City of Highland Park City Council met March 15.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
CALL TO ORDER
At 5:30 PM, Mayor Rotering called the meeting to order and asked for a roll call:
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen 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, Business Development Manager Hersch, Deputy City Clerk Palbitska
ALSO PRESENT: Corporation Counsel Elrod
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Approval of the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting Held on February 22, 2021
Councilman Kaufman moved to approve the Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting held on February 22, 2021. Councilwoman Stone seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman SECONDER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman |
APPROVAL OF WARRANT LIST
1. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from February 13, 2021 to March 04, 2021.
Councilman Blumberg moved to approve the Warrant List. Councilman Kaufman seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilman SECONDER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman |
A. Proclamations
1. Jewish War Veterans 125th Anniversary
Mayor Rotering recognized the 125th Anniversary of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America. She noted that Highland Park is fortunate to be home to North Shore Post #29, the largest in Illinois. She read the proclamation recognizing the North Shore Post #29. Commander Joe Wrobel thanked the Mayor for the continued support and recognition.
B. Other business
1. COVID-19 Moment of Silence
Mayor Rotering noted that during the staff report, City Manager Neukirch will provide an update on the City's COVID-19 response and other City initiatives. She took a moment to reflect on the past year. She requested everyone join her in a moment of silence in memory of those who have been lost to COVID-19 and in solidarity with their grieving families.
2. Highland Park Awards
Mayor Rotering stated that each spring, the City invites nominations for the Highland Park Awards and requested Councilman Knobel introduce the awards for which nominations are being sought.
Councilman Knobel explained that the Highland Park Awards honor the outstanding achievements and contributions of community members and organizations across different sectors in 2021. She noted that nominations are being accepted for the Arts Award, Environmental Award, the Humanitarian Award and the Character Counts Pillar Award. She introduced a new award, the Community Hero Award: Serving Others During the COVID-19 Pandemic. She explained that these awards will honor those individuals and organizations that went above and beyond in supporting the community during the pandemic. She noted that the virtual awards ceremony will be live streamed at cityhpil.com on Thursday, April 22, 2021 and more details will be posted to the City's website and social media.
BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC (Citizens wishing to be heard regarding items not listed on this agenda)
City Manager Neukirch noted that there were no emails submitted for the meeting, there have been no phone calls and there is no one at City Hall other than City staff.
SCHEDULED BUSINESS
ITEMS FOR OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION
Councilman Stolberg requested items 11-13 be removed from omnibus vote consideration.
Councilwoman Stone moved to approve items 1-10 and 14-17 by omnibus vote consideration. Councilman Stolberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman SECONDER: Adam Stolberg, Councilman AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman |
1.Consideration of a Motion to Extend the Emergency Declaration for the City of Highland Park through the end of the next City Council meeting on April 12, 2021.
2.Adoption of an Ordinance (O23-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Amending the Annual Budget of the City of Highland Park, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for the Fiscal Year Beginning January 1, 2021 and Ending December 31, 2021 for Environmentally Friendly Vehicles Purchases”.
Finance
3.Adoption of a Resolution (R30-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Reallocating 2021 Volume Cap to the Village of Buffalo Grove, Illinois”.
4.Adoption of an Ordinance (O24-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Amending the Annual Budget of the City of Highland Park, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for the Fiscal Year Beginning January 1, 2021 and Ending December 31, 2021 for the Enterprise Resource Planning Project”.
Public Works
5.Adoption of a Resolution (R31-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Rejecting Bids Received on March 19, 2020 and Authorizing Award of the Motor Fuel Tax & Rebuild Illinois Resurfacing and Concrete Repair Contract Bid on February 25, 2021 to the Low and Responsible Bidder Schroeder & Schroeder, of Skokie, Illinois”.
6.Adoption of a Resolution (R32-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution for Improvement of Streets and Highways by a Municipality Under the Illinois Highway Code to Establish a 2021 Estimate of Expenditure Covered Under the Motor Fuel Tax Program in the Amount of $989,000”.
