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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05_09_05_ccCITY COUNCIL May 9, 2005 ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Alderman Feldman Alderman Bernstein Alderman Newman Alderman Kent Alderman Jean-Baptiste Alderman Moran Alderman Wynne Alderman Tisdahl A Quorum was present. Alderman Rainey PRESIDING:Mayor Lorraine H. Morton The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was called to order by Mayor Morton Monday, May 9, 2005, at 7:37 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Mayor Morton proclaimed May 9-15 National Public Works Week and May -National Historic Preservation Month CITIZEN COMMENT: Bob Atkins, 2005 Orrington Ave., said that Art Newman has been 1st Ward alderman for the past 14 years and could not imagine anyone who has worked harder to represent his constituents. He fought tirelessly to protect their fragile neighborhood against Northwestern University development west of Sheridan Rd. by opposing the relaxation of land use restrictions imposed on the T1 and T2 transitional districts and fighting for enactment of the Northeast Historic District ordinance. Art has never been shy about stating his position on various issues before the Council. Northwestern University claims it filed its lawsuit against the City, in part, because of a statement made by Newman during debate on the Northeast Historic District. Alderman Newman said, If this ordinance prevents Northwestern and gives them an incentive not to purchase one more of the remaining houses that are privately owned west of Sheridan Rd., every time they dont purchase a home, it is a victory for the City a nd the tax rolls. While this statement may have offended Northwestern University, it was largely greeted with hearty approval in the Orrington neighborhood. Residents were confident that as long as Art Newman remained their alderman, that Northwestern knew their neighborhood was not for sale. Art was always available night and day; when called he was responsive to their problems and concerns. He thanked him for his many years of service to the community and the City. He will be missed. Betty Ester, 1806 Grey Ave., thanked Alderman Kent for the privilege of working with him on various community issues and his six years on the CDBG Committee. She appreciated his commitment to the community and his stand on an issue dear to her, affordable housing. She thanked Aldermen Feldman and Newman for their service to the community and learned something from each of them. She knew the committee appointed by the Mayor to debate whether they want committee of the whole or committee system, indicated they wanted comments from aldermen, according to the Roundtable, but did not mention citizens. Some citizens, like her, wanted to see committee of the whole, which provides the opportunity of not missing anything that is said while going back and forth between committee meetings. When citizens speak on an issue, that is the heart of the debate. She hoped they decided to go with committee of the whole. Cyndi Gage, 1117 Harvard Tr., was outraged when Council approved an Elm Tree Inoculation Program that forced only property owners with elm trees on the parkway to split the cost of inoculation. Citizens were given no heads up and no chance to discuss this. Council did not even discuss this among themselves. This is not how democracy works. The current plan is unfair. She heard no support for that and it penalizes property owners with large or several elms. She knows a retired woman in her 70s who lives in northwest Evanston and has four elm trees on the parkway. That means close to $1,000 to inoculate those trees. Single-family homeowners are worse off and cannot share this cost with tenants. If all agree this is a citywide effort, then let all residents pay for it. Even members of TREE were floored that this passed. No one knows for sure if inoculations work forever. This will be an expense every three years and it isnt right to penalize certain people for having a tree on City property in front of their house. This is part of City services. She suggested Mayor Morton veto the item or that those expenses be shared by all. 2 May 9, 2005 Leigh MacIsaac, 1123 Noyes St., said good-bye to Aldermen Feldman and Newman, who are great and will be missed. She has been trying to get the City Council to save Evanstons elm trees. She noted there was much heated debate and asked Council not to flounder now. Injections of the elms are to start May 15 so there is little time. She supported spreading the cost, if it has to be borne by some citizens, to spread it out among the community. She does not want citizens to say they wont pay for elm tree no. 866 in front of their home and the City turns off the water. All benefit from elm trees. When resident blocks organized to raise money for injections the whole neighborhood contributed. She would love to have the City pay for everything. Perhaps if they saved enough money in the next three-six years, the City could pay to inject all public trees. She thought that once the City gets over the hump of this large expensive problem, they could bear the burden. She has heard that other tree diseases are coming; noted that Alderman Feldman said they cannot worry about future demons, but must fix what needs it now. There is no cure for the Emerald Ash Bore that is coming, so why not save the trees that they can. She predicted if they fall back on just a signature tree program, there will be chaos. Nobody will know the trees that have been saved on their block. All elm trees on McCormick Blvd. are 24-inches in diameter and significant. The signature program is for 30-inch diameter trees or larger. CONSENT AGENDA (Any item marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Feldman moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda with these exceptions: Bid from Arbor Green, Ltd. for Dutch Elm Tree Injection Program; Ordinance 46-O-05 - Elm Tree Injection Program; Ordinance 52-O-05 - Amend City Code to Increase Parking Meter Rates; Ordinance 42-O-05 - Weapons Ordinance; Request for Waiver of Various City Building Fees; Sidewalk Cafes for Type1/Type 2 Restaurants; Ordinance 56-O-05 - Extend Moratorium on New Building Construction on Central from Bennett to Marcy; and Ordinance 53-O-05 - Special Use for Type 2 Restaurant at 922 Noyes St. 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). * ITEMS APPROVED ON CONSENT AGENDA MINUTES: * Approval of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of April 25, 2005. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) *Approval, as recommended, of the City of Evanston payroll for the period through May 5, 2005 and City of Evanston bills for the period ending May 10, 2005, authorized and charged to the proper accounts: City of Evanston payroll (through 05/05/05) $2,237,577.97 City of Evanston bills (through 05/10/05) $3,449,285.93 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Neighborhood Traffic Management: Approval of proposal for the installation of speed humps on Hull Tr. between Ridge and Asbury avenues, and on Barton Ave. between Austin St. and Hull Tr. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Neighborhood Traffic Management: Approval of proposal for the installation of speed humps on Judson Ave. between Hamilton and Greenleaf streets. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of contract with Executive Partners, Inc. in an amount not-to-exceed $55,000 for Strategic Planning Services. (Funded in the FY 2005-06 Operating Budget.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the sole-source purchase from Boston Whaler Commercial & Government Products in the amount of $26,834 for one boat for the Aquatics Camp. (Funded in the Fleet Services Fund.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) 3 May 9, 2005 * Approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid from J.P. Bruno Corporation in the amount of $734,628 for Mason Park and Field House Renovations Phase I. (Funded by the FY 2003-04 CDBG/$150,000; FY 2004-05 CDBG/ $150,000; FY 2004-05 CIP/$317,000; FY 2005-06 Open Space & Land Acquisition Development (OSLAD) Grant/ estimated at $117,428.) