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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-1993-09-13-1993CITY COUNCIL. 1 September 13, 1993 v O� OOk CO. Itti�� Standing committees meet prior to the official regular meeting. Current members are as follows: Alderman Newman Alderman Drummer Alderman Guthrie Plannine and Develovment Alderman Heydemann Alderman Kent Alderman Newman Alderman Engelman Administration and Public Works Alderman Heydemann Alderman Engelman Alderman Kent Alderman Holsman Alderman Moran Alderman Feldman Human Services Alderman Feldman Alderman Drummer Alderman Moran Alderman Guthrie Alderman Holsman The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was held on Monday, September 13, 1993, at 8:42 P.M. in the City Council Chamber. ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Alderman Feldman Alderman Newman Alderman Guthrie Alderman Heydemann Alderman Kent Alderman Moran Alderman Engelman Alderman Holsman A Quorum being present. ABSENT: Alderman Drummer PRESIDING: Mayor Lorraine H. Morton An audio tape recording of this meeting has been made part of the permanent record and is available in the City Clerk's office. i 2 September 13, 1993 MAYOR ANNOUNCEMENTS: Mayor Morton announced there would be a CLOSED SESSION to deal .with pending litigation and land acquisition and following that, there would be a short Rules Committee meeting. Mayor Morton noted that she had heard some criticism that not all members of a community had been notified when block parties were scheduled in their area. She said that she had also received a communication from a wheelchair bound person who did not have access to the block where an activity was taking place. She encouraged people to be sensitive to that problem. Mayor Morton noted that there was a great deal of information available from the City Clerk's office and said that people might be interested in a report from the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission that mentions the name Evanston often and reports things that bring credit to the City. CITIZEN COMMENT: Robert Creamer. 1101 Ridge Avenue, questioned why, if there is no restriction on the City municipalizing or choosing other energy courses than Commonwealth Edison (Com Ed), does Com Ed insist on such a long-term franchise agreement. He suggested that the City should have negotiated a yearly opt -out clause if there is no restrictions, and suggested that Com Ed wanted to have a long term agreement to demonstrate their stability which would help them sell their shares on the stock market. He also questioned why the City had not put out Requests for Proposals to ask other energy providers to make presentations - such as the one made by Torco at the Administration and Public Works meeting - before signing this franchise. Al Belmonte. 1032 Wesley Avenue, supported extending the franchise agreement with Com Ed and said that it appeared to be the most logical and practical solution for the City at this point. He felt that this agreement gave the City time to explore all the alternatives available to it without tying it down to a long franchise agreement. He noted that the energy market had gotten very interesting and felt that it was in Com Ed's best interests to keep a customer like Evanston happy. If that means providing alternative energy sources, infrastructure improvements or improving conservation methods, then the City should take advantage of these marketplace forces to make positive changes for the community. He urged the City to challenge Com Ed to be creative in their approach to other large customers in the City and urged City to work with them and make them part of this process of exploring energy alternatives. He suggested that some of them are large enough to seek out their own energy suppliers. He encouraged the City to work with Com Ed to create an approach that is uniquely suited to Evanston and which would increase reliability and reduce costs over time. Bob Fisher. 2647 Central Park Avenue, representing the Evanston building materials retailers in Evanston repeated their objections to using public funds to subsidize private development that is in direct competition with existing businesses. He said that the Home Depot proposal to create a special district at the Rust-Oleum site was only a softened version of a Tax Increment Financing District (TIF) - and is still a tax subsidy which gives Home Depot an unfair advantage in the marketplace. He viewed it as a moral and ethical issue, not just a financial one. He supported new development and new tax revenue, but not at the cost of jobs and businesses that have already made a financial commitment to Evanston. Kate Tabor. 1007 Sherman Avenue, stated that 110 residents have responded negatively to the idea of creating a TIF district for the Rust-Oleum site. She distributed the responses received to the aldermen and noted that the Sixth Ward had generated nearly 40 responses. She urged Alderman Moran to share those responses with Council, even though he would be abstaining on the vote. She speculated that Aldermen Holsman and Feldman would be hearing from their constituents at the community meeting the next evening. She speculated that it was hubris to believe that a public subsidy of competition to existing businesses would be negligible and manageable. Elliott M. Nesvie. 