7.Adoption of a Resolution (R33-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution for Improvement of Streets and Highways by a Municipality Under the Illinois Highway Code to Establish a 2021 Estimate of Expenditure Covered Under the Rebuild Illinois Funds in the Amount of $653,000”.
8.Adoption of a Resolution (R34-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Award of the Laurel Avenue East End Improvements Contract to Maneval Construction Company, Inc. of Ingleside, Illinois”.
9.Adoption of a Resolution (R35-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Approving a Pole Attachment License Agreement with New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC (D/B/A AT&T Mobility)”.
10.Adoption of an Ordinance (O25-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Waiving City’s Purchasing Policy, Due to Municipal Partnering Initiative Bidding, to Authorize Award of the 2021 Hydrant Flushing Contract to M.E. Simpson Co., Inc., of Valparaiso, Indiana”.
Community Development
14.Adoption of a Resolution (R36-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of a Professional Services Agreement with Elevator Inspection Services Co., Inc. for the Period Starting March 1, 2021 and Ending December 31, 2021”.
Public Safety
15.Adoption of an Ordinance (O26-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Amending the Annual Budget of the City of Highland Park, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for the Fiscal Year Beginning January 1, 2021 and Ending December 31, 2021 for the Capital Fund”.
16.Adoption of an Ordinance (O29-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Amending Chapter 124 of the "Highland Park Code of 1968," as amended, Regarding Assisted Living Facility Licenses”.
17.Adoption of a Resolution (R37-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Approving Contracts with US Digital Designs, Inc., of Tempe, Arizona, and Digicom Installations, Inc., of Wauconda, Illinois, for the Sale and Install of Fire Station Alerting Systems”.
ITEMS REMOVED FROM OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION
11. A Resolution Approving a Preliminary and Final Plat of Subdivision (2789 Oak Street)
12. An Ordinance Further Amending a Special Use Permit for a Planned Development (2789 Oak Street)
13. A Resolution Approving a Third Amendment to the Development Agreement Between the City of Highland Park and 2789 Oak (HP) LLC for a Planned Development (2789 Oak)
Mayor Rotering noted that items 11-13 would be discussed in an omnibus fashion.
Councilman Stolberg noted that this project went through the process of the Plan and Design Commission ("PDC") and voiced his appreciation that the applicant recognized its first proposed public benefit of seating along Oak Street was not acceptable to the neighbors or to the City in general. He stated that the zoning relief that is being requested is relatively minor and that the public benefit should be commensurate with the relief that is being sought. He noted that the zoning relief that is being requested is pertaining to almost some of the very same things that are now being proposed as a public benefit that include things like additional plantings, as is the applicant's responsibility to protect the neighbors already. He voiced his support for the project but he requested that the public benefit be adjusted more to benefit the public than to benefit the project and the property.
Councilwoman Stone stated that she agrees with the comments that were made by Councilman Stolberg. She noted that what is being proposed as a public benefit is something that was required when the project was approved in a previous iteration in 2018. She explained that it looks like the applicant is going to landscape the property as they were required to do so previously and landscaping on private property is not seen as a public benefit because it is something they should be doing. She requested that a public benefit be proposed that will actually benefit the public.
Councilman Blumberg stated that he is in agreement with all of the remarks that have been made. He noted that the public benefit that is being proposed may be unclear or inconsistent with what it ought to be. He opined on how these items should be sent back to the PDC to be reevaluated.
Councilman Knobel noted that she agreed with all of the comments that have been made so far. She explained that the public benefit being proposed is no longer a bench but plantings on a berm. She communicated to the public that when a public benefit is requested, it is not a benefit that would be on another governing body's land but on a piece of City land in order to benefit the public and in the area of the development. She agreed that these items need to go back to the PDC to be reevaluated.
