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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 2001-2005f Draft —Not Approved The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of Februarv, 28, 2001 Alderman Wynne called the meeting to order at 6:12 p.m. Members Present: Alderman Wynne, Giddings, Hammerschlag, and Perman Reynolds (Associate Member), Cook (6:20pm) Members Absent: Alderman Newrmn, Alderman Bernstein, Woolridge Staff Present: Jennings, Baucom, Aiello Visitors: Peter Thomas (Unicorn Cafd), Troy Thiel (Small Business Assn.), Eric Forte, Dean of Students (Kendall College) Report on Short-term Meters on Benson/Clark David Jennings advised that 30 min. meters have been placed on 1700 Benson Ave. in front of the GNC Store and at the SE comer of Clark & Benson on Clark, as the Committee requested. He said the meters are being enforced, Jean Baucom said the only negative she has received came from a member of the Evanston Athletic Club. Discussion followed among members of the parking committee and the audience regarding mixed time limits within blocks, where and why they might be used, and the inherent problems of enforcement and public perception. Citicorp request for short-term meters David Jennings and Judy Aiello advised the City has recently received a request from Citicorp to have short-term meters placed on the north side of Church St., between Benson and Sherman, for their new location. Ms. Aiello said that originally Citicorp had requested dedicated spaces for their customers, but this was denied by staff. Ms. Aiello said that Citicorp %%ill likely come to the March Parking Committee meeting to discuss parking and other strategies for their employees and customers. John Hammerschlag suggested that rates for 10 min. at the short-term meters should be S0.25. Alderman Wynne suggested that signs be more visible for short-term parking spares. 1800 Maple Self Park Undate David Jennings said the art glass is still to be installed. He noted that there is high use both on weekdays and on weekends. There have been 2 meetings regarding operational issues and signage. Those participating in these meetings include representatives from the Police Department. City Manager's Office, Public Works, Facilities Management, Century Theater. Standard Parking, and Arthur Hill Co. He said that the temporary LED signage is working well to direct cars at the second level to proceed to upper floors. One of the current problems revolves around people ►wanting to stop to prepay/purchase tickets for later shows that night as well as future days. Tickets can be purchased up to one week in advance. This group is looking at how to get cars in and out quickly. Consideration is being given to stripping parking on Maple to create a loading zone. One of the concerns is the impact this might have on valet parking. The need for 15 minute parking on both sides of Clark St. between Benson Ave. and the %iaduct to the west was brought up and some photos were passed around. These zones had been allowed to provide loading zones for Papa Johns and Jimmy Johns. Everyone on the Committee agreed that the traffic volume for the new garage is too high to allow parking on both sides of Clark. David Jennings recommended removing parking on the north side on a trial basis to reduce congestion at the intersection. The Committee directed him to remove the parking. John Hanunerschlag asked if temporary parking could be allowed in the alley between the theaters and the CTA tracks. Mr. Jennings and his. Aiello advised that this area is not City property. It belongs to the CTA, and the City has agreed to keep it open at all tunes. Aid. Wynne asked about the status of the traffic signal for Clark and Maple. Mr. Jennings advised that we are waiting on mast arms and the controller. These materials are due in March. He added that, on the day the signal was to be turned on at Church and Maple, the signal was knocked down by a delivery truck for Powers Construction (McDougal-Littel building) and that the back panel must be rebuilt. He said this panel is expected back in the next few days. John Hammerschlag commented that he had seen a flier for the theaters but it did not mention anything about valet parking. He wondered if this was a mistake. Mr. Hammerschlag also asked about light leakage from the new garage. Richard Cook said he did not like the look from Ridge Avenue and believes the City should do something about the back walls as well as the lighting. Discussion followed among the various Committee members and City staff that this is an aesthetic issue. that no plans had been included in the original design to address the west side panels, that no negative comments had been received from nearby residents and that some comments had been positive because they can easily identify where the new garage and theater are located, that there have been positive comments about the light brightening up Clark & Oak; that the City of Chicago now requires shielding so that light does not spillover from garages; and that there is a need to balance required openings with lighting to provide a perception of openness. It was also suggested that a partial screening could be used. Ald. Wynne suggested that the Committee needs to visit the garage area rather than try to address this issue at this time. It was also suggested that there may be a need to have an architect look at the west side along with Walker Parking, which designed the building. Chicago -Main Corridor Richard Cook outlined the process the Plan Commission is using to evaluate parking around Main & Chicago. He said that when the report is finished, it should be brought to the table, so to speak, for consideration in other areas of town by the Parking Committee. Planning & Development, etc. He said that private developers should be encouraged to develop public parking as part of their design. Alderman Wynne agreed, saying that changes from commercial to housing need to require more than 1 space per unit, because that is really not enough parking. 4ir. Cook added that it is important to have city lots and garages located %where there is a need and that the need for public parking will continue to be an issue as development continues. He acknowledged the costs of building parking and said that special taxing districts may be needed to provide public parking. He asked whether the parking issue should be in Planning & Development Committee or part of the Parking Committee. The unanimous decision was that it should be in the Parking Committee. Alderman Wynne said that the City should look at existing City parking lots that could be developed and put this information out for developers to tell the City what they could do. Discussion followed among the members that some parcels would be more suitable than others and that the size and location of the lot has an impact on whether public parking can be constructed due to the amount of room required to ramp floors. Aid. Wynne concluded the discussion by stating, that City should look at what incentives might be offered to private developers to include public parking, citing the Rozack project on Chicago near Dempster. Staff will put together a list of potential lots. Removal of Parking at Main & Custer Item 94 was placed on the agenda to discuss removing 2 parking spaces on Main St. at Custer Ave. to improve sight distance and increase safety. David Jennings advised that Alderman Bernstein had requested the Committee hold on this subject until a future meeting. The Committee agreed to hold the matter. Kendall College Parking Needs Jean Baucom introduced Dean Eric Forte from Kendall College. Dean Forte advised that Kendall has been in Evanston for a very loam time as a liberal arts college. Initially their schools had only resident students, but over the years the number of commuter students has increased. They have developed several small parking areas, but these lots cannot accommodate their need. He pointed out that there is no place on the campus to build additional parking and that the streets in the area have either a 2-hour time limit or a resident permit requirement. They have tried to develop other options including shuttle service from outlying areas, but have not been successful. He requested the City to allow Kendall to have permits for neighborhood streets. Jean Baucom advised that she had worked for the last 2 years very closely with Kendall and could confirm that Kendall had tried to arrange parking with Northwestern. Presbyterian Home, Baha'I Properties in Wilmette. She said that over the last couple of years the Parking Committee had agreed and that she'd provided some special parking permits to Kendall for use by commuter. The was only one resident who complained. and this resident lived close to Central. Discussion followed about the needs of Roycemore. Kendall, the Montessori School at Kendall and about the location of unregulated parking in the area, as well as the impact of NU students living in on -campus housing on Lincoln and Sheridan. Dean Forte advised that he believes they need about 70 permits to meet the needs of daytime staff and faculty, daytime students, and resident students. John Hammerschiag asked if they had considered valet parking for their lot. The Dean was asked how many resident students they have, and he responded that the number is close to 200. He said that most of these students do not have cars, but for those who do parking can be a problem. After further discussion. the Committee decided to allow 25 permits to be sold to Kendall for the period which expires June 30th. that Dean Forte would be responsible for issuing and collecting for the permits, that the permits would be available to resident students. and that hopefully this would free up some of the parking on Lincoln and Sherman adjacent to the dorms for use by commuter students, faculty. and staff. Staff was directed to advise Alderman Engelman. . Emnlovee Meter Feeding in Downtown Peter Thomas. Unicom Cafe, said he and other businesses in the area arc concerned about the number of employees who are meter -feeding and reducing customer parking in the downtown. He said he has observed employees from the music store down the block going out and feeding several meters a day as a matter of routine. He questioned what can they do to reduce meterfeeding and what can they do to promote the employers to get their employees out of the meters. David Jennings said that staff ►►•iIl be doing some intensive turn -over studies on several blocks and later follow that up with enforcement. Alderman Wynne said in the Main Street area business people called each and told them when they say employees of that business parking at the meters. Troy Thiel said he represents the Small Business Association in Evanston and that they believe the more multi -national chain stores and their employees don't care what is going on in the same %%av that the small businesses care. He and .Mr. Thomas both related that it is very difficult to get the employees to move their cars when the store managers are parking on the street, too. Paul Giddings said that recently he found the Central Business District full by 9am and believes these are not customers' cars but employees' in the tall buildings. Jean Baucom advised that, years ago when there was a parking restriction on the first levels of the Sherman Garage before 10 A.M., it was a morning ritual to see employees park on the street and then move cars into the garage so they could be on the first floor. She also pointed out that today there are many therapists and professional offices in the downtown which begin seeing clients by 7:30am and 8:00 am. Renewal of Contract for CPS Parking Jean Baucom and David Jennings reviewed the memo, which had been provided to the Committee regarding renewal and fee increase for the garage operations and management contract with CPS Parking for the Church St. Self Park and the Sherman Ave. Garage. The Committee approved the "-tension and the new fees. The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m Respectfully submitted. Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of October 24, 2001 Alderman Newman called the meeting to order at 6:10 P.M. Members Present: Alderman Newman, Alderman Wynne, Jonathan Perman, Richard Cook, Troy Thiel Members Absent Alderman Bernstein, George WooIridge, Paul Giddings Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Baucom, Keith Fujihara, Judy Aiello, Doug Gaynor, Max Rubin Visitors: Lincoln Schatz, Dan Garrison, Ron Nailer, Lucille Krasnow, Mary Singh, Arlene Naas, Oliver GooId, Steven and Gay Russell -Dempsey, Beth Steffen, Michael Callans, Marty Norkett (7:45pm) Public Art at the 1800 Manle Self Park Doug Gaynor, Director of Parks, Forestry and Recreation, summarized the proposed contract between the City of Evanston and the artist, Lincoln Schatz. Mr. Gaynor explained that the artwork would be completed and installed by July, 2002. Mr. Schatz indicated that the artwork would take around two days to install. Max Rubin, Director of Facilities Management, said that a small crane would probably be required to lift the panels in place. Mr, Rubin explained that there would always be an entrance to the garage open during the artwork's installation. Alderman New -man requested that when a time schedule is finalized, Mr. Gaynor would make it available to the Parking Committee. Mr. Gaynor agreed. Alderman Newman moved for the approval of the contract. The vote was unanimously agreed to. David Jennings will try to have the contract on the November 12`h City Council meeting. Jon Perman advised Messrs. Schatz and Gaynor that, if the date for installation could be prior to the Yd weekend in June, they would have an excellent marketing opportunity because 20,000+ people will attend the Fountain Square Arts Festival to be held a few blocks away. Both Messrs. Gaynor and Schatz agreed this is a really good incentive to get the work up as early as possible. Possible Change of Ordinance Reeardine Parkin,e on Sidewalks Dan Garrison, resident at 1228 Simpson Street, requested a change in the City of Evanston's ordinances to ensure that vehicles do not overhang onto the public sidewalks. Mr. Garrison cited examples of these violations on the 800 block off Simpson, which he supported with pictures of vehicles that had bumpers overhanging while others had tires on the sidewalk. Mr. Garrison believes the problem is worse because parking enforcement officers are allowed to discretion. He believes that if a line is dropped plumb with the edge of the sidewalk that no part of a vehicle should be beyond that point. David Jennings explained that enforcement was a discretionary act by both Police and the parking enforcement officer and may not be totally consistent from case to case. Mr. Jennings commented that parking enforcement should try to target the more blatant cases. Mr. Garrison felt that the entire sidewalk should be cleared and that discretion should not be used. Mr. Garrison feels that the existinz ordinance does not clearly define and protect the sidewalk from the overhang of a vehicle and proposed that the ordinance be revised to prohibit parking within 6 feet of a sidewalk. Mr. Jennings feels that the existing code is clear and addresses what %fr. Garrison's concerns. Judy Aiello, assistant City Manager, stated '.!;at Alderman Kent, staff, herself, and some of the residents in the neighborhood met a week ago to discuss issues such as parking, trash and parties. Ms. Aiello indicated that the area in question is bounded by Emerson, Foster, Ridge, and the CTA tracks. his. Aiello stated that a meeting occurred Iast night with herself, the Vice President of Student Affairs for Northwestern University, President of the Student Government, and about a half a dozen Northwestern students discussing those issues and housing overcrowding. Ms. Aiello stated that the City of Evanston will be providing the Northwestem University's Department of Student Affairs information on resident parking districts, snow removal ordinances, housing ordinances, etc. She said the Department will then hire an attorney to assist the students with their leases so then are not taken advantage of by the landlords. The student body will be having meetings during the winter discussing off -campus housing issues. Mr. Garrison was at the meeting and acknow seated that most of his issues were discussed. Mr. Perman stated that discretion needs to still be made. In business districts, trucks may temporarily block areas for deliveries. Aid. Newman moved amending the ordinance which prohibits vehicles from parking on a sidewalk to include the phrase "on in such a way as to obstruct any portion thereof' but without tine provision for the six feet to be submitted to A&PW. The committee unanimously agreed. Mr. Jennings will in, to get this ready and on the November 12' agenda. Northwestern Universitti Discussion on various Campus Parking Afatters Ron Nailer, Associate Vice President of Northwestern University, and Lucille Krasnow, Special Assistant to the Senior Vice President of Norhwestern University, spoke on parking and shuttle issues for Northwestern University. He said they have tried to focus on three major areas, including how to improve use of their existing parking supply, how to reduce the demand for parking, and how to expand their supply. Mr. Nailer commented on the following issues: 1. Northwestern University does meet the City of Evanston's parking requirements under its zoning provisions without using Ryan Field's parking to meet this requirement. 2. Reducing Parking Demand - NU has enl ar`ed the Walking Zone If a faculty member, staff member or student lives within a certain zone, a parking sticker for on -campus parking is not available. The current zone is south of Central Street, east of Ridge and north of Lake. The previous zone was Emerson„ Harrison and Davis. People who live in the walking zone can utilize Ryan Field for parking at a reduced price of S 251year and use the shuttle system around campus. It costs over $3001year to park on campus with a sticker. Alderman Newman asked Mr. Nailer to provide any additional information regarding the University's existing parking policies. Mr. Nailer agreed to make available to the Parking Committee their parking rates. ticket structure and other information regarding their parking and shuttle service Shuttle Service a. There is intra-campus-shuttle service thrcLighout the Evanston campus area and around Ryan Field and the Central Metr «hich operates between 6:45a.m.-9:35a.m., 3:45p.m.-7:00p.m. on a Monday — Friday basis. There is also Sunday night service, which allows students who live within the "no parking permit" zone to use campus lots cn weekends. b. This inter -campus shuttle goes from tFx Chicago NU campus to Loyola campus at Chicago & Sheridan to the Evanston campus from 4:30 ANI to I I PM. Northwestern will provide the City c: Evanston the ridership numbers 4. Ryan Field a. Sophomores and Juniors can park at Ryan Field for S 25/year. Sophomores and Juniors cannot get parking permits through the University. b. Approximately 250 permits have been issued for this dear, and they expect to take over more space next spring when Eva:-ston Hospital's use of the log ends. This should add about 700 more spaces for next school year. 5. Lark Drive (Temporary Parking) - This temporary area provides parking only for Contractors only during construction. 6. Temporary Parking Lot behind Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), 1856 Sheridan - A proposal has been submitted for 52 spaces for 8 years, gravel or ground up asphalt, behind this facility. Arlene Haas, area resident, advised the cc:,cem of the residents regarding a temporary lot is the amount of dust and drainage issues. 7. Clark & Hinman, NW corner of C1arkfHinman — NU has proposed a 20 spaces for visitors going to the admissions office Aid. Newman inquired about current use of the 16 spaces behind Admissions Building and asked why those University employees parking there could not park at the South Lot (1 block away) and then make the 16 spaces available for visitors. Discussion followed among the committee, NU, and the audience regarding parking in the Clark & Hinman neighborhood. Lucille Krasnow advised that 50% of the spaces at the Admissions Building are used by the `'U Police. Aid. Newman said he had heard that NU's Police Department may be changing locations, which may also free up spaces at the Admissions Building. his. Krasnow and Mr. Nailer advised that there are plans under consideration to construction new Police offices in the garage that will eventually be built at Maple & Foster, but they do not anticipate this occurring in the near future. It was also pointed out that at the first NU -neighborhood meeting questions regarding lighting, exit to alley, materials were raised about the lot at NW Clark & Hinman. NU responded to those. At second meeting, residents voiced they did not want the lot, but would support the temporary lot behind Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Residents also questioned [use possibility of transferring control over parking spaces on Hinman Ave. to University. Aid. Newman said the City would not relinquish public parking spaces on -street to Northwestern; however, Ald. Newman said that since the area is unrestricted parking presently, the Parking Committee could make the parking on Hinman in that area 2, 3 or 4 hour parking, which would assist the University. 8. Foster & Maple Garage: This facility will not be developed immediately. Mr. mailer advised because it would be counter productive to remove existing parking while there are several other major construction projects still in progress on the campus. «'hen the current construction projects end, the plans will move forward on a garage for this site. Aid. Newman asked why NU had not built parking east of Sheridan Road as part of a multi -use facility instead of planning for this garage some 5 blocks away. Mr. Nailer indicated there is an agreement between the University and the City of Evanston, which was made as part of the land swap in the Research Park that the University would build parking for 1801 Maple (164 spaces), for the development for Parcel 7, and for uses for U-I District on the south end of the campus, and also provide parking for the shuttle route at the Foster & Maple location. Aid. Newman then asked why NU does not consider a multi -purpose building on Parcel 7 and questioned by people in the former GIRL building would walk to Foster & Maple when they can pay the City's rate and walk across the street to 1800 Maple. Mr. Nailer responded that they (NU) will likely charge less to park in the Foster -Maple facility than the City charges for its garage. He said they will likely charge the same rate for a permit on campus regardless of where someone parks and that this will be an incentive for people to use their garage which is only 2 blocks away. !on Perman thanked Mr. Nailer for his presentation and commented that, after all of the construction at NU and in the Central Business District, there may be a surplus of parking in the City garages near Foster & Maple. He said he believes it is in the best interest of everyone to treat this area as one market, blending NU and City agenda so that in 2 to 3 years it may not be necessary to build or build as large a facility on that site. Aid. Newman pointed out that there are concerns of having enough parking and the ability to meet parking needs based on future growth. The sizes of the new 1800 Maple Garage and the new one for Sherman Ave. were designed to meet the needs of the development of the theaters and the buildings presently planned for Church Street and Sherman Avenue. If there is other growth in the downtown, it will be necessary to have sufficient parking to meet that growth. Mr. Perman reiterated that there is a need to blend and to consider the market as a whole rather that the separate entities. Mr. Nailer advised that the doors are open and NU is willing to talk and work together on parking issues. Michael Callas of the Foster -Maple neighborhood thanked everyone for their various perceptions and concern for maintaining residential neighborhoods in this area. He said he felt the neighborhood had not been informed about the signage that was being used on Maple Avenue and that now he looks out his windows and sees the large Century Theater sign. The Sign Board never talked or told the area residents, and there was never any information provided to the residents that allowed them to comment on the impact of this decisions. He said he hopes this will not be the case when something is approved for the Foster -Maple property. He is still concerned that having a garage built will change the character of the area and put too much traffic there. He feels additional traffic control is needed, including a cul-de-sac so that vehicles cannot use Maple as a cut -through. Mr. Nailer advised that NU has been working with the representative from the Fireman's Park Neighborhood, and they will continue to provide information through that contact. AIderman Newman adjourned the meeting at 8:08 P.M. pectfully submitted, n Baucom Keith Fujibara king Systems Manager Deputy Public Works Director The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of November 1.1.2001 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:11 P.M. without a quorum Members Present: Alderman Newman, Richard Cook, Troy Thicl, Aid. Wynne and Paul Giddings arrived at 6:27 p.m.; David Reynolds (Associate Member) Members Absent: Jon Perman, George Woolridge Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Haucom, Keith Fujihara, Judy Aiello, Herb Hill Visitors: Arthur Hill, Mike Ginter, Matt Lopas, John Lyman 1800 Manle Sell' Park & Arthur Hill Proiect: Alderman Newman said he would like to talk about the 1800 Maple Self Park, and turned the meeting over to David Jennings to discuss parking in and around the parking facility. Mr. Jennings advised there is short-term parking both on -street in the 1700 block of Maple and on the first level of the new garage. He said there is a 30 min. limit on -street to provide a loading zone for the shops and on the first Ievel of the garage to allow sufficient time to run across to the theaters to purchase advance tickets. This time limit had been requested by the Hill Company before the garage was completed. He noted that the 30-min. spaces in the garage are underutilized and that there had been a meeting on Tuesday with the City Manager and Arthur Hill, during which they discussed changing the 30-min limit on the garage first level to a one hour time limit, while leaving the on -street parking at 30-min. Mr. Hill said this was an accurate description and stated his company will cover costs for the new signs. He added that he has received a mixed response from his merchants as to the on -street time limit. lie stated that the intent is to utilize the Maple Ave. self park and the merchants are trying to acclimate their customers to use the garage. Aid. Newman stated he does not know how we get people to know there is free one -hour parking in the garage. fir. Jennings responded that this information is posted on the entrance rate signs and that there is signage on Maple. Mr. Hill said he believes the signs on the first level are attractive (30-min signs); however, they are hard to read. He believes the most important spaces are the 6 or so right in front of the entrance gates from Maple entrance and the 25 or so adjacent to these. He feels it would be valuable to have these areas signed for 1 hour Free parking because most areas competing with this area have free close by parking. Troy Thiel asked Mr. Hill if the merchants promote short-term parking in their ads. Mr. Hill said this is a good idea, but they don't currently do this. Mr. Thiel also suggested that the Hill Company could use slides at the beginning of each theater presentation to promote parking. Air. Hill concurred. adding that a collection effort is important to improve retail sales for this area. Mr. Thiel asked about the angle parking which had previously been talked about. Alr. Jennings said that angle parking had not been put in due to the conflict of backing and the traffic flow. He said that many U-turns would have been experienced as can be witnessed a block away on Benson and that it was for safety reasons that these spaces were not implemented. Ald. Ne ATnan stated that every merchant should have signs to promote One Hour Free Parking in the garage, and Mr. Hill agreed and stressed they would promote better signage because this one hour is important. During the discussion, Alderman Wynne and Paul Giddings arrived, making a quorum. The official meeting began at 6:30 p.m. Discussion continued about the reservation of the flat bays on Levels 2 and 3 at the 1800 Maple Self Park. Mr. Hill noted that he had observed times when these levels were open prior to late morning. David Jennings explained that their had been some mechanical problems, but at the present time the gates are left down from Midnight until 11 A.M., when they are manually raised by garage staff. He noted that flexiguide posts have been installed adjacent to the gates to prevent people from driving around the gates. The next issue discussed was parking rates at the various City garages. Ald. Newman stated that, at an earlier meeting of the Parking Committee, there had been discussion about offering free parking for those entering after 6P%t; however, the intent now is to implement charging all evening when the Sherman Ave. garage is rebuilt. Mr. Hill said they had asked for some relief and had been told the City required all fees to be the same. He stated they are bitter because there are different rates and they feel they've never heard an acceptable explanation from the City as to why they are getting the short end. He contrasted that people going to Bar Louie can park for free while those going to Wolfgang Puck are charged for parking. Ald. Newman said it is unfortunate that we are where we're at, but changes will be coming. Paul Giddings added that the Parking Committee had also agreed it was going to review the entire parking issue of rates and times for on -street and off-street parking and that this is still in progress. The focus turned to the parking of U.S. Postal Service vehicles in the garage. Mr. Jennings said the staff have hidden as many as they can; but the Postal Service has 17 that don't get in the west are and are being parked behind the garage management office, which can be seen when other vehicles enter the garage. He said the Postal Service had been moved into the garage at the City's request and need to have their vehicles in one location. Discussion followed regarding having permit parkcrs park on the upper levels, the impact to the Postal Service to have to drive vehicles up and down as well as walk between their building and this garage, the desire to provide convenient parking for shoppers. etc. Mr. Jennings said he and Jean Baucom, Parking System %tanager, will look at possible options to relocate some or all of these vehicles. especially those right at the entrance. Nlr. Hill said he entered the garage on a Sunday morning and was stunned to see the rear of the white vans belonging to the Postal Service at the entrance gates. He feels these are the most important spaces and that at least the 6 or so right in front of the gates should be relocated. He stated the new an Gallery will be opening south of the World Market and that he fervently requests that the spaces right at the gate be made shopper parking. Aid. Newman said he feels the City must push long-term parkers up in the new 13 story garage; otherwise, it will be a failure. He said he «ants to have the U.S. Postal Service come to the next meeting to explain or defend their needs for spaces on the first level. Hilton Gardens -- Parking Spaces Mike Ginter. Manager of the Hilton Gardens, said he had been asked by the Hotel to come to the City to discuss their concerns about the 178 parking spaces which are supposed to be for the Hotel's use. He said it is their understanding that they 178 spaces were to be used as they saw fit and that anything over that would have to be paid for. He said the hotel had decided not to pursue this difference of opinion at the time as its main interest was to get the hotel open. When the hotel opened, it approached the City with a settlement offer which would have provided 178 spaces to use as the hotel determines or to provide employees of the hotel a $2 all -day rate plus ten (10) complimentary spaces for the hotel. Herb Hill, Assist Corporation Council for the City. of Evanston. advised that the language in the lease is clear and that the on]), group of people not to be charged for parking by the City are the registered, overnight hotel guests. Mr. Hill read portions of the lease regarding the number of spaces and their use. He concluded by stating that there is no difference of opinion and no settlement to be made because the language clearly stated how they spaces were to be used. Mr. Hill said he has reviewed minutes of the City Council -and that they show the intent was to provide free parking for the overnight guests only. He noted that the Hill Company and their attorney Mark Yates had both approved of the language and understood the intent. Aid. Newman asked if there were any comments from any of the Parking Committee members. All felt the Ianguage was very clear. Ald. Newman said he appreciates and loves the fact that Hilton is here, but on the otherhand, Evanston has existing hotels that have to provide parking for their guests and can't have different policies for employees of these hotels. He said that this matter had been taken seriously, and no one had expected that the hotel would use all 180 spaces but, if that happened, we were prepared to provide them. Mr. Ginter said that there appears to be a different understanding of the lease and he vyill take this back to the hotel owners. He said he appreciated the Parking Committee's time; however, he feels there is an uneven playing field with no concessions. He commented that the Orrington has its own garage where its employees can park and that the Holiday Inn also has a garage adjacent where its employees can park. David Reynolds stated that the issue is employee parking and that this issue must be kept equal for all. The City is not in a position to provide reduced rate parking for employees of one company and not to others. Aid. Newman added that it is disappointing that the hotel feels this way because the Citv's costs for security, lighting, etc., need to be appreciated. He said costs could have been S18 million versus the S22 million. David Reynolds pointed out that the Cite had spent additional sums to provide a private entrance with elevator for the hotel to the garage. There was a brief pause in the meeting as Messrs. Arthur Hill. Herb Hill, and Ginter left the meeting. Monte Ave. Exterior Facade & Grillwork: David Jennings presented photos of the Maple Ave. & University PI. exposures of the garage. He explained that the impression of the architectural drawings was to have a horizontal pattern using square tubing. However, that was later changed to galvanized angle -iron grillwork. The angular element was added to support the galvanized elements; however. in the renderings they never showed up. The installation; however, results in them becoming a focal point. Mr. Jennings pointed out that at the last Parking Committee meeting approval had been given of the public artwork to be installed on the front of the garage. He said that he felt the Committee should view the building as it appears now so that if any changes are to be made they can be prior to installing the art. He also noted that if any charges are desired, it is important to convey this information before supports are designed and installed for the public art as the materials might need to be changed. Ald. Wynne asked why the materials had been changed from the square tubing. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Aiello said they did not know the exact reason. but could try to find out if they Committee wanted. Richard Cook left the meeting at this time (7.00 P.M.) in order to attend the Plan Commission Meeting. Mr. Jennings proceeded with the slides of the various views of the garage and the grillwork. He suggested that an option would be to remove the grillwork and install precast concrete panels to match other areas on the east garage face, Paul Giddings and David Jennings both commented that the background will be much better for the artwork if the angle lines are removed. Aid. Wynne said she felt the look of the unfinished sides of the poured -in -place concrete is unattractive and expressed interest in determining the feasibility of installing panels to hide this unfinished concrete. Ms. Aiello pointed out that this pattern is also reflected on the north side of the building and should be addressed on that side, too. Mr. Thiel asked abut the west side of the building. Mr. Jennings and Aid. Neuman discussed the need to maintain openness during the day for light and ventilation; however, both agreed that someone needs to look at that side to see what could be done to shield the brightness of the light at night. Mr. Jennings said at this time he recommends the City contact the precast manufacturer to see what can be done on the front of the building as that will be the way to obtain the best match of color and material. The Committee agreed to direct Mr. Jennings to provided to get proposals and estimates. 