721 Custer Avenue, said that he did not believe that the proposed agreement is in the best interests of Evanston because it would reduce the options available to the Energy Commission before it begins its work. He opposed some of the provisions of the agreement and urged Council to reject the NWMC Franchise Agreement. He urged Council to delay voting on the franchise until the Illinois Supreme Court tenders a decision in the Arlington Heights case. He noted that the energy market was changing and that Com Ed had created a subsidiary - Northwind - which might be able to provide power to the City at lower cost. He said that a franchise agreement does not require Com Ed to generate power, but they could purchase it from other sources in addition to or instead of using their own generating plants. He pointed out that the City is doing business with a high cost F1 1 September 13, 1993 A ity and that cost has lead the high school to install their own electric power generators, resulting in a savings of over 40%. He urged the City to check with Evanston Township High School to find out more about their stem. He questioned the value of city personnel being allowed to review Com Ed's system maps and blueprints :ad felt it would be of greater value to be able to review their financial ledgers. He suggested that Evanston should It receiving rebates from Com Ed at the same rate as Chicago, which he said would amount to nearly $2 million. Be questioned the short timeframe between the report of the Negotiating Team and the suggested adoption dates .fir the franchise. He urged Council to vote against extending the franchise. PliAlis Miller. 322 Asbury Avenue, said that after reviewing the report of the Negotiating Team, she was at a loss launderstand why the franchise was found to be objectionable. She felt that the City's control of the energy supply Tai been perfectly satisfactory since 1957, despite the commentary of the previous speaker. She wondered why `atwas necessary to cast about for alternative energy suppliers when the City had enjoyed the benefits of a 35 year mociation with Com Ed. CONSENT AGENDA: (Any Docket Item Marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Feldman noted that this job normally falls to the senior alderman, Dennis Drummer, and explained that Alderman Drummer had been called away this evening because his son had been in a serious automobile accident. Alderman Feldman felt that everyone would join him in sending their prayers and best wishes for Alderman Drummer's son's life and health. Alderman Feldman moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda, with the following exceptions: Docket 192-813-93: Resolution 89-R-93. He noted that Docket 215-9A-93: Ordinance 105-0-93 - Commonwealth Edison Franchise Agreement was an addition to the printed Consent Agenda. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Roll call. Voting aye - Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Holsman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried. (8-0) '°1t INUTES: The minutes of the regular meeting of August 23, 1993, as submitted in writing to the members of the City Council. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0). ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE: BELLS AND PAYROLL * Approval, as recommended, of City of Evanston bills for the period ending September 3, 1993; for City of Evanston payroll for periods ending August 22, 1993 and September 5, 1993; for the City Council payroll for the month of August, 1993; and that their payment be authorized and charged to the proper accounts, summarized as follows: City of Evanston bills $ 2,367,967.33 City of Evanston payroll (8/22/93) $ 1,250,458.56 City of Evanston payroll (9/5/93) 1,175,293.57 City Council payroll 4,875.03 APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) PURCHASES: * Approval of the low bid from Pinel Andrews Construction Corp. for Eggleston Park redevelopment at a total cost of $25,507. 4 September 13, 1993 BID SUMMARY: Bidder Total Cost Pinel Andrews Construction $25,507 Evanston,IL R. F: Idriss, Inc. 28,095 Evanston, EL * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. * Approval of the proposal from Iarosz Associates, Inc., to provide outplacement services at a unit price of $6,500 through the end of 1994-95 fiscal year.* APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the low bid of Zenith Electronics Corp. for Broad band-CATV hardware interface equipment as part of the E-911 Police/Fire Communications Center Project at a total cost of $38,445. BID SUMMARY: Bidder Total Cost Zenith Electronics Corp. $38,445.00 Glenview, IL Communications Technology 39,937.20 Lincolnwood, IL * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the low bid from Mark -it Stripings Corp. for Thermoplastic Pavement Marking at a total cost of $7,613.00 BID SUMMARY: Bidder Total Cost Mark -It Stripings Corp. $7,613.00 Forestview, IL Maintenance Coatings Co. 7,843.50 Elgin, IL * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the following low bids: Tonyan Brothers for sand at an estimated cost of $15,652; Vulcan Materials for stone at an estimated cost of $45,377; Builder's Ready Mix for concrete at an estimated cost of $14,000; and from Sherwin Corp. for Asphalt patching material at an estimated cost of $14,400. BID SUMMARIES: SAND Bidder FA 1 (30 Tonsl FA2 (2.000 Tons) Total Bid Tonyan Brothers $8.40 $7.70 $15,652.00 McHenry, IL Campanella Sand & Gravel 10.20 7.80 15,906.00 Palatine, IL Builder's Ready Mix 10.50 9.50 19,315.00 �l 1 Evanston, IL 5 4 September 13, 1993 a STONE Bidder CA 6 (5.000 Tons) CA 7 (300 tons) Total Bid Vulcan Materials $8.53 $9.09 $45,377.00 Countryside, IL Campanella Sand & Gravel 8.75 9.20 46,510.00 Palatine, IL Builder's Ready Mix 10.75 10.75 56,975.00 Evanston, IL CONCRETE Bidder Price Per Cubic Yard (250 C.Y.) Total Bid Builders Ready Mix $56.00 $14,000 Evanston, IL ASPHALT PATCHING MATERIAL Bidder Price Per Ton (200 Tons) Total Bid Sherwin Corp. $72.00 $14,400.00 Milwaukee, WI Palumbo Bros. 110.00 22,000.00 Hillside, IL * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the proposal from Elliot Dudnik & Associates for Architectural Window Design Services at the Civic Center. Art Center Coach House and Fleetwood/Jourdain Community Center at a total cost of $25,200. BID SUMMARY: Bidder Proposed Fees Williams/Pollock/Associates, Ltd. $20,430.00 Wheahm, IL Elliot Dudnik & Assoc. 25,200.00 Evanston, IL O'Neil. Design, Inc. 25,521.00 Des Plaines, IL * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the proposal from Moore Business Forms for Vehicle Sticker Application Forms at a total cost of $6,769.32. (Non -Bid Item, Requires a 2/3 Majority Vote) * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL. CALL. (8-0) * Approval of Change Order #2 for Phase II/Area II of the Long -Range Sewer Project which involves no adjustment to the contract price. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of Change Order #7 for Phase IBasin S06-S13 of the Long -Range Sewer Project in the amount of $62,039.39 to McNally Construction for several changes required for the project at the Mulford Street .Outlet site and .the Emerson Street Outlet Site and some adjustments to fencing in James Park. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) 9�1 6 September 13, 1993 * Approval of Change Order #8 for Phase IBasin S06-S13 of the Long -Range Sewer Project in the amount of $84,873.12 to McNally Construction for the 66-inch pipe found in a concrete cradle at Emerson Street which involved removing portions of the cradle and modifying tunneling operations at this site. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of Change Order #9 for Phase I/Basin S06-S13 of the Long -Range Sewer Project to McNally Construction for additional curb construction and pavement replacement on Payne, Pioneer and Hartrey and additional concrete street restoration on Payne between Lawndale and Central Park in the amount of $94,153.25 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the proposal of Palumbo Bros., Inc., for Extraordinary Maintenance of Ridge Avenue at a cost of $37,786.50. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Approval of the proposal of Kane, McKenna & Associates for Consulting Services for the Buck Project at a cost of $45,000. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 198-9A-93: Motor Fuel Tax Allocation - Green Bav Road Improvement - Consideration of a recommendation that the City Council authorize the use of Motor Fuel Tax Funds in the amount of $350,000 for the improvement of Green Bay Road from north of Livingston Street to Isabella. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 199-9A-93: Installation of Flaes on Central Street - Consideration of a request from the Northwestern Gridiron Network to place flags on Central Street for each Northwestern home game. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) Docket 192-8B-93: Resolution 89-R-93 - Allocation of General Oblieation Bond Refmancine Funds to Capital Improvement Proeram - Consideration of proposed Resolution 89-R-93, by which the City Council would approve the allocation of approximately $730,000 in new revenue received as a result of the 1993 Bond Refinancing for capital projects. HELD IN COMMITTEE * Docket 200-9A-93: Resolution 91-R-93 - Amendment to Illinois Department of Transportation Bridge Agreement - Consideration of proposed Resolution 91- R-93, by which the City Council would authorize the City manager to execute an amendment for Preliminary Engineering for the Ridge Avenue Bridge Replacement with the Illinois Department of Transportation that reduces the City's share in the cost set forth in said Agreement from twenty percent to ten percent. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 201-9A-93: Resolution 92-R-93 - Lease for South Branch Library - Consideration of proposed Resolution 92-R-93, by which the City Council would authorize the City manager to enter into a lease for space occupied by the South Branch of the Public Library. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 202-9A-93: Resolution 93-R-93 - Lease of North Branch Library Space - Consideration of proposed Resolution 93-R-93, by which the City Council would authorize the City manager to enter into a lease with Cousins Travels & Tours, Inc., for space in the City -owned building that also houses the North Branch of the Public Library. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) September 13, 1993 v j `) * Docket 203-9A-93: Resolution 94-R-93 - Leases for Parkine Lots #38 and #47 - Consideration of proposed Resolution 94-R-93, by which the City Council would approve leases for Parking Lots #38 and #47 at the McGaw YMCA. ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 204-9A-93: Ordinance 99-0-93 - Dedication of Park Place Consideration of proposed Ordinance 99-0-93, by which the City Council would accept the Plat of Dedication of certain private lands for street purposes on Park Place northwest of Gross Point Road as indicated on the Plat of Dedication executed by the affected owners. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 205-9A-93: Ordinance 101-0-93 - Class O Liquor Licenses - Dominick's on Chicago Avenue - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 101-0- 93, by which the City Council would amend Section 3-5-6 of the Code of the City of Evanston to allow for the issuance of a Class O Liquor License to Dominick's Finer Foods at 525 Chicago Avenue. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 206-9A-93: Ordinance 102-0-93 - Class O Liauor License - Dominick's on Green Bav Road - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 102-0- 93, by which the City Council would amend Section 3-5-6 of the Code of the City of Evanston to allow for the issuance of a Class O Liquor License to Dominick's Finer Foods at 2748 Green Bay Road. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 207-9A-93: Ordinance 103-0-93 - Enerev Commission - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 103-0-93, by which the City Council would clarify the membership qualifications and the number of members on the Energy Commission. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA Aldermn Engelman moved to suspend the rules in order to adopt proposed Ordinance 103-0-93 the same night it was introduced. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carried. No nays. Aldermn Engelman moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 103-0-93, introduced this evening. Seconded by Al&rman Feldman. Roll call. Voting aye - Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Holsn=L Voting nay - none. Motion carried. (8-0) * Docket 208-9A-93: Ordinance 104-0-93 - 4-Wav Stoo/Loadine Zone - Simoson/Darrow - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 104-0-93, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-5, Schedule V, and Section 10-11-7, Schedule VII(B), of the Code of the City of Evanston to establish a 4-Way Stop at the intersection of Simpson Street and Darrow Avenue and a loading zone on Simpson Street west of Darrow Avenue. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Engelman moved to suspend the rules in order to adopt proposed Ordinance 104-0-93 the same night it was iritoduced. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carried. No nays. Alderman Engelman moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 104-0-93, introduced this evening. Roll call. Votingaye - Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman and Holsman. Voting nay - none. Motim.carried. (8-0) 8 September 13, 1993 * Docket 193-8B-93: Ordinance 92-0-93 - Class C Liauor License - TRIO Restaurant - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 92-0-93, introduced on August 23, 1993, by which the City Council would amend Section 3-5-6 of the Code of the City of Evanston to allow for the issuance of a Class C Liquor License to TRIO Restaurant, 1625 Hinman Avenue. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 194-8B-93: Ordinance 97-0-93 - Class B Liauor License - The Keg - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 97-0-93, introduced on August 23, 1993, by which the City Council would amend Section 3-5-6 of the Code of the City of Evanston to allow for the issuance of a Class B Liquor License to The Keg Restaurant, 810 Grove Street. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) * Docket 195-8B-93: Ordinance 98-0-93 - Expansion of Parking District #9 - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 98-0-93, introduced on August 23, 1993, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-18, Schedule XVIII(I), of the Code of the City of Evanston to expand Parking District #9 to include the 600 block of South Boulevard and the 600 block of Callan Avenue. ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE * Docket 209-9A-93: Ordinance 100-0-93 - Fair Housing Ordinance Amendment - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 100-0-93, by which the City Council would amend various sections of the Fair Housing Ordinance to comply with Department of Housing & Urban Development regulations and to qualify as a "substantially equivalent" governmental body, certified under the 1988 HUD amendments and eligible for Federal funds. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Feldman moved to suspend the rules in order to adopt proposed Ordinance 100-0-93 the same night it was introduced. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Motion carried. No nays. Alderman Feldman moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 100-0-93, introduced this evening. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Roll call. Voting aye - Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Holsman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried. (8-0) * Docket 210-9A-93: Township Monthlv Bills - Consideration of a recommendation that the City Council approve the Township bills, payroll, and medical payments in the amount of $126,394.88 for the month of August, 1993. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL. (8-0) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE * Docket 211-9A-93: Ordinance 64-0-93 - Zoning Board of Appeals 93-3-V(R) - Variation at 1813-19 Brown - Consideration of the Zoning Board of Appeals' recommendation that the City Council grant the application of Raymond Chou, as Trustee under the First National Bank of Niles Trust #888, for variations from the control over use and lot area regulations of the Zoning Ordinance to permit the separation of ownership of four lots and construction of a detached single-family dwelling on each of the lots on the property at 1813-1819 Brown Avenue. The property is zoned R3 Two -Family Residence District. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Engelman indicated that this docket item also would be discussed at the next Planning and Development Committee meeting the following Monday. Co September 13, 1993 t�_3 * Docket 212-9A-93: Ordinance 70-0-93 - Zonine Board of Anneals 93-0-V(R) 1111 Washington - Consideration of the Zoning Board of Appeals' recommendation that the City Council grant the application of Patrick C. McTague, Eugene M. McTague, and Madge H. McTague for variations from the use, lot area, and non -conforming structure regulations of the Zoning Ordinance to permit retention of a third dwelling unit on the property at I I I I Washington Street. The property is zoned R3 Two -Family Residence District. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 213-9A-93: Ordinance 83-0-93 - Disorderly Houses and Disturbing the Peace Restrictions - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 83-0-93, by which the City Council would amend Title 9, Chapter 5, of.the Code of the City of Evanston to provide flexibility for responding Police Officers and City legal staff to respond to neighbors' concerns over disorderly activities. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 214-9A-93: Ordinance 93-0-93 - Zonine Board of Anneals 93-11- SU(R) - 1571 Sherman - Consideration of the Zoning Board of Appeals' recommendation that the City Council grant the application of Al Belmonte, as authorized agent for Lawrence J. Starkman, beneficiary of the First Illinois Bank Trust #3279, and Danny Coval (Lessee) for a special use to permit establishment of a Type 2 Restaurant on the property at 1571 Sherman Avenue. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Kent moved to suspend the rules in order to adopt proposed Ordinance 93-0-93 the same evening it was introduced. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Motion carried. No nays. Alderman Kent moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 93-0-93. