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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMINUTES-1994-07-25-199419 7 u ITY COUNCEL July 25, 1994 Standing committees meet prior to the official regular meeting. Current members are as follows: Administration and Public Works Alderman Newman Alderman Heydemann Alderman Engelman Alderman Drummer Alderman Kent Alderman Holsman Alderman Guthrie Alderman Moran Alderman Feldman Planning and Develonment Alderman Newman Alderman Engelman Alderman Heydemann Alderman Kent Human Services Alderman Guthrie Alderman Holsman Alderman Feldman Alderman Moran Alderman Drummer The OFFICIAL REGULAR MEETING of the City Council was called to order on Monday, July 25, 1994, at 8:37 P.M. in the City Council Chamber. ROLL CALL - PRESENT: Alderman Drummer Alderman Guthrie Alderman Heydemann Alderman Kent A Quorum being present. ABSENT: None TARDY: None PRESIDING: Mayor Lorraine H. Morton Alderman Moran Alderman Engelman Alderman Holsman Alderman Feldman Alderman Newman A video tape recording of this meeting has been made part of the permanent record and is available in the City Clerk's office. I 1 2 July 25, 1994 !EL5ENTATION State Representative Jeffrey Schoenberg informed the Council that a bill, SB 1369, recently adopted by the General Assembly and awaiting the governor's signature, contains many provisions that could potentially benefit Evanston. The bill creates the Illinois Research Park Authority which would insure revenue bonds to finance construction of buildings and infrastructure for designated university -related research parks in Illinois. The bonds would only be available to universities with proven track records in research and development and which have received federal support for research. The bond proceeds would be lent these designated research parks to develop facilities for tenancy by technology -based private companies, which would work closely with the universities in the commercialization of technology. The result of this collaboration would be the creation and support of fast growing technology -based companies, which would increase tax revenues and jobs in Illinois. Representative Schoenberg pointed out that studies have shown that each high-technology job creates a spin-off of three additional jobs. The Authority is empowered to issue up to $100 million in general obligation bonds a year. In order to utilize these bonds, a local community has to provide assurance that it does not object to this proposed financing. This would allow the local community to have some checks and balances, such as with the Illinois Housing Development Authority, the Illinois Finance Authority and the Southwest Illinois Development Authority. It is an opportunity for the state to support the creation of high technology jobs that are in the works and would benefit not only Evanston, but also other Illinois communities. He noted that the City's lobbyist, Larry Suffredin, was immeasurably helpful in articulating the merits of this bill, which was one of the Iasi considered in the recent session. He thanked Ron Kysiak, Executive Director of Evanston Inventure, for his invaluable research on the activity is taking place in other research parks around the country. He also thanked State Senator Arthur Berman for work he did shepherding this bill through the State Senate and making sure it had bipartisan support. Mayor Morton thanked Representative Schoenberg for all the work he did on this bill. Alderman Drummer also thanked Representative Schoenberg for his efforts, as well as all those who helped see the bill through the Legislature. He noted that this bill creates enormous potential for Evanston, the Research Park and for the creation of jobs. This will enable the Research Park to be expanded as originally envisioned. Alderman Drummer moved that the Citv nrenare a resolution that encouraees the eovernor to si!p.,n this bill. which the mavor could vresent to the eovernor and lobbv him to sien the bill. Seconded by Alderman Guthrie. Motion carried. No nays. Representative Schoenberg noted that Evanston's elected and contractual representatives did much of the "heavy lifting" on this bill and had a lot to do with the bill getting through the General Assembly. In response to several questions from Mayor Morton, he explained that after consultation with the governor's office and his bond counsel, the amount of bonds that could be offered was changed from $300 million to $150 million in the initial year. Other changes were made, such as making the bonds taxable. It was put on the governor's desk in a form that would make it most likely that he would sign it. He promised to keep the Council informed if the governor makes use of his amendatory veto power. He did not know what time -line the governor would be on to appoint members of the Authority once he signs the bill - which he expected would still be several weeks away. CITIZEN COMMENT: Carlis Sutton. 1819 Darrow Avenue, spoke against the Habitat for Humanity proposal to build homes on four lots in Evanston, saying that the proposal needed further research and review. He questioned the proximity of the sites and expressed concern about the impact on the surrounding neighborhood. He noted that one site, which has been used as a garden by neighbors, is only twenty-five feet wide, and is not a buildable lot under the Evanston Zoning Ordinance. He felt that the four new houses would create too much congestion in the area. Jim Stavish, 8050 Monticello, Skokie, Executive Director of the Niles Township Sheltered Workshop, reiterated NTSW's position on the 1830 Ridge project and restated their perceived need for the project. Helen Haar. 1024 Austin Avenue, said that her late husband was the Executive Director of NTSW for eighteen years and that an independent living facility for seniors had long been a dream of his. She said that he felt the need July 25, 1994 1 for this project and worked very hard to make it a reality. She said that his family would be very proud to have it bear his name. She noted that the people targeted to occupy this building would be good neighbors and said that a facility such as this would be welcome in her neighborhood. Florin Nicholson, 440 Custer Avenue, said that there is a great need for a facility for such as that proposed for 1830 Ridge Avenue. She questioned whether low-income citizens could afford the Mather Home, the Georgian, the King Home or the Presbyterian Home. She said that those places are very expensive and that there is a limit to how many people could be subsidized by foundation money. She said that there is a need in Evanston for housing for low and moderate income seniors to rent and to buy. Michael Ward. 1110 Emerson Street, owner of Ward Manufacturing Company detailed the history of company in Evanston. He noted that he is required to move out of the Research Park and also has a need to expand. He said that he would like to stay in Evanston and has worked with Assistant City Manager Aiello over the last several years to identify an Evanston site where he could relocate. He explained that the site now identified has certain problems with unstable soil that will have to be remediated before he can build his new plant. It will cost him nearly $300,000 in additional costs to locate there. He asked the Council to approve the proposal currently before them, and to make their decision quickly, so he can get on with his relocation plans. He explained that the delay is costing him money because clients are not sure of what his capacity to fulfill their orders will be, so they hesitate to give him their business. He noted that he has already spent $40,000 on preliminary work on that site. Alderman Drummer moved to extend the time allotted to Citizen Comment. