City Council
Regular MeetingDeKalb, IL · June 14, 2021
Minutes
MINUTES
CITY OF DEKALB REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING June 14, 2021
The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois held a Regular City Council meeting on June 14th, 2021, in
the Yusunas Meeting Room of the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, Illinois.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Mayor Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00PM.
Present were: Aldermans Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, Mcadams, Verbic, Faivre, Mayor
Barnes, Clerk Cohen
Staff present included Fire Chief McMaster, Police Chief Byrd, City Manager Nicklas, Assistant
City Manager Boldt, Executive Assistant Ruth Scott and City Attorney John Donahue
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Alderman Morris led the pledge
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Alderman Smith moved to approve the agenda, Alderman Faivre seconded. Passed on a roll
call vote 8-0
D. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
Thomas Riley requested that the signs on Barb Blvd be amended to include “no parking if snow
is over 2 inches”
E. PRESENTATIONS
1. DeKalb Police Department 2020 Annual Report.
CM Nicklas stated that this has been an eventful year, prompting many changes, and
expounded upon those changes. Chief Byrd then spoke on the hiring process as well. More
information is included in the written report provided.
Mayor Barnes conveyed thanks on behalf of council to former acting chief Redel
F. APPOINTMENTS
Page 2
1. Appointment of Fire Lieutenant Noah Millard, Firefighter Paramedic Don Zuniga,
Assistant City Manager Josh Boldt, and Fire Chief Jeff McMaster to the Ground
Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) Committee.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of May 10, 2021.
2. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of May 24, 2021.
3. Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting of June 1, 2021.
4. Accounts Payable and Payroll through May 24, 2021, in the Amount of
$1,901,975.17.
Moved to accept by Alderman Morris, seconded by Alderman Verbic. Carried on a
roll call vote 8-0
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
I. CONSIDERATIONS
1. Consideration of An Amendment to Chapter 7, Section 7.18 “Water Rates” and Section
7.18-6 “Water Service Fee.”
Moved by Alderman Perkins, seconded by Alderman Faivre.
City manager Nicklas informed council that previous councils had baked in an annual COLA
increase, this year of 2.6%
Alderman Verbic agreed with the city manager, and will support option 2.
Alderman Faivre spoke regarding water usage rates, and discussed how increases in usage do
not simply change revenue, they also can hit a point in which infrastructure expansion would
become necessary. He also provided thanks to the city for their following of EPA best practices,
Page 3
running a utility. Our water pumped to water billed discrepancy is 7%, well below the World
Bank recommendation of 25% or less, and the US national recommendation of 10% or less.
Alderman McAdams highlighted that inflation is at a higher rate than many consumers have
faced in a long time, and would like to see some study of the impact of inflation on residents of
the city- noting that he would like to consider postponing the rate hike, though he supports it in
principle.
Alderman Morris noted that it would be her preference to keep up with inflation, rather than react
or play catch up
Alderman Larson supported option 2, noting that no individual wants to go without water, or with
unsafe water.
Alderman Smith discussed the necessity of water for fire prevention and management. He
supports option 2
Alderman Morris also acknowledged that if we keep pace now and make the choice to ensure
that our revenue funds repairs, so that we are not backing into a position of needing to tax to
solve maintenance issues.
Alderman Verbic noted that new entrepreneurial growth will offset the need for capital
fundraising to do water infrastructure.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2021-045 Authorizing an Agreement with Bellefuil, Szur & Associates Inc.
(BS&A) for the License and Professional Services for the Community Development
Module in our Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP) in an Amount Not to Exceed
$108,000.
Moved by Alderman Smith, seconded by Alderman Verbic.
City Manager Nicklas explained how the software will simplify communication between
departments, directly simplifying the process of residents obtaining permits.
Clerk Cohen asked a question on behalf of citizen Bill Feldman regarding if the software will
enable transitioning to e-filing of permits eas
Roll call vote, passed 8-0
2. Resolution 2021-046 Authorizing a Hangar Lease Between the City of DeKalb and
Commonwealth Edison Company for the former Airport Maintenance Hangar at 2200
Pleasant Street.
Page 4
Moved by Alderman Perkins, Seconded by Alderman Mcadams
City Manager Nicklas explained that this is the final resolution of a long process, and a
wonderful outcome, with a space that the city has (the Hangar) which is well suited for the
usage, with a base rent of 30,000 a year, all utilities, and real estate taxes. 3% COLA increase
to base rent. 3 year term to start with a 2 year continuation.
