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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09_12_05_cc CITY COUNCIL September 12, 2005 ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Alderman Rainey Alderman Wynne Alderman Hansen Alderman Bernstein Alderman Wollin Alderman Holmes Alderman Jean-Baptiste Alderman Moran A Quorum was present. Alderman Tisdahl PRESIDING: Mayor Lorraine H. Morton The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was called to order by Mayor Morton Monday, September 12, 2005, at 9:38 p.m. in the Council Chamber. ANNOUNCEMENTS: Assistant City Manager Judith Aiello invited all to the annual Non-Profit Day at the Evanston Farmers’ Market. Saturday, September 17. Some 45 organizations will be present with information for the community. Human Relations Executive Director Paula Haynes noted that, historically, youth in the Summer Youth Employment Program have cleaned alleys. Each year they try to come up with something new and creative to do. This year youth painted more than 500 Tallmadge light fixtures and produced a public service announcement (PSA) under the direction of Geremiah Borough at ECMC. The PSA about the Landlord-Tenant Ordinance was shown. Ms. Haynes thanked Ms. Borough for an excellent job. Ms. Borough thanked all who had contributed to the success of the project. Mayor Morton asked residents who want to help survivors of Hurricane Katrina to call Donna Stuckert, Community Information Coordinator at the Civic Center. People also can read about all the things being done to help survivors on the City’s website: www.cityofevanston.org. COMMUNICATIONS: City Clerk Mary Morris reported receipt of a communication from resident William C. Pool, Jr., who urged Council to take no action on the proposed resolution to stop the war in Iraq. CITIZEN COMMENT: Bonnie Wilson, 530 Hinman Ave., president, Democratic Party of Evanston (DPOE), said they voted in July to bring this resolution before Council. With the help of other organizations present, this resolution was passed at the August 2 Human Services Committee meeting. She thanked staff for adopting points to make Resolution 50-R-05 one that DPOE was proud to pass. Sue Schell, 1246 Hinman Ave., on behalf of DPOE, asked them to think back to 1963 when casualties in the Vietnam War were close to 200 and the president urged citizens to stay the course. By 1975 casualties were more than 58,000 dead and 153,000 wounded. A Gold Star mother said, “Anyone who does not think they have skin in this game, needs to rethink things – how they look at this war, because you may not have a loved one in Iraq, but everyone in the U.S. is in this.” She spoke of Hurricane Katrina where people waited for days for food, water, power and rescue. Some 120,000 people were left behind in New Orleans who could not get out. This has revealed a dirty little secret in America, that a lot of money has been slashed from social programs and diverted to this war. She quoted a Martin Luther King., Jr., 1967 speech in New York City about Vietnam, “A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death.” A workable strategy is needed in Iraq and U.S. troops should be withdrawn now. The Iraqi culture demands that it develop the country the way the Iraqi people see fit. Franklin Roosevelt stated, “Democracies cannot be bestowed, they must be earned.” If the Iraqi nation wants democracy, they will do it and if they don’t want democracy chances are it won’t happen. The U.S. must not be stuck on the idea of an exit only after creating stability. This could be another Vietnam. She hoped all Council members would support this resolution and asked all present who supported the resolution to stand. 2 September 12, 2005 Dickelle Fonda, 1220 Darrow Ave., framed her remarks by acknowledging the current national tragedy on the Gulf Coast. She directly connected that to the war in Iraq and spoke as a mother of a draft-age son and supported all mothers, Iraqi and American, whose children have been killed or at risk of being killed as the result of an illegal and immoral war. In the short period since appearing before the Human Services Committee, the veil of competence and credibility that has thinly covered the national leadership in this country has been ripped away and people have been forced to confront the reality that in a time of life-threatening crisis, the administration has taken this country into a war in Iraq based upon lies, under the pretext of enhancing homeland security and is completely unprepared and inept in addressing national emergencies. Children of America and Iraq are being killed in the Middle East as thousands in Mississippi and Louisiana are dying as the result of Bush’s incompetence and malevolence. Local support for the resolution has been visible all summer with more than 100 people marching in the July 4th parade. Two candlelight vigils were held at Fountain Square, followed by Camp Casey North on Ridge Avenue attended by more than 1,600 residents on short notice. She said the winds of discontent, awareness and dissent are shifting in Evanston and the country. Some say it is not the mandate of City government to weigh in on national foreign policy, but she says Council has a moral imperative to speak out on this national crisis. Many on Council were alive during the Vietnam War and thus have a 30-year perspective on what that did to the national psyche. Alex Sproul, 646 Judson Ave., spoke for the Peace and Justice Committee of the Unitarian Church, which hosted Camp Casey North last week. They urged passage of Resolution 50-R-05. In practical terms, it is clear the insurgency cannot be eliminated by the military. The outcome, as predicted by former Ambassador Peter Galbaith, says they will end up with an Islamic Theocracy in the south, Kurds in the north and unhappy Sunnis in the middle. They believe continued presence of the U.S. military in Iraq serves no useful purpose and the U.S. ought to get out now; urged Council to vote to do so. Dr. Geoffrey Cordell, 9447 Hamlin (Skokie), stated that President Bush has no clear exit strategy because there is no plan. The Department of Defense is committed to 14 permanent bases in Iraq that are currently under construction or being developed from existing bases. Estimates of personnel required are 70,000 to 100,000 troops on a permanent basis. That ongoing commitment will require an expanded military, plus continued and expanded funding. It will also mean a continued list of dead and wounded American soldiers every day for years to come. The tragic events in the Gulf States in the past two weeks and the despicable response should alert all Americans to what will happen when funds are not available for infrastructure development because funds are diverted to the war in Iraq--that means for this community and other communities in the United States. He urged support for the resolution. Caroline Hersenberg, 1700 E. 56th St. (Chicago), retired scientist, came because passing 50-R-05 is so important for other cities, including the City of Chicago, which will consider a similar resolution. She supported the