HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-1991-08-12-1991E
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CITY COUNCIL
August 12, 1991
Standing committees meet prior to the official regular meeting.
Current members are as follows:
Administration Planning &
& Public Works Human Services Development
Alderman
Rainey
Alderman
Drummer
Alderman
Warshaw
Alderman
Paden
Alderman
Feldman
Alderman
Lanyon
Alderman
Esch
Alderman
Washington
Alderman
Engelman
Alderman
Wollin
Alderman
Moran
Alderman
Heydemann
Alderman
Newman
Alderman
Fiske
Alderman
Kent
Alderman
Nelson
Alderman
Davis
Alderman
Brady
The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was held on Monday, August 12,
1991, at 9:10 P.M.
ROLL CALL - PRESENT:
Alderman Rainey
Alderman Lanyon
Alderman Feldman
Alderman Warshaw
Alderman Fiske
Alderman Newman
Alderman Paden
Alderman Drummer
A quorum being present.
ABSENT: Aldermen Davis and Kent
TARDY: None
PRESIDING: Mayor Joan W. Barr
CITIZEN COMMENT:
Alderman Brady
Alderman Esch
Alderman Heydemann
Alderman Washington
Alderman Moran
Alderman Nelson
Alderman Wollin
Alderman Engelman
Edmund G. Pabst, 425 Grove Street, discussed the proposed plats of subdivision for
144 and 202 Greenwood; reviewed the testimony he had previously given in opposition
to a moratorium before the Planning & Development Committee; said it was unfair to
deprive a property owner of rights afforded to other property owners; adopting the
plats will not result in a land rush; subdivision of the Martin property (144
Greenwood) will result in an extra 16,000 square foot lot, which is more than
double that currently required in an R1 zone and compatible and comparable with
other lots in the neighborhood; subdivision of the Biegs property will result in
two lots of over 9,200 square feet, which is also larger than the lot size
currently required by zoning in that area; the lot with the Biegs front lot is
compatible with the frontage of the lot to the west; failure to approve the plats
would amount to confiscation of the owner's land by depriving them of their right
to use it as they see fit; if the City wants to deprive owners of their rights,
they should be prepared to compensate them; suggested that the lots would probably
be sold to families with children, which is desirable and suggested that
substantial houses would be built on the property which would enhance the tax base;
urged Council to pass the plats of subdivision.
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John Malkinson, 1121 Oakton Street, stated that this is not a question of landowner
rights, but one of whether a landowner is entitled to a permit for a zoning use
when consideration of a zoning change is already underway which would eliminate the
ability to use the property in that fashion; City Council has to restrict itself to
that question; suggested that Corporation Counsel Siegel and the Preservation
Commission have cited cases to support his contention; cited other recent cases
which he said are relative to this case; the issue is not constitutional, but one
of municipal governance;. expressed concern about the precedent Council may be
setting if it grants these plats of subdivision; made reference to letters written
by Mr. Martin and Mr. Biegs and questioned certain allegations contained in them.
Neil Elliot, 732 Michigan Avenue, discussed lawyers, lawsuits, punitive damages and
the legal exposure that the City of Evanston may have if the plats of subdivision
do not pass; said the City of Evanston cannot do anything to diminish the value of
the property without compensating the owners; questioned why many Preservation
League members seem to live in Glencoe and Skokie when they could live in Evanston;
suggested that neighbors who have lived in Evanston a shorter period of time -should
not lecture long-term residents on community interest; reminded the Council that
the owners are not asking to build a toxic waste dump, gambling casino or school
for burlesque dancers but only three homes for millionaires; urged them to use
their best judgement.
Alderman Newman moved to extend Citizen Comment by ten minutes. Seconded by
Alderman Paden. Motion carried.
Phil Scott, 7505 Lowell, Skokie, President of the Preservation League of Evanston,
said that the Council does have discretion in their vote on subdivisions; suggested
that legal opinions have given them that right and implied duty; reminded Council
of the reference before the Zoning Amendment Committee (ZAC) concerning an estate
overlay district; questioned certain statements made by Mr: Martin in his letter to
the Council; said that the Council owed it to the citizens and the Preservation
League to delay action on the plats of subdivision until ZAC has made a finding;
the problem here is that people want to use their property based on a 30-year old
ordinance which the community wants to revise to provide protection for sensitive
historic areas; you cannot have your cake and eat it too - you must either decide
to protect historic areas or allow subdivisions to unfold at whatever pace they
will until a comprehensive zoning ordinance is adopted; Preservation League asked
Council to delay action until the new zoning ordinance is adopted; said land use
issues divide many communities and there is nothing immoral about expressing
community interest over an individual property owner.
David Galloway, 237 Greenleaf Street, President of the Preservation Commission,
said that this is not a question of denying individual homeowner's rights, but is
an issue of reviewing a proposal before Council in light of pending legislation
which would prevent them from doing what they would like to do; urged Council to
review Corporation Counsel Siegel's opinion which states that Council has the right
to delay action and urged them to review it in light of the precedent -setting event
this may be; encouraged Council to act responsibly and keep in mind that, in the
opinion of the Preservation Commission, the alterations that would be made to these
lots are detrimental and unalterable.