Councilman Kaufman agreed with all of the comments that have been made and that a public benefit is really important. He explained that it is not something that should be done on the fly by the Council but it should be done through the PDC. He voiced his agreement that it should be sent back to the PDC for their consideration.
Mayor Rotering agreed.
Community Development Director Fontane noted that the original proposal was for a bench but there was some opposition from the neighbors in the area. He explained that the applicant then proposed the additional landscaping in place of the bench. He noted another item that was discussed with the applicant was a bike rack that could be installed for individuals who were accessing Openlands.
Councilwoman Stone noted that a bike rack could be a possibility because bike usage is not supposed to take place on some parts of Openlands property. She noted that there is new lighting in the parking lot and given that this is an area where birds frequent, she requested that the lights be on a timer so they are not on all night. She noted that it looks like the entry for the parking lot has been moved to the north and goes through the parking area that is used by Openlands and the Arlan School; she asked if that was going to impact any of the current parking spaces and if this was going to be any congestion issues.
Scott Goodman, applicant, stated that there could be a timer on the lights based on Councilwoman Stone's comments. He voiced his confusion as to the driveway approach in question and noted that it is not open to the site right now.
Councilwoman Stone asked if the new entrance was coming off of Walker Avenue or coming out of the parking area just to the north of the property between the Oak Street property and Openlands.
Mr. Goodman explained that the exit will be coming off of the property on to Walker Avenue but it will not affect any parking spaces; there is no parking currently. He discussed the property and proposed plans for the site. He discussed the lease of a section of the property to the Arlan School. He explained that there was a purchaser in place for a part of the property but due to the passage of time, that purchaser has since moved on and discussed the urgency of the approval of the proposal for the property. He discussed the relief that was being requested and the public benefit that is being proposed for the private residences. He discussed how the demolition was clean and respectful of the neighbors.
Councilman Stolberg voiced his appreciation of the work Mr. Goodman has done with the project. He noted that one of the challenges is that this currently is not a permanent solution to the site and the PDC was trying to find a balance of allowing a temporary solution while allowing the neighbors to participate in what goes on in the neighborhood. He stated that he liked the suggestion of sending these items back to the PDC and the recommendation of a bike rack but the discussion between the developer, PDC and neighbors is important because a concern that has been raised was the difference between a bike rack and a bench regarding public safety. He explained that what has been proposed is not a huge public benefit and while he is not seeking an enormous public benefit, a greater public benefit should be applied and a discussion should be had between the developer, PDC and neighbors in order to arrive at a reasonable decision.
Mr. Goodman noted that the proposed landscaping was in direct response to the neighbors who were very concerned about the headlights in the parking lot shining on their homes.
Councilman Blumberg noted that the landscaping would still be necessary but he would not view it as a public benefit. He explained that while the plan meets the underlying zoning for landscaping, as a Planned Unit Development, it may be required to go beyond the minimum as a condition of the development because there may be additional buffering needed given the set up where parking may be and the nature of what will eventually be developed on site. He agreed with the comments made by Councilman Stolberg, given the nature of the variances that are being sought, that also affects in a specific way the nature of the public benefit.
Mayor Rotering asked for guidance on the appropriate motion that needs to be made in order to send the items back to PDC for review.
Corporation Counsel Elrod noted that the public hearing notice would need to be kept intact. He suggested that the motion would be to refer it back to the PDC.
Councilman Stolberg asked for clarification as to whether or not there needs to be a directive for just the discussion of the public benefit.
Corporation Counsel Elrod noted that the direction can be limited to the discussion of the public benefit only. He clarified that it would not need to be re-noticed as a public hearing but that it will be a public meeting before the PDC, which will be an open meeting.
Councilwoman Stone asked if the subdivision component can be voted on tonight because it may not be impacted by the public benefit.
Corporation Counsel Elrod recommended asking the petitioner if they wanted all of the items to remain together or voted on separately.
Mr. Goodman recommended that all of the items remain together.