Evanston Resolution to end the occupation of Iraq and rapid withdrawal of U.S. troops. She stated that all know the majority of Americans today oppose the war and occupation of Iraq. Informal sampling from the greater Chicago Metro area shows that people would overwhelmingly support withdrawal of American troops. She urged passage of the resolution. Anya Cordell, 9447 Hamlin (Skokie), said yesterday the freedom march sponsored by this administration said the patriotic thing to do was to sponsor a song by Clint Black, “Iraq and Roll,” that has the line, “our troops take out the garbage for the good ole U.S.A.” That is the idea brought to the troops and American culture. They have watched people treated worse than human garbage. No one has heard an expression of true heartfelt grief for Iraqi civilians or more than lip service for the youth who are recruited into the U.S. armed forces. When people are taught to treat others like garbage, they don’t come home and drop that. The post-traumatic stress disorder of these troops will haunt America for decades. Liane Casten, 1030 Asbury Ave., passed out information from Chicago Media Watch on the troops in Iraq. For her the war is betrayal. It is betrayal of the men and women who have gone to Iraq and come back wounded and sick. People come back with depleted uranium poisoning are told there is nothing wrong with them. When scientists who are doing the work actually find such an association they are fired. It takes three years to process a claim and, in the meantime, many people have died. Equipment and supplies trickle down from the regular army to the reservists and the National Guard who get garbage, old material and things they can barely use. She stated that soldiers are forbidden to talk. Gene Salamon, 919 Sheridan Rd., represented a minority view and passed out white flags. He stated that as the world 3 September 12, 2005 saw celebration in the streets of many Middle Eastern countries at the devastation of America’s suffering four years ago on 9/11/01 at the hands of terrorists that wish our demise, so do they now celebrate the division in our country into two distinct camps. One that resolves to live free and states, “don’t tread on me, for we are not going to be your victims,” and another that capitulates and surrenders to this world war of terror brought to our shores. Though courageously being executed by few, failing to acknowledge that this war is everybody’s war won’t make it go away. It requires a greater understanding of the threat against our way of life and a more unified resolve to preserve our liberties and freedom from the fear that terrorists use as their weapon of destabilization. Instead of talking about what is wrong with this war, he urged they not give aid and comfort to the enemy that caused it. Terrorist’s incitement of the overthrow of Western thought and civil society are their objectives. Excusing them or aiding them puts them on the wrong side of the debate and behind enemy lines. Both great senators from Illinois are opposed to this resolution as was he. Tanya Tickel, 534 Hinman Ave., admired the unity of Evanston citizens who live in a diverse community. She believed her views were adequately represented by her representatives in Congress to whom she has sent letters and wished to reserve her opinion on the Iraq resolution to herself. She said it would be a disservice to Evanston for the Council to adopt a resolution that plainly supports one point of view on a contentious issue. All can see the divisiveness it has caused among citizens and to add to this would harm the City. She urged a more helpful way be found to support unity. For example, Evanston could adopt a Sister City in Iraq or have vouchers for veterans to obtain discounts at local businesses – an action that Evanston could take that would not cause divisiveness in the community. Marjorie Fujara, 343 Dewey Ave., represented Code Pink and became involved because of the Iraq war. She is a new mother and step mother to two young men who would be a recruiter’s dream. On the staff at John Stroger Cook County Hospital, where everyday she is aware of the limited resources available to help patients and fears those resources will diminish over time, especially if the United States remains in Iraq. She stated the nation is approaching a tipping point and Evanston again has a chance to be in the forefront and urged passage of Resolution 50-R-05. Margaret Nagel, 631 Hinman Ave., pointed out no connection was found by the 9/11 Commission and the CIA between the attack on the World Trade Center and Iraq. She stated the U.S. helped put Saddam Hussein in office and supplied him with chemicals until the 1991 war. Friends don’t let friends drive drunk and good citizens don’t let their government go down the path of torture, aggressive war and economic piracy. Irene Doyle Sandler, 719 Forest Ave., urged Council to vote against the resolution on Iraq. Although she too grieves over the loss of life in this war and wants troops to come home safely as soon as it is wise to do so, she agreed with President Jalal Talibani of Iraq, who last Friday urged the U.S. not to withdraw hastily from Iraq; instead urged that U.S. forces be reduced gradually over the next two years. She also agreed with prominent democratic senators such as Hillary Clinton and Joseph Lieberman, that immediate withdrawal is ill-advised. Senator Dick Durbin is also opposed to getting out of Iraq immediately. Few of those responsible for advising the President have endorsed the idea of a withdrawal time table, which terrorists can easily wait out. Yesterday’s 9/11 anniversary is a sad reminder that the war on terror is real and that Americans must deal with the possibility of that battleground being shifted back to our shores. Ali Akbari, Neighbors for Peace, Chicago, said that President Bush’s popularity has dropped to 60% disapproval. It took 120,000 Iraqi people and almost 2,000 American soliders to die in Iraq for Americans to change their mind. This administration is in Iraq for the oil there and is not getting it. To know what is happening in Iraq, all people have to do is look to the South. Some 120,000 people were left behind in New Orleans simply because they were poor. Kathleen Corydon, 726 Forest Ave., as a taxpaying citizen, was ashamed of the resolution to bring the troops back; found it repugnant to pull out and leave the Iraqi people hanging with no hope of freedom from the terrorist insurgency. The Evanston City Council should stick to the local issues that they were elected to address and leave national issues to those elected to deal with them. Junad Rizki, 2784 Sheridan Rd., said Council was going to pass the Iraq resolution but he was no supporter of this political misadventure. He found it ironic that the City of Evanston, which is continually mismanaged, is now telling the federal government how to operate. This is more politics than substance. The City will give citizens an extra month to pay water bills so that people can water parkway elms. Is the public any more informed about the crime problem in this community? Maybe