MINUTES:
Alderman Feldman moved that the minutes of the Regular Meeting of July 22, 1991, as
submitted in writing to the members of the City Council, be approved without
reading. Seconded by Alderman Warshaw. Motion carried. No nays.
COMMUNICATIONS:
City Clerk Kirsten F. Davis announced receipt of a communication from the Illinois
Department of Revenue reporting that the Auto Rental Tax for Evanston for the month
of June, 1991, has been reported and collected as follows:
Auto Rental Tax Collected $ 1,781.02
Less 1.6% administration fee 28.49
Amount to be remitted $ 1,752.53
Alderman Nelson referred this communication to the Finance Director.
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August 12, 1991
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City Clerk Davis reported receipt of two letters protesting the use of animals in
research experiments at Northwestern University.
Alderman Nelson referred these communications to the Police Services Committee.
City Clerk Davis announced that she had received a communication from the Chamber
of Commerce informing the City that the November issue of North Shore magazine
would contain a special feature on Evanston in .
Mayor Barr announced there would be a CLOSED SESSION to discuss pending litigation,
real estate acquisition and personnel.
CONSENT AGENDA: (Any Docket Item Marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Nelson moved
Council approval of the Consent Agenda with the following exceptions: Docket
215-7B-91: Plat of Subdivision - 202 Greenwood; Docket 216-7B-91: Plat of
Subdivision - 144 Greenwood; Docket 218-8A-91: Jans Golf Course Fencing; Docket
219-8A-91: Resolution 56-R-91 Application for Outdoor Recreation Grant; Docket
220-8A-91: Ordinance 88-0-91; under Purchases, Evanston Gateway Signs Construction;
Docket 223-8A-91: Resident Exemption Parking Districts Visitor Permits; Docket
211-7B-91: Ordinance 83-0-91 Loading Zone for 600 Church Street. Seconded by
Alderman Drummer. Roll Call. Voting aye - Rainey, Lanyon, Feldman, Warshaw, Fiske,
Newman, Paden, Drummer, Brady, Esch, Heydemann, Washington, Moran, Nelson, Wollin,
Engelman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried. (16-0)
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
Docket 215-7B-91: Plat of Subdivision - 202 Greenwood Street
- Consideration of a request from Harry and Hilda Bieg for
approval of a Plat of Subdivision for property at 202 Greenwood
Street. The Plat of Subdivision is in proper form.
Alderman Warshaw moved Council approval of the plat of subdivision. Seconded
by Alderman Brady.
Alderman Fiske said that this is an issue of preservation versus fairness of
an economic kind. As Aldermen, it is our duty to be fair and to hold on to
what is good in Evanston. Our task is to decide where we will wind up on a
scale balancing those two interests. He said he was mindful of the
reasonableness of the subdivision and also of the additional families that
would enjoy our city and pay taxes. Also if the overlay is worthy of
consideration the possibility of the overlay must be preserved.
Alderman Newman said he had had many communications on this subject and had
given the matter a lot of thought. He said that he could draw a distinction
between the plats requested for 202 and 144. He said that 144 did not violate
either the current or proposed ordinance. He said he felt that the 202
subdivision came about because the Zoning Commission put the proposed overlay
district on the table in June. He said he was unaware of any contract for the
sale of the property at 202 Greenwood. He pointed out that this was a
historic district and many people in that neighborhood worked hard to take
care of their property to make the neighborhood what it is; he pointed out
that the Biegs' home has the value it does because of what neighbors have done
to preserve this historic district. Placing a house between the Biegs house
and the home to the west will change the character of the area. Evanston has
made a decision to be different from Chicago. We look at decisions made in
the name of tax revenue and those made in the name of preseration. Zoning is
the right of a community to place restrictions on what owners can do. We have
a pending ordinance that was approved by a vote of the Planning & Development
Committee which allows Council the right to exercise a "pending ordinance
document" and to do something about those people who run to the Clerk's office
to try and beat what the City is trying to do. The courts have upheld the
right to withhold those approvals. If action is withheld on 202 Greenwood, it
means that our process will continue and the Biegs will have the right to go
to the Zoning Amendment Committee (ZAC) and the Council and to participate in
the political process. Ultimately, if the Council does not approve the
proposed zoning ordinance, then they will get their plat of subdivision. If
the Council approves the plat of subdivision tonight and then decides that
that type of subdivision that they are requesting is illegal, then we are
cheating the other citizens who elected us and the other residents of that
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historic district. He urged Council to read Corporation Counsel Siegel's legal
opinion and pointed out that it says that Council can do the same thing it.did
during condominium conversions and withhold action. There will be no direct
damages to the Biegs because they,don't have any contracts pending, they are
talking about the future. He also reminded Council that the Biegs can go
through the Planned Development process as a way to seek to additional ways to
use their excess square footage.
