April 25, 2000

Mayor Krajewski called the Workshop meeting of the Village Council of the Village of Downers Grove to order at 6:33 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall.

Present:Mayor Brian Krajewski; Commissioners Marilyn Schnell, Thomas Sisul, Michael Gilbert, Deputy Village Manager Gerald Sprecher; Village Attorney Daniel Blondin; Village Clerk April Holden

Absent:Commissioner Sue McConnell; Village Manager Michael McCurdy

Visitors: Press: Jason Bramwell, Downers Grove Reporter; Susie Gura, Suburban Life Graphic Residents: Sue Davison, 4336 Florence; Tom Julian, 6223 Springside; Mark Zabloudil, 620 39th; Liz Chalberg, 728 Randall; Jean and Roger Rosen, 1221 Jefferson; Terry Stepp, 5723 Carpenter; Marilynn Gerloff, 4241 Highland; Dave Tatterson, 1240 Gilbert; Christine Fregeau, 1918 Elmore; Mary Ellen Young, 1821 Elmore; Leslie Doyle, 1911 Elmore; Peter Hultman, 1410 Gilbert; Jack McGuire, 1425 Gilbert; Mary Puccini, 740 40th St.; Sue Vitner, 2256 Durand; William & Margaret Ruopp, 4026 Earlston; Stephanie Johnson, 4700 Northcort; Mary Tessiatore, 4680 Downers Drive; Ross Johnson, 1311 Gilbert; Rosemary Mackie, 3904 Earlston; Barbara Erdell, 4837 Woodward; Betty Ann and Al Breeze, 5508 S. Lee; Sidonie Hylander, 3920 Earlston; Carol Lundquist; 3920 Earlston; Tom & Judy Vasey, 3979 Earlston; Nancy Zebic, 4012 Earlson; Bruce Peiffer, 3926 Earlson; Joe & Kay Nasvik, 3934 Earlson; Paul Sassano, 3938 Earlston; Celeste Leigh, 3954 Earlston; Robyn Ranico, 3933 Earlston; Barbara Wysocki, Chamber of Commerce; Michael Ouska, 4020 Earlston Staff: Lisa Wisner, Visitors Bureau Director; Dave Conley, Director, Engineering; Jeff Livergood, Director, Public Works; Steve Rockwell, Director, EDC : Marty Lyons, Director, Financial Services; Trisha Steele, Asst. Dir., Financial Services

Mayor Krajewski explained that Council Workshop meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. The meetings are video taped for later cable cast over cable channel P/21.

The Workshop meeting is intended to provide Council and the public with an appropriate forum for informal discussion of any items intended for future Council consideration or just for general information. No formal action is taken at Workshop meetings.

The public is invited to attend and encouraged to comment or ask questions in an informal manner on any of the items being discussed or on any other subject. The agenda is created to provide a guideline for discussion.

Proclamation:

Mayor Krajewski proclaimed Friday, April 28, 2000 as Arbor Day , noting there would be a tree planting on Friday at 4:00 p.m. on downtown Main Street.

MANAGER

Bids:

Hitchcock Avenue Improvements – Thatcher Road to Walnut Avenue, Project 6-98. Deputy Manager Sprecher said staff is recommending awarding the contract to F&G Construction, Inc., in the amount of $131,733.53 with a 5% contingency of $6,586.68. The Village received satisfactory recommendations on this firm. This is somewhat above the engineer’s estimate, which has been attributed to the escalating costs of petroleum products.

The Mayor asked if increased petroleum costs were built into this project. The Manager said it was for the upcoming year.

Contract Extension – Facility Cleaning and Custodial Services. The Manager said staff recommends consideration to extend the contract for cleaning and custodial services for the Public Works Facility with Crystal Maintenance Services Corporation through April 30, 2001 at an annual price of $16,680.00. This company has worked well.

Supplies & Services for Storm Drainage & Pavement Divisions. The Manager reviewed the staff recommendations for contractors regarding supplies and services for storm drainage and pavement. Recommendations were to award bids to Harry W. Kuhn, Boughton Trucking & Materials, Western Gradall Corp and Kieft Brothers in the amounts as noted in the Council Workshop Memorandum dated April 11, 2000. Manager Sprecher said there have been no problems with any of these contractors.

Commissioner Sisul asked if the $38,800 for the bituminous coal mix would be over budget. The Manager said the cost would be slightly more if they had to go to K-Five, and he agreed that the difference in cost is caused by the petroleum product costs.

Marty Lyons , Financial Services Director, said some funds were put into the budget to account for the petroleum cost increases. He said it was difficult to gauge what the increases would be last December, but they would be able to better gauge that by September or October. As of now, petroleum costs are dropping again. He said he would update the Council in the fall.

Commissioner Sisul asked whether they have accepted these bids. Mr. Lyons said the costs are per unit prices, and the number of units varies based on need. They will watch how many units are consumed. There will be enough funds to finish the projects to which they have committed.

