HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 1989DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Aid. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
January 9, 1909
Room 2403 - 8:00 P.M.
S. Brady, L. Morton, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
J. Bleveans and J. Korshak
C. Powers, R. Carlson, D. Rasmussen, K. Brenniman
and R. Rudd
Rick Wendy, Raymond Chou and Nary McWilliams
J. Rudy
Minutes of December 19, 1988.
Aid. Warshaw moved and Aid. Morton seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of December 19, 1988.
The Committee voted 4-0 to approve the minutes.
Communications
Chairman Rudy stated that he was contacted by Mary Singh, who requested an
expansion of the list itemizing pending action of the ZBA. It appeared that
the intent of the request was to try to obtain the earliest notification as
possible of various Zoning Board activities. Rudd explained that the zoning
analysis report does not necessarily reflect future cases for the ZBA.
Actually, only a small portion of zoning analysis cases result in ZBA
activity. Rudd further explained that the earliest possible notification
about a Zoning Board case is when an application is perfected and the case is
scheduled for public hearing. The Council and citizens already have access to
those notices. It was suggested that if any item on the zoning analyses
report is of interest, the interested party can contact staff to track the
status of that matter in case it results in a ZBA hearing.
ZBA 88-33-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2410 Ewing Avenue.
The Committee received without comment.
Docket 8-1A-89. Approval of Plat of Subdivision and Approval of Easement and
Covenant Agreement for 1136-44 Asbury Avenue and 1315 Crain Street.
Chairman Rudy shared with the Committee some of his observations regarding the
proposed subdivision. Chairman Rudy noted that when the easement square
footage area is included in the calculations of the proposed lots, those lots
are slightly larger than required in the zoning district. When the subject
easement is excluded the lots are slightly smaller than required in the zoning
district. Chairman Rudy concluded that there appears to be a slight density
increase due to the latter calculation than would normally be permitted. Aid.
Warshaw concurred that that may be accurate, but felt that with the use of a
P & D Minutes
January 9, 1989
private street the lots could be reconfigured to equal the same density in the
zoning district. She felt that the private street was an enhancement to the
project. Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the expense of public improvements,
such as sewer construction, would be picked -up by the developer? Rick Wendy,
attorney for the developer Raymond Chou, stated that the cost of sewer and
water and other public improvements would be borne by the developer. Chairman
Rudy questioned Mr. Chou whether he explored the possibility of each lot on
Asbury having separate driv•sway access? Both Chou and Wendy responded that in
reviewing the project with the Site Plan Review Committee it was the City's
requirement to limit the number of curb cuts on Asbury due to the curve in the
street and the traffic volume at this location. Rudd concurred with the
assessment and stated that the City was concerned with adding additional curb
cuts at this location and thus advocated for a single curb cut off of Crain in
the form of a private street. Wendy stated that the covenant, easement and
restrictions agreed to by the developer go beyond what was required by the
zoning ordinance but all parties feel will aid in creating a better project.
Mary McWilliams, Chairman of the Preservation Commission, was present and
stated that the major concern of the Preservation Commission was that the
yards along Asbury, though technically rear yards, be treated as front yards
and that restrictions be placed in those areas. Wendy stated that the
covenant restrictions preclude various activities and obstructions in the
yards along Asbury. He stated that the subject restrictions will be recorded
and that the City of Evanston will also advise all owners of these conditions
when building permits are issued. In response to a Committee question Wendy
stated that at the time of closing all prospective owners would be made aware
of the restrictions. Chairman Brady questioned where residents would normally
enter the homes if the front yard is along Asbury but the garages are off the
private street? Chou stated that homes will be similar to those along Asbury
whereby guests often park on the side streets and enter the front doors along
Asbury unile the residents park in garages off of alleys or in this case off
of a private street.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Cor,_nittee recommend to
City Council approval of the easement and covenant agreement. The Committee
voted 4-0 to approve. Ald. Horton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the
Committee recommend to the City Council approval of the subdivision at 1136-34
Asbury and 1315 Crain Street. The Committee voted 4-0.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, January 23, 2989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: /
Robert T. R dd
70(2/3)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
January 23, 1989
Room 2403 - 8:00 P.A.
S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
J. Bleveans and L. Morton
D. Carter, R. Carlson, and R. Rudd
Al Belmonte, Jeanne Breslin, Jack Weiss, Ira Golan and
Howard Melton
J. Rudy
Jlguu4.r 9 Vit"
Minutes of , 1-88.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of January 9, 1989.
Ald. Brady requested that the next to the last paragraph be corrected to
reflect that she was not the chairman at that meeting. The Committee voted
4-0 to approve the minutes as corrected.
Communications
None
New Business
Consider Report of Special Sign Committee re Signs on Public Rights -of -Way.
Chairman Rudy and other members of the P & D Committee thanked the members of
the Special. Sign Committee for the report. Ald. Brady expressed her pleasure
with the strong recommendation made by the Special Sign Committee and hoped
that the P & D Committee would accept the report. Ald. Brady also expressed
the desire to have the Committee direct staff to develop an implementation
plan. Al Belmonte, a member of the Plan Commission, was present and provided
the Committee with the background leading up to the development of the Sign
Report. He stated that an issue about entrance signs was only a recent matter
and that the overall report addresses the culmination of numerous requests
over the years regarding signs at the entrances to the City and along the
public rights--of-way. Dick Carter, Planning Director, made a brief slide
presentation to the P & D Committee. In the course of the slide presentation
Carter described the effect of a clustering of signs or in some cases a
scattering of signs as the "Burma Shave effect". Jack Weiss, also a member of
the Special Sign Committee, stated that the slides attempt to put the
Committee's views into a context. Ald. Brady suggested that the Committee
concur with the recommendation to have a single type of sign at the various
City entrance points. She questioned if a distance requirement between other
AM
P & D Committee - Minutes
January 23, 1989
signs was appropriate? Ald. Brady also stated that a key question is what to
do with recognition/honorary signs? Howard Kelton, from Hindscape Gallery and
a representative of the Chamber of Commerce, stated that the Chamber arrived
independently of the Sign Committee's report with its recommendation and gift
to the City of a single entrance sign. He stated that it appears that the
question of the Chamber's entrance sign gift to the City has been caught -up in
the more global issue of control of recognition/honorary signs. He reminded
the Conanittee that the Chamber originally proposed six (6) entrance signs and
felt that the design for those signs was accepted unanimously by the City
Council last year. He also reminded the Committee that the Chamber had agreed
to do routine maintenance on the signs. Melton also stated that the Chamber
concurs with many of the observations and suggestions of the Special Sign
Committee regarding the clutter of signs on the public rights -of -way, but
feels the Chamber's Sign, as a sole entrance sign, is appropriate. Helton
stated that he hoped the P & D Committee could separate the Chamber's gift for
an entrance sign from the broader issue of signs on the right-of-way.
Chairman Rudy stated that City Council expressed appreciation for the Chamber
sign and accepted the sign. Rudy questioned the process for developing policy
regarding entrance signs and other signs at the time of acceptance of the
Chamber sign, and was assured the process had not been abandoned. He stated
that the City would advise the Chamber when the process for review of this
policy issue was completed. Ald. Korshak stated that he respects the time and
effort put forth by the Plan Commission and the Special Sign Committee in
developing the subject report. He stated that he agrees that one of the most
offensive aspects of entrance -way signs is the clustering effect. He stated
that it might be more acceptable if a plan were developed that called for a
dispensing of the numerous signs. Ald. Korshak also stated that he personally
liked the Chamber of Commerce sign which was presented to the City. Ald.
Korshak suggested that somebody explore a suitable location for the honorary
signs such as locating those signs in the Civic Center. Ald. Korshak also
suggested that any further study needs to determine what is appropriate at
various entrances to the City since those entrances oftentimes vary in nature.
Ald. Warshaw expressed her recollection that the City had undertaken a review
of the proliferation of various rights -of -way signs and, unbeknownst to the
City, the Chamber was working on their own sign. Ald. Warshaw stated that she
was not criticizing the particular Chamber of Commerce sign but was most
impressed with the Special Sign Committee Report with respect to entrance
signs. She stated that it is her feeling that a large number of signs create
an overwhelming environment and often are illegible. Ald. Warshaw suggested
that the City explore creating an area such as a particular "wail" at a
location which is highly visible to the public, such as the new transportation
center. Ald. Brady seconded the idea and expressed her support for the
location of honorary/recognition signs at the proposed transportation center.
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P & D Committee- Minutes
January 23, 1989
In a response to the Committee, Weiss stated that contact with various other
municipalities indicates there was no consistent handling of this issue.
Breslin stated that contact with both Oak Park and Park Ridge indicates that
Park Ridge has hired a graphic -designer to develop a single logo for the
municipality and create a consistent image.
Sid Orlov, a member of the Evanston Free -Zone Committee, stated that he agrees
with Ald. Korshak's earlier comments and suggests that a separate entrance
sign be developed and adopt a policy of requiring a distance between the
entrance signs and other signs along the rights -of -way. He stated that he
concurs that the clustering of signs is not appropriate.
Chairman Rudy stated that the Committee should provide direction to staff to
develop an appropriate way to address the overall issue. Belmonte stated that
both clustering and scattering of signs have basic problems and that neither
one is necessarily appropriate in every instance. Ira Golan, Executive
Director of the Evanston Chamber of Commerce, was present and in response to
Ald. Warshaw's earlier comments regarding the Chamber's undertaking the
entrance sign. stated that the Chamber started their work two weeks before the
P & Development Committee established the Special Sign Committee. Ald.
Korshak stated that there may need to be a public hearing to have public input.
Ald. Warshaw stated that it would be helpful if a list of non -regulatory signs
that are currently posted could be developed with the view to possibly
reducing these signs. She also stated that the need of a graphic -design
consultant may be called for in developing a plan.
Ald. Brady moved that (1) the P & D Committee continue to review the issue of
entrance signs, (2) that the proposed new transportation center designers
review with an eye -to developing an area for honorary signs, (3) that the
Traffic Engineer come back to the Committee with information on the cost to
more standardize required regulatory signs (informational signs). Ald.
Warshaw seconded the motion and amended the motion to include her earlier
request for a list of non -regulatory signs. The amendment was accepted and
the Committee voted 4-0 to accept the Special Sign Committee Report and
forward the above points on to staff for action.
Annual Report of Plan Commission.
Chairman Rudy stated that he agrees with the various issues presented in the
report and wanted to express his appreciation for the hard work put forth by
the Plan Commission members over the past year. Aid. Brady particularly
highlighted the hard work of the Plan Commission which resulted in the
recently released downtown study. Belmonte stated that the quality of the
reports not only reflects the work of Plan Commission members but particularly
the Planning Department staff.
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1
P & D Committee - Minutes
January 23, 1989
The Committee accepted the annual report of the Plan Commission with no
further comments.
Docket 40-1B-89. One (1) Year Renewal Contract with Criezis Architects for
Building Department.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council direction to the City Manager to execute a one (1) year renewal
contract with Criezis Architects for Building Department's plan review and
field inspections for commercial, industrial and institutional projects
costing in excess of $200,000 in construction costs. Ald. Korshak questioned
whether field inspections were being conducted by professionals in the various
disciplines? Demitri Criezis, principal of the subject firm, was .present and
stated that all of the inspectors were professional engineers and/or
architects. The Committee voted 4-0 to recommend renewal of the one (1) year
contract.
Under discussion Ald. Warshaw indicated that she received a letter
highlighting inconsistences between the BOCA Building Code and the current
City Zoning Ordinance. Rudd stated that the subject letter was forwarded to
the Zoning Commission for their review in conjunction with developing the new
zoning ordinance.
Chairman Rudy reviewed with the Committee a copy of a draft policy statement
regarding the new zoning ordinance being developed by the Zoning Commission.
It was the direction of the Committee to staff that copies of this draft
Zoning Commission report be forward to the P & D Committee members and
Aldermen as soon as possible.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, February 13, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: �.
Robeft�T.' Rudd
70(2/5)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. HOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
February 13, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.N.
Ald. Present: J. Bleveans, S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: L. Morton
Staff Present: C. Brenniman, J. Asprooth, D. Rasmussen,
C. Powers and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Rudy
Minutes of January 23, 1988.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of January 23, 1989.
Ald. Korshak moved that the minutes be corrected on page 2, second paragraph
to reflect that the word used should be "dispersing" in place of
"dispensing". Ald. Brady also moved that the minutes be corrected to reflect
that Mr. Howard Melton represents Private Lives business. the Committee voted
5-0 to approve the minutes as corrected.
Communications
ZBA 88-35-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 913 Madison Street.
In response to a question from Ald. Warshaw, Dave Rasmussen, Assistant
Director of Zoning, stated that the decision by the ZBA was consistent with
prior decisions with respect to floor area ratios.
New Business.
Docket 42-2B-89. Approval of Plat of Consolidation at 2220 Greenleaf Street.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the plat of consolidation for Thermal Laminating Company at the
subject address. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the plat.
Docket 44-2B-89. Approval of Plat of Consolidation at 2205 Lee Street.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the plat of consolidation for Riley & Geehr Company at 2205 Lee
Street. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the plat.
Docket 43-2B.-89. Approval of Plat of Consolidation re 2048-56 Green Bay Road
for Public Storage Company.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the plat of consolidation for the subject property for Public
Storage Company. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the plat.
P & D Minutes
February 13, 1989
Docket 46-2B-89, Ordinance 21-0-89. ZBA 88-36-V&SU(R). re Variation for 2413
Park Place.
Ald. Bleveans moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the ZBA recommendation to grant variations to permit the
construction of two (2) additions, raising the roof and adding a chimney.
Rasmussen explained to the Committee the need for the special use for the
expansion of the patio and that that part of the request would be coming to
the P & D Committee at a later date. Ald. Brady questioned why the variation
• request was being split into two parts? Rasmussen explained that it was in an
effort to expedite the process and allow the applicant to begin the majority
of the work as early as possible. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend
approval of the variations.
Docket 47-2B-89, Ordinance 24-0-89. ZBA 88-34-V&SU(R), re Variation and
Special Use for 243 Callan Avenue and 622 Mulford Street.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of the variation and special use. The Committee
discussed why the 1960 Zoning Ordinance regulations did not anticipate these
Issues and in some cases cause the need for applicants to file for
variations. Rasmussen explained that though in this particular case the --
variation may seem insignificant, to allow a wholesale approval of this
request could create significant other problems. The Committee voted 5-0 to
recommend approval of the variation and special use.
Docket 45-2B-89. Ordinance 22-0-89. re Amendment to the Residential Landlord
and Tenant Ordinance, Section 5-3-5-1(A).
Ald. Brady provided the Committee with a brief history of this reference from
Ald. Rainey. She explained that the original reference was to amend the
Landlord Tenant Ordinance to require only a one (1) month security deposit.
Ald. Brady explained that the Housing Commission's reco,-=endation was a
compromise between concerns expressed by landlords and tenants. Ald. Korshak
expressed his concern that the calculation of interest, based on the proposed
amendment, was unduly complicated for landlords. Ald. Korshak proposed that
the ordinance be amended to reflect that interest for the first year be
calculated on a one (1) month security deposit and that in future years that
it be calculated on one and one-half month's security deposit. Ald. Warshaw
stated that it was her opinion that the calculation was not that difficult to
make. Linda DeWoskin, a representative of TOE, explained that it is a
non -issue since the current ordinance takes this into account. Ald. Brady and
Ald. Warshaw recommended amending the proposal to correct a problem that was
anticipated after the Housing Commission's recommendation. The amendment was
to address the issue whereby a tenant did not pay the last half month's
security deposit over a six month period. Ald. Brady moved that the ordinance
be amended to reflect that "non-payment of security deposit shall be
considered as non-payment of rent". Ald. Warshaw seconded the motion. The
Committee voted 5-0 to approve the amendment.
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IM IMP", 1111 III NJ'' 9P11' 9PRF1 PI IImr.71T 4p I q IN Im fly i..ru m INA
'. P & D Minutes
February 13, 1989
Ald. Bleveans questioned whether the Housing Commission experienced an
outpouring of need to amend the Landlord Tenant Ordinance? Ald. Warshaw
stated that statistics revealed that 50% of the landlords required one and
one-half month's security deposit and that it was a burden on many tenants.
Ald. Brady further stated that a review of reports indicates that by far most
of the landlord tenant complaints are related to security deposit issues, both
from tenants and landlords. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend introduction
of the proposed ordinance as amended and that a clean copy be supplied to the
City Council at the February 27, 1989 meeting reflecting the amendment.
Old Business
Multi -Family Inspection Program
The Committee reviewed a staff report comparing various multi -family
inspection programs. Ald. Brady stated that it would be helpful if the
Committee receive the consultants fee report prior to making a final decision
on the multi -family inspection proposal. Ald. Korshak questioned whether the
P & D Committee was in agreement with the need to charge a fee for
multi -family inspections? Ald. Warshaw stated that she felt there was a need
to charge for reinspections as a penalty and also as a message to encourage
landlords to make corrections as expeditiously as possible. Ald. Korshak
stated that he sees two ways to address the issue: (1) to charge nothing for
the initial inspection and (2) to charge for the reinspection. He stated that
the Committee may wish to look at these as "user fees" which would be related
to the cost incurred by the City to supply the service. Catherine Powers,
Director of Housing Rehab & Property Maintenance, in response to a question
from Ald. Bleveans, stated that the City does charge for dormitory inspections
under the Rooming House Licensing Program. Ald. Warshaw expressed concern,
since multi -family units in the CD target area are inspected more frequently,
that to charge for initial inspections could be viewed as a penalty and result
in a financial burden for those landlords. Powers stated that staff's
proposal was one of billing annually based on the cost for each inspection.
Ald. Korshak expressed concern that to charge the same for both the good and
bad landlords or to charge landlords for one inspection when in some cases
several reinspections were made seemed inequitable. Joel Asprooth, City
?tanager, was present and stated that similar annual billings are made under
the Long Term Care Ordinance.
Ald. Brady questioned whether a differentiation could be made for charging
more for a six unit building, for example, versus an 80 unit building' Ald.
Bleveans stated that he feels that it is a matter of public policy. Ald.
Warshaw stated that she felt possibly "volume discounts" for a large number of
inspections could be developed. Ald. Korshak expressed his concern for the
need to develop a method to recapture the cost for excessive reinspections.
Asprooth stated that the City would review the Ann Arbor, Michigan Ordinance
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P & D Committee
February 13, 2989
and determine how they bill and collect their fees. He also stated that the
City would review legal issues, if there are any, in developing a different
fee schedule for different types of buildings.
Ald. Brady also asked the staff to prepare a memo explaining the difference
between licensing and an inspection fee program. Ald. Warshaw also requested
that the staff develop a program for charging for only reinspections. In
response to a question from Powers the Committee directed staff to only
address scheduled inspections and not those generated on a complaint basis.
Staff indicated that the material would be gathered as soon as possible and
brought back to the P & D Committee.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, February 27, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: 4
RoberrT.-'
70(2/5)
-A-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
i
Ab
r DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
February 27, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.N.
J. Bleveans, S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Norton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
None
E. Szymanski, T. Clarke, D. Carter, C. Powers
and R. Rudd
J. Weiss, J. Breslin, Drew Petterson, T. Stafford
and Heyward Blake
J. Rudy
Minutes of February 13, 1988.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of February 13, 1989
as submitted. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
Communications
Chairmanship Schedule.
The Committee received the change in chairmanship schedule setting forth Ald.
Warshaw as the new chairman of the P & D Committee starting March 6, 1989.
New Business.
Docket 57-2C-89. Ordinance 20-0-89 re Amendment to the Housing Commission,
Ordinance.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of Ordinance 20-0-89 extending the sunset provision of
the Housing Commission by three (3) years. Ald. Brady provided some
background to the Committee regarding the three (3) year renewal process. She
stated that since the Housing Commission was founded in the early '80's the
three (3) year renewal had been routinely approved. She questioned whether
the Ordinance should be amended to eliminate the renewal process and leave the
Housing Commission only with the triennial review procedure, which is required
of all other boards and commissions? The Committee concurred with the
recommendation that after this three (3) year extension is terminated in 1992,
the Housing Commission, P & D Committee and City Council should consider
eliminating the subject provision from the Housing Commission Ordinance. Ald.
Horton suggested that future triennial reviews should contain information
regarding staff costs associated with the respective board or commission. The
Committee referred the matter to the Rules Committee requesting that the
triennial review forms provide a section allowing for staff costs to be
identified. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to the City Council
introduction of the subject ordinance.
1
P 6 D Minutes
February 27, 1989
Docket 56-2C-89, Consider Plat of Consolidation re 607-21 Custer and 612
Linden.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the plat of consolidation for the property at 607-21 Custer and
612 Linden. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval.
Docket 55-2C-89, Burglary Prevention Compliance Grant Program.
Ald. Brady reviewed with the Committee the Housing Commission recommendation
to provide for a grant for properties with income eligible tenants. In
response to a question from Ald. Korshak, Ald. Brady, a member of Cho Housing
Commission, stated that historically federal housing programs have wrestled
with the same issue of aiding low income tenants while at the same time
providing housing owned by wealthier landlords. She stated that most federal
housing programs are based on benefits to low and moderate tenants and do not
address the issue of higher income landlords. Ald. Warshaw, also a member of
the Housing Commission, stated that the commission thought to not allow for a
grant, all costs would be passed directly to tenants. Those tenants may not
have the wherewithal to absorb any additional monthly rent increase. She
stated that the commission also felt that the procedure would only generate
applications from those landlords truly deserving of the grant. Ald. Korshak
reviewed with the Committee his experience with numerous federal programs. He
stated that the City should take into account the wealth of the landlords.
Ald. Korshak questioned whether the proposal before the Committee was in
response to Ald. Murton's reference? A1d.Morton stated that the current
proposal seemed to be different from what she originally intended with her
reference. She stated that her reference was intended to aid the poor•
landlords regardless of the financial conditions of the respective tenants.
She stated that she meant the program for the little -people owning two or
three flats.
Ald. Brady suggested that the Committee consider amending the proposal to
limit its application to only live-in owners that are income eligible. Ald.
Korshak stated that the issue is whether the owner should pay for the required
improvements if he or she has the capacity, or should tenants be recipients of
the financial aid through the grant to the owners? Ald. Korshak continued
stating that the issue was whether or not the City should examine the
predicament of the tenant or the owner? Ald. Warshaw stated that her
experience finds that in many instances two or three flat owners have fixed
income tenants that cannot absorb any additional costs. In many of those
instances the owners are also on a fixed income. Ald. Warshaw suggested that
Ald. Korshak and Ald. Morton develop a proposal more in line with what they
think the reference meant. In response to Ald. Morton's question about the
drafting of the proposal, Ald. Brady stated that the Housing Commission
extended its proposal beyond the original reference to include tenants because
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P & D Minutes
February 27, 1989
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Special Sign Committee Report.
The Committee reviewed a memo from the Special Sign Committee to the P & D
Committee dated February 21, 1989. Ald. Brady questioned whether the City
could undertake the passage of an ordinance giving the City Manager, or his
designee, authority to immediately remove signs from the public right-of-way?
Dick Carter, Planning Director, was present and stated that with the approval
of the City Council, staff could begin undertaking this activity in the very
near future. Ald. Warshaw suggested that though the P & D Committee is well
versed on the subject, it might be helpful for the City Council to see the
slide show which has been presented to P & D. She stated that the whole City
Council needs to be forewarned about which signs would be subject to
elimination. Ald. Warshaw also stated that the matter is not only of
eliminating signs but of taking better care of the existing landscaping and
those signs that will remain. Ald. Morton stated that she agrees With points
numbered one and two of the subject memo, with the exception that a greater
than six month period should be granted before "non -regulatory or
non -essential informational signs" are eliminated. Also, Ald. Morton
recommended that a specific location be designated for those signs that would
be removed from the public right-of-way and be relocated elsewhere. Ald.
Morton further stated that she is opposed to hiring a design consultant to
prepare an appropriate le,idscape and sign design for the six major entrances
to the City. She stated that she likes the sign presented to the City by the
Chamber of Commerce. Ald. Morton also stated that she concurs with item #4
which directs the Traffic Engineer to take immediate steps to reduce the sign
clutter at the six major entrances to the City. With respect to item l#5, Ald.
Morton stated that she does not want to eliminate banners from the
right-of-way but would rather see the City exercise some control over the
materials utilized so that banners do not become tattered and worn. Chairman
Rudy stated that he agrees with all five points setforth in the Special Sign
-3-
P & D Minutes
February 27, 1989
Committee's recommendation. In response to a question from Ald. Horton,
Chairman Rudy stated that at the time the City accepted the Chamber of
Commerce sign he questioned fellow Council members as to whether the City
would erect the sign at the entrance points? At that Council meeting he was
told that the City only accepted the sign and had not agreed to place the sign
at the six entrance points. Chairman Rudy stated that the Committee and
Council need to be more specific in a response to the Chamber of Commerce
regarding the subject sign so that the Chamber knows exactly where the City
stands on this issue. In response to a question from Ald. Bleveans regarding
the possibility of grouping signs, Jack Weiss, a member of the Special Sign
Committee, stated that to his knowledge no other community has confronted the
issue as has Evanston. Ald. Warshaw stated that for that reason she believes
a design consultant is needed to aid in the design for the collection of
signs. She suggested a wall be identified in the transportation center area
to display these signs.
Ald. Brady stated that she supports the Special Sign Committee's
recommendation but feels that the matter must be taken to the City Council for
approval. Ald. Brady stated that she believes that there must be cost
implications for the removal of the subject signs and feels the Committee and
Council needs the input of the Traffic Engineer, Dave Jennings with respect to
those costs. Also, the type of signs that would be removed, number of signs
to be removed and how the signs identified for removal are determined must be
examined. Ald. Brady further stated that she concurs with the report in
recommending that the design consultant be employed.
Ald. Bleveans stated that he is in favor of the "grouping of signs" idea.
Weiss stated that possibly a park setting at the Civic Center could act as an
area for grouping the subject signs. Ald. Korshak stated that he would prefer
to see the Traffic Engineer's inventory of non -regulatory signs on the public
right-of-way before making a decision. The Committee discussed the meaning of
"non -regulatory signs". Ald. Morton stated that she agrees with the last
sentence of the report in that the City does not need to announce all of its
accomplishments by placing signs on the public right-of-way. She stated that
she would like to see a listing of all signs that are currently erected on the
public right-of-way that were paid for by other organizations. Ald. Bleveans
stated that he believes step one should be for the Corrnittee to review the
inventory of signs being developed by the Traffic Engineer. Ald. Brady stated
that at this point she thinks that staff needs to develop the Special Sign
Committee's five points setforth in the outline. She stated that, before the
matters goes before the City Council, staff needs to be more specific with a
recommendation. Hayward Blake, a member of the Special Sign Committee, stated
that the committee was not just talking about aesthetics. He stated that the
committee was more concerned with the promotion of traffic safety and the
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T
P & D Minutes
February 27, 1989
movement of traffic by lessening the clutter and distraction of unneeded
signage on the public right-of-way. Blake stated the reason for hiring a
design consultant was mostly for the need to develop a landscape plan at the
entrance points. He stated that the committee's concern was for an overall
environment. Blake further stated that in his opinion there would not be a
great number of signs removed along the right-of-way throughout the City.
Rather, a significant number of signs would be removed at the entrance points
thus eliminating a significant amount of unneeded right-of-way signs. Blake
emphasized to the Committee that the public right-of-way must be used to
control traffic and aid in its movement. In response to questions from the
Committee, Blake stated that historic preservation signs would remain but
that business district direction signs would be removed and only erected if
absolutely necessary. He stated the committee's opinion that the public
right-of-way should be used to provide information for the direction of
traffic and for traffic safety and not to be used to promote business.
Ald. Morton stated that she agrees with Blake's comments that the right-of-way
should be used to further public safety. Ald. Brady stated that before the
Committee could go any further it is necessary to have Dave Jennings, Traffic
Engineer at the next meeting, so the Committee can have his input regarding
the issues raised tonight. She stated that it was important to have
information on cost, and the number and type of signs to be removed.
It was the consensus of the Committee to hold this matter over until the March
13, 1989 meeting and invite Dave Jennings to attend this meeting to further
discuss this matter.
Chairman Rudy distributed to the Committee a packet of information supplied to
all variation applicants. Chairman Rudy stated that he had been contacted by
Mary Singh, who expressed concern that the information and direction supplied
to the applicants was slanted in their favor at the expensive of objectors.
Rudd explained to the Committee that the material and the packet contained
information regarding the variation standards that must be addressed by the
applicant in order to be granted the zoning relief sought and additional
information regarding procedures. Rudd further stated that the materials have
been approved by the ZBA to aid in the public hearing process. Chairman Rudy
suggested that the Committee review the material and discuss at a future date.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, Mar 13, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert T: Rudd
70(2/5)
-5-
DRAFT, HOT APPROVED
.. ti
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
March 13, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
J. Bleveans and L. Morton
E. Szymanski, T. Clarke, D. Carter, C. Powers,
D. Rasmussen and R. Rudd
Steve Bernstein
R. Warshaw
Minutes of February 27, 1989.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the minutes
of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of February 27, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 3-0 to approve the minutes (Ald. Korshak
absent).
Communications
ZBA 88-39-V{F) Variation Decision re 1217 Grant Street.
The Committee received a final variation decision for 1217 Grant Street from
the Zoning Board of Appeals. Chairman Warshaw expressed her appreciation for
the help supplied the applicant by ZBA member Peters, by leading them through
the variation standards.
ZBA Public Notice for Wednesday. April S. 1989.
The Committee received the notice Without comment.