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) ■ ■ ■ ■ * Ordinance 54-O-05 - Four-Way Stop at Lee St. and Ridge Ct. - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 54-O-05, which amends Section 10-11-5, Schedule V(D) of the City Code to establish a Four-Way Stop at Lee St. and Ridge Ct. * MARKED INTRODUCED CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 55-O-05 - No Turn on Red When Pedestrians are Present - Southbound Ridge Ave. at Hull Tr. - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 55-O-05, which amends Section 10-11-3, Schedule III(D) of the City Code to establish a No Turn on Red When Pedestrians are Present for southbound Ridge Ave. at Hull Tr. * MARKED INTRODUCED CONSENT AGENDA HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE: * Approval of April Township Monthly Bills - Consideration of a recommendation to approve the Township bills, payroll and medical payments for the month of April 2005 in the amount of $96,311.73. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) OTHER COMMITTEES: * Resolution 31-R-05 - Canvassing the Results of the 2005 Consolidated Municipal Election - Consideration of the canvassing results of the Consolidated Municipal Election held April 5, 2005. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) APPOINTMENTS: Mayor Morton asked the following appointments be introduced: Elizabeth OConner Ladd Arboretum Committee 1120 Grant St. Mayor Morton asked the following re-appointments be introduced: Seymour LaRock Arts Council 1023 Hinman Ave. * INTRODUCED CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Morton asked the following appointment be confirmed: Maidel Cason Library Board 1585 Ridge Ave. For term ending May 15, 2008 Mayor Morton asked the following re-appointments be confirmed: Jean Esch Ladd Arboretum Committee 930 Washington St. For term ending May 15, 2008 Susan Canter Mental Health Board 4 May 9, 2005 3151 Harrison St. For term ending May 15, 2008 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: Ordinance 46-O-05 - Elm Tree Injection Program - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 46-O-05, which establishes an Elm Tree Injection Program. Alderman Feldman reported the Committee voted 2-2 on this ordinance. Alderman Jean-Baptiste said the committee looked at the impact on citizens with several elm trees in front of their home who would have to pay half the cost to inoculate the trees. Two people wanted a major program undertaken to save elm trees that are being lost at a rate of 4% a year. In February, Council approved a certain allocation but not the total amount necessary to inoculate all public elms. The balance was to be paid for by property owners who have elm trees on the parkway. In reconsidering this, he proposed an amendment that costs be shared by all utility paying citizens. If they did that, the cost would be $25 every three years and an individual with several elms would not incur a major expense. Alderman Feldman said the implication of approving the purchase ($756,984) was based on inoculating all elm trees and not just signature trees, a division central to this issue. The most important decision they have to make is whether they will inoculate all elm trees or create an artificial classification that is fraught with difficulty in the definition, location, priorities, etc. The signature tree program leaves the majority of elm trees here defenseless. At the rate of 4% loss a year, they will lose those not inoculated in a short period of time and be denuded of a natural resource of such beauty that it shapes peoples experience here. Trees are a meaningful part of peoples lives like the lakefront. He noted some reticence about the 50/50 plan; agreed that a natural resource is a community responsibility. As a community they have to share in the responsibility for all resources, which is the essence of Alderman Jean-Baptistes amendment. He assumed the legal language of that amendment would be added before they voted on it. Council must determine whether it wants to fund inoculation of all public elm trees. He urged them not to become the Council that loses it values and allows significant numbers of elms to die. This is not about money, but about saving a treasured resource that they cannot afford to lose. Alderman Feldman asked that this item be marked introduced. Alderman Feldman moved approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid from Arbor Green, Ltd. in the amount of $756,984 for the 2005 Dutch Elm Tree Injection Program (Funded in the FY 2005-06 Parks/Forestry & Recreation Department Operating Budget.) Seconded by Alderman Wynne. The committee voted 2-2 on this purchase. City Manager Carroll stated $750,000-800,000 was budgeted for the elm tree program and offset against that is revenue of $384,000 from the 50/50 program. Staff concern is that they start the injection program within the next week or so. This could be held until May 23 if Council wishes to consider them together. She recommended awarding the bid because it is on a per inch basis. Collecting money in a different way was irrelevant to the bid. Alderman Rainey asked if they could award the bid and begin injecting the signature trees; understood a delay was a bad idea. Ms. Carroll thought starting with signature elms was inefficient if they know they would inoculate all the elms. Parks/Forestry & Recreation Director Doug Gaynor explained that if they started doing signature trees, then on May 23 decide to inoculate all trees, they have to figure out new routes. It was important to start as soon as possible. With the rain this week, they will probably start scouting next week. In the memo, they have the low bid per diameter inch for the 50/50 program and also a chart if there was to be a reduction in inches. It would be appropriate to approve the bid and, when they choose the number to be inoculated based on the ordinance they adopt, they will know the price. Ms. 5 May 9, 2005 Carroll understood they wanted to start injecting trees before May 23. They could award something less than the $756,000, such as $600,000, and then later amend that when the ordinance is passed. Mr. Gaynor said the logistics could be worked out. Alderman Jean-Baptiste said in February they decided to inject all the public elms because they were losing them at a high rate. They concluded the 98% success rate of inoculation was good and decided how to fund the injection program. People had concerns about the 50/50 program and now they know how to make it less painful for citizens. He thought people would pay $1.85 every two months for the next three years to save the elm trees. They need to approve the purchase and in two weeks debate the ordinance. Alderman Rainey agreed with Alderman Jean-Baptiste and thought the low bidder had an efficient method of proceeding, therefore, they should vote. She encouraged everybody in Tr eeland to come to the Civic Center in two weeks. One woman spoke about how unfair the 50/50 program is. She stated there are many people here who have no interest in paying half and many are not interested in elm trees. They will have to pay attention in the next two weeks on how to implement this program and pay for it. She was not interested in paying for an elm tree in front of somebodys house in northwest Evanston. All elms have been gone from her street for years. They need to look at that. Their decision on the ordinance flies in the face of most academic thinking on this matter. Injecting every elm tree here is not what the experts recommended; it is what the passion suggested. She supported the bid. Alderman Feldman said the issue is a fair way in which all citizens can help pay for this resource. $1.36 every three months was not something they have to worry about with a program that allows for elimination of that sum for people who cannot afford to pay. The general recommendation of most universities that support a signature program has to do with the way money is spent. They state if an entity wants to save money, use