City Council
Regular MeetingDeKalb, IL · August 14, 2023
Minutes
MINUTES
CITY OF DEKALB
CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING
AUGUST 14, 2023
The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois, held a Regular meeting on August 14, 2023, 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 6:00 p.m.
Recording Secretary Ruth Scott called the roll and the following members of the City Council were
present: Alderman Carolyn Zasada, Alderman Barb Larson, Alderman Tracy Smith, Alderman Greg
Perkins, Alderman Scott McAdams, Alderman Mike Verbic, Alderman John Walker, and Mayor Cohen
Barnes.
Others in attendance included City Manager Bill Nicklas and City Attorney Matt Rose.
Sasha Cohen was absent.
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Shadow Gentry led the Pledge of Allegiance.
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Mayor Barnes requested that Resolution 2023-080 be moved in front of Resolution 2023-078 as he
would be abstaining/recusing from Resolutions 2023-078 and 2023-079 due to a conflict of interest
and his ownership of property in a tax increment financing (TIF) district.
MOTION: Alderman Zasada moved to approve the requested amendment; seconded by Alderman
McAdams.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
D. PRESENTATIONS
There were none.
E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
There was none.
F. APPOINTMENTS
Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:
1. Appointment of Andrea Dahlberg to the DeKalb Public Library Board
2. Appointment of Betsy Zimmerman to the DeKalb Public Library Board
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve the appointments; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
Prior to the vote, Alderman Perkins stated that while he would be voting in support of the appointments,
he feels that members of the DeKalb Public Library Board should have more business acumen and
experience.
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August 14, 2023
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Mayor Barnes agreed and stated with the unprecedented economic growth in DeKalb, there’s no
reason why taxing bodies shouldn’t be able to decrease their budget.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of July 24, 2023.
2. Minutes of the Joint Review Board Meeting of April 28, 2023.
3. Accounts Payable and Payroll through August 14, 2023, in the Amount of $2,172,473.59.
4. Investment and Bank Balance Summary through June 2023.
5. Year-to-Date Revenues and Expenditures through June 2023.
6. Crime Free Housing Bureau Report – July 2023.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the items on the Consent Agenda; seconded by
Alderman Perkins.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
There were none.
I. CONSIDERATIONS
1. Consideration of Proposed Route Upgrades to the City of DeKalb’s Public Transit System.
Mayor Barnes read the item by title only.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
Brief discussion ensued regarding funding for the proposed route upgrades. It was confirmed that all
costs would be covered by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and the Downstate Operating
Assistance Program (DOAP).
City Manager Nicklas further confirmed that while the upgrades would be funded as noted above, adult
fares would still apply.
There was consensus among the Council to move forward.
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2023-076 Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement with the State of Illinois
Department of Transportation for the SFY2024 Downstate Operating Assistance Agreement
in the Amount of $6,282,800.
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August 14, 2023
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Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
2. Resolution 2023-077 Authorizing the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and Approving the
Purchase of Structural Firefighting Gear from Air One Equipment, Inc. in the Amount of
$30,429 Plus Shipping.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Perkins.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
3. Resolution 2023-080 Authorizing the Purchase and Equipping of Six 2023 Ford Police
Interceptors from Sutton Ford of Matteson at the Illinois Central Management Services
Contract Pricing in an Amount Not to Exceed $312,950.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
Alderman Zasada encouraged the procurement of hybrid buses and vehicles.
Brief discussion ensued regarding the lack availability of hybrid vehicles at this time due to low
inventory, delays in manufacturing, and the delivery of electrical power. There was confirmation that
hybrid vehicles would be purchased whenever possible.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
4. Resolution 2023-078 Approving a Liquor Production Liquor License for Byer’s Brewing
LLC, d/b/a Byers Brewing Company, for the Location at 216 N. Sixth Street.
Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman McAdams.
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City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
Alderman Walker asked if this business would be getting video gaming terminals (VGTs). Recording
Secretary Scott replied that a production liquor license does not qualify for the placement of VGTs.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker. Nay: None. Abstain: Barnes. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
5. Resolution 2023-079 Authorizing an Architectural Improvement Program Economic
Incentive for 255 E. Lincoln Highway in the Amount of $22,790 (Thai Pavilion).