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Alderman Newman felt that it was important to give a reason why the rules were being suspended and said that the applicant had waited for a long time for this request to be considered since the Planning and Development Committee had not had a quorum to meet in the last several weeks. He moved to amend the ordinance to add a special condition that the applicant monitor and prevent the use of downtown parkins meters by emplovees while on duty. He said that one of the problems with downtown businesses was the feeding of parking meters by employees and since this was a special use, he did not feel it was unreasonable to request that of the applicant. He thanked the applicant for being cooperative on that issue. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Alderman New said that he wanted to encourage employees to use the parking garage and not feed the meters downtown. Motion carried. Roll call on the ordinance as amended: voting aye - Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Holsman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried. (8-0) OTHER COMMITTEES: * Docket 215-9A-93: Ordinance 105-0-93 - Commonwealth Edison Franchise Consideration of proposed Ordinance 105-0-93, by which the City Council would accept the report of the Commonwealth Edison Negotiating Team and adopt the Franchise Agreement. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA 1 1 3 � 10 September 13, 1993 REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES: ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC WORKS: Docket 185-8A-93: Ordinance 96-0-93 - Sales Tax Increase - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 96-0-93, introduced on August 9, 1993, by which the City Council would amend Sections 3-2-5(A) and 3-2-6(A) of the Code of the City of Evanston to increase the Sales Tax by one quarter percent. Alderman Engelman moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 96-0-93. Seconded by Alderman Heydemann. Alderman Engelman reported that there had been discussion on this ordinance among aldermen and the mayor to tie this increase into a reduction in property tax in the sum of $1 million. Other issues that are being looked at in addition to property tax reduction are funding of City services, truth in taxation and the commitment on the part of this City Council to prioritize all services being provided by the City and the Township of Evanston. He asked that this docket item be referred to a special meeting of the Administration and Public Works Committee next Monday night at 8:30 P.M. and moved that this ordinance be tabled until the next Council meetinP. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carried. No nays Docket 80-3B-93: Ordinance 39-0-93 - Definition of Lowest Bidder - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 39-0-93, introduced on March 22,. 1993, by which the City Council would amend Section 1-17-1 of the Code of the City of Evanston by defining lowest bidder for the purchase of goods and services. A copy of proposed Ordinance 39-0-93 and a descriptive memorandum were transmitted for the March 22, 1993 meeting. At the April 13, 1993 Council meeting, this matter was held over to the next meeting. At the April 26, 1993 meeting, this matter was tabled to the May 24, 1993 meeting. This matter remained tabled at the May 24, 1993 meeting. (Administration & Public Works Committee) (Committee Vote: 5 ayes - 1 nay) No Action HUMAN SERVICES COMMITTEE: Docket 179-7B-93: Ordinance 86-0-93 - Increasing Number of Members on the Recreation Board - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 86-0-93, introduced on July 26, 1993, by which the City Council would amend Section 7-9-2 of the Code of the City of Evanston to increase the number of members serving on the Playground & Recreation Board from five to nine. Alderman Feldman moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 86-0-93. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Alderman Heydemann said that she would like to speak against the ordinance because she felt that adopting it would be doing a disservice to the Recreation Board and the City of Evanston. She noted that the current members of the Recreation Board had appeared before the Human Services Committee and unanimously recommended that it remain at its present size and was distressed that Council appeared to be disregarding their recommendation. She noted that there had been no suggestions that the Board worked badly with only five members and felt that "if it's not broken, then don't fix it." She cautioned against turning boards and commissions into mini city councils, with members representing certain constituencies. Alderman Moran said that he had been a member and a former president of the Recreation Board and felt it functioned very well with five members. He explained that the Board is supported by several advisory boards and numerous volunteers. He did not feel that he had heard a persuasive argument that increasing the size of the Board would improve its functioning. He noted that while the trend seemed to be reducing the size of government, this ordinance seemed to be in opposition to that trend. He did not feel that there was a compelling need to expand it and urged the Council to vote against it. 1 1 e to ber 11 S p m 13, 1993 Aldermn Feldman said that the report of the Recreation Board to the Human Services Committee had not included a statement that they were opposed to expanding the size of the Board, just that they saw no reason to increase the membeaa}tip - which he felt was a distinction. They had also said that if Council chose to increase the size of the Board,41ey would work diligently to integrate the new members into the Board. He also saw nothing wrong in the way theRoard functioned, but could see no good reason not to expand it to nine members, which would allow more peoplet>tsparticipate in its work. He felt it was an opportunity to broaden representation. Alderman. Guthrie said that if Dan Phillips, a charter member of the Recreation Board, had not had to leave this meetingfbr an appointment, he would