a signature program. The way Evanston spends its money is up to Evanston, not a university. He suggested they have come this far and should not retreat. Roll call. Voting aye Feldman, Newman, Jean-Baptiste, Wynn e, Bernstein, Kent, Rainey. Voting nay Moran, Tisdahl. Motion carried (7-2). Ordinance 52-O-05 - Amend Title 10 of the City Code - Increase Parking Meter Rates - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 52-O-05, introduced April 25, 2005, which amends Section 10-11-12: Schedule XII of the City Code to increase parking meter rates. Alderman Feldman announced this was held in committee because committee members requested certain information. Alderman Moran had serious questions that he would put in writing. Alderman Newman pointed out that this ordinance was introduced at Council and could not be held over in committee. Alderman Moran said at the prior A&PW Committee meeting several members asked staff to bring forward a significant amount of information and background material about this item and deliver it to the committee prior to this meeting. That was not done. The committee felt without that information, much of which was deemed significant as to whether this be approved or not, it should be held over. Staff would get the information in short order. Seconded by Alderman Tisdahl. Alderman Newman moved to overrule the holdover. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Alderman Newman said the matter of the parking meters has been in the Parking Committee for about six months, which many members of Council attended. He considered this to be wrapping up the business of the Parking Committee for this Council. The committee went through a lot to figure out alternatives with staff to come up with a fair and equitable package. If someone wanted to raise rates later, that could be done. The committee had the Finance Director and City Manager present to get the Parking Fund back on track. Cook Countys parking tax hurt Evanstons ability to raise funds. He stated this has been thoroughly studied and should be concluded that evening. Alderman Moran stated when this came before the committee two weeks ago, staff who had worked with the Parking Committee told them that they had done a significant amount of background work, developed numbers, alternative approaches, etc., which was not included in the materials received by the A&PW Committee. Council members have 6 May 9, 2005 not received minutes from the Parking Committee in some time. He did not have the opportunity to examine the work done by the Parking Committee and wanted to see those foundations before voting. He asked Council to vote in favor of a hold over. Alderman Wynne asked what information he did not receive. She said all had received a detailed analysis and a great amount of data about the methodology and consequences of not addressing the Parking Fund deficit. No member of the Parking Committee enjoyed voting for these increases, but they recognized that the fund faces a significant deficit. Alderman Moran said that Finance Director Stafford told the committee two weeks ago there was a significant amount of research, none of which was detailed, to explain to them what the basis for the suggested decisions were. He does not know the universe of information that was available to the Parking Committee. There are brief references, non-specific references to a whole number of issues as to the reasons why the Parking Fund has gone out of balance, the juxtaposition of revenues and costs that are dispersed between the new parking garages as opposed to surface lots and meters. They were told analyses were conducted regarding these issues and there are references. He thought a small amount of material was given to the committee and told there was a larger amount of material relating to the decisions that were made but was not identified, let alone given to them. He had no disagreement that there will need to be increases, but there is a whole constellation of changes that are significant that are spread out in different components of the system. Mr. Siegel advised Council that six votes were necessary to overrule. Roll call on the motion to overrule the holdover. Voting aye Feldman, Newman, Kent. Voting nay Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Moran, Tisdahl, Rainey. Motion failed (3-6). Ordinance 52-O-05 was held over. Ordinance 42-O-05 - Weapons Ordinance - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 42-O-05, introduced April 12, 2005, which amends Title 9, Chapter 8 of the City Code with regard to Weapons. Alderman Bernstein moved that Ordinance 42-O-05 be tabled until the May 23, 2005 Council meeting. The motion was seconded. Voice vote. Motion carried. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: Request for Building Permit Fee, City Tax Stamps, Interest Charges Waiver - Consideration of a request from Econ Development for a waiver of the aforementioned fees, totaling $20,206, for construction of three affordable townhouses at 1834-38 Darrow Ave. Alderman Tisdahl reported that this item was held in committee. Sidewalk CafØs for Type 1 and Type 2 Restaurants at Various Locations - the Site Plan & Appearance Review Committee has recommended approval of the following sidewalk cafØs: Chipotle Mexican Grill (Type 2) and Italian Coffee Bar (Type 2). Alderman Tisdahl moved approval of a sidewalk cafØ for the Italian Coffee Bar. Chipotle Mexican Grill was held in committee. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Voice vote. Motion carried. No nays. Ordinance 56-O-05 - Extending Moratorium on New Building Construction on Central St. from Bennett to Marcy - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 56-O-05, which would extend the moratorium approved by Council by Ordinance 43-O-05, for another sixty (60) days on Central St. from Bennett to Marcy avenues. Alderman Tisdahl asked that this item be marked introduced and that Ordinance 43-O-05 be amended to include another 90 days. The amended ordinance will be submitted at the next meeting. 7 May 9, 2005 Ordinance 53-O-05 - Special Use Request for a Type 2 Restaurant - 922 Noyes St. - Consideration of the recommendation of the ZBA, introduced April 25, 2005, to grant a special use for a Type 2 Restaurant to operate an ice cream parlor at 922 Noyes St. Alderman Tisdahl moved approval of the Special Use Request for a Type 2 Restaurant at 922 Noyes St. Seconded by Alderman Wynne. Alderman Rainey supported the Type 2 restaurant at 922 Noyes St.; asked if the committee had discussed that this building is owned by Garrett Seminary and were arrangements made for payment of leasehold taxes with the restaurant? Community Development Director James Wolinski stated there was no discussion of leasehold taxes at the P&D Committee meeting nor at the ZBA. Alderman Rainey said this issue was brought to light by when NU purchased 1800 Sherman. This property is in the strip where they have had extraordinary unpaid leasehold taxes. She asked the committee to make an amendment for the special use that leasehold taxes have to be paid, and if not paid, take away the special use. She asked if the lease was reviewed. Mr. Wolinski did not know. Alderman Rainey thought it unfair to hold this because it was not the restaurant operators fault. Al derman Newman asked how the condition has to be related to a special use to adopt this. Corporation Counsel Jack Siegel stated, historically, whenever there has been a change in zoning that would result in a tax-exempt institution being established, payment in lieu of taxes is required as a condition. This is a special use and he believed they could put such a condition on a special use. Alderman Rainey moved that the ordinance be amended to include the special use be contingent upon the proof of payment of leasehold taxes when each bill is due. The motion was seconded. Roll call. Voting aye Feldman, Newman, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Tisdahl, Rainey. Voting nay none. Motion carried (9-0). OTHER COMMITTEES: Resolution 28-R-05 - Commemorating the Retirement of Alderman Kent - Consideration of Commendatory