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CITY COUNCIL * * December 16, 2002
ROLL CALL - PRESENT:
Alderman Kent Alderman Feldman
Alderman Moran Alderman Newman
Alderman Engelman Alderman Jean -Baptiste
Alderman Rainey Alderman Wynne
A Quorum was present.
NOT PRESENT AT
ROLL CALL: Alderman Bernstein
ABSENT: None
PRESIDING: Mayor Morton
The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was called to order by Mayor Morton Monday, December
16, 2002 at 9:05 p.m. in the City Council Chamber.
Announcements:
Public Works Director David Jennings reminded citizens that the schedule for refuse and recycling pickup would be
Monday -Tuesday and Thursday -Friday for the upcoming two holiday weeks. The yard waste season is over.
Parks/Forestry & Recreation Director Doug Gaynor announced that Christmas tree recycling would begin the week of
December 30 through the weeks of January 6, 13, and 20 on normal refuse/recycling days. Trees must be devoid of
decorations, not bagged in plastic and placed on the parkway for pickup by Parks/Forestry crews. Residents can drop
off their trees in James Park after those dates.
Mr. Gaynor announced that First Night Evanston would be held December 31, with entertainment and activities running
from 6 p.m. to midnight when there will be fireworks. First Night buttons are for sale at the Recreation Division.
Communications: None
Public Hearing: 2002 Property Tax Levies
Finance Director Bill Stafford reported a General Fund Levy of $14,565,000, Police Pension Levy of $3,084,902 and
Fire Pension Levy of $2,250,236. All levies were passed as part of the current year's budget in February 2002. The
second levy is for Special Service Area #4 of $250,000 and supports Evmark and the downtown business district
programs. The third levy is the 2002 Township Levy to support the current budget year that began April 2002. The levy
amount is about 10% over what is expected and done to make sure that all new properties are captured by the levy
because the Township is subject to tax caps.
Mayor Morton asked for an explanation of Evmark's contribution. Mr. Stafford said Special Service Area #4 was
created to promote downtown businesses and help maintain the downtown streetscape. A special tax is placed on these
businesses so residents don't pay for it. Evmark supports a large amount of activity downtown. Mayor Morton stated
that Evanston is fortunate that merchants agreed to a special tax on themselves that benefits the entire city by making
the downtown a pleasant place to shop.
A citizen asked for the impact on property taxes. City Manager Roger Crum explained this hearing was about next year's
taxes that pay for this year's budget, which was adopted in March. There is no direct increase on this one. He urged all
to pay attention to the next two months when Council will discuss the next tax levy that is done a year out of sequence.
Mayor Morton declared the Public Hearing closed at 9:12 p.m.
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2 December 16, 2002
CITIZEN COMMENT:
Thomas Conlev, 1632 Forest Pl., spoke of unintended consequences the Chicago Avenue Streetscape project may have
on residential neighborhoods, schools and parks east of Chicago Ave. He thought the streetscape was a beautification
project and recently learned it includes a component to remove part of the street to create a wider sidewalk. That was
a concern because he thought Chicago Ave. should be the main north/south artery for traffic through the City. He
suggested that narrowing Chicago Ave., while at the same time significantly increasing residential density there, seemed
to be going the wrong way. He noted that Chicago Ave. is a commercial street and should be widened to accept
additional traffic created by the residential developments there and downtown. He feared that additional traffic would
go into neighborhoods from South Blvd. to Emerson St. Alderman Wynne assured him that the loss of three feet of street
would not cause any loss of traffic lanes and should improve traffic flow. She pointed out the City could lose a $100,000
contribution from the developer if this was not approved. He suggested the plan is flawed in that this was only one part
of the overall traffic needs of the area and cited major traffic problems east of Chicago Ave. with at least one accident
a month in his neighborhood. Commuters race down residential streets at 40 mph or more in an effort to avoid traffic.
A friend on Forest Ave. (a narrow street) told him that cars regularly travel at 50 mph there, which terrifies him. This
summer a car coming south on Forest drove through a fence and onto the playground at Lincoln School. He noted that
people find it more difficult to get to lakefront parks and that Georgian and Mather residents have complained to
Alderman Newman. He said these problems need to be addressed and that Chicago Ave. would play a part in solving
them. He asked that this design be funded only with the caveat that a comprehensive traffic study is done to assure the
needs of all east Evanston residents are addressed.