1881 Oak Ave. --Surface tot at Oak & Emerson David Jennings and Jean Baucom discussed the possible options for operating this lot using all permits, all meters, and a combination of these methods. his. Baucom said she recommends placing meters around the perimeter of the lot and issuing permits for the center portion, because this will provide parking for employees as well as visitors. She said she would recommend installing both short-term (2-4 hr) meters and all -day meters based on some companies having clients who need to be parked for a few days a week and the Social Security Hearings office needing time limits around 3-4 hours. Paul Giddings asked what the rates would be. Ms. Baucom and Mr. Jennings suggested $55- S60 including all taxes for the monthly permits and S2 for the all -day meters, which matches the other all -day meters in the downtown. The Committee Cave approval for staff to proceed to install meters and permits and to allow staff to work with the number of meters and time limits. The Committee asked to be kept informed. Citv Needs & Parking Fund Status: Aid. Newman began this discussion by advising that the City has been considering the purchase of new financial software at a cost of $3.5 million and that S400,000 of this was to be paid from the Parking Fund. Although the City is not proceeding with the purchase of this software, he is concerned there is sufficient money to support Parking System projects such as: (a) improving parking lots, (b) replacing meters in the outlying areas so they all have the I0 minute grace period, and (c) maintaining the Church -Chicago garage which is now I2 years old. Aid. Newman said he would like to spend a meeting reviewing the Parking Fund status. David Jennings advised that the Parking Fund is in good shape. He distributed a list of Parking System projects for 2001 and 2002 and described a few of them: Municipal Service Center — CNG fueling is being installed and 1/3 of the lot has been resurfaced. These costs are being paid out of the CIP budget. Church St. Parking Lane — at Church and Dodge, the City pushed back the walk on the south side of Church, west of Dodge, to create a parking lane so we would have two traffic lanes. Civic Center -- an addition to the Civic Center lot in the green space south of the boiler building was introduced to the neighborhood, but this was met with a lot of opposition. It has been placed on hold; but there is money in the Parking Fund to pay for the expansion. Surfacing of Trot I I at Foster "El" and at 901 University — the City is still trying to get an agreement with the CTA which would allow us to improve these two parcels. The CTA wants to tie these two in with several other locations for a single lease. Aid. Newman asked that Committee be provided with a copy of the draft lease whenever it becomes available. Minutes from Previous Meetings Mr. Jennings noted that minutes from the last Parking Committee meeting plus those from 3 other meetings (Dec. 1999, June 2000, and Feb. 2001) have been prepared and included with the handouts for this meeting. He asked that they be reviewed and before the next meeting. He said that minutes from several other meetings will be distributed at the next committee meeting. Meterfeeding & Enforcement Troy Thiel asked if everyone had received the comments he had distributed earlier in the month. He said he is concerned about the impact meter feeding has on the do%tintown and the need to create some kind of incentives to get merchants to get their employees out of these meters. Ald. Ne«man asked that meter feeding and night-time parking be placed on the agenda for the next meeting and that level of enforcement and incentives be discussed then. The meeting u-as adjourned at 8:05 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of January 23, 2002 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:08 P.M. with a quorum Members Present: Aid. Newman, Aid. Bernstein, Troy Thiel, Aid. Wynne, Jonathan Perman, and David Reynolds (Associate Member) Members Absent: Richard Cook, George Woolridge, and Paul Giddings Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Baucom, Keith Fujihara, and Jacquelyn Johnson Visitors: Michael Kobler, Evanston Postmaster, Martha Thomas, USPS, and Thomas Aiken, USPS Interim Parking Plan for Sherman Avenue Garage Construction Alderman Newman raised the question if Troy Thiel had met with David Jennings to discuss the interim parking plan during the construction of the Klutznick Project. They had not met yet, but Aid. Newman explained the interim parking plan would be to use the Maple Street Garage for about 95°% of the parkers being relocated. David Jennings stated this move was approved in the October 2001 Parking Committee Meeting. Both Aid. Newman and David Jennings agreed the Parking Committee is committed to reviewing the interim plan when the construction starts to see if the parkers are moving over to the Maple Street Garage. Movinq the United States Post Office Vehicles to the 51' Floor of the Maple Street Self Park Aid. Newman welcomed the visitors from the post office and gave a brief history of where the post office vehicles have been parking. Aid. Newman stated that by the request of the local merchants the USPS vehicles were moved out of city parking lot 27, next to the old Oak Street Market, to open spaces for the business parking. The USPS vehicles were relocated to city lot 25 on Maple Avenue, which the City fenced in for security. Aid. Newman questioned if some of the vehicles went to another lot. Jean Baucam, Parking System Manager, explained the Parking Committee negotiated for the USPS to move their vehicles from lot 27 to city lot 25 and to purchase 80 permits for their employee's cars in the Research Park parking lot. Ms. Baucom also explained that the USPS did not have to purchase the 80 permits once the Research Park surface lot had been removed. Next, Aid. Newman mentioned the USPS vehicles were moved out of lot 25. David Jennings, Director of Public Works, explained vehicles were moved because of construction across the alley from the lot. There was not enough room to build the Focus development without encroaching on lot 25. The lot is also being used for construction offices and staging for Focus. The vehicles were next moved to the new Maple Street Self Park on the bottom floor. Arthur Hill registered the complaint that the USPS vehicles were parking in the short-term spaces meant for the businesses. The Parking Committee recommended moving the vehicles to a higher floor. Mr. Jennings felt the 4" floor was better than the 5"" floor to since the vehicles would not be exposed to the elements. The 4" floor is currently where the vehicles are being parked. Aid. Newman asked Postmaster Michael Kobler to tell the committee what his concerns are and why this change does not fit their needs. Mr. Kobler said they came to this meeting to see what the USPS future is in relation to parking in Evanston. He said they had heard rumors that they were going to have to find alternative parking. They did look at the USPS vehicle maintenance facility on Emerson, but that would only accommodate eleven vehicles at one time. Aid. Newman asked Mr. Kobler why the 4" floor was not appropriate for their needs. Mr. Kobler said the 4T" floor causes problems with backing and the tight turning radius creating a higher risk of accidents with other customers. The 2nd floor is preferable because the vehicles are able to come in one end and exit the other easily. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom explained that they were never on the 2nd floor just the back of the 1" in order to move them out of the 30-minute spaces. After the 1 S1 floor the vehicles were moved up to the 4" floor. Mr. Kobler also explained the higher floors cause a problem with tow truck access. After a brief discussion, the Committee and the USPS agreed for the long term that city lot 25 would be returned to them after construction. That lot will hold 44 vehicles, with the remaining 22 being parked in the Maple Street Self Park. In the interim, 46 postal vehicles will park in the back of the first floor of the Maple Street Garage. The remaining 17 will park on the fourth floor. Aid. Newman questioned if the back of the first floor was sectioned off for the post office. Mr. Jennings stated that it had, but currently it is not. Aid. Newman asked the committee members if anyone had a problem to have the area designated for the USPS and there were no objections. Mr. Jennings said the area would be sectioned off for the postal vehicles. Mr. Kobler :ranted to know when city lot 25 would be returned for the USPS use. Mr. Jennings and Alderman Steven Berstein concurred that the construction was moving along well and that the lot would be returned in less than a year. After concluding the parking garage concerns, there was a brief discussion started by Jonathan Perman on where the USPS employees are parking their personal vehicles. Mr. Kobler and Mr. Aiken both stated that they are parking anywhere they can. Mr. Jennings said the are parking on Wesley and Asbury and that the employees are under no obligation to park in the Maple Street Self Park. Mr. Kobler said a good number are now taking public transportation and that there is no money in the budget to subsidize the employee's parking. Mr. Perman questioned if Mr. Kobler's employees were using or even aware of the "Transit Check" system. Mr. Kobler said no, but they would be glad to hear about it. Mr. Perman stated it is a system that would benefit the employees and that he will call Mr. Kobler to discuss the details. Discussion of Revised Parkins Fine Structure Aid. Newman provided a background on this item. The City Manger proposed a budget, which included an increase in parking fines of $400,000.00, by increasing the expired meter fine from $10 to $20. Aid. Newman felt that this increase would not be good for the downtown area business by penalizing shoppers who make a mistake. After a discussion between the City Manager, Aid. Newman, and Mr. Jennings, Mr. Jennings came up with alternative way to raise the $400,000.00 without increasing the expired meter fine. Parking Fines Budget Memo #5 (Exhibit A) is an explanation of alternative parking fine structures. The first chart shows the fines Mr. Jennings felt could be increased to raise the $400,000.00. The second chart is the combined effort of Mr. Jennings and Aid. Newman to raise the additional money through fines that were not the result of accidental behavior, but from behavior that was intentional and not in the interest of the community or public safety. Aid. Newman gave the example of the fine for parking in front of a fire hydrant would be raised from the existing $25.00 to $50.00. Aid. Newman emphasized the need to raise the $400,000.00 and reminded the committee that the intention is not to raise the fines on behavior that is accidental opposed to intentional. He asked the committee to review the memo and give any comments or suggestions. Alderman Melissa Wynne questioned the suggested increase of the fine for Parking In an Alley. She felt a higher fine would be a better deterrent. In her ward people are disregarding their neighbors needs for access and blocking garages by parking in front of them. Aid. Bernstein agreed and felt if you block the garage and alley you also block access for any emergency equipment. After a short discussion the fine of $35.00 v:as decided on. Aid. Wynne moved to accept this increase, her motion Leas seconded by Aid. Bernstein. All committee members were in favor of a $35.00 fine for parking in alleys. Mr. Perman asked Mr. Jennings of the 964 parking violations issued last year for Parking In an Alley, how many were for truck making deliveries. Mr. Jennings stated that the percentage was very small because the law states that if you are actively unloading or loading you can block an alley. The next violation was the No Evanston Vehicle Sticker. Aid. Newman felt the increase from $10.00 to $20.00 was not sufficient. Alderman Joe Kent felt that the both the violations for No Evanston Vehicle Sticker and No Current State Registration were monies owed to the City of Evanston. Aid. Kent felt there are huge amounts of cars that do not have the current stickers on their cars. Aid. Wynne felt that a large fine on the No Evanston Vehicle Sticker was not fair to new residents who may not even know that one is required. Mr. Perman wanted to know how these violations are being enforced and are visitors to the city vulnerable to this violation. Ms. Baucom explained that the license plate is run and if it shows an Evanston registration a violation is issued if there is no current sticker. The Police and Parking Enforcement do not assume a car that is not registered to Evanston is a new resident. Aid. Kent stated it has been his experience that most of these violations were enforced with traffic stops. After a brief discussion a fine of $30.00 was agreed upon for No Evanston Vehicle Sticker. Aid. Newman moved to accept the $30.00 and was seconded by Aid. Bernstein. All committee members were in agreement. Aid. Newman continued the discussion and review of the suggested increases. The suggested increase in fines for No Permit In a City Lot, Blocking a Driveway, Fire Hydrant, Space For The Disabled, and Overtime At a Meter were agreed upon. Next, the committee reviewed the No Current State Registration. The committee felt because this violation is illegal and a blatant noncompliance that the suggested increase from $10.00 to $20.00 was not sufficient. Aid. Joe Kent suggested the fine should be $35.00. Aid. Newman moved to suggest $35.00 and was seconded by Aid. Bernstein. The committee was in unanimous agreement to accept. The suggested increases for No Residential Permit, Parked Over Posted Limit, and No Parking Zone were accepted. The fines for Expired Meter and Street Cleaning would not be increased from the original amount. Mr. Perman told the committee that according to his calculations the changes made to the suggested increase in fine amounts increased revenue by an additional $94,000.00. These projected changes would change the revenue increase from $384,00.00 to $478,000.00. Aid. Newman asked if there was a motion to move to accept the new increased fine amounts with the suggested changes. Aid. Wynne moved to accept and was seconded by Ald. Newman. The committee voted unanimously to accept the new increases. Extended Parkinq Meter Hours (8 am to 9 om) Aid. Newman explained for clarification (Exhibit B) that the parking tax money goes into the general fund, while parking money goes into the parking fund. With the increase in meter hours of operation the additional money, estimated at $250,000,00, would go into the general fund. Aid. Newman thought this increase would be citywide. Mr. Jennings explained his projected increase in revenue was based on the downtown area only. Aid. Newman said the proposal was for the increase to be citywide, but the committee can discuss where they feel the extended hours should be implemented. Aid. Newman felt there is a need for turn over in some of the business districts. He explained that an employee in the in the downtown area can park their car at 4:00 pm and leave it there the rest of night. When employees do this it takes the parking away from the other business in the area. The proposal is not only to increase revenue, but to also keep the turn over moving in the evening. Aid. Newman opened the floor to see if any of the committee members wanted to include more than just the downtown area in the extended meter hours. Mr. Perman felt that as a representative of the downtown merchants he was not ready to make any decision. He felt that there needed to be more dialogs with the business owners before he could make a decision. Ald. Newman suggested that the committee hold a special meeting with the merchants in attendance to discuss this proposal. Mr. Troy Thiel said the initial reaction was negative. The change would be negative to the perceptions of their customers that they used be able to come in the downtown area and not have to pay to park. Also, they can go anywhere else and they do not have to pay to park. That is the first reaction and disincentive for the business after spending money to get people into the downtown area we are now creating a disincentive that does not exist in the competitive market. Mr. Thiel does agree that there is a problem with the employee taking up the meter parking. Ald. Newman asked Mr. Thiel what the perception is when people come into downtown and cannot park in a meter space and don't come back. The reason they are trying to create turnover it to move the employees and open up the parking for the evening customers. Mr. Perman stated that this proposal may be very well intentioned, but this change in parking culture and would need a fair hearing before a decision can be reached. Mr. Perman offered to work with the committee and Mr. Thiel to present this to the merchants. Aid. Newman explained that this is not a new concept. There has been a problem with turnover for a long time now and they were going to experiment with extending the meter hours on Benson and Davis. Mr. Perman explained that if someone goes to dinner at 6:15 pm under this new proposal and dinner runs longer than two hours they would have to go out and plug the meter. Aid. Newman felt the customers dining longer would arrive later. Mr. Thiel said that in the original discussion that the ending time was suppose to be 8:00 pm. The non -restaurant business owners who shut at 6:00 pm had no problem with the extended hours. They felt that the restaurant customers should pay the same way their customers have to pay. Alderman Lionel Jean -Baptiste asked how enforcement would be handled. Aid. Newman explained that there would be increased enforcement if the hours were extended. Aid. Jean -Baptiste suggested that the hours for the Parking Enforcement Officers be staggered in order to generate more revenue. Mr. Perman asked with the additional expense to enforce the new hours what would the net revenue be with the extended hours. Mr. Jennings asked to address that question and requested the committee to refer to Exhibit B, "Extending Parking Meter Enforcement from 9am-6pm to 8am- 9pm". Mr. Jennings explained that he felt that the new hours could not be enforced properly with less than four people. This includes wages, benefits, and the increased operating expenses. Staffing cost would be $200,000.00, fine revenue would increase by $300,000.00, and parking meter revenue would increase by S250,000.00. Also, the nighttime lakefront enforcement, during the beach season, is currently done on overtime because Parking Enforcement has no one working during this time. Staff is called in to work at a cost of approximately $13,000.00. If we have people working the extended hours that would remove this cost. Mr. Jennings said on an annualized basis the financial benefit is $363,000.00. This amount is part general fund and part parking fund. If you want the general fund to realize more than the fine revenue you would need to do a transfer of the parking meter revenue. The first year of net revenue (8 months of operation) would be $242,000.00. It would be possible to start this program by July and the first years impact would be the additional $242,000.00. Another benefit to this program besides the lakefront enforcement and meter enforcement, there is an opportunity to do the Evanston Vehicle Sticker and Parking Permit enforcement which would be additional revenue and compliance with a two shift operation. Ald. Newman brought up that this increase in revenue would help the city stay away from imposing a food and beverage tax and from what he has been hearing from restaurants that this is something they do not want to see. Ald. Newman agreed that a special meeting is necessary, but it must be done quickly to give enough time to report back to A & P, W by February 1511". Mr. Perman raised the question that of the money that goes to the parking fund is it for operations or operations and bonds. Mr. Jennings explained it is for both, but it does not go towards the new garage at 1800 Maple. Mr. Perman felt that it would be helpful to have a status report of the financial capacity of the parking fund. Aid. Newman said that could be done, but that this proposal is not being done because the parking fund is experiencing any cash problems. It is being proposed to raise revenues and create turnover. Mr. Perman's concern is that down the road that the parking fund will need the money that is being transferred to the general fund. Ald. Newman said there is some time to plan and that there are other means of raising revenue for the parking fund. Aid. Newman made a request to Mr. Jennings to review the parking fund at some point and that the committee needs to set a date for the special meeting. Ms. Baucom explained to Mr. Perman that in terms of maintaining the existing system, unless there were some major changes, the revenues will stay at the same level and operational expenses would increase. If a decision were made to build parking, especially in the south end of the downtown, funds would come from the parking fund unless a TIF district was created. Ald. Newman explained that in the year 2009, twenty years after the Church Street Self Park was built, a $700,000.00 obligations will be gone because the garage will be paid for. There may be maintenance costs, but the bonds will be paid. The date chosen for the meeting is February 5, 2002 at 7:00pm. This special meeting being held to consider the extending the meter time in the downtown area. The responsibility to invite the businesses will be that of the Chamber and EVMARK. Consideration of exr)andina REPD "M" Aid. Jean -Baptiste explained that in the 1700 block of Wesley there are a number of young children and the residents have complained, over a long period of time, that the employees of the USPS and other business have taken over the parking on the block. Often mothers with small children cannot get on their ovwn block to park causing problems with unloading the children and groceries. A petition was done and a hearing was held requesting that REPD "M" be expanded to one side of the street. Mr. Jennings explained that this works well in the 1600 block of Wesley and will still provide parking for the business and for the residents as well. Aid. Newman held a vote to accept the expanded REPD "M" and the consensus of the committee was unanimous. Consideration of exnandinq ROPD 14 Aid. Newman wanted to make sure the committee understood the difference between a Resident's Only Parking District and a Resident Exempt Parking District. He explained the ROPD was for only the residents and the REPD allows anyone to park for up to two hours and that the residents are exempt. Aid. Kent explained that this is for both sides of the street on the 2000 block of Wesley. The district is currently on Jackson and that this would be an extension. The purpose of the expansion is to address a large number of problems including people who do not belong in the area as well as people who are abusing the parking. Aid. Kent presented a petition from the residents and was there to endorse the neighbor's request. A motion was made by Aid. Bernstein and seconded by Mr. Perman. Aid. Newman requested a vote and the committee voted unanimously. Mr. Jennings asked Aid. Kent if the residents understand that this is not for only Wesley, but will include Jackson. Aid. Kent responded that the residents do understand. Mr. Jennings also explained that a parking study was not done, but there is still a hearing requirement. Ms. Baucom stated that the hearing requirement can be waived by the committee. Aid. Newman moved to wave the hearing with a second by Mr. Perman. The committee was polled to waive the hearing and the vote was unanimous. Both the expansion of REPD "M" and ROPD "14" will be sent to A&PW for the first meeting in February. ' Proposal from Glenlake Capital to use the 1881 Oak narking lot in a manner different than previously aaproved by the Parkin4 Committee Aid. Newman asked Mr. Jennings to explain this request. Mr. Jennings stated that Steven Kardel of Glenlake (Exhibit "C") is requesting that the committee dissolve what was previously approved by the Parking Committee, at the October 2001 meeting, for the intended use of this lot. The lot at 1881 Oak is currently a mix of short and long term meters and permit spaces. The proposal is to remove all the meters, that are used 75% of the time, and operate the lot for the sole use of the 1880 Oak and the other two building owned by Glenlake at 1890 Maple and 1033 University. Mr. Jennings also explained that the zoning requirement requires that the ownership has to pay the money for parking in the 1800 Maple Street garage in order to be legal for zoning. Their employees are not required to park in the garage so they purchase the cheaper spaces. This request is to allow them to buy all the spaces and if it were accepted we would not have to manage their lot from a staff point of view. This lot was obtained to help with the interim parking plan, that is the reason for the mix of meters and permit spaces. Ms. Baucom explained that it is her understanding that this change would allow them to meet their zoning requirements and making it so they would no longer have to purchase the 90 spaces in the 1800 Maple Garage. Aid. Newman stated that the garage was built relying on the promise of them purchasing the 90 permits and the city was asked to build parking for those buildings. Aid. Newman said this request is beyond the interim parking plan and will require a long discussion and will require a meeting with Glenlake. Aid. Newman requested to hold this item on the agenda. The meeting was adjourned at 7:37 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jacquelyn R. Johnson Evanston Division of Transportation Public Works EXHIBIT A CITY OF EVANSTON INTERDEPARTMENTAL MEMORANDUM January 15, 2002 TO: Roger D. Crum, City Manager FROM: David Jennings, Director of Public Works SUBJECT: Parking Fines Budget Memo #5 I have been asked to provide an explanation of alternative parking fine structures. The budget submittal contains a proposal to increase parking fines for those who violate the expired meter regulations. I have evaluated an alternative structure which considers other parking Fines as well. The table below shows the violations, current fines, proposed Fines, and the revenues associated with each. These violations were selected because they comprise about 95% of all tickets written and fines generated. The process I used was to leave expired meters and disabled violations at their current fines ($10 and $100, respectively) and to increase all other fines by $10 each. In the past, staff has recommended and Council has approved a fine structure which has had the lowest fine for expired meter and higher fines for more serious violations. Also, there has been a difference between no parking fines for the safety -related violations (fire hydrants, for example) and less serious violations (no parking zones). This plan follows that structure. TICKETS EXISTING REVENUE PROPOSED REVENUE VIOLATION ISSUED FINE COLLECTED FINE INCREASE EXPIRED METER 36,303 10 S348,515 10 0 STREET CLEANING 20,511 25 S337,010 35 S134,804 NO PARKING ZONE 15,659 20 S223,801 30 SI 11,900 PARKED OVER POSTED LIMIT 11.981 25 S218,875 35 S87,550 NO RESIDENTIAL PERMIT 11.335 25 S197,315 35 S78.926 NO CURRENT STATE REG. 9,727 10 S72.995 20 S72,995 O'TR T IMP AT METER 3.315 25 S63,992 35 S25,597 SPACE FOR THE DISABLED 947 too 536,875 100 0 FIRS HYDRANT 1,418 25 S24,430 35 S9.772 LOCKING DRIVEWAY 1.218 25 S22,460 35 S8,984 NO PE.R1.1IT IN CITY LOT 1,348 25 S21,550 35 S8.620 NO EVA4STON STICKER 2,159 10 S18,200 20 S18,200 PARKED IN ALLEY 964 20 $12,130 30 S6,065 TOTAL 116,885 $1,598,148 $563,411 This proposal exceeds the revenue estimate of the one in the proposed budget by about $160,000. I met with Alderman Newman, Parking Committee Chair, EXHIBIT A Pace 2 and developed another proposal which is shown below. In this proposal, the fines for each violation were examined and adjusted individually. The expired meter fine and the disabled space violations were left at their current amounts, as was the street cleaning violation. The "No Current State Registration" violation was increased to $25 and the fire hydrant violation was increased to $50. The fines for "Parked over posted time limit", "No Residential Permit", and "Overtime at Meter" were increased by $5 to $30. The other fines were the same as the staff proposal. The resulting revenue totals $383,728, or approximately equal to the figure of $400,000 in the original budget proposal. TICKETS EXISTING REVENUE PROPOSED REVENUE VIOLATION ISSUED FINE COLLECTED FINE INCREASE EXPIRED DIETER 36,303 10 $348.515 10 0 STREET CLEANING 20,511 25 S337,010 25 0 NO PARKING ZONE 15,659 20 S223,801 30 S111.9W PARKED OVER POSTED LIMIT 11,981 25 $218.875 30 $43,775 NO RESIDENTIAL PEPWIT 11,335 25 $197,315 30 $39,463 NO CURRENT STATE REG. 9,727 10 $72,995 25 S109,493 OVERTIME AT METER 3,315 25 S63,992 30 SIZ798 SPACE FOR THE DISABLED 947 100 $36,875 100 0 FIRE HYDRANT 1,418 25 $24,430 50 S24,430 BLOCKING DRIVEWAY 1,218 25 $22.460 35 S8,984 140 PERMIT IN CITY LOT 1,348 25 S21,550 35 $8,620 140 EVANSTON STICKER 2,159 10 S18,200 20 $18,200 PARKED IN ALLEY 964 20 S12,130 30 S6,065 TOTAL 116,885 S1,598,148 5383,728 At Alderman Newman's request, the revised proposal will be considered at the next meeting of the Parking Committee which is scheduled for January 23 at 6:00 pm. Please let me know if more information is needed on this. EXHIBIT B Extending Parking Meter Enforcement From 9am-6pm to 8am-9pm Staffing needed: 4 employees @ $50,000 each (wages, benefits, increased operating costs)=$200,000 Increased revenues: Increased parking fine revenue (General Fund) Increased parking meter revenue (Parking Fund) Overtime savings: Lakefront enforcement on regular time Net financial benefit per year First year net revenue (S months of operation) Note: =$300,000 =$250,000 -! $13,000 =$363,000 =$242,000 Second shift tasks other than meter enforcement and lakefront enforcement would Include parking enforcement in business areas (primarily downtown), Evanston Vehicle Sticker enforcement, and permit parking lots. EXHIBIT C ;[ELENLAKE MMMCAPIT.AL PARTNERS January 14, 2002 Mr. David Jennings The City of Evanston 2100 Ridge Avenue Evanston, Illinois 60201 Re: 1881 Oak Avenue Parking Lot Dear David: This letter is to document our telephone conversation of last week and your subsequent voice mail. Currently, the 1880 Oak, 1033 University and 1890 Maple are required to purchase parking permits for the Maple Avenue Parking Garage. This is how they meet their zoning required parking. The current price of a permit in the Maple Garage is S73.00 per month. You are currently selling permits on the lot you are leasing from i 8S 1 Oak LLC for S60.00 per month. Because the most likely parkers for the 1881 lot are in the buildings immediately surrounding the lot. The ownership of I S80 Oak, 1033 University and 1890 Maple is at a disadvantage price -wise for parking for people who are the primary users of the 1881 Oak lot. By my count, there are currently 90 striped spaces on the 1881 Oak lot. 1880 Oak, 1033 University and 1890 Maple would like to propose that they could substitute the purchase of 90 permits for the Maple garage with 90 permits for the 1881 Oak surface lot. This would involve the removal of the existing parking meters. For your information on Monday, January 14, 2002 there were 7 cars with permits using the center portion of the 1881 lot. If you require anything further from me, please call. Sincerely, GLENLAKE CAPITAL PARTNERS LLC Stephen Kardel President SK:cg cc: Richard M. Ross, Jr. Tel. 847.570-4144 • Fax 847-570-0339 • 1880 Oak Ave., Suite 140, Evanston, Illinois 60201-3670 r%ww.glenlakecapital.com The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the March Parking Committee Meetinq Of April 3. 2002 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:12 P.M. with a quorum Members Present: Aid. Newman, Aid. Bernstein, Troy Thiel, Aid. Wynne, Jonathan Perman, Paul Giddings and David Reynolds (Associate Member) Members Absent: Richard Cook, George Woolridge Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Baucom, Keith Fujihara, Judy Aiello and Jacquelyn Johnson Visitors: Demetrios Maris, Steve Kardel, Donnovan Slack, Ann Persaud, and Tom Wolf Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:12 pm Consideration of a revision to the parking meter time limit ordinance, makinq it illegal to park in the same block for longer than the time limit (instead of the same space) David Jennings introduced this item by explaining that the current ordinance states you cannot park in the same place for longer than the time limit indicated in the ordinance regardless of the money placed in the meter. People bypass this ordinance by shuffling their cars with other employees or by just moving their car on the block where they are parked. Technically they are in a different place but on the same block. Staff is recommending that we make it illegal to park on the same block for longer than the legal time period this would diminishes the ability to shuffle and move cars. This is an attempt to move out the employees who are violating the current ordinance. Mr. Jennings explained this is enforceable by the Parking Enforcement Officers (PEO) who use the hand held computers and have the ability to record the license plate and the location of the vehicle. The next time the officer makes a sweep of the block the license plate would be entered again and the computer would show if the vehicle were still there on the same block. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 2 This does require that the license plate be entered each time. Ald. Newman asked Mr. Jennings if it were possible to enforce a district, like the whole downtown area, rather than a block. Mr. Jennings said you could, but that would make the restriction even tighter. People who work in the downtown and have a need to move their cars in the area would get caught when they didn't actually park there the whole time. If you leave and come back to a different block two to two and half-hours later you would get caught. There was a general discussion on how long a person could park before they would be able to park again on the block. Jean Baucom explained it is a manual process and that the vehicle license is entered into the computer, but it is dependent on when the PEO makes the second sweep to see what vehicles are still parked. She stated that one of the concerns the staff has is that if you do the downtown area, opposed to the block, a parker could feasibly leave and return several times and park and be in violation. Aid. Newman said this also applies to the block as well as the district. He stated that it is possible to come and go on the same block in the suggested time period and also be in violation. Aid. Newman asked who else wanted to comment on the suggested change. Alderman Steven Bernstein said that the primary concern is the meter feeders among employees and workers downtown and that is it more of an enforcement problem. He felt that we are talking about changing the attitudes of the employee and having them park in the garage and walk the extra block. He told the committee that he had been downtown twice today and would have been in violation of the proposed time limit. There was more discussion on whether a district would be a block or the entire downtown area and this restriction will catch people who have a need to come and go. Ald. Newman said that it is a much higher incident that it will be an employee rather than a customer that comes and goes in a day. Aid. Bernstein felt that the committee could determine the length of time a parker could be there and that after that time they would be allowed to park in the same place again. Mr. Jennings explained that if you were there more than the time prescribed, such as three hours, you could have been there all day and those are the people they want to deter from parking there. He also explained we are working on a per space basis now and that we still have significant problems with people parking all day at the meters. