Village of Mundelein met Feb. 26.
Here is the minutes provided by the Board:
Regular Meeting
February 26, 2018
Call to Order
The 3159th Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the village of Mundelein was held on Monday, Feb. 26, 2018 at 300 Plaza Circle, Mundelein. Mayor Lentz called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm.
Attendance
Clerk Timmerman took the roll. It indicated the following:
Board Attendance Present: Trustees Black, Meier, Rekus, Russell, and Semple; Mayor Lentz
Absent:
Trustee Abernathy
Village Attendance
Public Works & Engineering Director Boeche, Public Safety Director Guenther, Finance Director Haywood, Chief Deputy Fire Chief Lark, Village Administrator Lobaito, Attorney Marino, Community Development Director Orenchuk, Building Director Schubkegel, and Assistant Village Administrator Vadopalas.
Pledge of Allegiance
Mayor Lentz led the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Minutes
Board of Trustees - Regular Meeting - Feb 12, 2018 7:00 PM
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Board of Trustees - Public Hearing - Feb. 12, 2018 7:05 p.m.
Result:
Carried [Unanimous] Mover: Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Motion to move Presentations/Awards before Public Commentary
Result:
Carried [Unanimous] Mover:
Scott Black, Trustee Seconder: Robin Meier, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting:
Abernathy
Presentations/Award
Mundelein High School 2017-2018 Update Superintendent Kevin Myers and Principal Anthony Kroll presented the 2017-2018 update on academics and finances at Mundelein High School. They highlighted numerous achievements and efficiencies, and stressed that the high school is a partner with the village. They also addressed property taxes, tax freeze legislation, and the new school funding formula and gave a brief description of proposals for a new theater and cafeteria.
Trustee Rekus inquired about the village Green Golf Course. Dr. Meyers replied that it is once again out for public bid, with a decision anticipated in April, He added that the entire property may be sold, or half may be kept for future athletic fields.
Mayor Lentz noted that almost 1/3 of students take AP classes and Dr. Kroll confirmed that there is a goal of having every student take at least one AP course.
A member of the audience asked about the former Kirk of the Lakes property which the high school now owns. Dr. Meyers explained that it is currently used for extra-curricular and weekend activities, with plans for office space in the future. He clarified that it will not be used by students on a daily basis since it doesn't meet code.
Mayoral Proclamation - Village Clerk Katy Timmerman
Mayor Lentz read the Proclamation and thanked Clerk Timmerman for her years of service.
Public Commentary
Mayor Lentz opened the floor to public commentary.
Ms. Lee stated that the change in Ordinance language gives the Village manager sole authority to make changes, which takes representation away from trustees. She also stressed that financial matters should not be put ahead of safety and that the fire prevention inspector should be part of the fire department rather than the building department. Administrator Lobaito clarified that the fire inspector is part of the building department to provide better service to residents and is a sign of departmental cooperation. He also noted that his decisions regarding personnel come only upon the recommendation of the chief.
Tom Rogan, resident and business owner, stated that the Board may be sacrificing safety for cost savings, urged them to rethink the sale of the Pierce fire truck and requested that the decision regarding personnel be tabled to avoid a rash decision. Mayor Lentz decried misinformation contending that the restructuring will decrease public safety, countering that it will actually result in additional fire fighters and increased public safety. He also stressed that the village has responded to firefighter concerns regarding additional training and has sought input from other municipalities.
Bill Anastos referenced the Boy Scout motto of "Be Prepared" and questioned the wisdom of selling the ladder truck.
Brett Clark, President of IAFF Local 4786, described the plan as regressive and dangerous, averring that surrounding communities do not follow this staffing model and that current staffing doesn't even meet OSHA requirements. He claimed that the restructuring will only save $23,000 annually and pleaded with the Board to avoid the "needless and dangerous" move.
Trustee Semple detailed the fire department's 2017 total call volume, noting that 98% of calls were for transport, ambulance but no transport, false alarm or other (smoke detectors, odors, etc), with only 38 actual fires and only one needing the ladder truck. He also described the assistance and expertise available through the Mutual Aid Box Alarm System and questioned whether lieutenant leadership is needed for non-fire calls.
