HomeMy WebLinkAbout2010-08-09 MinutesVillage President Dan Staackmann called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. After leading the
assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance, he directed the Village Clerk to call the roll.
II. Village Clerk Tony Kalogerakos called the roll. Present were: Trustees Dan DiMaria, Larry
Gomberg, Bill Grear, Shel Marcus, John Thill, and Maria Toth.
a. Regarding the Minutes of the Special Meeting of July 12, 2010, Trustee DiMaria moved,
seconded by Trustee Toth, to accept the Minutes as presented. There was no discussion.
Motion passed unanimously via voice vote.
b. Regarding the Minutes of the July 12, 2010 Regular Meeting, Trustee DiMaria moved,
seconded by Trustee Toth, to accept the Minutes as presented. Trustee Gomberg had a
correction under "Warrants ". The Minutes showed him both making a motion to approve
the Warrants as well as seconding it. Corporation Counsel Liston checked her notes and
determined that the record should show that Trustee Marcus seconded Trustee Gomberg's
motion to approve the Warrants. That correction will be made by the Recording Secretary.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed
unanimously via voice vote.
REPORTS IV. PUBLIC HEARINGS
V. SPECIAL
NONE
Minutes of August 9, 2010 Board Meeting
VI. RESIDENTS' COMMENTS (Agenda Items Only)
VII.
Vlll.
IX.
NONE
Mayor Staackmann had no formal report, but said he and the Board couldn't ever thank the
EMA volunteers enough for all they do. He said that, last Friday, a gas main broke; it could
have been a huge disaster but for services of the Police, Fire, and Public Works Department
and the help that EMA provides them. Their volunteerism also helps save the Village money,
and John Hill does a great job.
Clerk Kalogerakos had no formal report.
A. Village Administrator
1. Mr. Wade asked Village Engineer Chris Tomich to provide
construction project and the Lincoln /Ferris project.
a. Mr. Tomich said that the roadway improvements were just
on the south side of Dempster is being removed, and lane
August 23rd. Temporary traffic signals will be installed. Mr.
completion date for this project was December 1 st. Becaus
that date is in jeopardy.
an update on the Dempster Street
beginning. The street lighting
closures will begin the week of
Tomich pointed out that the original
e of the construction workers' strike,
b. As far as staging, the contractor, A -Lamp, has indicated that it wants to begin construction in
two areas so as to shorten the duration of construction. They want to start on the west end,
south side originally, and now they're talking about working on the east side moving west, or
perhaps starting at Austin and working east. It's still being worked out at this time.
c. To heighten public awareness about the Village -owned free parking lots and parking on side
streets, signage will be posted at various locations. Village staff is also coordinating with the
businesses on Dempster to let them know what's coming and when, and how it will affect their
business operations. The Village is trying to ensure that each local business has a plan in
place to direct their patrons and vendors to their business.
d. As far as Lincoln /Ferris construction work, Mr. Tomich said that the water main is being
installed on Ferris between Lincoln and Dempster. Curbs have been removed on the west
side of the street. By August 16, the water main will be interconnected to Lincoln Avenue.
As of August 16, a detour will be in place for Lincoln Avenue traffic to allow for the water main
interconnection. Utility work will be taking place on Lincoln Avenue —AT &T, Comcast, and
ComEd all have overhead utilities that need to be removed and placed underground.
Mr. Tomich noted that there is a resolution on tonight's agenda that would allow Comcast to
do the work for all three utilities, which would shorten the construction timeframe and reduce
the Village's costs by about $40,000.
PA
IX.
STAFF REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of August 9, 2010 Board Mdetin
e. Mr. Tomich said that 10 ash trees would be removed along Ferris Avenue and will be replaced
by other varieties of trees. It is the Village's policy to remove and replace ash trees due to their
vulnerability to the Emerald Ash Borer. However, this work was not included in the contract.
The trees will be removed by Village personnel, but a $5,000 change order will be generated
to remove the stumps and do the new plantings.
f. As with the Dempster Street project, the completion date for the Lincoln /Ferris work is likely
to be pushed back due to the construction workers' strike. It was originally scheduled for
completion on October 15.
g. Trustee Thill thanked Mr. Tomich for all his efforts to save the Village $40,000 by coordinating
the utility work using one utility.
h. Trustee Marcus asked what impact the Lincoln /Ferris detour would have on the railroad cross-
ing and eastbound traffic on Lincoln. Mr. Tomich said that the contractor would be maintaining
westbound traffic, which would lessen the impact of the detour. He anticipated traffic would
possibly queue up on after the detour. He pointed out that the contractor is very sensitive to
working near railroad tracks and the fire station.