Mayor Barnes recused himself from this item.
Alderman Verbic read the resolution by title only.
MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
There were no questions or comments from the Council.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 7-0-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker. Nay: None. Recuse: Barnes. Alderman Verbic declared the motion passed.
K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
There were none.
L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2023-026 Authorizing the Acquisition through Condemnation of Fee Simple Title
to the Property Located at 128-140 S. Second Street (PIN 08-23-163-013).
Alderman Verbic read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Walker moved to approve First Reading of this item; seconded by Alderman
Larson. (No action taken.)
Nancy Dougherty recommended that parks be made into parking lots, that the owner of the Tangles
Hair Salon receive appropriate refunding of monies spent to update the shop’s current location in the
subject building if the property is acquired by the City, that a plaque be placed in the proposed parking
lot indicating it was the site of the first barbed wire production facility, and that the City should update
its Strategic Plan, which was last updated in 2017.
Marty O’Conner stated as a volunteer of the Glidden Homestead, he found Alderman McAdams
comments and references about barbed wire at the July 10, 2023, Council meeting insulting. Mr.
O’Conner further stated he doesn’t think the building should be forcibly condemned and that the owner
should get a fair value offer.
Steve Kapitan stated DeKalb is what it is today because of the invention of barbed wire. He also stated
he believes Mayor Barnes will benefit from taxpayer money if a parking lot is built on this site.
Continuing, Mr. Kapitan asked how much it will cost to demolish the building and relocate utilities and
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August 14, 2023
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the building’s current tenants. He also asked if a design for the proposed parking lot has been made
available.
City Manager Nicklas stated that action on this item isn’t needed at this meeting, however, he does
need a recommendation from the Council on how to proceed. He also provided information on the
history of the building, which was gathered from a study by the Lakota Group in 2016 to assess the
buildings in the downtown area.
Continuing, City Manager Nicklas stated discussions regarding the placement of a parking lot on this
site wasn’t brought on by City staff, but by downtown business owners who have recognized the need
for additional parking.
Discussion ensued regarding the breakdown of costs for the demolition of the building, movement of
utilities, and the creation of a parking lot. City Manager Nicklas estimated it could cost approximately
$750,000.
City Manager Nicklas and Alderman Walker continued to discuss the costs involved. Alderman Walker
stated he isn’t in support of this item.
Alderman McAdams offered an apology for the comments he made at the July 10, 2023, Council
meeting regarding barbed wire and its negative impact on history in certain situations. He also stated
that this building and its history with barbed wire isn’t going to bring tourists to DeKalb, but Lincoln
Highway will. He further stated that the building in question is blighted and blighted buildings scare
aware tourists.
Alderman Zasada agreed with Alderman McAdams stated she agrees with Alderman McAdams,
adding the building isn’t being used to its highest level and there are many other uses that would add
value to the community, including the addition of a parking lot.
Alderman Verbic stated he’s against using TIF money for a parking lot, adding it should instead be
used for new development. He further stated that funding for another parking lot in the downtown area
should come from more appropriate revenue streams, such as a special service area, pay stations,
and perhaps a $2.00 charge for every ticket sold by the Egyptian Theatre that would go directly to
constructing and maintaining another parking lot.
MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to cease pursuit of this property; seconded by Alderman Walker.
Alderman Larson disagreed with comments made that Mayor Barnes will benefit from a parking lot
being added to the property site, adding he would actually lose an asset. She also stated we need to
start planning ahead if we want DeKalb to grow, and it’s going to take more than 27 parking spaces to
make that happen. She further stated that making parks into parking lots, as mentioned earlier in the
meeting, isn’t possible because it’s at the intersection of two state roads and a railroad, which can’t
have driveways. Continuing, Alderman Larson stated if the building is acquired, the owner of Tangles
will be reimbursed, just as was done with the tenants in the Hunter Hillcrest building. Concluding her
comments, Alderman Larson stated we need to think of DeKalb as a whole and try to impact the most
people positively.
City Manager Nicklas reiterated that the recommendation from staff is to table this item to another
meeting.
