City of North Chicago City Council met Aug. 7.
Here are the minutes provided by the council:
The City Council of North Chicago met in a Regular Council meeting, Monday, August 7, 2023 at 6:04 p.m.in the City Council Chambers at 1850 Lewis Avenue with Mayor Leon Rockingham, Jr. presiding.
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
III. INVOCATION
IV. ROLL CALL
Upon roll call being taken, the following members were present:
Present: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Smith, January
Absent: None
V. OMNIBUS VOTE AGENDA
5-1 Approval of Minutes for Regular Council Meeting, July 17, 2023
5-2 Approval of Standing Committee Minutes, July 17, 2023
5-3 Approval of Treasure’s Report – June 2023
5-4 Approval of Use 2013 Vactor 2100 Truck in Amount Not to Exceed $258,000 with Trade-in of 1999 GMC Unit and to Waive Competitive Bidding; Effective September 1, 2023
5-5 Approval of Insurance Renewal for Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance by Global Benefits and Waive Competitive Bidding; effective September 1, 2023
5-6 Approval and Management Analyst Administrator Paygrade from a-15 to A-14 for New Hires
5-7 Approval of Class A Special License – Cocina Tradicional Estilo Guerro, 2302 Martin Luther King Dr.
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Evans to approve the Omnibus Vote Agenda from item 5-1 thru 5-7 as presented.
Alderman January asked that items 5-4 and 5-5 be moved to Regular Agenda due to them being financial with a waiving of competitive bidding.
Alderman January moved, seconded by Alderman Coleman to approve the Omnibus Vote agenda with the exception of item 5-4 and 5-5 that will be voted on the Regular Agenda.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January
Nays: None
Absent None
MOTION CARRIED
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Evans to approve the Omnibus Vote Agenda items 5-1 thru 5-4 and 5-6 thru 5-7.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy
Nays: Coleman, January
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
VI. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Rayon Edwards -
Mr. Edwards commented exceptional Community Days; they were “good days”. There was something available for everyone especially the children. He clarified that the attorneys worked for the City but suggested that Aldermen select their own attorney. The children of the community do not have things to do and they are the future. Alderman Coleman asked the appropriate time to have a discussion about the Aldermen having a separate attorney; Mayor Rockingham said during Committee Meeting or Miscellaneous Council it could be discussed.
Charles January
Mr. January expressed his repeated disappointment. Business was not being done in a germane way, the average citizen does not get home until 6:30 p.m., having meetings before people get home was a disservice. He had a program at Foss Park for the children and had to cancel because people were disenchanted. Committee meetings should allow for citizens comments; Alderman Coleman asked if allowing citizens comments in committee could be discussed in Miscellaneous Business also. The Mayor agreed that was the time to review.
Janice Haye
She asked when the donation for the Sounds of the Caribbean would be available. She appreciated the outcome of the event and all the people there. There was zero violence and looked forward to next year. The Mayor explained that the donation was on the City Bill Run that evening. Alderman Allen commended Ms. Haye on her event.
Felicia Ford & Willie Mitchell, Jr.
Mr. Mitchell stated that he and Ms. Ford would be hosting an event August 20th; Poetry Slam and book bag give away at Foss Park District from 2 p.m. until 7 p.m. They were looking for contributions and presence to provide the book bags for school age and college students. Mayor Rockingham asked that the flyers be provided to Information Coordinator; Alderman Coleman asked that it also be given to the aldermen. Alderman Evans said he would be supporting the event.
Katrina Martinez – via Zoom
Ms. Martinez announced that there would a survey on the Mano a Mano (Family Resource Center) website mamfrc.org-nc-survey for North Chicago residents.
Clyde McLemore
Announced the 3rd Annual Black Business Expo, August 19 1-5 p.m. at 2616 Washington Street, Waukegan. He also commended Sunday Community Days events.
VII. REGULAR AGENDA
5-4 APPROVAL OF USED 2013 VACTOR 2100 TRUCK IN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $258,000 WITH TRADE-IN OF 1999 GMC UNIT AND TO WAIVE COMPETITIVE BIDDING
Alderman Evans moved, seconded by Allen to approve the purchase of used 2013 Vactor 2100 truck in amount not to exceed $258,000 with trade-in of 1999 GMC unit and to waive competitive bidding.