Trustee Grear asked if the completion would be done before the holidays. Mr. Tomich said
that's a fair estimate.
2. Mr. Wade then presented Finance Director Ryan Horne to give a budget status report and a
presentation of 2011 Budget considerations. Mr. Wade pointed out that budgeting is practically
a year -round job, and Mr. Horne's overview will look at the status of some of the main Village
funds.
a. Mr. Wade recapped some of the significant changes that were made in the 2010 Budget,
including the transition of the senior center, staff cuts, increases to various fees (i.e., vehicle
sticker), and residents paying 100% of the solid waste costs. He noted that, since 2008, the
Village and the country has been in a down -turn, but the Village has been doing its best to
adapt. He said that this preliminary 2011 budget overview will be the first of several budget
presentations, including presentations by department heads. Mr. Wade expressed his thanks
to Mr. Horne for coming in on his vacation to do tonight's budget presentation.
b. Mr. Horne said that the four topics he was going to cover this evening were major revenues,
fund balances, tax levy, and water fund.
C. Major General Fund revenues include property tax revenue, retail sales tax revenue, home
rule sales tax revenue, state income tax revenue, telecommunications tax revenue, and
electric consumption tax revenue. In 2009, the revenue generated from these sources
comprised 82.6% of the General Fund's revenue; in 2010, it's 79.8 %. Revenue has
decreased substantially in many areas, especially in real estate transfers, sales tax, and
the Village's share of state income taxes. Operating Revenues in 2010 are currently estimated
at $21.5 million.
d. Mr. Horne said that, for 2010, he is projecting an unfavorable variance in sales tax revenue,
home rule sales tax revenue, state income tax revenue, telecommunication tax revenue, and
electricity consumption tax revenue. He noted that the State is currently five months behind in
releasing state income tax funds to the Village.
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C Minutes of August
9.2010
Board
Meeti09
IX.
STAFF REPORTS (continued)
e. In summary, Mr. Horne is projecting that the Village will be $835,000 short in revenue
projected for 2010, an unfavorable variance of almost 4 %.
f. Mr. Horne explained that unreserved fund balances are what the Village can work with.
He said that Morton Grove's policy is to maintain fund balances of 25% of the total cost of
operations and maintenance for the Village. In 2006, the fund balances were at 40 %; in 2010,
he estimated that they will be at 20 %.
g. As far as the tax levy, in 2007 it was $9 million. Almost half of that went into Operations. In
2009 and 2010, there was no tax levy increase, but pension contributions continue to in-
crease. In 2010, Operations is only getting $3.8 million. If the Village does not increase the
tax levy, Operations will end up only getting approximately $2.8 million in 2011 due to the
Village having to meet its increasingly high pension obligations. Mr. Horne said he is
recommending a 3.5% tax levy increase for the 2011 Budget. A typical homeowner with a
home valued at $300,000 would be paying roughly $5,516 in taxes (before exemptions); with a
home valued at $400,000, it would be approximately $7,355 in taxes (before exemptions).
h. The Water Fund as of July 31, 2010, has approximately $177,000 of operating cash. There is
other money in there, but it is non- operating cash and it can't be used for anything except
identified capital projects. Revenues for the first six months are $2.5 million and expenses
included $191,000 for painting of one of the water towers (a capital improvement project)
and $731,000 for the Dempster Street water main (which was earmarked to be paid for out of
operating cash). The Dempster Street water main's final cost will likely be closer to about
$858 million.
i. Mr. Horne said the Water Fund could end 2010 negative by $778,000. In that case, the
General Fund will have to do an intergovernmental loan to the Water Fund. There was a water
and sewer study done in March 2008 which concluded with recommendations that the Village
would need to increase water and sewer prices over the next five years to keep revenues in
line with expenses and to fund required capital projects. The study recommended the Village
spend $1 million annually on its water distribution system and $0.5 million annually on its
sewer collection system. This year, the Village has come close to spending $1 million on its
water distribution system.
j. The four main recommendations of the 2008 study to restore the Water Enterprise Fund to
health were (a) water rate increases; (b) sewer rate increases; (c) implementation of meter
replacement fees; and (d) elimination of the senior discount.
k. Mr. Horne said the City of Chicago has increased its rates to the Village for water by 15% in
2008, 15% in 2009, and 14% in 2010 in an effort to address their infrastructure needs. Those
rate increases were passed through to Morton Grove residents, but nothing additional was
added on for the Village's own infrastructure needs. Mr. Horne said staff is recommending a
1 % increase in water rates over the City of Chicago's. That would generate an additional
$45,000 for the Village's Water Fund. A sewer rate increase of $0,44 per 1,000 gallons would
generate approximately $396,000 in additional funds. For the average water bill of $30 per
month, this would be an increase of $12 annually (approximately $2 per billing cycle).