Chicago Tribune Article re Appeals Court Upholds Village's Landlord -Tenant Law.
The Committee received the article without comment.
Docket 45-2B-89, Ordinance 22-0-89, re Amendment to the Residential Landlord
and Tenant Ordinance, Section 5-3-5-1(A}.
Chairman Warshaw stated that she had spoken with the sponsor of the subject
amendment, Ald. Rainey, who in turn expressed concern that the ordinance, as
drafted, was unclear. Ald. Rainey requested that the Committee clarify the
ordinance with respect to the issue that some tenants may not be required to
have one and one-half month's security deposit, but only a one month security
deposit. Ald. Brady asked if there was a consensus of the P & D Committee to
go ahead with the overall amendment since this provision may in reality be
unenforceable. It was the consensus of the Committee to direct staff to amend
the subject proposal and bring back to the Committee and Council at the March
27, 1989 meeting for passage. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded to hold
the matter in Committee on this date but to go forward at the next meeting.
The Committee approved the motion 4-0.
P & D Committee - Minutes
March 13, 1989
Docket 55-2C-89. Burxlary Prevention Compliance Grant Proxram.
Chairman Warshaw stated that in Ald. Norton's absence the matter would be
carried over to the next P & D Committee meeting. However, Chairman Warshaw
questioned Ald. Korshak as to what criteria would be utilized in determining
that an applicant was economically unable to implement the security
requirements? Chairman Warshaw questioned whether an applicants schedule E
would be sufficient for income affirmation? Ald. Korshak stated that Ald.
Norton's proposal is limited to only two (2) or three (3) flats when the owner
is an occupant. Ald. Korshak stated that an additional restriction and
protection against the landlord giving false information is a requirement that
the rent be frozen for an eighteen (18) month period after the grant is made
and that the rents would not have been raised for a ninety (90) day period
before the application is made. Chairman Warshaw suggested that twelve (12)
months may be more appropriate for freezing the rents and that eighteen (18)
appears to be too long. Ald. Brady observed that it is very possible that
fewer than one hundred (100) applicants will actually utilize the program as
proposed.
It was the consensus of the Committee to hold this matter over to the next
meeting to allow Ald. Morton an opportunity to present her proposal.
Docket 75-3A-89, Ordinance 32-0-89 , ZBA 88-36-V&SU(R) re Special Use for 2413
Park Place.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of the special use request for a grade level patio to be located in
the required side yard. The Committee voted 3-0 to recommend approval (Ald.
Rudy absent).
Docket 76-3A-89, Ordinance 33-0-89. ZBA 88-37-SU(R) re Special Use for 1739-43
Benson Avenue.
Chairman Warshaw questioned whether an error was made in condition #7 of the
subject ordinance. She observed that the transcript stated that litter
pick-up would be conducted "every one-half hour" where the ordinance now
states every hour. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that
the ordinance was in error and should state "every one-half hour". Ald. Brady
stated that she was impLessed with the voluntary litter plan proposed by the
applicant and could support the special use request. Ald. Brady moved and
Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee recommend to the City Council
approval of the special use request for a type 2 restaurant and to amend
condition #7 as earlier stated. The Committee voted 3-0 (Ald. Rudy absent).
Docket 77-3A-89, Ordinance 34-0-89, ZBA 88-38-V&SU(R) re Variation and Special
Use for 1316 Oakton Street.
Chairman Warshaw stated that she had been contacted by Ald. Rainey who in turn
was disturbed by the fact that she and other aldermen of the ward were not
informed of the unique nature of the proposal, i.e. a housing project
-2-
P 6 D Committee - Minutes
March 13, 1989
partially for special. populations. Ald. Rainey stated that she supported the
project but wished she had known in advance the various aspects of the
proposal. Chairman Warshaw questioned whether the form of ownership
(townhouse vs multi -family) impacted the number of parking spaces required?
Rasmussen and Steve Bernstein, attorney for the applicant, offered differing
opinions but agreed that the form of ownership would not effect the off-street
parking requirement. Ald. Brady commended the applicant for the proposal from
a land -use standpoint. She stated that she found the proposal both creative
and a worthwhile endeavor. Chairman Warshaw questioned the price of the units
since two (2) numbers were given in the transcript. Bernstein stated that all
but one of the units would be in the range of $130,000 to $150,000, while the
remaining unit probably would be approximately $170,000. Ald. Brady moved and
Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee recommend approval to the City
Council to grant a variation and a special use to permit the conversion of the
subject building into eight (8) dwelling units some of which would be located
below the second floor and the installation of seven (7) off-street parking
spaces to serve the dwelling units. The Committee voted 3-0 (Ald. Rudy
absent).
Docket 78-3A-89. Ordinance 35-0-89. ZBA 88-40-SU(R) re Special Use for 607-21
Custer Avenue.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council granting of a special use for dwellings below the second floor.
The Committee voted 3-0 (Ald. Rudy absent).
Docket 74-3A-89, Mayor's Special Housing Fund re King and Associates.
Chairman Warshaw reviewed with the Committee the proposal from King and
Associates for a Housing Fund loan to retain three (3) affordable housing
units for a minimum of ten (10) years. In response to a statement contained
within the memorandum, Ald. Brady stated that she has been made aware that
Northwestern did not bid on the property and has not had any interest in
acquiring the property. Brian King, developer of the site, stated that he was
informed by the broker dealing the property that Northwestern was a bidder.
However, he had no evidence that was accurate. Ald. Brady stated that she has
faith in the proposal and expects the rents to be kept at a moderate level for
ten (10) years. If for any reason the developer should sell the project at an
early stage, the City would realize a profit which in turn would be placed in
a revolving fund to be used for other housing projects' Chairman Warshaw
noted that the developer is a local resident and will be utilizing local
contractors for the rehabilitation. Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Brady
seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council to approve the loan
ra;•=ast. The Committee voted 3-0 (Ald. Rudy absent).
-3-
r
..
P & D Committee - Minutes
March 13, 1989
Communications
Chairman Warshaw stated that she received from Nary Singh a transmittal
detailing a proposal from the Southeast Evanston Association zoning Committee
regarding a recommended document to be distributed in the notification process
for zoning hearings. Ald. Brady questioned whether the information could be
placed on the back of the notice that is currently being distributed thus not
necessitating additional distribution material? Chairman Warshaw asked that
this matter be placed on a future P & D Committee agenda for discussion.
Special Sign Committee Report
Ald. Brady stated that she now believes she has enough information after
reading a memo from David Jennings, Traffic Engineer. Of particular interest
and clarification for Ald. Brady was reference to the Manual on Uniform
Traffic Control Devices (NUTCD) which placed in context the City's authority
to remove or erect signs on the right-of-way. Ald. Brady stated that she now
understands where the City will receive direction to address right-of-way
signs which are now only 100 signs to be removed from the right-of-way.
Chairman Warshaw stated that she believes that the P & D Committee should
focus an the entrance signs to the City once the unnecessary signs are
removed. Dick Carter, Planning Director, was present and questioned whether
the Committee was prepared to frame the issues and forward a memo to the City
Council for direction? Chairman Warshaw questioned other members of the
Committee whether P & D should recommend: (1) hiring a consultant to help plan
the entrance design; (2) to recommend removal of the 100 plus signs; (3) to
recommend that the City develop a display area for the honorary signs that
would be removed from the parkway and any future awards that would be
received? Ald. Brady stated that she was prepared to recommend approval of
the points contained in the Special Sign Committee Report, dated February 21,
1989 to the City Council and also direct staff to prepare a slide presentation
at the next City Council meeting. Ald. Korshak expressed his reservations
regarding the need to hire a design consultant. He felt that the typical
reasoning for hiring a consultant may not be warranted in this case. Carter
stated that a design consultant is needed since current staff does not
necessarily have the skills required to develop a plan. Ald. Rudy stated that
he concurred with the recommendations of the Special Sign Committee. Ald.
Korshak questioned the issue regarding the Chamber of Commerce sign? He
stated that the City Council needs to make a decision on this matter. Ald.
Korshak observed that each entrance is unique and any entrance sign may be
limited in its presentation from one location to another. Chairman Warshaw
stated that the P & D Committee should make a firm recommendation to the City
Council.
MM
P & D Committee - Minutes
March 13, 1989
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of the Special Sign Committee Report, dated February 21,
1989 and that a memo be prepared and forwarded to the City Council at their
next meeting. The Committee also directed staff to prepare a memo for the P &
D Committee meeting of March 27, 1989 providing an estimate of the cost for
hiring a design consultant.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, March 27, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Ro er T. Rudd
70(2/6)
-5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT, HOT APPROVED
r
i
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
March 27, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 p.m.
J. Bleveans, S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy,
and R. Warshaw
Hone
J. Asprooth, R. Carlson, T. Clarke, R. Carter, C.
Powers, D. Rasmussen, and j. Zendell
R. Warshaw
Minutes of lurch 13, 1989
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the min-
utes of the Planning and Development Committee meeting of March 13, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 6 ayes 0 nay to approve the minutes.
Communications
ZBA Public Notice for Tuesday, April 18, 1989
The aforementioned public notice was received and reviewed by the Committee
without comment.
Old Business
Docket 55--2C-89. Burnlary Prevention Comvliance Grant Program
Ald. Korshak reviewed the past discussion of this item by the Committee. Ald.
Brady questioned the "cannot afford" provision as needing to be replaced with
some type of definite income guidelines. Ald. Morton stated that in her opin-
ion an affidavit of need signed by the applicant along with a rental income
statement should suffice for eligibility. Chairman Warshaw agreed that defi-
nite income numbers are needed. Ald. Korshak stated that no applicant would
agree to keep rent at a stable level for 12 months in order to qualify for
this grant program. Ald. Brady repeated her statement that as a public policy
definite asset and/or income figures should be required. Ald. Morton ques-
tioned what action would be taken if an owner could not afford to comply with
the Burglary Prevention Ordinance. Powers stated that normal enforcement
would proceed and help from the Rehab. Department would be sought. Ald. Brady
noted that health and safety items are first priority in the Rehab. program
and would take precedence over Burglary Prevention items. Ald. Korshak sug-
gested using rental and/or equity and expense criteria for qualification.
Ald. Morton stated that many low income home owners are in dire financial sit-
uations and many of those would need assistance under this program. Chairman
Warshaw suggested and the Committee agreed informally to hold this item over
until criteria of the existing Police Department Lock Program is transmitted
to the Committee.
Planning and Development Committee -
March 27, 1989
Page 2
Docket 86-38-89 Special Sign Committee Report
The report of the Special Sign Committee was previously discussed by the Com-
mittee on March 13, 1989, with the Committee approving the recommendation of
the Special Sign Committee for forwarding to City Council. Carter exhibited
several slides showing various major entrances to the City and the sign clut-
ter at those entrances. Ald. Korshak stated his disagreement with the Special
Sign Committee's recommendation regarding the use of the Chamber of Commerce
entrance sign. The Sign Committee's recommendation dated March 22, 1989, was
discussed by the Committee. This revised recommendation also contained a
March 23rd recommendation that a consultant be hired to prepare concept draw-
ings for City entrances based upon a survey of their individual settings,
etc. Ald. Morton questioned point #1 in the March 22nd memo, which states
that the City should adopt a strong policy which prohibits all but the neces-
sary regulatory and directional signs from being posted on the City's right-
of-way. Ald. Brady questioned whether the State of Illinois Sign Manual could
be used to control right-of-way signs. City Manager Asprooth noted that the
sign manual will not control signs such as service clubs, churches, City
awards, etc. Ald. Korshak questioned the lack of an appeal process for per-
sons or organizations who have been refused the right to erect a sign in the
public right-of-way. He suggested that the appeal should be directed to the
City Council. City ?tanager Asprooth agreed that an appeal process to the City
Council would be proper. Ald. Brady questioned appeal to the Council on in-
dividual sign matters as creating many items for Council consideration.
Chairman Warshaw stated that staff should have the authority to refuse instal-
lation of signs not specifically prohibited in a suggested ordinance. Ald.
Morton stated that she did not feel that a consultant was needed to prepare
designs and that staff probably have that expertise in-house. Ald. Brady
noted that this recommendation of the Special Sign Committee is only prelimi-
nary and that further items such as hiring of a consultant and passage of a
specific ordinance would follow. Carter noted that design of entranceways
and/or award center requires landscape and graphic skills that are not pres-
ently on staff. City Manager Asprooth agreed that talent presently not on
staff or the part time design students hired by the City from time to time do
not have sufficient expertise for this project. There were no additional
motions or votes on this item.
Docket 45-28-89 Ordinance 22-0-89 Re: Amendment to the Landlord/Tenant
Ordinance. Section 5-3-5-1(A)
Chairman Warshaw suggested holding this item over until the nett regular Com-
mittee meeting for changes in the text of the ordinance. Suggested text
amendment wording was submitted by the Chairman. It was the concensus of the
Committee to hold this item over to the next regular meeting of the Planning
and Development Committee.
New Business
Docket 85-3B-89, Request for Waiver and Reimbursement of Transcript Cost
Inecured Re: Zoning Board of Appeals Case 87-26 for 1414 Pitner Avenue.
Ald. Morton stated her reasoning that this request should be approved due to
the fact that the applicant had to make more than one (1) appearance before
the Zoning Board of Appeals. Chairman Warshaw stated that the letter re-
questing refund of the fees showed no proof of hardship and that approval of
c --z. 4 L.
Planning and Development Committee
March 27, 1989
Page 3
this request could establish precedent for not showing hardship and anyone who
does not receive their variation, special use, or rezoning, would apply for
transcript refunds. Ald. Rudy also stated that he sees no hardship mentioned
or proven in the letter of request. Ald. Bleveans noted the Zoning ordinance
requirements for fee refunds and stated that he did not feel those conditions
had been met. Discussion followed regarding the various appearances of this
case before the Planning and Development Committee and the Zoning Board of
Appeals. Attorney Janet Silvestri (attorney for owner) summarized the path of
this case and its appearances before the Planning and Development Committee
and the Zoning Board of Appeals. Chairman Warshaw noted that the City has al-
ready paid these fees to the transcript firm. Ald. Rudy noted that the appli-
cant attempted to introduce new evidence at the Planning and Development Com-
mittee which was not a correct procedure and the applicant was advised that if
he wished to introduce new evidence, the case would have to go back to the
Zoning Board of Appeals. Ald. Rudy further stated that it was the applicant's
choice to return to the Zoning Board of Appeals with the new evidence; thus,
the fees should not be refunded. Ald. Brady moved to deny the request for the
refund, seconded by Ald. Rudy. Ald. Horton moved a substitute motion re-
questing staff to furnish copies of previous P & D and ZBA hearings regarding
this case. Substitute motion was seconded by Ald. Bleveans and the substitute
motion was approved 6 ayes and 0 nay.
Provide Additional Information to Neighbors Re: Variation and Special Use
Requests in Neighborhoods
Chairman Warshaw reviewed a March 13, 1989 memo from resident Mary Singh re-
garding information tramsmitted to neighboring property owners when varia-
tions, special uses, etc., are to be heard before the Zoning Board of
Appeals. Rasmussen reviewed the present practices which notify neighboring
residents approximately three (3) weeks before a case is to be heard by the
Zoning Board of Appeals. He further suggested that any change in notification
rules be sent back to the Zoning Board of Appeals for their consideration as
all aspects of ZBA notices are contained in the Board's Rules. Ald. Brady
noted her general approval with the ideas expressed in the memo and stated
that additional criteria regarding granting of variations and special uses
could be sent along with the legal notice that is furnished to the neighbors.
It was the consensus of the Committee to refer this item back to staff for
their views on this question.
Docket 84-3B-89 Approval of Plat of Easement for M & u Companies at 1450
Sherman Avenue
The Committee reviewed a staff memo regarding the need for a plat of ease-
ment. Ald. Rudy asked if submitted plans showed the subject concrete footings
protruding onto City right-of-way. Carlson replied that the plan submitted
for review and upon which foundation permits were issued did not show the pro-
trusion of the footings onto City property. Ald. Horton moved to approve the
easement plat, seconded by Ald. Rudy. The Committee voted 6 ayes and 0 nay to
approve the motion.
Docket 87-38-89 Ordinance 49--0-89 Re: Authorizing Negotiation for Sale of
Custer Redevelopment Parcel At 607--21 Custer Avenue
The Committee reviewed the ordinance which authorizes the City Manager to
negotiate the sale of the aforementioned property. City Manager Asprooth
Planning and Development Committee
March 27, 1989
Page 4
stated that introduction, suspension of the rules, and adoption of this
ordinance should take place at the City Council meeting in order that this
ordinance would predate passage of the ordinance authorizing sale of the
property. Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Rudy seconded the motion to approve a
request for suspension of the rules, introduction and adoption of the
ordinance at the City Council meeting. The motion was approved 6 ayes and 0
nay.
Docket 88-3B-89 Ordinance 50-0-89 Re: Sale of the 607-21 Custer Avenue
Redevelopment Parcel.
The developer representing Spattz & Associates reviewed changes in the origi-
nal drawings. He noted reduced brick work on the front elevation which en-
ables kitchens to add 5 inches to their length and second floor windows which
have been added in order to carry the window theme of the first floor to the
second floor. He noted further that final cost estimates of all major trades
should be available within two (2) weeks. Ald. Brady noted the lottery pro-
posal for sale of the units as unusual and innovative and may tend to keep the
price at a more reasonable level. Ald. Rudy questioned the fourth whereas of
the ordinance as possibly needing wording that "a two/third or more vote of
Council" should be the wording in the ordinance. It was decided that if staff
feels this change should be made, a clean copy would be distributed to the
Council. Ald. Brady questioned where the dollars gained through the lottery
and land sale would be deposited. City Manager Asprooth replied that land
purchase and other dollars would go to the Capital Improvement Program to be
allocated by the City Council. Ald. Horton moved introduction of Ordinance
50-0-89, seconded by Ald. Bleveans. The Committee voted 6 ayes and 0 nay to
approve introduction of the aforementioned ordinance.
There being no further business, the Committee adjourned at 8:50 p.m.
Staff: GEC
Date: .3/,-7 qAr S
(257C/19)
DRAIN, HOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
Tuesday, April 11, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: J. Bleveans, S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: J. Aiello, J. Asprooth, K. Brenniman, D. Carter,
C. Powers, D. Rasmussen, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: R. Warshaw
Minutes of March 27. 1989.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of March 27, 2989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 3-0 to approve the minutes (Aldermen Bleveans,
Rudy and Brady absent).
Communications
Staff Reply to Planning b Development Committee re Easement Questions at 1450
Sherman Avenue (northwest of Lake and Sherman).
The Committee received the staff reply without comment.
MBA Public Notice for Wednesday. May 3. 1989.
The Committee received the MBA notice without comment.
Old Business
Docket 55-2C-89. Burglary Prevention Compliance Grant Program.
Ald. Morton reviewed material forwarded to the Committee regarding the Police
Department's Home Security Lock Program. She questioned whether the program
was limited to one and two unit buildings? Staff responded that the program
was limited to up to two units in the target area in addition to being based
upon income eligibility. After discussion, it was the consensus of the
Committee that staff work with the current Police Department Home Security
Lock Program and recommended increasing program to allow for up to three units
of owner occupied residences to be eligible. Staff recommended that once a
program is developed that it be incorporated with the current program during
the CDBG budget submittals cycle starting in August of 1989. Staff was
directed to bring back to the Committee a modified Home Security Lock Program
for review.
P 6 D Minutes
April 11, 1989
Docket 45-2B-89. Ordinance 22-0-89. re Amendment to the REsidential Landlord
and Tenant Ordinance, Section 5-3-S-1(A).
Ald. Bleveans questioned what prompted the proposed amendment? Chairman
Warshaw indicated that the proposal evolved from a reference from Aid. Rainey
who received complaints from tenants regarding the high cost of a one and
one-half months security deposit. Ald. Brady reminded the Committee that P &
D referred this mr.tter to the Housing Commission which in turn has forwarded
the proposed amendment to the Landlord Tenant Ordinance. In response to an
observation by Ald. Bleveans, Ald. Horton stated that she has not received any
urgent requests by her constituents to approve the proposed amendment. Ald.
Brady stated that the Housing Commission found that the rent levels, typically
in the range of $600-$700 per month, may result in a one and one-half months
security deposit plus first month's rent totaling between $1,700 and $1,800.
She stated that the Housing Commission found that this may be exorbitant for
low and moderate income tenants and elderly on fixed incomes. Chairman
Warshaw noted that in some cases tenants may not have received their security
deposit from their previous landlords which would add to the aforementioned
financial burden. Ald. Korshak questioned whether interest would be paid on
the security deposit as it was paid to the landlord over a six month period?
Ald. Korshak proposed that the Committee amend the ordinance to read that no
interest would be paid on the security deposit until the full one and one-half
months rent was received by the landlord. After a review with Kathleen
Brenniman, Assistant Corporation Counsel, it was determined that unless Ald.
Korshak's amendment was made to the ordinance, interest would start accruing
after the first installment was made.
Ald. Bleveans questioned what the property owners' position was on this
matter? Ald. Rudy, stated that he was also a landlord and it was his
understanding that the property owners opposed the proposed amendment. Ald.
Rudy, like Ald. Morton, stated that he has not reviewed any material
documenting the need for the amendment. In response to a request from Ald.
Bleveans, Bob Heiberger and Jim Hatykiewicz, members of the Evanston Property
Owners Association, stated that they opposed the ordinance and concur with
Aldermen Horton and Rudy that there has been no outcry for the amendment.
They stated that it was their understanding the proposed amendment is based on
one Alderman's concern generated by a single complaint. Matykiewicz stated
that, in his view, if a prospective tenant cannot generate one and one-half
month's rent, that tenant may not be able to pay a month's rent on a regular
basis. If that should be the case, Hatykiewicz stated that he may not rent to
the prospective tenant. Aid. Korshak stated that he was not unsympathetic
with the landlord's plight, however, he would like to have representatives of
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P & D Minutes
April 11, 1989
TOE present to offer their point -of -view. Ald. Korshak further stated that if
the ordinance should pass, he would request that it be amended to reflect that
no interest would accrue until the full one and one-half month's security was
paid. Ald. Korshak requested that the matter be held -over to May 8, 1989 to
afford representatives of TOE the opportunity to make their stance known to
the Committee. The Committee recommended to hold the matter over until that
date.
New Business
Docket 93-4A-89. Ordinance 60-0-89. ZBA 89-1-SU(R), re Special Use for 1330
Ridge Avenue.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of a special use for a church addition at 1330 Ridge
Avenue. Ald. Brady stated that she found interesting that, prior to 1960,
churches were permitted uses in R1 Districts and thus the subject church would
not have needed a special use. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to City
Council approval of the special use (Ald. Morton absent).
Docket 92-4A-89. Ordinance 54-0-89, ZBA-2-V(R) re Variation for 2100 Dempster
Street.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council granting of a variation to permit the establishment of a
Child Care Institution at 2100 Dempster Street. Ald. Rudy questioned the
Committee as to whether anyone else was concerned with the mixing of a truck
use and children in the same area? It was the consensus of the P & D
Committee thRt issues such as that were heard by the ZBA and that any concerns
were alleviated. Ald. Brady stated that she was present at the subject ZBA
hearing and felt that both the ZBA and the school administrators satisfied any
concerns and demonstrated that there is a significant need for this facility,
which would be one of the largest child care facilities, in Evanston.
Chairman Warshaw stated that it would have been helpful in this case, and may
be helpful in future cases, if interior drawings were supplied since the use
will be contained within an existing building. Steven Bernstein, attorney for
the applicant, stated that the applicant would request that the P & D
Committee recommend to the City Council suspension of the rules to allow both
introduction and passage of the variation request. Bernstein stated that the
applicant is under a time limitation to move from its current location and
needs all the time possible to submit for demolition permits and construction
permits. Chairman Warshaw questioned whether if the construction was not
completed by July 31, 1989 would the Child Care Institution be forced to leave
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P & D Minutes
April 11, 1989
its present location? Bernstein stated that it is very likely the institution
will be forced to leave its present location and if the new location is not
ready, may need to suspend operation. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans
seconded that the Committee recommend to the City Council suspension of the
rules to pass the ordinance at the April 11, 1989 meeting. The Committee
voted 5-0 to recommend suspension (Ald. Morton absent). On the main motion,
the Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to the City Council approval of the
variation request (Ald. Norton absent).
Consider Approval by P & D Committee of Request to Construct a Temporary
Wheelchair Ramp at 1035 Madison Street.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee approve a request
for the construction of a temporary wheelchair ramp for a one year period at
1035 Madison, per Section 6-3-10 of the Zoning Ordinance. The Committee voted
6-0 to approve.
Consider Approval of Request from Hinasion & Oriental Rug Company - 1244
Chicago Avenue to Construct Temporary Structure for Twenty-four Months.
Ald. Horton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of a request to construct a temporary structure for twenty-four
months for the Minasian & Oriental Rug Company at 1244 Chicago Avenue per
Section 6-3-10 of the Zoning Ordinance and with the conditions cited in the
staff memo. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the request.
Docket 91-4A-89, Consider Report of Plan Commission re Establishment of
Tot -Lot at Ashland Avenue and Lake Street.
Ald. Brady stated that she feels that the P & D Committee has not received
enough information to go forward with the recommendation on this project.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Bleveans seconded a motion to request further
information (see attached motion). Ald. Rudy stated that he supported in part
Ald. Brady's motion but believes that nothing other than a park should be
developed on this site. He stated that he would amend the subject motion to
eliminate the housing study portion. Ald. Warshaw stated that she would want
to avoid problems the City experienced with the Evanston Housing Coalition,
i.e. lack of an escrow, insurance issues, on -going maintenance, etc. She
stated that the City needs to nail down specifics at the outset prior to
committing the site to a neighborhood group for development. Ald. Korshak
stated that he is not at all happy with the motion by Ald. Brady and feels
that it would kill the momentum developed by the neighborhood group. He
stated that he believes the site should be used solely for a park unless
Aldermen of the ward feel a need to look at the site to be partially developed
with housing. Aid. Korshak stated that Ald. Brady's suggestion to hold for
ninety (90) days to allow for further study will severely hinder any momentum
the neighborhood group has currently generated. Ald. Korshak stated that it
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IIT m " I q, ri F,,,
P & D Minutes
April 11, 1989
is his understanding that the neighborhood group is requesting only whether
the City agrees with the concept and will hold the site to allow the
neighborhood group to raise funds and develop park drawings. Ald. Korshak
urged the Committee to not halt the momentum of the group and asked that the
Committee recommend to the Council approval of the site for a children's
playground. Ald. Drummer of the second ward, where the site is located,
stated that the Aldermen, and the residents of the area, feel there is not a
need for any review of proposed housing on the site. He stated that the
neighborhood does not want housing and only wants the site to be develop as a
park. In response to issues raised by Ald. Brady in her motion, Ald. Drummer
stated that he recognizes that all concerns will need to be addressed and
ratified by.the City at a later date. Ald. Drummer stated that the
neighborhood is not asking for anything more than the currently allocated
$50,000, and that the group will raise additional funds for development. Ald.
Drummer stated that the City of Evanston prides itself on its diversity and
such diversity is reflected in the neighborhood group proposing to develop
this park. Ald. Drummer stated that he recognizes the fact that the Parks
Department can not continually stretch its budget to pick-up additional
parks. Ald. Paden, also of the second ward, stated that the neighborhood
group and Aldermen have worked with the Plan Commission to study this matter
and have concluded that a park is best for the entire site and the
neighborhood.
Chairman Warshaw stated that the P b D Committee would benefit if it had more
information on the proposal. Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that
the P & D Committee recommend to the City Council that the subject site be
reserved for a one (1) year period to allow the neighborhood group to raise
funds and develop plans for a children's playground and that no other plans be
made for the site during this time -period. Ald. Brady stated that she is not
necessarily far -or -against residential development on a portion of the site,
but the issue should be thoroughly studied before a decision is made. Ald.
Drummer informed the Committee that a 1960 City of Evanston Land Use Study
delineated this site for a park. He stated that the City now has the
opportunity to develop it as such. The Committee voted 4-2 on Ald. Korshak's
substitute motion to recommend to the City Council reserving the site for a
one (1) year period to allow the neighborhood group to develop further plans.
(Voting Nay: Aldermen Brady and Warshaw.)
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, May 8, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
74 ARobert'T. Idd
70(2/6)
-5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
-.Aq"
I move that we hold in Committee the issue of the Lake/Ashland site
for the purpose of establishing a sub -committee comprised of three
members of the Planning and Development Committee and three members of
the Plan Commission whose task it would be to 1) evaluate the Friends
of the Park proposal that states that the entire site would be used as
a park, and 2) examine the feasibility of a mixed use residential and
park development.
General questions to be addressed would be:
a. Relation to the Comprehensive Plan
b. Tax implications
c. Need of community and City
Park questions to be addressed would be:
a. Appropriateness of Leather.style part: development
b. Appropriate square footage of play structure including detailed
design and safety requirements
c. Intensity of use, including parking, security, and impact
on neighborhood
d. Detailed budget for development and long term maintenance
e. Oversight of park during development and afterwards
f. Insurance implications
g. Impact of CD funding, including donated labor questions
Mixed use questions to be addressed would be:
a. Needed playground square footage and appropriate design
b. Square footage possible for residential development
c. Design options for single family detached, townhouses: # of units
d. Construction costs and probable sale or rental prices
e. Feasibility of small senior citizen complex, in particular a
202 sponsored development
All appropriate city departments shall be utilized in this study, including
but not limited to police, recreation, and housing departments. Report to
be made back to full PfiD committee within 90 days.