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 3 Aid. Newman suggested that we experiment with a block for one year with a sunset provision. After a year the committee would review reports indicating who is receiving the tickets. With that information the committee would be able to see what percentage of the parkers are people who need to come and go during a day and park on the same block. He still feels that the employees that are shuffling are the majority of the parkers. Aid. Newman asked if it were possible to cover the all the time restricted parking areas. Mr. Jennings said it is possible, but currently the staff is only looking at the downtown -metered area. Aid. Newman would like to have all areas included. Aid. Melissa Wynne said that for the one-year test she would like to see a smaller area is used. She also wanted to know how we were going to communicate this information to the public. The discussion then turned back to how long between the parking enforcement sweeps of the block to check for violators. One problem Ms. Baucom mentioned is at that the time the PEO enters the license plate the parker may have been there for more than an hour and a half already. Mr. Perman wanted to stress that we need to make sure the sweeps are unpredictable, as possible so employees would not be watching for the PEO. Ms. Baucom stated that this could be addressed by having different PEOs work the same area and chalk at different times. Aid. Bernstein had some questions of the ability of the hand held computer. Mr. Jennings said that the staff would get more information and how they function and how it relates to the chalking process. Aid. Newman requested that the committee receive quarterly reports of violators who are parking on the same block over the time posted time limit. Mr. Perman wanted clarification on what was being approved at the meeting for this change. Aid. Newman said that the test area would include the downtown area on a block by block basis. Anyone who receives a ticket and wanted to contest it would follow the adjudication process by mail or in person. Mr. Perman wanted to know how the change would be communicated. Mr. Jennings stated that the stickers on the parking meters would indicate the change in the ordinance as well as signs on the block. Aid. Bernstein suggested the Chamber of Commerce disseminate a flyer with the information. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 4 Review of Minutes from prior meetings The minutes from the January 23, 2002 meeting and the combined Economic Development Committee and Parking Committee will be reviewed at the April Parking Committee meeting. 1800 Maple Self Park- Operational issues, includin4: (1 ) Possibility of free parking all day on Sunday, and f 21 Possibility of `Enter after 6 pm and park free" Monday throuoh Saturday. Aid. Newman presented the staff's position of charging for parking on Sundays in the 1800 Maple Street Self Park. Currently the revenues collected, on Sundays, fall short of the operating expenses needed to collect the money. Mr. Jennings showed that the total number of revenue tickets for the four Sundays in February was 8, 9, 11, and 15. The total revenue for the four Sundays was $355 and an estimated $120 was spent on tickets for the same Sundays. Mr. Jennings stated that the staff does not think it is economically sound to keep charging on Sundays. Several questions were raised concerning the costs of operations and would there always be someone on site. Mr. Jennings said he did not have the costs, but this is a typical month for Sundays and that there would always be staff on site. He stated that the garage usage is significant at 900 cars, which is not as much as a weekday, but still significant. Also, the number of staff would not be reduced, but would be used for other functions such as getting people in and out of the garage. He said the question is do we want to go through the ticket process for both the customer and the garage personnel for $355 per month? Mr. Perman stated you get more good will by letting people park free than for collecting the revenue. Aid. Newman raised the question on whether the gates would be up for people to exit when there was no charging on Sundays. He said that he had talked to John Hammerschlag, the City's consultant on the Sherman Avenue Project, and that he was opposed to the gates being up all the time. Aid. Newman said that a parker could feasibly be parked all week and is able to exit for free on Sundays. Mr. Jennings said staff does not know yet if the gates would be left in the up position for exiting. He did state that the software in the garage is being upgraded, but they do not know all the details of the upgrade to determine if the gates would be left up or down. A general discussion was started on how the other two garages operate on Sunday. Both the Sherman Garage and the Church Street Self -Park have the gates up on Sundays and it is a possibility that a parker, that has been parked all week, can leave for free on Sunday. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3.02 Page 5 Ald. Newman asked if it was the sense of the committee that parking be free on Sundays and that when the staff has more information on the new software they will discuss parking for free after 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday. There was general agreement by the committee. Aid. Newman wanted to discuss the parking ticket validation machines in the Century Theatre lobby. He said there are two machines left unattended and that anyone could walk up to them and have their parking ticket validated and not be a theater patron. He felt that this was stealing from the city and that it is a problem. A general discussion continued and it was determined that this is a good method for validation and that there would be people that would violate the use of these machines. It was recommended that both machines be moved into the theatre area past the ticket taker and that this would elevate the problem. Ald Newman requested that Judy Aiello follow up on the relocation of the validation machines. Consideration of Qivinq permission to condominiums to rent narking spaces in the neighborhood narkin4 lots. Alderman Melissa Wynne introduced Mr. Tom Wolf as a constituent in her ward and that they have had discussions on many items, but one of the issues was parking at the neighborhood lots in her ward. The average waiting list is twelve to eighteen months for these lots. The discussion has been on how to increase the level of parking at these lots and the ideas have gone from building parking to decks to allowing a developer to build on these lots. Ald. Wynne stated that Mr. Wolf has done some research and invited him to come to the Parking Committee to discuss some of his ideas. Mr. Wolf opened is presentation by stating he lives at 927 Hinman, has lived there for seven years and in Evanston for eleven years. He is also the treasure for his condominium association in his eight -unit condominium building. He explained that his building has eight units, but only five parking spaces in the back of the building. He does work with the realtors when people buy and sell the condominiums and has to explain how the parking spaces work. Currently the parking is based on seniority of occupancy and that the new owners must fend for themselves. He felt that this was not such a problem ten to seven years ago, but this is becoming more and more of an inconvenience and affects the value of the condominium. Mr. Wolf had asked Rose Thomas, a local realtor, to look back over several years and see the value of the condominiums with and without parking. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 6 He presented this information to the committee and stated that it takes four times longer to sell a unit without parking, compared to a unit with parking, and has twenty percent less value. Mr. Wolf said he is coming to the Parking Committee with some ideas to help vintage condominium units like his and to see if there is a way to change the rules to let the condominiums rent the parking spaces in the neighborhood lots. Currently three of his building's owners do have parking spaces in the neighborhood lots, but will lose them when they sell their units. He stated that he had talked to Ms. Baucom, Parking System Manager, and that she explained that the city does not make any differentiation between renters or owners when a parking space is rented. Mr. Wolf felt a potential solution would be to allow vintage condominium buildings to rent spaces in the lot. He also felt that if the city were to build parking decks that the spaces could be sold or that the monthly rent could be increased because the demand is there for spaces. Mr. Wolf stated that he is looking for feedback and advice on how to solve this problem. This is not a huge problem, but an inconvenience and loss of property value that is going on and that other vintage condominiums in the area do have the same problem. Aid. Wynne stated that Mr. Wolf had brought some interesting data to the meeting. She stated that when they have talked before there are many renters in the areas and some kind of equity for the long-term renters is needed if priority is given to the condominiums. She does see that twenty percent less value is significant and that this is much higher than she had anticipated. Mr. Troy Thiel reviewed the data presented by Mr. Wolf and made several observations. First, Mr. Thiel stated that the properties listed are not coded as vintage buildings and that they are also not all in the Hinman corridor. Because many of the buildings are not vintage, they have different amenities beyond parking and that it is not feasible to make the comparison that without parking their value is less. A newer building with parking will also have central air conditioning, more closets, and a patio, which will increase the price. You can look at buildings that are selling parking spaces separately from the condominium to get a better idea on what the market is charging. Currently the highest price in Evanston is at the Optima project, which is charging twenty-five thousand dollars for an extra parking space. If you look at the Lincoln Park area the parking spaces are going for sixty to seventy thousand dollars and even higher in the loop area. Mr. Thiel stated that the difference in price for a condominium with or without parking is not that great as the data suggests. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3.02 Page 7 Mr. Wolf stated that this information was not intended to be a scientific study, but information that his friend has supplied him. He does feel there is still some validity to the information and that when a real estate agent calls him they do factor in if there is parking and will decide to make a ten to twenty percent difference in what they will decide to sell it for. Aid. Newman acknowledged that there is a problem with parking in the area and suggested that if the condominiums are given priority that they should be made to pay a higher rate for the benefit. Ms. Baucom stated she sees a problem with this idea, because you have many more condominiums than you do spaces. How do you determine who is eligible to buy and who isn't? Aid. Bernstein said he has a real problem discriminating between property owners versus renters. He said that you could give the same ability to landlords and they would pass the cost on to their tenants. Aid. Bernstein also wanted to know if the property owners were going to have to go through the waiting list process or do they get priority. Aid. Wynne asked Ms. Baucom who is eligible to be on a parking lot waiting list. Ms. Baucom said the city code is clear that the spaces in the lot are offered to the people who already have a space and that those which are not renewed will be offered to the next person on the waiting list. Ms. Baucom also clarified that there are no qualifications of residency to have a space in the lot. A general discussion was held on the feasibility of developing a parking deck on the lot and selling the spaces. Also, if priority were given to condominiums with the available space would you shut out the rental market? if this proposal was accepted how much more would they be charged per space and would the payment be annual? Ald. Newman suggested that a parking study be done of the area to determine who is parking in the lot, on the street, and when are they there. This will allow the committee to determine what the parking problems are in the area. Ms. Baucom stated that several studies have previously been done in this area. Aid. Newman requested that this information be brought back to the committee for review. Also, that an analysis of the parking lot parkers and the people on the wait list be done. Reauest for a valet narkina comnanv to use Lot 14 (Holidav Inn/Best Western) as a valet lot. Aid. Newman introduced Demetrios Maris to discuss his valet company taking over the nighttime use of Lot 14. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 8 Mr. Maris stated that this is the second time he has come before the Parking Committee seeking permission for the use of this lot. His feels that valet parking would better utilize the current parking configuration of the lot and fit more cars into the lot. Ald. Newman wanted to know from Mr. Maris why would the city give him use of the lot if that lot were always full. Mr. Maris said that with the lot being full the customers that come in from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm have no place to park and will not return to Evanston. Also, that he is offering revenue to the city for the spaces that are not charged for in the evening. Mr. Paul Giddings stated that he has had conversations with Mr. Maris and that there is a concern that there are just not enough parking spaces in that area for the restaurants. He has also talked to the restaurants in the area to see if they could get together to use a valet system to help with parking. He would like see the businesses use a valet system and that the city would come to some sort of an agreement on where the valet companies could park. Aid. Newman wanted to know from Mr. Maris how many parking spaces he would be able to utilize in the lot if they used valet parking. Mr. Maris said that he could get one hundred fifty cars in the tot at a time and this is fifty more than the lot currently holds. Mr. Jonathan Perman stated that the Chamber of Commerce has engage in conversation with the 1603 Orrington and Rotary building to see it would be possible to use their garages for valet parking in the evening and on weekends. They are currently only in the discussion phase and do not know if permission will be granted at this time. Mr. Perman asked Mr. Maris is there is currently a problem finding valet parking in the area. Mr. Maris said that only on the weekend nights is there a problem. Ald. Newman stated, as of this moment there is an unlimited reservoir of parking in the area for valet parking. The valet may have to walk a bit further, but there is parking. After, July 1" when the Sherman Avenue garage comes down there may be a problem. Aid. Newman took a poll of the committee to see if anyone was interested in the Lot 14 a valet parking lot. Aid. Bernstein stated that he is interested in finding places for valet parking in the area. Aid. Newman suggested forming a sub -committee of Mr. Giddings, Mr. Perman, and Mr. Maris to talk to the businesses and find parking lots for valet parking. He asked that the sub- committee come back to the Parking Committee with their findings. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 9 Proposal from Glenlake Capital to raise rates at the 1881 Oak oarkino lot to match the price for the parkinu spaces in the 1800 Maple Avenue Garage Steve Kardel, from Glenlake Capital Partners, came to the Parking Committee requesting that the spaces currently rented at the 1881 Oak lot and the long term metered spaces are raised to the same level as the spaces in the 1800 Maple Avenue Garage. Currently the 1881 Oak lot spaces, which are cheaper, are competing against the 241 spaces required by zoning in the Maple Garage. Ms. Baucom explained that the long-term meters were for employees that are only in the building a few days a week and do not need monthly parking. What has been happening is the short term meters for visitors are not being used and the long term meter are being taken by employees that need monthly parking, but do not want to pay the higher fee of the garage. There was a discussion on increasing the fee for the open lot to match the Maple Garage. Currently the City is paying five thousand dollars per month to rent the lot with only half the spaces being rented at the current rate. Staff's fear was that if the rate was raised to match the garage that even fewer spaces would be rented increasing the current deficit for the lot. Also, the intention of this lot was for the interim -parking plan while the Maple Avenue Garage was being built and not to provide long term parking for employees. Ms. Baucorn's recommendation is to turn over the ninety-one spaces in the lot over to the 1880 Oak building to meet their zoning requirement and this will free up spaces in the Maple Garage. The response from the Sherman Garage monthly users that most of them want to go to the Maple Street Garage when the Sherman Garage is demolished and the additional spaces will be needed. Aid. Newman asked Mr. Kardel if he could wait until July when the Sherman Avenue Garage is scheduled to be torn down to see what the use of the Maple Avenue Garage will be. At that time the staff will know if the 91 spaces in the garage will be needed to handle the parkers being moved from the Sherman Garage, Judy Aiello gave an update on the Sherman Avenue Plaza Project. Ms. Aiello stated that the earliest the Sherman Avenue Garage will be closing will be June 1 n, but they should know in the next two weeks. They are currently in discussion and lease negotiations for one hundred ninety thousand square feet of the available two hundred fifty thousand square feet of retail space. Parking Committee Minutes 4-3-02 Page 10 The are putting together financing packages and talking to lenders. They are getting prepared for the Shopping Center Show in May. All these things are coming together and reviewing the schematic designs for the garage, which they submitted, to the city about a week ago. The City staff is reviewing the garage design and there will be a meeting this week to discuss them. Within the next two weeks we should have a good sense of where we are in the design stand point and the goal is to bring them back to the reviewing committee in May, making June 1" the earliest date for demolition, but realistically it would be the end of June. Aid. Newman told Mr. Kardel that he would be on the July Parking Committee Agenda and to call to make sure his item is on. Mr. Jennings stated that there will be a request to move the May Parking Committee from May 22nd to May 291" to coincide with the Economic Development Committee Meeting. Aid. Newman asked the committee if anyone had a problem with this change and the Committee was in agreement to move the May meeting to the 29`". The meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jacquelyn R. Johnson Evanston Division of Transportation Public Works The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the Citr Council of Evanston. Illinois Minutes from the March Parking Committee Meeting Of Mav 29.2002 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:15 P.M. xvithout a quorum Members Present: Aid. Newman. Aid. Wynne. Troy Thiel, and David Reynolds (Associate Member) Members Absent: Aid. Bernstein. Richard Cook, Jonathan Perman, and George Woolridge Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Baucom, Judy Aiello and Jacquelyn Johnson Visitors: Paul Giddings, representatives from the Boy Scouts of America, Christopher Metz Jake );'oodring, Ryan Metz, and Bob Woodring Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:1 5 pm Consideration of a revision to the narking meter time limit ordinance. making it il__ge al to nark in the same block for longer than the time limit (instead of the same space) Alderman Arthur Neuman stated that this item had been voted down at the last City Council Meeting of May 20. 2002. Aldermen Newman, Berstein, and Wynne had voted for it and felt it was necessary. but the remaining Aldermen did not feel it -vas that serious of a problem. Aid. Newman did request that the minutes from the April 9, 2002 Parking Committee be sent to the Administration & Public Work Committee. He wanted the committee to understand the logic the Parking Committee used to come to their decision to implement this test program. Review of Minutes from prior meetings The minutes from the April 9. 2002 meeting were distributed. The minutes from the January 23, 2002 meeting and the combined Economic Development Committee could not be voted on for approval since there was no quorum. Review of Sherman Plaza Project Judy and Aiello and David Jennings made the presentation of the Sherman Plaza Project. A model of the garage was presented to the committee showing what the twelve -story structure would look like. Picture boards were posted around the room giving views of the various angles of the structure. Parkine Committee Minutes Mav 24. 2002 Page ? The entrances to the garage «ill Ix on Sherman Avenue and Davis Street. The access ramps are located on the inside of the structure with the parking on the perimeters. The elevators will be located on the outside of the building. The condominium parking «ill be segregated with access directly into the building. The health club members «ill also have access from the garage to the club. David Jennings stated that with this garage the city «ill be able to design the electronic equipment needed to run the garage opposed to retro fitting the way the Maple Avenue Garage was done. There will be different areas for the various kinds of parking and the equipment will be able to enforce where the parkers are required to go. There «ill be a tagisticker on the car that will be read by the equipment allowing the car to enter and exit certain areas. He explained that the monthly parkers will be on an upper floor and u-ill need to actually go to that area for validation before they can leave the garage without paying additional money over their monthly pass. Ms. Aiello explained that Barnes and Noble has committed to taking the southwest corner of Church and Sherman. Some chanLes in the design are being made to accommodate them, but nothing drastic is being requested. There was a general discussion by the committee and how they did like the design of the project. '*Is. Aiello explained that demolition of the buildings south of the current garage would start after July 4'h. The remainder of the demolition has been planned for the end of July. The discussion also included what theme would be used to identify the various levels of the garage to help the parkers remember where they parked. Alderman Newman requested that the fee structure for the all the 3 garages be the same. There was some discussion on raising the monthly fee to match or be close to the City of Chicago, but it was agreed that rate was not applicable here. Also, that «ith any increase the Cook County Parking Tax would take effect and the majority of the proposed increase would go to the County. Reauest from Alderman Kent to include Lyons Street east of Dodge in the adiacent residential narking district In Aid. Kent's absence. Jean aaucom explained that he wanted to add this portion of Lyons Street back into the residential program. The area surrounding this block is Residents Only Parking. District 12 that prohibits anyone but a resident from parking on the block. In adding the Lyons back into the parking district Aid. Kent hopes to deter un,.iunted cars that have been gathering on the block. The committee agreed that Lyons should be added back into the program. Parking Committee Minutes 4tay 29.2002 Page 3 Sundav morning street narking in duwntown being impacted by the large attendance at the church in the basement of the Field's building Troy Thiel explained that the church service being held in the basement of the Field's building was having a negative impact on the Sunday morning street parking in downtown Evanston. When the church applied for a variance to use the basement of the Field's building they anticipated a weekly attendance of 300 to 350. Mr. Thiel explained that currently the attendance is up to over 700. The service normally runs from 9:00 am to noon and the attendees are parking at meters no allowing for turnover for the businesses. Nis. Aiello said she would send a letter to the churches in the area requesting they use the city parkins: garages. Request to remove the No Parking Zone bags from the meters on Chicago -and Dempster when there is no work at the construction site Paul Giddings explained that in the Chicago and Dempster area, where the construction for the Optima project is. the parking meters have been bagged for what seems to be a very long time. Fie stated that the meters arc bagged all the time, including when there is no construction work being done. This is having a very negative impact on the merchants in the area and he would like to see the bags removed to open up the parking. Ms. Baucom said she would look into the problem and see if the bags could be removed. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm Respectfully submitted. Jacquelyn R. Johnson Evanston Division of Transportation Public Works The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the June Parkina Committee Meetinq Of June 26, 2002 Members Present: Aid. Nc%Tnan. Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Wynne, Troy Thiel, Jonathan Perman, George Woolridge, and David Reynolds (Associate Member) Members Absent: Richard Cool: Staff Present. David Jennings, Keith Fujihara, and Jacquelyn Johnson Visitors: None Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:08 P.M. with a quorum. Reauest from 700 Simpson to change their hlock from REPD to ROPD David Jennings explained that 700 Simpson is a residents exempt parking district that connects Orrington and Sherman. Orrington is a Residents Only Parking District (ROPD) on a trial basis and Sherman is a Residents Exempt Parking District (REPD) allowing people to park for two hours before a permit is required. The people on the 700 block of Simpson are requesting to have their street made a ROPD to free up parking. Mr. Jennings asked the committee how they felt about the change and should it be added to the Orrington trial. Alderman Newman explained there was a hearing on the trial area to discuss adding several streets to the ROPD. including Garrett Place. Haven, Library Place, Dartmouth and Simpson %vas one of them. The people on Simpson have a right to park on the street. Aid. Newman explained that Mr_ Jennings did study of the district to see who was parking in the district and found because the district is so large people are commuting within the district. A person from Maple and Noyes. who is part of the district, can park by Orrineton and Emerson legally with their permit. Aid. Newman and Mr. Jennings have met to discuss breaking up the district into a ROPD and the REPD. Mr. Jennings stated that the 700 block of Simpson could be added to the trial on Orrington if there were a general concurrence from the Committee. The Committee concurred. Parkina Committee Minutes June 26. 2002 Page Continuation of review of Sherman Plaza Proiect (sneciiically configuration of DavisBenson elevators and the impact on the building's architectural features) Mr. Jennings case a presentation of the last item that is an open issue as far as the design of garage. The issue is that the current design has the backs of the elevators turned towards the parking, floor. which means there is no visible lobby for most of the parking area. When the parker exits their car they will have to be directed by signage to the elevator lobby rather than by just being able to see it. The city's consultant. Ntr. John Hammerschlag. strongly recommended that the elevator Iobbies be opened up so the parkers can see the lobby from the floor or else it will be too constricting. The project group went through an iterative process to find the best design and met today with the architect. Mr. Jonathan Perman stated that the 1$00 Maple Avenue Garage has open elevator lobbies. Mr. Jennings explained the elevators in the Maple Garage face each other and then the lobby area benyeen them has glass so you can see into the lobby from the floor. At the meeting today the group looked at several options to provide a view from the parking floor and still maintain the architectural features of the building. The architect did not want a plain square corner building, but one with a feature that is architechturally pleasing. The recommendation is that the elevators stay in line, but the glass wall is moved a%"My from the elevators. There will still be a shaft of light and the elevator cars «ill still be glass backed. Three sides of the elevator cabs will have windows that will open into the cab to clean the glass on the cabs and the shaft walls. The outside of the shaft %%ill be cleaned with a swing stage. Mr. Jenninus stated that the machine rooms for the elevators will be air-conditioned and the lobbies will be ventilated. The Committee wanted to know why the lobbies would not be air-conditioned. They felt the 536,000.00 to add air conditioning to the elevator lobbies was necessan, since this bank of elevators will be on the hot side of the building most of the day. Mr_ Jennings will take this recommendation back to the project group. Mr. Jennings explained that the project group did ask for a heat build up study because they were concerned how it will feel in the lobbies. The architect will be using a fritted glass, .which is slightly textured, but you can still see through it. Parking Committee Minutes June 26, 2002 Page 3 There was a general discussion on the cost of the change in the elevator design. The estimated S650.000.00 additional cost will be mainly for the construction to have the glass backed elevators and the glass wailed lobby. The actual glass backed cabs cost an additional S125,000.00 which was included in the S650.000.00. At an estimated thirty million dollars. this garage «ill cost five million dollars more than the Maple Avenue Garage and has 1600 parking spaces compared to 1460. The Committee did raise a concern that the glass on the elevator lobby should be clear enough to see out of it. They did understand that the fritted glass would help decrease the heat, but with the air conditioning clear glass could be used. Mr. Jennings explained that after the meeting today, the architect will redo the dra,-%ings and Mr. Hammerschlag will review them. A question was raised on how the Iighting will be handled in this garage since the lights in the Maple Avenue Garage are so bright shining into the surrounding area. Mr. Jennings did explained that the Iighting in the new garage will not be the same as the Maple Avenue Garage. The lighting will be down lighting, which will have a shield preventing it from shining out into the street. More discussion %vas held on the demolition of the garage and when it would be started. The demolition for the buildings on Davis Street would start after the fourth of July. The actual demolition of the garage is dependent on the leasing that is being done for the new building. The construction will encroach on the alley on the north side closing off the parking spaces behind the bank and access to their driveway. The bank will be given spaces to use and a new driveway is proposed to be opened up for their drive -through. The bank also requested that two short-term meters be placed on Church Street in front of the bank. The spaces would not be exclusive to the bank, but will allow them turn over the same as the spaces at Citi Corp. The Committee agreed to the two short-term meters for the duration of the construction. but would revisit the request after construction since the bank has a parking lot. Review of Current Parking Rates in the Dnwntown area The Committee reviewed the parking rates at 1800 Maple Self -Park, 1603 Orrington, One Rotary Center, 500 Davis, and the Orrington Hotel. Parking Committee Minutes June 26.2002 Page 4 A discussion was held on the County Parking Tax and its impact on the City-. The City charges a base rate of S60.00 dollars with a $8.00 City Parkins Tax and a S5.00 ,Municipal Garage [:sage Tax bringing the monthly rate to S73.00. If the base rate of $60.00 were to be raised beyond S60.01 the County would charge a S 10.00 County Parking Tax. Mr. Perman mentioned that 1603 Orrington now has an after 4:00 pm parking rate aimed at the downtown employees who work in the evening. The Committee discussed if this was a good idea for the City garages to have an after 4:00 pm rate. Aid. Newman wanted to know v hen the University side of the Maple Avenue Garage would be opened. ,Mr. Jennings explained that the garage is waiting for a piece of equipment form Rcvcon that should arrive this week. Once the gate is fixed that entrance vdll remain open. Also, Mr. Jennings asked the Committee if they would mind a directional sign on the mast arm traffic signal in front of the garage. The Committee agreed to the sign directing traffic into the garage. Mr. David Reynolds requested that spaces in the Church Street Self park being held for the Sherman Avenue parkers moving over, because of the garage demolition, be released. He would like to see the Sherman parkers moved over into the Maple avenue Garage to open up spaces for the people working and living in the Church Street Self Park area. Currently there are no monthly spaces available. Mr. Jennings stated it was his understanding that the City was to offer either the Church Street Self Park or the Maple Avenue Garage to the people being displaced by the Sherman Avenue Garage demolition. The Committee agreed to review the numbers of spaces being held and who is actually parking in the Church Street Self Park. Aid. Newman felt a better decision could be made to meet the parkers needs when the Committee has this information. Chan over to evening narking meter usage in the Downtown area Mr. Perman wanted to know ufien the change would be made to downtown parkins meters to the new 9:00 pm time. fir. Jennings thought that possibly the change would take place in a few months. Currently the new Parking Enforcement Officers are being hired. Stickers or signs for the meters need to be designed and installed. He also mentioned that they are looking into the possibility of back lit meters. The meeting adjourned at 7:17 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jacquelyn R. Johnson - Evanston Division of Transportation/Public Works The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Julv Parking Committee meeting Of Julv 24. 2002 Members Present: Aid. Newman, Aid. Berstein, George Woolddge, Jonathan Perman, Troy Theil and Associate Members David Reynolds and Paul Giddings Members Absent: Aid. Wynne and Richard Cook Staff Present: David Jennings, Keith Fujihara, Judy Aiello, Jean Baucom, and Jacquelyn Johnson Visitors: Michael Ginter Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:09 pm with a quorum Voting Paul Giddings as an Associate Member opened the meeting. The vote was unanimous. Also, David Jennings brought up that member Richard Cook is now chair of the Plan Commission and that he would need to be replaced. Alderman Art Newman requested Mr. Jennings send the Plan Commission a memorandum stating the value of having one of their members on the Parking Committee and that Mr. Cook be replaced. Handicapped Parkinq for 909 Davis Parking System Manager Jean Baucom stated she had received a request from the building management as well as the Evanston Northwestern Healthcare to add handicapped parking for their clients. They would like two spaces in the circle drive as well as many as they can get on Church Street. Aid. Newman said that he was not in agreement to remove the metered parking spaces on Church Street to add the requested parking. Each time a meter is removed from service it is one thousand dollars of revenue taken from the City. He did feel it was acceptable to add the two spaces in the circle drive on the south side of the building. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom agreed that the circle drive would be able to accommodate the two new handicapped spaces. There was a general discussion on the handicapped parking in the area. The parking in the building is not public and Mr. Jennings stated it is not conducive to handicapped parking. Ms. Baucom said that the address of the building is 909 Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 2 Davis, but the entrance in on Church Street and that the City did give them two spaces on the north side of Church Street juste east of Maple Avenue. Ms. Baucom stated that the building management would like to have those two spaces made permanent. Aid. Newman said that a policy needs to be developed on the covering of meters for handicapped spaces. The Committee agreed to the two spaces in the circle drive and one space on Church Street, which follows the normal practice of adding handicapped parking spaces on the street. Aid. Newman said as a side note that he wants the parking on Hinman Avenue to be looked at from Lake Street up to the 1800 block. He would like to see every loading zone and handicapped space is reviewed for the current need. Aid. Newman also would like staff to develop a policy on the hooding of meters for handicapped parking spaces. Possible expansion in the ROPD 4 l ETHS Mr. Jennings stated there has been a study done and the information is being compiled to determine the need for the expansion ROPD 4. There is a need to restrict the street parking from the ETHS students who attend class all day and keep the residents from parking in front of their houses. The staff is working with Alderman Lionel Jean -Baptiste on implementing this expansion. Mr. Jennings said the staff would provide an email to update the Committee on the study results. If the results were not as predicted the implementation of the expansion would be stopped. Report on purchase of new validators for Maple Street Selfoark Mr. Jennings explained that the current validators are not "smart", because they obliterate part of the magnetic stripe deleting the needed information. The new validators will maintain all information providing data on when the customer comes and goes in the garage. The each new validator will cost two thousand dollars and a complete credit of one thousand dollars will be given for each of the current validators being used. Aid. Newman raised his concern again that garage parkers are abusing the validators at the Century Theatres. Assistant City Manager Judy Aiello stated at the time of distribution for the new validators the City would sit down with each management and discuss the proper use of the validators by patrons. Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 3 Ms. Baucom explained that the current system was an interim system to be used until the new management software was developed and implemented. Implementation is currently taking place and will use the new or "smart" validators to gather information. With the new system each ticket will be read opposed to being batched and will allow for better tracking of data and flexibility in use of the system. There was a general discussion on the abuse of the validation system by garage parkers. Staff was informed that the patrons of the Wolfgang Puck restaurant were being told by the restaurant staff to go up and use the theatre validator in order to avoid the parking fee. Ms. Aiello stated they had talked to the new management of the restaurant and that they were assured that this practice was not being done. Also, the location of the validators in the theatre are in the open allowing for parkers to go up the stairs and get their parking ticket validated also avoiding the parking fee. The Committee felt that the location of the theatre validator needs to be moved into the paid area stopping random use. Report on replacement of Parkinq Enforcement Vehicles Mr. Jennings explained the decision was made to go with right-hand drive jeeps. The current Cavaliers will be replaced and new vehicles will be added for the additional staff being hired for a total of ten vehicles. They will be going to bid in a few weeks and it will be going to Council in September. 1881 Oak Parking Lot 1881 Oak reverts back to the owner, Glenlake Capital, on August 18, 2002. We are currently renting as a combination lot with meters and permits. The City will be closing the lot August 2"d or P with work to remove the surface starting on August 5`". Ald. Newman questioned if the City had been "kicked" out of the lot. Staff said we had lost our lease and that the Management Company had gotten their foundation permit for the construction of their next building. A discussion was held regarding that the management firm has one year from the date of the foundation permit to start construction. In that year's time if the work has not begun the option to use the lot for parking reverts back to the city. Alderman Steven Berstein questioned if the remaining space would be enough for construction as well as the staging of the materials for the new building. Ms. Aiello and Mr. Jennings explained the new building would be a mirror image and there would be enough room for both the construction and the staging. Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 4 Aid. Newman would like a joint memorandum from the Legal Department and the Assistant City Manger preserving the option on the lot if the Glenlake decides not to build within the year. He feels that even with the foundation permit being issued the city needs to keep the option of using that lot for parking open. ROPD and REPD Chanqe in effective date Mr. Jennings explained that the Resident Only and Resident Exempt sticker renewal had not been changed at the time the renewal of the city sticker had been changed from January 1st to November 1st. He would like to go to council on August 12, 2002 to make the parking permit run concurrent with the city sticker. Sherman Plaza Proiect Undate Ms. Aiello stated the development team is in negotiations for all the necessary space to meet the terms of the development agreement and for financing. She said it is the staff hope that they will have all their financing in place so that the Sherman Garage can be closed in mid to late September. If that is not the time frame for closing the development team should know with in the next thirty days. At that point a decision would have to be made to either keep the garage open until the first of the year after the holiday shopping season or close the garage and provide some kind of shuttle service to assist the holiday shoppers with parking. Ms. Aiello said since there is no August Parking Committee Meeting they would take this decision directly to the City Council. The financing of the garage portion has been discussed by the development team and whether it is feasible for the city to finance the new garage. The experience with the Maple Garage showed that waiting for the contractors financing to come through cost the City of Evanston an additional million dollars for the delay. The Development Team feels that with the lower interest rates it would take a lesser amount of money to finance the garage ourselves. However with the city financing the project there would be increased responsibilities for the city to monitor the construction and inspection. The city would have to hire an inspecting architect and hire a greater level of inspection then was done in the Maple Street Garage. The pros and cons of both would have to be discussed, but with the team's estimate on administrative costs it would still be less for the city to finance rather than the developer. Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 5 Mr. Stafford and our financial advisor have been running the numbers to see if it would be cheaper for the city to do the financing. Ald. Newman questioned that the city would not start the garage construction until the developer has leased their sixty-five percent. Ms. Aiello agreed and added that they must have the necessary financing. The financing includes the condominiums as well as the retail. Ms. Aiello stated that the developer is in negotiations for the needed sixty-five percent leased space to start the project and that sixty-five percent includes the athletic club, Osco Drug, and a number of retailers. Mr. Jennings stated that the committee had previously discussed having the ability to `nest" or charge different rates in different areas of the garage. Now is the time to discuss this, we need to determine if we are going to build in that capability or not. Mr. Jennings explained the top floor and the roof were good areas for the city to do this and wanted to know if the committee was in agreement with this. Aid. Newman agreed that the city does want this capability and wanted to know what it would cost. Mr. Jennings said that it would require more parking equipment, but that they had not done any calculations yet. Mr. Jonathan Perman, Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, felt that the ability to nest was a good idea. He said it would be a benefit to be able to offer special rates to the packers. Mr. Jennings explained that the "nesting" software would have readers on several floors for the parker to pass before they would be able to exit the garage with out paying additional money. The transponder in each vehicle would be read and recognized for which particular area the car was to be parked in. Even if the "nester" was to go up to the nesting area and come back down, they would have ten minutes to leave the garage not allowing them to park on the lower floors. Ald. Newman wants it to be clear that even though the garage will have the capability to charge different rates it is not a forgone conclusion that different rates will be charged. He felt that when you are spending twenty-five million to build the garage the debt service will need to be met by these primary parkers and discount rates will not meet this. Mr. Jennings brought back to the table the air conditioning the elevator lobbies of the garage. He wanted clarification that both of the lobbies were to be air- conditioned and the committee agreed. Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 6 Next, Mr. Jennings stated that the staff wanted to have the same revenue control system in the new garage the same as the Maple Avenue Garage. This would allow greater flexibility for the merchants. There was a general discussion on the current system in place at the Maple Avenue Garage and the new system going into the Sherman PIaza Garage. Both, Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom explained that the Maple Avenue Garage was operating on interim software for the past year and the new state of the art software has been installed within the last month. The same state of the art software will be in the new Sherman Garage making the validation compatible between the two garages. Effective Date for Exnandincr the Time on the Downtown Parkincl Meters Mr. Perman wanted to know when the downtown parking meters would be changed over to the new expanded hours. Mr. Jennings stated that the change would not take place any earlier than September. Wavfindinq Sign System Aid. Newman wanted to know how the committee felt about the new wayfinding sign system. Mr. Paul Giddings, felt that the system was good, but sometimes the letters on the signs were too small to read. He felt you would have to stop to be able to read the signs. There was a general discussion on the signs and their readability. There was a general consensus that the signs are not readable for people driving by. Aid. Newman felt the Fourth of July signs were good and directed people very easily on where they needed to go and park. Mr. Jennings said that said it would be impossible to have signs large enough to handle the same size lettering. Aid. Newman's suggestion was to put less on a sign with larger letters. Mr. Jennings said it was a trade off that directory signs contain several items with the smaller letters and directional signs were larger with the one item. Update on the Central Street Studv Mr. Jennings said he attended both hearings on the study and it was a process to get people to understand that there are limited resources and there is a need for sharing. He felt it was interesting to hear from people that felt they should not pay anything for parking and others that felt is was fine to have to pay. He said the consultant did a good job of moderating both hearings and letting the people voice their opinions on the parking situation in the two study areas. Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 7 Mr. Jennings felt the things that came out of the two different areas are going to lead to some reasonable solutions. This will include the evaluation of the metered areas and what areas need to be metered or not. On the west end study a suggestion was made that there are some streets that are two narrow to get emergency equipment down and there may be a need to strip parking on one side of the street. Concerns were also expressed about zoning in the area and how the area was zoned. It was felt that some of the buildings are not using the spaces as they were intended at the time of planning. Aid. Newman asked what is the problem in the west area? Mr. Jennings explained that some of the businesses/agencies have a greater need for parking than parking spaces available and this overflow goes into the surrounding streets. The surrounding streets are wall to wall cars and cannot accommodate the business cars. Ms. Baucom explained these streets include Reese between Central and Hartzell, Hurd half a block south. She explained that Caldwell Banker is on the west end of that area looking from Ewing to Central Park. Baird and Warner is down at Ewing and they are moving their residential sales office across from Caldwell Banker. Those employees that do not have off street parking will be primarily on Hurd because it is the closest block. Palliative Care has three office buildings in the area, two at Reese and one down at Hurd and they do not have enough spaces. Reese is packed from wail to wall with staff from Palliative Care. Aid. Newman suggested making some of this area a two-hour parking area. Ms. Baucom explained that the streets are too narrow to handle the two-sided parking and they are residential. Staff is looking at how far can they disperse these parkers in the area. Also. is there some place they can share the parking on a block by making a couple spaces for the business and the rest residential? Basically the parkers are going to have to start walking a block or two for parking. Mr. Jennings explained the 'voluntary walking distance" a parker will walk to get parking. There is not a set formula, but there is a limit as to how far a parker will go to park. Ms. Baucom explained at the west end where the reality offices are the parkers are in and out of their office and are willing to park closer and risk a ticket for the convenience. Mr. Jennings said the second meeting; Central/Green Bay Area was for a larger area and well attended. This had different factors from the west end because it has the train commuters. There was an interesting interchange between the train Parking Committee Minutes July 24, 2002 Page 8 commuters, the merchants, and the residents. Again the consultant was bringing up the idea of shared parking. Mr. Jennings explained that the committee would be receiving a complete report from the consultant. Aid. Newman asked if the report would be ready for the September meeting and both Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom felt this was possible. The meeting adjourned at 8:15 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jacquelyn R. Johnson EDOTIPublic Works The Parking Committee A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the September Parkinq Committee meeting Of September 25, 2002 Members Present: Aid. Newman, Ald. Wynne, Jonathan Perman, Michael Ginter and Associate Members David Reynolds and Paul Giddings Members Absent: Ald. Steven Bernstein, George Woolridge, Troy Thiel, and Richard Cook Staff Present: David Jennings, Keith Fujihara, Judy Aiello, Max Rubin, and Jacquelyn Johnson Visitors: Demetrios Maris, and Mary Gavin Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:34 pm with a quorum Ald. Newman welcomed Michael Ginter as the newest member of the Parking Committee. Valet Parkinq proposal for Lot 14 on Sherman and Lake Aid. Newman opened the discussion by confirming Mr. David Jennings' opinion that he is not in favor of using Lot 14 for valet parking. Mr. Jennings feels that Lot 14 is a public lot open for public use and that by using it for valet parking it would be limiting the access for the downtown businesses. Mr. Demetrios Maris, owner of Simple Parking System, stated that he would provide valet parking to any business in the downtown area that would want it. His valet service is not limited to the five restaurants he is currently serving in this area. Aid. Newman asked the Valet Parking Subcommittee, Mr. Jonathan Perman, Mr. Paul Giddings, and Mr. Maris what their findings were for available lots for valet parking in the south downtown area. Mr. Perman stated that they had approached several business and churches and no one was in favor of letting their property be used for valet parking. Rotary International felt that the liability was too much for them to assume. The discussion focused again on City Lot 14 and the feasibility of using it for valet parking. Mr. Maris stated that the lot currently has a capacity of 100 space and with valet parking he could add an additional 50 by stacking the cars. He did submit a proposal requesting the lot from Sunday through Thursday from 4:00 pm to midnight. Also, on Fridays and Saturdays from 4:00 pm to 1:30 am. Parking Committee Meeting of September 25, 2002 Page 2 Several questions were raised concerning the mixed use of the lot between the permit spaces and the meter spaces. The permit spaces would be open at 5:00 pm, but the metered spaces would be included in the new downtown meter hours and enforced until 9:00 pm. The disparity behveen the two times would cause a problem with controlling the lot and who enters or exits. Also, the deteriorating condition of the lot was discussed at length and how this would add to the already serious question of liability. Mr. Michael Ginter explained his background in valet parking and felt the City may want to take a different approach to this issue. Mr. Ginter feels that the liability is too great to have one valet company use a city lot for their own use. Secondly, he also stated that it has been his experience that it is the responsibility of the Valet Company to procure parking for their customers and not that of the city they are in. Ald. Newman ended the discussion in the interest of time, but told Mr. Maris that it does not look good that Lot 14 would be approved for valet parking. Ald. Newman did offer for Mr. Marls to return again to the Parking Committee for further discussion since a decision had not been made. Update on extend meter hours Mr. Jennings explained that he was looking at extending the meter hours for the downtown area in October. This date was dependent on the readiness of the additional staff and the new meter signs. The committee did feel that whatever date is chosen for implementation, that the first two weeks should be warning tickets only. Mr. Jennings said that this would not be a problem, but wanted the committee to understand that all other applicable violations would be issued with the new increased staffing. Central Street Parking Studv Mr. Jennings stated that staff had received the first draft of the Central Street Parking Study and that it would be distributed to the committee for review. The committee did agree to review the draft of the study at the October 23. 2002 Parking Committee Meeting. Update on the Sherman Plaza protect Ms. Judy Aiello said the projected date for the closure of the Sherman Avenue Self Park would be January 2003. It was agreed that, due to Parking Committee Meeting of September 25.2002 Page 3 the time constraint, Ms. Aiello would continue her presentation in the Economic Development Meeting scheduled at 8:00 pm. The meeting adjourned at 8:04 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jacquelyn R. Johnson EDOTIPublic Works The Parldng Committee DRAFT A Sub -Committee of the Cin, Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of February 26. 2003 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:13 P.M. Members Present: Alderman Art Newman. Aid. Steve Bernstein, Aid. Melissa Wynne, and Troy Thiel. George Woolridge arrived at 6:35 p.m. Members Absent: .ion Perman, Michael Ginter Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Keith Fujihara, and Jean Baucom Visitors: Aid. Eb Moran; Rina Cutler (Rimon Associates) and Joe Sciulli (Chance Management Advisors) Central Street Parkine Studv: Alderman Newman welcomed and congratulated Rina Cutler, Ms. Cutler advised the Committee that she was and still is President of Rimon Associates; however, she has put the majority of the consulting business on hold due to being appointed Deputy Secretary of Transportation for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. She stated she will complete the project initiated several years ago in Evanston and then introduced Joe Sciulli, who has worked «ith her on this project. Mr. Sciulli coordinated and conducted the statistical studies, which included on -street parking data collection and the commuter and residential survey's. Ms. Cutler noted that the parking study approved several years ago "-as to investigate parking in two specific corridors of Central Street. The "good," she stated is that the areas are very healthy business districts; and the "bad" is that this creates a high parking demand. She noted that the existing No Parking lam -gam for residents is good for residents; however, the down side is it creates a domino effect of moving cars and adding regulations. At the present time, the regulations and parking needs are not in balance, which presents contentious issues that will need to be addressed by the City. Mr. Sciulli, using a pointer and overhead projection, described the regulations on various streets, the streets actually studied, the location of public transportation. the dense commercial strips and the residential areas. Aid. Newman questioned what is the problem in the Lincolnwood area, stating that the streets are basically unregulated. Aid. Moran responded that employee parking extends one block both north and south of Central Streets and that, with narrow streets, there is both a traffic problem and a parking problem for business -related needs. Aid. Moran was pointed out that several businesses Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of Februan• 23, 2003 Page 2 (real estate offices and Hospice of the North Shore) have a lot of turnover and a large volume of people coming to the area throughout the day. Aid. Newman asked who is complaining; and Aid. Moran responded the residents. Aid. Newman then asked which streets are having problems; and the response was Ewing, Reese, Lincolnwood, Hurd, and Hartzell. Mr. Sciulli continued to discuss the parking use and turnover study methods and the surveys of businesses, commuters, and residents. Aid. Bernstein asked approximately how many commuters use the Metra station at Central. Mr. Sciulli said Metra had provided a statistic of an average of 1200 commuters per day. Aid. Newman asked if there is any impact from the (Evanston) Hospital garage opening, and Jean Baucom advised that the University had started a shuttle program about the same time the Hospital garage opened, so no significant changes were noted. A brief discussion followed about who uses Lot 64 and how the lot is apportioned. Ms. Cutler commented that, while Northwestern University had indicated they need their lot (Lot 64) for their own needs, she believes NU does not accept responsibility for the real demand that the university generates. Aid. Newman asked Ms. Cutler what NU could be doing; and Ms. Cutler responded that building a garage on campus would help and that the University should be conducting a comprehensive study of the non- residential students and staff parking needs as these have impact on the City's traffic and parking. She expressed that it will likely take political pressure to persuade NU to look at and accept their responsibility. She noted that Ryan Field is a good location for a dual - use parking garage, but stated Northwestern does not. Ms. Cutler also advised that land use and zoning have terrific impact on parking. Often she noted, developers want to get their parking requirements waived or reduced. In Miami. Florida. developers pay for reductions or waivers of parking requirements. These funds are placed into a Parking Fund and later used to construct public parking.. Moving back to the discussion regarding the existing regulations around the Central Street Station, Ms. Cutler pointed out there are Evanston residents who want to use the train and believe they should be allowed parking privileges on the residential streets because they are Evanston residents. She noted there is another contingency that believes residential parking should be only for area residents as if it were private parking for the neighborhood. Ms. Cutler reiterated that she is a proponent of public parking — not private parking on the public way. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of February 23. 2003 Page 3 Ald. Newman commented the vigilance of parking enforcement officers in this area at 8:50 A.M. is what upsets many commuters and that he does not think we should be issuing tickets during that last 10-15 minutes. A lively discussion followed about the importance of enforcing regulations until 9am to prevent the neighborhood from becoming an all -day parking lot; the frustration caused to commuters who are trying to take the 9am train: an -Us versus Them" attitude which exists between Evanston commuters and Evanston residents around the train station; the perception of "over - ticketing" driving customers away is not true, the reality that turnover occurs when you enforce regulations, that turnover is the lifeblood of business communities; and that the impact of merchants and/or their employees parking at the on -street meters is a choice and business decision which hurts them and the other businesses. Mr. Sciulli and his. Cutler discussed the commuter survey methods and responses. They personally distributed forms from 6:00am until 9:30 a.m. and tracked the times the forms were distributed so that there was a cross-section from each train stop and an opportunity to determine type of response by availability of parking along the train tracks. It was noted that many people would not accept a survey; however, there %%w a good response from those who did. his. Culter pointed out the responses indicate a clear disconnect between those wanting more parking and those willing to pay for parking. She said that pricing of parking is a method often employeed to change people's parking behaviors. This pricing can be in the form of parking rates or ticket fines. Due to the time, Ald. Newman asked if Ms. Cutler could return to continue the discussion begun this evening and further address recommendations while intergrating the remainder of material as various issues tonne up during the discussion. his. Cutler proposed holding a special meeting on a Saturday. The Committee overall agreed this was a good option, but noted that March was not a good month and neither was April 26 nor the previous weekend. Ms. Cutler said she would check her calendar once she returned to Pennsylvania and suggest a few dates for the committee. Alderman Bernstein and George Woolridge left the meeting, so a quorum no longer existed 811 Chicaeo Avenue David Jennings stated he had received a request to expand an existing loading zone at this condo building- due to the needs of resident who is disabled. The vehicle which frequently picks up the resident cannot fit into the single parking space which had been designated as a loading zone. Mr. Jennings said he felt it would be best to remove a parking meter in order to extend the existing loading zone. There was general agreement to proceed with Mr. Jennings recommendation. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of February 23, 2003 Page 4 Lot 60 —1235 Chicaeo Ave. Paul Giddings asked if there was something that could be done to increase the visibility of Lot 60 because people don't realize this is public parking. Discussion followed by Aid. Newman, Ald. Wynne, David Jennings, .lean Baucom, and Paul Giddings with the following results: City is investigating methods to instal] parking meters because the garage's construction does not allow bolding the meters to the floor; merchants should come up with some fliers and signs for their windows which advertise parking; a marketing plan is needed which would have jazzy signs and advertise the Dempster - Chicago area and the location of parking; and the staff will investigate the possibility of changing zoning in order to provide a blade sign for the public parking. Next Regular Parkins Committee: Alderman Newman stated that at the next Parking Committee meeting the Committee will be discussing (Bill Stafford's) report on the Parking Fund finances and the north exits at the Maple Self Park. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 pm. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT rt Sub-Cammirtee of the Cin, Council of Evanston. Illinois ,Minutes from the Committee Meeting Of April 23, 2003 Alderman Bernstein opened the meeting at 6:36 P.M. Alderman Newman arrived at approximately 6:43 PM and took over as Chairman of the Committee Members Present: Alderman Art Newman. Aid. Steve Bernstein. Aid. Melissa Wynne (arrived at 6:52 P.M.), Troy Thiel, George Woolridge, Mice Ginter, Larry Widmeyer, and Jon Perman (arrived at 7:03 p.m.) Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Judith Aiello, Max Rubin, Keith Fujihara, Jean Baucom, and Arthur Alterson Visitors: John Hammerschlag, Arne Weingardt, Laura Saviano (Public Art Committee representative), Tod Desmarais (Optima), Kevin Hollins (Prentiss Properties), a female identifying herself as a tenant of 1800 Sherman Building, Allyson Mauck, and two other unidentified male visitors. PUBLIC ART —1800 Maple Self Park David Jennings reported that the artist contracted to develop the public art sculpture for the front of the 1800 Maple Self Park is running into difficulty being able to construct the piece within the budget approved for the project. He advised that the artist is trying on reducing the overall size of the project in order to try to get costs within the budget. Max Rubin advised that there had been an engineering analysis for the original piece and changes will require a new engineering analysis before it could be hung. Alderman Newman asked if the City would have to bear these additional engineering services costs; and Mr. Rubin advised it would. Discussion followed that the approved budget is 5170,000-, that there is a signed contract with the artist to deliver the piece for this amount; that the artist and the piece were selected in competition; that optional materials had been considered before the artist determined it would be necessary to reduce the piece, and that it might be appropriate to cancel the contract since the piece is well beyond the delivery time and appears not feasible, and that it is important to get this project finished rather than to let it continue to drag out. Alderman Bernstein said he would like the artist to come meet with the Parking Committee and discuss the current state of the project and the casts. The Committee agreed and requested that the artist be contacted. Sherman Plaza Self Park — Granhics and Themes for Elevators & Lobbies: Arne Weingardt presented three categories of themes created for consideration for the elevator lobbies in the proposed Sherman Plaza Self Park. The first grouping was of Evanston landmarks: the second was trees in Evanston: and the third was foods. The Committee unanimously selected landmarks. Alderman Newman asked John Hammerschlag for his opinion. and Mr. Hammerschlag responded he prefers no theme and just colors. as he does not believe themes really help people remember where they've parked their car. A brief discussion followed about the materials and colors to be used for the graphics, it being noted that, while more expensive than metal or other possible materials, porcelain is recommended because of it holds up longer than other materials and can be cleaned easier. It was also noted that the architect is concerned about the use of color in the elevator lobbies as he feels this will detract from the overall building's design. The consensus from members of the Committee and from the visitors was that color is needed to help users identify what floor they are on. Alderman Newman put the discussion on hold at this point and asked John Hammerschlag to respond to a concern of Jon Perrnan's regarding the Maple Self Park. Mr. Perman asked whether the pay -on -foot machines should be relocated or another machine added to dea3 with the theater crowds. Jean Baucom. Parking System Manager, asked if this matter could be held until a future meeting because Standard Parking had planned to present recommendations at this evening's meeting on several operational issues but had been asked to hold off until the next meeting due to the shortened meeting time for tonight's meeting. Alderman Newman and David Jennings commented new signs advise theater patrons that they do not have to use the pay stations if they have parked less than 4 hours and their ticket was validated. It %vas also commented that, when several theaters let out about the same time, there will be several hundred people trying to get out of the garage and they often are talking rather than reading the signs. Someone asked whether the theater has signs posted as one leaves the theater advising you don't have to use the pay station, and several responded, "No." Several commented simultaneous that perhaps the theater should also do something to notify their patrons. Discussion returned to the graphics for the open areas along the Benson Ave. side of the Sherman Plaza garage. Mr. Wcingardt recommended the letters be lighted around the outer edges with LED rather than fluorescent. After viewing designs which utilized white lighting versus red lighting, a discussion followed among the Committee members, David Jennings, Max Rubin, John Hammerschlag, Laura Saviano, Judy Aiello, Jean Baucom, and Mr. Weineardt regarding the type and color of lighting and who would see these letters spelling EVANSTON. David Jennings and Max Rubin reported they had viewed the location at night, and the letters would not be visible from a number of areas due to direction of vehicular travel, location of traffic signals, and the impact of obstructions such as the train tracks and other tall buildings. The consensus of the group was that red LED lighting should be used due to its visibility and overall costs. Questions were raised about the cost for these letters, whether the lettering would actually be visible due to its height on the building; what the public art budget is for this building; and whether it makes sense to spend S 100,000-120,000 plus to design and maintain the letters when only the train riders and a few people in taller buildings on Davis or west of the tracks would be able to see theta_ Aid. Newman asked Laura Saviano of the Public Art Committee for her opinion and how the Public Art Committee would feel if the letters were not installed. Ms. Saviano suggested looking for other alternatives, including use of the Cisco faces that had never been implemented anywhere. She said the Public Arts Committee would love to see sculptures downtown and perhaps the funds could be used to develop a major sculpture for the Sherman Ave. lobby. There was favorable support for exploring artwork for the second level openings as well as for placing sculptures intnear the Iobbies. The Committee unanimously decided not to spend money to develop and install the EVANSTON letters. John. Hammerschlag pointed out that there will be 1 large blade sign at each entrance and these should be taken into consideration when designing public art for 2"d level building openings. Jon Perrnan proposed that the Public Art Committee be charged to look at the project and recommend options for the second floor and ground floor art. The Committee agreed, and Ms. Saviano was asked to take this back to her committee. 