Minutes Archive
- 2022
- 2021
- 2020
- 2019
- 2018
- 2017
- 2016
- 2015
- 2014
- 2013
- 2012
- 2011
- 2010
- 2009
- 2008
- 2007
-
2006
- December 19, 2006
- December 12, 2006
- December 05, 2006
- November 28, 2006
- November 21, 2006
- November 14, 2006
- November 07, 2006
- October 24, 2006
- October 17, 2006
- October 10, 2006
- October 03, 2006
- September 26, 2006
- September 19, 2006
- September 12, 2006
- September 05, 2006 - Executive Session
- September 05, 2006
- August 22, 2006
- August 15, 2006
- August 08, 2006
- August 02, 2006 - Executive Session
- August 01, 2006 - Executive Session
- August 01, 2006
- July 25, 2006
- July 22, 2006 - Executive Session
- July 19, 2006 - Executive Session
- July 18, 2006 - Executive Session
- July 18, 2006
- July 11, 2006
- June 27, 2006 - Executive Session
- June 27, 2006
- June 20, 2006
- June 13, 2006
- June 06, 2006
- May 23, 2006
- May 16, 2006
- May 09, 2006
- May 02, 2006
- April 25, 2006
- April 18, 2006
- April 11, 2006
- April 04, 2006
- March 28, 2006
- March 21, 2006
- March 14, 2006
- March 07, 2006
- February 28, 2006
- February 20, 2006
- February 14, 2006
- February 07, 2006
- January 24, 2006
- January 17, 2006
- January 10, 2006
- January 03, 2006 - Executive Session
- January 03, 2006
- 2005
- 2004
- 2003
- 2002
- 2001
- 2000
November 07, 2006
1. Call to Order
Mayor Brian Krajewski called the regular meeting of the Village Council of the Village of Downers Grove to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Downers Grove Village Hall.
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag
Mayor Krajewski led those present in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Moment of Silence in Remembrance of Marine Sergeant Thomas Gilbert Mayor Krajewski announced that former Commissioner Mike Gilbert’s son, Tom, was killed in Iraq two weeks ago. The Mayor called for a moment of silence in remembrance of Marine Sgt. Thomas Gilbert.
2. Roll Call
Present: Commissioner Ron Sandack, Commissioner Stan Urban, Commissioner Marilyn Schnell, Commissioner Martin Tully, Commissioner William Waldack, Commissioner Sean P. Durkin and Mayor Brian Krajewski Non Voting: Village Manager Cara Pavlicek, Village Attorney Enza Petrarca and Village Clerk April Holden The Council meeting is broadcast over the local FM radio station, WDGC . In addition, a tape recording and videotape of the meeting are being made using Village owned equipment. The videotape of the meeting will be used for later rebroadcast of the Council meeting over the Village cable television Channel 6.
The Council will follow the rules of conduct for this meeting as provided in Sec. 2.5 of the Downers Grove Municipal Code. These offer the public the opportunity to comment at several points in the meeting. First, immediately following approval of the minutes of the past meetings, an opportunity will be given for public comments and questions on the active agenda items for this evening’s meeting. Following this, an opportunity is given for public comments and questions on any subject. Finally, if a public hearing is scheduled for this meeting, an opportunity is given for public comments and questions related to the subject of the hearing.
The presiding officer will ask, at the appropriate time, if there are any comments from the public. If anyone wishes to speak, the individual should raise their hand to be recognized and, after acknowledgment from the presiding officer, approach the microphone and state their name and address. Remarks should be limited to five minutes, and asked that individuals refrain from making repetitive statements.
Mayor Krajewski said there are agendas located on either side of the Council Chambers, and he invited the audience to pick up an agenda and follow the progress of the Council meeting.
3. Minutes of Workshop and Council Meetings
Executive Session Minutes for Approval Only – October 3, 2006 Council Minutes – October 17, 2006 Workshop Minutes – October 24, 2006 Mayor Krajewski said he would provide comments.
4. Public Comments and Questions
A. Comments and Questions on Active Agenda
1. Bob Kolmar, 1420 Concord Drive, said that several years ago the Council selected members to serve on the Transportation Advisory Commission, and he co-chaired that Commission in an effort to improve the transportation system in the community. He reviewed some of the advances in the transportation system including opening of the parking deck, arrival of the interim buses, etc. He said they are in the process of hopefully executing a grant for a new, less expensive bus fleet. Bus riders pay $45 per month, which is more than parking costs on a monthly basis. There are far more than 150 riders who use the bus system, although it averages 150. He said the Village has projected a debt in the taxi subsidy program that will exceed that of the bus network over the next few years. Mr. Kolmar said that the Commission is pleased that the DuPage Mayors and Managers has endorsed the Village bus network. This past year the Council has provided support, and the Commission is grateful they have been able to do what was requested, and asked that the Council vote favorably for the budget amendment to support the commitment needed to make the transportation program work.
2. Alice Strelau, 5611 Brookbank, said she was interested in the Stormwater Master Plan. Last week Director Barber told her that the Stormwater Master Plan would be Workshopped in November. She asked if tonight’s presentation was in addition to that workshop, or in lieu of it. The Manager said it was in addition to the presentation of the Master Plan. The workshop will be November 14.
The Mayor explained that over the past few years there have been some reserves accumulated and they will begin looking at the stormwater and perhaps initiating some infrastructure work.
3. Noreen Kratz, 4008 Elm, said she was also in attendance for the Stormwater discussion. She attended the October meeting, and said that she has dealt with flooding which has been an issue for the past twenty years. Ms. Kratz noted that during the recent October storm she had 7 pumps working, and they had 8” of water in their family room. She said that if they lose power, the water goes out of her windows. There is no place for the water to go, and this is an unacceptable situation. She told the Council that something has to be done to alleviate this.
Mayor Krajewski agreed with Ms. Kratz 100%, saying that the Council has worked on a strategic plan that addresses the infrastructure. He said that the Council needs to show their commitment and spend money to improve the infrastructure, and identify all problem areas. The Mayor said over the next months they would identify issues and find funding sources. He said they have heard a lot of complaints as well about power outages from ComEd. He noted that the Village is working with State officials to work with ComEd to improve their infrastructure as well.
Ms. Kratz said she has invested $50,000 to address this issue and re-route the water, and it’s time for the Village to help the homeowners. Her pumps ran continually from Monday to Friday, and her pumps are clearing the water from several nearby houses.
Commissioner Schnell asked whether the County Management program at the 41st and Glendenning area helped her at all. Ms. Kratz said the naturalized area was no help. She said that none of that work helped her. The water comes from behind her house and the neighboring lots. In 1990 she tore up a 2.5 car garage and tore out 150’ of asphalt drive. The Village came in and did the grading plans, but instead of putting a drain in the southwest corner of her lot and route it out to the culvert at 40th Street, they chose to do the grading plans. But when the ground settled eight years later, the flooding began all over again because the water had nowhere else to go. She added that the ground is not stable and settles unevenly. Their streets are higher, and they have no gutters, with new homes being built everywhere in the area with nowhere for the displaced water to go.
