President and Board of Trustees

123 Madison Street Village of Oak Park Oak Park, Illinois 60302 www.oak-park.us Meeting Minutes President and Board of Trustees Monday, December 5, 2022 6:30 PM Village Hall I. Call to Order Village President Vicki Scaman called the Meeting to order at 6:32 P.M. II. Roll Call Present: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley Absent: 0 III. Consideration of Motion to Adjourn to Executive Session to Discuss Litigation It was moved by Trustee Parakkat, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, to enter into Executive Session pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2/(c)(11) to discuss pending litigation. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 V. Reconvene to Regular Meeting in Council Chambers and Call to Order The Regular Meeting reconvened at 7:00 P.M. VI. Roll Call Present: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley Absent: 0 VII. Agenda Approval Trustee Buchanan asked for Item AO to be moved from the Consent Agenda to the Regular Agenda. It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Parakkat, to approve the Agenda as amended. The motion was approved. A voice vote was taken and the motion was approved. Village of Oak Park Page 1 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 VIII. Non-Agenda Public Comment Clifford Osborn. Lives on Gunderson. On November 28 at 6:30 pm, his neighbor was accosted by two young men with a gun while parking in a municipal lot. The assailants took his car and belongings and left the community. He said the Village Board has oversight of the 2023 budget and should work with department heads, not just the Village Manager's Office. He asked for the Manager to respond to his letter. Kevin Kell. Lives on South Humphrey near 7 Van Buren construction. He said residents were told they would always have access to the alley between Austin and Humphrey. The alley is now closed due to construction and two residents have no garage access and must park on the street and deal with tickets and snow. One house lost three tenants due to the alley closure. He said workers are using vibratory procedures which were not presented to residents. He asked for the Village Board to ask the correct questions in the future. Village Clerk Waters read the following Non-Agenda Public Comment aloud: Anonymous. Said their property rights have been violated by the Oak Park Residence Corps and Village of Oak Park. Because of the 7 Van Buren construction, their neighbors, renters, and partner have had no garage or alley access for two months, which was promised to them during Village deliberations. They said they were given one day’s notice and no opportunity to dispute. As senior citizens, they depend on their garages to keep their cars safe and protected from snow. They said their communication with Village Trustees and OPRC has been ignored. IX. Village Manager Reports Village Manager Jackson introduced Public Works Director Rob Sproule to provide an update on the Village's fleet purchases as it pertains to the resolution passed October 10, 2022 authorizing the Manager to negotiate and execute contracts for the purchase of fleet vehicles. Director Sproule stated two recent Ford Escape Hybrid orders intended for police enforcement officers and engineering staff were cancelled by manufacturers. Public Works acted quickly to procure three additional vehicles--an all-electric animal control van, a hybrid Ford Maverick for water pumping staff, and a 2022 Ford F-250 that was part of the 2023 capital improvement plan and will appear on the January 17, 2023 agenda. The Village plans to continue purchasing vehicles under the spending authority in Section 2-6-10 of the Village Code and will bring items to the Village Board for approval prior to purchase when possible. Village of Oak Park Page 2 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 President Scaman stated that she understands the need to move quickly in this market. Trustee Buchanan inquired about the vehicle type of the Ford F-250. Director Sproule responded that it is a gas vehicle that can push snow, which electric vehicles do not yet have the capacity to do. Trustee Taglia said he appreciated the update and requested calendars for January and February. Manager Jackson affirmed they will be provided. X. Village Board Committees & Trustee Liaison Commission Report Trustee Parakkat provided an update for the Civic Information Systems Commission. He said the Commission is applying for a capstone project for Smart Cities with the University of Illinois at Chicago. The application will go out shortly for students to come help the Commission research specific use cases in other Smart Cities that will be applicable and consistent with Village Board goals. President Scaman thanked Chair David Baker for creating the application again. XI. Citizen Commission Vacancies A. ID 22-427 Board & Commission Vacancy Report for December 5, 2022. There were no comments. XII. Citizen Commission Appointments, Reappointments and Chair Appointments B. ID 22-430 Motion to Consent to the Village President’s Appointment of: Historic Preservation Commission - Monique Chase, Appoint as Member Clerk Waters read the names aloud. It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Robinson to approve the Appointment. The motion was approved. A voice vote was taken and the motion was approved. XIII. Consent Agenda Approval of the Consent Agenda Trustee Wesley moved and Trustee Robinson seconded to approve the items under the Consent Agenda. