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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-2001-01-08-2001CITY COUNCIL January 8, 2001 -00 0.11 pF E V,j �O C.~� OOP' CO. 1�,�'l�0 o ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Alderman Drummer Alderman Kent Alderman Wynne Alderman Engelman Alderman Bernstein Alderman Rainey Alderman Feldman A Quorum was present. NOT PRESENT AT Aldermen Newman, Moran ROLL CALL: ABSENT: None PRESIDING: Mayor Lorraine H. Morton The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was called to order by Mayor Morton Monday, January 8, 2001 at 6:24 p.m. in the Aldermanic Library. Alderman Wynne moved that Council adjourn into Closed Session for the purpose of discussing matters involving pending litigation, real estate and executive session minutes pursuant to 5ILCS Section 120/2 (c) (5), (6), (11) and (21). (5) The purchase or lease of real property for the use of the public body, including meetings held for the purpose of discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired. (6) The setting of a price for sale or lease of property owned by the public body. (11) Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting. (21) Discussion of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under this Act, whether for purposes of approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by Section 2.06. Seconded by Alderman Drummer. Roll call. Voting aye — Drummer, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Engelman, Rainey, Feldman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried (7-0). At 6:50 p.m. Alderman Feldman moved to reconvene into Open Session. Seconded by Alderman Drummer. Motion carried, no nays. Council then recessed so aldermen could attend standing committee meetings. Mayor Morton reconvened the Council meeting at 8:42 p.m. in the Council Chamber. Announcements: City Manager Roger Crum reminded residents that Christmas trees will be picked up by the City starting January 10 through the end of the month. He advised residents to place trees on the parkway, not in alleys. There will be only one Christmas tree pickup. People who miss the pickup should take their trees to James Park. 23( 2 January 8, 2001 City Collection Manager Susan Sabir announced extended hours for purchase of 2001 vehicle stickers before the February 15 deadline. Any vehicle registered to an Evanston address is required to purchase an Evanston vehicle license sticker. The $50 fee is for a standard a passenger vehicle and there is a 50% penalty for stickers purchased after February 15. Regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday -Friday. Extended hours in the Collector's office and Parking Systems are: Monday evenings, January 29, February 5 and 12 from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Saturdays, February 3 and 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Extended hours from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 13, Wednesday, February 14 and Thursday February 15. She noted the sticker celebrates the theme of community partnership. People with questions can call 866-2926. At the request of Mayor Morton a moment of silence was observed to honor Dr. Oscar M. Chute, revered former superintendent of District 65 schools, who passed away. The family requested that condolences be sent to the Oscar M. Chute Early Childhood Training Foundation at Bank One. City Clerk Mary Morris reported on dates relevant to the April 3 Consolidated Election: January 16 and 23 are the first and last days respectively to file petitions for the offices of Alderman, City Clerk, Township Assessor and Township Supervisor; Tuesday, January 23, is the last day to file a Statement of Economic Interest with the County Clerk and receipt of such statement with the City Clerk's office where nomination papers are filed; Monday, January 29 is the last day for a local government to adopt a resolution or ordinance to allow a binding public question to appear on the ballot; Tuesday, January 30 is the last day for filing objections to nomination papers; Thursday, February 1 is the last day candidates may file a withdrawal of candidacy. Communications: None CITIZEN COMMENT: Ann Dienner, 1034 Sheridan Rd., described a young man driving north in the southbound lane in City truck #329 on December 30 as she was shoveling her driveway. She said the parkways are narrow there and plows come along at top . speed and throw snow over the sidewalks that have been cleared. She tried to hail the driver to urge him to slow down. As driver went by he said "Oh, shut -up." She urged that Streets/Sanitation Division have a policy to not go so fast when they plow where parkways are narrow. She noted that if someone was standing on the sidewalk when the plow went by at top speed, they could be hit by snow and ice and the City could be liable. Louis Silverstein, 1211 Leonard Pl., recalled the recent election in Florida where many votes were not counted. He noted months ago 80% of the voters in an advisory referendum voted that City Council engage in negotiations with Northwestern University and as of this date the voter's voices have not been heard. He was also concerned with lessons they were teaching youth and hoped that Council would teach that power does not always rule. He hoped that Council would honor Martin Luther King Jr., through word and deed when they negotiate with Northwestern University to bring them to the light that Dr. King asked people to do with members of the community. Carol Moschandreas, 2720 Simpson St., asked Council to take time and think about the panhandling ordinance; stated the 7`h Circuit Court decision did not think about the effect of the ordinance on the community but about panhandlers. The effect of the ordinance on ordinary people was not considered. She thought the free speech rights of everybody would be affected and limited as to where and how one can speak. She noted Evanston is a place where people care about justice, free speech and process. She predicted, if passed, the ordinance would be enforced unequally and only to unacceptable people. She thought that Evanston people want a carefully thought out ordinance. If the ordinance is not fixed now, she predicted the City would be challenged on constitutional grounds. She asked Council to reconsider and fix the ordinance in reasonable ways; asked them to hold it or send it back to committee. David Hodgman, 1112 Forest Ave., Recreation Board member spoke about the long-term master strategic plan for the Evanston parks system and a smaller priority list they hope will be implemented soon. He stated the recommendations embody years of work by staff, board, affiliated groups and citizens and presents an exciting vision for the City. He noted the parks system is an essential foundation for a wide range of activities. These recreational opportunities are 232 3 January 8, 2001 necessary for the continued vitality of Evanston and its ability to retain its position as one of the most desirable communities in the United States. Without programming provided through the parks' facilities, young families, dynamic young adults and energetic seniors cannot be attracted and retained. He said that recently Council has been generous in supporting the parks system, while in prior years the system was badly neglected. He thought people might be lured into a false sense of security because of the remarkable lakefront. He noted even lakefront facilities are 30-50 years old. The lakefront does not support and, essentially, is irrelevant to most of the programming provided by parks and recreation. He stated the Strategic Master Plan is a $100 million plan; $35 million has been identified as an immediate priority if Evanston is to meet the recreational imperatives of the community. The $35 million would cover the following main projects: rebuild the Robert Crown Center, which is in danger of being shut down in the near future; add to the Crown Center a three -court basketball arena plus a large indoor arena to accommodate activities such as indoor soccer and baseball, lacrosse, in -line skating and other activities that require large indoor spaces. The plan would fund repair and improvement of outdoor playing fields; would also allow the beginning of renovation of neighborhood parks, which need modifications to comply with ADA requirements. He stated these improvements are essential to support youth sports programming, which starts at earlier ages and demands more facilities. He said the "soccer mom and dad" phenomenon will not go away. The demand for recreational space is far outstripping the parks' ability to provide space. He said the consequences are unacceptable. He noted in recent years Evanston has been denied its turn as host for