October 14, 2008

In the absence of Mayor Sandack, Commissioner Martin Tully served in the capacity of Mayor Pro Tem.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully called the Workshop meeting of the Village Council of the Village of Downers Grove to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall. The Mayor led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

Present:Mayor Pro Tem Martin Tully; Commissioners Marilyn Schnell; William Waldack, Sean P. Durkin, Geoff Neustadt, Bruce Beckman; Village Manager Dave Fieldman; Village Attorney Enza Petrarca; Village Clerk April Holden

Absent:Mayor Ron Sandack

Visitors: Press: Catherine Leyden, Downers Grove Reporter Residents: Laura Crawford, Downers Grove Chamber of Commerce, 2001 Butterfield; Mike Davenport, ADRB /Davenport Architects, 6636 Blackstone; Bill Wrobel, Downers Grove Coalition for Managed Growth, 7800 Queens Court; Andy Clark, Downers Grove Watch, 1226 62nd Street; Christine Fregeau, 1918 Elmore; John Schofield, 1125 Jefferson; Marge Earl, 4720 Florence; John LeDonne, 1930 55th Place; Bill Deutsch, 9 S 209 Cumnor; Herb Bell, Attorney, 2130 Ashley Court Staff: Mike Baker, Assistant Village Manager; Doug Kozlowski, Director, Communications; Mary Scalzetti, Director, Community Events; Megan Bourke, Management Analyst; Brandon Dieter, Management Analyst; Steve Sanderson, Budget Officer; Jamie Belongia, Intern; Robin Weaver, Interim Director, Public Works; Mike Millette, Assistant Director, Public Works; Tom Dabareiner, Director, Community Development; Phil Ruscetti, Fire Chief; Judy Buttny, Director, Finance

Mayor Pro Tem Tully explained that Council Workshop meetings are held the second and fourth Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. The meetings are video taped live and for later cable cast over cable channel 6.

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.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully explained that Mayor Sandack extended his apologizes for being unable to attend; however, pressing work obligations involving a jury trial make his presence tonight impossible.

MANAGER

1. Active Agenda and Informational Items

Village Manager Dave Fieldman summarized the items on the Active Agenda for questions and/or comments from the Council and the public.

Annexation of 4621 Drendel . The Manager said this is a voluntary annexation petition with no requests for rezoning or modifications.

Historic Landmark Designation for 5256 Carpenter Street. The Manager said this is the first petition under this designation. He asked Tom Dabareiner, Director, Community Development, to address this matter.

Tom Dabareiner , Director, Community Development, explained that staff is seeking approval of this request at the October 21 meeting. The Architectural Design Review Board (ADRB) has considered the petition and submitted a unanimous recommendation for approval. Mr. Dabareiner said that Mildred Drew filed the request for historical landmark designation under Section 12.4(b) of the Historic Preservation Ordinance. Mr. Dabareiner showed photographs of the property, describing it as a two-story structure of gothic design, which was designed by the petitioner’s grandfather and completed in 1888. He then reviewed the criteria for designation as a landmark which relate to this structure:

Significant value as part of historic, heritage or cultural character. This structure was the childhood and adult home of Donald Drew, an individual who enhanced the musical culture of the Village.

Identification with a person who made significant contributions to the community. Mr. Dabareiner said that staff believes this requirement has been met, as Mr. Drew, born in Downers Grove, obtained his degrees in music and served as organist at the First Congregational Church of Downers Grove for 48 years. He participated in many musical associations including the Downers Grove Music Club, Downers Grove Concert Association, and the Downers Grove Oratorio Society, which he founded.

Unique location or singular physical characteristics. The building’s unique characteristics include its gables, chimney and three-panel door.

A source of civic pride or identity for the community. Mr. Dabareiner stated that Mr. Drew was a founding father and prominent member of the Downers Grove Choral Society and contributed to the expansion of music in Downers Grove. Staff believes the house is a source of civic pride.