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carried. No nays. Marion Viner, 522 Church Street, expressed concern that the revised site plan for the Buck project would permit a liquor store or a bar. She suggested that such uses might mean the need for additional police patrols and have an adverse effect on property values. She noted that residents of her building already have problems with noise and rowdiness from an all-night coffee house on Chicago Avenue and are afraid that a bar or liquor store would further erode their quality of life. She asked Council to prohibit such establishments when they approve the project. Sarah R. Winston. Secretary of the Condominium Association at 522 Church, said that the building does not object to the relocation of the Buck Project tower and the reconfiguration of the lot, but expressed concern with having an open parking garage. She noted that residents of her building had many problems with lights and automobile headlights in the Evanston Place garage when it was first built. She said that the association understood that louvers or other methods to shield neighbors from the lights in the Buck garage had been proposed and urged Council to support that design change. She also urged the developer to put as much greenery and landscaping on the Chicago Avenue side of the property as possible to make up for the loss of the little park that was on the corner of the Washington National property. She felt that trees were what made Evanston unique and a pleasant place to be. Roder Parris. Co -Chair of the Steering Committee for Habitat for Humanity, urged Council to approve the proposed sale of four lots in Evanston to Habitat for Humanity to build homes for people in need of affordable housing. Dovie Horvitz, Coordinator of the Evanston Habitat for Humanity project, said that about a year and a half ago Habitat for Humanity responded to a Request for Proposal to develop affordable housing in Evanston. She explained that the houses would go to first-time Evanston buyers. Habitat develops housing for working people who would like to own a home, but could never get a conventional mortgage. These are interest -free mortgages that also require considerable sweat equity. She explained that Habitat carefully screens applicants and makes sure that the owners want to be involved in the community. She also noted that homeowners help lend stability to an area. Habitat works with a community to improve it. CONSENT AGENDA: (Any Docket Item Marked with an Asterisk*) Alderman Drummer moved Council approval of the Consent Agenda with the following exceptions: Docket 150-7A- 94: Ordinance 70-0-94 - Sale of 2230 Main Street and Docket 162-7B-94: Memorandum of Understanding - 1816 4 July 25,1994 Darrow, 1928 Foster, 1616 Darrow and 1816 Dodge. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Roll call. Voting aye - Drummer, Guthrie, Heydemann, Kent, Moran, Engelman, Holsman, Feldman, Newman. Voting nay - none. Motion carried (9-0) City Clerk Davis called the Council's attention to the letter from the president of the North Shore Board of Realtors requesting that Council consider amending the Landlord Tenant Ordinance relative to interest on Security Deposits. Alderman Engelman referred the letter to the Planning and Development Committee. CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS NIINM& * Approval of Minutes of the Council Meeting of July 11, 1994. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) ADN [NISTRATION AND PUBLIC WORKS COAEMT E: BILLS AND PAYROLL * Approval, as recommended, of City of Evanston bills for the period ending July 26, 1994; for City of Evanston payroll for the period ending July 10, 1994; and that they be authorized and charged to the proper accounts, summarized as follows: City of Evanston bills $3,390,007.10 City of Evanston payroll $1,392,403.38 * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) PURCHASES: * Approval of the low bid from Atlas Bobcat for a Skid Loader for the Recycling Center at a cost of $15,579. BID SUMMARY: Bidder Atlas Bobcat, Inc. Schiller Park, II, Total Cost $15,579.00 Mini Equipment 18,793.00 Pontiac, II, * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Docket 154-7B-94: Snecial Event Permit - Tabernacle Church Picnic - Consideration of a request from the Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church for permission to close 1800 Brown Avenue on Saturday, August 6, 1994, for a Church Picnic. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-01 * Docket 155-7B-94: Resolution 51-R-94 - Reserved Parkin¢ for Disabled - 1862 Sherman Avenue - Consideration of proposed Resolution 51-R-92, by which the City Council would authorize the designation of a reserved parking space for the disabled at 1862 Sherman Avenue. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) 5 July 25, 1994 11 * Docket 156-7B-94: Resolution 52-R-94 - Fire Department Lease of 1335 Dodge Avenue - Consideration of proposed Resolution 52-R-94, by which the City Council would authorize the City Manager to enter into a lease of office space at 1335 Dodge Avenue for use by the Fire Department. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Docket 157-7B-94: Ordinance 74-0-94 - Loading Zone - Chandler/Newberger Center - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 74-0-94, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-7, Schedule VII(B), of the Code of the City of Evanston to establish a Loading Zone on Lincoln Street at the Chandler - Newberger Center. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 158-7B-94: Ordinance 75-0-94 - Two-Wav Stop - NovesBennett - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 75-0-94, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-5, Schedule V(B), of the Code of the City of Evanston to establish a Two -Way Stop at the intersection of Noyes Street and Bennett Avenue. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 159-7B-94 - Ordinance 76-0-94 - Expansion of Residents Onlv Parkimy, District #7 - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 76-0-94, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-18, Schedule XVIII, of the Code of the City of Evanston, to add portions of Central Street, Stewart Avenue, Pioneer Road, and Harrison Street to Residents Only Parking District V. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA * Docket 147-7A-94: Ordinance 64-0-94 - Reduction in Number of Class L Liquor Licenses - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 64-0-94, introduced on July 11, 1994, by which the City Council would amend Chapter 3-5-6 of the Code of the City of Evanston to reduce the number of Class L Liquor Licenses in effect by one due to the relocation of the Northlight Theatre. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) * Docket 149-7A-94: Ordinance 69-0-94 - Truck Traffic on Jenks Street - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 69-0-94, introduced on July 11, 1994, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-13, Schedule XVIII, to prohibit truck traffic on Jenks Street between Stewart Avenue and the alley east of Prairie Avenue. * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) Docket 150-7A-94: Ordinance 70-0-94 - Sale of 2230 Main Street - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 70-0-94, introduced on July 11, 1994, by which the City Council would authorize the sale of 2230 Main Street to Ward Manufacturing Co. for a new facility. (A two-thirds majority vote is necessary for the adoption of this Ordinance.) Alderman Guthrie moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 70-0-94. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Alderman Drummer urged Council to adopt the ordinance because Mr. Ward is being forced to relocate by the City and this is an economic development question. He noted that the City had given subsidies to other economic development projects such as the Buck Project, Home Depot, Sam's and Target. He said that the City is happy to see those developers coming to town because they are going to create jobs and we are happy to assist them. Here we're dealing with one of our own. He suggested that this is not just dealing with Ward Manufacturing, but the whole range and base of industrial properties and Council should consider the type of message it is sending. He pointed out that Mr. Ward has chosen to stay in Evanston, even though he probably could relocate elsewhere for July 25, 1994 less. This is an opportunity to retain and expand the City's industrial base and the number of jobs. If we project out about 25 well -paying jobs for Evanstonians over ten years, then the $111,000 doesn't seem like much of a subsidy. If we do not support this, we must be concerned about the message we are sending to the industrial community. This is an opportunity we shouldn't turn our backs on. We should embrace this company and give them what they need for the sake of the children we all talk about and secure the future for them. Alderman Feldman did not believe that any position Council takes, short of forgiving the $111,000 charge for property, is a message to anyone that it is not interested in cooperation or encouragement of economic development or our industrial base. He noted that Council has approved subsidies for all the economic development projects mentioned by Alderman Drummer, but said that each project has provisions for repayment of those subsidies. He said that he would like to treat Ward Manufacturing in much the same way. He noted that the company is going to receive a very generous relocation package because the City is asking them to move. He said that the whole question of relocation should be separated from having them stay. He moved a substitute motion to loan the monev to vav for the DroDertv. S111.000. interest free. to Ward Manufacturine to be Daid back annuallv over a ten veer period and which will be Dlaced in the Economic Development Fund to be used exclusivelv for iob trainine for the tvm of iobs created by a Ward Manufacturine. Seconded by Alderman Newman. He said that he did not believe that it would be an onerous burden to pay back a small amount each year and the money would be used to train people for the type of good -paying technical jobs we would like to have in the City. He said that he would like Evanston residents to be qualified to apply for the new jobs that will be created by the expansion of Ward Manufacturing. He did not believe that this would be a deal -breaker and expressed strong reservations about just handing out $111,000. He felt that offering to sell the property to Ward for $3.00 per foot was already a subsidy and felt that it was enough. Alderman Drummer expressed his opposition to the motion because he felt that the provisions for the payback did not ring true to him as a businessman. He said that once you spend the money, you don't get it back - there is no provision for a payback. He felt that if you loan someone some money, you couldn't attach too many strings to it. However, if Council is serious about the jobs, and the gives Mr. Ward the land, it can demand that the new jobs he will create go to Evanstonians. And if in five to ten years, he does not live up to that, then the payback kicks in. He speculated that the value of the land would not increase a great deal over the next several years because of its strange configuration. People think they have gold here when all they have is a brick. It isn't worth that much, we have a taker, so encourage him take it and put in the clause that requires that he hire Evanstonians and if he doesn't then the payback kicks in. He said this would be the only amendment he could support. Alderman Heydemann thought that to tie the loan to the City providing job training would be very ill-advised. She noted that the high school is in the second year of a thorough investigation of vocational training and is committed to changing that training. She suggested that it should not be in competition with the high school nor develop a new bureaucracy to provide that training. She felt this was an issue that should be debated on its own merits. In response to several questions from Alderman Newman, Acting Manager Aiello clarified that Ward Manufacturing currently employs 2 or 3 Evanstonians. She also clarified that soil conditions that make this property difficult to develop are not environmental conditions which are determined during an appraisal, but clean soil that is bad fill which would not support a manufacturing structure. Before a building can be built that soil has to be replaced. When the City purchased it after the Tax Increment Financing District was created in 1990, there was no expectation that the City would ever realize its purchase price, because there was no potential buyer at the time. Alderman Newman urged Council to support Alderman Feldman's substitute motion because that motion still offers a subsidy to Mr. Ward because it would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to borrow that money at current interest rates. He felt Mr. Ward was already receiving enough City money, since he was getting $490,000 for his property on Emerson and an additional $190,000 in relocation costs, which he felt was a very generous package for an company which only employs twenty-seven people. He suggested that the not all businesses that had to relocate were treated the same by the City. He said that it was his preference for Ward to stay where it is and expand there. He was concerned that the land will he vacant, or perhaps be a parking lot for many years. He did not believe that the City has a relocation policy and felt that left the door open for every business in the City to ask for economic assistance or threaten to leave. Even though the company is not an economic boom for the City, he wants them to stay and will support Alderman Feldman's motion. He felt that the other parts of the benefit package were sufficient. 