HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1995 - 1996F .
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Meeting of January 10, 1995
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Perman, Demas, Remen
Members Absent: Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Gallivan, Guttman, Miller
The meeting was called to order by Chairman Guthrie at 7:00 p.m.
Migytes_of Meeting of DewmbeL„ t2%, - The Committee accepted the minutes of the
meeting as distributed.
PEO onthly Report: - The PEO Activity Report for December wa; distributed at the meeting.
In response to a question from Alderman Newman regarding employees of Davis Street
establishments (1000 block) parking at the two hour meters, Lt. Gallivan advised that many
times, vehicle owners wash off the chalk used by the PEOs, thereby making enforcement
difficult; however, he mentioned that the area will be monitored. The report was accepted as
presented.
,ayiew of Altg[tlgtee-Puking r NU Eoatball Games: - Mr. Don Wirth spoke regarding the
agreement the Golf Course reached with the Administration and Public Works Committee. The
Golf Course will continue to park cars on the 9th 17th znd 18th holes (can accommodate
approximately 1,000 vehicles), which eliminates the parking areas adjacent to residents of the
seventh ward. In addition, the 1st hole will only be used twice during the year for games with
larger crowds (an additional 250 vehicles), Because the Golf Course will be eliminating fifty
percent of their parking, and hence fifty percent of their revenue, they are looking to increase
their fees for parking from $5 to $10. The Golf Course Board will meet with Alderman
Engelman and the NU Athletic Department to negotiate a concurrent increase for Stadium
parking. The Board will rope off the loth, 12th and 13th greens, install appropriate signage as
well as hire off -duty officers to monitor the area.
Mr. Remen suggested that the Board, because they are losing approximately ten percent of their
revenue, they should consider increasing green fees by ten percent. Mr. Wirth advised that this
price increase would raise fees for both the elderly and the poorer participants.
Alderman Engelman was concerned that the displaced parkers would now park further into the
neighborhoods rather than drive to Northwestern University lots east of Sheridan Road. David
Jennings advised that there are approximately 800 spaces available in the two garages. The
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University will send a shuttle to pick up these parkers; the University will also send
information to season ticket holders regarding the availability of these spaces. There is also free
parking available at the Research Park lots.
Mr. Remen raised the issue of requiring permits for off-street parking around the stadium.
David Jennings advised that there are a variety of residential parking permit types in the area,
some only prohibiting parking on weekdays. Mr. Remen suggested that either a new sticker be
developed for area residents or prohibit those vehicles without an Evanston sticker from parking
in the area. Lt. Gallivan advised that there are no officers available to enforce these parking
regulations on game day Saturdays. Those officers on duty are responsible for maintaining
traffic flow.
David Lipshultz asked the Committee how Northwestern can operate without being required to
provide adequate parking; David Jennings responded that the University has a sufficient number
of parking spaces, but they are not located around Dyche Stadium.
David Jenaings informed the Committee that Northwestern operates an answering system which
details directions to the Stadium; he will ask that the message be changed to include the
Research Park lots and the parking garages as points of origination.
SigniMfor Parking Lot 60 onshragg_sovth of Demp5tet; - Mr. David Lipshultz, President
of the Dempster Street Merchants Association, addressed the Committee regarding improved
signage for Parking Lot 60 (1200 block of Chicago Avenue), He asked the Committee to install
between four and six directional signs in the area as well as improve the existing signage at the
parking lot. He suggested the following locations: (1) 500 block of Dempster; (2) 600 block
of Dempster; (3) west of the tracks; and (4) north and south of Dempster on Chicago Avenue,
In response to Mr. Perman's question, Mr. Lipshultz mentioned that a small map is included in
all joint advertising. The Committee decided to install the requested signage. David Barber will
work with the merchants to design the signs which will be shown to the Committee upon
completion.
w Street South 9f Qcrnp5jer Street: - Mr. Abe Dababna from Bill's
Grocery Store asked that the Committec consider adding seven or eight angled parking spaces
in the parkway on Darrow Avenue, immediately south of Dempster. Mr. Dababna mentioned
that he had contacted all but six of the neighbors regarding this proposal; he has been working
with Alderman Drummer on this matter. It would cost the City approximately $9,000 to
complete this work. The President of the Dewey/Darrow Neighborhood Association asked the
Committee to wait on this matter because at least onp neighbor was not aware of the proposal.
She was concerned about creating a bottleneck at Dcinpswr Street as well as increased accident
risk. Members believed that they should send this matter out of Committee because there would
be sufficient time to discuss the neighbors' concerns before the matter goes before the
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Administration and Public Works Committee. The Committee approved this matter amtingent
upon a meeting between Alderman Drummer, the Neighborhood Association and Mr. Dababna,
The results of that meeting will be presented at the February 13 meeting.
(Mr. Remen left at this time.)
Review of Recommendations for --Parking Study; - The Committee approved staffs
recommendation of hiring Consulting Engineers Group for $61,6000 to perform the Long -Range
Parking Study.
Review gf ftono als for Snow Program and Street SwerRing Program, - The attached Snow
Removal Operation Outline was reviewed with the Committee. Alderman Newman asked if the
City ever executed the third level response after four inches of snowfall; he was concerned about
consistency. David Barber advised that the City has been performing according to plan for the
last two years. In response to a question, David Jennings mentioned that both parking garages
are available to residents who must remove their vehicles from the street; the charge is $4 for
daytime hours and $5 to park in a ganige for 24 hours. Alderman Newman asked if Evanston
could provide the same level of service as the City of Chicago, David Barber advised that
Chicago more manpower and a bigger fleet of large trucks, and thus, are able to differently
provide the service on main line sweets; Chicago also delays work on residential streets. The
Committee agreed that Solutions a1-3 may not work well because they would force people
further into the neighborhoods, especially around business districts and schools. Alderman
Newman suggested that the fine value be shown on the signs. In response to a question, David
Barber advised that the Snow Flyer would be improved and distributed more frequently. The
Committee decided not to recommend a solution because the Aldermen affected by such changes
were not present.
(Mr. Perman left at this time.)
Meeting Schedule for 1995. - The Committee approved the meeting schedule for 1995.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10;00.
$esiectfully ubmitted,
David H. Barber
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` SNOW REMOVAL OPERATION
.s'
OUTLM
I. Components of the Snow Removal Operation
A. First level of response
(1) when less than two inches of snow accumulates and/or icy conditions occur
(2) first priority to clear major streets
a. higher traffic volumes
b. greater potential for accidents
(3) crews spread road salt to prevent icing
(4) once these areas have been salted, the crews move to the residential streets
B. Second level of response
(1) when more than two inches but less than four inches of snow accumulation
(2) plowing operations begin in conjunction with the salting operation
(3) a Snow Route Parking Ban begins
a. prohibits parking on the major snow routes
b. between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
c. afar 2:00 a.m. downtown
(4) enforcement
a. cars towed under these restrictions are brought to a storage yard
b. areas not targeted for towing are aggressively ticketed.
C. Third level of response
(1) when four itches or more of snow has accumulated
(2) a Snow Emergency begins
a. prohibits parking per the Snow Route Parking San regulations
b. bans parking on the even side on even dates and the odd side on odd
dates on residential streets posted for alternative side parking
(3) restrictions in effect for two days from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m
(4) remaining streets posted for special clearing
(5) enforcement
a. relocation program
b. areas not targeted for relocation are aggressively ticketed
II. Problems With the Current Operation
(A) The snow operation takes too much time to clear the streets
(B) The Snow Information line can only handle one call at a time
(C) Residents and visitors find the signage confusing
(D) The public awareness process may not be reaching enough residents
(E) The sirens annoy residents and may be a violation of state law
(F) Enforcement is not equal across different areas of the City
(G) Special posting streets
(1) labor intensive
(2) drains manpower away from clearing the residential streets
(H) Several complaints are received about the clearing of downtown
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(n Snow emergency lots
1 not alwa s available t residents
() y o and vtsrt�xs
(2) not always cleared during the Snow Emergency
M. Improving the Existing Program
A. Solution #1: Alternate Side Parking Year Round 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m,
(1) outside tow area
a. alternate side parking from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. every day except
Sunday
b. can't park on the even side on even dates; on the odd side on odd dates
c. one-sided streets would be added to the odd -even parking plan
(2) designate a tow area
a. east of Ridge Avenue, south of Lincoln Street and the area east of
Dodge Avenue, south of the Skokie Swift
b. Harrison Street from Bennett Avenue, east to Prairie Avenue, southeast
to Lincoln Street
c. two-sided parking streets become alternate side parking streets between
9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. during snow removal season
d. one-sided streets would be incorporated into this scheme
(3) Disadvantages
a. eliminates one-half of the daytime parking supply during the day
b. prevents residents from parking in front of their homes during the day
e, the plan will be difficult for visitors, delivery trucks and service vehicles
d. provide two distinct levels of service depending on whether or not a
resident lives inside or outside the tow zone
e. special event parking would encroach further into the neighborhoods
f. impact timing of the leaf collection operation
(4) Advantages
a, provides a regular routine so the streets can be effectively cleared
b. confusion should decrease due to better signage
c. compliance should increase.
d. operation expenses may decrease because fewer cars would be towed
(fewer tow trucks needed) and the streets would be more quickly
cleared (less overtime cost for crews)
e. eliminate the confusion of trying to deal with seasonal regulations for
street sweeping, leaf collection. and the amount of snowfall (outside
the tow zone)
f. sirens would no longer be used
B. Solution #2: Alternate Side Parking Year Round 24 Hours Per Day
(1) follows same guidelines as Solution #1 but limits the parking restrictions every
day except Sunday on streets outside of the tow zone 24 hours per day
(2) advantages, disadvantages and implementation costs are similar to those
suggested in Solution #1
(3) ore -half of the City's parking supply would be eliminated the entire year
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C. Solution 0: Alternate Side Parking During Snow Removal Season 9 a.m. - 6 p.m,
(1) follows same guidelines as Solution#1 but limits the parking restrictions every
day except Sunday during snow removal season
(2) advantages, d►sadvantages and implementation costs are similar to those
suggested in Solution # 1
(3) one-half of the parking supply is eliminated from December 1 - March 31
(4) leaf collection not impacted
D. Solution k4: Changes to the Existing Operation
(1) designate a tow area
(2) ticket all areas outside the tow zone
(3) one-sided parking streets should be incorporated into the present scheme
(4) remove the phrase "until snow removal is complete" from Snow Route signs
(5) improve the public information campaign
(6) improve the snow information line to handle multiple calls
(7) start the plowing operation in different areas of the City
(8) eliminate Snow Emergency lots
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PARX=Q G9=TT8S
Meeting of February 14, 1995
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Remen
Members Absent: Demas, Perman, Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Gallivan, Jennings
Guests Present: John Hamill, Ross Jacobs
The meeting was called to order at 7:06 pm by Chairman Guthrie.
Kinutee of MRntina of Jaauary 10, 1925 - The minutes were approved
by the Committee.
g$0 Aatjy.,ty Re'aoa - The Committee accepted the report as
submitted.
ftdats m Ea ki ct JStUdy - David Jennings distributed a summary of
the progress on tasks presented by The consulting Engineers Group
Inc. The Committee was advised the consultant is in the process of
gathering information.
The Committee was asked about the level of involvement they wished
to take during the preparation of the study. In response to a
question David Jennings indicated the consultant will do as we
direct. The Committee was asked if they wanted to be involved with
all phases of the work or if they wanted to see reports from the
consultant and make comments as the work progresses. Alderman
Newman indicated that he was only interested in issues that affect
his ward, such as problems around Roycemore, parking rates in the
downtown, NU spillover, etc. He is not interested in solving
problems in other wards. Alderman Guthrie suggested a meeting with
all Aldermen. This was not accepted as the full report will be
submitted to the Administration & Public Works Committee of City
Council eventually. David Jennings noted that part of the process
will be selected surveys to gather information and that Aldermen
could be added as a group to this process. Aldermen Newman
suggested that other Aldermen be Involved at the stage when
recommendations are being formulated.
Alderman Newman requested that the Southeast Evanston Neighbors
Association and the NU Neighbors groups be added to the list for
input.
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P�yary 14. 1995.
David Jennings completed his report by noting the consultant seemed
to be directing his efforts toward the downtown and that staff has
redirected the consultant to deal with Citywide problems.
.Alat Pmrking R_e_Quaat by OcOMULOU and Pots MillarA Reatau eau s
Alderman Newman started the discussion by asking the Committee to
consider the charge of the Committee toward Citywide issues. He
indicated these requests are similar to loading zone requests that
are handled by Ward Aldermen. He said the Committee should focus
on issues like the Parking Study, NU Parking problems, etc. and not
these local issues. Alderman Guthrie reminded the Committee that
the Parking Study was to help develop Citywide parking policy and
there was no policy for valet parking matters. Alderman Newman
again reminded the committee that he his not interested in handling
matters in other wards nor having other alderman handling matters
in his ward.
At this point David Jennings read a section of the September 13,
1994 minutes concerning what matters should be brought to the
Parking Committee which stated "the Committee suggested that
matters that affect business parking, set policy or precedent,
affect city lot use or had citywide impact should be sent to the
Committee. Matters that were local should be handled by the Ward
Alderman.r, He advised that valet parking is currently allowed in
loading zones but not in existing parking spaces. Both requests
were for adding valet parking where existing parking spaces exist.
He noted that we are not trying to regulate valet parking but only
the use of the parking spares. He advised the Committee that
LaBella Italia Restaurant on Chicago Avenue tried to do this same
thing and was requested to stop as it was not permitted. Staff
needs direction on this request.
The Committee was advised this request is only for evening use
(after 5:00 pm) and once granted for these two establishments,
other requests would most likely be made.
The Committee briefly discussed changing the time of operation of
meters along Sherman avenue to increase evening turnover.
Currently someone can park at 4:00 pm (pay $0.50) and stay in that
space until 2:00 am legally. The Committee asked the consultant to
look into this matter.
The Committee asked that this request be denied and that those
making the request be asked to address the Parking committee on
- Thursday March 16, 1995 (revised meeting date).
2,
a District 9n Jaekson Avenue
David Jennings presented a request from Alderman Kent for a now
Residential Only Parking District on Jackson Avenue from Emerson to
Fowler. This is a proposed 24 hour district intended to remove all
cars from this area without a permanent parking permit or a
visitors permit. The residents were surveyed and 79% of those
responding were in favor of the change. The Committee accepted
this request and directed it be forwarded to the Administration &
Public Works Committee.
Cons( ration of 15-Minute Parking on Poster S we 4f Grsen
fty Road and 30-Minute on Simoson Street. west of Dewev Avenue
Both requests are acceptable to the Ward Alderman and are intended
to help business in both areas. The Committee accepted these
requests and directed they be forwarded to the Administration &
Public Works Committee.
gSr,kinq Turnover St%Ldy.
At the last meeting the committee requested staff to conbuct a
park:.ng turnover study in a few blocks downtown. Staff studied the
1000 block of Davis Street, Sherman Avenue (Clark to Church) and
Davis Street (Chicago to Orri.ngton). The study was conducted on
Saturday January 21, 1995 and revealed that during this day 98.1t,
93.7% and 88.2% of the parkers parked less that 2 Hours (legal
parkers) . The spaces were generally full and the;re was very little
all day (or extended) parking. Vehicle license numbers were
recorded and those parking longer than the two hour limit were
notified by letter of their activity during this day and advised of
the parking restrictions. The Committee accepted the information.
Revort on i�eetinc with Noighboara and BiIY' a Market
David Jennings advised the Committee that the neighbors in the
Darrow -Dempster area met with Bill's Market concerning the proposed
angle parking discussed by the Committee at the last meeting.
Alderman Drummer was there as requested. David reported that
several items were discussed and the proposal for adding the angle
parking is on hold. The neighbors discussed illegal truck parking
in the area and other parking options are now being considered.
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Pak 6treet market ParkiUg
David Jennings presented a proposal included in the Downtown
Streetecape Revitalization Plan for adding angle parking in front
of the Oak Street Market. The parking in front of their stole
(currently on their property) would be eliminated. The overall
plan for the block adds 8 spaces to the parking supply including
the elimination of the private spaces. The on -street spaces will
be metered and not dedicated to Oak Street Market. Staff has
discussed the with the owners and they understand and agree with
the plan. The Committee accepted the proposed plan.
There being no further business, the Committee adjourned at 8:15
pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
David H. Barber
(C 2 W"I%DATA\MnM=.29S I
4
MINUTgs
Meeting of April 10,1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Demas, Perman
[Members Absent: Remen, Reynoids
Staff Present: Barber, Gallivan, Jennings
Guests Present: BoblBrett O'Donnell, Sam Lederman, Dave Goetz, Steve Kdston
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Chairman Guthrie.
Mina -Bill Demas asked about the turnover study
on Davis Street conducted on a Saturday. He was advised that a further study during
the week was to be conducted. The minutes were accepted as submitted.
- The Committee was advised that the Parking Division is still
down three PEOs. The Committee asked for a report from Human Resources why it
has taken so long to fill these vacant positions. The Committee accepted the report.
URIate on jh2_ftrWng Study - David Jennings advised that the Consultant is meeting
with groups and individuals to obtain information. He is also working on developing
draft policies for review and is currently reviewing the issues identified in the RFP that
will help with policy development. The consultant appears to be on schedule.
Valet Pilrking - David Jennings advised that Oceanique and Pete Millers have not
submitted a written request for valet parking. They are no longer blocking spaces for
their valet parking but they are placing their sign in the street and passengers are
stopping in the street. For reference the Cc:mmittee was advised that there were five
establishments using valet parking (Pete Millers, Oceanique, Trio's, Va'Penciero, and
Roxy Cafe) in the street. David Jennings advised the Committee that Pete Millers was
parking cars in their lot behind the restaurant and Oceanique had an arrangement with
a church in the area. Apparently the employees at Pete Millers are parking on the
street after five. This limits available spaces on the street for customers.
Alderman Newman indicated a consistent policy was needed concerning these signs
and suggested they should have to obtain a sidewalk sign permit under the new
regulations. He asked about the issue of stopping in the street. David Jennings
indicated thatihis does not seem to be a great problem as yet. If more establishments
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Parking Committee - Minutes of April 10, 1995
Page 2
start this practice it could become a problem.
The Committee discussed the possibility of extending the hours on the meters to
provide for more parking turnover. Staff was asked to respond at the next meeting on
the Impact of extending the hours of the meters including the need for additional
enforcement and costs associated with this change. -Staff shouid also find out what
other cities are doing. The hours proposed for meters would be 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.
The Committee indicated their interested in trying to encourage employees to not park
in the street spaces in the evening and would like to see enforcement of the sidewalk
sign ordinance for the Valet Parking signs.
Oak Street Market Reauos# - The owner of the Oak Street market property and the
owners of the Oak Street Market (tenants) were present to discuss the impact of the
Downtown Improvement Project on the parking at their property. At the lost meeting
the Committee reviewed and accepted the plan to eliminate the parking in front of their
store and add on -street metered spaces eliminating the pedestrian safety problem at
this location. The owner, Mr. Lederman, indicated that this may have financial impacts
on this property if another tenant is interested in this site if the Oak Street Market
vacates this site in the future. The Committee was asked if they accept the City's plan if
additional spaces (off-street) could be set aside dedicated for their exclusive use in
exchange for the loss of the spaces in front of their building. They explained to the
Committee that there is a problem with extended on -street parkers during the hours
%tien the meters are not in effect (Saturday evening and Sunday) when they are open.
Post Office employees and residents in the area take these spaces and their customers
can not find space to park.
The Committee was asked if the lot was for sale. If the City would consider this option
they could use the adjacent lot (#27) for the use of their store. They would be
amenable to providing space for the current permit holders in the twelve northernmost
spaces.
The Committee asked that the possible sale of this lot be investigated by staff and
report made back to the Committee in May.
Lot ti UChlugo Annual - David Jennings advised that he met with David Lipschutz
and Paul Giddings about adding signing for the lot. They agreed on the use of the
standard bluetwhite sign to be added on Chicago Avenue north of the lot and on
Dempster Street east and west of Chicago Avenue. At the lot entrance a banner would
be added. Concerning the Minasian's sign that causes confusion about the use of the
lot, David Jennings indicated the sign is on our fence and it could be removed of a
morn dearly worded sign could be added, Alderman Guthrie will meet with David
Jennings at the site to review this matter. David Jennings advised the Committee that
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Parking Committee - Minutes of April 10, 1995
Page 3
they were also interested In adding signs for lot #23 at Elmwood and Dempster. This
lot has 35 spaces, nine are metered and 26 are permit spaces. Two signs were
requested. The Committee accepted this report.
At this point the O'Donnels, who operate the Car (Nash on Chicago Avenue south of Lot
#60 and the manager of the Car Rental Agency also south of lot #60, requested the
Committee to consider removing the three meters in front of their businesses and
allowing a loading zone at this location. They indicated that the majority of the time
there is no one using these spaces except their customers. The committee was
advised they leave cars in these spaces when washed and the customer has not yet
returned. The Car Rental Agency customers drop cars off at this site and they need a
loading zone here to avoid the tickets that they are receiving for leaving cars on the
street.
Alderman Newman explained that several requests such as this have been presented
but there have not been any accepted since it is not possible to give everyone a loading
zone in front of their business. if this was granted for one business, every business
would expect the same and the on -street spaces would be eliminated. Jonathan
Perman indicated that these businesses depend on customer convenience for their
survival and the Committee should consider this request on a trial basis. Alderman
Newman indicated that it is appropriate for the Chamber to make the comments as
presented by Mr. Perman as they represent the business community, but fairness is an
Issue in this matter and needs to be kept in mind when considering requests of this
nature. Mindscape wanted a similar loading zone but was denied. Other businesses
also would like loading zones near their facilities but these requests can not all be
honored. It is not whether we like the business or not, it is a matter of what is fair to all
businesses - equity is the issue.
Alderman Guthrie agreed to visit the area during their busy periods and observe the
problem. She will also discuss the matter with the Dempster Street Merchants at their
next meeting.
e RQPQ - David Jennings advised that a Public Meeting on
this proposed District was scheduled for Wednesday April 12. A post card survey
indicated that residents favored the district by a 3 to 1 margin. Alderman Kent is
supporting this District as well. This district is proposed not as a parking issue but as a
safety issue for the neighborhood.
Reauest from—A142 an Holsman to Reduce the Parmit Foo In -Lot #_ 13 - The
Committee was advised this lot currently carries the lowest 24-hour permit fee in the
City at $19 per month. Lot 8/31 and 32/35 carry a lower fee for employees ($14/Month)
but the permits are only good during the day time. The Committee questioned whether
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Parking Committee - Minutes of April 10, 1995
Page 4
the lower fee would attract more permit sales or if the lower fee would only result in a
savings to those current permit holders. There are 47 spaces in the lot and only 20
permits are so;d. Alderman Newman asked If this was being brought forward as a
safety issue for the neighborhood, if so we should accept the request. David Jennings
advised that an internal staff group has been developed to work with neighborhoods
and issues of this nature would be investigated. Alderman Holsman and the staff team
will bo addressing issues in the area of lot 18. The Committee was advised that street
lights would be upgraded in this area this summer and this might help people feel safer
parking in this area. It was suggested that a promotion of space in the lot might be
timed to coincide with the brighter street lights. Staff will keep the Committee informed
as this matter progresses.
There being no further business, the committee adjourned at 8:35 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
David H. Barber
FIX I
1 -Ikg 111 . 0 Li [� i t -
,L
MINUTES
eMKI QO IW� ITTEE
(Meeting of June 13, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Demas, Perman, Remen,
Reynolds
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Barber, Gallivan, Jennings
Guests Present: Harry Shubart, Kathy Hadden
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 pm by Chairman Guthrie.
Minutes of Meeting of April -10, 1996 - The minutes were accepted as submitted.
PEO Activity R9oort - The Committee was advised that there are currently nine PEOs
working in the Division. Interviews of new PEGs have been completed and three new
PEOs should be hired in a few weeks. Training will take about a month before they are
placed on the street alone. At that time they Division will have the full complement of
twelve PEOs. David Reynold asked about the number of expired meter tickets issued.
He indicated the Committee's desire to reduce the emphasis on this area of
enforcement but this still accounts for over half of the tickets issued. Staff advised that
more tickets were issued in the past and the current number is less than years past.
The Committee accepted the report.
!,update an the Parking Study - David Barber reported that staff met with the
Consultant and reviewed a draft of the report. The report is to address the Parking
System Goals and Objectives and will then address each of the targeted areas listed in
the scope based on the Goals and Objectives. It is intended that in the future the
Parking Committee and City Council will be able to review Parking System changes in
accordance with the final Goals and Objectives. It was reported that a preliminary
section dealing with parking in northeast Evanston was reviewed and this section
addressed the parking problems associated with Northwestern, Roycemore and Kendall
College. A significant parking supply shortfall was identified and possible solutions
were to be proposed In the final report. Turnover studies were also included and in the
downtown area and other business districts, turnover seemed to be close to the two
hour requirement. The average stay in northeast Evanston (with two hour restrictions)
seems to be closer to three to four hours. This pointed out the need for additional
enforcement of overtime parking in this area. This information will be in the final report.
Also presented was a review of the Zoning Code and the parking requirements. The
Parking Committee Minutes
Meeting of June 13, 1995
Page 2
report will recommend some changes, but the consultant was quick to point out that
even with the changes there will be little, if any, short term impacts. Changes to the
Zoning Code wi!I only be effective in the long term as redevelopment occurs.
The Committee asked about additional signage In the downtown area to help promote
parking facilities. Staff advised the Committee that they approved a scope of work to
be performed by the Chamber and Evmark that addressed localized signage in the
downtown area and outlying signage directing traffic to the parking available in the
downtown area. Staff will contact Evmark for an update for the next meeting.
Alderman Newman advised the Committee about his request to consider extending the
hours of the meters in the downtown to 9:00 pm (from the current 6:00 prn) and also
advised of his request (to staff) to consider adding free parking In the two parking
structures on Saturday. Staff will respond an these matters at the next meeting.
The issue of more security at the parking garages was raised. The Committee was
advised that there are security personnel in the parking garages. They asked that they
make themselves more visible and not si< in the attendants booths so much.
Lastly, the Committee asked about the lighting level in the parking lot behind the
Library. Staff will investigate and determine if additional lighting can be provided.
LoadinqZoe-Reguest - 1212 Chicago A enue - Alderman Guthrie reported that she
visited the site and observed the operations. She also met with the Dempster Street
Merchants to discuss this request. The Dempster Street group was unanimous in their
support for this request. Alderman Newman indicated that we still need a rational policy
about granting requests for loading zones in business districts. He indicated that he
could not support another request such as this for a long time. He said this is not the
way to do this.
Jonathan Perman indicated it will be difficult to develop a policy as situations will vary
from area to area. Alderman Newman reminded the Committee of a previous request
from Mindscape which was denied. Alderman Guthrie indicated this situation is unusual
and is not being granted easily or willingly. The Dempster Merchants were advised of
the unusual nature of this request. Alderman Newman again asked that a policy be
developed. David Reynolds suggested that this request be delayed until a policy Is.
= developed. Alderman Newman indicated this was a problem with the Car Wash
a personnel not paying the dime in the meter. There is more of a problem for the
Enterprise Car Rental facility.
The Committee voted to recommend this for approval to the Administration & Public
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Parking Committee Minutes
Meeting of June 13, 1995
Page 3
Works committee for the .tune 26, 1995 meeting (Yes - 6; No - 0).
Other Matters
Kathy Hadden (2300 Sherman Avenue) was present and explained about having her
car towed twice for special posting for street sweeping in the Sherman Avenue area.
She indicated the signs were confusing and were improperly placed. She also advised
she was upset of the hearing process. She advised the tow hearing officer started off
very nice at the hearing but became rude as the hearing progressed. She also wasn't
aware that a ticket was also issued at the time of the towing. The Committee
recommended the issue of the Tow Hearing process be referred to the Administration &
Public Works Committee and Ms. Hadden be given time to present her case to that
Committee.
Harry Shubart was present to discuss a matter with respect to the parking and the
Downtown Revitalization Plan. As the time was short he asked to have time at the next
meeting.
David Reynold asked about meeting cancellations. He noted it is difficult for him to
adjust his schedule and when he has made the appropriate schedule adjustments it is
disappointing when the meetings are canceled. Alderman Guthrie advised that there
was no matter to discuss and there was no point in meeting without any items for
discussion.
Alderman Newman asked for a report on the status of the removal of parking from the
Golf course. Staff will report at the July meeting on this matter.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjoumed at 9:00 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
David H. Barber
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MINUMA
Meeting of August % 1995
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Perman, Demas, Remen,
Reynolds
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Barber, Gallivan, Jennings
Guests Present: See Attached Sign - Up Sheet
The meeting was called to order at 7:03 pm by Chairman Guthrie.
- The minutes of both
meetings were akxxpted by the Committee.
PEA Actiyitrr Repo - Members of the Committee advised they have noticed some
effect of having the new PEOs on board. The Committee accepted the Report.
Resnonsa to t_etter tram Hami Shubart- - A memorandum from David Jennings
summarizing the staff response to Mr. Shubart's letter was included in the packet.
David Barber noted for the Committee that the response is based on the Plan for the
Downtown as currently proposed and indica:as that addition of parking was a
consideration in the initial design of the improvcments. Traffic floAr•1 was another
consideration, as well. As the plan stands, there will be a net increase in the number of
parking spaces in the downtown on the twelve areas suggested is 34 spaces. Most of
these will occur on Oak Avenue north of Church Street (an area outside of the
immediate project) and on Benson Avenue between Church Street and University
Place. Mr. Shubart asked about consideration of adding daytime on -street parking in
the Research Park area. Alderman Newman asked if this was done would it be a
metered parking area. Staff responded that meters would be used. Staff also advised
that some of the streets may not be wide enough. Jonathan Penman noted that during
peak hours for the Evanston Athletic Club, there was space in the Research Paris
already so additional spaces are not needed. Alderman Newman suggested that this
proposal be delayed until a data in the future. The Committee thanked Mr. Shubart for
his time and concern and staff for their response.