Planning & Development has proposed a reduction in required lot size in the
estate overlay district to 15,000 square feet and the Biegs subdivision would
violate that. He pointed out that two other property owners have inquired
about subdividing their lots. The neighborhood wants these subdivisions
stopped because it will change the character of this historic district by
sandwiching a house in between two historic houses.
Alderman Brady reminded Council that she is the Alderman who lives closest to
the property. She assured Council that not all the neighbors want the plats
of subdivision held. She said that Corporation Counsel Siegel had set down
the issues clearly in his legal opinion, which she feels gives the Council
more discretion on 202 than on 144 Greenwood. "The Council has made a
Reference to ZAC to consider the estate overlay district for a small area."
With that Reference, she said she would be disinclined to approve any further
subdivisions for that area because now there is pending legislative action.
She announced she would vote for the plat of subdivision because of the pain
and suffering the Biegs have gone through. They are only asking for two
additional lots, one of which will not be visible from the street. She said
that those additional lots will not be a tragedy, houses on that property will
not change the character of the neighborhood or the nature of the historic
district.
At the request of Alderman Warshaw, Chair of the Planning & Development
Committee, Corporation Counsel Siegel reviewed the major points covered in his
legal opinion of August 8 concerning the plats of subdivision. He emphasized
that it is a well established doctrine under Illinois law that a municipality
has a right to defer action on even ministerial acts when there is under
active consideration a legislative act which would, in effect, bar the action
which is proposed. This doctrine was first ennunicated in the Palatine Case
and reaffirmed by later cases. The property owner has no vested right in the
continuation of law. He also pointed out that a series of cases, which hold
that parties who have substantially changed their position and incurred
obligations in reliance upon the existence of a current zoning ordinance, such
parties are exempted or immune from any change which would divest them of
their vested rights. He said that he had no judgement as to whether Council
should approve or disapprove these plats, but simply pointed out that Council
does have the authority to delay action on the subdivision if it would not be
permitted under actively pending legislation - as long as there is active
consideration that will come to fruition in the reasonably near future. He
cautioned them that this was not an invitation to defer consideration
indefinitely.
He responded to questions from Aldermen Rainey and Feldman, Mayor Barr,
Aldermen Newman, Fiske, Engelman, Warshaw and Heydemann, clarifying that the
difference between the Biegs application and a future application by someone
else, is that there is "active legislation" pending now that a hearing has
been scheduled on a specific portion of the proposed zoning ordinance for the
Zoning Amendment Committee. In the Martin case, there appears to be evidence
of "substantial change" in position based on the existing ordinance, and if
established factually, would allow a distinction to be drawn between the
Martin's case and the Biegs case. He reminded Council one must treat similar
situations in a similar manner, absent any substantial change in position.
Otherwise there is an equal protection argument. Council has the right to
approve both plats of subdivision tonight because they meet the law as it
presently exists, but it also has the option to defer consideration of these
matters (unless either shows evidence of substantial change in position in
reliance on the existing law). You must apply this criteria to any .
subdivision that falls within this small area because the reference to ZAC is
not a citywide reference, but only in this specific area. All applications
for subdivision in this area must be treated in the same manner. You cannot
approve something tonight and deny a similarly situated property at the next
meeting.
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Mr. Siegel questioned whether you could consider the zoning ordinance "under
active consideration" eighteen months ago when it was in its very early
stages. By June 3 when the proposed zoning ordinance was given out to the
aldermen, it's contours were pretty well established, and, while there may be
some changes, this was a milestone in the development of the ordinance and it
was in sufficient form to constitute a document that could be considered
"under active consideration." However, he pointed out that the legislative
process should not depend on a legal opinion. He said he would feel
comfortable defending the contention that it was under active consideration
after June 3, if there was no substantial change in reliance on the old
ordinance. He pointed out that he was less concerned about the substantive
nature of the ordinance as long as the general subject (i.e. an increase in
required lot size for this area) is still basically the thrust and thus would
be considered "under active consideration." All applications that come in
after the date the ordinance is considered "under active consideration" should
be treated in the same manner.
Alderman Esch suggested that Council look at the dates the Biegs applied for
their plat of subdivision. She suggested that the process must have begun
before June 3. She stated her support for the plats and the rights of
ownership. She pointed out that the Constitution supports the rights of
property owners. Alderman Esch suggested that all those who wish to maintain
the property as open land should get together and purchase it and maintain it
as open space. She questioned the need for an overlay district, pointing out
that there are ample controls governing building in R1 Districts.
Alderman Newman pointed out that the consultants who help draw up the zoning
ordinance discussed whether the overlay district constitutes a "taking" and
based on their extensive national experence, it was not considered a "taking"
or confiscation of property. He said that he did not feel that drawing the
line at the ZAC Reference was appropriate. He said he didn't feel good about
the problem the Biegs had had with this plat, but the problems they have gone
through, they have initiated. He suggested that it will do no harm to defer
the Biegs plat. He said he felt that their case was different from the
Martins in that there is no evidence the Biegs acted on the old ordinance. He
reported that the overwhelming response he had received was in opposition to
subdividing a this property. He further suggested that if Council approves
that plat, it opens the window to all other subdivisions in this area.