Mayor Lentz interjected that Mr. Clark made serious allegations and stressed that the village conducted serious analysis. He added that it seems the union's interest is really money rather than safety, citing the new demand for a 3% pay raise in addition to the 2.25% already negotiated. Mr. Clark insisted that the Village attorney refused to discuss safety.
Michael Nasca, Mundelein firefighter, stated that the salary increase was requested because the union was told at an initial meeting that they must come back with demands. Public Safety Director Guenther interjected that this is inaccurate, stating that the village had asked for topics and answered all questions, adding that the union objected to the Village having an attorney present to answer questions.
Tim Sashko, resident and retired Mundelein Fire Department Chief, expressed his strong opposition to both selling the ladder truck and the personnel reorganization. He emphasized that selling the truck is not cost-effective and will jeopardize safety. He provided background on the development of current staffing levels during his tenure (2007-2015) and declared that the proposed changes will make Mundelein Fire Department one of the worst in Lake County and could affect economic development.
A discussion followed on ISO ratings, NFPA standards, staffing in other similar-sized municipalities, MABAS and the usefulness of the ladder truck. Mr. Sashko pleaded with the Board to make a proper evaluation of safety of Mundelein residents.
Eric Schwenk, resident and union member, declared that Mayor Lentz's comments regarding unions were insulting. He stated that the Board should not set the fire department up for failure by denying necessary equipment and concluded by pointing out that there were no residents in attendance supporting the proposed changes.
Anthony Fiorelli mirrored Mr. Schwenk's comments and urged the Board to listen to residents with an open mind. He also described a Mundelein Business Alliance survey regarding flooding mitigation and provided results to the Board.
Tammy Rogan asserted that residents do not approve of the proposed changes and begged the Board to pay attention and engage in further dialogue. She suggested keeping the ladder truck and investigating loaning it out. She concluded by noting that lives are at stake and that firefighters/paramedics don't deserve to be insulted. Mayor Lentz countered by stating that monetary demands from the union are an insult to the village.
Mark Gaunky, retired Mundelein firefighter, described the intensive process for becoming a lieutenant and suggested that the proposed change is really about pensions. Mayor Lentz conceded that the pension obligation for a firefighter is less than for a lieutenant. Mr. Gaunky also insisted that having a lieutenant at both stations is important as it helps set the tone and assures proper training.
Mike Hall, Libertyville firefighter union president, stated that cutting lieutenant positions will definitely affect safety. He also stated that Libertyville's ladder truck is not fully staffed at all times so will not always be able to respond. He concluded by declaring that unions fight for safety rather than for money.
Lance Neuses stated that the Mayor's anti-union comments were uncalled for and declared that the Village is moving too quickly and could end up putting lives at risk. He also suggested that trustees take a class to become educated on the workings of a fire department.
Mayor Lentz closed the floor to public commentary.
Mayor’s Report
Appointment of Acting Village Clerk (Resolution No. 18-02-09)
Motion to Adopt a Resolution Appointing Sol C. Cabachuela as Acting Village Clerk. Trustee Meier gave her approval of Ms. Cabachuela's appointment as Acting Village Clerk, citing her community involvement and strong qualifications. However, she asserted her opinion that elected official vacancies should be publicized to give residents an opportunity to apply and be interviewed.
Result: Carried [4 To 1] Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Semple Nays:
Meier Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Clerk Timmerman administered the Oath of Office to Ms. Cabacheula, effective March 1, 2018.
Mundelein-Vernon Hills Rotary Appointment
Motion to appoint Trustee Dawn Abernathy as Mundelein-Vernon Hills Rotary Liaison,
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Kerston Russell, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Trustee Reports
Community and Economic Development Committee (Abernathy, Russell, Meier)
1061 Franklin Street - Shed Variation (Ordinance No. 18-02-08)
Motion to pass an Ordinance approving Certain Variations for 1061 Franklin Street.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Kerston Russell, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes::
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Maple Hill First Resubdivision - Certificate of Correction (Resolution No. 18-02-10)
Motion to adopt a Resolution Approving and Ratifying Execution of a Certificate of Correction for the Maple Hill First Resubdivision.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Kerston Russell, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Urban Land Institute - Technical Assistance Program Agreement (Resolution No. 18-02-11)
Motion to adopt a Resolution Approving and Authorizing Execution of a Technical Assistance Program Agreement with Urban Land Institute for Redevelopment Strategies for the Southside Commercial Corridor, subject to legal review.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Kerston Russell, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Annexation Agreement - 29473 North Illinois Route 83 (83 Landscape Supply) (Resolution No. 18-02-12)
Motion to adopt a Resolution authorizing Execution of an Annexation Agreement for the property located at 29473 North Illinois Route 83 (83 Landscape Supply).
