HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-28-2023MINUTES 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
NOVEMBER 28, 2023
CALL TO ORDER
1. Village President Dan DiMaria convened the Regular Meeting of the Village Board at 7:00 p.m.
in the Council Chambers of Village Hall.
II. Village Clerk Eileen Harford called the roll. Present were Trustees Saba Khan, Rita Minx,
John Thill, Connie Travis, and Janine Witko. Trustee Ashur Shiba was absent with notice.
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor DiMaria asked for a motion to approve the Minutes of the November 14, 2023 Village
Board Meeting as presented. Trustee Minx so moved, and the motion was seconded by
Trustee Thill. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote (with 1 absent).
IV. SPECIAL REPORTS
1. Presentation of 2023 Fire Prevention Poster Contest Winners
a. Mayor DiMaria called Fire Prevention Coordinator Rick Dobrowski to the podium to make this
presentation. Rick thanked the Firefighters Association and noted they not only pay for the
awards, they do all the judging. He also gave a shout -out to two principals here this evening,
one from Jerusalem Lutheran and one from the MCC Academy.
b. Rick stated that there were approximately 250 participants in the poster contest this year, thanks
in large part to the school principals now doing weekly e -letters to childrens' parents. He said that
all the schools located in the Village were invited to participate. In this year's contest, the children
could choose between several fire safety topics. The winning posters were based on whether the
fire safety message was correct, whether the message was clear, and the quality of the artwork.
c. Winners were as follows:
• Aadil Abdul Jabbar, Kindergarten, MCC Academy
• Adam Hassuneh, First Grade, MCC Academy
• Haniya Suriya, Second Grade, Hynes Elementary
• Igra Puthawala, Third Grade, MCC Academy
• Aleena Chaudhary, Fourth Grade, Edison Elementary
• cr= ti: r .74117.1t-el.iifilojennbirilik 023 Board Meeting
IV.
SPECIAL REPORTS (continued)
• Trinity Vo, Fifth Grade, Jerusalem Lutheran
• Sophie Freytes, Sixth Grade, Jerusalem Lutheran
• Esther Yoon, Seventh Grade and Overall Winner, Jerusalem Lutheran
• Felix Lou, Eighth Grade, Jerusalem Lutheran
d. Rick and Chief Ensign gave each winner a plaque with a digitized photo of their winning photo, and
each child got his picture taken with Rick. Rick thanked the Village Board for its support of the
annual Fire Prevention Poster Contest, all the children who participated in the contest, and the
parents, families, and teachers present tonight.
V. PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. 2023 Property Tax Levy for the Village of Morton Grove
a. Mayor DiMaria opened the Public Hearing on the 2023 Proposed Property Tax Levy and turned it
over to Village Administrator Czerwinski, saying that this part of the meetings is more necessary
than the poster contest, but not nearly as fun or exciting.
b. Mr. Czerwinski stated that the amount necessary to be levied for the 2023 property tax is
$11,642,534 for Village operational expenses, $661,213 for Village debt service, and $3,728,019
for the Library. This results in a total levy of $12,303,747 for the Village and $3,728,019 for the
Library, or a combined total of $16,031,766. Mr. Czerwinski said, by law, the Village must levy an
additional $800,800 for Village debt service payments authorized by general obligation notes and
bonds, increasing the levy (before abatements) to $16,832.566.
c. However, the Village Board intends to adopt a Resolution that will immediately abate $800,800
from the levy, resulting in the net levy as intended by the Corporate Authorities of $16,031,766.
The effective result is a 9.0% increase in the Village's portion of the tax levy and a 3.5% increase in
the Library's portion, which translates to an overall increase of 7.6% from the final extended tax
levy from the previous year.
d. Public notice of tonight's Public Hearing on the 2023 Property Tax Levy was published in the
Chicago Tribune local newspaper on November 16, 2023.
e. Mayor DiMaria asked if the Board had any questions; there were none. He asked for a motion to
close this Public Hearing. Trustee Minx so moved, seconded by Trustee Witko.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan Tr. Minx aye Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko
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Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting
VI.