Commissioner Waldack noted that there are several budget items on the agenda, and he asked if they could address the budget items with comments as the items are covered. He noted that the budget workshop did not allow the public to talk. As for Coffee with the Council at the Community Bank, half of that meeting was taken up with non-budgetary items.
The Mayor said that they have comments on the Agenda items at this time, as well as general comments later. He said there is plenty of opportunity for residents to speak. Commissioner Waldack said he is suggesting that as those items are discussed, if residents have additional comments they be allowed to speak at that time.
There being no further questions on the Active Agenda, the Mayor introduced Steve Harap and Christopher Lavoie of the Rotary Club.
Mr. Harap said he was proud to present their Centennial Project. Rotary International is celebrating its 100th year and each club was asked to create a project for their community. He then uncovered a mural that was commissioned to celebrate the centennial.
Mr. Lavoie then explained the symbolism of their mural project. He said that they donated all of the artwork for the new cancer wing at Good Samaritan Hospital, as well as this wall mural. This mural is the first of two, which is a collage of four panels. He explained each panel, including images representing people from the Rotary Club or the Village who have made significant contributions in sports, history, transportation, etc.
The Mayor thanked them for the presentation and said the Council looks forward to receipt of the next two panels.
B. Comments and Questions on General Matters
There were no comments.
5. Public Hearings
6. Consent Agenda
COR00 -02519 Claim Ordinance: No. 5659, Payroll, October 13, 2006 Sponsors: Accounting A motion was made to Approve this file on the Consent Agenda. Indexes: N/A
BIL00 -02520 List of Bills Payable: No. 5646, November 7, 2006 Sponsors: Accounting A motion was made to Approve this file on the Consent Agenda. Indexes: N/A
BID00 -02521 Bid: Award Purchase of 4,800 Tons of Bulk Road Salt at $35.21 per Ton via the State Contract for 2006-07 Winter Season Sponsors: Public Works A motion was made to Approve this file on the Consent Agenda. Indexes: Salt
BID00 -02522 Bid: Award $81,093.50 for 2007 Chevrolet C4500 Kodiak to Advantage Chevrolet, Hodgkins, Illinois Sponsors: Public Works A motion was made to Approve this file on the Consent Agenda. Indexes: Public Works, Vehicle Purchases
BID00 -02523 Bid: Award $20,885 for 2007 Chevrolet Silverado to Bill Jacobs Chevrolet, Joliet, Illinois Sponsors: Public Works A motion was made to Approve this file on the Consent Agenda. Indexes: Public Works, Vehicle Purchases
MOT00 -02535 Motion: Note Receipt of Minutes of Village Boards and Commissions Summary of Item: Human Service Commission – October 4, 2006 Library Board – September 27, 2006 & October 11, 2006 Parking & Traffic Commission – September 13, 2006 A motion was made to Award this file on the Consent Agenda. Passed The Consent Agenda
A motion was made by Commissioner Tully, seconded by Commissioner Urban, that the consent agenda be passed. The motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Schnell, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Durkin and Mayor Krajewski
7. Active Agenda
ORD00 -02524 Ordinance: Restrict Certain Parking on Puffer Road Sponsors: Public Works and Parking & Traffic Commission Summary of Item: This will restrict parking on certain portions of Puffer Road.
AN ORDINANCE RESTRICTING CERTAIN PARKING ON PUFFER ROAD
ORDINANCE NO . 4818 A motion was made by Commissioner Tully, seconded by Commissioner Urban, to Adopt this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Durkin, Commissioner Sandack, Mayor Krajewski, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Schnell and Commissioner Tully Indexes: Parking Restrictions – Puffer
ORD00 -02525 Ordinance: Amend Parking Restrictions on Sherman Street and Create Village Parking Lot W Sponsors: Public Works and Parking & Traffic Commission Summary of Item: This will restrict parking on certain portions of Sherman Street and establish Village Parking Lot W near Downers North High School.
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING PARKING RESTRICTIONS ON SHERMAN STREET AND CREATING VILLAGE PARKING LOT W
ORDINANCE NO . 4819 A motion was made by Commissioner Urban, seconded by Commissioner Durkin, to Adopt this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Schnell, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Durkin and Mayor Krajewski Indexes: Parking Lots, Parking Restrictions – Sherman
MOT00 -02526 Motion: Increase Funding in the FY07 General Fund Budget for Marketing & Media Relations by $91,000.00 Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will increase FY 2007 General Fund funding for Marketing & Media Relations in the amount of $91,000.00. A motion was made by Commissioner Durkin, seconded by Commissioner Schnell, to Approve this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Tully, Mayor Krajewski, Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Durkin and Commissioner Schnell Indexes: Budget – 2007
MOT00 -02527 Motion: Increase Funding for the 175th Anniversary Celebration of the Founding of the Village of Downers Grove Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will approve funding in the amount of $284,000.00 for the Village of Downers Grove 175th Anniversary Celebration. Commissioner Tully explained that the Council has authorized up to $284,000, and that there is a revenue component to this. The point is to make sure that the Village celebrates its 175th anniversary in grand fashion. He also said that the presentation by the Rotary Club in celebration of its Centennial is exactly the type of thing the Village wishes to do by commemorating its anniversary and heritage, as well as the anniversary and history of other community organizations. A motion was made by Commissioner Schnell, seconded by Commissioner Waldack, to Accept this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Durkin, Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Schnell and Mayor Krajewski Indexes: Community Events, Budget – 2007
MOT00 -02528 Motion: Authorize a Request for Proposal for Refuse Service Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will approve specifications and authorize the issuance of a request for proposal for residential solid waste collection including alternates for commercial solid waste collections. Commissioner Tully clarified that this Motion directs staff to go out for an RFP for residential solid waste collection. The Council has been discussing the refuse program, as well as the related issue regarding leaf collection. This request does not include subsidized leaf collection.
Commissioner Tully then said that the current contract allows for an extension of one year at the same price as they currently have, and the Manager said that was correct, but the Village will be required to pay an additional $100,000 for Amnesty Day.
Commissioner Tully noted that the RFP might not result in the best contract for the best price. He said that experience of other communities who have gone out for bid has shown an increase of about 25% in the sticker prices. He said that he does not want to deal with the contract extension unless they know it will be a better price than an RFP . Information from staff indicates that prices are actually higher now than if they go to contract extension. He said it seems like the RFP would be a waste of staff time. Two weeks ago he would not have supported the contract extension, but based on the research done by staff he sees this as a better way to go. The one-year extension also gives the Village the opportunity to pursue a franchise agreement that would have one waste hauler for the entire community, both residential and commercial. This has not been done to date because the Village does not have business licenses established as yet. Based on the information provided by staff, Commissioner Tully favors the one-year extension.
The Mayor noted that this was a two-year contract, and shortly after it was put in place, the Governor put a tax on waste haulers that increased costs. He added that he strongly favors pursuing a franchise agreement with one hauler working through the community that could result in less infrastructure damage to Village roadways. He noted that staff also believes July or August would be a good target to implement business licensing in the Village. In regard to leaf pickup, that could be added into the bid as an alternative. He also favors the extension of the present contract for one year.
Commissioner Schnell added that it makes sense to have the one-year extension.