800 Elein Proaosed Proiect & Interim Parkinu for 1800 Sherman David Jennings brief reviewed the previous visit of representatives from Optima and Prentiss Properties to the Parking Committee. He said that Prentiss and Optima have looked for alternatives for providing parking, but had experienced great difficulty locating other places. He stated the proposed plan to leave parking from other Research Park buildings had not been acceptable because it used zoning required parking for other buildings. He said that the City proposes to lease the needed space in the 1800 Maple Self Park. Alderman Newman questioned how this was possible since the Committee had been advised previously that there was no more room. Jean Baucom stated several things have changed since the interim plan was discussed some months ago. She noted the original plan for replacing parking for Sherman Ave. Garage had anticipated having to provide the full number of zoning spaces for the buildings in the Research Park, 1001 University Place building and the 909 Davis Street building. At the present time, there is a high vacancy in the Research Park buildings which is not expected to change in the near future. The 909 Davis building has come on-line and has advised they do not and will not have the need for all of their spaces due to the high public transit ridership of their main tenant McDougall Little. Further NAI Hifiman. which handles most of the Research Park buildings has 149 spaces not being used, 909 Davis has over a 100 not being used, and the 1001 University Place building also has over 100 not being used. Based on these numbers, there appears to be adequate room to provide the parking for 1800 Sherman in the Maple Self Park The Committee questioned how the 909 Davis building had too many spaces, and Judy Aiello explained that the zoning requirement is a calculation and this number of spaces does not change even if the full demand of the building is less than what is required. David Jennings advised that 120 spaces would be used for monthly permit parkers and the remainder would be validated parking. Alderman Nc%;m= said he could not understand this would work as he recalled the information previously showed that the actual use in the Maple garage was so high that there were no extra spaces. He stated he wants to see the numbers again so that he can be sure there is sufficient room because he does not want to have any complaints from people that the Maple garage is full and there is not enough parking. He commented that he believes if the garage can't handle ever -one the staff will be coming tack to ask for parking on the lakefront. Alderman Newman asked where those going to the Evanston Athletic Club (EAC) would be parking. Kevin. Hollins of Prentiss Properties said these people will park at the meters and using hourly parking in the !Maple Garage. Alderman Newman suggested there be a 2-month lease while we see if the garage fills up. He added if the garage gets full thel800 Sherman tenants would have to be taken out. Staff responded that a 2 month ]case could not be used, because 18W Sherman needs to be in compliance for zoning parking during the term of the construction. Alderman Newman restated he wants actual counts as he cannot believe there is room in the Maple garage. Jon Perman said he believes the staff has already looked at the numbers before bringing the matter and that the Committee should take that into consideration. Ald. Newman said he believes the staff, but he needs the numbers to be sure for himself. A visitor, identifying herself only as a tenant of the 1800 Sherman building, commented it appears Optima is saying they plan to break ground in 2 weeks and she had understood that without a parking lease this was not possible. Arthur Alterson. zoning Officer, confirmed that the parking ]ease must be in place before a building permit can be issued for the 800 Elgin project. Tod Desmarais of Optima was asked how long, his project would take. He responded About 2 years, but the parking portion will be completed in about 8 to 10 months. David Reynolds asked if the 1881 Oak lot could be used, and Judy Aiello advised it has a foundation and is not suitable for parking. Alderman Newman stated if the City does allow parking for 1800 Sherman in the Maple garage, it should be on the roof. Mr. Jennings commented this would be difficult to regulate because we have no mechanism to do that and it would have to be on an honor system. Alderman Newman advised the representatives from Optima and Prentiss Properties that no derision could be trade until after he sees the actual car counts and encouraged them to continue trying to find other solutions. He asked when they planrxed on breaking ground, and Mr. Desmaris said they were planning on the first week in May. about May Wh. Alderman New -man closed the discussion on this matter by asking staff' if numbers could be provided by May 7th and asking Judy Aiello if it was necessary to have an Executive Session meeting at 5:30 p.m. that night. A special Parking Committee meeting was suggested for 6:00 pm, just prior to the standing committee meetings. Ms. Aiello said she would check to see if Executive Session could be cancelled. Jean Raucom said she believed she can get current car counts for that meeting. At this point in the meeting, all of the visitors except one left the meeting room. The meeting continued with Allyson Mauck speaking to the Committee about parking problems she has experienced as an employee in the downtown Evanston. She said she previously worked at 1020 Davis Street in a shop which was open from loam-bpm. She came to work at 11 am and usually had to park by the YMCA or near Dempster and Crain. She had also parked near De,-vcy School, but that was not too bad, because all of the long-term parking was already taken. At $8 per hour, she could not afford $75 for a parking permit. She said she now has a better job as a receptionist but cannot afford S980 pre-tax dollars for parking. She said she currently resides with her parents, but would eventually like to be out on her own and even purchase housing in Evanston. She said she can't take the train. because it is too far from where she lives at Sheridan and Greenleaf. Alderman Newman commented she could walk to the Dempster "Er. Ms. Mauck continued that she works on Clark Street. but in the Sheridan and Judson and Clark area the all -day spaces are taken by residents or students and Sheridan Rd. has a 2 hour time limit. She has to be at work at 8:30 a.m.; however, when she comes at 7:45 or Sam she still cannot find a parking place. When she does, it is usually in the 2 hour area and she has to constantly go out and move her car. She said that today she had to move 4 times and it is hard to get someone to come cover her desk so she can go move the car. She said that sometimes she gets tickets because she cannot get out to move the car on time and that sometimes she pays to park in the garage, like when it is raining; however, she cannot afford that on a regular basis. Alderman Wynne asked why she could not walk to Chicago Ave. from her home and take the bus to Clark. When Ms. Mauck said this was too far, Aid. Wymne pointed out it is only 4 blocks, naming off the streets. Jon Perman suggested she walk from home since it takes less than than moving the car 4 times a day. Alderman Newman added that she could drive to Main Street and park because she has a City Sticker, which allows her to park in the neighborhood. David Reynolds asked if she had spoken to her employer about assisting her with the costs of parking. and she responded she had not. Jon Perman stated that employers can provide transit checks for their employees which allow purchase of transit passes at pre- tax dollars. David Jennings said he thought it was reasonable to ask her what her employer offers. There was no response. Troy Thiel pointed out that this is not just this young lady's issue but one being addressed in the Central Street Studies and questioned whether employees should not be allowed to obtain residential permits. Alderman Newman responded that allowing employees to purchase residential parking permits would open up all neighborhoods and people would stop parking in the garages. Alderman Feldman stepped into the room at 8:05 p.m. and asked when the Parking Committee would be finished as they were waiting for several of the members from the Parking Committee in order to start the EDC meeting. Alderman Newman responded it would be just a few minutes. Jean Baucom said she believes David Jennings' earlier question asking what her employer provides is a good question and asked that Ms. Mauck advise the Committee what parking her employer provides. Ms. Mauck finally said she can purchase a parking for $27.50 per month from her employer, Northwestern University. Alderman Newman responded that there is really nothing else the Committee can do for her and that she seems to have other options. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Srsecial Committee Meeting Of Mav 7, 2003 Alderman Newman opened the special meeting at 6:10 F.M. Members Present: Ald. Art Newman. Ald. Steve Bernstein. Ald. Melissa Wynne, Jon Perman. Larry Widmeyer, and :Mike Ginter (arrived 6:45 p.m.) Members Absent: George NL'oolridge Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings. Roger Crum, Keith Fujihara, Jean Baucom, and Arthur Alterson Visitors: Kevin Hollins (Prentiss Properties), Tod Desmarais (Optima), Diane Brown (tenant of 1800 Sherman Bldg.), Tom White, (Arthur Hill & Co.), and Andy Nelson David Jennings, Director of Public Works, summarized the proposed lease of parking agreement between the City of E%unston and Prentiss Properties. The agreement would lease 182 spaces to meet the zoning requirements of 1800 Sherman Ave. during construction of a multi -story building and parking garage at 800 Elgin Road. The City would provide 120 transponders to be used by monthly parkers at 1800 Sherman. Validation parking would be prodded up to an amount equal to 62 spaces times the monthly permit rental. Studies preformed indicated that on a typical day it would be possible to provide parking for 1800 Sherman in the 1800 Maple Self Park. On the Friday that the study was conducted, it was an at-, ical day. however, there was sufficient parking in the Church St. garage to handle the overflow. Associate Member David Reynolds asked what would happen if 1800 Sherman exceeds the dollar amount of validation and who would control the validation, expressing concern based on the problems experienced by misuse at the theaters. Kevin Hollins of Prentiss Properties advised that they would likely have their security personnel or office personnel maintaining the validation equipment and that they expected to work with the garage to monitor the use so that it does not ao over. Basically they would probably stop validating or they would pay for extra usage. Tom White of the Arthur Hill Company asked if the numbers included all of the monthly parkers at 1800 Maple plus the 180 required spaces for 1800 Sherman. David Jennings explained that 1001/o of the monthly parkers do not show up at the same time and that only 120 monthly permits are being issued to 1800 Sherman. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of May 7, 2003 Page 2 Alderman Newman commented that the lease puts people from 1800 Sherman ahead of all others and that the lease favors the developer. He questioned the term of the lease, stating if the developer has a problem during construction of the garage that the City still has to provide parking for Prentiss. He believes the lease should be for only one year maximum. Jon Ferman questioned wither the building permit (for 800 Elgin) could be issued if this kind of change was made in the lease. Arthur Alterson. Zoning Officer, responded that that was a good question. AIderman Newman stated that he wants the development at 800 Elgin, but the developers arc making their problem the City's program. He stated that the lease should have a short-term while an interim plan is being developed. David Jennings commented he had thought that these people might be allowed to park on the lakefront as had been done in a previous interim parking plan. Jon Perman pointed out that the (800 Elgin) project benefits the whole community and that the Committee needs to work with them. Alderman Newman then said some should be put in the Church St. Self Park so that all would not be put in the Maple garage. Tom White questioned the number of parkers in the Maple garage who are simply commuting to Chicago. David Jennings responded there is no information available at this time. Mr. White suggested a survey could be done. Jon Penman commented that 1800 Sherman is not being placed ahead of others. Alderman Newman reiterated that the lease does commit the City to guarantee them parking, which does put them ahead of others. Alderman Wynne questioned whether the Committee could simply have some of the monthly parking put in the Church St. Self Park from the beginning. Mr. Jennings responded that legally we could. Discussion followed among the various members of the Committee, Staff, and Mr. Hollins about the possible splitting of where people park; developing an interim plan; 1800 Sherman employees are Evanston shoppers too; placing some in Church St. Self Park now and including this as part of an interim plan in case 1800 Maple fills up daily. Alderman Bernstein commented he felt the lease can't be approved in its present form and that he did not believe Prentiss had tried to find any alternatives. Jon Perman interjected that Prentiss had tried to find alternate parking. Associate member Paul Giddings questioned whether the 62 validation spaces were required, and several responded "yes" as they are part of the overall zoning requirement for that building. Alderman Newman proposed that some of the 120 be put in Church St. and the City reserves the right to change the arrangement and develop an interim plan for relocating the Prentiss parking. Larry Widmeyer questioned how many spaces had been vacant in the Church -Chicago garage when the study had been performed and suggested that the number be split up front rather than waiting to see if the 1800 Maple Self Park fills up. Diane Brown, whose husband has an office in 1800 Sherman, commented that they had been told by Prentiss there would be a shuttle service for their clients and that she was concerned whether there was going to be a parking arrangement. Alderman Bernstein responded that the Committee accommodate the 62 spaces for visitor parking but be able to move the 120 employees around to other places. Kevin Hollins said he would be open to a reasonable split, but Aldermen Newn= and Bernstein responded that the City must have the right to move all out of the garages if it believed this was necessary. Kevin Hollins responded that Optima is the developer not Prentiss Properties, and that Prentiss' issue is the zoning. if Optima has a problem during construction and the lease for parking runs out. then Prentiss has a problem Aldermen Bernstein and Newman responded that based on the Zoning Commission's upholding; the decision of the Zoning Officer, Optima and Prentiss are the same. Further, the Committee will not be put in a position to have to tell our current parkers that we cannot accommodate them in favor of 1800 Sherman. Aid. Bernstein likened the situation to "last in -first out", that if Prentiss is allowed to park in the garage and the garage cannot accommodate everything that Prentiss must be the first out — not people who have been parking in this facility. Alderman Newman asked if they were going to break ground tomorrow. He then commented that the Committee had been asked to give a response with no advance time to consider this and wanted to know what would happen if they had to wait two weeks. He concluded by stating; they should have come earlier. Tod Desmarais of Optima responded that they had brought this matter to the Parking; Committee back in December, but were told they were too early and to corn back later. Alderman Ncwnnan said he did not recall this and wanted to see the minutes from that meeting;. Mr. Desmaris commented that delaying, another two weeks would mean missing two ofthe prime weeks during the construction period, which means the total time to complete their garage will take longer. Alderman Bernstein made a motion that the lease be amended to include the City having the right to relocate up to 120 permit spaces during the term of the lease to alternate locations after consultation with Prentiss. Discussion followed between members of the Committee and Kevin Hollins. Basically, the Committee would not approve the lease in its current form and unless the above terms were added there would be no lease. Mr. Hollins said he would have to consider this. The Committee members indicated this meeting would have to adjourn at this time as they had another meeting to attend. Alderman Wynne called for a vote on the motion. and the motion passed unanimously. The meeting; adjourned at 6:55 p.m Respectfully submitted. Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub -Committee ojthe Cin, Council ojE'tianston. Illinois Minutes from the Speciai Committee Meeting OfAueust 27.2003 Alderman Newman opened the special meeting at 6:06 P.M. Members Present: Aid. Art Newman. Aid. Steve Bernstein, Mice Ginter, George Woolridge, Jon Perman. and Larry Widmayer. Members Absent: Aid. Melissa Wynne Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings Staff Present: David Jennings, Judy Aiello, Bill Stafford, Doug Gaynor, and Jean Baucom Visitors: Terry Applebaum, Adrienne Hirsh, Jim Brown, and Neil Davidson Aid. Newman announced Committee Member Troy Thiel has moved from Evanston. Public Art -- 1800 Maple Self Park Doug Gaynor. Director of Parks, Recreation, and Forestry, advised that the artist selected by the Public Arts Committee and given a contract to develop and execute a piece of sculpture for the front of the 1800 Maple Self Park has advised that he is cannot complete the contract. Mr. Gaynor advised that the artist has been unable to meet schedules and that the staff, the Arts Council, and the Public Arts Committee recommend that the City cancel the contract and do the best it can to get back monies already paid the artist. Alderman Bernstein expressed that this is an unfortunate situation, that the City selected this individual with good faith and entered into a contract with him several years ago, paid him funds up front and has been waiting a long time only to be told he can't complete the project. Discussion followed by Paul Giddings, Alderman Newman, David Jennings. and Alderman Bernstein: the contract had been signed in November, 2001, and the artist had proposed a budget: approval had recently been approved to reduce the scale of the project because the artist said the costs were going to be too high, yet now he is coming back and saying he still cannot do the project; that the City had spent funds to have a structural engineer evaluate the building to accommodate the artist's design which ought to be recouped from the artist; that having waited for almost 3 years, now the City has nothing and will have to start all over. Aid. Bernstein asked Mr. Gaynor how much had been paid on this project and stated the City should be reimbursed for all money paid the artist plus interest due to the length of time he had money. Mr. Gaynor advised that the artist had been advanced $30.000 at contract signing and that the City has spent approximately $51,000 total. Mr. Gaynor added that the City will pursue its rights and remedies in regard to the cancellation of this contract. Parking Committee .tifinutes Meeting of August 27.2003 Page 2 Music Institute Jim Brown spoke on behalf ofthe new music institute. He requested two Reserved Disabled Person's spaces be created from metered parking on the south side of Grove Street at the ramp to their newly -modified building. Mr. Brown advised the request is being made because their auditorium holds 550 people and they have school and music therapists with clients on a daily basis. Mr. Brown also requested that the north -south alley behind their building. which runs between Lake Street and Grove Street, be designated for one-way traffic northbound to facilitate drop-off of children and traffic flow through the alley. Alderman New­rnan asked if they had spoken to others along the alley about making a change and questioned David Jennings if this was a traffic issue. Mr. Jennings advised that City staff support the recommendation and that, if the Committee agrees, he will work with the Music Institute to contact neighbors. It was pointed out that the neighbors adjacent are another church. the Best Western Hotel. and a few retail buildings. Alderman Bernstein asked why the request for northbound traffic, and Mr. Jennings responded because of the dropping off of children on the same side of the alley as the passenger door of the vehicle. Alderman Bernstein expressed concern about how many vehicles will want to turn westbound out of this alley. Mr. Brown continued that many people want to use the Lower Level of the Best Western garage (City Lot 14) and they would like to request access to the garage from the alley be established. He noted that there is a stairwell going from the alley to the upper levels of the garage, but nothing to allow people into the lower level. Discussion followed among David Jennings, Jean Baucom, Alderman Bernstein, and Alderman Newman. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom pointed out some of the safety concerns of encouraging people to use the alley as a sidewalk. Ms. Baucom explained that the stairs from the alley into the upper garage are a fire escape and are not totally open to pedestrians walking in the alley. She added that the installation of an open stair to the lower level would result in the loss of 2-3 parking spaces and expose the garage to access by undesirables. She advised requests were made by several permit parkers last year to have a fence installed because they believed people were jumping into the garage from the alley and vandalizing cars. She pointed out that the distance to the Church St. Self Park is only 2 blocks away from the Music Institute. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of August 27. 1003 Page 3 Alderman Newman advised that he received complaints from area residents regarding the opening gala, that streets had been closed much longer than the City had been told and that residents had not been told about the even, only to come home and not be able to find parking. He said he has received complaints about the lack of on -street parking due to events at the Music Institute and that he would have to favor the taxpayers over the tax- free institutions. He also encouraged the Music Institute to be a good neighbor and work with others, such as the Presbyterian Church, to arrange for parking so that the residents are not so impacted by the Music Institute. Jon Perman commented that they might be able to work with Best Western for their Sunday afternoon and evening concerts. Discussion followed briefly on the number and types of events at the Music Institute. Mr. Brown stated there are 10 studios and that there are both private lessons and small classes of 10 or so, which usually last for about 45 minutes. Alderman Bernstein said he believes bringing cars downtown is not a bad thing. He continued that these vehicles bring people who often eat and shop as well as go to the Music Institute. Ald. Newnan disagreed, stating that the residential area around the Music Institute is already full and that a lot of people use the lower level parking at the Best Westem, which is often full. Jon Pcrman stated that the Chamber is glad to have the Music Institute downtown and that the Chamber, Aid. Bernstein, and City staff are willing to help them develop a comprehensive parking plan Aid. Newman added he believes this is the way to go; otherwise, we will end up with another Residents' Only Parking District and this is not the way he wants to see the problem resolved. Mr. Brown stated the Music Institute will work to get information out about the various parking alternatives and that we must grow and work together. Mr. Brown asked about the possibility of going ahead with adding handicapped persons parking since they only have 1 space behind their building. Aldermen Newman and Bernstein responded they want more information on the handicapped parking needs as well as their whole parking plan David Jennings said he would work with the Music Institute regarding contacting neighbors along the alley and handicapped parking needs. Redevelonment of Existine Citv Parkine Lots Assistant City Manager Judy Aiello advised the Committee she has received two proposals for redevelopment: one for City Lot I on South Boulevard for affordable housing and the other for Lot 4 on Central St. near Greenbay Rd. She is returning at this time to see if the Committee is still interested in pursuing redevelopment of existing City lots and whether they Committee preferred each lot be addressed separately through negotiation or put out for development proposals. Discussion followed among various members of the Committee and the audience that the Committee does believe redevelopment should pursued and developers given an opportunity to present various options from which the Committee could select the best proposal; that there should be ground rules applicable to everyone interested; that a Request for Proposal should be developed requiring the developer to replace existing number of public parking spaces in addition to providing the parking for whatever use being proposed and the draft RFP be Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of August 27, 2003 Pace 4 brought back to the Parking Committee for review. It was noted that some relief would likely be needed with regard to overall project height, setbacks and side yards in order to provide all of the parking plus the new use. Mike Ginter suggested that the City sell the property and require the developer to replace the number of parking spaces similar to the agreement the Cite made «ith Roszak for the project on Chicago Ave. Aid. Bernstein interjected that he believes there is a blade sign needed on the Roszak garage, and David Jennings responded that this is on the list of things to be done. Aid. Newman stated that the first thing that must be required is the replacement of the existing number of public parking spaces. He continued that he would like to see the City pursue what it would take to get all lots back on the tax rolls and, while it is desirable to have affordable housing constructed, this is not a key priority. Discussion followed briefly about current use and possible developments on the lots at South Boulevard. Central & Stewart, and at Maple and Lake. It was noted that Alderman Wynne has requested that Lots 32 and 35 be removed from the list due to the impact of other developments in the neighborhood. It was also noted that the Maple 8_ Lake lot, currently used by Police and Fire employees, is zoned R3 and would need to be rezoned; however, it was felt this was unlikely to happen due to the single family residential units on both adjacent properties. A brief discussion followed about the lot behind the Library. Ms. Aiello was requested to develop a draft RFP, which would allow development of any or all parcels. Jon Perman stated he thinks this is a terrific idea, because it brings in money, adds to the tax rolls. and addresses social goals. Neil Davidson asked the Committee to take into consideration that he is an African - American developer and that the RFP process puts him at a disadvantage when competing with larger developers with money, who can pay higher prices for land than he is able to do. He believes that affordable housing is important to Evanston and that is what he has proposed. Revenues from Booting Vehicles: David Jennings reviewed a memo previously prepared in June about the history of booting. In 2000, 436 vehicles were booted. In 2001, this number increased by more than 50% with 709 vehicles booted. In 2002, this high level was maintained and increased slightly; and the Huddle of June, 472 vehicles had already been booted, suggesting continued high volume as in the past 2 years. The S125 boot release fees bring in around $90,000 and we pay $55 to North Shore Towing for each vehicle booted Mr. Jennings summarized an estimate of the ticket fines recovered, using S200 as the average amount paid by booted vehicle owners. In 2000, the 436 vehicles would have brought in $87,200. This amount has increased to $141,800 and S 146,000 in 2001 and 2002. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of August 27.2003 Page 5 Mr. Jennings attributed the increase in revenues to the expansion of the booting and parking enforcement programs. Jean Baucom added that much credit also goes to Hal King, the Parking Enforcement Supervisor, because he has spent many hours manually looking up each plate about to become boot -eligible and identifying in a spreadsheet where the majority of the vehicles' tickets are issued. When the SPM comes on the day that payments were required to be made, the list is released to North Shore Towing, and the following days are met with people lined up at the door to pay their tickets and release fees. Ms. Baucom advised that North Shore Towing pays its drivers a bonus finder's fee for each vehicle they boot: and that step has had a major impact in increasing the number of vehicles booted. Alderman Newman said he wanted to state clearly that no City employee did anything wrong regarding the booting of the schoolbus. Alderman Newman then commented that booting and the increased meter rates have been helping the City more than just having more money coming in. He said the enforcement of the new time limits at night and in the morning has created more parking and that if you want more parking you have to improve enforcement. Financial Status of the Parkins Fund Finance Director Bill Stafford asked if everyone had a copy of the handout he had prepared and said the figures are based on the Fiscal Year 2002-03. First, he wanted the Committee to recognize that Maple Ave. Self Park is NOT in this analysis. Second, the Parking Fund has been running deficits in its operating budget for the last 2 years and that this will be manageable for approximately 2 more years due to the current balance in the Fund. Third, he said, the garages in the long run most cover their own expenses. Over the years, parking meters have subsidized the garages and lots. He said the City has always known that garages don't make money or pay their debt service. Mr. Stafford said the Downtown 11 TIF is currently responsible for the 1800 Maple Self Park. The TIF ends in 2009, at which point the Maple garage will be back in the Parking Fund. Not only will the revenues be part of the Parking Fund, but also the debt service plus setting aside depreciation annually to repair for repairs. He added that in the operating budget, we do not budget for depreciation. In the past the meters have covered this, but as we become more garages oriented, it i rill be necessary to make these units self-sustaining. Air. Stafford said that the Parking Committee and the City must plan for maintaining a financially sound Parking Fund and that rates gill need to be adjusted to meet the expenses. He added that during the next couple of months an analysis will be performed of the Parking Fund and where the City is going and that options will be developed in terms of what revenues will be required to keep the Parking System and the Parking Fund healthy. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of August 27.2003 Page 6 Jon Pcrman. referring to the Statement of Revenues, Expenses and Changes in Retained Earnings for the year ended Feb. 28.2003, in the handout, asked what makes the actual costs of the Administration expense so high, noting a 50% increase over the previous year's actual as well as over the budget for the year. Mr. Stafford said he could not answer that at the moment, because he did not have detail information with him; and said he would check into it. Air. Stafford and Jean Baucom speculated that the amount appears to be expenses that are usually shown in the operating budget as separate line items, such as capital expenses and transfers to the General Fund. Mr. Stafford was asked if the new Sherman Plaza garage would have its own fund or be a part of the Parking Fund. Mr. Stafford responded that the Sherman Plaza garage would be a separate TIF fund. Again, he pointed out, the long-term revenues and expenses will be in the Parking Fund from the time the TIF ends. Mr. Stafford said it is important that the Parking Fund must have funds for operations, debt service, and depreciation to make repairs and to rebuilding existing lots and garages. He said the Parking Fund cannot be viewed simply from a steady state of just operations and debt service; otherwise, there will be no funds for maintaining and repairing the lots and garages. Mr. Stafford concluded by summarizing that this overview is for the purpose of getting the Parking Committee more aware of the current picture of the Fund and thinking about the future. The meeting adjourned around 7:45 P.M. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom, Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT Sub -Committee of the Cin• Council of Evanston. Illinois Minutes from the Snecial Committee Meeting of November 19, 2003 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:08 P.M. Members Present: Aid. Art Newman, Aid. Steve Bernstein, Aid. Melissa Wynne, George Woolridge, Larry Widmayer, Mice Ginter (6:30 p.m.), and John Penman (6:35 p.m.) Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Judy Aiello, Keith Fujihara, and Jean Baucom Visitors: Chris Kirkham (The Daily Northwestern), Richard Ronvick, Bonnie Urlton, Peter Nilges, and Jim Klutznik and John Terrell of Sherman Plaza Venture. Central Street Parking Studv Alderman Newman said the Committee needs to get back to this matter and pick up where it had left off. Paul Giddings stated he thought there %vas some eery good information about parking in general in the report and that it would valuable to continue the process. David Jennings reminded the Committee that it had wanted to continue this on a Saturday. Aid. Newman asked staff contact Ms. Cutler to see if she could come back again, possibly in January on one of the Saturdays of the budget meetings. He asked that she propose 3 dates that should would be available. Sherman Avenue Parking Garage Alderman Newman asked David Jennings if the City needs to put more money into this garage or will it be coming down in January. Mr. Jennings explained that the City has had Desman Associates (parking & structural engineers) to inspect this facility and, upon Desman's recommendation. has had shoring installed throughout the building. He said the initial cost was about S20,000 and we will be paying a monthly fee for leasing the shoring. He added that Desman Associates will be checking the garage monthly and evaluating if any other shoring or work is needed. Mr. Jennings said that some concrete %vas removed due to spalling, but the City has been doing this all along. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of November 19. 003 Pace Sherman Plaza Proiect Alderman Newman stated that there are some people who want the existing Sherman Ave. Garage to come down after the first of the year regardless of when the Sherman Plaza project begins. Discussion followed among the members about why it is necessary to wait; why can't the building be knocked down and a surface Iot be installed until the remainder of the project is ready; the costs and the financing require everything to be coordinated: knocking down the garage now would cause hardships for some customers and employees; that the garage will remain up through the holidays; that the issue is more of a business decision than a parking matter; and that the Committee needs more information and ought to invite downtowzt businesses to come whenever the Committee talks further about when to knock the garage down. Paul Giddings said that the Committee has talked about the need for better screening around the demolished property along Davis Street, but nothing has been done. Several members commented the area is a real "eye sore" and it would be good if the developer graded the lot or put in opaque slatting in the existing fence so that people in the restaurants don't have to look at the current mess. Larry Widmayer reiterated Mr. Giddings comments and said it is difficult to attract potential tenants for the Fountain Square Building as well as other stores when everyone has to look down in to the big hole. Aid. Newman asked ,\1s. Aiello to go and get the developer. who was in a meeting in another room, to come listen to these comments and to respond to the Committee. Jim Klutznik and John Terrill came to the Committee, and Paul Giddings restated his earlier comments. Mr. Terrill said he would talk to the contractor who had demolished the buildings and asks him to do more clean-up. He said they cannot fill the hole at this point, but they could look into doing something regarding the fencing. Mr. Giddings said that it is important to make the area look attractive, that it is a concern for people trying to eat across the street and having to look at this. not to mention the holiday season is upon us. Aid. Newman reinforced Messrs. Giddings and Widmayer's comments but saying we don't want to look at the site the way it is now. Mr. Terrill said they would look into the matter, and he and Mr. Klutznik left the meeting at that time. On -Street Parkins at Oak Ave. & Clark St. David Jennings distributed a project layout for a proposal, which had been submitted to the Site Plan Review and Appearance Committee which proposes angle parking on Clark Street as well as on Oak Avenue. He noted that at the present we do have angle parking on Oak Avenue, however. parking on Clark St. is parallel on both sides. The Rosxak proposal received shows parallel parking on the north side of Clark Street but has angle parking along the south side of Clark. Further, the parallel parking on the west side of Oak Ave. is proposed as angle parking. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of November 19. 2003 Page 3 Alderman Newman asked Mr. Jennings for his opinion. Air. Jennings said if the streets are wide enough, he would support the angle parking. Mr. Jennings said the reason he brought this to the Committee was imply to determine if there was any opposition to allowing angle parking in the area, so that the Committee did not feel a last-minute surprise was being brought to them if this turns out to be the final design of the project. Larry Widmayer asked if the streets are wide enough to support angle parking, and Mr. Jennings advised he did not know at this point, however, he assured the Committee that the traffic engineering section will be reviewing the submittals before any approvals are given to change parking in the area. Redevelopment of Citv Parkins Lots The Committee began review of the parking lot sites identified in the draft RFP that was recently developed. A lengthy discussion pursued about which lots to include or exclude. Alderman Wynne said that the neighborhood around Main & !-unman has been impacted by a lot of construction during the past year and that it is not desirable to develop either parking lot at this time. She said the area is suffering from density and the neighborhood does not want additional developments, including developments which fall within the existing zoning codes. While some voided agreement, others felt this is a matter for decision after seeing what proposals are made, that the Committee should not be picking and choosing each development until seeing what developers come back with. Discussion was expanded to whether or not to include Lot 1 on South Boulevard and Hinman in the list within the RFP. Opposition was expressed by Aldermen Wynne and Bernstein due to the increased demand for parking in the area, the lack of open space, and not knowing the real impact that will be felt from the completion of the Dubin townhouses and the 4 new townhomes being constructed farther east on South Boulevard. Aid. Newman expressed his belief that a development on South Boulevard would provide a more attractive option to the existing view of the wall at the cemetery. David Reynolds pointed out that Evanston was developed primarily as single family residential and 2-3 story apartments when people did not have cars. New developments are being added which are much denser and this must be considered because it does change the area Discussion continued about the impact of changing from rental apartments to condos, about the real parking demand of new developments: whether the zoning codes provide sufficient parking for buildings, the need for parking for guests and service vehicles in addition to the residents' vehicles. Jon Perrnan said what really needs to be determined is what the real public policy is regarding growth and development. He added the trade-off of developing these parking lots is new dollars for the schools: 70% of every tax dollar goes to Districts 65 and, 202. He said that while that is good for the schools and the City, the fact is that is what is happening and only a small percentage goes to the City. Discussion followed among the members about the impact of new development on property values of existing homes, that over -development in an area can have a negative affect on property values because Parking Committee 1%4inutes Meeting of November 19. 2003 Page 4 people find these undesirable. that property values east of the downtown have gone up considerably after the development of approximately 600 apartments in the late 19801s; that if area residents had convinced City officials not to allow (Evanston Place) that would not have been good for the community; and that people in a surrounding area should have a say in new developments. Aid. Newman agreed that people should be able to voice their opinions and concerns. but said they cannot be allowed to prevent development, which is good for the City. A call for discussion about Lot 27 across from the Post Office on Oak was made, and there was general agreement to leave this lot, noting that development would likely require acquisition of adjacent properties. Aid. Newman asked what was the difference between this lot and Lot 1 on South Boulevard. He noted this area is already dense and yet members are saying yes to redevelop this lot but not to Lot I on South Boulevard. Discussion reverted back to issue of aesthetics. over abundance of cars, acting in good faith to obtain good projects with good appearance and putting back existing parking plus meeting zoning requirements. It was suggested that the RFP be revised to include a condition that the City will not sell a parking lot separate from an approval of the project. Larry Widmayer questioned what kind of process would be used for appearance review, and Aid. Newman responded that the Committee would have some architects review the proposals with the Committee. Discussion forwarded about this setting up a separate project review from the existing process, that the Committee should not put a developer through two separate reviews, which has the authority over the development; that the Committee should not be evaluating projects but should be focusing on parking policy. David Jennings pointed out that the drafted RFP states that the City has the right to reject any and all proposals; therefore, the City is not bounded to accept any proposal. He further pointed to page 10 to the criteria for evaluation of each proposal. Aid. Newman interrupted the discussion, saying at this point he wants the Committee to arrive at a decision on which lots to put on the list for inclusion in the RFP and for everyone to review the terms in the draft RFP for discussion at the Dec. l Od' meeting. A vote was taken on whether to include City Lot I (South Boulevard) in the list. The vote was 4 to 2 with Aid. Nc%-.-man, Aid. Wynne, dike Ginter, and Jon Perman voting to include the lot and Aid. Bernstein and George Wooiridge voting Nay. The next parking lot to be discussed was Site t-5 — City Lot 4 on Central St. and Stewart. It was noted that Aid. Tisdahl has asked that this lot not be included for redevelopment. Jon Perman said he thought this was a great place for redevelopment. Several comments were trade about the desirability for more parking versus the size of the parcel. Aid. Wynne said she has spoken to Aid. Tisdahl, and that Aid. Tisdahl requested is that she would like to have the results from a traffic study being performed regarding pedestrian safety and traffic flow before going further. She said Aid. Tisdahl has pointed out that this lot is basically adjacent to a park and wants to involve the community in making decisions about development of the parking lot. Ald. Newman said this might be a site Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of November 19.2003 Page 5 for a planned development. Aid. W}mne responded that it is not necessary to fill in every vacant space. Jon Perman said that a residential area with walking benefits the shopping area. He cited the Michigan Ave. Magnificent Mile and how the residential component has made this area so successful. After discussion about whether to call for a vote or to honor the wishes of Aid. Tisdahl, it was decided to table a decision or further discussion regarding this lot until after the next Planning &: Development meeting. Aid. Newman asked if there had been any interest expressed to the City about redeveloping Lot 6. Ms. Aiello had left the meeting, and Jean Baucom said the only projects that Ms. Aiello has mentioned have been the two she received recently for Lots 1 and 4. Jon Penman said he wanted to share an experience, which occurred within the last 10-15 years. The U. S. government decided to reduce the number of defense bases around the country. They first tried to deal with selling each site individually, but they determined it was better to put all of the locations into a package rather than selling each individually. He said he thought there is merit to that decision and that the City should seriously consider this. Aid. Bernstein responded that should that be decided he believed once the development community got wind of a wholesale disposal of City parking lots that they would want all of lots. Other members agreed. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom, Parking System Mager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub -Committee of the Cin, Council of Evanston. Illinois Minutes from the Special Committee Meeting Of April 28. 2004 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:18 P.M. Members Present: Aid. Art Neuman, Aid. Steve Bernstein, Aid. Melissa Wynne, and Mile Ginter Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Keith 1~ujihara. Judy Aiello, Bill Stafford, Doug Gaynor. and Jean Baucom Visitors: Aid. Ann Rainey, and Bob Seidenberg Temporary Parking Lot — NIA D Property at Ashland & Noves David Jennings and Doug Gaynor presented a proposal to develop parking at the former testing lane and Permalay.-n sites on Ashland Ave. at Noyes St. The proposal is to develop parking on this property to be used on evenings and weekends by bicyclists wanting to access the bike trail that runs along the canal and by people using the various parks and soccer areas within a few -block radius. During the daytime, there is a demand for parking by businesses in the area, and during the overnight night period, there is a residential demand. The Committee asked how many spaces would be in the lot; and Messrs. Jennings and Gaynor indicated there are several options; however, they recommend implementing a temporary gravel lot for a period to determine what the real demand is. Aid. Bernstein asked about the rental fees to use the property, and Mr. Gaynor advised that the fees being charged to the City for other properties like this are $1 per year plus 25% of the net income. After a brief discussion. the Committee gave approval to proceed toward developing a lot at this location. The methods of operation and control will be determined as time goes forward, based on the users so that the property does not become a dumping ground for vehicles. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April 28, 2004 Payee 2 Parking System Finances David Jennings advised that Bob Shonk and Jean Baucom are working on some numbers to provide to the Committee: however, at this time he would like to talk about the strategies which need to be considered in the future for increasing the various rates. He began by stating the City has implemented parking rate increases only about once every 5 or more years. Aid. Newman took exception and stated there had been 4-5 increases in the Parking Tax over the last 10 years, and asked what was staff recommending. Mr. Jennings and Bill Stafford, Finance Director, responded that specific numbers are not being presented at this meeting, that the Committee needs to begin thinking about how oRen rates should be increased. and that staff is seeking some direction so that the numbers brought back at the next meeting reflect a program of anticipated rate increases over a period of time. Mr. Stafford added that there is a synergy in increasing rates in the garages (hourly rates) and at the meters, noting that the rates are used to direct parkers where to park. Aid. Newman stated he believes this is a short-term problem due to the debt service on the Church St. Self Park and that. when this is paid off in 2009, there will be plenty of money coming into the Parkins System. He asked about how much money would be gained from increasing the parking lot permit fees; and Ms. Baucom advised it would not be a lot because our current rates only bring in about $250,000 per year. He commented that increasing the parkins tax by $2 per month gets people across the board and is better than trying to increase the monthly rates on the parking lots and garages. Ms. Baucom noted that the parkins meters provide the Parking System with the most usable money and they have been the mainstay over the years in balancing out the other Fund needs. Aid. Newman said it was likely that the rates in the areas such as Dempster/Chicago would have to be raised before there could be another rate increase in the downtown. He noted that the meter revenue increase resulting from increasing the number of hours for paying meters in the downtown had been given to the General Fund and that at some point the Council needs to stop taking funds out of the Parking Fund. Maple Self Park Retail Space Judy Aiello and David Jennings reminded the Committee that there are 2 separate areas in the garage, which can be potentially developed for retail use. One area is approximately 4,000 sq. ft. while the other area is only about 600 sq. ft. Ms. Aiello advised that consideration had been given to using a broker, however, the costs are believed too high and result in little income for the City. The Committee asked about the possible use of the space for a Visitor's Center. and Ms. Aiello advised that neither the Chamber nor EVMARK have sufficient manpower to staff a satellite office and both had expressed concern that it could do more harm than good to advertise hours and not be able to have the office open. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April 28. 2004 Pace 3 Nis. Aiello said that the City's Parking System would like to use one of the offices in the 600 sq. foot area for the garage management. so that they would have a private office to deal with employee issues rather than be out front of the cashier and security guards. She asked for permission from the Committee to allow the garage management to use that office and suggested that a possible use for the front office would be for a Police Outpost. Others expressed comments of support for a Police Outpost in the downtown and that this would be a good location. Aid. Newman stated he had no problem with allowing these two uses as long as everyone understands that if a better use comes along that they will have to vacate. Nis. Aiello continued that she has received requests from a number of uses, including car rental, beauty salons, nail salons, drop-off dry cleaning, convenience markets, and a shoe repair to name a few. Aid. Wynne said she believes the car rental option is really good for the downtown as there are a number of residents in Evanston and in the downtown in particular who would use this service. Others on the committee commented that it is important to have service businesses available to serve the residents in the downtown condos; however, they believe there are more than enough nail salons and beauty shops and that Perfecto Cleaners is just a couple of blocks away. Ms. Aiello asked whether the Committee would like staff to proceed to contact the car rental agencies directly to determine interest and try to negotiate a contract rather than put out an RFP. The Committee directed her to proceed to try to get a car rental agency for the retail space. If additional space is still available, then attempts to secure other service businesses should be pursued. Development oft3arkina on Darrow Ave.. iust north of Church St. A copy of a memo dated April 22, 2004. was made available to the Committee; and Ald. Ann Rainey said that the request is coming from the developer who has converted the old Strange Engineering building into loft space for offices. She said the developer and City staff have talked about developing parking on the right-of-way and the developer is seeking a grant to fund these improvements. The parking spaces would be developed on the existing parkway and be available for public parking. Ms. Baucom advised that some controls would be needed otherwise the students from the High School will have the spaces filled between 8:00-9:00 A.M. Aid. Newman said he would hate to see the Parking Committee get involved with issuing grants and questioned why this was not being referred to the CD and EDC. He said he is concerned that, if the Parking Committee were to get involved in this matter, it would only lead others to the Parking Committee «7th an expectation that the Committee will resolve their parking problems and this is not the function of the Parking Committee Everyone agreed that the matter should be referred to the Economic Development Committee for any funding. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April 28.2004 Page 4 Minutes from the Joint Parking -Economic Develovment Meeting Copies of the minutes of the joint meeting held at the end of March were distributed. The Committee accepted the minutes prepared by the EDC. Sheridan Sauare — Residents' Oniv Parking District — Evenings David Jennings reviewed a map of the area around Sheridan Square and stated that Aid. Wynne had been asked to create a parking district at nights to deal with anti -social behavior. He reviewed the synopsis of a recent postcard survey sent to 400 residents in which a 50% response rate stated that 72% are in favor of parking district while 28% fare not. Aid. Wynne pointed out that this is the only area along the lakefront which is still open all night, and it is hoped that by implement a residential parking permit requirement every evening between 9pm-6am that other problems can be resolved. Paul Giddings said he lives in the area and he believes the size of the parking district should be larger. Aid. Wynne said the desire is to implement a permit requirement only on the street most affected by the undesirable behavior in Garden Park. Mr. Giddings said he believes Sheridan Square will now be used by people who might otherwise have sought parking on Sheridan Rd. and that he does not believe people on Keeney and South Boulevard should be allowed to purchase permits. Aid. Wynne and Ms. Baucom said that the expectation is that the same people who are currently parking on Sheridan Square and who live in the neighborhood will be the same people obtaining permits. Mr. Giddings indicated that as a resident on Sheridan Square he does not believe staff or the committee really understand the situation and more ought to be done to protect Sheridan Sq. residents. The Committee decided to support the request from Aid. Wynne to recommend the parking district and to look at making revisions later on if it becomes necessary. Jean Baucom advised that about 6 months after the district goes into effect is a good time to begin studies so that residents and others have sufficient time to learn the new regulations and develop other patterns of parking. Valet Services Aid. Newman said he does not believe the valet companies are parking vehicles where they said they would park and that he would like to know how often this is checked. Mr. Jennings said that probably most checks are performed on a complaint basis. Aid. Newman said he relieves each valet location should be checked at least once annually.. Mr. Jennings added that there is a limit to the number of errors a valet can make before they lose the privilege of offering valet service in Evanston. Nis. Baucom stated that Wayne Eury in the Traffic Engineering area does make random checks periodically to see if valets are in compliance and that staff is looking into whether or not Parking Enforcement Officers could issue this violation since it is not really a parking citation. The Committee expressed support for this idea and felt the Police should also be interested and involved in watching the valet operations perform properly.. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April 28, 2004 Page 5 Lot 27 — 1600 block of Oak Ave. Mr. Jennings presented a request from a private party to purchase the northernmost five feet (5 ft.) of City Lot 27 for use in developing a project on his parcel to the north. Mr. Jennings noted that this is one of the lots the Committee had asked be included in an RFP for redevelopment -sale of several City -owned parking lots. The Committee said it would not entertain this as a separate option and that the property owner could submit his bid for that 5 feet at the time the parcel goes out in the RFP. 900 Sherman Ave. Alderman Bernstein asked if it is possible to get some special regulation for the 900 block of Sherman Ave. to reduce commuter parking. Ms. Baucom said that at the present time there are meters on the south end of the block and a "No Parking 7am-9am" restriction for vehicles which do not have Evanston Vehicle Stickers. Ald. Bernstein said this block has become more and more parked on a regular basis and he is concerned there is not enough room for the residents. Ms. Baucom said she would discuss the matter further with him and a study can be developed if he would like that. The Committee meeting was adjourned at 7:42 p.m. Respectfully submitted, lean Baucom, Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub-Conunitree of the City Council o1 Evanslon. Illinois lzinutes from the Meetin; of January 28. 2004 Members Present: Ald. Newman, Ald. Wynne, and Jon Perman. Members Absent: Ald. Bernstein, George Woolridge, Associate Members Present: David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Judy Aiello, Bill Stafford, Keith Fujihara, and Jean Baueom Visitors: Ricky Baum, Chris Kirkham, Mary Friedl, and Jessica Newman Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:15 p.m. Parkine Funds Director of Public Works David Jennings introduced Finance Director Bill Stafford, who presented additional information and follow up regarding the financial status ofthe Parking Fund and projections for future expenses and revenues required through 2009. Mr. Stafford began his presentation by identifying the various funds parking -related revenues are assigned to: Parking Fund: parking meter coins, sales of parking lot space rentals (permits) in surface parking lots, and parking in the off-street garages. General Fund: parking ticket fines, boot fees, residential parking district permits, space rentals in Ryan Field (commuter lot), and parking tax. Also, S 150,000 of parking meter revenues are transferred to the General Fund to offset additional parking enforcement costs as part of the extension of downtown parking meter hours until 9P.M. He drew charts showing the inter -relationship of the various funds, pointing out that there are enterprise funds established for the Parking Fund and the Maple Self Park and that there will be a separate enterprise fund tied to the Washington National T1F established for revenues from the new Sherman Plaza garage. Mr. Stafford advised that the handout he would be distributing momentarily will show the various revenues and expenses related to parking, but cautioned the members to realize that these numbers are actually portions of several funds rather than a singular fund. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of January 28. 2004 Page 2 Mr. Stafford stated he had divided the information into 4 basic areas. The first section will identify revenues from "ground" parking - the parking meters and surface parking lots' meters and space rentals versus the expenses for operating the administration of parking plus the operating expenses for meters and lots. He pointed out that the net revenues from these sources have historically subsidized the garage operations and debt services. Mr. Stafford said the current debt service is approximately S5.4 millions in outstanding debt at this time. This is based on bonds for construction of the Church St. Self Park, but not for the Maple Ave. Self Para: nor for the future Sherman Plaza garage. Mr. Stafford re-emphasized that the numbers are a combination of history, current approved budget, and "ballpark" for future years. In 2006, 2007, 2008, and 2009 assumptions have been made that expenses will increase 5% while revenues increase 10%. He stated the rate increases do not mean that every revenue source is increased annually, because this is not practical. He indicated that the increases might be something like rate increases for meters every 3 years or increases to space rentals every 2 or 3 years. He pointed out that this spreadsheet was created for use as a starting point for looking at the needs and for developing a plan for increasing revenues, which will allow the parking revenues to meet fund needs. Ald. Newman asked fir. Stafford to write down on the large display pad some of the various options where increased revenues could be obtained, and the committee proceeded to identify various categories: - cannot raise garage parking permit base fees unless changes made in base used to calculate county parking tax revised upward. - Raise rates on surface lot permits - Raise meters outside of the downtown area - Add more parking meter in areas %•here there are no meters. Change hourly rates in the garages Review continuation of giving Ist hour free in garages. - Increase City parking tax and put part of increase in Parking Fund. - Explore other rate options (incentives, such as early -bird rates) to increase usage in garages. Aid. Newman asked how much we arc short now. Mr. Stafford responded that 2003-04 was an abnormal year due to the purchase of Parking Enforcement Vehicles out of the parking fund. He said that we have about one more year before we experience a cash shortage and that during 04-05 decisions regarding increasing rates will need to be made. Parkin: Committee Minutes Meeting of January 28. 2004 Page 3 Jon Perman asked if there are any expense options to reduce costs. fir. Stafford said that there are, particularly when it comes to economy of scale regarding contracts for garage operations and management. David Jennings pointed out that in order to maintain the level of service that the Parking Committee desires in the garages there is only so much that could be saved without compromising service. Aid. \cwman commented that he feels we need to be expanding service. Aid. Wynne asked %what's the number we are looking for by 2009. Mr. Stafford and David Jennings responded that the intent is to maintain a positive fund balance by 2009, noting that the City can't implement all of the rate increases all at one time. There needs to be a strategy developed and some of the philosophies regarding the garages reviewed as we will not be able to continue to operate with the current IeveI of revenues. David Jennings gave two examples of the types of strategies: (1) design a "ring' around the downtown with the internal meters charging a higher rate than the outer ring. (2) revise meter rates in the existing outi)ing meter zones to the same rates as that charged in the downtown. Essentially, Mr. Stafford commented that another S200,000-500,000 per year is needed to keep the Fund positive. Discussion followed among the members with Messrs. Stafford and Jennings about the County parking tax and how this impacts the rates developed by the City. Everyone concurred that efforts should be made by the City to appeal to the County to revise its base level to a higher level. Mr. Stafford commented that the County rate structure had been based upon rates charged in Chicago garages, which are much higher than those charged in Evanston. Aid. Newman said that Larry Suffredin (Cook County Commissioner) should be contacted and invited to come to the next Parking Committee meeting. Citizen Comments & Issues Visitor Mary Friedl was recognized by Aid. Ncv%man. Ms. Friedl questioned the height restrictions and size of the disabled person's parking spaces in the Church St. Self Park. Jean Baucom, Parking System Manager, responded the garage was built to the ADA standards at that time. She diagrammed the first level of the garage showing that a vehicle entering on Church Street could only go halfway up the ramp and then need to make a right turn and follow the driving pattern in order to reach either an exit or additional reserved disabled spaces. Nls. Baucom said that the first level is 8'2" tall for Level 1, but much lower thereafter. Ms. Friedl commented that the signage on the outside of the garage does not indicate that it has the higher height clearance and requested this be revised so that those with the taller vehicles would know the garage is accessible. tits. Baucom said she would check the garage the next day and give Ms. Friedl a call. Parkins Committee Minutes Meeting of Januar• 3S. 2004 Page 4 - - GIs. Friedl also said she does not believe the stalls meet the ADA codes for width. Ms. Baucom responded that they do meet the ADA Code. She stated originally some of the reserved spaces had been on the upper levels near the elevators; however, she had relocated them because of complaints from parkers who did not realize there were additional spaces and who expect to see these spaces on the first Ievel. Ms. Friedl mentioned that the columns are in these spaces, and Ms. Baucom advised that it is true the support columns are at the end of the access area, but this was the approved design at construction. Ricky Baum said he would like to ask the Committee for a better understanding of some things, noting he had spoken to vis. Baucom just before the meeting on a few issues. He said his vehicle was towed from Chicago Ave. as a result of the City's posting temporary No Parking signs after he parked. He stated he was aware of the No Parking for street cleaning signs and thought he was safe to park for the duration between that schedule, but was advised after his car %vas towed that the City can post temporary No Parking signs and tow vehicles 48 hours later. He questionedwhethersomething could be done so that people know that they need to check their cars at least every 2 days. Discussed followed among various committee members that the streets are not intended for long-term parking of vehicles, that people travelling often need to leave their cars on -street for several days, that .Mr. Baum's vehicle was towed due to the Northwestern Homecoming Parade, that putting information about these temporary no parking zones might be helpful, that there are too many entities allowed to post temporary signs and too many short-term projects for construction and moving vans to be able to post a single list; and that it might be a good idea for Northwestern to be advised and to inform students electronically of major postings around the campus — particularly when they are requested by the university. Mr. Baum then inquired about the No Parking 3am-6am in the downtown and asked why vehicles of residents cannot be parked in these; spaces overnight. David Jennings responded there are several reasons for these signs: (l ) street sweeping, (2) snow removal, and (3) Police requests for patrolling at night in the downtown. It was explained that street sweeping is performed several times a week in the downtown as opposed to once a week or every 2 weeks. Also the City needs time to plow snow back to the curb and to load and haul out this snow durine the hours when other business is not being conducted. Last, the Police want to be able to see inside the windows into the retail stores, and this cannot be done easily when vehicles are parked. Jon Perman added that these regulations arc typical in most cities. Mr. Baum thanked the committee for allowing him to talk with them. Ms. Friedl added that pushing snow to the curb causes a problem for disabled persons with wheelchair lift vans, because the lifts cannot deploy. Mr. Jennings said he understands the conditions but does not know how to prevent that from occurring. Ms. Friedl commended the City on doing a better job of cleaning snow from the access aisles of the on -street parking spaces than has been done in previous years. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of January 28, 2004 Page S Sherman Ave. Garage & Shennan Plaza Proiect Judy Aiello advised there is no current update on the project schedule. She said she hopes to have more information from the Klutznik Group for the February I8`h meeting and that staff has a meeting scheduled with the developer for one day next week. David Jennings distributed a memo regarding the parking usage for evening hours. He reviewed the statistics, which showed that there is still space between the Church St. Self Park and the Maple Self Park to provide parking for the users in the Sherman Ave. Garage. He noted that Friday surveyed indicated lower than typical parking in the Maple Self Park and that a count would be taken again this Friday for comparison. The speculation among the committee was that the demand was low due to the extremely cold weather. The meeting adjourned at 7:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom, Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT .4 Sub -Committee ofthe Cin• Council of Evanson. Illinois Minutes from the Special Committee Meeting Of Avril 28, 2004 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:18 P.N1. Members Present: Aid. Art Newman, Aid. Steve Bernstein, Aid. Melissa Wynne, and Mike Ginter Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Keith l:ujihara, Judy Aiello, Bill Stafford, Doug Gaynor, and ,lean Baucom Visitors: Aid. Ann Rainey, and Bob Seidenberg TemoorarV Parking Lot — MWRD Pronertv at Ashland & Noves David Jennings and Doug Gaynor presented a proposal to develop parking at the former testing lane and Permalawn sites on Ashland Ave. at Noyes St. The proposal is to develop parking on this property to be used on evenings and weekends by bicyclists wanting to access the bike trail that runs along the canal and by people using the various parks and soccer areas within a few -block radius. During the daytime, there is a demand for parking by businesses in the area, and during the overnight night period, there is a residential demand. The Committee asked how many spaces would be in the Iot; and Messrs. Jennings and Gaynor indicated there are several options; however, thev recommend implementing a temporary gravel lot for a period to determine what the real demand is. Aid. Bernstein asked about the rental fees to use the property, and Mr. Gaynor advised that the fees being charged to the City for other properties like this are S 1 per year plus 25% of the net income. After a brief discussion, the Committee gave approval to proceed toward developing a lot at this location. The methods of operation and control will be determined as time goes forward, based on the users so that the property does not become a dumping ground for vehicles. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April ?S. 2004 Page 3 Parkine System Finances David Jennings advised that Bob Shonk and Jean Baucom are working on some numbers to provide to the Committee; however, at this time he would like to talk about the strategies which need to be considered in the future for increasing the various rates. He began by stating the City has implemented parking rate increases only about once every 5 or more years. Ald. Newman took exception and stated there had been 4-5 increases in the Parking Tax over the last 10 years, and asked what was staff recommending. Nfr. Jennings and Bill Stafford, Finance Director, responded that specific numbers are not being presented at this meeting; that the Committee needs to begin thinking about how often rates should be increased; and that staff is seeking some direction so that the numbers brought back at the next meeting reflect a program of anticipated rate increases over a period of time. Mr. Stafford added that there is a synergy in increasing rates in the garages (hourly rates) and at the meters, noting that the rates are used to direct parkers where to park. Aid. Newman stated he believes this is a short-term problem due to the debt service on the Church St. Self Park and that, when this is paid off in 2009, there will be plenty of money coming into the Parking System. He asked about how much money would be gained from increasing the parking lot permit fees; and GIs. Baucom advised it would not be a lot because our current rates only bring in about S250.000 per year. He commented that increasing the parking tax by S2 per month gets people across the board and is better than trying to increase the monthly rates on the parking lots and garages. Ms. Baucom noted that the parking meters provide the Parking System with the most usable money and they have been the mainstay over the years in balancing out the other Fund needs. Aid. Newman said it was likely that the rates in the areas such as Dempster/Chicago would have to be raised before there could be another rate increase in the dow-ntowm. He noted that the meter revenue increase resulting from increasing the number of hours for paying meters in the downtown had been given to the General Fund and that at some point the Council needs to stop taking funds out of the Parking Fund. Maple Self Park Retail Snacc Judy Aiello and David Jennings reminded the Committee that there are 3 separate areas in the garage, which can be potentially developed for retail use. One area is approximately 4.000 sq. fl. while the other area is only about 600 sq. ft. tits. Aiello advised that consideration had been given to using a broker, however, the costs are believed too high and result in little income for the City. The Committee asked about the possible use of the space for a Visitor's Center; and Nis. Aiello advised that neither the Chamber nor EVNIARK have sufficient manpower to staff a satellite office and both had expressed concern that it could do more harm than good to advertise hours and not be able to have the office open. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April 28, 2004 Page 3 Nis. Aiello said that the City's Parking System mould like to use one of the offices in the 600 sq. foot area for the 2araze management, so that they would have a private office to deal with employee issues rather than be out front of the cashier and security guards. She asked for permission from the Committee to allow the garage management to use that office and suggested that a possible use for the front office would be for a Police Outpost. Others expressed comments of support for a Police Outpost in the downtown and that this would be a good location. Aid. Newman stated he had no problem with allowing these two uses as long as everyone understands that if a better use comes along that they will have to vacate. Ms. Aiello continued that she has received requests from a number of uses, including car rental, beauty salons, nail salons, drop-off dry cleaning, convenience markets, and a shoe repair to name a few. AId. W%nne said she believes the car rental option is really good for the downtown as there are a number of residents in Evanston and in the downtown in particular who would use this service. Others on the committee commented that it is important to have service businesses available to serve the residents in the downtown condos; however, they believe there are more than enough nail salons and beauty shops and that Perfecto Cleaners is just a couple of blocks away. Ms. Aiello asked whether the Committee would like staff to proceed to contact the car rental agencies directly to determine interest and try to negotiate a contract rather than put out an RFP. The Committee directed her to proceed to try to get a car rental agency for the retail space. If additional space is still available, then attempts to secure other service businesses should be pursued. Development of narking on Darrow Ave., iust north of Church St. A copy of a memo dated April 22, 2004, was made available to the Committee; and Aid. Ann Rainey said that the request is coming from the developer who has convened the old Strange Engineering building into loft space for offices. She said the developer and City staff have talked about developing parking on the right-of-way and the developer is seeking a grant to fund these improvements. The parking spaces would be developed on the existing parkway and be available for public parking. Ms. Baucom advised that some controls would be needed othenvise the students from the High School will have the spaces filled between 8:W-9:00 A.M. Aid. Newman said he would hate to see the Parking Committee get involved with issuing grants and questioned why this was not being referred to the CD and EDC. He said he is concerned that, if the Parking Committee were to get involved in this matter, it would only lead others to the Parking Committee with an expectation that the Committee will resolve their parking problems and this is not the function of the Parking Committee Everyone agreed that the matter should be referred to the Economic Development Committee for any funding. Parking Committee Minutes Meeting of April 28, 2004 Page 4 Minutes from the Joint Parkine-Economic Develooment Meetine Copies of the minutes of the joint m--ling held at the end of March were distributed. The Committee accepted the minutes prepared by the EDC. Sheridan Sauarc — Residents' 4niv Parkine District — Evenines David Jennings reviewed a map of 1+7e area around Sheridan Square and stated that Aid. Wynne had been asked to create a parking district at nights to deal with anti -social behavior. He re%,ie%ved the synopsis of a recent postcard survey sent to 400 residents in which a 501,o response rate stated that 72o are in favor of a parking district while 28% fare not. Aid. Wayne pointed out that this is the only area along the lakefront which is still open all night, and it is hoped that by implement a residential parking permit requirement every evening between 9pm-6am that other problems can be resolved. Paul Giddings said he lives in the area and he believes the size of the parking district should be larger. AId. Wynne said the desire is to implement a permit requirement only on the street most affected by the undesirable behavior in Garden Park. Mr. Giddings said he believes Sheridan Square will no%c• be used by people who might otherwise have sought parking on Sheridan Rd. and that he does not believe people on Keeney and South Boulevard should be allowed to purchase permits. Aid. Wynne and tics. Baucom said that the expectation is that the same people who are currently parking on Sheridan Square and who live in the neighborhood %z-ill be the same people obtaining permits. fir. Giddings indicated that as a resident on Sheridan Square he does not believe staff or the committee really understand the situation and more ought to be done to protect Sheridan Sq. residents. The Committee decided to support the request from Ald. Wynne to recommend the parking district and to look at making revisions later on if it becomes necessary. Jean Baucom advised that about G months after the district goes into effect is a good time to begin studies so that residents and others have sufficient time to learn the new regulations and develop other patterns of parking. Valet Services Ald. Newman said he does not believe the valet companies are parking vehicles where they said they would park and that he would like to know how often this is checked. Mr. Jennings said that probably most checks are performed on a complaint basis. Aid. Newman said he believes each valet location should be checked at least once annually.. Mr. Jennings added that there is a limit to the number of errors a valet can make before they lose the privilege of offering valet service in Evanston. Ms. Baucom stated that Wayne Eury in the Traffic Engineering area does make random checks periodically to see if valets are in compliance and that staff is looking into whether or not Parking Enforcement Officers could issue this violation since it is not really a parking citation. The Committee expressed support for this idea and felt the Police should also be interested and involved in watching the valet operations perform properly.. Parking Committee ,minutes Meeting of April 28, 2004 Page 5 Lot 27 — 1600 block of Oak Ave. Mr. Jennings presented a request from a private party to purchase the northernmost five feet (5 ft.) of City Lot 27 for use in developing a project on his parcel to the north. fir. Jennings noted that this is one of the lots the Committee had asked be included in an RFP for redevelopment -sale of several City -owned parking lots. The Committee said it would not entertain this as a separate option and that the property owner could submit his bid for that 5 feet at the time the parcel goes out in the RFP. 900 Sherman Ave. Alderman Bernstein asked if it is possible to get some special regulation for the 900 block of Sherman Ave. to reduce commuter parking. Ms. Baucom said that at the present time there are meters on the south end of the block and a "No Parking 7am-9am" restriction for vehicles which do not have Evanston Vehicle Stickers. Ald. Bernstein said this block has become more and more parked on a regular basis and he is concerned there is not enough room for the residents. his. Baucom said she would discuss the matter further with him and a study can be developed if he would like that. The Committee meeting was adjourned at 7:42 p.m Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom, Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT .4 Sub-Coninjittee of Ihe ChY Critrncil of Evanston. Illinois Minutes from the Special Committee Meeting Of October 27. 2004 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:10 P.M. Members Present: Aid. Art Nev.-man, Aid. Steve Bernstein, Jonathan Perman, Lawrence Raffel, and Mike Ginter Members Absent: Aid. Melissa Wynne, George Wooltidge, and Joseph Zambrendo Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Jean Baucom, Judith Aiello Visitors: Andy Spatz. Neil Koenig Citv Lot 27 — 1600 block of Oak Ave. Andy Spatz advised that he had heard the City intends to put out a Request for Proposal regarding several parking lots and has spoken with Judy Aiello and David Jennings about the City lot adjacent to his property on Oak Ave. He said he is interested in purchasing a 4-foot strip of the lot on Oak Avenue, which would allow him to add 4 more residential units to his development and only reduce the number of units which could be constructed on the City's lot by one residential unit. He noted this arrangement would also bring additional property tar dollars to the City. Mr. Spatz advised the additional 4-feet would allow his project to have between 10-14 units, while still maintaining the same number of parking spaces in the Cite lot. He added he anticipates the properties to the north of his will eventually be redeveloped in a massive configuration, but he would only use half of his lot so that it is minimally intrusive at the street level. David Jennings distributed copies of an aerial view of the area, which includes Mr. Spatz's parcel and the City Lot_ He said he had previously brought this matter to the Parking Committee with a recommendation not to reduce the overall size of the City's lot due to the negative impact it might have on future redevelopment. Alderman Newman restated that the proposal would reduce the City's lot by f unit while increasing'*fr. Spatz's project by 4 units. Alderman Bernstein commented he had talked with Andy Spatz a year ago and had advised he could not support the proposal based on the same premise as that mentioned by David Jennings ----- that the City should not reduce the size of its property because of the impact it might have on a future develop. Aid. Bernstein said Mr. Spatz could come back to the Committee if there were no other bidders on this parcel. Aid. Bernstein said the City's intent is to replace the city spaces and to have a development similar to that constructed by Roszak on Chicago Ave. Mr. Spatz responded that it would not reduce the number of parking spaces on the lot. Aid. Newman said he is sympathetic to fir. Spatz, but he believes that the RFP should go out first since we do not have a real estate expert to advise what the impact of the loss of the 4-foot strip would be on potential developments. Consequently, it would be premature to consider Mr. Spatz's proposal. A brief conversation continued among Jon P.-nman. Aid. Bernstein. Aid. Newman, and Mr. Spatz. Members of the Committee were suggesting that Mr. Spatz could participate in the RFP process and bid on the lot. Mr. Spatz responded that he is a small developer and that a project using both parcels would be too big (in dollars) for him to take on at one time. Aid. Bernstein said he appreciates the work Mr. Spatz had done in other places. but does not feel the Cite can reduce the lot or limit the creativity of others. Comments were made about how parking would be configured on Mr. Spatz's current parcel for the 10-1.1 units, --with Mr. Spatz restating that the City lot would not lose any spaces. \fr. Spatz reiterated that he wants to be responsible in building his project so that it is not massive and so that he does not have to sink caissons, going from lot -line to lot - line, as the project at Main & Chicago. lean Baucom pointed out that the Committee's desire in redeveloping the surface parking lots is replace the existing public parking spaces in addition to obtaining a new development with its own parking component. By selling the 4-foot strip, the City would be forcing the developer of the City's parking lot to do exactly what Mr. Spatz says he does not want to have to do -----sink caissons and building lot -line to lot -line. David Jennings added that another consideration is the Postal Service need for parking. He said the Postal Service has had needs for their official vehicles for years and this may be a development need or option to provide parking for those vehicles as well as a new development. Alderman Newman commented that we need to get the City tiianager's Office involved in getting the RFP out soon. David Jennings was asked to see if this could be ready to go in the next month. Mr. Spatz left the meeting at this time. Sherman Plaza Self Park Aid. Newman said he had asked for comments from KLOA about the size of the parking structure. He stated he feels it is important to ask are the number of spaces originally projected still needed now that we have some experience in the Maple garage and based on the various developments such as Glenlake and McDougal -Little. Neil Koenig said that a folio«• -up study had never been performed to see what the activity really is. He reminded that the earlier reports were estimates and that there are still a few holes in the Hill Project, the Research Project, and the Sherman Plaza. He said we've never really been able to determine what the Hill development brought in, but he believes the increase in the residential units in the downtown should increase the dollar volume to establishments and theaters and create more captive market because they have their own parking. He noted that when there is an increase in the captive market, there is a decrease in demand for other spaces. He said the demand calculated for the health club had been a conservative high, assuming that 100% would be new parkers when we know up to 50% would likely be captive market. David Jennings pointed out that the captive market remaining high results in parking spaces being available for others. Aid. Newman said he is concerned that there will be 300-500 empty spaces on a daily basis. \ir. Koenig responded that there %will likely be that many spaces available on a daily basis because the peak is based on the highest demand for the retail and theaters and not on the everyday usage. Jon Perman comm--nted that he expects Sherman Plaza's peak % ill be da}time due to employees. fir. Ko:niu responded that they had calculated a daytime peak in the overall use. David Jennings pointed out that the reduction of spaces in the new garage is an incremental game. For example, you can't just reduce the overall size by 50 spaces. Instead, a whole floor must be removed. In addition, the more area cut out of the garage, the less flexibility for other options. such as providing reduced -rate parking in the uppermost levels, due to the traffic patterns and locations where gates can be placed. Discussion continued among everyone present about the uses within the garage, the parking demands in the downtown, the past history of buildings which affected parking demand in the old Sherman Garage, and the more recent changes resulting from redevelopment trends in the area. Aid. \e- man expressed his concern as not wanting to building a garage and ending up with a half -empty building. Mr. Koenig responded that you grow into a garage; otherwise, you have no room for the future. He said that "peak" is based on the 85,h percentile and that Evanston has the advantage of having a 24-hour use whereas in the Chicago Loop their turnover is only 1.1. Jon Perman and Neil Koenig both conceded that at the end of the day it is the revenue generated to cover the financial needs, which comes into play as to the size of the project. Consideration must be given to today's use versus the future and the filling of existing vacant space in buildings that will have a real demand on the spaces available. Aid. Bernstein asked about the numbers in the KLOA updated materials. Judy Aiello and Mr. Koenig responded that the updates are based on the current development plans for residential units and square footage for the health club. Aid. Newman said the question is whether we need 1300 more spaces. Discussion followed among the members. fir. Koenig, and the staff that December is a good time to conduct usage studies and that a follow-up study will be performed in the nvo City garages to get a better picture on the effects of the recent developments. The discussion ended with Paul Giddings commenting that there is a need to remember David Jennings's comments regarding the need to have the extra spaces in the garage for flexibility so that 10 years down the road the Committee is not trying to figure out where to put cars. YMCA — Metered Lot Rate Increase Aid. \e%vman reviewed the request submitted by the YMCA to increase the meter fees in the lot next to their buildinz. Members of the Committee asked who uses the meters and whether changing the rates would have an impact on the area. Jean Baucom advised that the majority of the users are going to the YMCA and that all of the neighboring streets have a 2-hour time limit and that there is really no other place for people to park. The Committee consensus was to support the rate change. Staff will prepare the ordinance to take this to Council. Next Parkine Committee \ieetine Aid. Newman and David Jennings advised neither is available on November 1&, which is the date previously set for the next Parking Committee meeting. It was pointed out that EDC had just moved to November 171h. Members checked their calendars and concurred that November 17 ' would be the next meeting and that the focus will be on financial status and needs of the Parking Fund. Member Resignation Mike Ginter advised that he has moved from Evanston to Wonderlake, Illinois, and is no longer eligible to serve as a member of the Committee. Members questioned where Wonderlake is located, and Mr. Ginter responded it is near the Wisconsin border near Lake Geneva. Everyone wished Mr. Ginter well and hope to work with him in the future on a redevelopment project. The meeting was adjourned at 7:10 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom, Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT .d Sub-Coninduee of the City Council of Evanston. Rlinois `Iinutes from the Special Committee fleeting Of November 17. 2004 Members Present: Ald. Art Newman, Ald. ti3elissa Wynne. Jonathan Perman, and Lawrence Raffel. Members Absent: Ald. Steve Bernstein and George Woolridge Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings and David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Bill Stafford, Judith Aiello, and Jean Baucom Visitors: Tori Katz and Bob Seidenberg Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:05 P.M. There was not a quorum. Parkin-, Fund Analvsis Discussion began on the financial status of the Parking Fund. AIderman Newman asked what is the actual amount that needs to be made up each year. Bill Stafford suggested that a review of the materials previously distributed regarding the various aspects of the Parking Fund be presented first rather than starting with questions. fir. Stafford presented an over%iew that the Parking Fund is not currently in the red, except on paper because of depreciation expenses. He noted that the City has not been funding depreciation and allowing the revenues from the parking meters to cover the expenses throughout the years. At the present time, the additional of garages and continuing operating expenses will result in a cash -flow- problem in a few years if steps are not taken to generate additional funds within the Parking System. He indicated that the intent is not to fully fund all depreciation at one time, but to begin working toward that goal. Numerous questions and discussion followed about past capital expenditures, budgets, use of the garages, revenue sources, and projections including the new Sherman Plaza. Judy Aiello said the construction of the new garage is expected to take 16 months, which several commented would be after the next fiscal year. lair. Stafford and his. Aiello needed to leave the meeting at 7PM to make a City -School meeting. Mr. Stafford advised he would prepare additional materials based on the various questions regarding actual operating budgets and breakdown of revenues for the next Parking Committee meting. Minutes of the Parking Committee Meeting of November 17, 2004 Page 2 Next Parking Committee It was determined the next Parking Committee meeting will be held on December 8`�. Membership of the Committee Jean Baucom advised that there are 2 vacancies on the Parking Committee. The first was the result of Mike Ginter's resignation last month as a result of moving from Evanston. She advised that Joseph Zambreno had been contacted after receiving mail return, and he advised he has also moved out of Evanston. Ald. Neuman said we need to notify the Mayor to make some appointments; and Ms. Baucam responded that this has been done; however, there are no current applications. The meeting was concluded at 7:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucam, Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT .4 Sub-Comminee of the Ciro Council of Evanston. Rlinois Minutes from the Meeting On .ianuary 26.2005 Alderman \ewrnan opened the meeting at 6:20 P.M. without a quorum. Members Present: Aid. Art Newman, Aid. Steve Bernstein, and Aid. Melissa Wynne Members Absent: Jonathan Perman, George Woolridge Staff Present: David Jennings, Bill Stafford, Barbara Zdanowicz, Jim Wolinski, Jean Baucom, and Julia Carroll (after 6:40 P.M.) Visitors: Sharon FeiQan, Richard Kosmacher, and Debbie Hillman Alderman Newman acknowledged rhere was not a guonim for the meeting; however, he invited the representatives from [GO to make their presentation. I -GO Reauest for Parkinu Spaces in Do«•ntown Evanston Sharon Feigan identifed herself as the representive from I -GO, a non -for -profit organization providing an alternative to owning a car. The car -sharing program is supported by grants from such as CATS and CNIAQ, as well as revenues from those participating in the I -Go program. They have a number of locations in Chicago and believe that there is a market for this program in Evanston based on parking issues, demographics, and advantages of this type of program. GIs. Feigan said maintaining a good environment is one of their major goals, so they use energy -efficient vehicles that provide alternate options for people who might be wilting to Let rid of vehicle in favor of using the I -Go system. The I -Go system is based on a membership and sighting up to use a vehicle for a few hours. Rates are set to make this arrangement attractive. When asked if they weren't really in competition with other car rental agencies, Ms. Feigan responded that their rates are hourly, which encourages short-term usage but discourages all -day usage. They currently charge S6 per hour - fuel- 50.50 per mile. Their goal is to provide a vehicle for just a few hours to errands and short trips that can be shared among a large number of people. Aid. Wynne commented that several years ago a resident in her neighborhood had an old vehicle with a number of keys. The vehicles was shared among the residents and was very helpful and successful. Ms. Feigan said they are asking to be able to park one or two vehicles in a City garage to get the program started in Evanston_ She said Chicago has been very supportive, providing free parking spaces in several garages and at train station lots. Aid. Wyrine said she felt this was worth looking at, and Ald. Bernstein commented this would be a good CDBG project. Aid. Newman said he is somewhat interested, but "not -for -profit" has no meaning, citing we already have two not -far -profit organizations by the names of Evanston Hospital and Northwestern University. He said he does not want to make a commitment at this time, but would like to see information on the Board members of I - Go as wvelI as some financials. He is not inter ested in making a short-term arrangement to provide free parking which turns out to b_ a lifetime commitment and increases in the number of free parking spac:5 being provided. Aid. WNnne said she would be interested in ::o•.; many cars might be reduced by having this kind of program. Aid. Newman said he would Iike to know more about the demographics of membership. Ms. Feigan said thew- have been collecting data since the program started and that there is a national study coming out that I timeshare vehicle replaces 5 private vehicles and that I-GO's histon- is higher. David Jennings asked if the space(s) had to be covered, noting many locations in their information are not covered spaces. Ms. Feigan and Mr. Kosmacher said this is desirable due to the protection of the vehicle from sitting outside. Debbie Hillman commented that the program is a middle -ground in a culture of car ownership and encourages Evanston to facility this program. Aid. Bernstein expressed his concern about insurance. Mr. Kosmacher said that individuals are responsible for providing their own insurance. He said in order to use a vehicle, one must have an activated smart card which knows who the individual is, has insurance information, and unlocks the car on during the time period the person has paid for the vehicle. Alderman Newman invited Nis. Feigan and Mr. Kosmacher to come back to the Committee after they have provided additional information including the I -GO organization's budget with salaries, expenses, revenues and demographics on members. He wants to know who the Board members are and a little about each of them. Aid. Bernstein commented that he expects to see them at the CDBG next year since it is too late to submit for this year's funding. Parkine Fund Bill Stafford acknowledged that he was aware the Parking Committee was due at another meeting in approximately 10 minutes and he wanted to briefly respond to a few questions from the previous meeting. He distributed a package of materials, commenting that these provide an overview of some possible revenue solutions and that he would like to come back in February with some revisions based on comments from the Committee. Among the information being distributed was Table 1. showing expenses going from S5 million to SS-9 million in the nest 5 years. He commented that historically the City made money on Ground operations and that contributing from meters to the General Fund has impacted the cash status. Aid. \evmian commented he wanted to explain for the benefit of the new City Manager that the County had come in an imposed a parking tax and that the City had revised is parking tax structure rather than increase rates in the garages. Mr. Stafford continued that Table IV reflects the bottom line --showing we are losing money on ground operations, losing money on gages, and will be out of money at the end of the next fiscal year. fir. Stafford pointed out that we have been running deficits the last two years. Aid. \e%%-man asked what (Ievel) do we have to raise rates to in order to be even each year.) Mr. Stafford commented SI million per year, as he distributed a spreadsheet. He reviewed Scenario A taking meters from S0.25 to S0.50 in the outlying business areas and increasing lot rates up to S50 per month. He read over the garage hourly rate changes. Aid. Wynne said she felt going from Sl to S3 for the second hour is high. Mr. Stafford agreed, but added we have to raise the rates where we can capture the dollars. Aid. Newman said he felt S7 was a reasonable rate for all -day employee parking. Aid. Newman noted they were out of time (7:10 p.m.) and needed to get to the next meeting. He added he also thinks the Parking Tar should be increased S5 per month and this subject would be continued at the next Parking Committee meeting. As the group was getting up to leave, Ald. tie-A7nan said he just wanted to remind everyone that in 2009 the money for the bonds for the Church St. Self Park will come back into the system. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub-Commirtee of the Cin• Council of Evanston. Illinois Minutes from the Meeting On Fehruary 24. 2005 Alderman \e%vman opened the meeting at 6:08 P.M. Members Present: Aid. An Newman, Aid. Melissa Wynne, Jon Perman, Larry Rafell, and Paul White Members Absent: George Woolridge and Very Chatz Associate Members Present: David Reynolds and Paul Giddings Staff Present: Da%id Jennings, Bill Stafford, Barbara Zdanowicz, Julia Carroll, Judy Aiello, and Jean Baucom Visitors: Sharon Feigan, Richard Kosmacher, Peter Nicholson, Smita Kalokhe, Stephanie Chen, and Lucille Krasnow Alderman Newman convened the meeting stating the focus tonight would be on the Parking Fund financials. He indicated he would need to leave at 7:30 p.m., and Larry Rafell and Jon Perman added that they too would be leaving early for other meetings. Alderman Newman introduced and welcomed new Committee Member Paul White. Aid. Newman gave a brief overview of the role of the Parking Committee, stating the focus has shifted over the years from simply regulations to playing a major role in the economic development of Evanston. Parking Fund Aid. Nei,-7nan opened discussion on this matter by advising everyone the City Manager is assisting by taking to Council a proposal to put the 5300,000 from CBD meters going to the General Fund back into the Parking Fund. Bill Stafford began his presentation with a review of the Executive Summary contained in the packet of revised materials. Mr. Stafford advised these materials contain the revisions requested by the Committee at the last meeting; namely, a 20% increase in the Parking Tax (lot and garage use tax) and several hourly rate schedules for the garages. Aid. Newman asked how much money is needed annually to cover the deficits after the 5300,000 from meters is put back into the Parking Fund. Mr. Stafford advised a little over 5700,000 and directed everyone to Page 5. Ald. Newman asked if it is necessary to make changes this year; and Mr. Stafford said it would be possible to wait one year, however he recommends making changes not.- to maintain the cash flow. Alderman %;'�,mne asked -Mr_ Stafford to explain the advantages of the three scenarios provided for the Rate Increases (hourly garage rates). fir. Stafford responded that he recommends Scenario B IMedian). because it gives the better cash flow, while referring evem-one to the Executive Summary graph, which shows the impacts of each rate scenario on the cash flow. Jon Perman asked that the Committee talk about the expenses before going' to the rates. Alderman Newman responded that the Committee needs to keep focused on the rates, as the costs for operating the garages are not going to change significantly. Mr. Stafford added that the Parking Fund expenses are largely labor and that these costs continue to increase annually based on contracts and benefits. Ald. Newman asked the Committee if it was comfortable with the increase in the parking lot monthly fees that had been recommended. A brief di=cussion followed about the number of lots, w ho the users are, and what rates are being ci arged in private parking lots. The consensus of the Committee was that the proposed change in the monthly lot rates was appropriate. Aid. Newman then asked the Committee to look at the meter rates, which would bring the outl}ing meters up to the rate of the downtown meters. Discussion followed among the members. Aid. Newman commented that now everyone will be paying the same throughout the City and that he does not think the downtown should have to carry the weight with higher rates. John Perman said that the CBD has 1-hour free parking for customers; however, the other business districts do not. He believes it is important to keep the rates low in these smaller business areas. Ald. Wynne agreed that increasing the rates would hurt these smaller business areas. A brief discussion follov.-ed about whether shoppers see the City as on: entity or as a downtown and a number of small business areas. Aid. Newman pointed out that the downtown has meters, which require payment until 9PM, whereas the Main St. area does not. He suggested perhaps the Committee should consider taking all meters to 9PM instead of increasing outl}ing meters to S0.50 per hour. Bill Stafford commented he respectfully disagrees that people really differentiate between the downtown and the neighborhoods. He believes most people are willing to pay whatever they have to in order to access businesses in the location and at the time they want them. Paul White stated he things Evanston has already been tagged by shoppers because of the meters, so changing the rates in the outlying business areas won't really change their perceptions. Bill Stafford added that Chicago has also been tagged; however, people =till go there and we have to remember this is a metropolitan area; and it is unlikely changing the rates is going to change behaviors. Paul White agreed with Mr. Stafford's comments. Aid. Wynne questioned whether it would be possible to generate more from Iots (monthly permits) so the meters did not have to be increased. Larry Rafell asked about the number of commuters using the lots. Aid. Newman, Jean Baucom, and Aid. Wynne responded that the majority of the spaces are rented to residents, that there are only a few lots remaining in the downtown for commuters taking the trains out of Evanston, that the proposed rates had been based upon what the private sector is charging for spaces in the areas near the City lots. Paul Giddings said he thinks an increase in the meter rates will reduce the number of those coming the smaller business areas, especially Dempster -Chicago. He said the downtown looks spectacular, because of the various streetscape projects; but nothing has been done in the Dempster -Chicago area in years. He believes that, if there is an increase in the meter rates, there must be some kind of uiveback to the business area. Jon Perman queried whether it would be better to increase the meters on an incremental basis, beginning with SO.30 or SO.40 per i o.: and later taking them to SO.50 per hour. Paul Giddings commented that the small.-:- business areas do not have the same draws as the downtown for the 9P.'