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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05_10_04_ccCITY COUNCIL ROLL CALL - PRESENT: May 10, 2004 Alderman Feldman Alderman Wynne Alderman Newman Alderman Bernstein Alderman Jean -Baptiste Alderman Kent A Quorum was present. Alderman Tisdahl NOT PRESENT AT ROLL CALL: Aldermen Moran, Rainey ABSENT: None PRESIDING: Mayor Lorraine H. Morton The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was called to order by Mayor Morton Monday, May 10, 2004, at 8:58 p.m. in the Council Chamber. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Finance Director Bill Stafford reported the City had sold $13.5 million in bonds on April 28 at cost of 4.548%, a historic low and that the City had received an AAA rating from Fitch Investor Ratings. After obtaining the Aaa from Moody's, the City approached Fitch for a rating because different rating agencies appeal to different investors. Most City bonds are sold to insurance or pension funds. Depending on the fund, they may like either Moody's or Fitch and two ratings gives the bonds better trading capability in the market. In the secondary market there is the same situation for individuals who may buy these bonds. Finally to have two bond ratings, the investor agencies tend to look to each other and not want to change if both have an AAA rating. They believe the City is in one of the strongest financial positions relative to cash flow that it has been in for a long time. Public Works Director David Jennings reported that since last fall PACE has been working on the North Shore Initiative with Lincolnwood, Skokie, Wilmette and Evanston and other transit providers to restructure service on the North Shore. Two public transit forums will be held to present and discuss proposals that have been developed with input of various communities. The first forum is at the Skokie Public Library on Wednesday, May 19 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and the second in Evanston on Thursday, May 20 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Civic Center, Council Chamber. Both forums cover the same material and are at different times to accommodate work schedules. Two presentations will be at each forum with opportunity for comment directly to PACE representatives. Acting City Manager Judith Aiello announced that the Farmers' Market would open Saturday, May 15, at 7:00 a.m. and is located in the parking lot behind the Hilton Garden Hotel. COMMUNICATIONS: None CITIZEN COMMENT: Debbie Hillman, 1118 Sherman Ave., commented on the zoning change at Main/Chicago; that the community has long supported a change from B3 to Cla and the P&D Committee also supported this. She and others were happy to be present because this is the penultimate piece of zoning on Chicago Avenue with one more change to come. What has happened at Main/Chicago and on Chicago Avenue, and even downtown, is that large buildings are put on small sidewalks and other twists, shoe hornings and uncomfortable things built. She noted the approval of the Starbucks at Main/Chicago requires an off -duty police officer to monitor alley and street traffic, which has been a problem because the officer is not always there. She pointed out the new building going up where the old Evanston Bank was will have two driveways, one on Main Street right next to the CTA viaduct which will require a right turn only. People tell her that Whole Foods has a similar restriction of right turn only that is violated often. She expected that will happen at this new May 10, 2004 building. She brought this up because when they allow things that require special enforcement by an over -stretched police force, they are making a wrong judgment. She urged them to think about these developments and to support the change to C 1 a. Hollis Settles, Jr., 1004 Pitner Ave., referred to Council minutes of April 26, 2004 regarding the marina issue and the motion to cut off discussion of that matter. He stated that "not in my back yard" is not governance, "that people don't like it," is not governance and that any matter of public policy that comes before this Council has a right not to be "dissed," but debated, discussed and deliberated. Citizens ought to be aware that in this case, a study was commissioned and the night it was presented there was an attempt to cut off debate. He commended aldermen who took a principled position not to allow that with an assist by the Mayor. Pennv Miller, 1310 Hinman Ave., presented a letter to Council from the board of the Southeast Evanston Association, which has been involved in Chicago Avenue rezoning since 1997 and strongly support neighbors in the area who want the corner of Chicago/Main rezoned from B3 to Cla. Dave Rodelius, 1600 Greenwood St., 65 year resident, ran a business here for 35 years and is a past commander of the Evanston Sail and Power Squadron, an organization that has taught safe boating here since 1956 (134 pleasure boaters belong). He is a past commodore of the Evanston Yacht Club, charter member of the Evanston Boat Ramp Association and a certified instructor with the U.S. Power Squadron. He has volunteered with this eight -week safe boating course, given twice a year to youth and adults, for 35 years. When the proctored exam is passed, that is accepted by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, which requires youths between 12-18 to have an operator's permit. Their organization supplies one with this course. He managed the Evanston Boat Ramp for the Recreation Department during summers of 1997-1999 and gained knowledge about what makes a boat ramp successful. With those credentials, he submitted to Council that the proposed marina would be a viable resource to Evanston. He has spoken with many people who keep their boats in marinas in northern Illinois and in Michigan, which entails a lot of driving. These boat owners would prefer to have their boats closer to home and are waiting for this marina. He hoped that a boat launching ramp is included in the plan; did not see one in the rendering. He stated the current boat ramp needs a lot of help. A launch ramp would be a great addition if it would allow a daily fee