Councilman Stolberg moved to refer items 11-13 back to the Plan and Design Commission for the purpose of identifying a sufficient public benefit but not necessarily eliminating the additional landscaping that may be required as part of the Planned Unit Development, by omnibus vote consideration. Councilwoman Stone seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: REFERRED BACK TO PDC [UNANIMOUS] MOVER: Adam Stolberg, Councilman
SECONDER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman |
Mayor Rotering and Community Development Director Fontane discussed when this topic may be on the agenda for the next PDC meeting.
OTHER BUSINESS (the City Council will consider and then either approve or disapprove the following items)
Public Works
18. Conduct a Public Hearing to Amend Article XVIII of the Zoning Ordinance to Incorporate the October 13, 2020 Lake County Amendments to the Lake County Watershed Development Ordinance
At 6:03 PM, Mayor Rotering called to order the Public Hearing related to the Amendment of Article XVIII of the Zoning Ordinance to Incorporate the October 13, 2020 Lake County Amendments to the Lake County Watershed Development Ordinance and asked the Clerk to call the roll:
PRESENT: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg Knobel, Holleman
Mayor Rotering declared a quorum was present.
Public Works Director Kanapareddy provided information on the proposed amendments and asked if there were any questions from the Council.
There were no questions from the Council or the public.
Councilwoman Stone moved to close the public hearing. Councilman Kaufman seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman SECONDER: Daniel Kaufman, Councilman AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman |
Mayor Rotering noted that the public hearing information will be available on the City's website.
19. Adoption of an Ordinance (O27-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Amending Article XVIII of the “City of Highland Park Zoning Ordinance of 1997,” as Amended, Regarding Stormwater Management, Wetlands Protection, and Flood Plain Regulation”.
Councilwoman Stone moved to approve an Ordinance Amending Article XVIII of the "City of Highland Park Zoning Ordinance of 1997," as Amended. Councilman Stolberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kim Stone, Councilwoman SECONDER: Adam Stolberg, Councilman AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg, Knobel, Holleman |
Mayor Rotering asked if a presentation was needed and if all of the parking questions were answered.
The Council was in consensus that a presentation was not needed and all of the parking questions had been answered.
Councilman Stolberg noted that one of the items that was discussed at the Plan and Design Commission ("PDC") meeting was how the applicant would post signs stating that it was illegal to consume the product on the premises. He noted that, as of today, the signs have been posted. He thanked the applicant for their work on posting those signs.
Mayor Rotering noted it was no consumption on the premises and in the parking lot. She explained that there was also an agreement that they would close at 8:00 PM every night.
Councilman Blumberg noted that the City Council has voted in favor of allowing recreational marijuana and this proposal meets the ordinance requirements. He stated that he supports the legalization and decriminalization of marijuana but remains concerned about the absence of scientific study to suggest that marijuana is harmless. He noted that whether it was harmless or not, he would continue to support the legalization of marijuana but is not a reason, in his opinion, to limit the regulation of marijuana and that it should similarly be regulated like alcohol and gambling in Highland Park. He explained that there is a substantially growing amount of peer review literature that demonstrates how marijuana has an adverse impact on the developing brain, can cause cancer and can be addictive. He stated that because the policy in Highland Park is to allow this and the applicant has met the ordinance, he will be abstaining from voting on this item based on the information he has provided.
Councilman Knobel confirmed that the signs have been posted, as to Councilman Stolberg's comments. She requested that Public Safety patrol the area more often than they already are in order to maintain safety in the area. She noted that the City has already done an incredible job cleaning up the area and requested that it remain a clean and safe area for the community.
City Manager Neukirch stated that it can be done.
Councilman Kaufman noted that he shares Councilman Blumberg's views regarding the legalization of marijuana and the concerns about the potential harmful effects of it. He stated that he understands where the Council is on this topic but he would be abstaining for the previously stated reasons.
Mayor Rotering noted that she would be abstaining as well.