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
April 24, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald, Present: J. Bleveans, S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: D. Rasmussen, E. Szymanski and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: R. Warshaw
ejt
Minutes of Kamt
11. 1989.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of April 11, 1989.
Chairman Warshaw requested that the minutes be corrected on page 5, paragraph
2, to indicate that Ald. Korshak "recommended a resolution to the City Council
....". The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes as corrected (Ald.
Bleveans absent).
Communications
ZBA Public Notice for Tuesday. May 16. 1989.
The Committee received the notice without comment.
Old Business
Docket 85-3B--89, Request for Waiver and Reimbursement of Transcript Costs
Incurred in Connection with Zoning Board Case 87-26. for 1414 Pitner Avenue.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Korshak seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council reimbursement of the costs requested. Ald. Rudy stated that
he did not feel that it was appropriate to grant the request. Ald. Morton
questioned whether it was the P & D Committee's recommendation to refer the
matter back to ZBA thus necessitating this cost? Chairman Warshaw recalled
that the P & D Committee only directed that the matter be returned to the ZBA
if the applicant felt there was new evidence in the case.
The Committee reviewed the P & D Committee's minutes of December 21, 1987 when
discussion took place regarding the Winfield Rule. This rule addressed the
issue that if new evidence was brought -up at the P & D Committee matters would
be returned to the original hearing body. Janice Silvestri, attorney for the
applicants, explained her feeling why a reimbursement was justified since she
felt the matter was directed back to ZBA by the P & D Committee. Ald. Brady
explained the P & D Committee rules to Silvestri and observed that it was the
Committee's position that if the applicants (Lytles) elected to reapply, it
was the P & D Committee's position that they may consider the waiver of the
P & D Minutes
April 24, 1989
new application and transcript fee. Ald. Korshak questioned whether counsel
for the applicant elected to go back to ZBA on her own accord or went back to
ZBA at the direction of the P & D Committee? Ald. Rudy stated that the case
went back to ZBA because Silvestri took issue with comments made by ZBA
Chairman Whitney and felt that there was a need to rebut those comments made
during deliberations at the original ZBA hearing. Ald. Brady observed that
she has not as yet seen evidence of financial hardship. Ald. Brady recommend
that since this matter may generate substantial discussion at the City Council
meeting that it should be held over to a later date since tonight's meeting
will be abbreviated to allow for the inauguration of the new aldermen.
Ald. Warshaw questioned Silvestri why the Lytles moved one month after the P &
D Committee gave the applicants six (6) months to relocate the business?
Silvestri stated that the applicant purchased additional, and different,
equipment and elected to move all of the goods at one-time. Ald. Brady moved
and Ald. Rudy seconded that the matter be held over in order to give due
consideration to the question. Silvestri requested that the matter be carried
over to the Kay 22. 1989 meeting since she would be unable to attend the May
8, 1989 P & D Committee. The Committee voted 6-0 to hold the matter over to
May 22, 1989.
Docket 108-4B-89, Request for Waiver of the Filing and Transcript Fees in
Connection with a Prospective Application for Variation re 1409 Wilder Street.
Ald. Brady stated that she felt that the Committee did not have the proper
information from staff to make a decision on this matter. She stated that it
was unclear to her as to why there was a need for this request for waiver of
fees. Ald. Brady also stated that the kind of information supplied by the
petitioner should not have been provided to the public and should have been in
a confidential manner since it dealt with personal financial issues.
Elizabeth Neyman, applicant, was present and stated the issue came about due
to a complaint from a neighbor. The Committee discussed what form of
additional information would be needed to better understand this matter. In
conclusion, Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the staff develop a
report providing the history of the zoning issue and forward to the Committee
at the next meeting on May 8, 1989. The Committee voted 6-0 to hold this
matter over to the next meeting.
The Committee members wished to express their gratitude for the several years
and long hours put in by retiring Ald. Take Bleveans. The Committee wished
Ald. Bleveans well in all future endeavors.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, May 8, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
IY'' R
Robeft'T. Rudd
70(213)
-2-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
May 8, 1989
Room-2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: D. Carter, J. Aiello, D. Rasmussen, K. Brenniman,
C. Powers and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Minutes of April 24. 1989.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of April 24, 1989.
Ald. Morton questioned whether the minutes regarding the 1409 Wilder case
accurately explained what additional information was requested? Ald. Morton
recommended that the minutes be amended to reflect that the Committee asked
for additional financial information to justify the hardship of Mrs. Neyman.
The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes as amended.
Communications
ZBA 89-3 -V(F), re Variation for 1706 Seward Street. Withdrawal of Request.
The Committee received a letter advising the applicant of 1706 Seward that the
Zoning Board of Appeals had accepted their request for withdrawal.
ZBA 89-5-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 831 Madison Street.
The Committee received a final decision for 831 Madison Street for a
variation. Ald. Warshaw cited the subject case as one that should not have
gone to ZBA and hopefully that under the new regulations of the proposed
zoning ordinance similar cases will not be subject to the need for zoning
variations.
ZBA 89-6-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1200-14 Church Street.
Ald. Nelson questioned where garbage containers would be located and pick-ups
made? He also questioned why the eighteen (18) inch high planters were
recommended to be moved by City staff? Staff indicated that obstructions of
eighteen (18) inches or greater in the front yard would require zoning relief
and therefore it was recommended that they be set -back to eliminate that
need. Staff stated that they would respond to Ald. Nelson with respect to the
garbage pick-ups.
P & D Minutes
may 8, 1989
Docket 124-5A-89. Consider Plat of Consolidation re 2702 Green Bay Road.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of the plat of consolidation for property at 2702 Green
Bay Road. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval.
Docket 123-5A-89, Consider Plat of Consolidation re 912 Custer Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of the plat of consolidation for property at 912
Custer. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval.
Docket 108-4B-89. Request for Waiver of the Filing and Transcript Fees in
Connection with a Prospective Application for Variation re 1409 Wilder Street.
Ald. Warshaw questioned whether hardship was addressed by the materials
submitted to the Committee? Chairman Korshak indicated that he found only
minor references addressing the hardship issues in the material supplied the
Committee. Ald. Brady stated that she found most of the information more
appropriate for arguing the applicant's case before the ZBA, but did not help
in determining whether a fee waiver should be approved. Ald. Brady stated
that she needed additional information regarding the history of the solar
collector and the background on the financing regarding firs. Heyman's trips
abroad. Ald. Morton stated that she feels that the P & D Committee should
wait until additional materials justifying the hardship are supplied before a
decision is made. airs. Heyman stated that she did supply the requested
material in the first letter forwarded to the Committee at the previous
meeting. Ald. Brady recommended that Mrs. Heyman work with staff and supply
an asset statement, an income tax return, or in the alternative, a circuit
breaker statement, and additional information regarding the cost of
installation of the solar collector, how it was paid for and financial
Information regarding Mrs. Neyman's trips abroad. Ald. Nelson suggested that
since Mrs. Heyman utilized Neighbors At Work for work on her home, some of
this information may be available from them. Chairman Korshak directed Mrs.
Heyman to work with staff gathering this information and directed that this
matter be continued to the May 22, 1989 meeting.
Docket 55-2C-89 re Burglary Prevention Compliance Grant Program.
Ald. Nelson questioned whether two and three flats, which would now be the
target of this program, experienced a greater burglary rate than other types
of residential buildings? Ald. Warshaw reviewed with the Committee the
history of the compliance grant program and stated that statistics were
supplied at various housing Commission and prior P & D Committee meetings
regarding incidence of burglaries. Ald. Norton stated that this was her
proposal and that she was gust trying to aid those low or moderate income
landlords of two or three flat buildings in bringing their property into
compliance. She stated that she felt that many owner occupied two and three
-2-
P & D Minutes
May 8, 1989
flat buildings had as their only source of income the rental income derived
from those units. Ald. Nelson questioned whether the Housing Commission or
the P & D Committee analyzed whether the Burglary Prevention Ordinance was
focused only on those properties most burglarized i.e. single family, larger
multi -family apartments, etc.? Ald. Brady stated that the Housing Commission
reviewed in depth the issue of financial aid to landlords and had offered a
different proposal to the P & D Committee in response to Ald. Morton's
reference. Ald. Brady stated that Ald. Morton wanted only to address owner
occupied one -three flat apartments. Ald. Brady stated that the proposal does
not address low income renters throughout the City directly but provides that
financial aid will be determined by the income of owners only. Ald. Morton
moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council
approval of the proposed expansion of the home security lock program. The
Committee voted 6-0 to approve.
Docket 45-2B-89, Ordinance 22-0-89 re Amendment to the Residential Landlord
and Tenant ordinance. Section 5-3-5-1(A).
Chairman Korshak stated that he had spoken with Linda DeWoskin of TOE who in
turn indicated that TOE would not take a strong position in support of this
proposal. Ald. Warshaw stated that she was contacted by Ald. Rainey who would
like an opportunity to speak before the P & D Committee to argue in favor of
the proposal. Since Ald. Rainey would be unable to be in attendance at
tonight's meeting the Committee directed that the matter be held -over to May
22, 1989 to allow Ald. Rainey an opportunity to speak to the Committee.
Special Sign Committee
The Committee reviewed a memo dated May 3, 1989 from the Special Sign
Committee to the Chairman and members of the P & D Committee detailing five
(5) recommendations. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the P & D
Committee recommend to the City Council acceptance of the Special Sign
Committee's recommendations. Ald. Nelson proposed that the Sixth Ward be
utilized as a pilot program to implement the recommendations of the Special
Sign Committee. He stated that his ward has several entrances into Evanston
and would be appropriate for the proposed sign regulations.
The Committee discussed the five (5) recommendations on a point -by -point
basis. Ald. Brady proposed that the Committee concur with the first
recommendation of the Special Sign Committee. It was the consensus of the
Committee to recommend to the City Council concurrence with this item. With
respect to recommendation two, the Committee voted 5-1 (voting May, Ald.
Nelson) to remove nonessential signs and ask for voluntary removal of existing
signage at the entrances. Ald. Morton recommended that if sponsors of
existing nonessential signs located at the entrances are willing to relocate
their signs, the City should approve relocation of those signs and grandfather
those signs into a new location. The intent is to move the non -conforming
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P & D Minutes
May S, 1989
signs from the entrances and to allow them at other locations away from the
City's borders. All future nonessential signs would be prohibited unless
specifically allowed by a review body such as the Special Sign Committee.
This also would require the Special Sign Committee to develop criteria to
grant these signs.
Ald. Nelson once more offered that the Sixth Ward be used as a limited
demonstration project with respect to the five Special Sign Committee
recommendations. Ald.Morton stated that she would prefer to go slowly and in
a systematic manner to equally apply the recommendations throughout the City.
Ald. Nelson stated that the nonessential signs should be eliminated from
inside the City and suggested that the Committee recommend a pilot project by
outlining a geographical area and utilizing two entrances in order to
determine if the program will work. He stated that the Committee should not
recommend a citywide rule before it has any idea what will work efficiently.
Ald. Warshaw stated that the previous Special Sign Committee report addressed
this issue and stated that nonessential signs on interior streets were not a
major problem. Ald. Morton stated that she feels that there is no need for a
prototype program to be developed in a single ward.
Dick Carter, Planning Director, was present and in response to the Committee's
proposal stated the Special Sign Committee would bring back a sample of a
entrance proposal and would undertake notification to sponsors of nonessential
signs currently located at the City entrances and suggested relocating the
signs and grandfathering those signs at a different location. Ald. Brady
reviewed the May 3, 1989 memo and concurred that the Special Sign group would
attempt to design the entrance sign and would limit it to two locations.
Chairman Korshak observed that according to the memo, the current Chamber of
Commerce sign given to the City may or may not be utilized. Ald. Morton, in
speaking to recommendation #4 of the Sign Committee, agreed that various
honorary signs should be retained at some permanent location. Hayward Blake,
a member of the Special Sign Committee, was present and stated that such
honorary or awards signs should be maintained and displayed but at locations
other than the entrances to the City. Ald. Brady stated that more work was
needed to be done on developing criteria for determining the display of signs
such as Sanctuary City and Nuclear Free Zone. Ald. Nelson stated that he does
not feel that there is a need to erect signs such as Nuclear Free Zone and
Sanctuary City on public rights -of -way. Blake observed that such signs are
having less and less value.
Ald. Horton stated that she agrees with the Special Sign Committee
recommendation #5. Ald. Warshaw stated the Special Sign Committee should
coordinate this matter with recommendation #4. Blake stated that the Special
Sign Committee felt that the Chamber of Commerce sign could be erected
somewhere at the Civic Center if agreed to by the Chamber. Ald. Rudy stated
-4-
P S D Minutes
May 8, 1989
that it was his understanding that the Chamber of Commerce gave the sign to
the City for a specific purpose to be located at various entrances and not
necessarily to be located anywhere else. Aid. Nelson suggested that the
Chamber of Commerce sign be erected during the Fourth of July celebration or
for a celebration of the City's 125th anniversary.
Aid. Brady recommended that points 1, 2, 3 and 5 be proposed to the City
Council and all be in separate resolutions.
Aid. Nelson stated that he would like to eliminate all parking restriction
signs in the City. Aid. Korshak asked the Legal Department to respond to that
proposal. Aid. Morton observed that to eliminate parking restriction signs
would not work. Aid. Warshaw suggested that the City explore eliminating as
many parking restriction signs as possible and leaving a minimum to allow for
enforcement of the City's codes (May 3, 1989 Special Sign Committee
recommendation attached to minutes).
Docket 125-5A-89, Ordinance 64-0-89 re Amending Sandblasting Regulations.
Aid. Warshaw moved and Aid. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council introduction of the amended sandblasting regulations and also
request suspension of the rules for passage of the ordinance. Aid. Warshaw
provided some background to the Committee regarding a recent incident where a
contractor sandblasted a building leaving debris on nearby autos, sidewalks
and streets which led to a pedestrian/auto accident. Aid. Rudy suggested that
the Committee consider outlawing sandblasting in any form. Aid. Morton stated
that sandblasting is needed in some instances to remove matters such as
graffiti. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council introduction
and suspension of the rules in the passage of the proposed amendment.
Docket 126-5A-89. Ordinance 66-0-89, ZBA 89-4-SU(R) re Special Use for 1336
Chicago Avenue.
Aid. Brady stated that since the matter is in her ward and she has discussed
the proposal with several constituents and with Ald. Rudy of the neighboring
ward, she could support the special use request if various conditions were
agreed to by the applicant. Aid. Brady felt that the two significant areas
that needed to be addressed were the issues of the ATM's and traffic. Aid.
Brady stated that currently the proposal calls for three (3) curb cuts which
she would recommend be amended to allow for one (1) full access curb cut on
Greenwood and one (1) full access curb cut on Sherman. She also observed that
currently only six (6) cars can be stacked at the drive-in facility and by
eliminating one (1) curb cut and redesigning, additional stacking may be
allowed. Aid. Brady also stated that by allowing only one (1) curb cut on
Greenwood and locating that curb cut west of the intersection of Greenwood and
Chicago Avenuo would allow the current CTA eastbound bus to stop on Greenwood
at Chicago Avenue without obstructing the access. Aid. Rudy stated that he
-5-
P & D Minutes
may 8, 1989
concurred with Ald. Brady and urged the Committee to require the recommended
changes to the project. Ald. Rudy also recommended that the ATM's in the
building be located on the west -side of the building and eliminated from the
east -side. Ald. Rudy also observed that the elevations do not identify the
exterior materials. He stated that the City should be requiring a masonry
building to keep in character with the area. Mr. Larry Upham, representing
Savings of America, the applicant, stated that his organization would review
the proposed conditions and also would ask that condition #7 on the bottom of
page 2 of proposed Ordinance 66-0-89 be eliminated due to the liability
hardship it causes the institution. Mr. Upham felt that to specifically
identify in the form of an ordinance that the parking area on the site would
be unrestricted when the financial institution was not open for the benefit of
neighbors in the area, poses an undue hardship. Mr. Upham recommended
eliminating the phrase "for the benefit of neighbors in the area" but stated
that the institution would not restrict access to the parking after operating
hours. In response to a question from Ald. Warshaw regarding the bank's
parking lot at Main and Chicago Avenue, Judy Aiello, Assistant City Manager,
stated that the lot is typically open and unrestricted by bank policy but not
by ordinance. Ald. Horton recommended that the Committee consider eliminating
all of condition #7 from the proposed ordinance. Ald. Brady stated that she
would need assurance that the lot would be open for neighborhood use after
operating hours. Mr. Upham stated that the institution would voluntarily
leave the lot open and would agree not to install gates on the lot as a
condition of approval. Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Brady seconded a substitute
motion. She placed a condition on the special use that the institution would
not erect gates so as to restrict use of the parking area. The Committee
voted 6-0 to approve this motion.
Mr. Upham stated that he would agree to eliminate the ATM walkup on the
east -side of the building and only locate the ATM's on the west -side. In
response to Ald. Rudy'•s question regarding the type of exterior surface, Mr.
Upham stated that the present plan calls for a dryvat surface. Mr. Upham
stated that to respond to the traffic issues, the applicant would need to meet
with staff to determine the ramifications of such a redesign. Ald. Brady
moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee informally approve the
project subject to the ability of the applicant to incorporate the various
changes. Ald. Rudy also requested that the Committee hinge final approval on
the applicant responding to constructing a masonry building versus what is
currently proposed. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend tentative approval
of the concept and directed the applicant to meet with staff and return to the
next P & D Committee if possible. Ald. Brady stated that she would support a
suspension of the rules at the next meeting to expedite the process if the
applicant was able to reach an agreement with the City.
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P & D Minutes
May 8, 1989
Ald. Warshaw wished to express her thoughts regarding the ZBA attitude toward
residents that spoke at the public hearing. She stated that she felt the ZBA
was harsh and nasty to both Mr. Manji and Mrs. Bennett when they addressed the
ZBA. Chairman Korshak stated that he agreed and felt that the ZBA's attitude
was totally uncalled for. Ald. Rudy observed that on page 25 of the
transcript, Mrs. Pigozzi was referred to as Judy and he felt that it was a
put-down and also uncalled for since all other speakers were addressed more
formally by their last names. Ald. Brady stated that she agrees with the
comments made by the members of the P b D Committee.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, May 22, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robe . Rudd
70(2/8)
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DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
CITY OF EVANSTON
CITY COUNCIL MEMORANDUM
For Information Only
Scheduled For Committee Consideration Committee
Scheduled For Council Consideration Introduction Adoption
May 3, 1989'
TO: Chair and Members
Planning and Development Committee
FROM: Special Sign Committee
SUBJECT: RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMITTEE IN RESPONSE TO THE MARCH 27,
1989 CITY COUNCIL MEETING
In spite of having the recommendations referred back to you by the City Council, the Special
Sign Committee feels that there is more support for improving some of our public signage than
might be apparent. First, we felt we had your Committee's understanding and support of the
philosophy behind having both an ordinance and a policy with regard to signs on the public
right-of-way. The Committee has been working from the same philosophy as contained in the
Illinois Department of Transportation's Manual of Uniform Traffic Control Devices which warns
against excessive use of signs. The manual stresses that signs used to an excess loose their
effectiveness and that too much Information can cause improper driving and Impair safety.
Secondly, the Committee felt they had effectively demonstrated the obvious sign clutter which
seriously affected the appearance of many of the entrances to Evanston and that you were
supportive of our recommendations to proceed to clean up this problem.
There seemed to be two areas of controversy and some general confusion on the part of the
Council. Consequently, we wish to make several suggestions for modification to our original
recommendations for your consideration. Our recommendations are as follows:
(1) That the City Council direct the staff to prepare an ordinance for controlling and
limiting signs on the public right-of-way to those necessary for traffic control,
safety, parking regulations and other necessary information.
(2) If the idea of removing the nonessential information signs such as provided by
private clubs and churches is considered too controversial, we would suggest that
the present signs be "grandfathered-in" rather than eliminated.
While there are not a great many of these signs, the Committee felt it was only
fair to be consistent In the application of the policy of keeping nonessential signs
off the public right-of-way. Members are willing to ask that some of these signs
be voluntarily removed. The Committee also feels very strongly that a policy
and regulation Is essential to prevent further proliferation of signs on the public
right-of-way.
'Disposition: Adopted Not Adopted Held Over To
Chair and Members
Planning and Development Committee
May 3, 1989
Page Two
(3) That the City take action to Improve the appearance of our entranceways by
completing two demonstration projects this year at Dempster Street at Sheridan
Road and South Boulevard.
The projects would Include elimination of present over-signage, and installation
of a single distinctive "Evanston" sign in an attractive landscaped setting. These
actions could be handled administratively and would not require any ordinances.
Incorporating a new prototype sign for the City of Evanston and placed In a
landscape setting would be most helpful in showing everyone what an alternative
treatment of our entranceways might look like. We have the cooperation and
support of the Traffic Engineer for removal of signs, the Parks Department for
designing and establishing a landscape setting and members of our Committee are
willing to prepare a concept design for the sign. We would like your endorsement
to proceed with this approach. While we might be able to clean up some of the
sign clutter almost immediately, we could not create the prototype landscape
setting and sign until probably this fall. We believe this demonstration project
will do more to effectively communicate the kind of difference a more careful
attention to public signage can create than all the memos we can write.
(4) Place a limit on the time for displaying various signs which represent some form
of public award. These signs can now be found at virtually every entrance to the
City. We would like to suggest that they be eliminated by the end of 1989 which
would give them a two year life -span. We recommend that the practice of
posting such signs at the entranceways not be continued in the future.
A second controversial question was whether to use the Chamber of Commerce
sign for our entranceways. Our Committee wishes to illustrate some alternate
formats with our demonstration project which we feel could be more appropriate.
(3) It is our recommendation that single chamber sign produced for the City be used
to commemorate the 123th anniversary and be placed in front of the Civic
Center.
Committee member are willing to discuss with the Chamber whether they would
be willing to participate In an alternate program for signage at the City
entranceways.
We look forward to discussing these issues with the Planning and Development Committee so
that some recommendations can begin to move forward on this topic which has been on our
mutual agendas for so long.
cc: Mayor Barr
Aldermen
8YI03/104
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
May 22, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: D. Wirth, D. Rasmussen and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Minutes of May 8. 1989.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of May 8, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes (Ald. Horton
absent).
Communications
Zoning Board Case 89-6-V(F) re 1200-14 Church Street.
The Committee received information on 1200-14 Church Street without comment.
Docket 137--5B-89. Request from Evanston Friends of the Parks re Neighborhood
Garage Sale at Lake/Ashland.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of a temporary use permit for a fund raiser sponsored by
the Friends of the Parks to be conducted at a City owned property at
Lake/Ashland. Ald. Rudy questioned whether the Applicant was required to have
insurance? Rudd stated that currently the applicant did not have insurance.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend as a
condition to granting of the temporary use permit the requirement that the
applicants obtain insurance acceptable to the City. The Committee voted 5-0
to recommend approval of the temporary use permit (Ald. Morton absent).
❑ocket 139-5B-69. Tent Permit Request of Kendall College.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of a request from Kendall College for permission to
erect a tent for Bastille Day Celebration July 18 and 19, 1989. The Committee
voted 5-0 to recommend approval (Ald. Morton absent).
P & D Committee - Minutes
May 22, 1989
Docket 85-3B-89. Request for Waiver and Reimbursement of Transcript Costs
Insured in Connection with Zoning Board Base 87-26, for 1414 Pitner Avenue.
In the absent of the applicants' attorney, the matter was held -over to June
12, 1989 with staff directed to contact the applicant's attorney and indicate
that the P & D Committee expected to dispose of the case with or without the
applicants' attorney present at the June 12, 1989 meeting.
Docket 108-4B-89, Request for Waiver of the Piling and Transcript Fees in
Connection with a Prospective Application for Variation re 1409 Wilder Street.
Chairman Korshak reviewed with the Committee an additional piece of
information supplied from Hs. Heyman. Chairman Korshak stated that he was no
closer to making a decision because of the insignificance of the additional
Information. Ald. Warshaw stated that she found no factual data submitted.
Ks. Neyman, the applicant, circulated to the Committee a copy of the "circuit
breaker" form. A review of the form found that the form had not as yet been
submitted to the State for approval. Ald. Brady observed that the Committee
has a procedure to allow a request for a waiver of fees. However, no
standards were ever developed to aid in evaluating hardship requests. Ald.
Brady recommended that regardless of the outcome of this particular case she
would ask that the P & D Committee make a reference to itself to develop
standards for judging future fee waiver requests. She suggested that the
standards include requirements for various documents to aid in making a
decision. Ald. Brady moved approval of the waiver request of Hs. Heyman with
the understanding that the Committee was not taking a position as to the
validity of the case when it came before the Zoning Board of Appeal. Ald.
Rudy seconded the motion. Chairman Korshak stated that it is the obligation
of the applicant to prove hardship and that in this case the applicant has not
been able to prove hardship. Chairman Korshak also stated that fellow 4th
Ward Alderman Esch also opposed the fee waiver. Ald. Rudy suggested that Ald.
Brady amend her initial motion to state that the Committee would approve the
fee waiver request subject to proper execution of the circuit breaker. Ald.
Warshaw expressed concern in that the Committee did not know if the circuit
breaker was meaningful or if Hs. Heyman would ever qualify. Ald. Brady stated
that Hs. Heyman is trying to comply and would recommend that if Hs. Heyman is
eligible, the waiver be granted. Ald. Brady stated that she would amend her
motion to state that it was the sense of the P & D Committee to grant the
waiver if all documents were in proper order. After a brief discussion, Ald.
Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the matter be held in Committee -until
the proper circuit breaker documents were completed. Ald. Horton stated that
it would be a good procedure for the Committee to review the circuit breaker
because that item may help the P & D Committee to establish its future
standards for fee waiver requests. The Committee voted 4-2 to hold the matter
in Committee. Voting Nay: Aldermen Korshak and Nelson.
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P & D Committee - Minutes
May 22, 1989
Docket 126-5A-89, Ordinance 66-0-89. ZBA 89-4SU(R) re Special Use for 1336
Chicago Avenue.
The Committee reviewed letters from Mary Singh and Ashraf Manji expressing
their concerns regarding the conduct of the Zoning Board of Appeals hearing
with respect to this request and also the treatment of objectors by the Zoning
Board of Appeals. Chairman Korshak questioned whether the Committee wishes to
address these letters at this point or hold until a later date so as to not
cloud the issue of the applicant's request. Ald. Rudy stated that if any
statements in the letters warranted the case being sent back to the ZBA then
the Committee should address the letters. If not, the Committee should
address the letters in a different forum such as a joint meeting with ZBA.
The Committee directed staff to forward the letters from Manji and Singh to
the ZBA to be discussed as an agenda item when a joint meeting between ZBA and
P & D Committee is established. Aid. Brady reviewed a third letter from the
Preservation League of Evanston stating a preference for a brick and mortar
facade. Ald. Brady also observed that the applicant has agreed to eliminate
the ATM on the east -side of the building in addition to eliminating one (1)
curb cut on Greenwood, thus leaving a single curb on Greenwood and one (1)
also on Sherman Avenue. Ald. Brady observed that the elimination of one (1)
curb cut on Greenwood increases the stacking capacity and protects the current
bus stop on Chicago Avenue. Ald. Rudy stated that the revised elevations of
the project indicate face brick materials. Mr. Upham, a representative of
Savings of America, stated that brick would be utilized on all four (4) sides
of the building. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee
recommend to the City Council approval of the special use for a three -bay
drive-in facility associated with a financial institution at 1336 Chicago
Avenue and also recommend to City Council suspension of the rules to allow
passage at the May 22, 1989 meeting. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve.
Judy Pigozzi, a resident of the area, stated that she would recommend the
Committee initiate action to develop a zoning review of all properties that
are demolished to determine if the current zoning is appropriate or whether it
should be changed. Chairman Korshak requested that Mrs. Pigozzi send a letter
to Mr. David Mann, Chairman of the Zoning Commission, to review this issue in
the course of developing a new zoning ordinance.
Docket 138-5B-89, Proposed Not -for -Profit Mortgage Corporation.
Representatives from most of the participating lending institutions (First
Chicago of Evanston, First Illinois Bank of Evanston, ,Northern Trust and
Evanston Bank) were present. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that
the Committee recommend to City Council participation in the proposed
corporation. Ald. Rudy questioned whether the $100,000 maximum purchase price
of a house was too limiting and whether it could be raised? Ald. Warshaw
stated that the amount of funds proposed (1.5 million dollars) would be
-3-
P & D Committee - Minutes
May 22, 1989
used -up very early and that the $100,000 purchase price could be changed at a
later date if necessary, depending on the market. Veronica Hensch, a
representative of First Illinois Sank of Evanston, stated that the program was
based upon income eligibility of applicants and that in developing the program
the Committee found that for low to moderate income purchasers, $100,000 was
the maximum amount affordable. Sid Ross, a member of the Housing Commission,
confirmed that few moderate income households can currently afford more than
$100,000. In response to a question from Ald. Morton, Kensch stated that the
debt will be limited to 301. of income allocated to housing cost and 38% for
overall debt.
Ald. Brady, also a member of the Housing Commission, reviewed with the
Committee a brief history of the process which took approximately two (2)
years to develop. She observed that the program may very well be a model for
other communities and wished to thank the participation of the various lending
institutions in making the project come about. Ald. Nelson questioned whether
the City would be adding additional personnel to staff the program as
currently proposed? Rudd stated that it is estimated that the current funds
would translate into approximately twenty-five (25) loans and that the City
does not anticipate hiring additional personnel. Ald. Warshaw suggested that
the program should be submitted to HUD Secretary Kemp as one of an innovative
nature. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council City of Evanston
participation in the Housing Mortgage Corporation and the allocation of
$500,000.