for boaters who only have a few days out of the summer to enjoy their boats on Lake Michigan. These boaters should not be penalized because they cannot take advantage of an annual fee and, if left out, it is an injustice. He started launching at the current boat ramp in the 1960s before they had a break wall and used his annual permit fully. Then when he could no longer use his boat frequently, he paid the daily fee until it was stopped in 1998. It was difficult to send boaters to Diversey Harbor or to the Winnetka pier where they could launch with a daily fee. People came from as far away as Elgin or out of state to visit friends in Evanston and wanted to put their boats in Lake Michigan for a day. This also was a revenue loss to the City. This is the third try for a marina in Evanston and he hoped it could get done. Bill Smith, 3038 Hartzell St., also a member of the Evanston Power Squadron commented on the study for a possible marina. He applauded Council for continuing to study the question. He thought Evanston citizens would be better off because of their good stewardship and commitment to look at every opportunity to use natural resources for the benefit of all. Until the Council's latest vote, they were led to believe that the issue had died a subjective death. He said they teach safe boating practices, marine electronics, engine maintenance, piloting, navigation, seamanship and several other advanced courses free of charge. Students pay for books. They do this because they believe that everyone who uses, owns or is a guest on a boat of any size should know what safe boating practices are and that those practices are being followed. Their members feel waterways are a natural resource that belongs to all and should be maintained and managed in such a way as to provide equal access and enjoyment for all and not serve the vested interests of a vocal few. He pointed out there are three -twelve year waiting lists for boat slips from Hammond, IN to Racine, WI. In some cases the lists are so long they no longer accept applicants. Where there are long waiting lists, the fees become in -elastic. As waiting lists lengthen, fees continue to grow, which is good for marinas so they can charge whatever they want. The willingness to pay and the demand for the service is so great that any statement about the limited projected revenue should be looked at carefully. From an economic standpoint he asked would it not be great to have a third in -elastic commodity where customers continue to buy no matter what the rates are. The first two are property taxes and water rates. One marina operator he talked with has a list so long he accepts only boats built in 1989 or later. They were not there to suggest that Council has any obligation to satisfy the needs and desires of the boaters at the expense of all other May 10, 2004 lake users. They are requesting that Council do a rigorous due diligence process before they make a final decision. A wise woman said, "this is going to happen, maybe not in our lifetime, but it's going to happen." They must decide whether they are going to be part of the design process or simply react to what is given to them. Jeanne Lindwall, 625 Library Pl., supported the recommendation of the League of Women Voters that residents have a voice in selecting the next city manager. She thought it important that the City Council understand what Evanston's residents expect from the City's professional staff and City Council, who will select the next city manager. From conversations with other residents it was clear there is a growing sense within the community that the services being rendered by senior staff, are not consistent with what property owners pay in property tax. City Council appears to have lost touch with the broader values of this community in its efforts to expand the tax base. It is time the Council asked residents about their priorities. She suspected that Council would find that quality of life is far more important than accommodating the next new development. For the last decade there has been an almost single-minded focus on economic development. Zoning incentives to promote condominium development in downtown Evanston have been successful beyond anyone's imagination. There are new movie theaters, restaurants and shopping, which have put Evanston on the map as a highly desirable urban place. For that Council should be commended. However, with good developments have come a lot of bad developments for which this Council must take equal responsibility. The time has come for a new era in Evanston's development. The City needs a city manager and City Council who can take the lead in shifting the efforts of City staff away from encouraging more and bigger development, toward improving the quality of life for those who live and work here. She said it is time to turn the Titanic around and start focusing on preserving and enhancing what is good about Evanston, rather than only focusing on how much tax revenue a proposed development will generate. What is needed in a city manager is a person who leads by example, someone who provides the City Council with the research and information that aldermen need to make informed decisions. Someone who demands timely responses and quality work from City staff and department heads; a person who reaches out to community residents and provides boards and commissions with the support they need to do their jobs effectively. City staff, especially those in senior positions, should be expected to make well -reasoned recommendations based on their professional experience and training rather than telling the City Council what it wants to hear. The last thing that Evanston needs is group of highly paid note takers and "yes" men and women. Quality of life issues are taking center stage here and she suspects will be the focus of the next election. The city manager search provides a golden opportunity for City Council to ask residents what they expect from city government and their priorities for Evanston's future. With that information, City Council will be able to select a city manager who can be more responsive to residents and do a job everybody can be proud of. John Zbesko. 