Commissioner Sandack said that he would vote in favor of the proposition. He has a policy to seek RFP ’s to get the best price. He noted that the haulers know how to make money, and the only way to know what the competition is would be to go out to bid. He thinks they are making a mistake in extending this, as it is enabling a lack of competitive spirit. He feels that businesses ought to be able to weigh in on the decision to go with one hauler, but also agrees that the haulers use the Village roads and that damages the roadways.
Commissioner Urban said that he knows there are all kinds of contracts available. He thinks it is important to look at communities that have franchise agreements. He will not vote for this proposition. He is happy to vote for the extension as it provides the opportunity to look further at franchise agreements, business recycling programs, and a recycling program in the CBD . He also clarified that he is not talking just about the industrial parks. The business community includes the corporate community as well, and he hopes that they can do a lot better for the residents in future contracts.
Commissioner Durkin said he would also vote against this, based on the numbers that staff has presented. It is in our best interest to extend this contract. The Commissioner said that they should honor the lower price thereby giving staff time to research further options.
Commissioner Waldack also said he would vote against this. While he supported going out for quotes to include leaf collection, he sees taking advantage of this year’s extension to provide an opportunity for further review. There have been few complaints received by staff regarding the current waste hauler. He feels the Village is better to stay with its current hauler and contract, and then talk about a franchise agreement.
The Mayor agreed with putting off an RFP for one year if this Motion fails, and that will provide time to look at policy decisions.
The Motion failed. The Village Manager said that staff would bring back the one-year agreement for an extension as soon as possible. This will be put on the November 21 agenda. A motion was made by Commissioner Waldack, seconded by Commissioner Sandack, to Accept this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion failed by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Sandack Nay: Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Schnell, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Durkin and Mayor Krajewski Indexes: Scavenger-Recycling Program, Scavenger-Garbage Collection, BFI Contract, Budget – 2007
MOT00 -02529 Motion: Amend the FY 07 Proposed Budget to Reallocate Certain Police and Fire Emergency Response Operating Costs Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will direct the Village Manager to amend the FY 2007 proposed budget to reallocate operating costs associated within the Police and Fire Departments that are currently proposed for the S.W.A.T. team operations and instead fund emergency response operating costs based upon participating in a multi-jurisdictional team known as F.I.A.T. (Felony Investigation Assistance Team). Commissioner Tully said he wants to continue the discussion on this point. He is not sure that this is a budget issue. It is an operational issue. He looks to the professionals in the Police Department to make decisions on this. He noted that the Chief answered a few weeks ago that the movement to regional teams is the trend. Commissioner Tully said he has to look at the recommendations of the law enforcement officials, and cannot understand why it is a budget discussion.
The Mayor said that they looked at a number of issues discussed at the Public Safety Committee meetings. He said that the Chief implements the initiatives at the Police Department.
Commissioner Urban said that the Chief was the primary point person in all discussions in the Public Safety meetings. He said no direction was given to the Committee, and he expects the Police Chief to continue to bring matters of this type to the Committee. He expects that since Commissioner Durkin has been appointed to serve with him on the Public Safety Committee, and when the budget process is concluded, Public Safety will meet again to talk informally with the Fire Department as well as the Police Department. He asked for clarification that this will not monetarily affect the budget. The Manager said that it is not a substantive change and finance is not a driving force. Commissioner Urban then said that this then is based on a recommendation of the Chief based on the trends in public safety today. He said he would be happy with the response time indicated from FIAT and sees no problem with making this change.
The Manager said at certain times issues should appropriately be put forth for public dialogue. Staff felt this was such an issue.
The Mayor noted that the Motion made gives clear direction to the Manager and the staff.
Commissioner Schnell said that her discussion about DARE was not to eliminate it but to enhance the funding for it. She said they have had a good discussion regarding the SWAT team, and that it is good to attempt to obtain an understanding of having our own SWAT team versus a regional program. She believes that the residents would be better served in having our own SWAT team, and has not been swayed that FIAT will be better.
Mayor Krajewski commented that the Village needs to rotate people in and out of the DARE program, noting that statistics show a decrease in funding nationally.
Commissioner Sandack stated that this is a topic that everyone needs to know about. The Village has had its own SWAT team since the late 1970s and it has worked well. FIAT is a known commodity since 2001. No one is saying that moving to FIAT is better or will improve public safety, and he will not make a move to change to something that’s not better. He is concerned with the consequences if there would be a callout in another community or an incident resulting in an injury or accident if this change is made. SWAT may be a luxury, but he will pay for that luxury, especially when it is budget neutral. There is no compelling reason to do this, and he believes the Village should stay with what it has. He will vote to stay with SWAT .
Commissioner Waldack said he agrees with Commissioners Schnell and Sandack.
Commissioner Durkin asked for clarification regarding the potential of a multiple callout, and what the track record has been. Police Chief Porter said there is no track record that he is aware of, but there is a plan in place that has the Illinois State Police District 5 SWAT team as well as the County serving as backup. He said there were several SWAT teams throughout the state, and if the Village shifted to FIAT there would be 32 members on that team. Should there be a callout in Downers Grove, the Village’s six officers would be part of the original callout team. As to whether the Police Chief still recommends moving forward with this, Chief Porter said that in his position as Police Chief, he would never recommend anything that would jeopardize public safety. It has been a difficult decision for him to make due to his allegiance to the Village’s SWAT team. However, there is a clear movement toward regionalization in this particular field, as well as other fields.
The Mayor said that Commissioner Urban noted at a previous meeting the Village has no bomb squad, and there are more bomb callouts than SWAT callouts, but there is a regional callout available. The Mayor also noted that an optimal number is 22 SWAT officers. The Village has 18 officers, and is four officers short of an optimal callout. He said that he would follow the Chief’s recommendation.
Commissioner Durbin asked whether the 32 officers of FIAT include those from Downers Grove, and the Chief said it does. Commissioner Durbin asked again whether the Chief is totally behind joining FIAT , and Chief Porter said he is and feels it is the logical step to make in this day and age.
Commissioner Tully agreed that this is a tough issue as it is a minor budget component. For clarification, he said that no one is talking about eliminating the response for high-risk situation capability. The issue is how to provide that same high-level service. No one is complaining about the Village’s existing SWAT team. He said if there is a clear movement toward regionalization, it is a legitimate question to ask whether the Village should continue doing something they have done since the 1970s, or move with the times and still provide the level of service needed. He realizes there are all types of hypothetical situations that could be raised, but it doesn’t seem a bad idea to move with the trend as have other communities who have also studied these issues. He also agrees that public safety is paramount. He expressed concern about voting on this, since it appears he would be the swing vote. He has a problem with the way this topic has been put before the Council, and is still struggling with it. He has no problem with voting to provide direction, but he has an issue with the budget aspect of this.
Mayor Krajewski indicated that he could amend the Motion, but Commissioner Tully said that would mean giving the professionals direction on how to best allocate funds to run their department. He said there is a line item that will be designated for emergency response for high-risk situations, and he favors that, but it is up to the professionals to decide that. He does not think public safety is being jeopardized, though.
Manager Pavlicek said this would shift $125,000 from one program for patrol services to another program for emergency services. This will not impact the general fund. The Motion is to tell the Village Manager how the budget will look.