inter- city baseball tournaments because its baseball fields are seen as inadequate by the governing board -of these leagues. These problems are due to the fields' inability to withstand the use and seasonal stress. New irrigation and drainage systems are needed. He noted the Fellowship of African Men (FAM), is a remarkable program that serves youth and at -risk youth. It provides a feeder program for high school basketball and has instituted a rigorous program of academic standards for participants staffed by voluntary mentors. Yet FAM is handicapped by a lack of gymnasium space and cannot include all who want to participate and is unable to attract to inter -city league tournaments. He noted the 41 Club, a 30-45 minute drive to Highland Park, where hundreds go weekly to take advantage of a large indoor arena. Because it is expensive, it is only available to affluent households. Recently a member of the high school board commented that participation in extracurricular activities is important for academic achievement. Many children don't try because without the skill building in the lower grades it is difficult to compete. He referred to an article in the Chicago Tribune about these large complexes, which indicated they are being built by municipalities and for -profit organizations. The Recreation Board wants this facility to be made available to all children because it would be run by the City. He asked that Council approve the master plan and the referendum. Alderman Bernstein moved to extend the time for Citizen Comment. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carried. No nays. v Ellen Law, 826 Lincoln St., encouraged Council to allocate funds for recreation facilities and in particular the Robert Crown Center. A nine-year resident, her family was drawn here by the parks and recreation facilities. Her children are involved in baseball, hockey and soccer. She urged funds to bring back the hockey/skating facility. Barry Isaacson, 3428 Park Pl., represented Evanston Youth Baseball Association and their support for the strategic plan. The association supports repair and improvement of baseball/softball fields and development of indoor facilities. He noted it is difficult to get people to participate when fields are in poor condition; noted the difficulties of hosting inter- city baseball tournaments. The EYBA plan parallels this plan in many ways. He realized the cost is significant and that the City has other needs. His organization supports the first phase of the plan and giving people the opportunity to express their preference through a referendum. Ralph Lemoi Dupuis, 1008 Davis St., owner of the oldest business in Evanston, spoke as a parent of four children who are involved in ice sports; stated that Robert Crown Center is in dire need of restoration and upgrading. He noted that Evanston has made a commitment to attracting outside residents to participate in sports and the numbers are growing. Robert Moskv, 1123 Ridge Ave., new resident, has a daughter who figure skates and a son who plays hockey. The Robert Crown program brought them here and the wonderful families there. He spoke of his experiences in Chicago's community playlots. He said it's important to bring people in to make a great hockey program and to have a facility that compares to Bensenville and Wilmette. He thought more people would be attracted to Evanston by improving facilities. 333 4 January 8, 2001 David Ucker, 2720 Park Pl., spoke on behalf of 1,800 children who comprise the 150 soccer teams of the Evanston Association Youth Organization (AYSO), families and over 500 volunteers. He stated his group is a youth development organization and serves youth with athletic abilities, some with less, some with special needs and they do this regardless of the ability to pay. Their primary concern is for improving and expanding outdoor facilities and fields. He said outdoor fields represent the single best resource for recreational uses of children who are deserving of this investment. Todd Omundson, 2730 Broadway Ave., president, Evanston Soccer Association, a traveling soccer program with about 350 players of which 98% live in Evanston supports resolutions for the master plan and referendum. He reported that indoor soccer started this week with his organization driving to Club 41 where they spend about $20,000 annually. About $1,000 is for scholarships. His organization supports rebuilding Robert Crown Center and outdoor fields which are over -used and need irrigation and better drainage. Philip Hersh, 912 Michigan Ave., board member, Evanston Youth Hockey Association, which runs the high school hockey and traveling hockey programs, stated his son has taken part in activities at Robert Crown Center for eight years; has participated in a variety of ice -related activities. He has spent many hours at Crown over the years and has come to realize the significant contribution this facility makes to the recreational life of Evanston and how many more opportunities could be provided by a larger, more modern facility. He stated that ice sports attract participation that reflects the diversity of Evanston. Financial assistance is provided to those who otherwise could not afford the sport. Youth learn the lifetime skill of skating as well as learning the lessons a team sport provides. He thought Evanston was losing children to Wilmette and Skokie due to the quality of facilities here. He thought a more attractive Robert Crown would increase participation; pointed out that hockey and in -line skating are growing throughout the nation. The next Winter Olympics will be in the United States in 14 months, which he predicted would encourage more children to participate in ice sports. He encouraged approval of measures to give the City a better ice rink and related facilities. Jon Tichota, 714 Madison St., seven-year resident, lives two doors from sirens used for snow alerts. Six snow alerts sounded in one day during the snow emergency and their windows rattled and the floor vibrated. He said it is a quality - of -life issue and either they must leave that area or Evanston. He recommended the number of times the siren is sounded be reduced to two and to an early and late time. He understood the reason why sirens are used to alert residents to move their cars so streets can be plowed. Mayor Morton apologized for the sounding of City sirens on the morning of January 1, which was a mistake. Marion Flynn, 1120 Main St., introduced members of the Recreation Board and asked those in favor of the referendum to stand. She stated one could not help but be moved by the people who support Evanston youth sports. Betty Van Leuven, 1043 Maple Ave., urged support of the referendum to fund new park recreational facilities. She has three children in sports activities in Evanston. One daughter plays indoor soccer and volleyball and travels to Palatine for soccer and Skokie for volleyball because there is no facility here to practice. She recognized that Evanston does not have the land to have the large complexes that exist in Rockford and Barrington but thought the City has the opportunity to build a new facility that could serve more children. Richard Marberrv, 2107 Lincoln St., Recreation Board member, urged Council to vote in favor of the resolutions for a referendum and the strategic plan. He recalled it had been eight years since the Recreation Board did an Attitude and Interest Study to learn the needs, wants and desires of citizens. Some of those were put into place, but many others were not for lack of funds, lack of siting and other reasons. He has been encouraged that Council has provided support for recreational facilities here, which has increased over the years. They also get funds from other sources, but that does not build new facilities, new programs nor fix old facilities — it only puts out fires. They are able to continue the excellent programming by means of the City's budget, but what is really needed is separate dedicated funding to add to the parks system to get it up to the level of surrounding communities. They don't want to wait another eight years. He wanted this to be on as fast a time -line as possible and hoped all would vote in favor of the resolutions. 