Alderman McAdams asked if there will be any impact on gasoline sales. CM Nicklas stated
there will be an increase.
Alderman Faivre highlighted that the courtship with ComEd began with the usage of our airport
for helicopter refueling. He thanked the airport manager, as well as public works director Raih
for their work in getting this done.
Roll call vote passed 8-0
K. Ordinances second reading
None
L. Ordinances first reading
1. Ordinance 2021-019 Amending the FY2020 City Budget to Conform to Audited
Findings.
Mayor Barnes has provided a disclosure to Clerk Cohen pursuant to the TIF act, which the
clerk acknowledged receipt of. Alderman Faivre Chaired the meeting from this point, at the
request of the Mayor
Alderman McAdams moved to bring to the floor, seconded by Alderman Smith.
Motion carries 7-0
2. Ordinance 2021-020 Amending the Special Use Permit Approved by Ordinance 2018-
003 to Expand the Equipment Platform and Antennas in Relation to an Upgrade to the T-
Mobile Communications Equipment on Top of the 16-Story Building at 507 E. Taylor
Street (Taylor Street Plaza).
Moved by Alderman Morris, Seconded by Alderman Faivre.
City manager Nicklas informed council that T-Mobil is looking to expand its service, and this
particular upgrade will require a special use permit
CM Nicklas also noted that the Planning and zoning commission voiced approval 5-0
Motion passed 8-0
Page 5
Alderman Faivre moved to waive second reading, seconded by Alderman Perkins
Motion passed 8-0
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
Alderman Morris: Juneteenth is this Saturday, New Hope Missionary will be holding an
event to celebrate at the old Blackhawk lot
Alderman Larson: No report
Alderman Smith: Holding a ward meeting Fire station 1, on Tuesday the 22nd
Alderman Perkins: Yesterday attended a great belonging event
Alderman McAdams: No report
Alderman Verbic: No report
Alderman Faivre: It is time to get the lawnmowers out. It is the season.
City Clerk Cohen: Updated office hours Mon 3-5PM Tuesday 2-5PM. Noted Pride month
is this month.
Mayor Barnes: Would like to make permanent the changes made during covid to permit
alcohol sales outside of venues, to make the city more pedestrian friendly, and to allow
business owners to capture more revenue.
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
None.
O. ADJOURNMENT
Alderman Verbic Moved to adjourn, seconded by Alderman Morris
Passed 8-0 Meeting adjourned 7:07
Approved by the City Council on June 28, 2021.
Agenda
DEKALB CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 14, 2021
6:00 P.M.
DeKalb Public Library
Yusunas Meeting Room
309 Oak Street
DeKalb, Illinois 60115
COVID-19 Notice: This meeting will be conducted in-person with a physically present quorum and open to the
public. The corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb intend to conduct this meeting in compliance with all
applicable social distancing and public health requirements. All persons attending this meeting in-person shall
be required to wear protective face masks/coverings. Furthermore, the corporate authorities of the City of DeKalb
intend to conduct this meeting pursuant to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s Executive Order 2021-4 dated February
5, 2021 (the “Executive Order”), which prohibits meetings of more than 50 people for Phase 4 mitigations, unless
the City of DeKalb determines that it is necessary to invoke the Governmental Functions exemption “to ensure
the operation of government agencies or to provide for or support the health, safety and welfare of the public.”
As a convenience to the public, the City of DeKalb may also provide video, audio, telephonic or internet access
for the public to monitor this meeting. The provision of any such remote means of access is not intended to
provide for attendance by a means other than physical presence due to the COVID-19 public health emergency,
nor is it intended to provide an opportunity for the public to address public officials, make public comment or
otherwise participate in the meeting.
Persons wishing to provide public comment or otherwise address public officials in person during this meeting
must comply with all applicable rules governing the conduct of this meeting including, but not limited to, the
aforementioned social distancing and face covering requirements.
The City of DeKalb is providing the following conveniences for the public to monitor and participate in this
meeting:
Persons wishing to view the meeting from home or elsewhere can tune in to Channel 14 or by following the
link provided here.
Persons wishing to provide public comment but are unable to attend the meeting in person or remotely may
forward their comments by clicking on the link provided here. Note that all submissions must be received no
later than 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting in order to ensure dissemination to the City Council before the
meeting convenes.