Replacement Sidewalk. The Manager said that staff recommends awarding a contract in the amount of $117,158.75 to Suburban Concrete for replacement sidewalks, with a change order to be approved simultaneously to provide an amount up to $175,000 in sidewalk replacement, consistent with the Council’s direction during the Budget Workshop discussions.

Commissioner Schnell asked that the map be placed in the Village Corner for those people who may need replacement of their sidewalks. She said it should be included in the Village Corner, Cable and perhaps on the web page as well as the Library so people are aware of the areas where sidewalks will be replaced. She asked how close this comes to meeting the needed replacements. Manager Sprecher said it gets the Village closer; however, there are many locations that merit replacement.

Jeff Livergood , Director of Public Works, said this past winter staff put together a detailed sidewalks system, and for the next 8-9 months they intend to send staff out to create the data base for sidewalk replacement locations.

Commissioner Sisul said the Community Response Committee recommends using a newspaper insert on a periodic basis. This type of information could be included in such a piece.

Commissioner Schnell commented on senior citizen housing, as the criteria does not fit in with older citizens, some of whom may be use walkers. She asked that staff take into account the needs of senior citizens in preparing their data base.

Mosquito Abatement. The Manager said staff recommends awarding a contract to Clarke Environmental Mosquito Management, Inc. to spray as necessary. Staff anticipates and is budgeting for two Village-wide sprayings. Based upon past experience, staff thinks the amount of $32,409 for two-sprayings is reasonable.

Commissioner Schnell asked whether they will still have an intern and the Manager said they will.

The Manager asked that these items be placed on the May 2nd Consent Agenda.

EDC Lease Extension – 5202 Washington St. The Manager said this is a request to renew the EDC lease for the Washington Street office. The contract was extended for six months in September. At this time staff feel they need to continue operations out of the Washington Street site. It provides the space needs for the EDC , and staff would like the contract extended for one year.

Commissioner Gilbert asked whether the EDC will be brought into the space needs discussions and Manager Sprecher said they would be included.

Commissioner Sisul said 4% is a substantial increase. He thinks they should renew but would like to see the EDC included in the space needs discussions.

The Manager said this will be on the May 16 Agenda. The lease expires on June 1.

Convention Center Feasibility Study. The Manager said there has been a request for consulting services pertaining to the possibility of a convention center in Downers Grove. The request comes from the Visitors Bureau and the EDC . They recommend awarding a contract to Gruen Gruen & Associates for a feasibility study to assess the potential market demand. The contract amount is between $24,000 to $32,000.

Commissioner Schnell expressed concerns in reading the proposal. She said the opening in the letter from Gruen Gruen references the addition of a “conference type or meeting center,” which was not what she expected. She thought the idea was to look at the feasibility of a convention center, and she sees a difference between a conference center and a convention center.

Lisa Wisner , Director, Visitors Bureau, said they are going to look at what type of facility will fit in Downers Grove. They are being asked to provide alternatives to a convention center if needed. They did not want to limit the study to only a convention center.

Commissioner Schnell said she does not think they can do that type of study for this amount of money. She also is concerned that this company has the expertise to study the area. If they are looking at a conference center, the consultant would have to compare the area nationally to other places with the same type of demographics. She would have preferred to see a comparison between Gruen and the other bidder to measure the expertise and convention experience of both.

Ms. Wisner said in studying their background, they found Gruen Gruen has worked with the private and public sector, including the feasibility study for the Golden State Arena as well as all tiers of the product.

Commissioner Schnell said she considered this study too important to go with a bargain rather than quality.

Ms. Wisner said she can provide the information on the other bidder. She said the EDC staff could help lower the costs by assisting Gruen in the project. It provides an opportunity to cut costs and use staff assistance.

Commissioner Schnell said she still wanted to see a comparison.

Steve Rockwell , Director of the EDC , said he has worked with the other firm three times and has been unhappy with them three times.

Commissioner Schnell said that she only received the information today and she questions whether they can provide the service Downers Grove needs.

Ms. Wisner said staff did an RFP and contacted ten companies who did tourism projects. She said they only received three responses. In addition they consulted the national association of hospitality consultants for information.

Commissioner Schnell asked if the study would be site specific. Ms. Wisner said it would not. However, it would have to be near highway access, hotels, high density office space, etc., and there are only a few areas with that type of property available in Downers Grove. They will be looking at whether Downers Grove and DuPage County could support such a center.

Commissioner Schnell said she understood they missed the grant cycle, but she would like staff to pursue other partnerships.

Ms. Wisner said they have contacted the DuPage Convention and Visitors Bureau. They are aware of what is going on.

The Mayor mentioned the DuPage Visitors Center and asked if they have offered their help. She said they have been in contact.

Commissioner Gilbert asked whether all of the ten companies were contacted by phone as well. Ms. Wisner said all were called over a period of three to four weeks.