33 y 5 January 8, 2001 Rick Marsh, 420 Callan Ave., 17-year FAM coach has served on the Recreation Board for eight years; recalled seeking support eight years ago. He said the FAM games are played on Saturday and noted the difficulty of practicing in the evenings because no facility has more than one basketball court. They cannot host other teams. At ETHS most of the boys and girls came through FAM. While they are developing youth now, he thought they could take this to a new level. He encouraged support of the referendum and saw it as a positive for the community. He said the community has asked for more programs and more gymnasium space. Mayor Morton asked if FAM uses all the junior high schools and church gyms? Mr. Marsh stated 80% of school facilities are used. He noted that the junior high schools have their own, programs and church gyms are too small. Joel Lisinski, 2020 Pratt Ct., Robert Crown Center employee, spoke in support of the strategic plan and referendum. He reported handing out 150 pairs of skates in recent days. He noted they have been busy lately, have a great program but are compromised by lack of funding and deteriorated space. Dick Dumina, 1032 Michigan Ave., 16-year resident, founding board member of AYSO and volunteer coach at Nichols School spoke of the great journey he has shared with other families. He said the recreation system creates a wide variety of wonderful communities that seem to blend together. At the end of the season he realized what a wonderful array of people they have shared time with. He supports the referendum because it maintains what they have and enhances plans for the entire community. His worry is if the referendum does not pass, suddenly time is lost and there will be further attrition to parks and recreation facilities. He saw the plan as exciting in what it can give to the whole community. CONSENT AGENDA (Any item marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Drummer moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda with these exceptions: Minutes of Regular City Council meeting — December 18, 2000; Traffic Calming Plan — Wesley/Ashland between Emerson/Church; Ordinance 132-0-00 — Amending Zoning Ordinance: Restaurants in the U1 District; Ordinance 131-0-00 — Amending Chapter 5, Title 9 of City Code Regulating Panhandling; Resolution 4-R-01 — Adopting the Parks & Recreation Strategic Master Plan; Resolution 5-R-01 — Place Referendum on April 3, 2001 Ballot to Issue Bonds for Phase I of P&R Strategic Master Plan and Approval of Recommendation for Negotiating Committee Meetings. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Roll call. Voting aye — Newman, Drummer, Wynne, Bernstein, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Rainey, Feldman. Voting nay — none. Motion carried (9-0). * ITEMS APPROVED ON CONSENT AGENDA ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: * Approval, as recommended, of the City of Evanston payroll for the periods ending December 21, 2000 and January 4, 2001, the Sick -Leave Payout through December 21, 2000, and the City of Evanston bills for the period ending January 9, 2001 and that they be authorized and charged to the proper accounts, summarized as follows: City of Evanston payroll (through 12/21/00) $1,761,092.96. City of Evanston Sick -Leave Payout (through 12/21/00) $ 439,379.04 City of Evanston payroll (through 1/4/01) $1,728,203„66 City of Evanston bills (through 1/9/01) $3,072,813.02 * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Approval of the lowest responsive and responsible bid of McCauley Mechanical Services Inc. to fumish and install a new cooling tower at the Robert Crown Center at a cost of $28,900. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) 3 3.5" 6 January 8, 2001 * Resolution 3-R-01 — Lease for Congresswoman Schakowskv — Consideration of proposed Resolution 3-R-01, which authorizes the City Manager to enter into a lease agreement with Congresswoman Janice Schakowsky for Room 2203 of the Civic Center. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Ordinance 135-0-00 — Extension of Cable Franchise — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 135- 0-00, introduced December 18, 2000, which extends the current franchise agreement with AT&T Broadband & Internet Services until July 16, 2001. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: * Ordinance 127-0-00 — Establishing Fine Schedules for Certain Buildings and BOCA Violations — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 127-0-00, which approves the fine schedules for Property Standards violations. * MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA * Ordinance 128-0-00 — Amending Title 4, Chanter 15 of the City Code — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 128-0-00, which amends Title 4, Chapter 15 of the City Code to establish a new fine schedule for dangerous buildings and amends definition of same. * MARKED INTRODUCED — CONSENT AGENDA HUMAN SERVICES: * Ordinance 129-0-00 — Township Proposed Budget and Anpronriation Ordinance — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 129-0-00, introduced December 18, 2000, by which the City Council, acting. as Township Trustees, would approve the annual appropriation ordinance for Town purposes for the year ending March 31, 2001. * ADOPTED CONSENT AGENDA AND ROLL CALL (9-0). OTHER COMMITTEES: * Resolution 2-R-01 — Adopting the City's 2001-02 CDBG. HOME Investment Partnerships and Emergency Shelter Grants Program Budgets — Consideration of Resolution 2-R-01, which adopts the City's 2001-02 CDBG, HOME Investment Partnerships and Emergency Shelter Grants program budgets, and approving the One -Year Action Plan. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Resolution 1-R-01 — Reallocation of Unspent CD Funds — Consideration of proposed Resolution 1-R-01, which amends the 1991, 1994, 1995, 1998 and 1999 CDBG Programs and authorizes reallocation of unexpended funds for those years. * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) APPOINTMENTS: Mayor Morton asked for confirmation of the following appointments: Vito Brugliera Ad Hoc Cable Franchise Renewal Committee 1304 Wesley Ave. John D. Malarkey Ad Hoc Cable Franchise Renewal Committee 1422 Forest Ave. 336 LJ 1 11 7 Ariel G. Schrodt 2801 Sheridan Pl. January 8, 2001 Ad Hoc Cable Franchise Renewal Committee Scott Morgan Arts Council 1621 Judson Ave. Term ending January 15, 2004 Sally Parsons Arts Council 1610 Monroe St. Term ending January 15, 2004 Cornelia Maude Spelman Board of Ethics 1428 Crain St. Term ending January 15, 2004 Arlene R. Haas Energy Commission 412 Clark St. Term ending January 15, 2005 Vicky McKinley Environment Board 223 Grey Ave. Term ending January 15, 2005 Judith S. Hurwich Housing Commission 555 Elmwood Ave. Term ending January 15, 2004 Roxane D. Fox Ladd Arboretum 2025 Lincoln St. Term ending January 15, 2004 Lawrence Widmayer Plan Commission 2327 Park Pl. Term ending January 15, 2004 Mayor Morton asked for confirmation of the following reappointments: David Mickenberg Arts Council 1003 Hinman Ave. Term ending January 15, 2004 Dorothy Barton Board of Ethics 1724 Mulford St. Term ending January 15, 2004 Emma Harmon 2004 Wesley Ave. Term ending January 15, 2004 John Lyman 1048 Forest Ave. Term ending January 15, 2004 Commission on Aging Plan Commission 337 Marilyn Sward 1218 Asbury Ave. Term ending January 15, 2004 * APPROVED — CONSENT AGENDA MINUTES: Public Art Committee REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES January 8, 2001 Alderman Drummer moved approval of the minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of December 18, 2000 as corrected. Seconded by Alderman Bernstein. The following correction was made by Alderman Rainey on page 10: eliminate "She thought it a good idea for NU to put in writing what they want to talk about". Motion carried. no nays. ADMINISTRATION & PUBLIC WORKS: Traffic Calming Plan — Wesley and Ashland between Emerson and Church — Consideration of a proposal to make Ashland one-way north between Lyons and Emerson and one-way south between Lyons and Church; also included is a recommended cul-de-sac on Wesley south of Emerson. Alderman Moran reported that this item was held in committee. PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT: Ordinance 132-0-00 — Amending Zoning Ordinance: Restaurants in the U 1 District — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 132-0-00, which amends the Zoning Ordinance so that Type 1 restaurants are no longer permitted uses, but are special uses in the Ul District, and restricting such restaurants to being accessory to college/university uses. Alderman Wynne reported that this item was held in committee. HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE: Ordinance 131-0-00 — Amending Chanter 5. Title 9 of Citv Code Regulating Panhandling — Consideration of proposed Ordinance 131-0-00, introduced December 18, 2000, which amends Chapter 5, Title 9 of the City Code to regulate panhandling on public property. Alderman Rainey moved adoption of Ordinance 131-0-00. Seconded by Alderman Newman. Alderman Moran recognized Council has received additional input since this ordinance was brought before the Human Services Committee. Suggestions have been tendered to the committee. He thought the ordinance could be improved and wanted to look at provisions that have raised some critical commentary. Alderman Moran moved that this ordinance be returned to the Human Services Committee and returned to Council for action. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Alderman Newman did not think it necessary to return the ordinance to the committee because it went through a thorough committee process. He said one person he respects has problems with it. He noted the ordinance was modeled after the Indianapolis ordinance, which went to the 7th Circuit, the federal appeals court for Evanston/Chicago, which found this ordinance met constitutional muster and in no way violated the first amendment. The committee considered first amendment issues as did the corporation counsel. The committee voted 4-0 to send this to Council and he saw no reason for it to be returned to committee. He suggested any specific amendment be offered that evening; recalled they started with a different ordinance, changed it due to the Indianapolis ordinance, took testimony and no defect was found in it by the Law Department. He noted this had been under review for six months by the committee. 1 1 ?Z9 9 January 8, 2001 Alderman Engelman pointed out that because an ordinance passed constitutional muster as applied by the 7" Circuit in Indianapolis did not mean that it is the ordinance that Evanston wants and should pass. He had concerns about the chilling impact, if not the unconstitutional impact, of this upon free speech rights. Alderman Moran noted that Mrs. Moschandreas brought to their attention an anomaly in the 7'' Circuit Court decision upon which there has been so much reliance. He stated that both parties to the case had stipulated time; place and form restrictions. Mrs. Moschandreas told them, in her opinion, that the stipulation by both parties most likely was incorrect. It was clear from the Circuit Court opinion that they accepted the stipulations of the parties. The Court did not hold that the stipulations were correct or constitutional. He was sure nobody on Council wanted to pass an ordinance that violates the Constitution. They have to ask whether the ordinance is constitutional? They also have to ask if it is the best thing to do from a policy standpoint. He did not mean to suggest that by sending this back to committee, it would not return here. He said it was incumbent upon Council to go at this deliberately, that fast amendment rights are highly valued here and to get it right. It is hard to make solid amendments to a complicated ordinance in a complicated area of the law. He suggested they need to deal with this in the committee in a deliberate and careful way. Alderman Kent was more worried about Section B, where Mrs. Moschandreas pointed out, the speech limitation provisions will be unequally and discriminatorily enforced. He could name most of the panhandlers here that many find to be unpleasant. He sympathized with the police officer who described his mother's experience with panhandlers. He asked a former police chief about loitering on street comers. He thought if somebody's mother went to the store daily and had to walk through a group of 10-12 men loitering on a corner daily, he would be angry about that. He sees the same thing going on such as people congregating on corners. He was looking for checks and balances. He said there are some people who are not as tolerant of a person's demeanor, attitude or dress and will go to a police officer. He did not think that was solving the problem. He received a letter from the Evanston Ecumenical Council that described the services it provides to homeless individuals. He did not know whether they are dealing with homeless people or people who are trying to get what they can. What kind of complaints will there be? Who will accept the complaints? Describing his colleagues as experts, he urged this be returned to the committee. Alderman Bernstein found no fault with the Human Services Committee. He noted there was an expert on the Parking Committee, which resulted in the finest garage ever. He read Mrs. Moschandreas' letter and noted she has constitutional expertise and has assurance that she would work with the Law Department to address situations that could arise. He urged they wait a short time and make the ordinance right. Alderman Newman noted police officers came to the committee. The police are subject to review as to whether this ordinance is being administered equitably. He said if Alderman Feldman and Rainey think there has not been sufficient discussion, it should go back to the committee. He urged Alderman Engelman to make an amendment. Unless there is a re -thinking by a majority of the committee, he asked what would they talk about? Nobody is offering a specific amendment. He would rather hold it and offer an amendment. He noted the committee did the work and took a lot of time. The legal staff was sent back ordinances three times to analyze first amendment issues. Alderman Feldman stated this ordinance is needed and, as a committee member, thought they had done their work. As a courtesy to Council members who feel additional consideration is necessary, he was willing to look at it again provided those who have concerns indicate those concerns. It will be placed on the January 16 committee agenda and they will request the same information they had before with Mrs. Moschandreas invited to attend. He noted that compelling reasons point to this ordinance. Alderman Wynne said this is significant enough that as many as possible should participate in discussion of it; recognized the committee did its work. She appreciated Mrs. Moschandreas' letter, which gave her pause. She agreed a panhandling ordinance is needed, but one that is appropriate for Evanston and that meets constitutional muster. She thought some language could be crafted that meets the City's goal. They should make sure they get it right. Alderman.Rainey stated she has added this item to the next Human Services Committee agenda; agreed with Alderman Newman that this has been gone over and over. She amended Alderman Moran's motion to include this item as a Special _�39 10 January 8,' 2001 Order of Business at the January 22 Council meeting. Alderman Moran agreed with the amendment to his motion. Alderman Engelman was concerned with whether they could deal with this in one meeting, noting two other matters on the agenda should have gone through Human Services Committee. Alderman Newman made a substitute motion to hold the matter, send it to the.Human Services Committee on the 16`h and for the Human Services Committee to report back to Council on January 22. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Alderman Feldman stated if the Human Services Committee did not have enough time to complete its work on this, that would be reported back to Council. Voice vote, motion carried, no nays. City Manager Crum confirmed that this item was to be a Special Order of Business at the next Council meeting. OTHER COMMITTES: Resolution 4-R-01 — Adontine the Parks & Recreation Strategic Master Plan — Consideration of proposed Resolution 4-R-01, which would adopt the strategic master plan as a long-term plan for development and redevelopment of the Parks & Recreation departments' improvements. Aldermen Engelman noted this did not come through a committee; thought it was put on the agenda at the request of an alderman; suggested that alderman present it. Alderman Newman explained he asked that this item be put on the agenda pursuant to Rule 2.6 because of a time deadline and the need to take action on the referendum by January 29. The Human Services Committee could not meet over the holidays because one member was out of the country. Alderman Newman moved to adopt the Parks & Recreation Strategic Plan. Seconded, by Alderman Feldman. He called this a long process with many public meetings. He said the Recreation Board did an Attitude and Interest Study about eight years ago. About three years ago, City Council authorized the Director of Parks/Forestry & Recreation to evaluate physical plant of the park system. During that time, meetings were held around the City for people to comment on needs. The City engaged a consultant at a cost close to $100,000. The work of this consultant has been before the Recreation Board for many months. During the last year and a half, the Recreation Board has looked at how the City can improve the park system significantly. The Recreation Board recognized some extraordinary action would be needed. They wanted the opportunity to ask the voters whether or not this is the way the community ought to go and make improvements at the Robert Crown Center. There is a time deadline on this and action must be taken at the January 22 Council meeting. The next meeting