Zoom Meeting Information
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87497523217?pwd=S0RxOFovQzBiY3Y3YVcxN21Wemc1Zz09
Meeting ID: 874 9752 3217
Passcode: 194474
One Tap Mobile: +13126266799,,87497523217#,,,,*194474# US (Chicago)
For those participating via Zoom and wishing to comment during the public participation portion of the meeting,
or prior to Council’s discussion of a particular item, please click on the link provided here and add in the
Comment Section that you wish to address Council verbally. Note that all submissions must be received no
later than 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting in order to ensure your name is added to the list of remote
speakers.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 2 of 14
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
D. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
E. PRESENTATIONS
1. DeKalb Police Department 2020 Annual Report.
City Manager’s Summary: The attached annual Police Department report for 2020 is
presented for the public’s review and comment. As with the Fire Department’s 2020
report which was presented at the last regular Council meeting on May 24, the Police
report’s data and narratives are much influenced by the extraordinary impact of the
COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the Department was challenged to listen and learn
from a community that demands more transparency, more accountability, and greater
collaboration in building bridges across social divides that have existed for many years.
The report highlights crime trends, as it is obliged to do. With respect to violent crimes
and property offenses (Part I Crimes), the overall 4% increase belies a levelling in
most crime categories from the spikes experienced in 2019. It should also be noted
that among the noteworthy cases detailed in the narrative section on pp. 14-16, the
offenders were apprehended by the resourceful and dedicated Investigations Division
which works closely with the Patrol and Administrative Divisions.
The other side of enforcement is prevention, and effective prevention depends upon
strong relationships built with neighborhoods, local social agencies, faith groups, other
law enforcement agencies, and most especially residents in need. In 2020, the
Department committed to social services in support of its community policing efforts.
The first licensed social worker was embedded in daily responses, helping individuals
and families to find resources for crisis management, and connections to social and
mental health services. A second full-time social worker joins this effort on July 1.
The Department’s 2020 accomplishments are highlighted below:
Department Leadership: Interim Police Chief John Petragallo retired on June 2,
2020, and Investigations Commander Bob Redel was appointed acting Police Chief
on the same day. From that moment and through the summer and fall of 2020, acting
Chief Redel showed exceptional leadership, discretion, and openness to new ideas of
the local social justice movement and many disparate voices engaged in trying to
make DeKalb a more welcoming place for all persons.
Cultural Diversity, De-escalation and Procedural Justice Training: A variety of
training initiatives were provided to personnel within the Police Department during
2020. Some of them included Tactical De-escalation of Nonviolent Encounters, De-
escalation and Smarter Policing, Legally Justified But Was it Avoidable?, and Racial
Intelligence Training and Engagement. These training modules focus on techniques
for de-escalating violent encounters, self-awareness and officer wellness, and the
procedural justice pillars of fairness, impartiality, and transparency. The goal of these
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 3 of 14
training initiatives is to enhance public trust and foster constructive relationships
between the community and the police.
Policy Changes to Heighten Accountability: In 2020 the DeKalb Police Department
made significant strides toward greater transparency and accountability:
In mid-summer, 2020 the DeKalb Police Department posted their policies and
procedures on the City of DeKalb’s Website.
The Police Department made changes to their use of force policy. These changes
require an officer to intervene to prevent the use of unreasonable force and does not
allow any means of restricting breathing or blood flow to the brain to gain compliance
of an individual. The revised policy states that “The use of any ‘choke hold,’ lateral
vascular technique, any type of forcible neck restraint, or other means of attempting
to gain compliance by impairing breathing or restricting blood flow to the brain shall
only be permitted where deadly force would otherwise be authorized.”
The Department’s policies were changed to emphasize a “duty to intervene.” It is
now the affirmative duty of “any officer present and observing another officer using
force that is clearly beyond that which is reasonable under the circumstances” to
intervene to prevent the use of unreasonable force (Policy 103.3). Further, “an officer
who observes another employee use force that exceeds the degree of force
permitted by law shall immediately report these observations to a supervisor.”
Body Cams. Identifying body cams as an FY2020 Budget priority, on July 13 the City
Manager and Acting Police Chief Redel recommended and the Council supported
the purchase of body cams for every sworn officer at an estimated first year cost of
$150,000, to be paid from a portion of the proceeds of the sale of the former city hall
at 200 S. Fourth Street. This commitment was renewed by the Council in its joint
meeting with the Finance Advisory Committee on August 17, 2020. Body cameras
were also one of the essential demands of the Campaign Zero movement on the
heels of the protests in 2015 in Ferguson, New York, Baltimore and elsewhere, and
are consistent with the “8 Can’t Wait” project’s focus on the tracking of excessive
force. Training and implementation were completed before the end of 2020.
