City of Highland Park City Council met Nov. 8.
Here are 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, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager Neukirch, Community Development Director Fontane, Police Chief Jogmen, Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director Kanapareddy, Finance Director Logan, Assistant City Manager Sabo, Fire Chief Schrage, Communications Manager Civitello, Business Development Manager Hersch, Human Resources Manager Taub, Deputy City Clerk Palbitska
ALSO PRESENT: Corporation Counsel Elrod
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF WARRANT LIST
1. Warrant List and Wire Transfers from October 15, 2021 to October 28, 2021.
Councilmember Stolberg moved to approve the Warrant List. Councilmember Lidawer seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Adam Stolberg, Councilmember SECONDER: Annette Lidawer, Councilmember AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer |
A. Other business
1. NorthShore University HealthSystem Highland Park Hospital Update
Mayor Rotering welcomed Gabrielle Cummings, President of Highland Park Hospital, and board-certified internist Dr. Greg Wallman, to share information and answer frequently asked questions regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. She explained that over the last 18 months, the City has truly valued its partnership with Highland Park Hospital, which has served as a vital resource and strong collaborator with the City and sister governments serving Highland Park. She voiced her appreciation for their commitment to protecting the health of our community.
Gabrielle Cummings, President of Highland Park Hospital, provided an update on operations and healthcare matters.
Dr. Greg Wallman, board-certified internist, presented information on COVID vaccine facts and hesitancy based on fertility concerns and rapid vaccine production and efficacy.
Councilmember Stone asked if the City can post Dr. Wallman's presentation on the City's website to ensure that the information will be disseminated to a wider audience.
City Manager Neukirch confirmed that the meeting is live on Facebook currently and highlights of the presentation will be included in the City's eNews as well as a link to the City Council meeting video.
Mayor Rotering thanked both President Cummings and Dr. Wallman for joining the City Council meeting and sharing this vital information. She noted that she was at Braeside this afternoon and there is discussion to ensure that the vaccine is available for the students in K-8th grade within the school district.
Councilmember Tapia noted that President Cummings made reference to reaching out to the minority communities and asked if there is information that the City Council should be aware of regarding the needs of those minority communities.
President Cummings noted and provided information on the importance of education and communication with the minority communities.
Councilmember Tapia asked what can be communicated to the minority communities regarding what they should expect when they come to the health system for health concerns and screenings.
President Cummings noted that it is highly variable in terms of communicating what they can expect but it is important to communicate that they will be respected and their needs will be taken seriously; they will receive care that is customized to them.
Mayor Rotering asked President Cummings to share more information on the collaboration between NorthShore and Phoenix.
President Cummings shared information on the collaboration between the NorthShore University HealthSystem and the Phoenix Clinic.
2. House of Representatives Pass Infrastructure Bill
Mayor Rotering noted that on Friday, November 5th, the House of
Representatives passed a piece of legislation that addresses some of the most critical needs and highest priorities as a nation. She explained that they passed a bi-partisan bill that is aimed at advancing the nation’s most critical services. She noted that the funding that the State of Illinois will receive will assist with infrastructure that is used on a daily basis.
3. Veterans' Day Observance
Mayor Rotering invited the community to join the City on Thursday, November 11 at 11 AM for the City's annual Veterans' Day Observance. She noted that the event will be hosted virtually this year, in consideration of the ongoing pandemic and the risks posed to the elders of the community, who are important contributors to this event. She stated that representatives from the American Legion Post #145 and Jewish War Veterans Post #29 will participate alongside the City of Highland Park Police Department Honor Guard. She recognized Highland Park Police Officer Richard Moritz as a Hero Among Us for his service with the US Marine Corps. She noted that the program will also include remarks from elected officials serving the community as well as a performance by the talented musicians of Highland Park High School band and choir. She stated that the Highland Park Public Library will welcome visitors who would prefer to view the virtual event at the Library on Thursday; Librarians will be able to assist with the computers. She explained that registration is not required.
BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC (Citizens wishing to be heard regarding items not listed on this agenda)
City Manager Neukirch noted that individual can contact the City before the meeting or during the meeting to provide public comments. She explained that City Hall is open to allow for individuals to attend the meeting in person, if they wish. She stated at this time, there were no individuals at City Hall and there were no comments submitted prior to the meeting. She asked those who are attending virtually to raise their hand if they wished to comment on an item. After a brief moment, she noted that there were no virtual hands raised to make a comment on the agenda.
