Lake County Gazette

City of North Chicago Economic Development/Planning/Zoning Commission met May 6

Here are the minutes provided by the commission:

Alderman Smith called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:

Present: Jackson, Coleman (RP), Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January

Absent: None

I. DISCUSSION OF YOUTHBUILD, LAKE COUNTY – CONCEPT PRESENTATION:

Tameka Wilson, Youthbuild Executive Director provided the concept presentation.

Alderman Coleman agreed with interacting with the program and was in support of assisting the youth.

Celebrating the 20th year and was very gratified for city funding consistently through CDBG funding.

She recognized several board members present. The program assisted the youth in acquiring their diploma, affordable housing project and assistance for transitioning careers, college, or vocational schools. The program supported the youth and adults. There would be a 2-year funding amount of 1.5k for the City. She named and explained the (3) separate ones, Youthbuild, Pre and Apprentice Programs. There was 88% people of color, 72% were low income, 76% earned a diploma, 77% secured employment within the 1st (3) months after departing the program. It was founded at Daisys Resource Center was located at the V.A. campus as a tenant and the remaining 17 years at the North Chicago Community School District. The lease will terminate in May 2025. The proposed location in the City of North Chicago was provided by a slide presentation. The 1.4 Acre city property would retain and create an easement off from Renken Dr. for equipment storage. Parcel #2; 3.66 acres; currently owned by Seepa and have agreed Youthbuild to acquire the property.

Ms. Wilson was looking forward to Youthbuild offering partnerships bringing job-training opportunities supporting North Chicago Economic Development. She was asking for a donation up to the market property price amount. They would create a detention area to beautify the location. It would also add a barrier between the building and the residents.

Alderman Coleman recognized the Lake County program. He and the Mayor work collectively best for the residents in the community. Secondly, that his interactions were always pleasant and would be willing to support. Mrs. Wilson clarified that the presentation was directed at the Council members and asked for a donation of the property to assist monetarily; Alderman Coleman commended her for assistance with the youth.

Alderman Jackson questioned the total acreage needed. Mrs. Wilson explained approximately 4. He stated the need to collaborate with the Director of Economic & Community Development and Public Works. Secondly, he asked the certainty of any wetland property area. Chief of Staff Jackson replied to no. Mrs. Wilson explained that once approved, would send a letter of intent accessing engineering for determination. Alderman Jackson added if there would be any boring and Mrs. Wilson acknowledged there would be. She would ensure it was a viable area intended accordingly.

Alderman Allen asked if property was appraised. The Economic & Community Development Director clarified was performed with an amount of $280,000 excluding some parcels. Mrs. Wilson estimated $56 to $58 per acre.

Alderman Smith applauded the program and recalled when he attended trade courses. He asked Mrs. Wilson if she could provide a success story in the 20 years as the Executive Director. She shared a book of success stories and shared a particular one in year 2009. He graduated before attending the weatherization subject, homeless and had assistance. He attended CLC and progressed to a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Eventually was involved with the real estate kit team and soon joined the Board of Directors. She also had a gentleman that eventually attended as a carpenter at Naval Great Lakes.

He currently was a homeowner and resident. She added that 4 students were North Chicago residents.

Alderman Allen moved, seconded by Alderman Murphy that Economic Development/Planning/Zoning Committee Meeting stand adjourned.

ROLL CALL:

Ayes: Jackson, Coleman (RP), Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy

Nays: None

Absent: January

The meeting adjourned at 8:10 p.m.

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