Thomas Edstrom, attorney with AFSCME Council 31, stated that Council 31 is involved in organizing one or two
bargaining units of City employees not now represented by a union. Their plan is to file a Representation Petition with
the Illinois Labor Relations Board (ILRB) soon. He suggested that at a January meeting, City Council pass a resolution
for voluntary recognition of AFSCME, a procedure governed by the Illinois Labor Relations Act. This would allow for
posting of the voluntary recognition petition, with a period of time where other labor organizations could file to
intervene in the proceedings and turn it from a voluntary proceeding into an election. Cards signed by employees would
be reviewed by the ILRB, an independent body, and it would determine that AFSCME represented a majority of
employees in the proposed bargaining unit. Ted Loda passed out a proposed resolution, the Illinois labor Relations Act,
regulations for voluntary recognition and forms used by the ILRB for the voluntary recognition process. They wanted
City Council to have time to review the documents. They have found with other employers that voluntary recognition
shortens the campaign activity time and protects productivity as opposed to activities that take place during an election.
In response to Mayor Morton, Mr. Edstrom said the intent was to file a Representation Petition. However, for a
Voluntary Representation Petition, it would be necessary for the employer (City of Evanston) to participate. First the
labor council would file the Representation Petition then approach the City in January and ask if the City would consider
withdrawing the Representation Petition and replacing it with the Voluntary Representation Petition. If both signed, it
would be filed with the Illinois Labor Relations Board and the union would submit cards signed by employees. The
board would determine if they have more than a 50% majority status. Mayor Morton asked if their intention was to file
with the hope that Council will file a Voluntary Representation Petition? He said that was correct.
Alderman Feldman asked him to explained why Council 31 did not follow the normal process and go through a vote?
Mr. Edstrom said taking a vote is more common than the voluntary recognition process. They have found with larger
bargaining units often there is a lot of activity and supervisors can get frustrated with people talking about the election
and being less productive. The voluntary recognition process eliminates campaigning but the employer has to agree.
Alderman Feldman asked the City Manager if the campaign process would be detrimental to productivity?
Mr. Crum said there are two sides to the question and so far, the Labor Council has by-passed management and gone
directly to elected officials for something they have not yet defined. He recommended the Labor Council present to
management (their normal contact for all labor relations matters) their information and certification recognition so
analysis can be done and a recommendation made to City Council.
3 December 16, 2002
CONSENT AGENDA (Any item marked with an Asterisk*)
Alderman Feldman moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda with the following exceptions: Authorization for
Design Work for a section of Chicago Avenue Streetscape Concept Design; Funding Request from Connections for the
Homeless; Approval of HOME Funds for New Construction; Ordinance 114-0-02 — Zoning Ordinance Text
Amendment: Convenience Stores & Open Sales Lots and Proposed 2003 City Council/Budget Meeting Schedule.
Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Roll call. Voting aye — Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Rainey, Feldman, Newman,
Jean -Baptiste, Wynne. Voting nay — none. Motion carried (9-0).
* ITEMS APPROVED ON CONSENT AGENDA
MINUTES:
* Approval of Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of November 25, 2002 and the Special City Council
Meetings of November 18 and December 9, 2002. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION .AND ROLL
CALL (9-0)
ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS:
* Approval, as recommended, of the City of Evanston payroll for the period ending December 5, 2002 and the City of
Evanston bills for the period ending December 17, 2002 and that they be authorized and charged to the proper accounts,
summarized as follows:
City of Evanston payroll (through 12/05/02) $1,813,526.90
City of Evanston bills (through 12/17/02) $4,322,309.91
* APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Approval of Change Order # 1 for Construction Management Services to Cath Associates Inc. for the Fire Station #3
project at a cost of $15,000, increasing total contract from $150,500 to $165,500. * APPROVED — CONSENT
AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
■■NE■
* Traffic Calmine Plan: Allev Sneed Bumps — Consideration of a recommendation to place speed
bumps in the 1800 block of Asbury (west alley). * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION
AND ROLL CALL (9-0).
* Resolution 97-R-02 — Aereement between Citv of Evanston & Evanston Environmental Assn. —
Consideration of proposed Resolution 97-R-02, which authorizes a $120,000 loan from the City of
Evanston to the Evanston Environmental Association. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 100-R-02 — Lease for Congresswoman Schakowskv — Consideration of proposed
Resolution 100-R-02, which authorizes the City Manager to enter into a month -to -month lease
agreement for Room 2203 of the Civic Center with Congresswoman Schakowsky. * APPROVED —
CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 103-R-02 — Lease Aereement with Brinker Intl. (Chili's) — Consideration of proposed
Resolution 103-R-02, which authorizes the City Manager to enter into a lease agreement for
temporary office space for Brinker Intl. (Chili's) at the Maple Ave. Garage. * APPROVED —
CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
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* Ordinance 103-0-02 — Fiber Optic Cable Aerial Easement — Consideration of proposed Ordinance
103-0-02, which authorizes the City Manager to execute a Fiber Optics Cable Easement Agreement
with COS III Limited Partnership for installation of aerial easement on the public right-of-way.
MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA
* Ordinance 129-0-02 — Bicvcle Helmet Ordinance — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 129-0-
02, which amends Section 10-9-5 of the City Code to provide for mandatory use of helmets for those
under 18 years of age while riding on or being carried by bicycles on the public right-of-way.
MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA
* Ordinance 130-0-02 — Increasing Tobacco License and Vending Machine License Fees —
Consideration of proposed Ordinance 130-0-02, which amends sections 3-16-4 and 8-8-7 of the City
Code to increase fees for tobacco and vending machine licenses in Evanston. * MARKED
INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA
Alderman Feldman moved to Suspend the Rules to adopt an ordinance at the same meeting in which it was introduced.
Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Motion carried. No nays.
Alderman Feldman moved approval of Ordinance 130-0-02. Seconded by Alderman Engelman.
Roll call. Voting aye — Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Rainey, Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne. Voting
nay — none. Motion carried (9-0).
* Ordinance 121-0-02 — Citv of Evanston 2002 Pronertv Tax Levv Ordinance — Consideration of
proposed Ordinance 121-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which legally imposes the City
property tax levy. * ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Ordinance 122-0-02 — 2002 Property Tax Levv Ordinance/Special Service Area #4 — Consideration
of proposed Ordinance 122-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which legally imposes the property
tax levy for Special Service Area #4. * ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Ordinance 123-0-02 — Evanston Township 2002 Propertv Tax Levv Ordinance — Consideration of
proposed Ordinance 123-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which legally imposes the Evanston
Township property tax levy. * ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Ordinance 124-0-02 — Increase in Class C Liauor Licenses, — Consideration of proposed Ordinance
124-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which increases Class C liquor licenses, not to exceed 20,
with the addition of Los Alcores, Inc. dba Restaurant Gio, 1629 Chicago Ave. * ADOPTED
CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Ordinance 125-0-02 Increase in Class D Liauor Licenses - Consideration of proposed Ordinance
125-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which increases Class D liquor from 23 to 24 with the
addition of 3-D Enterprises, Inc., dba Vive LaCrepe, 1565 Sherman Ave. * ADOPTED CONSENT
AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Ordinance 126-0-02 — Increase in Class D Liauor Licenses — Consideration of proposed Ordinance
126-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which increases Class D liquor licenses from 24 to 25 with
the addition of Dozika, Inc., dba Dozika Pan -Asian Cooking & Sushi Bar, 601 Dempster St.
ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Ordinance 127-0-02 — Increase in Class B Liauor Licenses — Consideration of proposed Ordinance
127-0-02, introduced November 25, 2002, which increases Class B liquor licenses, not to exceed
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5 December 16, 2002
nine, with the addition of Brinker Restaurant Corp., dba Chili's Grill & Bar, 1765 Maple Ave.
ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA & ROLL CALL (9-0)
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT:
* Ordinance 128-0-02 — Special Use for 901 Church St. — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 128-
0-02, which approves a recommendation of the SP&ARC and Zoning Board of Appeals to grant a
special use permit for a Type 2 restaurant, Baja Fresh, at 901 Church St. * MARKED INTRODUCED
— CONSENT AGENDA
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE
* Special Event — 2003 Evanston Garden Fair — Consideration of a request from the Evanston Garden
Council to hold the Annual Garden Fair in Independence Park on May 17-18, 2003. * APPROVED
— CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Approval of Township Bills — Consideration of a recommendation to approve the Township bills,
payroll and medical payment for the month of November 2002 in the amount of $94,299.91.
APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 98-R-02 — Amended Lease Aereement — Consideration of a recommendation to approve
an amendment to the previously approved lease for Noyes Center Studio #109 for artist Graham
Harles to allow donation of artwork in place of editing and/or rewriting work for Arts Week.
APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 99-R-02 — Amended Lease Aereement — Consideration of a recommendation to approve
a payment plan for Next Theatre Company and a revised lease for Studio 108 with the Next Theatre
Company and Actors Gymnasium Inc. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND
ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 95-R-02 — Acceptance of Donation from American Legion Post 42 — Consideration of
proposed Resolution 95-R-02, which authorizes acceptance of a donation to the Evanston Human
Relations Commission's Holiday Fund from the American Legion Post 42. * APPROVED —
CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 96-R-02 — Lead -Based Paint Hazard Control Grant Aereement — Consideration of
proposed Resolution 96-R-02, which authorizes the City Manager to enter into an agreement with
Cook County for receiving funding to administer a lead -based paint control and prevention program.
* APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
OTHER COMMITTEES
* Resolution 101-R-02 — Assignment and Assumption Aereement for Redevelopment Aereement and
Note — Consideration of proposed Resolution 101-R-02, which authorizes the City Manager to sign
an Assignment and Assumption Agreement of Redevelopment Agreement and Note for 909 Davis
St. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
* Resolution 102-R-02 — Assignment and Assumption Aereement of Parking Lease — Consideration
of proposed Resolution 102-R-02, which authorizes the City Manager to sign an Assignment and
Assumption Agreement of Parking Lease for 909 Davis St. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0)
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* Resolution 104-R-02 — Letter of Agreement Clarifvine Terms and Conditions — Consideration of
proposed Resolution 104-R-02, which authorizes the City Manager to sign a Letter of Agreement
clarifying terms and conditions of a note executed by the City pursuant to the Redevelopment
Agreement for 909 Davis St. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION & ROLL CALL (9-0)
APPOINTMENTS:
Mayor Morton asked for confirmation of the following appointments:
Ruth Lipschutz Board of Ethics
223 Grey Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2006
Joel S. Freeman Energy Commission
2151 Hartrey Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2007
Philip G. Levis Housing Commission
1245 Elmwood Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2006
Maria Shorten Housing Commission
2237 Dodge Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2006
Kristian Harris Playground & Recreation Board
2216 Greenwood St.
For term ending January 15, 2008
Mayor Morton asked for confirmation of the following reappointments:
Horace Payne Housing & Community Development Act Committee
835 Florence Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2006
Mavis Hagemann Human Relations Commission
2009 Harrison St.
For term ending January 15, 2006
George W. Woolridge, Jr. Parking Committee
250 Ridge Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2006
Cheryl Wollin Public Art Committee
2025 Sherman Ave.
For term ending January 15, 2006
*APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA
REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES
ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS:
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7 December 16, 2002
Authorization for Desien Work — Consideration of a recommendation to authorize negotiation of a
price for design work for a section of the Chicago Avenue Streetscape.
Alderman Feldman moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Wynne.
Alderman Moran opposed this recommendation noting it is ostensibly the beginning of an extensive public works
project to improve the streetscape from South Blvd. to Dempster/Greenwood comprised of some 6-7,000 linear feet at
an estimated cost of $7 million with no funding plan. He recalled a proposal for the City Manager to negotiate with a
consulting firm to develop specific engineering specifications for the streetscape, which were not approved after
concerns were expressed. There was discussion that the Dubin project, which is underway extending north of South
Blvd., is faced with developing the streetscape in relation to its construction. Staff has proposed various alternatives to
deal with the streetscape relating to this project. He reiterated that there is no funding to do this job and no money
allocated to pay for any portion of it. The Dubin project is approximately .700 feet or 10% of the project. The staff memo
says there are various options for different parts of the work from different sources although the various options and
resources for funds are not identified. Staff recommends funding the project through a special service district, but point
out that this option requires a vote by those who will pay for it. He noted there has been no detailed discussion of the
extent of a special service district or participation of adjacent landowners and no discussion with landowners about
having a special service district so a potential option of source of funds has not been conceptualized, discussed or
approved. He noted staff has recommended approval of the streetscape project for the 700 feet adjacent to the Dubin
project, financed by taking money for design work and using it for construction. This proposal calls for authorizing the
City Manager to negotiate a contract to design this work and use funds previously designated for design work for
construction and suggested that was a warning sign. He said this project will be done by taking engineering funds and
committing them to construction. He did not know the ratio of engineering to construction in the overall project but his
concern was if they continue the "Pac-Man" approach they will run out of funds quickly.
