City of Highland Park City Council met Sept. 9.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
CALL TO ORDER
At 7:39 PM, Mayor Rotering called the meeting to order and asked for a roll call:
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Neukirch, Fire Chief Amidei, Community Development Director Fontane, Police Chief Jogmen, Public Works Director Kanapareddy, Finance Director Logan, Assistant City Manager Sabo, Deputy City Clerk Palbitska
Corporation Counsel Elrod
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting Held on August 26, 2019
Councilwoman Stone moved to approve the minutes of the Regular City Council meeting held on August 26, 2019. Councilman Kaufman seconded the motion. Upon a voice vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman
SECONDER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg,Knobel, Holleman
APPROVAL OF WARRANT LIST
1. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from August 15, 2019 to August 29, 2019
Councilman Kaufman moved to approve the Warrant List. Councilman Blumberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman
SECONDER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman
REPORT OF MAYOR
A. Appointments
There were none.
B. Proclamations
1. Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month
Mayor Rotering proclaimed the month of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Family Service of Lake County Executive Director Carrie Callas provided information on suicide awareness and resources available.
2. 100th Anniversary of American Legion Post #145
Mayor Rotering stated that this year marks the 100th anniversary of the American Legion Post #145. She explained that the American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization devoted to mutual helpfulness. She stated that it is the nation's largest wartime veteran's service organization that is committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in the community, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to fellow service members and veterans.
American Legion Post Commander Dick Lee and Past Post Commander Larry Sassorossi thanked the City for the proclamation and provided information about American Legion Post #145.
C. Other business
1. Highland Park Historical Society's Stupey Cabin Harvest Festival
Mayor Rotering stated that the Highland Park Historical Society's Stupey Cabin Harvest Festival is taking place on Saturday, September 14, 2019.
Jen Freeman and Lisa Hirsch, Historical Society representatives, provided information about the event and recognized Joe Peddle for helping to organize the event.
2. Sister Cities Foundation
Mayor Rotering congratulated the members of the Highland Park Sister Cities Foundation on receiving the International Award for Best Overall Program from Sister Cities International.
Carole Wolfe, President of Sister Cities, provided information on the achievement.
3. Recognition of HP150 Venetian Night Event Organizers
Mayor Rotering thanked all individuals who participated in the HP150 Venetian Night that took place on Saturday, August 17, 2019. She stated that this year's inaugural event included a parade of illuminated and decorated kayaks, paddleboards and powerboats She gave a special thanks to the North Shore Yacht Club for organizing this celebratory night. She congratulated the 14-member planning committee that was led by Chairman Jamie Santucci and the North Shore Yacht Club Commodore Maureen Stapleton.
4. Recognition of 2019 Distinguished Budget Award from GFOA
Mayor Rotering stated that the Government Finance Officers Association ("GFOA") has awarded the City of Highland Park with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award. She explained that the award is a reflection of the commitment of the highest principles of governmental budgeting. She recognized Finance Director Julie Logan, City Manager Ghida Neukirch, Finance Department staff and all of the Department Directors for this accomplishment.
5. September 11th Remembrance
Mayor Rotering stated that September 11, 2019 will mark the 18th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States that changed everyone's lives forever. She honored the lives that were lost and paid tribute to the courage of the countless first responders who selflessly came together from across the nation to aid in rescue, recovery and clean-up efforts. She requested a moment of silence to remember those that were lost and show appreciation of the selfless service of the first responders.
BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC (Citizens wishing to be heard regarding items not listed on this agenda)
There was none.
SCHEDULED BUSINESS
ITEMS FOR OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION
Councilman Blumberg moved to approve items 1, 2, 4, 5 by omnibus vote consideration. Councilman Kaufman seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motioned passed unanimously.
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilman
SECONDER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman
Administration
1. Adoption of a Resolution (R114-2019) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Approving an Agreement with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus to Host a Greenest Region Corp Member”.
2. Adoption of a Resolution (R115-2019) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Adopting an Updated Sexual Harassment Policy”.
RESULT: ADOPTED AS AMENDED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilman
SECONDER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman
Finance
4. Adoption of an Ordinance (O62-2019) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “Approval of an Ordinance Amending Chapter 74 of “The Highland Park Code of 1968” as Amended Regarding Motor Vehicle Licenses”.
Public Safety
5. Adoption of a Resolution (R116-2019) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Award of the Police Department Vehicle Outfitting Contract to Lund Industries Inc. of Northbrook, IL”.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION
3. Temporary Street Closure and Use of the Public Rights-of-Way Between 560 - 600 Roger Williams Avenue for Ravinia Brewing Anniversary Block Party, a Special Event on Saturday, October 19, 2019
Councilwoman Stone stated that she spoke with the City Manager regarding the City's noise ordinance. She recommended amending the permit to have the event end at 10:00 PM to be in line with the City's noise ordinance.