Docket 140-58-89, Ordinance 72-0-89, Amending Section 7-11-6.
Chairman Korshak questioned whether a current vendor at the lakefront is in
violation of the ordinance? Don Wirth, Director of Parks, Recreation &
Forestry, was present and stated that the identified vendor was authorized by
the City. Wirth stated that this amendment would reduce the number of feet in
which peddlers may vend their wares from 1000 to 500 feet of City beaches and
lakefront parks. The change in this ordinance addresses a distance from
lakefront parks and beaches versus the old ordinance which just addressed the
distance from the beach. Wirth indicated that the Police Department has
identified an enforcement problem without this amendment. The Committee voted
6-0 to recommend to City Council approval of the proposed amendment.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8i30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, June 12, 1989 at 7:00 p.m.
Staff:
-'Robert T . ' Rudd
70(2/5)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development
June 12, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00
Committee
P.M.
S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Horton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
None
J. Zendell, N. Modaber, D. Rasmussen, D. Wirth,
D. Carter, J. Aiello, B. Ahlberg, C. Yonker and R. Rudd
Aldermen C. Wollin, M. Collens and B. Davis
J. Korshak
Art in Public Places
Presenting a slide show were Mr. Ron Isaacson and Ms. Beth Hart, an art
consultant for the Arts Council. its. Hart presented a ten-minute slide show
for the Committee highlighting pieces of public art both in the City of
Evanston and numerous other towns and cities throughout the country. The
slides depicted streetscapes, transportation centers, sculpture, murals and
landscapes. Mr. Isaacson informed the Committee that the Arts Council has
conducted forums which resulted in a favorable and enthusiastic support for
public art. Ald. Morton stated that she was impressed with the memo froin the
Arts Council to the Committee, dated June 7, 1989 and agreed with the position
that there is a need for public art in the community. Ald. Morton stated that
she appreciated the new dimension brought to the P & A Committee by the slide
presentation which highlighted the diversity of art in public places, both
within Evanston and other communities. Ald. Brady stated that the slide show
was extremely helpful in illustrating both public and private art pieces.
Ald. Brady questioned whether the Arts Council was advocating a requirement
for a percentage of art for public and private projects? She also questioned
what size of a public or private development would initiate the requirement?
Isaacson stated that he has been encouraged by private developers in their
response to developing art in public places. Isaacson stated that Los Angeles
has recently enacted a law requiring 1% of the cost of the project dedicated
for art in private developments. Isaacson stated the Arts Council and the
proposed new "Public Art Committee" has not as yet formed an opinion as to
whether incentives (i.e. zoning) would be recommended. Ald. Nelson questioned
why an ordinance would discriminate between the size of a project and whether
it is public or private? Ald. Nelson also stated that in his opinion the City
Council probably would accept a requirement for public art but recommended
that no discrimination based on size of project or whether it was public or
private be allowed. Ald. Nelson also suggested that any corenittee be
sensitive to added costs to a project for art. Isaacson stated that the money
would come from various budgets within a development and would not necessarily
add overall cost to the project.
r
P & D Minutes
June 12, 1989
Chairman Korshak questioned the committee as to whether it was the consensus
to include public and private projects within a requirement for public art?
The Committee agreed that the Council probably would accept a requirement for
a percent for public art but that additional details needed to be provided.
Ald. Brady asked that the new committee address the question of who will make
the decision on selecting the art and whether it would be a recommendation or
final decision? Ald. Brady posed a second question, regarding who would
appoint.the proposed committee? Isaacson stated that the Arts Council would
like to come back to the Committee in August, 1989 with more particulars on
the issue. Chairman Korshak suggested that the Arts Council may want to
devise a questionnaire to get a better reading of what the City Council
members would approve.
The Arts Council's presentation concluded at 7:25 p.m.
Minutes of Mav 22. 1989.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee approve•the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of May 22, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the minutes.
Communications
ZBA 88-31-A or V(F), Final Decision on Appeal and Variation re 1827-31 Emerson
Street.
In response to a question from Ald. Warshaw, Dave Rasmussen, Assistant
Director of Zoning, explained that the ZBA had the option to dismiss or deny
the application and that they elected to deny the application at this time
while allowing the applicant to refile at a later date.
ZBA 89-9-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2603 Simpson Street.
Ald. Warshaw requested that in future cases, if possible, it would be helpful
if a simple drawing illustrating the site could be submitted with P & D
information.
Memorandum from the Rules Committee.
The Committee received a Rules Committee memorandum stating that it was
recommended that chairmen of committees announce at the beginning of the
meeting that anyone wishing to speak on an issue should identify themselves at
that point.
Docket 147-6A-89, Ordinance 74-0--89 re Special Sign Committee Report.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of Ordinance 74-0-89. Ald. Brady recommended that City
Council pass the Ordinance as drafted but observed that it didn't answer the
questions which were asked at a previous meeting, i.e. whether existing signs
-2-
4
P & D Iiinutes
rune 12, 1989
should be grandfathered, and what signs will be eliminated? Ald. Brady also
questioned whether the Ordinance was only addressing " traffic" signs? She
stated that if others are included, the Ordinance needs to provide more
definition. Ald. Morton stated that she viewed the Ordinance as the first
step in an on -going process in addressing the issue of signage on public
rights -of -way. Dick Carter, Planning Director, stated that the Ordinance was
drafted to stop adding unneeded signs on the rights -of -way. He stated that
the grandfather issue could be decided later. Ald. Warshaw stated that the
City Council could mandate a more particular definition than proposed in the
subject ordinance. Chairman Korshak suggested that there was a need for a
definition of signs that will be prohibited. Hayward Blake, a member of the
Special Sign Committee, stated that signs that would be prohibited would be
those signs not dealing with traffic direction. Ald. Morton stated that she
feels a sense of urgency to pass this ordinance at this time and continue with
the process. Chairman Korshak stated that the ordinance should be revised to
Indicate that it is in force, and addressing signs, from this date forward.
Ald. Brady recommended that other signs such as those for churches, historical
markers, etc. should be identified somewhere in this ordinance. In response
to the Committee concerns, Carter agreed that the ordinance could be modified
and brought back for adoption at the next City Council meeting. It was the
consensus of the Committee to introduce the subject ordinance and direct staff
to provide modifications before it was passed at the next City Council meeting.
Carter questioned whether the Committee desired to proceed with the clean-up
of entrance signs at Dempster and Sheridan/South Boulevard? The Committee
agreed that staff could proceed with those actions. Blake showed the
Committee a sketch of proposed new signage at those locations. It was the
Committee's understanding that additional information and details will be
forthcoming on the entire process.
Docket 85-3B-89, Request for Waiver and Reimbursement of Transcript Costs
Insured in Connection with Zoning Board Base 87-26. for 1414 Pitner Avenue.
Ald. Rudy moved and Aid. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend denial,
for the request for waiver of transcript fees. The Committee was notified
that the attorney for the applicant has informed the City that she would no
longer be representing this matter before the Committee. the Committee voted
5--1 to recommend denial of the reimbursement request. Voting Hay: Ald. Horton.
Docket 108-4B-89, Request for Waiver of the Filing and Transcript Fees in
Connection with a Prospective Application for Variation re 1409 Milder Street.
Ald. Morton questioned why the minutes at the prior Committee meeting
indicated that the matter be held pending the receipt of the circuit breaker?
During discussion, Ald. Warshaw stated that there was a need to make a
decision on the matter to allow the issue to be addressed by ZBA or to be an
enforcement issue through the court system. To not act on this matter would
-3-
r
P & D Minutes
June 12, 1989
only delay any action by either the City or the applicant. Ald. Morton moved
and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council denial of
the request for waiver of filing and transcript fee costs, Ald. Brady
questioned whether the circuit breaker form was sent to the State? The
applicant, No. Neyman stated that she had forwarded the application to the
State but was informed that it would be two to three months before a decision
was rendered. Ald. Brady recommended that if in the future, the applicant was
eligible, under the circuit breaker regulations, that the P & D Committee
would reconsider a request to reimburse the filing fee only but not transcript
cost. The Committee agreed to make that as a part of the recommendation for
denial. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council denial of the
request for waiver of filing and transcript fees.
Docket 143-6A-89, Evanston Hospital re Tent Permit for Infant Special Care
Unit Reunion.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of a tent permit for Evanston Hospital for the Infant
Special Care Unit Reunion on June 25, 1989. The Committee voted 6-0 to
approve.
Docket 148-6A-89. Ordinance 78-0-89. ZBA 90-8-V(R). re Variation for 500
Sherman Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council concurrence with the ZBA recommendation to grant a variation to
permit expansion of a basement dwelling unit at 500 Sherman Avenue. The
Committee voted 6-0 to recommend approval.
Docket 145-6A-89. Resolution 38-R-89 re Ceding of Federal Tax Credits for Low
Income Housing.
Aid. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of Resolution 38-R-89 ceding the City's 1989 allocation
for federal tax credits totaling $89,463 to I.H.D.A. to be utilized by the
Evanston Housing Coalition. The Committee also recommended that the ceding be
conditioned that any surplus tax credits not utilized by EHC be utilized by
other projects in the City of Evanston. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve.
Docket 142-6A-89. National Lekotek Center re Hot Air Balloon.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee recommend
approval to City Council of a permit for the National Lekotek Center to have a
tethered hot air balloon at their picnic on June 17, 1989. The Committee
voted 6-0 for approval.
Docket 144-6A-89 re Lake/Ashland Vacant Lot.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee recommend approval
of the memorandum of agreement between the City of Evanston and Evanston
-4-
P & D Kinutes
June 12, 1989
Friends of the Parks for construction of a playground on Lake Street, Florence
and Ashland Avenues. Ald. Warshaw questioned if the City would assume a
greater liability than normal based on the third paragraph of page 2? Ald.
Nelson stated that the second paragraph of page 2 would appear to satisfy the
issue of liability being any greater than normal. Ald. Brady questioned
whether it was the prior action of the P & D Committee and City Council to
reserve the land for up to one (1) year? She stated that she was shocked to
receive this agreement at this time and expected many more details regarding
design, confirmation of funding, size of the park and type of equipment,
prior to any such agreement.
To alleviate Ald. Brady's concerns, Ald. Nelson suggested that in paragraph 2
on page 2 that the word "council" be inserted after City in the last
sentence. The Committee agreed with the amendment. Ald. Brady stated that
she did not want the City of Evanston to expend any funds before the Evanston
Friends of the Parks (EFOP) had raised sufficient dollars. She observed that
the current agreement lacks details regarding cost estimates and feels that
this request is premature. Karen Rhodes was present and observed that the
last sentence of page 2 indicates that "EFOP shall not contractually commit
for construction, materials and professional services for amounts larger than
the cash and pledges they have in hand". Ald. Nelson questioned what would
be the estimated maintenance cost to the City of Evanston? He stated that
City Council will need to review the figures before final approval is
granted. Ald. Nelson also observed that there is no timeframe for raising
100% of EFOP's funds. Ald. Nelson suggested adding a last sentence to page 2
to address this issue which would read. "All funds to be raised by EFOP shall
be on -hand on or before April 11, 1990". It was the consensus of the
Committee to approve this addition. Ald. Rudy observed that the agreement
appeared to have all of the necessary controls to protect the City. Ald.
Brady questioned what was included in the preliminary site work which the City
would be initially funding? Chris Yonker, CD Coordinator, stated that
preliminary site work is defined on page 1 of the proposed agreement and cover
letter dated June 5, 1989 to the P & D Committee. Yonker stated that it was
hoped that low and high priority items would total no more than $50,000. In
response to Ald. Brady's question as to whether the four items listed as high
priority would be completed when $30,000 was raised, Yonker indicated
affirmatively. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the memorandum of agreement
as amended.
Docket 146-6A-89, ZAC 88-6 re Evanston hospital's Proposed Zoning Amendments.
Chairman Korshak read to the Committee his memo to Co=ittee members and
Aldermen, dated June 12, 1989 expressing his views on the issue that was
before ZAC and now the P & D Committee. At the conclusion of his review, Ald.
Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the P & D Committee recommend to
City Council confirmation of ZAC's recommendation to deny the amendments
511
P & D Minutes
June 12, 1989
proposed by Evanston Hospital. Ald. Brady excused herself from the discussion
due to a possible conflict of interest because of a family member employed by
the Hospital. Ald. Nelson concurred with the motion for denial and proposed
additionally that City Council take action to cause removal of the illegal
number of doctors in addition to a rescinding of a portion of the special
hospital use regulation which permitted other doctors. More specifically,
Ald. Nelson proposed that those doctors exceeding the nineteen (19) doctors
specifically permitted by ordinance be phased -out starting immediately.
During the phase -out period, the City would determine, through analyses and
negotiation with the Hospital, the tax liability of those doctors if they were
to be currently located in private offices off of the Hospital campus. Those
annual costs (possibly in the range of $4,000-5,000 per year) would be paid to
the City for each year the doctors remain at the Hospital. Additionally, if
the subject doctors remain on the Hospital campus after one (1) year, the
payment to the City would double each year thereafter. Ald. Nelson also
proposed that the City begin to phase -out the nineteen (19) doctors now
permitted by ordinance and provide a one or two year period of compliance.
After this period expires, payment to the City, based on the formula
applicable to those doctors in excess of the nineteen (19) would be doubled
each year thereafter. It was Ald. Nelson's feeling that requiring the
elimination of the doctors on the Hospital's campus would place Evanston
Hospital's physicians on an equal financial footing with those at 5t. Francis
Hospital. Ald. Warshaw accepted Ald. Nelson's amendment to her original
motion. Chairman Korshak observed that this was the first that he had heard
of this proposal by Ald. Nelson but would support it. Ald. Morton questioned
why Ald. Nelson would propose to penalize doctors and not the Evanston
Hospital Corporation? Ald. Nelson stated that it was not his intent to
penalize the doctors but rather to collect those fees from either party. He
stated that the Legal Department could work out the details and that it may
very well be that Evanston Hospital is accountable to pay the City in the
event the enforcement action is decided by a judge. The Committee voted 5-0
to 1 (Ald. Brady abstaining) to support the ZAC recommendation.
In review of Ald. Nelson's first proposal, the Committee voted 5-0-1 (Ald.
Brady abstaining) to recommend to City Council that all of those doctors
maintaining offices off -campus and in excess of the permitted nineteen (19) be
required to be phased -out and pay to the City over a specific time period an
amount to be determined.
With respect to Ald. Nelson's amendment, the Committee voted 5-0-1 (Ald. Brady
abstaining) to recommend the phase -out of the nineteen (19) doctors
specifically authorized to practice private medicine by the Zoning Ordinance.
-6-
P & D !Minutes
June 12, 1989
Ald. Nelson recommended that the City begin enforcement action by notifying
Evanston Hospital that they are in breach of the Zoning Ordinance provisions
regulating the number of doctors and rescind the appropriate section of the
Zoning Ordinance. Rasmussen indicated to the Committee that to rescind a
provision of the Zoning Ordinance, a hearing would be required before the
Zoning Amendment Committee (ZAC). Ald. Nelson requested that the matter be
referred to ZAC with the expressed recommendation from the P & D Committee, to
develop methods to eliminate the doctors currently permitted by the
ordinance. Additionally Ald. Nelson requested that it be made clear that
those doctors currently in compliance be given two years to move from the f
Hospiial. Dr. Thomas Stafford cited various ordinance sections regarding the
definition of off -campus offices. A particular point being made was that
off -campus offices must be the principal office and could not be a mailbox
address or just an answering service. Ald. Nelson stated that the Committee
should make this recommendation to City Council and receive an expression of
concurrence by the Council before it makes the final action.
The Committee recommended to City Council by a 5-0-1 (Ald. Brady abstaining)
to concur with ZAC's denial, recommend a phase -out of the doctors currently
beyond the nineteen (19) limitation, and finally, to allow a longer phase -out
period, (as detailed above) for those nineteen (19) doctors now permitted.
J ournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The nest regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, June 26, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Rober T. Rudd
70(2/8)
dt
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
ff
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
June 26, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.H.
Aid. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Aid. Absent: J. Nelson
Staff Present: C. Powers, D. Wirth, K. Brenniman, D. Rasmussen and
R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Minutes of June 12. 1989.
Aid. Warshaw moved and Aid. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of June 12, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 3-0 to approve the minutes (Aldermen Morton
and Rudy absent).
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairmanship Memo
The Committee received a memo indicating that Aid. Nelson would become
Chairman of the Committee on July 3, 1989.
ZBA Public Notice for Tuesday, July 18, 1989.
The Committee received the public notice without comment.
Old Business
Docket 147-6A-89, Ordinance 74-0-89 re Special Sign Committee Report.
Aid. Brady observed that the clean copy of the subject ordinance addressed the
issue of grandfathering the existing signs, but did not answer questions
regarding new signs such as historical markers. Concern was expressed about
detailing an appeal process regarding the regulation of such signs. The
Committee discussed the possibility of the Sign Review and Appeals Board
hearing variations from the sign ordinance. It was questioned whether signs
not permitted in the sign ordinance could be approved by the Sign Review and
Appeals Board? Sid Orlov, an advocate for Nuclear Weapon Free Zone signs,
questioned whether signs of his interest would be prohibited by this
ordinance? Ald. Brady observed that a lurch 22, 1989 memo from the Special
Sign Committee to the P & D Committee indicated that signs such as Nuclear
Weapon Free Zone signs and Sanctuary City signs have not as yet been
addressed. Chairman Korshak observed that the revised ordinance provides for
grandfathering existing signs in their current locations. Ald. Morton stated
P & D Minutes
June 26, 1989
that Section 8 of the proposed ordinance appears to negate the purpose of the
ordinance, i.e. to eliminate unwanted signs at the entrances. Ald. Morton
proposed that as of August 1, 1989 that non -conforming signs be relocated
fifty (50) feet from the entrance to the City. Ald. Warshaw commented that
the proliferation of entrance signs have been erected by the City and that 99%
of those signs could be eliminated. Ald. Rudy stated that the ordinance, and
prior memos indicate that the Special Sign Committee would negotiate with
various organizations to seek their voluntary removal of signs at the
entrances. The Committee concurred that signs such as the Certified City,
Tree City, etc. could be removed even without this ordinance.
Due to questions raised about the need for an appeal process, and exactly what
form the appeal process would take, staff requested that they be given time to
review the matter and bring a proposal back to the Committee. It was the
consensus of the Committee to hold the matter until the next meeting or at
such time a response regarding the appeal process is provided.
Docket 163-68-89, Ordinance 81-0-89, ZBA 89-10-V&SU(R) re (1) Variation and
Special Hospital Use for 355 Ridge Avenue and (2) Parking Survey of Area.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council to grant variations and a special hospital use to permit the
construction of a six -story ancillary building for use by the hospital
medical and dental staff, and a two-story addition to the parking structure.
Ald. Warshaw offered an amendment to her motion. Ald. Warshaw asked that the
motion (1) be conditioned upon delaying occupancy of the professional building
until such time an occupancy permit is issued for the garage structure in
order to not burden the neighborhood with excess parking due to on -going work
at the parking garage, and (2) agreement by the Hospital that if utilization
exceeds 95% of the current on -site parking, the Hospital agrees to provide an
additional deck an a current surface lot to address the parking need. Ald.
Warshaw expressed her concerns that visitors may not have a place to park due
to the additional cars generated by the new medical building. James Murray,
attorney for the applicant, stated that the Hospital did not have a problem
with the first amendment. With respect to the second amendment, Hurray stated
that St. Francis currently reports on a quarterly basis to the City regarding
parking statistics, it was Murray's recollection that St. Francis Hospital
had not exceeded the parking standards over the past several years. Ald.
Warshaw questioned whether an annual review could be required once the parking
garage addition was constructed? Kathleen Brenniman, Assistant Corporation
Counsel, reviewed with the Committee the current zoning ordinance which
requires that St. Francis (and Evanston Hospital) to report on a quarterly
basis parking statistics for their sites.
Ald. Rudy questioned the applicant as to how lot coverage was calculated?
Ald. Rudy's concern was that it appears that any future expansion might very
well cause the maximum floor area ratio to be exceeded. Ald. Warshaw moved
and Ald. Brady seconded the aforementioned first amendment to the motion for
approval. The Committee voted 5-0 to concur with the amendment.
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' P & D Minutes
June 26, 1989
Ald. Brady observed that on page 219 of the subject transcript questions arose
regarding the hospital practice of purchasing additional residential property
In the area. Kr. James Gizzi stated that the hospital currently owned four or
five properties in the area which are used for residential purposes and rented
to staff and other people associated with the hospital. In response to a
question from the Committee, Gizzi stated that the property is currently on
the tax roll. Ald. Brady expressed concern that with the hospital purchasing
residential property, additional dwelling units would be lost to the general
populace.
Rudd questioned the Committee as to the second part of the ZBA recommendation
which was to authorize the City Traffic Engineer to conduct a traffic study of
the area bounded by Asbury Avenue on the west, Oakton Street on 'the north, the
CTA tracks on the east and Howard Street on the south. Rudd stated that such
a study could not be undertaken with the current staff in the timeframe
expected. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that it was
the ZBA intention to have the study conducted prior to construction so as to
develop a base study regarding the traffic flows prior to any disruption
caused by the construction period. Hurray indicated that Barton and Aschmann
had previously conducted a study in an area slightly smaller than that
proposed by the ZBA. He questioned whether that study could be expanded upon
to include the new boundary. Chairman Korshak directed staff to develop a
proposal for cost to conduct a study in-house versus by a consultant in
addition to the time needed to conduct the study and to report back to the
Committee at the July 10, 1989 meeting. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend
to City Council introduction of the ordinance for a variation and a special
hospital use for St. Francis Hospital.
Docket 161-68-89, Carnival Permit for Friends of the Parks.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of a request for a carnival permit for Friends of the Parks for July
19 through July 23, 1989 at Evanston Plaza Shopping Center, Dodge Avenue and
Dempster. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the permit
request.
Docket 162-6B-89. Plat of Subdivision re 1705 Lake/1460 Dewey.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend
approval of a plat of subdivision for the property at 1705 Lake/1460 Dewey.
The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval.
Docket 160-6B-89, Golf Course re Hatching Grant.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Ca,rnmittee recommend to
City Council approval of the request by the Evanston Community Recreation
Association for a matching grant. Ald. Morton questioned the current fee
-3-
P & D Minutes
June 26, 1989
M
structure and how it compared with other municipally owned golf courses. Dr.
Richard Fischl, President of the Evanston Community Recreation Association
(ECRA), provided the Committee with various fee structures for community golf
courses in the area. A review of the fees indicated that the subject golf
course's fees are considerably lower than those in the surrounding areas. Dr.
Fischl reviewed with the Committee the history of the golf course indicating
that there are seven holes in Wilmette and 11 in Evanston which leads to a
board of directors consisting of eighteen members (7 from Wilmette and 11 from
Evanston). Dr. Fischl indicated that the ECRA was a private corporation which
sublet the land on which the golf course is located from the Village of
Wilmette and the City of Evanston. Those entities lease the land from
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD). Dr. Fischl
Indicated that the ECRA has received financial support totaling $3,538 from
the City of Evanston and the Wilmette Park District for about the past four
years. He stated that these funds were utilized to cover the liability
insurance. Dr. Fischl indicated that in the past ECRA had traded land where
currently the Chandler Center is located for land where the maintenance shed
for the golf course is located. Dr. Fischl indicated that for many years
there has been close cooperation between the local governmental bodies and
ECRA.
Ald. Morton questioned what the City of Evanston should expect in return for
approving a matching grant of $34,000 to ECRA? Dr. Fischl indicated that the
City would receive a beautification to an existing open land area which would
coincide with recommendations by the MWRD. He stated that all funds would be
used to enhance a significant asset to the community. Dr. Fischl emphasized
that the money would be a challenge grant whereby ECRA would match the $84,000
requested from the City of Evanston and also match the $55,000 being requested
from Wilmette. Dr. Fischl stated that the funds were necessary to provide for
the installation of an irrigation system totaling $280,000 for the golf
course. The current process of watering the course was extremely laboring
intensive. Ald. Morton expressed concern about diverting much needed
recreation funds to a use not traditionally utilized by lower income residents
of Evanston. Ald. Morton stated that if the City of Evanston should approve
the matching grant, she would only support such a move if a very active
program were developed to teach golf to lower income youth, and also seniors,
free of charge. Fischl stated that the course has always been intended to be
utilized by young people learning the game in addition to seniors continuing
their game on a smaller course that can be easily walked. Fischl stated that
ECRA currently has a program supporting youth and provides various
scholacships. In response to a question from Ald. Warshaw with respect to the
source of the funds, it was concluded that the funds would come from the
Capital Improvement Program and not the Recreation Department. Ald. Brady
stated that the City should support the request because it helps to maintain
the open lands and enhance the land which is a significant benefit to the
City. She stated that to provide this matching grant would be extremely
helpful with an affirmative marketing program for the golf course. Ald. Rudy
stated that he supports the proposal and observed that the rates are quite
-4-
P & D Minutes
June 26, 1989
reasonable and thus appear to be addressing lower income population needs of
both the youth and seniors. Ald. Morton reiterated her position that if the
City of Evanston should agree to the matching grant, lessons should be
provided free of charge through the Recreation Department to minority youths
and seniors. Ald. Brady observed that the Recreation Department currently
offers inexpensive golf lessons to anyone.
Chairman Korshak stated that he opposed the proposal based on the fact that no
data has been provided explaining what segment of the population utilizes the
course and whether those that do use the course can or cannot afford to pay
for additional improvements. He also stated that ECRA has provided no
information with respect to projections on who will benefit in the future.
Chairman Korshak stated that the proposal lacks any detailed plan as to how
any affirmative marketing with respect to lower income populations will be
implemented. Ald. Warshaw stated that she would accept an amendment to her
original motion with respect to requiring a scholarship program through either
Evanston Township High School and/or the Recreation Department. Chairman
Korshak stated that any approval should be contingent on an acceptable.
detailed plan. Chairman Korshak recommended that the matter be held in the P
& D Committee until such time ECRA returns with a detailed plan regarding
affirmative marketing. The Committee concurred that the matter be held until
such time ECRA returned with the requested information.
Docket 45-2B-89, Ordinance 22-0-89 re Amendment to the Residential Landlord
Tenant Ordinance, Section 5-3-5-1(A).
Ald. Rainey was present and stated that her original reference was to change
the ordinance from allowing a one and one-half month security deposit to a one
month security deposit. Ald. Rainey observed that there is little local
governments can do to address the development of affordable housing. She
stated that controlling the amount of security deposit is one small way to
help control the cost of housing for the most needy. Aid. Rainey also stated
that to require only a one month security deposit would eliminate from
landlords the possibility that the security deposit requirement be used in an
unfair way to disqualify certain prospective tenants. Chairman Korshak
observed that currently landlords may charge a one month security deposit for
one tenant and one and one-half month security deposit for another. Jim
Matykiewicz, a representative of the Evanston Property Ourners Association
(EPOA) was present and stated that the Housing Commission proposal was not a
compromise acceptable to EPOA. Hatykiewicz stated that EPOA feels that it is
necessary to have a minimum of one and one-half month security deposit and
would prefer a two month security deposit. Experience indicates that tenants
many times utilize the security deposit for the last month's rent thus leaving
only a half month's rent to cover damages. In response to a question from
Chairman Korshak regarding whether EPOA agrees that the lowest amount of
security would be applicable to all tenants, Hatykiewicz responded that it is
the EPOA's position that the same amount of security deposit be required of
everyone. Hatykiewicz stated that EPOA would recommend that any
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P & D Minutes
June 26, 1989
landlords requiring a different amount of security deposit for different
tenants be referred to the Human Relations Commission on charges of
discrimination. Natykiewicz further observed that there have been no demands
for change of the security deposit requirement from tenants or from TOE. He
stated that TOE has been contacted and has informed members of the Committee
that this is not a high priority issue. Mr. John Spiegler, a landlord, stated
that he rents several units to students from out of state and often times
finds that they utilize the security deposit as the last month's rent, leaving
only the half month remaining for any damages. Due to the length of time
remaining. the Committee directed that this matter be held for further
discussion at the next P & D Committee meeting of July 10, 1989.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, July 10, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert T. Ru d
70(217)
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
` DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
N
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
July 10, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Horton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: C. Powers, A. Carter, K. Brenniman, D. Rasmussen and
R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Nelson
Minutes of June 26, 1989.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning S Development Committee meeting of June 26, 1989.
Ald. Rudy moved that the last paragraph, on page 2 should be corrected to read
"how did they calculate". Ald. Rudy also indicated that the statement in that
paragraph addresses the concern that any additional building would require a
variation. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes as corrected (Ald.
Brady absent).
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 89-13-V(F�, Final Variation Decision re 746 `fichiYan Avenue.
The Committee received a final decision regarding 746 Fichigan without comment.
Z3A 89-14-V(F), Final Variation Decision. re 910-38 Cust.:r Avenue.
The Committee received a final decision regarding 910 "uster without
comment.
Ald. Warshaw noted that she did not receive the transcripts and requested that
transcripts be provided on future cases.
Old Business
Docket 45-28-89, Ordinance 22-0-89 re Amendment to the Fesidential Landlord
Tenant Ordinance, Section 5-3-5-1(A).
Aid. Brady moved and Ald, 'Warshaw seconded that the U n7 ittee raccmmend to
City Council approval of the amendment to the Landlord errant Ordinance and
have that amendment reflect Ald. Korshak's concerns rot,: -ring "not computing
interest" for the one-half month rent until it is paid Aid. Ruty indicated
that he has now come full circle on this i;noo and cao _' supper! t0
amendment. Aid. Rudy expinin q that .n h.o opinion th=_ iskirL :n; seEnent of
the citizenry, Evanston rental property a4ners, to so_;: ; i;q; i;?