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 Village of Oak Park Page 3 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 C. ORD 22-88 An Ordinance Authorizing the Disposal of Surplus Property Owned by the Village of Oak Park This Ordinance was adopted. D. RES 22-174 A Resolution Approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding Between the Village of Oak Park and the Service Employees International Union Local 73 for the Period of January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2024 and Authorizing Their Execution This Resolution was adopted. E. RES 22-265 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of the Independent Contractor Agreement with Cerniglia Co. for Village Wide Emergency Water and Sewer Repair Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $40,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. F. RES 22-266 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of the Independent Contractor Agreement with Gino’s Heating & Plumbing Inc. for Village Wide Emergency Water and Sewer Repair Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $40,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. G. RES 22-267 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of the Independent Contractor Agreement with IHC Construction Companies, L.L.C. for Village Wide Emergency Water and Sewer Repair Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $40,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. H. RES 22-268 A Resolution Approving a Professional Services Agreement with Illinois Alarm Service, Inc. for Burglar and Fire Alarm System Monitoring, Maintenance and Repair Services for Village-Owned Buildings in an Amount Not to Exceed $47,285.00 with Two Additional One-Year Option Terms and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. I. RES 22-283 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of the Independent Contractor Agreement with Davis Tree Care and Landscape, Incorporated for Village Wide Parkway Tree Pruning and Removal Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $350,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. J. RES 22-284 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of the Independent Contractor Agreement with A & B Landscaping and Tree Service, Inc. for Village Wide Parkway Tree Removal and Stumping Services in an Amount Not to exceed Village of Oak Park Page 4 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 $255,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. K. RES 22-285 A Resolution Approving the Renewal to a Professional Service Agreement with S.W. Schmitz, LLC, d/b/a Automatic Control Services for Scada Integration Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $75,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. L. RES 22-287 A Resolution Approving a Three-Year Independent Contractor Agreement with ECO-Clean Maintenance, Inc. for Custodial Services for Village-Owned Buildings in an Amount Not to Exceed $126,000.00 in 2023 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. M. RES 22-289 A Resolution Approving a Dumping of Excavated Materials Price Agreement with Waste Management of Illinois, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $150,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. N. RES 22-290 A Resolution Approving the Purchase of 2,500 Tons of Rock Salt from Cargill Inc., at $72.55 Per Ton for the 2022/2023 Snow Season in an Amount Not to Exceed $218,000.00 Through the State of Illinois Joint Purchasing Program and Waiving the Village’s Bidding Process for the Purchase This Resolution was adopted. O. RES 22-291 A Resolution Approving a Purchase Price Agreement with Vulcan Construction Materials, LLC for Stone and Sand Materials in an Amount Not to Exceed $30,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. P. RES 22-293 A Resolution Approving a Contract with Cerniglia Co. for Project 23-5, Division St. Sewer & Water Improvements, in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,423,027 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. Q. RES 22-295 A Resolution Approving a Purchase Price Agreement with Ziebell Water Service Products, Inc. for Materials for Repair of Water Mains and Sewers, Fire Hydrants, Water Services and Sewer Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $70,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. R. RES 22-296 A Resolution Approving a Purchase Price Agreement with Core & Main LP Village of Oak Park Page 5 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 for Materials for Repair of Water Mains and Sewers, Fire Hydrants, Water Services and Sewer Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $50,000.