I. The study recommended implementing a fee that would represent the amortized cost of
replacing a water meter. This would be approximately $3.25 per bill. As part of the 2010 bond
issue, the Village is replacing all the water meters. The life of these meters is approximately
15 years. By charging a slight water meter replacement fee, the Village will not have to do a
bond issue again in 15 years when the meters need to be replaced again.
0
IX.
STAFF REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of`August 9, 2010 Board Meeting;
m. As far as the elimination of the senior discount, that would save the Village $175,000 annually.
Currently the senior discount is based strictly on age, not on need. Mr. Horne said condomin-
ium owners receive more of a subsidy than those living in single family homes.
n. Mr. Wade reiterated that tonight's presentation is primarily for background. There would
be a number of upcoming meetings over the next few months where other alternatives are
explored.
o. If the Village undertook all four of the 2008 study's recommendations, it would generate
$782,000 in 2011 for the Water Fund. This is a significant amount, but Mr. Horne cautioned
the Board to remember that the Water Enterprise Fund is going to have to start paying its
share of the bond issue, which in 2010 is $330,000, going up to $400,000 by 2019.
P. In summary: revenues are flat; fund balance is decreasing; the water fund is facing insolvency;
and a 3.5% tax levy increase is being recommended. Mr. Horne asked if the Board had any
questions.
q. Mayor Staackmann asked how staff arrived at 3.5% as its tax levy increase recommendation.
Mr. Horne said that 3.5% will maintain the amount that goes to general operations to maintain
current service levels in the Village.
Trustees Thill and Grear thanked Mr. Horne for an excellent presentation.
r. Mr. Wade said that everything Mr. Horne had gone over is where the Village stands today.
But positive things are happening. He said that the Village's bond rating by Standard & Poors
has increased, which is no small feat in this economy. Mr. Wade said they complimented the
Village on its financial policies and its decisions, on its strong capital improvement plan, and
on meeting its annual pension obligations in spite of difficult economic times. Mr. Wade said it
was nice for the Village to receive that validation.
3. Mr. Wade announced that there will not be a Board Meeting on August 23; but a Special
Meeting would be held on August 30 at 7:00 p.m. for a presentation by Essex Senior Housing
Development. They are proposing a development in the triangle parcel on Lincoln Avenue
between the railroad tracks and the forest preserve. They're looking at building 73 -78 units.
Most will be market rate, but 14 will be reserved for affordable senior housing. They will be
asking the Village for TIF assistance as well.
B. Corporation Counsel:
Corporation Counsel Liston had no report.
X.
A. Trustee DiMaria:
Trustee DiMaria presented Resolution I i •f Authorizing •- to Submit a 2010
Illinois •• s Program A•• • r r Funding of - Lehighm
Intersection Ferris • nment Improve
4^�
X.
r_1I
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Trustee DiMaria: (continued)
Minutes of Augui�t9. 2010 Board M#61rlkd
Trustee DiMaria explained that the purpose of this resolution is to obtain federal funding for
prioritized traffic safety improvements involving the realignment of Ferris Avenue crossing the
railroad tracks and for establishing bicycle routes within the Lehigh - Ferris TIF District in order
to reduce the project cost to the Village. It is important to note that this is a funding request for
a prioritized Village project that will reduce the Village's financial burden.
Trustee DiMaria moved to accept Resolution
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg
Tr. Marcus acre Tr. Thill
10 -60, seconded by Trustee Grear. Motion
Trustee ave Tr. Grear aye
ave Tr. Toth ave
2. DiMaria next presented • s t Approving Prioritized Project to
Establish Bicycle Routs on Ferris Avenue and on Lehigh Avenue Between Oakton
Street r Lincoln
a• He said, as background, that the Lehigh- Ferris Framework
amount of existing bicycle traffic in the vicinity of the Metra
prioritizing improvements to increase bicycle access to the
Lehigh - Ferris grade crossing and intersection improvemen
existing configuration of the Lehigh Avenue roadway could
a bicycle route.