of Human Services Committee is January 16. He wanted to begin the dialogue that evening. He asked the City Manager to put this on the agenda and thought the Recreation Board, after their years of work, was entitled to have this matter on the ballot. Alderman Drummer raised a point of order, noting there are two resolutions and the later one deals with the referendum. Alderman Newman stated the Recreation Board recommended that the City Council adopt the plan as a goal, which he thought was a good one. Alderman Engelman thought it unfortunate that one member suggested that any other member might use a parliamentary trick to try to defeat something that should be debated and voted up or down. Since they have a committee system, this resolution should go to committee to be discussed before it comes to Council. There was no "time" reason why it should not. As he listened to speakers who spoke for other parents (he was one them) he agreed wholeheartedly with the Recreation Board idea of the strategic plan and the need for maintenance, repair and, in some cases, additional recreational facilities. He applauded the Recreation Board for developing the Strategic Plan. Planning is one of the things they don't do enough of in this City. He stated he got this plan last night and the others got it Thursday. Looking at the plan for the 71' Ward, he saw a lot of detail. He said to honor the hard work that went into developing this document, it should follow the normal process of going to the Human Services Committee, which has expertise in this. Everybody on Council should have the opportunity to examine what is in his or her ward and time to deliberate. Alderman 3Y6 11 January 8, 2001 Engelman moved to refer this to the Human Services Committee. Seconded by Alderman Moran. Alderman Drummer praised the Recreation Board for putting together the plan. His problem with trying to approve this plan was the implication of the resolution that follows it. The resolution dealing with the referendum will not give them the detail this one does. Details in this plan have a profound impact on whether they go forward. For him they were taken out of order. He wished they could talk about the following resolution so they can give some ideas and direction to the Human Services Committee, so it could bring back a resolution that has a chance of passing. Alderman Wynne commended staff for the plan; stated she has two or three copies of prior versions. She came to the meeting held for the 3rd and 4`h wards and went through all the material affecting the 3`d Ward and other areas. She thought they could support the plan and said it does not mean they will go forward with the next item as written. She thought they assessed what the City has, listed what needs to be done to improve the system and put a price tag on it. It is a strategic plan and it does not mean they will do everything in the plan. It is a thorough assessment of parks and recreation here. She thought it should be adopted and was concerned that they put things off. She did not think it needed to go back to committee. She felt informed throughout the process. She thought Council could adopt the plan and then decide what means they have to pay for it. Alderman Newman wanted to correct the record, noting there was an impression the plan document just came to Council on Thursday. He said this document came to Council in the summer and has been available for six -eight months. He pointed out in most communities, the Recreation Board is an independent body and considered to be experts on parks matters. In Evanston, the Recreation Board is not an independent unit and has studied these matters for a significant period of time. He recalled a lot of deference was given to the Library Board on how to spend money. The Library Board had come to Council and presented its plan. It was discussed at the Library Board, not at the Human Services Committee. The City spent $22 million on the recommendation of the Library Board without a referendum. The Recreation Board is presenting a strategic plan, which they have studied and he did not think it had to go back to committee for further study. Alderman Moran noted there had been drafts of strategic plans received by Council members. On the past Thursday they received the agenda for this meeting and before that he was not aware the strategic plan and referendum would be on the agenda to go out and bond for $35 million out of a $100 million that describes the plan financially. When he got the agenda on Thursday, it indicated the final strategic plan would come on Friday. He did not know whether this was the same plan as the prior drafts and had not seen the detail on financing. He commended the Recreation Board for its work on developing the plan; thought it was a solid effort. He has not had a ward meeting in the 6' Ward, no discussion of this and did not think anybody in the 6`h Ward had seen it. He received the strategic plan ($100 million dollar plan) in final form on Friday for the first time. The next item says is it okay to spend $35 million on the parks. This is a strategic plan that citizens need to see and he could not imagine how he could meet his obligation to make sound decisions on policy, including adopting a strategic plan, by adopting a referendum three nights after he saw it that seeks $35 million, which is the first of $100 million. He could not do that. He stated there should be meetings throughout the City on this. He could support many of the ideas in the plan. He stated this must be discussed roundly so they do the right thing. At a minimum, this needs to be referred back to the Human Services Committee and they all need to take this to their constituents for comment and discussion. Alderman Feldman had seen this document and versions of it and still would argue that the community needs to discuss it. He confirmed that a binding resolution had to be voted on no later than January 29. He agreed with Alderman Drummer that the two resolutions are inter -related. One implements partially what is in the other. Alderman Feldman stated he has asked for this for a long time and staff has responded. He did not how they would manage discussion of the referendum; wanted to have Council deliberate with an aim toward a deadline; confirmed that there could not be another referendum on the ballot until the March 2002 election. He hoped they could work out a plan to deal with this matter. He thought they could talk about items they all agree on and limit the referendum to those items. Alderman Engelman noted the document was dated January 5; thought there were other versions and compendiums of some of the information but he had never seen the strategic plan and costs. He recalled four years ago a debate about the creation of standing committees. His understanding of the purpose of the committees was to have dialogues and 3yI 12 January 8, 2001 discussion with constituents and boards, committees and commissions of the City so legislation could be crafted that comes to Council. He said they have been operating that way and that is what Council rules say. Yes, any alderman can put any item on the agenda, but the rules also say that matters should be considered by the appropriate committee and that is the appropriate place for this. He thought he could support the strategic plan 100% and commended staff and the Recreation Board for putting it together. He noted at Lighthouse Park there is no discussion of the consequences if, in fact, the fog house is owned by the park district or the City. That will impact significantly some expenditures for the boiler room. He noted for Leahy Park, it suggested putting in a sledding hill. All know $50,000 has already been budgeted toward the $140,000 needed. There are details that each alderman might want to look at and discuss with the committee. He agreed, to some extent, that the next item is an implementation of this and would like to pass it before voting to go out for the referendum. His suggestion to send this to committee would not prevent that. If the committee wants to bring it back at the next meeting, that was okay with him. Alderman Newman stated he felt good about his actions because he understood the "catch 22" the Recreation Board was in had he not brought this to the Council that evening rather than January 22. He said this is about is whether the Recreation Board will have an opportunity to get this before the voters this year rather than next year. He did everything he could to work with the people who have worked for years to have this opportunity sooner rather than later. If it does not get on the ballot, because people want to study it, his conscience was clear. He found the situation disappointing because there is not only division on