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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 12/02/2002 - City Council REGULAR MEETING DECEMBER 2, 2002 The Regular Meeting of the McHenry City Council was called to order by Mayor Althoff at 7:30 P.M. on Monday, December 2, 2002 in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Center. At roll call the following Aldermen were present: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd and Wimmer. Absent: None. City Staff in attendance were: City Administrator Maxeiner, Assistant Administrator Lockerby, City Clerk Jones, City Attorney McArdle, Director Community Development Napolitano, Director Public Works Marcinko, Assistant Director Public Works Fink, Director Parks and Recreation Merkel and Chief of Police O'Meara. Absent: None. PUBLIC HEARING: 2002 TAX LEVY ORDINANCE Mayor Althoff at 7:31 p.m. opened the Public Hearing to discuss the 2002 Tax Levy. City Administrator Maxeiner stated the amount of the 2002 Proposed Tax Levy has been inflated to capture all new growth and construction within the corporate limits. City Administrator Maxeiner noted all information had been previously presented to Council for review and consideration at the November 11, 2002 regularly scheduled Council Meeting. At that time, Council passed a resolution establishing the date for tonight's Public Hearing. In addition, as required by State Statute, City Administrator Maxeiner noted the Notice of Public Hearing was published in the Northwest Herald on November 22, 2002. He stated it is Staffs recommendation to pass an ordinance establishing the 2002 Tax Levy in the amount of$3,160,171. In response to Mayor Althoffs inquiry, there were no questions or comments from Council or anyone in the audience. In response to the Mayor's inquiry, City Clerk Jones stated there were no written or verbal comments received in the Office of the City Clerk with regard to this matter. Motion by Glab, seconded by Bolger, to close the Public Hearing regarding the 2002 Tax Levy at 7:34 p.m. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Murgatroyd, to pass an ordinance establishing the 2002 Tax Levy in the amount of$3,160,171. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. PUBLIC HEARING: REQUEST FOR ANNEXATION, REZONING AND VARIANCE — PROPERTY LOCATED ADJACENT TO AND EAST OF ROUTE 31 NORTH OF GRACY -L ROAD AND SOUTH OF PRIME PARKWAY, CONCORD HOMES Mayor Althoff at 7:35 p.m. opened the Public Hearing regarding the Annexation, Rezoning and Variance for the Krumholz Property located adjacent to Route 31, north of December 2, 2002 Page 2 Gracy Road and south of Prime Parkway as presented by Concord Homes. In attendance were Attorney Thomas Zanck of Militello, Zanck and Coen; John Nelson of Jen Land Design; Greg Collins of Concord Homes; Joe Vavrina of Smith Engineering Consultants; Steven Hovany of Strategy Planning Associates. Attorney Zanck opened the presentation stating Concord Homes intends to create a two-fold development: Business Park/Commercial and Multi-Family Residential. He noted the residential units would be 70% ranch-style, which will appeal to empty nesters. In addition, it is anticipated this multi-family development would generate very few school-age children. Mr. John Nelson, land planner, addressed the density of the residential portion of the proposed development. At concept plan presentation, Mr. Nelson stated Council had indicated a reduction in number of units would be desirable. In response to this information, the developer has reduced the number of multi-family units from 300 to 276 units. In addition, the developer has altered the mix of types of units to accommodate two- car garages. The development will also include shared walking paths as well as other amenities. Attorney Zanck stated there are already potential users for the business park/commercial portion of the development, including a sizeable office user, a warehousing firm and a proposed banquet hall. Mr. Greg Collins addressed Council regarding the prototype of the two distinct products, which would be marketed in the residential portion of the development. He noted the townhomes would have a landscaped courtyard and perimeter. Director of Community Development Napolitano noted the draft Annexation Agreement was included in this evening's Agenda packet. Mayor Althoff opened the floor to Council comments and/or questions. Alderman Bolger stated the location of this property is not appropriate for high density multi-family residential development. Alderman Glab expressed concern regarding drainage. Mr. Joseph Vavrina of Smith Engineering Consultants responded, noting the retention basins will drain to the east. Mr. Vavrina also stated the development would comply with the City's drainage ordinance. Alderman Glab also expressed concern with the design of the main collector road. He opined the road should be designed to expedite traffic if the property to the east is developed in the future. Alderman Glab suggested adequate