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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-28-2023MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE PRESIDENT AND THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE VILLAGE OF MORTON GROVE RICHARD T. FLICKINGER MUNICIPAL CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBERS MARCH 28, 2023 CALL TO ORDER I. Village President Dan DiMaria convened the Regular Meeting of the Village Board at 7:00 p.m. & II. in the Council Chambers of Village Hall. III. Village Clerk Eileen Harford was absent with notice. Deputy Clerk Saba Koya called the roll. Present were Trustees Rita Minx, Ashur Shiba, John Thill, Connie Travis, and Janine Witko. Trustee Saba Khan was absent with notice. IV. APPROVAL OF MINUTES V. VI. VII. Trustee Minx moved to approve the Minutes of the March 14, 2023 Village Board Meeting as presented. Trustee Witko seconded the motion. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote. SPECIAL REPORTS NONE PUBLIC HEARINGS NONE PLAN COMMISSION REPORTS 1. Plan Commission Case PC 23-02: Request by Medina Gardens, LLC for Approval of a Time Extension for a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and Preliminary Plat of Subdivision Authorized under Ordinance 20-18 to subdivide the subject property into eight new lots of record for the development of four attached single-family dwellings and five detached single family dwellings with waivers for lot width, lot area, floor area ratio, impervious lot and rear yard coverage, driveway setback, location of fencing, lot standards, and accesswav design. Mayor DiMaria introduced Community Development Administrator Zoe Heidorn to give an update on Plan Commission Case PC 23-02. a. Ms. Heidorn said this Case was introduced under Ordinance 23-06 and is a request to approve a Special Use Permit Amendment to provide a time extension to commence and proceed with construction of a Planned Unit Development for the property at 6037 Lincoln Avenue. Minutes of March 28, 2Q23 Board Meeting VII. PLAN COMMISSION REPORTS (continued) b. Ms. Heidorn said, since the first reading of the Ordinance on March 14, the Applicant has made the following progress: c. d. e. f. • On March 15, Applicant submitted Engineer's Estimate of Costs, which has been verified to be reasonable by the Village Engineer; • On March 27, the Applicant submitted copies of IEPA and MWRD permit applications as requested; and • Today, Applicant's attorney confirmed that a new General Contractor has been selected to carry the project forward. Ms. Heidorn said that staff has not yet received a Detailed Financing Plan or draft Performance Guarantee; both of which must be submitted by April 4, 2023, before Ordinance 23-06 can be approved as presented. The Applicant has agreed to the Project Schedule included in the Ordinance, but has provided no additional detail. There are no outstanding citations currently associated with the property. She said the Applicant's attorney is present this evening to respond to questions from the Board. Trustee Thill said his understanding was that the Village and developer had gone to the site and the Village marked trees that were supposed to be saved. He commented that he had walked the property recently and saw only three trees still standing, two in the back that he believes are elm trees on their way out, and one tree up front on the west side that appears to be half dead. He wanted to know why the property had been clear-cut when the Village had clearly identified trees to be saved. He asked if Ms. Heidorn or the developer's attorney had a response. Ms. Heidorn said that staff has not yet verified whether trees removed from the property had been approved for removal. There was an approved removal plan. There is recourse for the Village, however; the Ordinance requires the developer to "reimburse" the site with trees on an inch -for -inch basis for erroneous tree removals; but staff has yet to verify those removals. Trustee Thill said, while that's good and fine, removing a tree that's 50, 60, or 70 years old and replacing it with a tree that's 2 or 3 years old doesn't equate. The Applicant's attorney, Paul Kolpak, introduced himself to the assemblage to respond to Trustee Thill. He indicated that he wasn't involved with this project in its early stages, but his understanding is yes, there were trees taken down that were not earmarked for removal. Some of them had been removed because they were older and in the way of the development. But the applicant has agreed to replace those trees, not with saplings, but with relatively mature trees to make up for that. Mr. Kolpak said he agrees with Trustee Thill about the importance of trees. g. Trustee Thill said he is also concerned about the developer. He said that, normally, when an entity wants to develop property, and they need changes in the laws, the Village gives them a year. This project has been dragging on for 2.5 years. He wanted to know why. Mr. Kolpak said it's really been closer to five years since this all began. (Trustee Thill responded, "that makes it even worse.") Mr. Kolpak reiterated he had not previously been involved with this project. He said his understanding was that the developer had done a lot of work but the project was initially denied. 