The Council was in consensus to amend the special event permit.
Mayor Rotering stated that the event would be taking place near the Ravinia Fire Station and asked Fire Chief Amidei if the detour route that has been proposed for emergency responses was acceptable.
Fire Chief Amidei stated that staff had reviewed the detour route and that the route was acceptable to the Fire Department.
Councilwoman Stone moved to approve a temporary street closure and use of the public right-of-way between 560-600 Roger Williams Avenue for Ravinia Brewing Anniversary Block Party, Special Event Permit, as amended. Councilman Knobel seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
RESULT: ADOPTED AS AMENDED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman
SECONDER: Alyssa Knobel, Councilman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman
OTHER BUSINESS (the City Council will consider and then either approve or disapprove the following items)
Community Development
6. Adoption of an Ordinance (O63-2019) titled, “An Ordinance Granting Variances From Article XX of the Zoning Code for Four Pole Signs (1988 First Street)”.
Councilwoman Stone noted that the application states that the signs will be dimmed but asked if the signs will be turned off when the business is closed.
Chris Prucnal, McDonald's Franchise Owner, stated that the signs will be turned off when the business is closed.
Councilman Blumberg moved to approve an ordinance granting variances from Article XX of the Zoning Code for Four Pole Signs at 1988 First Street. Councilman Stolberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motioned passed unanimously.
RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilman
SECONDER: Adam Stolberg, Councilman
AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman
7. Referral of Height, Vehicular Opening, and Duration of Granted Order Variations to the Zoning Board of Appeals Related to 1120 Crofton Avenue N (Bob O’Link Golf Club)
Community Development Director Fontane presented referral information for height, vehicular opening and duration of granted order variations to the Zoning Board of Appeals related to 1120 Crofton Avenue North (Bob-O-Link Golf Club).
Councilwoman Stone asked if the buildings that are being proposed will be built in the floodplain.
Community Development Director Fontane stated that the buildings would have to include floodplain protection, they are not in the floodway but the floodplain.
Mayor Rotering asked if highlights can be provided as to what has changed within the application from the last time it was before the Council.
Community Development Director Fontane explained that staff worked with the applicant on reviewing other locations on the site for where the buildings could be built. He stated that the applicant spent time reviewing the alternative location but determined that the location was not conducive to their needs.
Mayor Rotering stated that there were questions about locating the buildings in the FEMA floodplains and the flow of chemicals in the stormwater. She asked if the Northmoor County Club's shed was in the FEMA floodplain.
Community Development Director Fontane stated that he would need to confirm the location at Northmoor but that Bob-O-Link would be required to raise the grade of the proposed location.
Mayor Rotering commented on the City Forester's recommendation of other locations in order to not disrupt or damage the current heritage trees within the proposed building site. She asked if there was any internal drive feasibility in order to minimize chemical exposure past the middle school and residences in the area.
Councilwoman Stone stated that given the type of flooding Highland Park has had recently, there is the possibility that raising the building a few feet will not keep it out of water.
Public Works Director Kanapareddy explained that development can happen in a floodplain as long as the developers provide 1.2 times compensatory storage for water.
Mayor Rotering asked if there was confidence there would not be increased flooding issues if the buildings were built in the proposed location.
Public Works Director Kanapareddy stated yes regarding the building in the floodplain.
Councilman Knobel stated that it is an allowed use but wanted to know if the buildings will have an increased impact on the homes in the area due to the buildings being built in the flooplain.
Public Works Director Kanapareddy stated that it will not have impact and provided the reasons why.
Councilwoman Stone explained that there are two concerns that are being expressed; the first being the impact on the neighboring homes and the second one is that the proposed building is for chemical storage.
Public Works Director Kanapareddy explained the City Code requirements for this development.
Councilman Holleman commented and voiced her concerns on the combination of this location storing fuel and chemicals as well as being built in a floodplain.
Hal Francke, attorney with Meltzer, Purtill & Stelle, LLC, explained that the application is for a golf course that has been in place for many years. He provided information as to the proposal and highlights as to what has changed since the last time the request was before the City Council.
Mayor Rotering and Community Development Director Fontane discussed where the current turf care shed was located on the property as well as the area where staff recommended the applicant review for the development. They discussed where the floodplain is outlined on the property.
Mr. Francke discussed the delivery of the turf care products to the golf course and how the deliveries will change with the proposal of the development.
Councilman Stolberg asked why it would be more difficult to expand the building in the floodplain but not difficult to build a new facility.