%1 time limits and reminded the Committee that the increased hours in the downtown were for the purpose of turnover, not revenues. Aid. Wynne said that one of the problems on Main St. is residents coming home and parking in the meters for the remainder of the night. Paul Giddings said some of the merchants in the Main St. area have told him they would like to see the meters in effect until 9P.M. Aid. Wynne asked if staff could estimate the increased revenues if all meters went until 9PM. Jon Perman pointed out that this would also require adding staff to enforce the areas. Staff agreed to provide some projections, noting that they would break down the areas since it may not be desirable to have all areas extended until 9PM if there are not activities which warrant this. Jon Perman asked if the S714,000 is the real minimum needed to be raised; and Bill Stafford responded that it is, again pointing to the spreadsheets. Aid. Newman asked if the consensus of the Committee was that there is aureemcnt on the increases to the monthly rates, and there was. He noted that the meters are not decided and will be discussed at the next meeting A•hen the options are brought back. The focus turned to the rates in the parking garages. Bill Stafford pointed everyone to the Spreadsheet in the packet on downtown parking rates and highlighted the rates, which are being charged for the first few hours of parking in those facilities. He recommended that our rates be graduated and that the levels proposed are not unreasonable when compared to the other garages. Ald. Newman stated that our garages are more attractive and provide better sen-ice than the private garages, not to mention that we still provide the first hour free. Aid. Newman also commented that he was beginning to wonder whether we should consider charging S 1 for the first hour. Aid. Wynne pointed out that the first hour free was created to lure people into the garages; and Bill Stafford added that Evanston residents know about and use this feature. Ald. Newman asked what revenues would look like if 8 hours was the rn2.ximum rate and whether we ,get any money from parking after that. Lang Rafell asked who parks 12-24 hours. Jean Baucom responded that there is some money which comes in for parking longer than 8 hours and that 12-24 hours customers are usually residents or their guests who park a vehicle overnight. City Manager Julia Carroll asked the Parking Committee to address the policy concerns which had been identified in the packet. especially the item related to providing free parking at night in one garage «vhile charging in the other garage. She commented that this is an inequity and encouraged the Committee to have a uniform policy. Aid. Newman and David Jennings responded that this was an old issue wherein parking had been free in the evenings in both City garages; but had not been changed when the Maple Self Park had opened. There was a brief discussion about their being some activity in the evenings; however, most of the people do not pay; that it would add S1 to cost for eating at Dave's Italian Kitchen, that there would be no additional costs as we already have a cashier on duty until 9-9:30 p.m.; and that people can still get their vehicles out of the garage after the security grilles come down. The position of the Committee appeared to be to in support of revising the policy, but no formal vote or consensus was taken. Jean Baucom offered to estimate revenues based on the tickets currently being collected. The Committee asked what was meant in the policy recommendation regarding the Parking Tax. Bill Stafford explained that currently we have 4 different things: Parking Tax, the \Municipal Garage Use Tax, the rates, and the Cook County tar. Some of these funds eo to the General Fund; some go to the Parking Fund. He believes that there needs to be a policy. Ald. Newman asked if an increase in the Parking Tax of S2imonth would generate about S 180,000. fir. Stafford responded that about 5220,000 would be generated from the private sector, noting this amount is already included in the figures: 5714,000 would come from rate changes and 5220.000 from the Parking Tax. Aid. Newman asked if this meant that we would be increase our monthly rates basically SS and then adding another S2 for tax. Mr. Stafford responded that we would "back into' our rates so that our customers are not getting two increases. Alderman Ne%vman indicated he had to leave. Larry Rafell had already left, and Jon Perman said he also must leave. It was noted there was no longer a quorum. A question was raised whether an interim meeting was needed before the next meeting, which would be .March 23`d. Sharon Feigan from I -GO asked if it was possible for a decision to be made regarding their request. Ald. Nev.-man responded that if others on the Committee wanted to approve the request for 2 spaces in the (Maple) garage that he would support it. The consensus was to approve the request, and Sharon Feigan thanked the Committee and commented it had been worth waiting to the end of the meeting. The meeting ended at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub -Committee of the City Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the Meeting On March 23.2005 Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:12 P.M. Members Present: Aid. ArtNev.-man, George Woolridge, and Paul White (arrived at 6:20 p.m.) Members Absent: Aid. Steve Bernstein, Aid. Melissa Wynne, Lary Rafell, Jon Perman, and Very Chatx Associate Members Present: David Reynolds Staff Present: David Jennings, Bill Stafford, and Jean Baucom Visitors- Greg and Lori Summers, Gregory Daniel, Jessica Danko, and Merrill Silverman Alderman Newman opened the meeting at 6:12 p.m., noting that there was not a quorum. Parkine Fund There was general discussion about the revenue projections and needs of the Parking Fund. A quick review was made of the various options for increasing rates. It was noted that the change in the meter rates in the outlying areas mould be needed to provide the funding needed. A brief discussion followed, identif}zng numerous factors, which have contributed to the current situation, including: (a) Council only revising on -street and off-street meter rates twice in the last 25 years; (b) lot rates having been less than market over the last 10-15 years; (c) implementation of the Parking Tax and subsequent increases which precluded increasing lot and garage monthly parking rates; and (d) opening several large parking garages, which have higher operating casts and debts than surface parking lots. AId. Newman acknowledged the need to address these deficits and reviewed the upcoming calendar of Council meetings. He asked staff to prepare a report on rate change recommendations plus any necessary ordinances to effect these changes for introduction at the first Council meeting in April. Aid. Newman also instructed staff to include a request to have the matter returned to A&PW, noting there was not a consensus from the Parking Committee on changing the meter rates for outlying meters, however there would be a special Parking Committee meeting before April 28-" on this matter. Minutes of the Parking Committee Meeting of•March 23, 2005 Page 2 Temnorary Expansion of District .M David Jennings advised that a request had been received to allow residents from two condominium buildings on the 1800 block of Ridge Avenue to obtain parking permits for District M — on Asbury and Lyons, behind their homes. The four visitors from these two buildings were recognized, and Ald. Newman complimented them on being from neighboring buildings and talking with one another. He asked how they would get to the parking, and the residents commented they would come out their back doors, down the alley to Lyons. One visitor stated she believes most of these residents will park on Lyons, between the alley and Asbury, and that this area is generally not used during the daytime. David Jennings was asked if there are any other blocks, which have been allowed to get permits when their addresses were not inside the district, and both David Jennings and Jean Baucom advised there are none. Aid. Newman said he thought staff should start out by giving 5 permits to each building. David Jennings responded that the recommendation from both staff and the residents, who attended a recent neighborhood meeting, was to implement a trial period and City staff would do a before and after study to evaluate both the demand and the impact of allowing these residents to obtain the permits. Since there was no objections to this concept, Aid. Newman directed staff to go ahead with a trial. David Jennings noted the results from the study %t ill be brought to the Parking Committee before any long-term changes can be made. Various On -Street Adiustments Copies of three memos from staff to the Committee for the February Parking Committee meeting were recognized. Aid. Ne% man asked if all of the changes identified in the February 21. 2005, memo are located in the P Ward, and David Jennings advised that they are and said he believes Ald. Wynne had previously reviewed them. Jean Baucom confirmed that Aid. Wynne was contacted and supports all of the changes proposed. Alderman Newman said he did not have an), concerns about these. Discussion moved to the February 22rd memos regarding adding 20-min. meters around Davis &: Sherman and the request for long-term parking at the Sameday Surgery Center. The members present said they supported putting short-term meters around the Pot Belly's and Jamba Juice, as well as at the Quizno's. David Reynolds said he believes the westernmost space on Davis at Jamba Juice is dangerous, because of the double parking, which occurs there. Mr. Reynolds said he thinks there should be short-term parking on each end of each block. David Jennings explained that the history has been to place these spaces where there are uses which need this shorter turn over rather than to have spaces on each block which might go unused. Mr. Jennings also advised the majority of the parking on the south side of the 800 block of Davis will be removed to allow for a moving crane on the north side of the block for the garage construction. Jean Baucom recommended that the 4 remaining spaces in front of Quizno's be designated as two for 2 short-term and two for Disabled Person's, as she has received complaints in the past about not having disabled parking in this area. Those present supported these changes. Minutes of the Parking Committee Meeting of March 23, 2005 Page 3 Aid. Newman asked about the need for the long-term parking on Howard Street and what problems might arise. The general consensus was that it would not hurt anything to change these meters in front of the Center to a long-term time limit. Since ordinances are required to make some of the changes recommended, these matters will remain on the agenda for the Committee's approval at the next meeting Snecial Parkins; Committee Meetinu in April Aid. Newman suggested that a meeting be scheduled for April 20`s since there had not been a quorum tonight. This will allow the Parking Committee to take a vote on the recommendation to increase meter rates in the outlying areas from S0.25 per hour to S0.50 per hour and to address the other parking changes above that need Committee approval before they can go to Council. It was noted that the regular Parking Committee meeting will be held on April 27" The meeting ended at 7:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, .lean Baucom Parking System Manager CITY OF EVANSTON CITY COUNCIL MEMORANDUM May 25, 2005 Parking Committee Afeeting Meeting Sta nnaiy The Parking Committee met on Wednesday, May 25, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in 2403 on the second floor of the Evanston Civic Center. Here is the summary of actions. 1. Congratulations were extended to Alderman Wynne, our new chair and the Committee welcomed Alderman Moran, our newest member. 2. Ordinance 52-0-05 — Continued Discussion. The Committee had an extensive discussion on the proposed ordinance, which is currently being held on the Council floor with action expected on June 13. There was no Committee action required or made on this item. 3. Consideration of various on -street adjustments — these items were previously discussed, but there was no quorum at that time. The Committee discussed each and a vote was taken on each one at this meeting. Results are shown below. • Main from Hinman to Judson — remove 2-hr restriction - APPROVED • Kedzie from Chicago to Hinman - remove 2-hr time limit from eastern portion and post specific dates for street cleaning on entire block; also add snow emergency restrictions - APPRO VED • Chicago from Dempster to Greenwood — eliminate overnight parking — NOTAPPROVED due to impact on overnight parking — staff should consider other alternatives • Michigan from Hamilton to Burnham — prohibit parking on the median side of this divided block- APPROVED + Replace 2-hr meters with 20 minute meters on Davis and Sherman (4 spaces total) — HELD for further consideration. Impact ofbusinesses should be discussed with each one and the need for additional parki►rg jar the disabled in this area should be re-exami►red. • 800 block of Howard — increase parking time limit due to "same day surgery" facility — Reco►nmended purchase of meters with time limits that can be programmed by day of the week, allowing longer stays on i1fonday and Tuesday when demand for long term parking is the highest 3. Staff gave a status report describing where we are with the proposal to lease space in the Maple Garage to a car rental company (Enterprise) — Representatives from Enterprise Rent -a -Car discussed this item with the Committee. No action was required. The lease v ill be brought back in June if negotiations are complete. 4. Other matters — There were none. David C. Jennings Director of Public Works The Parking Committee DRAFT .4 Sub -Committee of the Cinl Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the NIeetina. On September 28. 2005 Alderman Wynne opened the meeting at 6:05 P.M. Members Present: Aid. Melissa Wynne, Aid. Steve Bernstein, George Woolridge, Vera Chatz, and Larry Rafell Members Absent: Aid.. Eb Moran, Jon Perman, and Paul White Associate Members Present: David Reynolds and Paul Giddings Staff Present: David Jennings and Jean Baucom Parkinu Meter Purchase: David Jennings reviewed the memo from staff" regarding the need to purchase parking meter equipment to implement the recently -approved rate increase for two-hour meters in non -downtown areas. Existing meters are 17-23 years old and cannot be modified with a guarantee of proper operation. Discussion followed among the members with David Jennings and Jean Baucom about sole -source vendors, single versus double meters, and multi -space meters. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom explained that a sole -source vendor was selected, because electronic meters are proprietary and we don't want to maintain pans inventories for several manufacturers. Ms. Baucom explained that most of our meters are "single" space meters, each having its own collection box, versus "double' meters which have 2 timers and 1 common collection box. We put 2 single meters on I post, because this reduces the number of posts required and gives the most flexibility in re -using equipment.. Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom said the City is looking into multi -space meters and will most likely put these in off-street lots before installing on the suits. Very Chatz asked why we are not go to these now, noting she has used multi -space meters many times in Florida and believes this is the way to go. George %Voolridge said that he uses this type of equipment in a commuter lot in Chicago and that one of tre biggest problems is people stopping to purchase the ticket. which creates a bottleneck and a traffic nightmare. Ms. Baucom explained there are 2 basic types of multi -space meters: pay -by -space and pay -and -display. She said the type Mr. \1 oolridge describe-Z is a pay -and -display, which means the customer gets a receipt that must be displayed in the vehicle window. Pay -by - Space requires each stall to be numbered and the customer puts this information into the machine when indicating how long he intends to park. Pay -and -Display requires the customer to go back to their car after paying to install a receipt. whereas Pay -by -Space does not require this. Ms. Baucom said there are a number of vendors manufacturing these multi -space, and Mr. Jennings added that we need to evaluate what people will accept and which equipment best fits our needs. Both Mr. Jennings and Ms. Baucom recommend using Pay -by -Space in commuter lots, but believe additional study is needed to determine which method is best in other City lots. They also noted that on -street parking has special considerations and not even• block is suited to multi -space meters. Pay -and -Display maximizes the number of spaces because the City does not have to paint stall lines and designate 21 feet per car. Pay -by -Space, however, requires a post with stall numbers be maintained. Factors such as trees. lighting, signage, and block length have to be considered. Ms. Baucom said some preliminary work has been performed to evaluate the parking lots; however. some of the lot layouts do not provide sufficient room for centralized multi -meters %without losing parking spaces. Costs are another factor to be considered. Mr. Jennings advised that multi -space metering equipment is being considered for a streetscape design plan for the Chicago -Main corridor. Questions were asked as to whether the meters proposed could take credit cards, and Ms. Baucom advised that the equipment can be upgraded for credit cards, but this option is not being proposed at this time. tics. Baucom noted that using cell -phone and credit card payment has been in the media quite a bit recently; however, the one part often left out is the costs to the City to process credit card payments and the costs for users. She pointed out that payment from cell phones is marketed without regard to having time limits on parking and that it is unlikely many people will be willing to pay S0.50 to park plus another S0.40 transaction fee. She said that she believes commuters who must pay several dollars a day are more likely to use credit cards; however, the meters being purchased are only for two-hour time limited areas and that staff will be coming to the next meeting to discuss the long-term meter rates. Larry Rafell noted that the memo said payback would be approximately one year and questioned what this meant and whether it made sense to spend the money for the equipment if we were considering multi -space meters. Mr. Jennings responded that it means the costs to purchase the meters would be recovered from revenues in about one year and that not all meter equipment will be changed to multi -space meters in the next year. He said that the recommended equipment would continue to be used in the Parking System even if multi -spare meters are purchased for some off -strut lots, because the entire inventory would not be changed out in a single year, because some areas may not be suited for multi -space meters, and the age of downtown meters is already 9 years old. Alderman Bernstein said he would like to see better informational stickers about the hours of operations, noting the small print inside the meters and the stickers on the downtown meters. Ms. Baucom said that has been the industry standard for years and it is difficult to put all of the information on the outside of the meters; however, she's working on a decal that provides better information in an easy -to -read format. Ald. Wynne asked if there was a motion regarding this purchase; and Ald. Bernstein moved to approve the purchase of the meters as recommended. The motion was seconded by Larry Rafell. Approval was unanimous. Very Chatz commented she had sent a letter to Ald. Wynne a while back asking for better signage to identify short-term (20-min and 30-min) meters. When it was commented that thee are signs on all of the meter posts of these short-term meters, she said that it should be visible before backing into a stall. Mr. Jennings ad%ised he had been looking for something which could be attached to the meter post and stand about 3 feet higher than the meters, but has not found anything so far. He said he does not want to add a sign post at these meters. Next Meeting: The next Parking Committee meeting is scheduled for October 20 followed by an early meeting in November on November 9"h. Mr. Jennings ad%ised that staff will be bringing information regarding location and rates on long-term meter rates and recommendations for installing meters in a few new Iocations at the next meetings. The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub -Committee of the Cir_.: Council orEvanston. Illinois Minutes from the Meeting On November 9.2005 Alderman Wynne opened the meeting at 6:05 P.M. Members Present: Aid. Melissa Wynne, Aid, Steve Bernstein, Aid, Eb Moran, George Woolridge. Paul White, Vera Chatz, and Jonathan Penman Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings Staff Present: John Burke and Jean Baucom Visitors: Richard Kosmacher, Rachel Eng, and Bob Seidenberg I -GO Reauest: Richard Kosmacher described I -GO as a not -for -profit organization which encourages car - sharing by providing fuel -efficient vehicles in strategic locations for rental by the hour. I - GO has an annual membership fee, conducts transactions on-line, and provides members with a card and PIS to use to unlock and use their vehicles. 1-GO differs from other car rental agencies because they do not encourage long-term use; their rates are based on each hourly use. I -GO has 1700 members and 47 vehicles. Mr. Kosmacher advised I -GO is requesting one parking space in south Evanston to park a Yd car, noting they currently have 2 vehicles in the Maple Ave. Self Park. In response to questions from the Pasl:ing Committee. Mr. Kosmacher advised I -GO currently has 15 regular Evanston users and 3040 occasional Evanston users for the 2 .Maple Self Park vehicles. Most use the vehicle an average of 3 hours, and I-GO's goal is to increase the usage 4 hours. I -GO currently has one vehicle in Rogers Park and one near the Loyola CTA stop, but has received requests for a vehicle in south Evanston, near a train station. Mr. Kosmacher introduced Raquel Eng, who is a regular user of the Rogers Part: Vehicle. Discussion followed about other possible locations, including Dempster.'Chicago and Lot 53 at Howard & Chicago. Stab recommends Lot 32 on Hinman Ave. or Lot 35 at Main R. Judson, because of the density of multi -family buildings and the proximity to the trains. Aid. Bernstein commented the Parking Committee had approved the spaces in the Maple Ave. Self Park, because this activity supports the City's Plan to encourage the use of bikes and alternate transit. Aid. Wynne suggested the City allow I -GO one reserved space to start with at half the approved rental fee for other spaces in the lot and requested Mr. Kosmacher to provide a usage report after having a space for 6 months, particularly noting Evanston -residents usage. The Committee agreed, and Jean Baucom will place I -GO on the waiting list and notify them when a space becomes available. Lone term metered narkine Jean Baucom summarized that the City's recent increase to parking meter rates had only addressed the two-hour limited meters in the non-do«-nto%%m areas. Long-term meters exist around several commuter stations, but also in some blocks which should probably be converted to two-hour time limits. tics. Baucom noted that same blocks in the dog; -mown area had been converted to all -day meters in the 1990's due to construction of the Hill Project and the loss of significant surface lot employee parking- She stated the Committee is not being asked to make anv decisions tonight, rather the intent to stimulate their thinking about the location of the long-term meters and these meter rates and that additional information would be distributed prior to the next Parking Committee meeting with staff recommendations for changes. Jon Petman stated that there has been a policy of providing parking at low rates to promote transit use and it is important to continue this to keep ridership up. He asked whether the City could sell these spaces to commuters. Aid. Bernstein advised this issue has previously been investigated and that the City cannot sell on -street spaces. Mr. Perman said he would hate to bump a commuter from a S2 - S3 per day space to a large amount. Aid. Moran said leasing spaces would %%Teck havoc in these areas. Paul White left the meeting at 6:45 p.m. Jean Baucom advised that Lots 16 and 54 (Noyes & Central Metra) must remain commuter parking by lease agreement. She said there is no desire to change these. However, she pointed out spaces on the 1600 block of Maple Ave. which are in the heart of the business area, should become two-hour parking. Additional information will be forwarded to Committee which discusses each location. 500 block of Main St. — Revision of locations of 20 min. Meters: Jean Baucom reviewed the history of this block. noting the construction of the multi -use building on the NE corner of Chicago and Main had removed all parking along the north side of the western half of this block of Main Street. The merchants had appealed to Aid. Wynne and the City to change the metered parking from 2-hour time limit to 20-minute parking to provide turnover for the White Hen and a dry cleaner. Now the construction has been completed and the primary tenant is a Starbucks. Ald. Wynne had previously commented that some of the 20-min. meters probably ought to be moved to the north side of the street, and staff put this item on the agenda based on the alderman's comment. y The Committee supported the idea, but asked that staff sur ey the merchants on the 500 block of Main as well as some on Chicago Ave. to see what their opinions are at this time, as the original request had come from them. Jean Baucom will survey the merchants and report back to the Committee at a future meeting. Exnansion of Residents Exempt Parkine District .\i: Jean Baucom explained that this request has two distinct parts. The first is an expansion of eligible addresses of residents who can obtain the District M permit. She reminded the == Committee that residents from 1830 and 1834 Ridee Ave. do not have parking in front of their homes and had requested the ability to obtain a parking permit to park on Lyons and Asbury. The Committee had approved a trial program and asked staff to monitor the impact. Nis. Baucom advised that S permits were issued and numerous checks were made of the area over the last few months. The maximum number of vehicles found durine the daytime on weekdays had been 5: 3 on Lyons and 2 on Asbun•. She advised this Y presented no negative impact to the area and that Alderman Jean -Baptiste supports this expansion request. The Committee unanimously supports the request, which will need to be taken to Council in an ordinance. The second part of the request will change regulations on the 1400 block of Davis Street. This block has unregulated parking on the north side of the street, and the change would impose a 2-hour time limit with residents exempted. Parking is prohibited on the south side of the street between Sam-4prn on school days for safety reasons, and no change is recommended for this side of the street. his. Baucom advised that she has performed numerous studies on this block, and she has found commuters parking ail -day. She further advised that Aid. Jean -Baptiste supports the change and has received a petition from the residents on this block. Jon Perman expressed concern about making a change at this time. He advised the Methodist Board of Pensions is considering relocating and is concerned a change is not a good signal to them. He suggested that the City Manager be contacted about this and perhaps someone should speak with Aid. Jean -Baptiste. Aid. Moran left the meeting during the above discussion. Consolidation of District E into District 7: Jean Baucom explained that years ago a 2-hour time limit had been placed on a number of residential streets west of Greenbay Road to reduce commuter parking. Residents appealed to the City to develop some other regulations so that they did not have to use visitor permits all -day long for their guests. At the same time, merchants in the Central St. Business area asked for assistance for employee parking, noting the commuter lot was always full when they come to work and the small lot on Central & Stewart was always sold out. After meetings with the neighborhood and the alderman, the regulations were changed to the current No Parking lam -gam. There was, however, one exception: the 2600 block of Prairie. These residents asked their block continue to have a 2 hour time limit so that the block would not be full by 9:05 am by area employees from the restaurants. At the time this was approved, the City used alpha letters to identify two-hour residents exempt districts and numbers to identify residents' only parking districts. Consequently, the residents on this one block have been required to display 2 district permits in order to park in their neighborhood. Ms. Baucom advised that a few years ago the Parking Committee expanded a residential district (area around Orrington School) by placing both types of regulations within one district designation. Since that time, several other districts have been revised in this way. Staff is requesting that District E be incorporated into District 7 so that only one permit is needed for the area. No changes will be made the regulations, except the signs will indicate 2-hour time limit except vehicles display a District 7 permit rather than a District E permit. Ms. Baucom advised she has spoken with Aid. Tisdahl about this, and Ald. Tisdahl supports the change. Paul Giddings advised that _ald. Moran had expressed to him some concerns-. however, Ald. Moran had to leave, consequently, fir. Giddings recommended this matter be held so that Aid. Moran could express his concerns. Fine for Violation Spaces Reserved for Disabilitv MacardsPlates Jean Baucom advised that the State of Illinois has approved a minimum of S250 as the fine for parking in reserved spaces for those with disabilities without a valid placard or plate to become effective on January 1, 2006. She added the State Statute allows municipalities to increase the fines between S250 and S350, and staff is recommending a change in our existing fine of S l00 to S250. Questions were asked about the number of citations issued in Evanston, the collections rate, and location of spaces. Ms. Baucom advised that approximately 850 tickets are issued annually, but only 46-50% are collected. She stated she would have to look at each ticket to know where they are issued, but her perception is most are issued around Sam's Club, Target on Howard, and in several spaces in the do«mtoAm area. The Committee questioned why the collection rate is so low, noting that the City boots for unpaid tickets. Ms. Baucom pointed out that booting requires 5 unpaid tickets. and vehicles with only 1 or 2 unpaid tickets can more easily choose not to pay the tickets without consequences. Discussion followed on whether the rate should be S250 or S350. Staff recommended S250 since this is what the State has adopted. The Committee decided to support S250 fine and to increase the penalty from S50 to S 100, making the total S350. The Committee expressed its disdain for those who disrespect spaces reserved for disabled persons and asked staff to see if it would be legal for the City to boot vehicles which have 1 unpaid ticket for violating the reserved disability spaces. Meeting Schedule for 2006 Director of Transportation John Burke advised that the Economic Development Committee has revised its meetings start time from 8PM back to 7:30PM and asked whether the Committee wished to revise its starting time accordingly. Discussion followed that it is difficult to get to a meeting by 6PM and that, with focused effort, they could conduct the necessary business within one and a half hours. The Committee will continue to hold its meetings at 6Ptt. It was noted that the next meeting will be on December 7`� and that staff will get a packet out to the Committee a v;-eek in advance. The meeting was adjourned at 7:27 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System Manager The Parking Committee DRAFT A Sub -Conn niuee of the Cit%- Council of Evanston, Illinois Minutes from the.Nieeting On December 7. 2005 Alderman Wynne opened the meeting at 6:13 P.M. without a quorum. . Members Present: Aid. Melissa Wynne, Paul White, Vera Chatz, Larry Rafe)), and John Perman Members Absent: Aid. Steve Bernstein, Aid. Eb Moran, George Woolridge Associate Members Present: Paul Giddings (6:35 pm) Staff Present: David Jennings, John Burke and Jean Baucom Visitors: Bob Seidenberg Since there was not a quorum, David Jennings updated the Committee on pending items: 1) The Methodist Board of Pensions has advised the City Manager they do not have any problems with parking regulations on the 1400 block of Davis. 2) The Administration & Public Works Committee has asked the Parking Committee to consider a 5350 fine for parking in a disability space without a valid permit. Parking Fine for Disabled Parkin* Snaces Mr. Jennings advised the ordinance to amend the City Code to increase the current 5100 fine to 5250 for violation of reserved disabled person's spaces was introduced at the last City Council meeting; however, it can be amended on the floor if the Parking Committee wants to support a 5350 fine. Vera Chatz arrived at 6:18pm, making a quorum. Brief discussion followed about whv the Committee had decided on the 5250 = 5100 late penalty and that many violate the regulation because they don't understand the access aisle not being available for parking with a placard1plate. Staff advised they will continue to investigate the options for stall design and signs for these spaces. The Committee decided to recommend the fine at 5250 and to have staff report back after this has been in effect for 6 months. if violations have not decreased at that level, the Committee will consider recommending a fine increase to 5350. Minutes of the Parking Committee Meeting of December 7, 2005 page 2 Committee llectinc Minutes A call for approval of the November meeting's minutes was made. There were no changes or corrections. John Perman motioned approval of the minutes. Paul «'bite seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved. District M (1400 block of Davis St.) Since there was not a quorum, John Perman made a motion to expand District IXi onto the 1400 block of Davis Street since the Methodist Board of Pensions had no objection. The Committee unanimously agreed for staff to prepare an ordinance. Bootine of Vehicles With 1 Unpaid Ticket for Violation of Stalls Reserved for Disabilitv Plates/Placards Staff advised that a request has been sent to the Law Department, but no response has been received vet. Survev of Main-Chicaeo Merchants Reaardina 20 Min. Meters Staff advised that a survey will be issued in January, after all of the holidays, to determine the merchants' perspective on relocating some 20 min. meters from the south side of the 500 block of Main St. to the north side at Starbuck's. Combinine Residents District E with District 7 This item was held at the last meeting for :old. Moran. Since Ald. Moran was not present, the Committee held this item since it is not known what his concern is. Associate member Paul Giddings arrived at 6:35 p.m. Lane -Term Parkine Meters David Jenninas and Jean Baucom reviewed the various sections of the memo which detailed the various areas where long-term meters are located. Jon Perman made a motion to change the all -day parking meters in the following areas to 2-hour parking at S0.50 per hour. The motion was seconded by Paul White, and unanimously approved. Lot 19 1600 block of Maple 1500 block of Elmwood 700 block of Elgin 1700 block of Chicago Lot 47 — behind YMCA Minutes of the Parking Committee Meeting of December 7, 2005 page 3 Lone -Term meters (continued) The consensus of the Committee was to leave the long-term meters at the current rates in Lots 27 and on the 1600 K 1700 blocks of Oak Ave. until the Sherman Plaza Self Park opens and review the matter after that time. The Committee also agreed to leave the long- term meters at their current rates in the 1400 block of Sherman Avenue per the staff recommendation. Lot 53----David Jennings and Jean Baucom explained this lot is not being used now that Pivot Point has moved from Chicago to downtown Evanston; however, the City is looking at leasing this property to the developer of 415 Howard St. The consensus of the Committee was to pursue leasing the property for construction staging and parking. Lots 16 and 54----- Staff briefly reviewed the history of parking rates in this lot and that the Village of Wilmette has increased their yletra commuter lot a year ago. Staff advised this is a good lot for multi -space metering and this t%pe of equipment will be explored if a rate increase is approved. Paul Giddings made a motion to increase the rates in this lot from SI per day to S2 per day and to make modifications to allow longer hours as recommended by Staff. John Perman seconded the motion, which was approved by the Committee. Lot 32 — 800 block of Hinman Ave ----Aid. «'%Tme and Paul %'bite said these meters provide a good option for area residents and their friends. The consensus of the Committee was to follow the staff recommend to leave the meters in this lot at their current rates. Equipment Costs Staff advised that it may be necessary to purchase some additional equipment to implement the new long -terra rates; however, the intent is to reuse older meters and revise the times where possible before purchasing new equipment. The goal is still to use multi - space metering equipment in Lot 19 at the Central Street Metra, and a request for proposals will be issued. Downtown Trollev Vera Chats commented it is wonderful to have the trolley and asked about the costs and keeping it in service. Several members responded the trolley is being provided by Sherman Plaza developers, that costs for this are expensive, that it is not being used; and that the City had tried a shuttle in the past but people would not use it because they could walk to destinations faster. David Jennings will try to find out what the trolley costs are. Minutes of the Parking Committee Meeting of December 7, 2005 page 4 Sir naee for Short -Term Meters Vera Chatz said she has not seen any signs posted at the short-term meters. Staff clarified that it has not found a method to install signage, but is looking into a possible sign used in Seattle. The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Jean Baucom Parking System :Manager 4