Comments:

Bill Wrobel , 7800 Queens Court, said he represented Ken Lerner, Chairperson of the Downers Grove Coalition for Managed Redevelopment. Mr. Wrobel read a letter from Mr. Lerner supporting the nomination of this building as a historic landmark. Landmarking the property brings us closer to both an ending and a beginning. Mr. Lerner expressed gratitude to Ms. Drew for nominating the property.

Mike Davenport , 6636 Blackstone Drive, Chairman of the ADRB , said he was present to answer any questions.

Susan Estall , 5512 Main Street, thanked the Village for considering this house for landmark preservation status. She said she respects the construction of older homes. Ms. Estall met Ms. Drew ten years ago. When the ordinance was passed, Ms. Estall told Ms. Drew about it. Ms. Drew was unable to attend tonight’s meeting. Ms. Estall said it was her honor to work on this request on behalf of the Drews. It is a one-of-a-kind house that deserves landmark designation. Ms. Estall said this is one way to honor those who have walked before us. She pointed out that part of the unique design is its setting with several large trees on the property. She submitted materials regarding the tree species ages by diameter classes, saying that the two largest trees on Ms. Drew’s property are approximately 250 yeas old. She asked that the Council approve this request.

Gordon Goodman, 5834 Middaugh, said that he and the Heritage Preservation Corporation support the recommendation of the ADRB for landmark status of the Drew home. They recognized the important role Ms. Estall, Ms. Drew, and Ms. Drew’s attorney played in this effort. The ordinance is complex and Ms. Estall’s support was critical in learning how to work through the ordinance. He strongly supports this ordinance.

Commissioner Beckman asked if this is the original location for the structure and what additions or attachments have been made.

Mr. Dabareiner responded that it is the original location. Windows have been updated, vinyl siding has been added, and there have been other minor changes. There have been no room additions to their knowledge. He clarified that this is a recognition of the individual.

Ms. Estall said there was some question about the kitchen, but in studying the foundation, Ms. Drew believes it is original.

Commissioner Beckman asked if the interior of the building is true to its original form. Ms. Estall responded that the interior rooms haven’t been changed other than to remove a wall to accommodate a grand piano.

Commissioner Schnell asked what designation of this status means. Mr. Dabareiner said that the status is recorded with the property. If any changes are made, the plans need to be approved by the ADRB and the Council before they can occur. In further response he said that there are restrictions as to what can be done on the building once landmark status has been designated. Commissioner Schnell said that in actuality, this is not only an honor, but also a way to preserve the exterior of the home.

Commissioner Waldack asked whether there was a reversal process. Mr. Davenport responded that there is a provision for this in the ordinance, and the owners would have to go before the ADRB .

Commissioner Waldack then asked, architecturally, whether this building would have achieved landmark status if not for Mr. Drew. Mr. Davenport responded that it would not. He explained that a number of things make something worth preserving. On its own merits, the architecture would fail the test, but it does meet a number of the other criteria. This property represents something important to the Village and the Village’s history.

Commissioner Waldack said it appears that the first case to come before the Architectural Design and Review Board was not architectural, and suggested that the ADRB be referred to as a Historical Committee as well. Mr. Davenport said that the ADRB has representation of members of the Historical Society, and that landmark designation is part of the ADRB ’s responsibility. Commissioner Waldack said he was disappointed that nothing can be done with the trees, which are significant to the property and to Mr. Drew’s life. He would like the status to extend to the entire property, and asked how they can go about saving the trees. Mr. Davenport responded that he can’t say that the ordinance protects the trees, but there is recognition and someone owning the home is unlikely to destroy the trees. This designation eliminates a tear down; however, there is nothing in the ordinance that protects the trees.

Ms. Estall said that Ms. Drew wants the trees to be preserved. Manager Fieldman said that staff will work with the Village Attorney on that issue and report back. Commissioner Waldack added that perhaps a restriction could be placed on the sale or transfer of property.

Dr. Goodman noted that the draft resolution refers to the property at 5256 Carpenter Street be granted Historic Preservation Designation. He suggested that this language be incorporated into Section 2 of the resolution. Those changes might address Commissioner Waldack’s concerns.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully thanked the applicant and the ADRB for their work on this request. He feels that it fits perfectly with landmark preservation criteria. He noted that this is a voluntary procedure and may open the doors to others to request this status. He said there is a procedure in the ordinance to seek de-designation for the property. People who are interested in this designation probably would protect the trees. He said the Village does not have a historic tree preservation ordinance.