The Mayor asked whether the Visitors Bureau Board of Directors has reviewed the prospectus. Ms. Wisner said they had not. The Mayor asked that they be provided with a copy.

Commissioner Schnell said she would like to see them obtain as much feedback as possible from other agencies. She said that she did not feel the response from Gruen Gruen matched what she thought was the initial intent of a convention center.

Ms. Wisner said that she thought the terms “conference center” and “convention center” were the same to Gruen Gruen.

The Mayor asked if staff has had any conversations with end users of Gruen’s projects, and Ms. Wisner said they could do that.

The Manager said this would be placed on the May 16 Active Agenda.

Ms. Wisner said they would like to start this as soon as possible.

Commissioner Sisul said that it appeared that staff has obtained outside assistance and that only this company has responded satisfactorily to the RFP . The question is whether or not they understand the scope of the work.

Commissioner Schnell said she does not want to rush into this. If it takes additional time to check references and know that this is the right group, it is prudent to take the time and make sure everything is in place.

Commissioner Gilbert said this topic is highly competitive throughout the entire Chicagoland area. He believes they need to act quickly and not waste too much time.

The Mayor asked that they work on getting the information back and they can always adopt it at the May 9th Workshop if necessary.

Commissioner Sisul said this company has worked with Scottsdale, Arizona and there are a number of places they can look at to determine how their work was performed.

Commissioner Schnell asked that they check as to the kinds of studies this company did and whether it is specific to what Downers Grove wants to accomplish. She does not want to make a decision without the information.

Preliminary Official Statement – Sale of G.O. Bonds. The Manager said this is in the amount of $6.2 million and they anticipate the issue of these bonds next week.

The Mayor asked about the anticipated interest rate. Mr. Lyons said approximately 5.6%. Last year it was 5.2%.

The Mayor asked whether the $500,000 has come in from Springfield. Mr. Lyons said it has not. He will follow up on that and inform the Council. He said it would go directly into the construction fund. He said they had discussed using it for the Village portion of the traffic signalization, and for Block 117. He added that the Greenlight funds have come in at approximately 95%.

Commissioner Gilbert asked about how the reassessment of downtown properties. Mr. Lyons said the Township Assessor has the authority to grant a break to property owners when significant construction will occur impacting their economic viability. The 1999 levy was lowered for the Main Street properties. It also lowered the frozen valuation for the TIF district. He said as a result they will not get the growth he expected and will be about $80,000 lower than he thought; however, it will come back this year.

Mr. Lyons said that the development of Morningside and the potential for Block 117 are happening at the level needed.

Commissioner Gilbert asked if that County reassessment is automatic. Mr. Lyons said once it is brought to the Assessor’s attention they will evaluate it.

The Mayor asked whether the TIF consultant, because of their experience, advised the Village of this. Mr. Lyons said they did not, as they focused on Ogden Avenue. He assured that as they move forward on other issues it will be taken into account.

Fire Department: Granting Peace Officer Status – Gregory Morton & Brett Mowrey. The Manager said this request is to grant two firefighters the status of Peace Office, which entails their involvement in the investigative unit of the Fire Department as it relates to criminal activity. This status would enable them to act as police officers in gathering information from the state. The intent is not to preclude the Police from investigation but to help both the Police and Fire Department to directly access the necessary information.

Fire Chief Lanny Russell said this is a joint request from Police Chief Ginex and himself. He said that Brett Mowrey had the training when he was hired. He worked closely with the local police as well as county agencies. Chief Russell said the primary purpose for this is to provide a better means of access to information on arson investigations.

Commissioner Sisul said that he received favorable comments about Richard Berndt’s work in relation to assisting a tenant with relocation. Chief Russell said it has been the Bureau’s goal to become a customer-oriented agency. He said he would pass on the compliment to Richard Berndt.

The Manager said this would be placed on the May 16 Active Agenda.

Parking & Traffic Recommendations – Durand Drive. The Manager said the P&T Commission met on March 21 and unanimously recommended restricting parking on Durand between Belmont Road and Aspen Avenue, due to potential safety issues at that location.

The Mayor asked whether there is parking on both sides of the street in that subdivision. Mr. Livergood said that presently parking is allowed on both sides of the street for the entire subdivision. It is wide enough because the parking there now is sporadic with residents and guests. If they park on both sides of the street they can only get one car down the street.

The Mayor said that most of the parking appears to be from the businesses on Belmont. Mr. Livergood said the residents were quite understanding of the business owner’s problems. The Mayor asked whether the business is in the County. Mr. Livergood said it is on the east side of Belmont Road and is in the County. With the type of tenants that occupy the building, they need additional parking due to the large numbers of sales staff. It is not an every day occurrence.

Commissioner Schnell agreed they should look at parking on one side of the street. Mr. Livergood said that there were about 10-15 cars. He said that the owner of the building has tried to find alternate locations for staff to park.