Plan
train
train
is an,
lend
had identified a notable
station and had suggested
station as part of the Lincoln -
J railwalk improvements. The
itself well to establishing it as
Trustee DiMaria moved to accept Resolution 10 -61, seconded by Trustee Toth.
b• Trustee Marcus asked how this would be funded. Trustee DiMaria responded that Village
staff recommends at this time that the Village should seek outside funding to cover costs
associated with establishing the proposed bicycle routes. Costs are estimated at approxi-
mately $20,000. Mayor Staackmann asked if this would be a grant application. Mr. Wade
said it would be, and this resolution would strengthen the Village's application.
c. There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria ,awe Tr. Gomberg Lee Tr. Grear aye
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth awe
B. Trustee Gomberg:
Trustee Gomberg had several tax abatement resolutions.
Abatement • +r• Tax Levy Relating to Ordinance
0•
a. Trustee Gomberg explained that, pursuant to the 2009 Budget, the Village has chosen to pay
for certain semi - annual bond debt service payments 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 file a certified copy of it with the Cook County Clerk.
2. DiMaria next presented • s t Approving Prioritized Project to
Establish Bicycle Routs on Ferris Avenue and on Lehigh Avenue Between Oakton
Street r Lincoln
a• He said, as background, that the Lehigh- Ferris Framework
amount of existing bicycle traffic in the vicinity of the Metra
prioritizing improvements to increase bicycle access to the
Lehigh - Ferris grade crossing and intersection improvemen
existing configuration of the Lehigh Avenue roadway could
a bicycle route.
Plan
train
train
is an,
lend
had identified a notable
station and had suggested
station as part of the Lincoln -
J railwalk improvements. The
itself well to establishing it as
Trustee DiMaria moved to accept Resolution 10 -61, seconded by Trustee Toth.
b• Trustee Marcus asked how this would be funded. Trustee DiMaria responded that Village
staff recommends at this time that the Village should seek outside funding to cover costs
associated with establishing the proposed bicycle routes. Costs are estimated at approxi-
mately $20,000. Mayor Staackmann asked if this would be a grant application. Mr. Wade
said it would be, and this resolution would strengthen the Village's application.
c. There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria ,awe Tr. Gomberg Lee Tr. Grear aye
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth awe
B. Trustee Gomberg:
Trustee Gomberg had several tax abatement resolutions.
Abatement • +r• Tax Levy Relating to Ordinance
0•
a. Trustee Gomberg explained that, pursuant to the 2009 Budget, the Village has chosen to pay
for certain semi - annual bond debt service payments 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 file a certified copy of it with the Cook County Clerk.
Minutes of Au ust;9, 2090 Board Meeting,.
X. TRUSTEES' REPORTS • -s
B. Trustee Gomberg: (continued)
b. In November 2009, the Board issued $2,685,000 in general obligation promissory notes
pursuant to Ordinance 09 -28. The ordinance provided that the levy of taxes for 2009 include
sufficient funds to produce $96,234.88, which represents the debt service payment for 2010.
The 2010 Budget allocates revenue from the Lehigh - Ferris TI Fund in the amount of
$96,234.88 to pay this debt service.
c. Trustee Gomberg moved to accept Resolution 10 -51, seconded by Trustee DiMaria. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria awe Tr. Gomberg ale Tr. Grear awe
Tr. Marcus afe Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth Pye
2. Resolution 10w63, Tax Abatement Resolution for 2009 Tax Levy Relating to Ordinan
1' b
a. Trustee Gomberg explained that, pursuant to the 2009 Budget, the Village has chosen to pay
for certain semi - annual bond debt service payments 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 file a certified copy of it with the Cook County Clerk.
b. In July 2002, the Board issued $5,300,000 in general obligation promissory notes, Series
2002, pursuant to Ordinance 02 -30. The ordinance provided that the levy of taxes for 2009
include sufficient funds to produce $435,971.08, which represents the debt service payment
for 2010. However, in September 2009, the Board issued refunding bonds in the amount of
$4,920,000, Series 2009A, to refinance the remaining Series 2002 Notes. Despite the refund-
ing, Cook County will continue to levy taxes as provided for in Ordinance 02 -30. Therefore, a
Resolution abating the debt service for the Series 2002 Notes is required. After all abatement,
the net levy for the 2002 Notes is ZERO ($0).
Trustee Gomberg moved to accept Resolution 10 -63, seconded by Trustee Thill.
c• Trustee Gomberg asked Mr. Horne to explain this more fully. Mr. Horne said that the original
2002 notes were refinanced, but without a formal document (this resolution), the County will
continue to levy taxes to pay for these notes —even though they no longer exist. One would
assume that once the debt has been paid off, taxes would no longer be levied, But a formal
resolution is still necessary. Mr. Horne said that, in December, the Village would pass multi-
year abatements to take care of any bonds or notes that have been refinanced.
d• There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg aave Tr. Grear 2Ye
Tr. Marcus afe Tr. Thill afe Tr. Toth aaye,
3. Resolution 10 -64, Tax Abatement Resolution for 2009 Tax Levy Relation to Ordinance
99 -1.