Alderman January asked the value of the 1999 GMC trade-in; Public Works Consultant Bob Miller could not remember exactly, the truck was not worth much and approximated $4,500.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy
Nays: Coleman, January
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
5-5 APPROVAL OF INSURANCE RENEWAL FOR MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION AND LIFE INSURANCE BY GLOBAL BENEFITS AND WAIVE COMPETITIVE BIDDING, EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2023
Alderman Evans moved, seconded by Alderman Jackson to approve the insurance renewal for medical, dental, vision and life insurance by global benefits and waive competitive bidding, effective September 1, 2023.
Alderman Coleman asked the attorney explained that he attempted to use the vision plan and would like to discuss with the aldermen; when was the appropriate time to ask questions. Attorney Welch said he could currently discuss the matter because it was properly moved and seconded or it could be tabled.
Alderman Coleman explained that the eye doctor told him that the City plan was the lowest of municipal plans. He suggested HR Director attempt to find a better plan. Human Resource Director Elizabeth Black explained that Global Life research for the best price and plan for the City compared to current plans. City Treasurer Vance Wyatt suggested to approve now and discuss the future plans due to the timing. Alderman Coleman felt that since the Treasurer works in the insurance industry that he assist with finding a plan. Mayor Rockingham agreed that the Treasurer could assist; the City’s broker finds to plans. Alderman January asked how long the vision plan was in place; Mrs. Black said at least 7 years. Mrs. Black explained that dental had also been MetLife. Alderman January agreed to working together to find the best plan. Mayor Rockingham said that the City allocated a 12% increase; through the broker was only 4.7%.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy
Nays: Coleman, January
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
7-1 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL – REAPPOINTMENT OF DONNA KALINOSKI (8/7/23 – 8/7/25) TO THE POLICE CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Alderman Evans moved, seconded by Alderman January to approve the reappointment of Donna Kalinoski (8/7/23 – 8/7/25) to the Police Citizens Advisory Committee.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January
Nays: None
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
7-2 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL – REAPPOINTMENT OF CHARLES KIM (8/7/23 – 8/7/25) TO THE POLICE CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Mayor Rockingham asked that item 7-2 be removed from the agenda due to possible conflict. Alderman Jackson asked if there were any perspective candidates to replace him; the Mayor said there were not at the time but there were candidates; if there were other persons interested have them contact him..
Alderman January moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to remove the reappointment of Charles (8/7/23 – 8/7/25) to the Police Citizens Advisory Committee.
MOTION CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE
7-3 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL – REAPPOINTMENT OF CHRIS AYERS (8/7/23 – 8/7/25) TO THE CITIZENS ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Mayor Rockingham clarified that the reappointment was to the Police Citizens Advisory Committee.
Alderman Evans moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve the reappointment of Chris Ayers (8/7/23 – 8/7/25) to the Police Citizens Advisory Committee.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January
Nays: None
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
7-4 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL OF TAWANDA JOYNER AS CITY COMPTROLLER
Alderman Evans moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve Tawanda Joyner as City Comptroller.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January
Nays: None
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
7-5 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL OF GREG JACKSON AS CHIEF OF STAFF
Alderman Coleman clarified if he had a question for the candidate if it could be asked then; Mayor Rockingham explained that he asked Mr. Jackson not be present and he was not available at the time.
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Smith to approve Greg Jackson as Chief of Staff.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy
Nays: Coleman, January
Absent: None
7-6 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL OF CITY BILLS
General Corporate Fund $ 220,143.81
General Grants Fund $ 55,299.75
Capital Projects Fund $ 22,333.86
Water, Sewer & Refuse Fund $ 163,778.56
TOTAL $ 461,555.98
MOTION:
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Evans to pay the City Bills of Council Run 08/07/23 in the amount of $461,555.98 when funds available.
Alderman Allen questioned the bills for 3rd Ward expenses in the amount of $1,198 for workers and if they were in compliance to pay. Comptroller Tawanda Joyner said that the workers were to assist with mailers, Community Days and clean-up in 3rd Ward; legal felt it was not something the City should be paid for. Attorney Welch said that he conferred with his partners prior to the meeting and explained these individuals were hired by the alderman for North Chicago Community Days (City sponsored event) and the amounts was under $600; should be paid. Further clarification should be made in the ordinances and/or policies.