Commissioner Schnell asked if there is a plaque for the designation, and Manager Fieldman said the plan is to frame the ordinance. Commissioner Schnell said the plaque would alert others to the status of the home, and Mayor Pro Tem Tully said that the Historical Society traditionally does that.

FY 2009 -2013 Community Investment Program. The Manager said this is a continuation of the budget discussion that began Saturday. It consists of four different funds. He asked Mike Baker, Assistant Village Manager, to discuss this item.

Mike Baker , Assistant Village Manager, presented an overview of three of the funds related to the Community Investment Program: 1) motor fuel tax; 2) capital projects; 3) stormwater. The water fund will be discussed afterwards.

Mr. Baker said the Motor Fuel Tax fund is statutorily mandated and provides for the use of State revenues for roadway maintenance and construction. It comes from the gasoline tax and the amount is based on population. He said staff feels confident that the numbers provided are realistic.

As to the Capital Projects Fund, Mr. Baker said the fund accounts for activities in general construction and capital improvements, etc. The budget for FY09 shows revenues of $5.6 million, with expenditures of $6.6 million utilizing reserves. Mr. Baker said that related to this is the Stormwater Improvement Fund created for stormwater infrastructure improvement. The funding source for this was a bond issue in August 2008. The 2009 budget shows anticipated revenues of $5.4 million, with an anticipated expenditure of $14.6 million in projects. He explained there are 13 high priority projects included in the five-year portion of the project. In terms of maintenance, the Village was able to increase the frequency of street sweeping from nine to fifteen times per year. Funds have also been incorporated for Enhanced Construction Project Management, which Mr. Mike Millette will review later.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully explained that references of pages made by Mr. Baker related to the budget pages distributed to the Council members. The budget can be found on line.

Commissioner Durkin said that he knows that the bond proceeds were invested, and he asked where the interest earned on this money is posted. Mr. Baker said he will research this question.

Commissioner Beckman asked about an item in the Capital Projects Fund concerning the grants portion of the revenue, line 36. There appears to be a consistent amount budgeted, and he asked what presumptions have made. Mr. Baker said that simply reflects the projects planned for completion in 2008, but were deferred to 2009.

Commissioner Neustadt commented on the increase in street sweeping and asked if any more will be done this year. Mr. Baker said that there are three remaining cycles this year.

Commissioner Schnell asked about the coordination of stormwater, street, sidewalks, and curbs projects. Mr. Baker said those are handled in a coordinated fashion.

Commissioner Beckman asked about Item 57, Controlled Assets. Mr. Baker responded that it is an accounting term related to a GASB34 matter.

Christine Fregeau , 1918 Elmore Avenue, said that the TIFs are reportedly meeting and exceeding expectations. She asked if there is a timetable to return funds loaned to the TIF from the CIP . The Manager said that the downtown TIF has IOUs to other funds. The TIF has outperformed its expectations. The IOUs will be left on the books, and they expect to know in 5-7 years what the actual status is. Ms. Fregeau then commented that the Village’s ongoing commitment to the infrastructure is to be applauded.

Mike Millette , Assistant Village Manager, said that staff was tasked with how projects are delivered from concept to completion. He referenced the stormwater infrastructure projects and the goals of construction management. Those goals are to provide superior customer service, protect the Village’s investments, insure timely completion and budget control and reiterating superior customer service. Mr. Millette said that the types of projects the Village is entering into are what he terms “in-your-face” construction, which are projects that go on for long periods of time, and require a tremendous amount of customer support and patience. The current practice has been an effective system from design to building phases. There are 37 projects to be designed or built in the next year. Concerns with the current practice are the stress placed on staff, the complexity and the size of the projects. Staff’s proposed practice is to have the engineers become the Project Managers. Consultants would be used for design and for resident engineering (horizontal construction). He said that a Project Manager can work about ten projects per year resulting in 60 projects per year. He has devised a solution to problems with the current practice by using Senior Resident Engineers, similar to owner’s representatives who would partner with the consultants. This keeps contacts with the customers as close as possible to front line staff and himself.