Sue Vitner , President of the Villas of Bending Oaks Homeowners Association, said she met with the manager of the business who feels they have the right to park in the area. Ms. Vitner said there is a church that has a parking lot that is empty all week long. The owner of the business said they would attempt to contact the church; however, they have not done that as yet. Ms. Vitner said there have been from 17-21 cars parking in the front of the subdivision, and if they park further in there is very little curb parking. If they park in front of the mailboxes, the Post Office will not deliver the mail. Ms. Vitner said the homeowners feel this must be addressed as these business people will just park further into the subdivision. She said the business in question was the first tenant in the building and had the parking lot to themselves. They have always had a large staff. When additional tenants came in, the business had to find other parking. Ms. Vitner said across the street is a shopping center with available parking. The people who park in the residential area leave coffee cups and trash in the streets, and the residents will call the police if they park in front of the mailboxes. Many of the residents also have to use the front of their residences for parking. Ms. Vitner said the business owner is not working with the community in staying out of the area.

The Mayor asked if the residents prefer to have no parking from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.. Ms. Vitner said most residents felt that would be no problem, unless they have guests during the day. She said the residents also do not want to see a proliferation of restrictive signs throughout the neighborhood. She said if the P&T Commission’s recommendation does not work the residents will be back.

The Mayor asked whether the residents were happy with this proposal. Ms. Vitner said they just hope they do not have to come back. Aspen is a very short block west of Belmont and there is one whole side that will allow parking. The residents think that is where the employees will park. She said the residents will wait and see how this works. She noted commuters occasionally park in their area as well, and residents ask them not to park there. The residents are not looking for an altercation but just want the problem resolved.

The Manager said this would be on the May 16 Active Agenda.

The Mayor asked that a letter be sent to Mr. DeClark, the owner, informing him of the problem of parking by the driveways and mailboxes, noting that they will have to make it “No parking” if it is not resolved.

Sidewalk Priorities for Construction. The Manager said there have been numerous discussions between staff, Council and the public regarding this issue, including the recent budget discussions. The Village plans to spend $600,000 for new sidewalk construction for FY 1999 -00 and 2000-01. He said the goal tonight is not to address specific sidewalk proposals as much as to discuss the overall approach, the matrix, and the timing of sidewalk construction. He said there is a need to consider safety issues in certain locations as well.

The Mayor asked Mr. Livergood to explain the current matrix, which has eight criteria with assigned weights.

Mr. Livergood provided a history of the matrix system. It was used as a tool in the 1980s for the Plan Commission because at that time developers were required to construct sidewalks in their development. The matrix system was to gauge the relative importance of a particular segment in the Village, and was used principally by staff to direct the Plan Commission. In 1992 TCD II recommended the matrix be applied to all areas where no sidewalks existed to allow a plan for a logical progression of sidewalk construction. He said that eight conditions were identified to establish the priorities. Mr. Livergood explained the four major conditions, which are dependent upon the amount of traffic volume on the adjacent roadway. The higher the traffic volume, the higher priority rating for sidewalks, as well as high pedestrian volume, pedestrian clearance width on the roadway edge, and the proximity to grade schools. Mr. Livergood said children up to sixth grade do not have the ability to judge traffic issues as well as an adult might. Minor prioritizing conditions include roadway lighting, proximity to a park or shopping center, roadway sight obstruction, and existing sidewalk. He indicated that the goal of the Village is to have sidewalk on one side of the street on every street in Downers Grove.

Mr. Livergood said staff and the Parking & Traffic Commission admit that the factors and points are subjective and are based upon experience. He said all of the conditions are added to establish the prioritizing of the various locations. The matrix evaluates where there is the most need for sidewalks. He said the total points vary in Downers Grove from 20 to 59. He reiterated that the matrix serves as a tool for staff and there are times when they deviate from it. He said the matrix has allowed the best assignment of the dollars available. However, staff is hesitant to put together plans for scattered sidewalk construction because of the additional cost per unit. They attempt to group the sidewalks together for better bid prices. He stressed that sidewalks are constructed in Downers Grove at 100% cost to the Village. There is no resident cost involved.

The Mayor asked for about the process including survey, design, construction and timing.

Mr. Livergood said that one isolated street can take 4-8 weeks. He said $600,000 worth of sidewalks can take up to 30 weeks. In addition, resident input takes time. He said staff has conducted resident meetings without the benefit of a survey. Often when residents see the impact of the construction they change their mind.

Commissioner Schnell asked how quickly staff can move to another area if at resident meetings there is a concentrated amount of opposition to the sidewalk. Mr. Livergood said it depends upon how many streets they may have opposition from. If it is one or two they can recover quickly with other surveys. They do not have three years worth of surveys.

Commissioner Schnell asked how quickly they can adjust to changes, such as the need for sidewalks where children will be walking where no bus service is provided. Mr. Livergood said it again depends upon the number of locations. If it is one or two they can do it within this construction season. More than that might have to wait until next year. He said the changes in the District 58 busing program may have a bearing. Those locations that are high on the matrix now due to their proximity to the grade school will probably be higher now due to the busing changes.