Alderman January asked if there were sufficient funds also when the checks would be cut and sent. Comptroller Tawanda Joyner explained there were sufficient funds checks to be cut the following day and would be mailed Wednesday. Alderman January asked if any of the bills had late charges. Ms. Joyner was not aware at the time and would review; she would instruct Accounts Payable to set aside any bills with a late fee. Alderman January questioned balance of Water Fund end of week; Ms. Joyner stated the amount was $7,322,333.65
Alderman Murphy stated a level of confusion of aldermanic expenses based on a memo provided by the attorneys. In the memo it stated that there was not be hiring of assistance by alderman; Attorney Welch agreed that what she read was correct and the discussion was going to be had in Committee of the Whole. Alderman Coleman said there was $40,000 for lobbyist that was not going to be utilized; he asked if legislative could hire a part-time worker. Attorney Welch said that it would need to be included in the City’s Appropriations. Alderman Coleman asked if the budget could be amended to include that expense.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Allen, Smith
Nays: Coleman, Murphy, January
Absent: Murphy
MOTION CARRIED
7-5 CONSIDERATION/APPROVAL OF COMMUNITY DAYS SPECIAL BILL RUN
Alderman Evans moved, seconded by Alderman Allen to approve the Community Days Special Bill Run.
Alderman January asked the total amount to be approved; Ms. Joyner explained $40,168.50. Alderman Jackson asked if there were outstanding bills; Ms. Joyner said there still was outstanding bills and sponsorships, additional revenue to be received. Alderman January asked if the Community Days fund finalized payment for the lights; Mayor Rockingham said years ago.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy
Nays: Coleman, January
Absent: Murphy
MOTION CARRIED
VIII. MISCELLANEOUS
VARIOUS CONCERNS AND COMMENTS
• Alderman Allen announced Eternal Flame AME was going to be distributing back-packs on August 12th
• Alderman Smith commended Hombre Darby for his efforts with Community Days
• Alderman January asked if there were any reports from the Police Citizens Advisory Committee and would like to have information to aldermen. Mayor Rockingham said that he would request a presentation
• Alderman Evans announced annual Meeting in the Park at Foss Park, by the lake August 13 beginning at 11 a.m. He expressed appreciation for everyone support
• Alderman Coleman asked the process for the aldermen to get their own counsel. Attorney Welch explained that according to the City Ordinance does not allow for additional counsel. The aldermen had the power to change those ordinances. Alderman Coleman clarified if it was legal to do; Mayor Rockingham explained that it was legal but Council would have to approve the bill.
• Alderman Coleman questioned the $2.9 million budget overage; Ms. Joyner explained that it was not an actual overage. The Mayor’s but showed $1.9 million overage which was a payment to the state for taxes; it was a mistake of departments. It should have been allocated to the Comptroller’s Office
• Alderman Jackson asked why Consideration/Approval on the agenda. Attorney Welch explained that the Mayor has the power to appoint with consent of the Council and the language follows language of the municipal code. Alderman Jackson asked if other cities used the same format; Attorney Welch said the communities their law firm represent follow the same format
• Alderman Evans concerned with a particular Board’s inactivity and asked how to reconstruct it. Attorney Welch would advise through a memo
• Mayor Rockingham thanked and appreciated District 187, Foss Park and the City of North Chicago for Community Days success
IX. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Jackson to suspend to 5 ILCS 120 2 (c)(12) at 7:21 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January
Nays: None
Absent: None
MOTION CARRIED
Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Jackson to resume Regular Order of Business at 8:18 p.m.
MOTION CARRIED BY VOIC VOTE
X. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the Council; a motion was made by Alderman Allen seconded by Alderman Jackson that the meeting stand adjourned.
MOTION CARRIED BY VOICE VOTE
Alderman Murphy and January The Council Meeting adjourned at 8:20 p.m.
https://www.northchicago.org/vertical/sites/%7B52959CF2-969E-41D9-A9CF-CF0A11D0BEA9%7D/uploads/8.7.23.pdf
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