Resolution for Alderman Joseph N. Kents years of service as a member of the 76 th Evanston City Council. Alderman Feldman read Resolution 28-R-05 and moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Alderman Feldman said the litany of participation as nice as it is, could not give one a sense of who this person is. Joe Kent brought a unique personality and a value system that taught all a great deal. His tenacity in defense of his ward and those who live there and a well-articulated political philosophy that seemed to follow all the great defenses he has made for 5th Ward residents. He knew no one who had advocated a specific position as well as Joe Kent had. That position was that the 5th Ward is for 5th Ward residents; what the Councils obligation is and Joe Kents obligation is, was to do the best by the people who live there. That was to create more safety, a more beautiful place to live and greater opportunities to enhance the lives of people there. In so doing, he articulated the idea that before they create housing for other people to come in, people of the 5th Ward should have housing specifically tailored to them. That is a consistent and unique position. Joe Kent has faced a Council not always sympathetic with that. He had sympathy, but was not sure that Council felt that in every case that the particular rule of Alderman Kent would be supported, although he won many times. He won the hearts and minds of people he represented by standing here week after week and saying, wait colleagues, you forgot something, you forgot my people, the people of the 5th Ward. They listened many times. Joe Kent was responsible for a lot of progress in the 5th Ward and the articulation and motivation for this Council to move forward. There was a lot of paralysis about issues in the 5th Ward around Church and Dodge but he thought they were moving away from that now. That would never have happened were it not for the advocacy and clear articulation of need, value and purpose that Joe Kent gave this Council. There was not a time when Joe Kent spoke, that he did not learn something. His perspective and wisdom were remarkable. Joe Kent has been missed these past few months. Honoring a mans devotion to his ward, city and council and the work that Joe Kent has done gave him great pleasure. He asked for Council support for this resolution and to have these remarks made part of it. Voice vote. Motion carried unanimously. 8 May 9, 2005 Resolution 30-R-05 - Commemorating the Retirement of Alderman Newman - Consideration of Commendatory Resolution for Alderman Arthur B. Newmans years of service as a member of the 76th Evanston City Council. Alderman Feldman read Resolution 30-R-05 and moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Alderman Feldman said two weeks ago he was honored by accolades from Alderman Newman about his work on the Council and was touched and deeply gratified. He stated that Arthur Newman has had an effect on this City that could not be duplicated for at least the 20 years he had served on Council. There is no soul, including himself, who has worked as hard, with such devotion and dedication as Arthur Newman. Hard work and dedication may get some things done, but it does not get a lot done. Arthur Newman knew how to make it all work and put it all together. He learned from him that voting is important, but more important, was shaping and driving the agenda so they got to vote for the things they wanted to see. He was a master at that and finding votes where there were none before. All were objects of late night calls. That is important, because somebody will have to do this on the new Council. He generally knew before the vote where the votes were, although sometimes there were surprises. That is important for getting things done in a legislative body. Nobody did it to the extent that he did. He talked to people about how they felt; there was cajoling, conniving, convincing, reasoning, negotiating, trading which is needed to make the legislative process work. That is why this Council accomplished so much and created a dramatic renaissance in this community that is the envy of communities all over the country. A community to the southwest, which is often compared to Evanston by its characteristics, witnessed the amazing rebirth, vitality, progress, and development here and asked if they could talk to people connected with economic development to find out Evanstons secret. That community trie d to do economic development for a long time and had been unsuccessful. He told them they needed a community with attractive characteristics that would draw developers that were willing to spend money and invest in the community. They needed a talented, highly professional and effective staff. Most of all, they needed a strong, serious Council with tremendous political will. They remember the days when this Council was assaulted by citizens who disagreed strongly with the work of Council, disagreed with their estimate of success and disagreed with what Evanston should have. It took all these people a great deal of strength, struggle, questioning of themselves, research and analysis, re-questioning, falling back on their basic beliefs, their faith in this community and belief in the process here to make it happen. In the midst of all that was Art Newman who shored up people who started to fade, let them know that people were behind them, let them know there was political risk, and that the best thing was to do what their conscience demanded. As a result of those entreaties, this Council stood fast. Now those same people who wanted a four-screen theater, a dry cleaner and convenience stores are not around to criticize. The success of these developments has changed Evanston dramatically. One million people a year come to the theaters. Economic development for economic developments sake was never a part of Arthur Newmans vocabulary. He saw when new buildings went up, there was new tax money going to schools, new money for additional police officers and social services; this communitys compassion to deal with the elderly and youth and take care of people as no other community does. That is what he worked for. Late at night he received calls and was asked what were they going to do about this issue or that one, issues that were not yet before them. He thought weeks and months ahead. That is a quality that not many have. He appreciated that quality and thought all did. It was an honor to call him a friend and a source of great counsel and inspiration. He was proud of the partnership they developed; said they made a good team and Evanston is better for it. To honor this man, an amazing public servant in the true sense of the word, he asked Council for a unanimous vote to pass this resolution and to add his remarks as an addendum. Voice vote. Motion carried unanimously. Resolution 29-R-05 - Commemorating the Retirement of Alderman Feldman - Consideration of Commendatory Resolution for Alderman Gene Feldmans years of service as a member of the 76 th Evanston City Council. Alderman Newman read Resolution 20-R-05 and moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. He spoke last week about Alderman Feldman and encouraged people to read the minutes of that meeting where he went into detail about what a great public servant Gene Feldman has been for the City and the loss of his 18 years of 9 May 9, 2005 experience and knowledge. One of his favorite events happened in 1997 when there was a sea change on the Council and Gene Feldman became chair of the Economic Development Committee because he had the ability to get along with everybody on Council, communicate well and be a strong advocate for the City. When Gene Feldman became chair, Maple Ave. near Church St. was a giant parking lot. Eight years later, with the help of Aldermen Rainey, Kent, Bernstein, and Wynne, Maple Ave./Church St. has become the focal point of downtown and an incredible success for the City. It was done in a way that Evanston truly sees itself and is a great addition. Gene Feldman deserves a great deal of credit for his foresight and ability to stand up