have spoken in favor of keeping its membership at five. However, she said that shewas in favor of enlarging the Board membership and noted that it was one of the boards with the smallest memb=Wp, yet it controls nearly 10 % of the City budget and serves a sizable population. She felt that enlarging it wotMprovide incentives for increasing the minority membership on the Board. She said that past boards had done asexcellent job of providing programs and overseeing recreation, but now that state law allows the City to make Aiii change, it is in the best interests of the City to do so. Aldermen Newman was pleased that this ordinance had finally gotten to the floor of the Council for discussion. He saiflthat he had begun his efforts to increase size of the Recreation Board over two years ago because of his inabili;yto get someone appointed to the Board, whom he felt would be an outstanding member. He noted that since &-.Board was only five members and the terms were five years, there wasn't any opportunity to have him appoidbl. While some Council members feel that there may be no compelling reason to change, sometimes it is necessayr to change if there is a positive reason. He reported that he had found out that there were never two Black membas serving on the Board at the same time and he felt that was reason enough for a change. He said that Evansbn is large enough that people don't always know what is going on in other neighborhoods. By expanding the membership of the Board, it will expand the geographic representation and add diversity, which are all positive reasonsW do it. He said that he always supports expanding opportunities for citizens to participate. He agreed that thereiiesprobably nothing wrong with the board as presently constituted, but felt that it would be better with an expanikd membership. He related his experience on the nine -member Housing Commission and reported that it functkwd well. He felt that a bigger commission brought a broader range of experience and fostered greater creati*. He wondered why people objected to having more people serve when there was a $4 million budget invol-mad. He rejected the idea that additional people cannot help and noted that there is not one Council member who = look at the list of parks and know where they all are. He felt that to add people from all over the City was alssitive and urged the Council to vote for expansion of the Board membership. Alderman Heydemann pointed out that if Dan Phillips and Janet Webb both served on the Recreation Board, then more`$ian one African -American had served on the board. She said that there are two separate kinds of solutions you ca. use to achieve the representation you want and one has to do with the kinds of appointments every mayor makes, She had every confidence that Mayor Morton would make the best possible appointments. Her objection to thei increase in membership is that to expand the board is denigrating to the recommendation current members, who sid they could think of no reason to enlarge it. She thought that it was to their credit that they said they would workwiith any number that the Council votes, but felt that it appropriate to respect their suggestion that the present size :fthe Board is the best size for dealing with the recreation situation in Evanston now. Ald—n Holsman announced that he would be voting in favor of expanding the membership of the Recreation Boarifor all the reasons articulated by Aldermen Newman, Guthrie and Feldman. He said that he had heard nothing that he felt was a compelling argument against expanding it. Aldeman Kent agreed with Alderman Holsman and said he felt it would benefit the City to have an expanded Recnadon Board membership. He thought that one problem with the current Board was representation and wanted to has: as many sections of the City represented as possible. He pointed out that the programs at Robert Crown, Fleetwood-Jourdain and Chandler were all different and served the needs of those who used them. He felt strongly that mcreation was a good way to keep kids off the street and hoped that an expanded Board would come up with momereative programs on how to do that. He noted that Evanston has a growing Hispanic population and said that& City needs to reach out to those children and address their recreation needs. He said that he would support expanding the Board membership. Alderman Newman called for the Question. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Motion carried. 3S 12 September 13, 1993 Mayor Morton said she wished to make people aware that the members of the Board are appointed for five years and are permitted by Council rules to serve two terms if they wish. She asked the Council whether it wanted all these new members to be appointed at the same time, or whether they should be appointed in incremental numbers. She asked the Council to think about this. She also noted that when a board or commission term expires, Council Rules say that a member should be asked to continue for a second term, if they so desire. If they choose, they could serve ten years on the Recreation Board. Alderman Engelman said that he had voted in favor of the motion to call the question, so was entitled to ask for reconsideration and so moved. He felt that the question of how the appointments are made needed to be addressed before voting on the ordinance. City Clerk Davis said she thought the length of term for initial appointments was covered in State Statute. Mayor Morton said that she did not have that information. Alderman Guthrie seconded Alderman Engelman's motion. Mayor Morton asked Corporation Counsel for a ruling on the motion to reconsider. First Assistant Corporation Counsel Hill read Council Rule 22.1 which indicated that a motion like Alderman Engelman's could only be reconsidered at the next meeting. Alderman Engelman withdrew his motion. Roll call on Ordinance 86-0-93. Voting aye - Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Kent, Engelman, Holsman. Voting nay - Heydemann and Moran. Motion carried. 