Commissioner Tully then moved to amend Commissioner Urban’s Motion to state that the Village Council direct the Village Manager to revise the 2007 recommended budget to reflect the Police Chief’s recommendation regarding the handling of emergency response operating costs. Commissioner Durkin seconded the Motion.
Commissioner Sandack referred to the amendments, which he sees as Motions to hide that there is a majority that wants to nix the SWAT program. He believes that following the Police Chief’s recommendation makes it comfortable.
Commissioner Tully responded that the comments by Commissioner Sandack are uncalled for and unjustified. He blames Commissioner Sandack for putting this into a voting mode in the first place. He is uncomfortable with the voting mode in which he has been placed, and it is unprofessional that he should be called names. Commissioner Sandack responded that there are machinations and game playing, and Commissioner Tully interjected that it is not game playing. It is about the fact that he is uncomfortable with what he views to be an attempted crossing of the lines of the Village’s form of government.
Roll was called on the Motion to amend. AYES : Commissioners Tully, Durkin, Urban, Mayor Krajewski NAYS : Commissioners Waldack, Sandack, Schnell The Motion to amend passed.
Roll was called on the Motion as amended. A motion was made by Commissioner Urban, seconded by Commissioner Tully, to Authorize this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Urban, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Durkin and Mayor Krajewski Nay: Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Schnell and Commissioner Waldack Indexes: Police, Budget – 2007
MOT00 -02530 Motion: Amend the FY 07 Proposed Budget to Allocate $380,000.00 per Year for Five Years to the Transportation Fund Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will direct the Village Manager to allocate $380,000.00 per year, for five years from the General Fund to the Transporation Fund. Mayor Krajewski said staff has done a good job of managing the budget and noted that revenues are coming in a bit over what was anticipated. He said that the auditor’s management letter said that the Village has to come up with a plan to cover the deficit in the Transportation fund. He has no problem with this year, but is uncomfortable to commit to this to five years.
The Manager said that the Motion is to put it in the proposed budget for five years, but every budget has to be approved every year.
The Mayor said he has no problem moving the $380,000 to the Transportation Fund to help clear the deficit, but is uncomfortable with putting in that amount over the next five years. He said that the Village spent four months on its Strategic Plan, which reflects the wishes of the Council. Transportation wasn’t a high priority. If they are going ahead with the transportation system, he said that the Village needs a dedicated funding source that is more than the annual debt. They need a dedicated funding source. The Mayor said that one of the top priorities is clearly the infrastructure of the Village.
Commissioner Tully said that there are two issues. The Transportation Fund has a current substantial deficit. The auditor’s Management Letter notes that this needs to be addressed. In regard to the Grove Commuter Shuttle, if the system vanishes, there would still be a deficit, and the deficit has to be addressed regardless of the future of the Shuttle.
The Manager said that staff would show this item for five years in the budget as a placeholder. It meets the goal to retire the debt.
Commissioner Durkin asked what the $380,000 would do, and the Manager said it pays back money that the Village owes. The Council adopts a one-year budget but has out years. This will be reflected in future years, but the Motion is only acting on one year at a time.
Commissioner Urban said he understood that they are paying off the debt over a five-year period, but if they continue the Shuttle service they will still be building the deficit. The Manager said that the $175,000 subsidy per year is projected based on assumptions of ridership, bus efficiency, etc. Commissioner Urban asked whether the Village is guaranteed to get the buses they are applying for in the grant. The Manager said technically it is not a grant application as much as an agreement with PACE that has been negotiated. She believes they will get the buses in eight to twelve months. Commissioner Urban thanked her for the clarification of the term “grant”, and said he is concerned that the Village has an alternate plan if the vehicles are not made available to the Village. The Manager suggested that Director Barber address the questions.
The Mayor said that in January they discussed this and thought they would get the buses, and then that changed.
Dave Barber, Director, Public Works, said the grant has been awarded to PACE , and CMAQ funds have been awarded to PACE . The agreement is with PACE for buses and the money is there. Once the agreement is signed staff will begin to work with PACE . The Mayor asked if PACE could reallocate the funds. Mr. Barber responded that specifically the award is through CMAQ , and would not be available for other programs.
Commissioner Schnell said that transferring funds from the General Fund to the Transportation Fund has been done in the past and a policy is in place. She said this is not inconsistent with what has been done, and they will be adhering to a policy that they have not followed.
Commissioner Waldack commented on an article referenced by the Mayor, saying it has to do strictly with paratransit systems. He indicated that dealing with transportation, an increase in fares puts everyone in shock. The Village has a policy with a Home Rule sales tax for its infrastructures. He said that has to be approved every year. What they are doing is basically telling staff that the Home Rule sales tax will be earmarked for the infrastructure, and the $380,000 will be earmarked for the transportation fund deficit. Commissioner Waldack said they are trying to be responsible to eliminate the deficit. If they had made the transfers earlier, the deficit could have been relieved. He indicated they might still be able to find other revenue sources as well.
The Mayor said he will vote for it this year, but will not support it next year. If the bus motion moves forward, they will need a dedicated revenue source. A motion was made by Commissioner Sandack, seconded by Commissioner Schnell, to Approve this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Urban, Mayor Krajewski, Commissioner Schnell, Commissioner Durkin, Commissioner Waldack and Commissioner Tully Indexes: Buses, Budget – 2007
MOT00 -02539 Motion: Authorize Execution of a Grant Agreement with PACE for Acquisition of Eight Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Fuel Buses Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will direct the Village Manager to execute a grant agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and PACE regarding the acquisition of eight (8) ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel buses. The Mayor said he will vote no for the grant application because they need to identify a funding source. He said the Council spent four months preparing the Strategic Plan and the transportation system is not a high priority in that plan. The Village needs to make a substantial commitment to the infrastructure. He said if the bus system goes forward he wants to see an identifiable revenue source that will be coming forth year after year.