Trustee Gomberg said this was similar to the resolution just passed.
0
Minutes of August % 2010 Board Meeti*
X.
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
B. Trustee Gomberg: (continued)
a. In February 1999, the Board issued $15,495,000 in general obligation bonds, Series 1999,
pursuant to Ordinance 99 -1. The ordinance provided that the levy of taxes for 2009 include
sufficient funds to produce $1,343,970, which represents the debt service payment for 2010.
However, in March 2009, the Board issued refunding bonds in the amount of $7,650,000,
Series 2009, to refinance the remaining Series 1999 Bonds. Despite the refunding, Cook
County will continue to levy taxes as provided for in Ordinance 99 -1. Therefore, a Resolution
abating the debt service for the Series 1999 Bonds is required. After all abatement, the net
levy for the 1999 Bond Series is ZERO ($0).
Trustee Gomberg moved to accept Resolution 10 -64, seconded by Trustee Toth.
b. Trustee Marcus asked if this was a common practice —for a municipality to forget to do an
abatement resolution and the County continues to levy taxes. Mr. Horne said that it is fairly
common for the County to levy taxes on debt that no longer exists. Cook County actually
recalculates the Village's tax levy based on all its Ordinances and Resolutions.
C. There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria acre Tr. Gomberg gye Tr. Grear awe
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill ale Tr. Toth avee
4. Trustee Gomberg thanked Ron Fine of the Cable & Telecommunications Commission meeting
for addressing the Condominium Association at its July meeting regarding the recent changes
in service by Comcast. Condo owners faced issues with Comcast's service transition that
single - family homeowners did not, and Trustee Gomberg said he appreciated Mr. Fine's
willingness to work with the Condominium Association members to clarify the issues. His
presentation was well done.
5. Trustee Gomberg announced that a Cook County Assessment Appeals Seminar for Niles
Township commercial properties will be held at Morton Grove's Village Hall on August 13 at
9:00 a.m.
C. Trustee Grear:
a. He explained that this purchase is required to replace worn and aged personal protective
equipment for the Village's firefighters. Trustee Grear noted that the Fire Department had
received a federal grant to purchase this equipment which requires a 10% match from the
Village. The lowest qualified bid for the equipment was $130,285. The Fire Department also
negotiated the trade -in of existing equipment and additional upgrades to the equipment to be
purchased, bringing the total price of the equipment to $135,500. Thus the Village's Fire
Department will replace and upgrade 100% of its breathing apparatus inventory (originally
valued at $259,000) for $13,550.
E:7
X.
C. Trustee Grear: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of August 9, 2010 Board Meetip
b. Trustee Grear moved to accept Resolution 10 -52, seconded by Trustee Marcus. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DlMaria aye Tr. Gomberg aye Tr. Grear aye
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth aye
C. Trustee Grear thanked. Captain Bill Porter for his efforts to successfully obtain the grant for the
purchase of this needed equipment.
2. Next, Trustee Grear presented Resolution 10 -53, Authorizing the Funding of the Purchase
of Equipment and Services Necessary to Create a Municipally -Owned Wireless Fire
Alarm Network,
He asked Fire Chief Tom Friel to explain this further.
a. Chief Friel said this resolution is a "next step" to a resolution passed in 2009, wherein the
Village entered into an intergovernmental agreement with the communities of Niles,
Lincolnwood, and Prospect Heights to investigate the feasibility and benefits of maintaining
a municipally -owned fire alarm radio network. The cost of the equipment necessary to form
the infrastructure will be shared by the participating communities. The Village of Niles had
acted as the "lead" and solicited bids for the equipment. The lowest qualified bid came in
at $78,446, so ultimately each community will end up paying roughly $20,000. For Morton
Grove, the funds will come from the Red Center Reserve account. The Village has been
accumulating funds from alarm fees in this account since 2002. Chief Friel said that, although
Niles is supposed to be the lead, their fiscal year goes from May 1 to April 30, so in order to
proceed with the purchase, Niles would have to budget for it and wait until May 2011 to make
the purchase. Morton Grove has the funds available, so in this case, to keep things moving,
Morton Grove is going to take the lead on the purchase of the equipment. Participating com-
munities must reimburse Morton Grove the cost of their "share" no later than June of 2011.