1120 Noyes St., commented on residents who request speed bumps on their streets. That day he received a car repair bill for the front suspension. As a resident, he is forced to drive over streets in bad repair, especially on major thoroughfares and asked the logic of creating even more bumps and obstacles on streets. Every speed bump built is several potholes not filled. Every traffic circle represents a street not resurfaced. Each new dead end is an obstacle for emergency vehicles. He appreciated residents who wish to calm traffic in their neighborhoods. He worked to get a stop sign at Asbury/Noyes 10 years ago. He suggested that if speed bumps are the only way people think they can slow down traffic, then something is wrong with the way traffic laws are enforced here. Recently he met a police officer on Noyes with a radar gun, thanked him for his traffic calming effect and noted he earned the City money instead of spending it. He suggested that a program be implemented with the Police Department to intensely monitor streets neighbors are concerned about. Speed bumps, like the potholes, seem to last forever. Mee McClaskev, 1211 Dodge Ave., spoke on behalf of Smoke -Free Evanston. She reported that the CDC announced that anyone with a heart condition should not be in a building that allows smoking for more than a half hour because it is unsafe. The faith community, Rotary International, Cancer Society, Lung Association with overwhelming support from the community, requested that Evanston become smoke -free. They want to continue to work with the Human Services Committee and City Council to make that happen. They feel that the decision of the Human Services Committee not to bring an ordinance forward that would have made even the restaurants and bars smoke -free was of real concern. At the Human Service Committee meeting, the words spoken made it sound like the economy of downtown Evanston pivots on whether smoking is allowed in restaurants and bars. They are surprised the economy here hangs on that. They want to work with each of them to move closer to a smoke -free community. 4 May 10, 2004 Bettv Ester. 1806 Grey Ave., reported the Economic Development Committee has approved $30,000 for increasing and beautifying public parking adjacent to a redevelopment project at 1703-11 Darrow. She was surprised the name of the organization was not given because it is not a public re -development, but a private development. She said the proposed building enhances that corner. In looking at parking, there is a question about how it was designed, with parking angled in towards the building. It looks like a problem because that is a two-way street with parking on one side only. They hope to change that from a working space to a live/work space, which means cars will be there all the time. If residents find getting in/out of their corner becomes a problem, she asked them to put in their request that this street be placed back into the condition it was at the owner's expense. She stated the City should not bear the entire cost of their development. Catherine Saccanv. 926 Judson Ave., represented Judson Court Condominium Association, spoke in favor of the Chicago/Main rezoning to CIa. Residents are upset with the development on Chicago Avenue. CONSENT AGENDA (Any item marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Feldman moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda with these exceptions: Approval of Proposal for Use of Decorative Mast Arms; Ordinance 52-0-04 — Zoning Map Amendment; Ordinance 49-0-04 — Zoning Text Amendment: Mixed Residential Uses/Unique Uses; Ordinance 50-0-04 — Planned Development & Unique Use: 1314 Ridge Ave. Asbury -Ridge Re -Subdivision Plat Approval; Resolution 24-R-04 — Agreement for Public Art at Fire Station #3; 2005/06 Recommended Cultural Fund Program Changes and Recommendation for Grant From Economic Development Committee. Seconded by Alderman Moran. Roll call. Voting aye —Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Tisdahl, Rainey. Voting nay — none. Motion carried (9-0). * ITEMS APPROVED ON CONSENT AGENDA MINUTES: * Approval of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of April 26, 2004 and the Special City Council Meeting of March 29, 2004. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: * Approval, as recommended, of the City of Evanston payroll for the period ending May 6, 2004 and the City of Evanston bills for the period ending May 11, 2004 and that those be authorized and charged to the proper accounts, summarized as follows: City of Evanston payroll (through 5/06/04) $1,994,441.93 City of Evanston bills (through 5/11/04) $ 873,975.44 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid of Hawk Enterprises for construction of the traffic signal update at the Dodge and Main St. intersection at a cost of $184,202.65. (Funded by GO Bonds.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid of Lenny Hoffman Excavation for 2004 replacement of sewer structures and sewer and water main improvements in the amount of $857,431.80. (Funded through Sewer and Water funds.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid of Schroeder & Schroeder for the 2004 50150 curb and sidewalk replacement program in the amount of $99,300. (Funded by GO Bonds.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the one-year contract renewal with Water Resources Inc. to expand the balance ($2,091,987) of the original contract ($2,178,272) until June 2, 2005 for water meters and equipment. (Funded in Water Fund operating May 10, 2004 budget and CIP.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the Contract Amendment to Agreement with MWH Americas, Inc. for Distribution System Analysis/Model increasing the compensation ceiling by $24,242. (Funding for this interconnection study between Evanston and Wilmette would be split equally. Evanston's portion is funded from Water Depreciation, Improvement & Extension Account in 2004 CIP.) * APPROVED -CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of Method of Fundine for Increased Tree Plantine Budget — Consideration of a recommended funding proposal to increase the number of parkway trees planted. (Funded through a combination of contingency and CIP funds.