Alderman Moran noted that other problems with this project needed to be addressed before it begins. Mr. Conley raised
interesting problems because it requires shrinking Chicago Ave. by about four -feet on the east side. He recalled frequent
discussions about Chicago Ave. as a major arterial thoroughfare and that even now, the addition of condominium
projects along it, which are just getting started, have led to some obvious congestion at various points. He asked if four
feet of the street are removed, what would it do to traffic flow? He could not believe taking four feet of the street would
promote traffic flow. He thought Mr. Conley's scenario was not far-fetched and traffic could go into adjacent areas, but
that was not the only problem. He said the question is if the City builds the streetscape, will the ultimate redevelopment
of Chicago Ave. take place and be driven by the streetscape or will development dictate what the streetscape will be?
He noted Chicago Ave. has several segments in this area that are currently commercial and he assumes there will be a
significant commercial component in the future. He asked will adjacent landowners want a particular streetscape or will
they be looking for something else? There was no answer to that question that evening and he did not think they would
get it. Over time he thought various answers would come forward as to the kind of redevelopment there. He thought
there would be significant questions if there is commercial development, such as how to get customers, employees and
owners in/out of this area and questions as to density of the population as proposed condominium projects go forward.
He did not see work done that had adequately assessed the questions he posed and thought it a mistake to go forward
until these questions are answered. He saw lack of plans for funding as a weakness in the overall planning.
Another aspect is the Dubin project developer has offered to pay $125,000 although the developer has some financial
obligations to pay for certain reconstruction that would take place because of the redevelopment. Alderman Moran urged
Council to be cautious. If approved, he said this will become a test block. He suggested they might be going out on a
limb in developing this 700-foot stretch and calling it a "test block." Over time, people might find it not to conform to
the remaining redevelopment of Chicago Ave. and, thus, be out of place. Conversely, he said it might be found the
development is a positive one. In any event, he thought they could face a citizenry, if uniform in its view, that will want
the remaining 90% of this project built quickly and there is no funding mechanism in place. He suggested they not scrap
the plan but instead find out where they are financially, then proceed. He did not see the need for double work, as
mentioned in the memo, and that Dubin could be allowed to proceed with their project, do minimum work on the west
side of Chicago Ave. until the City understands what it can do with this project overall and make adjustments.
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8 December 16, 2002
Mayor Morton reported that she did not get this information in her packet.
Alderman Wynne supported the recommendation, citing it as critical to the community and noted the streetscape is a
product of years of work. There was recognition of enormous changes that came to Chicago Avenue in spring 1997
when the Plan Commission determined to start analyzing it. Council has addressed several of the issues, such as reducing
the permitted building height significantly and increasing parking requirements, so they do not make an already chronic
problem more acute. The streetscape plan was developed by merchants, staff and residents and was discussed
thoroughly. Knowledgeable people, who initially had different points of view about what Chicago Ave. could be, came
together and developed the streetscape. It was designed recognizing that Chicago Ave. is a major commercial artery that
has become more residential and serves destination and convenience retail.
She stated the streetscape was designed using a 1998 traffic study by KOLA as part of the Chicago Avenue Corridor
Study. There never was an expectation that Chicago Ave. would carry fewer cars but that they could reduce the traffic
problems they have. She reported the intersection of Main/Chicago is an E+ on a scale of A-F. They are trying to find
ways to improve the pedestrian/traffic flows and make it greener by planting trees. She explained that Chicago has one
lane northbound and one lane southbound. In some instances the lanes are extra wide and more aggressive drivers try
to pass. By narrowing the lane, they make drivers conform better to Chicago Avenue and eliminate some bottlenecks
where people try to make it more lanes than it is. The streetscape includes a turning function so if several cars wish to
turn left, they don't have lot of cars behind them.
She acknowledged there is no funding mechanism for the $7-8 million. This request authorizes the City to design the
streetscape without the exact cost until the engineering/design work is done. She said it was critical to move forward
and do the design because Chicago Ave. is where there is change and development. Of the 1,000 condominium units
built here recently, 400 units are on Chicago Ave. She recalled when this started in 1997, the Dominick's store was
owned by the Dominick's family and was not contemplated for redevelopment. Now that site has 745 feet of frontage
that is being redeveloped into residential property. She stated they needed to have the streetscape designed/engineered
so that when a developer comes along, they can show the streetscape and tell them what the City wants them to do. She
recalled they weren't ahead with Dubin but have worked with him; complimented Mr. Dubin and his company for their
cooperative efforts. She explained if they allowed Mr. Dubin to go ahead with the sidewalk now, later they would have
to go back and tear out the trees and sidewalk and disturb some 90 residents who will live there.