b. Trustee Grear thanked Chief Friel for his explanation, commenting that "RED Center respects
every word Chief Friel says." He then moved to accept Resolution 10 -53, seconded by
Trustee Marcus. Motion passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria awe Tr. Gomberg awe Tr. Grear aye
Tr. Marcus awe Tr. Thies awe Tr. Toth aye
D. Trustee Marcus:
Trustee Marcus presented • • t m54, Authorizing the Purchase of . r
Program, Digital InwCar Video Recording Systems for Police Vehicles From the Illinois State Bid
• #PDS4014193,
a. He explained that in -car video recorders document police activity and can be used for
evidence collection, court testimony, and refuting claims of police misconduct. Trustee
Marcus said these new unit will replace units that were purchased in 2006 and that are now
showing signs of age and deteriorating in reliability. This is a budgeted expense of $14,346
for three units.
i
X.
D. Trustee Marcus: (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of Aug0st 99" 2010 Board Mod ip
b. Trustee Marcus moved, seconded by Trustee Thill, to accept Resolution 10 -54. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria Me Tr. Gomberg awe Tr. Grear ave
Tr. Marcus acre Tr. Thill aLe Tr. Toth aKe
2• Trustee Marcus said that he hoped everyone's been visiting the Farmers' Market, which is
open every Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through mid - October. He said the produce
and fruit is coming in very well now and encourage people to stop in and see!
3. Trustee Marcus commented that he was saddened by the loss of Chicago Firefighter Chris
Wheatley. He said his death "really brings home" the kinds of hazards that public safety
personnel face when they go out to do their jobs. He asked for a moment of silence in
memory of Firefighter Wheatley and all public safety personnel who have lost their lives in the
line of service.
E. Trustee Thill
Trustee Thill presented Resolution 10w55, Authorizing the Purchase of 4,500 Tons
Roadway for :•- Use, I
a. He explained that the Village was purchasing 4,500 tons of roadway salt at a cost of $60.06
per ton ($270,270) through the State's Joint Purchasing Program.
Trustee Thill moved, seconded by Trustee Marcus, to accept Resolution 10 -55.
b. Trustee Grear asked Public Works representative Joe Dahm if that would be enough to carry
the Village through an average winter. Mr. Dahm said that 3,500 tons is used in an "average"
winter; 4,500 tons is a "safe" allocation. He added that the highest price the Village has paid
for roadway salt was $110 —$115 per ton, and it came from Canada.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
2. Trustee Thill next presented Resolution 10w56, Authorizing the Execution of a Contract
with • Concrete Contractors, Inc. For the Chestnut Street Interim Parking Lot
Construction.
a. He noted that this contract was bid through a sealed bid process. Seven bids were received,
and A -Lamp Concrete Contractors was determined to be the lowest responsible bidder. The
bid came in at $318,300.80, which was $73,806.10 less than the engineers estimated.
Trustee Thill moved to approve Resolution 10 -56, seconded by Trustee DiMaria.
m
X.
E. Trustee Thill (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Minutes OAugust9, 2010,Board Wetih of
b. Trustee Marcus asked about the timeframe for construction. Chris Tomich responded that the
Village had originally planned to have the interim parking lot completed shortly after Labor
Day. Now it looks as though it will be more toward the end of September.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria acre Tr. Gomberg afire Tr. Grear afire
Tr. Marcus acre Tr. Thill acre Tr. Toth ffee
Crossing 3. Trustee Thill then presented Resolution 10-57Authorization to Execute a Task Order
Agreement with Ciorba Group, Inc. For Engineering Services for Caldwell Avenue
12�lnch and 204nch Water Main River Project,
a• He explained that it is necessary to replace the deteriorated 12 -inch diameter and 20 -inch
diameter water feeder main pipes adjacent to and crossing under the North Branch Chicago
River, commonly known as the "Caldwell Avenue Branch." The scope of these improvements
exceeds the expertise and capacity of Village staff to provide design engineering. The Village
has contracted the services of Ciorba Group to supplement existing engineering staff during
peak periods of work and /or to perform specialized services, such as this, with task order
agreements. The cost of this work is $58,541.