right-of-way be reserved for future widening/expansion of the collector road. In conclusion, Alderman Glab noted the 7.88 density is too high. He would prefer to see a maximum of 6 units per gross acre. Alderman Low stated there is a need for ranch units and walkways. She stated she had no issue with the mixed residential and commercial use as depicted by the developer. December 2, 2002 Page 3 Mr. Nelson stated the design of the buildings meets the control standards of the City of McHenry. Alderman Wimmer suggested a comparison be made to the existing project in Cary and the proposed City of McHenry project with regard to density. Mr. Nelson responded the density in the two projects is comparable. He noted he would provide Council with exact density figures of both developments. Alderman Wimmer stated his preference for a maximum density of 6 units per acre, but noted that he would be flexible. Alderman Murgatroyd concurred with Alderman Wimmer and inquired about the timeline for proposed buildout of the project. Mr. Collins responded noting construction would begin in 2003 and anticipated completed residential buildout in 2006. Director Napolitano stated the following issues remain to be addressed by Council: • Proposed elimination of the roadway stub to the south; • Multiple buildings located on a single lot, including setback requirements; • Provision for roadway access to Albany Street in Tonyan Industrial Park; • Possibly limiting the proposed uses in the commercial portion of the development; • Density of the residential portion of the development. Attorney Zanck noted many of Staffs and Council's concerns will be addressed during the preliminary and final platting stages of the project. Mr. Steven Hovany provided Council with additional information including the projected absorption rate, the projected population of the development, as well as the projected revenues and expenses. City Administrator Maxeiner stated Staff supports the project with the installation of a temporary lift station in conformance with the City's Master Plan. The lift station would be sufficient pending development of the property directly to the east of the subject property. Attorney Zanck suggested a recapture agreement be implemented so the developer could recoup costs when the property to the east is developed. In response to Mayor Althoffs inquiry there were no questions or comments from anyone in the audience. City Clerk Jones also informed Council there were no written or verbal comments received in the Office of the City Clerk with regard to this matter. It was the consensus of Council that the developer should work with Staff to address the outstanding issues prior to returning to Council for formal action. Motion by Glab, seconded by Low, to close the Public Hearing regarding the annexation agreement, annexation, zoning and variance for the Krumholz Property at 8:45 p.m. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. .� Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. December 2, 2002 Page 4 TEN MINUTE PUBLIC INPUT ^.. No one signed in to speak during the Ten Minute Public Input Session. CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Glab requested that Consent Agenda Item #2, Ordinance Amending Municipal Code Chapter 13, extending No Parking limits on Royal Drive 50 feet northwesterly, be removed for further discussion. He opined the 50 foot extension of the No Parking Zone is inadequate. He requested the matter be scheduled at a Public Works Committee Meeting. Public Works Committee Chairman Alderman Bolger concurred and noted the item would be added to the Agenda for the December 16, 2002 Public Works Committee Meeting. Motion by Glab, seconded by Bolger, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended: ■ Ordinance amending Municipal Code Chapter 13 creating a 4-way stop at the intersection of Cross Trail/Dartmoor Drive and 3-way stop at the intersection of Cross Trail/Oregon Trail; ■ Ordinance amending Municipal Code Chapter 4 Section 4-6(2) decreasing the number of Class A Liquor Licenses from 25 to 24; ■ CALEA— Proposed Police General Order Revision; ■ Finance and Personnel Committee recommendation to adopt Hiring Procedures Policy; ■ Request to advertise for bids for the printing of three seasonal brochures — Parks and Recreation Department; ■ Request to connect to Police Alarm Panel — McHenry Township Administration Office, 3703 North Richmond Road; ■ Award of bid to Gary Lang Chevrolet for the purchase of a 1-ton dump truck for the Parks and Recreation Department Maintenance Division; ■ Approve City Council Minutes ■ November 11, 2002 regularly scheduled meeting; ■ November 18, 2002 regularly scheduled meeting. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. METRA RAILYARD LOCATION DISCUSSION Alderman Glab requested discussion of Metra proposed siting of the Johnsburg rail yard. He stated he thought this was an Agenda Item for this evening's meeting. City Administrator Maxeiner stated due to the length of this evening's Agenda, the Metra Discussion was postponed until the December 16, 2002 regularly scheduled meeting. Alderman Glab insisted he would like to discuss the Metra matter this evening. Alderman Bolger suggested continuing with the Meeting's Agenda. Alderman Glab opined Council has not been kept apprised of the ongoing discussions. Mayor Althoff noted both Alderman Wimmer and Alderman Low were in attendance December 2, 2002 Page 5 at the meeting with Metra officials. Alderman Murgatroyd concurred with Alderman Glab and requested discussion occur this evening regarding the Metra rail yard. City Administrator Maxeiner stated Staff is not prepared to discuss this matter at this time. He noted several issues need to be reviewed prior to making a recommendation to Council regarding the rail yard, including: • Additional train traffic resulting from the location of the rail yard in Johnsburg; • Impact on local pedestrian traffic, particularly at Petersen Park and along the bike path; • Required parking for the increase in trains and associated number of commuters; • The number of daily train trips in/out being proposed. Alderman Murgatroyd stated his concern that Council has not received adequate information regarding the Metra proposal. He suggested Staff draft a resolution for Council consideration regarding limiting the Mayor's ability to discuss and/or negotiate on the City's behalf without Staff and/or members of Council present. Mayor Althoff suggested Staff explore creating such a resolution and that it be included on the agenda of the December 16, 2002 for further discussion and/or formal action. Alderman Bolger read a statement in support of the Mayor and imploring Council to work in cooperation with the Mayor. Motion by Murgatroyd, seconded by Glab, to direct Staff to draft a resolution limiting the Mayor's ability to discuss and/or negotiate on the City's behalf without Staff and/or members of Council present, and that this resolution be placed on the Agenda of the December 16, 2002 regularly scheduled meeting for consideration and formal action. Voting Aye: Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Bolger. Absent: None. Motion carried. CONSIDERATION OF LEASE AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE CITY OF MCHENRY AND: • SCOTT CHAMBERS FOR LEASE OF THE PETERSEN FARM FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING MARCH 1, 2003: • TOM KING FOR LEASE OF THE FORMER CUNAT PROPERTY FOR A ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING MARCH 1, 2003. City Administrator Maxeiner stated the City had previously acquired the former Petersen Farm and Cunat properties in order to preserve open space and to plan for future park expansions. City Administrator Maxeiner noted these two properties have regularly been farmed. As the property owner, the City must now enter into lease agreements so �- that tenant farming can continue on each of the parcels. The leases are being presented to Council for consideration It is Staffs recommendation to approve execution of the two leases. December 2, 2002 Page 6 Motion by Bolger, seconded by Low, to authorize the Mayor's execution of the following lease agreements: • Between the City of McHenry and Scott Chambers for the Petersen Farm Property for one-year term beginning March 1, 2003; • Between the City of McHenry and Thomas and Mae King for the Cunat Property for a one-year term beginning March 1, 2003. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. DISCUSSION: OLDIE MILL PONDS SUBDIVISION In attendance was Olde Mill Ponds resident Steve Pool. Mr. Pool addressed Council restating his drainage concerns impacting his subdivision. Mr. Pool specifically noted the culvert sizing and the lack of as-built plans available for review. Mr. Darryl Gable of Baxter and Woodman addressed Council and noted Baxter and Woodman ;ias been studying the drainage issues impacting Olde Mill Ponds Subdivision He stated F s firm is investigating alternatives to the present drainage infrastructure. He noted the �.:irrent onsite detention is functioning according to the approved engineering plans. If an additional study is authorized by Council, funding would also have to be authorized. Alderman Bolger suggested Baxter and Woodman provide a cost estimate to explore the resolution of the drainage problems in this area. Director Public Works Marcinko stated he believed Inland Capital Fund, developer of Olde Mill Ponds Subdivision, is contributory to the solution. Mr. Pool stated Inland has expressed to the Homeowner's Association via letter that the Association needs to address the problem by working with the City. Mr. Pool requested the City address the issue in a timely manner and that regular meetings be held to advise the Association members of the progress in dealing with the drainage concerns. Mr. Pool also expressed concerns regarding the impact of future development in the area. He requested a letter from the City to the Association stating that no additional pipes will drain