to pressure in regard to that. It was a great accomplishment. There were many at that time that said they were supposed to do a Research Park, but markets had changed and he recognized that. They were able to do something in the Research Park and make it a success for the entire community. Alderman Newmans 15-year old son Al especially appreciates the 18-screens where he can go any day and see a movie. Gene Feldman did a magnificent job and it was an honor to read his resolution. Voice vote. Motion carried unanimously. CALL OF THE WARDS: 9th Ward. Alderman Feldman said leaving Council was bittersweet because it represented a significant portion of his life for 20 years. It was a wonderful experience that carried him along with challenges, insight and associations with fine, dedicated people who work hard and the chance to represent a community that is unique in the world. He thanked 9th Ward residents for their continued support and encouragement. He had sent individual messages to almost all people on staff he has worked with to acknowledge that there was not one thing he could have done without them. He thanked Judy Aiello, City Managers office staff, Jack Siegel, Vincent Jones, Alan Berkowsky. It was important to name names because they deserve it; thanked Herb Hill, Paula Haynes, David Jennings, Frank Kaminski, Max Rubin, Bill Stafford, Jay Terry, Judy Witt, James Wolinski, Civia Dunn, City Clerk Mary Morris and Paul DAgostino. He also thanked his family, wife Barbara, his late wife Alyssa, who if she is listening, fully understands the gratitude that he feels for the many years she sat at home while he worked here. He thanked his children, who were quite small when he started on Council, with three of the four present who paid a price for his absence, but are not too much the worse for it. He thought they had a wonderful sense of pride that their father was deeply invested in the community that they loved and that sustained them. This is an amazing office and one he is proud of. The Harvard School of Government has no courses in local government, yet he believed that is where the action is. It came to him clearly when somebody who heard about his retirement asked him, with all that experience, did he ever seek higher office? His answer was there is no higher office. He asked if it is a higher office to go 200 miles from where you live and vote; to not see constituents for weeks and months at a time; to walk down the street and not have people greet you by your first name; when somebody calls you and they get a staff person instead of somebody on this Council who answers the phone. Is it a higher office to spend a great portion of ones time raising funds or when one spends a lot of time in television studios instead of peoples living rooms? Higher office is when one is in the midst of the people one serves and they know you. The previous day he paid a condolence call at a home. There were people from Evanston there and one was from his ward. The man told him that he was part of their Passover tradition. He asked how that could be. The man said about six years ago the family was preparing for Passover night, when somebody knocked on the door and told them the water would be turned off in 25 minutes. The man protested saying they were washing dishes and making matzo balls and gefilte fish. The City employee advised him to call his boss. He called the head of the Water Division who told him they had a lot of work to do in the neighborhood and the water had to be shut off. The man then called Gene Feldman. Alderman Feldman called the City Manager, who understood and called this man and told him the City had made a mistake and that water would not be shut off until all Passover observances were done and to thank Alderman Feldman. There is a part of the service that says, God stretched out his mighty hand and with the help of Alderman Feldman. He asked how high can you get. 1st Ward. Alderman Newman thanked his wife Susan for putting up with 14 years of him not being home. He showed photographs of 1991 with their baby son Al, who is now 15; of 1993 when they had Ben and in 1997, when they had Jessica. In 2001 they stood pat. People have asked him what he is going to do once he is off Council. Tomorrow and Wednesday evenings he is coaching Bens baseball game in James Park; Thursday he is going to Als volleyball game between Evanston and Glenbrook South. Friday night he will coach Bens baseball game in James Park so he has plenty to do and time. He has had tremendous support from his wife Susan and could not tell her how much he appreciated that. He wished he could have been there more often; thanked his children for being there. He said it was great working with 10 May 9, 2005 Julia Carroll and felt good about the Citys direction. He recognized Doug Gaynor, a staff member he has worked with more than others; noted that if somebody looked at the parks in 1996 and today, there has been an incredible improvement. He thanked fellow Council members for supporting park improvements. Great things have been done in parks throughout the City and he was pleased to see that Gilbert Park is being fixed up. He thanked those he worked with most closely: Bill Stafford; David Jennings; Jay Terry; Jack Siegel, the dean of municipal lawyers; Chief Frank Kaminski, who turned around the City, Chief Al Berkowsky in the Fire Department; Max Rubin; and Judy Aiello with whom he butted heads but appreciated her professionalism. He said that for 14 years he has been obsessed with making Evanston better; felt good about what they have done and had a great sense of accomplishment. When somebody asks you to serve in public office it is an honor. He did not know that much in 1991 and 1992 and knocked on Mort Denlows door to ask for his support, which he got. Several years later Mort Denlow told him how ridiculous James Park looked with no trees. Through the political process, he convinced others to support fixing up James Park and today there is no better park. He thought the City was doing great things now and noted the crime rate was the lowest in 44 years. They have had tremendous success in getting people to move to Evanston because it is a great place to live. He thought they have made it better by being creative and working together and it was a treat to be part of that. He expressed confidence in the future; said the Council was going to be independent and continue to do good things for the community. He said that it was an honor to represent residents of the 1st Ward for 14 years and felt lucky to have had the opportunity. 2nd Ward. Alderman Jean-Baptiste felt a personal sense of loss due to the leaders who were leaving. Even though they had differences, he looked to them with great respect for the leadership they provided. Art Newman has reached out to everybody on Council to build consensus, make things happen and found a way to put the proper things on the agenda. He will be calling Alderman Newman because there are many things they need to do. To Alderman Feldman he appreciated some of his moments when he took issues to a higher level of principles. Theirs is a noble task servicing people and trying to improve their quality of life. He appreciated his positions and leadership; knew it would be hard to reach him, but could visit him in St. Thomas. To Alderman Kent, he thought in the next four years that he would hear his voice that asks, is what they are doing sensitive to those who live in the immediate area. He has to be conscientious about development, not for the sake of development, but for the people who live there. He appreciated that Alderman Kent had put the interest of the people first, his work and hoped to share ideas. 