7 July 25, 1994 Alderman Engelman said that sometimes you have to address things as they come up and look at each individual case and noted that to be located in Evanston costs manufacturers more. The City wants them here because they provide diversity in the tax base. To link the relocation package to selling Ward the land for $1.00 obscures the point. He pointed out that Mr. Ward is getting no more nor less than any other property owner, based upon the relocation policies of the City. The issue is: should we as a City sell this land to this man for $1.00. He believed that the answer is 'yes' because it provides an incentive for this manufacturing company to stay in Evanston. He explained that if this does not happen, Ward will leave. This manufacturer needs to expand and he can't expand where he is, so he must move. The City has been working with him for seven years to get him to stay. He was supposed to be the anchor in an industrial park in the area in which he wishes to locate, but plans where changed when Sam's Warehouse expressed an interest in the land. He noted that we paid $3 per square foot for land that was contiguous to a great deal of vacant land, but now all that is left is a 600' by 60' parcel that is not as amenable to development as when we bought it. Because of what the City is asking him to do and because the City put Sam's Warehouse where it is, the only parcel left for him to locate to in this community is, a parcel that will cost him nearly $300,000 more than anticipated to deal with geo-technical construction issues. He isn't asking the City to pay for the remediation of the land as it did with Home Depot, only that it sells him the land for $1.00. He is also putting in a roadway to service this property at additional cost. If Council does not pass this, it will be a long time before the City fords anyone else willing to build on this property and get it on the tax rolls. He thought that Council needs to send a message to the manufacturers of this community that it wants them here, are willing to address their concerns and are willing to work with them. He did not believe that the City should just give away money, but should negotiate and see what benefits a business can provide to the community. He said that Ward Manufacturing has been in Evanston since 1953 and he was willing to bet that they would be willing to make best efforts to hire Evanstonians when they expand. He emphasized that Council wants to create jobs here so people can grow up, become educated and work in this community. He urged that this motion be defeated and the original motion adopted. Alderman Holsman agreed with much of Alderman Engelman said, except he disagreed on the dollar amount. He estimated that interest on a $111,000 loan would be $213,000 over 30 years at 9 %. He urged Council to support Alderman Feldman's substitute motion. Alderman Feldman questioned whether implicit in his motion was a mandate to create another bureaucracy. He noted that the Economic Development Fund already has money for training, which the City pays to those agencies which provide that service. He felt that his proposal would fill in well with anything that the high school could create. He understood that Ward has mitigating circumstances with that property and that, except for that, would have moved to give them nothing. He speculated what Council should do with ultimatums and what would happen if the community found out that all you have to do is threaten to leave and you will get some money from the City. He did not believe that an interest -free loan would be a message to the industrial community that Council is not willing to cooperate or not interested in retaining them. He doubted that giving Ward Manufacturing an interest - free loan would bring on the apocalypse and expressed his interest in having them stay. He said that the City cannot give everything everyone asks and felt that the community had demonstrated its interest in retaining Ward by its efforts over the last seven years. He felt the City was being held hostage by its own dereliction. He said that the City needs to have a policy and criteria that are flexible that people have to work within if they want City help. Alderman Heydemann pointed out that in 1992, Mr. Ward paid $31,341 in taxes on his current property and the City will realize double that amount on the new property if he stays here. The $111,000 will be paid back in less than three years in property taxes, if he stays here, and it requires the City only to make that property available to him. He has to vacate the Emerson Street property and if he does not relocate to Main Street, the City will be out those tax dollars. She said that Council should believe Mr. Ward when he says that he has to take that piece of property or leave Evanston. It is not an ultimatum, it is an economic choice and he has demonstrated his good will by putting his plans on hold and has farmed out some of his work until his relocation within Evanston could be settled. He did not want to move, he wanted to expand where he was. He has been at an economic disadvantage for several years. The City has a piece of property with geo-technical soil problems that will have to be remediated, no matter who wants to build there. If his factory goes up, the property taxes will come in rain or shine and Council will have done something for Evanston for a long time. She noted that the amount of relocation money was recommended 8 July 25, 1994 by our consultant, who is well respected in the field, and is not an arbitrary award. The relocation package will be paid to him whether he stays in Evanston or not. What Council has to decide is whether it wants taxes coming in on a piece of property that is very strangely shaped or is it going to say that $111,00 is too high a price tag. Alderman Guthrie suggested that you don't call someone's bluff unless you know you are holding better cards and reminded Council how Crost Furniture took their relocation settlement and moved out of town. She recalled that Council was severely criticized for not working harder to retain them. She said that retaining Ward Manufacturing helps maintain some of our diversity. She pointed out that the aldermen are negotiating something among themselves that directly affects Mr. Ward and yet he has essentially no voice in this. She urged Council to defeat this motion and kick it back to the negotiating table, so Mr. Ward can have some input. She questioned why Council could vote large subsidies to attract large outside corporations and not be willing to give what amounts to a pittance to one of Evanston's own. We should be working hard to keep Ward here and not be sending him a message that we don't care. Alderman Newman moved to table this matter so it can be renegotiated. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Alderman Newman withdrew his motion to allow Alderman Kent to have the floor. Alderman Kent said that he did not have a problem with the $111,000, but was concerned what message it was sending to manufacturers and the message being sent to minority community. He was also concerned about the message that the manufacturers were sending to the minority community when, of the twenty-seven Ward employees, thirteen are Hispanic and only two are African -American. He expressed his support for Alderman Feldman's motion because needs and desires of residents of those wards where there is a large minority population have been ignored - and this has to change. The City is going to have to send a message to the unskilled and uneducated people that there is some chance that they can begin to be a functioning part of this City. He said that no one wants all the problems created by unemployment and again questioned what message was being sent to the African -American community by the manufacturers. He made reference to the 1990 census, which lists 16,334 African -Americans in Evanston and said that he has to think about the people he represents. He indicated that he did not want support Alderman Feldman's motion if there was something better. You really have to look at the message businesses are sending to the community. Alderman Newman moved to hold this docket item over until the August 8 meeting. Seconded by Alderman Guthrie. At the reauest of two alderman this docket item will be held until the next meeting. Alderman Newman clarified that he was holding the item so further negotiations could take place with Mr. Ward. * Docket 151-7A-94: Ordinance 71-0-94 - Overnight Parking on Howard- Ridge/Chicago - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 71-0-94, introduced on July 11, 1994, by which the City Council would amend Section 10-11-9, Schedule IX, to change the overnight parking restriction on Howard Street between Ridge and Chicago Avenues from "NO PARKING 2 AM - 6 AM" to "NO PARKING 12 AM - 6 AM." * ADOPTED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-0) PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT CObIl1IITTEE: * Docket 160-7B-94: Temnorary Sign - American Craft Exv_ osition - Consideration of a recommendation that the City Council approve the request of the Auxiliary of Evanston/Glenbrook Hospitals to erect temporary signs advertising and directing patrons to the American Craft Exposition at the Henry Crown Pavilion. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-01 9 July 25, 1994 0IJ * Docket 161-7B-94: Families in Transition Program - Saint Nicholas Church - Consideration of a recommendation that the City Council enter into an agreement with Saint .Nicholas Church in conjunction with the Families in Transition Program in the amount of $15,000. * APPROVED - CONSENT AGENDA MOTION AND ROLL CALL (9-01 Docket 162-7B-94: Memorandum of Understanding - 1816 Darrow. 1928 Foster. 1616 Darrow and 1816 Dodge - Consideration of a recommendation from the Evanston Housing Commission that the City Council approve the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and Uptown Habitat for Humanity for the development of affordable housing of four vacant parcels at 1816 Darrow, 1928 Foster, 1616 Darrow and 1816 Dodge. Alderman Newman moved Council approval of the Memorandum of Understanding. Seconded by Alderman Heydemann. Alderman Kent reported that the most of his constituents were delighted to have Habitat for Humanity come into the community to build houses, especially the members of the Dodge/Lyons Action Club, near where the first house will be built at 1816 Dodge. However, he said that the lot at 1816 Darrow has another history. He noted that the lot is so small that it would require a number of zoning variations and assumed that it would be the last one where building would begin. He suggested that it required consultation with the community. In response to a question from Mayor Morton, he said that he did not have any problems with keeping 1928 Foster as part of the proposal, even though Habitat will need variations to build on that lot. Alderman Kent moved to remove 1816 Darrow from the Memorandum of Understanding. Seconded by Alderman Newman. Alderman Engelman said that it was his understanding that there had been a request that this be moved on a fast track because Target has agreed to allow their subcontractors to provide free labor and some materials to construct two houses. Home Depot is contributing some materials as well. This has to be done before Target is done with the construction of the Howard/Hartrey shopping center - which is anticipated to be in early October. He did not believe that Alderman Kent's amendment would affect that timetable, if he was only removing 1816 Darrow. Alderman Heydemann asked whether the City could get information from the Habitat people whether removing this would affect Target's level of cooperation. She said that information might affect some aldermen's vote. Director of Community Development, Jim Wolinski, clarified that currently Target is committed to one house, but suggested that the decision whether to include 1816 Darrow in the redevelopment agreement needed to be made quickly. Alderman Newman suggested that the neighbors on the block might like to buy 1816 Darrow and put it on the tax rolls. In response a question from Mayor Morton, Alderman Newman said that since the lot is so narrow the neighbors did not have to put a structure on it, but could keep it as a garden. Mr. Wolinski explained that this lot had been purchased from the County under its No Cash Bid Program and it was sold to the City with the understanding that affordable housing would be built on the property. He suggested the City seek a legal opinion on that. Alderman Engelman said that the point raised by Mr. Wolinski is one of the issues that needs to be resolved quickly in order to include this property in the redevelopment agreement. However, he did not believe that it affected the immediate