VII.
VIII.
PLAN COMMISSION REPORTS
NONE
RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (AGENDA ITEMS ONLY)
NONE
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
1. Mayor DiMaria went to the podium to proclaim November 28, 2023 "Steven L. Blonz Day" in
Morton Grove. He explained that Steve is a long-time community resident and supporter who has
recently announced his retirement from active Village service. Steve has provided dedicated
service to the Village from 1979 to the present, serving on a variety of Village organizations,
boards, and commissions; most notably as a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals and the
Plan Commission. He served as Chairperson of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Plan Commission
from 1997 to 2004 and from 2016 to present. Steve was also a Village Trustee from 2004 to 2005.
a. Mayor DiMaria said, during Steve's impressive tenure in service to the Village, he has unselfishly
shared his expertise as a designer and architect, and had positive influence on almost every major
project and development in the Village for over four decades! This includes the updating and
modernization of the Village's zoning codes and development ordinances; the redevelopment
of the Waukegan Road corridor, the Morton Grove Muslim Community Center, and the
transformation of the outdated Waukegan/Dempster shopping center to the Sawmill Station
retail and residential center.
b. Steve also served as the Chairperson of the Village's 2023 Strategic Plan Advisory Committee.
Through his attention to detail, outstanding leadership skills, and wise counsel, he has made an
invaluable contribution to the fabric of our community. This proclamation is to honor Steve's
selfless and generous donation of his time, professional talents, and leadership in making the
Village of Morton Grove a more attractive and safer community in which to live, work, and raise
families.
c. Mayor DiMaria presented Steve with a copy of the Proclamation and a plaque with a gavel on it,
noting the dates of his 39 years of service. He invited Steve to say a few words.
d. Steve said he moved from Chicago to Morton Grove in 1968. He'd gone to a few meetings and
decided he wanted to get more involved. He said it's been great working with this Board of
Trustees and Mayor as well as past Boards and Mayors.
e. Mayor DiMaria said the new Chairperson of the Zoning Board of Appeals and Plan Commission will
be Chris Kitner, who has served on the Commission for several years under Steve's tutelage.
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Minutes of NovembeLM ='23 Board Meeting
VIII.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT (continued)
2. Mayor DiMaria announced that Santa Claus would be coming to town on Saturday, December 2.
He encouraged everyone to mark their calendars for the Santa Comes to Town Parade which will
begin at Greenwood and Waukegan at 11:00 a.m. on December 2. His trip will end at Main Street
and Austin Avenue between 1:15 and 1:30 p.m. Santa will then reappear at the Prairieview
Community Center, 6834 Dempster, to greet families and give gifts to children receiving specially
marked candy from the parade. Gift redemption is from 1:00-4:00 p.m. For a detailed map of
Santa's route through town, please go to www.mortongroveil.org/santa.
3. Mayor DiMaria encouraged the community to support the Morton Grove Police Department's
annual Toys for Tots drive. The MGPD's drive is affiliated with the US Marines Toys for Tots drive.
New, unwrapped toys can be place in the Toy Donation Box at the following locations until
December 11:
• MG Police Department: 6101 Capulina Avenue
• MG Fire Department #4, 6250 Lincoln Avenue
• MG Village Hall, 6101 Capulina Avenue
• MG Park District, 6834 Dempster Street
• MG Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Avenue
4. Mayor DiMaria also urged residents to participate in the Morton Grove Fire Department's annual
Food and Gift Drive. The Firefighters' Association is collecting monetary donations to purchase
gift cards, toys, and holiday meals for families in need until December 15. Checks should be made
payable to Firefighters Association of Morton Grove. People can mail their donation to the address
below or drop your check off. Any questions, please contact the MGFD at 847-470-5226.
Morton Grove Fire Station 4
Attention: Food Drive
6250 Lincoln Avenue
Morton Grove, IL 60053
IX. CLERK'S REPORT
Clerk Harford had no formal report this evening.
