Lake County Gazette

City of North Chicago Economic Development/Planning/Zoning Committee met Feb. 3 

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

Alderman Smith called the meeting to order.

ROLL CALL:

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

Absent: Jackson

I. DISCUSSION OF 0 MAIN AVE. LEASE AGREEMENT:

Economic & Community Development Direct explained the property was formerly North Chicago Lumber. The City had acquired the property. This would be a 2-year lease with A-List Limousine and Bus, with a monthly rate of $1,500 and the location at 0 Main Ave. They were mainly interested in vehicle storage.

Christell Ayers, former Great Lakes Army veteran, explained her goal was to employ and beautify the area serving the citizens. Her vision was to lease and option to own the property in Norh Chicago. She was also training drivers through her non-profit organization. She introduced the employees Fred, former owner and Jessica, Fleet Manager following rules of safety measures.

Alderman January asked if they would provide transportation to the citizens. Ms. Ayers explained currently provided transportation to the veterans and the goal was to expand to the citizens for primarily medical transportation. Alderman January was hopeful to see the business on 0 Main Ave.

Alderman Coleman explained had the opportunity with Mr. Fred when he was a Foss Park Commissioner. The location of the business was near Sheridan Road, which was prime property, and needed an overall strategy and plan contractually sound with the proper aesthetics understood was in their best interest. Ms. Ayers strongly stressed that she was making a hefty investment with a 60-day contingency clause. She was hopeful that the council members agreed with the luxury-ground transportation that provided services for taxis, limousine, shuttle buses, vans, medical transport in the City of North Chicago. Alderman Coleman stated would prefer as a long-term company. Ms. Ayers was aware of a grant for small businesses. Alderman Allen agreed of the lease agreement.

Chief of Staff Jackson explained why the 60-day clause. Suggested to review the contract accordingly. Alderman Coleman asked to share his comments with the Chief of Staff after the meeting. 

Alderman Evans was content with the business choice of North Chicago and welcomed them.

Alderman Smith stated that North Chicago was voted #2 in establishing businesses within. Additionally, he disagreed with the 60-day contingency clause and asked if the contract could be revisited. Mr. Wegrzyn agreed with the possible options. Attorney Silverman added there were (2) separate timeframes within the lease. The 60-days was applicable to any violation timeframe and 30-day clause term related to any party.

Alderman Smith questioned clarification. Ms. Ayers explained the City had lost a grant applied for the road and elaborated further. She offered displaying photos. Alderman Smith inquired of the security and established funding if approved.

Alderman Allen suggested while construction if she could set up a trailer. Ms. Ayers deferred the question to Mr. Wegrzyn. He explained it allowed temporary buildings in the current city code.

Ms. Ayers highly stressed the cleanliness and comfort of the vehicles. She clarified the motto of 15 minutes earlier or was considered late. They received 5-star reviews and clients could accrue awards.

They would collaborate with other companies for coach buses as they weren’t in fleet currently. She was hoping for 10-15 new positions to manage the veteran’s contract.

Alderman Coleman echoed the sentiments of Alderman Allen.

Ms. Ayers asked if she could start with $1,000 and the remaining $500 for the aesthetics. 1st year during the move and second year, the amount of $1,500.

The Chief of Staff offered the amount of $1,000. Alderman Coleman suggested differently to attract business in the City, offering $1.00 for Sheridan Road building with additional revenue reducing the property tax amount. He clarified she was supporting her business.

Alderman Smith questioned clarification with the dollar amount directing to Attorney Silverman.

There was a consensus for $1,000. Ms. Ayers asked if she could have a reasonable time for the notice.

Alderman Smith could include the conditions in the agreement. 

Alderman January asked that a final attachment was provided to the council members before approved.

Alderman Allen left at 7:45 and returned at 7:46 p.m.

This will be placed on the Next Council Agenda, February 17, 2025.

II. DISCUSSION OF RESOLUTION FOR LAKE COUNTY’S PRIVATE ACTIVITY BOND CLEARINGHOUSE (PABC)

Mr. Wegrzyn explained and requested discussion of the Lake County’s Activity Bond Allocation of Volume Cap to Village of Buffalo Grove. This would benefit Lake County as a whole.

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

ROLL CALL:

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

Nays: None

Absent: Jackson

The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m.

https://www.northchicago.org/vertical/sites/%7B52959CF2-969E-41D9-A9CF-CF0A11D0BEA9%7D/uploads/COMMITTEE_MINUTES.2.3.25.pdf