2 VII. Nli a di 2$, 2023 B.: r. PLAN COMMISSION REPORTS (continued) h. Now, Mr. Kolpak said, we've made a concerted effort; we're reorganized and we have a new contractor. He said we're asking for six months to try to put things right, and added, if we can't meet that timeline, he would agree that no further extensions should be allowed. Mr. Kolpak said, for the time that we've spent and the money that we've spent, and the fact that we've changed how we operate internally and now have a new contractor, he was hoping the Village would agree to a six-month extension of time. Trustee Thill noted that this is the third time developers have come in, promising to protect the trees, and the third time they've cut them down and then apologized after the fact. He said he did not like being told something would happen, and then seeing that something else entirely was done. He also was concerned about the developer "cherry -picking," in other words, they would build four units in the front and then the back end, where the other five lots will be, will only be developed as the land is sold. He told Mr. Kolpak, "We have residents here tonight that live there, and you can't even say when those other five homes will be developed. So they don't know if they'll be living in a development/construction zone for the next five years." Mr. Kolpak said he understood what Trustee Thill was saying and responded, "We will sell the lots to people who want to build a home there." Trustee Thill asked if a condition of the sale would be that the buyer plans to build a home on the land within a year. Mr. Kolpak said, "Sure. Usually when someone buys one of these types of lots, it's not for an investment, it's for a home." Trustee Thill said he also had a problem with the fact that the Village had to establish so many timelines on this development. He said, to him, it indicates that this developer doesn't have the greatest reputation in the Village. Mr. Kolpak said, "That's one reason why we changed contractors; we knew we needed to start fresh." Lastly, Trustee Thill said he wanted assurances that any alleged "supply chain issues" would be verifiable. Mr. Kolpak said you can check that by going to your local Menards or Home Depot. These types of issues are definitely verifiable. j. Trustee Minx displayed the timeline in the Ordinance and double-checked with Mr. Kolpak that this is the timeline they will be following. He responded, "Yes." k. Mayor DiMaria said there are residents here tonight who would also like to share their thoughts. He introduced Susan Gunther, a resident who had written a letter to Trustee Witko to share with the Board. The letter was dated March 2, 2023 and summarized her concerns regarding this project. She said she wouldn't waste the Board's time re -reading the letter or reiterating her points, except to say, "This is not about the development per se. We would welcome new neighbors and would hope they'd care for their property as much as we care for ours. Our main concern is that the homes will not be constructed as planned, and that an unsightly and dangerous situation will be allowed to exist. Hiring a new contractor after five years of tolerating all the delays from the original contractor doesn't inspire me with hope that this developer is a good judge of character regarding contractors." Ms. Gunther said, "How do we know this contractor is any better? How do we know this will go forward? There's been no evidence of that. As concerned citizens and taxpayers, we respectfully request that the Board not approve this request for a time extension for this Planned Unit Development, and that work being done by this developer not be allowed to proceed. We respectfully suggest that the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior, and the past behavior, in this case, has not been honorable." 3 Minutes of March 28, P23 Board Meeting VII. PLAN COMMISSION REPORTS (continued) k. Next, Mayor DiMaria invited Jonathan to speak. He said that Susan and Trustee Thill both have expressed his thoughts and concerns. After five years, the residents have no reason to believe this new contractor will be more time -sensitive or honorable than the original contractor. I. Mr. Kolpak said he understood the neighbors' concerns, but noted again that the team had changed because it wasn't working. We're asking for six months and we've shown good faith. In the last month, we've done what we've said we'd do. m. n. Peter Schuetz said the applicant hasn't even finished paying last year's property taxes. He asked, "Isn't that a reflection of their integrity and who they are?" There being no further questions from the Board or statements from the residents, Mayor DiMaria thanked Ms. Heidorn for her presentation this evening and Mr. Kolpak for his responsiveness. VIII. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only) NONE IX. PRESIDENT'S REPORT 1. Mayor DiMaria stated that April is "Earth Month" and noted that the Village's Earth Month Edition Newsletter is on its way to residents' mailboxes. It contains a variety of sustainable programs and information. Please review the newsletter and participate in these programs as they match your needs and lifestyle. Mayor DiMaria invited all residents to help protect and preserve the plan by participating in the following Village of Morton Grove Earth Month programs: • Mayor's Water Conservation Challenge: Last year, we were 4th in the nation in our population category. Let's shoot for #1 this year! • 2023 Crayon & Marker Recycling Program: Collection points will be at Village Hall and the Library from April 1 to June 30, 2023. • 50/50 Tree Planting Program: Apply to participate by April 15. Application forms are located on the Village's website. • First "Community Clean Up Event": May 20, 2023, from 9:OOam to noon. Meeting point is the Civic Center to check-in, pick-up supplies, and a map of pre -selected clean-up site. X. CLERK'S REPORT Deputy Clerk Koya announced that Morton Grove will be an early voting site for the 2023 Consolidated Election. Early voting will begin on March 20 and be open daily until April 3 at 5:OOpm. Early voting will be held in the American Legion Memorial Civic Center, 6140 Dempster, on the second floor. Hours for voting are: Mondays—Saturdays, 9:OOam to 5:OOpm, Sundays, 10:OOam to 4:OOpm. Voters do not need to provide an excuse or a reason why they cannot vote on Election Day, and government IDs are not required, but can be helpful. 