Discussion ensued regarding the need or lack of need for additional parking, the potential funding for
additional parking from downtown business owners, alternate uses for the site, and the enforcement
of property maintenance codes in blighted buildings.
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City Manager Nicklas stated that the Joint Review Board has reviewed the proposed plan for the site
and is in favor of it.
Alderman Perkins stated the current owner has had possession of the building for 20 years and done
nothing with it, therefore, his inaction is driving action. He added it’s a blighted building and an eyesore
and there are no plans to do anything with it aside from what the City has brought forward. Alderman
Perkins further stated he’d like to hear what the owner wants to do with the property other than leave
it sit in its current state.
Discussion ensued.
Attorney Mark Doherty, who represents the owner, confirmed that his client wants to work in good faith
to resolve this issue.
City Attorney Rose stated there are currently two motions on the floor – one to approve First Reading
and another to cease action regarding this matter.
Brief discussion ensued.
VOTE: Alderman Verbic’s motion to cease action regarding this item failed by a 2-5-1 roll call vote.
Aye: Verbic, Walker. Nay: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams. Recused: Barnes.
Discussion ensued regarding the original motion to approve the item on First Reading. It was clarified
that since the owner is out of town, no action is required, rather, it’s requested that this item be
tabled/postponed to the September 11, 2023, Council meeting.
Brief discussion ensued.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to table/postpone the ordinance to the September 11, 2023,
Council meeting; seconded by Alderman Perkins.
VOTE: Motion carried by a 5-2-1 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams. Nay:
Verbic, Walker. Recused: Barnes. Alderman Verbic declared the motion passed.
2. Ordinance 2023-032 Amending Chapter 51 “Traffic”, Section 16 “Parking Trucks”, to
Prohibit the Parking of Recreational Vehicles on Residential Streets Except During Active
Loading and Unloading.
Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman
McAdams.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
A brief discussion ensued regarding citizen complaints about RV parking on streets, reasonable
accommodations for those parking RVs on streets if they’re just visiting, and parking RVs on private
property, e.g., a grocery store parking lot. It was determined that in cases such as these, the Police
Department should be notified as street parking is under their purview.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to waive Second Reading of this item; seconded by Alderman
Zasada.
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August 14, 2023
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VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
3. Ordinance 2023-033 Approving a Water Service Agreement with Mark Carpenter for 209
Greenwood Acres Drive.
Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.
MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve First Reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman
Verbic.
City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the
agenda packet.
Brief discussion ensued regarding those properties that benefit from City services (fire, police, water,
etc.) but don’t pay City taxes. City Manager Nicklas indicated that the City collaborates with other
entities such as the DeKalb County for snow plowing and policing. Mayor Barnes indicated he’d like
to see a report identifying properties collecting said services.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to waive Second Reading of this item; seconded by Alderman
McAdams
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
Alderman Smith congratulated Alderman Verbic for taking third at the recent CASA DeKalb County “50
Men Who Cook” event.
Alderman McAdams expressed his approval of the new mural on the Annie Glidden Road underpass.
He also commented that he will no longer hold Ward 5 meetings as a result of disruptions caused
during a Ward 6 meeting by residents who don’t live in that ward. He provided his telephone number
and encouraged residents to contact him with issues. He also stated that City staff deserve better than
the treatment received at the Ward 6 meeting.
Alderman Walker reported that he has received numerous complaints regarding the ongoing bridge
work and requested ongoing status reports. City Manager Nicklas stated that updates could be
provided during Council meetings, adding that bridgework has been delayed due to utility issues.
Alderman Verbic stated he will call less formal gatherings for Ward 6 residents moving forward, noting
if a technical question is asked that he can’t answer, he will refer to City staff and report back. He then
thanked Fire Chief Mike Thomas and City Attorney Zac Gill for their participation at his most recent
ward meeting. Continuing, Alderman Verbic stated that City Manager Nicklas was treated with
unacceptable disrespect, to which he took offense and corrected immediately so that discussions
could continue.
Alderman Verbic also reported on his attendance and the recent fire engine dedication and his
participation in the “50 Men Who Cook” event.
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Alderman Perkins stated he is considering a Ward 4 meeting; more details to come.
Alderman Zasada confirmed the Ward 1 meeting on September 12, with the location to be determined.