P & D Committee - Minutes
July 10, 1989
affordability problem is inappropriate. He stated that the issue should be
addressed by the whole community. Chairman Nelson stated that he would
support the motion at the P & D Committee in order to move this issue on to
City Council but would vote against the proposed amendment at City Council,
Ald. Horton observed that the issue of affordability and housing in the City
of Evanston is larger than this ordinance. She stated that the proposed
amendment is only an attempt to ease the affordability burden. Chairman
Nelson observed that this amendment places landlords in a position of being a
banker for tenants. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council
approval of the Landlord Tenant Ordinance amendment as amended per Aid.
Korshak's concerns.
Docket 163-6I3-89, Ordinance 81-0-89, ZBA S9-10-VSSU(n) re Parking Survey of
Area for 355 Ridge Avenue.
The Committee reviewed a memorandum from Dave Jennings, Traffic Engineer,
stating that an estimate from Barton Aschman Associates in the amount of
$2500.00 would cover the cost for expanding the exiting traffic study. Ald.
Brady questioned whether the Committee was concerned with a baseline study?
Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning,, was present and stated that the
study should be completed after construction to be able to analyze the
conditions created by the new construction. James Murray, attorney for St.
Francis, stated that Ordinance 51-0-89 should be corrected to delete in the
third line the term "Care". Also, in the second paragraph the same term
should be deleted. ,Murray confirmed that it was his understanding that the
ZBA wanted the study conducted after the construction. Ald. Warshaw stated
that she would be satisfied with the study to be undertaken after construction
is completed but was still concern with the procedures %:herpty St. Francis
Hospital determined parkin, facilities utilization. All, Warshaw stated that
she was concerned since the hospital recently has requir-d a!: employees to
park on -site that there may e a 3hortaZo or parkin, for ..:.-sr_,. ,Murray
informed the Committee that the hospital reports on a gnirtnrly basis parking,
utilization data. Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the City was monitoring the
reporting procedures. Staff indicated that the City accepted the figures
supplied by St. Francis Hospital. In response to a question from Aid.
Warshaw, staff indicated that to further monitor or actually wake the daily
counts, can outside firm cowed by omployed but at a cost :o the City. Aid.
Warshaw str vol that she was not concernel !hit St. Fra...... Y. _ w; nid
submit inacsurite information but rather ...at the host. :: =. ._d :how itself,
through the data, in a most favorable light that may not ozo rately reflect
the parking, situation. Aid. Morton felt tAat to further wcritor tie data
would be unnecessary. She stated that per the Zoning 4rinanf_e the City was
already receiving quarterly reports in addition to an annual compilation. She
was concerned that the City would require an addittonal minitoring preoedure
based only on a feeling that there may be a problom. Aid. Morton recommended
that the Committwe delay any further considoraKion of tne study. Ald.
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• P & D Committee - Minutes
July 10, 1989
Korshak suggested that the Committee recommend to City Council that St.
Francis hospital submit a letter stating that upon a request from the City of
Evanston, after occupancy of the parking garage and medical building (90 days
later), they would agree to pay for a traffic study. Chairman ,Nelson
recommended that the period be increased from 6-9 months after occupancy in
order to allow the situation to stabilize.
The Committee discussed the possibility of reviewing the current survey
instrument regarding parking statistics for St. Francis hospital. Dr. Thomas
Stafford, a member of the audience, read from the current Zoning Ordinance
regarding hospital parking requirements and reporting procedures. Upon
completion the Committee was satisfied that the current reporting methods were
adequate. Ald. Brady questioned whether St. Francis would agree to funding
the study? Murray stated that in consultation with rrpres4ntatives of St.
Francis hospital that they would agree to pay for the study after 9 months
from receiving an occupancy permit for the parking gara;e and medical
building. After a brief discussion the Committee agreed to require that St.
Francis Hospital furnish a traffic study not to excoc-d S2500.00 in cost after
9 months of occupancy of the parking garage and medics, center. The Committee
voted 6-0 to approve the recommendation.
Docket 147-6A-89, Ordinance 74-0-89 re Special Sign Committee ReporL.
Ira Golan was present and requested a clarification regarding the definition
of right-of-way. Staff indicated to Golan that the right-of-way included the
publicly owned property located between the properly lines. Golan reviewed
with the Committee a brief history of the Sign Ordinanr:,� and concerns
regarding temporary signs. Golan recommended that the Ccsanittee consider an
amendment to address events banners, and other temporary suns. He suggested
that an amendment allot: temporary event sins to be erected no more than five
days prior to the event and be limited to not -for -profit Di.:k
Carter, Planning Director, and Drew Petterson, a memt._r t`z- S:Pcial Sign
Committee, wort, present and stated that to reguia--% "r )'' :.' PranL si?,ns was
not part of the proposed Ordinance 74-0-89. after a brief discussion Ald.
Korshak suggested inserting the word "permanent" after the •.rcrd "no" in
Section B of the ordinance. Ald. Morton also suuestad inserting the phrase
"non -regulatory" at the beginning of the next to last snntenca in Section B.
The Committee voted 6-0 to recon',mend to City Council appr>val of Ordinance
74-0-89 AS amended.
Aid. Brady requested that the sign issues left open _f D'dinan_o te
continued to be addressed by the Special Sign bask to
the P & D Committee at a later date.
Docket 160-68-39, Golf Course re 'latching Grant.
The Committee received a memo from Dr. Fischl from the :he Evanston Cormunity
Recreation Association (ECRA) addressing concerns up at the prior P tk D
-3-
P & D Committee - Minutes '
July 10, 1989
Committee meeting regarding an outreach program for the disadvantaged youths
and senior citizens. Ald. Morton questioned who determined the amount of the
grant request? Dr. Fischl stated that an architectural consultant was
employed by ECRA to develop a cost for installation of the irrigation system.
Ald. Korshak stated that he still has questions on who will benefit from this
improvement? Ald. Morton stated that she raised the previous question
regarding benefit because she wanted to find a way to justify this allocation
and to be assured that low income youths and seniors would benefit.
In response to a question, Dr. Fischl stated that the program would be phased
in and improvements would be made over a three or four year period. He stated
that ECRA was looking for the City to commit to $34,000 at which time ECRA
would then move to the Wilmette Park District and request a proportional
commitment (355,000.). At that time ECRA would proceed to seek additional
funding. Dr. Fischl indicated that residents other than golfers utilize the
Golf Course for cross country skiing, jogging, dog walking. He stated that
some of these activities actually caused problems with the Golf Courso. Ald.
Korshak questioned the manner in which the beard of directors are Salocted.
Dr. Fischl reviewed with the Committee that same members are appointed by the
City Manager while others are appointed by the Wilmette Park District and
still others are appointed by the Golf Course Board. Aid. Brady mewed and
Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Conunittee recommend to the City Council
approval of the grant for $84,000 for irrigation purposes and that as a
condition the proposal be included in the 1990-91 Capital Improvement Plan
(CIP), and that ECRA worm with City staff to develop an outreach and
scholarship plan. This plan would be re•.iQ od and approved prior to any
disbursement of funds for the irrigation project. Aid. Brady also recommended
that the City approve this on the basis that it is preserving and :enhancing
open space.
Ald. Rudy observed that ECRA is bAs.cal?v z •la-i-Pub:i _ and that
the request is one of the City establishing priorities. Aid. Rudy stated that
making an investment in the Golf Course will only increase its usage and
enhance its viability. Dr. Fischl stated that he has already discussed with
the YMCA their aid in developing an outreach program since they have
significant experience in this area. Dr. Fischl further s:atod tha- the high
school already has several scholarships ; 3ppraximntely $74.20 per ..": wnc)
Ald. KorshaK zca:ad that he wool:! not cbjerr in Oe �rz :is
it was conditioned as proposed by Al Aormon Dr dy in! 'mac ...:w A:& Qrshak
further racommo nded that a condition of approval ba that oto City of
Evanston's dollars by the last money spent and that if the Wilmette par
District's portion is reduced that the City of Evanston request be
proportionally reduced. Aldermen Brady and WarshaW acceptet Aid. Korshak
amendments. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to City Council approval of
the request of a $84,000 matching grant contingent upon the amendments stated
abcve.
-4-
P & D Committee - Minutes
July 10, 1989
Docket 176-7A-89 re F.S.T. Program (Families in Transition).
Aid. Brady, a member of the Housing Commission, urged the Committee to review
and recommend approval of the F.I.T. Program at tonight's meeting. She stated
that it was critical that the program be underway as soon as possible in order
to address the fall lease -up period (September, October 1939). Ald. Horton
questioned the P & D Committee's housing Commission members ''War:}aw and
Brady) regarding the type of sponsors. Ald. Warshaw explained that churches,
synagogues, and riot -far -profit agencies could act as sponsors. She stated -
that it was necessary to have these sponsors to help transitional families and
to provide support and to avoid situations whereby when the program
terminates, the families are not left at a dead-end. She cautioned that not
every low income family 'within the City of Evanston could be help-i and '_hat
the program was limited, due to funds, to approximately forty (40f families.
Ald. !torten felt that she needed further information on the people that would
be involved in the program. Ald. Korshak stated that he wan~_ed to see in
writing firm commitments from sponsors before any approval be rlada for the
program. Ald. Brady stated that the request before the Ccrn:tte= and City
Council is only asking that the Council approve the conct�p,' And a'low :he
Housing Commission to do exactly what Ald. Korshak is re;u•:;ling. The Housing
Commission, if approved by City Council, would proceed to ^elicit FFP's for
this program. Ald. Brady stated that the City Council approval would be
required for any expenditure of funds once sponsors and families are
selected. Ald. Brady stated that the Housing Commission had similar concerns
expressed by Ald. Korshak regarding General Assistance participat?on
(preferably no participation) in addition to tenant stllacr_ion procedures by
sponsoring organizations. Ald. Warshaw reiterated that th,� r'qu__t before the
P & D Committee and Council is for approval to seek F P's to lee the
program will work. Ald. Brady emphasized that no pay,ren. .` r r_r`ead costs
to sponsoring agencies is part of the program. Ald. Brady _fated that ttte
Housing Corrnission would make no final selection on spcn_s- _ 'wit, �: the P & D
Committee's review and approval. Chairman Nelson obs?r'r-A - t any contract
with a sponsoring agency would be required to be apprc:�t ty CJry Council.
Ald. Korshak stated that he wants to see the proposals any :ormitments
are made. It was the consensus of the Committee that any :�5:rac.s or
sponsoring agencies would require P & D Committee and Ci's .ounci: approval.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the P & D C:-:7ittce recommend
to City Council approval of the Housing Commission req-,a_' soek RFPs For
the F.I.T. Program. The Committee voted 6-0.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular me_.:-g of the P & D
Committee is Monday, July 24, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
` Robert' T.'Midd
70(2/6)
-5-
7:1AF7, NOT APPROVED
., V. DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present: '
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
July 24, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.M.
S. Brady, L. Morton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
J. Korshak
C. Powers, K. Brenniman and R. Rudd
None
Presiding Official: J. Nelson
10
Minutes of July AA, 1989.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of July 10, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA Public Notice for Tuesday, August 15. 1989.
The Committee received the notice without comment.
NEW BUSINESS
Ald. Rainey Reference re Landlord Tenant Ordinance. One and One -Half Month
Security Deposit.
Ald. Warshaw moved that the Committee hold this matter to the next meeting
since it is probable that a reconsideration of a previously defeated proposal
will be made at City Council regarding the one and one-half month security
deposit ordinance. Ald. Brady seconded the motion and the Committee voted 5-0
to hold the matter until the next meeting on August 14, 1989.
Docket 180-7B-89. Plat of Resubdivision re 1615-19 Lake Street.
Ald. Horton moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of a request from Roger Parris for a plat of resubdivision at
1615-19 Lake Street. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend to City Council
approval of the plat.
OLD BUSINESS
Multi -Family Inspection Program.
Ald. Brady stated that her reading of a memo dated June 15, 1989 from staff
indicates a strong preference against charging for reinspections. The staff
memo recommends a $14.00 per unit fee. Ald. Warshaw stated that she
originally wanted to obtain the names of owners of property through the
licensing or inspection program. Since staff has indicated that it already
has that information, she at this time would not recommend a fee for
reinspection or initial inspection. She stated that owners of multi -family
P & D Committee - Minutes
July 24, 1989
dwelling units already pay almost twice as much as single family property
owners. Staff indicated that the multi -family inspection could be equated
with the building permit procedure whereby inspection services are rendered
and fees paid for those services. Ald. Warshaw stated that she feels the
Property Maintenance inspections are not the same as building inspections in
that Property Maintenance inspections are imposed upon multi -family property
owners.
Ald. Brady cited from the Griffith Fee Study Report that a combined cost for
initial inspections and reinspections totals $14.00 per unit. Ald. Warshaw
stated that she initially liked the reinspection program, in addition to
obtaining the names of property owners, because it directly encouraged
compliance with the Existing Structure Code by property owners by imposing a
fee upon that owner for letting property to continue to be in non-compliance.
Ald. Morton observed th6t in her opinion the program appeared to be one solely
to develop revenue. Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the
Committee not approve the Multi -Family Inspection Program and that the matter
be removed from the P & D Committee agenda. The Committee voted 5-0 to remove
the matter from further discussion and from the agenda.
Ald. Brady questioned the recommendation regarding elimination of the
condominium inspections. Staff indicated that the inspections provided
information regarding the maintenance of the individual units and
common -areas, but do not provide the information most valuable to a
prospective buyer; the present condition and presumed longevity of the major
systems such as the roof, boiler, and plumbing. Staff indicated that the
Inspections sometimes caused problems between the private parties in
scheduling closing dates and establishing costs of cited repairs. The
inspections take time which might be more productively used conducting area
inspections of multi -family rental units. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Mort'bn
seconded that the staff be directed to prepare an ordinance to eliminate the
condo inspections. It was recommended that the subject ordinance be prepared
for introduction at the City Council meeting of August 14, 1989. The
Committee voted 5-0 to recommend elimination of the condo inspections.
There being no further items on the current P & D Committee agenda, Chairman
Nelson asked that the Committee address some matters that would be discussed
later at the City Council meeting. Ald. Warshaw requested a clarification
regarding the Peter Jans Golf Course request for a matching grant. In
response to her questions the Committee clarified that the request for the
matching grant would be identified in the Capital Improvement Plan for 1990-91
and that it would be changed from "desirable" to "necessary" once the
applicant comes back to the P & D Committee and City Council with much more
details regarding scholarships and status of request of funds from the Village
of Wilmette. Ald. Warshaw also requested that when the applicants return to
the City that they supply an audited financial statement for one or two prior
years.
1W41
41 _0
P & D Committee - Minutes
July 24, 1989 -
The Committee also raised questions regarding whether the Golf Course
Association will pay for water usage, how will N.U. Dyche Stadium football
parking impact on the Golf Course, and more details regarding maintenance
costs of equipment as set forth in the Association's budget.
With respect to the F.I.T. Program on the City Council agenda, Ald. Morton
stated that she still could not support the program. She stated that she
would recommend to the City Council that the matter be sent back to the
Housing Commission and let all concerns be addressed. She stated that she has
tremendous discomfort with asking outside agencies to managed this program and
feels that the City should oversee the program. Ald. Horton expressed concern
that many people already received various sorts of public aid (Section 8, food
stamps, etc.) while another group, above the poverty line, desperately needs
help and is not eligible for any support. Ald. Warshaw stated that at the
Housing Commission she originally wanted to increase those eligible up to 50%
of the median income versus the plans current 40% of median income. She
stated that the 40% was e.rrived at as a compromise with other members of the
Housing Commission. She stated that she likes the current program because
there is not an overlay of City intervention. Ald. Warshaw stated that if the
program was too specific, the RFP may not receive any responses from
agencies. Ald. Warshaw agreed that there are many unknowns and the only way
to develop such a program is to ask for RFP's. Ald. Morton continued to
express concerns that the program is not workable. She stated that the
program may become workable but modifications would be required and that
discussion should take place at the Housing Commission. It was the consensus
of the Committee that these issues would be discussed at the upcoming City
Council meeting.
Ald. Rudy requested that a new agenda item for August 14, 1989 address the
issue of Landlord Tenant Ordinance applicability to co-ops. Ald. Rudy stated
that he had spoken with Corporation Counsel Herb Hill regarding a legal
opinion on this matter. After a brief discussion it was agreed that
Corporation Counsel would be contacted on this matter and would determine
whether it was appropriate to render a legal opinion at this time.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Monday, August 14, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: rr� �/
Ro er£ Rudd
70(2/4)
-3-
DRAFT, HOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Others Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
August 14, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.H.
J. Korshak, L. Horton, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
S. Brady and J.Nelson
K. Brenniman, C. Powers, D. Rasmussen and R. Rudd
None
J. Korshak
Minutes of July 24, 1989
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes. Ald. Warshaw corrected paragraph 2 on page 2 reflecting that she
opposed the proposal after the staff informed the Committee that the cost of
the administration of the proposed program was more than would be collected.
Ald. Rudy corrected the last paragraph on page 3 of the minutes to reflect
that a concern was expressed as to whether upon receiving a confidential legal
opinion, would the matter be discussed in executive session or in open session
of the Committee. Upon receipt of the subject legal opinion, the Committee
would decide at its next meeting. Committee voted 4 - 0 to approve the
minutes as corrected.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 89-16-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 725 Judson Avenue.
The Committee received a final variation decision of the Zoning Board of
Appeals regarding 725 Judson Avenue without comment.
ZBA 89-17-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 903 Madison Street.
The Committee also received a ZBA final variation decision at 903 Madison
Street without comment.
Approval of memorandum to City Council re Multi -Family Licensing/Inspection
Program.
Chairman Korshak questioned whether the issue of multi -family inspection fee
charges should be sent to the Housing Commission? Ald. Warshaw stated that
the matter has been before the Planning and Development Committee for approxi-
mately six (6) months and the Committee at no time in tae past considered for-
warding the item to the Housing Commission. Chairman Korshak stated that he
feels the matter should be discussed further and not renoved from the agenda
simply because of a fear of increasing rents based on a S14 per unit per year
inspection charge. He stated that a $14 per year charge would translate into
approximately a $1.20 per month rent increase if passed on directly to ten-
ants. Chairman Korshak further stated that in many instances landlords do not
P 5 D Committee - Minutes
August 14, 1989
need a reason to increase rents and will only increase rents if the market al-
lows. Ald. Warshaw stated she was against all new taxes because they would
hurt the lower income to a much greater extent than they would the higher
income. She felt that this additional charge would be passed directly to the
tenants and would so harm the lower income tenants. Aid. Warshaw also stated
that Linda Dewoskin of TOE and former Ald. Raden, the maker of the reference,
never attended any of the numerous meetings before the Planning and Develop-
ment Committee to advocate on behalf of the program. Ald. Korshak stated that
most members of the Council agreed that property taxes should not be raised,
but if the City is to continue to provide services, funds are needed. Chair-
man Korshak stated that user taxes, such as the proposed, are an alternative
to offset the cost of City services.
Ald. Horton stated that she agrees with Ald. Warshaw that no new taxes should
be imposed. In response to a statement by Ald. Morton, Rudd stated that under
the inspection program no new personnel would be required. Ald. Morton
expressed concern that increased taxes are driving the upward mobile from
Evanston. She stated that additional taxes and fees hurt the goal of
providing affordable housing for the working class. Ald. Warshaw observed
that recent action in Springfield allowed the City of Evanston to balance its
budget this year and the subject issue of multi -family inspections could be
revisited in the future years if needed, but at this time she felt the matter
should be removed from the agenda. The Committee voted a - 0 to approve a
memo to the Mayor and Aldermen stating that the matter is being removed from
the Planning and Development Committee's agenda and that there will be no fur-
ther discussion.
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 203-BA-89. Ordinance 93-0-89, ZBA 89-18-PD(R), re Planned Development,
2500 Crawford Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Horton seconded that the Co=ittee recommend to
the City Council approval of a planned development for 123 dwelling units in
the area bordered by Harrison, Gross Point Road, and Crawford Avenue. Ald.
Warshaw stated that she thinks the developer has proposed an excellent pro-
ject, but had several questions. Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the proposed
pond would be drained in the winter and how deep was the pond? Tim Anderson,
a representative of OPTIMA, stated that the pond was engineered to have a
safety ledge arnund the perimeter and that the pond would be 5 ft. at its
deepest point and would not be drained in the winter. Ald. Warshaw questioned
what would happen during the dangerous times of the year when the edge of the
pond was frozen and the center was not? Anderson expla'.ned that there was
less water in the pond in the winter and therefore the depth would not be as
great. Aid. Rudy observed that the pond also had an aerator which kept the
water moving. Ald. Warshaw asked whether all of the parking in the basement
would be protected from flooding? She also questioned whether trash col-
lection would be underground? Tim Anderson stated that the project is engi-
neered to provide for good drainage on site and eliminate flooding from the
underground parking. Anderson stated that his firm has extensive experience
in developing large underground parking areas. Anderson, further stated that
compactors will be located in the lower levels and that on pick up days gar-
-2-
P & D Committee - Minutes
August 14, 1989
bage would be brought up to grade for removal. Ald. Warshaw questioned
whether right -turn -only from the parking areas should be required? Anderson
responded that based upon traffic volume, no regulation was needed. In
response to a question from Ald. Rudy, Anderson stated that the facades would
be constructed of a limestone aggregate. In further response to questions
from Ald. Rudy, Anderson reviewed with the Committee the grade changes and
elevations throughout the site. In response to a question from Ald. Morton,
Anderson stated that efficiency units would cost approximately $60,000 and one
bedroom units about $65,000. The Committee had a brief discussion with
respect to the requirement to maintain a single ownership of the open land
since the project was in form of a condominium.
Mr. Iry Footlik, an adjacent property owner, stated that he was quite pleased
with the proposal and had only one suggestion to revise a curb cut on Harrison
Street in order to save new curbs recently replaced by the City.
The Committee voted 4 - 0 to recommend approval of the planned unit develop-
ment to the City Council.
Docket 202-8A-89, Ordinance 98-0-89, 89-15-VgSU(R) re Variation and Special
Use for 1704 Central Street.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council the ZBA recommendation to grant an off-street parking varia-
tion and a special use to permit establishment of a type II restaurant.
Chairman Korshak stated that it has been brought to his attention that signs
have already been erected on the site. Staff was directed to investigate why
the subject sign was constructed prior to any approval for the restaurant.
The lessee of the site indicated that North Shore Sign Company had obtained a
permit to erect the sign. Staff stated that it would investigate the matter.
Ald. Warshaw was surprised by the need of only one additional parking space.
She further questioned as to how many Northwestern spaces for nyche Stadium
are currently being rented to adjacent businesses and how does the City know
that those spaces will be vacant when Northwestern needs all of the spaces for
events at Dyche Stadium/McGew Hail? Staff was directed to review this matter
and report back to the Committee. Chairman Korshak stated that his discus-
sions with Ald. Collens requested that the final Ordinance reflect a consoli-
dated litter plan and conditions within the Ordinance and thus avoid various
attachments and references back to the transcript. The Committee voted 4 - 0
to recommend introduction of the Ordinance to the City Council and that a
clean copy reflecting Ald. Collens comments be supplied at the August 20, 1989
City Council meeting.
Docket 201-8A-89, Ordinance 103-0-89 re Elimination of Condo Resale Inspections.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend approv-
al of Ordinance 103-0-89 eliminating condo resale inspections. The Committee
requested that it should be made clear that this section was not eliminating
the need to require various documents submitted by the developer upon initial
conversion. The proposed elimination is only for resale of condominium
units. The Committee voted 4 - 0 to recommend introduction of the subject
Ordinance.
-3-
P & D Committee - Minutes
August 14, 1989
Docket 200-8A-89, Temporary Sign Request.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend approv-
al, of a request by the Auxiliary of Evanston/Glenbrook Hospitals to erect two
temporary signs advertising and directing patrons to the American Craft
Exposition at the Northwestern lakefront facility. Ms. Marge Julian was pre-
sent and reviewed with the Committee the location of the two signs. The Com-
mittee voted 4 - 0 to recommend approval.
Docket 199-BA-89 re Plat of Consolidation for 1200-14 Church Street.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend approv-
al of a plat of consolidation for the subject property. The Committee voted 4
- 0 to recommend approval.
Increase in Building Fees.
The Committee reviewed a memo from the Budget Policy Committee regarding the
City Manager's recommendation that Building and Zoning inspectional services
fees not be increased and that inflationary adjustments as needed be made to
maintain the current 75% recovery rate. The Committee also was asked to re-
view as part of the referral from the Budget Policy Committee, Ald. Nelson's
suggestion of raising permit fees for fences and signs and bring those fees
closer to the 75% recovery rate. The Committee reviewed Exhibit I from the
Griffith User Fee Assessment Study which delineated the percent of subsidies
supplied for various building inspection services. The Committee discussed
the merits of requiring all fees to be at the 75% recovery level or whether
the average of all fees should be at 75% recovery level. The Committee also
discussed whether to not increase fees or to maintain the 75% recovery level
would lead to additional real estate taxes. Ald. Morton expressed concern
about continually raising taxes and fees. The Committee also discussed
whether increasing fees significantly would cause more people to avoid getting
a permit and thus illegally construct fences, signs, remodeling, etc. Ald.
Warshaw stated that she supports the 75% recovery level in addition to an
inflationary factor, but would be concerned if fees become burdensome to the
citizens. The Committee voted 3 - 1 (Norton voted nay) to report back to the
Budget Policy Committee that it accepts the City Manager's recommendation for
a 75% overall recovery rate and endorses an inflationary adjustment as needed
to maintain a 75% recovery rate.
Ad,i ournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Planning
and Development Committee is Monday, August 28, 1989.
Staff:
Rdb T . Rudd
-4-
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
I DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
August 28, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: J. Nelson
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, J. Wolinski, D. Rasmussen, J. Aiello
B. Ahlberg, C. Powers and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
Minutes of August 14, 1989.
Ald. Warshaw and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the minutes of
the Planning & Development Committee meeting of August 14, 1989. Ald. Rudy
moved that on page 3, the fifth line should indicate that the facade would be
constructed of a "precast concrete with limestone aggregate". The Committee
voted 5-0 to approve the minutes as amended.
City Manager Joel Asprooth introduced Mr. James Wolinski to the P & D
Committee as the new director of Building & Zoning. The members welcomed Mr.
Wolinski to his new position.
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairmanshin Memo
The Committee received the memo without comment.
New Business
Docket 214-8B-89, Ordinance 102-0-89. ZBA 89-19-SU(R) re Special Use. 1B35
Grant Street.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council granting of a special use for an addition to a nursery school.
Ald. Rudy stated that he would abstain from the discussion because his wife is
a member of the board of the subject facility. Ald. Warshaw commended Ald.
Rudy for abstaining and also for his wife's participation in the project.
Ald. Brady questioned whether the applicant had received a letter regarding
the preservation issue. After a brief discussion Ald. Brady requested that a
letter be received with respect to this issue prior to final adoption of the
ordinance. Ald. Warshaw questioned whether the applicant would have enough
time to apply for CD dollars. Mrs. Rudy stated that the project will be
progressing in various stages. Ald. Morton asked whether there was a kitchen
r
P & D Committee - Minutes
August 28, 1989
on the second floor? In response to the question, Mrs. Rudy stated that there
was a kitchen on the second floor and that the occupant of the building was
not married and in further response to a question from Ald. Morton that the
unit was only able to accommodate a maximum of two people. The Committee
voted 5-0 to recommend to City Council introduction of the subject special use
ordinance and hold final approval until receipt of the letter regarding
preservation.
Docket 213-8B-89, Ordinance 101-0-89, ZBA 89-20-(R) re Variation, 2733-37
Central Street.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council approval of a variation to permit a third dwelling unit at the subject
address. Ald. Rudy stated that his review of the application finds that the
request is not significant in term of impact but appears to stretch the limits
of the ordinance. He stated that in his opinion there is a difference between
an efficiency and the ability to construct a two bedroom apartment. Ald.
Warshaw observed that she was troubled with the fact that the applicant
apparently made no effort to buy a small piece of land adjacent to the
property. She also agreed that the request appears to push Zoning beyond
reasonable limits. Ald. Warshaw also noted that she is troubled With the fact
that the drawings did not match the request. Ald. Brady stated that she found
the transcript to be one of the better ones from the Zoning Board of Appeals
and applauded their attempt to gain information from the applicant. Ald.
Brady agreed that proper plans must be supplied for this project to go beyond
the Committee level. Ald. Brady stated that she could support the request
because the variation was minimal and the applicant demonstrated a need for
the third unit.
Ald. Rudy noted that on page eight of the transcript, Mr. Sebermerhorn, the
applicant, stated that residents would not park in the lot but rather would
park on the street. Ald. Rudy stated that this should be discouraged and that
the residents should be encouraged to park in the parking lot. Ald. Rudy also
stated that he would need to see the corrected drawings for this project.
Ald. Morton stated that she shares some of the same concerns expressed by
fellow committee members. Chairman Korshak expressed his concern that the
applicant did not meet or was convincing enough with respect to variation
standards addressing the issue of making a profit and second, that the
variation was the minimum needed. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded
that the matter be held at the P 6 D Committee until staff reconciles the
revised plans with the application. Mr. Richard Fitzgerald, attorney for the
applicant, at this point provided corrected plans to staff for review.