4 Minutes of March 28, 2023 Board Meeting XI. A. Village Administrator: Village Administrator Czerwinski had no report this evening. STAFF REPORTS B. Corporation Counsel: Corporation Counsel Liston had no formal report this evening. XII. TRUSTEES' REPORTS A. Trustee Khan: Trustee Khan was absent—no formal report this evening. B. Trustee Minx: Trustee Minx had no formal report this evening. C. Trustee Shiba: Trustee Shiba encouraged residents to participate in other upcoming Village activities: • Arbor Day Celebration: April 28 t 11:OOam at Park View School, 6200 Lake Street • Electronic Recycling & Document Destruction Event: Saturday, May 13, from 9:OOam to noon at Public Works, 7840 Nagle. • Morton Grove 2023 Tree Walk: Saturday, June 10 at 10:OOam, starting at Village Hall • Community Garage Sale: Friday, June 9 through Sunday, June 11. Check Village website for details and to register as the date gets closer. D. Trustee Thill: Trustee Thill presented Resolution 23-17, Authorizing a Contract With DCG Roofing Solutions, Inc. For the North Pumping Station Roof Project Trustee Thill noted that the flat roof sections of the North Pumping Station at 8820 National Avenue have experienced numerous leaks and repairs since 2019 and have reached the end of their service life. 5 Minutes of March 28,21 23 Board Meeting XII. TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued) D. Trustee Thill: (continued) a. A contract was advertised on March 1, 2023 and four sealed bids were received, with DCG Roofing Solutions of Melrose Park being the low bidder at $174,055 for the base bid. The bid packet included unit prices for concrete deck repair, drain replacement, wood blocking, and time and material cost in the event additional work was determined to be necessary during construction. This Resolution authorizes a contract with DCG Roofing based on its base bid of $174,055, and authorizes the Village Administrator to execute a change order if additional work is needed, up to a total contract amount of $195,000, the amount budgeted in the 2023 Budget for this project. This contract must conform to the requirements of the Prevailing Wage Act. Trustee Thill moved to approve Resolution 23-17, seconded by Trustee Travis. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays. Tr. Khan absent Tr. Minx Tr. Shiba ays Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko aye E. Trustee Travis: 1. Trustee Travis presented Resolution 23-18, Authorization for the Purchase of Three (3) Dodge 2023 Charger Police AWD Vehicles Through National Auto Fleet Group. a. She explained that, every three years, high mileage Police Department squad vehicles are replaced to ensure that key equipment utilized by our officers does not fail during their duties as public safety first responders. These vehicles are used 24 hours a day and must always be in excellent condition. The Police Department's current patrol vehicle fleet is a mix of Ford SUVs and Dodge sedans. Due to supply chain issues, replacement sedans have not been available for purchase for several years. b. The Village participates in the Sourcewell Purchasing Cooperative, a government organization that competitively solicits bids for products and services. Sourcewell's nationwide purchasing program includes contracts for police department vehicles at substantial cost savings. Sourcewell has awarded a contract to National Auto Fleet Group for 2023 Dodge Charger Police AWD vehicles for a cost of $41,336.24 each. This vehicle is a suitable replacement for older and high mileage squad cars in the police department fleet. The Department has an immediate need for three of these vehicles. c. This Resolution will authorize the purchase of three 2023 Dodge Charger Police AWD vehicles from National Auto Fleet Group pursuant to its Sourcewell contract for a total cost of $124,008.72. If approved, the vehicles will be ordered with delivery expected during 2023. Trustee Travis moved, seconded by Trustee Minx, to approve Resolution 23-18. 