City Council

MINUTES CITY OF DEKALB REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL JULY 9, 2018 The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois held a Regular meeting on July 9, 2018, in the City Council Chambers of the DeKalb Municipal Building, 200 S. Fourth Street, DeKalb, Illinois. Mayor Smith called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. A. ROLL CALL Deputy City Clerk Scott called the roll and the following members of the City Council were present: Alderman Bill Finucane, Alderman Mike Marquardt, Alderman Pat Fagan, Alderman Kate Noreiko, Alderman Mike Verbic, Alderman Tony Faivre, and Mayor Jerry Smith. Alderman Dave Jacobson arrived at 6:06 p.m. Also present were: Interim City Manager Molly Talkington, City Attorney Dean Frieders, Police Chief Gene Lowery, Fire Chief Eric Hicks, Community Development Director Jo Ellen Charlton, Public Works Director Tim Holdeman, Human Resources Director Cris Randall, Management Analyst Ray Munch, Economic Development Planner Jason Michnick, Principal Planner Dan Olson, Police Commander Craig Woodruff, Management Analyst Patrick DiDiana, Deputy City Clerk Shelly Jureczek, and Deputy City Clerk Ruth Scott. B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Police Detective Sadie Pristave led the Pledge of Allegiance. C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA – ADDITIONS / DELETIONS Mayor Smith asked Council members if there were any additions or deletions to the agenda. There were none. MOTION Alderman Verbic motioned to approve the agenda; seconded by Alderman Faivre. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. D. PUBLIC HEARINGS There were no Public Hearings scheduled. E. SPECIAL ITEMS OR PRESENTATIONS & CITIZEN’S COMMENTS Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 2 of 17 1. Special Items a. Proudly DeKalb  A Thunderous 4th of July! Mayor Smith reported that the 4th of July event held at Hopkins Park was a successful one. He commented on the passing of Sue Huhta, of a 45-year member of the DeKalb Municipal band who was honored during the event. Mayor Smith also spoke of the passing of Don Schoo, a longtime community member who strongly advocated for veterans and the military. Mr. Schoo was a World War II veteran and served the City of DeKalb Spent for over 20 years, working in the Police and Public Works Departments, as well as the DeKalb Taylor Municipal Airport Manager. b. Annie Glidden North Revitalization Plan Task Force Update. Alderman Finucane reported that the task force was still waiting for the revitalization plan from Camiros. 2. Presentations a. Nguzo Saba FY2018 Human Services Funding Annual Report by the Reverend Jerry Wright. Reverend Wright provided a history of the program and a summary of the activities supported by the Human Services Funding provided by the City. 3. Approval of the Mayor’s Appointments Mayor Smith noted the following appointments and reappointments would be voted on in omnibus form, with Council’s consent. There was consensus from Council to move forward. Mayor Smith read the following items by title only: a. Appointment of Ellingsworth Webb to the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. b. Appointment of Jeanine Holcomb to the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. c. Appointment of Melissa Beck to the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. d. Reappointment of Ann Shult to the Citizens’ Environmental Commission for the Completion of a Three-Year Term.  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 3 of 17 e. Reappointment of Sharon Blake to the DeKalb Public Library for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. f. Appointment of Carol Sturm to the DeKalb Public Library Board for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. g. Appointment of Sam Walt to the Economic Development Commission for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. h. Reappointment of Lynn Neely to the Finance Advisory Committee for the Completion of a Four-Year Term. i. Reappointment of Ron Partch to the Finance Advisory Committee for the Completion of a Four-Year Term. j. Appointment of Bob Higgerson to the Finance Advisory Committee for the Completion of a Four-Year Term. k. Appointment of David Barrow to the Human Relations Commission for the Completion of a Three-Year Term. MOTION Alderman Finucane motioned to approve the Mayor’s appointments and reappointments; seconded by Alderman Fagan. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. Mayor Smith commented on the appointments and reappointments, noting that later in the agenda there would be an ordinance brought forward for aligning term expiration dates with the City’s fiscal year (January 1 – December 31). Mayor Smith also commented on the movement of some members from one board/commission/committee to another. He also provided background information on the new appointees. 4. Public Participation Referencing an item later in the agenda (Concept Plan for the Redevelopment of the Property Located at 145 Fisk Avenue) Eva Rey spoke on behalf of Safe Passage, stating that the need for services from the agency have increased and the shelter is currently at capacity. She further stated that the agency began researching different locations in 2016 for shelter and facility expansion. That search revealed the old St. Mary Hospital, which was located at 145 Fisk Avenue. A donor has stepped forward, offering to purchase the property for Safe Passage. Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 4 of 17 As such, she asked for Council support if the agency decides to move forward with the purchase. She noted that the agencies services have helped to reduce crime and rehabilitate women, men and children. F. CONSENT AGENDA – OMNIBUS VOTE Mayor Smith read the following items by title only. 1. Approval of City Council Minutes a. Minutes of the Committee of the Whole Meeting of June 11, 2018. b. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of June 11, 2018. c. Minutes of the Special Committee of the Whole Meeting of June 18, 2018. 2. Receive & File a. Accounts Payable and Payroll through July 9, 2018, in the Amount of $1,688,541.52. 3. Resolution 2018-088 Authorizing Payments in Excess of $20,000 to GovTempsUSA, LLC for the Purpose of Employee Leasing Agreements. 4. Resolution 2018-093 Authorizing the Approval of Certain Executive Session Meeting Minutes, the Release of Certain Executive Session Meeting Minutes, and the Destruction of Certain Verbatim Recordings. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Faivre. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. G. ITEMS FOR SEPARATE ACTION 1. Ordinance 2018-034 Setting a Date for and Approving a Public Notice of a Public Hearing and Meeting of the Joint Review Board Regarding the DeKalb Central Business District Redevelopment Project Area Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District Eligibility Study and Redevelopment Plan and Project. (First Reading) Mayor Smith read Ordinance 2018-034 by title only. MOTION  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 5 of 17 Alderman Verbic motioned to pass Ordinance 2018-034; seconded by Alderman Faivre. Economic Development Planner Michnick provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. He also requested that Council consider passing this item on first reading and waiving second reading. Alderman Noreiko commented on Ordinance 2018-004, authorizing the establishment of tax increment financing “interested parties” registries and asked if anyone registered would receive notice of the public hearing and Joint Review Board meetings. Economic Development Planner Michnick confirmed they would. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. MOTION Alderman Finucane motioned to waive Second Reading of Ordinance 2018-034; seconded by Alderman Verbic. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. 2. Ordinance 2018-035 Approving a Special Use Permit for a Public School to Approve Waivers to the Ground and Wall Sign Regulations as Allowed per Article 13.02.06 of the Unified Development Ordinance at 1121 School Street (Littlejohn Elementary School). (First Reading) Mayor Smith read Ordinance 2018-035 by title only. MOTION Alderman Verbic motioned to pass Ordinance 2018-035; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. Principal Planner Olson provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. Alderman Noreiko stated she was touched by the letter from Howard Littlejohn, which noted his father’s (Carl Littlejohn) dedication and service to students. VOTE Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 6 of 17 Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to waive Second Reading of Ordinance 2018-035; seconded by Alderman Finucane. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. 3. Ordinance 2018-036 Amending the Fiscal Year-End December 31, 2018 Budget as it Pertains to the Planned Improvements to the Annie Glidden Road and Fairview Drive Intersection. (First Reading) Mayor Smith read Ordinance 2018-036 by title only. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to pass Ordinance 2018-036; seconded by Alderman Finucane. Management Analyst DiDiana provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. MOTION Alderman Finucane motioned to waive Second Reading of Ordinance 2018-036; seconded by Alderman Faivre. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. 4. Ordinance 2018-037 Amending Chapter 21 “Combined Planning and Zoning Commission”, Section 21.01 “Combined Planning and Zoning Commission”, Chapter 44 “Landmark Commission”, Section 44.03 “Membership”, Chapter 47 “Cultural Affairs Commission”, Section 47.03, “Terms”, Chapter 54 “Financial Administration”, Section 54.16 “Finance Advisory Committee”, and Chapter 65  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 7 of 17 “Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission”, Section 65.03 “Membership”, as Well as Extending Certain Terms of Office. (First Reading) MOTION Alderman Verbic motioned to pass Ordinance 2018-037; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. City Attorney Frieders provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. He also noted that the Cultural Affairs Commission was currently inactive. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. MOTION Alderman Verbic motioned to waive Second Reading of Ordinance 2018-037; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. VOTE Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. 