Public Posting of Disciplinary Records. At the recommendation of the City Manager
and with the support of Acting Chief Bob Redel and the City Council, the DeKalb
Police Department worked with the City’s HR department to prepare the first
exhaustive list of disciplinary charges against all current and former Police officers,
and whether those charges were sustained. Under the Illinois Personnel Record
Review Act (820 ILCS 40/1, et seq.), the City cannot publicly release disciplinary
records which are more than four (4) years old, except if the release of such records
is ordered in a legal action or arbitration. The posting of these records has been
accomplished. The posted records will also include any commendations in the line
of duty. This list will be updated as new information is known over time.
No Expungement of Disciplinary Action. By action of the City Manager and Acting
Police Chief Redel, in accordance with an Illinois Supreme Court opinion filed on
June 18, 2020, no disciplinary records will hereafter be expunged from Police officer
personnel files. In City of Chicago v. Fraternal Order of Police, Chicago Lodge No.
7, 2020 IL 124831, the Illinois Supreme Court ruled that a provision in a collective
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 4 of 14
bargaining agreement requiring the destruction of police disciplinary files without
complying with the requirements of the Local Records Act (50 ILCS 205/1, et seq.)
is void and unenforceable as a matter of public policy. While the City’s collective
bargaining agreement never required the City to destroy police disciplinary files, any
such requirement is now void and unenforceable to the extent it violates the Local
Records Act. Generally speaking, the Local Records Act requires that the City keep
an employee’s personnel records during the employee’s tenure of employment and
for a period of time thereafter.
No-Knock Warrants. After searching Department records no record was found that
indicated the Department had ever sought “no-knock” warrants. Nevertheless, if
another law enforcement agency (e.g., FBI, ATF, State Police, etc.) seeks the
assistance of the DeKalb Police in serving such a warrant, such assistance will only
be provided if, in the opinion of the States Attorney and the DeKalb Police Chief,
there is an imminent threat to life.
Adoption of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People
(NAACP) and Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) 10 shared principles.
The DeKalb Police Department adopted the ten shared principles that were co-
authored by the NAACP and the IACP to build trust between the community and
police.
New Hiring and Promotion Processes. The Department embraced the International
Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) call for hiring and promotion practices that:
Increased educational standards.
Pursued rigorous background investigations, particularly of certified officers
looking to transfer to a different agency.
Targeted recruitment efforts among diverse communities.
Toward these goals, the search for a permanent Police Chief was suspended in June
2020 until further discussion could be held with diverse community groups to ascertain
the qualities and background expected of the next Chief. This community interaction
was pursued, a diverse search committee was organized in November 2020, and the
search process was renewed which culminated in the selection of David Byrd as
permanent chief on March 8, 2021.
The Council will note that the 2020 Report is presented by former Acting Chief Bob
Redel who led the Department from June 2, 2020, through most of the first quarter of
2021. Bob stepped up when former interim chief John Petragallo resigned and led the
Department through ten months of sweeping institutional reform – from the substantial
revision of the department’s operating procedures, to the implementation of body
cams, to new training goals, and to the reconfiguration of department divisions to bring
more resources to community engagement, community policing, and behavioral
health.
Chief Byrd and Commander Redel will be on hand to answer any questions the Council
may have. (click here for additional information)
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 5 of 14
F. APPOINTMENTS
1. Appointment of Fire Lieutenant Noah Millard, Firefighter Paramedic Don Zuniga,
Assistant City Manager Josh Boldt, and Fire Chief Jeff McMaster to the Ground
Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) Committee.
City Manager Summary: Section 6.1,G of the recent bargaining agreement between
the City of DeKalb and the DeKalb International Association of Firefighters, Local
1236, calls for the creation of a committee to determine how the Ground Emergency
Medical Transport (GEMT) monies will be utilized within the Fire Department budget.
The committee is to consist of two bargaining unit members and two City
representatives. The proposed appointees have been mutually agreed by the City
administration and Local 1236.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of May 10, 2021.
2. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of May 24, 2021.
3. Minutes of the Special City Council Meeting of June 1, 2021.
4. Accounts Payable and Payroll through May 24, 2021, in the Amount of
$1,901,975.17.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
I. CONSIDERATIONS
1. Consideration of An Amendment to Chapter 7, Section 7.18 “Water Rates” and
Section 7.18-6 “Water Service Fee.”