She also stated there’s a misconception that Council members are required to hold annual ward
meetings. While not required, ward meetings are held to make aldermen more accessible.
Mayor Barnes reported on recent meetings and events he’s attended, including a meeting with State
Representatives Keicher and Yednock, a townhall meeting with Congresswoman Underwood, a
meeting with DeKalb Community Unit School District No. 428, a recent Human Relations Commission
meeting, an event where DeKalb received an award for being the friendliest veteran city in Illinois and
where School Resource Officer Allison Remnes received a Police Officer of the Year award, the recent
Aruna run that benefits survivors of human trafficking, and guest speaking on the WLBK radio show.
Mayor Barnes also thanked City staff who assisted with the new mural on the Annie Glidden Road
underpass, especially Scott Zak.
2. City Manager Report.
City Manager Nicklas had no report.
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
There was none.
O. ADJOURNMENT
MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to adjourn the meeting; seconded by Alderman Zasada.
VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 voice vote. Aye: Zasada, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic,
Walker, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the meeting at
7:59 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_______________________________
Ruth A. Scott, Recording Secretary
Minutes approved by the City Council on August 28, 2023.
Click here to view the agenda packet for the August 14, 2023, Regular City Council Meeting.
Click here to view the video recording of the August 14, 2023, Regular City Council Meeting.
Agenda
DEKALB CITY COUNCIL AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING
AUGUST 14, 2023
6:00 P.M.
DeKalb Public Library
Yusunas Meeting Room
309 Oak Street
DeKalb, Illinois 60115
Pursuant to Chapter 2 “City Council”, Section 2.04 “Council Meetings”, persons wishing to address the City
Council during this meeting are required to register with the Recording Secretary by filling out and
submitting a Speaker Request form, copies of which are located on the table just outside the meeting room,
along with copies of the agenda. Comments will be limited to three (3) minutes. Further information for
addressing the City Council can be found on the Speaker Request form.
A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
D. PRESENTATIONS
None.
E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
F. APPOINTMENTS
1. Appointing Andrea Dahlberg to the DeKalb Public Library Board for the Completion
of a Three-Year Term through June 30, 2026.
2. Appointing Betsy Zimmerman to the DeKalb Public Library Board for the
Completion of a Three-Year Term through June 30, 2026.
G. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of July 24, 2023.
2. Minutes of the Joint Review Board Meeting of April 28, 2023.
3. Accounts Payable and Payroll through August 14, 2023, in the Amount of
$2,172,473.59.
4. Investment and Bank Balance Summary through June 2023.
5. Year-to-Date Revenues and Expenditures through June 2023.
6. Crime Free Housing Bureau Report – July 2023.
H. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
August 14, 2023
Page 2 of 6
I. CONSIDERATIONS
1. Consideration of Proposed Route Upgrades to the City of DeKalb’s Public Transit
System.
The City of DeKalb’s Transit staff are proposing route changes to begin on August 22 with the
start of the Northern Illinois University (NIU) Fall semester, with an accompanying increase in
transit service hours. The impacted routes include the following:
Route 12 (Elburn Line)
Increases runs to the Elburn Metra station from 10 trips on weekdays to 13.
Includes additional evening service.
Removes the low-use Route 12 stop in Cortland to streamline the route.
Cortland Dial-a-Ride Service
Offsets removal of Route 12 Service to Cortland.
Creates a Dial-a-Ride zone encompassing areas of the DeKalb Urbanized Area including
areas of DeKalb and Cortland not served by fixed routes.
Open to all non-paratransit trips requests within the zone.
Service outside the zone would require a transfer to fixed routes.
Transfer points for this service will take place at Walmart and the existing bus shelter at
Seventh Street and Locust Street in Dekalb.
Route 19 (South DeKalb / Park 88 / Chicago West Line)
Increases route times to operate 24/7 to better accommodate labor force demands.
Eliminates 19E and 19S patterns to maintain standardized route times.
Eliminates service on Hillcrest Drive between Normal Road and N. First Street due to low
ridership and to maintain consistent service times.