5. Resolution 2018-089 Authorizing a Tax Increment Financing Development Incentive Agreement with Tom and Jill Doherty for the Rehabilitation of the Property Located at 211 N. First Street. Mayor Smith read Resolution 2018-089 by title only. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to pass Resolution 2018-089; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. Economic Development Planner Michnick provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. He also utilized a PowerPoint presentation titled 211 N. First Street TIF Request. Mr. Tom Doherty spoke in reference to the project and introduced Mr. Steve Bigolin, an area author who has knowledge on the importance of preserving historic homes. Mr. Bigolin then provided a history of the subject property. Mr. Ron Kline also provided information regarding historic preservation, local landmark buildings and the subject property. Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 8 of 17 Mr. Doherty provided information on the structure of the home, noting that a contractor has indicated it has “good bones”. He also provided information on the investment he and his wife have already put into the property and stated it is at a high traffic intersection. He stated that rehabbing the home will improve the community. City Attorney Frieders indicated staff has been working with the developer on an aggressive timeline. As a result, there are recommended amendments to the agreement for clarity issues. He further stated that the property owner has gone through an extensive amount of due diligence to find what the likely rehabilitation costs will be. As such, the base agreement is drafted contemplating the $98,700 maximum incentive. However, the contractors working on the property have indicated that based on some of the water damage and the condition of the property, there may be issues that are not capable of being ascertained until they get into the walls and undertake the actual renovation. Therefore, a second option would allow the ability to increase the maximum incentive in an amount not to exceed $120,000 at the discretion of the Community Development Director. If the Community Development Director did not approve of an expense, it would come back to Council for consideration, subject to the same limitations. Alderman Noreiko asked about the provision regarding the possibility of the property being made into townhomes and wondered if that would be an issue if economics change and the downtown area is developed more. Economic Development Planner Michnick stated the agreement does not contemplate change the zoning on the site. It would allow for future develop of new construction. When it comes to new construction there’s a limited number of TIF eligible expenses that are on the planning side and the plan prep side of things. Mr. Doherty added that he doubts that townhomes will be put on the site. Alderman Fagan stated he thinks that renovating the property is a good idea. However, he would rather see the contribution of TIF funding go into the renovation of the property rather than the entire project. Alderman Jacobson stated he appreciates that there’s value in the site and the project. However, he would be more comfortable providing the incentive up to the limits for the renovation. Discussion ensued regarding the property being used for commercial use. Alderman Faivre noted he’s in favor of the project, stating using it as a commercial property may be a good way to get people into the downtown area. Discussion ensued regarding the utilization of TIF dollars. It was noted that other projects using TIF dollars, such as the Ellwood House, were non-profit organizations. The property in question is privately owned and will be used for commercial purposes.  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 9 of 17 Alderman Finucane noted his support for the project. Discussion ensued. Alderman Fagan asked what assurance Council would have, since the property is privately owned, that it couldn’t be sold, and a profit made. City Attorney Frieders responded that there’s a 10-year requirement that the property be maintained. Whoever the successor property owner would be, the property must be maintained as the agreement states. Further, the agreement will be recorded so it would come up on any title searches. Discussion ensued. Alderman Noreiko stated she’s in support of the expanded incentive allowing for the possibility that there might be other serious issues. There was discussion among Mayor Smith and City Attorney Frieders regarding the options. City Attorney Frieders indicated the motion on the floor is to approve the agreement as it was presented in the agenda packet; this option is not recommended. MOTION (To Amend) Alderman Verbic motioned to amend the original motion and support the enhanced agreement; seconded by Alderman Finucane. VOTE (To Amend) Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. VOTE (To Approve) Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. 