Commissioner Tully said this is another issue that has been debated for years. Without the grant application and the opportunity to purchase eight new low emission buses at a very reduced rate, there is nothing to finance. When the Council discussed this in January, it had been hoped that the Village would have the buses by now. If the Council approves the grant execution and the new buses are obtained, the next question will be how to fund the operation of the system. The new buses will be under warranty, and should require less maintenance than the existing fleet. He noted that the Transportation Advisory Commission worked very hard on this project, yet the question continues to be raised as to how to pay for this. There’s been very little discussion on how to pay for it and provide a solution. Staff has proposed a $.03 property tax, which was not welcomed by the Council. The only other plausible solution is one that Commissioner Waldack has proposed which is to raise parking rates for commuters. However, the question is whether the costs are in line with the benefits. He recognizes that there are benefits to having the system; however, a funding source is necessary. He does not support the notion of increasing parking rates as it penalizes the commuters for no reason other than to support those who ride the bus. He said with three train stations in the Village it would not be prudent to chase away commuters by increasing their parking rates. He’s heard no other suggestions, and he has tried to come up with a solution to this problem. He has been in favor of trying to make this system work. He noted that the cost of $150,000-$250,000 is not an enormous amount but over years it could have been used for infrastructure improvements. Commissioner Tully said he also opposes shifting money from the General Fund to the Transportation Fund. Some of the benefits of the transportation system include reduced congestion on the streets, reduced emissions, and impact upon the roads. The revenue stream that makes more sense to him and relates best to supporting the transportation fund for the next ten years is the Village’s gasoline tax. He said when the price of gas went to about $3.60, people did not transfer to the bus, but kept paying the gas prices. Currently, the Village has a 1.5 cents gasoline tax that generates $290,000 dedicated almost exclusively to paying off the bond issued for the improvement of Fairview Avenue some years ago. That bond is set to retire in eight years, which leaves three years of that existing tax for the Transportation Fund, however, that is not enough. He then suggested proposal of a slight increase in the gasoline tax of one more penny. Darien has no local gas tax, and their average gas price as of November 6 was two cents higher than Downers Grove. It doesn’t appear that the one-cent tax increase will drive people to another community. Both residents as well as people who are not residents of the Village will pay this source. The one-penny increase would generate $193,000 in additional revenue that would be enough to pay the bonds and provide a dedicated revenue stream. Of the total amount currently generated, $30,000 is not in the Transportation Fund but could be placed there. Ten years from now the question will arise again as to replacement of those buses. This suggestion is a condition of his support of going forward with the grant and the Transportation System.
The Mayor said he believes of all the proposals he has heard, the one-cent gas tax would help the issue. He reviewed the history of the Fairview Avenue bond issue and the Village’s involvement with Darien on the issue of maintenance of Fairview. He would not support the one-cent gas tax, but is in favor of transferring $1 million to the Capital Improvements fund, but was told that staff needs time to gear up for this project. He noted that staff is spending a lot of time and resources on the bus system at the expense of the capital improvements budgets. He said this is a great idea, but he will not support continuation of the bus system. They need to fix the infrastructure problems.
Commissioner Durbin said that in regard to the redevelopment of Fairview Avenue, that was in conjunction with the Village of Downers Grove taking over jurisdiction of Fairview Avenue. A previous Village Council approved that.
Commissioner Schnell said that the Village has the right-of-way along a majority of Fairview Avenue. The Mayor said that the Village has the west half and Darien has the east half, and Commissioner Schnell disagreed. She said the Village tried to get funding. She also said that she’s been whipping boy on the Council, but the Village residents identified the Fairview project as a need because Fairview was falling apart, and the Village was responsible because they had the right-of-way. Darien was not interested in doing the work. The Council acquired monies from Fairview Baptist for part of the sidewalks. When communities acquired rights-of-ways in years past, that community is stuck with it. The gasoline tax was instituted in an effort to get people from other communities to pay toward the maintenance and improvement of that roadway. She has taken offense over the years every time this is discussed because 1) it had to be done, 2) the Village had the right-of-way, and 3) the Village had an equitable source to pay for it without increasing property taxes. She would like to see the Fairview Avenue issue put to bed and concentrate on the issues before the Council now. The project was taken care of and done through anyone who buys gasoline in the Village, not simply the residents’ tax dollars.
Commissioner Durkin asked as to the term of the agreement with the bus services and the commitment to the public if this Motion is approved. He also thinks moving in the direction of newer, smaller and more efficient buses is a step in the right direction, He is interested in what other revenues could be looked at outside of the additional gasoline tax. He asked whether there has been any more information from the DuPage Mayors and Managers regarding the reverse commute. Mr. Barber said that they still have to hear from DuPage Mayors and Managers as to whether the Village is a selected community. Commissioner Durkin then said that this is premature. They do not have a complete picture as yet. He asked if the EDC has given any indication of support of businesses. The Mayor said that they support the idea, but would not help fund it.
Manager Pavlicek said that buses for a reverse commute would be beyond the capacity of what the Village is doing with PACE .
Mr. Barber said that the agreement is a Memorandum of Understanding with PACE that talks about the operation of the eight buses for seven years, and the agreement indicates if the Village decides not to continue with the bus operation, the Village has to return the buses to PACE . The buses belong to PACE under this agreement. The next step such as a circulator route would be advantageous from the standpoint of DuPage County Transit because the Village already has the buses. That’s why the Village has scored high. There would be an additional cost involved for drivers to operate two of the buses throughout the day. If they are going to continue a Grove Commuter Shuttle the old buses have to be off the system, and new buses have to be purchased. Repairs to the existing buses are well beyond the value of the buses.
The Manager said that when staff recommended a transportation tax to fund the project, the Council did not support that tax. It would be a levy on the equalized assessed valuation of property.
Mayor Krajewski said that for future discussion, he believes that the Village needs to be fully reimbursed for its time if it has to do the Circulator System. The Village cannot support the buses without a source of funding.
Commissioner Durkin asked whether there would be a cost to ride the buses in the Circulator System. Mr. Barber said that has not been brought forward. The Manager said that if the Village does not have the buses it will not be invited to participate in the Circulator System project.
The Mayor said he would like a commitment from the Council as to incurring additional cost for the Circulator System. Mr. Barber said that the Council has committed two hours a month so far of his time on the Steering Committee. Mayor Krajewski said he wants the Council to authorize participation in the Circulator Study.
Commissioner Durkin said he understands that the reverse commute will not break even as a source of revenue, but it may help stem the deficit, and he would be interested in further information. If there are 8-12 months before the new buses arrive and they have to continue operating the existing fleet they will be in a bigger hole. He feels that the Village has not done all of its homework, and he doesn’t see how they can decide on this at this time. He assumes there will be added costs of drivers, fuel, etc. He would like to see the actual costs anticipated.
The Manager said that they need to distinguish between a reverse commute and the Circulator System. The reverse commute occurs at the exact same time of day, AM or PM. Having a reverse commute would require doubling the system. They would have twice the expenses and revenues. Mr. Barber then explained the four routes running each morning and each evening. They meet the express trains. There are other routes that meet the alternate express trains in the morning.
Commissioner Tully said there might be other things out there, but the Circulator System is not far enough along to provide more exact information.
Commissioner Urban thanked the TAC for this work and Commissioner Tully for proposing a possible funding source. He feels that the bus system is a luxury in that no one else in DuPage County supports its own bus system. He previously asked whether there was any other bus system in the community that would replace the Village’s system, and was told there is a system but it is not as good as the Village’s. He is amazed that cities with 125,000 plus residents do not subsidize their own bus system. He sees this as a luxury offered to a select few. Clear direction was given last year to have options to pay for this, and he would like to see a commitment to the entire community such as sidewalks or other projects. He then asked whether PACE would step in if the Village ends its program. He’s been told that it will cost the Village money. There are no designated stops and the Village does not control the bus system. He will not vote in favor of this tonight, as it is antiquated, outdated and needs to go away.