The cost of these service increases is estimated to be $380,000 annually and will be paid
through FTA grants and State of Illinois transit operating assistance grants. Further detail is
provided by Transit Manager Mike Neuenkirchen in the agenda background. In the aggregate,
the proposed changes would generally offer expanded service at no additional cost to
riders.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
J. RESOLUTIONS
1. Resolution 2023-076 Authorizing an Intergovernmental Agreement with the State of
Illinois Department of Transportation for the SFY2024 Downstate Operating
Assistance Agreement in the Amount of $6,282,800.
City Manager’s Summary: As Transit Manager Mike Neuenkirchen writes in his background
memorandum, the approval of this resolution authorizes the Transit Manager to execute a
Downstate Operating Assistance Agreement between the Illinois Department of
Transportation (IDOT) and the City of DeKalb to provide transit operating funds under IDOT’s
Downstate Operating Assistance Program (DOAP) for State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2024 (July 1,
2023 – June 30, 2024).
The Illinois DOAP grant annually provides 65% of eligible expenses to the maximum amount
of the contract, which is $6,282,800 for the 2024 State Fiscal Year. DOAP funding is the
primary source of reimbursement for the Transit program’s expenses, with Federal 5307 and
NIU funding used as the primary sources of matching funds.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
August 14, 2023
Page 3 of 6
2. Resolution 2023-077 Authorizing the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and Approving
the Purchase of Structural Firefighting Gear from Air One Equipment, Inc. in the
Amount of $30,429 Plus Shipping.
City Manager’s Summary: The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards require
the replacement of fire turnout gear every 10 years. The current turnout gear for seven
firefighters expires in 2023. Additionally, two newly hired firefighters in 2023 need gear. As a
result, the Fire Department needs to purchase nine sets of fire turnout gear. Air One
Equipment, Inc. is the sole provider of the Globe Brand that the Fire Department has
purchased in previous years.
The gear purchase was anticipated in the FY2023 Fire Department Operations budget (100-
25-28-52800).
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
3. Resolution 2023-078 Approving a Liquor Production Liquor License for Byer’s
Brewing LLC, d/b/a Byers Brewing Company, for the Location at 216 N. Sixth Street.
City Manager’s Summary: Byers Brewing, established in 2019, is requesting a second Liquor
Production liquor license for a production-only site at 216 N. Sixth Street. This site formerly
housed Forge Brewery, which closed its doors in December of 2022. If approved, the license
will be considered “conditional” until the requirements laid out in the resolution are met, which
includes receipt of their State of Illinois liquor license and the approval of the required
background check of an additional owner. Non-refundable fees for the liquor license
application, Fire Life Safety inspection, and the additional background investigation have been
paid.
In accordance with Chapter 38, “Intoxicating Liquors”, of the DeKalb Municipal Code, an initial
fee upon approval is not required for a Liquor Production liquor license. The licensing term for
this type of license begins January 1 and ends on December 31, with an annual renewal fee
of $1,678. If approved, the license will be issued within the last six months of the licensing
term, making the license-holder eligible for a 50% reduction upon renewal in December of
2023.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
4. Resolution 2023-079 Authorizing an Architectural Improvement Program Economic
Incentive for 255 E. Lincoln Highway in the Amount of $22,790 (Thai Pavilion).
City Manager’s Summary: Samuel Wong, a DeKalb resident and the owner of the Thai
Pavilion at 255 E. Lincoln Highway, has applied for a TIF grant through the Architectural
Improvement Program (AIP). Mr. Wong is substantially remodeling his restaurant and
building, including the upgrading of his broad storefront, exterior tuckpointing, window
replacement, exterior painting, the refinishing of floors, new stairs, enhanced exterior lighting,
and a new accessible entryway. The overall estimated cost is $54,510. The request is for
$22,790.
The AIP program provides up to $25,000 in matching funding on a percentage basis relating
to the project impact and qualified improvements. Elements of the project are placed within a
three-tier system that provides matching funds on a percentage basis. A 50% reimbursement
rate is assigned to eligible major capital improvements, including ADA improvements. A 25%
reimbursement rate is assigned to eligible minor capital improvements. A 10% reimbursement
rate applies to the costs of deferred maintenance. Funding is subject to final approval by the
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.