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. S. RES 22-297 A Resolution Approving the Engagement of Attorneys/Law Firms for Legal Services to be Performed on Behalf of the Village of Oak Park for the 2023 Fiscal Year This Resolution was adopted. T. RES 22-299 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of a Professional Services Agreement with Wight & Company for Architectural Design Review Services for Fiscal Year 2023 in an Amount Not to Exceed $35,000 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. U. RES 22-300 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of an Independent Contractor Agreement with A & B Landscaping & Tree Service, Inc. for Snow Plowing and Salting of Village Leased/Owned Parking Lots, Back-up Snow Removal for Public Streets and Sidewalk Snow Shoveling for Fiscal Year 2023 in an Amount Not to Exceed $175,000 and Authorizing its Execution. This Resolution was adopted. V. RES 22-302 A Resolution Approving an Amendment to an Independent Contractor to Change the Not to Exceed Amount from $86,300 to $96,800.00 for Fiscal Year 2022 and Approving an Independent Contractor Agreement for Fiscal Year 2023 in an Amount Not to Exceed $91,700.00 both with Revcon Technology, Inc. for the Service and Maintenance of Parking Access and Revenue Control Systems at the Village’s Holley Court and Avenue Parking Garages and Authorizing their Execution. This Resolution was adopted. W. RES 22-303 A Resolution Approving a Funding Grant Agreement between the Village of Oak Park and the Oak Park Housing Authority in the Amount of $35,000 for 2023 and Authorizing Its Execution. This Resolution was adopted. X. RES 22-304 A Resolution Approving a Funding Grant Agreement between the Village of Oak Park and the Oak Park Area Arts Council in the Amount of $257,000 for 2023 and Authorizing Its Execution This Resolution was adopted. Y. RES 22-305 A Resolution Approving a Funding Grant Agreement between the Village of Village of Oak Park Page 6 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 Oak Park and the Oak Park Residence Corporation in the Amount of $42,500 for 2023 and Authorizing Its Execution This Resolution was adopted. Z. RES 22-307 A Resolution Approving a Professional Services Agreement with Thompson Elevator Inspection Service, Incorporated to Provide Elevator Inspection Services for a One Year Term with Two Additional One Year Option Terms in an Amount Not to Exceed $65,000 on an Annual Basis and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AA. RES 22-308 A Resolution Approving an Independent Contractor Agreement with Total Parking Solutions, Inc. for the Service, Maintenance and Cellular Connectivity of One Hundred and Twenty-Eight (128) Cale Pay Stations During Fiscal Year 2023 in an Amount Not to Exceed $145,875.00 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AB. RES 22-309 A Resolution Approving the Renewal of the Professional Services Agreement with HR Green, Inc. to Provide Plan Review and Inspection Services in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,085,000.00 in 2023 and Authorizing its Execution. This Resolution was adopted. AC. RES 22-311 Resolutions Authorizing the Annual Renewal of Pawnbrokers Business Licenses This Resolution was adopted. AD. RES 22-312 A Resolution Approving an Amendment to an Independent Contractor Agreement with Misfits Construction Company for the Fabrication and Installation of Signs for Various Pay-By-Plate Parking Areas Within the Village of Oak Park to Revise the Project Scope and Reduce the Not to Exceed Amount From $45,000.00 to $39,859.00 and Authorizing Its Execution. This Resolution was adopted. AE. RES 22-315 A Resolution Approving a Memorandum of Understanding with the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council for the Purposes of Establishing an Alternate Work Schedule for Police Department Patrol Officers in 2023 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. Village of Oak Park Page 7 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 AF. RES 22-316 A Resolution Approving A Memorandum of Understanding with the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council for the Purpose of Establishing an Alternate Work Schedule for Police Department Sergeants and Lieutenants in 2023 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AG. RES 22-317 A Resolution Approving a Collective Bargaining Agreement Between the Village of Oak Park and the Illinois FOP Labor Council LODGE #8 for Patrol Officers for the Period of January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2023 and Authorizing Its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AH. RES 22-320 A Resolution Approving a Professional Services Agreement with Pest Management Services, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed to $35,000 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AI. RES 22-321 A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Excess Public Entity Liability Insurance, Excess Workers’ Compensation Insurance, Property Insurance, Crime Coverage, and Cyber Liability for the Village of Oak Park for Fiscal Year 