Trustee Thill moved to accept Resolution 10 -57, seconded by Trustee Toth. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria afe Tr. Gomberg aye Tr. Grear aye
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill ffe Tr. Toth aye
4. Next, Trustee Thill presented Resolution 10=58, Authorization
Feeder Agreement with Ciorba Group, Inc. For engineering Services for the North Station
Project,
Trustee Thill moved to accept Resolution 10 -58, seconded by Trustee Gomberg. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria afe Tr. Gomberg 2ye Tr. Grear. awe
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill afe Tr. Toth
ye
Trustee Thill moved to approve Resolution 10 -59, seconded by Trustee Marcus. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg afire Tr. Grear awe
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth Ue
iii
E. Trustee Thill (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of Au ust 9, 2Q10 oardMedtinql
n
6. Lastly, Trustee Thill presented Resolution 10 -62, Authorizing a Highway Authority
Agreement and a Tiered Approach to Corrective - Action Objectives Supplemental
Agreement Between Shell Oil Products U.S. and the Village of Morton Grove Relating
to the Property Located at 7736 Dempster Street,
Trustee Thill moved to approve Resolution 10 -62, seconded by Trustee Marcus.
He asked staff to provide an explanation.
a. Corporation Counsel Liston explained that the Village has entered into these Highway
Authority Agreements at least three times in the past. When there's a facility that has (or had)
an underground storage container that leaks or leaked, there's a presumption that the public
right -of -way adjacent or near it becomes contaminated. It's usually too expensive to go
through testing, but while the entity (typically a gas station) is waiting to get a remediation
clear letter from the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, the entity is required to enter
into this type of agreement with the municipality regarding the right -of -way. It imposes certain
requirements upon the municipality, mainly if someone wants to work in the public right -of-
way, the municipality is required to let them know that certain types of precautions must be
taken, both with inspection /testing and removal, if there's any type of contamination there.
The requirement for the entity is that they indemnify the municipality and hold it harmless, and
agree to pay for any expenses the municipality might incur in the course of inspection or con-
tarninant removal. The agreement does not preclude the municipality from working in its right -
of -way.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg aLe Tr. Grear awe
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth aae
7, Trustee Thill reported that the Village is 98 % in compliance with having smoke detectors in
every home. He asked the remaining 2% of the residents to please contact the Fire Depart -
ment to help obtain a smoke detector.
8. Trustee Thill said that the Boy Scouts will be collecting old, worn flags at the Farmers Market
this coming Saturday. He noted that flags should be disposed of properly.
9. Trustee Thill commented that the mosquitoes are terrible this year. He asked residents to
check and clear their gutters, and check their property for anything containing standing water
and empty it. He said that people are concerned about the West Nile virus, and it has been
showing up.
10. Trustee Thill asked Mr. Wade if the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) would
be coming to the Village to talk about the problem at Austin and Church Street, and about their
timeframe for resolving the issue. Residents there are quite upset because of the "geyser ".
Every time there's a surge of water into the Deep Tunnel, the cap flies off and the people
across the street get all that sewage on their front lawn.
12
X.
E. Trustee Thill (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of Au ust 9, 2814 Board Meetingi
a. Mr. Wade said the Village has been in contact with the MWRD. They do have to work in
conjunction with the Cook County Forest Preserve District because the cap is on Forest
Preserve property. There is a plan to resolve the matter, but it's just a matter of getting the
plan implemented. The Forest Preserve has been proving to be somewhat of an obstacle in
this getting this matter resolved.
b. Mr. Wade noted that there will be a representative from MWRD attending the Village's
September 27 Board meeting to discuss how the Village's sewer system interacts with the
larger basin drainage system (Deep Tunnel, TARP, the Wilmette locks, etc.), administered by
MWRD. Trustee Thill asked Mr. Wade if he could invite residents in the Austin /Church Street
neighborhood to that meeting. He felt they'd be quite interested. Mr. Wade said there was a
possibility of doing a Special Meeting just for that neighborhood on their issue. He felt the
representative who comes out on the 27th may not be the person most knowledgeable about
the cause of the neighborhood problem —or its resolution —for a neighborhood meeting.
F. Trustee Toth:
Trustee Toth presented Ordinance I 0=1 4, Amending Title 10, Chapter 10, of the Village of
Morton Grove Municipal Code Entitled "Sign Regulations",
a. Trustee Toth said that, with the help of an ad hoc Sign Review Committee, the Sign Code was
reviewed and updated to be more user- friendly, to streamline the process for application and
review of signs, and to incorporate specific criteria for the approval of signage. It has also
been made consistent with current constitutional law, procedures, and Illinois law.
b. The new Sign Code significantly changes the requirements and processes for sign approval
within the Village. Most sign applications will now be approved by the Building Commissioner
or his staff so long as the application conforms to statutory requirements. Applicants will
also have the option of seeking design review from the Appearance Commission. That
Commission will be allowed greater latitude to approve signs which display a level of creativity
that might not otherwise be achieved by strict conformance to sign regulations.