6. Resolution 2018-090 Authorizing a Tax Increment Financing Development Incentive Agreement with Win Aviation for the Rehabilitation of the Property Located at 2890 Pleasant Street. Mayor Smith read Resolution 2018-090 by title only. MOTION Alderman Verbic motioned to pass Resolution 2018-090; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 10 of 17 Alderman Fagan recused himself from this item. Economic Development Planner Michnick provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. He also utilized a PowerPoint presentation titled 2890 Pleasant Street – TIF Request. Alderman Jacobson explained why he doesn’t like incentivizing private business. He commented that he doesn’t understand why the owner’s insurance isn’t covering the roof damage noted in the staff memo. He noted that this isn’t a historic property and feels the owner should have plenty of money to rehabilitate. He does not support this project. Mayor Smith stated an upside to this request is that the City has an entity that’s underutilized, which is the DTMA. This project may continue the enhancement of the property. Alderman Marquardt stated this project would add a layer to an economic engine that could spur additional jobs and noted his support. Alderman Noreiko stated that Win Aviation has been a valued partner to the airport. This could be part of an expansion that could spur interest and growth. Further, she hopes that Win Aviation see’s itself as a partner of the City. Alderman Jacobson expressed his frustration, stating the City isn’t using its money to support the project but the tax payer’s money. He wondered why Council is using money to subsidize a multi-million-dollar operator. He stated the City needs to have fair rules and this request isn’t fair and not within the guidelines. Discussion ensued Alderman Faivre asked the owner of Win Aviation, Andri Weise, why the roof damage isn’t being covered by his insurance coverage. The owner responded that the insurance company won’t cover microburst damage. Mr. Weise further addressed Council, stating approval of the project means bringing mechanics and jobs to the area. Alderman Finucane stated that approving the project is making an investment in the City’s own property. In the long run, it will revert back to the City. VOTE Motion carried by a 6-1-1 roll call vote. Aye: Finucane, Marquardt, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: Jacobson. Absent: Fagan. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed.  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 11 of 17 7. Ordinance 2018-038 Amending the Fiscal Year-End December 31, 2018 (FY2018) Budget as it Pertains to Tax Increment Financing Development Incentives. (Passage on First Reading, Waiver of Second Reading) Mayor Smith read Ordinance 2018-038 by title only. MOTION Alderman Marquardt motioned to pass Ordinance 2018-038; seconded by Alderman Faivre. Economic Development Planner Michnick stated that he was advised by City Attorney Frieders that since Alderman Fagan recused himself from the previous item, it would be recommended that he recuse himself from this item as well because their tied together. Economic Development Planner Michnick then provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. He stated that the ordinance as drafted would need to be amended to reflect the approval of the enhanced incentive for 211 N. First Street from $98,700 to $120,000. City Attorney Frieders recommended that Council move to approve, subject to the amendment necessary to fund the increased incentive provided on the 211 N. First Street project. Mayor Smith asked if the motion on the floor would cover that. City Attorney Frieders requested an amendment to the motion as the motion on the floor contemplates approval as included in the agenda packet which doesn’t include the addition funding for the 211 N. First Street project. Mayor Smith stated that since this item is amending the budget, a super-majority vote would be needed. City Attorney Frieders stated that was correct. MOTION (To Amend) Alderman Finucane motioned to amend Ordinance 2018-038; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. VOTE (To Amend) Motion carried on a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Absent: Fagan. VOTE (To Approve) Motion carried on a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Absent: Fagan. MOTION Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 12 of 17 Alderman Finucane motioned to approve and waive Second Reading of Ordinance 2018-038; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. VOTE Motion carried on a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Absent: Fagan. Alderman Fagan returned to the dais at 8:13 p.m. 8. Ordinance 2018-039 Amending Chapter 17 “Administrative Hearing Procedure”. (First Reading) Mayor Smith read Ordinance 2018-039 by title only. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to pass Ordnance 2018-039; seconded by Alderman Verbic. City Attorney Frieders provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. Alderman Verbic stated he supports the ordinance at the $100 level in order to recoup costs. MOTION Alderman Verbic motioned to amend Ordinance 2018-039 to reflect the $100 fee; seconded by Alderman Finucane. VOTE (To Amend) Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. VOTE (To Approve) Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to waive Second Reading of Ordinance 2018-039; seconded by Alderman Marquardt. VOTE  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 13 of 17 Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. There was very brief discussion regarding ongoing sound/volume issues in Council chambers. 