Regular Meeting Agenda
August 14, 2023
Page 4 of 6
City Council and is provided as a forgivable loan (e.g., the City “forgives” 20% of the value of
the matching funds each year). This agreement also stipulates the applicant has one calendar
year from the time of grant approval to complete the work.
City Council approval is recommended. If approved, this expenditure would bring the
FY2023 year-to-date TIF AIP commitment to $47,790.00. (click here for additional information)
5. Resolution 2023-080 Authorizing the Purchase and Equipping of Six 2023 Ford
Police Interceptors from Sutton Ford of Matteson at the Illinois Central Management
Services Contract Pricing in an Amount Not to Exceed $312,950.
City Manager’s Summary: As Deputy Police Chief Leverton writes in his background
memorandum, the FY2023 Capital Equipment Replacement Fund (Fund 420) includes
funding for six Ford Police Interceptors. Two were carried over from the FY2022 budget when
Ford canceled the remainder of the Police Department’s FY2022 order in October 2022. The
Police Department typically replaces four front-line vehicles each year. This purchase would
fulfill the original 2022 order for two additional vehicles and the 2023 order for four vehicles,
for a total of six.
The proposed vehicle purchases are funded from Fund 420, the Capital Equipment
Replacement Fund. Both the Police vehicles and upfitting items are all included in line item
420-00-00-87010. The price of each vehicle from Sutton Ford is $40,350, which does not
include the title and license fee or delivery. Necessary upfitting items, primarily from CDS and
Ray O’Herron’s, are listed below, with installation by a combination of City mechanics and
established vendors.
Six 2023 Ford Police Interceptors $242,100
License & Title Fees $ 1,050
Delivery Fee $ 1,800
Upfitting Costs: Computer & Camera Systems w/ Installation $ 38,000
Upfitting Costs: Emergency Lighting, Cages, Radios & Striping w/Installation $ 30,000
Net Cost to City $312,950
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
K. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING
None.
L. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING
1. Ordinance 2023-026 Authorizing the Acquisition through Condemnation of Fee
Simple Title to the Property Located at 128-140 S. Second Street (PIN 08-23-163-
013).
City Manager’s Summary: On July 10, the Council considered and tabled the attached
ordinance, which was originally considered on June 26, at which time the Council postponed
action to gather further public opinion. Before tabling the matter on July 10, the Council
understood that the owner of the property at 128-140 S. Second Street was willing to permit
a licensed appraiser hired by the City to perform a full property inspection – both internal and
external – in order to arrive at a qualified opinion of the property’s value.
Following the July 10 Council meeting and after negotiation between the City Attorney and
Mark Doherty, counsel for the property owner D-N-J Properties, Inc., it was agreed that the
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Regular Meeting Agenda
August 14, 2023
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City’s appraiser would be able to perform the valuation service on July 26 at 1:30 p.m. The
City hired Colliers International Valuation and Advisory Services of Chicago, Illinois to perform
the appraisal. The firm assigned the responsibility to Michelle Lee, who is the Valuation
Services Director for Colliers’ Midwest regional service area. Her territory includes Illinois,
Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Ms. Lee received her Bachelor of Science degree
in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois in Champaign, Illinois and her Masters
of Business Administration with a specialty in Real Estate Finance and Investment from
DePaul University’s Kellstadt Graduate School of Business in Chicago, Illinois.
The appraisal prepared by Ms. Lee after her inspection of the property on July 26
established $370,000 as the “as-is market value” of the property at 128-140 S. Second
Street. A copy of the full report is attached for the Council’s review.
On July 6, Mr. Doherty made a counteroffer of $475,000 on behalf of his client, D-N-J
Properties. Curiously, the appraisal performed by D-N-J Properties dated July 12, 2023,
referenced a “pending offer” of $596,250 (p. 6) without other detail. The property is also listed
through the Multiple Listing Service (#11800356) for $795,000.
The City’s licensed appraiser, Michelle Lee, has prepared an accurate and professional
valuation of $370,000, which is based on qualified comparable sales and a careful building
assessment.
