Lake County Gazette

City of North Chicago Public Safety Committee met June 3

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Alderman Jackson called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:

Present: Jackson, Evans, Smith, Murphy, January

Absent: Allen, Coleman

I. DISCUSSION/REVIEW OF IGA (INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT) TO CONSOLIDATE WITH LAKE COMM AND THE DISSOLUTION OF THE CITY’S AGREEMENT WITH MUNDELEIN, NORTH CHICAGO AND WINTHROP HARBOR PSAP:

Police Chief Lazaro Perez explained 8 of 10 Lake County dispatch centers agreed to dissolve. It was Mundelein’s intent to close their dispatch center when Lake County became operational. The Police and Fire Department needed a public safety answering point (PSAP). If the City agreed to consolidate with Lake County and form a board, they would need to establish the Lake County Consolidated Emergency Communication Center, joining the ETSB (Emergency Telephone System Board) as part of Lake County. North Chicago received a portion of the ETSB funds lowering costs for dispatch services. If the City selected Lake County Consolidated Emergency Communications (Lake Comm) it would follow the same process. Costs were somewhat higher.

Alderman Jackson questioned option not choosing Lake Comm. Police Chief Perez mentioned had to seek elsewhere. The Sheriff’s office was undecided of the consolidation process.

Alderman January was certain of the issue that included difficulties with Mundelein, IL dispatch. Chief Perez clarified there would be potential hiccups. She asked if any cost would increase with the transfer.

Chief of Staff Greg Jackson explained estimated dispatch costs with Police; $200k+ and Fire; $14,000 totaling $270k+.

Alderman January asked alternative of returning to city dispatch center and compared City of Waukegan choosing not to consolidate with Lake County. Chief Perez estimated $3.5 mil for building a new dispatch center including staffing costs of $1.3mil annually. There was also a North Chicago census loss. It required census of 35,000 residents to have own dispatch center and City of North Chicago didn’t meet the threshold. Chief Perez estimated 112-140 dispatchers needed for the consolidation. Lake County had requested a bond of $15mil. The building was shared with emergency management, Public Health and Homeland Security. It would reduce the costs and calls would be directed to Lake County.

Chief of Staff Jackson commended Police Chief Perez, Fire Chief John Umek and Assistant Police Chief Gary Lunn upon their efforts.

Alderman January asked if the City could attempt to reduce any hiccups moving forward and the residence receive the proper service and more with the elderly. She recalled an incident unable to obtain a dispatched police officer previously. She was hopeful the new system would be better.

The Mayor communicated via speaker call indicating that he lobbied with Lake County Board requesting population vs. call volume reducing costs. Police Chief Perez added there were (2) boards

formed; executive and operations that would serve as Lake County and the board members would control the operations. Chief of Staff Jackson adding were (19) members.

Alderman Jackson questioned the estimated amount of $54,000+ within the 5-year timeline and/or changes foreseen in the 5 years. Chief Perez expected it to be more stabilized, however hopeful of other members joining and costs may increase annually. Alderman Jackson asked the amount of the surcharge ETSB funds. Chief Perez; estimated $200,000 depending on the population. Alderman Jackson asked if the consolidation with Lake County was the best avenue for the City of North Chicago.

Chief Perez clarified was the most viable and cost effective. Chief of Staff Jackson added that any further questions, could contact the Chief of Staff or Chief Perez.

Foss Park Board member, Kingston Neal had YouthBuild youth available June 17 or 18th to be deployed in various wards. He asked that the aldermen contact him if there were anyone who needed assistance with their yard etc. Alderman Smith questioned if lawn mowers were available for grass cutting. Chief of Staff Jackson was unaware.

This will be placed on the next Council Agenda, June 17, 2024.

Alderman January moved, seconded by Alderman Smith that Public Safety Committee Meeting stand adjourned.

ROLL CALL:

Ayes: Jackson, Evans, Smith, Murphy, January

Nays: None

Absent: Allen, Coleman

The meeting adjourned at 8:02 p.m.

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