Alderman Nelson moved to table this docket item. Seconded by Alderman Newman.
Motion carried.
Docket 216-7B-91: Plat of Subdivision - 144 Greenwood -
Consideration of a request from Andrew and LauraLee Martin for
approval of a Plat of Subdivision for property at 144 Greenwood
Street. The Plat of Subdivision is in proper form.
Alderman Warshaw moved Council approval the plat of subdivision. Seconded by
Alderman Feldman.
In response to a question from Alderman Rainey as to whether the city had any
documents on the pending.sale of the property, Director Housing and Property
Services Rudd said the city had received no documents.
Alderman Warshaw reminded Alderman Rainey that the Aldermen had seen copies of
the letter from Mr. Martin, where he stated that he had a contract for sale
and had also received a copy of a letter from Dr. Griffith, a friend of the
prospective buyer. Alderman Rainey stated she would like to see that
documentation before voting on this plat and moved to table the plat pending
receipt of the documents. Seconded by Alderman Washington. Voice vote, motion
failed.
Alderman Warshaw pointed out that the Reference made by the Planning &
Development Committee to ZAC on lot size,.if passed, would still permit the
subdivision proposed by Mr. Martin for 144 Greenwood.
At the request of Alderman Brady, Mayor Barr asked Mr. Martin, who was in the
audience, if he had documents relating to the sale of the property with him.
Mr. Martin replied that he did not but could go home to get them.
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August 12, 1991
Alderman Newman reported that he had
he was handling the closing on this
to the subdivision, he is convinced
this property.
received a call from an attorney who said
property for Mr. Martin. Although opposed
there is a contract pending for sale of
Alderman Moran said that he was concerned with being consistent in this
matter. He pointed out that while Mr. Martin's proposed subdivision is
consistent with the recommendation made by Plannig & Development to ZAC, there
is no guarantee that they will adopt it in the proposed form or whether the
committee will adopt the recommended estate overlay district. The point of
deferring this is to await the outcome of the legislative action.
Alderman Rainey reiterated that the only way to be consistent is to table this
proposed plat until ZAC makes its determination.
Voice vote on the plat of subdivision for 144 Greenwood. Motion carried.
Docket 218=8A-91: Jans Golf Course Fencing - Consideration of
a request from the Peter N. Jans Golf Course Board of Directors
that the City Council approve a plan for screening of two tees
under provisions of the North Shore Channel Greenbelt District.
Alderman Warshaw moved Council approval of the request as amended by the
committee to eliminate the four southernmost posts by the second tee. Seconded
by Alderman Rainey. Motion carried.
Docket 219-8A-91: Resolution 56-R-91 - Application for Outdoor
Recreation Grant - Consideration of proposed Resolution 56-R-91,
by which the City Council would authorize the City Manager to
apply to the Illinois Department of Conservation for an Outdoor
Recreation Grant through the Open Space Lands Acquisition and
Development Division to redevelop Cartwright, Clyde-Brummel,
Harbert, McCulloch, and Southwest Parks. This docket item was held
in committee.
Alderman Rainey questioned why the grant application was being held in
committee. Don Wirth, Director of Parks, Recreation & Forestry, explained that
the grant required the Administration & Public Works Committee to
re -prioritize certain capital improvement items for 1992. The committee will
take that up on August 26.
Docket 220-8A-91: Ordinance 88-0-91 - Comprehensive Amendment
to the Zoning Ordinance - Consideration of proposed Ordinance
88-0-91, by which the City Council would adopt a comprehensive
amendment to the City of Evanston Zoning Ordinance. This docket
item was held in committee.
ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE:
Bills and Payroll
Approval, as recommended, of City of Evanston bills for the period ending
August 7, 1991; for the City of Evanston payroll for the period ending July
28; for City Council payroll for the month of July 1991; and that their
payment be authorized and charged to the proper accounts, summarized as
follows:
City of Evanston bills $2,786,020.69
City of Evanston payroll 1,261,284.18
City Council payroll 6,300.00
tAPPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
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PURCHASES
* Approval of low bids from the following: Tonyan Brothers for Sand at an estimated
annual cost of $15,246; Vulcan Materials for Stone for an estimated annual cost of
$47,690.00; Builder's Ready Mix for Concrete at an estimated annual cost of $14,000;
Sherwin Corp for Sylvax at an estimated annual cost of $15,000.