The City Manager recommends the following:
a. As an alternative to the contentious discussions to date, the City has established an
independent third-party valuation. The City Manager recommends that the City formally
offer this valuation as a fair metric for determining the market value of the property at 128-
140 S. Second Street.
b. If D-N-J Properties does not reject the City’s offer but asks to negotiate on the premise
that the parties might be able to reach a voluntary acquisition at a fair market cash value,
then the City Manager and City Attorney should embrace such negotiations and report on
their status at the next regular Council meeting on August 28.
c. If D-N-J Properties rejects the City’s offer and independent metric for determining the
property’s value, then it is recommended that the Council approve the attached ordinance
on first and second reading at the regular City Council meeting on September 11. (click
here for additional information)
2. Ordinance 2023-032 Amending Chapter 51 “Traffic”, Section 16 “Parking Trucks”,
to Prohibit the Parking of Recreational Vehicles on Residential Streets Except
During Active Loading and Unloading.
City Manager’s Summary: In the interest of public safety and the resolution of neighborhood
disputes that have continued unresolved for months and even years in some instances, the
Police Department proposes the prohibition of parked motorized recreational vehicles of any
length on residential streets other than during active loading and unloading. Currently, Section
51.16 of the City’s Municipal Code prohibits the parking of vehicles longer than 25 feet on
residential streets but provides an exception for motorized recreational vehicles. However,
recreational vehicles pose a particular hazard due to their size, restricting the view of both
motorists and pedestrians.
Extended parking of recreational vehicles on residential streets also inhibits street cleaning
and snowplowing. In some cases, parked recreational vehicles remain unmoved for months
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Regular Meeting Agenda
August 14, 2023
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on residential streets, attracting animals and chronically removing on-street parking space –
often in front of the homes of neighbors rather than the owners of the RVs.
Additionally, the current Ordinance language regarding trucks “bearing a Class D license or
above” has been confusing because the intention of the Ordinance is to restrict oversize
vehicles and the overall length of vehicles being parked on residential streets to 25 feet;
however, it has sometimes been interpreted to mean that any vehicle bearing a Class D
license plate or above is prohibited from parking on residential streets. The proposed
amended language of the Ordinance also clarifies this point by removing the specification of
“Class D license plates and above” and instead referencing semi-trucks and box trucks and
any vehicle regardless of license type that exceeds 25 feet in length.
City Council approval is recommended. (click here for additional information)
3. Ordinance 2023-033 Approving a Water Service Agreement with Mark Carpenter for
209 Greenwood Acres Drive.
City Manager’s Summary: As Planning Director Dan Olson writes in his background
memorandum, the owner of 209 Greenwood Acres Drive, Mark Carpenter, has requested
connection to the City’s water system. The lot is unincorporated as are many of the properties
on Greenwood Acres Drive. The City is not under the obligation to furnish water service to
properties not in the corporate limits unless through a mutually agreed contractual
relationship. The subject property is contiguous to the City via the Kishwaukee Country Club
to the west.
There are 13 unincorporated properties along Greenwood Acres Drive that have been
connected to the City’s water system over the years as their wells have failed. Eight of them
have water service agreements with the City – the most recent agreement was approved in
2022. An aerial map is provided in the background material showing those properties. The
past agreements made water service available to the owner and required the owners to annex
once their property became contiguous to the City. When the remaining portions of the
Kishwaukee Country Club were annexed in 2017, six lots became contiguous and four of them
have agreements with the City; however, no annexations have yet occurred.
The City’s Municipal Code requires the owners of unincorporated properties to pay the water
fees in effect at the time of connection. Chapter 7 “Water Service” of the Municipal Code
requires that water service extended to properties outside the City limits shall be charged at
a rate of 1.5 times the rate for the same service in the City. Past City agreements also state
that in the event the property is annexed to the City (i.e., forced annexation) the owner shall
not object. There is a 10” watermain that runs along the east side of Greenwood Acres Drive
that is available for connection.
Mr. Carpenter is agreeable to the conditions outlined above. City Council approval is
recommended. (click here for additional information)
M. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS
1. Council Member Reports.
2. City Manager Reports
N. EXECUTIVE SESSION
None.
O. ADJOURNMENT
REGULAR AGENDA PACKET – AUGUST 14, 2023
Assistive services, including hearing assistance devices, available upon request.