As to the implementation of his proposed model, Mr. Millette said there are now two engineers currently in the role of Project Managers for the watershed infrastructure improvement. Mr. Millette would like to extend that model to four Project Managers. He would not like to change the Pavement or Sidewalk Engineers as they are two of the biggest projects. With this plan there would be a total capacity to complete 48 projects.

Manager Fieldman said that there is about $500,000 in various capital funds to help manage the major projects to deliver them on time and on budget.

Commissioner Schnell asked whether the $500,000 is an allowable expense, and the Manager said that was correct. Commissioner Schnell reviewed the philosophy of the project, which she understood as assuring that the project is completed on time and more efficiently. Mr. Millette said that understanding was correct.

Commissioner Neustadt asked who would have the actual contact with the resident, the consultant or a staff member. Mr. Millette said that resident engineers were selected on the basis of their experience with customer contact. They can answer questions about schedule or other general issues, and when unable to provide the information refer to the Senior Engineer or Project Manager.

Commissioner Neustadt then asked about the changes in the field, and whether an in-house Staff Engineer would still make engineering decisions. Mr. Millette said it would be done in-house. With a Project Manager, consultants will present the problem with possible solutions, but staff will make the final decision.

Commissioner Beckman asked if the Project Manager and Senor Resident Engineer are the same person. Mr. Millette said it can be if they are adequately trained. Commissioner Beckman said he is interested in more information regarding quality control for customers, and how differentiation is made between contract employees and staff employees.

Manager Fieldman responded that they are two different positions. This would be the application of the system that worked in the Fire Station project and stormwater projects. The Senior Resident Engineer would be contractual. Commissioner Beckman asked whether the Resident Engineer would go from project to project, and Mr. Millette said that position would be per project.

Commissioner Schnell questioned whether there is a buy-in on the part of staff engineers, and Mr. Millette said they have had one volunteer. Other staff members are looking forward to this as it is a challenge. Commissioner Schnell sees this as a great opportunity for growth.

Commissioner Waldack said that under this model a lot is expected of the Project Manger and Engineers, and asked whether this project has worked elsewhere. Mr. Millette responded that the model without the concept of a Senior Resident Engineer does work. They need to make sure that there is a resource that has experience that staff does not yet have. Commissioner Waldack said he finds this acceptable as long as the Village Manger agrees with it. With regard to customer service, he asked if a resident would call the Public Works or the Call Center. Mr. Millette said they would call the Public Works resident engineer. Commissioner Waldack noted that calls are tracked through the Call Center. Commissioner Waldack asked whether tracking would happen on the construction side as well. Mr. Millette said he believes it can be done with a construction call center. Commissioner Waldack then said he would like to see that data on the monthly reports.

Commissioner Neustadt asked whether this number could be cut in half in 2010 if staff could learn enough in a year. Mr. Millette said he believes that by next year they could cut the number of engineers in half.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully asked whether there were any questions regarding any CIP projects for the 2009 period.

Commissioner Durkin said he had questions that he would e-mail to the Village Manager.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully said that dedicated revenue streams fund many projects. The Home Rule Sales Tax is likely to fluctuate, and he asked whether there is a contingency plan in place in the event that the Home Rule Sales Tax declines. Manager Fieldman said there is a contingency plan. The Stormwater Fund has bond proceeds in it already. There are a number of projects and they can’t all begin early in the year. There will be several months of Home Rule Sales Tax information in advance, and if the amount is slipping they will review the priority of the projects. There are prioritized projects for all of the funds.

Commissioner Beckman then commented on the proposed phone replacement system, questioning whether this is an appropriate time if a new Village Hall is built. Manager Fieldman responded that this was discussed on Saturday and will be reviewed to determine how much of the work including wiring the existing Village Hall and then re-wiring a new Village Hall would have to be done. They should have that information by the end of the week.