BID SUMMARY:
SAND
Bidder FA 1 (30 Tons) FA 2 (2,000 Tons) Total Bid
Tonyan Brothers $8.20 $7.50 $15,246.00
McHenry, IL
Vulcan Materials No Bid 7.50
Countryside, IL
STONE
Bidder CA 6 (5,000 Tons) CA 7 (300 Tons) Total Bid
Vulcan Materials $8.95 $9.80 $47,690.00
Countryside, IL
CONCRETE
Bidder Prices per Cubic Yard (250 Cubic Yards) Total Bid
Builder's Ready Mix $56.00 $14,000.00
Evanston, IL
SYLVAX
Bidder price per Ton (200 Tons) Total Bid
Sherwin Corp. $ 75.00 $15,000.00
Milwaukee, WI
Palumbo Bros 102.00 20,400.00
Hillside, IL
APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Approval of a proposal from Desman Associates to design plans and bid specifications
and to provide on -site inspection of repairs for the Sherman Avenue Parking Garage in
the amount. of $15,000. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Alderman Rainey moved Council approval of the low bid from D. Linari Construction for
the construction of four gateway signs at a total cost of $20,000.00.
BID SUMMARY:
Bidder Total Cost
D. Linari Construction, Inc. $ 20,000.00
Highwood, IL
A.L.L. Masonry Construction Co. 27,354.00
Chicago, IL
Seconded by Alderman Warshaw. Alderman Rainey explained that the committee had amended
the purchase to include an additional sign at Howard and Ridge.
Alderman Nelson said he was the dissenting vote because he saw no rationale for an
additional sign at that location.
Alderman Brady reminded the Council that there had been a comprehensive study of
signage at entrances to the city and the Ad Hoc Sign Committee had suggested that the
City start with three signs and evaluate their effectiveness.
Alderman Rainey strongly emphasized that the entrance at Ridge and Howard was a very
different entrance from the one at South Boulevard Beach and suggested that the
Plan: Commission was not known to pay attention to South Evanston. She emphasized
that it was important for the south end of the City to identify with Evanston and not
Chicago. She said she would be willing to take the sign from Sheridan Road if the 3rd
Ward Aldermen were willing to give it up.
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Alderman Lanyon said his colleague had come up with a brilliant solution to help out
south Evanston. He said there are four cardinal points of entrance and it might be
successfully argued that the Sheridan Road entrance is the east entrance to town. He
pointed out that a newly designed metal Evanston sign had been placed on a utility
pole and it was difficult to see. He pointed out that an excellent opportunity for
placement of the sign one half block north on the east side of the street has
presented itself. A new development will be built on that site and it is hoped that
the .City can work out an accomodation with the developer for placement of the sign.
'He related a story about how 8th Ward residents had worked zealously on Keep Evanston
Beautiful Day and even crossed Howard Street into the 50th Ward to pick up trash to
clean up the street. He said that the sign would give residents in the 8th Ward a
sense of importance and dignity.
In response to a question from Alderman Heydemann about how the signs would be
evaluated after installation, Interim Director of Planning, Charmain Borys, said that
no evaluation process had been developed, but a mock up of the sign had been made.
Alderman Nelson said that he would be happy to move the sign from Sheridan Road to
Howard Street. Alderman Newman said that he didn't feel as though a distinction should
be drawn between Ridge and Sheridan Road.
Alderman Lanyon disagreed with Alderman Nelson and suggested the Council not pit one
part of the city against the other.
Vote on the gateway signs. Roll call. Voting aye - Rainey, Lanyon, Feldman, Warshaw,
Fiske, Newman, Paden, Drummer, Brady, Esch, Heydemann, Washington, Moran, Wollin,
Engelman, Voting nay - Nelson. Motion carried. (15-1)
* Approval of the bid from Central Rug and Carpet Co. for Civic Center Carpeting at
the unit prices bid for a total estimated cost of $20,080.00
Bidder Removal Per Square Yard Install per Square Yard Estimated Total Cost
Central Rug $1.50 $23.50 $20,080.00
and Carpet Co.
Evanston, IL
APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
* Approval of the proposal from Infracon Infrastructure Management Consultants, Inc.,
for a MicroPaver Reinspection Program at a total cost of $11,720.00 (Non -bid item,
requires-2/3 majority vote) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
* Docket 204-7B-91: Private Industry Council Agreement - Consideration
of a recommendation that the City Council authorize the City Manager to
enter into an Agreement with the Private Industry Council of Cook County
to provide personnel for the operation of the Recycling Center.
* APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
* Docket 221-8A-91: Chamber of Commerce Tasters' Fest - Consideration
of the request of the Evanston Chamber of Commerce to hold their annual
Tasters' Fest on September 7 and 8, 1991 on Sherman Avenue from Church
Street to Davis Street. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL
CALL. (16-0)
* Docket 222-8A-91: Use of Capital Improvement Program Funds for National
Endowment for the Arts/Illinois Arts Council Grant - Consideration of a
recommendation that the City Council commit to placing $18,000 in the
1991-92 Capital Improvement Program for library public art to also serve
as the match requirement for the National Endowment for the Arts/Illinois
Arts Council Grant, and authorize the City Manager to sign the grant
agreement between the City of Evanston and the NEA/IAC. * ADOPTED -
CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Docket 223-8A-91: Resident Exemption Parking District Visitor Permits
- Consideration of a recommendation that the City Council authorize the
issuance of permits for visitors in Resident Exemption Parking Districts.