City Manager’s Summary: This Agenda item is prompted by the very thoughtful report
prepared by Bryan Faivre, the Director of Utilities and Transportation (see Agenda
background). By ordinance, an automatic cost-of-living increase is about to impact all
City water bills. An earlier Council conceived the automatic cost-of-living increase as
a necessary trigger to keep overall water revenues at an annual level to support both
routine operations and the growing capital repair needs of the water system. The City’s
water system is a utility and an enterprise that is supposed to be carried by its own
user fees, rather than transfers from other, general revenue sources.
The purpose of this Agenda item is to make sure that in the year of transition from the
COVID pandemic the Council is satisfied that a COLA increase of 2.6% would be
acceptable. The impact of such an increase on the average single-family home would
be approximately $11.63 more per year in water cost and would generate an estimated
$139,000 annually in revenue to the Water Fund, assuming water sales remain flat.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 6 of 14
Background
The Water Fund is an enterprise fund deriving over 95% of its revenue directly from
water sales and water service fees. The monies collected support Fund 600 (Water
Operations Fund) and Fund 620 (Water Capital Fund). These two funds are currently
financially sound and are projected to have a combined fund balance of approximately
$2.6 million by the end of FY2021. Recent water rate increases include a 2.2%
increase in 2016 followed by four succeeding 4.5% increases from 2017-2020. The
Water Fund has recently seen a boost to its fund balance with the elimination of over
$750,000 of annual debt service tied to two IEPA loans. The 20-year loans were
originally issued in the year 2000 to construct the City’s five water treatment plants
and terms of the loan agreements have been met, with the balances paid in full.
At Council’s direction, a portion of the revenue generated from recent water rate
increases has been applied towards water capital improvements, totaling over $5
million dollars since January 1, 2016 (see table below):
Projects Total Costs
2016 - 2020 2016 - 2020
Water main replacement
• Kishwaukee Ln, Lewis & Vienna, South Sixth St., Maplewood Ave, South $2,500,000
Eleventh St., Sunset Place, Joanne Ln, Ilehamwood, Golfview, Oak Dr.
Well Maintenance $526,000
North Water Tower Painting $565,700
Vehicles and Equipment (Backhoe, Loader, Tandem Dump Truck, Utility Vehicles) $740,000
Sewer Repair (218 & 226 E. Lincoln Hwy.) $80,000
Water Meter Software Update $25,000
Water Meters $300,000
BS&A Utility Billing Software $314,000
TOTAL $5,050,700
Additional projects totaling over $2.6 million are planned for FY2021:
Tentative Estimated
FY2021 Projects Costs
Routine Meter Replacements and New Water Meter Purchases $80,000
Well 14 - Maintenance $165,000
South Water Tower Painting $1,100,000
Water Main Replacement and Lining – Joanne Ln, Charles St., Dresser Rd., Walmart $1,100,000
Utility Vehicle $200,000
Hydraulic Hammer – Mini Excavator $15,000
Locator $8,000
TOTAL $2,668,000
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 7 of 14
Although recent water rate increases have helped support funding of water operations
and capital improvements, the impact of these increases have been offset by declining
water sales, which have decreased an average of 2.86 percent since 2016. See Figure
1 that follows:
Figure 1.
Annual Water Sales - Units Billed
1,500,000
1,400,000 Units…
1,300,000
1,200,000
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 *2021
*projected
The impact of declining water sales can further be seen below in Figure 2, as revenues
have remained relatively flat despite recent water rate increases.
Figure 2.
Annual Water Sales and Service Fee Revenue
$5,500,000
$5,400,000
$5,300,000
$5,200,000
Water
Revenue
$5,100,000
$5,000,000
$4,900,000
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 *2021
*projected
Rate
Year Revenue Increase Difference
2016 $5,135,527 2.2% $28,178
2017 $5,410,020 4.5% $274,493
2018 $5,264,263 4.5% -$145,757
2019 $5,267,074 4.5% $2,811
2020 $5,274,591 4.5% $7,517
*2021 $5,300,000 ? $25,409
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 8 of 14
Declining water sales have been the trend in the City for the past 15 years, having
fallen a total of 26% since peaking in 2005. Recent Covid restrictions have aggravated
the fall in water sales, as NIU students have pursued on-line course work out-of-town,
as opposed to in-person learning in DeKalb. Recent developments including
Facebook, Ferrara, Agora Towers, Johann Suites, and Isaac Suites may help stabilize
or reverse this downward trend in water sales, but it is too early to gauge the precise
impact.