a resolution should be passed about crime here. Given that the ceiling at the 911 Center collapsed, 4 September 12, 2005 how well prepared is Evanston for a terrorist attack? Perhaps the Mayor and Council members should be concerned about the safety of citizens who live here and deal with some of the issues he mentioned. (Alderman Wynne stated that the 911 ceiling collapsed but did not interfere with the operation of the center.) John Petersen, 507 Trinity Ct., said the City Council has every right to speak of the issue of the war in Iraq. The 4th amendment to the Constitution says that police cannot enter your home without probable cause. The equivalent to that is Iraq and the United Nations, which considered what was purported to be evidence of wrong doing and found there was no probable cause, yet entered by force. Because of that reason and others enunciated by others, he urged that continuing this war was not worth bringing home someone’s child in a casket. Jevoid Simmons, 1220 Darrow Ave., supported the resolution to bring the troops home now. The story is there is some connection between Iraq and the attack on 9/11. He alleged the U.S. has created terrorists that did not exist before. To remain in Iraq in this immoral war will continue to breed more terrorists. By passing this resolution, a message will be sent to the state, country and world that Evanston citizens choose life over death. He thought this crucially important and they would leave a legacy for their children that is bereft of morality. The U.S. went to Iraq for oil. He wants to live in a community where people speak the truth. He hoped Council’s action would give Washington, on both sides of the aisle, the spine to do truthful work. Dick Tholin, 824 Ridge Tr., represented the North Suburban Peace Initiative agreed with many speakers that it is time to end the war in Iraq because it cannot be won. He quoted several generals familiar with the Middle East who said this when the U.S. started the Iraq war and who were removed from their commands. The occupation of Iraq is creating instability that the U.S. sought to eliminate. To stay the course will simply magnify the disaster and postpone the inevitable withdrawal. It is time to understand that the United States cannot by military pressure establish other people’s governments for them even if we believe democracy is the best way. Democracy cannot be installed through military might. The U.S. demonstrated that it was worth trying. Now is the time to tell elected leaders that they cannot go forward. Martha Burns, 2527 Jackson Ave., came because of what happened to her niece and a friend was so egregious she wanted to speak about it. On September 1 she was with a group at Ravinia Park and asked who would be driving. Frederick was to drive and she questioned him about what he had to drink. Later that evening her niece called from South Evanston by the Cemetery where they were stopped for speeding and charged with a DUI. The police officer would not allow her niece to drive, call a cab or take her to the police station. She was left there alone at midnight. Ms. Burns went and picked her up. She has tried to resolve this discreetly. She wrote and spoke to Chief Kaminski; asked them to look into their hearts and see if they would want their niece alone at midnight on the street. Audrey Lewis, 5200 S. Ellis, Chicago, is Martha Burns’ niece. Reiterated that her friend and herself were stopped about 11:30 p.m. Officer Samson of the Evanston Police Department handcuffed her friend and put him into the squad car. He asked her if she could drive and she said yes. He told her had to give her an alcohol screening test. He performed the screening, told her she had failed and that her vehicle would be towed. She asked if she could ride to the police station with him. No. If her aunt came, could she take her (Audrey Lewis) and their vehicle to check on her friend at the police station or take her home? That was okay. Within two minutes the tow truck came. She asked if he would wait if she called a cab. No. A single parent of an infant, she was left there alone. Fredrick Malone, 8043 S. Princeton, Chicago, had an article from the Sun-Times, stating that minorities are twice as likely as whites to undergo searches. September 1, on his way home from Ravinia, he was pulled over by an Evanston police officer who said he was speeding and asked him questions consistent with that offense. The officer then asked him if he had his seat belt on, which confused him because the officer watched him take off his seat belt to get his license and insurance card out. Within minutes he was in the officer’s car undergoing an alcohol screening test. He told the officer he was not intoxicated and the officer told him he had failed the test. At that point, he was handcuffed and placed in the back of the police car. His friend talked with the officer and the situation escalated out of control because he could not secure his friend’s ability to get home safely. He is 33 years old and has been in the legal profession for almost eight years and has never before been arrested. This incident left him with the impression that racial profiling exists in Evanston. He was disheartened that his companion was left on a dark street, at the discretion of the officer, in 5 September 12, 2005 contradiction to the Evanston Police Department’s mission statement, which is to serve and protect. J.T. Stinette, 441 E. North Water St., Chicago, was at Ravinia with Audrey Lewis and Frederick Malone all evening and did not observe the condition the officer experienced later. She was called by Ms. Lewis while en route home during this incident. As an African-American attorney and member of the Illinois Bar, she thought Evanston was progressive. She urged them to take the Sun-Times article seriously about pulling people over and racial profiling. She was incensed that Ms. Lewis would have been left alone at midnight. It is a direct contraction to serving and protecting. John Bushnell, 1805 Crain St., spoke on behalf of Northwestern University Faculty Against the War, found the format disappointing because he wanted to engage in dialogue with those who spoke against the resolution. He thought the resolution amounts to common sense. Because he cannot engage in reasonable discussion he would pick on Alderman Moran because he knows something about his views. Alderman Moran expressed a reasonable fear – that is if American troops pull out, then the violence will be unleashed on innocent people as it is now. He thought that reasonable fear overlooks the fact that the terrorists are blowing up innocent Iraqis because they cannot get at Americans. They came to Iraq to get at Americans. The way to reduce violence is to take American troops out of Iraq. Kyle Schafer, 1012 Garnett Pl., spoke as a member of Peace Project, a Northwestern University student group. He stated that his generation has grown up watching Iraq in the cross hairs of the United States government. He drew a picture in crayon when he was five years old with a bomb in the sky and a stick figure below labeled