Mr. Francke explained that the current facility is surrounded by floodplain and to create what would need to be created now, all of the buildings would need to be improved. He explained that the buildings would need to be elevated higher, more comp storage would be needed, and more floodplain would have to be cut and filled.
Councilman Stolberg stated that it may be more difficult to build in the existing location but asked if it was worth losing the 16 heritage trees and 75 key trees that will be destroyed as a result.
Mr. Francke explained that if the applicant was afforded the right to go through the process with the Zoning Board of Appeals ("ZBA"), the applicant can substantially address the City Forester's concerns. He stated that the tree issue is a significant issue that needs to be addressed and there is anticipation this issue will be addressed through the process. He explained that if the applicant was told to expand on the current buildings, there will still be a parcel of land available for residential development and the tree issue will not go away. He stated that it was worth noting that the golf course is 170 acres and what is being discussed is two to three acres of disturbance. He explained that on the remaining 160 acres, there are 64 existing heritage trees and another 38 trees that will soon be heritage trees. He provided information as to what is driving the request for some of the variations.
Councilman Holleman stated that it is not the job of the Council to weigh in on the request but to decide whether or not the applicant can go through the public process. She explained that if the Council allows this to go through the public process, the Council is making the point that the project is worth considering and the public should have their chance to weigh in. She stated that she believes this project should go through the public process but it will be difficult to explain to the public why the Council believes it to be a good idea to send additional fuel trucks and fertilizer trucks down past a school that already has traffic and truck issues. She opined on the request being a tough sell and once the public is informed, they may take issue with the request but the application should still continue through the public process. She stated that there is a lot of property and it is hard to imagine that there is no other location for the buildings to be developed.
Councilman Blumberg stated that the specific issue the Council has is whether or not to determine if the application should be referred to the ZBA for consideration of the entire project. He stated that the proposed site is lower than the current site and that a buildup will be required. He opined on the fact that it would seem to be less expensive to rehabilitate and expand an existing building with the fill in that will be required as opposed to tearing down the structure and abating the current property. He voiced concerns regarding the heritage tree issue if the application were allowed to move forward to the next step in the process.
Mayor Rotering and Mr. Francke discussed the reasons why the applicant does not want to rehabilitate and expand on the current site.
Councilman Kaufman demonstrated his appreciation that the applicant wants to go through the public process. He stated that he thought some of the issues might have been further along given the concerns that Council had provided previously.
Councilwoman Stone stated that the Council was recently presented with an application that had gone before the Plan and Design Commission and it was declined by the Council. She explained that there is a need for a process, but that if the Council is not amenable to having the development on the proposed site and there are continued issues with the trees and moving of chemicals past schools, it wouldn't make sense to refer this to the ZBA and then come back to the Council where it most likely would be declined again. She agreed with Councilman Kaufman that there were concerns expressed to the applicant in May and it does not seem that the plan has really changed.
Mayor Rotering confirmed there were three options the Council had in regards to a motion: 1) the Council can refer the items back to the ZBA with final disposition; 2) the Council can refer the items to the ZBA for discussion and return to the Council for the final disposition; or 3) the Council can deny the request for a compere referral to the ZBA.
Mr. Francke provided a response to the concerns that had been expressed by the Council.
Councilman Stolberg asked what the next steps were if the Council were to deny the referral.
Corporation Counsel Elrod explained that unless the applicant changes their relief, they are unable to proceed with the project.
Councilman Kaufman moved to refer to the Zoning Board of Appeals a referral of height, vehicular opening and duration of Granted Order Variations related to 1120 Crofton Avenue N (Bob-O-Link Golf Course) for referral back to the City Council for final disposition. Councilman Holleman seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motioned was denied.
RESULT: DEFEATED [3 TO 4]
MOVER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman
SECONDER: Michelle Holleman, Councilman
AYES: Councilmen Kaufman, Knobel, Holleman
NAYS: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg
BUSINESS FROM THE COUNCIL
Councilwoman Stone explained that the Bike Walk Advisory Group and Trek HP are hosting a Family Friendly Bike Fest for the Grand Opening Ride on the Family Friendly Bikeway, which is the first Family Friendly Bikeway anywhere. She stated that the event will take place September 22, 2019 beginning at 1:00 PM in the parking lot of the Trek store and the bike ride will kick off in that location at 2:00 PM.
BUSINESS FROM CITY STAFF
Report from City Manager Neukirch
City Manager Neukirch provided information on various City projects and services.
ADJOURNMENT
Councilwoman Stone moved to adjourn. Councilman Kaufman seconded the motion. On a voice vote, Mayor Rotering declared the motion passed unanimously.
The City Council adjourned its meeting at 9:00 PM.
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