Current revenues generated through water sales and service fees are sufficient to
cover water operations, as well as water capital improvements in the range of
approximately one million dollars each year. The water capital improvements include
water main replacement, water tower painting, well maintenance, water meter
replacements, and vehicle and equipment purchases. However, recent rulings by the
Environmental Protection Agency – most significantly, new regulations designed to
eliminate lead in drinking water – will have a major impact on capital expenditures
supported by water fees. The EPA ruling includes requirements for community water
supplies to remove and replace all lead service lines. The cost to the City of DeKalb
to accomplish this task is estimated to be in range of 5 to 10 million dollars. Potential
funding through the American Recovery Act and possibly IEPA loans or grants will be
pursued but, again, the extent of such support from state and federal agencies is not
yet clear.
Recommendation
The purpose of an annual CPI Water Rate and Water Service adjustment is to allow
for fees to keep up with the cost of inflation. However, consideration must be given to
the impact on our consumers. The current water rate is $3.84 per 100 cubic feet (748
gallons). A 2.6% CPI adjustment would raise the rate by $0.10, resulting in a new rate
of $3.94 per 100 cubic feet.
The table below depicts the impact of a 2.6% CPI adjustment on the Water Service
Fee based on the varying meter sizes:
Impact of Proposed Increase by Meter Size
Meter Size 2021 Proposed Difference
5/8-3/4" $13.12 $13.46 $0.34
1" $13.12 $13.46 $0.34
1.5" $20.68 $21.22 $0.54
2" $29.41 $30.17 $0.76
3" $52.75 $54.12 $1.37
4" $63.00 $64.64 $1.64
6" $104.00 $106.70 $2.70
8" $193.00 $198.02 $5.02
10" $365.00 $374.49 $9.49
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 9 of 14
The following table provides a comparison of DeKalb’s current water rates with those
in other northern Illinois communities:
Water Rate Comparison
Total Monthly Water
Municipality
Cost per 6,000 gallons
Geneva $47.15
Elburn $41.99
Maple Park $41.95
Sycamore $40.45
St. Charles $38.41
DeKalb $37.34
Genoa $34.10
Cortland $29.67
The Council has several options:
1. Postpone the water rate increase until 2022 when more clarity may be gained
about funding support from higher government agencies with respect to emerging
capital needs;
2. Proceed with the CPI increase (2.6%) already authorized by the Municipal Code
(Chapter 7, Section 7.18 “Water Rates” and Section 7.18-6 “Water Service Fee”).
Looking ahead, it is recommended that a similar public review precede any year’s
CPI increase so the Council and public have a chance to comment.
3. Proceed with another, as-yet-undefined water rate and water service fee increase.
The City Manager recommends Option 2. As Figure 2 above shows, even with the
4.5% annual increases of the last four years the overall water revenue has decreased
owing to annual declines in gallons used. If not for the City’s aging water system, this
would be an academic question and it would be easy to conclude that “no increase”
would be more popular and sensible. However, as the Council can see by the list of
planned 2021 water capital projects, the “top priority” capital needs are now roughly
comparable in cost to the combined projects of the period 2016-2020. We are scarcely
keeping pace with the growing need for upgrades to our aging system. Further deferral
makes for even greater pain down the road. The additional annual cost of $11.63 for
the average single-family home seems to be the more fiscally prudent policy in 2021.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 10 of 14
City Council direction is requested. If the Council accepts Option #2, the CPI
increase of 2.6% will be effective on July 1. (click here for additional information)
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2021-045 Authorizing an Agreement with Bellefuil, Szur & Associates
Inc. (BS&A) for the License and Professional Services for the Community
Development Module in our Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP) in an
Amount Not to Exceed $108,000.
City Manager’s Summary: The City currently uses Bellefuil, Szur & Associates (BS&A)
for the data collection in our Finance, Human Resources, and Public Works
departments. This Enterprise Resource Planning System (ERP) has several modules
that allow for seamless integration with each other to provide better efficiency and
reliable data for our users. The City’s FY2021 Budget (Fund 400, Line Item 400-00-
00-86100) allocated $108,000 to incorporate the Community Development
Department’s substantial data and records into the BS&A system. Currently, the
Building and Planning records are heavy in paper files and for billing purposes there
is no digital interconnection with the City’s Finance department. This module will also
enable the customers of the Building Department and Community Development
Department to more freely access applications, track inspections and permits, and
share plans and correspondence on-line.
