City Council

MINUTES CITY OF DEKALB COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING NOVEMBER 9, 2015 The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois held a Committee of the Whole meeting on Monday, November 9, 2015 in the City Council Chambers of the DeKalb Municipal Building, 200 South Fourth Street, DeKalb, Illinois. Mayor Rey called the meeting to order at 5:04 p.m. A. ROLL CALL Deputy City Clerk Ruth Scott called the roll and the following members of the City Council were present: Alderman Bill Finucane, Alderman Mike Marquardt, Alderman Bob Snow, Alderman Kate Noreiko, Alderman Dave Baker, and Mayor John Rey. Absent at roll call: Alderman David Jacobson (arrived at 5:06 p.m.). Also present were: City Manager Anne Marie Gaura, Assistant City Manager Patty Hoppenstedt, City Attorney Dean Frieders, Finance Director Cathy Haley, Police Chief, Gene Lowery, Deputy Fire Chief Jeff McMaster, Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer John Laskowski, Community Development Director Ellen Divita, Economic Development Coordinator Jennifer Diedrich, Management Analyst Lauren Stott, Management Analyst Jared Heyn, Management Intern Chris Jackson, Management Intern Emily Tipps, and Deputy City Clerk Ruth Scott. B. ITEMS ALSO ON THE REGULAR AGENDA C. CONSIDERATIONS 1. Request for Proposal for Coordinated Traffic Signal Upgrade. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Laskowski stated a Request for Proposal (RFQ) had been distributed regarding this item. Ten responses were returned and three of the most qualified were selected. Alderman Jacobson arrived at 5:06 p.m. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer explained this project would review traffic signals within the City, providing staff with data to review the timing of the signals in order to provide for a smoother traffic flow. Discussions regarding a coordinated traffic signal update began in 2009 when the current technology was becoming outdated. The project was presented to DSATS in 2011 and approved. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Laskowski further stated that Federal Surface Transportation – Urban (STU) monies would cover the project at 80% with a 20% local match by the City. Committee of the Whole Meeting November 9, 2015 Page 2 of 3 This item will be brought back before Council at the December 14, 2015 or the January 11, 2016 meeting with the proposal of the most qualified candidate. Alderman Noreiko asked if the study would also indicate if additional traffic signals are needed. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Laskowski replied it would not. Alderman Snow asked if new technology would allow for an adjustment of the system during special events such as Corn Fest and parades. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Laskowski stated it would. Alderman Noreiko asked if there would be streets excluded from the project. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Laskowski stated there would not as state and county roads are maintained by the City. Mayor Rey asked if the study would also include suggested dollar amounts. Interim Public Works Director/City Engineer Laskowski stated it would. Mayor Rey asked Council if they had any other questions; there were none. Mayor Rey stated it was the consensus of Council to provide staff with permission move forward with the RFP process. 2. Request for Proposal for a Feasibility Study of the Egyptian Theatre. Economic Development Coordinator Diedrich provided background on the Egyptian Theatre, adding that the current model of operation is not practical. As such, a feasibility study will look at the sustainability of the Theatre. Staff will return with a proposal in January 2016, followed by a draft report in May 2016 and a final report in June 2016. Alderman Snow asked if the study would look at all organization processes. Economic Development Coordinator Diedrich stated it would be a comprehensive review and added the study will identify what the potential may be for additional uses. Alderman Snow asked if the study would indicate what really should be done, regardless of the funding that goes into the Theatre. Economic Development Coordinator Diedrich stated it would. Alderman Noreiko stated there had been a previous discussion during budget hearings where a concern was expressed regarding the money already provided to the Theatre and what was being returned from the investment. She added the study is a good opportunity for a comprehensive review of the Theatre.  Committee of the Whole Meeting November 9, 2015 Page 3 of 3 Mayor Rey stated another benefit the study will provide is a sustainable operating model and he looks forward to the study focusing on the structure and capital in order for the Theatre to be viable. There was no further discussion and Mayor Rey stated the consensus of Council would be to move forward to the study. D. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Bessie Chronopoulos questioned why the City was spending $50,000 on a study to reveal the Theatre is an asset to the City, something already known by a majority of residents. She added the money should go towards Theatre improvements instead. Nancy Proesel stated the Theatre is an asset to the downtown area, especially when there’s a large event. E. RECESS FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION OF THE CITY COUNCIL Nothing scheduled. F. ADJOURNMENT Alderman Marquardt motioned to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Alderman Noreiko. All in favor by a voice vote. Mayor Rey adjourned the meeting at 5:24 p.m. __________________________________________ RUTH A. SCOTT, Deputy City Clerk Approved by City Council Date: November 23, 2015