
System Services.
Trustee Thill explained that the Village is a member of a GIS Consortium, founded in 1999 by
several municipalities as a way of reducing the costs of implementing GIS technology by
participating in collective bargaining, group training, joint purchasing, and development and
innovation sharing. MGP has been determined by the Consortium to be the lowest
responsible provider for the maintenance and development of GIS systems for its members.
This contract is a continuation of these services for 2009. The amount of the contract is not to
exceed $52,583.
Trustee Thill moved, seconded by Trustee Brunner, to approve Resolution 08-68. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner a~ Tr. Kogstad awe Tr. Marcus awe
Tr. Minx awe Tr. Staackmann aye Tr. Thill awe
4. Trustee Thill then presented Resolution 08-69, Appropriation of 2009 Motor Fuel Tax
Funds for the Maintenance of Streets and Highways, MFT Section 09-00000-OOGM.
He explained that the Village needs to appropriate its estimated motor fuel tax revenue for
2008 as required by State law. The total estimated expenses for the 2009 Motor Fuel Tax
Program are $645,000.
Trustee Thill moved to approve Resolution 08-69, seconded by Trustee Marcus. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad afire Tr. Marcus awe
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ~ Tr. Thill
5. Trustee Thill thanked the members of the American Legion and the volunteers who served
Thanksgiving Day dinner to the recruits. He said the recruits were delighted to be able to use
the phones; all in all, it was a very nice event.
g, Trustee Thill asked everyone to drive carefully, pointing out that Public Works will not be
salting side streets as often, as the Village is trying to conserve its supply of salt so that it has
enough for the entire winter season.
XI. OTHER BUSINESS
Trustee Kogstad asked if the Village could send out a letter to those residents on Central let-
ting them know that Ordinance 08-42 is going to be voted on in January and that the Board is
contemplating changing the speed to 30 mph, instead of the 25 mph recommended by the
Traffic Safety Commission. Mayor Krier directed Administrator Wade to send a letter to eve-
ryone who received one originally.
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XI I. V1(ARRANTS
Trustee Minx presented the Warrant Register for December 13, 2008, in the amount of
$2,333,971.16. She moved to approve the Warrants, seconded by Trustee Thill.
a. Trustee Thill had several questions: on page 1, there is a $175 payment to Illinois Bone &
Joint listed for a missed medical appointment for the Firefghters Pension Fund; he wondered
if that was the Village's responsibility or the individual's. Mr. Horne said it was the individual's
and the Village would be repaid for that expenditure.
b. Trustee Thill asked about two checks for two different suppliers for examination gloves for the
Fire Department. One check is on page 5, for $848; the other is on page 10, for almost $700.
He wondered if that could be justified. Chief Friel said that it's typical to use different suppliers
because pricing and sizing needs, and because inventory levels can vary.
c. On page 4, there are a number of payments to ComEd; one is for lighting rental for $9,500.
Does that mean that ComEd owns the poles or what? Mr. DeMonte said typically the wooden
poles with street lights on them are owned by Edison and the Village pays for the electricity
from them. Trustee Thill asked if it wouldn't be cheaperio buy the poles. Mr. DeMonte said
it's part of the franchise agreement the Village has with ComEd.
d. Trustee Thill asked about the new pay box at the train station but we're still giving refunds, so
obviously the system still has errors ($160). He thought that at this point the supplier should
start paying for their errors.
e. Trustee Brunner had a question on page 1 regarding a payment to Anderson Pest Control for
work done at 8954 Shermer. She wondered what was at that address. Chief Friel said that's
the Fire Station.
Trustee Thill asked Corporation Counsel Liston and Ms. Wade about the Beckwith Road
bridge. He noted that the Village had taken it over about 14 years ago and has just paid a
quarter of million dollars for repairs to that bridge. He said he had spoken with one of the
workers there about the repairs; the repairs were done when the Village took the bridge over.
He wondered if there was any guarantee on that work, or if that could be looked into. He sug-
gested the Village contact the County. Mayor Krier said it would be a "miracle", but worth a
try.
g. Trustee Kogstad asked Mr. DeMonte, regarding the contract for Lyons-Pinner Electric, the
Village is paying them $166,000 for electrical improvements to the north pumping station (on
page 13). He asked if that was the only and final payment. Mr. DeMonte said that 30% was
held back; the Village still owes them about $70,000. There were some problems with the job
that are being resolved by the company.
Trustee Kogstad asked Mr. Horne about a $22,000 payment for interest to Northern Trust
(also page 13). Per the schedule, it should be $16,000; he wondered why the Village was
paying $22,000. Mr. Horne said he'd look into it.
Mayor Krier called for a vote on the Warrants. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. Brunner awe Tr. Kogstad afire Tr. Marcus afire
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann awe Tr. Thill
~a
XIII. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS
Melinda Mulford. Ms. Mulford said that the Minutes of November 24 were incorrect in that
she did not take her statement back; she said she would address it later. The cut in service
for the seniors was apart-time social worker and apart-time receptionist. Also, her name was
misspelled; it should 6e Mulford, not Mumford. Mayor Krier apologized for the mistake.