X. STAFF REPORTS
A. Village Administrator:
1. Village Administrator Czerwinski announced the holiday hours for Village Hall and Public Works:
• December 25: Village Hall and Public Works are closed.
• January 1, 2024: Village Hall and Public Works are closed.
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Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting
X. STAFF REPORTS (continued)
A. Village Administrator: (continued)
2. Mr. Czerwinski said the Village will offer "holiday lights recycling" through February 1, 2024. There
will be a bin in the lobby of Village Hall for people to place their non -working or unwanted holiday
lights. He emphasized that it should be strings of lights ONLY—no garland or other adornment.
This program is being brought to the Village by the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County
(SWANCC) and Elgin Recycling. Mr. Czerwinski said residents should NOT place holiday lights in
their home recycling containers.
3. Mr. Czerwinski then presented for a first reading Ordinance 23-25, Exempting the Village of
Morton Grove from the Requirements of the Illinois Paid Leave For All Workers Act.
a. He explained that this Ordinance will exercise the Village's Home Rule Authority to exempt the
Village from the provisions of the Illinois Paid Leave for All Workers Act for its own employees.
b. The Village has determined that applying the Act to its own employees on January 1, 2024, will
negatively impact its governmental operations and affairs, especially its response to emergencies,
and it will place an undue burden on the Village's ability to provide uninterrupted services to its
constituents. Paid leave will be provided to Village employees as set forth in the Village Personnel
Policy Manual as amended from time to time. In no event shall the Village provide less than
one day of paid leave per year to any employee.
c. Mr. Czerwinski said, as this is a first reading of this Ordinance, no action shall be taken tonight. The
Ordinance will be voted on at the Board's December 12, 2023 meeting.
B. Corporation Counsel:
Corporation Counsel Liston had no formal report this evening, but wanted to take a moment to
thank Steve Blonz for his service and his mentoring. And even more importantly, for his friendship.
XI. TRUSTEES' REPORTS
A. Trustee Khan:
Trustee Khan had six ordinances to present this evening and a resolution. Five ordinances are a
first reading, with no action being taken this evening. She thanked Village staff for their hard work
on all of these documents.
1. Ordinance 23-21, An Ordinance Adopting the Budgets for all Corporate Purposes of the Village
of Morton Grove and the Morton Grove Library, Cook County, Illinois, for the Calendar Year
Effective January 1, 2024 and Ending December 31, 2024.
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Minutes of November 2''
23 Board Meeting
XI.
A. Trustee Khan: continued
This is the second reading of this Ordinance.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
This Ordinance shows the Village's (including the Morton Grove Public Library) total budget for
Calendar Year 2024 as $88,356,976. Of that total, the General Fund's budget is $37,921,684; the
General Operations budget is $20,435, 121; the TIF/Economic Development budget is
$15,162,339. $10,963,600 is budgeted for Pensions and the Library's budget is $3,874,232.
Trustee Khan moved to adopt Ordinance 23-21, seconded by Trustee Minx.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan aye Tr. Minx mg Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill aye Tr. Travis ly± Tr. Witko ave
b. Resolution 23-48, Tax Abatement Resolution For 2023 Tax Levy Relating to Ordinance 15-02.
This Resolution authorizes the abatement (reduction) of taxes levied for 2023 which are collected
in 2024 in the amount of $800,800. The Village has chosen to pay for certain bond debt service
payment from sources other than property taxes. In order for the County Clerk not to levy said
debt service payments, it is necessary to pass this Resolution and to file a certified copy of it with
the Cook County Clerk. The 2024 Budget has allocated $800,800 from the Lehigh -Ferris TIF Fund
to pay the debt service. The law requires the Village to levy taxes as required by Ordinance 15-02
but then may abate said taxes pursuant to a resolution which identifies the alternative sources of
revenue. It then obligates the Village Treasurer to set aside and designated those funds to pay the
required bond payments.
Trustee Khan moved to approve Resolution 23-48, seconded by Trustee Witko.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan ave Tr. Minx ly& Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko
3. Ordinance 23-22, An Ordinance Levying and Assessing Taxes for the Village of Morton Grove,
Cook County, Illinois for 2023 to be Collected in the Fiscal Year Beginning January 1, 2024 and
Ending December 31, 2024.