She stated that evening was an opportunity to authorize the design and engineering of the streetscape, which they should
do anyway because they need to find the cost so that when the next developer comes along (other discussions are
underway) the City is ready. This is a unique opportunity to leverage some dollars to pay for the streetscape, which
allows them to get 745 feet done. She acknowledged it is a test project and will allow them to see how it looks. If they
do nothing else for the next five years, she said they would have nice trees and sidewalk for 90 residential properties
at a point in Evanston where many people come here. While this corner is not a gateway, it is currently bleak and dreary.
This project lets people know there is positive change going on Chicago Ave. She stated this was not an authorization
to spend $8 million for the entire project and that was noted by nearby residents. She recognized the need to develop
a funding mechanism, that there are many competing needs for $8 million and it would be a long process. A special
service district has always been discussed as an aspect of potential funding. She noted they could apply for grants and
all recognize this would be a tough problem. A discussion about funding sources will be held in the future. She stated
this was not a request to move forward on a large public works project but to free monies already allocated to get
something done immediately.
Alderman Newman assumed if they fully fund the $8 million that they would do additional traffic work; did not think
the traffic study was included in the packet. He thought they would maintain the traffic flow and not cut back as
Alderman Wynne stated. He said funding this would be challenging and they could not get away from basic concepts
they have used when paying for street and sidewalk improvements. Generally, people pay 50% of the cost for a new
sidewalk and those principles have to be part of this in the future. Many questions were not answered and they were not
saying this $8 million project would leapfrog over many other priorities but were going forward with a plan that
promotes Chicago Ave. in a way that is consistent with funding principles.
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9 December 16, 2002
Alderman Engelman confirmed that $285,000 was set aside for engineering drawings for the entire plan. What has been
proposed is to use that money to do some of the engineering and some construction so they already know they will have
to come up with more money just to do the engineering for the rest of the project. They will spend money allocated for
engineering to narrow Chicago Ave. on the east side at the south end and, if that does not work and a bottleneck is
created, it is there. He was concerned about jumping forward and spending for construction. He loved the idea of the
streetscape and doing engineering drawings so they have a plan available. What concerned him is making significant
investment and changing the infrastructure in that area, especially without a funding mechanism. He knew whether or
not they had a special service district, from South Blvd. to Main St. on the west side, it would all be City money because
there is nobody else. He noted the east side from the old Dominick's site to Main St. is well established, especially the
block with the new high rise and asked what happens if there is a bottleneck at that end of the street?
Alderman Wynne responded that that area has room to move the sidewalk out four feet. Public Works Director David
Jennings stated the capacity of the street is controlled by the intersections. The intersection designed for South Blvd.
would continue to be a three -lane crossing, one lane northbound two lanes southbound with the left southbound lane
designated a left -turn lane and the right lane either straight through or a right turn. He noted while lane widths may
change, the lane assignment at the intersections would remain the same. Alderman Wynne stated this would not constrict
traffic. What holds up people at intersections is one person making a turn who holds up all behind them. She said that
does not occur in this section of Chicago Ave.
Alderman Jean -Baptiste reported extensive discussion in committee and with Alderman Wynne. He thought that since
a contribution would be made by the developer, that they need to move forward to create a vision for Chicago Ave. and
at some point come together and design that plan. He noted the developer has to make an investment at this location near
South Blvd. and, unless the City participates, they may have to redo it. He supported this proposal but not the entire
project. One suggestion made by Alderman Moran was that the City tap any developer who intends to build on Chicago
Ave. to contribute to the project and, if there is building further north, the City needs to try to get a contribution for the
streetscape at whatever level they can. He thought on this limited proposal, they benefit from the developer's
contribution and get some design work. He hoped they could pursue funding through grants and other forms to complete
the design work. He asked how much design work would be done and how much money would be left? Mr. Jennings
clarified that $280,000 will cover about half of the design work. In the next year, staff will come back in the Capital
Improvement Plan (CIP) and ask for more than $600,000 for design work (which is not unreasonable for a $7-8 million
project). The $280,000 would roughly cover to Main St. or a bit north. They anticipate doing the survey, which is part
of the design, out of that money. The $90,000 of City cost and the remainder would be used to design as much as they
could. In response to Mayor Morton, Mr. Jennings said the $280,000 comes from the approved CIP budget and has
already been allocated. Mayor Morton asked when Mr. Jennings anticipated asking for more money for this project?
Mr. Jennings stated in the next CIP budget year.