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Traffic Calmine Plan: Speed Humps — Ingleside Between Sheridan & Ridge — Consideration of a recommendation to place speed humps on Ingleside Place between Sheridan Rd. and Ridge Ave. APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 21-R-04 — Lease Renewal for South Branch Library — Consideration of proposed Resolution 21-R-04, which authorizes the City Manager to enter into a three-year lease for 943-949 Chicago Ave. to house the South Branch Library. (Funded in Library operating budget.) APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 27-R-04 — Grant ADDlication for Save America's Treasures Grant — Consideration of proposed Resolution 27-R-04, which authorizes the City Manager to sign a FY 2004 grant application for a Save America's Treasurers grant to renovate two fog signal buildings at Grosse Point Lighthouse. (Prospective grant would be matched by FY 05/06 CIP funds.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 28-R-04 — Ameritech Voluntary Disclosure Agreement — Consideration of proposed Resolution 28-R-04, which authorizes the City Manager to sign a voluntary disclosure agreement with Ameritech Advanced Data Services of Illinois Inc. with respect to outstanding local telecommunication taxes. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Ordinance 53-0-04 — Providing for Successor Bond Registrar — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 53-0-04, which provides for successor bond registrar and paying agent for various series of bonds of the City of Evanston. * MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 56-0-04 — No Parking Anv Time on Pitner Ave. South of Greenleaf St. — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 56-0-04, which amends Section 10-11-8, Schedule VIII(A) of the City Code to prohibit parking on both sides of Pitner Avenue from Greenleaf St. to a point 20-feet south of the commercial driveway (for C.E. Niehoff). * MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 57-0-04 — Three-Wav StoD: Sherman Ave. & South Blvd. — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 57-0-04, which amends Section 10-11-5, Schedule V(C ) of the City Code to place a three- way stop at Sherman Ave. and South Blvd. * MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 58-0-04 — Residential Parking District/Sheridan Square — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 58-0-04, amends Section 10-11-18, Schedule XVIII of the Code to establish an overnight residential parking district at Sheridan Sq. *MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 11-0-04 — Subsurface Easement Agreement — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 1I- 0-04, introduced April 26, 2004, which authorizes the City Manager to execute a subsurface easement agreement with Central Park LLC for a foundation and earth retention easement for 2935 Central St. 6 May 10, 2004 * ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Ordinance 51-0-04 — Amendment to Citv Code Reeardine Use of Public Sewers — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 51-0-04, introduced April 26, 2004, which amends Section 7-13-8 of the City Code relating to the use of public sewers. * ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: * Sidewalk Cafe Permit — TVDe Two Restaurant (JK Sweets) — Consideration of a recommendation of the Site Plan & Appearance Review Committee to grant a sidewalk caf6 permit to JK Sweets, 720'h Clark St. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Sidewalk Cafe Permit —Type One Restaurant (Trattoria Trullo) - Consideration of a recommendation of the Site Plan & Appearance Review Committee to grant a sidewalk cafe permit to Trattoria Trullo, 1700 Central St. (Type One located within 200' of residential property and outside Liquor Control Regulations Core Area). * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Sidewalk Caf6 Permit — Tvne Two Restaurant (Taco Bell Express) — Consideration of a recommendation of the Site Plan & Appearance Review Committee to grant a sidewalk cafe permit to Taco Bell Express, 1743 Sherman Ave. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * HOME Fund Reservation for Three Communitv Housing Development Organizations — Consideration of a recommendation to reserve $63,000 in HOME funds for Evanston's three designated Community Housing Development Organizations, to comply with deadline requirements of HUD's HOME program. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * 2520 Hurd Subdivision Plat ADDroval — Consideration of a recommendation of the Site Plan & Appearance Review Committee to grant a subdivision plat approval for 2520 Hurd to build two single- family detached residences. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) HUMAN SERVICES: * ADDroval of April 2004 Township Monthly Bills — Consideration of a recommendation to approve the Township bills, payroll and medical payments for the month of April 2004 in the amount of $123,266.78. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: ADDroval of Pronosal for the Use of Decorative Mast Arms — Consideration of a staff proposal to use decorative mast arms for traffic signals in Historic Districts. Alderman Jean -Baptiste reported the committee voted to amend the proposal to exclude the Main/Sheridan intersection at this time. He moved approval of the proposal for Ridge/Central and Isabella/Sheridan/Central with that exclusion. Seconded by Alderman Moran. Voice vote to delete Main/Sheridan. Motion carried. Alderman Rainey explained the rationale to go forward with Isabella/Sheridan/Central was because there was $1.3 million in public funding and a joint project with Wilmette. The Central/Ridge change is being paid for by Evanston Hospital. They wanted to study the Sheridan/Main project further. May 10, 2004 Alderman Bernstein understood the financial considerations but he said the 106 report (IDOT's) regarding the Preservation Commission's request was that they not use the modified mast arms and raised a question of safety. He was never shown that mast arms enhance the safety of an intersection. When they