Mayor Krajewski said there are residents who want sidewalks, resident who do not want them, and public safety pedestrian issues especially with the grade schools. With the matrix it will take a long time to complete all of the sidewalks, and he would like to make sure those involving pedestrian safety and the safety of children are covered. He said that the Council would also like to come to a point where everything is prepared in advance to allow faster construction. He indicated that staff has already surveyed many areas in the Village. He said he would like to see the residents agree up front, before staff reaches the 60-80% completion of the survey work. Once there is agreement he would want to see the staff move forward.

Commissioner Schnell said she does not want a situation where the Village does not build sidewalks because of opposition. She said that budget hearings this year were informative because the Council learned how much they need to work with staff to understand the planning process and timing involved.

Mr. Livergood said that staff are the engineers, designers and builders, and they want to do the work. But when it comes to gauging public support, they need assistance.

The Mayor said that the most important thing is to keep the public safety of school children in mind.

Commissioner Sisul said there used to be a fund for those areas that did not build sidewalks, and asked if that still exists. Mr. Livergood said those funds are still assigned to quadrants, and as the funds are built up they are used.

Mr. Lyons said that in 1998-99 they used most of the funds that were in the sidewalk fund. He said he would obtain follow-up information for the Council.

Commissioner Sisul said when the Village stopped requiring developers to build sidewalks, the developer was required to contribute into the fund for sidewalk construction. Regarding the matrix, he believes it serves a very important role in identifying hazardous areas and clear and present dangers. He asked Mr. Livergood if they are waiting on some grants.

Mr. Livergood said that was correct. There are some very costly segments to construct such as Gilbert, and Main Street north of 63rd street on the west side. With respect to Gilbert, he said it would be ideal to incorporate the sidewalk construction into a grant request for a bike path.

Commissioner Sisul mentioned the area of Fairview, between Ogden and 41st Street that could be completed this year. He said there are four areas with a ranking of 47 points. He asked if there would be enough backup to meet the budget this year if they did two rather than all four areas.

The Mayor said the list that the Council has entitled “2000 Improvements” is what would be done. Mr. Livergood said that list represents about $550,000-$560,000 worth of work. He said this list is about 80% design completed and they are getting ready for resident meetings this week.

Commissioner Sisul said there were two streets specifically opposed to sidewalks. He asked if can they still spend the $600,000 if those two were not included.

Mr. Livergood responded that yes, there may be some potential by doing $300,000 now and $300,00 in July or August. He believes they can spend up to $600,000.

Commissioner Sisul said the concern was to develop an earlier gauge of community response on the sidewalk issue. He said that they also need to outline projects for next year as well in the amount of $300,000. He said he has a problem seeing how this will be done.

The Mayor said at least 20 more streets have already been surveyed. Commissioner Sisul asked whether staff can do this and Mr. Livergood said they could. He said they will be surveying this summer for next summer’s work. He said staff would like to meet with residents in the fall for next year’s work. He said they are attempting to maintain the integrity of the matrix list. He said it is difficult to do $300,000 worth of surveys in a year. They have to estimate what the public would like for the following year.

Commissioner Sisul said that it is obvious staff needs as much information as soon as possible, and needs to provide that information to the public.

Commissioner Schnell asked about the plan for this year and how the Council can help make decisions for this year’s sidewalks. Mr. Livergood said it would be helpful if they attend the meetings with the residents. Staff will also provide all the feedback they can from the meetings. He said they must know the degree of opposition as well.

Commissioner Sisul said that they must also consider that they are dealing with a snapshot. The Council needs to consider what degree of opposition constitutes a substantial opposition to the project.

Mr. Livergood said if residents change their minds, the proper approach would be to have them come back to staff. He said that in dealing with resident opinion they typically consider surveying people who live on the block or adjacent to it. The Parking and Traffic Commission struggled with the fact that often the people who wanted the sidewalk did not necessarily live on the street or roadway segment. He said they have to establish how far they want to survey the people to determine if there is sufficient support.

The Mayor said that the pedestrian safety near the schools is an important issue. They must factor in 1) the number of residents who want the sidewalks, 2) the number of residents who do not want them, and 3) the public safety issue for pedestrians and school children.

Commissioner Sisul asked if the grading on the matrix should be changed. The Mayor said they have to look at streets with a large number of school children using specific walkways.

Mr. Livergood said to provide emphasis for grade school kids it might be appropriate for the Parking and Traffic Commission to review the matrix and assign higher points for those streets.

Commissioner Schnell recommended looking at the parks as well, and Commissioner Sisul added that any common walkway areas should be revisited.

Mr. Livergood said that Parking and Traffic might want to give different weights to different minor conditions.