Commissioner Schnell said that having a bus system is forward thinking. It provides a true transportation system that is available to all the residents. The Village subsidizes taxi coupons, and not everyone uses this program. The bus system provides a service to people who choose not to own two vehicles or cannot afford to do so. The commuter shuttle is a service helping take cars off the streets and offers a bus to get residents to the train. It is an environmental and congestion issue. She believes $125,000 is a reasonable subsidy, noting that all public transportation systems are subsidized. Commissioner Schnell pointed out that the parking deck was expensive and quarterly parkers do not pay the full cost. She sees buses as part of a larger system that the Village has been able to offer residents. Commissioner Schnell thanked the residents for their e-mails on this issue. She has supported this program for as long as she has been on the Council. This system has made this community a place where people want to live, and she doesn’t want to see it go away. Eliminating the system would mean they would have to deal with the former bus riders who would have no place to park. PACE is not going to take this system over. She feels that this decision was made last January. People have mentioned that they agreed with that and now feel the system is uncertain. She thanked Commissioner Tully for actually coming up with a funding source that would make sense and help bring the subsidy downward. The Council has to make a decision and stop vacillating. She personally supports the system.
The Mayor asked again about the funding source and how this would be paid for.
Commissioner Schnell congratulated Commissioner Tully for thinking about this issue, and she is fine with the one-cent tax rate increase on the gasoline tax.
Commissioner Sandack said he couldn’t argue with anything Commissioner Urban said. In January he thought they were jettisoning the old system and getting rid of the old buses and getting new buses. Everyone knew there would be a deficit and that’s not a big shock. He thought on January 6 that the Council gave authorization to execute the grant. The Manager said that in negotiating with PACE there was conversation regarding CNG buses. Commissioner Sandack said either way it is a better bus. He asked how long the grant has been waiting for execution. Mr. Barber said that the staff has been negotiating for some time, and the agreement arrived the week of the budget hearing, but it needed a legal review. The first rendition of the CNG agreement was in July. Commissioner Sandack said that they have had the agreement for several months for what they directed in January. He said that he was in agreement with Commissioner Urban several years ago, but believes that the Council made a commitment in January to move ahead with the buses, and now they are changing that direction. He agrees that the proposed gas tax makes sense and is a fair and equitable source for funding. He could sign on to that concept.
Commissioner Waldack commended Commissioner Tully on his suggestion and agreed with it. They should look at other revenue sources, and he thinks they should look at raising parking rates. The Village is helping Metra’s customers get to Metra’s trains. He referenced an article in the Chicago Tribune regarding the RTA and congestion, and improving commuter systems in the city and region. He sees this system as an investment in the future. The transit systems are talking about working together and making more investments regionally in bus systems. He noted that Downers Grove is landlocked. It has access to several train stops, and the Village needs to use that to its advantage. The Circulator System is a premise that would be good for businesses. Providing transportation to those who do not have it is another benefit of living in the Village. The taxi subsidy program has not been increased, although the taxi services are costing more. Consequently, seniors are running out of this subsidy mid-month. Taxis are an expensive system. A Circulator System would give job opportunities to those who cannot drive by getting them to and from work. That sets the Village apart from competition. He said that TAC has done a fantastic job, and suggested that they look at other revenue sources. There is no such thing as free parking. Without making incremental changes you end up charging double overnight and that shocks the commuter. Commissioner Waldack said that there is only one PACE route down Main Street, and PACE has fixed routes. The Village has to think of those disabled people who have no other options. He will support this measure and the increase in gasoline tax, and asked TAC to look into other funding sources. He also asked that businesses support this as well.
The Mayor said that he will not support this Motion. One thing that has changed since January is the Strategic Plan. He then read the Mission Statement of the Village and the Five-Year goals. He noted that the Motion addressed so far tonight is not a main part of the Strategic Plan.
Commissioner Tully said that he would vote in favor of the Motion with the one-cent increase in the gasoline tax because it would not draw funds away from the Capital/General Fund which should be devoted to infrastructure.
Mayor Krajewski also asked staff to review the debt service funds for Fairview Avenue for possible deficit reduction. He then asked whether there was a bond payment skipped due to the fiscal year change, and there appears to be a potential $150,000 addition due to the reallocation of the fiscal year. He asked about an interest-only payment due to the reallocation of the fiscal year. A motion was made by Commissioner Schnell, seconded by Commissioner Waldack, to Accept this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Sandack and Commissioner Schnell Nay: Mayor Krajewski, Commissioner Urban and Commissioner Durkin Indexes: Buses
MOT00 -02531 Motion: Amend the FY 07 Proposed Budget to Allocate No More Than $150,000.00 for Tourism and Amend the Agreement with the Economic Development Corporation Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will direct the Village Manager to amend the FY 2007 proposed budget to allocate no more than $150,000.00 from Hotel Tax revenues for tourism and direct the Village Manager to prepare an amendment to the agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation. Commissioner Tully moved to direct the Village Manager to amend the FY07 Proposed Budget to allocate no more than $150,000 from the Hotel Tax revenues to tourism and to prepare an amendment to the agreement between the Village and the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation accordingly. Commissioner Urban seconded the Motion.
Commissioner Tully said he changed the Motion from $243,000 to $150,000 because he asked the question a couple of weeks ago as to why the Village needed to fund additional monies when there was an agreement that the Village’s share of the funding for the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) would be 50% of the Hotel Sales tax revenue not to exceed $500,000. He was adamant that there had not been another source of revenue proposed last fall. Since last week, however, Commissioner Tully said he found that there actually was another source for $100,000 contemplated from the business license program. He had the document dated June 2005. This was from the Village, but was a source other than hotel taxes. In conversation with the President of the EDC , Commissioner Tully said that he was told costs were underestimated. Commissioner Tully referenced the by-laws of the EDC , which include promoting leisure travel as well as references to its tourism function. Commissioner Tully said he feels that $150,000 would be an appropriate amount. The tourism function squarely resides in the EDC , as indicated in its by-laws. He said that if the Village wants the EDC to do Tourism right they need to be able to hire a professional to do this and $150,000 will help in that regard and allow them to fulfill their mission in a way expected by the Council.
The Mayor said he believes that Economic Development and Tourism hits three of the goals of the Village’s Strategic Plan. He noted that Naperville gives 100% of their hotel tax funds to the EDC . Seven years ago the Village funded the EDC at the $700,000 level. He referenced the amount of revenue of the hotels over many years. He said the EDC department was eliminated and put the Village at a disadvantage. The Mayor said he thinks the majority of the hotel/motel tax should be used for economic development and tourism. He mentioned that the community to the north is building a 500-room hotel which will compete with the Village’s hotels. The money that is generated from the EDC helps to keep the taxes low in the Village, and he believes that the EDC needs the tools to serve the Village. He also agreed with the $150,000 proposed by Commissioner Tully, and said he would be in favor of even more. He congratulated the President of the EDC for his hard work.
Commissioner Urban commented that the Village needs the right people in the right places at the right time. He said that less than 12 months ago there were 5,000 less restaurant seats between Lombard and Oak Brook than there are today. The average restaurant there will bring in an average of $20 million a year. Some restaurants do as much as $60 million a year. It is important that the Village increase its business and keep what we have. He will vote in favor of the $150,000, and thinks that the EDC President will show that they can do the job. Commissioner Urban said he is very involved in hockey tournaments, noting that there is an international tournament this week representing 24 countries playing in Woodridge, Addison and Bensenville. That means 240 teams with 20 members per team. Millions and millions of dollars were spent on that tournament. The Village needs to keep moving forward. He said he thinks the EDC will be coming back in less than a year to ask for more funding.