This is the second reading of this Ordinance.
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Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting
XI.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
A. Trustee Khan: (continued)
a. Pursuant to Ordinance 23-21, the amount necessary to be levied for the 2023 property taxes is
$11,642,534 for Village operational expenses, $661,213 for Village debt service, and $3,728,019
for the Library. This results in levy of $12,303,747 for the Village and $3,728,019 for the Library, for
a total levy of $16,031,766. By law, the Village must levy an additional $800,800 for debt service
payments authorized by general obligation notes and bonds for a total levy before abatements of
$16,832,566. However, the Village earlier this evening approve Resolution 23-48 which abated the
amount of $800,800, leaving the net levy as intended as $16,031.766. The effective result is a 9.0%
increase in the Village's portion of the tax levy and a 3.5% increase in the Library's portion of the
tax levy, resulting in an overall increase of 7.6% from the final extended tax levy from the
previous year.
Trustee Khan moved to adopt Ordinance 23-22, seconded by Trustee Witko.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan ays Tr. Minx ays Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko aye
4. Ordinance 23-26, Authorizing the Transfer of Funds from the Lehigh Avenue/Ferris Avenue Tax
Increment Financing District to the Lincoln/Lehigh Tax Increment Financing District Within the
Village of Morton Grove, Cook County, Illinois.
a. The Tax Increment Allocation Redevelopment Act allows the Village to transfer funds from
one TIF District to a contiguous TIF District. This Ordinance will authorize the transfer of
$2,788,000 from the Lehigh/Ferris TIF to the Lincoln/Lehigh TIF. The funds will be used to further
redevelopment projects within the TIF that receives the transferred funds. This is the first reading
of this Ordinance, so no action will be taken this evening.
5. Ordinance 23-27, Amending Title 1 Chapter 11 and Title 1 Chapter 1 Section 9 of the Municipal
Code of the Village of Morton Grove to Update the Village Fee Schedule and Establish a Process
to Permit Encroachments in the Public Right of Way.
a. In June of 2020, pursuant to Ordinance 20-12, the Village Board amended Title 1 of the Village
Code to add a new Chapter 11 entitled "Fees." The intent of the Ordinance was to provide a
comprehensive fee schedule for various licenses, permits, and services authorized by the Code
set forth in one location of the Village Code, so fees can easily be referenced by the public and
annually reviewed by Village staff as part of the annual budget process. At the direction of the
Village President and Village Board, Village staff has reviewed Title 1, Chapter 11 of the Code to
ensure such fees are consistent with fees assessed by State statutes and other municipalities for
similar services, and which reflect the costs for the Village to administer the services related to
said fees.
Minutes of November 28, • 023 Board Meeting
XI.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
A. Trustee Khan: (continued)
b. This Ordinance increases the Village's water and sewer rates by 3.0%, the Solid Waste collection
fee by 5%, and increases numerous other fees as set forth in the Ordinance. This Ordinance also
amends Title 7, Chapter 1, Section 9 to authorize encroachment in the public right of way pursuant
to a written agreement with the Village and the payment of a permit fee. This is the first reading
of this Ordinance, so no action will be taken this evening.
6. Ordinance 23-28, Amending Title 1, Chapter 4 of the Municipal Code of the Village of
Morton Grove.
a. This Ordinance approves a Text Amendment to Title 1, Chapter 4 of the Morton Grove Municipal
Code to update the fine schedule and other penalties for violation of the Municipal Code.
b. Monetary penalties assessed against minors (18 years and under) are often paid by the offender's
parents or guardians, and do not always deter the offender from committing future violations. This
Ordinance will give the court or adjudication hearing officer the option to require additional or
alternative actions including community service, participation in treatment for mental health,
substance use and other appropriate activities. The intent of these alternate remedies is to avert
health or substance abuse related issues to support systems and resources they may not
otherwise receive. This Ordinance will amend Title 1, Chapter 4, Section 1 to give the court or
the adjudication hearing officer the option to require additional or alternative actions to fines,
including community service, participation in treatment for mental health, substance use, and
other appropriate activities for minors and non -minors in appropriate circumstances. This is the
first reading of this Ordinance, so no action will be taken this evening.