Commissioner Gilbert said the concepts discussed have been to raise the values as they relate to pedestrian and grade school areas, and a breakdown of the proximity to pedestrian generators. He said two thoughts which continually come out are 1) the wishes of the citizens; and 2) the history or safety of the area. He said somewhere in the matrix they must factor in what the citizens want, although that is not the only deciding factor. It is one factor of many. He recommended adding a conditions sheet to the matrix which he suggested being done by a ratings scale. He also said that he agreed with obtaining information as to whether the people want the sidewalks or do not want them before conducting the surveys. This is a very expensive process. Commissioner Gilbert asked whether the interconnecting of existing segments of sidewalk would come from existing or new funds.

Mr. Livergood said it would come from new funds. He said that many of those gaps are in the matrix. The goal with the matrix is to have one side of every road completed first before they go back to complete the second side. He said that perhaps the filling of gaps in existing sidewalks should be included as a separate line in the budget. Commissioner Gilbert agreed.

Mr. Livergood said that if they do surveys and do not build sidewalks, it is still valuable information built into the GIF system. The Mayor said they need to look at those areas with the gaps.

Mr. Livergood said they are putting together an engineer’s estimate, and if there are funds left they may be able to fill in the gaps in house.

Jean Rosen , 1221 Jefferson (between Middaugh and Brookbank), said surveys were done on her street. They fit the matrix and are two blocks from Hillcrest school. She presented a petition that 90% of the citizens on her block signed opposing a sidewalk, as the street dead ends. Mr. Livergood said that piece of Jefferson is truly part of the dead end; however, there was sidewalk constructed as part of a new subdivision. They are three blocks off Dunham, two of which do not have sidewalks, one of which does.

Mary Puccini , 740 40th Street, said that it is a year later and one human life less. She is surprised that after the tragedy they experienced that a sidewalk will not be included at Earlston and Elm from 39th to 40th. She could understand Commissioner Schnell’s request for a study, but she does not understand why the Council now says they see no necessity in providing sidewalks to people who do not want them. Ms. Puccini said she thought the purpose of the studies was to determine the necessity of the sidewalks. Her personal feeling is that the desire to install sidewalks for safety reasons should outweigh those who do not want them for aesthetic reasons.

The Mayor said that the study done was for sidewalks and a number of regulatory devices in that area. He said that the Earlston residents presented a petition against sidewalks for that area.

Mr. Livergood said that 40th street, between Washington and Elm, is planned for this summer. Ms. Puccini said last year they were going to do Earlston and Elm.

Commissioner Schnell said one of the problems concerned wetland banking in that area and whether sidewalks should be built in that area. Mr. Livergood responded that he spoke with Bruce Maki of the County this week and the wetlands are not an issue. The County is proceeding with their plans for the wetland and will be ready for public review late this summer or fall. Their plans do not impact the right of ways in any way, and the County has no opinion either way if the sidewalk is constructed.

Joe Nasvik , 3934 Earlston, said he finds himself substituting the word “sidewalk” for “safety.” He does not think the goal should be to produce sidewalks on every street in town, but it should be to make every street in town safe. There could be factors other than sidewalks that affect safety. He thought sidewalks on the hill on Earlston could cause an increased safety risk. Mr. Nasvik said he is concerned about the safety on Earlston as there is an accident there at least once a year. Sidewalks have nothing to do with those accidents, but other issues might be considered.

Bruce Peiffer , 3926 Earlston, said he thinks the process has gone on too long, especially given the opposition of the residents. He was concerned with the plan to tear up 42 mature trees to install a sidewalk. The engineer told him that it was cheaper to take out the trees because of the sewer lines. Although it is presented as a safety issue, staff wanted to go with what was cheapest. Mr. Peiffer said that if they replant trees they will take 20-30 years to grow. The reason he bought in that neighborhood was because of the mature trees. Mr. Peiffer said he also disagrees with Mr. Livergood’s attitude that people showing up for a meeting means they care. He said that is not a fair assessment as many people are not always free to attend these meetings. He was offended by Mr. Livergood’s attitude. Mr. Peiffer said that the statement was also made that the cost does not come out of the residents’ pockets. He would recommend taking the money for Earlston Road and placing it back in the general fund for other projects. He said that the matrix needs residential input.

The Mayor said many residents want to be moved up on the matrix. If there are many children on a street that is an important consideration. He said they know that Earlston doesn’t want sidewalks.

Mr. Peiffer said he made sure to attend this evening’s meeting because of comments of people attending the meetings. He likes Earlston the way it is.

Kay Nasvik , 3934 Earlston, said that many trees will be lost if the sidewalks are installed. She has not seen anyone from her street at any meeting who is in favor of sidewalks. The Mayor said there were two residents who did want the sidewalks. The Mayor said that the Council understands that Earlston does not want sidewalks. Ms. Nasvik said there are only 6 or 7 children on Earlston who will be walking to school.