Fitzgerald stated, in response to a previous statement from Ald. Rudy, that
the zoning analysis showed no parking deficiencies and also informed the
Committee that the issue of the purchase of a vacant strip of land adjacent to
the property was not possible since that property was required by the adjacent
-2-
P & D Committee - Minutes
August 28, 1909
parcel. Mr. Schermerhorn also stated that he was not able to purchase the
subject parcel unless he purchased the entire property. In response to a
question from Ald. Rudy, Schermerhorn stated that the existing building could
support a second story. Schermerhorn further stated, in response to Ald.
Rudy, that without the cooperation of the adjacent property owner, the
exterior finish of the building could be completed but would be difficult.
Chairman Korshak recommended that the Committee amend page 2, section 3 to
insert after the word shall "prior to start to construction or demolition" and
also add a last phrase to the subject section which would read "which
insurance policy shall be acceptable to the indemnified party." Ald. Brady
moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the amendment
proposed by Chairman Korshak and also recommended that the matter be held in
Committee until the meeting of September 11, 1989.
Legal Opinion re Applicability of Landlord Tenant Ordinance to Co-ops.
Ald. Rudy questioned whether the Committee needed to recommend an amendment to
the Landlord Tenant Ordinance to specifically exclude co-ops? Mr. Nick
Dallas, an attorney representing several co-ops, stated that the Chicago
Landlord Tenant Ordinance specifically exempts co-ops. He stated that though
the past history has been that the City of Evanston Landlord Tenant Ordinance
has exempted co-ops, a literal reading could load one to believe that co-ops
are included. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Legal
Department be directed to prepare an amendment to the Landlord Tenant
Ordinance to specifically exclude co-ops. Ald. Warshaw stated that she
believes that it was the legislative intent to exclude co-ops and that this
amendment should help clarify once and for all. The Committee voted 5-0 to
recommend an ordinance amendment.
Docket 215-88-89. Ordinance 107-0-89. ZAC 89-1. Zoning Amendments re Sheltered
Care Homes..
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of amendments addressing "sheltered care homes". Ald.
Morton questioned whether the proposed change should also include all "skilled
intermediate care homes". Ald. Brady observed that sheltered care homes and
skilled intermediate care homes address two different levels of care. She
stated that skilled intermediate care were previously addressed. Ald. Warshaw
stated that she would not want to include skilled intermediate care in more
restrictive sheltered care home regulations. The Committee voted 4-0 to
recommend to City Council introduction of Ordinance 107-0-89 (Ald. Morton
absent).
Docket 202-BA-89. Ordinance 98-0-89. 89-IS-V&SU(R) re Variation and Special
Use for 1704 Central Street.
Chairman Korshak stated that he has been in contact with Ald. Collens with
respect to her request to delete from page 2, section 7 of proposed Ordinance
-3-
r
P & D Committee -- Minutes
August 28, 1989
98-0-89 the requirement that the applicant obtain permission from Northwestern
University to use an off-street parking space. Chairman Korshak stated that
Ald. Collens explained that such a requirement is unenforceable and only
creates a source of income for Northwestern. After a brief discussion it was
the consensus of the Committee to not propose any changes at the Committee
level but rather have the subject ordinance, which was previously introduced,
be amended on the Council floor at the August 28, 1989 meeting.
Request for Temporary Acception During Construction.
The Committee reviewed a memo from City Manager Joel Asprooth and a letter
from Mr. Marc Biagini representing Mr. Randall Homes, the developer for a
shopping center on the northeast corner of Ridge and Emerson. Assistant City
Manager Judy Aiello, was present and explained that the applicant is
requesting a waiver of rules to allow a full building permit to be issued
while the applicant is attempting to gain approval for a plat of
consolidation. Aiello explained that the plat of consolidation, though
usually a simple matter, has been complicated, and not the fault of the
developer, due to a past tax issue on the property. After a brief discussion
the Committee recommended to waive the requirement for a plat of consolidation
prior to issuance of a building permit, but prohibited any certificates of
occupancy from being issued prior to the applicant presenting to the City a
plat of consolidation. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Brady seconded the motion.
The Committee voted 4-0 to approve the motion (Ald. Morton absent).
Ald. Rainey's Reference re Landlord Tenant Ordinance, One and One -Half Month
Security Deposit.
Chairman Korshak reviewed with the Committee Ald. Rainey's reference to the
Committee that the Landlord Tenant ordinance section with respect to security
deposit be amended to limited security deposits to one month rather than the
current one and one-half month deposit. Chairman Korshak observed that the
current ordinance provides no specific sanction when landlords may charge more
than the one and one-half month security deposit. Ald. Warshaw stated that
the City does not enforce any contract between two parties such as landlord
and tenant, but provides the Landlord Tenant ordinance as a document that
either party can enforce. Ald. Brady stated that she agrees with Ald. Warshaw
and feels that the City should not be enforcing the ordinance against either
the tenant or landlord with respect to this issue. Ald. Morton stated that
she is opposed to any further reduction in the security deposit requirement
since many landlords need that one and one-half month security deposit to make
repairs after some tenants leave. Ald. Rudy stated that he agrees with
comments made by fellow committee members with respect to not changing the
ordinance and could not support any further reduction until it is demonstrated
to his satisfaction that the landlords can deal with the concerns they have
with less than a one and one --half month security deposit. Chairman Korshak
polled the Committee with respect to addressing this reference from
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P & D Committee - Minutes
August 26, 1989
Ald. Rainey. Ald. Warshaw stated that she could support reducing the one and
one-half month deposit to a one month security deposit. Committee members
Rudy, Brady, Horton and Korshak stated that they could not support a further
reduction. After a brief discussion as to whether to hold this matter in
Committee, the Committee voted 4-1 (Ald. Warshaw voting nay) to not reduce the
one and one-half month security to one month and to report this matter out to
the City Council and to remove the item from further discussion at the P & D
Committee.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P b D
Committee is !Monday, September 11, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: /
K/t'T. Rudd
70(2/6)
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
-5-
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
September 11, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Horton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and R.
Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, J. Zendell, C. Powers, D. Rasmussen,
J. Aiello, D. Wirth and R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: L. Morton
Minutes of August 28. 1989.
Ald. Korshak moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of August 28, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the minutes as amended (Ald.
Nelson absent).
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 88-29-A or V(F), Final Appeal and Variation Decision re 1557 Ridge Avenue
and 1570 Oak Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw questioned why the ZBA was the final decision making authority in
this case? Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that per the
zoning ordinance, ZBA is the final authority on off-street parking and lot area
coverage. Ald. Brady questioned the final decision of the ZBA.
Ald. Brady felt that there was no practical possibility that the project could
go forward. In response to the comment, Rasmussen stated that the project could
go forward if the.developer solved the off-street parking problem. In further
response to Ald. Warshaw regarding the difference between the developer's
calculations of seventy-four (74) spaces and the City staff's requirement of
_— -ninety-eight (98), Rasmussen explained the pertinent sections of the zoning
ordinance and how those number were developed.
Docket 214-8B-89, Ordinance 102-0-89, ZBA 89-19-SU(R) re special Use, 1835 Grant
Street.
The Committee received this item without comment.
Docket 219-9A-89, Ordinance 114-0-89, Amending Landlord Tenant Ordinance re
Applicability to Co-ops.
The Committee received this item without comment.
OLD BUSINESS
Docket 213-8B-90, Ordinance 101-0-09. ZBA 89-20-V(R) re 'variation for 2733-37
Central Street.
The Committee reviewed drawings submitted in response to concerns expressed at
P & D Committee - Minutes
September 11, 1989
the August 28, 1989 Committee meeting. In response to a question from the
Committee, Rasmussen stated that the drawings now match the project. Ald. Brady
stated that she did not need drawings for each case as long as Ald. Rudy had an
opportunity to review the drawings. Ald. Rudy stated that he felt that it was
appropriate for all members to receive the various drawings and plans for the
ZBA cases so that Committee members could better understand the request. Ald.
Warshaw agreed with Ald. Rudy and requested that the Committee receive all
drawings and plans for further ZBA cases. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy
seconded that the Committee recommend to City Council introduction of Ordinance
101-0-89 granting a variation to permit a third dwelling unit. The Committee
voted 6-0 to approve.
Docket 217-9A-89, Ordinance 89-0-89, Sign Review & Appeals Board re Appeal
Renewal.
Chairman Morton reviewed with the Committee the various options available:
delete the subject provision, leave the appeal provision in the ordinance on a
permanent basis, and finally, insert the clause with a one-year sunset
provision. Ald. Brady stated that in the last two to three years the Committee
has only reviewed one or two cases. She stated that in her opinion this was an
indication that an appeal procedure was not necessary. Ald. Warshaw stated that
it appears that most applicants agree with the Sign Review & Appeals Board but
that an appeal process provides a back-up or a form of last resort for
applicants instead of going directly to court. She stated that she favors
retaining on a permanent basis the appeal procedure. Ald. Warshaw moved and
Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee introduce Ordinance 89-0-09 which would
insert an appeal procedure on a permanent basis in the Sign Ordinance. Ald.
Korshak asked that section 4-12-15(c) be amended to insert the words "if
granted" in the last sentence of the subject section between the words "and
set". It was the consensus of the Committee to amend the ordinance as proposed
by Ald. Korshak. Ald. Rudy stated that he was against the recommendation
because he feels the appeal process is not needed based on past practice. He
stated that the Sign Review Appeals board members are just as capable as
Aldermen in making a good decision. He stated that there is no need for an
additional layer of review. The Committee voted 5-1 to introduce Ordinance
89-0-89. Voting Nay: Ald. Rudy.
Proposed Ordinance 112-0-89, Authorizing the Allocation of Certain Funds for Art
in the Construction of Public Buildings (Public Art Ordinance).
Ald. Warshaw asked for clarification with regard to what would be included in
the 1% of development cost for public art? Ald. Brady complemented the Art
Council for the thorough job done on the subject report but had several
questions that needed to be addressed. Ald. Korshak observed that if this
proposed ordinance was applicable to the new Library, the cost would be
approximately $210,000. He further stated that it was necessary to define when
the money would be required to become available and also objected to asking for
funding to add staff to administer the proposed program. A1d. Warshaw
questioned whether "like kind" contributions could be part of the 11?
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P & D Committee - Minutes
September 11, 1989
She also questioned how the total could be reached without causing substantial
financial hardship on the City in the case of the Library. Ald. Rudy observed
that it was his understanding that money for the staff person was coming from
the Illinois Arts Council.
Mr. Ron Isaacson, Chairman, of the Public Art Committee, was present to review
with the Committee proposed Ordinance 112-0-89 authorizing the allocation of
certain funds for art in the construction of public buildings. Kr. Isaacson
stated that in developing this ordinance with other members of the Arts Council
they found genuine support throughout the City of Evanston. He stated that
positive feedback was received with respect to integrating art into the
day-to-day lives of Evanston residents which in turn would lead to a better
environment. He stated that one goal of the ordinance is to help develop an
enriching educational experience in the City by adding something lasting.
Isaacson cited potential sites for public art such as the commuter transit
stations throughout Evanston. Additionally, Isaacson stated that various
developments in other cities throughout the country utilized public art in
lobbies, plazas and walkways. He stated that the Arts Committee studied various
public art programs all over the country and found that they created a wealth of
positive municipal identify. Isaacson explained that the 1% out of the
development budget for public art would not be in addition to the total
development costs. Isaacson gave examples where public art could be substituted
for proposed budget items such as furniture, wall coverings, hardware detail,
etc. Isaacson stated that it was important at a very early stage to have the
artist involved with the architect to create a better atmosphere and drama for
the development and to integrate art into the project at an early state and not
treat it as an add -on. He further stated that the artist would help create
human interactitre scale by helping in a variety of ways to make decisions. doe
Zendell, Executive Director of the Arts Council stated that the ordinance and
the attached policies attempt to integrate the decision process with the client
and the artist.
The Committee entered into a discussion wrestling with the concept of when and
where would the artist's input be in developing a project. Isaacson stated that
the Arts Council proposed a team approach to integrate art at an early stage to
avoid situations of "plop and drop" art whereby art is added to a project as an
after thought. Ald. Nelson stated that he is concerned by the concept of
"design by Committee". Ald. Nelson expressed further concern with the
definition of "works of art" in Section 7-16-4(d), and the definition of
"recognized artists". Ald. Nelson further felt that "construction projects" was
too broad and did not define whether that addressed remodeling, rehab or
additions. As an example Ald. Nelson questioned what the Church/Chicago parking
garage/apartment complex would be classified.
Zendell observed that public buildings only happened every few years and
therefore the ordinance would not become a financial or administrative burden.
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P & D Committee - Minutes
September 11, 1989
He further explained that in his opinion there would not be a significant
expense connected with the public art council in the first one or two years.
Ald. Rudy asked for a clarification with respect to the responsibilities of the
artists and their accountability. He questioned whether the artists would
respond to the client or to the Arts Council? Ald. Rudy also stated that before
the proposed ordinance is adopted, the Committee needs to consider the
appointment procedure and whether it should be by the Mayor or the Public Arts
Council. Ald. Warshaw asked that before the Committee is to vote on the
ordinance that a breakdown on funds and costs such as what dollars could be
expected to be received from the State and Federal Governments be supplied.
Ald. Korshak stated that Evanston would be either pioneering or patterning this
procedure. Therefore if the City is patterning he would request that the
Committee review numerous examples of similar public art programs in addition to
responses from the pertinent communities regarding their experiences. Ald.
Korshak recommended that the Committee hold this matter until it has received
further information on the concept. Chairman Morton requested staff to devise a
procedure for discussing this topic at future meetings and to supply the various
materials requested.
The matter was held for further discussion when information becomes available.
Docket 218-9A-89, Ordinance 110-0-89. ZBA 89-12-V(R) re VAriation for 611 South
Boulevard.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee recommend to City
Council introduction of Ordinance 110-0-89 to grant a variation to permit a
church related use in the existing building at 611 South Boulevard.
Ald. Rudy stated that he hopes the new Zoning Ordinance allows something like
this to happen without the need for variation. Ald. Warshaw stated that she
feels that that discussion should not be tied to this recommendation but should
be left to be addressed by the Zoning Commission. The Committee voted 6-0 to
recommended introduction of Ordinance 110-0-89.
ZBA 89-22-V(F) re 1416-18 Brummel
Ald. Brady suggested that possibly the City could look at developing a mechanism
for providing a public parking fund to address cases such as this. Ald. Korshak
stated that in his discussion with Ald. Lanyon, it was recommended that this
matter be held in Committee until such time the Aldermen of the ward had an
opportunity to further review the issue. Ald. Rainey, one of the alderman of
the ward, questioned whether the concept of statute of _imitations would apply?
She stated that the owners are not guilty of anything A-xcept of not knowing that
the parking was not constructed thirty (30) years ago. Due the lack of time to
discuss this matter further Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the
matter be held in Committee for further review.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee iss Monday, September 25, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
I?
Robert T. Rudd
70(2/5)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
�,'
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
September 25, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:00 P.K.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: L. Morton
Staff Present: K. Brenniman, J. Lindwall, G. Sommers-Yant, V. Adamus,
D. Rasmussen, D. Carter, J. Wolinski and C. Powers
Plan Commission
Members Present: A. Belmonte, L. Foster, S. Prout, D. Petterson,
J. Curry, A. Darragh, A. Seidman and M. Blue
Others Present: D. Galloway, S. Knutson, R. McGaugh and G. Keats
Presiding Official: J. Nelson
Minutes of September 11. 1989.
Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee approve the minutes
of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of September 11, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve as submitted.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA Public Notice for Tuesday, October 17. 1989.
The Committee received this item without comment.
ZBA 89-21-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 3122 Hartzell Street.
The Committee received this item without comment.
ZBA 89-24-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 500 Ridge Avenue.
The Committee received this item without comment.
ZBA 89-25-V(F), Final Variation Decision 2420 Brown Avenue.
The Committee received this item without comment.
OLD BUSINESS
None
P & D Committee - Minutes
September 25, 1989
NEW BUSINESS
Presentation of Downtown Plan
Kr. Al Belmonte, Chairman, of the Plan Commission was present to review with
the Committee the newly completed Plan -for Downtown Evanston. Mr. Belmonte
stated that the inception of this plan took place 2 1/2 years ago when the
Plan Commission felt the need to research issues related to downtown
development. He stated that the process included visits to various groups
involved in downtown, including businesses, Chamber of Commerce, EVKARK,
Inventure and interested citizens and requesting feedback from these groups
related to downtown issues. The Plan Commission also conducted "man -in -the
street" interviews. The investigation reinforced the notion that downtown is
different things to different people and that the downtown is resilient. Ald.
Nelson requested that the members of the Plan Commission in attendance be
introduced. Belmonte asked the member to stand and he introduced each. The
presentation continued by Belmonte saying that the downtown was developed in
stages over time. These changes are a function of the marketplace demand and
public policy. Belmonte then reviewed the Plan Commission recommendations as
follows:
1. Economic Growth that increases the Downtown's revenue
contribution to the community and competitive edge over
other subregional economic centers.
2. Development Context in which new building can occur.
3. Human Scale that retains the strong pedestrian orientation
and physical amenities of downtown.
4. Livable environment that attracts shoppers, businesses and
residents to the Downtown.
5. Circulation that Works, involving people to get from one
destination to another with ease.
6. Downtown as a people place bustling with activity.
7. Cooperative Spirit and Energy that will Enable us to
realize our vision.
Belmonte concluded the presentation by saying that the Plan Commission will go
back to those people and organizations with interest in the plan and wants to
be a continuing agenda item at the P & D Committee meetings.
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P & D Committee - Minutes
September 25, 1989
Ald. Nelson thanked the Plan Commission and indicated the need for a schedule
to consider this issue. Ald. Nelson then asked if the Aldermen in attendance
for this presentation had any questions. Ald. Feldman asked what place design
review process would have in future downtown development? Belmonte stated
that there is a need for review but this must be measured against the
atmosphere for development. Ald. Rainey asked what conflict the Plan
Commission saw in developing major outlying shopping centers in the City?
Belmonte replied that downtown must be considered differently because it is a
center to shop, work and live. Ald. Brady asked how the Plan Commission saw
the leadership forming? Belmonte replied that the Commission hopes that
leadership is coalition of various groups, possibly a downtown forum. Ald.
Warshaw asked if the Commission sees the housing demand in downtown as a
threat to the commercial sector? Belmonte indicated that housing isn't a
threat because the opportunity for housing arises so seldom and housing is a
good addition to downtown activity. Ald. Rudy commented that short term
parking for shoppers should be addressed and some method for employer
cooperation in using long term parking to free up short term parking should be
discussed. Ald. Nelson stated that the effect of downtown parking on
surrounding neighborhoods should also be considered.
Ald. Nelson asked Belmonte about the time schedule of the Plan Commission.
Belmonte replied that the Plan Commission plans to be on the agenda of EVMARK,
Chamber of Commerce, and Zoning Commission within the next four -five (4-5)
weeks. Ald. Nelson directed staff to schedule two -three (2-3) meetings for
the next month or so to begin discussion on the Objectives, Policies and
Recommended Actions. Ald. Nelson stated that these meetings should start
early to give Aldermen an opportunity to participate in the discussions.
Recommendations for Imoroving the Planned Unit Develovment Ordinance.
David Galloway, Chairman of the Preservation Commission stated that the Plan
Unit Development Ordinance could be improved and the Preservation Commission's
suggestions are before the P & D Committee. Ald. Brady indicated the need for
clarification. Ald. Warshaw felt the recommendation were severe without a
stated rationale. Ald. Korshak suggested that the format be revised to state
the problem and give the solution. Ald. Brady requested a survey of the Cove
School residents be done to see what changes they might recommend. G.
Sommers-Yant stated the hostility evidenced by those residents was a product
of the residents not knowing their obligations in the beginning stages of the
project. Ald. Brady asked when the Preservation Commission could get back to
the P & D Committee with input from Cove School residents, clarification and a
revised format. Galloway stated that it would be in the beginning of 1990.
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P & D Committee - Minutes
September 25, 1989
Docket 226-9B-89. Plat of Resubdivision re 1227-35 Dodye Avenue.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Brady seconded the approval of the plat of
resubdivision. Ald. Korshak asked what is on the property presently. Raymond
McGaugh answered that office space and manufacturing facilities occupy the
property. The resubdivision will allow the office portion and manufacturing
to be sold separately. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve.
ZBA 89-22-V(F) re 1416-18 Brummel.
Ald. Brady directed staff to look at specific circumstances when a project
becomes impractical to enforce. Ald. Korshak stated there may be other
properties in similar circumstance. Ald. Nelson requested a legal opinion for
next meeting regarding, civic estoppel.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Tuesday, October 10, 1989 at 7:00 p.m.
S t of f: Q ,(art paad'-J i
Catherine Powers T
70(2/6)
-4-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
Tuesday, October 10, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.M.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None ~
Staff Present: D. Wirth, C. Powers, S. Boddie, D. Carter, E.
Szymanski, D. Rasmussen, J. Wolinski and R. Rudd
Others Present: A. Belmonte, D. Petterson, A. Seidman and Ald. Lanyon
Presiding Official: L. Morton
Minutes of September 25, 1989.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the minutes
of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of September 25. 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve as submitted.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 89-23-V(F), Final Variation Decision re 1705 Thayer Street.
Ald. Warshaw questioned why uninhabitable basements are in the FAR
calculation? She also questioned whether the ownership of a small piece of
property was not included in the calculation. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant
Director of Zoning, stated that the parcelling of the property was abnormal,
thus leading to the subject small piece of property not being part of the
applicant's ownership. Ald. Warshaw expressed hope that the new zoning
ordinance would address issues such as this so that applicants with similar
situations would not end up at the ZBA and incurring costs and extensive time
delays.
Aid. Nelson questioned if the subject piece of property was on the tax roll?
Staff indicated that the issue would be reviewed. Ald. Nelson moved and Ald.
Warshaw seconded that a reference be made to staff that on every occasion
possible to transfer unimproved City property to the adjacent property owners,
free of charge, so that the property may be placed on the tax roll. Ald.
Nelson forwarded to staff a memo addressing this issue. The Committee voted
6-0 to make the reference to staff.
ZBA 89-27-SU(F) Final Special Use Decision re 1312 Monroe Street..
Ald. Warshaw questioned the issue of fences requiring ZBA action and thus
becoming burdensome on applicants. Ald. Warshaw stated that she would like to
see issues such as this not go to the ZBA and hopes that the new zoning
P & D Committee - Minutes
Tuesday, October 10, 1989
ordinance would address situations like this. Ald. Brady questioned what the
current stance of the staff and the Zoning Commission was on fences? She
suggested that possibly fence issues such as the subject matter be considered
for "minor variations". Ald. Warshaw suggested that the new ordinance allow
fences in the front yard if they start behind the front of the building, even
if the current structure infringes in the required front yard. Ald. Rudy
suggested that the P & D Committee ask•the Zoning Commission to consider when
one has an adjacent alley to the front yard, a low fence be permitted.
OLD BUSINESS
ZBA 89-22-V(F). re 1416-18 Brummel.
Ald. Brady expressed surprise that so many of the subject properties within
the survey were in compliance with the zoning ordinance. She noted that only
three out of approximately thirty had some sort of zoning violation. Ald.
Warshaw suggested that the City consider some legislative act to address
situations that had been in violation for a long time such as thirty (30)
years and let them become legally non -conforming. Ald. Korshak stated that he
had spoken with First Assistant Corporation Counsel, Herb Hill and had the
feeling that the City would not be estopped from enforcing the subject
ordinance even if thirty (30) years has lapsed. Ald. Korshak suggested that
the City consider legislation that if thirty (30) years has lapsed and there
is no known problem, the City would regard the situation as legally
non -conforming. Ald. Warshaw suggested that any legislative action by the
City Council be as limiting as possible. Ald. Rudy questioned whether such
legislation would be prudent without studying the effect on parking as in the
current case. He stated that the Committee was assuming that there was no
negative effect on parking without any quantitative study. Ald. Rudy also
observed that if the subject building were built today, parking would be
required.
It was the consensus of the Committee to await the legal opinion previously
requested before taking any further action.
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 241-10A-89. Ordinance 121-0-89. ZBA 89-31-SU(R) re Special Use for
1239-47 Pitner Avenue.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council the granting of a special use for a Christmas tree sales lot at
the subject address. Ald. Brady questioned why pumpkin sales lots did not
require a special use and Christmas tree lots did? Staff indicated that
though they may be similar, the zoning ordinance only addressed Christmas tree
sales lots and allowed pumpkin sales lots as an open sales lot in the
ordinance.
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t
P & D Committee - Minutes
Tuesday, October 10, 1989
Chairman Morton stated that she has received a request from the applicant for
City Council to suspend the rules to allow introduction and passage of the
subject ordinance at the October 10, 1989 meeting. The Committee voted 6-0 to
recommend introduction and also to request City Council to suspend the rules
to allow passage of Ordinance 121-0-89.
Docket 240-10A-89, Approval of Site Plan for Leahy Park.
Don Wirth, Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry, was present and indicated
that approval was needed by City Council per Section 6-14 of the zoning
ordinance to allow for a slight movement of the building on the site. In
response to the Committee, Wirth stated that the existing building had
deteriorated to a point where it could no longer be utilized. Wirth further
stated that the Aldermen of the Ward have reviewed and approved the subject
project. In response to a question from Aid. Korshak regarding the
availability of sanitary facilities at the site, Wirth stated that the
restrooms would only be available when there is a scheduled, City planned
activity at the park. Wirth stated that facilities would most likely not be
utilized during the winter. Aid. Korshak moved and Aid. Brady seconded that
the P & D Committee recommend to City Council approval of the site plan for
Leahy Park. The Committee voted 6-0.
Request for Center for Public Ministry re Extension of Homeless Shelter - 607
Lake Street.
The Committee reviewed a staff request to set a meeting for a public hearing
on the one year extension of the Homeless Shelter at 607 Lake Street before
the P & D Committee at the regular meeting scheduled for Monday, October 23,
1989 at 7:30 p.m. Chairman Morton questioned whether there was a need to have
a yearly public hearing? Aid. Brady stated that it was important to have the
annual public hearing since it allowed the Shelter to establish creditability
within the neighborhood. Aid. Brady also stated that it was important to
provide notification to the neighborhood. Aid. Brady moved and Aid. Warshaw
seconded that the Committee set the above captioned date and time as a public
hearing before the P & D Committee. The Committee voted 6-0.
Proposed Joint Meeting with Zoning Board of Appeals.
The Committee reviewed various dates for a possible meeting with the Zoning
Board of Appeals. Staff was directed to suggest to the Zoning Board of
Appeals that the joint meeting take place on Monday, October 30, 1989 at 7:30
p.m. Staff indicated that it would forward that information on to the zoning
Board of Appeals to set-up that date. Staff also requested that if P & D
Committee members had any particular item they wished to have placed on the
agenda for the subject meeting, to please contact them. Aid. Brady suggested
that staff review minutes of past P & D Committee meetings and cull various
applicable issues from those minutes to place on the agenda.
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P 5 D Committee - Minutes
Tuesday, October 10, 1989
Discussion of Downtown Plan
Al Belmonte, Amy Seidman, and Drew Petterson of the Plan Commission were
present to review with the Committee the previously submitted Downtown Plan.
Belmonte stated that Plan Commission members would take any questions from the
P & D Committee and/or give an explanation of why the Plan Commission made
various recommendations. The Committee began by reviewing page 94-Issue:
Economic Growth. Ald. Rudy observed that the Plan Commission has recommended
various areas to encourage economic growth. Ald. Rudy questioned whether
there were areas that needed to discourage certain economic activities.
Belmonte stated that the Commission did not recommend discouraging activities
and suggested that housing was a mechanism to promote economic growth in the
downtown. Belmonte also suggested that cultural/entertainment activities also
indirectly promoted economic growth in the downtown. Drew Petterson stated
that the Commission also would want to promote pedestrian oriented development
rather than automobile oriented. Ald. Brady questioned the Plan Commission
selection of redevelopment sites: how will the redevelopment of these sites be
accomplished? Belmonte stated that market place acceptance will be a primary
factor and that it was appropriate for the City to identify certain areas.
Dick Carter, Planning Director, stated that the intent was not to inject the
City of Evanston in the redevelopment process directly, but that the City may
or may not have a role at some point in the future. Ald. Brady stated that
she understood the plan to suggest that the City should look favorably upon
redevelopment opportunities if they should arise.
Chairman Morton questioned how this document will actually be translated into
action? Ald. Rudy observed that the plan sets forth various actions to be
taken by the City. Chairman Morton questioned whether the City of Evanston
will conduct all of the actions? Ald. Rudy stated that it was his
understanding that the P & D Committee would review and determine whatever
groups are needed to help carry -out various actions. Ald. Brady noted that -
the conclusion portion of the plan assigned various entities
responsibilities. Belmonte stated that there are many decision makers
throughout the process. He stated that the City of Evanston needs to be a
focus group for all of the various decision makers. Ald. Nelson provided an
example of the City's participation in redevelopment by citing the Research
Park, and the Church/Chicago Parking Garage/Apartment. Ald. Nelson questioned
whether the City would be a driving force for the entire plan? Ald. Nelson
further observed that the whole downtown plan is dependent on physical
change. Belmonte injected that in addition to physical change, there are also
programmatic changes needed such as marketing of the downtown. Ald. Warshaw
stated that she thought that the Plan Commission was looking for an oversight
committee made-up of representatives of various groups cited in the document.