timetable, so supported the amendment. Vote on Alderman Kent's amendment. Motion carried. No nays. Vote on the Memorandum of Understanding. Motion carried. No nays. 10 July 25, 1994 In response to a question from Alderman Kent, Alderman Newman explained that the City will proceed with the other three lots and put the program together while the redevelopment agreement is being put together. Alderman Engelman noted that the problem with this is that the City will be selling the land to Habitat for Humanity for them to do the construction. There are certain statutory requirements to meet when you sell land that fall under strict time constraints, and will push this project into a very tight schedule. It will only give the Target subcontractors two weeks to construct these houses. * Docket 163-7B-94: Ordinance 72-0-94 - ZPC 94-3-PD - 1660 Chicago venue - Consideration of the recommendation of the Plan Commission that the City Council grant the request of the John Buck Company to approve a revised site plan for a planned development previously approved by the City Council by adoption of Ordinance 59-0-93 for the property at 1660 Chicago Avenue. The property is zoned D4 Downtown Transition District. * MARKED INTRODUCED - CONSENT AGENDA REPORT OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC WORKS: Docket 148-7A-94: Ordinance 68-0-94 - Penalty for Interfering with Free Distribution of Newsoavers - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 68-0-94, by which the City Council would amend Section 9-5-24 of the Code of the City of Evanston to, establish a penalty for interfering with free distribution of newspapers. This docket item was held in committee. Docket 153-7A-94: Resolution 48-R-94 - Acauisition of 1110 Emerson - Consideration of proposed Resolution 48-R-94, by which the City Council would authorize the City Manager to complete the purchase of 1110 Emerson Street. Alderman Engelman moved to table this docket item until the August 8, 1994, Council meeting. Seconded by Alderman Newman. Motion carried. No nays. HUMAN SERVICES: Alderman Moran reported that at the last meeting the Human Services Committee had received a report on the curfew program for young people that was co -sponsored by the Recreation Department and the Police Department. The report indicated that very few people were picked up the first few weeks it was in place and the staffing levels were adjusted accordingly. The committee also discussed smoking in public places and considered drafting a resolution to be forwarded to Congress to urge them to consider addressing smoking in public with federal legislation, but it was decided to defer transmitting it to Congress until it reconvenes in the Fall. A brief discussion was held on the possibility of establishing a dog run in a park and staff was requested to collect more information. The last issue discussed was the City's Panhandling Report and the training of intervenors. The committee supported the proposal for one team of two intervenors in the downtown area at this time and determined that there was no additional action that they needed to take at this time concerning the recommendations of the Panhandling Committee. Further actions may need to be taken at the end of the summer and school starts again. PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE Docket 121-5B-94: Ordinance 42-0-94. ZPC 94-IM - Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 42-0-94, introduced on May 23, 1994, by which the City Council, in accordance with the Plan Commission's recommendation, would approve the petition by the Niles 11 July 25, 1994 p Township Workshop to amend Sections 6-15-2-3 and 6-15-2-4 of the Zoning Ordinance to list an independent living facility as a special use in the 01 Office District and establish a residential density of 400 square feet of lot area per dwelling unit. Alderman Engelman noted that he had placed a memorandum in the packet notifying everyone that he intended to take this issue off the table at this meeting. He moved to remove it from the table. Seconded by Alderman Drummer. Motion carried. No nays. Alderman Newman moved Council adoption of proposed Ordinance 42-0-94. Seconded by Alderman Engelman. Alderman Engelman said that the sole issue on this particular ordinance is whether or not to amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow independent living facilities in an 01 District. He thought that independent living facilities are good for the community, and especially a segment of the community we cherish to help make us a diverse. Office districts are not residential districts, but were designed as a buffer between commercial and residential uses. This kind of independent living facility is an appropriate special use because it fits in a buffer zone and is a creative adaptive reuse of property that may not be able to be developed in depressed office districts. He said that this was like motherhood and apple pie. Alderman Newman said that if this is apple pie, he was not ordering it tonight. He opposed the amendment because independent senior housing is the type of use that is typically off the tax rolls. He said that it wasn't often that Council has the opportunity to send a message on the tax base and enumerated a list of senior housing currently off the tax rolls. He felt that the taxpayers of the City of Evanston have gone far beyond what any comparable communities have done, and as a consequence, there are substantial numbers of residents who do not come from Evanston. He thought that the City could not afford to do that any more unless there is a demonstrated need. He pointed out that the Commission on Aging was not present to speak in favor of it and suggested that it did not support the project because it felt that its location in an 01 District was inappropriate. This is not a use intended for an 01 District, especially considering the number of affordable vacancies in senior housing that exist in other places in Evanston. He reiterated his concern about removing another senior facility from the tax rolls and suggested that even if this were to remain vacant for another five years before it is developed, the City would realize considerably more property taxes than they ever would with payments -in -lieu of taxes. He also reiterated his opposition to senior housing in this location. In response to questions from Mayor Morton, Alderman Engelman said that taking property off the tax rolls was not a standard in zoning, but was a question to address when considering a specific request for a special use and should be considered separately from a text amendment. He urged Council to put aside the tax exempt question until they consider the next docket item. Alderman Newman disagreed and said that Council should always consider what effect a text amendment will have on the tax base. Alderman Heydemann said that all the text amendment does is to enable Council