6-2) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: All action taken on Consent Agenda items REPORT OF THE SPECIAL COMMITTEES: Alderman Feldman stated that the Commonwealth Edison Franchise Agreement had been introduced on the Consent Agenda and noted that amendments had been made to two sections. He moved to amend Page 33, Paragraph 10-1 - Term, to read: "The Franchise granted by this ordinance shall last for a term of fifty (50) years from March 5, 1999, except that at the sole option of the City, it may be terminated at the end of thirty-fifth (35th) year thereafter, provided that the City notify Edison in writing of its intent to terminate in the first three months of the thirty-fifth year;" and Paragraph 10-3 - Effective Date, to read: "This ordinance shall be in full force and effect on March 5, 1999, unless the City Council by ordinance (delete 'or resolution') terminates the authorization herein granted ..." Alderman Engelman seconded the amendments for the numose of amendine the ordinance for introduction onlv. Motion carried. No nays. CITY MANAGER'S REPORT: - NO REPORT APPOINTMENTS: Mayor Morton introduced the names of the following nominees to serve on the Energy Commission: David L. Grumman, 1332 Forest Ave., for term ending October 1, 1997; James M. Piepmeier, 2780 Sheridan Rd., for term ending October 1, 1997; Marc Rolfes, 3227 Park Place, for term ending October 1, 1997; Roy Warmington, 822 Simpson, for term ending October 1, 1995; Alderman Feldman moved that the rules be suspended in order to vote to confirm the above appointments. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Motion carried. Alderman Feldman moved Council confirmation of the nominees to the Energy Commission. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Motion carried. No nays. 13 September 13, 1993 �� 6 Mayorllforton asked for Council confirmation of the following names: Murdell Winston, 2828 Lincoln Street, for appointment to the Arts Council, for term ending September 15, 1996; Paul D. Fields, 1005 Hinman Avenue, for appointment to the Civil Service Commission, for term ending September 15, 1996; Michael de Vaul, 2009 Washington Street, for appointment to the Housing and Community Development Act Committee, for term ending September 15, 1996; AldernnsEngelman moved Council confirmation of these appointments. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carriedf No nays. MayorNorton introduced the following names for appointment to: Preservation Commission Deborah Warner Sign Review and Appeals Board Barry M. Greenberg PROCUMATIONS: MayorNorton announced that she had issued the following proclamations for: "Friendship Weekend in Evanston" - September 17-19, 1993 "Stay in School Month" - October, 1993 CALLOF THE WARDS: MayorMorton welcomed Alderman Kent back to the Council as a married man. Alderman Guthrie announced that the Evanston Developmental Preschool, located on Lake Street just east of Penny Park, iad changed its name to the Warren Cherry Preschool and had unveiled a portrait of Mr. Cherry in a cerenny the day before. Mr. Cherry is a former principal of Lincoln School. She reported that it had been attenda'by the Cherry family and over 125 people of all ages and was a delightful ceremony. Alderamt Heydemann reported that this had been the most orderly opening of the high school since she had been there. Everyone seemed happy and enthusiastic and ready to work. She noted that she also had been at the renaniag ceremony yesterday and was struck by how it demonstrated that life is much better and more pleasant when4ifferent groups work together for common goals. She felt that the number of communities and individuals comni ed to that seemed to be shrinking, so was pleased to see that Evanston was holding fast to that belief. Aldeman Kent said that he was pleased to be back to the Council and reported that the first month of married life had lien great. He canplimented the police department for their hard work, especially in the Dodge area around Emerson, Church and Itmm. He said that they had been working closely with the block club in that area. He said he would have someiiiformation on that for the Council in the near future. Aldeman Kent announced that Fourth and Fifth Grade Flag Football will begin this week at Robert Crown and invitefevery one to the games. Aldeman Moran congratulated his colleague, Alderman Kent, on his marriage and said that he had been pleased to has attended the wedding, which was a joyous and wonderful occasion. Aldeman Engelman called Council's attention to the revised proposal from the Home Depot Company with regard to Wkt incentives they are asking the City to grant to bring them to Evanston and redevelop the Rust-Oleum site. He uged his colleagues to review the revised proposal because it substantially changes the structure of what they wemmldng for. He said that it provides for no capturing of the property tax, which means that all taxing bodies ,z31 14 September 13, 1993 in the City will be receiving those taxes from day one of the increased increment in property taxes. It also extends out the payment of whatever sums ultimately may be given if the City goes through with the project and that means that the City will be receiving a greater benefit from day one of the sales tax revenue. He said that the proposal would be reviewed at the September 22 Economic Development Committee meeting. Alderman Engleman noted that the amendments to the Fair Housing Ordinance had been passed tonight that brought the City into substantial equivalency with federal statutes and he was glad that had been accomplished finally. He said "that by adopting those amendments the City reaffirms its commitment to integrated housing and noted that the community has long had a commitment to integrated education. Now that school started again, he was surprised to find all his children in the same schools as before (except those who went on). He made reference to the upheaval and travail caused by the District 65 School Board wrestling with issues of integrated