SCHEDULED BUSINESS
ITEMS FOR OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION – ITEMS 1-20
Councilmember Stone requested to remove items 21-23 from omnibus vote consideration because there was an error that needed to be corrected. She requested to confirm the numbering for items 27 and 28 because the Lexipol agreement needed to be pulled as well.
Mayor Rotering noted that there was some confusion with the numbering of items but noted that the correct item number that was previously requested to be pulled was item 28, the Lexipol agreement. She noted the packet was reposted with the correct numbers for the items.
City Manager Neukirch stated that all items on the agenda were posted last Thursday but there was one item that was listed under Other Business that was moved to the omnibus vote consideration and the numbering needed to be corrected but there were no new items added to the agenda.
Mayor Rotering confirmed that Councilmember Stone requested to pull the item discussing the Lexipol agreement.
Councilmember Stone noted that was correct and wanted to confirm that item 27 was related to the resolution regarding personal training land uses.
City Manager Neukirch noted that item 28 was in regards to Lexipol.
Mayor Rotering noted that item 25 was in regards to the personal training land uses.
Councilmember Stone stated that she had a question about the personal training item and requested to make a statement about item 15.
Councilmember Holleman noted that an item doesn't need to be pulled if there is only a comment being made.
Mayor Rotering stated that there is a comment to be made on item 15 and recommended that a motion be made for items 1-28 and then discussion can be had.
Councilmember Stone noted that it should be a motion for items 1-28 except items 21-24.
Mayor Rotering recommended a motion be made for items 1-20 by omnibus vote consideration and then the Council can move on from there.
Councilmember Stone noted the increase on the renewal for the Routine Tree Pruning Contract, item 15, and requested that the contract be re-bid next year based on this increase.
City Manager Neukirch stated that she did speak with Assistant City Manager/Public Works Director Kanapareddy and confirmed that a re-bid will take place next year for this contract.
Councilmember Holleman moved to approve items 1-20 by omnibus vote consideration. Councilmember Stone seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared that items 1- 20 were approved unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Michelle Holleman, Councilmember SECONDER: Kim Stone, Councilmember AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer |
1.Adoption of a Resolution (R113-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Appointing William Y. Franks as an Administrative Hearing Officer and Approving a Two-Year Extension of an Agreement between the City of Highland Park and William Y. Franks”.
2.Adoption of a Resolution (R114-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Appointing Scott Levenfeld as an Administrative Hearing Officer and Approving a Two-Year Extension of an Agreement between the City of Highland Park and Scott Levenfeld”.
3.Adoption of a Resolution (R115-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing the Release of Minutes of Certain Closed Meetings of the City Council and of the Committee of the Whole of the City Council”.
4.Adoption of a Resolution (R116-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Ratifying an Amendment to the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners Rules and Regulations”.
5.Adoption of a Resolution (R117-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Ratifying a Transferee Assumption Agreement with McGovern Flats LLC and SE McGovern House Transitory LLC (760-776 Central Street and 1710-1724 McGovern Street)”.
Finance
6.Approval of an Estimate of the Amount of Revenue to be generated from Tax Year 2021 Property Taxes for Collection in the Fiscal Year 2022 in Accordance with the Truth in Taxation Statute.
Public Works
7.Adoption of a Resolution (R118-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Steep Slope Zone Engineering Services Agreements with AECOM, of Chicago, Illinois and Bleck Engineering, Ltd., of Lake Forest, Illinois”.
8.Adoption of a Resolution (R119-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Engineering Design Services Agreements with Doland Engineering, LLC of Palatine, Illinois; Accurate Group, Inc., of Lincolnshire, Illinois; Bowman Consulting of Chicago, Illinois; and Robinson Engineering of Itasca, Illinois”.
9.Adoption of a Resolution (R120-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Wetland Engineering Services Agreements with Bleck Engineering Company, Inc., of Lake Forest, Illinois; Huff & Huff, Inc., of Oak Brook, Illinois; and Hey and Associates, Inc., of Volo, Illinois”.
10.Adoption of a Resolution (R121-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of the Traffic Engineering Services Agreements with Civiltech Engineering, Inc., of Itasca, Illinois; and Hampton, Lenzini, & Renwick, Inc., of Elgin, Illinois; and Horner & Shifrin, Inc., of Chicago, Illinois”.