-Alderman Newman asked staff if the
hours at the meters were extended to 9:00 pm how much additional revenue might be
expected in the Parking Garages. He also asked of the potential for adding free
parking in the garages after 6:00 pm. Staff will investigate this and report at the
September meeting.
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Parking Committee Minutes
Meeting of August 8, 1995
Page 2
At this tune the turn -over study prepared by staff included as part of item #5 was moved
forward for discussion. David Jennings reported that he conducted a study of the turn-
over of parking spaces on Sherman Avenue from Lake Street to Clark Street on
Thursday evening August 3, 1995. The study revealed that there was good turnover,
contrary to what was previously reported, with 95% of the parkers remaining less than 4
hours. Only 7 of the 130 cars were possible employees based on the evidence of the
study. Charles Remen asked if there have been complaints from the restaurants.
Alderman Guthrie responded that at the last meeting it was reported that employees
were moving to the street spaces after 4:00 pm and remaining in the spaces during the
evening. They were reported to be moving from private parking lots onto the street to
make room for the valet parking operation after 5:00 pm.
Alderman Newman noted that he has received calls about the iack of parking in the
evening. David Barber noted that spillover parking for this area in the evening can also
use the lower level of the Holiday lon garage after 5:00 pm. David Jennings advised
that parking longer than two hours after the meter enforcement time of 6:00 pm is a
legal activity. Alderman Newman asked that this ma#ter be discussed at the next
meeting along with the staff response to his initial request for information.
Oak Street M2rkojRaquest for Parking Lot #27 - David Barber advised the
Committee that staff has reviewed the appraisal from the Oak Street Market( for the
potential sale of the lot) and has had the appraisal reviewed by an outside agent to
confirm the price. Staff then reviewed the potential revenue impact for the lease of the
lot for a period of time and the sale of the lot and has determined that the sale of the lot
is not in the best interest of the City at this time given the proposed price. The
Committee was also advised that a letter was received from the Mr. Murray
representing the owner of the property (Mr. Sam Lederman) advising of a variance
granted for the current parking arrangement and asked for adequate compensation for
the loss of the dedicated spaces. Steve Kriston, Co-owner of the Oak Street Market,
noted that the interests of the owner and he and his partner as tenants are not exactly
alike but are very similar. He and his partner are concerned over losing control of the
parking spaces. The seven in front of the store now are dedicated to their use.
Metered spaces under the City's plan for improvement are metered and not dedicated
to the Oak Street Market. Parking Enforcement Officers can not watch these spaces all
of the Vme. They noted that they built their business on these spaces and the loss
would hurt their business drastically.
Bill Demas noted that he feels the City should stay away from helping individual
businesm. if we can't help all- we shouldn't help just one. The problem here is the
need to balance all demands for the lir•.mited number of spaces in the area. Alderman
Parking Committee Minutes
Meeting of August 8,1995
Page 3
Newman noted that not only is the City is subsidizing a new food store In the proposed
Buck project but they have a parking structure right across the street. He further noted
that when the Oak Street Market came to the City to move the Post Office vehicles they
had valid reasons and the City listened and responded. Now, the City is requesting to
eliminate their coven dedicated parking spaces and we need to address this matter
differently. David Goetz added that they don't have a problem if other business
customers use the lot as this happens frequently. Their big concern is with long term
parkers. They like the proposed Downtown Plan but need to consider its impact if they
have no safeguards on their parking spaces. Staff will meet with the Oak Street
Market owners and the Property owner to discuss possible solutions to this matter.
This item will be back for consideration at the September meeting.
Northwestem Football Parking - Staff advised that there have been three meetings
with Northwestern officials to discuss the impact of losing the Golf Course Parking and
developing plans to relocate these parkers during football games. The use of remote
lots and shuttle busses is being considered. Fliers showing routing to the lots and the
use of Shadow Traffic are also being considered to direct parkers to these areas.
There have been several other meetings internally to discuss traffic routing and a final
plan should be ready soon. Staff is working to keep packers from the neighborhoods
during the games. Additional signing and the use or more traffic control officers will be
required. The Golf Course will need to physically close their drives to prevent parkers
from entering their property.
Staff has identified parking spaces to accommodate the parking spaces lost on the Golf
Course. Those areas include:
• Central Street Medical Building (400 Spaces)
• Along Lincoln at Lakefront on Campus
• South Campus Parking Lot (600 Spaces)
• Surface Lots on Campus (600+ Spaces)
• Research Park/City Garages (1000 + Spaces)
In the discussions about a shuttle bus to these lots, NU has asked that the City
participate in the expense.
Charles Remen asked if the City will be able to respond to parking complaints during a
football event. Staff indicated it would be difficult with so many officers assigned to
football traffic control. David Jennings noted that stafffeels that the number of officers
that will be required is up about 50% from the past. In response to a question, staff
advised that there were about 1,200 spaces formerly used on the golf course. Also in
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Parking Committee Minutes
Meeting of August 8, 1995
Page 4
response to a question from the audience, staff Indicated that meters are hooded as
late as possible during the moming of the games and the City tries to hood as few
meters as possible and usually tries to hood only one side of the street if possible.
David Jennings indicated that the shuttle routing needs to be as organized as possible
and run as often as possible before and after the games. If the shuttle plan fails then
the entire plan will probably fail as well. In response to a question from Alderman
Newman, staff indicated that Northwestern wants the City to pick up part of the cost for
the Shuttle service and all of the officer cost. They feel the City is responsible for these
additional costs. Lt. Gallivan noted that previously about 15 officers were used but the
new plan will involve about 30 officers as there are more intersections that need to be
covered. This additional staffing will add about $6,000 to $8,000 per game above the
previous expense of about $3,000 per game. The additional cost to the City in 1995 will
be about $36 48,000 (6 games) and in 1996 about $3040,000 (5 games). In the past it
has been assumed that the Athletic Tax which generates about $274,000 per year
offset the cost of traffic control for Northwestern athletic events. Alderman Newman
asked why Northwestern gets these additional officers and other events must pay for
traffic control. Alderman Guthrie stated that this is the staff plan being discussed to
accommodate the additional traffic problems associated with losing the golf course
parking spaces. in response to a question, staff advised that we are not committed to
keeping all of these officers if it is determined that the traffic can be controlled with
fewer officers at future games. Staff noted that we have not discussed this problem
with other communities. Staff indicated that they have no idea how many cars park for
football games as many park in approved lots, in other pp private facilities and on the
streets.
Staff advised the Committee that this matter was to be addressed at a future meeting
with Northwestern and the entire issue was to be brought to City Council for
consideration on September 5, 1995. Staff was asked if the plan will keep cars out of
the neighborhoods. The response was no, as many people have parked in the
neighborhoods before and will probably do so in the future.
EY al:WChamber Resiort on Parking Promq,t[Rn gnd Imlarovemgnts - Jonathon
Perman introduced the plan presented at the last meeting. He noted that he and Terry
Jenkins drove around Evanston one afternoon and generally found that if you were not
I familiar with the City it was difficult to find your way around. Terry Jenkins indicated
they started from the outside of the City and drove toward the center of the City. They
asked how you might get to downtown and found that without adequate signs it is rather
difficult. The plan that was developed was set up to help travelers get first into
downtown and second into parking areas. Once travelers are directed to downtown the
next step in the process Is to market our parking facilities. Lastly, the City will need to
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Parking Committee Minutes
Misting of August 8, 1996
Page 5
deal with the issue of meter feeding as this is a big problem with the availability of
metered parking spaces. Jonathan Perman reminded the group that the plan was
Intended for visitors and people unfamiliar to Evanston. David Reynolds noted that the
"Jewel" In this report is the reference to the "downtown east" and "downtown west"
parking facilities and not to parking garages. Alderman Newman commented that he
would like to see an additional sign for the Church Street Self -Paris at Forest & Davis
and would like to help direct beach users into the parking facility at Church and
Chicago. He would like references to the parking facilities a lit!!e farther out.
Bill Demas commented that better signage is needed. The standard [DOT signage is
very plain and hard to read. Alderman Guthrie noted that this was a marketing problem
and we should take this plan and develop a better signing system that is somewhere
between what we want and what Evanston will tolerate. Alderman Newman noted that
more should be done to sign the Sherman Parking Structure. He noted that since the
Church Street Self -Park is in more of a residential neighborhood additional signing
might be difficult. David Barber reminded the Committee of the Plan to improve the
lighting, stairwells and elevators in the Sherman Avenue facility. These improvements
will upgrade the appearance of the facility.
Turnover Study of QQQ & 1QQQ 111ocks of 12aylis -Staff completed a one day turnover
study of the 600 and 1000 block of Davis Street. Thursday August 3 was the day of the
study. Thursday was selected as this is the busiest day in the parking garage and it
was assumed that this would correspond to a busy day for on -street demand.
In the 1000 block of Davis (Oak to Maple) the study found very good turnover during
the day. Of the total parkers on the block, over 92% were parked less than two hours
(legal parkers). Assuming parking greater than 4 hours was a flagrant violation of the
two hour limit, only 8 of the 48 stalls were affected by long term parkers.
The 600 block (Orrington to Chicago) was more impacted by long term parkers. 13 of
the 25 spaces were affected. This is a problem area and needs to be addressed by the
PEOs. The use in this block is very heavy with many packers parking illegally as noted
by the greater than 100% occupancy level. Bill Demas expounded on the problem in
this block. This study confirmed what he has been saying all along. People are
working to get around the rules by moving cars and washing off the marks placed by
the PEOs. Meter feeders from the NBD building are a big problem. The Committee
discussed the staffing levels needed to fully enforce overtime parking problems. There
not enough PEOs to t:,3ily enforce all of the regulations everywhere. Nights, Saturdays
and Sundays are not staffed adequately as well. Additional efforts will be directed to
this block. Bill Demas noted that long term porkers in meter spaces is a very big
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Parking Committee Minutes
Meeting of August 8, 1995
Page 8
problem and this is killing the downtown businesses. Old Orchard is not hurting
downtown - long term parkers In metered spaces are hurting downtown and this
problem needs to be addressed.
Qther M a tees -
Parking Study - David Barber reported that a draft had been received and was lacking
in substance in several areas. He will be meeting with the consultant soon and hopes
to have a draft for Committee review in September.
Letters from Mr. Shubart - Mr. Shubart submitted a letter at this meeting and asked that
Committee members be given a copy for their review. He also asked that the letter he
provided at the last meeting from Active Endeavors be distributed to Committee
members.
800 Block of Hinman Avenue - Nicki Hiltweln asked if and when the Committee would
be discussing the parking situation In the 800 block of Hinman Avenue. This will be
placed on the agenda for September 12, 1995.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
David H. Barber
• MINUTES
QARKIN!--COMM131EE
Meeting of September 12,1995
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Perman, Demas, Remen,
Reynolds
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings
Guests Present: Rev. Walter Armstrong, 634 Florence; James Murray, Steve Kriston
The meeting was called to order at 7:15 pm by Chairman Guthrie.
Minutes of Meeting of Augusl 8, 1995 - The minutes of the previous meeting were
accepted by the Committee.
PEO Activity Report - The report showed an increase In PEO ticketing activity
reflecting full strength of the PEO group. Tickets issued in August 1995 amount to
11,776. This is up from 9,067 in August 1994 and 8,188 in July 1995. The Committee
accepted the Report.
Soci I Business - R - Rev. Armstrong advised the Committee of his
concerns with the posted signs for street sweeping in his neighborhood. He
commented that the posted restrictions are difficult for individuals who work different
hours and arrive home in the middle of the night. To get up and move his car at 9:00
am is sometimes difficult. He has received five tickets. He asked if the posted signs
were to punish residents or to accomplish the job of sweeping the streets. He did not
think it appropriate to issue tickets shortly after 9:00 am and not sweep the streets until
noon or later.
= Alderman Guthrie advise Rev. Armstrong that the City Council has had a few meetings
on the sweeping program but the Parking Committee is not the group working on this
issue. She advised staff could notify Rev. Armstrong of the next time when the City
Council would be discussing this matter. Alderman Newman indicated his sympathy for
Rev. Armstrong's position. His only parking ticket was for sweeping restrictions but he
advised of the need to ticket cars early to encourage cars to move before the sweepers
arrive to sweep the streets.
Oak Street MafttEarkinq - David Barber advised the Committee that a
communication was sent to the owner and tenant of the property at 1615 Oak Street
after the last meeting making the offer the Committee requested. A response
(distributed at the meeting) was received by the City at 4:00 pm today (September 12,
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Minutes of the Paficing Committee
Meeting of September 12, 1995
Page 2
1995) indicating the need to meet to resolve this matter. Alderman Newman Indicated
his position that the owner is entitled to some protection from zoning requirements for
the loss of the spaces in front of the property. He indicated the City has been trying to
work with the tenants to improve the parking situation at this location. The proposed
plan to add angle parking on the street and offer a long term lease to the owner for
spaces in Lot #27 is a fair proposal and would improve paWIng conditions at this site.
He would not support financial payments to the owner as compensation.
.j
James Murray indicated he was not in a position to comment on this matter at the
meeting but would be setting a meeting with Mr. Barber in the next week. Steve Kriston
advised the Committee that a lot of what is going on is from the owner but he indicated
3 that we are all working together to retsolve this matter. They thanked the Committee for
all efforts to date.
Propgs l to Extend Parking Meter hours (to 9:00 pm) and Ofrering Free Parking in
o a aes after 6:00 prn - Alderman Newman indicated he would not
recommend extending the hours of operation of the parking meters to 9:00 pm but
could support recommending the free parking in the Parking Garages for packers
entering after 6:00 pm. David Reynolds noted that some of the valet services would
now be able to use the garages which would free up other spaces in the downtown
area. This Is a good idea. Alderman Newman pointed out that this would be the first in
a series of steps to improve use of the parking garages. After this proposal is
accepted, the City should notify restaurants in the downtown area of the change so they
can encourage their employees to use the garages. The Committee recommend that
this change be submitted for City Council approval.
Discussion gf Bi 'e's Reauom a. - Alderman Guthrie
requested staff to evaluate the possibility of adding bike lanes on City Streets. David
Jennings provided a memorandum responding to the request. He indicated to the
Committee that adding bike lanes is easier to build into new construction but in older
communities it is a more difficult task. Given the fixed width of our streets the added
bike lanes would in most cases take up one traffic lane and many of our streets cannot
afford to lose one traffic lane. The Committee accepted the communication.
r f Parkina Study Material - This matter was introduced by David Barber.
It was explained that the information distributed was not the final report but only some
of the background information and items that would be included in attachments to the
report. The exception were the policy statements presented for review. Aldorman
Newman commented on the review of the Zoning Code and the proposed changes. He
advised that many of these changes were presented before and for various reasons
i
f
Minutes of the Parking Committee
Meeting of September 12, 1995
Page 3
were defeated by previous Councils. David Jennings advised that the scope of work for
this study only requested the consuitanrs recommendations for possible changes and
not a full review of the previous review by former City Councils. The consultant has
done what was asked. Alderman Newman noted that many of the recommendations
will probl-bly not be implemented.
Alderman Guthrie requested the Committee review the nine policy statements.
KIn1 +IF
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There were no changes recommended.
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The Committee discussed some of the proposed options listed in the Impacts of
Implementation section. Staff advised that these were only possible impacts and each
area may be affected differently. The specific area discussion to be presented in
October will provide more information. There were no recommended changes.
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There were no recommended changes.
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There were no recommended changes.
5.
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Minutes of the Parking Committee
Meeting of September 12, 1995
Page 4
The Committee questioned whether this wa$ an appropriate policy for the City as only
the School Districts will be able to accomplish this action. The policy should be
reworded to reflect the Intent but should not Indicate our involvement in the action of
developing parking Improvements.
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This policy needs to be reworded to reflect the intent to use parking rates as part of the
overall plan to encourage parkers into the desired locations, i.e. long term parkers Into
long term parking areas such as the garages.
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This should be reworded to reflect the policy of encouraging the use wherever possible
of alternative public transportation. Coordination of bus routes with commuter facilities
into Chicago may reduce the need for more parking spaces.
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There were no recommended changes.
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More simply put, this policy is intended to reflect an increase in the marketing aspects
of the parking system to improve the public image. It might be better said in a more
direct manner.
The Committee was advised that at the next meeting the specific reports on at least
three of the targeted areas will be ready for discussion. The areas to be ready, as a
minimum, will include the University District, the Central Business District, and the Main
Street Business District. The Consultant will also be present at that meeting for a
presentation on these areas.
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Minutes of the Parking Committee
Meeting of September 12, 1995
Page 5
- The Committee was advised by memorandum that
this matter will be delayed until the October meeting.
The Committee discussed a recent meeting at Onington School concerning the addition
of parking by District 65 on the school site. As an outgrowth of the meeting the concept
of adding employee parking for the teachers in the resident district was advanced as a
possible solution to help with some of the problems in the area. Alderman Newman
asked why there was no parking on Clinton Street in this area and thought that adding
parking would provide 10 to 15 spaces. David Jennings will investigate this request.
Charles Remen commented that the Committee has addressed employee parking in
residential districts in the past and set up some guidelines for review to determine if
these requests should be approved or denied. He suggested we look at these
guidelines to evaluate this request.
Alderman Guthrie requested a time be set to hold a Public Hearing on this matter and
the date establishod was Monday October 2, 1995 at 7:00 PM. Staff will notify the
appropriate residents, the Art Center and the Alderman from the 7th Ward.
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 pm.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is October 10,1995 at 7:00 PM.
Respectfully Submitted,
David H. Barber
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EMING COMMA
Meeting of October 10, 1995
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Perman, Demas, Remen
Members Absent: Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Gallivan
Guests Present: Rotary International Employee Relations Manager Colvin T. Henderson
and his son Richard, Rotary International Accounts Receivable Supervisor
James E. Follmann; Consulting Engineers Group Director of Parking and
Transportation Planning Richard S. Beebe, Consulting Engineers Group
Parking Systems Project Manager Shash Chitnis
The meeting was called to order at 7:02pm by Chairman Guthrie.
Minutt,s of Meeting --of September 12, 1995 - The minutes of the previous meeting were
accepted by the Committee.
PEQ Arc ivity Rem - Alderman Guthrie noted significant increases in all areas of the PEO
report with total tickets issued up from 8,934 in September 1994 to 11,755 in September 1995.
The Committee accepted die Report.
Alderman Newman reported a complaint about the response from a PEO when a constituent
called for an explanation of two ticket violations issued within two consecutive days. Alderman
Newman asked Lt. Gallivan how the Department monitors complaints about PEOs, to which
Lt. Gallivan responded that PEOs are trained in advance to respond to inquiries regarding ticket
violations, but if dissatisfied die complainant could contact either himself or Lt. Nielson.
Alderman Newman asked what disciplinary action is taken in response to complaints about
PEOs, and if PEOs attend customer service classes? Lt. Gallivan explained that in some cases
without independent witnesses it is one word against another but that after an investigation, if
disciplinary action is warranted, the appropriate action would be taken which could include
referral to a customer service program.
Itgquest fEorri Rotary ltternationW - Alderman Guthrie welcomed Rotary International
representatives and acknowledged receipt of the September 25, 1995 letter from Colvin
Henderson requesting to rent 100 parking spaces from the City in the Sherman Avenue Parking
Garage, at a proposed rate of $40 per month per space with payment one year in advance.
Aldermen Guthrie and Newman pointed out the positive factors of this arrangement; namely, 100
parkers off the streets, the filling of vacant garage spaces, and the up -front payment, but that
standard discount guideline policies must be presented to all renters at one time (especially, and
including 820 Davis whose yearly taxes are over $300,000). In response to a question from
-= Mr. Remen regarding the history of this type of arrangement, David Barber responded that
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Parking Committee Minutes
October 10, 1995
granting a reduction of the current rate of $64 per month per space would set a precedence for
long term arrangements for customers with large numbers of permits, and that similar requests
had been denied in the past, such as Washington National with over 200 rentals per month,
Alderman Newman questioned if this would be i coraiact of 100 spaces, at a specified rate,
regardless how many Rotary employees actually requested their parking subsidy?
Mr, Henderson said that at they are presently polling their 304 employees to see where they are
parking and to determine an exact number of spaces needed, and also discussed the priority level
in administering the spaces. Regarding a question from Alderman Guthrie of any tax benefits
derived from the Use of Public Transportation Program, Clean Air Act, or car pooling by
subsidizing their employees' rental, Mr. Henderson was unaware of any such benefit.
David Jennings advised that the garages fill on snow days. He also advised that there is no
mechanism in place to provide assigned spaces for any customers. As a comparison to the
current market rate, Mr. Jennings noted Cushman & Wakefield presently rents out parking
spaces at the Rotary Building at $651month; the Humana building charges $801month, and that
there are 300 open spaces per day in both garages.
Jonathan Perman likened the parking garage to an airplane taking off with empty seats, that
revenue is lost forever, and felt that this proposal was an opportunity to fulfill the mission of
the parking garage; that mission being: (1) to provide off-street parking in order to free up the
street parking and to provide a service to the patrons, employers and employees of the
community; and (2) to generate revenue for the City.
Mr. Henderson said that Rotary would be grateful for any response within 30-60 days and
expressed appreciation for their consideration. Alderman Guthrie thanked Rotary International
for coming to the City with their proposal and agreed that staff would get back to them
Wednesday morning.
Alderman Newman made a motion to accept the request of Rotary International, seconded by
Jonathan Perman, to offer a reduced rate in the garages for customers with 200 permits or more
who pay in advance. This would include the current request from Rotary and any future
_ requests meeting the criteria. The recommended rate would be determined in Executive Session.
Parking Stu v - Richard Beebe of the Consulting Engineers Group began the discussion with
an introduction of himself and Shash Chitsis, and presented a synopsis of the latest changes in
policy statements and other corrections as requested by staff for the City`s RFP. Mr. Beebe
stressed the three most globally significant recommended changes.
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October 10, 1995
Z&nina Ordin aqe Changes
The Zoning Ordinance changes would be a Iong-term objective process, taking time to approve
adoption of recommendations, put an implementation program in place and carry them out.
Zoning is a key issue and may require a ` major revision of the Zoning Ordinance.
Recommendations were credits to developers for shared parking, proximity to transit, ride -
sharing, and payment -in -lieu program and, although this could be the effect of a 10-15 year
program of creating joint changes in the ordinance, this is important for the future.
Alderman Guthrie commented that although a building has adequate parking spaces, if the rent
is $80/month it would further complicate street parking with the prohibitive prices. Although
the zoning requirement of new buildings and parking spaces is important, people will reject a
high rate if other alternatives are available. Strict development of zoning and parking
requirements could be a disincentive to builders, along with the cost of construction, operation,
and the very high downtown taxes.
Residential earki e
Alderman Guthrie stressed the 2-1/2 year process of developing the RFP which included several
evenings of going over the competing demands of each district and that they understand the time
required to solve specific developments. Mr. Beebe explained that most of the report involved
analysis recommendations relating to the nineteen zones that have been developed. The major
items to consider would be residential parking which is problem in any of the area with multi-
family residential uses simply because they are old buildings structured before cars were the
mode of transportation and are all short of parking spaces. Overall, citywide there is a major
need for improvement of enforcement operations, and the rate structure is somewhat lower than
it should be. If consolidating the permitted districts uniformly is possible, this would reduce die
numerical number of comparable districts to five or six and create less confusion for
enforcement, district signage, and to increase permit values bringing net money into the parking
system.
Shy Avenue Gauge
Mr. Beebe made a long-range recommendation that the property be redeveloped for another use,
that the parking component of that structure be shifted to a new structure to be built in
conjunction with the Research Park. This would give an opportunity to build a major facility
for commuters with a skybridge over Church Street that could drop into the Transportation
~ Center, and that entire side of Sherman be considered for hotel, condominiums and stores. In
the meantime, signage and painting and something to improve the "dead" look of the entrance-
way could be completed immediately.
David Barber mentioned the present proposal of $1.8 million in the CIP to be spent out over the
next couple of years, which it includes signage, security (nighttime security if deemed
necessary), enclosing the ramp, painting, opening and lighting the stairwells and elevator shaft
areas, changing the curbline on Sherman Avenue, open for a first -level entrance, and move the
buses to the Transportation Center. Ticket collection rates equal 80% of the total revenues
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Parking Committee Minutes
October 10, 1995
operating expenses must have at least 125 % of the debt covered, so that if the debt is
$100,0001yr. a net of $127,000 is needed for the bond buyer comfort level.
With strong recommendation, Mr. Beebe stressed the importance of the development of a
comprehensive signing program directing the customer -to parking areas in the Downtown and
other business districts (Main Street, Dempster Street) as' the Chamber of Commerce and
EVMARK are presently pursuing. He said that this is one area that could be done quickly and
economically, and could have a dramatic and positive effect on the use of the parking system.
With signage program, rate change on the surface lots and on the meters, and vigorously
improving the level of enforcement (staffing turnover, hours, method of marking tires),
extending ticketing hours into the evening, and raising the ticket fines, you might see some fairly
dramatic changes in the occupancy of the garages. Mr. Beebe recommended increasing the
downtown meter rates from $.251hr. to $.751hr. (when replacing, meters that reset to $.00 for
each new parker are popular in other areas) which would increase turnover and shift all -day
parkers to the garages, leaving metered spaces for the short-term patrons of businesses.
Enforcement would be a key rcquirement. Aggressive enforcement, without changing the rates,
could help fill the garrag.s. Raising the meter rates would take in 60-70% more than the present
$1,000,000. Having the parking enforcers paid for by the additional meter revenues is
suggested.
Alderman Newman stated that he voted against raising the meter rates two years ago because
he felt it would invoke ill -will toward the City in offering the Sherman Avenue garage as an
alternative, which was not safe or findable.
_ David Barber mentioned that the $200,000 Bonds on the Sherman Ave garage are paid up it. two
years, so that $2 billion could be borrowed on new bonds at that time. David Barber further
z explained the problem of "coverage," a measure of cash flow versus debt where adequate
coverage is needed to sell bonds, and that the parking fund as it stands now is not generating
the money to produce the coverage needed to sell bonds. Raising rates and increasing
enforcement must be done as a package to produce adequate cash flow needed to sell bonds.
Eighty thousand people find the Sherman Avenue garage and park for free every year. For the
past four years, there is only so many tax dollars; we have been keeping GO Bond down, and
the operating fund down. Every time GO bond debt increases the debt service, the operating
funds must be decreased to balance. GO debt has been capped off due to the Library and other
projects (alley project not funded last year), and money has been stripped from the Parking Fund
over the past two years as one-time revenues into the General Fund to accomplish goals which
left no surplus for present projects.
David Jennings said a short-term solution could be to accomplish some of the high visibility
items, i.e., painting the inside white, changing the yellow high pressure sodium bulbs to white
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Parking Committee Minutes
October 10, 1995
metal halide even though some of this would have to be redone at the time the entrance ramp
is constructed.
David Barber remarked about a tiered parking rate for off-street parking to control students aW
commuters in the area (commuters showing a pass first) so as not to lose them to other stations,
and put the responsibility of finding parking for students back to the schools who are evading
a solution to the problem. David Jennings said in order to help the residents near Northwestern
you would have to set aside areas for them and not sell to the students but to commuters, and
follow up with enforcement. Mr. Beebe said that according to the Zoning Ordinance, N.U. has
enough parking spaces for their students but that their lots are not being fully utilized, and that
changing the Ordinance and making parking so expensive that the students themselves go to
Mr. Fisher with complaints, would be the only way to get a response from N.U. Would using
the Central Street medical building parking lot for commuters be possible?
After a brief discussion about districts, Alderman Guthrie recommended that the Committee
create a list of specific questions for the Consulting Group. She also said that other aldermen
have requested to see the Parking Study. Alderman Guthrie suggested an Executive Summary
and an index or table of contents. Staff thanked Mr. Beebe and Mr. Chitnis for their
presentation and agreed that Mr. Beebe would prepare an %.Aecutive summary and brief list of
recommendations.
Rgauest from ,Alderman Encleman regarding Expansion of Residential Farkine Digrict #1-
David Jennings discussed the outcome of the October 2, 1995 public hearing for the Residential
Parking District #1. The area streets to be affected by the change were discussed. If approved,
the district would include Orrington Avenue between Central and Ingleside, Clinton Place
between Orrington and Sheridan, and Ingleside Place between Orrington and Sheridan,
converting these blocks to the district regulations but not changing any current no parking zones.
This would allow the creation of a "hybrid" parking district which was unanimously requested
at the public hearing. The proposed district would allow teachers and staff of Orrington School
to purchase District 1 permits at $10 per car per year ($50 if they are not residents of Evanston).
Residents of the district remain exempt from the restriction. Ward 7 Alderman Steve Engleman
supports the District 1 expansion. Alderman Guthrie made a motion to approve the District 1
expansion as described by David Jennings. The motion was seconded by Chuck Remen.
Motion passed.
David Barber advised that parallel parking in front of the Oak Street Market would remain the
same as before construction and that every compromising effort has been exhausted.
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October 10, 1995
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Alderman Guthrie made a request that the Parking Committee meet on the third Tuesday of
every month rather than ttta second Tuesday. beginning in 1996.
There being no further business, the moetlttg tudjmirfia at 10:30pm,
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The next meeting of the Parking Committee is November 14, 1995 at 7:00pm.