Christine Fregeau , 1918 Elmore Avenue, asked about the downtown developer contributions (fees in lieu of) for sidewalks and stormwater, and whether that needs to be reviewed. She asked whether there has been significant change. Manager Fieldman said they expect a decrease and will break it out on a line item basis.

Commissioner Schnell asked whether staff feels confident that the proposed funds from the State for sidewalks will be available. Manager Fieldman said that the Village Council and IDOT recently reaffirmed the funding. The holdup has been land acquisition and approvals from IDOT to proceed.

Manager Fieldman then noted that the Water Fund is the same information as was presented a few weeks ago.

3. Consent Agenda Items

Addendum to Banking Services Agreement. The Manager said this item was removed from the October 7, 2008 consent agenda. There have been no changes to the resolution or agreement.

Contract Extension – Elevator Inspection Services . The Manager said this is a 12-month contract extension for an amount not to exceed $30,000.00. There is no rate increase with this extension and the amount is entirely reimbursed through elevator inspection fees.

Commissioner Waldack expressed disappointment that some of the report cards are not done in advance of the Workshop meeting.

Bid: Replacement of Windows for Fire Station #3. The Manager said this is for the replacement of two sections of window walls at Fire Station #3. Staff is seeking authorization of a contract with Konsler, Ltd. in the amount of $18,100.00.

Bid: Backhoe. The Manager said is for the purchase of a 2008 John Deere 410J backhoe from West Side Tractor Sales Co. in the amount of $88,648.00. It is a scheduled replacement. Staff recommends the replacement schedule be followed.

Commissioner Durkin noted that the Village has similar pieces of equipment. He asked for a report as to the demand for all three pieces of equipment simultaneously. He would like to postpone purchases if possible based on the present economic situation.

Commissioner Waldack thanked staff for the explanation of buy vs. lease option.

Bid: Asphalt Hot Patcher. The Manager said this is for the purchase of a 2008 Falcon RME four-ton hot patcher from Sherwin Industries, Inc. in the amount of $21,390.81.

Bid: Purchase of Road Salt from State Contract. The Manager said this is for the purchase of bulk salt during the 2008-09 winter season from Cargill, Inc. for snow and ice control via the State contract at a cost of $59.25/ton at a not to exceed cost of $462,150.00. He said the pricing is up significantly over previous years, but it is a competitive price given the environment.

Commissioner Durkin asked if staff could execute a two-year contract. The Manager said staff will explore options for extending this contract.

Ms. Weaver said bidders were not offered options and it would be a violation of the bid to change the terms. There are three reasons the Village got a better price: Sufficient storage, a facility conveniently located to the Tollway, and good staff relations.

Commissioner Beckman asked if the Village can resell the unused portion of our salt to other municipalities. Mr. Fieldman said we could.

Commissioner Beckman noted that each municipality purchases salt individually. He asked as to a consortium to combine purchases. Mr. Fieldman said the State contract is supposed to function as a consortium. He added that the DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference is looking at this issue.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully asked about methods to make the salt go further. Ms. Weaver said last year the salt was mixed with sand and salting was limited to intersections, corners, etc. She said the sand had a negative impact on the sewers and street sweepers.

Ms. Weaver then presented information updating the Snow Response Plan for 2008/09. The Snow Response Plan is aligned with the Strategic Plan in that snow removal is a primary core service business and affects all of the primary and secondary customers identified in the Village’s Strategic Plan. The program goals are to maintain safe travel routes during storm events and to restore mobility for the traveling public within a reasonable time after the end of a storm. Ms. Weaver reviewed the target level of service and timeframes. Plowing and salting priorities are based on traffic volume. She provided information as to the plow route mileage. Ms. Weaver then discussed additional program objectives regarding the downtown sidewalks, parking lots and deck, and school crosswalks with guards. She noted that no alleys outside of the Central Business District are plowed or salted. She then reviewed salting and plowing thresholds.