3rd Ward. Alderman Wynne, too, felt a sense of loss of history, institutional memory, experience and expertise leaving Council that night, although she welcomed the three new aldermen. She has always enjoyed new Council members as they bring fresh ideas and energy. She has always loved Gene Feldmans eloquence, sageness and sense of humor. She thought he had a gift to diffuse tension they sometimes felt on Council and all will miss that. She would like to figure out when she leaves Council how she can end up living on a Caribbean island. She found Joe Kent to be a tireless worker, a community leader not only on Council but at Washington School for so many years. She appreciated his dedication to flag football. She is pleased when she asks him about his new school to see a big smile. As much as she misses him, she was happy to see him go to a new leadership position. Zions gain is Evanstons loss and she will miss his eloquence as well. She said that Art Newman was a unique figure on Council about whom people have strong opinions but all could agree on his work ethic. Council members receive a large packet on Thursday evenings and she read hers on Sunday or Monday. She said many times Art Newman called her Friday morning and asked if she had read her packet yet. He was always prepared; had not just read but thought about things, solutions and questioned staff about some things. He was a critical thinker they all should emulate. He always looked at the numbers, asked why things worked the way they did and did not accept things on face value. She has tried to learn to do that as well. She said that Art Newman was always willing to reexamine an issue. Frequently they would leave the meeting with a disagreement. The next day she got a call from Newman asking what she thought if they did this about the problem. She would still be in disagreement, then she would get another call which she admired. He was always ready to turn the prism and look at the problem another way to build consensus and find a good solution. His dedication to the community is without peer and she will miss him. 4th Ward. Alderman Bernstein also felt a tremendous sense of loss; said it had been a pleasure to go to war with those leaving, who have become extended family. He knew that they are a government of laws and not of men, but in a short while they will be a government of women. Reflecting back when Alderman Drummer left the Council, he recalled looking to him for guidance and did not think they would ever get beyond his loss. Alderman Jean-Baptiste has stepped up and he knows the three new aldermen will step up as well. It wont be easy and Council will limp for a while. He 11 May 9, 2005 noted that Joe Kent was only 24 years old when he became an alderman. He thought District 65 missed out when Kent went to Zion and that he should be a principal in Evanston. He recalled conversations about affordability and his mission to save people in the 5th Ward. He admired his passion; saw him as a wonderful advocate and fighter. He will miss him and wished him well. He called Alderman Feldman his hero and all aspire to what he has accomplished in 20 years. Glowing articulation is how he would characterize him. He always managed to capture the moment and diffused situations. As they look at the City today, which is different than it was eight years ago, he was at the point of the pyramid as chair of the Economic Development Committee. The community owes him an incredible debt of gratitude. He, too, will call Art Newman and visit Gene Feldman. He thought that Alderman Feldman had moved them beyond paralysis and was proud to have been part of a small group that helped him. While Moses separated the waters, he kept them flowing. It was fair to say that Art Newman has been a controversial figure. Some people raised glasses of champagne that Art Newman is no longer on the Council and others mourned his passing. He is in the latter group. He said Newman was the most politic person he ever met, a doer, visionary and champion. Even those who disagreed with him could not deny his intensity, will, work ethic, intelligence and knowledge of municipal government. He was elevated by knowing him. He suggested that the theaters be named for Art Newman. When he come on Council he was placed there by a group of constituents who came to him screaming that they had better not put in 18 movie screens because it would block traffic and kill the City. Arthur Newman thought it was a good idea. Bernstein was pulled in both directions and ultimately thought it was the right thing. But Art Newman was there first and was proven right. It was an honor and privilege to serve with him. 5th Ward. Alderman Kent thanked his wife Donna and son Joseph for putting up with his absences for umpteen years because it takes a whole team to move forward. He wanted to say good-bye; congratulated returning aldermen on their victories, which provide stability to Council. He congratulated newly elected aldermen because that was where they get an infusion of new ideas and the excitement is recharged for those coming back. He congratulated Alderwoman Holmes, the new 5th Ward alderman. Though he dropped out of sight, he had called to let her know he was thinking about her. Dropping out of sight was a choice he made and Alderwoman Holmes gets to start without any baggage. Support was never an issue because several candidates ran to represent the 5th Ward. One day he was driving and saw Ms. Holmes ringing doorbells on Emerson, which made him proud. For every season there is a time, and his was 13-‰ years. During the past few years he had to decide whether to follow his dream, which was to become a school principal. He learned, as a Council member, never to disgrace the City and knew that was not happening now because Mayor Morton keeps tabs on how he does as a principal in Zion. He was born and raised in Evanston and will continue to live here. He was taught never to disgrace African-American people or residents of the 5th Ward. When he became alderman, there was a lot of paralysis and only through persistent communication would that change, which has started and must continue. For 13-‰ years he has served with the strongest and brightest advocates for the City. He started with late Alderman Jack Korshak, who advised him to ask himself why do you want to do it and if you cannot answer the question, do not apply. His second advice was that, sometimes your best work is what you keep out of your ward, not what you bring in. Those are things that set the tone for smaller neighborhood areas. He said it was a pleasure and honor to serve with Aldermen Newman and Feldman. They have been his inspiration, his backbone, his crutch and together they had a wonderful relationship. It was an honor learning from them and to be leaving with them. He felt he could call them if need be. He knew Council would move forward with a new infusion of ideas and a feeling they can do anything. He knew great things would continue, because the resources and dreams that Evanstonians have are in ample supply. He urged them not to forget the smaller neighborhoods and that change is coming. If the change is not good for the people who live there that is a change they need to go around. If change isnt good for those who pay taxes here, send their children to school here, those who deal with crime on their block and with the garbage being picked up, that is not good for Evanston. They should always remember that Evanston values its diversity and to take that value to action. There are whites, blacks, Hispanics and Jamaicans, enough to make that dream come true but they must continue to work on it. On affordable housing, when people who have lived here for generations can no longer afford it, there is a problem. When homes are under attack due to predatory lending, there is a problem. When grandchildren live in the house and do things they (grandparents) cannot control there is a problem. He challenged Council to get into those houses because nobody knows what it is like to keep the lights on for somebody who cannot pay. People dont know what it is like to talk to an alcoholic to get them to understand it is important for them and their family to go to an AA meeting. People dont understand what it is like to see a family evicted because they continue to tell you about sub-standard living conditions. As soon as the City goes in to make it right, the mother and children will be out on the street. People dont understand adults standing on their back porch