Respectfully submitted,
David H. Barber
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MINUTES
PARKING COMMME
Meeting of November 21, 199S
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Demas, Remen, Reynolds
Members Absent: Alderman Newman, Perman
Staff Present: Jennings, Gallivan
Guests Present: Consulting Engineers Group Director of Parking and Transportation
Planning Richard S. Beebe, Consulting Engineers Group Parking Systems
Project Manager Shash Chitnis
The meeting of November 14, 1995 was rescheduled to November 21, 1995 and called to order
in Room 2401 at 7:07pm.
Minutes of Meeting of November 21, 1995
David Reynolds questioned p. 2, par. 2, regarding the accuracy of the 300 open spaces per day
in the garages. David Jennings said that reference was correct for the Sherman Avenue and
Church Street City garages.
On p, 4, par, 3, Chuck Remen questioned what policy or ordinance permits the General Fund
to deplete the Parking Fund money? This policy places a limitation on the Parking System
because they cannot perform needed repairs, renovations and purchases. David Jennings replied
that there are conditions under which the General Fund can receive money from Parking and
certain fund balances have to be maintained. This is approved at open budget meetings of the
City Council. Chuck Remen requested that the Parking Committee, as general custodian of the
Parking Fund, be notified of the requests and transactions for withdrawal of money from the
Parking Fund. The Parking System cannot perform needed renovations with a zero surplus, and
that this practice should be reviewed. Chuck Remen recalled that Eric Anderson indicated that
the General Fund could no longer rely on one-time revenues from the Parking 'Fund, when
property at 1800 Sherman went to the General Fund rather than the Parking Fund. David
Jennings said this also happened within the last 2-3 years for the air -rights sale of the
ChurehlChicago property. David Jennings agreed to prepare a memo stating the certain
conditions and balances that have to be maintained, and that the Parking Committee be made
aware of Piture withdrawals and. balances. Also, he would check the history and report on the
use of such funds. The minutes of the previous meeting were accepted by the Committee.
PEO Activity Il gpgrA
The Committee accepted the PEO Activity Report which again showed increases. Alderman
Guthrie reported a call from Mr. Chancellor at Lincoln School (Main/Forest) who was
concerned about their heavily trafficked area in the morning when children are coating to school,
He said there is one parent with a five -year -old child with a disability who reported great
difficulty parking and trying to help her into school. There is NO PARKING on the west side
of Forest, NO PARKING 8AM-4PM on Main St, NO PARKING 8AM-41'M on the cast side
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Perking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1"S
of Judson, and employees of the school district- are parking in handicapped zones. David
Jennings said that the history is that day cares and nurseries are allowed loading zones within
the NO PARIUNG zones that read PASSENGER LOADING 8AM-4PM or other time periods.
In those cases, the parents are advised to leave flashers on and it gives a chance for them to get
out of the car to sign their children in. An example of this is the zone on the south side of
Church between Chicagol.Hinman. These zones are not presently posted at public schools
because there is no legal requirement for parents to sign children in and out like there is at day-
care centers. Aiderman Guthrie referred to this problem as a ward matter, not Parking
Committee.
Bill Demas related that workers for the Downtown Streetscape project feel they have a right to
park free on the street at meters close to their Jobsite, as well as retail employees who feel they
have the right to park in front of that store, and that some are receiving as many as three $5
tickets per day. Some will roll their tires and remove chalk, and feed the meters to remain in
that space. The continued enforcement, along with raising the parking meter rates and fines,
and advertising parking in the garages, would hopefully be an effective the transition from street
to garage. nis would free the meters for short-term customers. • David Jennings recalled that
a downtown restaurant owner who received 192 tickets most of which were paid but enough left
to be booted, was quick to complain about malfunctioning meters and hooding for construction
in front of his restaurant, Alderman Guthrie reported a neighborhood parker with 180 tickets
who night after night is, ticketed for illegal parking but considers this his "parking fee" for the
privilege of parking in front of his home.. The Committee accepted the PEO Report.
Parking Study - The Executive SummeM
David Reynolds indicated a correction of the last item on p. 2, changing "1990's" to "1890's."
Richard Beebe said this referred to the development of all of the older large apartment buildings
some of which are now condos and coops with no garage space.
mil - Parking_ Rates. Fine Stntrtures, and Parkins Futld
Chuck Remen stressed the importance of the needs of the Parking System and asked what
suggestions there were for developing funds. Richard Beebe suggested increasing revenues for
the Parking Fund by raising rates, increasing fines should take some of the pressure off General
Fund reliance. Chuck Remen said specific activities and dollar amounts should be earmarked
and reserved in the Parking Fund. Richard Beebe advised establishing activities -with dollar
figures and reserving it as an expense. David Jennings suggested adopting a policy to help
maintain the revenue stream by minimizing the transfer of excess funds from Parking System
to General Fund. Chuck Remen questioned if City Council would allow controlling the surplus
of the Parking Fund? David Jennings said it was not controlling surplus, as much as the Parking
Committee making a statement that funds should be designated for specific activities. Alderman
Guthrie said that the Council should not be a deterring factor since she and Alderman Newman
member the Parking Committee, so that analysis by City Council would be appropriately
explained and budgeted. Chuck Remen preferred designation of excess funds prior to March 1
so a surplus is not shown. Dick Beebe stated that interfund transfers are common under Illinois
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
law. Alderman Guthrie requested that David Jennings target the history of spent parking funds,
procedures used to reserve funds (i.e., Lot 60, Chicago Avenue), and the necessary change of
policy or ordinance. Excess funds should be earmarked prior to the end of March for any
potential projects. David Jennings replied that printouts are available of cash in/cash out, but
there is no official activity document. Historically, parking funds have been used in the larger
context of what helps City a., a whole. The City Manager recommends, and Council approves,
the decisions that are made when the time comes to decide the best use for the funds. Alderman
Guthrie asked if the Parking Committee has the same authority over funds as the Recreation
Board? A budget program and staff should be developed. David Jennings replied that budgeting
for the Parking Fund is done as part of the budgeting process that includes the General Fund.
Funds are kept separate but are dispersed at the same time on the same schedule. Revenues and
expenses are reviewed in much the same way as the general fund revenues when expenses are
reviewed. Chuck Remen said that, in that case, we should be additionally assured that any
recommendations which we are moving toward are included in the budget for the coming year.
Alderman Guthrie agreed that this would have to be done as part of the budget discussions,
which start the first of January. Richard Beebe said a "shopping list" of items to exceed money
available could be established and a budget amount set, and hopefully keep cash to apply toward
projects. David Jennings said staff has already developed budget requests for big ticket items
which are reviewed on the same schedule as the budget. Replacing parking meters downtown
is presently out for bid and is a part of this process. Chuck Remen said the Committee has
spent a lot of money on this parking study report and should take maximum advantage of it and
be using the funding suggestions. If staff is not including some items we might prioritize they
should be added to it. Alderman Guthrie asked if staff had worked down through this list of key
issues?
Bill Demas asked if the parking rate and fine structure update would include the parking
garages? David Jennings said staff would provide recommendations for key issues and the rate
structure to the Parking Committee for presentation to Council for approval, Alderman Guthrie
asked about the decision of raising the meter rates to $.50 or $.75 per hour, and David Jennings
said staffs recommendation is $.501hr.
Richard Beebe advised of a new parking meter on the market called the "Intelligent Meier"
presented by Mr. Yost of intelligent Devices, Inc. in Philadelphia PA. He said that ten meters
were introduced in Hoboken NJ and the average per meter revenue is up 4446%. New York
City is installing 50 meters in the next couple of months and expects to pay them off in less than
six months; Pittsburgh has already installed a few of these meters. The cost is about $500 or
twice the cost of the conventional meter, but can be leased or rented for about $ .35 per day,
and discounts with volume purchase. A disadvantage is the frustration of customers never
finding spare time on the meters. Meters have a sensor and look similar to standard parking
meters with the exception of the vault. Unlike those meters that do not read or scan the amount
of coins deposited, these meters total the deposit, so you know the total before you collect
money. Alderman Guthrie suggested that the Chamber could promote the meters in literature,
that the central business district would be testing in limited areas. David Jennings said that the
City code states that each new parker must place the appropriate coins, so the new meters would
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
automatically enforce this code. Alderman Guthrie said the backing out and pulling back Into
the same spot and feeding the meter again was still possible, but agreed that a trial basis would
be effective. David Jennings said they are currently receiving bids for replacement parking
meters with bids to be opened November 30. Mr. Yost was sent a bid package and has the
opportunity to present his product through the City's approved bidding process,
I= #2 - corianize
Discussion ensued About removing PEO's and placing them in the Public Works Department,
Richard Beebe said the PEO staff are diverted to many functions which include two daily mail
runs, errands, fires or emergencies, and crossing guard substitution, and this would continue to
happen. Lt. Gallivan said that on some mornings they may use four or five PEO's to substitute
for the regular crossing guards at some of the 33 school crossings, Alderman Guthrie asked If
a substitute crossing guard pool could be originated. Lt. Gallivan advised that the crossing
guards earn $7.87/hr. and are generally retired, and that this was not an incentive combined with
the unusual working hours. This is the primary duty for PEO's to fill outside of the parking
situations. The Police Department summary shows more time lost going to court for parking
tickets than for other functions. Helping with crossing guard duty peaks in spring, and the
balance for PEO work activity is 8-9% non -parking activities. David Jennings mentioned that
quick response time is needed when a crossing guard substitute is called. AIso. to insure
participation, it may be n. cessary to pay substitute guards to be available ("on -call" ).
Richard Beebe recommended increasing the PEO staff so hours of ticket enforcement could be
increased. Ticketing folds up about 4:45pm and, with increased staff, could continue until
9:OOPM. Alderman Guthrie said meters running until 9:OOPM, with garage parking free after
6:OOPM, would encourage people, especially employees, to move to garages. David Jennings
suggested increasing PEO activity issuing tickets from 6:00-9:00PM for violations of "here to
comers/fire hydrants/crosswalks/parking lots/all illegal parking" rather than meter enforcement,
Richard Beebe asked if Lt. Gallivan could keep two jeeps busy tu"g downtown enforcement
after 6:OOPM? Lt. Gallivan felt that with overtime pay he would have adequate volunteers, and
explained the function of the handheld computers which'are locked down after 5:30PM, with
computer transfers each morning. City computers start at 9:OOAM; the City makes the data
transfer so tickets cannot be added until the City counts. They would need additional computers
to write additional tickets at night, and they would have to be brought to the Police Department
the next morning and handcounted, Richard Beebe suggested a 3-4 week pilot program.
Handheld computers cost about $6500, but would increase efficiency 40%. Lt. Gallivan said
that ticketing the downtown area by two PEO's with two jeeps would not be cost effective.
Supervision is a problem with handwritten tickets. In December, snow removal operation
enforcement is a priority; after season, the priority is back to streetcleaning. David Jennings
asked if the computer held 160 instead of 120 tickets? Lt. Gallivan said the computer may hold
150-160, but this would be unsupervised, and require two uploads. Chuck Remen indicated
there would be merit in requesting David Jennings to ask the City Manager's approval to hold
a pilot program for increased ticketing beginning in spring.
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Parking Committee Minutes -
November 21, 1995
1Lr1ri SianiIIg PioBrnm
David Jennings is developing the RFP for this third key issue. He referred to a changeable
message sign system that tells where parking is available, and reported that he saw this system
demonstrated in Dallas. A system in Evanston might include a programmable, electronic sign
on the overpass over Church Street entering town with the message "225 spaces open in
Sherman Avenue Garage, 175 spaces in Church Street." Alderman Guthrie said that CTA
permission to sign overpasses had been denied in the past, but placement could be in another
area.
Item-'t a 'c
Richard Beebe emphasized that transit commuters are an important part of the parking
environment, but without a lot of places to park. Some federal ISTEA funds are still available
and recommended that the City work with RTA, Metra and CTA to develop federal funding for
commuter parking, because if the commuter is lost so is the station. Possible spaces would be
along the railroad right-of-way, and buying property which is allowed by federal funding such
as Noyes Street which could produce 30-40 spaces, and 20 spaces at Main Street. The
disadvantage is in eliminating taxable property to produce: public non -taxed parking spaces, as
the parking fee may not equal the tax benefits. David Jennings mentioned that a grant through
IDOT for increasing the size of the parking area at the Central Street Metra station allowed
spaces to be built partially on railroad property and partially on City right-of-way. Alderman
Guthrie mentioned that about three years so, David Jennings led a walk-through of the right-of-
way south of Main Street and a short area north of Main Street to determine the feasibility of
developing commuter parking. The requirements of lighting, fencing, and security because of
the history of vandalism, would require more than the, worth. David Jennings was asked to
check the minutes for the results of the survey.
er #6 - NaRhwestrn University Area
Reference was made to p. 12 of the Summary of Zone 5 study and the discussion of an
allocation system for parking space in the Northwestern area. The objective was to define
allocation of parking space in the Northwestern area predicated on the prioritization of the users.
Prioritization is related to the needs of the residents, short-term customers, CTA patrons, and
the students. A check of the number District A showed 41 % residents, 3 % local business, 15 %
commuters, 3% short-term spaces near Clark Street, and 38% for Northwestern students which
is one-half the spaces that students now use, so that half would have to park elsewhere such as
Dyche Stadium or near the old observatory. A color -coded map was presented as a guideline
for discussion and implementation as a solution to student parking. Improvements could also
include one -block streets being closed at Sheridan Road and turned into diagonal parking.
Detailed explanation is presented in the Summary. After 6:30PM but before 6:30AM, no
permit is required, so I.t. Gailivan stressed that towaway zones would have to be posted for
effective enforcement. David Jennings said that the City presently controls parking by students
through a two-hour parking limit 9AM-6PM Monday through Saturday. The recommended
program indicates it is okay for students to park in neighborhood all day with a permit. This
is a policy decision, and the Committee has to decide if students should be allowed to buy
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Mu�g Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
permits. David Reynolds asked what density is envisioned during daytime? Richard Beebe said
the plan allows residents access to spaces where students and commuters and others cannot park,
so that residential parking is guaranteed during the daytime. Students will remain on the cost
side of Orrington to Sheridan, and this better meets the residential need than the present system,
There should be discussion about decreasing the student spares and increasing commuter spaces.
The color chart was set up according to the number of potential users in each category.
Enforcement would be required every two hours for effectiveness. David Jennings said the plan
sets apart certain areas that the short-term parkers cannot use. Does this meet the policy that
the Committee is recommending? Richard Beebe said that Northwestern has regulations that
fieshmen/sophomore students do not have cars but this is not enforced. Guidelines as presented
on the map will encourage Northwestern from requests by their students to provide parking for
students vehicles. The present ordinance requires parking spaces equal to 10% of the designated
capacity for fraternity and sorority houses, but most have a 75 % vehicle ratio. If more buildings
are constructed, the need for a solution to parking space problems will increase dramatically,
David Jennings made the following corrections to the map: University Place is privately owned
street (District F permits presently from Sherman); Emerson, Sherman to Orrington, parking is
on the north side not south side and is all residential, which would not accommodate CBD
parking; Emerson between Orrington and Sheridan is presently no parking anytime; and, the east
side of Orrington between Emerson and Foster shown aS residents is owned by Northwestern
with dormitories and one or two single family exceptions. It is intentionally not included in our
parking districts to avoid including dorms in the district. David Jennings asked if, on Library
Place, single family residences that could park in the student area as well? If not, the closest
place to their residence is the east side of Orrington south of Library Place or the opposite side
of the street. Richard Beebe suggested the west half to be residents only, and the alley to the
corner for student parking (NU owns to the alley). David Jennings clarified that Lincoln Street
between Orrington and Sherman is single-family residence on the north side with Kendall
College on the south side.
i e - Increasine Parking Spaces in Residential Areas
Chuck Remen asked that Richard Beebe give examples of a highly innovative approach to
increasing parking spaces. Richard Beebe suggested the mechanical garage that can be
constructed on very small spaces; converting some existing streets to one-way traffic and
diagonal parking; cul de sacs to increase capacity of parking; and, the eventual acquisition of
property. One property in particular is an old garage, and a couple of older buildings with high
density residency and limited parking on South Boulevard. Some properties can be code
inspected for plumbing and electrical compliance.
Mechanical garages would fit on several lots along Hinman and Judson, at a cost of $12,000 per
parking space. David Jennings commented that he did not feel the revenue stream needed to
support that type of device is present in Evanston now or in the future. The suggested $175-200
month per space over a course of a 20 year period, was,downgraded to a $ 100 starting rate, and
although the parking demand is justified he did not believe that those now paying $34/month
would agree even to $100/month. The concept is realistic, but rents would have to start closer
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
to the present rental rate. David Reynolds asked if a developer constructed a new building with
the required spaces, could the City support additional parking above or below to that already
existing building (such as 1508-16 Hinman Avenue where the underground garage is separate
from the public surface rental)? Richard Beebe .was unsure of present zoning regulations, but
nothing prevents the City from acquiring subterranean or surface rights to mixed use residential
parking (ChurchlChicago was done this way); however, contract monthly parkers would have
to provide enough revenue or profit to assure a willing developer. In the event of a building
being destroyed by fire or elements, the City would construct a new facility; better to take the
land to develop City parking and sell the air rights back to the developer. David Jennings said
there are presently City parking lots large enough to construct residential developments, and this
may be supported by the City if a developer showed interest. David Reynolds asked that David
Jennings talk with the City Manager to stress awareness of this proposal for new construction.
Chuck Remen said whenever something is built one of the givebacks always givers developers
is parking; the payback to citizens of Evanston should be that the required spaces are included.
Richard Beebe said that Lot #32 on the east side of Hinman south bf Main with 80-90 present
surface parking spaces would take 50 units, and a prudent developer would put in 60-65 parking
3 spaces at a minimum (or 100 for 2 cars per unit), with the developer given the rights above the
top level of parking for his apartment or condominium, with taxes on the building. David
Jennings asked about the possibility of constructing another open deck wiL"iout creating an
enclosed garage. Richard Beebe said the double -decks generally lose too much space in ramping
in tight quarters, but suggested the independent decks (down 1/2 level, up 112 level) that do not
connect the two levels with separate accesses might be appropriate. The cost per ramp may be
$7000 per space and, with rental at $75/month, this would be a very effective comparison to an
enclosed garage at $12,000 per space, if staff and Council are willing to increase the monthly
rates. As a comparison, David Reynolds asked what the rate might be in the year 2000 with the
present rate at $34? David Jennings said the rate might be $50 by 2000, and that the parking
space rentals have been ratted every five years and are presently at $341month4When Lot 14
(Holiday Inn basement) rates increased $15/month it took nearly two years to return to full
capacity. Them is a backlash if rates are increased too dramatically. David Reynolds asked if
the Consulting Engineers Group (CEG) could do a study to determine whether the neighbors
would stay or leave en masse at a starting rate of $45, increase $60 in two years, then $75 the
fourth year and eventually closer to current rates?
Item 18 - Zoning &gMirements
Richard Beebe referred the Committee to the findings and recommendations of . the
Comprehensive Parking Study, Section 6, Parking Zone Definitions. Some zoning issues could
ZA take years to reconstruct. CEG made recommendations in the existing ordinance to increase the
parking requirements. Primarily, the increases are in multi -family residential for new
construction, Northwestern property development, and some commercial space categories. CEG
met with Mr. Rasmussen who was not encouraging about a major revision since the last changes
were incorporated just two years ago. Does Council want to revisit the ordinance? If changes
are not made in the ordinance provisions, changes will never be established when a new
• 7
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Parking Committee N inutes
November 21, 1995 .
developer comes to town to build. Thr only reason CEO pushes for this is that Northwestern
has presently contracted for a comprehensive ;study of the southwest campus which is north of
Foster to Clark and all that is across Sheridan Road. Mr. Fisher of Northwestern indicated this
is only a study, not a plan, but they have contracted several different firms 'including Walker
Parking Consultants who deal with detailed parking issues. Committee and Council could focus
on the section of the zoning ordinance that pertains to hospitals and Northwestern. It would pay
to have something on record before Northwestern contracts for new construction and adheres
to the current requirement which would leave the City in a greater bind than at present. David
Jennings concurred that this is an appropriate direction, and David Reynolds recommended
revisiting zoning changes at least for the institutional parking requirements which were not
materially changed at the last revision.
Chuck Remen said that both City Council and Northwestern are aware of parking problems
created by students, and recommended that there be new institutional requirements and zoning
ordinance revisions in order to mace this possible. Richard Beebe stressed the importance of
this because the zoning requirement presently requires parking spaces for only 10% of the
designated capacity of sororities and fraternities, and there are none of these houses with less
than a 75% vehicle ratio. David Reynolds moved for a revision of the zoning for institutional
parking requirements as soon as possible.
I m #9 - Sherman Avenue Garage
David Jennings said they will be checking into the lower cost, high impact renovations to the
Sherman Avenue Garage, such as painting the inside of the garage white, and changing the
yellow sodium bulbs :o white metal halide.
Item 0 - Broad Asnects of Parking
Relates to wayfnding work with EVMARK, Chamber of Commerce, business community,
developers, ar?d Northwestern. If they come to a meeting of mindsr where parking becomes a
noticeable citywide issue, rather than regarded as everybody else's problem, it is to everyone's
• benefit,
Other Matters
David Jennings related that rental of 100 parking spaces to Rotary International beginning
January 1, 1995 was approved by City Council.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:38pm.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is December 12, 1995 at 7:O0pm.
Respectfully submitted,
David C. J
8
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Members Present: Alderman Newman, Demas, Perman, Remen, Reynolds
Members Absent: Alderman Guthrie
Staff Present: Jennings. Gallivan
Guests Present: Consulting Engineers Group Director of Parking and Transportation
Planning Richard S. Beebe
The meeting of was called to order at 7:06pm by Alderman Newman. David Jennings relayed
that Alderman Guthrie would probably not attend this evening's meeting. The 100-year-old
frame house at 649 Michigan Avenue near her residence was destroyed by fire this evening.
There were no injuries reported.
Minutes of Meeting of Noverpher 21. 192E
The minutes of the November 21, 1995 meeting were not distributed until this evening.
Discussion and approval will be held over for the meeting of January 16, 1995.
Alderman Newman mentioned that changing the Parking Committee meetings to the third
Tuesday of the month would relieve the pressure of preparing for the Council meeting which
usually continues beyond midnight, and the Parking Committee meeting the following night.
David Jennings said that with the newly approved schedule, there are only two meetings in 1996
that fall on consecutive nights. The schedule of meetings w-11 be distributed after David Barber
has confirmed the dates with the City Clerk's office.
PEO Activitv Report
David Reynolds asked if there was a change in staffing in November. Lt. Gallivan said
the greatest change was adding three employees in July, with a significant increase in tickets
issued all months following. Alderman Newman asked if the "Residential Overtime" November
figure of 667 down from October's 1,465 was due to the influx of Northwestern students. David
Jennings said it could be the change in weather which impedes the effectiveness of chalking
tires. Expired meter tickets were up 3,206 over November 1994.
Parking Studv
Richard Beebe of The Consulting Engineers Group (CEG) presented the Text Section
Updates which included research and up-to-date revisions of the Parking Study. David Jennings
briefed Alderman Newman on the previous meeting's general discussion which is summarized
in the Minutes of November 21, 1995. Richard Beebe explained recommendations for the
Northwestern area, and the map which showed by block face the recommended usage of the curb
space for residents, commuters, business customers, and students. He explained that there were
revisions which had now been incorporated in the map of Section 5 in the material which was
distributed for this evening's meeting. Alderman Newman asked for an interpretation of the
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
yellow, blue and green color codes. Richard Beebe said that the colors represent the designation
of curb space for user categories. Northwestern students would be limited to the blocks shown
in black and probably on a permit basis. The number of student spaces was cut about in half
of what they presently use. CEG recommends that the City issue parking permits to
Northwestern students valid only in the designated spaces. Students parking in other locations
would be subject to ticketing. The areas marked in blue would be restricted to Evanston resident
permit parking; yellow is for commuters who are Evanston residents but do not live near the
CTA or Metra stations; and green is primarily for short-term parking for businesses in the area.
The objective is to designate curb space by user group regulated by a fee permit fees are already
collected from residential districts for Northwestern student parking and non -local area
commuters. Permit fees arc already collected from residential districts.
David Reynolds referred to Item H2 in the Policy Statement: the impact of college and
university parking in single family residential areas. The objective is to control the parking in
residential areas, but it seems that the map as presented is allowing different user groups in
residential areas as long as the City charges a fee. Northwestern does not provide parking
spaces to meet the needs of students. Alderman Newman said if the districts were created as
the map shows, residents would never have a space in front of their own homes during the day.
He saw color coded areas that actually had residential homes. Richard Beebe said that most
of the east/west property from the second alley is owned by Northwestern. Alderman Newman
disagreed saying that, although there are a lot of Northwestern buildings, there arc also homes
scattered throughout the section and they are paying large amounts of taxes. They have a right
at least one day a month to park in front of their house, but under this plan all the taxpayers
would be providing parking for those who don't pay taxes.
Jonathan Perman suggested limiting the color -coded section to the areas in front of
Northwestern property. Alderman Newman said the residents in the 1900 block of Orrington
might be willing to try this plan; for example, on the Walker dormitory side park students only,
and on the other side residents only; then the residents on that block who presently never have
a space even with the two-hour parking will have space. How can you tell the residents in the
two-hour districts that they will now have no parking, when just one of them will pay more taxes
than 2000 students? David Reynolds said that east/west streets have only one-sided parking.
David Jennings said that we are back to the matter of developing policies which guide
programs to be put in place. Is the policy to allow a mix of students and residents in the
neighborhoods or to minimize student parking in the neighborhood? Doesn't this policy have
to be established before a plan can be put down on paper? Alderman Newman said that their
legal direction has always been not to discriminate against the students on the basis of their
student status. On the block of Sherman which is different than a residence hall block, the
students have addresses and are indirectly contributing to the taxes, and their proof of residence
permits them to buy the district permit. There is a difference between the non -local commuting
student and the taxpayer on Sherman Avenue.
Richard Beebe said the area designated for student parking could be decreased. David
Jennings asked why ary spaces should be designated for students? David Reynolds asked why
we should try to solve a problem that Northwestern is not even willing to look at? Alderman
Newman thought that having Northwestern involved in the process would be helpful, but there
would still be problems with the students commuting during the day. Nighttime parking is
2
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
crowded because of the out-of-state students living in community residential housing in those
blocks.
Richard Beebe talked about the two distinct halves --the half that live here all year and
rent, and the half that commute daily from out of Evanston. Alderman Newman said those on
the Northwestern campus housing who have cars that are not in campus lots have to park
somewhere. Richard Beebe said many fraternities and sororities seem to rind Northwestern lot
parking, but Northwestern does not deal with the commuter student's parking needs. These
students could be restricted from parking along Orrington, Sherman and other areas, by signing
the area for two-hour parking and rigorously enforcing it, or by signing for residential permits.
From CEG's on -site study of Sherman and Orrington, a lot of cars do not have District A
permits yet are parking for more than two hours --and another on -site study will be done in the
area with a break in the weather. Alderman Newman asked if the situation in this area would
be improved if it was illegal to stay more than 2-3 days at a time? Richard Beebe thought
Illinois law requires that a vehicle parked at a curb in a public place be moved every 48 hours.
David Jennings said that cars can park ten days in Evanston before being designated as
abandoned and towed. He asked if we were talking about a District A permit -holder resident
who lives on Sherman Avenue and leaves his car in place? Alderman Newman said yes, the
person who rents an apartment, is a student, has a car and can walk to campus and leave his car
for 4-5 days because he has no other place to put it if he moves it. David Jennings said those
are residents and that is legal. Jonathan Perman said the distinction is between people parking
off-street in their garages v.-rsus apartment dwellers or students who have no garage. Alderman
Newman said dealing with the students is a difficult dilemma, and that the proposed color coded
map would be disastrous for the residents in those areas. Jonathan Perman asked if some of the
new condos built in the last 10-15 years have enough parking for all of their occupant's vehicles.
Alderman Newman gave the Buck project as an example, and said they will not have enough
parking for their vehicles. David Reynolds mentioned Evanston Place. Alderman Newman said
Evanston Place residents can buy garage space. David Jennings said they must first prove they
have leased a space in the residential portion of the garage before a space in the public area is
made available. Alderman Newman asked if an owner at Evanston Place had two cars, and they
proved they had a space for one of their cars, they would be eligible to rent a space in the public
garage for their second car. David Jennings advised that they would be eligible.
Jonathan Perman said as he sees it there are two problems in this area. (1) students or
other university users who are coming in for the day and parking in the area; and (2) people who
live in multi -family dwellings and Northwestern housing many of whom are students without
parking. There are also commuters at Noyes and Foster with insufficient parking. Alderman
Newman said he would like to see the playground lot moved back to build parking spaces, since
this park is one of the least utilized parks in the City. He added that this would be unlikely.
Jonathan Perman asked if there was room to expand any CTA lots, such as Noyes or Foster?
David Jennings said that a "pan" would have to be built at the Noyes and Foster lots. The "pan"
that would be required under the tracks at Noyes and Foster is a cover which would shield
pedestrians/cars from any falling debris. The CTA would have to be contacted. If this were
built, then spaces could be added to the Noyes and Foster lots. The City has a lot at the Noyes
Art Center presently being used for Arts Center parking, that Alderman Newman said the City
is considering putting in 15 parking meters to benefit the customers of businesses in the area.
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1995
David Reynolds asked who owns the lot on the southeast corner of Maple/Foster. David
Jennings said that Northwestern owns this along with underground parking. Alderman Newman
asked the cost of a single -story deck. Richard Beebe said it depends on location, style and
number of vehicles, but $4800-$5200 per space could be expected. At this time, David Jennings
handed out a December 4 memo from Richard Beebe regarding the cost of a single -story deck.