Councilman Holleman moved to approve an Ordinance Granting a Special Use Permit for an Adult Use Cannabis Dispensary at 1460 Old Skokie Road. Councilman Knobel seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed.
| RESULT: ADOPTED
MOVER: Michelle Holleman, Councilman SECONDER: Alyssa Knobel, Councilman AYES: Councilman Stolberg, Councilwoman Stone, Councilmen Knobel, Holleman ABSTAIN: Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Kaufman, Blumberg |
Corporation Counsel Elrod noted that the issue was already resolved based on the applicant’s response to the request. He explained that anything was open for discussion when it comes back to the City Council for review.
Councilwoman Stone asked if it can be added in the final documents since the question has been asked and answered.
Corporation Counsel Elrod stated yes.
Councilman Holleman and Corporation Counsel Elrod discussed a procedural question regarding the vote taken for item 20.
Councilman Blumberg discussed the reason for the way he voted.
Catherine Spencer, Highland Park resident, noted that she did not realize that the signs had already been put up and expressed her appreciation. She requested information as it relates to the language that was on the signs because she was concerned with some of the verbiage that was in the ordinance and wanted to make sure everything was clear. She stated that she believes the public doesn't always know or understand what the laws are.
City Manager Neukirch provided information as to the verbiage on the signs and noted that a photo can be taken of the signs and be sent to Ms. Spencer.
Mayor Rotering noted that the law is “no consumption in public” as well and stated that it sounds like Ms. Spencer would like that information provided to the public.
Community Development Director Fontane noted that he did have a photo of the sign and it states "on site consumption is strictly prohibited".
Ms. Spencer noted that there still could be some confusion and that the verbiage needs to be clearer that consumption cannot be in the car or anywhere in public. She explained that these are extra safety measures to make sure individuals are not consuming and then driving off in their cars.
Mayor Rotering stated that she did not know if there was space on the signs or if there is some language the sellers can communicate with the purchasers as they leave the building but it is recommended that language specific to no consumption in public should be communicated.
Councilman Stolberg noted that it was a simple request and suggested that a sign with that language be placed inside the premises or card inside the bag because not everyone may be driving away but may walk or bike.
City Manager Neukirch noted that staff could follow up with them based on this request.
1. City Manager's Report
City Manager Neukirch provided updates on the COVID American Rescue Plan that was signed by President Biden. She noted that based on the monetary relief the City may be receiving, staff will create a plan and then present it to the Council for their consideration and feedback. She noted that the City did provide relief to residents and businesses in the community at the same time the City did take a hit to the budget. She discussed how the City and other government entities are monitoring over 7,000 bills that have been introduced in the General Assembly. She provided information on COVID impact to the area.
Mayor Rotering noted that she was in contact with the Lake County Health Department Executive Director, Mark Pfister, and that the County had received 13,900 doses this week, but next week and the week after, they drop to 12,160 and 4,310 doses for first doses. She stated that this was a dramatic drop off in vaccine supplies to Lake County. She explained that she continues to work with other Mayors and members of Congress to ask for an increase in supply. She noted that all of this is coming from the top and the City shares in the frustration of the
community. She explained that there has been an attempt to obtain the Johnson and Johnson vaccine so there is only one dose.
City Manager Neukirch noted that the City is doing everything it can to position itself in a way that it can assist the community. She explained that Deerfield announced a vaccination clinic at the Patty Turner Center. She noted that the City, along with Deerfield and Highwood, provided many options as to available public buildings where vaccinations could take place and Lake County chose the site in Deerfield. She explained that a number of City employees have been sent to volunteer at the vaccination site in Lake County. She provided information as to where the testing location is in Highland Park. She provided information as to the agreement between Faith in Action and Go Go Grandparent to provide a ride service for older individuals that need assistance getting to a vaccination appointment. She provided information on a couple of special events and initiatives the City coordinates. She provided information as to the use of the City Right of Way.