dropping garbage into an open garbage can with rats, raccoons and other vermin. Those are the things that give one the influence to reach out and touch and they have done that. He thanked staff for their 12 May 9, 2005 help because he has learned that one gets nowhere by oneself. He noted that Ellen Szymanski, from the beginning, helped him do things he could only dream about. The same went for Herb Hill, Chief Kaminski, Commander Nilsson and Commander Cook. When he started as alderman they talked about bringing back trust between the Police Department and the community. It has taken years and a number of people to get there because first there must be communication before there can be trust. To have communication, there must be respect. Evanston has one of the best police chiefs and police departments in this state. He thanked Doug Gaynor and Bob Dorneker, noting the canal bank looks good. He recalled when every piece of play equipment in the 5th Ward was brown and orange. That was where they began and started by painting in Twiggs Park before anything changed, because they wanted to show people that the power is with the people. He thanked staffers Paula Haynes, Jay Terry, James Wolinski and Stan Janusz, who make things work. While he had not worked with Julia Carroll, he had helped pick her. He stated that he still lives at 2024 Emerson St.; spent 16 years at Washington School. He loves helping Evanston residents and said there are things that still need to be done. He said the CDBG Committee was involved in initiating a project at 1817 Church St. but progress has not been made there. He said they would support the new alderman and do what they could with the progression. It was an honor and pleasure to serve. 6th Ward. Alderman Moran said he better understood Tip ONeills quote that all politics is local after serving some 14 years on the City Council. He noted that people can be in all kinds of seats of power whether in Springfield, Washington or The Hague, but it happens here. After a Monday night meeting, the next morning on the train platform to go to his day job, the people your vote impacts are there to greet you. That is accountability. It is also the catalyst for the inspiration and passion that you hear at least twice a month in these chambers. He acknowledged Aldermen Newman, Kent and Feldman for being major parts of that passion, commitment, and the sense that Evanston is the greatest place anybody could live and raise a family. All have a chance to do those things. He was honored to have shared many evenings with them even though they had not always agreed. Evanston is doing well and owes a lot of that progress to the efforts of these three people. He was sure that many people thanked them as well; wished them the best of luck and opportunities to see and talk with them in the future. He appreciated what they gave to the City of Evanston and Council. 7th Ward. Alderman Tisdahl said with all the accolades about Alderman Feldman that no one has made a speech as good as he did and it is something to which they aspire. His speeches go beyond being humorous or passionate, they go beyond the issue to get to the heart of the matter and are on target. He has convinced her whether it is trees or a street signs, it is about quality of life and that is why he is so passionate about it. It was an honor to work with and to listen to him. She thanked him. She has always been impressed with Joe Kents passions. She learned at the P&D Committee that it was not just the 5th Ward that Joe Kent cared about but the whole city. He always asked what the public benefit was regardless of the ward. That is the right question to ask. She recalled giving him a hug and he shrugged. She was thanking him because he argued passionately for an issue and cared, yet when it was over he was not angry. Sometimes she becomes annoyed and will try to be more like Joe Kent. She thanked him for teaching her that and for his years of service. Alderman Tisdahl said she had learned a great deal from Alderman Newman including his marvelous work ethic, but it went beyond that. She has worked harder than ever on this Council but could not work as hard as he did because she needs eight hours of sleep. Beyond hard work it was his ability to look at an issue and find a way to make this community better. As they have disagreed occasionally, she disagreed with one thing he said that night. He said he was pretty proud of what he had accomplished, which was totally wrong. She stated to look at this City, he should be incredibly proud of what he has accomplished. Downtown Evanston is an awesome sight these days and all owe him a great debt of gratitude. 8th Ward. Alderman Rainey agreed with all the wonderful things that were said. She knew Art Newman long before there was a Susan and, of all the wonderful things he has done, his best decision was to marry Susan, who deserves sainthood. The time has come for him to have a family life, which he deserves. She almost got angry with Joe Kent for not being there because he was the driving force on Community Development Committee. Without him it has been a lesser committee. She thought in the future he would have a principal job here and does not belong in Zion; knows that he will be back. She knew Gene Feldman with Alyssa and with Barbara, whom he really deserves. One of the most exciting times of her life was in the mid 1990s when there was no better place to turn to than the Evanston City Council because of Art Newman, Joe Kent and Gene Feldman. The things that were about to happen were obvious, the energy level was high and she was younger. Knowing they were down about 18 people in the Police Department, and that citizens could make a change, now there is a fully staffed police force. Economic development can be brought to this 13 May 9, 2005 community, people are excited and thinking, which is Evanston at heart. This new Council will be very different and will be a good one. It was hard for her to think that any Council could replicate the 1997 and 2001 Councils. It was a brilliant effort by nine people. She wished them all the best and thanked them for serving. Mayor Morton commented that it takes five votes to pass anything and that nothing is ever passed by one person. With no further business to come before Council, Mayor Morton asked for a motion to adjourn sine die at 10:08 p.m. Mary P. Morris, City Clerk One the same evening and in the same place, following the adjournment of the 76th City Council, Mayor Morton convened the first meeting of the 77th City Council at 10:23 p.m. Pastor David S. Handley, First Presbyterian Church of Evanston offered the invocation. The Honorable Judge Mary Thomas administered the Oath of Office to Mayor Lorraine H. Morton, City Clerk Mary P. Morris, Township Supervisor Patricia A. Vance and Township Assessor Sharon Eckersall. Mayor Morton led the reading of the Athenian Oath of Citizenship and administered the Oath of Office to Aldermen Cheryl Wollin, Alderman of the First Ward; Lionel Jean-Baptiste, Alderman of the Second Ward; Melissa A. Wynne, Alderman of the Third Ward; Delores A. Holmes, Alderman of the Fifth Ward; Edmund B.Moran, Jr., Alderman of the Sixth Ward; Elizabeth B. Tisdahl, Alderman of the Seventh Ward; Ann Rainey, Alderman of the Eight Ward and Anjana Hansen, Alderman of the Ninth Ward. The Honorable Judge Jeanne Cleveland Bernstein administered the Oath of Office to Steven J. Bernstein, Alderman of the Fourth Ward. ROLL CALL PRESENT: Alderman Wollin Alderman Jean-Baptiste Alderman Wynne Alderman Bernstein Alderman Holmes Alderman Moran Alderman Tisdahl Alderman Rainey A Quorum was present. Alderman Hansen PRESIDING: Mayor Lorraine H. Morton CALL OF THE WARDS: 1st Ward. Alderman Wollin was honored and humbled to be elected to represent citizens of the 1st Ward, from the youngest to the oldest. The tradition of the 1st Ward alderman goes back a long time. She remembered Frank Hoover, Marv Juliar and John Rudy and hoped to reach the principles they stood for as well as the level of constituent service that Alderman Newman provided. Evanston has a rich and proud history and an even more dynamic future awaiting it if the Council, staff and citizens can work together for an inclusive and caring community. With the collaboration of her colleagues, she knew they could meet any challenge ahead. 