This docket item was held in committee pending a discussion of the
consultant's report.
* Docket 224-8A-91: Resolution 67-R-91 - Adult Community Outreach
Network Lease Renewal - Consideration of proposed Resolution 67-R-91, by
which the City Council would renew the lease of the Civic Center Boiler
Building Apartment to the Adult Community Outreach Network for the period
August 1, 1991 to December 31, 1992. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION
AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
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* Docket 225-8A-91: Resolution 68-R-91 - Georgian Hotel Easement
Agreement - Consideration of proposed Resolution 68-R-91, by which the
City Council would authorize the City Manager to enter into an easement
agreement with The Georgian long-term care facility to be used to place a
water supply line and an electrical service line from their building
across the alley to their garden area. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION
AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
* Docket 226-8A-91: Resolution 69-R-91 - Motor Fuel Tax Paver System
Update - Consideration of proposed Resolution 69-R-91, by which the City
Council would authorize the allocation of $11,720 in Motor Fuel Tax Funds
for reinspection of the pavement condition of a portion of the City's
streets. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL.'(16-0)'
* Docket 227-8A-91: Resolution 70-R-91 - Motor Fuel Tax Contract
Maintenance - Consideration of proposed Resolution 70-R-91, by which the
City Council would authorize the expenditure of $200,000 in Motor Fuel Tax
Funds to be used for maintenance, by contract, of certain City streets.
* APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
* Docket 228-8A-91: Resolution 71-R-91 - Reserved Space for
Wheelchair -Bound - 582 Sheridan Square - Consideration of proposed
Resolution 71-R-91, by which the City Council would establish a reserved
parking space for the wheelchair -bound at 582 Sheridan Square. * ADOPTED
- CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
* Docket 229-8A-91: Resolution 72-R-91 - Reserved Space for
Wheelchair -Bound - 618 Callan - Consideration of proposed Resolution
72-R-91, by which the City Council would establish a reserved parking
space for the wheelchair -bound at 618 Callan Avenue. * ADOPTED - CONSENT
AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Docket 230-8A-91: Ordinance 87-0-91 - 4-Way Stop - Keeney/Dewey -
Consideration of proposed Ordinance 87-0-91, by which the City Council
would amend Section 10-11-5 of the Code of the City of Evanston to
establish a four-way stop at the intersection of Keeney Street and Dewey
Avenue. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA.
* Docket 209-7B-91: Ordinance 78-0-91 - Class D Liquor License -
Noyes Street Cafe Consideration of proposed Ordinance 78-0-91,
introduced on July 22, 1991, by which the City Council would amend Section
3-5-6 of the Code of the City of Evanston to authorize the issuance of a
Class D Liquor License to the -Noyes Street Cafe, 828 Noyes Street.
* ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Docket 211-7B-91: Ordinance 83-0-91 - Loading Zone 600 Church Street
- Consideration of proposed Ordinance 83-0-91, introduced on July 22,
1991, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-10, Schedule X,
of the Code of the City of Evanston to create a 15-minute loading zone on
Church Street between Orrington and Chicago Avenues.
Alderman Rainey moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 83-0-91. Seconded by
Alderman Nelson.
Alderman Wollin explained that she had been the lone nay vote in committee and felt
the need to explain her vote. She said that Church Street is the main east west
thoroughfare thru downtown Evanston and is not suitable for loading zones for.
businesses. She said she had made several passes down the adjacent alleys and found
there to be adequate room for trucks to unload and also allow cars to pass through the
alley. She suggested that those people picking up airline tickets at the Combined
Airline Ticket Office could park across the street. She also expressed concern about
having a loading zone when there would soon be library construction across the street
and noting that construction would also hamper traffic patterns.
Alderman Newman supported Alderman Wollin and agreed with the concern about library
construction. He said that the Council might want to revisit the proposal after the
library was complete.
Alderman Rainey said she would not support the motion either, because she thought it a
terrible idea. Roll call. Voting aye - none. Voting nay - Rainey, Lanyon, Feldman,
Warshaw, Fiske, Newman, Paden, Drummer, Brady, Esch, Heydemann, Washington, Moran,
Nelson, Wollin, Engelman. Motion Failed (0-16)
IP
-10-
August 12, 1991
Docket 212-7B-91: Ordinance 85-0-91 - Residents Only Parking
District "4" Boundary Changes - Consideration of proposed Ordinance
85-0-91, introduced on July 22, 1991, by which the City Council would
amend Section 10-11-18, Schedule XVIII, of the Code of the City of
Evanston to add a portion of Davis Street to Residents Only Parking
District "4". = ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Docket 213-7B-91: Ordinance 86-0-91 - Residential Exemption Parking
District "E" Boundary Change_ - Consideration of proposed Ordinance
86-0-91, introduced on July 22, 1991, by which the City Council would
amend Section 10-11-10, Schedule X(F), to add a portion of Harrison Street
to Residential Exemption Parking District "E". = ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA
MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
Alderman Rainey announced that there will be a special meeting Saturday, September 7
at 9:00 A.M. between the Administration & Public Works Committee and the Energey
Options Task Force. She invited all Aldermen to attend.
HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE:
Docket 231-8A-91: Resolution 66-R-91 - Application for Illinois Clean
& Beautiful Funds - Consideration of proposed Resolution 66-R-91, by
which the City Concil would authorize an application for $7,500 in
Illinois Clean & Beautiful Funds to support the programs of Keep Evanston
Beautiful, Inc. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
OTHER COMMITTEES:
Docket 232-8A-91: Township Monthly Bills - Consideration of a
recommendation that the City Council approve the bills for Evanston
Township for the month of July 1991 in the amount of $102,720.98.
APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (16-0)
APPOINTMENTS:
Mayor Barr asked for Council confirmation of John Foster Lesch, 800 Michigan Avenue,
for appointment to the Playground and Recreation Board, term ending December 29,
1996. Alderman Drummer moved confirmation of this appointment. Seconded by Alderman
Brady. Motion carried. No Nays.
Mayor Barr introduced the name of John B. Welch, 2415 McDaniel Avenue, for appointment
to the Police Pension Board.
CALL OF THE WARDS:
Alderman Warshaw said that she felt the pigeon screening program had been very
successful. She observed that the pigeons appeared to roosting uncomfortably and
there did not appear to be as many pigeon eggs around, which will benefit the
community in the future. She urged that the City screen other viaducts as soon as
possible.
Alderman Warshaw offered her condolences to the family of Jonathan Kimmel, whose
mother had been the Aldermanic Secretary until recently. She made a Reference to the
Administration & Public Works Committee to cause signs to be erected to notify the
public of the severe undertow in the Lighthouse Beach area. She said that people were
not aware of how severe the undertow is and especially with changeable conditions and
high waves. She said we have to do something so this sad occurrence will not happen
again.
Alderman Lanyon extended a
because he felt they took a
Alderman Lanyon agreed with
and announced that a number
his house.
"hug" to the staff on the Church Street loading zone
beating on that suggestion.
Alderman Warshaw about the success of the pigeon program
of pigeons had found a new home in the tree in front of
1
667
19d
-11- August 12, 1991
Alderman Engelman said that he agreed with Alderman Warshaw and was deeply saddened by
the death of Jonathan Kimmel. He said that teens seem to think they are invincible
and this was the third death at Lighthouse Beach this year. He agreed that the
Administration & Public Works Committee should cause warning signs to be put up and
suggested that they say that "three people have died at this beach in the last year
and six people have died swimming at this beach after hours in the last eight years".
Such signs would be similar to the warning on cigarette packages - this is hazardous
to your health. Alderman Engelman made a Reference to the Administration & Public
Works Committee to consider putting in an emergency phone system at the lakefront. He
said that the rescuers had done a good job once they arrived, but notification is a
problem. He suggested that perhaps a panic button type of system could be substituted
for an emergency phone because buttons are less easily vandalized. Whatever system is
used it will be lesss expensive than to lose one more life.
Alderman Wollin extended her condolences to Jonathan Kimmel's family. She said that
after reading so much about Evanston youth in the papers recently, it was heartening
to see a church -full of teenagers expressing sympathy to the family and their
friendship for Jonathan.
Alderman Wollin announced that the next Police Services Committee meeting would be
September S at 7:30 P.M.
Alderman Moran said that recently he attended the funeral service for a young woman,
Marirob Ann Tures, who died of Cystic Fibrosis. He said that he admired her remarkable
display of courage and recalled that she always had a smile and never complained. He
said she was very inspirational to him and that he was encouraged by her spirit and
hope. He contrasted that with the death of Michael Langford who was recently shot in
Mason Park. He said that Michael's tragic passing brought a kind of despair to him
when he contrasted the two young people. He said we need to help kids who have
problems some of which seem intractible, and we need to commit ourselves to develop
programs to help these young people.
.Alderman Washington passed along a special thank you from the Avery family to the
Evanston Fire Department for their efforts in behalf of Mr. Avery.
Alderman Washington also thanked City Manager Anderson, Police Chief Jacobi and
Director of Parks, Recreation and Forestry Wirth, for coming to the 5th Ward community
meeting. She thanked the Fleetwood-Jourdain Center and the Recreation Department for
their wonderful summer program. She announced that the 5th Ward picnic had been a
success.
Alderman Drummer announced that the Housing and Community Development Act Committee
meeting scheduled for August 13 had been cancelled.
He reminded the Council that the National League of Cities meeting is coming up in
December in Las Vegas. Anyone interested should contact Bruce Zimmerman to obtain a
travel planning form which needs to be back to Mr. Zimmerman by Friday, so he can
bring it to the Rules Committee on August 20.