Jonathan Perman said that the lot at the graduate student housing building (Englehart)
should be opened to public usage, or more student parking. The City should maximize usage
of all existing parking lots. The City is doing their part, and Northwestern should be willing
to help. Alderman Newman suggested that Jonathan Perman be the representative to talk with
Northwestern about this prospect, and to advise Northwestern that the City's consultant study
results show that Northwestern has not met their own parking demand by providing adequate
parking spaces for their students. Jonathan Perman requested input and areas of concern to
present to Bill Fisher of Northwestern. Alderman Newman said (1) Northwestern should explain
the rationale behind the practice of not holding students' transcripts until they have paid fines
for outstanding City of Evanston tickets, Northwestern presently will not release transcripts for
outstanding tickets in private university lots, but not City tickets. (2) Barring all students with
campus housing from having a car unless they have parking on Northwestern parking lots.
Richard Beebe recommended the placing of 90' angle parking along a 10' strip on
Lincoln Street between Orrington and Sheridan along the south side of Long Field.
Measurements have been taken, and there is a clearance of 40' between the parking and any
sports activities. The cost would be $140041500 per space. That also serves the Kendall and
Roycemore School area. The City owns the parkway and Northwestern could grant an easement
for 3'. David Jennings said there are presently 33 parallel stalls which would convert to 81 (48
additional) 81h' wide, 90° stalls. Alderman Newman discussed 4-hour parking, so that
commuter students could park, but this would eliminate all -day parkers. Alderman Newman felt
j this was an extremely feasible suggestion and welcomed the proposal. Jonathan Perman asked
about installing similar meters on the north and south sides of Lincoln Street cast of Sheridan
- Road. David Jennings said the north side under the front yard of the waterworks would gain
some spaces but the sidewalk would have to be eliminated. Richard Beebe said the south side
would not be suitable for angular parking because of the 10-12' setback of the fraternity houses
at that location, and the steep incline east. Jonathan Perman said that although there would be
costs and future negotiations, 180 new parking spaces had been created with this evening's
suggestions. Alderman Newman said the alternative to angle parking on both sides of Lincoln
east of Sheridan Road could be that Northwestern University build a parking deck somewhere
on their property to serve.
Richard Beebe discussed the possibility of angle parking on some side streets between
Sheridan and Orrington, but there would be a real disadvantage to losing trees versus the small
amount of parking gained. Creating cul-de-sacs on the cast/west streets off' of Sheridan Road
(Haven, Library) with angle parking on one side would double the parking and would be an
option if residents approved. However, the streets would become parking lots. Jonathan
Perman asked if there was some way to get better usage of Northwestern lots at night, but
Alderman Newman said that they would have to move their cars before the untimely hour of
7:00am and that Northwestern plans to build on some of those lots.
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 21, 1"S
David Reynolds asked if Noyes Court could be opened in conjunction with the parking
lot of D&D Grocery, putting 90° spaces on the cast side of Noyes Court and redesign the entire
lot? D&D could access directly from Noyes Street. Noyes Street serves the Cook County
Housing Authority so there should be discussion with them.
Richard Beebe continued the discussion of buying real estate for the purposo of
constructing parking lots. One location is the vacant lot at Oakton Sircct/South Blvd, which
would park about 55 cars. It is narrow at the north end and widens as you move south. It Is
immediately west of the tracks next to an old frame house. Parkers Could practically fall nut
of their cars and into the South Boulevard train station. Alderman Newman inquired about the
zoning, and installing meters, and asked that David Jennings find out wilt) owns the property and
to find out if it is on the market.
Richard Beebe then mentioned an area in the old railroad right-of-way from north of
Dempster to south of Main that would permit one -lane operation and 75" angle parking for a
distance of about seven blocks. Jonathan Perman said that right-of-way used to hold three train
lines so this would be making full public usage of the area. There is no impact on residents or
businesses, and rather than trying to bring the land down to grade which is expensive a ramp
could be built at each end like the auto dealer has which would be drive: -up entrance at one end,
park, and drive -down exit on the other. This would be accessible to the Main, Dempster, and
South Boulevard commuters.
Richard Beebe then discussed the graveled pot -holed lot location in the area north of
Dempster off Sherman, which could be leased and improved and become it major parking supply
for the Dempster/Chicago business area.
Alderman Newman asked if the City might talk with the person at 811 Chicago Avenue
about making the lot next to the Coronet into a parking lot.
Other Matters
David Jennings distributed a letter of appreciation to the Parking Committee from Dr. Thomas
Stafford.
David Jennings said he would confirm with David Barber the schedule of the Parking Committee
meetings for 1996.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:45pm.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is January 16, 1996 at 7:00pm.
Respectfully submitted,
DW,716
David C. Jennin
5.
✓ .n. l . Y.l
Mam
PARKING Comm
Meeting of January 16, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Demas, Perman, Remen,
Reynolds
Members Absent:
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Gallivan
Guests Present: Chris Bartlett of Merle's No. 1 Barbecue
The meeting of was called to order at 7:06pm by Alderman Guthrie.
Minutes of Meetings ovPmber 21...1995 and D=mWr 12, IM
Regarding the minutes of the Meeting of November 21, 1995, David Jennings corrected
the bold heading on p. 1 from 'IN 4 .: �F':�cc:: --� * mbe '" L to read mites Qf
eetine of October t0. I22?. The minutes of the meeting of November 21, 1995 were then
accepted by the Committee.
Regarding the minutes of the December 12, 1995, Alderman Guthrie noted the bold
header on pp. 2, 3, 4 and 5 should be corrected from Never -yam to read December 12,
1995. On p. 1, par. 2 reference to the meeting of January 16, 4993 shoo?3 read January 16,
1996. The minutes of the meeting of December 12, 1995 were then acccpk�d by the Committee.
Alderman Guthrie was unable to attend the previous meeting, and asked for ciarifications
on the following matters. On p. 4, par. 2, Richard Beebe made reference to a 10' strip on
Lincoln Street along the south side of Long Field. David Jennings clarified that the strip
referred is 10' deers in addition to the 8' deep parking which already exists. This would
accommodate 90° angle parking. Alderman Guthrie asked why this would cost $1400-$1500
per space. David Jennings cited curb resetting, paving 10'000% drainage, and landscape edging
for the northern view.
On p. 5, par. 2, Alderman Guthrie referred to Richard Beebe's mention of a vacant lot
at Oakton and South Boulevard on the west side of the tracks, indicating that this lot and Lot 1
are equidistant from the station, but Lot 1 is only half full. David Reynolds recalled that this
area was investigated two or three years ago. David Barber said that under Metra's direction,
Teng & Associates produced plans to develop parking between the tracks near Madison Street.
Chuck Remen said he did not find a reply to David Reynolds' question to Richard Beebe
asking why Evanston should be concerned about student parking for Northwestern. Alderman
Newman explained that there is not enough parking on Noyes, Sherman and Orrington when
school is in session. David Reynolds said that he had asked Richard Beebe why Evanston should
be working so hard to provide parking spaces on City property to Northwestern University
students, when Northwestern University is remiss in providing the same for themselves,
Alderman Newman agreed with that basic philosophy but supported creating an alternative which
would not be to the detriment of residents. Alderman Newman stressed that he was in favor of
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January 16, 1996
creating parking for students only if it helped to relieve parking shortages for residents. Chuck
Remen said that in fairness to Evanston residents, the students should be restricted from parking
in residential neighborhoods. Alderman Guthrie recalled that Northwestern is short 1,500
nearby parking spaces. Alderman Newman agreed, and said that they are short parking for their
buildings, student housing, tech buildings (faculty parking by Allen Center),
Alderman Newman thought the same parking standards should apply to Northwestern
when they construct new buildings as applies to any other business. Parking at Dyche Stadium
should not satisfy the parking requirements for the building at University Place and Sherman
Avenue, and Library Place and Sheridan Road. Northwestern is presently allowed to use
parking in distant areas to fulfill the parking space requirement of new construction.
Alderman Guthrie asked how many parking spaces were in the Northwestern Stadium lot,
and if they shared the lot with Evanston Hospital. David Jennings replied that Northwestern has
permission to lease daytime parking spaces to Evanston Hospital. This lot provides about 1300
spaces, and Northwestern includes this lot with the south garage, spaces on Observatory Road,
and others in their count of spaces to satisfy the City's parking space requirement. Chuck
Remen asked what restriction would prohibit students from parking in the residential
neighborhoods. David Barber replied that there is no differentiation between students and
commuters. Alderman Guthrie asked about a commuter paying for a one month or quarterly or
yearly decal. David Jennings said staff is not in favor of any passes at all for commuters, and
asked what policy is the Parking Committee trying to establish? Do you want to keep all
commuters out of residential areas or have a commuter/resident mix in a neighborhood --the
Parking Study recommends a system that allows the sale of commuter spaces on the street
instead of a formula to help allocate spaces among the various users.
David Barber said that trying to solve individual neighborhood or student parking
demands should wait until the Parking Study is complete,
Jonathan Perman suggested that at this time the audience guest should be introduced.
Alderman Guthrie asked why this topic had not been reported on the Agenda. Alderman
Newman replied that it was last minute consideration falling under the category of Other
Matt . Alderman Gutlu ie then asked that Alderman Newman open the discussion of Other
Matters in deference to their guest.
Other Matters
Chris Bartlett, Manager of Merle's No. 1 Barbecue at 1727 Benson Avenue, was
introduced by Alderman Newman who relayed the concern that the customers of the Evanston
Athletic Club on Benson Avenue are creating parking problems. The Athletic Club's 4,500
membership has depleted any available parking for patrons of Merle's carryout. Chris Bartlett
asked if there was a possibility of getting two parking spaces to continually utilize for their
carryout business which is 15 % of their total. There is no convenient parking near the front of
their restaurant. Because of the inconvenience or lack of parking, and the double-parking issue,
Merle's is beginning to see a decrease in their take-out business. Chris Bartlett said that the
problem is serious. David Barber said that meters will be installed on the west side of Benson
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January 16, 1996
Avenue in the spring and at present there is two-hour limited parking. David Jennings said that
the two-hour parking restriction ends at 6:OOPM so that at 4:OOPM a space could have one
parker throughout the evening with no turnover. Chuck Remen asked if this is a problem in
other areas as well and what solutions were available. David Jennings replied that in some
unmetered areas there are ten-minute parking zones. There are also 20-minute meters but they
are in effect only until 6:OOPM. A loading zone would take the meters out of use for longer
term parking. Jonathan Perman asked if this could be a loading zone after 5:OOPM or 6:OOPM.
Alderman Newman felt that this was an area that if meters were not in force until9:OOPM there
would be little to no turnover for the entire evening. Jonathan Perman suggested a meter with
a message sign attached reading LOADING ZONE AFTER 6:OOPM. David Jennings that this
would involve two spaces because one pole supports two meters. Alderman Newman said he
would like to see two zones (four meters) --one in front of Merle's and another at the end of the
block. Mention was made of a nonmetered ten-minute zone at Hecky's Ribs of which
Commander Gallivan said there have been no complaints. Alderman Newman suggested the
space be accompanied by the phrase TOWAWAY ZONE, David Jennings cautioned that if the
restaurant were allowed to control the spaces, within a week after that was granted, there would
be another request from Jimmy John's who has wanted a space for their delivery drivers,
Alderman Guthrie asked that staff stake recommcndations for parking in front of Merle's
restaurant for the February 20, 1996 Parking Committee meeting.
While driving to the meeting this evening, Jonathan Perman counted only four parking
spaces available on Benson between ChurchlEmerson, and considers the time of 7:OOPM on a
Tuesday evening to be a fair guide of parking availability for that area. Given the increased
activity of the Athletic Club and restaurants, there is a need to create awareness of available
space in the Research Park and the Parking Garage.
Reauests to Exoand Residential Parkit"istrict #4 - ETHS
David Jennings presented two requests --the addition to ROPD #4 of the south end of the
1700 block of Grey Avenue between Emerson and Church Streets around ETHS, supported by
Alderman Kent; and, a petition from residents of the 1600 block of Darrow Avenue for resident
only parking, supported by Alderman Drummer. The Committee had no comments or questions
in approving these requests.
CEO Activity Rem
Alderman Guthrie congratulated Commander Gallivan on his promotion from Lieutenant.
In future meetings of the Parking Committee, Lieutenant Mangus will be the Police Department
representative.
Alderman Guthrie asked about the uneven nature of the December activity. Commander
Gallivan explained that the December activity would have been higher, but the holidays and the
officers using their vacation time before the end of the year made the difference. Residential
Overtime is almost double, and Meter Overtime is half. Commander Gallivan said that a
3
Parking Committee Minutes
January 16p 1996
different approach is being tried in some areas, using a strike force, targeting different areas.
Changing patterns is a technique that is often effective.
Parkin �Swdv
Jonathan Perman asked that David Barber and David Jennings advise them of the general
perception of the results of the Parking Study to date. David Barber said that judging from the
minutes of the previous two meetings, the Committee has been dealing with specific issues in
the districts. Staffs concern is whether the consultant is complying with the original Request
for Proposals (RFP). The RFP requires the consultant "to review the specific geographic areas
identified and provide recommendations," including commuter parking, parking rates and
justifications for their recommendations, parking policy with regard to Northwestern and its
impact on the neighborhood, and the zoning code. Though we did receive the zoning code
review and recommendation of an increase in parking rates, staff feels that CEG has ultimately
not provided the items asked for in the study, and have told them this.
One recommendation from CEG was restriping the existing parking lots for better space
utilization --the striping program has already been in existence for ten years. Another suggestion
was adding employee parking on Brown off Church near the high school --this was done two
years ago. The general policy discussion required not putting commuter parking on residential
streets --yet the recommendation was to add commuter parking facilities next to the train station
in the 1200 block of Sherman between Crain and Dempster, where the residents arc already
requesting a remedy. CEG recommended a program of selling or giving out parking meter
hoods to be used for outside contractors --there is already a parking meter hood policy. Two
other items that have been heavily promoted beyond practicality, without taking Evanston's
specific requests into account, are the mechanical parking structure and the "intelligent parking
meters," neither of which have been long tried and proven. These have become
recommendations in the study, but don't take Evanston's specific requests into account. The
review of parking enforcement was not requested in the RFP. At a cost of $3500 and on his
own initiative, Richard Beebe brought in Mr. Spencer from New York to evaluate the
management of the parking system --this was not requested. CEG quoted the analysis of
responses from talking with various people throughout the community; among them, Jonathan
Perman, Terry Jenkins, City employees, and others. During the entire process, the people in
charge of the Parking System were never interviewed; namely, besides himself, David Jennings
and Jean Baucom. The Committee is become engulfed in asking questions and solving issues
in the presence of the consultant at the Parking Committee meetings. The results to date are
general, circling and vague. It would be advantageous to have the study completed, review the
summary, then deal with the issues.
Alderman Newman recalled a previous study performed by a consultant. David Barber
stated that this study was performed by Lockheed and covered operations and management of
the various departments dealing with parking, including such items as how tickets arc issued,
booting, permit parking, etc., and resulted in handheld computers and increased enforcement.
Lockheed presented a series of recommendations; staff then reviewed and presented them to the
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January 16, 1996
Committee along with staffs endorsements. Then the Committee had something to work with
and develop. Most of the recommendations from Lockheed were implemented because the
recommended solutions were reasonable and there was a workable procedure to follow.
Chuck Remen mentioned a meeting he had with Richard Beebe and, as a result, he would
like to know the demand in a particular district, the supply, and how to increase the supply along
with the positive and negatives such as cost. There is no usefulness in simply creating parking,
without knowing the demmid is a particular location, Location is especially a factor in the
downtown --the overall number of parking spaces is there, though not where people want it to
be. Chuck Remen hoped that this would be a part of CEG's final analysis.
Evaluations of the ten key issues from CEG's 01/11/96 Executive Summary were then
discussed.
Jonathan Penman asked how long do we continue with the consultant? David Barber said
that staff is waiting for direction from the Parking Committee. He and David Jennings are
prepared to itemize the specifics of unfinished items, and resubmit them with the statement that
the City expects this accomplished in accordance with the study agreement. Future payments
would not be processed against this until the material is furnished. If we have no use for the
end result of this product, what is the point in continuing? David Jennings said he would like
him to finish the study and tell him we want specific issues addressed, how he specifically plans
to address what we are asking for, what his tirncline will be, and when we could expect to see
something in logical format. The Committee agreed that David Barber would send a letter to
the consultant, outlining the concerns discussed this evening.
Other Matters (Continued)
Alderman Newman asked what considerations were involved in regard to the transfer of
supervision of the parking enforcement officers from the Police Department to the City Traffic
Engineer. David Barber said that parking enforcement is tied into management policies.
Citywide there would the transition and impact for the Police Department, City Manager's
office, Public Works Department --common fields are traffic guards, snow removal and ticketing
the tow zones. Commander Gallivan said that duties of the PEOs also include substituting for
the crossing guards and traffic control (shutting down streets) for major events or emergencies.
At the time of the Management Study an internal group was developed to develop Police,
Parking System, City Collector and City Attorney's office. This internal parking group took the
Lockheed recommendations and provided an implementation plan. This could again be taken
to the City Manager's office to commission that same group to determine the pros and cons of
such a merger, how this would be managed and where to house 12 officers.
David Jennings reported a change in the original request from Rotary International.
Rotary has asked that the Committee consider lowering the required number of garage space
rental applicants from 100 to 75, at the same rate of $49 per space paid in advance. At this
time, Rotary has 67 persons signed up as of January 9, 1996. Mention was made that if more
time was given to reach the original goal of 100 applicants, the number would decrease rather
than increase because many applicants are only interested in the winter months. After
5
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January 16, 1996
unanimous approval by the Parking Committee, David Jennings said he would advise Council
of this request and discussion by written memorandum.
Bill Demas announced that he and his wife Paula have sold their Orchid Fruit and Flower
Shop at 610 Davis Street, and that this meeting would be his last one. Alderman Guthrie
thanked :'sir. Demas for his years of service on the Committee.
The list of Parking Committee meetings was distributed for 1996.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:10pm.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is February 20, 1996 at 7:00pm.
Respectfully submitted,
David 1; —Barber
6
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Meeting of March 19, 996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Giddings, Remen, Reynolds
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Guests Present: None
The meeting of was called to order at 7:10 pm by Alderman Guthrie,
Alderman Guthrie welcomed recently appointed Parking Committee Board Member Paul
Giddings, owner of Folkworks Gallery on Chicago Avenue.
Minutes of Meeting of January 16. 1996
The minutes of the Meeting of January 16, 1996 were approved by the Committee.
PEA Activity Rep=
Alderman Guthrie introduced Lt. Dan Mangas who transferred to the Police Traffic
Bureau in January replacing Commander Gallivan on the Parking Committee City staff. In the
discussion of the PEO reports for year's comparison of January 1996 and February 1966, Lt,
Mangas explained that although some months may be down due to vacations or sick leave, he
looks for overall consistency in the reports,
Lt. Mangas said there are 11 officers in the enforcement program, two of whom are
dedicated to the boating program. In response to Alderman Guthrie's questions regarding the
purchase of new vehicles, Lt. Mangas explained Police enforcement presently has ten vehicles,
some of which were purchased years back frora a company which has since filed bankruptcy
making it impossible to buy new pacts. This puts a genuine strain on that segment of City
services.
David Reynolds noted that the February 1996 Residential Permit ticket volume is at a
new high, and asked if that was a result of enforcement targeting different areas that made this
difference. Lt. Mangas responded affirmatively, and said that staggering different areas so that
enforcement would not be anticipated has increased the year-to-date totals.
Chuck Remen made reference to a letter to the editor of the Evanston Review, criticizing
the response of a PEO officer regarding a parking question. It was contained in a portion of a
letter regarding the enforcement of downtown snow route regulations when there was no snow.
Paul Giddings introduced the concern about the PEO staffing in the Chicago Avenue area
on Saturdays limited to two officers. In that area, many residents tend to stay home and
therefore their cars remain in the area when shoppers are also in full force. Paul Giddings
inquired about the possibility of increasing the number of PEO's on Saturdays which is the
busiest day of the week in the Chicago/Dempster area (rather than Mondays when many shops
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Parking Committee Minutes
January 16, 1996
are closed). Lt. Mangas replied that the down side would be that the residential perthit ticketing
would have to be written during the week, taking more officers off the regular assignment.
Alderman Guthrie recommended spot enforcement for a couple of Saturdays.
T4ewsDaW,LAftJclej reegatd1n¢ Oak Parlt nar Ing rates god rines
Alderman Guthrie referred to an article in the Chicago Tribune on February 8, 1996,
regarding a plan by the Village of Oak Park to raise their downtown parking rates and fines.
The article spurred comments and complaints by business owners that the downtown parking
rates and fines would be raised as much as 300% to increase revenue for a fifth level addition
to their Holley Court parking garage, in preparation for an influx of customers when two new
retail centers are built this year. The downtown garage rate of $1001mnth is significantly
higher than Evanston's. Alderman Guthrie said this article serves as a warning of the adverse
reaction by customers as City Council and Committee members agree to set Evanston's
downtown parking rates and fines. Alderman Guthrie asked that David Jennings inquire of Oak
Park if the basis of the decision to raise rates was primarily to raise revenue, and the procedure
and results of any study.
David Barber said it should be noted that the Parking Study recommended adjustments
in the parking rates, and explained that staff is working on a proposal to present to City Council
which would increase fines.
Parking StudY
David Barber reported that a response was received which summarized the response to
the 30 capital projects, and contained a rewritten section of the three Central Street areas. Staff
provided an introduction of the area, a listing of issues in the RFF, and a summary of CEG's
recommendations. They were all capital recommendations (closing Stewart Avenue, changing
the parking lot configuration on Central, angle parking on Livingston) and did not respond to
the request. David Barber requested by letter that CEG look at the problem, discuss the
�. magnitude, and the possible solutions. Then, with the recommendation, describe the action, the
cost, and the impact --not a list of items for the City to study. Major recommendations were
"We can figure this parking lot on Central Street to add more parking spaces." We need to
know how many. what cost, how it would be reconfigured, the estimated time for construction.
= Regarding the angle parking on Livingston, what is the cost? If it is $8.000 per space to add
four spaces, with the loss of trees, it is not warranted. Richard Beebe again missed the major
point that on Central Street, there are only so many parking spaces, with so many commuters
coming into the area. One way to solve the commuter parking problem could be to allow
parking along Poplar Street and in the parking lot at Dyche Stadium, with the remainder of
spaces divided for shoppers, employees, residents. There is no explicit analysis of how to solve
the problem and allocate space or deal with policy issues that were discussed. Before meeting,
it was requested that CEG deal with these issues, and there has been no reply in over a week.
In meeting with Richard Beebe, the direction was clear that a policy should be developed; such
as, do not put commuter parking on residential streets, encourage mass transportation to decrease
73
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Parking Committee Minutes
January 116, 1996
the number or cars, do not use residential streets for overflow parking for Northwestern, etc.
Then, feed the problems through the policies and make recommendations. This step is missing.
There was a tremendous list of recommendations some of which were impractical or impossible
(angle parking on Davis Street between Orrington and Sherman). There is also continual
promotion of the mechanical parking garage.
Chuck Remen requested that the parking study material be indexed on a separate page
for the series or list of policies. David Jennings said that this same request was made of Richard
Beebe without results, Chuck Retnen asked what position Richard Beebe holds with CEG, and
another principal of that firm would be concerned that a customer is dissatisfied. David Jennings
responded that although there is a limited partnership that Richara Beebe directs their
transportation area. David Jennings listed the problems in various areas to CEG. Although we
did not expect solutions to everything, we did ask for opinions on the various issues. We
considered that reasonable and identifiable. Alderman Newman concluded that any parking
consultant may not Ne able to solve the high congestion mix of University structured parking,
commuters, shoppers, and residents.
Short-term Parking Nerds in thq2owntowq
David Jennings explained that he and Jean Baucom charted on a map the 75 downtown
businesses which have quick turn -over needs, in response not only to Chris Bartlett from Merle's
Barbecue, but short-term parking needs in general. The map distinguishes restaurants with
short-term needs (fast food, take-out, and deliveries) from other businesses that do not need two-
hour parking but could use 15- or 20-minute meters (Post Office, Fed -Ex, One -Hour Photo,
Copy services, Video Rental, Dry cleaners, cash station/banks), and other retail (flower, pet,
hardware, delivery drivers). In some cases, the needs occur after the time the meters are no
longer in effect and there would be no benefit from a 20-minute meter. For the short term daily
need, strategically placed 15- or 20-minute meters patrolled by the PEO's may be effective. For
short term evening uses, a business could purchase or rent a meter bag so that after 5:00 or 6:00
a bag would say 15-minute parking. The option of meter hooding will be ineffective after 6:00
PM without enforcement. Options include chalking and handheld ticket writers that record the
time the vehicle is parked. Another issue is the need for turnover after 4:00 PM. If PEO's will
be ticketing in the evening, they could also enforce turnover at the metered spaces. With the
meter time presently set at 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, placing coins at 4:00 PM in the two-hour zone
allows legal parking until 2:00 AM. By extending the time to 9:00 PM, coins placed at 4:00
PM would still allow for turnover in the evening. If PEO's will be enforcing in the evenings,
it is beneficial to create turnover which could help businesses such as Merle's.
Though changing the meters to 9:00 PM may be effective in the Downtown, in
Chicago/Dempster/Main districts, many of the stores close earlier than 9:00 PM and, with the
parking lot nearby, the supply and demand would not warrant the change.
The Committee unanimously agreed to raising the Downtown meter rates, which David
Jennings said would be put into effect when the meters are replaced or reinstalled during July,
August and September of this year after completion of Projects 3 and 4 of the Downtown
41'�•�p•'SI r r,-
Parking Committee Minutes
January 16, 1996
Streetscape project (70% within the Downtown area) which includes angle parking on Orrington,
Sherman, Davis, Church and Chicago, David Jennings also explained that the coat of
enforcement would have to be determined. David Barber anticipated having concepts, proposed
rate structures, and improvements or changes for Committee consideration in the near future.
David Jennings said that downtown merchants should be contacted since a portion, if not all of
the changes, affect their businesses. Alderman Newman stressed the importance of new,
aggressive signing for Downtown parking. Customers should be aware of the one -hour free
parking at both the Church Street or Sherman Avenue garages. David Jennings said that severed
of the businesses (Barnes & Noble, Osco, Radio Shack) have store signs or mention to their
customers the free one -hour parking in the garages. David Jennings said that banners (such as
in Lot 60) has proven to be an effective method of advertising. Paul Giddings related that
business patrons in the Chicago Avenue area perceive that it is expensive to park Downtown in
relationship to the free parking farther north. David Barber said that any changes Downtown
would be in conjunction with a marketing campaign to promote garage parking. This marketing
plan, including a flyer, will include the concept of extending the enforcement of Downtown
meter parking to 9:00 PM, adding a grace period for enforcement of tickets because of the new
negative -time meters, adding 20-minute meters, adding the short-term spaces at night, and
adjustment of rates. This promotion ties in with the introduction of a new Downtown
entertainment package by the Chamber of Commerce.
David Reynolds asked the status of the wayfinding program and when it would come to
fruition. David Jennings hoped to see results by the end of 1996, and said he had met with
Jonathan Perman and Terry Jenkins regarding a change in focus in the sign plan, incorporating
directions throughout Evanston which includes regularly visited locations rather than the business
districts exclusively. Cluck Remen asked about locators in the garages, such as in shopping
malls, as a direction guide for new visitors. David Barber responded that this will be
incorporated with the signing program upon renovation of the garage.
In response to a question regarding the RFP, David Jennings responded that the City is
buying the graphic design services for artwork to be used on signs throughout the City. The
State of Illinois regulates standard colors of signs on state routes which may control the color
coordination of the remaining signage.
David Barber then presented plan drawings regarding the Downtown streetscape project
in conjunction with the Sherman Avenue garage renovation and retail stores. It was suggested
that input be received from the City Manager's office and Economic Development Committee
with regard to this retail opportunity. David Barber said the first part of the detail design phase
is the schematic phase, and that a series of drawings and options would be presented, and by
process of elimination the design would be fine tuned and costs refined. The final stage includes
the recommendations on the color of paint, sign, lighting system, elevator, possibility of security
system, and detail of the retail businesses. David Reynolds stressed the importance of glass on
the front and back walls for visibility into the garage at street level to alleviate the concern about
safety, and the consideration of a walk- or drive -up coffeelnewspaper shop.
2
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Parking Committee Minutes
January 16, 1996
David Barber said he would present the plans to the Economic Development Committee
for their opinion on the possible retail development of the available 1000 sq, ft. area. He also
explained the debt service on the Sherman Avenue parking garage began in 1968 for thirty years
which will be paid off next year. Money for this renovation could be borrowed next year using
the parking source as collateral.
David Barber summarized that the schematic design would be presented to the Economic
Development Committee for discussion of commercial space in conjunction with the Sherman
Avenue garage renovation. In the meantime staff will begin developing the RFP for the
schematic and design phases, and make revisions depending on recommendations from the
Fconomic Development Committee.
Reference frQM Alderntrji _Lrummer rggnrding Parking District Perr1l
David Jennings prefaced that the original intent of the residential parking program was
to reduce the impact of commuter parking on residential streets by eliminating all parking of
non-resident vehicles, regardless of the number of empty spaces which might remain after the
restrictions were established.
David Barber explained that the original intent of the ROPD is effectively freeing parking
for residents. However, Alderman Drummer asked consideration be given in increasing the
number of permits sold in residential parking districts by offering permits to non-residents.