Belmonte felt that maybe such a committee already exists in the form of _
current interest groups and committees. Ald. Nelson stated that it appears
the goals of the downtown plan are economically inclined. E
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P & D Committee - Minutes
Tuesday, October 10, 1989
Ald. Rudy questioned whether the Plan Commission has studied the effect of the
transportation system especially that of the automobile? Carter stated that
there is little chance to make extensive changes to the circulation system
utilized by the auto.
Ald. Nelson questioned why the Plan Commission recommended promoting the
downtown as an office center? Belmonte stated that the downtown currently
operates as such and that appears to be a trend. Both Nelson and Belmonte
agreed that there should be a focus on increasing office space but also the
City should not lose sight of increasing housing and retail in the downtown.
The Committee discussed with the Plan Commission members the desire to
eliminate the amount of office space on the first floor and at the same time
attempt to fill that vacated space with retail space. The Committee and Plan
Commission recognized that retail would be market driven and that efforts
should be made to retain and expand retail.
Aid. Brady questioned why the Plan Commission recommended that Asbury be the
western boundary of the downtown rather than Ridge which has been
traditionally accepted as the western boundary. Carter indicated that Asbury
reflects the reality of the situation based on the various office uses along
the west side of Ridge that extend all the way to Asbury.
The Committee discussed further review of the downtown plan and set the
meetings of October 23, 1989 and November 6, 1989 as future discussion
periods. it was the consensus of the Committee to spend approximately
forty-five (45) minutes, if the agenda allowed, at those meetings to finish
review of the downtown plan.
Ad}ournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is Tuesday, October 23, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:��%�%�
Robert T. Rudd
70(1I5)
-5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
'i DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
October 23, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Horton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and
R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: J. Asprooth, D. Carter, D. Rasmussen, J. Aiello
J. Wolinski, and R. Rudd
Others Present: Al Belmonte, Laurie Marston and Bill Nevel
Presiding Official: L. Morton
Minutes of October 10. 1989.
Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of October 10, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve as submitted.
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairmanship Memorandum
The Committee received a memorandum regarding change in chairmanship effective
November 6, 1989, at which time Ald. Brady will assume chairmanship of the
Committee.
ZBA 89-28-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 948 Ridge Avenue.
The Committee received without comment.
Extension of Homeless Shelter - Public Hearing (7:30 P.M.).
Carol Moschandreas, Executive Director of the Center for Public Ministry was
present and stated that the Center received no complaints regarding the
operation of the Homeless Shelter during the past year. She stated that the
Shelter provides a needed service to the community and requests that the one
(1) year extension be granted. Ald. Nelson questioned what percentage of the
shelter residents had ties to Evanston? Moschandreas stated that 15-17% of
the population had Evanston ties. She further stated that homeless people
served at the shelter has increased 40% over a year ago. She stated that last
year approximately 80 shelter residents had Evanston ties compared to a total
of 360 people served. This year she estimated that the figure was
approximately 120 Evanston residents versus 600-700 total people served. In
response to another question from Ald. Nelson, Moschandreas stated that the
shelter was not funded by neighboring communities, though it served residents
of those communities. She further stated that the Shelter has not solicited
P & D Committee - Minutes f
October 23, 1989
funding from neighboring communities. Ald. Brady confirmed with Hoschandreas
that the shelter was still housing a maximum of 30 residents per night.
Hoschandreas stated that the shelter attempts to abide by that regulation.
Ald. Brady stated that she lives near the shelter and has not received calls
over the past year regarding its operation. Ald. Brady moved and Ald. Warshaw
seconded that the Committee recommend the one (1) year extension of the
shelter. Ald. Rudy stated that the shelter is located in his ward and he also
has not received any negative comments:
Ald. Korshak recommended that the City should seek to coordinate efforts with
neighboring communities to either locate shelters in those towns or request
funding from neighboring communities that are served by the shelter. Ald.
Brady observed that some years ago the City, with neighboring communities,
established a regional housing task force to develop efforts such as this.
Ald. Warshaw stated that as a member of the Unified Budgeting Committee she
has asked agencies to attempt to receive a fair share from neighboring
communities that are served directly or indirectly by a function located in
the City of Evanston. Hoschandreas stated that the Center has attempted to
have other communities open shelters in their towns. Ald. Nelson stated that
though the shelter served a useful purpose, he will vote no on its extension
because the City of Evanston should not accept more than its fair share. Ald.
Nelson stated that neighboring communities are not providing any funding or
making any attempts to aid in solving this problem. He further stated that
Evanston residents should not be shouldering the burden Without help from
neighboring communities. He further recommended that operations such as the
shelter should lobby with neighboring communities to gain funding. The
Committee voted 5-1 (Voting nay Ald. Nelson) to recommend an extension of the
shelter for a one (1) year period.
Downtown Plan - Discussion
Al Belmonte, a member of the Plan Commission, reviewed with the Committee
prior discussions regarding the proposed Downtown Plan. Belmonte stated that
the plan Commission at this time is making four (4) requests: (1) acceptance
of the format and recommendations , (2) that the City Council establish a
city-wide forum on the Downtown Plan to take place shortly after the first of
the year, (3) that the City fund a facilitator for the forum so that there can
be a clear end to the discussion and an agreement and (4) that the Plan
Commission volunteers to act as a clearinghouse and a focal point to review
input from outside interest groups in the Downtown Plan and to provide
continuity and to report back to the City Council. Belmonte further stated
that if these recommendations are accepted, the Plan Commission will begin to
explore the cost and exact format for the forum. In response to a question
from the Committee, Belmonte stated that the Plan Commission has not as yet
met with other groups mentioned in the Downtown Plan (i.e. Chamber of
Commerce, EVHARK etc.).
-2-
"- P & D Committee - Minutes
October 23, 1989
The Committee briefly discussed the various groups recommended to participate
in the Downtown Plan review in addition to the functions to be carried out
contained on the matrix on pages 102 and 103. Ald. Brady stated that she
would be very much interested in evaluating the possibility of establishing a
"commercial property maintenance program". Ald. Nelson questioned whether the
school district should be part of the Downtown Plan discussion? Bill Nevel, a
member of the Plan Commission, stated that the Commission was looking for
acceptance of the proposal only in the terms of its structure, concept, and
format, and if this was acceptable to the Committee, the Plan Commission would
begin to propose a structure for the proposed forum. Ald. Warshaw moved and
Ald. Rudy seconded that the P & D Committee accept the four (4) aforementioned
requests of the Plan Commission in concept. In discussion regarding the
Committee acceptance, it was the consensus of the Committee that the Plan
Commission return to the P & D Committee on November 20, 1989 with a
resolution and memorandum, explaining the Downtown Plan, to be passed by the
City Council at the November 20, 1989 meeting. Ald. Brady also requested that
staff prepare a memo outlining the steps to be taken regarding the
implementation of a commercial property maintenance code. The Committee vote
6-0 to direct the Plan Commission to return with a resolution and memo stating
the Committee acceptance of the Downtown Plan concept.
Reference to the Zoning Amendment Committee re Rezoning in Research Park.
Judy Aiello, Assistant City Manager, was present and reviewed with the
Committee a memo dated October 19, 1989 proposing a reference to the Zoning
Amendment Committee to rezone a portion of the Research Park. Aiello stated
that currently the Research Park contains three (3) zoning districts: B4, C2
and K3. The C2 and M3 are concentrated on the northern -end of the park on the
Emerson Street boundary. The Lesidential structures that have been acquired
at the north -end have all been nonconforming uses within this area. As the
City has acquired a significant portion of the land west of Maple from
University Place north to Emerson, it is believed appropriate to initiate the
rezoning of this area from the current C2 and H3 to a B4 district. Aiello
stressed that the rezoning is actually a down zoning of the area to allow less
commercial and manufacturing uses, and to allow the kind of scale and
development that is anticipated in the Research Park master plan. In response
to questions from the Committee, Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning,
stated that the B4 rezoning would allow a height of 85 ft. and that the FAR
would change to 5 versus the current 2 FAR in the C2 district. Ald. Rudy
moved and Ald. Brady seconded that the Committee make a reference to the
Zoning Amendment Committee to rezone portion of the Research Park to B4.
Regarding further rezoning requests, Aiello stated that there probably would
be one more rezoning request in the future.
-3-
P & D Committee - Minutes
October 23, 1989
.+
Ald. Nelson reminded the Committee that the master plan for the Research Park
provides for the developer to gradually step-up the height of the buildings
from the north southward so that the highest buildings are located in the
center of the Research Park. Ald. Nelson noted that the current building on
Emerson and Maple was only three (3) stories and that taller buildings would
be located further south. The Committee voted 6-0 to make a reference to the
Zoning Amendment Committee to rezone portion of the Research Park.
Docket 261-1OB-89, Plat of Consolidation re 2500-22 Crawford Avenue, 3401-3513
Harrison Street and 2531-75 Gross Point Road.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council approval of a plat of consolidation for 2500-22 Crawford
Avenue. The consolidation of the property was required to permit construction
of four buildings containing a total of 123 dwelling units pursuant to a
previously approved plan development. The Committee voted 6-0 to recommend to
City Council approval of the plat of consolidation.
Docket 262-10B-89, Ordinance 126-0-89, ZBA 89-26-SU(R), re Special Use for 815
Emerson Street.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Brady seconded, for purposes of discussion, to
recommend approval of the special use for a type 2 (Little Caesar's)
restaurant at the subject address. Ald. Warshaw stated that she is troubled
with the cumulative effect of the White Hen, Little Caesar's and other
intensive uses in the area coupled with an apparent parking problem. Ald.
Warshaw reviewed with the Committee confusing calculations of parking as
stated in the transcript of the ZBA hearing. She felt that there was not
sufficient parking on the site based on the statements made by the applicant.
Chairman Morton observed she felt that by driving by the site that there was
more than enough parking for the use and that there is more parking than is
required by the ordinance. Ald. Rudy stated that the Committee, before making
a decision, needed to resolve the question regarding parking and that it would
be helpful to receive a plat of survey detailing and allocating various
parking spaces to the numerous spaces on the site. Ald. Rudy also stated that
the question of land ownership of parking where parking is located along the
CTA right-of-way needed to be clarified. He stated that he could not act on
this until additional information and clarification is supplied. Ald. Brady
agreed with Ald. Rudy and stated that the allocation of parking weighs heavily
on her decision on this matter. She also stated it was important that the
problems with the White Hen be resolved as part of this approval. Ald. Brady
further observed that the current ordinance does not provide any regulatory
means to control convenience stores such as White Hens and suggested that the
Zoning Commission, in the new zoning ordinance, develop such regulations. The
Committee discussed briefly why a convenience store such as the White Hen is
not classified as a type 2 restaurant. Staff indicated that traditionally
this type of operation has been classified as a food store though the
IE-10
t P & D Committee - Minutes
October 23, 1989
evolution of this type of convenience store lends itself to be more of a
fast-food restaurant. This matter will be reviewed by the Zoning Commission.
Ald. Korshak also stated that he is concerned with the cumulative effect even
though the zoning ordinance states that cumulative effect is calculated by
measuring the same type of uses such as special use for type 2 restaurant.
Even though the White Hen is not a type 2 restaurant the impact nevertheless
is the same as a type 2 restaurant. Ald. Korshak stated the owner of the
property could control the White Hen and, if done so, would make acting on the
Little Caesar's request much easier for the Committee.
Mr. Michael Pollack, attorney for Little Caesar's, questioned the Committee as
to what was expected of the owner (Mr. ipjian) in his meeting with White Hen
representatives? The Committee indicated to Mr. Pollack that the owner should
try to resolve the problems associated with the White Hen operation.
Mr. Pollack requested that the Committee review the proposed ordinance which
set forth 19 conditions for operation. Pollack stated that his client agrees
with all of the 19 recommendations with the exception of number 7 which limits
the number of times per week for delivery of produce. Mr. Pollack stated that
his client feels that this condition is too strict (limited delivery to once a
week) and would request the Committee to consider delivery three -times a week
to allow for a constant supply of fresh produce. The Committee stated that it
would take into consideration this request when this matter is discussed at
the next meeting.
The Committee voted to hold this matter over to the November 6. 1989 meeting
or until such time the requested plats and parking diagrams are supplied.
1416-18 Brummel
The Committee recommended to hold this matter over to the next meeting for
discussion.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:55 p.m.
Committee and ZBA will be October
meeting of the P & D Committee is
Staff
Robert T. Rudd
70(1/5)
A special joint meeting of the P & D
30, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.. The next regular
November 6, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
-5-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Special Joint Meeting
Planning and Development Committee
Zoning Board of Appeals
October 30, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: L. Horton, and J. Nelson
Staff Present: J. Wolinski, D. Rasmussen and R. Rudd
Others Present: ZBA Members: W. Whitney, R. Carey, R. Holumby,
S. Timble and S. Peters
Presiding Official: J. Korshak
The meeting convened with a review of a submittal of five (5) recommendations
provided by Ald. Rudy (see attached). The members reviewed point by point the
suggestions by Ald. Rudy which were intended to expedite the hearing process
of the ZBA. With respect to item #1, ZBA Chairman Whitney stated that he
currently sets time limits on various presentations. The P & D Committee
observed that the ZBA oftentimes conducts meetings until midnight or later.
Chairman Whitney stated that ZBA has only conducted two (2) meetings over the
past year which ended prior to midnight. Chairman Whitney further stated that
the ZBA is meeting twice a month in order to expedite as many requests as
possible. ZBA mer*b-r Caroy observed that there can be problems with limiting
cases to specific times. He noted that it is difficult to limit cases when
there are many objectors. Carey further stated that an advantage of handling
the larger cases and setting some time limitations allows the Board to squeeze
in some small, minor zoning relief cases. Ald. Brady questioned whether the
new ordinance mould eliminate many of the small cases? Chairman Korshak
stated that revisions to the new ordinance are expected to eliminate the need
for some cases going to the ZBA in addition to possibly allowing staff to
handle very minor cases. ZBA member Molumby questioned whether the P & D
Committee or Zoning Commission were considering special variation standards
for single family cases? Molumby stated that the current standards are
oftentimes not appropriate for single family variations but are more attuned
to commercial/business requests. Ald. Warshaw stated that the current
ordinance forces applicants to the ZBA due to its handling of uninhabited
basements and the calculations for FAR. She expressed hope that the new
ordinance would eliminate these problems. Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director
of Zoning stated that under the new ordinance the Plan Commission has
expressed a willingness to take -on special uses which would cutback on the
workload of the ZBA and allow faster handling of variations.
P & D Committee
Zoning Board of Appeals
Special Joint Meeting
October 30, 1989
P.
Ald. Rudy stated that he recognizes and appreciates the long hours that the
ZBA puts in. He stated that the purpose of his recommendations are only to
find some way to improve the process. Ald. Rudy stated that he has received
complaints from objectors regarding the manner in which they were treated at
ZBA. Ald. Rudy further stated that he has observed, by reading the
transcripts, that presenters of cases often are not well prepared and thus
contribute to the long hearings. Ald. Rudy further stated that it is
necessary to stress to the ZBA that everyone should have the same standing and
respect before the ZBA. He suggested that the Chairman needs to reinforce
this at the hearings. Chairman Whitney stated that in his opinion most
applicants are well prepared. He stated that in some cases many applicants
have never appeared before the ZBA, (or any other similar body) and are
nervous. He stated that as Chairman he feels that it is incumbent upon him to
help lead them through the case. Whitney stated that he has a problem with
objectors to cases making unsubstantiated grandiose statements that have no
basis in fact. Whitney cited the objectors on the Savings of America case
addressing property values in the neighborhood.
Ald. Warshaw questioned whether it would be helpful if applicants placed in
writing before the hearing their justifications for meeting the standards?
Whitney stated that the applicants currently respond in writing to those
standards which are in turn distributed to the ZBA. Ald. Brady stated that
she agrees with 98-99% of the ZBA decisions. However, though she agrees with
the ZBA decision regarding the Savings of America project on Greenwood and
Chicago, she did not agree with the methods that they used to arrive at that
decision. Ald. Brady stated that she felt that the ZBA was not listening to
the neighbor's concerns. She further stated that both she and Ald. Rudy
gained concessions from the applicant (the elimination of a curb cut) in a few
minutes whereby the ZBA spent hours and did not gain that concession. She
further stated that in her opinion the ZBA treated the Savings of America
applicant to softly and gently and at the same time treated the objectors
harshly. Ald. Warshaw stated that different people have different perceptions
depending on how close to home the issue is. ZBA member Holumby stated that
he personally is annoyed with sophisticated opponents that know the process
and rules but act as if they are unaware and are offended when the ZBA doesn't
happen to agree with them. ZBA member Carey stated that the Savings of
America opponents complained because they lost their case which was weak and
not based on fact. Aid. Brady questioned whether the ZBA has the authority to
redesign a site plan? Ald. Rudy stated that he feels that the ZBA does not
have the prerogative to redesign but that the P & D Committee can as elected
officials. He stressed that it is important for the ZBA to treat people
equally. Ald. Rudy referred to the issue at the Savings of America hearing
whereby Chairman Whitney referred to Judy Pigozzi as "Judy". Chairman Whitney
explained his reasoning for such and that it was not done in any
-2-
F & D Committee
Zoning Board of Appeals
Special Joint Meeting
October 30, 1989
disrespect which he felt was understood by Hs. Pigozzi. Chairman Korshak
stated that most of the criticism that the P & D Committee members hear comes
from objectors to cases in which they lose. Ald. Brady shared with members
present how the P & D Committee currently is exerting pressure on the owner of
the property on the Little Caesar's case to also solve a related problem with
the White Hen. She noted this case to highlight an example of negotiation in
the approval process.
Chairman Whitney cited two examples which he felt were unfair attacks at ZBA
hearings. The first example Whitney cited was the Reba Project at 611 South
Boulevard. He noted that an objecting manufacturing neighbor made various
allegations which he, Whitney, took him to task. Whitney further cited
another example of Mr. Ashraf Mianji, an unhappy former member of the ZBA, in
writing a letter to the Evanston Review attacking the ZBA Chairman's conduct
at a hearing. Whitney reminded the Committee of the history of Mir. Hanji with
respect to zoning issues.
Ald. Brady questioned whether the ZBA could pose limits on speeches of ten to
fifteen (10-15) minutes? Chairman Korshak stated that would be very difficult
and that running a meeting is not a science but rather an art. Ald. Warshaw
stated that she has difficulty with reading transcripts regarding cases when
she sees the ZBA not reaching a conclusion quickly enough when the approval is
obviously beneficial to the City (i.e. the Reba Fellowship case on on 611
South Boulevard). ZBA member Timble stated that she would have difficulty
with a requirement that the applicant's presentations be put in writing. She
stated that it would be too cumbersome for the applicant and that she would
rather have the applicant make a verbal presentation. ZBA member Carey stated
that applicants should be encouraged to attend other ZBA meetings to learn how
they are conducted. He observed that the staff recommends this to perspective
applicants. Ald. Rudy questioned whether the ZBA should schedule fewer cases
so that applicants do not have to sit for several hours to only find out that
their case would be continued? Rasmussen noted that it is often difficult to
establish time limits on cases in advance since not everyone knows how many
objectors will be present. Ald. Warshaw stated that many times neighborhood
meetings with applicants and aldermen can alleviate concerns of area residents
and thus minimize the number of objectors at a ZBA hearing.
The Committee and ZBA members discussed briefly the 1416-18 Brummel case which
is held over at the ZBA until December, 1989. The Cornittee was divided as to
whether the City Council should adopt legislation to resolve the issue or to
wait for the ZBA to make a decision. This matter will continue to be
discussed at the P & D Committee.
-3 -
P & D Committee
Zoning Board of Appeals
Special Joint Meeting
October 30, 1989
The ZBA members questioned the Committee as to the status of the new zoning
ordinance? ZBA member Peters, also a member of the Zoning Commission,
provided various examples of policy issues that would need to be resolved by
the City Council during the hearing process for the new zoning ordinance.
Peters cited such sticky issues as the purpose and intent of planned
development, and the Zoning Commission recommendations regarding Downtown
FAR. Ald. Brady observed that there is so much diversity not only on the
Zoning Commission but also on the City Council and throughout the City that
these would be significant issues. Chairman Whitney concluded by stating that
he feels these annual meetings, which were started approximately three (3)
years ago, help the communication flow between the ZBA and P & D Committee and
allow the members to meet face-to-face to resolve issues. Chairman Whitney
expressed hope that the joint meetings would continue in the future.
Adjournment
There being no further business the meeting adjourned at 9:10 p.m. The next
regular meeting of t,4 P & D Committee, November b, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff: 'Aol�)5z�
6. Rober Rudd
10(6/9)
-4-
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
Ir
Recommendations to ZBA
1. Decide by 10:00 p.m. whether the scheduled cases will be
heard. Dismiss those you determine will not be heard that
night. Hear all remaining cases (those not dismissed at
10:00 p.m.) regardless of how long it takes. This would be
an attempt to schedule more accurately. It would recognize
that citizens' time is as valuable as the Boara's time. It
would require a realistic estimate of how many cases can be
heard between 10 p.m. and midnight.
2. Presentations will be timed and the scheduled time
(determined by the presenter) will be maintained.
3. Initial oral presentations must be in written form (more
easily timed during preparation) and will be presented as
written. Follow-up question time will be informal.
4. All extra items (photos, blueprints, etc.) will be presented
in a neat, clear, and legible form. (Board time is saved,
if evidence presented is legible.)
S. Gave presenters guidelines for presentations. Indicate what
the Board needs to learn during the presentation. Indicate
to presenters that it is not necessary to repeat something
that has been submitted previously.
submitted by Alderman Rudy
10/30/89
�- a • Wit: -
-1 DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
November 6, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, L. Horton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: J. Korshak
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, C. Powers, D. Rasmussen, J. Wolinski, and
R. Rudd
Others Present: None
Presiding Official: S. Brady
Minutes of October 23 (regular meeting) and October 30. 1989 (special moeting
- ioint with ZBA).
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning 6 Development Committee regular meeting of October 23
and the joint, special meeting with ZBA of October 30, 1989 as submitted. The
Committee voted 5-0 to approve as submitted.
COMMUNICATIONS
ZBA 89-33-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 2630 Crawford Avenue.
The Committee received the final variation decision without comment. Ald.
Warshaw stated that she felt there was no need to receive various plans for
projects when the Zoning Board was the final authority. Ald. Rudy stated that
even though the decir.ions are final, he finds the drawings and diagrams
helpful in understanding the hearing. It was the consensus of the Committee
to continue to receive various drawings, plans and diagrams even when the
Zoning Board of Appeals is final authority.
Minor Changes for Planned Development at 2500-22 Crawford Avenue.
The Committee also received an item not appearing on the agenda which detailed
the City Manager's approval of minor changes for the planned development at
2500-22 Crawford (the Optima Project).
OLD BUSINESS
Docket 262-10-89. Ordinance 126-0-89. ZBA 89-26-SU(R), Re Special Use for 815
Emerson Street.
Chairman Brady framed the issues for discussion for the Committee. She stated
that the two primary outstanding issues involve the question of parking and
the side issue with the White Hen Convenience Store. In response to a
question from Ald. Warshaw regarding the parking calculations, Dave Rasmussen,
P & D Committee - Minutes
November 6, 1989
Assistant. Director of Zoning, stated that a 2,000 sq. ft. allowance provision
in the ordinance reduces the parking necessitated by the Little Caesar's
Restaurant. Ald. Warshaw asked for a clarification on the parking spaces
which are not under the ownership of the shopping center but are owned by the
CTA. Rasmussen stated that for over sixty (60) years the area in question has
been utilized by Perfecto Cleaners (shopping center owner) for parking.
Rasmussen further noted prior ordinances allowed the use of land for parking
that was not owned by the use generator. In response to further questions by
Aid. Rudy, Rasmussen stated that the current project was an existing
nonconforming use with respect to the parking issue. Rasmussen further cited
a similar determination in the 1557 Ridge Avenue case. Aid. Morton stated
that based on that determination, the issue of inadequate parking is moot.
James Murray, attorney for the shopping center owner, stated that there is an
unwritten understanding of the usage by the property owner and the CTA.
Murray further noted that the revised parking plan with respect to the
striping alignment makes the point moot. Hurray emphasized that the shopping
center had an excess of parking with respect to the zoning ordinance.
Chairman Brady reviewed with the Committee a letter from Michael Pollak,
attorney for Little Caesar's, in which a grievance procedure was set forth
with respect to possible neighbors' complaints about the Little Caesar's
Restaurant. Pollak's letter further stated that the owners of the restaurant
would erect signs stating that there would be no excess noise during certain
hours. Aid. Warshaw questioned whether the owner of the white Hen could
commit to a similar grievance procedure? Hurray stated that his client (the
Ipjian's and owners of the property) would try to lead the White Hen
management in that direction. Pollak stated that Little Caesar's would also
recommend to White Hen to adopt a similar procedure to address neighborhood
concerns. Aid. Rudy stated that additional neighborhood concerns were with
the lack of landscaping and the need to screen or buffer bright lights on the
shopping center. Murray questioned whether adequate size trees could be
placed on the site due to the limited turf area for planting. Hurray
suggested that the placement of trees may obstruct driveways and create new
problems. Murray further stated that the ZBA felt that the lighting of the
center was modest and appropriate. Aid. Rudy stated his concerns that the
entire face of the building was bright and a reflective surface. He felt that
trees would soften the harshness of the light. Aid. Rudy further stated that
he would like a legal opinion with respect to the staff's determination on the
parking issue and the question of ownership. Aid. Rudy further observed that
there appears to be a problem of lack of access to the site if the parking
determination is overturned. Murray objected and stated that with or without
the parking in question there was still access to the site.
-2-
P & D Committee - Minutes
November 6, 1989
After further discussion, Chairman Brady stated that the outstanding items to
be clarified with respect to the project are (1) requested legal opinion, (2)
a letter from White Hen detailing a grievance procedure similar to that
proposed by Little Caesar's, (3) that the ordinance contain a requirement with
respect to signage indicating "no excessive noise" and (4) that the issue of
screening of lighting be reviewed. At the previous meeting the attorney for
Little Caesar's requested that condition #7 of the proposed ordinance be
changed to allow delivery of fresh produce to the site three (3) time a week
from the proposed once a week. Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Horton seconded
that the Committee amend the subject item #7 to allow a delivery three (3)
days a week. The Committee voted 5-0 to amend that section.
After further discussion the Committee decided to vote introduction of the
ordinance at the November 6, 1989 meeting but to hold the matter in Committee
until the November 20, 1989 meeting to allow the Committee to review various
issues to be worked out between staff and the applicants and to draft an
ordinance to reflect the discussion at the November 6, 1989 meeting. The
Committee voted 3-2 (Voting Aye: Aldermen Brady, Nelson and Horton. Voting
Nay: Alderman Rudy and Warshaw) to introduce the subject ordinance at the City
Council November 6, 1989 meeting.
Special Sign Committee Report.
The Committee reviewed the staff memo indicating that further action needed to
be taken so that this matter could be reported out to the City Council. After
a brief discussion the Committee directed staff to prepare a resolution with
respect to item q5 contained in the Special Sign Committee Report of May 3,
1989 and for staff to draft a report from the P & D Committee to the City
Council to reflect the P & D Committee's recommendations regarding items #2
and 3 of the aforementioned Special Sign Committee Report.
The Committee also asked that the Special Sign Committee report back to the P
& D Committee regarding the status of item 114 of the Special Sign Committee
Report of May 3, 1989. Ald. Horton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the
Committee approve the above mentioned recommendations. The Committee voted
5 -0 .
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 266-11A-89, ZBA 89-29-V(R) ra Variation for 721 Dodge Avenue.
Ald. Rudy moved and Aid. Warshaw seconded that the Co=ittee concur with the
Zoning Board of Appeals recommendation to deny a variation to permit use of
the cellar and first floor for a radio and television service repair shop or
for permitted uses in the business district except for those proscribed
therefrom in the ZBA report. Ald. Warshaw stated that she could not consider
any request as broad as this. Ald. Warshaw noted that this only calls for an
-3-
P & D Committee - Minutes
November 6, 1989 if
elimination of the use and not of the building as has been erroneously
implied. She stated that she may find acceptable a more narrow list and one
of less intensive usage. Ald. Warshaw further stated that this is a question
of intensiveness of uses in a residential zoned neighborhood. Ald. Rudy
concur that he might be more willing to look at granting variations to convert
the property to an entire residential use but it was unclear to him the
magnitude of the variations needed at this time. The Committee voted 5-0 to
concur with the Zoning Board's recommendation.
Docket 264-11A-89, Plat of Consolidation re 1336 Chicago Avenue and 616
Greenwood Street - Savings of America.
Ald. Horton moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee recommend to the
City Council approval of the Savings of America plat of consolidation at 1336
Chicago and 616 Greenwood Street. The Committee voted 5-0.
Docket 265-11A-89, Families In Transition Program (F.I.T.)
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of a request to enter into an agreement with Fisher
Memorial A.H.E. Zion Church in conjunction with the Families In Transition
(F.I.T.) Program for the expenditure of a maximum of $12,400 over a
twenty-four (24) month period. Ald. Rudy questioned where the family was
currently living? Chairman Brady stated that she was uncomfortable with a
detailed discussion of family information. She stated that she felt uneasy
with the amount of information already supplied in this case and hoped that as
much detail with respect to the subject families was not contained in future
cases. Ald. Warshaw stated that the church will provide assurances that the
families are income eligible which will be verified by staff. The Committee
discussed briefly the conditions of the program with respect to fair market
rents, maximum allowable rent to be incurred by the City, the church sponsor
and the tenant. In response to a question from Ald. Morton, Pastor Lane
stated that the Ministerial Alliance stands behind any church that supports
the program and entered into an agreement and will help that church make-up
any short -fall needed for rent if that situation should arise. The Committee
voted 5-0 to recommend to City Council approval of the F.I.T. Program request.