Council, they also could not get the support of a former Recreation Board president and the staff is divided on this. His intentions were honorable and he wanted to solve a problem in the community. Alderman Moran said he was the former president of the Recreation Board referred to and, if the idea to honor this plan was to give it to the City Council by short-circuiting the Human Services Committee, and give a $100 million plan to Council members on a Friday for a Monday meeting and Alderman Newman thought this was "hunky dory," and this was about how Alderman Newman can do things with the Recreation Board. He said this is not about the Recreation Board, but about the people in Evanston. That is what has to be focused on. It was not about Alderman Newman or him or the City Council, but about 71,000 people. Alderman Feldman moved to amend the motion to have the Human Services Committee bring the matter back at the January 22 Council meeting. Alderman Engelman and Alderman Moran accepted the amendment. As chair of the Human Services Committee, Alderman Rainey wanted to hear what approach they want to take. The issue was bringing on board the community and understanding the plan. She recalled a community meeting about the strategic plan that was attended by four residents. She urged extraordinary publicity about this meeting and to make this plan available throughout the community. She would try to have a ward meeting on this. She wanted direction from those who want to send it back to committee. Alderman Drummer did not think sending it to committee had any bearing on whether it would pass or fail. He thought it could stay in committee until the referendum passes or fails. He thought once the referendum question is voted by Council to appear on the ballot, there would be a lot of discussion in the community. He noted this was a plan and Council will have to approve each piece of the plan. Once it is understood what it means, then people will pick one piece out. Between now and the election, when citizens understand what they are committing to, they will begin to pay attention to it. It was incumbent upon the aldermen to bring it to their wards for discussion. Alderman Feldman agreed it is a plan that can be altered at any given time and Council would have to vote on items as it is implemented. The question is which items are to be implemented and how will it be paid for? Voice vote, motion carried. No nays. It was clarified that the plan is a guideline for future action. Resolution 5-R-01 — Placing a Referendum Ouestion on the April 3, 2001 Ballot to Issue Bonds for Phase I of Parks & Recreation Strategic Master Plan — Consideration of proposed Resolution 5-R-01, 3Y2- 13 January 8, 2001 which would place a referendum question on the April 3, 2001 ballot to issue bonds for Phase I of the Parks & Recreation Strategic Master Plan. Alderman Newman moved adoption of Resolution 5-R-01. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Alderman Drummer noted this resolution calls for an expenditure of a great deal of money. He praised the Recreation Department for doing a good job and noted that "need" was not in question. He thought it was proper to ask citizens if they are willing to support a project of this magnitude. At the same time, it needs to be clear how much money is involved. He noted they have heard speakers describe this as a $35 million bond issue. He did not think the question was clear. In effect they are talking about an expenditure of $90 million. He referred to Exhibit E, where they have listed principal and debt service. If they took the $35 million bond issue and applied the interest to it, it would be about $59 million of which $24 million is in interest. That is only part of it. The columns on the right show unanticipated outlay and another column says operating expenses. Those show $500,000 added to expenditures each year of the debt service payout. What they need to pay attention to is a $35 million issue that has to do with a facility. More than $28 million has been added in for unexpected outlay and operating expenses. Then add debt service onto that which totals $87 million. That is what will be paid. He thought everybody had acted in good faith. He thought they had to go with "truth" in referendum and state exactly what it is. He suggested when the "fluffy costs" are subtracted, the actual bond issue is $63 million. This proposal has them paying debt service on the $35 million plus the $28 million in the two categories. He would ask, why are they paying $52 million to borrow $35 million? They are talking about $87 million for only 1/3 of the plan, they would have to extrapolate that out as to what the $100 million would cost. He noted there are operating expenses included. What this does is build the facility and include operating expenses as part of debt service for the next 20 years. This would be one of the few times that operating costs would be paid for from capital improvements, which is a change from the way business is done here. He believes this could be done but a different approach is needed. Alderman Engelman moved that Alderman Drummer be permitted to speak beyond five minutes. Seconded by Alderman Bernstein. Motion carried. No nays. Alderman Drummer noted when a bond is issued on somebody else's money, any numbers can be put down. When one works with one's own money, the question is how to get rid of all debt? Around here, they say "bond for it" which costs a lot of money. He looked at the plan carefully and the big numbers are on rebuilding the Robert Crown Center and the multi -purpose sports facility. None of those can be built for the next three years; thought they were scheduled to be built three years out. Alderman Drummer suggested $24 million could be saved on that plan alone. He stated, if a levy were to be passed to raise $4.375 million a year, in three years they would have $13 million available to start the project. He did not think they could spend it that fast. They would spend as they go. He asked why they would want to burden themselves with $24 million in debt when they can plan it out and pay nothing. He thought even more could be saved. He suggested the plan put before them is financially unfeasible and asked Finance Director Stafford to comment. Mr. Stafford stated a home rule community could levy for any amount, do a bond issue or combination of both. The Recreation Board asked for a combination bond issue plus unanticipated expenses and operating expenses to run the operations once built. The levy amount comes to $4.375 million per year, which is a $35 million debt issue with '/2 million unanticipated expenses and 'h million operating expenses annually. He said that Alderman Drummer was correct. They could levy the $4.375 million a year, not spend it for the three years and have $13 million in the bank. At that time they could start building and would get $4.375 million a year. The difference is the project is not started as early, but it does not go as long. Alderman Drummer suggested paying cash and saving the interest. He suggested this be stretched out beyond 2002 as a start time; thought they could wait another two years for rehabbing the Robert Crown Center and building a new multiplex. He stated this must be considered. Alderman Newman was sympathetic to Alderman Drummer's points; related at the combined Budget/Recreation Board meeting in December, there was not unity among staff on this proposal. He did not think there was a sustained effort to look at the ideas put forward by Alderman Drummer. He stated the City Manager's office needs to understand a 3 V 14 January 8, 2001 majority of Council members think it is a priority to do something about the park system now and get on board. He thought staff did not consider it a priority of Council. This proposal was put together by the recreation staff. He recalled when the District 65 referendum was proposed, all staff and board members were behind it. He stated the Recreation Board is trying to get this on the ballot, had met with the Budget Committee, several of which are on the Human Services Committee. He said there isn't unity and ideas have to be considered. The question was whether the ultimate goal was to delay and not have this on the ballot. He thought seven Council members wanted this on the ballot. He said there needs to be direction to staff to come up with the best plan to move forward. He noted they could have told the community when they borrowed to build the library that it was $22 million to build and $22 million in interest. On the Levy Center $6 million to build, $6 million borrowed as well as on the Buck and Target buildings. He stated they need the City Manager's office and the Finance Director on board if this is to be successful. Alderman