Alderman Bernstein supported the recommendation; stated some 150 vehicles park in that area daily and traffic has not
been impeded. He hoped the Dubin project would resemble the renderings; improvement is needed at the south end of
Chicago Ave. and after the townhomes are built, it will be needed even more. He participated in a group of merchants,
residents, architects and designers that walked a portion of Chicago Ave. and gave suggestions. The designers were
intuitive and demonstrated an expedience for traffic by making pedestrian traffic easier and solving problem areas.
Alderman Newman was not clear about a reference to the west side of Chicago Ave. and that the CTA would get an
exemption. It seemed to him that the CTA would vote in a special service district because it is a property owner.
Alderman Engelman confirmed that the CTA does not pay property taxes.
Roll call. Voting aye — Bernstein, Kent, Engelman, Rainey, Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne. Voting nay —
Moran. Motion carried (8-1).
PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT:
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December 16, 2002
Funding- Request from Connections for the Homeless — Consideration of a recommendation of the
Housing Commission to fund a request from Connections for the Homeless through the "Families in
Transition" program for up to two years of rental assistance funded through the Mayor's Special
Housing Fund.
Alderman Bernstein moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Wynne.
Alderman Rainey asked what this was about; questioned the number in the family and whether this was rental for a one
or two -bedroom apartment. Other families are in transitional housing and this program is fraught with serious problems.
She noted this was approved by the Housing Commission and recommended by staff but they had no copy of the
application. Alderman Bernstein stated this program has been ongoing since 1976, sponsored by Connections for the
Homeless, which co-sign a lease with the individual. Funds come from the Mayor's Special Housing Fund in an amount
not to exceed $14,500 over two years. This Evanston family will receive counseling from Connections for the Homeless
to make their transition successful.
Community Development Director James Wolinski introduced Amber Luhtala, Connections for the Homeless, to answer
questions. She explained this is a single mother with a child who has a severe epileptic disorder. They asked for two
years to find adequate day care for the child and hope to place this family in a two -bedroom apartment. Alderman
Rainey asked what has been done to find day care? Ms. Luhtala said no day care providers are available for special
needs children here except through the Recreation Division, where the site changes daily and this child cannot do that.
Roll call. Voting aye — Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Feldman, Newman, Jean -Baptiste, Wynne. Voting nay —
Rainey. Motion carried (8-1).
Approval of HOME Funds for New Construction — Consideration of a recommendation of the
Housing Commission to approve a request for Home Investment Partnerships (HOME Program) funds
to subsidize construction and sale of two single-family attached homes at 1813 Lyons St.
Alderman Bernstein reported that this item was held in committee.
Ordinance 114-0-02 — Zoning- Ordinance Text Amendment: Convenience Stores & Open Sales Lots
— Consideration of proposed Ordinance 114-0-02, which approves the recommendation of the Plan
Commission concerning convenience stores and open sales lots.
Alderman Bernstein reported that this item was held in committee.
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE: No report.
OTHER COMMITTEES
Approval of Proposed 2003 Citv Council and Budget Meetine Schedule — Consideration of a request
to approve the proposed 2003 City Council and Budget Meeting dates.
Alderman Newman moved approval with one change, that the first City Council meeting in May be moved from
Monday, May 5 to Wednesday, May 7, 2003. Seconded by Alderman Moran.
Voice vote. Motion carried. No nays.
CALL OF THE WARDS:
4" Ward. Alderman Bernstein made a reference to the Parking Committee to consider changing No Parkins at the
lakefront from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. from South Blvd. north.
I 1 December 16, 2002
Alderman Bernstein reported the Environment Board asked that a renresentative of that board be appointed to SPARC
in order to deal with conservation and environmental issues in new construction proiects and asked this be referred to
the proper committee.
He reported the Civic Center Committee met with Martin Stern from U.S. Equities. The Council will receive a contract
in the near future between the City and Mr. Stern, who would act as consultant on this project. That will include an
analysis of the physical plant at 2100 Ridge, a determination of needs and an analysis of what could be done with the
property plus an analysis of where City offices could be located and how to pay for it.
He valued this time of the year because people feel good about themselves; hoped to carry this feeling throughout the
coming year; wished all a healthy and happy new year.
5" Ward. Alderman Kent wished all happy holidays.
6" Ward. Alderman Moran -- no report
7" Ward. Alderman Engelman — no report
8" Ward. Alderman Rainey wished all happy holidays. She reminded all that the Housing and Community
Development Act Committee would hold a public hearing the next evening on the 2004 plan. She will make a reference
to the Rules Committee that the Citv Council consider a resolution to protest the war in Iraq. A model resolution has
been circulated that was approved by the Citv of Chicago.