discussed mast arm signals on Ridge Avenue in a historic district with large trees, the concern was the overhanging traffic signals would be what you would see when you came down the street instead of the trees. He was concerned that they were starting at one end of Ridge Avenue with decorative mast arms and questioned their need. He knew that staff likes them and finances are good. He asked if Wilmette approved the decorative mast arms? He was not sure what a jurisdictional transfer means in this context. Deputy Public Works Director Keith Fujihara said that Wilmette's project is from their north boundary to that intersection and then goes west, including paving of Isabella Street in Evanston. Wilmette believes their project is important and has regular mast arms. Evanston recommends decorative mast arms to mitigate aesthetics. IDOT said they would stop the project at the border and eliminate the Evanston portion, so the City would lose approximately $1.3 million in improvements. The $1.3 million would pay for the intersection and paving of Sheridan Rd. to the Wilmette border and west on Isabella St. Alderman Bernstein was concerned they were starting a trend and would not be able to stop it. He asked if Evanston Hospital was asked to use post tops? Mr. Fujihara said they designed the project with normal mast arms to submit to IDOT and when the City ran into problems on Ridge, the City told them not to submit until there was more discussion. Alderman Bernstein recalled driving from Howard on Ridge almost to Isabella and related that he could see at least two intersections ahead with existing post -tops, which could be made taller and synchronized thus maintaining the character of the community. He objected to mast arms because the motorist sees them more clearly instead of trees and beautiful buildings. He recalled that pedestrians don't see mast arms as well as post top signals; wanted to see statistics that show more than the conclusion in the 106 report. Now preservation is included and they advised not to do it and their decision was overruled by staff and the A&PW Committee. He was against this because he does not like the concept of improvements that are not aesthetically pleasing to most people and don't necessarily serve a safety purpose. Alderman Rainey noted this has gone on for two years. They are not talking about Ridge Avenue. She understood Alderman Bernstein's apprehension. She stated this is not a horrible looking, intrusive mast arm; pointed out the mast arm they all think about is the ugly one at Asbury/Dempster. If that was not there, she thought they would not have this intense dislike for this concept. She said this has nothing to do with whether they believe mast arms are safer that post -tops and vice versa. This is the State of Illinois saying that on their streets there must be mast arms and a compromise for $1.3 million. She said some of the people who argue against accepting this money for street paving, therefore, acceding to the state's demand for mast arms, are the same who came to this Council and argued that the City wastes money and spends too much. This is an opportunity to relieve the City from spending $1.3 million. Nothing will be sacrificed and it was not a bad looking structure. Alderman Feldman recalled several months ago the A&PW Committee received a letter from Wilmette indicating they would go ahead with their project. They understood that Evanston had trouble with mast arms and the state and, if Evanston wanted to delay, Wilmette would let Evanston out of the project. That would mean $1.3 million that Evanston needs to fix a street would be gone. He would prefer no mast arms, but the state of Illinois says, "thou shalt not get money without mast arms." They have to face this. This is not a disaster for Evanston and no diminution of quality of life. While they have the opportunity to settle the issue with the federal and state government on Ridge Avenue, here they don't have that opportunity. He said Council is autonomous and can say "yes" to one and "no" to another. No precedent binds them. This is one intersection taking advantage of a grant. He urged support of the project. Alderman Tisdahl said the safety issue raised by Alderman Bernstein was why she supports this. She supports it not only for the $1.3 million, but also because school children cross there and she understood that staff and IDOT felt it would be safer. Mr. Fujihara said the intersection has over 15,000 vehicles a day and according to IDOT, mast arms are required to be placed there for safety. Alderman Tisdahl asked that Council vote in favor due to school children crossing. Alderman Bernstein asked how many accidents have occurred at those intersections recently? Mr. Fujihara did not have those figures available. Alderman Bernstein recalled in prior discussions that school children don't look to the middle of the street for the signal but where stop signs are. He does not want IDOT to control Evanston; waits for the jurisdictional transfer and funds to repair Ridge Avenue and so they can put up the post -tops that they want. He said that IDOT does not draw a distinction between Ridge Avenue and a four -lane highway. Alderman Bernstein looked at the decorative mast arms and acknowledged they looked better than the May 10, 2004 usual perpendicular things that are an eyesore. Voice vote, motion carried. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: Ordinance 52-0-04 — Zoning Man Amendment — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 52-0-04, introduced April 26, 2004, which approves a recommendation of the Plan Commission regarding amending the zoning map to place the currently zone B3 Business District at Main/Chicago, into the B3/oRD Business Redevelopment Overlay District. Alderman Kent read findings approved unanimously by the committee. Page 3 of Ordinance 52-0-04, Section 3: A. The amendment is consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan in that the purpose of the Cl a Commercial Mixed Use District is "to provide locations for the development of mixed use buildings consisting of retail - oriented and offices uses on the ground level and office uses and/or residential dwellings located above as well as multi- family residential." The proposed text amendment will reduce the permitted building height, maintain the residential character of this neighborhood, and preserve the street level retail and commercial activity that is prevalent along Chicago Avenue. Rezoning the subject properties within the Cla encourages a desirable range of housing types by increasing the permitted residential density and in turn, providing greater opportunity to create a more diverse range of housing options. B. The rezoning will produce development in accordance with the overall character of existing development within the subject area and in the immediate vicinity of the subject areas as the proposed amendment will rezone the area to the Cla district, which is the zoning district classification in effect for property in the immediate vicinity. C. The rezoning will not produce development that will adversely affect the value of properties in and in the immediate vicinity of the rezoned area as the amendment retains development potential in the subject area at similar levels while increasing the Floor Area Ratio and the permitted density on each site. D. The proposed rezoning will be located in an area of the City in which a major improvement of a component of the city's Sewer System has been completed. This improvement will enhance the capability of the Combined sewer system. Alderman Kent moved approval of Ordinance 52-0-04 with the changes he read. Seconded by Alderman Wynne. Alderman Rainey congratulated Alderman Wynne on this and noted that somebody in Citizen Comment wanted better service from his/her alderman. She thought this was a good example of how people were getting the service they wanted and needed and was impressed with the efforts that went into this. Alderman Wynne stated the effort was made by people who were present and thanked them. Roll call. Voting aye —Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Tisdahl, Rainey. Voting nay — Moran. Motion carried (8-1). Ordinance 49-0-04 — Zoning Text Amendment: Mixed Residential Uses/Unique Uses — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 49-0-04, introduced April 26, 2004, which approves a recommendation of the Plan Commission for a Zoning Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance regarding authorizing various residential uses on zoning lots in residential districts where not permitted as of right. Alderman Kent moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Roll call. Voting aye —Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Tisdahl, Rainey. Voting nay — none. Motion carried (9-0). May 10, 2004 Ordinance 50-0-04 — Planned Development & Uniaue Use — 1314 Ridge Ave. — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 50-0-04, introduced April 26, 2004, which approves a recommendation of the Plan Commission to grant a Unique Use and Planned Development for former District 65 headquarters at Asbury/Dempster/Ridge. Alderman Kent noted an amendment on page 10, Section 6-8-1-10 (c) "Dwellings may be sited relative to development boundaries and to each other as indicated within" delete: Attachment 4, insert: "Exhibit D" and delete: "subject to the authority to exceed planned development site development allowances granted pursuant to Section 6-3-6-6." Alderman Kent moved approval of Ordinance 50-0-04 as amended. Seconded by Alderman Bernstein. Roll call. Voting aye —Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Tisdahl, Rainey. Voting nay — none. Motion carried (9-0). Asburv-Ridge Re -Subdivision Plat Approval — Consideration of a recommendation of the Preservation Commission and SP&ARC to grant a re -subdivision plat approval for the former District #65 property at Asbury -Dempster -Ridge. Alderman Kent moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Voice Vote, Motion carried. No nays. HUMAN SERVICES: Resolution 24-R-04 — Agreement for Public Art for Fire Station #3 — Consideration of proposed Resolution 24-R-04, which authorizes the City Manager to execute an agreement with Adelheid Mers and Patrick McGee for public art at Fire Station #3. Alderman Bernstein moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Alderman Rainey loved the proposal; recalled in the original proposal there was public art on the interior bay of the station and that is out. Alderman Moran noted in the materials on the last page there was a schematic about an area for potential interior mural. He was confused as to what the actual proposal is. Parks/Forestry & Recreation Director Doug Gaynor explained that all public art is to be on the exterior of Fire Station #3. Art will be on the east and south exterior walls. Alderman Bernstein confirmed that page 9 was deleted. Voice vote, Motion carried. No nays. 2005/06 Recommended Cultural Fund Program Changes —Consideration of a recommendation to make changes to the 2004/05 Cultural Fund guidelines, review process and funding awards for future years. Alderman Bernstein reported the committee had a tie vote so there was no recommendation. Alderman Jean -Baptiste stated the issue at the Human Services Committee was whether proposed changes reflected the some of the values of the City. One change was that community development and cultural diversity was reduced from a 30 point value to 15 points. The Arts Council wanted to give more value to artistic quality and innovation, which initially was given 30 points for individuals, 30 points for organization programs and 20 points for organization stability. The Arts Council wanted to increase artistic quality and innovation to 50 points across the board. The Human Services Committee agreed but felt they had to give value to community development and cultural diversity, which was why they had a tie vote. Two aldermen thought that Council would work this out. He and Alderman Bernstein thought they needed to re -work the evaluation of some categories and also wanted to make sure the panels judging the proposals are diverse. They were assured that would be so. Alderman Bernstein and he requested the panel members be diverse so there is not a monolithic group making the judgment that is reflective of the community. They