Feldman wanted to refer this to Human Services Committee with the stipulation that the City Manager suggest that staff work with that committee to develop a priority system for which of the items should be built, whether there is a timetable established that reflects Alderman Drummer's suggestion; the kind of construction schedule under those circumstances and an examination of ways this could be funded by reducing the amount of interest and other expenses. He asked that be presented to the Human Services Committee and that it report back to Council at the next meeting. Alderman Engelman stated he was frustrated because they were not prepared to deal with this that evening. He supported Alderman Feldman's motion. He looked at the referendum as the priority and the timetable. This is what the Recreation Board has said are the most important projects, things they want to do now. If it can be done in three years, does it really need to be a referendum in April or could it be a referendum in March 2002? He hoped the Human Services Committee would look at that. As chair of the Budget Committee, it was incumbent upon him and important to discuss the other aspect of this and why it was perceived there was not full agreement among staff as to whether this referendum is appropriate, which he noted was not a staff function but a policy issue. He stated it is not staffs decision to decide, as a policy, that the City have this referendum. What staff is concerned with and what was discussed at the Budget Committee meeting, was that this referendum looks good in the abstract. Who would not vote for the new recreation center, ice skating rinks, a baseball field where when the ball hits the infield, it does not hit a rock and go flying over the second baseman's head. Put into context, this is $35 million, which is only 1/3 of the $100 million. They have to balance that against $203 million in capital needed to fund other capital needs of the City. Streets, curbs, street lighting, buildings and, if they go out for this bond issue, what impact will that have on the City's ability to borrow in the future to meet those needs or even the needs in the parks strategy plan. Evanston is one of a few communities that has a Aaa bond rating and what impact will this have upon that rating? How many more dollars can be added before the citizens have been stretched too thin. He thought this could be debated as part of the public process as to whether or not the referendum should or should not pass. He said the language looks simple but the problem is not that simple. Alderman Drummer noted when they go back to committee to look carefully at unanticipated outlay and suggested the committee needs to debate operating expenses and operating expenses in a capital plan as a policy issue. He thought they should not lose sight of the proposed property tax increase in the City Manager's budget, which does not include the referendum if it passed. This needs to be articulated clearly, so citizens know what they are getting into. Alderman Bernstein noted people who might not vote for such a referendum live across the street from the proposed new multiplex. He recalled having a ward meeting at which some Crown Park neighbors were not excited about the prospect of tripling the size of Robert Crown Center. However, there was excitement about fixing it up. He thought that Robert Crown had generated lots of revenue, which has been taken and the facility has not been maintained the way it should. That should be taken into consideration. He learned after passage of the District 65 referendum that the district never talked to the neighbors who live across the street from where the new facility would be built. He has wrestled with whether $4 million is best spent on recreation. He noted the City is in its annual budget process and he has constituents who will find it hard to pay the 10% increase in the sewer charge. He noted the recent failure of the referendum for the Township — Evanston cannot afford to pay for its poor because too much money is spent paying for the rich. He thought all want the best recreation possible. He asked can Evanston afford this? He noted the phone calls he receives where he is told people pay more property taxes here than anywhere else and why cannot the alleys be plowed and garbage picked up? He cautioned Council to consider people who would be most impacted in the short term and if the strategic 15 January 8, 2001 plan talks about the multiplex being at the Robert Crown Center or James Park. He noted the recycling center in the middle of a desolate area, which he thought would be a better location for. a multiplex and not impact as many residents. Alderman Newman agreed with Alderman Engelman that staff has not had a policy direction. With other needs, he thought parks would not get $35 million if there were a joint referendum. He thought the argument Alderman Engelman was making was that they could not afford this plan. He noted the Recreation Board has worked on this for years; did the interest and attitude study plus a consultant. Council should be straight and say if they think the City cannot afford this and that it is not in the City's best interest to put this on the ballot. He did not want to promise the referendum would be on the ballot in the future when there are all these future needs but wanted the voters to decide what kind of park system they want and if they were willing to pay additional funds so Evanston can have a "second-rate" park system rather than a "fifth -rate" system, which is what Evanston has currently. He was not sure there was a policy direction to staff. He wanted to be straight with the community, either they ask the community or tell them it is not affordable. City Manager Crum said there was not a clear direction from Council to place this matter on the ballot. Many departments have spent a great deal of time on the strategic plan, which he said was one of the best strategic plans he has ever seen and could be amended in the future. He urged the Human Services Committee to look at the package they may or may not be willing to put on the ballot. How do they structure it and make the best one they can. Staff is pledged to come up with a financing plan. He noted Mr. Stafford has spent many hours going over variations of this debt service trying to find one starting with $100 million, then at $35 million, structured over 10, 20, 30 years. This is a good plan and there are other policy needs. Staff will take direction to do the best they can with whatever Council wishes to do. Mayor Morton confirmed that what this would cost taxpayers in additional taxes will be made available. Alderman Feldman acknowledged the competing needs here. To him this was a start toward something and not a substitute for another. He said there are constituencies here who, when one comes forward with a program, a different way to spend money is offered. There are people with children who would prefer a first-class recreation program than fixing alleys, curbs or potholes. There are those who say "no" until a new city hall is built, alleys are repaired, all the potholes are done. He has not seen a program as ambitious as this to solve or mitigate the ills the community faces. They have not been able to come up with a program to fix the alleys, repair the streets, so there is nothing to equal the kind of "grand vision" this plan has. He thought the City Manager was correct — look at what the City can do and he thought it could be significant. He said the Recreation Department is presenting a vision of what Evanston can have. Perhaps they can get one half or three quarters of that or even all of it. If they can save money, reduce the concept, or stretch it out so it is not all at once, maybe they can do that. He noted operating expense is a commitment forever. If Evanston has a big-time facility, it will have big-time expenses. He will talk about the income the City will get because people will not go to Club 41 and the kind of charges and fees they will have. He recalled going to Club 41 with one of his children. He would be proud to have such a facility in Evanston. He noted whenever the school board asks for money, they always say it is not only that children will have a better education, but the fact that this kind of education is offered keeps property values up. He found that a compelling argument. It is said if the schools go down, so do property values and he thought the same applies here. They have heard that people come here for the recreational programs offered. An enhanced program would be even better for the community. It does not mean they can do it, but they can try. Alderman Rainey confirmed that the Ridgeville Park District could place a bond issue on the ballot for enhanced recreation facilities and parks. Mr. Stafford explained the Ridgeville Park District is non -home rule and would have to go to referendum. She noted in the 81h and 9" wards many parks are in Ridgeville Park District. Over the years the CD Committee has allocated funds to enhance the quality of play equipment in those parks. She noted those parks are not mentioned in the Strategic Plan because they are not City parks. She was concerned about a referendum resulting in a couple of hundred dollars per taxpayer for the City and then the possibility that Ridgeville Parks District, whose parks are in need of enhancement, would do the same kind of referendum. She wanted the Human Services Committee to focus on the fact that the referendum proposed sets up the priorities for the community and is the expert opinion of the Recreation Board which she suggested be looked at carefully. She thought once this referendum is passed, it would be a cold day before another one is passed to meet dire needs having to do with recreation. What are the priorities set forth by the Recreation Board? 