Ms. Puccini made a specific request based on the Earlston residents’ comments. She said if they do not want them on Earlston, then put them on 40th and Elm Street.

Marilynn Gerloff , 4241 Highland, said she read the packet at the Library for the meeting. She noted that there were quite a few areas noted for sidewalks for 2000 from Mr. Livergood’s office. Ms. Gerloff said that last year no sidewalks got installed because someone put them on hold. Now the Council is requesting to evaluate the matrix. She is concerned that there will be another delay. She does not have confidence that the public is being directed and she is nervous about the situation. She wants to see some direction and see some work done.

The Mayor said that they will get sidewalks in this year. He added that there was another list showing 14 areas available immediately for sidewalks.

Mary Tessiatore , 4680 Downers Drive, said she e-mailed the Council regarding sidewalks on Downers Drive between Chicago and Grant. She would like to see her block moved up. She was told that her block was removed from the list. Now that she has made the request, she was told that they are again on the list for the year 2002. Ms. Tessiatore said they are two blocks from Pierce Downers School and have 21 children who walk to the elementary school. She presented a letter from the principal of the school in support of sidewalks for the children. Nine years ago the residents were surveyed and the majority (52%) were opposed. She said a life of a small child was later lost at the intersection. Although she appreciates the environment, she would take down trees for the safety of any child, and she would like to see their street moved up on the list.

The Mayor responded that every street is on the matrix. Ms. Livergood said he did not know why their street had been taken off the list. It could have occurred some years ago. He said that realistically it could be constructed as early as next year.

Stephanie Johnson , 4700 Northcott, said she wants to see sidewalks on Downers Drive.

Mary Ellen Young , 1821 Elmore, said she has been before the Council three years in a row on this issue. She does not envy the Council in having to include resident input as it is not an easy task. Ms. Young said that the homes on their streets have no sidewalks and the developer has been granted a waiver. There must be flexibility for unusual situations where all of the homes should have been built with sidewalks. She said there is no place for children to ride their bikes and walk, except in the street. She thinks filling in the gaps is also a good approach.

Leslie Doyle , 1911 Elmore, is the PTA President of Hillcrest School. She said in looking at the matrix many areas that might be affected are in their proper priorities. She recommended checking with the individual schools and the PTA Presidents as they often know more about how the children get to the schools.

Chris Fregeau , 1918 Elmore, complimented Mr. Livergood and the Public Works Department. This has been a three-year effort to get on the matrix at an appropriately high level. She said she feels the people who are put into office determine the matrix. She said resident input is valuable and important, but she is also concerned about what the criteria is for determining significant opposition. Ms. Fregeau said this can create a dangerous issue of pitting neighbor against neighbor. She was assured by Public Works that they will work with the residents for designs in the area to preserve mature trees. She has been in contact with the staff about many aspects of the design. Her concern is the threshold. She said sidewalks are not put in for aesthetics. There will have to be some compromise on the part of the residents, and flexibility on the part of the Village as well. She said it is not a matter of a simple “yes” or “no” as Commissioner Sisul suggested, and there must be dialogue to get people to understand the full impact. Ms. Fregeau asked whether the fees in lieu of sidewalks are still being paid. Mr. Livergood responded that they were.

The Mayor said it will take about 25 years at the current funding levels to do the whole matrix. He noted to Ms. Fregeau that the Council makes the determination.

Commissioner Gilbert referenced the letter received in opposition to sidewalks on a dead end street, stating that it is a challenging issue to meet the needs of everyone. He said this is an urban area and safety needs are foremost.

Manager Sprecher provided a summary of the discussion. He said there would be meetings with residents on the segments targeted for this year. In the long term the matrix should be referred to the Parking and Traffic Commission for fine-tuning. There should also be continual communication with the Council as to the resident input and staff evaluation. He said that there are some caveats on spending all of the money. There are backups, but not $600,000 worth.

The Mayor said some supplemental documentation was given to the Council this evening and it will be placed on file at the Library for public review.

Commissioner Gilbert asked whether staff could present the Council with a list of the next 30-60 days of sidewalks, similar to how they handle the Claim Ordinance. Mr. Livergood said that would be more of an annual approach. He said they will get the list as they proceed with the resident meetings in about two weeks. Commissioner Gilbert said he would rather see the matrix and then proceed with a list of specific streets that the Council can then approve.

Mr. Livergood said that prior to this, sidewalks were built over the last 15 years where people understood the need for the sidewalks and there was limited opposition.

Commissioner Schnell said she would like to have Mr. Livergood present a list of sidewalks for next spring for approval, so people will then have an idea in the fall of what will be happening. Mr. Livergood said that they could build on that concept. He said the information will be available in June for the bids for survey services.

Commissioner Sprecher said that staff can also provide a schedule on when the meetings with property owners will take place.

Peter Hultman , 1410 Gilbert, said he was glad to see that public safety is back on the agenda. He likes the idea of expediting safety issues as he feels the safety considerations were woefully inadequate during the CBD Phase II.