worked on some compromise language and maintained artistic quality and innovation at 50 points; increased community involvement and diversity 10 May 10, 2004 to 25 points and combined "a clearly stated artistic goal as reflected in the project description and evidence of ability to carry out proposal and demonstrated support from other sources" at 25 points. They felt the Council did good work in trying to move the process forward and urged Council adopt the recommended changes for the 2004-05 cultural fund guidelines. Alderman Bernstein supported the compromise and thanked Virginia Roeder, committee chair, for meeting with him. During conversations with Arts Council members, staff and others, he became aware that the panels that meet to judge are assigned a number of grant applicants. He thought in any grant situation, the objective criterions are imposed subjectively. He knew it was difficult for the committee to meet and hear all applicants, but in fairness to all applicants there should be consistency in the judging. The people hearing these proposals should do so with the same understanding of the standards, absent that, he thought applicants got a raw deal. He supported Alderman Jean-Baptiste's compromise. Alderman Feldman had no objection to point changes in artistic quality/innovation and community development/cultural diversity but was concerned that two different goals had been combined. He quoted, "evidence of ability to carry out proposal and demonstrated support from other sources" has nothing to do with "a clearly stated artistic goal in the project description." He suggested a clearly stated artistic goal is just that and they have 25 points that may be hinging on conflicting qualities. He did not understand why these were combined; suggested they give each a value of 15 and 10 points and noted that dividing does not weaken either criterion. Alderman Feldman moved that they amend the amendment to indicate that a clearly stated artistic goal would receive 10 points and evidence of the ability to carry out a proposal and demonstrated support from other sources get 15 points. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Voice vote, motion carried. No nays. Alderman Feldman referred to page one of a May 5 memorandum that had text changes. Number four said to omit: "Evanston public and private schools that host professional visiting artists." That does not mean that now Evanston's schools won't be eligible. What they mean is that Evanston's non -arts organizations that choose to sponsor arts programming is open to the public. All those worried about Evanston public and private schools as being omitted as accepted applicants are not specifically identified and are now in the category of Evanston non -arts organization which choose to sponsor art programming open to the public. Alderman Jean -Baptiste recognized that the Arts Council is comprised of volunteers who try their best to serve the community. He thought the issues discussed indicated they need to find a process for determining who gets the awards, have consistency and make sure the pattern is reflective of the City. That is not included in the text anywhere and he suggested if Council supports that perspective, it should be incorporated. Alderman Jean -Baptiste moved that they have one consistent panel and it should be diverse. Seconded by Alderman Bernstein. Alderman Feldman assumed that is the standard and value for almost every board and commission Evanston has. He suggested they include a statement about diversity to the ordinances of boards and commissions. He said it should be precise and worded carefully. He suggested Alderman Jean -Baptiste work with staff to provide a blanket value that can be attached to all boards and commissions. Voice vote, motion carried. No nays. Mr. Gaynor stated that past panels were diverse and supported what Council has suggested. He said the suggestion of one panel to review all applicants could be difficult. They received 38 applications last year. This year the process was broken up into three days of six -seven hours. A stipend of $100-200 was provided to panelists for a seven -hour day. They will strive to have one panel take all applicants and may have to offer a larger stipend for an artist to take three or four days out of his/her schedule for this. Alderman Rainey noted members of the CD Committee hear 60 or 70 proposals every year. In response to questions as to how the stipends came about, Mr. Gaynor explained those are used to bring in out-of-town specialists for a full day. Artists from different disciplines come here from outside the community so it is unbiased. Three sets of panelists, totaling 21, were used. In response to Alderman Rainey, $40,000 was given to artists. Voice vote on recommendation, motion carried. No nays. 11 OTHER COMMITTEES: May 10, 2004 Recommendation for Grant from Economic Development Fund — Consideration of a recommendation of the Economic Development Committee to provide $30,000 from the Economic Development Fund to improve, increase and beautify public parking adjacent to a redevelopment project at 1703/1711 Darrow Ave. Alderman Feldman moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Alderman Kent asked that this item be held. Seconded by Alderman Newman. At the rea_uest of two aldermen this item will be held. CALL OF THE WARDS: 91h Ward. No report. I" Ward. Alderman Newman submitted the names of David Schonfield, 2039 Orrington Ave. and Robert Atkins, 2005 Orrington Ave. to serve on the Northwestern University/Citizens Committee to the City Clerk. Mayor Morton stated that Corporation Counsel Jack Siegel had advised that names must be submitted by an individual, not by a committee. He made a reference to the P&D Committee for a text amendment and map change to create a R5a District. The proposed district would have RI permitted uses and all uses now permitted in R5 would become special uses. This would be mapped from Foster to Noyes and Ridge to the west side of Sherman Ave. Alderman Newman made a reference to the P&D Committee to consider an amendment to the Preservation Ordinance to include notice to neighbors of adjoining lots when the Preservation