Commissioner Schnell said she totally supports economic development and tourism, as it is the lifeblood of our community. She will not be supporting this Motion, however, because the EDC is a new entity and an unknown entity. She believes it still has to prove itself. It is being given $450,000, and the original agreement made it clear that part of its original duty was to provide tourism. Part of that funding was to be $100,000 from business licenses, but the Village does not have the business license yet, so they would not have those funds anyway for this budget year, as the money is not yet available. She wants to revisit this in a year and see what the accomplishments are and what their proposal is in a year.
Commissioner Sandack said he listened to the majority. He said that Naperville did not fund their EDC to the extent that this Village is funding it. If this Village can’t accomplish what needs to be done with $500,000, then there is a problem. In his opinion what is missing is the request for a budget amendment, noting that the EDC did not come to the Village with a budget amendment, and he hasn’t seen any minutes expressing a need for funds to do the tourism aspect of its responsibilities. Tourism is business travelers. He wants to know what the hotels have done to compete with Lombard before the Village supplies an outside sales force for the hotels. He wants to know they have put capital improvements in to increase their business. Commissioner Sandack said he believes the agreements need to be redone. The Village needs to take a step back, because they are funding based on documents with all kinds of conflicts. He recommended fixing the documents because he does not believe any new money should be funded to the EDC based on the documents before him. He wants to see a return on the investment.
Commissioner Waldack agreed with the comments of Commissioners Schnell and Sandack. He referred to the terms of the agreement, noting the need for the hotel sales forces to take action. He would like to see more of an action plan, and is concerned about the elements of the agreement. He thinks $450,000 is adequate for the job to get done.
Commissioner Durkin asked how the $150,000 is going to be spent. The Mayor said he believed it would be for a manager devoted totally to tourism. Commissioner Durkin asked if they have any idea what the return will be in additional hotel/motel taxes. The Manager said that the projected taxes will stay flat, but they did not have this piece in hand.
Mayor Krajewski said in his opinion, he believes that more resources need to be invested in economic development and tourism. He doesn’t care whether they are staff members or hired by the EDC . More resources need to be put into tourism in his opinion. He asked about the #1 and #2 corporate tenants at the Marriott. He said that Merck was the number one user of the Marriott with 10,000 room nights and they are no longer at the Marriott. The second corporate tenant was Con Agra which is now in Naperville. The Mayor said that the number one tenant now is the travel hockey. Two main tenants have been lost. He said that they need someone to do tourism activities as the Village is losing its resources. More money needs to be allocated, and he does not feel it is a good idea to wait. They need to protect what the Village has and compete with other communities.
Commissioner Tully said the original intent of the hotel/motel taxes was to use the funds for economic development, community grants, the Visitor’s Bureau, and supplemental costs for Heritage Festival. The tax was generated to have funds for certain purposes. Not all the funds have been used for those purposes.
Commissioner Durkin said that the Village doesn’t have the proper tools to do tourism. He asked what the benefit would be of having the EDC do tourism versus Village staff.
The Mayor said that the Village doesn’t have anyone on tourism. The biggest problem the hotel operators have is that they make phone calls to the corporations and cannot through to the people with whom they need to speak. The Village needs the ability to get through to the top people of these organizations.
Commissioner Durkin asked how the extra $150,000 would be spent. The Mayor responded he wants to see a tourism manager hired, and allocate money for the tourism director.
The Manager said that the Motion on the table also addressed an amendment to the agreement with the EDC handling tourism. There could be a conflict of interest for a public employee to perform the tourism function. Commissioner Durkin asked whether the $150,000 is a one-time expenditure and the Manager said it would be perpetual.
Commissioner Tully said that it could be ended at any time.
Commissioner Durkin said that he wasn’t on the Council when all of these discussions were held and wants to be sure that he understands that the tourism job is not being done, and it needs to be done.
Commissioner Sandack said that tourism was addressed in the agreement. He hasn’t heard the EDC say they cannot do this with their budget. Mr. Bedalov is doing a great job. He said that the Village is funding more on top of new funding, sight unseen, to serve as an outside sales force for the hotel industry.
Commissioner Durkin asked how the $450,000 came to be decided upon.
Commissioner Tully said that it was $500,000 from the hotel tax with an additional $100,000 from the business licenses. He said that historically, the Village has used a portion of the hotel/motel sales tax revenue for tourism to pay for someone to promote tourism. This has not been done for some time. Tourism has to be done by the EDC , and the question is whether the Village holds the EDC to do that with the budget amount allocated. The minutes of earlier meetings show that $100,000 funding would come from businesses license revenue over and above the $450,000. It was contemplated in June 2005 that the business license revenue would be in place by now. He indicated his opinion that if the tourism function is to be conducted properly, they need to have a tourism manager. That person can be hired here in the Village or by the EDC .
Mayor Krajewski explained that several years ago the Village had five and a half people dedicated to the EDC at a cost of $700,000. That has disappeared. The question is how much money should be committed to Tourism. He feels that a substantial portion of hotel taxes should be reinvested in tourism.
Commissioner Durkin said that it appears that everyone on the Council wants to do tourism. The Mayor noted that the Village staff doing this could present a possible conflict, and he asked if the EDC would respond faster than the Village to get someone in place. That is a staffing problem.
The Manager said that the money would not be available until January. She said that if the Council decided that a Village staff person should be in charge of tourism, it could be done.
Commissioner Durkin said he would support the $150,000 to the EDC .
Commissioner Urban said that the thrust of tourism goes out of house, and to pull it together tourism needs to be connected to EDC . He said they need to have someone who knows how to put together the packages necessary to draw people to the Village. He then asked if someone on staff could pull together the money spent on advertising, going back as far as they can. They’ll find that the return on that investment didn’t work. A motion was made by Commissioner Tully, seconded by Commissioner Urban, to Accept this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Urban, Mayor Krajewski and Commissioner Durkin Nay: Commissioner Schnell, Commissioner Sandack and Commissioner Waldack Indexes: Tourism and Events Commission, Budget – 2007
8. Mayor’s Report
Mayor Krajewski said he attended the Christian Youth Ministry event composed of high school and junior high school students. He congratulated the youth for their work, and congratulated them for their efforts. Some of these young people went to Mississippi to help repair homes of people struggling with the aftermath of the hurricane.
The Mayor said that on Tuesday he will be at Lester School to read, and thanked them for inviting him out again. Materials to be Received
Materials to be Placed on File
9. Manager’s Report
REP00 -02536 Report: October 2, 2006 Storm Event & Stormwater Management System Improvement Action Plan Sponsors: Public Works Manager Pavlicek said this report identifies issues that were highlighted during the recent rainstorm in October.