2023 in an Amount Not to Exceed $707,139 This Resolution was adopted. AJ. RES 22-322 A Resolution Approving a Funding Grant Agreement Between the Village of Oak Park and Housing Forward in an Amount Not to Exceed $300,000 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AK. RES 22-328 A Resolution Approving a Nursing Services Agreement with Patrice Steurer, R.N., in an Amount Not to Exceed $55,000 and Authorizing its Execution This Resolution was adopted. AL. MOT 22-93 A Motion to Approve the Bills in the Amount of $17,948,084.88 from September 23, 2022, through November 17, 2022. This Motion was approved. AM. MOT 22-96 A Motion to Approve the November 2022 Monthly Treasurer’s Report for All Funds This Motion was approved. AN. MOT 22-98 A Motion to Approve the 2023 Village Board Regular Meeting Calendar This Motion was approved. Village of Oak Park Page 8 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 XIV. Regular Agenda AP. ORD 22-39 An Ordinance Adopting the Budget for All Corporate Purposes of the Village of Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois in Lieu of the Appropriation Ordinance for the Fiscal Year Commencing on the First Day of January, 2023 and Ending on the Thirty-First Day of December, 2023 Trustee Taglia stated his support of investments in DEI, sustainability, and the flat levy. He expressed reservations about the increase in general fund spending and the lack of appetite for discussion among Trustees. Trustee Parakkat appreciated the flat levy and has concerns about the significant increase in expenses. He said he is cautiously optimistic with the new administration for this year and he encouraged community, Village staff, and Trustees to pay close attention to this budget. Trustee Wesley stated he is happy to vote on this budget and the 0% levy, particularly in an era of such inflation, with a projected $366k surplus and no projected 2024 deficit. He said this is transformative government that is responsible and sustainable. He thanked Village staff and his fellow Trustees. Trustee Enyia thanked Village staff for completing the budget and starting a new chapter in Oak Park with DEI efforts and Village Board goals of looking at how the Village can police better and be more transparent and communicate with residents. Trustee Buchanan stated her support of this budget and her concern about the $5.5 million ARPA funds earmarked for Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and sustainability. She said the Village needs to make specific expenditures and plans to reach the goal of the 60% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030. Manager Jackson responded that he looks forward to working with Trustees in the next cycle on the ARPA funding slotted for CIP and sustainability. He said there is $14M in specific investments going into sustainability in this budget, which is made possible through additional investments in CIP. Trustee Robinson said she is proud of this budget for making good on the commitment to affordability. She said the plan for the second half of ARPA fund spending is responsive to the community. She asked the Manager to call out efficiencies as a result of increased spending. President Scaman thanked Village staff and Trustees for creating a budget that is responsive to Village Board goals and an investment in services. Village of Oak Park Page 9 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 She said she supports the affordability and 0% levy. She said she did not push for more cuts because staff only asked for what was needed to attain the goals. She said the Trustees set the budget expectations and the Village staff listened. It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AO. MOT 22-99 A Motion to Approve Staff’s Recommendation to Overhire Police Officer, Community Service Officer and Firefighter/Paramedic Positions in Fiscal Year 2023 Manager Jackson introduced Assistant Village Manager/HR Director Kira Tchang. Assistant Manager Tchang stated this recurring item has come to the Village Board since 2017. The primary intent of this public safety program is to ensure that in the event of a planned retirement, planned resignation, or long-term injury, the Village has the ability to staff a position that may exceed the authorized FTEs, knowing there is a vacancy. It would be done only when funding is available due to savings via turnover in salary or overtime. Assistant Manager Tchang said the secondary intent of this program relates to the alternate calls for service response. As the Village evaluates models of responding to calls for service, it is possible that Community Service Officers (CSOs) may be tapped to take some of the calls to the Police Department. The Manager would bring these discussions to the Village Board. If the Village Board is in favor, the Village could move forward with recruiting CSOs in advance of the budget being amended. It is not designed to be a programmatic change, but rather another option that can be used to fill anticipated vacancies. Trustee Buchanan asked for the difference between a CSO and patrol officer. Assistant Manager Tchang