7. Ordinance 23-29, Amending Title 1, Chapter 10J, "Local Motor Fuel Tax" and Title 1, Chapter 10K,
"Prepared Food and Beverage Tax, and Title 1, Chapter 10P, "Local Packaged Liquor Tax" of the
Municipal Code of the Village of Morton Grove.
a. The Village currently imposes a Local Motor Fuel Tax of four cents ($0.04) per gallon of gas, a
Municipal Prepared Food and Beverage Tax of one percent (1%) of the purchase price of prepared
food and alcoholic liquor, and a Local Packaged Liquor Tax of one percent (1%) of the purchase
price of packaged liquor within the Village. These taxes are paid by residents and non-residents of
the Village and have diversified the Village's revenue base and reduced its dependency on
property taxes.
b. Due to recent inflationary pressures and rising pension and health insurance costs, additional
revenue is needed to balance the 2024 Village Budget. To partially offset the shortfall, the Village
Administrator has recommended increases in the Local Motor Fuel Tax, the Municipal Prepared
Food and Beverage Tax, and the Local Packaged Liquor Tax.
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Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting
XI.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
A. Trustee Khan: (continued)
c. Increasing the Local Fuel Tax rate by an additional penny per gallon will generate an additional
$100,000 in revenue; increasing the Prepared Food and Beverage Tax rate by an additional 1%
(except for purchases through catering facilities) will generate an additional $600,000 in revenue;
and increasing the Local Packaged Liquor Tax by an additional 1% will generate an extra $30,000 in
revenue. This Ordinance will increase these local taxes effective January 1, 2024 and are expected
to raise an additional $730,000 per year to support Village operations. This is the first reading of
this Ordinance, so no action will be taken this evening.
8. Ordinance 23-30, Amending Title 10 Entitled "Building and Construction Regulations,"
Chapter 10 Entitled "Sign Regulations" of the Municipal Code of the Village of Morton Grove.
a. Staff continuously reviews the signage regulations established in Chapter 10-10 of the Municipal
Code to ensure they are kept current and address emerging issues. As the Village seeks to reduce
visual clutter along its commercial and industrial corridors, staff is recommending certain
modifications to Chapter 10-10 to improve the Village's control of certain signage types and to
simplify regulations to enhance enforcement efforts. The proposed amendment was designed to
achieve the following:
b. • Exempt all window signage from permitting and simplify dimensional requirements
for easier enforcement
• Address and control the proliferation of graphic vinyl or similar window coverings
• Address and control solid -color window screening appliques, especially for
public and first responder safety
• Prohibit series LED lighting (rope lighting) and neon tubing used to accentuate
window, buildings, and signage
• Prohibit new box signs
• Establish regulations for drive-through establishment signage
• Simplify temporary signage regulations and reduce maximum periods of installation.
c. At the request of Village staff, the Appearance Commission reviewed the proposed amendment at
their regularly scheduled meeting on November 7, 2023, and voted unanimously to recommend
approval of the amendment as presented. If approved by the Village Board, staff will notify
commercial and industrial property owners of the modified sign regulations by mail and will
provide direct guidance as needed. This is the first reading of this Ordinance, so no action will be
taken this evening.
9. Trustee Khan noted that she had previously served on the Zoning Board of Appeals/Plan
Commission and warmly thanked Steve Blonz for his mentorship during her tenure there.
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Minutes o4 November 28, '023 Board Meeting
XI.
B. Trustee Minx:
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee Minx had no formal report, but thanked Steve Blonz for his leadership and thoroughness,
and wished him a happy retirement.
C. Trustee Shiba:
Trustee Shiba was absent—no report this evening.