Alderman Drummer related the demand in specific areas for additional customer/employee
parking for businesses and asked consideration be given to increasing the number of permits sold
in ROPD's so that patrons and employees of area businesses could utilize the free spaces. David
Barber said that exceptions could be granted which meet the following considerations to the
ROPD policy requirements: (1) if there is no other place for employees to park; (2) if there is
space in the area for parking; and (3) if the neighbors arc not affected by the change. Alderman
Newman suggested removing the two-hour restriction signs on alternate sides on some blocks
in areas where employee business parking is needed. The danger is over -selling parking spaces
leading to congestion. David Barber said he would send a communication to Alderman
Drummer asking for specific blocks or addresses where the requests have been made to be
investigated and determined on the basis of individual need. David Jennings mentioned that in
Parking District 4, employee parking is presently allowed for employees of the nearby
businesses. However, granting further exceptions for District 4 would open parking to high
school student parking, which is a problem for the neighborhood,
Other MaqM
David Jennings related that City Council approved the $400,000 parking meter purchase.
Quantity meter purchases reduced the price considerably from over $200 to $158 which allowed
buying additional fully electronic single -mechanism meters. These will include between 1,500-
1,600 mechanisms and 1,200 meter housings, and a collection canister system. The meter is
programmable in place by infrared communication with the external handheld unit which will
allow for immediate meter rate changes.
5
Parking Committee Minutes
January 16, 1996
David Jennings repoited a request from the staff at Oakton School for permission to dell
District 2 permits to teachers (on Austin). Parking is open 300400 ft. from the school door,
there is legal parking on Austin Street on the southern boundary of the Oakton School property,
The results of spot checks disclosed parking spaces available and staff is not presently endorsing
approval of this request, but will continue checking at different times for a complete survey and
subsequent recommendation.
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is April 16, 1996 at 7:00 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
avid H. Barber
6
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Meeting of April 16, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Giddings, Perman, Remen
Members Absent: Alderman Newman, Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Guests Present: Kurt Finfrock, A.M. Kinney Associates, Inc., Architects and Engineers
The meeting was called to order at 7:05 pm by Alderman Guthrie.
Kites of NUcting of January 16, 199-5
Paul Giddings corrected the minutes of the Meeting of March 19, 1996, p. 1, last
paragraph, "... iz... iR the ChieagelDempster ffe " to read
"... increasing the number of PEO's ... in all of the City's shopping areas." P. 3, last
paragraph, was corrected from " -te-raising-t1awmew
nwteF -rates—" to read "The Committee agreed to review raising the Downtown meter
rates ..." The date on the Header, pp. 2-6, was corrected to read March 19, 1996. The
minutes were accepted by the Committee.
PEO Activity Rgp4rt
There were no comments or questions regarding the PEO Activity Report.
Chuck Remen asked if scheduling is possible to increase enforcement officers patrolling
in the City's business districts on Saturdays. David Barber said that the budget review is already
in progress and, as a budget item, the effect in rescheduling for Saturday enforcement would
have to be determined.
Lt. Mangas said that although there are presently PEO's patrolling on Saturdays,
increasing the Saturday force often has a boomerang effect. If enforcement is lifted during the
weekdays, infractions are simply shifted to another location. A solution may be full force on
Saturdays once every one or two months rather than rescheduling and losing revenue during the
week. The week&?; s include standard targeted requests and assignments that cannot be
- transferred to Saturday operations. Lt. Mangas said he talked with PEO Supervisor Torben
Nielsen who said that although the availability is limited, officers could alternate and be
reassigned occasionally for the purpose of concentrated area enforcement on Saturdays. On a
regular basis, enforcement on Saturdays would require additional hiring in order to complete
scheduled duties. Although some beat officers issue tickets during busy Saturday shopping
hours, their main obsective is guarding against shoplifters and disorderly conduct. Some
businesses have also said that their customers complain about tickets and consequently the
business asks why so many tickets are written. Paul Giddings said that having a police car or
officer visible often deters crime before it occurs. Lt. Mangas said he would have the PEO's
working the business areas for a couple Saturdays and the Committee could check results.
Wit: ` 3 • , " -
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Parking Committee Minutes
April 16, 1996
1Mp[OVemen15at Sherman Avenue-Q 1ge/Retrort from EDC Meeting
David Barber introduced Mr. Kurt Finfrock from A.M. Kinney Associates, Inc.,
Architects and Engineers, and presented the Committee with A.M. Kinney Associates' six -page
conceptual design recommendations and illustrations for the Sherman Avenue Parking Garage,
David Barber said that in meeting with Economic Development Committee concern was
mentioned regarding Osco's development and commercial space on the ground and second floor,
privatizing the garage operation, and having a private developer handle the entire phase. David
Barber discussed with Jonathan Perman and Terry Jenkins their ideas on the feasibility of leasing
or renting the ground space, and in general the feeling was that the City should not compete with
commercial spaces.
David Barber stressed that the present need is to move forward in developing an RFP so
that a schematic design can be presented, and the details and improvements decided. The
improvement schedule in the garage becomes complicated because it involves scheduling around
replacement of one stair enclosure and elevator with all -glass walls while the other remains in
service. if the RFP is not accomplished soon, there would be no chance for incorporation into
the construction schedule for next year.
Jonathan Perman said that even after the ground floor area is opened, that does not
preclude the notion of later bringing in interested retail. Jonathan Perman concurred with David
Barber that the first most important conclusion should be the esthetics such as opening up as
much space as possible for the airy, comfortable, safe, well -lit attributes which attract parkers.
Both he and Terry Jenkins felt that the opportunities to lease a 1,000 sq. ft, space would be
limited. David Barber mentioned that three back panels had been removed from the garage
display windows which proved a significant improvement in lighting and openness from within
the garage.
David Barber mentioned that, after the garage entrance ramp is demolished, the
Downtown Streetscape Revitalization Project would include curb line relocation to align the curb
from CitiBank north to Church Street. Five parking spaces north and south of the Garage at
Osco and CitiBank will be added, trees will be planted, and the shrubbery removed from the cast
side of the Osco building. David Iennings added that although two bus routes will continue to
pass in front of the Garage and stop just south of the southernmost alley on Sherman Avenue,
the layover waiting area has been relocated to the Transportation Center as of April 15.
David Barber said that he would let the Parking Committee know when this project has
been scheduled on the Economic Development Committee agenda, and asked that as many
members of the Parking Committee as possible attend.
$ununary of Parking Policies in the Parking Study
David Jennings distributed the Policy Statement summary which the Committee requested
at the last meeting and noted that the detailed policy explanations from the Consulting Engineer's
Group's most recent communication were attached. Alderman Guthrie asked if a resolution had
been reached regarding the Parking Study as presented by Richard Beebe from CEG. David
Barber said his letter to Richard Beebe made clear what the City was requesting, and asked for
Richard Beebe's reply about how the study would be completed and how the tracking of
problems to solutions would be handled; however, the recent one -page response from Richard
Beebe still did not deal specifically with the issues. The recommendations are inconsistent with
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14
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Parking Committee Mnutes
April 16, 1996
the policies. One example is the policy of not placing commercial parking in residential areas
combined with the recommendation of expanding Parking Lot #4 on Central Street and closing
off Stewart Street.
David Barber did not feel that the objective of the study would be accomplished and has
requested an opinion from the Law Department regarding the legal ramifications in cancelling
the contract. David Barber added that the addition of a new supervisor position in the Parking
System, which was included in last year's budget, may free up time for David Jennings and Ivan
Baucom to complete the existing CEG study. Their years of experience in examining the
policies, rewriting the goals, and summarizing district -by -district recommendations will provide
the Committee finalization of the RFP.
Qther Matters
In response to a question from Chuck Remen regarding the Village of Oak Park raising
their downtown parking meter fines, David Barber said the fine for an expired meter was raised
from $5 to $20. Chuck Remen asked about coin changers in metered areas. Lt. Mangas said
that theft is a problem with coin changers, and mentioned that the parking lots in Ft. Lauderdale
have a machine operating 24-hours per day, eliminating the need for individual meters. By
punching the number from your meter into the machine and inserting coins or dollar bills, the
machine records the customer's payment. The enforcement officer then checks a machine file
for empty or paid parking spaces. The initial cost of the machine is expensive but, because of
the frequent pedestrian traffic and enforcement officers in the 24-hour lots, there were no
reported thefts.
Alderman Guthrie asked that the Parking Committee change the meeting time from
7:00 PM to 7:30 PM. There was no objection to this request.
The meeting adjourned at 7.42 PM.
The next meeting of tl:.. ,. arking Committee is Tuesday, May 21, 1996 at 7:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
l � r
David H. Barber
3
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MDAM
EARIJ21G COMB MEE
Meeting of May 21, 1996
- Not Proved
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Giddings, Perman, Remen
Members Absent: Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Guests Present: None
The meeting was called to order at 7:34 pm by Alderman Guthrie.
Minulsa-Qt Meeting of April! 16, 1996
The minutes of the Meeting of April 16, 1996 were accepted by the Committee.
PE0 Activity Reuort
Alderman Guthrie noted that tickets issued increased nearly 50% over last year. Chuck
Remen asked what comprised the category titled Other tickets issued in the chart on the PEO
Activity Report. Lt. Mangas said that Other includes tickets written for violations such as
posted streetcleaning and no parking zones.
Referring to the Committee's request to increase enforcement patrol in the City's business
districts on Saturdays, IA. Mangas said that scheduling for two PEO's was changed from
weekdays to Saturdays on May 4 and May 18. Each PED averaged 100 tickets both Saturdays
(400 total) covering first the Dempster Street and Downtown business districts, then at the other
business areas. Ticketing was started in the vicinity of the Young Evanston Artists Festival, but
was called off for the remainder of the event. Lt. Mangas said this schedule will continue, that
the recruitment is presently elective and so far there have been volunteers for Saturdays in
exchange for a different day off.
Alderman Newman mentioned the accessibility of the Research Park Lot to patrons of
Beason Street businesses yet it remains empty, but Lt. Mangas said that people would rather
drive around the block again and again for the luxury of parking in front of their destination than
settle for walking any distance. Alderman Newman asked what percentage of increased traffic
was attributable to the Evanston Athletic Club. Lt. Mangus said that certain times during the
week gust at the end of one of their health classes the impact of additional parkers in that area
is obviouF. Alderman Newman then asked Jonathan Perman about scheduling a meeting with
nearby business owners and Evanston Athletic Club representatives to discuss parking
alternatives. David Barber mentioned that the Athletic Club met with himself, David Jennings
and Judy Aiello asking that a couple parking spaces be eliminated and used for bike racks,
requesting additional handicapped spaces, and other requests. Chuck Remen asked if the
Athletic Club building had off-street parking requirements. David Jennings said that only the
usage was changed to the existing building, so the ordinance required no additional parking.
Alderman Newman added that the parking requests, had there been any, would have been
submitted to Council. Jonathan Pen-nan said this was partly an informational issue, and that
alerting the Athletic Club of the parking problen and working with than in proposing tteeir
Parking Committee Minutes
May 21, 1996
customers park at the Research Park lot or Sherman Avenue garage is important. The
Committee concurred that safety is an issue for some athletic club members when asking they
walk under the viaduct and then walk through the garage in the evening, not to mention walking
a distance of more than five feet to their destination, but suggested this be initiated during the
summer months. David Jennings said patrons of the businesses are parking legally, but some
employees of the same businesses are parking illegally by "shuffling" and "feeding meters."
David Jennings suggested a cooperative arrangement with business owners and the garage; such
as, paying the customer's second hour fee in the garage. Jonathan Perman agreed to sating a
meeting date for sometime in June. Chuck Remen requested a tally of available parking spaces
in that area to compare with the estimated parking needs of merchants.
Alderman Newman inquired of Lt. Mangas about the system detailing whether or not
tickets had been paid in specific areas such as Foster -Walker, and if a "boot list" could be
provided. Lt. Mangas said there was no way to track back, that the boot list would be
alphabetical by name not location, and did not know if the system was sophisticated enough to
list by address. Lt. Mangas explained that there has been discussion with the Collector's office
regarding developing a computer network tracking nut -of -state cars which presently can be
obtained only through ticketing. Evanston has no system for obtaining listings of tickets issued
on out-of-state plates except by giving the City Collector's Office a list of 25-30 out-of-state
plates who will check when they have time and let the Police know which plates have
outstanding tickets. This is an inefficient process and at times the cars are gone before the
information is returned from the Collector's office. Lt. Mangas said that patrolling has
diminishing effects from 50 tickets written when first patrolled to as little as six tickets for one
month's enforcement at the in the Foster -Walker dormitory area. When enforcement stops, the
word travels and illegal parking resumes including "shuffling" after tires have been marked.
The problem is that it is not possible to patrol that same student resident Walker complex area
every single day. Alderman Newman said the goal is to see an open parking space in this block
when school is in session. Lt. Mangas said he would have the boot list ready for the next
Parking Committee meeting, how the boot officers work and reference the list, and the process
involved including the first steps of finding eligible cars and stickering.
Possible Exraansjgn of Noves Arts Center Parkin¢ Lot
Alderman Newman met with Judith Aiello and 7th Ward Alderman Stephen Engelman
who support the plan to add parking spaces in the Noyes Arts Center Parking Lot. David
Jennings explained that a minimum of eight and a maximum of twelve new spaces could be
added by changing the lot from angle parking to perpendicular layout. Narrowing existing
curbed islands, and moving two handicapped spaces (constituting four standard stalls) from the
lot to the space next to the building, would provide the room for 90° parking. Because the
additional spaces will be metered and available for public use, Alderman Newman stated two
concerns. First, in consideration of opening the lot for the business district and users of the
building and to determine if sufficient space will exist to accommodate the $501year permit
parking without using the metered spaces, it would be beneficial to review the history of the
number of permits needed by artists in the last five years. Determining the need would
relinquish the additional metered spaces to patrons of several nearby businesses and those
attending art classes at the Center. Secondly, the present signage stating PERMIT 7AM-7PM
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Parking Committee Minutes
May 21, 1996
implying seven days a weep should be changed. One signage example from the Holiday Intl
allows reserved permit parking Monday through Friday only and, since not all the artiste
frequent the building on weekends, this could open the lot from 7AM-5PM on Saturdays for
business and building patrons. Jonathan Penman asked if some spaces created might be rented
to employees of businesses in the area which, in turn, would free up street parking. Alderman
Newman said that the Arts Center lot is under the jurisdiction of Parks Department so that these
decisions need approval granted from the Arts Council and artists which is the reason for
determining the number of artists requiring permit spaces. David Jennings said that Richard
Grodsky would provide the information on usage of the parking spaces.
Alderman Newman discussed funding for this project with the suggestion of completing
the project in 1996 rather than including it in the proposed 1997 Capital Plan. Reference to this
project was made at the August 1996 Arts Council meeting, and this project is one which is
readily favored by the area business owners. Upon determination of the artists parking needs,
the number of puiumtial meters and signage can be concluded. David Barber said this would be
presented to Council with recommendation and procedure at a future meeting.
Possible Exnansion of Parkins Distrlct_1!•'
A review of the parking situation on Sherman Avenue between Lakc and Greenwood
Streets disclosed that commuter parking causes residents to walk at least a block to find legal
parking near their homes. This houses affected by the change in this mixed -use area are 1416
and 1422 Sherman Avenue (three dwelling units), and are surrounded by commercial on the
narrow north and General Printing Building on the wider south end. This expansion is
recommended by staff, and the public hearing requirements would be waived as two of the three
residents involved have been contacted, and the third can be contacted by phone, The expansion
of District F as described was approved by the Committee.
Paul Giddings spoke with the owners of Kenneth Stein Violins and Encore for Kids who
requested two-hour parking or other restriction that will move traffic on Sherman between
Greenwood and Dempster. This area presently has unrestricted parking with the exception of
one disabled space. David Jennings said that either two-hour resident exempt or meters would
be effective in that block, and Alderman Guthrie asked that David Jennings talk with Ward
Alderman Heydemann.
Reference from Alderman Newman regaxding_gnE1C_par in on Sherman Avenue
Alderman Newman explained that a business owner has requested remedy to the
constricted parking near an area where valet parking is offered. David Barber said a plan is
under consideration for August or September when meters are installed, including examining
nighttime parking, 20-minute parking spaces, and hooded meters for temporary loading zones
after 5:00 PM. Alderman Guthrie mentioned a sign near a downtown Highland Park theater
reading 15-minute parking after 6:00 PM.
Alderman Guthrie asked if the west side of Sherman could accommodate angle parking.
David Barber said making one -lane traffic in each direction would be the only alternative.
Alderman Guthrie then asked about moving the bus stop to south of the alley. David Jennings
said that the bus stop can be eliminated and three spaces could be added. It was agreed that
3
Parking Committee Minutes
May 21, 1996
David Jennings would talk with the valet service suggesting that it be conducted from the back
of the building.
David Barber said that (lie valet service could be moved to the Holiday inn garage which
is free after 5:00 PM. Alderman Newman endorsed the recommendation that any valet parking
ordinance should state that an attempt must be made to park the cars off-street.
RWrt on the Parking Study
David Jennings said the Legal Department recently received the rile document and has
not had a chance to reply to the questions as to (1) whether there is an obligation to pay out; and
(2) termination of the contract (the study was entered by letter of agrecinent versus a contract).
David Barber said once these issues are settled, they would discuss moving forward on the
study, first completing the policies and general statements and then examine each specific area.
Ot,,,,hher Matters
Alderman Newman asked for information regarding the number of commuters using the
Research Park lot, David Jennings said that the number and percentages of commuter use in
Lot 20, Lot 62 and both garages is low, and this tabulation will be distributed soon. Alderman
Newman cited the necessity to include this in the agenda for long-term consideration when
tallying the total spaces needed in terms of garage space. In response to Alderman Newman's
question whether people in the Research Park can't get into the buildings except weekends may
be due to overselling permits, David Jennings said though there was never an intent, visitor
permits are sold to employees which is not only less expensive but does not require a license
plate check. If the license plate check finds outstanding tickets, these must be paid before a
permit is issued. David Jennings the cost of buying visitor passes versus permits is
approximately the same, except for paying overdue tickets.
Alderman Guthrie mentioned a Saturday park patrol meeting she attended with Sheridan
Square and Lake Shore Boulevard neighbors. Parking issues dominated the meeting when
Sheridan Square reported counting parking spaces and came up 50 short for the residents and
wanted a restricted residential area excluding beach patrons (Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Lake Shore Boulevard residents reported that police patrol check is not enough to deter noise
and disruptive behavior, rights and drinking at the beach, and requested the No Parking after
9:00 PM extended to each of the cast/west streets (Lee, Greenleaf and Hamilton) surrounded
Lake Shore Boulevard/Sheridan and .fee/Dempster. Alderman Guthrie advised the group that
this would require discussion at the Parking Committee meeting and notification by letter to area
residents affected by the change.
Alderman Guthrie asked if parking spaces were oversold at the parking lot at the turn at
the end of the 400 block of Sheridan Road. David Jennings answered that it was not, and that
during the winter the capacity is down due to placing plowed snow but occupancy is up. The
permits are sold quarterly. David Jennings suggested a "summer" (July/August/September)
permit advising of the three-month limitation. Alderman Guthrie asked that David Jennings
survey those on the waiting list, and also requested seeing the list.
= Paul Giddings asked if a sign could be posted that the garage entrance is around the block
on Benson Avenue. David Jennings agreed to do so, noting that the sign used to be on the gate.
and the gate is gone.
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Parking; Committee Minutes
May 219 1996
Alderman Guthrie asked about angle parking on Elmwood, Grove to Davis. David
Jennings said that although normally the angle parking would be on the side where the sidewalk
is, but recommends one-way on the west side. The street is unique, being two-way on the south
end and one-way on the north end, allowing left wheel to curb parking north to the Hank
driveway.
David Jennings said that 1500 meters had been delivered to be installed as part of the
Downtown Streetscape Project. Some old meters would be saved for parts and eventually sold.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, June 18, 1996 at 7:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
David H. Barber
5
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PARKRJG COMMITTEE
Meeting of June 18t 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Giddings, Perman, Remen
Members Absent: Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Guests Present: Alderman Dennis Drummer
The meeting was called to order at 7:37 pm by Alderman Guthrie.
Minutes of Meeting p Af ,aril Ib, 1996
The minutes of the Meeting of May 21, 1996 were accepted by the Committee.
PE ctivity RQ�r
Alderman Guthrie asked if the reduction in tickets issued was due to familiarity with the
streetsweeping restriction. Lt. Mangas said that people do get accustomed to signage, and by
the end of the streetsweeping season there is overall general compliance and thus fewer tickets
issued. In addition, there is a shortage of parking spaces because of constriction in many areas,
and as a result, the offset of increases and decreases each month means consistent overall totals.
There were 800 tickets issued the first day of streetcleaning in April that could have been treated
as warnings.
Paul Giddings asked if there was a policy for warnings. Lt. Mangas said that theme was
miscommunication in April but that, generally, the Police Department prefers to place warning
notification on the cars at the beginning of streetsweeping season warning that the cars arc
parked illegally. David Barber mentioned that 1997 notices will be sent out during the last two
weeks of March in warning for the April 1 deadline.
Possible Chanees to Parkins Regulations on Pitner Avenue near ETHS
Second Ward Alderman Dennis Drummer expressed the concern of constituents residing
on the west side of Pitner Avenue between Lake and Church, on the west side of Evanston
Township High School. Alderman Drummer explained that long-time residents welcome the
activities of the high school but the recent popularity surge of soccer ball which is not of
high school use has impacted the parking in the neighborhood so severely that residents are
unable to park in front of their homes particularly on Sundays. Several years ago Alderman
Drummer was called upon to alleviate an issue between the Bent Park Neighbors and the Soccer
Association, when they were discussing reseeding Lovelace Park and they needed a place to
move the soccer play. The residents near ETHS are requesting relief and inclusion in an ROPD
which would eliminate public parking for three blocks on the west side of Pitner Avenue from
Church to Lake. In reference to meeting the criteria for alternate parking for displaced vehicles,
the east side of Pitner and the ETHS parkking lot off of Lake Street would be open to public
parking. Alderman Newman asked if the 2300-2500 blocks of Davis should also be included
in the district so that the cause of the impacted area is not shifted to an adjacent neighborhood.
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Parking Committee Minutes
June 18, 1996
David Jennings said that may be necessary but is not in the current request. He also explained
that in the ETHS area there are presently two Districts. District 4 includes portions of Lake,
Church and Dodge and eliminates student parking in the area from 8AM-5PM Monday through
Friday. District 12 includes Dodge Avenue north of Church and a short portion of Lyons and
is a 24-hour 7-days-per-week, towaway zone. Alderman Drummer explained that the residents
realize there will be no enforcement on football days, the State swim meet, and other related
activities with ETHS.
In response to a question from Chuck Remen, David Jennings said this case is special
because there is parking space on the property, and there is no reason not to approve the
request. A map showing examples of activities where parking could not be accommodated on
the property was presented, including: Picnics/soccer at Lovelace Park; soccer at Bent Park;
NU football/basketball at Dyche Stadium; beach/park patrons Lighthouse, Clark, Dempster, Lee
and South Boulevard beaches; art exhibits at Noyes Cultural Art Center; softball at Elks Park;
football/softballlice rink at Robert Crown Center; baseball/softball/soccer at James Park; soccer
at Chute Junior H.S.; soccer/basketball at Mason Park. The difference is that in this case the
high school lots are empty or low occupancy during soccer meets, versus Mason Park which
Alderman Drummer said has no parking space on park property and the neighborhood has
willingly absorbed the impact. Referring to the process involved in making this change which
involves a public hearing, Alderman Guthrie mentioned that August 19 is only Council meeting
that month.
Jonathan Perman moved that the Committee approve the request as submitted by
Alderman Drummer. Seconded by Chuck Remen. Motion carried. No nab
Alderman Drummer thanked the Committee for their time, and expressed the gratitude
of his constituents for the action taken.
UWe of Downtown Lots
David Jennings distributed the graphs and surveys indicating the results of who is using
the parking in Lot 62 (Dominick's), Lot 20 (large Research Park lot) which includes all from
the Levy Center past University Place/Maple including former Lot 63, and Lot 65 behind Dave's
Italian Kitchen. The data, compiled by checking billing addresses, daytime phone numbers and
other means effective in determining where the parkers are from, shows that those lots and
garages serve Evanston for the most part. Aldermen Newman said that these figures are
important in future planning.
In terms of making development decisions, the cost and financing are factors. City
Council and the Research Park board should know the importance of the City's parking needs.
David Jennings said that if there is a garage built, the City or Parking Fund should add floors
to accommodate a certain number of parkers, and this is different from what was in the original
Research Park plan. David Barber said that the plan for the Research Park was to accommodate
only their own patrons. About 150 spaces of the Research Park are rented by the 1800 Sherman
building.
Alderman Newman said the statistics were very helpful. and had expected a greater
number of commuters. David Jennings said that by percentage, the Research Park was
consistent with the: findings of eight years ago which was less than 20% compared to the current
16.6%. Alderman Guthrie asked about the zoning requirement of only o-ae space per unit, and
2
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Parking Committee Minutes
June 18, 1996
David Jennings said that the Downtown was preexisting zoning and that there are many second -
floor residences over commercial developments that have no parking and noted that some
buildings such as Whole Foods has a rooftop garage over the entire store.
ggpgrt on the Parking %aft
David Barber reported that the legal opinion is that documents clearly indicate that the
City has communicated to CEG that they were not following the Parking Study RFP as agreed,
repeatedly and over a long period of time.
The City may terminate the Agreement with CEG.
The City has paid CEG $31,498.37 of the $62,100 approved in the Letter of Agreement,
CEG has submitted two other invoices totaling $24,557.04 which have not been paid. It is the
legal opinion that the City Should pay CEG only for completed work that is consistent with the
work outlined in the RFP. If the City intends to make no further payment to CEG, this should
be communicated to them in writing.
While the City may instigate a suit to sue CEG for failure to perform, it is not legal
recommendation to do so.
Paul Giddings asked for a copy of the RFP.
Jonathan Perman moved to accept staffs recommendation to terminate the CEG
agreement. Seconded by Paul Giddings, No nays.
Other Matters
Lt. Mangas began with an overview of the boot program process, explaining that the
alphabetical list contains 5000 names, with another 4000 ready to be entered by the City
_ Collector's office. The enforcement officers are presently using a handheld Cardinal ticket
writing machine. These machines hold information which each day is downloaded by the
Collector's office. Those with five or more tickets are placed on a scofflaw list.
The PEO process is to find the car, punch in license plate number to be ticketed, and the
computer will display on the screen whether the vehicle is sticker -eligible and, if so, the sticker
= remains on the car for 30 days (the prior ordinance was 48 hours). David Jennings explained
the change was made so that boot -eligible notice could be mailed to the registered vehicle owner
eliminating the need to rind and sticker the vehicle. If the notice is not returned by mail within
30 days the vehicle is considered boot -eligible. If the envelope is returned, the vehicle must be
stickered. The 30-day requirement also allows the time for the respondent to remit the unpaid
tickets or set a court date, which would eliminate the need to boot. Lt. Mangas said the
Collector's office does not presently have the manpower to send out notices, and if the notices
return undeliverable the same process of stickering the vehicle must be carried out. David
Jennings said that under the present ordinance, if letters were mailed, the vehicle owner has a
chance to move the car before booting so that if the car had been found once, it may have to be
found again if the owner changes location after notification of boot -eligibility. With stickering,
the owner knows the car has been found and is boot eligible. In addition, there are cars
= belonging to Northwestern students that have been stickered but they have moved to a
Northwestern lot and, although the City officer can drive by and see the car, they cannot enter
private property to boot the vehicle. Northwestern withholds students grades until N.U. parking
tickets are paid, and Evanston should be allowed to enter and boot or tow, Alderman Guduic
3
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Parking Committee Minutes
June 18, 1996
said that the 1st and 2nd Ward aldermen have a breakfast meeting regularly with the Vice
President of Northwestern, and that Lt. Mangas should be present at one of these meetings to
make that request. Alderman Ncwman asked for opinion from the Legal Department what is
required to boot on private property, then write a letter to the President to be discussed at the
breakfast meeting.
Lt. Mangas said because the 30-day notices are not being sent, officers are affixing the
notices to boot -eligible vehicles and taking a photo (undeveloped unless contested) of the placed
sticker which states time, date. and location for the 30-day requirement. The owners of the
stickered vehicles are generally working in the area but once stickered the car is moved to
another location. In spite of this, 30-35 boots are placed each month with two officers working
locations. More could be done with booting if the tools and equipment available was like that
in the past. Previously, the operation was tied in with the list of scofflaws from the computer
system and license plate numbers could be compared. Now, when they find cars where they
know they've written a lot of tickets, they have to call the Collector's office to confirm it. Lt.
Mangas reported about a 1987 amnesty program, indicating this would be one collection option.
Alderman Newman asked why this wasn't continued when the Wang system was
removed. Lt. Mangas said that funding is the main issue, and that the Internal Staff Parking
Group recently reconvened to activate procedures and remove obstacles in parking needs. Chuck
Remen asked that Lt. Mangas itemize in writing the personnel, equipment and material required
to set up the process needed to implement the procedure. It was concluded by Alderman Guthrie
that Lt. Mangas would report to staff on cost productiveness procedures, amnesty, scofflaws
lists, and suggestions for enforcing the parking ordinance relating to this issue. Information
from internal staff meetings would be presented to the Committee and, in turn, to Council.
Alderman Newman asked for a progress report on the boot agenda to continue from Lt. Mangas,
and thanked him for the presentation.
Alderman Newman asked about the policy in designating a district as two-hour Resident
Exempt, Resident Only, and Evanston Vehicle Sticker Only, and asked staff to consider the
benefit in expanding the EVS districts; as an example, considering the statistics, out-of-town
beach users should park only at the Clark Street garage. The request for the Central Street
Metra and C&NW area is ROPD 7-9AM and the Main Street EVS is primarily by aldermanic
preference and request. David Barber said that it would be helpful for the Committee if staff
would present a study explaining the ROPD, REPD district requirements and how the process
works, including a map showing locations of districts. Alderman Guthrie said that consistency
and guidelines in creating districts, not merely the request, was one that the Committee had
hoped to receive from the Parking Study. David Barber said that many present policies have
been driven by aldermanic ward preference, such as the request for EVS in the from the
4th Ward but rejection by the 3rd Ward. David Barber said that after the closing of this
procedure, staff will present an outline designed to promote discussion of the present system.