Presently, an alternative software – SmartGov – is being used by the Community
Development Department. This is an independent piece of software that does not
integrate with our ERP software requiring dual entry into the systems with duplicate
information. Here are advantages of implementing the new BS&A Module:
The biggest advantage is being tied into the same system used for finance, business
licensing, and utility billing processes.
The consolidation into one system will provide notice to all staff if properties are
complying with ordinances.
Staff will only need to be trained on one system.
The present potential for data entry error when transferring information from Smart
Gov to BS&A will be eliminated.
Reports pulled from the BS&A will be more comprehensive. Currently Building pulls
information from Smart Gov, reviews this information against BS&A files, then
creates an Excel spreadsheet to bring the data together.
Field entry (e.g., inspection reports) will be possible with proper devices, saving time
for inspectors who currently handwrite forms then enter them into SmartGov once
they have returned to the office.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 11 of 14
2. Resolution 2021-046 Authorizing a Hangar Lease Between the City of DeKalb
and Commonwealth Edison Company for the former Airport Maintenance
Hangar at 2200 Pleasant Street.
City Manager’s Summary: Since the late Fall of 2020, Airport Manager Renee Riani
has been negotiating a hangar lease with ComEd for the City’s former maintenance
hangar at 2200 Pleasant Street. The hangar is approximately 9,000 square feet in
overall area, with about 1,026 square feet in office area included. With the assistance
of Andy Raih and the City’s Street Department, the hangar was substantially cleaned
and the interior hangar space was painted to enhance its marketability. Com Ed
intends to house contractor helicopters involved in the regular surveillance of its
regional distribution system in northern Illinois.
The attached lease has the following general provisions:
An initial term of three (3) years, with the right of extension for another two (2) years.
A base rent of $29,700 per year ($2,475 per month).
The tenant pays all utilities.
The tenant is obligated to pay real estate taxes against the leasehold estate.
The base rent will be annually adjusted by 3%.
This corporate lease will bring needed revenue to the DeKalb Taylor Municipal
Airport’s operation and will also raise the Airport’s visibility in corporate aviation in
northern Illinois. City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional
information)
K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
None.
L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2021-019 Amending the FY2020 City Budget to Conform to Audited
Findings.
City Manager’s Summary: The City’s annual fiscal year audit will be presented to the
City Council by our auditors, Sikich LLP, on June 28. Before the final touches are
complete, the City administration annually seeks Council approval for “clean up”
amendments to reconcile line items that were over budget for authorized reasons.
During the FY2020 audit, five funds (down from six in FY2019) had such line items,
out of thousands of possible line items:
FY2020 Budget Amendments
Fund 224: Special Service Area #4
Line Item FY2020 Budget Proposed Revision Difference
224-00-00-61100 4,000.00 7,000.00 3,000.00
Total Expenditures: 3,000.00
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 12 of 14
Fund 260: TIF #1 Fund
Line Item FY2020 Budget Proposed Revision Difference
260-00-00-62100 10,247.00 85,247.00 75,000.00
260-00-00-83900 132,912.00 98,870.79 (34,041.21)
260-00-00-91265 0.00 37,646.00 37,646.00
Total Expenditures: 78,604.79
Fund 300: General Debt Service
Line Item FY2020 Budget Proposed Revision Difference
300-00-00-38800 0.00 1,900,000.00 1,897,867.41
300-00-00-39100 1,662,007.00 1,778,984.76 116,977.76
Total Revenues: 2,014,845.17
300-00-00-76000 371,532.00 397,833.95 26,301.91
300-00-00-79850 0.00 76,011.24 76,011.24
300-00-00-79800 0.00 1,795,554.26 1,795,554.26
Total Expenditures: 1,897,867.41
Fund 420: Capital Equipment Replacement Fund
Line Item FY2020 Budget Proposed Revision Difference
420-00-00-38700 0.00 414,385.61 414,385.61
Total Revenues: 414,385.61
420-00-00-79000 28,550.00 29,905.00 1,355.00
420-00-00-79100 3,848.00 2,492.86 (1,355.14)
420-00-00-87000 123,739.00 478,316.23 354,577.23
Total Expenditures: 354,577.09
Fund 700: Workers Compensation & Liability Fund
Line Item FY2020 Budget Proposed Revision Difference
700-00-00-69150 400,000.00 505,818.79 105,818.79
Total Expenditures: 105,818.79
Explanation:
Fund 224: Special Service Area #4. To address poor maintenance by a landscaper
formerly under contract in 2019, the City had to re-build the landscaping in a number
of cul-de-sacs. Fortunately, the SSA fund had a substantial fund reserve and was
able to cover these one-time expenses.