Alderman Drummer offered his condolences to the Kimmel, Johnson and Langford families
on the death of their children. He commented that the shooting of Michael Langford
happened in the 2nd Ward in Mason Park, which was very close to him. He said he felt
the community had responded well to this incident. 'He said he felt that the Police
Chief and Mr. Wirth had responded well to the community meeting held last Thursday. He
said he was encouraged by the number of neighborhood residents coming out to the
meetings who asked what they could do assist the commuity in getting on top of the
youth problem. They are also interested in taking an active role in preserving and
protecting their immediate area, particularly the park. He said that the City will
move very swiftly on requests to assist.
He reported that recently he attended a five day conference in Champaign, IL on youth
and gangs and hoped that the Police Department would move swiftly on what they had
learned at the conference. He said that since he had been an Alderman, he had been
involved in the death of four or five young men and found it extremely disturbing. "
We cannot minimize the seriousness of this problem." He said his heart went out to
the families who have to endure these types of things. He said he hoped the Council
joined him in being committed to do whatever it could do to change the situation.
-12- August 12, 1991
Alderman Paden extended her condolences to the Kimmel, Avery and Langford families on
the deaths of their loved ones.
Alderman Paden reported that as a result of a meeting at Mason Park, Chief Jacobi, Mr.
Wirth, Alderman Drummer and herself and many people in the community are working. on
projects to make changes in the Park and to make the community more responsive -
especially in the summertime. She said that they are in the process of developing more
programs for youth between the ages of 14 and 20 and these activities would take place
frequently and after 9:00 P.M.
She commented to Alderman Lanyon that the rest of the pigeons that were not in his
tree are on her roof doing the cha cha. She said that she didn't think the Hotfoot
was working and asked Drummer to come over and relocate the pigeons so her family can
sleep at night.
Alderman Paden reported that her 5th Annual Picnic had been a success in spite of the
lack of sunshine and thanked her pit crew for cooking the food. She commented that
the Health Department had said it was excellent food. She thanked all those who had
donated the 75 prizes and given of their time, energy and money to make the picnic a
success. She also thanked all those who had attended.
Alderman Paden complimented Alderman Kent for his picnic at Twiggs Park one week later
and observed that he had had sunshine. She also thanked the Wild Bunch for their back
to school picnic last Sunday and observed that now is the time to work on back to
school activities so we will have a large group going back to school.
Alderman Paden made a Reference to the Human Services Committee to investigate why
such a large percentage of code violations now in Housing Court were cited against
minorities. She rejected the memo that she had received June 14 which said that the
Human Services Committee didn't feel that there was a problem. She said the City can
spend hundreds of thousands of dollars putting its finger on another group outside the
City of Evanston to nail them for discrimination, but cannot police itself. She passed
out a letter responding to the Human Services Committee, which she said, did not
appear to have done much work. She said that she had a 10-1-90 list of court cases
given to her by the Law Department. She asked the City Manager to distribute this
list of code violations to each Alderman. She reported that at least 29 out of the 43
people cited on this list are minorities (Those starred are known to her personally.)
She invited the Human Services Committee to come to court and 'again to reexamine the
code violations.
Alderman Newman expressed his condolences to the families of the youths who had
recently passed away. He suggested taking Aldermen Warshaw's and Engelman's
suggestions to the Administration & Public Works Committee a step further. He
reported that, even after all the publicity of the recent tragic drowning at
Lighthouse Beach, he had received a call that morning about a group of 15 young people
who were on a beach at 4:00 A.M. Sunday night (Monday morning). He said this was not
just a Lighthouse Beach problem and suggested that the City hire three people with the
appropriate training to patrol the beaches with walkie talkies between May 15 and
September 15 in order to have direct communication with the Police and Fire
Departments. He said it is an expense we can consider and he would appreciate the
views of other Council members on this.
Alderman Fiske expressed his sympathy to the Kimmel and Langford families. He also
commented that he had noticed pigeons huddled on the rooftops of buildings surrounding
Green Bay Road and Emerson Street and expressed concern about the impact that the
birdproofing was having on the pigeons natural habitat under the viaduct.
Alderman Washington pointed out to Alderman Paden that the letter she had received in
response to her Reference on the number of minorities cited for housing code
violations were the words of the Human Relations Commission Executive Director Owen
Thomas.
Mayor Barr asked for a motion to go into CLOSED SESSION. Alderman Feldman so moved.
Seconded by Alderman Drummer. Roll Call. Voting aye - Rainey, Lanyon, Feldman,
Warshaw, Fiske, Newman, Paden, Drummer, Brady, Esch, Heydemann, Washington, Moran,
Nelson, Wollin, Engelman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried. (16-0)
The Council so'recessed at 11:40 P.M. and reconvened into OPEN SESSION AT 11:52 P.M.
Alderman Feldman moved Council approval of a loan agreement with City Manager Eric A.
Anderson for a $100,000 loan for housing purposes. Seconded by Alderman Newman. Motion
carried. No nays.
There being no further business, Mayor Barr called for a motion to adjourn. The
Council so moved and adjourned at 11:54 P.M.
KIRSTEN F. DAVIS
CITY CLERK