to make decisions at a future time, but does not dictate what those decisions are. She also noted that having people living close to the downtown area makes it a more user-friendly place. Alderman Drummer said that amendments to a zoning ordinance are always in order as conditions change. He recalled that housing had been proposed for this site before, and had been approved, but the developer was unable to get financing. He noted that in zoning you can regulate the use, but not the user. He thought it inappropriate to interject what other people might have done with the property and said that each proposal should stand or fall on its own merits. He reminded Council that this proposal has the support of the neighbors and urged them to adopt it because it allows for adaptive reuse of a property that has remained vacant for a number of years. Alderman Feldman said that the only reason Council has the request for the text amendment is because it received the request from NTSW and felt the two issues couldn't be separated. He noted that while the proposal is sponsored by a highly reputable organization, it has not received widespread community or professional support. He pointed out that most of the people who have spoken in support of the proposal have a direct interest in it. He found there to be no demonstrated need for the project and felt that it was the wrong project in the wrong place at the wrong time. He said that there is no way to know whether the people living in the housing would be Evanston residents. He said that he could not go to his constituents and tell them that he was taking this off the tax rolls, helping a 12 July 25,1994 senior population who are not Evanston residents, and supporting a project that we don't need. He reported that two members of the Commission on Aging urged him to continue to oppose the project. If there was a need, Council would not be having this debate. The community has built and supported many facilities for seniors, and Evanston has become the repository and conscience of the North Shore and his constituents want to know when it will end. Alderman Holsman made reference to a previous request for a zoning text amendment from an auto repair garage to expand into used car sales on open lots, and was told that you do not make zoning text amendments lightly. Therefore he said that he could not support this text amendment. He noted that he had been told that 40 % of Evanston's property is already off the tax rolls and did not want to add to that figure. (Acting Manager Aiello clarified that this percentage included public rights -of -way.) Roll call. Voting aye - Drummer, Guthrie, Heydemann, Moran, Engelman. Voting nay - Newman, Feldman, Holsman, Kent. Motion failed (5-4) (Six votes are needed to approve a zoning text amendment.) Docket 136-6A-94: Ordinance 43-0-94 - ZBA 94-3-SU(R) -1830 Ridge Avenue - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 43-0-94, introduced on June 13, 1994, by which the City Council, in accordance with the Zoning Board of Appeals' recommendation, would grant the application of The NTSW Foundation, a not - for -profit corporation (contract purchaser), for a prospective special use for establishment of an "independent living facility" on the property at 1830 Ridge Avenue. The property is zoned 01 Office District. Alderman Engelman moved to remove this docket item from the Council Agenda since the text amendment creating the special use they were requesting was defeated. Seconded by Alderman Newman. Motion carried. No nays. OTHER COMMITTEES: Docket 14-1B-94: Ordinance 129-0-93 - Tax Increment Financing Redevelopment Plan and Proiect - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 129-0- 93, introduced on January 24, 1994, by which the City Council would adopt and approve a Tax Increment Financing Redevelopment plan and Project for the Church/Chicago area. No Action. Docket 15-1B-94: Ordinance 130-0-93 - Tax Increment Financine Designation of Redevelopment Proiect Area - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 130-0- 93, introduced on January 24, 1994, by which the City Council would designate the Church/Chicago Area, by legal description, as a Tax Increment Redevelopment Project Area. No Action. Docket 16-1B-94: Ordinance 131-0-93 - Tax Increment Financing - Consideration of proposed Ordinance 131-0-93, introduced on January 24, 1994, by which the City Council would specify the administration of incremental real estate taxes in the Church/Chicago Tax Increment Financing District consistent with State Statutes. No Action. MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS: APPOINTMENTS: Mayor Morton introduced the following names for reappointment to the Public Art Committee: Indira Freitas Johnson 1632 Wesley Avenue for term ending August 15, 1997; 13 July 25, 1994 David Mickenberg 1%7 Sheridan Road for term ending August 15, 1997. Alderman Drummer moved approval of the above names for reappointment to the Public Art Committee. Seconded by Alderman Feldman. Motion carried. No nays. At this time Alderman Guthrie left the meeting. CALL OF THE WARDS: Alderman Drummer suggested that m looking down the road toward new revenue, the State Legislature is discussing the whole issue of river boats. He urged Council to support the ,legislation to allow Chicago to have them. He noted that river boats in Chicago would have an affect on Evanston and further urged Council to support any legislation that would allow for any revenue sharing to communities affected by Chicago's river boats. He made a reference to the Economic Development Committee to develop a resolution reeardine such revenue sharine. Seconded by Alderman Hevdemann. Motion carried. No nays. Mayor Morton noted that some models for that type of revenue sharing do exist and asked staff to research that. Alderman Holsman reported on his latest meeting with the Brummel Park neighbors and said that their over-riding concerns were public safety and the police. He said that they were pleased with the new recreation programs that are in place for the summer. He noted that curfew violations were also a concern and that the neighbors did not believe that the City has control over that issue. He also reported that at the most recent meeting with the Howard/Hartrey neighbors, they resolved the issue of the northern termination of the Hartrey wall. Alderman Holsman made a reference to the Planning and Development Committee to investigate Davton. Ohio's defensive space proiect and its effect on crime and traffic in the nei¢hborhoods. He called Council's attention to the article from Newsweek that had been placed in their packets. He thought it was an interesting concept that might be a useful planning tool in Evanston. Alderman Feldman made a reference to the Citv/School Liaison Committee to examine the school resource officer vrooram that is part of the Shawnee School District in Kansas