9. Resolution 2018-091 Approving an Agreement with Tyler Technologies for Administrative Hearing Software. Mayor Smith read Resolution 2018-091 by title only. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to pass Resolution 2018-091; seconded by Alderman Verbic. City Attorney Frieders provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. Police Commander Woodruff provided examples of other municipalities who are utilizing the services of Tyler Technologies, noting their software is the best fit for what the City of DeKalb needs. Alderman Noreiko asked why this item didn’t go through a full bidding process. City Attorney Frieders stated it was because the expense is under $20,000. However, staff did solicit bids from three different vendors as per the City’s Purchasing Manual. He added that Tyler Technologies is at the lowest cost and the best solution for the City’s needs. VOTE Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. 10. Resolution 2018-092 Authorizing an Agreement with the DeKalb Community Unit School District No. 428 to Provide Emergency Medical Services for DeKalb High School Home Football Games for the 2018-2019 School Year. Mayor Smith read Resolution 2018-092 by title only. MOTION Alderman Noreiko motioned to pass Resolution 2018-092; seconded by Alderman Finance. Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 14 of 17 Fire Chief Hicks provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. VOTE Motion carried on an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. H. NEW OR UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Concept Plan for the Redevelopment of the Property Located at 145 Fisk Avenue. Economic Development Planner Michnick provided an overview of this item based on the July 5, 2018, staff memo addressed to Mayor Smith and City Council. Nick Cronauer provided information regarding the project utilizing concept diagrams and photo shots of the exterior and exterior. Mary Ellen Schaid, Safe Passage Executive Director, addressed Council regarding Safe Passage’s interest in purchasing the subject property in order to expand their services. Due to a private donor, they are in a position to purchase the building outright, without TIF assistance. She asked for Council’s support in their endeavor. Alderman Fagan asked if Safe Passage would be returning to Council to request TIF dollars to renovate the property. Ms. Schaid indicated they would not at this time. Mayor Smith provided comments regarding the current interest in the property. Alderman Noreiko asked the developers if they’ve worked with properties such as this elsewhere, particularly in the Midwest. One of the developers indicated he had recently completed a project in Schaumburg, Illinois. Alderman Noreiko asked about the impact to the area since the subject property backs up to residential homes. She also asked if there have been discussions with the residents in the area. Economic Development Planner Michnick stated he’s received comments regarding issues with squatters in the building in its current condition. One resident indicated they just wanted something done. Alderman Faivre stated he thinks it’s a great concept. He asked if zoning changes would be needed, with Economic Development Planner Michnick indicating it would. Alderman Faivre continued, stating costs might be more than projected. Alderman Finucane stated that Safe Passage has been a great partner for the community, adding he would like to see more of their concept. Mayor Smith agreed but noted the City has a responsibility to its citizens to take a look at concepts that would be an economic driver.  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 15 of 17 Alderman Jacobson noted his support of the project, which he feels would be an economic engine for the downtown area. He offered suggestions to Safe Passage of other buildings in DeKalb that could be possibilities for their needs. He then asked the developer what the timeline would be for completing the project. The developer responded with a completion date of 12 to 14 months. Alderman Marquardt asked how noise control issues would be addressed. The developer responded that a greenhouse, added vegetation and trees would abate sound. Alderman Marquardt then inquired about open air parties, with the developer stating outdoor events would be held during daytime hours. Alderman Marquardt also inquired about entry and exit traffic, with the developer indicating both would be from Fisk Avenue. Alderman Marquardt stated he agrees with Alderman Jacobson’s comments and he likes the concept. He also stated he doesn’t agree with Council being asked to insert itself into the dynamic of a signed contract and essentially squash it under the potential that another user would be able to buy it. Alderman Marquardt asked about having a liquor license so close to a school. Discussion ensued regarding the required set back needed. It was confirmed that a set back of 100 fee was needed from property line to property line. Alderman Verbic indicated his support for the project. He also asked Safe Passage what Council could do to find an appropriate location for their facility, adding there’s lots of potential in