11.Adoption of an Resolution (R122-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Structural Engineering Professional Services Agreements with Christopher B. Burke Engineering (CBBEL), Ltd, of Rosemont, Illinois; Ciorba Group, Inc., of Chicago, Illinois; and Admore Roderick of Chicago, Illinois”.
12.Adoption of a Resolution (R123-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Material Testing and Geotechnical Engineering Agreements with Rubino Engineering, Inc. of Elgin, Illinois, Wang Engineering, Inc. of Lombard, Illinois and Millennia Professional Services, Ltd. of Downers Grove, Illinois”.
13.Adoption of a Resolution (R124-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of the Grant Assistance Consulting Services Agreements with Civiltech Engineering, Inc., of Itasca, Illinois and Baxter & Woodman, Inc., of Crystal Lake, Illinois”.
14.Adoption of a Resolution (R125-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of the Annual Unit Price Hourly Grounds Maintenance Contracts with Moreno Landscape, Gurnee, Illinois; Jack Vena Lawn Maintenance, Highland Park, Illinois; and Guy Scopelliti Landscape, Gurnee, Illinois”.
15.Adoption of a Resolution (R126-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of the Routine Tree Pruning Contract with Balanced Environments, Inc., of Old Mill Creek, Illinois”.
16.Adoption of a Resolution (R127-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of the 2019 Unit Price Tree & Stump Removal Contract to Lucas Landscaping and Design of Deerfield, Illinois”.
17.Adoption of a Resolution (R128-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing Award of the Unit Price Hourly Tree Maintenance Contracts to Acer Tree Service LLC, Round Lake, Illinois; Lucas Landscaping and Design, Deerfield, Illinois; Trees “R” Us, Inc., Wauconda, Illinois; Balanced Environments Inc., Old Mill Creek, Illinois; and Advanced Tree Care, Lincolnshire, Illinois”.
18.Adoption of a Resolution (R129-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Salt From Compass Minerals America Inc., of Overland Park, Kansas through the Illinois Department of Central Management Services Joint Purchasing Program”.
19.Adoption of a Resolution (R130-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Authorizing the Establishment of a Voluntary Lead Service Line Cost Sharing Program”.
20.Adoption of a Resolution (R131-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Repealing Resolution NO. R68-2021 and Approving a Revised Intergovernmental Agreement with the Illinois Department of Transportation for State Maintained Traffic Signals within Highland Park, Illinois”.
ITEMS FOR OMNIBUS VOTE CONSIDERATION – ITEMS 21-24
Community Development
21. Adoption of an Ordinance (O69-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Rezoning 425 Bloom Street and 2625-2631 Waukegan Avenue to the RM1 Medium-to-High Density Residential District”.
22. Adoption of an Ordinance (O70-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Granting a Special Use Permit for a Planned Development (425 Bloom Street and 2625-2631 Waukegan Avenue)”.
23. Adoption of a Resolution (R132-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Approving a Development Agreement (425 Bloom Street and 2625-2631 Waukegan Avenue)”.
24. Adoption of a Resolution (R133-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Approving a Final Plat of Subdivision (425 Bloom Street and 2625-2631 Waukegan Avenue)”.
Councilmember Stone noted that she had one question and communicated that there was one error in the documents. She explained that the applicant inadvertently transposed the rents for the affordable units in the final application including the housing plan, which is an attachment to more than one of the items in the agenda packet. She noted that she would like to move to approve the items with the correction of the transposition of the rents between the 0-50% AMI income tier and the 80-120% AMI income tier.
City Manager Neukirch added that the rents must be compliant with City Code regardless if the applicant has the incorrect information within their application. She explained that where they had transposed the numbers is on Exhibit O and Exhibit F.
Mayor Rotering thanked Councilmember Stone for noting that.
Corporation Counsel Elrod explained that items 21-24 can be taken as an omnibus if the motion would like to be made that way.
Councilmember Blumberg noted that there was a question about the compliance with the City's lighting Code and he explained that he was ensured by staff that the plan will be compliant with the City's lighting Code requirements.
Councilmember Stone added a stipulation that staff confirm that the lighting plan and fixtures are dark sky compliant, as required by City Code.