Citv. Missouri. Seconded by Alderman Hevdemann. Motion carved. No nays. Alderman Feldman presented Guardian Angels to the Mayor, Council, City Clerk and Acting City Manager. He said that they were a gift from his wife, Aliza, and himself. He explained that several weeks ago he and Aliza had attended the dedication of the Cancer Wellness Center in Northbrook. It is a brainchild of two women who thought that the support services for cancer patients were woefully lacking on the North Shore. They were so well received, and the need demonstrated, that they built a new 32,000 square foot facility, which provides programming without charge to cancer patients, significant others and caregivers. He described the moving dedication ceremony in which he and his wife had participated with 500 other people. He said that it had an astonishing effect on both of them that they made a contribution in each person's name who received the Guardian Angel. There is one for each person and one for those they love. He thought they everyone could use all the help they could get. On behalf of all those receiving the Guardian Angels, Mayor Morton thanked Alderman and Mrs. Feldman for their lovely gift. Alderman Newman explained that the neighbors of the Buck Project were concerned that the current Liquor Ordinance which allows three liquor stores in the Core Area where the Washington National property was included. Now that area has become increasingly residential and neighbors are concerned about having a liquor store across the street from their building. He reported that he had discussed this with the developer and they were willing to accept the restriction of not having a liquor store in their development and would also agree to a restriction of not having a bar in a restaurant on Chicago Avenue. He asked Council to support him in amending those conditions into the motion that will be before it at the next meeting. 14 July 25, 1994 Alderman Newman requested that a letter from Point One Motors, dated July 13, 1994, be distributed to the Council. Acting Manager Aiello cautioned him that the letter was related to a personnel matter and was a subject for executive session. She said that Council would receive a complete report on the matter when the investigation is concluded. Mayor Morton asked whether Alderman Newman wished to move for an executive session. He declined and stated his intention of discussing the matter in public after the investigation is complete and asked that it be complete by the next meeting. He also asked that a letter from Buick be distributed to Council. Alderman Newman said that there had been a significant error in fact in some information given Council about Ward Manufacturing and noted that it was not corrected until an alderman questioned it. He said that there is nothing wrong with questioning. Recommendations are made to be questioned. Alderman Newman reported that he has been asked about five times in the last two weeks what is going on with the Main Street Newsstand and expressed his concern that it is taking so long to resolve. He questioned whether there is sufficient personnel in the City Manager's office to get the job done with the Main Street Newsstand and emphasized its importance to the economic well-being of that business district. He noted that there are a number of private people who wish to develop it, but the City and the CTA can't seen to resolve the issue. He said that the City has to past the bottleneck and it done for the businesses there, because the newsstand is a drawing card for that retail area. Mayor Morton asked whether Council had received anything in writing informing them that there is a bottleneck in negotiations. Alderman Newman said that it had not, but said that he had certain information that such a bottleneck existed. It was his opinion that there was not enough people there to get the job done. Alderman Heydemann reported that she had received a telephone call from a constituent at 1500 Chicago Avenue thanking the Panhandling Committee for its work. He said that he found the atmosphere of downtown Evanston much improved. She thanked Director of Facilities Management, Max Rubin, for the hard-hat tour of the new library. She said that it was a great pleasure to walk through it and found it to be a very exciting facility. She felt it will meet the City's needs for a very long time. Alderman Heydemann reported that she had received a telephone call from District 202 Board Member, Elizabeth Tisdahl informing her that the Recreation Department had made 150 beach tokens available for the students who frequent the high school drop-m center. She thanked the Recreation Department for their generosity. Alderman Heydemann announced that there will be a City -sponsored blood drive on Wednesday, July 27th, and urged all those who could, to contribute to it. Alderman Hevdemann made a reference to the Citv Clerk to provide a svnonsis of the Council votes that were not on the Consent Agenda since this Council was seated. Alderman Kent thanked Alderman Feldman for the Guardian Angels. Alderman Kent announced that he was sponsoring a Job Fair on Thursday, August 4, from 7:00-8:30. It will take place at either the Masonic Temple or Fleetwood Jourdain Center. He said that flyers will be distributed and he hoped that it would have as much success as Alderman Holsman did with his. He encouraged everyone who knew someone unemployed to let him know about this Job Fair. Alderman Moran noted that Evanston is a member of the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County (SWANCC), one of 23 municipalities which have been pursuing a project to establish a municipal waste landfill located near Bartlett. It is projected to be about 142 acres in size and is expected to care for the solid waste of its member communities for as long as 20-25 years. He noted that currently available disposal space is being rapidly filled up, in spite of everyone's strong efforts for recycling. He reported that last week the Chicago Regional Office of the Corps of Engineers had denied the permit application of SWANCC to conduct certain site preparations on this site. He explained that siting approval had been previously granted by local siting authorities and the Illinois 15 July 25, 1994 Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) had isseed.permits for the establishment of a municipal waste site in this area, but the Corps of Engineers has taken a contrary position. He stressed the importance of the project to all the municipalities and said that everyone will have to continue to press for a solid waste facility that they can draw on in the years to come. He wanted people to be aware of the problem and promised to report future developments. There being no fiadwr business to come before the Council, Mayor Morton asked for a motion to adjourn. The Council so moved and adjourned at 11:42 P.M. KIRSTEN F. DAVIS CITY CLERK 1