Marilynn Gerloff , 4241 Highland, asked what transpired since last Friday when the sidewalk agenda was put in the Library. She said all of a sudden this afternoon there is a list of what is going to be done.

The Mayor responded that the Council gets its packet on Friday and sometimes they have additional questions. Information is then distributed to them before the meeting.

Ms. Gerloff said that she doesn’t understand how the Council now has a list that has Elmore on it, when it was not in the packet in the Library this afternoon. Ms. Gerloff said she does not understand the line of information. There are Workshops for citizen participation, yet when the citizens try to participate they do not have the information available to ask intelligent questions. She said the Workshop is not a comfortable situation for the public when information is not provided.

Manager Sprecher said that occasionally information is inadvertently left out of the packet for which he apologized.

The Mayor added that sometimes the Council asks for additional information from staff that is not available when the packet is distributed on Friday. Both he and Commissioner Schnell asked the Manager for additional information on Monday which was not ready for the packet.

2000/01 Budget Adoption. Village Attorney Daniel Blondin said the Council has conducted hearings for the 2000/01 Budget over the past several months. By State statute the budget must be adopted by May 1, 2000. As this evening’s meeting is the last meeting before May 1, the Council will be asked to adopt the budget this evening. He noted that the budget draft has been placed on file with the Village Clerk, and was previously presented to the Council. He said that it is unusual to take action at a Workshop meeting; however, under the Illinois Open Meetings Act, business can be conducted at a meeting of this nature. He recommended adoption of the Budget for 2000/01.

AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2000 /01 BUDGET IN LIEU OF PASSAGE OF AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE

ORDINANCE NO . 4192

Commissioner Schnell moved to adopt “AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2000 /01 BUDGET IN LIEU OF PASSAGE OF AN APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE ”, as presented. Commissioner Sisul seconded.

Commissioner Schnell said she was happy to see the proposed ambulance fees removed from the budget. She expressed a concern about the property taxes being increased this year, and she hoped they could be abated; however, that was not possible. In that regard she would like to have information sooner next year to allow for possible abatement of the real estate taxes. She said she knows other Council members would also like to get to that point. This is the first time in twenty years they have increased property taxes and she is uncomfortable with that.

Commissioner Schnell said she is also concerned about the dramatic increase in the number of employees. She is concerned that they do not lock themselves into a situation where they cannot pay for the increased costs down the road. She knows that some of the increases may be paid by grants, but those grant amounts end. She said additional staff is good for the Village but the Village has to pay for them.

Commissioner Gilbert asked Mr. Lyons to address the issue of the property tax levy and what it amounts to. Mr. Lyons said that staff does an annual survey of all area communities and compares them by size. The Village has the lowest rate of property taxes with the exception of Oak Brook. The Village also has one of the lowest overlapping rates as well. He said that he believes Downers Grove scores very high on services. The assessed valuation for last year was .2841 and this year it is up slightly to just below.295, caused by the State mandated change in the pension fund.

Commissioner Gilbert stressed that it was not the Village budget that increased the budget, but the State mandated increase in the pension fund.

Commissioner Sisul said the increase has nothing to do with operating expenses.

Commissioner Gilbert said it is important that people understand what the levy means and what the Village gets from the property tax in comparison to the other towns. The commitment of this Council and Councils before it is to keep the tax levy low.

Mr. Lyons said that if they were given the option to abate the property tax as part of the budget process, they would have to move the process up two months as the last chance for abatement is March 1 of each year. He said that can affect the accuracy.

The Mayor said that fire pension mandate caused the tax increase, and noted that the police pension will be coming up this fall. They may be faced with the same issue next year. He also would like to start the process earlier as well. With respect to additional staff, the Mayor said many are line employees that are providing the newly added services. He said revenue is up slightly from the budget projection. The sidewalks program, taxi cab program, etc., have been increased. He indicated that they need to be careful as they continue to grow.

Mr. Lyons said that many communities eliminate a general property tax and have taxes for only pensions, including the IMRF pension. They tie revenue sources into specific services.

Commissioner Sisul said he thought they should discuss this at some point. They must keep in mind the experience of other communities that had no property tax. Due to the tax cap, they could not put one in resulting in a bad financial state. He said they should look to the general welfare of the community, and meet the demands of the services. He would like to see this type of discussion in a non-election year.

The Mayor asked Mr. Lyons to put together a report of services.

Mr. Lyons said that the total budget is an increase of 0.7%. While the operating costs went up in the Corporate Fund, they were able to balance those which is a compliment to the Council and staff.

VOTE :YEA:Commissioners Schnell, Sisul, Gilbert, Mayor Krajewski NAY :None

The Mayor declared the Motion carried.

Index: BUDGET 2000 /01

There being no further discussion, the Workshop meeting was adjourned at 9:33 p.m.

April K. Holden Village Clerk tmh/