David Barber reviewed the complaints received from the October rain flooding. He said that Jon Hall went to the United States Geological Survey Gauging Station in Lisle and found that St. Joseph’s Creek rose 4 feet in the first hour after that storm and 6 feet within two hours. The runoff was 950 cubic feet per second (cfs). The 1996 event peaked at 1250 cfs. This was a significant rain event in a short time. Problems primarily were identified at St. Joe’s Creek, and some problems in the Prentiss Creek area. The least problem was in Lacey Creek watershed. The calls made were plotted on the map since the storm. He explained that staff reviewed what was to be done to create a long term approach to the problems. They identified six steps: 1) finish a stormsewer map; 2) get a preliminary review of the streams; 3) obtain design parameters for the stormsewer system, including a 10 and 25-year conveyance capacity; 4) identify specific improvements to the system; 5) determine how the proposed system fits with the CIP ; and 6) prepare a long-term funding strategy. Mr. Barber said that their action plan needs a boost of staff with one additional engineer to begin quickly. They would come back in July concerning a team for the overall system-wide improvements, and prepare a long-term budgeting schedule. This is an accelerated approach of what is in the Master Plan.
The Manager asked about the 100 year storms and what that actually means, since there are some misconceptions about it.
Mr. Barber said that what’s studied is all rainfall events of record, from which a line of probability is prepared. When 90% of events are smaller than one event, that’s a 100-year event. The difficulty comes in when looking at storms in terms of intensity as well as inches of rain. There can be three 100-year storms in one day because of the varying nature of the storms. The storms that cause the most damage are the one-hour or two-hour intensity storm because the conveyance system cannot handle it. The event in 1996 was 7”-10” of rain over a longer period of time and the sewer pipes could carry the water away. The event in October, the pipes could not handle the high intensity of the one hour storm.
The Manager said that staff is seeking direction for staffing in the general fund, and funding for engineering firms in the capital budget for recommendations for next year. The Council needs to workshop the Stormwater Master Plan.
Commissioner Schnell asked whether the additional engineer for stormwater would balance the team to do other projects. Mr. Barber said that the staff has done a better job of planning its capital projects. This additional staff person is needed for the projects which are over and above what is currently being done. They need to coordinate with consulting firms as well. Commissioner Schnell said they need to be sure that there is no overlap with what other departments are doing. Mr. Barber said that staff will coordinate information being done by other agencies. Commissioner Schnell said she wholly supports this, noting that they had conversations about this at the Public Services Committee meetings.
The Mayor thanked Mr. Barber for the presentation. He asked if there are projects they could do if the Council allocates an additional $125,000 to the CIP . Mr. Barber said that there are projects they could work on. The Mayor said that based on the audit, it appears that the Village has $12 million in cash reserves. He asked whether Public Works could do more projects. Mr. Barber responded that putting money into paving programs would not cause problems for them. The Mayor mentioned the 61st and Hillcrest sidewalk gap and Mr. Barber said staff is already looking into that. They have also completed an inventory looking at gaps in small segments on collector streets.
Commissioner Durkin said that this is a major issue, and asked whether this could be addressed on a Saturday meeting. The Manager said it would be a Workshop item, and the Mayor directed that it be put first on the Agenda.
Commissioner Waldack said that the plan seems to be a sales pitch for hiring more consultants, and he is disenchanted with the plan. He agrees that they need as GIS person, and would agree to spend more money, but he would like to see more work actually done and accomplish something. He has no problem with the $377,000.
Commissioner Tully noted that at the Stormwater meetings held a couple of years ago, there was $3.5 million backlogged stormwater projects, and there was no way to pay for it. He explained that stormwater is a complicated and comprehensive system. He is glad to see they are talking about having money to get work done. Indexes: Stormwater Detention Ms. Petrarca asked the Council to consider waiving the one-week waiting period to consider a motion to direct the Village Manager to amend the FY 2007 proposed budget to allocate $377,000.00 to fund implementation of the Stormwater Management Plan.
Commissioner Tully moved to waive the one-week waiting period to consider new business. Commissioner Urban seconded the Motion.
VOTE : YEA : Commissioners Tully, Urban, Durkin, Waldack, Sandack, Schnell, Mayor Krajewski NAY: None
Mayor Krajewski declared the Motion carried.
MOT00 -02538 Motion: Amend FY 07 Proposed Budget to Allocate $377,000.00 to Fund Implementation of the Stormwater Management Plan Sponsors: Manager’s Office Summary of Item: This will direct the Village Manager to allocate $377,000.00 to fund the implementation of the Stormwater Management Plan. A motion was made by Commissioner Tully, seconded by Commissioner Urban, to Accept this file. Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried by the following vote: Votes: Yea: Commissioner Sandack, Commissioner Schnell, Mayor Krajewski, Commissioner Waldack, Commissioner Tully, Commissioner Urban and Commissioner Durkin Indexes: Stormwater Detention
REP00 -02537 Snow Plan Sponsors: Public Works The Mayor noted that there have been no significant changes made to the Snow Plan, and Mr. Barber said that the plan will be on the website and will be discussed in greater detail next week. Indexes: Snow Plan
10. Attorney’s Report
Future Active Agenda
11.Council Member Reports and New Business
Commissioner Schnell said that the Pancake Breakfast was a great success and she thanked the public.
Commissioner Tully asked about directing the Village Manager to move forward in exploring the one-cent gasoline tax. The Manager said that staff will undertake the work based on the support of the Council. They will follow the policy regarding Home Rule.
Commissioner Tully then asked about the line item for new sidewalk construction for FY 2007 -2011, and whether this includes contributions from developers. He said he would like the Village Manager in the future to add whatever contributions are for a given year, whether $1 or $100,000. Mr. Barber said that the cost per linear foot for sidewalks has been between $30-$32.
Commissioner Schnell said she would like to add $175,000 to the sidewalks in celebration of the Village’s 175th anniversary.
Mayor Krajewski said this should be placed on Workshop for further discussion.
Commissioner Tully then read a statement into the record regarding Marine Sgt. Thomas Gilbert who lost his life in Iraq:
We all send our sincerest condolences and gratitude to the famly of Marine Sgt. Thomas Gilbert, who was recently killed in action in Iraq while coming to the aid of his fellow Marines, fighting for his country, and defending our basic human freedoms.
Tommy was part and product of a family that has served this community in so many ways that there are few residents’ lives they have not touched in some way. The huge attendance at Tommy’s wake and funeral last week was not only a fitting tribute to a military hero and son of Downers Grove, but also a testament to the Gilbert family’s unselfish commitment to public service.
Tommy will be sorely missed but he will never be forgotten. His service to his country was of the highest calling and his sacrifice the ultimate one. It somberly reminds us that freedom is never free, and that sometimes the price can be almost unbearable. Marine Sgt. Thomas Gilbert and his brothers-in-arms, like fellow Downers Grove resident Marine Pfc. Sean T. Cardelli, paid that price so that millions of others can continue to enjoy a way of life that too many take for granted. If there ever was an appropriate occasion to use the label “hero,” it is here.
We will never forget your courage or your sacrifice.
The Mayor said that an elderly resident on Finley Road had a car accident recently. A CSO was sent to her aid and she was very complimentary as to how helpful he was to her.
12. Adjournment
Commissioner Tully moved to adjourn. Commissioner Urban seconded.
VOTE : YEA – Commissioners Tully, Urban, Durkin, Waldack, Sandack, Schnell, Mayor Krajewski
Mayor Krajewski declared the motion carried and the meeting adjourned at 11:15 p.m
©2023 The Village of Downers Grove | All Rights Reserved