Mayor Rotering, Councilmen Kaufman, Holleman and City Manager Neukirch discussed the continued street closure on Roger Williams and the need to re-stripe the lines in that area.
Councilman Blumberg voiced his appreciation as to what the Mayor and City have done regarding the constant communication with Lake County and the State in regards to COVID. He voiced his extreme frustration in the drop off in supply of vaccines and the impact that will have on the community. He noted that his preliminary understanding of the limited supply that was available to the State of Illinois was due to the prior Federal Administration. He asked if there was an explanation as to why Lake County was receiving such an inadequate supply of vaccines.
Mayor Rotering noted that she sits on the Regional COVID Mayor's Task Force and the Task Force did speak with the Deputy Governor regarding the frustration of the inadequate supply of vaccines. She explained that it is not clear where the decisions are coming from and how they are being made. She stated that you can't manage expectations when you don't know why, how, when and where.
Councilman Knobel discussed the amount of time that has been spent on assisting the community in locating and setting up vaccine appointments. She voiced her respect for Lake County professionals and Board Members but requested that the City send back communication to them requesting that their communication be presented differently instead of discussing percentages of those that have been vaccinated; it provides a false sense of security. She noted that she had seen a release that the dosages were going to be diminished and asked if that was just to Lake County Health Department or in general to all the other providers as well.
Mayor Rotering noted that it is unclear.
Councilman Knobel asked if the answer can be obtained and then the information provided in the City's eNews because it is sounding like there will be no doses available in Lake County.
Mayor Rotering voiced that there are plenty of vulnerable people throughout the State and it is important to recognize that and provide vaccines.
Councilman Knobel commended City staff on their work throughout this vaccination process in order to provide doses for seniors. She requested those
individuals that are vaccinating their children ahead of the most vulnerable population to please stop.
Councilman Kaufman shared in the frustrations that have been expressed and shared in the appreciation for the work staff has been doing. He noted that one of the sources of confusion is that early projections made it seem like Lake County was going to have more and more doses available but now it seems there is a change in course; it is very striking news.
Mayor Rotering noted that it was recognized the short fall of the reach. She stated that the answers need to come from the State of Illinois because everyone is dependent on the Illinois Department of Public Health for their allocations, unless you are a FEMA site. She understands that vulnerable people need to be at the front of the line but vulnerable people live throughout the State.
Councilman Holleman asked what has been done in terms of contacting the Governor.
Mayor Rotering stated that there has been contact with his office regularly via phone calls, Zoom meetings, text and emails, as well as regular contact with the Department of Public Health. She noted that she did call the Head of External Affairs at Walgreens, too.
Councilwoman Stone voiced her appreciation and requested to keep everyone informed as to what they can do to assist.
Mayor Rotering discussed her conversation she had with the Mayor of Evanston.
City Manager Neukirch noted that everyone will be kept apprised as to what is going on with the vaccines.
Mayor Rotering thanked Councilman Knobel for highlighting that Highland Park does not have its own health department and that the City is reliant on the Lake County Health Department.
Councilman Knobel encouraged individuals to continue to pursue every avenue they can, legally, to obtain information on the vaccine and to schedule an appointment; we all need to work together to assist everyone in finding appointments.
City Manager Neukirch noted that all of the resources are available on the City's website. She explained that it is a free vaccine and be cautious if someone contacts you about obtaining the vaccine at a cost.
2. Business Development Update
City Manager introduced the Business Development update and thanked
Councilman Knobel for her work as the Business and Economic Development Advisory Group Council liaison.
Assistant City Manager Sabo presented the Business Development Update, which included information regarding the different services and initiatives that have been provided to the business community and initiatives that are planned for the upcoming fiscal year.
Mayor Rotering thanked Councilman Knobel and staff for their support to the business community.
ADJOURNMENT
http://highlandparkil.iqm2.com/Citizens/FileOpen.aspx?Type=12&ID=2487&Inline=True
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