With respect to resources, staff provides 24-hour coverage in two teams working 12 hours each. Ms. Weaver then outlined the Village’s equipment and materials. She then reviewed roads maintained by other agencies including the Illinois State Toll Highway Authority, the Illinois Department of Transportation, and DuPage County. With respect to new technology, Ms. Weaver discussed automatic vehicle location (AVL) for front-line plow trucks with real-time ability to track location, salting and plowing status.

Commissioner Durkin asked how far north Main Street is plowed. Ms. Weaver said it is from 55th Street to Ogden.

With respect to the AVL , Commissioner Durkin asked for a comparison of data collected from previous years. Ms. Weaver said the equipment was just recently installed and comparison data is not yet available.

Commissioner Schnell said she has received questions regarding clearing sidewalks. She asked that staff make information available to the public stating that property owners are not liable if they clear the sidewalks in front of their homes. She said it is important to become more customer friendly regarding clearing sidewalks especially on school routes.

Commissioner Waldack said snow plowed onto sidewalks is a code enforcement issue. He asked that people call in violations. He noted that he lives on a cul de sac and expressed the need for a policy that addresses back-to-back events. He noted that when snow and ice is compacted it cannot be removed by homeowner’s equipment.

Greg Bedalov , President, Economic Development Corporation, said the EDC gets calls from business owners about snow removal. He asked for information from the County and State as to their schedules and priorities.

Chris Fregeau , 1918 Elmore Avenue, suggested providing the ordinance regarding snow removal to business owners.

Bid: Parking Lot Improvements – Lot I Remote. The Manager said staff is requesting the one-week waiting period be waived in order to expedite this contract in the amount of $73,698 to American Asphalt Company.

Commissioner Waldack noted that according to the CIP , all the monies for this project should be recovered.

Contract Awards: Professional Engineering Design Services for FY09 Constructions Projects . The Manager said staff is requesting nine contracts be awarded for professional engineering design services in preparation for construction projects to be undertaken in FY09 . All of the contractors went through a competitive selection process.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully said this item will save the Village time and money.

Purchase of a Rescue System. The Manager said this is for the purchase of an Amkus rescue system from Air One Equipment. It will be placed on a smaller vehicle than what is currently used in an effort to reduce fuel costs.

MANAGER ’S AND DIRECTORS ’ REPORTS

Leaf Pickup: Mr. Baker said that leaf pickup begins Friday, October 27 for six weeks through December 5. Residents can put out bagged leaves with no stickers. More information is on the Village website.

Commissioner Schnell asked if they have to be bags, or if containers may be used. Mr. Baker said containers may be used if they are properly marked. The collectors prefer using the bags.

Commissioner Neustadt said that yard waste stickers are available at Village Hall.

ATTORNEY ’S REPORT

Village Attorney Enza Petrarca said she was presenting 12 items to the Council: 1) An ordinance annexing 4621 Drendel Road to the Village of Downers Grove, Illinois; 2) A resolution granting historic landmark designation to 5256 Carpenter Street; 3) A resolution authorizing extension of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Elevator Inspection Services; 4) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Engineering Resource Associates, Inc. (Valley View); 5) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and V3 Companies of Illinois, Ltd. (Prentiss, Sub B); 6) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and GC Engineering,, Inc. (St. Joseph Creek, Sub J); 7) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and GC Engineering, Inc. (Prentiss, Sub F); 8) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (St. Joseph Creek, Sub I); 9) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Engineering Resource Associates, Inc. (St. Joseph Creek, Sub C, Stage II); 10) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (Bikeway); 11) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Burns & McDonnell Engineering Co., Inc. of Downers Grove (59th Watermain); 12) A resolution authorizing execution of an agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. (^3rd Street Signal).

The Attorney asked the Council to consider a motion waiving the one-week waiting period to consider new business to authorize execution of a professional services agreement between the Village of Downers Grove and American Asphalt Company.

Commissioner Durkin moved to waive the one-week waiting period to consider new business. Commissioner Beckman seconded the motion.

VOTE : AYES : Commissioners Durkin, Beckman, Neustadt, Waldack Schnell; Mayor Pro Tem Tully

NAYS : None

Mayor Pro Tem Tully declared the Motion passed.