C. The new Sign Code also takes into consideration special circumstances unique to the
property. Criteria for the determination of the size and amount of signage will be changed to
conform to current business trends. Electronic messaging will now be allowed under certain
conditions, and temporary signs will no longer need a permit, although advance written notice
of the date of installation of the temporary exterior signage or display must be provided to the
Village Administrator, and the sign must then be registered with the Building Commissioner.
Trustee Toth moved to adopt Ordinance 10 -14, seconded by Trustee DiMaria.
d. Trustee Grear thanked Trustee Toth, Village Administrator Wade, and Corporation Counsel
Liston for all the time they spent reviewing and updating this ordinance.
e. Trustee Toth thanked the members of the Appearance Commission, the ad -hoc Sign Review
Committee and Village staff for the hours and hours of time they put in on this effort. This is
over a year's worth of work and includes many hours of research and debate.
13
K4
F. Trustee Toth (continued)
TRUSTEES' REPORTS (continued)
Minutes of August 9, 2010 Board Mertina'
f. Trustee Toth said she felt the collaborative effort makes the Village's sign code effective and
viable for everyone who does business in Morton Grove.
g. Trustee Marcus echoed Trustee Grear's comments, adding that there's no question the Sign
Code needed to be updated; for many businesses, it was more of a hindrance. We've now
entered the 21St century with this ordinance, making it more flexible and easier for businesses
to get started in Morton Grove. In today's economy, anything the government can do to help
local businesses get started and retain them is well worth it.
There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg aae Tr. Grear aye
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth aye
h• Prior to casting his vote, Trustee DiMaria commented, as liaison to Economic Development,
said the Village was way overdue for updating this ordinance. This new Sign Code is great
and will stimulate business in Morton Grove.
Prior to casting his vote, Trustee Gomberg complimented the Chamber of Commerce,
especially Jackie Liston, who helped inform the business community of the second reading of
this ordinance. He also thanked Trustee Toth and everyone who helped bring this ordinance
to fruition.
X. OTHER BU
NONE
XI• I WARRANTS
1 • Trustee Gomberg presented the Warrant Register for July 26, 2010 in the amount of
$621,978.42. He moved to accept the Warrants, seconded by Trustee Toth.
a• Trustee Thill inquired about a check for $2,000 for "telephone relocation on Chestnut ", on
page 2 of the Warrants.
b• Chris Tomich responded that it's part of the project costs for the interim parking lot on
Chestnut. Currently there's a utility pole in the area of the proposed driveway. This is the
cost to relocate it. The Village will be relocating a new pole just to the east.
c• Trustee Thill asked about a check for the Morton Grove Animal Hospital in the amount of
$154. He wondered if the Village was being reimbursed.
d. Police Chief Mark Erickson said the owner hasn't been found yet, but when the owner is
found, the Village will be reimbursed. Trustee Thill commented that the animal hospital bill
will continue to accrue until the owner's found. Chief Erickson said that was correct.
im
Minutes of August 9, 2010 Board McOojjgj
XI. WARRANTS (continued)
There being no further discussion, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion passed:
6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg aye Tr. Grear aae
Tr. Marcus aae Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth aye
2. Trustee Gomberg then presented the Warrant Register for August 9, 2010, in the amount of
$514,342.13. He moved to approve the Warrants, seconded by Trustee Toth.
None of the trustees had any questions or comments:
There being no discussion on the Warrants, Mayor Staackmann called for the vote. Motion
passed: 6 ayes, 0 nays.
Tr. DiMaria aye Tr. Gomberg awe Tr. Grear Me
Tr. Marcus aye Tr. Thill aye Tr. Toth aae
RESIDENTS'
ADJOURNMENVEXECUTIVE SESSION
Trustee DiMaria moved to adjourn the meeting. Trustee Toth seconded the motion.
Motion passed unanimously via voice vote. The meeting adjourned at 8:26 p.m.
in
PASSED this 13th day of Septem
Trustee
DiMaria
Trustee
Gomberg
Trustee
Grear
Trustee
Marcus
Trustee
Thill
Trustee
Toth
2010.
the 13th day of September, 2010.
Daniei(J. Staackmann, Village President
Board of Trustees, Morton Grove, Illinois
APPROVED and FILED in
officejhis,�4th day of September, 2010.
Tony Kalogerdkos, V4I1age Clerk
Villag of Morton Grove, Cook County, Illinois
Minutes of Auqus0, 2010 Board Meetp'gil
Mlnutes by: Teresa Cousar