Alderman Newman said this would be helpful, citing the inconsistency of a 24-hour, 7 days a
week versus two-hour Monday through Friday restriction and the different needs of each area.
Regarding die Downtown streetscape project, Chuck Remen asked if the meters that are
hooded for construction could be removed for Sunday parking, where possible.
Jonathan Perman reported a phone call from Bob Perone of the Belgian Chocolatier in
the 500 block of Main Street whose vehicle has been frequently ticketed during the process of
A
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Parking Committee Minutes
June 18, 1996
load inglunloading boxed materials. This is a small business in a metered area, and the owner
himself loads and unloads supplies for a distance of 100'. Mr. Perone has asked fir leniency
and a 10-minute business permit that could be placed on the vehicle dash which would allow him
this task. David Jennings said this is not an uncommon problem, that it is legal to park in an
alley to load and unload goods, and suggested as a recommendation that the owner leave notice
on the dash, with flashers on, the car door unlocked, and if possible to call ahead to the
enforcement officers advising of the loading/unloading schedule.
Jonathan Perman said they had been meeting with the Northwestern Athletic Department
in order to fashion a brochure to be distributed to the football ticketholdc:rs during football
season. Because of the increased interest of N.U. football, there will no day -of -game parking
around the stadium with the exception of season ticketholders. Given the legitimate concern of
the surrounding neighbors especially with the recent tennis proceedings, a prototype of a
brochure has been developed indicating: (1) location of and routes to parking lots and costs, if
any; (2) transit options; (3) listing of shops/restaurants to patronize; (4) institute trolley buses
in addition to school buses. David Jennings said they do not want to show directions to Dyche
Stadium and are considering directions from the Expressway to be Old Orchard exit to right on
Skokie Boulevard to left on Golf Road which leads to the bulk of available Downtown parking,
omitting Central Street on the map due to the heavy traffic concentrated in one area around the
same time. Northwestern University is obtaining permission to place signage in other
communities directing to parking.
Jonathan Perman reported on the discussion of the several representatives of the Benson
Avenue merchants, the Evanston Athletic Club, Reverend Taylor of the Second Baptist Church.
Patronage of the Evanston Athletic Club was acknowledged to be the major cause of parking
problems on B,-nson Avenue. Street resurfacing was also discussed. One solution was that
EVMARK and the Chamber of Commerce would print on cards the locations of available
parking in the area. Employers also voluntarily committed themselves to encouraging their
employees to park in the Research Park or Sherman Avenue garage and that some businesses
could work together in sharing costs of monthly passes.
Alderman Newman asked about one -hour meters on Benson Avenue. David Barber said
previous meeting discussion led toward long-term meters on the west side of Benson north of
Clark when meters are replaced. Plans were discussed in developing sporadic short-term spaces,
parking ticket fines, meter rates, extended time to 9:00 PM for meters, loading zones, and
sporadically spaced short-term meters. David Jennings said the consistency of 20-minute and
2-hour meters is a realistic mixture considering their recent study from 8:00AM to 9:OOPM
which recorded 97 % occupancy.
Chuck Remen asked about the Economic Development Committee report on the parking
garages. David Barber said the draft is at the City Manager's office with a copy in the
aldermanic packet.
Paul Giddings asked about parking requests for the south side of Sheridan Square and
parking on Sherman Avenue. David Jennings said those studies are not complete at this time,
but the sign was placed directing Sherman Avenue garage parkers to the Benson Avenue
entrance as requested by Paul-GiddiW Chuck Remen.
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Parking Committee Minutes
June 18, 1996
The meeting adjourned at 9:44 PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, July 16, 1996 at 7:30 PM.
Z
y subL
David H. Respectfully
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PARKING COMMIT'Y'EE
Meeting of July 16, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Giddings, Perman, Remen
Members Absent:
Staff Present:
Barber, Reynolds
Jennings, Mangas
Guests Present: Silvia Kusaka, 1702 Livingston Street; Carol Wells, 2650 Chancellor
Street; Sara Fitzmorris, 1313 Chancellor Street; Andy Berman,
1711 Chancellor Street; Jim Lynch, 2438 Jackson Avenue
The meeting was called to order at 7:38 pm by Alderman Guthrie.
Minutes of MeetinUf June 18. 1E9fi
The minutes of the Meeting of June 18, 1996 were accepted by the Committee.
PEO Activitv Retort
Paul Giddings asked Lt. Mangas for an overview of changes expected during July and
August. Lt. Mangas reported that two PEO's took vacations in June which would account for
some decrease in tickets issued. Until the Downtown Streetscape Revitalization Project is
complete some discretion must be used to avoid misunderstandings regarding the parking lanes.
Parking is a frustration for shopowners as well as their patrons. No tickets are being issued for
parking over the lines. David Jennings cited the 1000 block of Davis Street where new meters
are installed but the old lines are still visible. The new surface in that block was put down
Monday, July 15. Striping of Davis, Oak, Maple and Church will be Wednesday, July 17 if
weather permits. The Downtown Streetscape project, the City Engineering's Motor Fuel Tax
street resurfacing and maintenance, and the continuous program for renovation and improvement
of streets and sewer collection has created traffic and parking problems for shoppers and
businesses. The curbs, gutters and asphalt surface portion of the project should be complete
within the next week.
Residential Parking near Avche Stadium for NU Events
Residents near Dyche Stadium requested a residents only parking district in the area
bounded by Green Bay Road, the canal, and Isabella Street as a solution to the parking problems
they are experiencing as a result of Northwestern games and events. Alderman Newman asked
staff and Committee to grant this request in a timely manner and consider the agenda and public
hearing by the end of August so the many residents affected have remedy before football season
begins. David Jennings explained that the goal is to have cost and plan options, some of which
require input from the Legal Department, available for the next meeting on July 31 including
neighborhood, business, City staff and Northwestern representatives. Staff would then present
details to the Parking Committee at the August 20 meeting. This request presently includes not
only Saturday afternoon football games but also weeknight basketball games and graduations held
at McGaw Hall. The weeknight restriction would also prohibit parking for moviegoers at the
Evanston Theater on Central Street, Resident Sara Fitztnorris said the neighborhood supports
resident only parking throughout the year with the understanding that rigid enforcement would
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011
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Parking Committee Minutes
July 16, 1996
occur only during gametimes. Lt. Mangas said that he works during football games and a call
to notify him of any violation would not be disregarded and would have an immediate response
unless there was a more pressing issue. In response to a question from Alderman Guthrie,
resident Andy Berman said that most residents have one -car garages but more than one car and
they realize that the parking impact during sell -out football games is far outside the requested
triangle area. Depending on the option, other area residents may request the same relief.
Jonathan Perman noted the combination of signage for events at Ravinia of residential only signs
and barricades placed at residential streets which also serves as a guide to parking, as well as
police enforcement, Signs are placed at residential streets before quieter, passive events which
over time educates the audience and builds the understanding that the residential streets arc
reserved for residents. In response to Alderman Newman's motion to expedite the citizens
request before the September 21 football season begins, David Jennings said the public hearing
could be at the end of August but the timeline for sign fabrication and the cost issue are factors
yet to be determined. The flipdown signs cannot be ordered until Council approval and the
expenditure could reach $8,000410,000 (200 signs @ $40-$50/ca.), Somc ROPD's are easier
and less expensive to implement because of the size of the district and whether there is a blend
of business, residents and schools. In this case, sign issues to be determined by the Legal
Department are the wording and the authority to turn down the flipdown signs on Thursday for
Saturday enforcement. Paul Giddings suggested that when a resolution is reached, temporary
signs could be placed eliminating the waiting period and leaving ample time for the correct
wording and placement of permanent signage.
Alderman Newman advised the residents to be prepared with a neighborhood consensus
including that of the Ward Alderman Steven Engelman and try to eliminate or settle the logistic
problems before the July 31 meeting which may help to speed the process, Alderman Guthrie
said the realistic goal for conclusion to the request would be sometime during football season.
In response to Chuck Remen, David Jennings concluded that it was difficult to determine at this
point if the situation could be improved. Last year, a different plan started eliminating golf
course parking. In that case, cars were moved that were conflicting with pedestrian traffic and
decreased the amount of time it took to clear the parking lots. The shuttle buses had a positive
impact on traffic flow around the stadium. Alderman Guthrie asked about a lane for shuttlebuses
that could also be used for emergency vehicles. David Jennings responded that the streets
approved by staff did not include Central Street or Ashland Avenue in an effort to avoid heavy
vehicle and pedestrian traffic. The proposal for next season includes 23 regular buses, 15 on
the route followed last year which loops from Lincoln/Asbury/Central/Jackson; and 8 buses on
a route destined to north of Dych-- Stadium with the proposal to run on Eastwood Avenue which
may have serious neighborhood opposition. Jonathan Perman mentioned the time element with
the shuttlebus brochure and early August when Northwestern sends out the season tickets. The
� brochure is in the final design stage to be placed in the hands of t'scketholders in conjunction
with this mailing.
Possible Changes to Parking Regulations on Chancellor west or Bryant
David Jennings presented the request from three residences on the north side of
Chancellor between Bryant and Asbury to be included in the 2-hour Resident Exempt District
H. The residents report that parking spaces once available for themselves and their guests have
been taken by commuters and employees of the nearby hospital. Ward Alderman Steven
2
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Parking Committee Minutes
July 16, 1996
Engelman has no objection to this change. AldEmLviLNewman made a motion to a1212rove 1bg
request as submitted, Seconded by Jonathan Perman. No nays,,
lEte Mallon of Valet Parking
David Jennings explained that valet parking is presently a legal unregulated activity. The
results of investigations on valet parking operations such as Pete Miller's Steakhouse on Sherman
Avenue have been monopoly of parking spaces and arguments with other business owners and
their customers. The problem is that Pete Miller's has a parking lot but must drive around the
block to access the lot which cuts down their customer response time. Spaces are also reserved
on the street for use by the valet services of Roxy Cafe, Va PenFicro, Trio, and Stir Fire on
Henson (reserving two public spaces on weekends). If a decision is made to add valet parking
as a licensed business, fees or consideration should be given for the following: valet license,
sign permit, public right-of-way curb space, insurance and hold harmless agreements. Chuck
Remen asked what regulations other communities impose for valet operations. Alderman
Newman asked what ordinance was being violated other than the Zoning Ordinance requirements
of parking spaces per building. David Jennings had not investigated policies of other
communities but said that the private use of public right-of-way without a permit is a violation.
Alderman Newman advocated the valet parking ordinance and to build in significant fines and
Council approval such as in the sidewalk cafe requests because of the impact on affected blocks.
Jonathan Perman recalled previous discussion about loading zone areas and meter hooding
after hours for restaurant carry -out business. Restaurants just like any other business must
adhere to the law. Their service contribution to the community are tremendous and their service
is very important in terms of drawing people, revenue and liveliness especially in the evenings.
In keeping with the spirit of the law, and the fact that until now there has been no law, the
approach should be diplomatic, cooperative so not seen as punitive but fair to all businesses.
Alderman Newman cited examples of Trio as a new business being courteously warned against
using curb parking instead of their parking. They chose not to comply, and the City did nothing
to enforce. The Clean Plate Club is a supporting business for Evanston but that does not include
the right to destroy other businesses. There should be opposition to issuing a valet license to
Pete Miller's while they refuse to use their back parking lot. David Jennings said that the issue
is reserving a space on the street for your own business. Jonathan Perman mentioned a new
restaurant group that met for the first time a few months ago and continue to meet on a regular
basis, and that it would be well to introduce this topic for discussion at group's next meeting.
Alderman Newman asked that David Jennings provide the Committee with copies of whatever
letters are sent to restaurants in regard to the valet service.
Alderman Newman objected to the introduction of a parking tax, to which David Jennings
responded that is another item being studied by the Law Department. The intent is not to check
the driver's licenses of the valet drivers, but that a general check of insurance, license fees, hold
harmless agreements and the like be provided. The valet operator, not the business, should be
licensed because those are the entities over which there is presently no control. The Orrington
Hotel contracts a Chicago parking firm and the operation is in their own garage. The Orrington
controls the curb frontage under their canopy and the only City involvement is upon request.
Alderman Guthrie questioned the cost of valet services reserving curb spaces and if this ability
would encourage more businesses to reserve parking in front of their businesses. David Jennings
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3
Parking Committee Minutes
July 16, 1996
drew a distinction between those businesses that require curb space and those using their own
parking lot specifically for valet services.
P,riing Lat Lease with the Postal Service
David Jennings said that three -fourths of Lot 25 is currently leased to the Postal Service
(24 fenced spaces @ $64fmonth, utilizing 40 by stack -parking) and one-fourth continues to be
rented by the City on a permit system (8 permits). This lease expires at the end of July and the
Postal Service would like to renegotiate the lease. Although this is a regular enforcement route,
the 8 permit parkers call in frequently that their space is blocked or taken, and the spaces are
difficult to clear from snow. That, coupled with the fact that the size of the postal vehicles is
larger changing from jeeps to step -vans, staff recommendation and the preference of the Post
Office is to fence and rent the entire lot to the Post Office. The objection would be from the
8 long-term rentals having to relocate to other City lots, two of whom have safety concerns
because of cash transport. Alderman Newman agreed that safety was a valid concern, and
mentioned the high incidence of robbery in that area with continual traffic from the E! station
and the Metra entrance tunnel.
Staff was asked to renew the existing lease with no changes and prepare for long-term
changes and relocation of the long-term permit parkers at a later date.
der Matter*
Paul Giddings mentioned a program previously sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce
whereby the customer would have a ticket stamped by the merchant to receive an extra free hour
of parking. Jonathan Perman said this program is active but has not been r:cently promoted,
and should be advertised again.
= David Jennings presented three 24"06" banners advertising public parking, first hour
free public parking, and enter after 6PM and park free. After construction, the banners will be
placed to he visible southbound on Sherman Avenue. There are also signs on a smaller scale
to be placed at the Church Street self park entrance facing west for eastbound traffic visibility,
and two back-to-back at the Clark Street entrance which display the wording combination of the
banners.
David Jennings reported that the contract with The Consulting Engineers Group has been
officially terminated and that no response from them had yet been received.
The meeting adjourned at 9:29 PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, August 20, 1996 at 7:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted.
David H. Bar
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PARKING COMMII'1'TEE
Meeting of August 20, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie, Alderman Newman, Giddings, Perman
Members Absent; Remen, Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Guests Present: Jim Lynch, 2438 Jackson Avenue; Andy Berman, 1711 Chancellor Street;
Carolyn Wangelin, 1726 Chancellor Street; Carol Wells, 2650 Eastwood
Avenue; Jay Gilden, 2711 Eastwood Avenue
The meeting was called to order at 7:32 pm by Alderman Guthrie.
Minutes of Mgetin� of Julv 16. 1996
The minutes of the meeting of July 16, 1996 were accepted by the Committee.
PEO Activitv Report
Lt. Mangas reported that only one PEO took vacation in July. Figures may vary
somewhat from month to month but the overall number of tickets written remain fairly
consistent. Two new handheld computers are in service and this has helped considerably. Due
to construction, Downtown shoppers are given the benefit of doubt in parking violations, such
as parking over lines.
Alderman Newman questioned the legal consequences in a situation such as on Benson
Avenue where because of the construction the lanes are narrowed and marked with a double
yellow lines. If the driver ahead stops to pull into a parking space, does everyone behind have
to wait or can the double yellow line be crossed to pull around? Lt. Mangas said that crossing
the double yellow line is illegal. Most drivers do not have the patience to wait for the lane to
clear and do cross the double yellow line which, in the case of an accident, would put that driver
at fault.
Alderman Newman asked about information concerning the booting program.
Lt. Mangas said that is one of the programs that the internal Parking Group is studying.
Residential Parking near Dvche Stadium for NU Events
David Jennings reported that a meeting took place including Alderman Engleman,
neighbors, and City staff on July 31 and distributed a report which summarized the options and
techniques available in implementing the Resident Only Parking regulations around the stadium
area. However, this report does not include an alternative which was mentioned at that meeting;
namely, a "Football Saturdays ROPD" approach. The report suggests that signage would be
permanent, year-round metal signs tailored to the time period during the day and part of the
year; i.e., NO PARKING EXCEPT RESIDENTS 9AM-4PM, SEPT 1-JUNE 15, SATURDAYS
ONLY. The FOOTBALL SATURDAYS approach would not need specific dates, and obviously
would not cover any basketball games or graduations. In the area of enforcement, the Law
Department is checking other communities using that terminology. Wrigley Field uses the tern
GAME DAYS. Also listed in the report are potential problems that could occur in developing
a residential parking program. As this process proceeds toward the Public Hearing, objections
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Parking Conunittee Minutes
August 20, 1996
may arise from neighborhood areas outside the triangle boundary of Green Bay Road, North
Shore Channel and Is. b:lla Street also impacted on football Saturdays and the district may
ultimately include a broader area. Residents in attendance asked that David Jennings contact
St. Athanasius Church regarding the time restriction on signage so not complicate parking for
the Saturday evening S:OOPM services.
Cost considerations for a sign program which allows the placement of permanent signs
is preferable to a program requiring temporary signage, just as standard signs are less expensive
than fold -down signs. Parking signs for the requested triangle area arc presently estimated to
be in the $4000-$5000 range for 200 signs. Its order to give one week's notice and be included
on the agenda for the September 9, 1996 Council meeting, the Public Hearing would have to be
scheduled for the week after Labor Day. One conflicting evening meeting that week is
scheduled for Thursday, September 3, 1996 on the University campus regarding Dyche Stadium
improvements. The public notice acknowledges the proposed request though the results can
include changes as a result of the hearing. For example, public notice for District 12 (Dodge,
Church to Emerson and Lyons, Dodge to Darrow) proposed the time 8AM-5PM; however, as
a result of meeting discussions the time changed to 24-hour restriction.
By Ordinance, residents in the affected district area support the cost of the program
which is $10 per permit per year, and visitor permits @o $0.20/ea. Alderman Newman there
should be an exception for this district in charging a fee because the daily benefit in other
districts does not compare to the five -time yearly usage for this district. For those residents
paying $15,000/year in property taxes, the $10 additional charge for district permits is
unwelcome. David Jennings said the initial signage and program costs are identical regardless
of the benefit. Alderman Newman said that daily services such as enforcement are rendered to
those in other districts but in this district affected by the football games, services are offset by
the $480,000 the City receives in tax revenue on football Saturdays. David Jennings said that
an amendment to the Ordinance would have to be added eliminating the fee for Districts in effect
less than a certain number of days per year. 'Though part of the original request, residents in
attendance felt that there should be no visitor passes sold for football Saturdays. Parking on
Central Street and two other streets is prohibited and it is not acceptable for residents to be able
to provide parking to those not in the district while others have no parking yet pay a permit fee
for these five Saturdays.
David Jennings said the use of cardboard hangtag permits regardless of district would
ease enforcement throughout the area. Alderman Guthrie said that the bright -colored lsangtag
may also alert drivers to the restricted parking area. Alderman Newman was concerned that
residents who overlooked any football Saturday would have their cars towed. David Jennings
said that although this is not a recommendation, an option could be to fine but not tow the first
_ game or year.
David Barber said that in order to implement this program this Fall preparation has to
begin for Council consideration. The importance of the signs is primary, even if only
temporarily installed before the first game. Those parking should have a clear understanding
of the restriction at the beginning of the football season not midstream and, with only five home
games, the second game is midstream. David Barber summed up the proposed district program
as Saturdays only, residents only, waive $10 fee to residents, no visitor permits, with timeline
�= to be determined, for which the residents pay outstanding ticket fines and prove residency,
2
Parking Committee Minutes
August 20, 1996
David Jennings said that between the public hearing on Wednesday, September 4, 1996
and the Council meeting on Monday, September 9, 1996 a docketed agenda item Willi cover
memo and ordinance must be prepared. For this plan to be put into action before football season
commences, a consensus must be reached and the Ordinance presented, introduced and passed
Monday evening.
Rpgulatlon of Valet Parking
Jonathan Perman distributed a letter along with a copy of the proposed regulations which
was mailed to all Chamber member and 25 other restaurants who would likely have use for valet
parking services. In reply, Flat Top Grill was fairly comfortable with the proposal but had
questions regarding the sign; namely, if the signing was mandatory and, if not, what proportion
of the permit is built into the sign fee. David Jennings said the. sign was not mandatory but
optional, and no portion of the permit fee is charged in conjunction with signage. Trio
expressed reservation about the requirement of having off-street spaces. Discussions with the
Mather Foundation since their last meeting offered unused spaces to Trio for this purpose.
Alderman Newman said that Trio is on one of the busiest blocks in the City and the regulation
of off-street parking must be heeded. David Jennings said along with evidence of off-street
parking, the regulations would provide for two violation warnings and a $100 fine to accompany
each of these warnings.
Jonathan Perman said that many business owners are out of town and they have not had
a chance to respond. With all due respect to the process, introduction at the September 9, 1996
Council meeting does not provide ample time for input. Alderman Newman suggested placing
the Ordinance on the Agenda for the Committee of the Whole on September 9 to be held, or
introduced at the September 30 meeting. David Barber said the Ordinance should be drafted in
format and sent to the Law Department with any minor changes at a later date.
Alderman Guthrie asked the Committee for input regarding the guidelines to Regulation
of Valet Parking. Paul Giddings felt that the application process should be approved by City
staff. David Jennings that at the last Committee meeting Alderman Newman suggested the valet
parking ordinance be administered as are sidewalk cafe requests. Alderman Newman said that
Love's Yogurt should have to the right to objection in losing two street parking spaces to, for
example, Pete Miller's who has a 20-space parking. Pete Miller's may, in turn, concede two
lot spaces to Love's Yogurt. Love's Yogurt, owned by two families, parks behind their
restaurant. Pete Miller's 100 employees are not parking in the City garages but on the street
and under the proposed process two spaces would be lost to Love's Yogurt by application at the
Traffic Engineer's office without Council's knowledge. Alderman Guthrie concurred with
Alderman Newman that this information should have public input and Council approval with the
initial application, with the following years granted by City staff. Without approval by Council,
there is no public notice to surrounding businesses. Another example is the loading zone at
Mindscape. When this was proposed, other businesses felt this was unfair. Because of the
likelihood that there will not be a great number of valet parking licenses issued, after the initial
approval by Council, the second year could be renewed by Administration.
Jonathan Perman saia that a balance should be met between the needs of the restaurant
owners and the time-consuming bearing process of Council approval. David Barber said that
the number of valet parking permits would not be great, and the recommendations and rules set
forth by the Committee would be followed by staff. Alderman Newman asked if it would be
3
41
3
Parking Committee Minutes
August 20, 1996
automatic that the permit would be granted without guidelines to any requesting restaurant.
Alderman Newman compared this to denying requests for loading zones in the Downtown area,,
the results of which are less parking spaces for business patrons because of the removal of
meters. Paul Giddings said the purpose was Actually to free up spaces presently used by valet
services who would be constrained to two on -street spaces and the remainder in restaurant lots
or City garages. Alderman Guthrie asked if there would only be two spaces granted on each
block. David Barber said much depends on the location of the restaurants. Requests from two
restaurants for two spaces each in tltie same block may not be granted. Jonathan Pertnan said
the Committee could set the basic guidelines and staff could administer and adjudicate.
Alderman Newman cited a circumstance where the restaurant owner was unfamiliar with the
Council procedures and was unprepared to make his request for approval in person, yet he had
completed all the paperwork required. It is important for others in the block to have the
objection of others, and the importance from Council members, for the cars to be placed in the
back lot of the restaurant, and this should not be enforced as lightly as the present enforcement
for bicycles on the Downtown sidewalks.
Alderman Newman said in setting the policy and passing the ordinance, Council should
have the opportunity to meet the business owners requesting this special use permit. The
business owners should experience the regulation process, and hear questions and concerns from
elected representatives, and should be made aware that businesses not adhering to the guidelines
should have their permit revoked. Requests for special permits such as sidewalk cafes where
placing tables on the public right-of-way is a privilege, not a right, and those requesting the
privileges should be initially made aware of the consequences in not complying with the
ordinance. The meeting sets a balance of importance and places a significance on the special
use, and eliminates the misinterpretation of the policies to be adhered to in exchange for the
privilege. Paul Giddings said the process of business owners appearing in person may become
time consuming and unnecessary. David Barber felt that mandatory appearance before Council
for permits is not service oriented. Alderman Newman said that after the ordinance is passed,
regulations must be enforced for the protection of adversely affected businesses. Jonathan
Perman said that business owners should not be required to appear before Council for every
special permit request when an application process could provide the necessary information.
What would the criteria be and how could a decision reached that very evening and would they
have to return for debate if another business owner had objection to the operation of a nearby
valet service. Paul Giddings said that Love's Yogurt was originally instrumental in bringing the
valet service permit issue before the Committee, Would they also he required to appear at the
Council meeting in protest, and how is a decision reached during the proceeding. Alderman
Guthrie suggested businesses located on the block of the permit applicant he notified. Alderman
Newman said that the ordinance on paper does not mean it will be enforced. If the valet service
is granted the two on -street parking spaces, but does not park cars in the lot behind their
restaurant, the nearby restaurant simply has two less spaces for their patrons and the requesting
restaurants has two reserved. Alderman Guthrie suggested a 30-clay waiting period allowing
time for notification and objections, David Jennings asked that if an ordinance is passed
permitting two spaces on the street for valet parking, how would that request be denied due to
objection when that same business operating in another block would be approved? Alderman
_ Newman conceded to approval by staff, cautioned that enforcement would be the key to the
success of the regulation, and that all businesses receive notice of the ordinance. David Barber
4
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Parking C .. ',. • • otnimittQe Minutes
August 20, 1996
said infractions would be permit, not parking, violations and the program would be monitorcd
periodically, not by parking enforcement, but by City Public Works staff who will issue
violation notices, and the violation fine as stated in the ordinance.
Jonathan Perman said the next restaurant business meeting was the second week of
September and they would be notified of the introduction of the ordinance, One of the concepts
of the trolley car operation during football Saturdays is stop at the cafe, valet park your car, take
the trolley to the game, have dinner and not worry about the car when you return.
David Jennings said that he has contacted the City of Chicago regarding licensing, but
they have not sent us their ordinance. The proposed $150 annual license fee requires the safe
operation in no existing parking or loading zone locations and includes the optional :sign
placement. An $300 annual fee would reserve up to two legal parking spaces in front of the
business for the valet operation, with the billing year beginning from date of application. David
Jennings agreed to prepare a draft ordinance for review at the next Committee meeting.
Other Matters
Jonathan Perman related that they asked the Chicago Trolley Company to send a letter
describing the appearance, noise, and other information pertinent to the operation.
Misinformation is being disseminated about diesel fumes; however, the trolleys operate on
standard unleaded gasoline. The Chamber of Commerce has sold advertising to sponsoring
companies (First Bank Chicago, Bank One, St. Francis) to lease five trolleys. Northwestern
University also leasaione trolley. On September 12, 1996 there will be a community kick-off
luncheon promotion with Coach Gary Barnett. it is hoped that one additional trolley can be
leased.
Alderman Guthrie said she is not in favor of waiving the $10 fee with regard to the
Resident Only Parking District near Dyche Stadium. This was a special parking request from
the neighborhood and it would set a precedence if no fee were charged. Alderman Newman
objected to not denying this request while the residents were present.
The meeting adjourned at 9:04 PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, September 20, 1996 at 7:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
David H. Bar
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BARKING COMMI'1C�'ER
Meeting of September 17, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie (Chairman), Alderman Newman, Giddings, Perman
(late)
Members Absent: Remen, Reynolds
Staff Present: Barber, Mangas
Guests Present: Harrison Neighbors: Margaret Eberly, 2516 Prairie Ave; William
Carroll, 2514 Prairie Ave; Irene Bertolucci, 2514 Prairie Ave; Harrison
Manor Condo Association President Richard Wetzel, 2000 Harrison St;
Peter and Margaret Pareell, 2009 Harrison St
Valet Parking: Mike Balmer, Glen Ellyn; Mike Steinke, 710 Main St;
Matt Kates, 710 Main St
Alderman Guthrie called the meeting to order at 7:35PM, with an introduction between
members of the Parking Committee and those in attendance at the meeting.
Minutes of Meeting of f August 20. 1996
The minutes of the meeting of August 20, 1996 were accepted by the Committee as
submitted.
PEO Activity Report
Alderman Newman reported continued parking violations on Orrington Avenue. and
requested enforcement within the student district for the next month or two. Lt. Mangas said
that was a priority but, also at this time, the enforcement officers are locating vehicles on the
boot list as students return.
Paul Giddings asked what it would require to tow a particular red Honda parked on the
north side of Keeney just east of the alley east of Chicago Avenue. The front end is damaged,
the car has been booted, and it has been parked for the past three weeks. Lt. Mangas said they
would investigate this vehicle, and that an abandoned vehicle could be towed after a ten-day
period; however, if the condition of the vehicle constitutes a clear danger to the safety of the
public, such as broken windows, it may be towed immediately.
Alderman Guthrie asked if the total number of tickets issued were down in August
because of vacation time. Lt. Mangas said that discretion and leniency for packers during the
construction for the Downtown project has resulted in a decrease of tickets written for August
and September.
