City of North Chicago Finance/Audit Committee met Jan. 6.
Here is the minutes provided by the committee:
Alderman Runnels called the meeting to order.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Fisher, Mayfield, Evans, Allen, Markham, Runnels, January
Absent: None
I. DISCUSSION/PRESENTATION – COMPTROLLER’S OFFICE RENOVATION:
Assistant Comptroller, Tawanda Joyner explained renovation proposal needed for purposes of a more professional appearance to the public, a better use of the space, health/safety improvements and modern design. A more functional office was needed.
Alderman Markham questioned if it was in the Finance budget. Ms. Joyner said it would be in the Building Facility Management budget, initially approved for $15,000. There was also a state grant that the City received for building improvements.
The Mayor stated the vault wasn’t being utilized. Waukegan Safe n Lock Company removed the doors. Ms. Joyner explained the Comptroller’s Office had a smaller safe within the vault.
He stated he was moving forward with the process and the end results would be beneficial to staff giving additional space.
Alderman January was hoping the renovation would be moving forward, a more automated process with cash received/transported to the bank appropriately. The Mayor stated was in the process of acquiring new software estimating in August/September 2020.
Alderman Allen suggested seeking and hiring local contractors of North Chicago for the office renovation. The Mayor agreed.
II. REVIEW/DISCUSSION – GAS UTILITY TAX ORDINANCE REVISION:
Interim Comptroller, Daniela Partipilo explained the ordinance revision with changes requested by Alderman Allen.
Alderman January questioned clarification. Mrs. Partipilo explained the revision reflected pg. (5), 5-35-4 to reflect wording of “City Council” shall enter into the contract.
This would be placed on the next Council Agenda, Tuesday, January 21, 2020.
III. REVIEW/DISCUSSION – GAS TAX COLLECTION AGREEMENT:
Mrs. Partipilo stated the agreement related to the Ordinance.
This would be placed on the next Council Agenda, Tuesday, January 21, 2020.
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Mayfield that Finance Committee Meeting stand adjourned.
MOTION CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE
The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
Alderman Allen called the meeting to order.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Fisher, Mayfield, Evans, Allen, Markham, Runnels, January Absent: None
I. REVIEW/DISCUSSION OF SHERIDAN CROSSING – UPDATE:
Alderman Allen questioned the status of Sheridan Crossing within the next (6) months. Economic & Community Development Director, Victor Barrera explained the Land Use Attorney, David Silverman decided to amend original and restate the agreement to allow additional time for the structure development’s investigation, planning and financing. They required an extension of time to resolve various site uses and design issues to prepare, file and pursue a special use permit for development property plan. It would also allow developing the property in phases. The entire project consisted of a hotel and restaurants. Other supported retail uses included business/medical offices, warehouse and light industrial uses. A portion of the property was donated to the National Museum of the American Sailor Foundation.
Alderman Evans questioned if the City would acquire taxes with the National Navy Museum. Mr. Barrera stated he would research for clarification information.
Alderman Allen asked if any feedback from the developers within the next (6) months; many changes and no development. Mr. Barrera explained they were considering other development uses, October 03, 2019, for the rear portion of the property. There was an industrial developer interested in (11) of (33) acres for a potential warehouse. Attentive date of breaking ground, May 2020.
Alderman Mayfield requested the developers were present. Mr. Barrera stated they would be attending the next meeting. She asked for a monthly update. He would honor her request.
Alderman Evans stated if federal property, the City wouldn’t acquire taxes from it and any money funded for the museum. The Mayor clarified it wasn’t federal land including a proffer letter from the Navy. Alderman Runnels stated was funding was minimal. Alderman Evans suggested something different if no results. Alderman Runnels stated the museum was a $45,000,000 project and needed much funding.
Alderman January requested the proffer letter.
Alderman Allen clarified quoted amount of estimated $50,000,000 from former Economic & Community Director, Ron Lanz.
Alderman Markham had strong concerns aesthetically with a warehouse and museum. Mr. Barrera stated it was a phased project and elaborated further.
The Mayor explained that IDOT had made changes to Sheridan Rd. and resulted in less progress.
Alderman January stated last discussion it wasn’t conveyed what type of facility. The council should have been aware of it. There were other entities that expressed interest that would of generated occupations for the community.
The Mayor explained it was a tough project and land site. The developers only have expended much for the site; estimated $1,000,000.
Alderman Allen requested that the developers speak with the City Council. It was difficult to acquire money from the banks.
Alderman Markham clarified other development with different communities in Lake County. The council was unaware of the contract renewal and no development results.
The Mayor disagreed. He clarified that the council was aware of the environmental problems.
Mr. Barrera indicated the details of the amendment was needed, more information would be provided at the next meeting and also the type of user.
Alderman January strongly stated the Sheridan Crossing property was deemed and may remain industrial. It has been indicated alternative methods in cleaning the soil. There were possible different avenues and encouraged council members to provide their feedback collectively.
Alderman Allen was expecting to break ground in May 2020 and moving forward.
The Mayor added the developers have been working towards bringing in a hotel/restaurant and was hopeful provided to the site.
II. PENDING MATTERS:
There was nothing for discussion.
Alderman Runnels moved, seconded by Alderman Mayfield that Economic Development/Planning Zoning Committee Meeting stand adjourned.
MOTION CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE
The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.
https://www.northchicago.org/vertical/Sites/%7B52959CF2-969E-41D9-A9CF-CF0A11D0BEA9%7D/uploads/COM.1.06.20.pdf
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