responded that a CSO is a non-sworn employee within the Police Department. They staff the 24/7 police desk, take calls, and assist with traffic enforcement and animal control. Trustee Buchanan said the Black Lives Matter movement seeks to shrink police departments and she cannot support this program because it would be adding officers. Assistant Manager Tchang responded that CSOs are non-sworn, not considered to be police officers, and unarmed. Village of Oak Park Page 10 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 Manager Jackson added it is common practice among police departments to account for vacancies ensure full strength of existing positions; not hiring additional officers. Trustee Buchanan pointed to the secondary intent of overhiring CSOs pending results of the Village's alternative calls for service analysis. Assistant Manager Tchang responded that if the Village Board wants to expand the role and number of CSOs, the overhiring program would speed up the process. President Scaman asked about the task force. Manager Jackson responded that a recommended model for alternative calls for service would be presented to the Village Board before any additional CSO hires would be made. The task force anticipates bringing a recommendation to the Village Board in Q1 of 2023. Trustee Wesley said he will reluctantly vote yes because he supports CSOs and recognizes the Village wants a fully-staffed force. He called for action on the validated data from the Freedom to Thrive task force showing over a five-year period that 96 black boys under the age of 18 were stopped by police compared to one white boy. He said this is obvious bias in action in Oak Park and not doing anything with this data feels like a mischaracterization of priorities. Trustee Enyia agreed with Trustees Buchanan and Wesley and said he will vote yes. He said he has personally been in excessive situations in Oak Park with police officers who were not CSOs. He said he wants to see an effort to solve Oak Park's community policing programs and he believes this is a step in that direction, as are CSOs. He said there needs to be actual intention that will take actual data and will be an ongoing process. Trustee Parakkat asked for clarification on whether this item gives the ability to work within the boundaries of the budget to offset vacancies. Assistant Manager Tchang affirmed that the cost for hiring a new public safety position--including patrol officers, CSOs, firefighter/paramedics- -would not exceed the savings that already exist within the budget. The overhire program could allow the Village to move more quickly if the alternate calls for service analysis results in a policy decision of the Village Board to add additional responsibilities or CSOs to the force. Trustee Parakkat said he sees this as a step towards reducing bias. Trustee Buchanan responded that some critics say that the mere presence of CSOs who go through the same police force training is part of that culture and systemic racism and bias. Trustee Wesley added that being Village of Oak Park Page 11 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 stopped by a CSO versus a police officer is still bias if the ratios are 96:1. President Scaman said she appreciated the perspectives shared today and she trusts Village staff to listen and bring back to the Village Board the advice that comes from the task force. She said she will vote in favor and noted that it will also allow to overhire for firefighter/paramedics. This Motion was approved. AYES: 6- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 1- Village Trustee Buchanan ABSENT: 0 AQ. ORD 22-26 An Ordinance Amending the Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Budget Manager Jackson introduced Chief Financial Officer Steve Drazner. CFO Drazner presented the Q4 budget amendment ordinance with a total requested change of $910,000. He said it includes several reclasses that net out to zero, a new funding request of $404,000 in the Madison TIF fund to draw down on the remaining balance, and $300,000 for firefighter overtime based on department needs to bring the total to $1.1 million for overtime. It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AR. ORD 22-27 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $348,400 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2010C General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AS. ORD 22-28 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $163,253.00 Against the 2022 Village of Oak Park Page 12 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 Tax Levy (2012A General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AT. ORD 22-29 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $769,031.26 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2016E General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AU. ORD 22-30 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $423,807.00 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2015B General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AV. ORD 22-31 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $600,940.00 