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Kerston Russell, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
B.I.G. Application - 401 North Seymour Avenue, Karina's Bakery (Resolution No. 18-02-13)
Motion to adopt a Resolution Approving a Business Incentive Grant Application for interior and exterior improvements for the Property at 401 North Seymour Avenue, Mundelein,
Illinois in an amount not to exceed $50,000.00. Vice Chair Russell declared that he is impressed with the concept and plans, and is thrilled to see an empty building be repurposed. He congratulated and encouraged owner Carina Pineda.
Trustee Semple inquired about a timeline and Ms. Pineda stated that they hope to open in 4-5 months.
Trustee Rekus asked about the business model and Ms. Pineda stated that they plan to keep their same bakery business while adding a cafe, barista and seating area. She compared it to a Starbucks but with fresh food. Trustee Rekus asked if there are plans for outdoor seating and Ms. Pineda replied affirmatively, explaining that there will be an outdoor patio with lighting and music on the west side of the existing building.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Kerston Russell, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
New Businesses
Vice Chair Russell announced the following new business:
-XFactor Trampoline Park, 4 Oak Creek Plaza
Public Works Committee (Russell, Meier, Black) - No Report
Finance Committee (Semple, Abernathy, Rekus)
Auditing Services Agreement (Resolution No. 18-02-14)
Motion to adopt a Resolution Approving a Professional Auditing Services Agreement with BKD, LLP to complete auditing services for Fiscal Years 2018-2021.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover::
Ray Semple, Trustee Seconder: Kerston Russell, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Nine-Month Financial Report
Motion to accept the nine-month financial report.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Ray Semple, Trustee Seconder: Kerston Russell, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
AT&T Separated Bills for Approval
Motion to approve the payment of bills, as indicated on the Disbursement Pending Report for:
Dated
Vendor Name
Invoice Totaling
02/26/18
AT&T
$1,748.86
02/26/18
AT&T Mobility
$1,577.49
Result: Carried [4 To 0]
MOVER:
Ray Semple, Trustee Seconcer: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Semple Abstain:
Meier Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Governing Body Bill Approval February 26, 2018
Motion to approve the payment of bills, as indicated in the Governing Body Report for the period between February 13, 2018, and ending February 26, 2018, in the amount of $644,063.74.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Ray Semple, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting Abernathy
Public Safety Committee (Rekus, Semple, Abernathy)
Lake County Major Crime Task Force (Resolution No. 18-02-15)
Motion to adopt a Resolution Authorizing Membership in the Lake County Major Crime Task Force.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Dispatch Consolidation - Village of Winthrop Harbor (Resolution No. 18-02-16)
Motion to Adopt a Resolution Approving a Non-Binding Term Sheet for a Proposed Intergovernmental Agreement to Establish a Joint Emergency Telephone System Board with the village of Winthrop Harbor. Vice Chair Semple extended congratulations to Director Guenther for successfully working out consolidation with Winthrop Harbor, adding that he hopes for more consolidations in the future.
Trustee Black asked if there is a continuing effort in this area and Director Guenther confirmed that he is always exploring options to improve efficiencies.
Trustee Meier noted that she had encouraged this type of consolidation for years and is worried that the village may be late coming to the table. She added that she hopes it is still possible to move forward successfully. Director Guenther explained that this was the village's first opportunity to explore a consolidation.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Sale of 2005 Pierce Dash Fire Truck (Resolution No. 18-02-17)
Motion to adopt a Resolution Approving and Authorizing the sale of a 2005 Pierce Dash Fire Truck to the City of Versailles, Kentucky, Fire Department in the amount of $360,000.00 and approving the payment of $18,000.00 to Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus, LLC for the advertisement and sale of the 2005 Pierce Dash Fire Truck. Trustee Meier explained that she initially thought selling this truck would be an effective way to save money but after talking to elected officials and retired firefighters from other municipalities, she now believes more information is needed before an informed decision can be made.