Preservation Commission re Preservation of the Butler Building - 1024 Emerson
Street.
Representatives Dave Galloway and Steve Yas of the Preservation Commission
were present and provided the Committee a recommendation that the Butler
Building, a designated Evanston Landmark, not be demolished. More
specifically, the Preservation Commission recommended the adaptive reuse of
the Butler Building at 1024 Emerson and its integration into the Research
Park. The Commission observed that the City would be reviewing a demolition
contract for the building at the November 20, 1989 City Council meeting. The
Commission currently has authority to delay the issuance of the permit for
-4-
P & D Committee - Hinutes
'' November 6, 1989
ninety (90) days (that period expires on December 20, 1989). Representatives
of the Preservation Commission stated that in cooperation with the
Preservation League of Evanston, they have prepared a design proposal for the
adaptive reuse of the Butler Building and the building's economically feasible
Integration into the Research Park. Specifically, the proposal from the
Preservation Commission and Preservation League states that the adaptive reuse
would meet the master plan's square foot requirements of the Park, would also
meet the master plan's requirement for building material, generally would meet
the master plan's requirement for building configuration and height, and the
Butler Building could be adapted for uses as specified in the master plan.
After a slide presentation and review of sketches of facade renovation of the
subject building, the Preservation Commission urged the P & D Committee to
persuade other City Council members not to sign a contract for demolition of
the building at the November 20, 1989 meeting. Further, the Preservation
Commission urged the Aldermen to convince the Charles Shaw Company to work
with the Preservation Commission and Preservation League in saving the Butler
building and to adapt its reuse in the Research Park.
The Committee thanked the representatives of the Preservation Commission and
Preservation League for their many hours of professional time donated to
reviewing this project and stated that the matter would probably be further
discussed at the November 20, 1989 City Council meeting.
Ad,iournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is November 20, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff
Robere T. Rddd
70(1/5)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
fx _
1
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
Ald. Present:
Ald. Absent:
Staff Present:
Presiding Official:
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
November 20, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.H.
S. Brady, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
L. Morton and J. Korshak
K. Brenniman, C. Powers, D. Carter, J. Wolinski, and R. Rudd
S. Brady
Minutes of November 6. 1989.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of November 6, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 4-0 to approve as submitted.
COMMUNICATIONS
None
OLD BUSINESS
Docket 288-11B-89. Resolution 79-R-89 re Downtown Plan.
Chairman Brady stated that as part of the review of the Downtown Plan, she
requested at a previous P & D Committee meeting that staff develop a proposal
regarding a commercial property maintenance code. At this time the Chairman
requested that the Committee hold the Commercial Property Maintenance Code until
later on in the agenda and only address the subject resolution and accompanying
memo. Aid. Nelson moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee recommend to
the City Council approval of Resolution 79-R-89 setting forth various a_tions to
be taken by the City and coordinated by the Plan Commission. In response to a
question from the Committee, Al Belmonte, Plan Commission member, stated that
the Plan Commission would act as a coordinating body after the recommended
citywide forum and further act as a conduit as the plan progresses. Ald. Rudy
informed the Committee that Belmonte, Dick Carter, Planning Director, along with
Ald. Rudy had a good meeting with the City's Chamber of Corm-nerce. Belmonte also
stated that the Plan Commission representatives have met with the Zoning
Commission and the Economic Development Committee since the last P & D Committee
meeting. Belmonte stated that the Downtown Plan is expected to be discussed
with members of Inventure in the near future. The Committee voted 4-0 to
recommend to the City Council adoption of the subject resolution and the
attached memorandum.
ZBA 89-22-V(F) re 1416-18 Brummel.
The Committee reviewed a staff memo setting forth an amendment to the Zoning
Ordinance that would allow the subject case to become legal. Ald. Warshaw
stated that this was not what she was looking for but rather hoped that staff
could have found a way to allow the current situation to exist without the
P & D Committee - Minutes
November 20, 1989
necessity of a Zoning Ordinance amendment. Ald. Lanyon, alderman of the ward
where the problem zoning issue has taken place, stated that he too had hoped
that a solution could be found but that if this is the only method he would
support this amendment. The Committee discussed the dangers of an amendment
which, though it would correct the known violations, it could allow other
violations that are unknown at this time. Chairman Brady observed that the
Zoning Amendment Committee has always been a cautious body in the past and she
expected that they would continue to be so as they reviewed this issue and would
take into account the P & D Committee's concerns. Ald. Rudy stated that he has
difficulty with allowing violators of the Zoning Ordinance to not only continue
but to be made legal by an amendment. Ald. Rudy continued that he is troubled
with this double standard to allow these violations to be made conforming even
if the violation is thirty (30) years old. Ald. Lanyon stated that the current
situation at 1416-18 Brummel would have required five (5) parking spaces in the
past when by today's ordinance the owner would be required to install seven (7)
spaces. He stated that even the installation of five (5) spaces would create
engineering or design problems. Ald. Warshaw stated that she felt that the P &
D Committee should make it clear that they are asking the Zoning Amendment
Committee to make only the most limited amendment necessary to cure the problem
at hand. Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the P & D Committee
make a reference to the Zoning Amendment Committee per the staff memo of
November 10, 1989. The Committee voted 4-0 to make the reference to the Zoning
Amendment Committee.
Docket 262-10B-89, Ordinance 126-0-89, ZBA 89-26-SU(R) re Special Use for 815
Emerson Street.
Chairman Brady asked that the minutes reflect that an article in the most recent
Evanston Chamber of Commerce newsletter was incorrect by stating that the P & D
Committee Committee was limiting delivery of goods to the subject restaurant to
a once -a -week practice. She stated that the once -a -week delivery requirement
was imposed by the ZBA and that the P & D Committee changed the delivery to
three (3) times a week upon further explanation by the applicant. Ald. Warshaw
stated that she agreed with the Chairman's noting of the incorrect Chamber of
Commerce statement and further stated that the ZBA was only trying to tailor the
special use request to meet the neighborhood needs.
Ald. Warshaw stated that at the prior meeting an issue arose regarding 815
Emerson with respect to ownership of property to the west of the Perfecto
Cleaner's building. At the prior meeting the attorney for the owners of the
shopping center (the Ipjians) stated that though the CTA owned the property the
Ipjians utilized the property for sixty (60) years. Ald. Warshaw stated that
she contacted representatives of the CTA who in turn informed her that there was
no lease on the property and that the property was tax exempt. She further
stated that representatives of the CTA informed her that the Ipjians could not
be ruled to have adverse possession of the property. Ald. Warshaw stated that
both the CTA and the City have been injured since no taxes or lease revenues
have been collected from the Ipjians for this sixty year use of the property.
-2-
P & D Committee - Minutes
November 20, 1989
Ald. Rudy stated that it appears clear from the surveys submitted by the
applicants that the CTA owns the property. He stated that it is critical to the
site plan that it be clarified which party has control of the subject property.
Ald. Rudy stated that without the subject property perpetually under control of
the Ipjians, the proposed site plan would be deficient in parking spaces in
addition to the fact that loading berths and other parking spaces on the Ipjian
site would be inaccessible. Ald. Rudy stated that there is a need for a new
site plan assuming that Ipjians have no use of the CTA property. Ald. Rudy also
stated that there may be a possibility of a lease between the Ipjians and the
CTA that could make the site plan work. However, he stated that he was not sure
that the Zoning Ordinance would allow such an arrangement. James Murray,
attorney for the Ipjians, provided the Committee with an affidavit signed by
Suren Ipjian reviewing the history of the subject property. Ald. Warshaw also
provided the Committee a copy of a letter from the CTA dated November 20, 1989
from CTA representative Mr. Roger Wood, stating that the CTA did own the
property and that there was no lease with the Ipjians. Mr. Pollak, attorney for
Little Caesar's Restaurant, commented that even without the CTA property, the
project had enough parking on property owned by Mr. Ipjian. Ald. Rudy and
attorney Hurray disagreed about the access to parking along the westside of the
building and whether there was sufficient parking on the property even without
the CTA land. Ald. Nelson stated that he does not understand why this cannot be
resolved and that the issue needs to keep coming back to the Committee month
after month. Chairman Brady stated that the Ipjians have two (2) options: (1)
to obtain a lease from the CTA regarding the subject and (2) to work with City
staff to clarify whether even without the CTA property there is sufficient and
accessible parking on the site. Chairman Brady stated that this matter will be
held over to the next meeting or until such time sufficient clarification was
made.
Hurray asked the Committee to also discuss a previous issue raised by Ald. Rudy
regarding lighting. Hurray provided the Committee three (3) photos showing
lighting levels during night time hours. Murray stated that the brightest light
in the area was a sodium vapor light owned by the City. Other bright lights
along the alley were lights paid for by members of Sherman Garden Apartments who
in turn are complaining about the bright lights. Murray stated that Ipjian
would agree to turn-off the lights under the canopy under the existing building
if that would satisfy Sherman Garden residents. Ald. Rudy stated that he had
suggested some planting to soften the lighting since the light reflects off the
wall of the new building. The Committee discussed whether the planting was
appropriate in view of the City's Forester's comment that planting in this area
may have a very limited life time.
Ald. Rudy stated that before the next meeting he would set-up a meeting with
Sherman Garden residents and attorney Hurray to review the lighting and
landscaping issue. Chairman Brady informed members of the Committee that they
had received at this meeting a letter from representatives of White Hen who have
agreed to a grievance procedure similar to that proposed by Little Caesar's.
511
P & D Committee - Minutes �+
November 20, 1989
The Committee further discussed the suggested "no excessive noise" sign. The
Committee recommended that this wording be made in a more positive statement and
that a "no loitering" sign be incorporated or installed separately in the
parking lot.
Chairman Brady, with the consensus of the Committee, directed that this matter
be held over to the next meeting until the various issues are resolved.
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 287-11B-89. Families In Transition Program (F.I.T.) re Reba Place
Fellowship.
Chairman Brady informed the Committee that the Housing Commission has
recommended that a standard application form be developed by staff that would
make the review by the City Council of the proposals more uniform. She stated
that she expected the new form to be utilized for future F.I.T. proposals. Ald.
Warshaw moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee recommend to the City
Council approval of the agreement with Reba Place Fellowship in conjunction with
the F.I.T. program for the expenditure of a maximum of $10,000 over a
twenty-four (24) month period. The Committee voted 4-0 to recommend approval.
Commercial Property Maintenance Code
Chairman Brady stated that she sometimes is embarrassed that the City does not
have a Commercial Property Maintenance Code. She stated that she is
particularly concerned since the City already has a Residential Property
Maintenance Code that could be easily applied to commercial property. The
Committee reviewed a staff memo dated November 13, 1989 offering alternative
inspection procedures (complaint basis versus systematic inspection). Ald.
Warshaw questioned whether the commercial market takes care of itself with
respect to commercial maintenance? Ald. Nelson questioned what documented need
for this ordinance has been provided? Ald. Nelson further questioned what the
rationale for such a program would be? Ald. Rudy stated that it is not uncommon
for tenants to make improvements in commercial areas and questioned what would
be accomplished with a Commercial Property Maintenance Code. Chairman Brady
stated that the City has an obligation to provide safe and sanitary commercial
spaces just as they do for residential tenants.
After a brief discussion the Committee directed staff to explore other
communities with respect to a Commercial Property Maintenance Codes and to
solicit comments from the Fire and Health Departments with respect to the
procedures utilized for inspections. This matter will be discussed at a future
P & D Committee upon receipt of the requested information.
Ad,iournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is December 4, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert T! Rudd
70(1/4)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
December 4, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.K.
If
Ald. Present: S. Brady, L. Morton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: J. Korshak
Staff Present: K. Brenniman, C. Powers, J. Zendell, D. Wirth,
J. Wolinski, D. Rasmussen, D. Carter and R. Rudd
Presiding Official: S. Brady
Kinutes of November 20, 1989.
Ald. Warshaw moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of November 20, 1989.
Ald. Warshaw stated that the last paragraph of page 2 should indicate that she
was contacted by representatives of the CTA with respect to the Ipjian
property and not vice versa. Ald. Rudy stated that page I of the subject
minutes, paragraph 1 should indicate that the meeting was with "the
City/Chamber Committee. Ald. Rudy clarified his meaning of the phrase "double
standard" contained in the first paragraph on page 2. The Committee voted 5-0
to approve the minutes as amended.
COMMUNICATIONS
None
OLD BUSINESS
Docket 262-1OB-89, Ordinance 126-0-89, ZBA 89-26-SU(R) re Special Use for 815
Emerson Street.
Chairman Brady reviewed the subject case with the Committee. The Chairman
indicated that at the prior meeting issues arose regarding the CTA property
and a revised site plan. Ald. Rudy asked if staff had an opportunity to
review the new site plan and whether it complied with the parking
regulations? Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of Zoning, stated that staff
had reviewed the plan and that it did comply with the parking regulations.
James Murray, Attorney for the property owner, provided the Committee with an
exhibit depicting the site plan. The site plan delineated thirty-nine (39)
parking spaces whereby the zoning ordinance requires thirty-seven (37).
Hurray also stated that he is in receipt of a letter in which White Hen agrees
to post a sign addressing the issues of "loitering" and "loud noises".
P & D Committee - Minutes
December 4, 1989
Ald. Rudy stated that he would like to add conditions to the proposed
ordinance. Ald. Rudy stated that in discussions with Kr. Ipjian, owner of the
property and Perfecto Cleaners, an agreement was reached in which Perfecto
would agree to turn-off the Perfecto Cleaners signs between the hours of 11:00
p.m. and 6:30 a.m. each day. After a brief discussion among Committee members
and Mr. Ipjian, Mr. Ipjian and the Committee also agreed that Perfecto
Cleaners' signs would be brought into conformance with the City's applicable
sign ordinance within three (3) years. Ald. Rudy moved and Ald. Nelson
seconded t}at the Committee approve this amendment as a new condition #20 to
the proposed Ordinance 126-0-89. The Committee voted 5-0 to approve the
amendment. Ald. Norton questioned whether the City had a right to place
restrictions on the White Hen and Perfecto Cleaners when the application
before the Committee was a request for a special use for a Little Caesar's
Restaurant? Ald. Morton requested a legal opinion from staff. After a brief
consultation, Kathleen Brenniman, Assistant Corporation Counsel, stated that
if the parties agreed to such conditions, they could be added to the
ordinance. Chairman Brady also stated that since all of the property is owned
by the Ipjians and is part of a unified shopping center, the conditions placed
on the project were appropriate.
Ald. Rudy recommended that an additional condition be made part of the
ordinance to address the illegal truck parking problems that neighboring
residents have experienced. After further discussion between Committee
members and the applicant, a twenty-first condition was added to the subject
ordinance which would read as follows "occupants of the property shall
provide notice of the parking restrictions hereunder and on immediately
adjacent right-of-way property to those who deliver goods and services to
occupants of the property." Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Rudy seconded that the
Committee add this twenty-first condition. The Committee voted 5-0 to add the
condition. Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee
recommend to the City Council adoption of Ordinance 126-0-89, which was
previously introduced, and as amended by the Committee at the December 4, 1989
meeting. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend adoption of the subject
ordinance by the City Council.
Docket 310-12A-89, Resolution 82-R-89, Special Sign Committee Report.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council adoption of Resolution 82-R-89 and the recommendation of the
Special Sign Committee contained in a memo dated December 4, 1989 from Richard
Carter, Director of Planning, to Chairman and members of the P & D Committee.
Chairman Brady asked that the Committee review the subject memo with
particular attention to the last paragraph on page 1 which provided an update
regarding activities of the Special Sign Committee. Ald. Brady expressed
concern that the Committee has not had time to address the issue of where to
place various honorarium awards and certificates that the City receives.
-2-
W
P & D Committee - Minutes
December 4, 1989
After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Committee that this
matter be addressed as soon as possible and that an appropriate mechanism be
developed to display the various honorarium and exhibits that depict the
philosophies of the City of Evanston. Chairman Brady suggested to the
Committee that somewhere between the Public Arts Committee, Special Sign
Committee and the P & D Committee, there can be developed a subcommittee to
work on this project. It was the consensus of the P & D Committee that this
matter be placed back on the agenda in January or February of 1990.
Ald. Rudy questioned whether the memo requested professional help in
developing this study? Carter indicated that a minor contract in the range of
$1,200 would be needed to provide assistance. Chairman Brady suggested that
representatives from the aforementioned three groups meet when this item is
placed back on the P & D Committee's agenda in early 1990.
NEW BUSINESS
Sane/Freeze re Peace Pole
Ald. Morton questioned whether this request should be part of the Sign
Committee's discussion? Ald. Nelson stated that he agrees with the spirit of
Ald. Morton's suggestion but moved that the Committee recommend to City
Council acceptance of the Peace Pole and that the Peace Pole be kept
temporarily inside of City Hall and be dedicated, if possible, at the time of
the visit of the Soviet representatives and that the matter of a permanent
location be reviewed by the new committee. Ald. Morton seconded the motion.
Ms. Bernice Klosterman, a representative of Sane/Freeze, and Mr. Sidney Orlov,
Chairman of Evanston Sane/Freeze provided a brief background of the project to
the Committee. Orlov suggested that if City Council did not approve the
display of the Peace Pole at Fountain Square, that the Council would give
consideration of permanently locating the Peace Pole at the lakefront lagoon.
The Committee voted 5-0 to accept the Peace Pole and to keep it inside of the
Civic Center on a temporary basis. Chairman Brady requested that a resolution
be placed on the next City Council agenda to officially accept the Peace Pole.
Docket 311-12A-89. ZBA 89-34-V(R) or T(F) re Variation for 1409 Wilder Street.
Ald. Morton indicated that she received calls from neighbors of the applicant
stating a false rumor in that the City's action would force the applicant to
move from her home. Ald. Morton requested that the minutes reflect that this
action would in no way displace the applicant from her home but is only an
attempt to bring the home into compliance with the zoning ordinance. Ald.
Warshaw stated that in the past that she has offered advice to the applicant
in ways to address her plight. It is apparent by the action of the applicant
that she has not availed herself any of the solutions. Ald. Warshaw moved and
Ald. Nelson seconded that the Committee concur with the ZBA recommendation on
all counts. The Committee voted 5-0 to concur with the ZBA recommendation to
deny the variation requests.
-3-
P & D Committee - Minutes
December 4, 1989
Mr. Stokely, attorney for Mrs. Neyman, the applicant, questioned whether the
Committee could address a time extension? Chairman Brady stated that the time
extension was the prerogative of the Zoning Board of Appeals and after reading
the zoning ordinance's standards, and the deliberation of the Zoning Board,
she finds that ZBA did follow all procedures particularly with respect to the
time extension issue. The matter would be reported out to City Council at the
December 4, 1989 meeting.
Arts Council Report; Art in the Construction of Public Buildings.
Ald. Warshaw questioned whether State funding would be in jeopardy if City
Council did not act on the recommendation at tonight's meeting. Joe Zendell,
Arts Council Director, stated that the funding would not be in jeopardy as
long as the Council made a decision by June or July of 1990, by providing
assurance that matching funds would be available. Ald. Morton suggested that
the P & D Committee consider establishing a public art fund. Chairman Brady
questioned where the gifts for an art fund would go. Ald. Nelson stated that
in the past the City has set-up special funds for situations such as this.
Due to the lateness of the hour, the Committee recommended that the Arts
Council report back by detailing whatever is necessary to set up a special
fund.
Also, Chairman Brady stated that in discussion with Ald. Collens, item #6 of
the memo to the P & D Committee from the Public Art Committee, dated November
29, 1989, addresses the time -frame for the artist's input in that project.
Ald. Brady suggested that the Arts Council provide additional material to Ald.
Collens so that this matter could be brought into the Special Library
Committee's discussion. Ald. Morton moved and Ald.' Rudy seconded that the
Committee recommend to the City Council endorsement of a Public Arts Program
for the City of Evanston. The Committee voted 5-0 to express their support
for such a program. Chairman Brady requested that this matter be placed first
on the December 18, 1989 P & D Committee agenda to allow additional discussion.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is December 18, 1989 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:
Robert T. Rudd
70(1/4)
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DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
`+ DRAFT. NOT APPROVED
MINUTES
Planning and Development Committee
December 18, 1989
Room 2403 - 7:30 P.K.
Ald. Present: S. Brady, J. Korshak, L. Morton, J. Nelson, J. Rudy
and R. Warshaw
Ald. Absent: None
Staff Present: E. Szymanski, C. Powers, J. Zendell, J. Volberding
J. Wolinski, D. Rasmussen and R. Rudd
Others Present: Ron Isaacson and Beth Hart
Presiding Official: S. Brady
Minutes of December 4, 1989.
Ald. Morton moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee approve the
minutes of the Planning & Development Committee meeting of December 4, 1989 as
submitted. The Committee voted 4-0 to approved the minutes (Aldermen Korshak
and Rudy absent).
COMMUNICATIONS
Chairmanship Schedule
The Committee received without comment.
ZBA 89-37-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1000 Grove Street.
The Committee received the final variation decision without comment.
ZBA 89-38-V(F). Final Variation Decision re 1927 Lincoln Street.
The Committee received the final variation decision without comment.
OLD BUSINESS
Arts Council Report; Art in the Construction of Public Buildings.
Chairman Brady reviewed with the Committee a previously submitted report dated
November 29, 1989, from the Public Art Committee, Arts Council to the Chairman
and Members of the Planning & Development Committee. Ald. Rudy questioned why
renovated buildings, such as the Civic Center, were being excluded from the
ordinance* Joe Zendell, Director of the Noyes Cultural Arts Center, stated
that the Arts Council felt a need to go slowly and test the idea of a percent
of construction for public art. He further stated that to include all
rehabilitation and remodeling would create a significant workload on current
staff. Zendell recommended that the Committee consider adding rehab projects
P & D Committee - Minutes ~
December 18, 1989
after the City has some experience with the ordinance and possibly limiting
rehab projects to those above $500,000. Ald. Warshaw shared Zendell's concern
and suggested that only new construction be included but that an example of
including rehabilitation projects might be a fire station remodeling. Ald.
Nelson stated that he believes the ordinance, at this time, should include
only new construction.
Ald. Morton questioned whether there was a consensus among the Committee to
establish a "Public Art Fund"? Ald. Morton further questioned Ron Isaacson,
Chairman of the Public Art Committee, Arts Council as to what was considered a
structure? She questioned whether larger or small projects are defined as
structures? Isaacson further stated that the committee was initially looking
at all public improvements. Ald. Nelson stated that there was a need to
define what was a new building.
Chairman Brady suggested that the Committee discuss with the representatives
of the Arts Council the 13 points contained in the aforementioned memo.
Chairman Brady stated that with respect to item #1, cost for maintenance must
be included in the 1% for public art. Zendell stated that in some ordinances
as much as one quarter or one -eighth of one percent is sometimes allocated for
maintenance. Ald. Nelson observed that there is a budget policy guideline
with respect to maintenance. In response to a question from Ald. Nelson,
Isaacson stated that some design and competition costs may or may not be
appropriate depending upon the project.
In response to a question from A1d.Korshak with respect to what is defined as
the cost of a project (hard cost and/or soft cost), representatives of the
Arts Council did not offer a specific recommendation. Both the P & D
Committee and the Arts Council representatives discussed the pros and cons of
including or not including hard and soft, costs. At the conclusion of the
discussion on this point, Zendell suggested that the Arts Committee return to
the P & D Committee with a more specific position with respect to what was
included in the cost. In response to a question regarding item #3, Zendell
stated that new matching local dollars were needed to show a local commitment
to public art. With respect to item #4, Chairman Brady suggested that the
manner in which excluded items were determined needed to be better defined.
During discussion of item #6, Beth hart stated that the administrator would
make the decision with consultation of the Arts Council or jury with respect
to the artists input. Zendell stated that each project would have a different
approval process due to the nature of the project. In response to a question
from the Committee, Raymond Chou, local developer, expressed reservation about
the proposed decision making process with respect to the working relationship
with an artist in the design stage. Chairman Brady stated that this section
needs further review and a more specific process with respect to selecting an
artist. Chairman Brady suggested that City Council be final authority.
-2-
P & D Committee - Minutes
December 18, 1989
During -review of item #7, Ald. Rudy questioned why architects were excluded
from being identified as artists. Isaacson stated that architects were not
necessary excluded but by the nature of their relationship most likely would
not be acting as an artist. Ald. Korshak suggested that the definition of
"recognized" artist be further reviewed and more specifically defined. In the
course of review of item #7, the Committee suggested that the Arts Council
consider an appointment procedure whereby the Mayor, with the consent of the
City Council, on the recommendation of the Arts Council would make
appointments. The Committee reviewed item #12, which listed numerous cities
and a brief description of the applicable public art ordinances.
At the conclusion of the meeting it was the consensus of the P & D Committee
that the Arts Council return to the Committee at a later date with a draft
ordinance addressing the concerns expressed at the December 18, 1989 meeting.
The Arts Council staff was also directed, in addition to redrafting the
ordinance, to also redraft the program and policies. This matter would be
held over to a future P & D Committee meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
Docket 321-128-89. Ordinance 148-0-89. ZBA 89-35-SU(R) re Special Use for
2516-22 Green Bav Road.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Warshaw seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council to grant a special use to permit the establishment of a type 2
restaurant. Chairman Brady stated that in consultation with Aldermen of the
7th Ward, it was recommended that the litter plan be specifically detailed as
part of the ordinance and not be only a reference. The makers of the motion
agreed with the amendment. Ald. Nelson questioned whether the special use
should be limited solely to the sale of yogurt? After a brief discussion with
the applicants, staff was directed to amend the ordinance to reflect wording
to include various non-alcoholic beverages that the applicant intended on
selling. Chairman Brady also stated that the 7th Ward Aldermen would like to
have the boundaries of the litter plan specifically delineated (i.e. street,
alley, etc). The Committee directed staff to have the ordinance reflect this
desire. The Committee voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the special use
(Ald. Rudy absent).
Docket 320-12B-89, Ordinance 147-0-89, ZBA 89-30-SU(R) re Special Use for 2520
Gross Point Road.
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Horton seconded that the Committee recommend to
City Council approval of a special use for construction of a sheltered care
home. Ald. Warshaw questioned what additional burdens a facility such as this
would place on the City? Ald. Warshaw stated that there is a need for this
type of care but questioned whether the facility was truly affordable. Ald.
Warshaw further questioned what the burden on the City would be if after one
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F & D Committee - Minutes
December 18, 1989
year, for example, residents could no longer afford to live in the project and
would be displaced? Ald. Warshaw expressed concerns about the burden that
would be placed on public assistance if the aforementioned scenario was
realized. Chairman Brady questioned who the developer felt would be eligible
to become a resident? She questioned whether "frail and elderly" could be
placed in the ordinance without it being discriminatory. In response to the
Committee, Quentin Brown, the proposed operator of the facility, define the
term "sheltered care". Brown related to the Committee his recent experience
with a skilled and intermediate care facility {Oakwood Terrace} he currently
operates in Evanston. Jane Volberding, staff to the Commission on Aging,
reviewed with the Committee the procedures regarding transfer and care of
residents from a facility such as proposed to a skilled and intermediate
facility. Volberding highlighted various state requirements. Ald. Nelson
stated that he has supported this project and stated to the Committee that Mr.
Brown has met two or three times with neighborhood groups and tried to answer
every question. However, Ald. Nelson expressed severe reservation that unless
stringent restrictions were applied to the special use, the project could turn
into another Ridgeview. Ald. Nelson stated that he wants to devise whatever
legal covenants are necessary to address this issue and prevent such a
happening. Ald. Nelson further stated that whatever restrictions are placed
on the project should limit the sheltered care facility as it is currently
defined by State Statute and current rules and regulations. Ald. Nelson's
concern was that if those regulations should change in the future, the special
use would cease and the issue would be brought back to the City. Ald. Nelson
also suggested that restrictions be placed on the special use with respect to
change in ownership or operation or bankruptcy if that should happen. In
response to Ald. Nelson's concerns, Volberding stated that any change in care
would need a review at the state level. Ald. Nelson stated that he was not
concerned about the state level since those rules could change over time. He
stated that he is more concerned with the local level and wanted to take
whatever precautions are necessary to avoid a Ridgeview situation.
Chairman Brady stated that the issues were of a significant legal nature and
that it would be necessary to have City legal staff meet with the applicant
and his attorney. Ald. Nelson stated that in his opinion, if the City could
not guarantee the neighbors equity and fairness, he could not support this
project. Ald. Warshaw further stated that she wanted responses to her
concerns which were of a legal nature and not of a social service bent. In
response to a question from Ald. Nelson, Dave Rasmussen, Assistant Director of
Zoning, stated that there were no public streets or alleys on the site that
would need to be vacated. In response to the question Raymond Chou, developer
of the project, stated that all current streets and alleys platted on the
project were of a private nature and would be vacated in the plat approval
process.
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} P & D Committee - Minutes
December 18, 1989
It was the consensus of the Committee that this matter be continued until such
time staff and the developer were able to address the various issues brought
up at this meeting.
ZBA Notice
Ald. Nelson moved and Ald. Morton seconded that the Committee approve the new
ZBA notice. Ald. Warshaw asked the Committee to review her recommended
changes and approve as amended. The Committee voted 6-0 to approve the new
ZBA notice and to reflect the proposed changes by Ald. Warshaw.
Adiournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m. The next regular meeting of the P & D
Committee is January 8, 1990 at 7:30 p.m.
Staff:d
Robert T. Rudd
70(1/5)
DRAFT, NOT APPROVED
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