She recommended that the Families in Transition program be reviewed and analyzed for effectiveness over time. She
stated building affordable housing is an important use of the City's housing dollars and was not sure this program is a
good one; noted no organization receives more federal, state and local funds than does Connections for the Homeless.
While their work is exemplary, she suggested the program needs to be examined. She made a reference to the Planning
& Development Committee to review the existence of the Families in Transition program. She was sure a landlord here
would welcome this tenant yet they cannot get landlords to accept Section 8 tenants who, to some extent, have the same
kind of subsidy. She said Emergency Assistance helps in emergencies but did not think an ongoing institutionalized
housing subsidy is a function of local government.
9" Ward. Alderman Feldman reported on the Joint Review Board meeting with taxing bodies involved in the TIF
districts; stated school districts and other taxing bodies were delighted with the success of all the TIFs and are waiting
for fulfillment of the TIFs when they mature. Districts 65 and 202 appreciated the $600,000 generated by the Southwest
TIF. He wished all a joyous holiday and a wish for health and peace in the coming year.
Mayor Morton asked for minutes of the Joint Review Board meeting.
1" Ward. Alderman Newman understood that special service districts are done primarily through the real estate tax.
He noted there are alleys and streets that were improved where non -property taxpayers have paid assessments. On
Chicago Avenue he thought the City would have extensive dialogue with the CTA about their contribution and work
on various options.
He has discussed revisiting the final 10% increase in sewer rates with senior staff and looked forward to ideas to balance
the budget with some relief to taxpayers.
He reported that Representative Julie Hamos, Senator Jeff Schoenberg and Cook County Commissioner Larry Suffredin
were at the Rules Committee that evening with a discussion of liability and budget issues confronting Evanston and
thought the City could look forward to some help from them. He asked the City Manager's office to keep Council posted
on liability issues, the parking tax and on real estate assessments on multi -family housing with the county.
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12 December 16, 2002
He stated that the Parking Committee would look at the request to change parking at the lakefront to 5:00 a.m.
Alderman Newman noted Evanston's downtown is in a continuing renaissance and thanked staff for their work. He said
it was a great accomplishment for the entire City. As the downtown expands, job opportunities are increased and the
tax base is expanded. He thought that people would look at 1997 forward as a positive turning point for downtown. He
said everybody is talking about Evanston's downtown. He thought that James Klutznick's suggestion that "Evanston
is the North Shore's downtown" was coming to fruition. He said that the City is doing something right and hoped this
success would spill over to other parts of the community. He wished all a happy new year.
He announced a Rules Committee meeting on Tuesday, January 7 at 6:00 p.m. A resolution against war in Iraq would
be considered and a follow up on the City Manager's evaluation. The Human Services Committee will meet at 7:00 p.m.
He announced a discussion of the Central Street Parking Study at the January Parking Committee meeting.
2"d Ward. Alderman Jean -Baptiste joined Alderman Rainey in calling for adoption of a resolution against war in Iraq
and asked that the floor be opened to expert testimony and those interested to share with the community.
He asked colleagues for creative ideas to mobilize job training and placement resources to maximize their effectiveness.
He noted despite many resources there is no central oversight or evaluation mechanism to determine how effective they
have been or need to be in training Evanston residents to find jobs and participate in the community. He asked all
developers and business owners to include Evanston residents in their work force and to make their workforce diverse.
He wished all a merry Christmas, happy Kwanza, Chanukah and new year.
3rd Ward. Alderman Wynne thanked all who supported the Chicago Avenue Streetscape. She thought it was a positive
move; thanked staff for their work and David Dubin for stepping forward with an additional contribution.
She said one of the things she likes about living here is that on her block they just celebrated the 53`d Hinman Avenue
progressive dinner party where all 22 homes on the block participated. She knows other neighborhoods celebrate and
it makes Evanston a place where people want to live. She wished all a merry Christmas and happy new year and looked
forward to another productive year with staff and colleagues.
Mayor Morton congratulated the following Evanston Township High School students who received the Sheriffs Youth
Service Medal of Honor award for volunteering 100 or more hours: Candace Austin, Jeffrey Darragh, David Pike, Sarah
Raleigh, Elizabeth Sage, Chrissy Scheller and Brandi Williams.
Mayor Morton wished all a happy holiday season.
There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Morton asked for a motion to adjourn. The Council so
moved at 10:48 p.m.
Mary P. Morris,
City Clerk
A videotape recordine of this meetine has been made cart of the permanent record and is available in the Citv Clerk's office.
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