Lake County Gazette

City of North Chicago Finance/Audit Committee met Dec. 2

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

I. DISCUSSION AUTHORIZING MAYOR TO SIGN LETTER OF INTENT WITH IGSA (INTERGOVERNMENTAL SERVICE AGREEMENT) WITH NAVY REGARDING DEMOLITION SERVICES:

Alderman January asked what was being demolished. Economic & Community Development Director Taylor Wegrzyn was present via Zoom. The Letter of Intent from February did not include demolition, remediation and disposal services; this letter includes those. Also, was not specific to which property but know the intent was for consideration of Navy housing Halsey Village. This was the first step in formalizing any agreement in future, it was non-binding, no city funds and a good faith letter to work with the Navy.

Alderman January questioned clarification with the Letter of Intent and Intergovernmental service Agreement. Mr. Wegrzyn explained the agreement wasn’t drafted yet at this time, this was just for the letter. Alderman January emphasized had previously asked that the drafts were reviewed and a final one to be voted accordingly.

Alderman Smith asked if it could be altered. Mr. Wegrzyn reiterated was a non-binding letter. The Letter was to assure the City and Navy were in union with one another.

The Mayor clarified that with letter the City would have the authority to manage the whole site. It would include insuring that minority contractors/sub-contractors were utilized. One step at a time moving forward. Would continually work with federal legislatures. Senator Duckworth talked with and agreed that Halsey Village was a zombie property.

Alderman Coleman strongly stressed the need to provide jobs for the residents. He would support the Mayor. His desire was to see “homegrown businesses.” He would speak up if there were none of those businesses.

The Mayor explained that some of the local contractors are too small for the job but added could require minority sub-contractors in the bid. Alderman Coleman clarified the majority contractors weren’t hiring the minorities.

Alderman January was certain that Halsey Village was uninhabitable for much time due to lead and asbestos. She questioned the city cost and the city responsibility. The Mayor stated that it would be the responsibility of the Department of Defense. The city could establish better prices.

Alderman Evans indicated to focus on the outcome with the Letter of Intent and following the choices.

Alderman Jackson questioned timeline with the Letter of Intent and the possible rejection by the new U.S. President with the funding. Mr. Wegrzyn reiterated was non-binding emphasized was top priority with the Department of Justice, did not foresee a problem and asked to move as expedient as able. The IGSA would follow estimating the follow several months for consideration of the council members.

Alderman Coleman explained his comment supporting the Mayor for assuring that minorities were hired. As a council should recognize the City and its residents.

Alderman Allen stated there were never no minorities hired for the new Neal school construction. He suggested more action on the next projects. He preferred providing the opportunity to the minorities.

II. DISCUSSION OF 2024 PROPERTY TAX LEVY:

Comptroller Tawanda Joyner discussed the 2024 Property Tax Levy and its amount. She noted that one of the TIFs were dissolved. There was a drop in the levy amounts. IMRF amount matched was decreased due to Library. The tax rate was cut by -0.1904%. Fire and Police Pensions would be paid as requested.

Alderman Coleman asked if the tax rate stayed the same could the City pay more into the pensions.

Ms. Joyner explained the reason for a decrease was that the EAV increased, and the taxpayers would pay more money. Wanted to give a little relief.

III. DISCUSSION OF ATTORNEY FEES RELATED TO FELONY PROSECUTION CHARGES:

Alderman Coleman was appreciative of the Aldermen and Mayor. Due to legal advice, he postponed

Item III until February 3, 2025.

Alderman Coleman moved, seconded by Alderman Murphy that Finance/Audit Committee Meeting stand adjourned.

ROLL CALL:

Ayes: Jackson, Coleman, Evans, Allen, Smith, Murphy, January

Nays: None

Absent: None

The meeting adjourned at 8:32 p.m.

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