Commission is reviewing a DroDertv. He said that anybody who wants to take a walk along the lakefront in the evening at Clark Street Beach could park there from 9:00-11:00 p.m. The park closes at 11:00 p.m. In response to earlier citizen comment that somehow the city manager search has something to do with whether the City Council has paid attention to quality of life issues, he suggested that to maintain quality of life, the City needs an abundance of financial resources. On the A&PW Committee agenda that evening was a significant issue of trying to maintain parkway trees, which is expensive, as well as improving streets. He noted Evanston has maintained a large police force, which is expensive, but has cut down on crime. There are many needs in the parks, libraries and elsewhere, so if the City does not continue to raise money, they will not be able to maintain a high quality of life. It is an unfortunate situation but Evanston's tax rates are high. He suggested any amount of citizen comment on the city manager search would not change the challenges for any city manager trying to put together a budget. Taxes are high and there are many services. Some of the land use issues will not change with a new city manager. He thought the commentary was denigrating to staff by saying that staff just says what the Council wants to hear. He said that staff often give their comments privately and the biggest problem for staff is the lack of flexibility in the community. The community has not been tolerant of staff with different opinions. He thought that Council had shown flexibility in that area. 2°d Ward. No report. 3'd Ward. Alderman Wynne thanked Council for the vote on Chicago/Main and noted this was the penultimate zoning decision on Chicago Ave. She and the community appreciated support from Council. The process has been lengthy and some people have stayed with it all the way. One more is coming at Greenwood/Chicago in about two weeks. Alderman Wynne will hold a town hall meeting at Lincoln School auditorium on Saturday, May 15, from 10-11:30 a.m. She announced the Young Evanston Artists festival would be held on Saturday at Dempster/Chicago and urged people to participate. 12 May 10, 2004 Alderman Wynne reported a new proposal for 801 Chicago Avenue will be before the Plan Commission Wednesday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m. and advised those interested in the corner of Chicago/Kedzie to attend. 41h Ward. No report. SthWard. Alderman Kent announced the next P&D Committee meeting on May 24 would start at 6:30 p.m. He said that the P&D Committee had embarked on the issue of affordable housing and are on the brink of doing a lot of good for Evanston and other communities to find affordable housing. He made a reference to the P&D staff. Human Relations Commission. Human Services committee and the CDBG committee to explore and fmd options that they can bring to the P&D Committee. He asked what do they have to work with in Evanston? Options that would support affordable housing when they get the mechanisms in place to make what is needed whether it is vacant boarded up property or city -owned property. This also includes discussion about the I districts (industrial) and live/work spaces. There are some spaces that have been neglected and abandoned since he was a child walking to school. Perhaps it is time to meet with people who own these properties and get their agreement. He said they are in critical times. He noted the City has exercised the power of imminent domain when it has provided a benefit to Evanston. He does not see benefits growing for all Evanstonians. People in high -income brackets can find housing here. Persons of low/moderate income find that housing choices are shrinking here and around Evanston. He noted now there are condominiums on Juneway Terrace. A condominium does not have to be priced out of low/moderate income limits, but he has seen few examples priced for low/moderate incomes. He asked that Alderman Rainey's examples of what happened in south Evanston be included. While they put together the tools to create affordable housing, he thought it would be good to brainstorm what is within their reach. 6th Ward. No report. 7`h Ward. No report. 81h Ward. Alderman Rainey said she felt demeaned by a citizen's comments and was surprised by the person making them. She thanked staff for a fabulous job on finding a way to replace parkway trees. In four years the City will be on a cycle that if a parkway tree is lost, it will be replaced within four months. Alderman Rainey asked what happened to her reference on 1-2 districts, which is not on any agenda? She reaffirmed that reference to the P&D Committee to include residential in some form in the I-2 districts. Alderman Rainey explained that in the 8t' Ward multi -family housing deteriorated to such a degree that it was impossible for a new owner to renovate the property and rent it out, unless at an exorbitant rent. Slum owners, who did not care about the community and let their buildings run down, were the cause of 75% of the condominium conversions east of Ridge and south of Oakton. She recently met with the police chief, community development staff and the new owner of 741 Howard St. It is the building that overlooks the action of the border patrol activity such as people rounded up on drug charges. The new owner brings joy to her and is at the building every day, paid $1.3 million for it, when four years ago it sold for $340,000. While this owner lives in Glenview, he has taken a stake in the community and told them he bought this building because he has a good sense about things and knows that someday Howard St. will be a wonderful street. He is not throwing out anybody who lives there and makes those who live there be good people because he is a good landlord. She was impressed and has much hope for Howard Street. There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Morton asked for a motion to adjourn. The Council so moved and the meeting was adjourned at 10:50 p.m. Mary P. Morris, City Clerk A videotape recording of this meeting has been made Dart of the permanent record and is available in the Citv Clerk's office.