and quality education at the same time. He noted that some people have talked about moving out of Evanston and some people have suffered through the consequences of having attendance districts change.. He felt it was time that Council made an attempt to try to help alleviate those problems by making a commitment not only to integrated housing, but to promoting integrated housing. He made a reference to the Human Relations Commission develop a program to encouraee integrated housine patterns within the community. He suggested that a resource center for information where housing is available, may be a component of that program, such as they do in Oak Park. He speculated that they might also want to consider a deferral or waiver of real estate property taxes. He asked that the commission coordinate with and bring in the Housing Commission and the City -School Liaison Committee in addressing this issue. Seconded by Alderman Kent. Alderman Newman questioned whether the Human Relations Commission was the appropriate committee to deal with this reference. Alderman Engelman said it did not matter to him where this reference went as long as it was dealt with and said he would be happy to amend his reference to make it a joint reference to the Housing Commission and the Human Relations Commission. Motion carried. No nays. In conclusion, Alderman Engelman wished everyone a Happy New Year. Alderman Holsman reported that the week before he had been involved with helping to paint the mural at Clyde- Brummel Park. He found the children to be very enthusiastic about it and a proud of it. He renewed his invitation for everyone to go and see it. He noted that residents of the Eighth Ward were concerned with housing stock and quality housing stock. He made a reference to the Plannine and Development Committee to investieate the programs currently under way in Oak Park and Mattson. IL to enhance orooertv standards in those communities. He said that every time an apartment is rented in those communities, the city comes out to inspect it and the landlord is charged a $25 fee. Because of that program the buildings are in very good shape. He felt that the residents of Evanston deserved high quality housing and felt these programs would help to ensure that. Alderman Feldman encouraged the mayor and aldermen to attend the neighborhood meeting on Home Depot on Tuesday, September 14. He said that a large turnout was expected and felt it was important for as many elected officials as possible to be there. Alderman Newman said that he was pleased that the expansion of the Recreation Board had finally passed and thanked those aldermen who had supported it. He noted that he had been working for two years to accomplish that. He thanked Acting Chief Kaminski for the excellent job that the Police Department had done over the summer and asked whether there was some way to get a story in the Chicaeo Tribune about our significant reduction in robberies to counter the story about a rise in robberies in that paper this past spring. Alderman Newman welcomed back thousands of his constituents who were returning to Northwestern. Alderman Newman said that he wanted to the public know that the Illinois Supreme Court had reached a decision on the Arlington Heights case that related to Commonwealth Edison and that is available from the City Managers office. He commented that the word "TIF" was almost becoming a dirty work in the City of Evanston. He said that he had voted for all but one since he had been on the Council and wanted the public to know that it was an appropriate economic development tool. He felt that it is how you use the tool that is important and felt that blanket opposition to use of that tool was not good for the City. He noted that the old Rust-Oleum property has extreme environmental problems and that the 18-20 acre site had been on the market for over five years. It is in the interest of a City that has very high taxes to do whatever it can to make sure that all of its income -producing property is on the tax rolls. He thought that, in terms of trying to understand the Home Depot project, the community has to try to get a handle on why that property hasn't been developed. He understood that the serious environmental problems had "scared off" fourteen interested developers over the last five years. He felt it was necessary to deal with that problem and 1 15 Se tember 13 1993 2� p U not to dismiss any opportunity that tried to deal with that problem. He said that based on his experience at a recent block party, when people have the opportunity to get some information on the Home Depot proposal and their potential alternative sites outside Evanston, they develop a significant interest in the project. He felt that it was important for the Council to get the truth out to the community and to make the decision up or down. He encouraged the aldermen to- get the facts out to the community. He noted that Evanston lost another economic development project to another suburb a number of years ago and it almost destroyed our downtown. The name of that project is Old Orchard Shopping Center and it is located in Skokie. He noted that businessmen in this City are not just threatened by companies located in Evanston, but those located in adjacent areas as well. Mayor Morton asked any alderman who was interested in having a presentation on any phase of the City's operation to let her know and it would be scheduled. She reported that she had requested that the City's lobbyist, Larry Suffredin, give a presentation to the Council. She believed that he would be available to do that in November. Alderman Engelman moved that Council recess into CLOSED SESSION to consider pending litigation and land acquisition matters. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Roll call - voting aye, Feldman, Newman, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Holsman. Motion carried: (8-0) The Council so recessed at 10:27 P.M. and adjourned from CLOSED SESSION at 10:55 P.M. KIRSTEN F. DAVIS CITY CLERK u I� 1