D. Trustee Thill:
1. Trustee Thill presented Resolution 23-49, Authorizing the Execution of a Service Contract With
Municipal GIS Partners, Inc. For Geographic Information System Services.
a. The Village has been a member of the Geographic Information System Consortium (GISC) since
2002 to reduce the costs of implementing GIS technology by participating in collective bargaining,
group training, joint purchaseing, and development and innovation sharing. Municipal GIS
Partners, Inc. has been the service provider for GIS services to GISC since the GISC began in 1999.
The contract term is from January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2024. The contract also includes
optional renewal terms for successive one-year periods. All Village Departments utilize the GIS
system, as well as Village residents and businesses. The financial impact of this contract is
$91,989.72.
Trustee Thill moved, seconded by Trustee Minx, to approve Resolution 23-49.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan ly± Tr. Minx aye Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis ave Tr. Witko aye
2. Trustee Thill said that he has "watched Steve Blonz herd cats" for years. He thanked Steve for all
he's done and told him to enjoy retirement.
E. Trustee Travis:
1. Trustee Travis presented Resolution 23-50, Authorizing a Contract with DNA Labs International,
Deerfield Beach, Florida for DNA Analysis of Evidence.
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Minutes of tikwert b [28, 20230041T Wie6ti' I.
XI.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
E. Trustee Travis: (continued)
a. Trustee Travis explained that the Morton Grove Police Department is investigating the 1979
murders of Susan Ovington and Yvonne Bender and has recovered certain evidence items during
that investigation that need specialized DNA analysis to help identify potential suspect(s). The
Police Chief has recommended the Village engage DNA Labs International of Deerfield Beach, FL
("DNA Labs") to perform this analysis. DNA Labs International is a well-regarded laboratory
specializing in advanced methods of DNA extraction and analysis for evidence that has a high
probability of having significantly degraded DNA, which standard laboratories are not set up to
process. DNA Labs International uses specialized processing methods to collect the DNA from
items having potential evidentiary value and can identify DNA from fingernail clippings, clothing,
hair, and other items.
b. Because of this specialized analysis, the Village Administrator has determined that DNA Labs is a
Sole Source Vendor, thereby obviating the need for the Village to undergo the competitive
bidding process outlined in the Village Code. The cost for this work is estimated to be $54,960.
Season of Justice (SOJ), a nonprofit organization that provides funding to help solve cold cases, has
awarded the Village a grant of $18,430 for DNA analysis in the Ovington and Bender murder
investigations, reducing the Village's costs to complete this analysis to $36,530.
Trustee Travis moved, seconded by Trustee Witko, to approve Resolutions 23-50.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan aye Tr. Minx ay& Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill aye Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko
c. Mayor DiMaria commented that this case comes up annually. He said he wanted to assure
everyone that the Morton Grove Police Department has not let this case go and has never given
up. This is part of the process. He said the Village understands how critical this is to the families
involved, and reiterated this is another step in finally getting the murders resolved.
2. Next, Trustee Travis presented Resolution 23-51, Authoring a Contract with SAE Customs, Inc. for
the Change -Over of Equipment for New Patrol Vehicles.
a. She explained that replacement vehicles have been purchased to replace three MGPD squad cars
which have surpassed their useful life due to age and high mileage. In order to place the new
vehicles into service, the department must undergo a changeover process to remove specialized
equipment from the older vehicles and install it in the new vehicles. The Police Department has
solicited quotes and received proposals from companies specializing in changeovers for police
department vehicles.
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Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting'
XI.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
E. Trustee Travis: (continued)
b. Chief Simo has determined that the quote provided by SAE Customs, Inc. of Volo, IL, in the amount
of $39,597.46, although not the lowest -priced proposal, best met the Department's needs, as
SAE Customs, Inc. could perform the changeovers'within the next two months, whereas the lowest
bidder has a wait list of approximately one year. SAE Customs, Inc. has over 15 years of service
and a good reputation for providing high quality changeovers for various emergency vehicles in a
timely manner. Although competitive bidding requirements for contracts over $25,000 were not
met, the Village Administrator recommends the Board waive these requirements due to the
solicitation of quotes performed by the MGPD, the Department's extensive analysis of the
qualified vendors' service, and the recommendation of the Police Chief that SAE Customs, Inc. best
meets the Department's needs at this time. This Resolution will authorize a contract for the
changeover of three vehicles pursuant to SAE Customs, Inc.'s quote of $39,597.46. An affirmative
vote of at (east 3/5ths of the Corporate Authorities (5 votes including the Mayor) is required to
waive the Competitive Purchasing Requirements of the Code.