DeKalb. There was brief discussion between Mayor Smith and Ms. Schaid regarding their interest in the property. (Note: Ms. Schaid’s comments from the audience were inaudible.) Safe Passage board member Tarryn Thadden offered further comment regarding their interest in the property and they work they’ve invested in acquiring the property. Alderman Fagan expressed his concern with Council getting in the middle of a civil process between two interested parties. Discussion and comments ensued. Mayor Smith asked Community Development Director Charlton if she had in comments regarding this item. She stated in this case the developer has a contract to purchase but it would only be executed upon approval of the Council’s action. Further, Safe Passage has indicated they’re capable of purchasing the property at this point, however, it’s been noted that perhaps that couldn’t be done without significant fundraising. She believes that the City should let this play out and not get involved with the private negotiations of the two interested parties. Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 16 of 17 Discussion ensued. Ms. Schaid noted that Safe Passage has looked at numerous buildings and properties and the subject property is the one that fits their needs. I. REPORTS – COMMUNICATIONS Alderman Jacobson noted the departure of Drew Zimmerman from the Daily Chronicle and wished him good luck. He also reported on several instances of outright personal attacks against Council for doing their job. While he appreciates political discourse, if someone disagrees with a decision and/or comment made by Council, they should be willing to have an appropriate, engaged, responsible, adult conversation. Alderman Finucane also commented on the departure of Mr. Zimmerman and thanked him for his unbiased opinion. He also commented on civil discourse being good, but it needs to be civil. Alderman Fagan also wished Mr. Zimmerman well. He also agreed with Alderman Jacobson’s comments and suggested that those with an opinion should become more involved with the process. Mayor Smith thanked Mr. Zimmerman for his fair news and accuracy. He also commented on an anonymous letter one of the Alderman received, stating that while he realizes the decisions Council has to make don’t always align with the wishes of the citizens. He asked that citizens keep communicating with Council members, suggesting that a more productive dialogue can take place if there are less anonymous comments. Mayor Smith also reported that Gary Mullis would be hosting his 10th Annual Country Music Show on July 15, 2018, which is a fundraising event for school supplies for local students. Alderman Noreiko stated she appreciates the effort of civil discourse and thinks Council is making great strides at open dialogue. Alderman Verbic commented on a meeting he attended with Principal Planner Olson regarding a proposed hotel development in the Sixth Ward where some attendees were not very civil. He hopes that the July 13, 2018, meeting will be more civil. Alderman Faivre wished much success to Mr. Zimmerman. Interim City Manager Talkington Molly reported that the DeKalb Public Library Board estimates the timeframe for rebate checks to be released will be after their July 12, 2018, meeting, and before their August 7, 2018, meeting. Police Chief Lowery spoke in memory of Don Schoo. Community Development Director Charlton built on Alderman Verbic’s comments regarding the proposed hotel project, stating the second public meeting would be held on July 13, 2018, and the public hearing in front of the Planning and Zoning Commission would be held  Regular Meeting of City Council Agenda July 9, 2018 Page 17 of 17 on July 18, 2018. She stated that Home2 Suites is interested in building on Annie Glidden Road. Public Works Director Holdeman reported that the City’s 2018 Street Maintenance Project will begin on July 11, 2018, in the Ellwood neighborhood. It’s anticipated to be done in mid- August. He also reported that the tollway project is coming along well, and that MetroNet is gearing up to start their project on August 1, 2018. Information regarding that project can be found on the City’s website. Human Resources Director Randall provided an update on the City’s City Manager search, stating that individual meetings with Council to work on a preliminary position profile will begin the week of July 23, 2018. She added that Heidi Voorhees of GovHR would be presenting a report to Council at their August 27, 2018, meeting. She also encouraged residents to provide input. J. RECESS FOR EXECUTIVE SESSION OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Approval to Hold an Executive Session to Discuss the Purchase or Lease of Real Property as Provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(5). Not acted on. K. ADJOURNMENT MOTION Alderman Finucane motioned to adjourn the meeting; seconded by alderman Marquardt. VOTE Motion carried on an 8-0 voice vote. Aye: Jacobson, Finucane, Marquardt, Fagan, Noreiko, Verbic, Faivre, Smith. Nay: None. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed. Mayor Smith declared the motion passed and adjourned the meeting at 10:02 p.m. _____________________________________ RUTH A. SCOTT, Deputy City Clerk Approved by City Council: August 13, 2018.