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2016D General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 Village of Oak Park Page 13 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 AW. ORD 22-32 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $1,116,485.00 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2018A General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AX. ORD 22-33 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $11,940.00 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2020A General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AY. ORD 22-34 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $494,794.00 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2020B General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 AZ. ORD 22-35 An Ordinance Providing for the Abatement of $297,470.00 Against the 2022 Tax Levy (2021 General Obligation Corporate Purpose Bonds) It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Buchanan, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 Village of Oak Park Page 14 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 ABSENT: 0 BA. ORD 22-36 The Village of Oak Park’s Tax Year 2022 Property Tax Levy Ordinance It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Parakkat, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 BB. ORD 22-37 An Ordinance for the Levy and Assessment of Taxes in the Amount of $725,000 for the 2022 Property Tax Year for Village of Oak Park Special Service Area Number One It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Parakkat, that this Ordinance be adopted. The motion was approved. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley NAYS: 0 ABSENT: 0 BC. ORD 22-38 An Ordinance for the Levy and Assessment of Taxes in the Amount of $3,738 for the 2022 Property Tax Year for Village of Oak Park Special Service Area Number Eight Trustee Taglia asked if this ordinance is for the SSA for the speed bumps. CFO Drazner confirmed it is for the speed tables on the 1200 blocks of East Columbia, Linden, and Euclid Avenues. Trustee Taglia asked for an explanation on how the policy changed this year in terms of how they are being paid for moving forward. Director Sproule responded that the Transportation Commission approved traffic mitigation activities on the 1150 South blocks and 1200 North blocks. The Village Board approved Village staff to apply those moving forward for blocks without mitigations in place and decided that the installation costs could be covered by the Village because the costs to administer these tax levies was counterproductive to the relatively small installation costs. Trustee Taglia said he felt they were good reasons and said it is a matter of fairness to residents to not have to go through the process of creating an SSA. CFO Drazner agreed that the amount is minimal and can be Village of Oak Park Page 15 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 budgeted and paid for from the capital fund. Trustee Taglia asked if there was an appetite on the Village Board to vote no and have this reconfigured and presented at a later date. Trustee Parakkat believed the decision was the right one to reduce the administrative burden on the Village by removing it, but from a fairness perspective he believes it has to be done retroactively and he favors whatever process needs to be done to alter that. Trustee Wesley supported Trustee Taglia's statements. He said he believes the Village Board should look at holistic traffic and safety remediation as these implementations are patches and not a fix. President Scaman stated that Vision Zero is coming forward in 2023. CFO Drazner said a budget amendment may not be needed because the expense was always going to be budgeted and paid for from the capital fund. If the vote is no, the Village would stop collecting. Half has been collected so far so the capital fund would cover the other half. It was moved by Trustee Taglia seconded by Trustee Wesley that this Ordinance be denied. The motion failed. The roll call on the vote was as follows: NAYS: 7- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Parakkat, Village Trustee Robinson, Village Trustee Taglia, and Village Trustee Wesley ABSENT: 0 BD. MOT 22-101 A Motion to Direct Staff on Whether to Present for the Village Board’s Future Consideration an Ordinance Placing a Referendum Proposition on the April 4, 2023 Consolidated Election Ballot Regarding the Adoption of Ranked Choice Voting for the Election of Village of Oak Park Officers Manager Jackson stated that a legal analysis of ranked choice voting (RCV) was given to the Village Board in November which presented new information and explained the desire to seek direction from the Village Board on whether to place RCV on the 2023 ballot. He asked Village Attorney Paul Stephanides to provide a summary. Attorney Stephanides said he seeks direction on the form the referendum proposition would take if the Village Board were to adopt such an ordinance. The referendum adopted by voters in the city of Evanston in November was for electing alderpersons from nine