Trustee Travis moved to approve Resolutions 23-51, seconded by Trustee Thill.
Motion passed: 6 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan aye Tr. Minx ly& Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis ky& Tr. Witko
Mayor DiMaria aye
3. Trustee Travis wished Steve Blonz well and thanked him for his years of dedication.
F. Trustee Witko:
1. Trustee Witko presented Ordinance 23-23, Approving a Text Amendment to Modify and
Establish Regulations Relating to Accessory Uses and Structures, Off -Street Parking, Massage
Establishments, Truck -Related Uses, Truck Parking, Automotive and Truck Repair Uses, and
Design Standards in Morton Grove, IL.
This is the second reading of this Ordinance.
a. This Text Amendment authorizes temporary accessory uses, provides greater control over
detached accessory structures on residential lots, prohibits new massage establishments, limits
parking and storage activities for contractors' offices in the commercial districts, improves
regulation of heavy industrial, truck repair, and car wash uses in the manufacturing districts,
regulates truck parking as an accessory use, and cleans up existing regulations to improve clarity
and eliminate redundancy.
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Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting
XI. TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
F. Trustee Witko: (continued).
Trustee Witko moved to adopt Ordinance 23-23, seconded by Trustee Travis.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan Ry± Tr. Minx me Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill aye Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko aye
2. Next, Trustee Witko presented Ordinance 23-24, Approving Special Use Permits with Associated
Waivers for a 36 -Unit Mixed -Use Development and a Preliminary and Final Plat of Subdivision
for Property Commonly Known as 8500-8550 Lehigh Avenue and a 0.531 -Acre Portion of
Chestnut Street Right -of -Way Approved for Vacation in Morton Grove, Illinois.
This is the second reading of this Ordinance.
a. She explained that MHDC SLF LLC (the "Applicant") had submitted complete applications seeking
approval of a Preliminary and Final Plat of Subdivision and Special Use Permits for property at
8500-8550 Lehigh Avenue, and a portion (approximately 0.531 acres) of the Chestnut Street right
of way located directly west of the Lehigh Avenue right of way approved for vacation under
Ordinance 22-02. A 24 -unit mixed-use development was previously proposed by the Applicant for
this property and was approved. The Applicant is proposing modifications to the project due to
increased construction costs and a gap in financing.
b. The Applicant proposed to acquire 2.049 acres of Village -owned property and the Chestnut Street
right of way for construction of a four-story mixed-use development consisting of two structures
with ground -floor commercial uses and 36 residential units located on the second, third, and
fourth floors. Nine of the 36 units will be made affordable to households earning no more than
60% of area median income. Site improvements will include a pedestrian plaza, parking areas,
carports, a shared access drive, and landscaped areas. The developer is proposing 126 parking
spaces to the rear of the principal structures, which exceeds the parking demand of 90 spaces
established based on projections provided in the submitted traffic and parking impact study.
c. Vehicular access to the development and the Moose Family Center at 6149 Chestnut Street will be
provided by a two-lane shared access drive at the site's southern lot line. The developer is
requesting waivers for number of detached accessory structures, rear yard impermeable
coverage, open accessory parking space setback, location of outdoor seating areas, facade
transparency, bedroom mix, building height, public parkway trees, and parking lot screening
abutting private property.
Trustee Witko moved, seconded by Trustee Travis, to adopt Ordinance 23-24.
d. Trustee Thill asked if a decision had been reached about naming the street. Mr. Czerwinski said the
Moose wants to maintain their Chestnut Street address, so it will continue as Chestnut Street.
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Minutes of November 28, Q23 Board Meeting
XI.