Mayor Rotering stated that was Councilmember Blumberg's comment and that the City expects all developments to comply with the City Code.
Councilmember Stone moved to approve items 21-24 by omnibus vote consideration. Councilmember Blumberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kim Stone, Councilmember SECONDER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilmember AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer |
Community Development
25. Adoption of a Resolution (R134-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Regarding Personal Training, Medical Spa, and Medical Retail Land Uses”.
Public Safety
26. Adoption of a Resolution (R135-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “A Resolution Approving Dispatch Services and Facility use Intergovernmental Agreements with the Village of Glenview”.
27. Adoption of an Ordinance (O71-2021) by omnibus vote consideration titled, “An Ordinance Waiving the Formal Sealed Bidding Requirements of the City's Purchasing Manual and Approving an Agreement for the Construction of the New Ravinia Fire Station”.
Mayor Rotering, Corporation Counsel Elrod and City Manager Neukirch discussed item 27 as it relates to blank information being present in the attachments.
Councilmember Lidawer moved to approve items 25-27 by omnibus vote consideration. Councilmember Tapia seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Rotering declared the motion passed unanimously.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Annette Lidawer, Councilmember SECONDER: Andrés Tapia, Councilmember AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer |
Public Safety
28. Adoption of an Ordinance (O72-2021) titled, “An Ordinance Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City's Purchasing Manual and Approving an Agreement with Lexipol, LLC for Police Training and Policy Implementation Services”.
Councilmember Stone noted that she was interested in understanding the benefits of the City hiring a private contractor to assist in writing City policy. She voiced her understanding that City staff may not have the capacity to conduct this work and that there may not be any other organizations that conduct this type of work. She voiced her concern about a private contractor completing this type of work and if their policies will conform to the philosophy of the City of Highland Park, the Highland Park Police Department, and elected officials. She requested more information.
Mayor Rotering voiced her appreciation of the Chief and the department's dedication to community policing and working with the NAACP for many years to ensure that the City is committed to a fair and transparent application of the law.
Councilmember Blumberg echoed Mayor Rotering's comments regarding the appreciation he has for the commitment of the Chief and department. He noted that he is not concerned with the Police Department but voiced his concerns with a private organization attempting to write Police training and implementation directions. He noted that part of the concern is the transparency of the operations of the private organization, not with the Police Department. He requested that there be assurances that the policies the private organization creates, is subject to review by the City Council and be posted on the City's website, similar to the posting of the department's general orders. He voiced that if the transparency is there, he is comfortable moving in a direction where the private organization can assist with creating these policies.
Councilmember Holleman stated that this is a tool for staff and it is not replacing the work done by staff; it is giving staff a way of understanding and interpreting the voluminous amount of information coming from Springfield. She explained that the City Council is still the group that enacts policy and changes in policy. She noted that it is a tool that is being used to track and update information in order to stay on top of current practices. She explained that there is no other tool that can be used, the question has been asked, and surrounding communities are using this tool to assist in their work. She voiced her support in moving forward with the recommendation.
Councilmember Lidawer noted that she reviewed the information very carefully and did not interpret it in a way that it was to be used as a policy device; she viewed it as a device that will assist staff in ensuring any types of requirements that are coming forward, the City remains in compliance and then policies are generated from that information. She noted her approval of the item. She explained that staff needs a service that can go through the information coming from the State, on a month to month basis, to ensure that the City is creating those policies to remain compliant with the changes.
City Manager Neukirch clarified that the agreement would include information regarding policies and training requirements that are based on new crime reform that is based on legislation that will go into effect on January 1, 2022. She explained that there will be a myriad of changes that agencies will have to comply with. She noted that having a membership with Lexipol will ensure that Highland Park and the other subscribers are aware of the requirements, policies, and procedures that have to be implemented. She explained that the staff at the Police Department will be the first level of review; any new training or procedure requirements will be reviewed by the entire command team, then Police Chief and then herself as City Manager. She noted that she did discuss with Councilmember Blumberg regarding any types of changes and noted that she will keep the Council apprised of any changes that will be coming before the Council for review. She stated that staff will continue to post the general orders and any new orders that are generated based on the new information.
Mayor Rotering highlighted that City Manager Neukirch sits on the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board. She noted that she is on the Northwest Municipal Conference Committee as well as the Metropolitan Mayor's Caucus and everyone is following legislation as it is happening.