wards, whereas Oak Park elects Trustees at large three at a time. Under Illlinois Supreme Court precedence, a referendum proposition must be specific on what form it will take as it will be binding for future elections. A 2005 memorandum from then Attorney General Lisa Madigan states "any referendum changing the Village of Oak Park Page 16 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 manner of the selection of municipal officers must create a complete, self-executing system for selection of officers and not merely embody a concept to be implemented by an ordinance adopted at some later time." Clerk Waters read the following Agenda Public Comment aloud: Marge Greenwald. Please put this item as a referendum on the April election. Thank you. President Scaman said if RCV is to happen for April 2023, the Village Board would hold a Special Meeting on January 9, 2023 where Village staff would present a sample referendum question. She said she supports RCV on a national level. Oak Park can support a primary but has not done so. Trustee Buchanan asked for clarification on whether an additional election would be held. Attorney Stephanides responded that RCV can be on any primary or general election ballot. Trustee Robinson requested two versions of the referendum language, given its importance and the potential for a legal challenge if it is not completely clear. Trustee Buchanan stated her desire to push it beyond 2023 because it is unclear when the County can do it and the Village has not done mass education. She said she is in favor of a referendum in response to the clear message the Village Board is hearing from the electorate. She asked Attorney Stephanides how he would determine which options to present. Attorney Stephanides responded that not all options apply to Oak Park and he seeks direction from the Village Board. Trustee Buchanan recommended the Village Board take a vote first see if there is enough support before discussing options. Trustee Wesley said he feels the weight of changing how democracy works in Oak Park when the Village Board has not yet discussed this at length and the education has not yet been done. He said he supports the January 9 Special Meeting. Trustee Taglia said he believes the Village Board can review the options and come to an agreement. He said he would like to give it a good faith effort to get RCV on the April 2023 ballot. He said he is encouraged by the number of residents contacting the Village Board, which is very positive and does not happen often. Trustee Parakkat stated his support of RCV mathematically to collect more Village of Oak Park Page 17 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 information to make a more informed decision. He echoed Trustee Taglia's desire to make an effort to put RCV on the 2023 ballot and hold the January 9 Special Meeting. Trustee Enyia said he wants to ensure voters are properly educated and understand how to vote for their specific outcome. He said he supports all forms of understanding our democracy better and giving more people options. He said he is in favor of taking the time to understand and move forward. President Scaman endorsed the January 9 Special Meeting. She said she sees the current method of electing Trustees as similar to RCV. She expressed concerns with redistributing votes because voters may not know where their vote landed and may be less committed to voting. She said if Oak Park were to do RCV in primaries, it will be a lot more work for the County. Attorney Stephanides said Evanston did a two-step process by first going to non-partisan primaries in 2019 and then adopting the RCV referendum in 2022. He said the ordinance would have to be adopted by January 17, 2023 to be on the April 4, 2023 ballot. Trustee Buchanan said it is a big deal and she is feeling rushed. Trustee Wesley agreed and said the education piece would need funding. President Scaman suggested the League of Women Voters could help. She asked Attorney Stephanides to share the legality behind government money in education versus lobbying. Attorney Stephanides responded that according to state statute, an educational effort can only be fact-based and not advocate for or against a referendum question. Trustee Robinson asked for clarification of the January 17 deadline. Attorney Stephanides said the ordinance must be adopted 79 days before the election and filed with the County Clerk 68 days before the election. Trustee Parakkat said the Village Board is always against a deadline which does not stop them from moving forward. He said he favors holding the Special Meeting instead of giving up on RCV without a discussion. President Scaman asked if Village staff have time over the holiday to put the language together for the Special Meeting. Attorney Stephanides responded that in addition to presenting the referendum language, he would also like to present an analysis of how RCV has worked in other jurisdictions and affected voter turnout. President Scaman said she would Village of Oak Park Page 18 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 like to see that analysis and then have a full