A. Motion authorizing execution of a contract with American Asphalt Company for Parking Lot Improvements – Lot I Remote (CIP Project P-0006). This authorizes the execution of a contract with American Asphalt Company for Parking Lot Improvements-Lot I Remote (CIP Project P-0006) in the amount of $73,698.00.

Commissioner Durkin moved to adopt “A Motion Authorizing Execution of a Contract with American Asphalt Company for Parking Lot Improvements-Lot I Remote (CIP Project P-0006),” as presented. Commissioner Beckman seconded the motion.

VOTE : AYES : Commissioners Durkin, Beckman, Neustadt, Waldack, Schnell; Mayor Pro Tem Tully

NAYS : None

Mayor Pro Tem Tully declared the Motion passed.

COUNCIL MEMBERS

Commissioner Neustadt thanked staff and residents who attended the budget workshop on Saturday. He added that the Silent Parade on Friday was again a moving event.

Commissioner Beckman said there will be a “Meet the Candidates” forum at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers for the DuPage County Board Districts 2 and 3 and the Forest Preserve Board on October 15. He also mentioned that there will be a meeting at Public Works with the Ad Hoc Circulator Task Force at 7:00 p.m. on October 15.

Commissioner Waldack said he attended a transit conference last week, and said that there is a need for a capital bill. Public transit needs it, and he encouraged residents to contact their State representatives. At the meeting there was a discussion on innovative fuel technology ideas. He said that there will have to be a way to find new sources of revenue besides the Fuel Tax since roadway maintenance costs increase as the gas prices are decreasing. The Commissioner then noted that the budget meeting went very well. He commended the staff on presenting a very good budget.

Commissioner Waldack then mentioned a meeting yesterday with realtors and bankers and IDHA . He said people can contact the Main Street Realtors Association for further information. Closing on homes cannot be before December 10 and they must be first-time homebuyers. The program increases their buying power and is a tax credit providing long-term tax relief. He explained that they have income limits as well as purchase price limits. This program is only going to be available in Downers Grove.

Commissioner Durkin said he had three items to present. First he thanked Engine Company #1 including Lt. Matt Beyer, Firefighter Paramedics Lambert and Baldwin, and Chief Ruscetti for allowing him to ride in the Silent Parade. It was a very moving experience. Secondly, Commissioner Durkin said he attended an Open House at Station 5 and encouraged people to attend in the future and see their tax dollars at work. He was able to see the equipment in use. It is worth seeing. Third, the Commissioner said that his neighborhood recently experienced a power outage. He thanked the Police Department and ComEd. The power was on in less than two hours.

Commissioner Schnell noted that the streets on the north side are clogged with leaves and inlets are covered. She asked if there is flexibility with timing of the leaf program. Mr. Baker said he will check with the vendor. Commissioner Schnell expressed concern that there might be flooding with oncoming rain.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully echoed comments made about the Open House, Silent Parade and the budget discussion. He then referred to the question of Certified Local Government Status. Manager Fieldman said that there is money in the proposed FY09 budget for a consultant to help obtain this status.

Mayor Pro Tem Tully extended his condolences to the family of Philip Yeager, father of Mark Yeager, on his passing.

VISITORS

Bill Wrobel , 7800 Queens Court, said he attended the Transportation and Parking meeting. It was rewarding to see the new Board working. The agenda item was Lester School and the item was acted upon and will be brought forward to the Council. He said that residents will be pleased. Regarding traffic calming devices, Mr. Wrobel said that ten sets of speed cushions have been installed on Claremont, and noted there are cushions on Roslyn and College Avenues.

Dr. Gordon Goodman, 5834 Middaugh, said that great progress has been made with the Blodgett House this year. It is located on the Historical Society campus. He said $115,000 has been spent on the project, and they still have $76,000 to finish the siding and landscaping. There is a cash flow problem with money tied up for bonds, etc., but they hope to get continued support for the project.

There being no further discussion, the Workshop meeting was adjourned at 9:29 p.m.

April K. Holden Village Clerk tmh