3Y5 16 Voice vote, motion carried. No nays. January 8, 2001 Approval of Recommendation for Negotiatine Committee Meetings — Consideration of a recommendation of the Rules Committee to approve private meetings between the City's Negotiating Committee and Northwestern University. Alderman Wynne moved approval. Seconded by Alderman Rainey. Alderman Newman recalled at the prior meeting, an alderman had said that this was a Negotiating Team of the Rules Committee and subject to having only two members. A staff memo clarified that the three members, considered as this Negotiating Team appointed by Council can go to these meetings. He understood the three -team members can meet in private without violating the Open Meetings Act. Alderman Engelman thought the Negotiating Team was a sub- committee of the Rules Committee. City Manager Crum pointed out this had come to Council for a vote. First Assistant Corporation Counsel Herb Hill explained that the City Council consists of 10 members; this is a delegation from the Council of less than a majority of a quorum. A quorum of City Council is six. Three members of the Council do not constitute a majority. These three members of City Council are a negotiating team of Council. Since a quorum is six, three is not a majority of a quorum, therefore, there is not a requirement under the state statute that these three people meet in public as they carry out their responsibilities. Alderman Engelman noted when the P&D Committee hears appeals from the Preservation Commission, it is a committee of the Council. Mr. Hill explained the P&D Committee is an existing standing committee created by existing rules of Council. The Negotiating Team consists of three members of Council, as representatives of Council. Alderman Engelman asked why this motion is on the agenda? Alderman Newman explained that if the Negotiating Team was going to meet in private with the University it should be supported by the entire Council. Mr. Hill noted that this is a Council decision. Alderman Drummer recalled when this was first discussed, Council and the Rules Committee insisted that meetings be open. This is a change in direction that should be approved by Council. Alderman Feldman noted there was another issue that perhaps Council had forgotten about. He asked Council to hold this and that a letter be sent to NU asking them what items they wanted to discuss. He saw nothing in documents that a letter was sent and that there had been a response. Alderman Rainey stated a letter was drafted by Alderman Newman including that language, which she refused to sign and he agreed to hold. Alderman Bernstein has proposed that a letter be written excluding that requirement, including that they have counsel present and a couple of other points. Alderman Newman stated the Negotiating Team had worked through that issue. Alderman Bernstein stated the language of the letter would request that NU bring items they would like to discuss. They are trying for unanimity on the Negotiating Team so they can start negotiations with NU. Alderman Feldman respected the Negotiating Team's position but did not respect, as maker of the motion, that these decisions were made without contacting him. He thought they were entitled to deal with these issues but not entitled to make decisions individually or arbitrarily apart from Council consideration. While he supported the decision, he did not expect this to happen again. Voice vote, motion carried. No nays. CALL OF THE WARDS: Alderman Newman reported that last Saturday night the movie theaters were full and the parking garage was practically filled. People notice a significant amount of increased traffic. He has heard nothing but praise for the new Maple Avenue garage. He noted the hotel, the Evanston hospital building and McDougal Littell buildings are going up. He thought they 17 January 8, 2001 ought to focus on the successes that are bringing people to downtown Evanston; noted people at the movies were from Highland Park, Wilmette and Lincoln Park. He thanked staff for handling traffic. Alderman Drummer thought streets were fairly passable now. He noted two years ago there was a 22-inch snowfall. He pointed out years ago snow came and they did not know it was coming, but now snow is predicted so the City is warned when more than two inches will fall. He suggested the emergency plan be instituted ahead of time so the City can have one side of the street cleared. It is easier to institute the plan before the snowfall than after because there is no place to park. He asked staff to give that some thought. He noted when the sirens were sounded and people were to move their vehicles to the other side, there was no place to put a vehicle. He praised staff for the job they did and appreciated their hard work. Alderman Wynne announced the next Rules Committee was January 16 at 6:00 p.m. before the Human Services Committee meeting. She thanked everybody for their good wishes. Alderman Bernstein was in downtown Evanston at the theater Saturday. He was excited by the energy exhibited by throngs of people walking on Church Street. He noted downtown restaurants had long waits for service. He called the garage wonderful. He noted a citizen had spoken about the sirens. If the City has a policy that when the sirens sound people must move their vehicles and if a person does not, the vehicle should be towed. If the sirens sound people will ignore them, why bother. If the City has a policy, why don't they follow it? Alderman Kent stated that crews did a fantastic job. He noted 15 tow trucks on Emerson St., however, he was concerned about towing cars on Sunday on Emerson where there are 23 churches. That causes him to knock on doors. He suggested there be some consideration on Sunday mornings. He understood many cars were towed on Dodge Ave. He wanted information on the Dodge Ave. vehicles towed that were relocated to James Park. Alderman Kent said a January 10 meeting of the Plan Commission concerning a possible text amendment and development of a transportation center at Jackson, Foster and Dewey was cancelled. The new date is February 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the Plan Commission. Alderman Kent gave kudos for the downtown development, but would be happy when residents to the west of the development are able to walk across Green Bay Road and Ridge Avenue instead of running across intersections. Alderman Engelman reminded all of a Budget Policy Committee meeting on January 17. The next budget workshop will be on January 20. Alderman Rainev made a reference to A&PW Committee to consider ot)enine of alleys after a certain death of snowfall. She noted a police car was stuck in an alley in the 8' Ward. She stated many senior citizens who park in their garages are trapped and it is impossible to get their cars out. She would like people to have access to their garages. Alderman Rainev made a reference to the A&PW Committee on behalf of taxicab drivers to consider a rate hike. She understood it has been in excess of seven years since rates have increased. Mayor Morton asked if they would consider raising the cost of the senior taxi coupons? Alderman Rainey thought that was a matter for the Human Services Committee. Alderman Feldman welcomed Alderman Wynne back. He confirmed there would be a budget workshop on January 20 on the head tax, another on January 27 on the Capital Improvement Program. There being no further business to come before Council, Mayor Morton adjourned the meeting at 12:13 a.m. Mary P. Morris, City Clerk A videotape recording of this meeting has been made part of the permanent record and is available in the Citv Clerk's office.