Fund 260: TIF #1 Fund. The principal difference of $75,000 was for one-half of the
Ernst & Young fees for the TIF forensic audit which were booked in 2020.
Additionally, the $37,646 was paid to the Treasurer of Illinois for the local share of
the 2019 Lighting/NAVAIDS project at the Airport, billed over a year after its
completion. It is not unusual for the final settlement of Airport projects to occur a year
or more after the fact, owing to the very extended process of state and federal
reviews and approvals.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 13 of 14
Fund 300: General Debt Service. The revision covers the difference ($116,977.76)
between the actual General Fund transfer of $1,778,984.76 vs. the $1,662,007
budgeted. This was covered by the General Fund reserve.
Fund 420: Capital Equipment Replacement Fund. FY2020 was the first year of lease
payments. New GASB accounting standards require us to “book” the full value of the
leased vehicles in the first year, offset by a one-time posting of their asset value
under “Revenues.” Hence, the large numbers.
Fund 700: Workers Compensation & Liability Fund. This fund experienced a greater
than anticipated number of comp claims owing to the COVID crisis. Officers and
firefighters, in particular, were continually exposed in the performance of their duties
and under state guidance they were eligible for comp payments for COVID
treatments.
Across the revised City FY2020 Budget of 28 funds totaling over $101 million, the
necessary revisions in the tables above total a reduction of $10,637.30.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
2. Ordinance 2021-020 Amending the Special Use Permit Approved by Ordinance
2018-003 to Expand the Equipment Platform and Antennas in Relation to an
Upgrade to the T-Mobile Communications Equipment on Top of the 16-Story
Building at 507 E. Taylor Street (Taylor Street Plaza).
City Manager’s Summary: On February 12, 2018, the City Council approved
Ordinance 2018-003 which approved a special use permit to upgrade the existing T-
Mobile cellular antenna equipment on top of the 16-story building at 507 E. Taylor St.
(Taylor St. Plaza). T-Mobile is proposing another upgrade and will be expanding the
equipment platform and installing additional antenna, therefore an amendment to the
special use permit is required.
The existing equipment in 2018 was considered a legal non-conforming use because
T-Mobile did not have a special use permit for the property. The supporting documents
provided by the petitioner indicate the proposed modifications are necessary to deploy
and modernize T-Mobile’s equipment in accordance with their goal of providing reliable
wireless service to the DeKalb area. The building is owned by the Housing Authority
of the County of DeKalb and the equipment is owned by T-Mobile. There are a total of
three carriers which have equipment on top of the building.
The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) requires a special use permit for any
antenna on existing non-tower structures. Since the equipment platform is being
expanded and additional antenna are being added, an amendment to the special use
permit approved by Ordinance 2018-003 is necessary.
The petitioner has proposed upgrades including the following:
Expanding the equipment platform footprint by about 40 sq. ft. (3’ x 13’7”) for
additional equipment space.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
June 14, 2021
Page 14 of 14
Adding six (6) new antennas to the rooftop. There are nine (9) existing antennas that
will be removed.
Relocating and expanding an existing equipment cabinet.
Adding one (1) new cabinet.
Concealment film will be added to mask the new cabinets, antennas, and antenna
pipes.
The Ordinance approving the special use permit from 2018 required the petitioner to
add concealment tape on the antennas and equipment to minimize the visual impact
on the surrounding area. The proposed new equipment will also have the concealment
tape. The concealment film uses light management to create a camouflage effect.
The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing regarding the petition at
their meeting on June 7, 2021. By a vote of 5 to 0 (Commissioner McMahon was
absent) the Commission recommended City Council approval of an amendment to the
special use permit approved by Ordinance 2018-003 to expand the equipment
platform and antennas in relation to an upgrade to the T-Mobile communications
equipment on top of a 16-story building at 507 E. Taylor Street subject to the following:
a. The antennas and equipment upgrades shall comply with the drawings dated 1-8-
21 indicated on Exhibit A of the staff report.
b. Concealment film shall be applied to the new cabinets, antennas, and antenna
pipes to minimize the visual effect on the surrounding area.
c. The applicant is required to submit the necessary application and plans to the City
in compliance with applicable Building Codes and the regulations of Article 7.08 of
the UDO (Wireless Communications Ordinance).
City Council approval of the Planning & Zoning Commission recommendation
is requested. (click here for additional information)
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
None.
O. ADJOURNMENT
FULL AGENDA PACKET
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.