Saddam. In his teenage diary there is writing of a confused 17-year old wondering how it was that the United States had put the Iraqi people through 10 years of misery and was rapidly pursuing greater war against them. Three years later, his diary showed confusion and dismay from government lies, rising body counts and increased profits for the corporations involved. He is now in a position of trying to stop a tragedy that he has watched unfold for nearly his entire life. He firmly believes this tragedy cannot and will not end as long as the U. S. military and private forces occupy Iraq, acting in their own interests and as if these are in the interests of the Iraqi people. He supported this initiative to present to whatever government he has not lost trust in. The Evanston City Council will never decide foreign policy but it was important to see elected officials speak out against the murder and war profiteering in Iraq and important that people not watch silently while such tragedies occur. Robert Atkins, 2005 Orrington Ave., said Council’s agenda had an ill-conceived, misguided and politically inspired resolution urging the President, on behalf of the diverse citizens of this community, to commence the rapid withdrawal of American forces from Iraq. Clearly, non-partisan aldermen were not elected a few months to spend City Council time debating a politically partisan resolution, which has nothing whatsoever to do with City of Evanston governance. There was no referendum last April measuring sentiment regarding the war. He submitted there is a silent majority here and in communities throughout the nation who believe that passage of such a resolution is a gigantic mistake and could have far-reaching and dire circumstances. Section 2 of the resolution talks about Evanston and other communities being able to benefit from stability in Iraq. This is a recipe for disaster that undermines the courageous efforts of the Iraqi people if the President does what this resolution asks him to do. He asked Council not to vote for the resolution. Doug Hostetter, 731 South Blvd., visiting lecturer in Sociology at Northwestern University and Peace Pastor of the Evanston Mennonite Church, spoke on behalf of the church. He asked Council to pass the Iraq resolution. Mennonites have been opposed to war for 500 years and chose to affirm life rather than participate in war. During the Vietnam War he worked as a conscientious objector for three years in a Vietnamese village. He watched his government destroy the communities around them and for three years he tried to educate the children who lost their schools to American bombs. He learned that the longer Americans were there, homes were destroyed, fields were defoliated, people were incarcerated and more communists were created. He watched the villagers hate the American people. He saw the same mistakes in Iraq. America has learned almost nothing from the Vietnam years. He pled with all to support the withdrawal of all troops and to use the funds for life, healing, education and the things that the people of Iraq really need and the people of New Orleans really need. When the hurricane struck, 40% of the National Guard troops from Mississippi and 35% from Louisiana were in Iraq. He urged all to help in the healing. Mennonites have worked in Iraq in health and education and also have the Mennonite Disaster Service that is taking people so they can volunteer their time and resources for life. Guy Benson, 1838 Chicago Ave., Northwestern University student, wants to see the troops safely home as soon as is practically possible but thought the resolution proposes a grave error in judgment. Pulling out now would leave the Iraqi people out to dry, which is a terrible mistake. It would also embolden the terrorists and insurgents who would like to see 6 September 12, 2005 nothing more than an immediate pull out of American troops. The real issue here is that this Council has no authority regarding this matter. He believed this represents a waste of time that could be devoted to business of Evanston. Those people who hold heartfelt and commendable beliefs against the Iraq war should lobby those who can affect this decision in Washington, D.C. If, they are going to indulge in a symbolic gesture, he asked that they add a statement to the resolution commending the troops for their valor. Regardless of what people think of the war, these brave men and women should never be disrespected. Keith Banks, 2125 Washington St., as a citizen and Christian, opposed the war in Iraq and supported the resolution. As a member of the Evanston Community Development Association, a Christian organization, he spoke about the local crisis in affordable housing. He thanked Council for support of the affordable housing project at 736-38 Dobson St., which they will purchase Friday. He invited all to a community-wide rally to raise 10% of the project’s $1.3 million cost to help low to moderate income families have affordable housing and to help Katrina victims. The rally will be Sunday, September 18 at the First Presbyterian Church, 1427 Chicago Avenue. Schona Buranda, 705 Reba Pl., on behalf of the Human Relations Commission, urged Council support for the Iraq Resolution. Betty Ester, 2114 Darrow Ave., stated that the three West Side TIF ordinances on the agenda will probably pass and are a good and bad thing for the community. The good thing is that finally attention is being paid to the West Side. The bad thing is it is not community driven. The community needs to be more involved. Community members have asked about plans; had a strategy meeting and have not seen plans. They know there will be landscaping and the Housing Development Corporation. They don’t want the West Side TIF to be like the Howard Street TIF, which has nothing started. The community wants it to be a success and to be there to help it move forward. Many people have spoken about Iraq and Vietnam. She lost a brother in Vietnam and noted that no war is right. They can only love the dead and are here to take care of the living. Living in the 5th Ward is letting the community be involved. Free Yippee, 7322 W. Ardmore, Chicago, alleged the only reason for the war in Afghanistan, Iraq and 200 military actions across the world, is due to profits of international bankers and Wall Street. The reason for the war in Iraq is the Wolfowitz Doctrine of 1990. The doctrine was the only way to get all that oil was to have another Pearl Harbor. He alleged that the Bush regime allowed the planes to hit the Twin Towers and installed dynamite there three days before and that the President’s brother was in charge of security at the World Trade Center. When the planes hit the towers it caused a controlled demolition. He recommended David Ray Griffin’s book, A New Pearl Harbor and 9/11 Omissions and Distortions on the Internet. CONSENT AGENDA (Any item marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Moran moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda with these exceptions: contract with JJR, LLC for Chicago Avenue Streetscape Improvements; Ordinance 98-O-05 - Hours for Playgrounds & Tot Lots; Planned Development - 1567 Maple Ave.; Housing Rehabilitation Guidelines; and Resolution 50-R-05 – Urging Return of U.S. Troops from Iraq. Seconded by Alderman Wynne. Roll call. Voting aye – Rainey, Hansen, Wollin, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Holmes, Moran, Tisdahl. Voting nay – none. Motion carried (9-0). * ITEMS APPROVED ON CONSENT AGENDA MINUTES: * Approval of Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting of August 8, 2005 and the Regular City Council Meeting of August 15, 2005. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: *Approval, as recommended, of the City of Evanston payrolls for the periods through August 25 and September 8, 2005 and City of Evanston bills for the period ending September 13, 2005, authorized and charged to the proper accounts: 7 September 12, 2005 City of Evanston payroll (8/12/05 through 08/25/05) $2,302.551.33 City of Evanston payroll (08/26/05 through 09/08/05) $2,177,361.66 City of Evanston bills (through 09/13/05) $6,423,387.27 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of pre-qualified firms to provide consulting services for traffic signal studies. Funded by the Capital Improvement Program. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the professional services contract with Emergency Management Systems in an amount not to exceed $34,790 for a Fire Department Study. Funded by the FY 2005-06 Contingency Fund. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the professional services contract with IMS, Inc. in the amount of $55,930 for the Comprehensive Pavement Management System and Five-Year Plan Development. Funded by the Capital Improvement Program. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of purchase from S.E.S. Inc. in the amount of $300,000 for a snowmelter. Funded by the CIP and Washington National TIF. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of a sole-source purchase from Konnerth Sales Associates in the amount of $50,000 for Tallmadge streetlights and parts. Funded in the Division of Transportation Capital account. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the renewal of Excess Worker’s Compensation Insurance with Safety National Insurance for a six-month period in the amount of $36,602. Funded by the Insurance Fund. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid from National Roofing Corporation in the total amount of $208,600 for roof repairs at the Chandler-Newberger Center. Funded by CIP funds. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of Change Order #4 for the Sherman Plaza Parking Garage with W.E. O’Neil for $13,694, increasing the contract amount from $40,127,044 to $40,140,738. Funded by the Washington National TIF. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of contract amendment with Oracle for the final phase implementation of the enterprise software at a cost not to exceed $192,000. Funded by CIP funds. APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * * * * * Resolution 49-R-05 – Skokie Swift North Shore Corridor Market Analysis. - Consideration of proposed Resolution 49-R-05, which authorizes the City Manager to execute a technical assistance grant from the Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) for the Skokie Swift Corridor Study. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 51-R-05 – Opposing Senate Bill 1504 the “Broadband Investment and Consumer Choice Act” - Consideration of proposed Resolution 51-R-05, which asks congressional representatives to oppose SB1504. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 52-R-05 – Phase III (Construction Engineering) - McCormick Blvd. Reconstruction – Consideration of proposed Resolution 52-R-05, which authorizes the City Manager to execute a Phase III Joint Agreement (Construction Engineering) with TranSystems Corporation for the McCormick Blvd. Reconstruction Project in the amount of $374,428.30. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA 8 September 12, 2005 MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 53-R-05 – Lease for East Apartment of the Municipal Service Center, 2020 Asbury – Consideration of proposed Resolution 53-R-05, by which City Council authorizes the City Manager to enter into a one-year lease agreement with John Sturtevant for the east apartment in the Municipal Service Center. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Ordinance 87-O-05 – Liquor Control Regulations – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 87-O-05, which amends Section 3-5-11 (E & F) of the City Code regulating the presence of persons under the age of 21 at certain licensed liquor establishments. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 99-O-05 – Parking Violation Penalties – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 99-O-05, which amends Section 10-11-17, Schedule XVIII (G) and (I) of the City Code pertaining to parking violation penalties. This ordinance corrects inconsistencies in the City Code. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 106-O-05 – Declaration of Surplus Property – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 106- O-05, which declares City items as surplus property so that said items can be offered for sale at a municipal auction in Libertyville, Ill., on October 1, 2005. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA *Ordinance 107-O-05 – McCormick Blvd. Roadway Project – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 107-O-05, which authorizes the transfer of jurisdiction over McCormick Blvd. from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to the City of Evanston. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Rainey moved to Suspend the Rules to adopt an ordinance at the same meeting at which it was introduced. Seconded by Alderman Moran. Motion carried unanimously. Alderman Rainey moved to approve Ordinance 107-O-05. Seconded by Alderman Moran. Roll call. Voting aye – Rainey, Hansen, Wollin, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Holmes, Moran, Tisdahl. Voting nay – none. Motion carried (9-0). * Ordinance 95-O-05 - Three-Way Stop at Brown Ave. and Colfax St. - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 95-O-05, introduced August 15, 2005, which amends Section 10-11-5, Schedule V(C) of the City Code, to establish a three-way stop at Brown Ave. and Colfax St. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Ordinance 100-O-05 - Five Percent Cost Preference for Evanston Business Owners - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 100-O-05, introduced August 15, 2005, which expands the five percent (5%) cost preference for Evanston-based businesses. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: * Ordinance 71-O-05 - Plan Commission Recommendations: Special Multi-Family District, R4a (Text Amendment) - Consideration of Ordinance 71-O-05, introduced August 15, 2005,which, based on the finding and report of the Plan Commission, would amend the Zoning Ordinance text to create a R4a General Residential District. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) * Ordinance 101-O-05 - Plan Commission Recommendations: Special Multi-Family District, R4a (Map Amendment) - Consideration of Ordinance 101-O-05, introduced August 15, 2005,which based on the finding and report of the Plan Commission, amends the Zoning Ordinance text to create a R4a 9 September 12, 2005 General Residential District. * ADOPTED-CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) AGENDA ADDENDUM * Ordinance 91-O-05 – Extending Moratorium on Issuance of Building Permits on Central Street from Bennett to Marcy – Consideration of Ordinance 91-O-05, introduced July 25, 2005, for a second 90- day extension of the 90 day moratorium on the issuance of permits for construction of buildings on Central between Bennett and Marcy established by Ordinance 43-O-05, adopted 3/14/05 and extended by Ordinance 56-O-05. * ADOPTED-CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0) OTHER COMMITTEES: * Ordinance 102-O-05 – Adoption of Tax Increment Redevelopment Plan & Project for West Evanston TIF – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 102-O-05, which approves a tax increment redevelopment plan and redevelopment project for the Dodge Ave. and Church St. Redevelopment Project Area. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 103-O-05 – Designating the Redevelopment Project Area for the West Evanston TIF – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 103-O-05, which designates the Dodge/Church Redevelopment Project Area pursuant to the tax. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 104-O-05 – Adoption of Tax Increment Allocation Financing for the West Evanston TIF – Consideration of proposed Ordinance 104-O-05, which adopts tax increment allocation financing for the Dodge Ave. and Church St. Redevelopment Project Area. * MARKED INTRODUCED – CONSENT AGENDA APPOINTMENTS: Mayor Morton asked the following appointments be confirmed: Madeline Goldstein Human Relations Commission 817 Mulford St. For term ending September 30, 2008 Michael S. Decker Taxicab Advisory Board 8541 Lotus St., Skokie For term ending September 30, 2008 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES HUMAN SERVICES: Resolution 50-R-05 – Urging the Return of U.S. Troops from Iraq – Consideration of proposed Resolution 50-R-05, whereby the Evanston City Council urges the orderly and rapid withdrawal of United States troops from Iraq. Alderman Moran moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Jean-Baptiste. Alderman Moran found it ironic that Council was considering this resolution a day after the anniversary of the attack on the United States that was staged by a group of people who subscribe to radical Islamist ideas that include justification and motivation for an attack on American soil and Americans. Thousands died that day. It showed a persistence that was 10 September 12, 2005 significant, because prior to the attack, in 1993, other radical Islamists had tried to take the World Trade Center down. In the wake of the September 11 attack, the U.S. went to war in Afghanistan and Iraq. Much has been said about the motivations for going to war in Iraq. He noted that the overwhelming majority of the U.S. Congress voted approval of a resolution to go to war with Iraq. At this time the United States is engaged in a struggle in Iraq and that struggle is more relevant than the reasons for going there. The war in Iraq is not simply a war among Iraqis. The insurgency is drawn from many countries and the main viewpoint is death and destruction. As one speaker said earlier, the insurgents may want to get to Americans but are not satisfied with that. As Americans read the death tolls, more Iraqis have died than Americans. Insurgent groups intend to destabilize Iraq and defeat the movement toward a democratic Iraq and the Americans efforts. He thought that progress had been made. Last January an election was held and prior to that, it was predicted that elections should not be held because nobody would go to the polls. There was a remarkable response that caught the world by surprise. That response was the huge turnout by Iraqis who, for decades had been deprived of the right to determine their own fate. Who would have known the appetite of the Iraqi people to determine their own fate would be in a democratic election where their enthusiasm was demonstrated to the world. On October 15, a plebiscite will be held in Iraq on a Constitution for Iraq. Who would have said in the past several years that the Iraqi people would have been provided with the opportunity to vote on a proposed Constitution to have self-determination. Another speaker mentioned the President of Iraq has made a fervent plea that the United States not flee Iraq at this time. There is no doubt that all people present want U.S. troops to come home. He said the United States needs to stay the course. As time goes by the Iraqi troops and security forces are gaining effectiveness and ultimately will be able to take control of their own country. Terrorists have their eyes on America’s resolve at this point. Iraq has become the new “ground zero” in the war on terrorism. This has been a difficult situation fraught with heartache and woe over injuries and death. Unfortunately, the reality of world politics requires terrible sacrifices at times. America has succeeded for the most part and cannot lose sight of its mission. Recent activities, such as the subway bombings in London and the plot that was revealed about a terrorist attack on Los Angeles, make it clear that America has to stay on the alert. Whether Americans like it or not, over time, it will be the resolve of those brave men and women of America and Iraq that will set a new paradigm in the Middle East that will show that democracy can work and that efforts of the men and women who are fighting there now will ultimately be vindicated. Regarding this resolution, in one whereas clause, it states the men and women of the Illinois National Guard have served with honor and distinction, which he thought was true. He suggested that a statement be included that Evanston honors the men and women of the armed forces who are serving in Iraq. He thought true to the mission, including those who have been injured or given up their lives, that America would stay the course until it is successful. That success will come from another whereas clause that says these efforts will have substantially accomplished the stated purpose to give the people of Iraq the opportunity to decide their own future but a paradigm for the rest of the world that does not have the opportunity to decide its future to realize that it can. The elections are coming, the hard work of Iraqis and Americans, and the sacrifices that have been made should be honored that night. Section 2 says that we must recognize the stability of Iraq is crucial to the security of the citizens of Evanston; agreed with that statement, which is probably crucial to citizens of the world. He urged them to pursue the stability of Iraq – not leave Iraq – stay the course and give credence to the efforts of those who have sacrificed there. For those reasons, he asked Council not to vote for this