Continued Discussion on the Regulation of Valet Parking and Review of Proms
Ordinance
Alderman Guthrie began the discussion, and copies of Ordinance 93.0-96 Establishing
Regulations for Valet Parking were distributed. David Barber explained that David Jennings
AL
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Parking Committee Minutes
September 17, 1996
who was out of town this week had originated a draft of the ordinance based on discussions by
the Committee at the previous meeting. The permit process is to be administered and regulated
through Public Works, Citations would be issued through Public Works rather than the Police
Department. The business and valet parking operator will apply jointly for the non -transferable
permit. Up to two existing parking spaces may be used for the transfer of the vehicle. Signs
are allowed, but not required. The system is set up strictly based on the judgment of the City
Traffic Engineer regarding the use of the right-of-way (similar to guidelines used for sidewalk
cafes and the location of signs). Annual permit fees are $150 if no existing legal parking spaces
are reserved, and $300 if one or two spaces are reserved for the transfer area. Fines arc
assessed for violations and, after two violations, revocation of the license will occur if no
compliance is observed,
Alderman Newman asked about reporting an infraction and the enforcement in the
evening when there would be no office personnel to enforce the ordinance, David Barber said
monitoring would be periodic, including Saturdays, to ensure there are no violations to the
provisions of the ordinance. Complaints during non -business hours would be tape recorded at
the Traffic Engineering office. Alderman Newman said that there arc violations of the existing
sidewalk ordinance which are not being enforced.
Harrison Condominium President Richard Wetzel explained the parking problems for
residents near the new Dolito's Restaurant on Central Street. Resident Karen Dagion-Wetzel
said the consequences of the restaurant losing their valet license would simply be that customers
park in the street. With respect to Dolito's Restaurant on Central Street, the valet parking
ordinance would not address their problem. At the informal public hearing, Dolito's thought
residents were objecting to the application for liquor license when in fact the issue was on -
parking spaces being filled by restaurant patrons and employees. The present District 7
restriction Monday -Saturday 7AM-9AM addresses the early -morning train commuters but not
the everting parking. Their rondo building has 15 units, with a rotating share system of only
5 parking spaces, and this presents numerous problems. Another condominium on the corner
of Harrison and Prairie reported that the Dolito valet service not only parks cars in all free
spaces available but that the exit from the condo indoor parking garage is directly across from
Dolito's. The valets consistently block the driveway and, being a one-way street, the right rum
is very difficult to maneuver. Alderman Guthrie advised the residents to notify Lt. Mangus
when this situation occurs. David Barber said that as part of the valct parking application
process the business is required to move the vehicle to specified off-street parking and that fines
will be assessed for violations. David Barber said that although he did not have the information
available for District 7 residents, David Jennings would review the options that may be effective,
which may include extending the two-hour restriction until 9:OOPM, though at this time the
enforcement officers are off duty after S:OOPM. Alderman Newman said this problem is similar
to that in Ward 1 near Davis Street in which the restriction ends at b:OOPM. The two-hour
REPD has worked very well in Ward 1 both for the businesses and residents. Though many
cars are restricted from the district, the regulation serves to benefit business patrons and
residents. Alderman Guthrie said after City staff studies the options for the residents near
7
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Parking Committee Minutes
September 17, 1996
Dolito's restaurant they will be sent notices or an agenda when the results are determined, which
may be as soon as the October 15, 1996 Parking Committee meeting.
Alderman Guthrie said discussion from the previous meeting included complaints that
employees from Pete Miller's, coupled with the valet services, were parking at metered spaces
on the street in front of other restaurants which are especially busy during the summer months.
Valet businessowner Mike Balmer said that their drivers are courteous and respectful of passerby
drivers, and do not prevent or block parking in open spaces, The Rotary building parking lot
directly across the street. and the Holiday Inn lot, are open free -of -charge after 6:OOPM, and
people uninterested in the valet service are told about the Rotary lot. The Holiday Inn lot is
consistently full and almost all are patrons of nearby restaurants. Alderman Newman said that
most people consider the Rotary lot as private. Mike Balmer said that even if the valets took
the cars they park to the Sherman Avenue garage and behind Pete Miller's it would only empty
about 15 spaces on the street. During the winter when some spaces are blocked by snow they
need more room close by in addition to Pete Miller's lot. Alderman Newman asked about the
Sherman Avenue garage, to which Mike Balmer replied that not only is the cost prohibitive but,
if the valets were forced to another parking lot crossing Davis Street and around one-way streets
to retrieve the car, the customer would be waiting over ten minutes. The present operation in
the area in front of Pete Miller's is only taking spaces that would be filled by patrons regardless
of the valet service. Alderman Newman said valets for Pete Miller's should first park vehicles
in the private back lot, leaving the on -street spaces for patrons of nearby restaurants who do not
have that option. Mike Balmer said that during the summer, on a Friday night between 5:OOPM-
10:30PM, Pete Miller's valets may park a total of 30-40 vehicles. There may be 1-3 vehicles
parked between 5:OOPM-6:OOPM; 1-3 between 6:OOPM-7:OOPM, 15-20 between 7:OOPM-
8:OOPM; and the balance for the evening between 8:00PM-11:00PM. The option of where to
park in a public business area should be apes an a first -come, first -served basis. Almost all the
patrons remain until after 9:OOPM. The owners of Love's Yogurt, employees from nearby
businesses, office personnel from the 1557 Sherman building also park in the Pete Miller's lot
which reduces the available spaces for valet parking to 20. Cars would have to be positioned
for prompt access which is an important function of a valet service. Alderman Guthrie
questioned the possibility of the valets parking cars in the Rotary lot. Mike Balmer said the
= insurance policy presently designates on-t: .-et public parking and the use of Pete Miller's lot
and, to change this, would require an amvdment which is not affordable. Jonathan Perman
asked what was the furthest distance from Pete Miller's that the valets park vehicles on -meet.
Mike Balmer said the furthest distance to on -street parking would be shorter than the distance
to the Pete Miller parking lot.
Jonathan Perman said that the Chamber of Commerce, who is a tenant in the Rotary
building would make a case for the valet service to park in their lot. Mike Balmer said that he
y has been in the valet business for eight years and a profitable business requires that the valets
show up for work on time and keep the street filled with cars. Eliminating the valet parking
would only terminate a service to patrons because the same amount of cars will be parked with
or without the service. Alderman Newman said from his point of view the business may be a
3
Parking Committee Minutes
September 17, 1996
welcome service, but in reality there is illegal sign posting and exclusively using the on -street
public parking as a parking garage, all at the expense of the general public. Mike Balmer asked
how it was considered exclusive to park on a public street. Spaces are not being saved or
reserved, and there is no loading zone. The vehicles belong to the general public, and the
business is only a service. The cars would be on the street regardless of whether the valet
service or the general public parked the vehicles. Paul Giddings said there have been times
when 3-4 cars have been doubled -parked in front of the restaurant, waiting for on -street parking
spaces to open and, as soon as they do, the valets fill it immediately, There is no equal
opportunity for patrons looking for an open space. Tltey are not going to find one unless by
immediate coincidence. Lt. Mangas gave the example of last Thursday, September 12, about
6:30PM, northbound on Sherman, where a red sports car was double-parked. Though some
time had passed, the car was still there when an officer arrived. While ticketing the vehicle, one
of the valets harassed and belittled the officer saying, "Don't you have more important things
to do?" and "Why are you hassling me I'm just trying to make a buck." Lt. Mangas informed
Mike Balmer that the valet service is not being singled out by officers, but if an officer does see
cars double-parked they will be ticketed. Alderman Newman said that in responding to
complaints from other businesses, the officer is doing his job.
In response to Alderman Newman, Mike Balmer said that on a Friday night, if 40 cars
are parked at 6:00PM, there may be 75 % retraining in those parking spaces until 9:00PM.
Alderman Newman said, as the situation presently exists, if there were 20 metered spaces on
Sherman Avenue, Pete Miller's would probably control most of them. Love's Yogurt, Mexican
Cafe, and Trattoria Demi would have no chance for the customer to park.
Alderman Newman said there are two issues to be addressed. One issue is free parking
at the meters after 6:00PM. Alderman Newman said that Pete Miller's parking lot is the perfect
solution to parking the valet -serviced vehicles, especially for those parking three hours. Love's
Yogurt pays rent of at least $3500/month. Love's Yogurt, and the other smaller businesses near
a Pete Miller's, must have a chance to have patrons park for 10-15 minutes but when every
available spot is immediately taken they cannot accommodate patrons. Mike Balmer said the
valets park only 40% of Pete Miller's customers and, if the valets were restricted and forced to
park all cars in the Pete Miller lot, the customers are themselves are still going to take the on -
street metered spaces. There will still be people double-parking and walking to Love's Yogurt.
The problem of available on -street parking spaces will not be solved, and the only result will
be in taking business away from the valet service.
Alderman Newman asked about installing one -hour meters in the 1500 block of Sherman.
David Barber said the problem with short-term meters is that the patron does not realize until
_ the vehicle is parked that the meter is short-term. They are likely to move again and this can
be frustrating. Consistency is important, and that is the two-hour meter in the Downtown
business district; however, another option is extending the hours of operation until 9:00PM.
Alderman Newman asked about changing the Downtown meter rates to $0.50/hr. David Barber
said an increase in meter rates, which have not changed in the past 12 years and are relatively
inexpensive in comparison to other cities, was recommended some time ago to protect the
4
Parking Committee Minutes
September 17, 1996
integrity of the fund, the general operation of the system, and to encourage parking in the City
garages, Mike Balmer said that the meter fee is tagged to their hourly fee so this would not
affect their business. It is a problem motivating the valets to work alone outside, especially in
the winter, from 5:00PM to Midnight. Presently, valets park all cars in the back lot and move
them if an on -street space opens. The valet operation is dependent upon on -street parking
because of the time element involved in retrieving cars; without that access, it would probably
not be profitable and the operation would close. Alderman Guthrie said the complaints from
neighboring businesses are that their customers cannot park because the valet service has taken
all on -street spaces. Compounding the problem is that employees take the on -street parking
nearest their place of employment. This does not benefit the employer who needs parking
spaces for his patrons; whereas, the valet service is providing a parking service for the benefit
of businessowners and their customers. Alderman Guthrie said increasing and enforcing new
meter rates would open up on -street parking and may force all -day parkers into City garages.
Jonathan Perman reported that the restaurant owners including Fiat Top Grill, Trio, and
Va Pensiero support the idea of valet parking, and the proposed ordinance. This is an elegant
way of serving customer's needs. The ordinance suggests that businesses using valet parking
would be asked not to double-park but would also eliminate up to two metered on -street spaces.
The question was asked whether businesses that have a loading zone, such as The Homestead,
or have alley access such as Flat Top Grill, would be required to reserve on -street parking
spaces. David Barber said the valet parking fee is $150 if no on -street spaces are required.
There have been reports that the Church/Chicago lot was closed for late entry. Alderman
Newman said that security prohibits cars from entering the garage after 1 i:00PM, but valets can
walk through to retrieve a car and the exit is open 24-hours. Jonathan Perman asked if the valet
parker were using the Sherman Avenue or Church Street Self -Park, could there be an immediate
designated area reserved for valet parking. Alderman Newman asked if, as a scenario, they
would be willing to agree to 30 spaces after- 6:00PM on the second floor of the Church Street
lot? Jonathan Perman thought this would be acceptable. Pete Miller's, Roxy's, Trattoria and
Flat Top are all within 11/z blocks of public garages. Va Pensiero, however, has their own lot
but cannot accommodate all patrons, and they are quite some distance from public garages, so
if valets cannot use street spaces they have legitimate concern how they would be available to
service their customer parking needs. David Barber said it is up to the permit applicant to
explain their individual needs, and the City is willing to work with them. Alderman Newman
moved that the Regulations for Valet Parkins be submitted to City Council at the Sertember 30.
1996 meeting. Seconded by Paul Giddines.
Mike Balmer asked what the options are if the restrictions of the proposed ordinance
make the service inoperable. Jonathan Perman said that there is a lucrative market in Evanston,
and to keep the business active tie could request to use spaces in one of the public lots, discuss
with Rotary the possibility of using their lot, or contract with another private lot. The policy
makers in Evanston are flexible and willing to look at unique situations. This type of service
has never been regulated in Evanston and, it if does not solve the intended problems, we will
be back at the table; and, if it does work, including the profitability for the valet service, then
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Parking Committee Minutes
September 17, 1996
we will all be the better -off for it. We want to encourage businesses to come into Evanston and
make a living. Alderman Newman said Mike Balmer could make any additional arguments at
6:OOPM on September 30, 1996. Merman brie asked for a vote to recommCud thIj
oEdinancgj2_e_ent to C' No navy.
Paul Giddings asked if the review of the unrestricted parking on Sherman Avenue which
was requested by Alderman Heydemann would be complete by the holiday season. David
Barber said that David Jennings' time has been expended with requests for parking relief from
residents around Dyche Stadium during the football season, the shuttlebus service, and other
issues requiring timely responses, and that this item will be on the agenda in October.
The meeting adjourned at 9:14PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, October 15, 1996 at 7:30 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
avid H. Barber
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Meeting of October IS, 9#
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie (Chairman), Alderman Newman, Giddings, Reynolds
Members Absent: Remen, Perman
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Alderman Guthrie called the meeting to order at 7:33PM.
Minutfs of Meeting, of September 17, 1226
The minutes of the meeting of September 17, 1996 were accepted by the Committee as
submitted.
PEOActivity Report
Alderman Guthrie asked if the decrease in tickets issued resulted entirely from the
Downtown construction project. Lt. Mangas said that construction has cut down meter
enforcement. In addition, one PEO was assigned ten -clay duty at the Holiday Inn, two PEO's
were dedicated to football games, and court time backlog accounted for the balance of the
difference.
Lt. Mangas reported that traffic and shuttlebus service ran smoothly for the Northwestern
vs. Michigan football game, with just over 200 tickets issued. Paul Giddings said the Peter Jans
Golf Course realized $3000 from food catering to 350 Michigan fans and 126 from Bank One
who parked in the lot at the American Legion Hall on Central Street.
Alderman Newman asked about booted vehicles, Lt. Mangas said approximately 125
out-of-town cars were tagged (stickered). Lt. Mangas said there would be no problem in adding
the booted vehicles to the monthly PEO Activity Report and would start a tally for the next
month. David Barber said that City Collections Manager Gerald Gibson has resigned and will
be leaving Tuesday, October 22. Lt. Mangas said that Gerald Gibson had been extremely
helpful in setting up the mail notification system for boot -eligible vehicles. David Jennings said
that computer problems occurred just at the end of the mailing preparation.
In response to Alderman Newman, David Barber said a report on the supervision of
a PEO's by the Police Department vs. the Public Works Department should be available in
November. Included in the needs to be addressed would be jobs such as mail runs, crossing
guards, traffic control, fire and towing.
In response to a question from Paul Giddings regarding meter feeding, Lt. Mangas said
that if the Police Traffic Section were notified, violators would be chalked. Paul Giddings said
that the level of enforcement is crucial, and any meter restriction is ineffective unless there are
sufficient PEO's to chalk and follow-up.
The PEO Report was accepted by the Committee.
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Parking Committee Minutes
October 15, 1996
two-hourDavid Jennings presented the request from Alderman Heydcmann to change the
unrestricted parking on Sherman Avenue between Dempster and Greenwood to two-hour metered
parking. David Jennings also attached a proposed Ordinance that would make this change,
which would be sent to the Law Deparment and submitted to Council if approved by the Parking
Committee. Alderman Newman moved to angMv_e the reaMjS as submitted. S;;igd by Paul
g'dt din_es. No naY:L David Jennings said the Ordinance would be introduced to Council on
October 28, 1996.
Reference from Alderman Engelman to consider estnblishing a Residents Oniv Paris
District on Colfax west of Prairie
David Jennings defined the request from Alderman Engleman to expand Residents Only
Parking District 7 on Colfax between Brown and Prairie. Residents of the 1800-1900 blocks
of Colfax submitted a petition requesting to be included in the ROPD. Reconstruction of tite
Central Street Metra station and embankments resulted in the loss of parking stalls on Poplar and
in City Lot 54, further impacting these blocks. The vehicle license plate check disclosed
addresses from west Evanston. One factor to be considered in meeting the: criteria to the ROPD
policy requirements is that the change not affect nearby residents. For this reason, it is
suggested that residents on Prairie between Colfax and Grant, and to the east end of Grant
between Prairie and Brown, be notified of this request for consideration of inclusion in the
District 7 expansion.
Alderman Newman expressed concern that limiting these areas to residents only would
exclude other Evanston residents from parking near the Central Street train station. The ROPD
near Main Street includes all Evanston residents. David Jennings said that he would notify
Alderman Moran and Alderman Engleman of this request and the possible impact on residents
of Wards 6 and 7, and invite them to attend the November 19, 1996 Parking Committee
meeting. Alderman Guthrie said that notices of the proposed district could also be posted by
flyers on the cars parked in the area and at the train station.
Parkin Articles from Chicaeo TribuU
Alderman Guthrie was waiting for a return call from Patrick Clear to discuss his opinion
on permit parking as published in the September 18, 1996 Chicago Tribune.
Other Matters
Alderman Newman said that a constituent in the 700 block of Emerson between Sherman
and Orrington called to state concern about finding a parking space in the evening when she
returns home. With the significant incidence of robbery near the EL station being a concern,
Alderman Newman asked if a study of the vehicle license plates could be done during the
evening hours, and that this be placed on the agenda to hear from residents. David Jennings
said that some areas have capacity problems due to population density and too many cars for the
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Parking Committee Minutes
October 15, 1996
street for which little can be done; however, a check of the area would disclose the parking
problems.
David Barber said that the Regulations for Valet Parking Ordinance 93-0-96 was adopted
by Council at the Monday, October 14, 1996 meeting. Regarding the ROPD requested by the
Evanston Neighbors around Dyche Stadium, a representative attending the Council meeting said
that they lacked general consensus and asked that the request be withdrawn.
A request was submitted from Patricia Whitmeyer for vehicle license check on Hinman
from Church to Davis, and on Church cast of Hinman, to determine where cars come from for
consideration of a 6:00PM-10:OOPM ROPD.
Alderman Newman asked for nighttime enforcement of the NO PARKING HERE TO
CORNER sign at Colfax and Sherman.
David Reynolds said the Illinois Municipal League cited future plans to place bar codes
on license plates as a source of immediate identification. David Jennings said this would require
handheld equipment and the present ticket history source is computer printouts with the violator
receiving a copy.
The meeting adjourned at 8:55PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday. November 19. 1996 at 7:30PM.
Respectfully submitted~
David H. Barber
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Draft - Not Approved
PARKING COMMITTEE
Meeting of November 19, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Guthrie (Chairman), Alderman Newman, Giddings, Remen,
Reynolds
Members Absent: Perman
Staff Present: Barber, Jennings, Mangas
Guests: Patricia Widmayer, 420 Church St; Larry Widmayer, 420 Church St
Alderman Guthrie called the meeting to order at 7:35PM.
Minutes of Meeting of October 15. 1996'
The minutes of the meeting of October 15. 1996 were accepted by the Committee as
submitted.
PEO Activity Rggg
IA. Mangas reported 72 cars stickered for October, 38 boots placed, and 22 boot -eligible,
and that fines are being collected as a result of the program. The PEO report was accepted by
the Committee.
Alderman Newman asked the status of the list of the 100 most boot -eligible vehicles.
Lt. Mangas said the active list has changed because some of the targeted vehicles were removed.
This information was provided by Gerald Gibson and has not been revised since his resignation.
Vehicle owners are given 30 days after the mail date, which was December 3 or December 4,
to pay the tickets. The last time notices were sent the Department ran out of boots.
Alderman Newman asked for a report perhaps every other meeting with information such
as how many are being seized. Lt. Mangas said this could be reported monthly on the PEO
report as requested in the past. Alderman Newman said Chicago is using NO PARKING HERE
TO CORNER tow zones in the evening around residential neighborhoods where there is
presently little enforcement, and asked if tow trucks could remove vehicles on sight.
Lt. Mangas said a sworn Traffic Officer rest authorize the impoundment of vehicles. Not all
towing service drivers are aware of code violations. David Jennings said there are some
installed around some alleys, fire hydrants and other critical zones. Alderman, Newman said that
placing tow zones in the University area may curtail such activities where little respect is shown
for parking regulations and signs are pulled out of the ground for convenience parking.
Paul Giddings said he has not seen a PEO chalking at the meters in the
Chicago/Dempster area in the past six months. Lt. Mangas said that PEO's regularly rotate
areas throughout the City for meter over -time enforcement so that all neighborhoods receive the
same service but there is no plan to concentrate ticketing in one area. In the case of the recent
fire, six PEO's were reassigned to traffic control for most of the day. Alderman Guthrie
recalled discussion about focusing attention in certain areas such as when students return to
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 19, 1996
school to instill the belief that enforcement occurs. Alderman Guthrie witnessed enforcement
in the Grove/Hitunan area at 10:3OAM, so that people parking at 8:OOAM or 9:OOAM make it
past lunch before having to move their cars. Lt. Mangas said they are finishing a long-term
special request for Alderman Newman in the 1900 'block of Orrington. The area is being
chalked, ticketed and reported daily. When enforcement stops, the problem returns. Special
requests remove PEO's from other areas. Chalking at 9:OOAM and ticketing at 11:O0AM would
be ideal but variables occur such as replacing five crossing guards who called in sick on
Thursday. Alderman Newman requested City staff report on the frequency of PEO's performing
duties other than coverage of on -street regulations and metered spaces, for which they are hired.
Too many additional assignments represent an inefficient use of ticket writing resources for
which they were hired. If there are too few crossing guards, that issue must be addressed, and
limited resources must be confronted. Lt. Mangas said crossing guards perform an extremely
necessary duty against liability to the City in the protection and safety of school children. The
applicants for the crossing guard position are retirement age whose health is not in prime, and
must work under conditions such as the element of weather and short-term daily assignments.
On short notice, it is more cost effective and practical to assign a PEO to this duty for one hour
than to request a sworn Police Officer while a citizen waits for service. Alderman Newman
concurred, and if the PEO's are assigned to crossing guard duty on a frequent, regular basis then
the demand for parking enforcement increases.
Chuck Remen asked if this discussion is part of the report the Committee was expecting
involving Public Works vs. Police Department. David Barber said that report is still
forthcoming and will be discussed at a later date. Alderman Guthrie asked if there was a pool
of reserve crossing guards. Lt. Mangas said there is presently no reserve, and they are waiting
for applications from Human Resources. Candidates who pass the requirements are put on the
list as alternates and called when needed. According to a survey the pay of four hours daily
without benefits is competitive or better than other surrounding communities. Paul Giddings
suggested that Lt. Mangas contact the Senior Action Center for their organized pool of job
seekers. Alderman Guthrie also suggested the Commission on Aging. Lt. Mangas said it is a
tough job to sell because of the weather elements and requirement of transportation to the site
for the short-term, twice daily commitment. Lt. Mangas thanked Alderman Guth.4e and Paul
Giddings for their suggestions and said he would pursue their recommendations.
Discussion of Extending Meter Enforcement Times into Evening Hours in the CBD
Alderman Guthrie asked for Lt. Mangas' continents about extending parking enforcement
to 9:OOPM in certain evenings in the downtown area. Lt. Mangas said that under the present
contract, the conditions of employment for PEO's specify daytime hours Monday thru Friday.
There are presently three PEO's working 7:OOAM-3:OOPM, and the rest working 9:OOAM-
5:30PM. They could be asked to work evenings on a voluntary basis, just as they are presently
volunteering to work on Saturdays. The handheld computers are turned over at the end of each
shift to the Supervisor who works 10:OOAM to 6:30PM and whose last 11h-hour duty each day
is to upload the scofflaw information into the computers for the City to download the next
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 19, 1996
morning. Ticketing in the evening hours would require a change in work schedules and the
present computer system which will not take two 1 IA -hour simultaneous uploads to the City.
Alderman Newman said that the analysis at this point was not to discuss with staff the
workability, but that the Committee decide whether or not parking meters should be enforced
until 9:OOPM. If yes, staff must determine the method; if not, and the issue is financial, staff
should so report to the Committee. Alderman Guthrie said the objection is contractual, not
financial. Alderman Newman said that perhaps new employees could be hired as a result of the
additional meter and ticket revenue, with the new positions advertised as nights and Saturdays.
The expected additional ticket revenue should be projected before this consideration is put into
place, and whether it is in the best interests of the Downtown to have the meter times extended
from 6:OOPM to 9:OOPM Monday thru Saturdays.
Chuck Remen asked for an overview of the pros and cons of such an operation.
Alderman Newman said opposition includes charging for something that is presently free, and
staffing. Encouraging employees to take advantage of the free evening parking in the garages
would result in on -street parking turnover and be appreciated by business and restaurant owners
and their patrons. David Jennings said extending the meter times would be an appropriate
parking policy in the Downtown. The intent of daytime meters promoting turnover is inherently
identical in the evening. Issues to be reconciled involve the mechanics of placing this into
practice.
David Reynolds asked about the possibility of advertising free garage parking on the
parking meters and, by so doing, those patronizing the garages in the evening may become
- accustomed and also turn to the garages during the daytime hours. David Jennings said though
advertising may be advised, the wording on the meters presently includes times to feed and that
the vehicle cannot be left in space longer than two hours, and additional information may detract
from the parker getting this message. Chuck Remen said that at night there may be first-time
visitors who are not aware of the parking garages. Alderman Guthrie said suburbs generally do
not operate nighttime meters and visitors will not expect the change, and that changes in the past
have generated both favor and opposition. Posting should state regulations, and that parking in
the public garages is free of charge as an alternative, secondary message. David Jennings said
though the time is specified within the meter, he has observed meter -feeding in the evenings in
Downtown Evanston. Minneapolis posts 18"x24" signs on each block reading METERS
3 ENFORCED UNTIL (TIME). Champaign, Illinois, operates 24-hour meters displayed within
the meter, with no street signage. Alderman Newman said Chicago advertises within the meters
in the Rush Street area as to whether the meter operates 9:OOAM-6:OOPM or 9:OOAM-9:OOPM.
David Jennings referred to the results of the three consecutive studies during the same time
period on Sherman Avenue between Davis and Grove. The study revealed that a significant
AN
number of spaces were occupied by employees or other long-term porkers which may be reduced
with a change in regulations, posting the new regulations on all affected Downtown blocks.
Patricia Widmayer of the Southeast Evanston Association and member of the Hinman -
Church Condo Association referred to an October 9, 1996 letter addressed to Alderman Guthrie.
The concern is for parking relief in the neighborhood between Chicago Ave and Lake Michigan
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 19, 1996
south to Dempster. Church and Lakefront events, retirement homes and the opening of the John
Buck apartment building in the spring make finding parking for residents during the evening and
weekend extremely difficult. The requests to the Parking Committee include: (1) extending the
two-hour parking restriction from 9:OOAM-6:OOPM Monday thru Saturday to 7:OOAM-11:00PM:
(2) enforcing the parking restrictions; and (3) continue issuing resident stickers and guest passes
for residents east of Chicago Avenue. Chuck Remen asked if extending meter enforcement
times in the Downtown area would adversely affect the already existing problem, which Patrichi
Widmeyer answered affirmatively. The issue is how to deal with employees parking in the
Downtown area who under the new regulations will find their way to unrestricted residential
streets. The alternative of free parking in the garages is already available after 6:OOPM and not
being utilized.
David Barber suggested that EVMARK, who has contributed half of the cost of the
Downtown Streetscape project, and the Chamber of Commerce should be asked their opinions
about changes in Downtown si;nage and regulations before the December meeting.
Alderman Guthrie asked Lt. Mangas if those PEO's hired recently are of the
understanding that they work days only. U. Mangas said though not involved in hiring process,
the Supervisor informed him that employees were hired to work only daytime Monday thru
Fridays. The Saturday enforcement is voluntary. David Barber said that the AFSCME contract
requires 30-day notice for permanent changes in employee's shift assignments. Lt. Mangas said
that Saturday enforcement is presently incorporated around vacation and sick time on a voluntary
basis which generally affords two PEO's.
Alderman Guthrie concluded that Committee approval is favorable to extending meter
enforcement times and parking regulations in the CBD upon support of EVMARK, the Chamber,
and area businesses, and evaluation of the projected revenue.
Discussion of Extending Parking Re l ti n Outside the CBD
Alderman Newman asked Patricia Widmayer to describe the effect that extending the
parking regulations would have on their Associations' requests. Patricia Widmayer responded
that the District B two-hour restriction is regulated 9:OOAM-6:OOPM which allows someone to
park at 4:OOPM until 11:00PM without the visitor pass so that, before the recommendation of
extended hours this should be taken into consideration. Alderman Newman said the two-hour
REPD accomplishes two purposes: (1) prevents employees from parking all day by the $25
violation fine; and (2) creates parking space turnover for patrons of businesses east of the CBD.
After 4:OOPM, when employees, visitors and residents converge in the same area until 6:OOPM,
what benefit and problems would there be to extending the time to 10:OOPM. David Jennings
said the benefit would be eliminating the long-term parkers, and free up space of people who
park at 4:OOPM, opening the area to residents at no additional cost. The disadvantage is the
two-hour limit. David Reynolds said that on behalf of businesses it is hoped that patrons would
spend more than I Ih hours in the downtown. Patricia Widmayer said First Methodist is using
their space more and more for rental and other activities beginning at 6:OOPM or 7:OOPM.
Festivals and celebrations on the lakefront bring many people to the neighborhood on the
4
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Furking Committee Minutes
November 19, 1996
weekends. The new John Huck building has a capacity of only 1.2 cars per unit. The now
Super Crown will be opening around the corner, and employees will be reporting in the evening,
Working with Trio is another goal. The intent is not to chase business customers out of the
neighborhood, but to all work together to help relieve the pressure. The Hinman/Church Condo
building, built in 1908, has 18 units, 24-30 cars, and 12 parking spaces which were gained at
the loss of yard space. Alderman Newman said that Church/Hinman is a very crowded area and
one in which you are almost guaranteed not finding a parking space, Patricia Widmayer said
that parking spaces can be found during the daytime when enforcement keeps spaces turned
over; however, between 6:00PM-8;00PM there is nothing available. The only place in the area
with all -day parking is the 1700 block of Judson taken early in the morning by coast etion
workers from the Buck building site.