Result: Carried [4 To 1]
Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Semple NAYS:
Meier Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Building Committee (Meier, Black, Russell) – No Report
Transportation & Infrastructure Committee (Black, Rekus, Semple) - No Report
Scheduled Business
Omnibus Vote Items
Matrix Coating Solutions Purchase Order
Motion to approve a Purchase Order in the amount of $39,735.00 for Bay Floor Recoating at Fire Station #1.
Result: Carried (Unanimous)
Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee SECONDER: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Signature on Community & Economic Development Committee Application
Motion to authorize the Village Administrator's signature on a Community and Economic Development Committee application for Sign Ordinance text amendments. Trustee Meier sought clarification on the text amendment process and signature policy. Community Development Director Orenchuk explained that the village is the applicant for text amendments and that Administrator Lobaito has always been the one to sign them. She confirmed that the amendments are under development and will come before the Board in the future for discussion as part of the process.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Ray Semple, Trustee Seconder: Bill Rekus, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Signature on Planning & Zoning Application
Motion to authorize the Village Administrator's signature on Planning and Zoning applications for Zoning Ordinance text amendments.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Robin Meier, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Village Staff Reports
Village Administrator
Metra Commuter Parking Rate Increase (Ordinance No. 18-02-09)
Motion to pass An Ordinance Amending Chapter 10.32, Parking, of the Mundelein Municipal Code Regarding Parking at the Metra Commuter Train Station, Administrator Lobaito explained that staff looked at capital needs for ongoing maintenance of the parking lot and determined that a parking rate increase is necessary. He added that the fee has remained the same since Metra service to Mundelein began in 1996 and noted that it will now be $1.75 rather than $1.50.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Scott Black, Trustee Seconer: Bill Rekus, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Executive Session
Motion to recess into Executive Session to discuss personnel pursuant to 5 ILCS 120, Section 2(c)(1).
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Scott Black, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
The 3159th Regular Meeting was recessed at 9:54PM.
Motion to reconvene the Village Board Meeting
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee AYES:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting:Abernathy
The 3159th Regular Meeting was reconvened at 11:10PM.
Attendance
Clerk Timmerman took the roll. It indicated the following: Board Attendance Present: Trustees Black, Meier, Rekus, Russell, and Semple; Mayor Lentz Absent: Trustee Abernathy
Village Attendance Public Safety Director Guenther, Finance Director Haywood, Chief Deputy Fire Chief Lark, Village Administrator Lobaito, Attorney Marino, Building Director Schubkegel and Assistant Village Administrator Vadopalas.
Action from Executive Session:
Building Department (Ordinance No. 18-02-10)
Motion to pass An Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.38 of the Mundelein Municipal Code Regarding the Building Department.
Trustee Meier requested clarification on the duties of the fire inspector and Building Director Schubkegel provided this.
Result: Carried [Unanimous]
Mover:
Scott Black, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Amendment to the Municipal Code Related to the Fire Department (Ordinance No. 18-02-11)
Motion to pass An Ordinance Amending Chapter 2.36 of the Mundelein Municipal Code
Regarding the Fire Department. Trustee Meier stated that she thought long and hard about this issue and sees valid points, as well as flaws, on both sides. She added that, given conflicting and incomplete information, she does not feel she can make an informed decision at this point and will therefore be voting no.
Result: Carried [4 To 1] Mover:
Ray Semple, Trustee Seconder: Scott Black, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Semple NAYS:
Meier Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
Adjournment
Motion to adjourn the Regular Board Meeting
Result:
Carried [Unanimous] Mover:
Bill Rekus, Trustee Seconder: Ray Semple, Trustee Ayes:
Rekus, Russell, Black, Meier, Semple Absent / Not Voting: Abernathy
The 3159th Regular Meeting was adjourned at 11:14PM.
4. Thanh Miu la Re Cleansla), Deputy deck
Village Clerk
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