resolution. He hoped a message would be sent that all are anxious that young men and women return as early as possible, consistent with obtaining the stability of Iraq and completing its mission there. Alderman Bernstein did not know why America is in Iraq; could speculate why America is in Iraq but has no knowledge of it. He knows that American soldiers can be killed in Iraq and if they are home they cannot be killed. Funds that are currently going to Iraq, if they are diverted from that war, could be used to repair viaducts in his ward. He did not believe the United States should have ever gone to war in Iraq and voted for the resolution opposing the ward in Iraq that was consistent with Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky who was one of the few who understood that war powers are not given to somebody hoping they won’t use them unless absolutely pushed. The aggressive nature of America in Iraq is contrary to the democracy that he grew up with and is trying to defend. He noted that America now believes it is okay to incarcerate a U.S. citizen for thee years on the basis of an individual’s word, without giving that person the benefit of the charge, right to counsel and trial. He was not sure of the kind of democracy America was proposing to the rest of the world. He did not know whether it will hurt America to leave Iraq quickly; suggested they live on an island. They have seen the disparate population of Evanston who are for and against (the war). When Congresswoman Schakowsky, 11 September 12, 2005 probably the most liberal person in the U.S. Congress, votes her conscience and citizens who voted 86% for the democratic candidate for president in the last election think the weight is in favor of not being in Iraq. He knows that he has to do something. He is empowered for 8,000 Evanstonians who will agree or not in the next four years if he chooses to run for office can vote for him or not based on his actions on their behalf. He found the resolution minimal. He is not a pacifist and will defend his family to the death but did not want to look for a fight. Alderman Bernstein moved to delete a part of the whereas clause, “in substantially accomplishing the stated purpose of the United States to give the propose of Iraq a reasonable opportunity to decide their own future;” and Section 2: That the City of Evanston urges the United States government to provide the people of Iraq with appropriate non-military material aid as shall be necessary for the security of Iraq’s citizens and for the rebuilding of Iraq.” Seconded by Alderman Wynne. Voice vote on deletions. Motion carried. Alderman Jean-Baptiste thanked all who organized to bring forth the resolution. He respected Alderman Moran who talked about how this got started but he had missed a whole bunch of stuff. He asked Alderman Moran if he had heard of the Neocons, who believe in a strategy of pre-emptive war and now speak of nuclear weapons in such strikes. Had he heard about the Downing Street memo? There was the discussion when President Bush, Vice President Cheney, Colin Powell and Condoleezza Rice talked about how Saddam Hussein possessed weapons of mass destruction. Eventually they heard these statements were lies based upon misguided advice from intelligence experts. Initially they tied Iraq to the 9/11 attack and then said that was a mistake. The reality is, this is probably the strategy of the U.S. government to control resources in this area. All of the justifications raised and facts show that all the basis for the war were deceptions, when in fact, there were other strategies in mind. The leadership convinced the Congress to go along with the war, which voted to support it. Many have said if they knew then what they know now they would not have voted for the war. On the issue of Islamic radicals coming after Americans, the majority of the attackers were from Saudi Arabia so why didn’t America go after Saudi Arabia? Maybe they know. Saudi Arabia is an ally of the United States. But if the attackers were Iraqis, there would have been war the next day. He thought Alderman Moran was misguided; said there is no progress in Iraq. Americans have killed more people, lost more people, created a greater insurgency and have destabilized Iraq from his perspective. Imposing on the Iraqi people what ought to be their choice is misguided and not progress. America makes a decision that this is strategically in this country’s interest and justify it later as the right thing. He concluded that the whole operation has been botched. He thought this resolution raises their obligation as citizens to demand that the leadership move in the right direction, but knows that they will not. It is important to make ourselves heard because he alleged that President Bush and his colleagues are interested in amassing as much wealth as possible. That was how Halliburton got a no-bid contract. They moved faster for the contract than for bringing relief. There is no paradigm shift in a positive direction. America has made more enemies and those who bomb do not see Americans bringing liberation, but death. He asked Alderman Moran to shift his paradigm, review the issues and vote for the resolution. Alderman Tisdahl said in Evanston they do the best they can and work hard for the political candidates they believe will advance their views. Evanston has a marvelous congresswoman and two fine senators but there still is a war in Iraq and it has not been enough. She agreed with those who say this resolution won’t be listened to but it is important to do what they can. The resolution is one more thing that they can do. Voice vote, motion carried. ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: Alderman Rainey moved approval of the professional services contract from JJR, LLC in an amount not to exceed $198,625 for the Chicago Avenue Streetscape Improvements. Funded by CIP funds. Seconded by Alderman Wynne. Alderman Moran asked for the projected completion date for the one block north of South Boulevard? Public Works Director David Jennings responded it would be completed by the end of October. Alderman Moran asked if there was any thought given to analyzing that block and the effect on traffic flow on Chicago Ave.? Mr. Jennings stated a traffic analysis was done in the concept plan by a traffic engineer who found no significant impact because they are not changing the number of lanes, only the lane width. Mr. Jennings said the concept plan had traffic flow consideration. At the Greenleaf/Chicago intersection they were putting in left turn arrows for north/south bound traffic. Signals at Main/Chicago had additional work with additional phasing to add a north-bound turn left arrow. The design work is in 12 September 12, 2005 two parts – one is an expedited portion to be completed within a couple of months and the rest within six months. The idea is to get ahead of the developments coming on Chicago Avenue to have a streetscape plan adjacent to those developments. The other part is to try and fill in the gaps and the reason why they are staged differently. Alderman Wynne explained that