Chuck Remen said the request was very reasonable and that there are alternate,
convenient parking areas for displaced parkers. David Jennings said that District B had not yet
been quantified and analyzed as was District A. David Reynolds asked if an impact survey must
be completed before extending the hours of an existing district. David Jennings said as part of
the process involved any time you change, add to or create a new district a public hearing must
be held. Exceptions may be granted if there is no other alternative for those needing the
exception; there is space available based on a survey of the area; and, the neighbors affected do
not object. Alderman Newman said he would not want to make the change without a public
hearing where those affected could be educated or voice their concerns. Patricia Widmay-�r said
that the purpose of attending this meeting was to open conversation about how we could work
together for a solution to the parking problem before the projects are completed and problems
arise.
David Jennings referred to a map of REPD A showing the results of the survey of cars
parked in the 1900 block of Sherman and Orrington and the 700 block of Emerson at midnight.
Alderman Newman said the constituents in the 700 block of Emerson were unable to attend the
meeting, but asked if the 16% of the 91 cars surveyed from out of state were presumed to be
students living in dormitories. David Jennings said they could be students, or people who live
in the district but their vehicle is not registered in Evanston and ma,,- be eligible for a permit.
Though not opposed to extending the two-hour limit, it is likely the streets would be parked at
about the same level at which they are now parked. Alderman Newman said those living on the
700 block of Emerson and 1900 Sherman find absolutely no open parking spaces late in the
evening, and in the 1900 black of Orrington those searching for a parking space are competing
with Foster -Walker. Extending the hours may not clear up the problem for 700 Emerson; but
of the 37% out -of -Evanston plates, if they are Northwestern students, the hours should be
extended on a experimental trial basis to discourage them from bringing cars. Extending the
hours would require District permits, for which residents would be required to pay outstanding
parking tickets. Alderman Newman asked that this be added to the list of hearings. Chuck
Remen asked if the hearings could be held simultaneously. David Jennings said though it is
possible, the crowd drawn would be undetermined. There have been times when 700 notices
sent drew 20 people; 60 notices drew 50 people; and small blocks drew every household.
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Parking CbnuWttee Minutes
November 19, 1996
Alderman Newman and Alderman Guthrie noted open parking spaces when school is not in
session, as a result of students leaving and homeowners unaffiliated with the University
vacationing over holidays.
D xU01on of Parking Issuts near Kendall College
David Jennings said City Manager Roger Crum invited him to a meeting with the Kendall
College President Dr. Madsen. David Jennings explained (illustrated by map) that REPD A and
District 1 which is primarily ROPD have two or three block faces with two-hour parking. Seven
block faces with unrestricted parking include the north side of Colfax, Sheridan to On ngton;
the north side of Lincoln, Sheridan to Orrington; the south side of Lincoln, Orrington to
Sherman; the east and west sides of Orrington, Colfax to Lincoln; the east side of Orrington
Colfax to Milburn; and the east side of Sherman, Colfax to Lincoln.
Kendall College is presently operating under capacity in the classroom and dormitory.
As a special condition of operating the culinary school they must also offer a liberal arts
program. Kendall faculty and staff totals 95, 450 students (300 commuters, 135 residents), and
a 90-space parking lot. Dr. Madsen made two requests: (1) Kendall be offered the same
program as provided to the Orrington School faculty and staff which is the ability to buy permits
to park in residential districts. If this were granted, the same would not be offered to students;
and (2) Change some of the two-hour streets to four-hour for the purpose of accommodating
student schedules, some of whom attend the culinary school for classes lasting eight hours but
move their cars every two hours in compliance with the restriction. Parking is available on two
empty blocks, and some on Milburn between Sherman and Orrington but the general status is
bumper to bumper parking. Sherman and Orrington north of Milburn are open which indicates
the resident only and resident exempt districts created are effective. These are the areas which
could be changed to four-hour parking, and give relief to a condition that at present there is no
other way to solve. Studies indicate that the early Roycemore faculty take the last open spaces.
The Kendall parking lot has legal parking overnight but must be cleared by 7:OOAM or 8:OOAM
so the dormitory students have access at night, but by 7:00AM or 8:OOAM the new parkers are
faculty, staff and students on a first -come basis. David Jennings suggested four-hour parking
on the streets that are empty; i.e., the east side of Sherman Colfax to Lincoln; the west side of
Orrington, Colfax to Lincoln; east side of Orrington, Lincoln to Milburn; the south side of
Lincoln, Orrington to Sherman; and the north side of Lincoln, Sheridan to Orrington. Parking
characteristics of unrestricted spaces show that cars remain indefinitely. Alderman Newman said
this issue was discussed during an earlier meeting with Alderman Engelman and Dr. Madsen.
Commuter colleges must provide ample parking and the aggravation for students and faculty has
resulted in complaints and decreased enrollment. David Reynolds contrasted the comparison
between this request and Orrington School who worked hand -in -hand with an overwhelmingly
favorable neighborhood.
David Barber presented the option of daytime on -street permit parking, selling the
permits to Kendall and Roycemore who in turn implement a program issuing daytime permits
to park in the five block faces around their institutions. This concept has been effective for
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Parking Committee Minutes
November 19, 1996
businesses in very tight areas in selling on -street spaces to employees. Alderman Guthrie said
car pooling could be encouraged by prioritizing multiple names for one space. In response to
Alderman Newman, David Jennings said there are 15 spaces per block face of 300 ft. for a total
of approximately 85 spaces. Alderman Newman said that institutions paying no property taxes,
in the middle of a residential neighborhood, should pay for such a privilege. David Reynolds
said this would be more efficient than the present usage. David Jennings said it would eliminate
unutilized spaces but questioned the legality of such a plan in residential districts. It wag
concluded that David Jennings would check with Kendall and Royccmore about the workability
of a nine -month, four-hour restriction, the number of spaces, charge per space, and the legality.
Qther Matters
Chuck Remen asked why the Zoning application for such a major, precedence -setting
project as Chandler's was not referred to the Traffic Division or the Parking Committee.
Alderman Newman said the decision presently relies on the applicant's witnesses and agreed that
before presenting to Council, the Traffic Engineer should be present at Zoning cases where there
are parking matters, parking variations or traffic issues. The Committee's effectiveness is
wholly dependent on involvement from the time of the initial application. To delay midstream
for an opinion is unreasonable. Alderman Newman recommended that a request be made to the
City Manager that the Traffic Engineer and the Parking Committee be notified if there is a
request for a major parking variation. Alderman Guthrie asked about staff attending the Zoning
Board of Appeals and making suggestions as part of the fact finding recommendations.
The meeting adjourned at 9:25PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, December 17, 1996 at 7:30PM.
Respectfully submitted,
David C. Jennings
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PARK1Nrz CQMM1fME
Meeting of December 17, 1996
Members Present: Alderman Newman, Perman, Remen, Reynolds
Members Absent: Alderman Guthrie (Chairman), Giddings
Staff Present: Jennings, Mangas
Guests: Patricia Atkins, 2005 Orrington Avenue
Alderman Newman called the meeting to order at 7:36PM.
Minutes of Meeting of November 19, 1996
Alderman Newman asked for comments on the minutes of the meeting of November 19,
11096. Jonathan Perman moved to anorove the minutes as mod. Seconded by Chuck
Rcmen..
PEO Activitv Rem
David Reynolds asked if the force was at Rill strength. Lt. Mangas said the figures are
consistent with the vacation time and other emergency duties fer that month. In response to a
request by Chuck Remen, Lt. Mangas said he would prepare a report of the PEO workdays
including emergency exceptions. Alderman Newman questioned the justification of assigning
six PEO's to four -day fire emergency duty vs. loss of ticket revenue. Lt. Mangas said the
alternative would be to hireback Police Officers at 1.5 OT; the loss of ticket revenue would
hopefully be offset by the savings in not hiring the Officers. The present staff is adequate and
in hiring more people there may be a reduction in production per person. Even with the
unforeseen emergencies, the ticket revenue is up over the 1996 total. Alderman Newman said
that better decisions are made and issues opened with more information and requested that
Lt. Mangas occasionally submit the detailed PEO report, which David Jennings said had been
furnished to the Committee regularly in the past.
Alderman Newman mentioned that he called in 30+ aldermanic requests for leaf pickup.
The leaves remain because people do not move their cars on streetcleaning days, and this
progresses throughout November until streetcleaning ends. Streetcleaning is becoming a parking
enforcement issue. Living in the Sth Ward ten years ago, cars not moved by 9:05AM were
ticketed. Part of the ability to clean the streets depends on the consistency of people moving
their cars. It is an aldermanic responsibility to see that the Police Department has adequate
resources to get the job done. Lt. Mangas said 24 cars were towed for the previous Saturday
streetcleaning, though he felt leaves fell later than usual, then it snowed which accounts for more
complaints. David Jennings said there were two things making the difference now versus ten
years ago. One is that we now allow and encourage people to rake leaves to the street which
produced a pickup of 5,000,000 lbs. of leaves per year vs. 3,000,000 lbs. per year when only
bags were required. Some people who did not formerly bag leaves are willing to rake to the
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 19%
street. Additionally, outside landscape businesses have learned of this curbaide leaf pickup
program and dump in Evanston. Because of this, the special postings are not posted far in
advance.
flit Repgrt
In response to Jonathan Perman, Lt. Mangas reviewed the Boot Report statistics
explaining that the total in both columns should be taken into account: the first is the actual
number of vehicles booted; the second is the number eligible to be stickered. Once stickered,
there is a waiting period of 30 days before the stickered vehicles become boot eligible and,
during this waiting period, scofflaws may hide their vehicles from boot crews. The owners of
nearly 100 X of the booted vehicles pay their ticket fines because they want their vehicle
returned and very few are ordered towed away for salvage. The City Collector's office sends
"gold sheets" to the Boot Officer indicating the vehicles for which fines have been paid. This
payment is in response to the process of notices sent by the City Collector's office when vehicles
reach boot -eligible status, and compliance is very effective as a result. All those who have not
complied with the notice after the 30-day waiting period are entered into the data base of the
handheld computers and are then eligible for booting. Alderman Newman asked that Lt. Mangas
provide a report of revenue collected as a result of the notice by mail and this information would
be shared with the City Council.
Alderman Newman asked if students appeared to be a large segment of the scofflaw
population and that upon their return to campus if it was possible to concentrate in that area.
Lt. Mangas answered affirmatively and explained that vehicles remain on the list unless the
entire fine is paid, or after expiration of a 5-year period. Alderman Newman asked if there was
past historic data comparing the number of bootings done this year with the numbers booted
during the period when notices were mailed regularly. This would demonstrate that sending the
notice increases booting enforcement vs. the method of the stickering program. Lt. Mangas said
he would check how long the PEO supervisor keeps these records and also check the traffic
records before the next meeting.
Continued discussion of extending parking regulations into evening hours in the CBD attd
residential areas near the CBD and Northwestern University
Alderman Newman introduced Patricia Atkins and said that another constituent Judy Fish
and other neighbors on Orrington Avenue were unable to attend but are concerned about the size
of the parking district in the Northwestern University area. Some of the previous responses
from the Parking Committee have been relayed and they feel that many people who cannot find
a place to park on Sherman Avenue are leaving their cars on Orrington Avenue. The suggestion
was that the Committee look long-term into reducing the size of the district. The present is
untimely to justify such a change because of the 1997 annual permit renewal process, but a
solution may also help with the streetcleaning problem. If fewer people were leaving their cars
for long periods then fewer cars have to be moved on streetcleaning nights. One resident
reported that the permit program is merely revenue for the City because students with out of
2
Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
state license plates are able to purchase a permit for $50 and the street is flooded with cars who
do not necessarily live on the street.
David Jennings said the problem with reducing the size of the district to keep somebody
who lives on Sherman from harking on Orrington is that they are still residents, and the only
reason they are parking on Orrington is that there are no open spaces on Sherman. If these are
students, and they do find parking on Orrington, they may walk to class and leave their car in
that same spot for 2-3 weeks. Reducing the district to eliminate that, creates the problem of
where to put that car. Alderman Newman agreed that the car has to go someplace but the 1900-
2200 blocks of Orrington are the most heavily parked in the City when school is in session.
There are 8,000-10,000 undergraduate students converging on Orrington to park during the day.
Even with the 2-hour restrictions it is very tight. If the intention of the 2-hour restriction is to
create enough turnover so residents can park in front of their house during the day, it doesn't
work if the district is so big that cars fill the street. It would be preferable to have those cars
shifted to places where there is more room. David Jennings said the 2-hour restriction was in
effect prior to establishing the REPD.
Alderman Newman asked if Patricia Atkins recalled open parking spaces in the 2000
block of Orrington (at Foster) before the REPD was established, when the only restriction was
two-hour. Patricia Atkins did not, but noted that there is always another round of parkers to rill
the spaces after each two-hour limit expires. Open street parking spaces cannot be counted on
for any events, except when students are on holiday. Guests must use the resident's private
parking spaces accessible through the alley, and the inconvenience of dropping off groceries or
not having any special deliveries is chaotic and exasperating. In addition to commuters, students
and Foster -Walker, there has been further institutional building to the back of 2000 Orrington
that has allowed traffm to egress, speeding through the narrow alley. Has there been a survey
as to whether Foster -Walker complies with the number of parking spaces? The ultimate goal
is having the benefit of parking in front of our own homes instead of paying for the privilege
and not being able to use it.
Alderman Newman has received complaints from constituents up and down Orrington that
- the 2-hour district is ineffective near the University. The zoning law exempts Northwestern
from having to satisfy the parking requirements at specific buildings, these parking requirements
may be met anywhere thoughout the University. This is something that the Parking Committee
will eventually have to visit at a later date. Chuck Remen asked why this issue should not be
discussed now. Alderman Newman said several decisions must be made in the next year or two
on the Research Park. At the time this issue was discussed in 1993 other issues were acted upon
in terms of zoning, such as creating parking districts around the campus. It was agreed that this
discussion would be set on an upcoming agenda.
David Jennings asked if there was a desire to establish both ROPD's and 2-hour
restrictions. PEO's have chalked b days per week for the past 4-5 weeks so the turnover may
be as good as possible. Them is one pass for ROPD enforcement-, the REPD requires chalking.
Alderman Newman said that the ROPD would take out all the commuting students, the present
plan is not serving businesses, and the turnover serves none. David Jennings said he would do
3
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
a turnover study when the students return from semester break. If there is a lot of stickered
daytime parking there will be displacement, and the justification for singling out the 1900-2000
blocks of Orrington for ROPD will have to be determined. Alderman Newman said because of
the close proximity to Northwestern University the district is very different from 2-hour
restricted streets going west but very similar to the Dartmouth/Garrett area. The reason is that
all the residence halls and Foster -Walker were built without on -site parking requirements.
In response to a question from Jonathan Perman, Alderman Newman said a walk-through
survey showed Ohio, California and New Jersey license plates in the alley and many had District
stickers. If further study shows that parking is available during the daytime but not night, one
of the factors would be commuters. When the students are on holiday there is parking available
on Sherman and Orrington. Jonathan Perman asked what the nighttime restriction would be in
consideration of the area's cultural use. Alderman Newman said the lot in the Family Institute
on Sheridan Road is empty in lire evenings and could be used for that purpose. Jonathan Perman
asked what percentage of the cars would be removed under an ROPD. David Jennings said the
study matched license plate numbers to addresses, and could remove 30% of the parked cars.
Alderman Newman said many of the people are moving the cars during the day.
One reason the problem is extensive on Orrington is that the violators of the parking
regulations, unlike the Downtown, are almost exclusively students. These out-of-state students
have no fear of the scofflaw list. Parkers in the Northwestern area are not as observant of the
parking regulations as in other districts because they feel secure with the out-of-state plates. A
lot of effort with aggressive booting has made some difference. Patricia Atkins said that it is
obvious that students are parking on Orrington and walking to Foster, littering along the way.
Alderman Newman said that over the past ten years the University has expanded west
of Sheridan Road and some of the uses behind Orrington Avenue, with another in the planning
stage, create an even more intensive need for parking. David Jennings said that the 2-hour
parker who may attend a single class and return is not parking illegally but is using the system
properly. Alderman Newman told Patricia Atkins that David Jennings will report back to the
Committee regarding the options. If approved, the option of removing the 2-hour restriction
would not take effect until next year because the annual permit process began in December.
Preparing the factual basis is important to present before Council because creating and expanding
districts is coming under more scrutiny. Alderman Newman thanked Patricia Atkins for
attending the meeting, and the Committee for their time.
En!<or_cemgnt of Meters and Time Limits in and near Downtown
David Jennings prepared a written summary of the meeting with Lt. Mangas. Jonathan
Perman said the PEO's time is already filled with regular daily duties, along with special
requests and emergencies, and to pull them off day and into nighttime duty may overall be doing
a disservice in the efforts to enforce F rking regulations. In that respect it would be more
prudent to hire more PEO's to handle the evening.
David Reynolds asked if there was any feeling among the merchants that they would not
71 want to have nighttime enforcement. Jonathan Perman said if the meter hours are extended to
9
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
9:OOPM a designated amount of money budgeted from this new revenue should go towards
pursuing a very aggressive public relations strategy to convince people to indeed use the garage
at night. The City, in conjunction with the merchants and the Chamber, should package the
signage and brochures in such a way that offers a service to the consumers, patrons and
employees of this community. The overall objective is to provide a product--parking--free,
convenient, off-street nighttime parking in the garages. To achieve this, the product (parking)
should be communicated and promoted to the public as a new service to patrons, not an abrupt
announcement to extend meter times and double meter rates. The timing is instrumental for the
smooth transition in this tradeoff, and the physical improvements in garage must be expedited
to make the tradeoff possible and effective.
AIderman Newman said the original suggestion was to pick one experimental street for
nighttime meters to study as a guide to reaction. The question is whether this would bring
enough revenue to support hiring PEO's. If there were one PEO to enforce overtime parking
in the beginning; and, if more turnover is created, then a second PEO to do chalking. Jonathan
Ferman said there should be a reasonable alternative for parking if the Downtown will be
enforced later into the evening, and Lt. Mangas added that employees of Barnes & Noble and
Borders bookstores do not perceive the garage to be a safe place to park at night.
Alderman Newman asked if it is in the interest of the Downtown merchants to have more
turnover at night on the streets. Jonathan Perman said that was an unqualified yes, and that
some streets such as Benson and Sherman have little or no turnover. The impact of the valet
ordinance should be monitored on Sherman between Davis and Peter Miller's before taking the
step of going to nighttime meters, because one of the key reasons that open parking cannot be
found is that the valet services are using up a good percentage of the spaces needed by other
restaurants, bookstores and the Athletic Club which are open in the evening. Alderman Newman
also cited the On ington, North Shore and Holiday Inn hotels, but said that the Downtown had
parking problems long before the valet ordinance. The ordinance may be helpful and clear 10-
15 % of the problem but it is unlikely that removing the valet spaces would create ample parking.
An interesting question to consider should be whether or not to completely rehab the
Sherman Avenue garage. The new entrance, doubling street parking and installing new lights
have greatly improved the garage but working to complete the balance of major improvements
such as rebuilding stairwells and replacing elevators must be put into the Capital Improvements
budget. We also need meaningful response to the RFP from the Economic Development
Committee which does not have the Parking Committee's sense of urgency on renovating the
Garage. If Council delays the garage renovation but extends meters and raises meter rates, then
nighttime enforcement will have to move forward quickly.
Jonathan Perman said if the motivation is to increase parkers in the Sherman Avenue
Garage then it must be an attractive building to enter. There have been improvements, but they
may never reach the level necessary to be presented as an appealing alternative to parking on
the street. If the garage renovation is approved, when would the new garage open? David
Jennings said if the design can be turned around fast enough, construction could begin, though
not completed, this calendar year. The RFP for design services will not be sent without
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
response from the Economic Development Committee, and it is financially unsound to spend
design time and money without response from the RFP descriptions which are not due back to
the City until January 17. Alderman Newman asked that David Jennings place on the Parking
Committee agenda an RFP for the garage. Jonathan Perman suggested inviting parking experts
Margaret Borshaw from Standard Parking and others to inspire and enlighten Council of the
array of parking design options available. It is not always evident that parking can be seen as
a memorable, exciting experience, Alderman Newman said when he started using the garage
across the street from his office Downtown in the late 1980's it was an uplifting, positive
experience --unique and clean, with music. Jonathan Perman mentioned the Neon Garage in
which a local Arts Council had created different Neons in each cove. Alderman Newman
suggested that the RFP be specific that we are looking for a concept.
Lt. Mangas said the comments and questions he has heard from people have stressed
safety concerns not only for themselves but their vehicles, and the perception of the
attractiveness of the garage. Jonathan Perman said if at 11:00PM someone enters the Sherman
Avenue side of the garage and the guard is on the Benson Avenue side, then they are walking
by themselves to their car without ever having even the chance that the guard may walk around.
David Jennings said that security guards make rounds and return to their stations but were not
hired to consistently walk through the garages. At Church Street, the guards do sit in the front
office when the back gates close to let those with keycards and tickets enter and exit. Alderman
Newman said this is an issue that should be considered. Alderman Newman said renovating the
30-year-old elevators, opening up the stairwells with windows and lighting is the main focus of
rehabbing the garage. The point on the RFP, if something feasible is turned iti, is to know the
amount of money we are spending. It should be moved to Council as soon as possible after
January 21 and it is important that David Jennings convince Council of the urgent y in renovating
the garage, and the implication of waiting a year.
Regarding extending meters until 9:OOPM, the option of free nighttime parking would
still be available at the garage. If, in the future, the meters rates are raised to 50CIhr. and the
garage has been renovated, the question will be nighttime enforcement. Extending the meters
on Benson to nighttime with PEO enforcement every so often at night would be an experiment
of what ticket revenue may be. If the Council delays the parking garage job, there is there a
need to move forward on nighttime enforcement quickly because there is no alternative parking.
Jonathan Perman said even if the construction and renovation of the garage is done
immediately there are still some short-term items to invest in if charging for meters at night.
Again, there must be incentives to willingly park in the garage and they must be more than
financial because we know already that even when parking is cheaper this is not necessarily a
motivation. Jonathan Perman mentioned a meeting with the Athletic Club in which they agreed
to communicate to their employees and patrons where the parking options are located, but the
unsolved obstacle is passing under the Research Park lot viaduct, and suggested that the Athletic
Club and the City share the cost of stationing security personnel there. During the summer,
when it stays light into the evening, distance and the viaduct is not an issue and parkers will use
the Research Park lot, but it remains empty and the issue reappears as the seasons change.
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
Alderman Newman suggested valet parking but did not feel the Athletic Club would pay, and
David Jennings said they were unwilling to help employees pay the cost of parking at the garage,
Alderman Newman asked if there was agreement in the City subsidizing valet parking at the
Athletic Club in order to open parking on the street because customers will not pay $5 for valet
service to the Athletic Club. Jon :than Perman said a cheaper solution would be to hire security,
David Jennings also suggested increasing the lighting under the viaduct. Alderman Newman acid
Lt. Mangas is correct that safety is the highest priority and that even with more lighting they
would continue searching for open spaces on Benson rather than enter the Research Park lot at
night. Jonathan Perman said lighting and changing the dismal perception of the viaduct tunnel
would be a cheaper solution than promoting the City garage because people would use it far
proximity alone. A meeting should be held with experts in security to determine if the solution
is personnel, lighting, valet or a combination.
Alderman Newman said it is in the interest of the business community to pay escort
service to the garage. The reason is that the City (the taxpayer) built and continue to upkeep
the garage and picked up a debt service of $700,000 which is funded from the Parking fund.
The garage satisfies the zoning requirements for many of businesses, and the incentive of free
parking has been a free service. If there were an employee escort service for all the restaurants,
would there still be the parking problem and turnover on the streets? Jonathan Perman said the
employee parking is one part of the problem; but the second part is the communications
campaign of selling the parking plan in a positive way. There should be a communications
program consisting of a total package and massive advertising campaign to let people know
about the revival of the new operation and not just charge for meters at night. To present this
abruptly would be to invite calls from aggravated merchants that the City is charging for parking
at night and the way to overcome that is to show that the City is also providing a tremendous
service. The patterns of usage have to be established; i.e., how many employees are off work
at 10:00PM or I1:00PM. Maybe patrons want to be escorted as well. Rather than having
separate meetings with merchants on all these issues, an agenda should be established
announcing Downtown nighttime meter rates, followed by a program of doubling the meter
rates, the cost of meters, cost of parking permits in the garage, and parking permits in the
garage as it relates to entry-level employees of businesses, the escort service, enforcement, and
a major communications program with signage at both gateways which includes the information
to convey to people that major changes are coming in Evanston. Consideration must be given
to the fact that for the entry-level employees of businesses to park in the garage the rates must
3 be affordable, especially with unemployment so low. Very few businessowners have private
parking lots, and the rate of $641month is 5 % of the gross income for many of these employees.
Alderman Newman asked for that important issue to be placed in writing and conveyed to City
Council because that is also an issue for the Research Park lot. The cheapest parking Downtown
will evaporate quickly.
In response to Alderman Newman, David Jennings said that City Manager Roger Crum
should be alerted to the agenda and program before setting the meeting date. The budget
recommendation of increasing the meter rates, which have not been increased in 13 years, would
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
raise over $500,000 which is necessary for the solvency of the Parking fund. Alderman
Newman said there would be a reaction from the businesses and a meeting may be a good way
of conveying that this Is in their interest for creating turnover and eliminating some all -day
parkers. If successful in the development of a movie theatre, hotel and 800-car garage In the
Research Park this will serve the Downtown community. This rate will be affected by the
increase in Downtown meter rates. 'There must be revenue to the Parking fund to pick up the
balance of what the debt service on that $10-12M development would cost. Jonathan Pcrman
said if an equal objective is to use the garage, this idea must be sold to the user, not the seller
simply by raising rates. We are dealing with an asset that we have to sell just as a private
enterprise sells its product to its customers. Alderman Newman said raising rates is necessary
to create a viable parking fund which in turn acquired lots and provided parking for the
Downtown businesses. If this is presented the right way there may be no opposition, and should
also include debt service and obligations for new garages, and an invitation to the meeting
should be extended to City Manager Roger Crum. An invitation was also extended to Lt.
Mangas. Alderman Newman also said that from a Public Works Administration perspective an
invitation should be offered to Assistant City Manager Judy Aiello to attend the Parking
Committee meetings. David Jennings said has relayed that invitation to Judy Aiello to attend
any meeting at her convenience.
Other MaJLgrj
Alderman Newman reported a request from Walter Clarkson for 4-way Stops at
Judson/Davis in an effort to reduce speeding, with an accident report to support a decision.
David Jennings cited an example of Stop signs used to control speeding at Fowler/Lake. The
corner cannot be enforced 24-hours and the result is flagrant sign -running. Stop signs control
right-of-way but are ineffective as speed deterrents.
Chuck Remen asked if the request had been made to the City Manager that the Traffic
JK Engineer and the Parking Committee be notified of requests for major parking variations and
_ special uses. David Jennings asked if he were the one to make this request. Alderman Newman
asked that David Jennings discuss with staff that the Parking Committee has requested that he
have a role in the zoning process whether it be the Council or other level near the time of the
initial application so progress is not delayed. David Jennings said he would take a copy of the
November 19, 1996 minutes where this request was originally made and ask what role or
process should be taken. Alderman Newman said the idea was not to initiate more work for the
Traffic Engineer or require attendance at time-consuming meetings such as the Zoning Board
of Appeals, but to keep the Committee alert of issues affecting traffic and parking. The
Committee, Council and the community make many additional requests of David Jennings
because he does a great job.
Alderman Newman asked that David Jennings send a memo to the 6th and 7th Ward
Z Aldermen, asking their priorities regarding creating pz rk.ing turnover for business patrons, and
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Parking Committee Minutes
December 17, 1996
parking alternatives for employees, commuters and residents on the side streets, The business
community has "no parking" established for their employees so there is no turnover during the
day as in the 2-hour residential parking restriction.
David Jennings said he discussed with Parking System Manager Jean Baucont the best
plan approach or modification for the Central Street business area. Referring to a map,
District 6 east of Green Bay and District 7 west of Green Bay, are both NO PARKING 7AM-
9AM ROPD's. This entire area was structured to eliminate train commuters while allowing
residents, business patrons and employees to mix into the residential area, This was structured
late enough so the retail businesses would have room for employees to park in the
neighborhoods. The referenced map shows the proposed addition that was introduced to Council
December 16.
Alderman Newman asked if this was the largest ROPD in the City. David Jennings said
he would chart those statistics, but District "A" is the largest residential parking district, The
groups needing to park in the proposed area include patrons, employees and commuters. The
duration of the parkers as well as the specific times the spaces are needed must be determined
(who, how long, and when). Residents are long-term duration needing 24-hour parking;
shoppers/clients probably need 2-3 hour duration between 7AM-11PM; employees, duration of
8 hours from 6AM to 12AM; commuters need 9-10 hours from 5:30AM-9PM. Consideration
must be given to who the parkers are and their characteristics; then, decide on a block -by -block
basis what parking should be allowed, and who is given the priority. A primarily residential
block with little room to mix may be residents only. If there is a multi -family block 70%
occupied by residents already, do you need to design a program that allows commuters or
employees to park there. If it is 50% resident 1 50% other, you might look at mixing some
parking, and Council discussed last evening the topic of priorities on a block -by -block basis.
The meeting adjourned at 10:23PM.
The next meeting of the Parking Committee is Tuesday, January 21, 1997 at 7:30PM.
Respectfully submitted,
David C. Je i s
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