F. Trustee Witko: {continued)
Upon the vote, the motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Tr. Khan gy± Tr. Minx ave Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. Thill ave Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko
3. Lastly, Trustee Witko introduced Ordinance 21-31, Approving and Authorizing the Execution of an
Economic Incentive and Tax Increment Allocation Financing Development Agreement By and
Between the Village of Morton Grove, IL, MHDC SLF LLC., and Metropolitan Housing Develop-
ment Corporation, in Regard to Certain Real Property Located in the Lincoln/Lehigh Tax
Increment Redevelopment Area, and the Expenditure of Funds From the Lincoln/Lehigh Tax
Increment Financing District Fund.
a. She explained that, earlier this year, in February of 2023, the Village Board approved an economic
incentive agreement for the development of a 24 -unit mixed-use development at 8500-8500
Lehigh Avenue. In addition to the residential units, a coffee shop, microbrewery, private banquet
room, and cafe/bar would be located on the property. That agreement was not executed due to
the project design and timeline. The developer then proposed a project with 36 residential units
(including 9 affordable housing units) and a coffee shop, microbrewery, etc.
b. The developer has represented, and the Village has verified, that the Development is not
financially feasible and cannot be constructed as proposed without Village assistance. The
developer submitted a TIF application demonstrating that financial assistance is necessary for
the development to generate a reasonable rate of return. The application was reviewed by
Kane McKenna and Associates, who determined that the level of TIF assistance to be provided
by the Village is reasonable. The total project cost for the development is estimated to be
$14.7 million. The Village's TIF assistance will account for approximately 12.24% of the total
development costs.
c. The developer and Village staff negotiated an Economic Incentive and Tax Increment Allocation
Financing Development Agreement which provides the following:
• The Village will sell the Village Property to the owner for $1 million, subject
to a note and mortgage for the full purchase price to be held by the Village;
• The owner and developer will develop, construct, operate, and maintain
the development as approved pursuant to Ordinance 23-34.
• Upon completion of the Development, including the 9 affordable housing
units, the Village will reimburse the owner and developer for up to $1.8M
in TIF -eligible expenses.
• Any Illinois Affordable Housing Tax Credits received by the Village relating to
the Development shall be donated to the Developer.
• The owner's note to the Village shall be forgive at a rate of 75% of the Village's
share of state and local sales taxes generated by the Development.
14
iV1iTiU -86 of Navember 28, 2Q2�,Wed Meeting
XI.
F. Trustee Witko: (continued)
Trustee Witko said, as this is the first reading of this Ordinance, no action will be taken tonight.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
3. Trustee Witko noted that she, too, had served on the Plan Commission and had gained a great
deal of knowledge from Steve Blonz. She thanked him and wished him well in his retirement.
XII. OTHER BUSINESS
NONE
XIII. WARRANTS
Trustee Khan presented the Warrant Register for November 28, 2023 in the amount of
$185,150.30. She moved to approve the Warrant Register as presented, seconded by
Trustee Minx.
Motion passed: 5 ayes, 1 absent.
Tr. Khan ave Tr. Minx aye Tr. Shiba absent
Tr. ThiII aye Tr. Travis aye Tr. Witko aye
XIV. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS
NONE
XV. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business being brought before the Board, Trustee Minx moved to adjourn
the meeting, seconded by Trustee ThiII. Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
The meeting adjourned at 7:53 p.m.
15
Minutes of November 28, 2023 Board Meeting
PASSED this 12th day of December, 2023.
Trustee Khan iU
Trustee Minx 1 J
Trustee Shiba Atpe
Trustee Thill Ay
Trustee Travis Ayf,
Trustee Witko td 47
APPROVED by me this 12th day of December, 2023.
Daniel P. DiMaria, Village President
Board of Trustees, Morton Grove, Illinois
APPROVED and FILED in my office this 13th day of December, 2023.
Vit;,,. (=T'
Eileen Harford, Village Clerk
Village of Morton Grove, Cook County, Illinois
Minutes by Teresa Cousar
16