Councilmember Tapia noted that in the business world there are comparable services for all kinds of similar things because companies cannot keep up with all of the changes and regulations; these types of services are very valuable. He noted that it’s 95% of the time pro forma and abiding by the law and then there are those items that are flagged that can be considered choices; the services provide the options as to which direction may be beneficial by providing the pros and cons of different directions. He explained that this type of service will take away a huge burden on staff in order to address the 95% of items that are in place to make sure that the City is keeping up with all of the changes and requirements.
Mayor Rotering notes that this is similar to the assistance that is being received in Community Development in regards to the third party reviews. She voiced her appreciation to Chief Jogmen and his dedication and the dedication of his team.
Councilmember Blumberg noted that not all items will need to automatically come before the City Council but as a procedure, City Manager Neukirch will distribute the changes and recommendations and if at that time a discussion needs to be had, it can be put on an agenda to discuss. He asked if that needs to be made part of the motion or if it is a procedural process that will automatically be taken care of.
City Manager Neukirch noted that it is procedural and ensured that everything will be followed-up on.
Mayor Rotering noted that the public can continue to keep an eye on what will be coming and will be comforted knowing they can view the information.
Councilmember Blumberg moved to approve an Ordinance Waiving the Formal Bidding Requirements of the City's Purchasing Manual and Approving an Agreement with Lexipol, LLC for Police Training and Policy Implementation Services. Councilmember Lidawer seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [6 TO 0]
MOVER: Anthony Blumberg, Councilmember SECONDER: Annette Lidawer, Councilmember AYES: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer PRESENT: Councilmember Stone |
Finance
29. Public Hearing Related to the Proposed Budget for the City of Highland Park, a Home Rule Municipality, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for Fiscal Year 2022
At 6:28 PM, Mayor Rotering called to order the public hearing related to the Proposed Budget for the City of Highland Park, a home rule municipality, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for Fiscal Year 2022 and asked the Clerk to call the roll:
PRESENT: Mayor Rotering, Councilmembers Tapia, Stolberg, Stone, Blumberg, Holleman, Lidawer
ABSENT: None
Mayor Rotering declared a quorum was present.
City Manager Neukirch provided opening statements regarding the proposed budget.
Finance Director Logan presented information as it relates to the proposed budget for the City of Highland Park, a home rule municipality, County of Lake, State of Illinois, for fiscal year 2022.
Mayor Rotering noted that she has two questions and that she is not looking for an answer now but at a later date. She noted that the City has relied on commuters to assist with funding the parking fund but understands the impacts of the pandemic. She asked if a discussion regarding that impact could be set up for a Committee of the Whole agenda for future discussion. She noted that inflation rates, especially for building materials, are variable at this point and asked how the City will address potential inflation rates based on the Capital Improvement Plan for the next 365 days.
Finance Director Logan noted that staff will develop a discussion for both items. She explained that staff did note that the parking fund was something that will be reviewed deeply in 2022 across several departments.
Mayor Rotering asked, as the State pivots towards more electric vehicles, if there is a sense on the discussion regarding motor fuel tax and the replacement of those resources.
City Manager Neukirch noted there was a hand raised from the public.
David Schwartz, applicant for 425 Bloom, wanted to confirm that the items related to 425 Bloom were previously approved.
Mayor Rotering confirmed that they were.
Councilmember Stone moved to close the public hearing. Councilmember Blumberg seconded the motion. Upon a roll call vote, the Mayor declared the motion passed unanimously.
The public hearing was closed at 6:45 PM.
Mayor Rotering noted that the public hearing information will be available for viewing on the City's website.
BUSINESS FROM THE COUNCIL
There was none.
BUSINESS FROM CITY STAFF
City Manager Neukirch provided information regarding the updates to the Business Development Strategic Plan. She reminded the public that there are Business Development Stakeholder meetings currently taking place. She explained that all of the information from those focus groups will be compiled and presented to the Business and Economic Development Advisory Group and feedback will be requested of the Advisory Group during that discussion. She stated that the feedback will be used to draft the City's Business Development Strategic Plan and then presented to the Council.
ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Stolberg moved to adjourn. Councilmember Stone seconded the motion. On a roll call vote, Mayor Rotering declared the motion passed unanimously.
The City Council adjourned its meeting at 6:50 PM.
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