2nd Ward. Alderman Jean-Baptiste thanked his family for supporting his work on the Council and introduced them. He thanked 2nd Ward voters for going the extra mile when he was knocked off the ballot, those who helped with his write-in campaign and those citywide who reached out to support him. He grew up in a household with a majority of women, who do more than their share, so he expected to be taken care of by the new Council. He expected they would have a great Council with vision, compassion and direction. When the men get off course they will be straightened out. The focus of the outgoing 76th Council was on downtown and the 8th Ward. Recently, Council looked west at the Dodge 14 May 9, 2005 corridor, at youth programs and how to integrate residents into construction jobs. He thought this Council will make these issues a priority. He will advocate for equitable issues and justice for all residents and look for support for these priorities. He thought this Council would be humming harmoniously and bringing great progress to the City. 3rd Ward. Alderman Wynne thanked 3rd Ward voters for returning her to Council. The job is a challenge, pleasure and never boring and she was happy to serve with a new group. She saw this change as similar to the one in 1997, when Aldermen Rainey, Bernstein and herself were elected to Council. Again, they have a returning alderman, a community leader and a rookie as she was. She looked forward to the new aldermen who would bring new ideas, wisdom and expertise. She thanked her family for their dedication and support, which had to leave due to the late hour. 4th Ward. Alderman Bernstein thanked voters of the 4th Ward who returned him to office and pledged to work as hard as he could on their behalf. He congratulated the new aldermen and looked forward to serving with them for the betterment of Evanston. He thanked and introduced his family and campaign supporters. 5th Ward. Alderman Holmes said she stood on the shoulders of many people who came before here and thanked her family for supporting her candidacy. She thanked her campaign workers, committee members and her pastor for their support. She thanked voters of the 5th Ward, whose vote for her was overwhelming and promised not to disappoint them. 6th Ward. Alderman Moran thanked his family for their support; noted his son built his website and ran it from Boulder, CO; thanked his campaign co-chairs and others who helped and guided him; thanked voters of the 6th Ward for their confidence and the Evanston Community Media Center, the League of Women Voters and Northminister Church for sponsoring debates. This was an interesting election, which he enjoyed. He had great excitement for this Council and sees people who will work together to achieve tremendous goals for Evanston and work together with courtesy, respect and dedication to duty with the same passion and commitment they are used to here. He looked forward to working with staff, whom he wants to see empowered to work with creativity, commitment and suggestions for Council. He looked forward to discipline in Council meetings because they have much work to do. Evanston is probably the best city in the world and has come through an interesting period the last few years. While they have come a long way, they can aspire to even higher greatness. He suggested the ideals and principals they have discussed be put into action. He noted that there are not many places in this country where you could see this group representing a City. He was proud to be part of this diversity, was humbled and honored and hoped to work hard for people of the 6th Ward and the City. 7th Ward. Alderman Tisdahl thanked her family for being present and their support; thanked the 7th Ward for all their energy, ideas, brainstorming and love of the City that they exhibited and the help that 7th Ward residents gave her to do a better job of representing them. She welcomed Cheryl Wollin, Delores Holmes and Anjana Hansen and looked forward to working with them; predicted this will be a great Council. 8th Ward. Alderman Rainey welcomed Cheryl Wollin, Delores Holmes and Anjana Hansen and looked forward to working with them. She thanked the people of the great 8th Ward; committee members, her husband and daughter. She, too, looked forward to this Council and to City Manager Carroll, who brings vitality and excitement to this community. She encouraged all to pay close attention because she thought they would see a new approach to the way the City does business. A lot of important business has been done, but something smaller is happening in various parts of town. There is a beginning on Howard St. and they are getting ready to have a TIF in the 5th Ward. They will have two neighborhood efforts under way that should bring the entire City together. She has enjoyed being Elizabeth Tisdahls neighbor. Alderman Rainey acknowledged Firefighters Local 742, which helped in elections of several people. 9th Ward. Alderman Hansen thanked all 9th Ward voters and hoped all could work together for the common good and the 9th Ward. She thanked her family and friends who worked tirelessly to get her elected; thanked her husband for his support since they have a young family. She related that her daughter, who is 2-‰, was running around the house one day and they asked what she was doing. She was running for alderman. It was an honor for her to be on Council and, although a rookie, she has her bat in hand and is ready. Mayor Morton noted all the happy personalities on Council and no big egos. These people will fulfill residents desires. She would not be there without the support of Evanston citizens, who have been with her since 1993. She was grateful 15 May 9, 2005 and humbled by their support. That is what keeps her going because she feels that she has the trust of this community, which has been proven by their vote and thanked them for that. This election she acknowledged a group that has been loyal and supported her since 1993: former Aldermen Stephen Engelman and Emily Guthrie, Ellen Newcomer and her daughter. She acknowledged Joan Hickman, who worked extremely hard, Jeff Smith and her granddaughter. She speaks to many older citizens every year to show that one does not have to get old and fade away. She introduced Byran Wilson and Pat and Frank Warren, who helped her. After this election she received more telephone calls and visits from people who told her that at last we have our City back. People were quite positi ve about who was elected. All over the City people think well of this new Council and she knew they would not let them down. Civility will be the hallmark of this Council. They will deliberate, study the issues and come up with what is best for the City. People know there will be fairness and that they will do what is best for Evanston and the business community. She implored this Council, if there are differences, to put them aside. What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses his soul? All they have to do is join hands to move forward and implement what citizens want them to do. The community expects and deserves it. This Council deserves to have a good life at the Civic Center. She said they have a new city manager, who comes with great expertise, experience, ideas and a willingness to work to get things done. She is willing to get hold of staff to make sure they are working in the best interests of the City. It will take her time as well as the Council. As long as this community supports this Council, she had no doubt that great things will come from the city manager, Council and staff. She asked for their help to become great. There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Morton adjourned the meeting at 11:23 p.m. Mary P. Morris, City Clerk A videotape recording of this meeting has been made part of the permanent record and is available in the City Clerks office.