6 Minutes of March 28, 2023 Board Meeting XII. E. Trustee Travis: (continued) Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays. TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued) Tr. Khan absent Tr. Minx Ay± Tr. Shiba ave Tr. Thill aye Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko aye Trustee Thill asked if the $124,008.72 was the price of the cars with all the extras installed. Chief Simo responded, no, that's the prices of the cars without any of the specialized equipment installed. F. Trustee Witko: 1. Trustee Witko presented Ordinance 23-05, Approving a Special Use Permit for a Medical and Dental Office/Clinic for the Property Commonly Known as 5833-35 Dempster Street in Morton Grove. This is the second reading of this Ordinance. a. She explained this will approve a Special Use Permit for the operation of a medical and dental office/clinic at 5833-35 Dempster Street. With 20 onsite parking spaces, the Applicant is request- ing a variance of 5 spaces based on a peak demand of 25 parking spaces established in the submitted study. Trustee Witko pointed out that another condition of the Special Use Permit is that the staff shall take all action necessary and within reason to ensure that no more than two (2) medical or dental professionals, eight (8) support staff members, and four (4) patients are on the subject property at any time. Services shall be provided by appointment only. Trustee Witko moved to adopt Ordinance 23-05, seconded by Trustee Thill. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays. Tr. Khan absent Tr. Minx kyg Tr. Shiba aye, Tr. Thill aye Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko b. Mayor DiMaria introduced the current property owner, Mr. Faust, a long-standing businessman in Morton Grove. The mayor said he was happy to see that Mr. Faust was finally going to have an opportunity to relax—he never thought it would happen! Mayor DiMaria said he was proud of Mr. Faust and asked the Board and assemblage to join him in a round of applause. 2. Next, Trustee Witko presented Ordinance 23-06, Approving a Special Use Permit Amendment to Provide a Time Extension to Commence and Proceed With Construction of a Planned Unit Development for the Property Commonly Known as 6037 Lincoln Avenue in Morton Grove. 7 Minutes of March 28, 2'23 Board Meeting XII. F. Trustee Witko: (continued) This is the second reading of this Ordinance. TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued) a. Trustee Witko noted that an update on this matter had been given earlier this evening by Zoe Heidorn, and she moved to adopt Ordinance 23. Trustee Minx seconded the motion. Trustee Witko said she is not supporting this, but she felt the residents have a right to hear how the Board votes and why they vote as they do. Mayor DiMaria noted that a motion to adopt the Ordinance had been made and duly seconded, and asked if there were any questions or concerns from the Board. b. Trustee Witko said that she is the Trustee -liaison to the Plan Commission, so at the Commission's Public Hearings, she heard all the details of this project. She said her decision is based on the history of this project, its timelines, the fact that the developer put the property up for auction, and the fact that documents were submitted just last night in preparation for this third Public Hearing. She felt that bringing in a new contractor in this last month is kind of a "hail Mary pass" after years of insufficient movement. She said she agreed that the greatest predictor of future performance is past performance, and said the Village has been more than open and more than patient with this developer. She said she had little faith that this project would move forward in an appropriate manner. Mayor DiMaria called for a vote on the motion to adopt Ordinance 23-06. Motion failed: 0 ayes, 6 nays. Tr. Khan absent Tr. Minx nay Tr. Shiba nay Tr. Thill nay Tr. Travis n y Tr. Witko nay XIII. OTHER BUSINESS Mayor DiMaria said he is extremely proud and wants to give credit to Illinois State Senator Ram Villivalam. He received a letter from Sen. Villivalam stating that Morton Grove would be re- ceiving a $2.1M capital project grant from the State for the Lehigh Water Main Project. Mayor DiMaria thanked the senator and said Morton Grove is very appreciative of his efforts. XIV. WARRANTS In Trustee Khan's absence, Trustee Travis presented the Warrant Register for March 28, 2023 in the amount of $490,111.60. She moved to approve the Warrant Register as presented, seconded by Trustee Thill. 8 Minutes of March 28, 2023 Board Meeting XIV. XV WARRANTS (continued) Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays. Tr. Khan gig Tr. Minx aye Tr. Shiba aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko �e RESIDENTS' COMMENTS Rudolf Vilk said that more than a month has gone by and he has yet to receive answers from the Board regarding questions he asked in a letter he sent to them all. He said neither the Village Administrator nor the Finance Director is responding to him—he's being told they're in meetings all day. Mr. Vilk said he has left message for the Mayor, Mr. Czerwinski, and Ms. Sullivan to no avail. He said the Board is supposed to work to improve peoples' lives. Mr. Vilk also complained that the windows in the offices of the Village Administrator and Corporation Counsel are covered in blinds, so no one can see in. He felt that was a problem. He said, "how many times do I have to wait for an answer?" Mayor DiMaria said, he has answered Mr. Vilk's questions on numerous occasions, but Mr. Vilk keeps asking them. XVI. ADJOURNMENT Trustee Minx moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Trustee Thill. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote. The meeting adjourned at 7:32 p.m. 9 Minutes of March 28, 2.23 Board Meeting PASSED this 11th day of April, 2023. Trustee Khan Trustee Minx Trustee Shiba Trustee Thill Trustee Travis Trustee Witko APPROVED by me this 11th day of April, 2023. Daniel P. DiMaria, Village President Board of Trustees, Morton Grove, Illinois APPROVED and FILED in my office this 12th day of April, 2023. Eileen Harford, Village Clerk Village of Morton Grove, Cook County, Illinois Minutes by Teresa Cousar 10