discussion. The language must be clear and not cause harm, as was the case in a Portland community where a candidate lost who would have been elected. Attorney Stephanides confirmed he can have an analysis ready by January 9. Trustee Parakkat asked if Attorney Stephanides could share resources for the Village Board to study ahead of January 9. Manager Jackson responded that the preferred approach is for Village staff to do the analysis and present the options to the Village Board. Trustee Buchanan thanked Voice and League of Women Voters for their advocacy of RCV. She said she is not comfortable with this happening so fast and wants to wait. Trustee Wesley said he would like to see a robust education effort that reaches out to every eligible voter in the Village. Trustee Enyia agreed that the education piece will take longer than will be possible for the April 23 ballot. Trustee Taglia said that change is difficult but good decisions are often made on tight timelines and he believes The Village Board should try. Trustee Buchanan asked Trustee Taglia what is the need to rush. Trustee Taglia responded that he has received more energy and more emails on this matter. Trustee Buchanan said the Village Board has received hundreds of emails on other issues that have not swayed them. Trustee Wesley said he is willing to have the Special Meeting, though he feels too rushed to fundamentally alter democracy and people's trust with the system, when there are residents who already feel marginalized when interacting with the system. Trustee Robinson said there is an advantage to waiting for the 2024 election which will have greater voter turnout. President Scaman agreed and said residents can focus on learning just about RCV and not also learning about the Trustee candidates. Trustee Wesley asked Attorney Stephanides asked if he would need to cancel his holiday plans to prepare because it would affect how he votes. Attorney Stephanides responded that he is always working. Trustee Parakkat suggested the Village Board hold the Special Meeting to review the analysis and decide meeting whether to submit referendum language for January 17. If a Special Meeting is not held January 9, one could still be held in Q1. Manager Jackson confirmed a better option would Village of Oak Park Page 19 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 be to hold a meeting in Q1 to be able to include a full analysis and a framework for an educational campaign. President Scaman clarified that for the existing motion, a yes vote is in favor of holding a Special Meeting on January 9 and a no vote is in favor of holding a Special Meeting sometime in Q1. It was moved by Trustee Buchanan, seconded by Trustee Robinson, that this Motion be adopted. The motion failed. The roll call on the vote was as follows: AYES: 2- Village Trustee Parakkat, and Village Trustee Taglia NAYS: 5- Village President Scaman, Village Trustee Buchanan, Village Trustee Enyia, Village Trustee Robinson, and Village Trustee Wesley ABSENT: 0 XV. Call to Board and Clerk Clerk Waters thanked former Deputy Village Clerk Linda DeViller who is now with the Public Works Department. DeViller filled in as Village Clerk for several months during Clerk Waters' maternity leave and Clerk Waters is forever grateful to her. Clerk Waters welcomed new Deputy Village Clerk Cindy Hansen. Trustee Buchanan announced an Anti-Hate Rally in Scoville Park on December 21 at 3:30 pm. Trustee Taglia thanked Village staff for their hard work during this rushed year. Trustee Robinson acknowledged the change in the composition of the Village Board and Trustee Wesley for jumping in seamlessly during a such a challenging time. Trustee Wesley thanked Trustee Robinson. He thanked his fellow Trustees and the staff for making him feel welcome. He gave a shout out to his son at home who watches every meeting. Trustee Parakkat congratulated Deputy Village Manager Lisa Shelley and staff for organizing the Scoville Park drone show. He thanked his fellow Trustees and acknowledged their differences in opinion are in the interest of making this community better. He encouraged everyone in the community to patronize local businesses. Trustee Enyia thanked the Village staff for their many hours of hard work. He thanked his fellow Trustees and feels they are in the opportunity to do things in the moment and take risks that will make for great rewards for generations to come. Village of Oak Park Page 20 Printed on 1/18/2023 President and Board of Trustees Meeting Minutes December 5, 2022 President Scaman thanked Linda DeViller and Clerk Waters and welcomed Cindy Hansen. She said every decision is made better by the discussions of the Village Board. She thanked Manager Jackson and Village staff. She thanked the community for bringing great ideas and holding the Village Board accountable. XVI. Adjourn It was moved by Trustee Wesley, seconded by Trustee Enyia, to adjourn. A voice vote was taken and the motion was approved. The Meeting adjourned at 9:26 P.M., Monday, December 5, 2022. Respectfully Submitted, Deputy Clerk Hansen Village of Oak Park Page 21 Printed on 1/18/2023