this is part of the Chicago Avenue Corridor Study started in 1997 and Council voted on the initial portion in 2000. The streetscape analysis was a part of analyzing the traffic flow, attempting to make better sense of Chicago Avenue. Driving it, one sees the lane widths change and there are bottlenecks. Left turn lanes at Main and Chicago are at the request of two aldermen. It is critical to move forward with this because there continues to be more development pressure on Chicago Avenue. The design needs to be in place so that when a developer comes along, the engineering is done and they can participate in the streetscape program; urged all to vote for this. Roll call. Voting aye – Rainey, Hansen, Wollin, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Holmes, Moran, Tisdahl. Voting nay – none. Motion carried (9-0). Ordinance 98-O-05 - Regulating Hours for Playgrounds & Tot Lots - Consideration of proposed Ordinances 98-O-05, introduced August 15, 2005, which amends Section 7-10-2 regulating hours for playgrounds and tot lots. Alderman Rainey moved approval of Ordinance 98-O-05. Seconded by Alderman Jean-Baptiste. Alderman Moran understood this ordinance came forward from Alderman Rainey due to concerns about misbehavior in her ward in these areas at night; respected her suggestion but would rather not cut back the hours in the 6th Ward. Alderman Rainey explained that playgrounds and tot lots are in parks in the middle of residential neighborhoods. When there is noisy behavior after 9:00 p.m., people in the community feel that is going too far. There are also places where people congregate. After 9:00 p.m. there are not many tots in the lot. This only applies to tot lots and playgrounds. Roll call. Voting aye – Rainey, Hansen, Wollin, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Holmes, Tisdahl. Voting nay – Moran. Motion carried (8-1). Alderman Rainey reported that the committee had amended Ordinance 87-O-05 – Liquor Control Regulations , changing the 11:00 p.m. restriction to 12:00 midnight. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: Planned Development - 1567 Maple Ave. - Consideration of the Plan Commission’s recommendation to deny a planned development at 1567 Maple Ave., which would consist of 126 condominium units and first floor commercial space for Winthrop Properties. Alderman Bernstein reported that this item was held in committee. Housing Rehabilitation Guidelines – Consideration of the Housing Commission’s recommendation to increase loan maximums on single-family and multi-family rehab loans. Recommendations include increasing single-family loans from $30,000 to $40,000 and multi-family loans from $7,500 to $12,500 per unit. Alderman Bernstein reported the following amendments to this ordinance: single-family loans changed from $40,000 to $50,000 and multi-family loans changed from $12.500 to $20,000. With those amendments Alderman Bernstein moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Roll call. Voting aye – Rainey, Hansen, Wollin, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Holmes, Moran, Tisdahl. Voting nay – none. Motion carried (9-0). CALL OF THE WARDS: 9th Ward. Alderman Hansen announced a Town Hall meeting on September 27 at the Levy Center from 7:00-8:30 p.m. 13 September 12, 2005 She reported three parks will be renovated in the 9th Ward: Aiden Park, the Monroe Tot Lot and Sargent Lot. Neighborhood meetings will be held for each park from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m., the next evening (Sept. 13) for Aiden Park at Park School; Monroe Tot Lot on Wednesday, September 14 at Oakton School and Thursday, September 22 for Sargent Lot at Oakton School. 1st Ward. Alderman Wollin thanked neighbors, firefighters and police officers who came to the Fireman’s Park Community Picnic the day before; thought it was good beginning to bring neighbors and students together. 2nd Ward. Alderman Jean-Baptiste asked the city manager not to replace the items in their notebooks dealing with the project on Maple Avenue. He reported that he and Alderman Moran contacted former alderman Dennis Drummer and his wife Bernice. Both are fine and deep in cattle. 4th Ward. Alderman Bernstein congratulated Alderman Rainey on the award given to her by the Levy Center. He urged fellow aldermen to participate at the non-profit day at the Farmer’s Market on Saturday. He reported that Pauline Williams, former member of the Evanston Historical Society board, had passed away. 5th Ward. Alderman Holmes also congratulated Alderman Rainey on the Levy Center award. She, too, sent condolences to the family of Pauline Williams who was a role model in the community. She called attention to the Campus Kitchen Project at Northwestern University; attended a closing ceremony for their Healthy Returning Class of 2005 where they had worked with young people from Family Focus who were taught healthy cuisine. It was a wonderful afternoon and dinner. She reported the Firemen’s Park block club in the 5th Ward, plus many more occasions including the Laurel Street Group, Hovland Court Group and West End Block Club and several back to school parties. She reminded residents there would be the regular 5th Ward organization meeting on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. at Fleetwood-Jourdain Center. They will discuss the neighborhood plan and City staff will be present to answer questions. 6th Ward. Alderman Moran announced a 6th Ward meeting Tuesday, September 20, 7:00 p.m., at the North Branch Library with Chief Kaminski, Sergeant Meyer and Officer Kevin Heron, who is their nighttime beat cop. They will talk about recurring problems related to tagging, vandalism, and bicycle theft. Alderman Moran expressed happiness at the introduction that evening of the three ordinances for the creation of a West Side TIF. He looked forward to their adoption and to finally make this step forward, which is a historic moment. He reported on his call to Dennis Drummer (in Louisiana), who seemed surprised to hear from him. It was the first land line call the Drummer’s had received in a week. Dennis Drummer said hello to everybody. 7th Ward. Alderman Tisdahl extended her sympathy to the family of Jeff Taggert, the Business Manager at ETHS for many years. Her sympathy extends to the entire ETHS family who relied on him. At 12:09 a.m., Alderman Bernstein moved that the City Council convene into Executive Session to discuss matters of litigation and closed session minutes pursuant to 5 ICS 120/2 (c) (11) and (21). Seconded by Alderman Wynne. (11) Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. (21) Discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this Act, whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by Section 2.06. Roll call. Voting aye – Rainey, Hansen, Wollin, Jean-Baptiste, Wynne, Bernstein, Holmes, Moran, Tisdahl. Voting nay – 14 September 12, 2005 none. Motion carried (9-0). There being no further business to come before the Council, Mayor Morton asked for a motion to adjourn and the Council so moved at 12:11 a.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 Clerk’s office.