Ms. Mulford said she was asked on August 21 not to attend a particular Traffic Safety
Commission meeting; she felt that was a violation of her civil rights. Mayor Krier asked her
who had asked her not to attend. She said that Village Engineer Ryan Gillingham had called
her and told her not to come. She encouraged all residents to attend any and all meetings of
the Village and make their feelings known.
b. Bil9 Luksha. He echoed the sentiments regarding the Thanksgiving Dinner at the American
Legion and said he was glad to see many Board members there. It was great participating in
that dinner.
Regarding Ordinance 08-42, Mr. Luksha said he lives in that area (at Harms and Capri), and
he said there are many times he cannot pull out onto Harms because people are practically
drag racing down the street there because there are two lanes there. He asked Trustees
Brunner and Marcus what the speed limit is on their streets and if they had problems pulling
out of their driveways. He felt that the Village should talk to and listen to the people in that
area before making any assumptions, for their own best or selfish interests, that the speed
limit should be higher.
Regarding his proposed recommendation for an ethics ordinance, Mr. Luksha said no one had
ever gotten back to him, but he strongly felt that companies who do business with the Village
should be prohibited from donating to political parties or individuals running for office.
Trustee Brunner said she resented Mr. Luksha's insinuation that she had recommended an
increase in the speed limit for selfish reasons. She said that she does not complain about
speed limits; and understands what the concerns are, but felt that the people who live on
Beckwith Road between Overlook and Waukegan have the exact same conditions, especially
when the train gates have been down, and traffic backs up, their driveways are blocked by the
traffic.
c Mike Lipschitz, 8946 Marion. Mr. Lipschitz wondered when the Board would make a
decision as to how they're going to proceed with the Dempster Street project.
Mayor Krier said he is urging the Board to approve the idea of going forward, but there are still
some valid concerns regarding the 81.5 million (or more) it would take to replace the water
line. There is no date set at this time to make that decision. No deadlines have been missed;
Mr. Wade has been talking to IDOT. He's heard the warnings, too, about losing the monies if
they aren't used. He said to bear i.. mind that this is an IDOT-run project; IDOT could say
okay. The Village wants to be able to say it's ready to go.
t5
XIII. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (continued)
d. Sherwin Dubren. Mr. Dubren said the Village shouldn't be in a rush to go ahead with the
Dempster Street project just because the money is there. Some of the rationale for moving
fonrvard with it is that there's too much congestion on Dempster, and this project would
alleviate that congestion. Mr. Dubren said that, in his opinion, the biggest area of congestion
is by the railroad crossing. He felt the Village should construct an overpass or underpass there
instead; that that would do a lot more to alleviate congestion than a continuous turn lane.
Regarding tearing up Dempster to replace the water line, there are some benefits to having
IDOT do it for the Village, but nevertheless it will be disruptive. Did anyone look into the
possibility of relining the water pipe? It's less disruptive and other municipalities have done it.
Mr. Dubren also felt that, if Dempster is widened, the speed limit on it will increase, and
that will kill off the businesses on Dempster. He opined that the Village Engineer should be
replaced by someone with a civil engineering background because of all of the projects the
Village has going on. Mr. Neuendorf is not a civil engineer. He concluded by advising the
Board not to let IDOT push the Dempster Street project down the Village's throat.
Mayor Krier said that Mr. Neuendorf is not making any engineering decisions for the Village;
when the Village needs engineering decisions, it's using a consultant. He said the Village is
planning on finding a replacement for Mr. Gillingham.
Trustee Staackmann noted that there is a process for repairing / re-lining sewers, but not
water mains. Further, the Village would be replacing that water main with a bigger one with
more capacity.
e. Rudy Fireznik. Mr. Fireznik asked about the status of the consultant's report and the results
of the study regarding the flooding on the west side of town.
Mayor Krier said that the Board is still waiting for a more complete and specific report. He as-
sured Mr. Fireznik that he would get a copy of the report when it was finished.
Eric Poders. Mr. Poders said, regarding Ordinance 08-09, people who have comments
and concerns should come out and share them at the Plan Commission meeting on
December 15'". He added that now is the time for the Village to go to the North Branch
Restoration website regarding saving and preserving our forest preserves. The forest
preserves help make Morton Grove what it is today. The North Branch Restoration group
goes out on weekends and cuts down buckthorn.
XIV. ADJOURNMENTIEXECUTIVE SESSION
There being no further business, Trustee Minx moved to adjourn the meeting. Trustee
Brunner seconded the motion. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nay's.
Tr. Brunner afire Tr. Kogstad ~ Tr. Marcus a +~e
Tr. Minx ~ Tr. Staackmann ?1/e Tr. Thill awe
The Board Meeting adjourned at 9:03 p.m.
16
•: ~*~ s.s ~:~ r, ``zi~~nufes~.~r biff;~, $~k~fd9Yl?ifi§I
PASSED this 12th day of January, 2009
Trustee Brunner f .~
Trustee Kogstad
Trustee Marcus
Trustee Minx
Trustee Staackmann
Trustee Thill
APPROVED this 12 y of January, 2009.
Richard K er, Village President
Board of Trustees, Morton Grove, Illinois
APPROVED and FILED in my office this 13th day of January, 2009.
r t ~ s°''
Carol A. Fritzshall, Village Clerk
Village of Morton Grove, Cook County, Illinois
Mloutes by: Teresa Couser
17