into Olde Mill Ponds Subdivision. In response to Mayor Althoffs request, Mr. Gavle stated he will have a written proposal prepared for Council consideration at the December 16, 2002 regularly scheduled Council Meeting, presenting alternatives, which have been determined as a result of the concerns raised regarding drainage in the area. Staff was directed to prepare additional information to be presented for review and consideration at the December 16, 2002 regularly scheduled Council Meeting. December 2, 2002 Page 7 REQUEST TO BLOCK OFF CERTAIN PORTIONS OF GREEN STREET AND TO DIRECT CITY STAFF TO ASSIST IN A SOAP BOX DERBY EVENT ON SATURDAY, JUNE 28, 2003— MCHENRY KIWANIS In attendance was Mr. James Marinangel, representative of the McHenry Kiwanis organization. Mr. Marinangel addressed Council stating the McHenry Kiwanis is considering sponsoring a soap box derby to be held on Saturday, June 28, 2003. The Kiwanis Club is requesting permission to close portions of Green Street and for City Staff assistance in conducting the event. Mr. Marinangel stated the derby would be held on Green Street from just south of Shepherd of the Hills Church to a point just south of the City Garage. The event would be open to all youths in McHenry County ages 8 through 17. The City Garage parking lot would be the pit area. Mr. Marinangel stated he has spoken with both Police Chief O'Meara and Fire Chief Amore and neither has indicated any objections to the proposed event. In response to Alderman Bolger's inquiry, Mr. Marinangel stated the derby would be a day-long event held in conjunction with the national soap box derby events. The winner of the McHenry event would then compete in the national contest in Akron, Ohio. Alderman Bolger suggested the homeowners whose driveways would be impacted by the event should be personally notified of the street closing and the event in general. In response to Alderman Murgatroyd's inquiry, Mr. Marinangel stated there would have to be a detour for south side residents gaining access to the downtown area as Green Street would not be accessible for the entire day. Mr. Marinangel stated police department assistance is being sought for along the route as well as redirecting traffic around the event. Mr. Marinangel stated it is anticipated the event would draw a large audience of enthusiasts. Alderman Murgatroyd inquired if the parking needs of the event could be met utilizing the City's Garage parking lot as well as the Knox Park lot. Spectators will also be able to use side streets for parking. Shepherd of the Hills Church parking lot would also be available for most of the day. Alderman Glab expressed concern about closing off a main arterial roadway. All diverted traffic would most likely zigzag through neighborhoods to get through town. This is not appropriate in residential neighborhoods. He opined there must be another more suitable location in town to hold the event. Assistant Administrator Lockerby stated the intent is to obtain Council's direction as to Staff pursuing all aspects of such an event, including traffic detour impact, parking requirements, etc. Some discussion occurred regarding the potential impact on Saturday traffic of closing Green Street. Chief O'Meara stated his department would obtain a traffic `�. count of the number of vehicles utilizing Green Street on Saturdays. Alderman Low supported the event and opined the Kiwanis will work with Staff to December 2, 2002 Page 8 ensure minimal detriment to motorists and/or residents. "~ Alderman Wimmer noted the need for extra trash receptacles as well as possibly other amenities to accommodate the participants and audience. He concurred with Alderman Low. Alderman Glab opined no action should be taken until the residents who would be impacted by the Green Street closure are polled and advised. Some discussion followed regarding other potential sites for the derby. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Wimmer, to direct Staff to work with the McHenry Kiwanis Club to address concerns raised regarding traffic impact, detour route, parking requirements and adequacy, concessions, bleachers, trash disposal, etc.; and to bring the matter back for formal Council action regarding the closing of Green Street from Shepherd of the Hills Church south to McHenry City Garage on Saturday, June 28, 2003, with a rain date of Sunday, June 29, 2003, for the purpose of conducting a Soap Box Derby, when all concerns have been addressed. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. ORDINANCE GRANTING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO SERVE ALCOHOLIC , BEVERAGES IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE OPERATION OF CAJUN WAY LLC D/B/A SNAPPER JOHN'S RESTAURANT LOCATED AT 4111 WEST SHAMROCK LANE Mayor Althoff reminded Council this matter has previously been discussed. Due to the fact there was not unanimous approval directing Staff to prepare the ordinance granting the conditional use for the operation of a restaurant serving alcoholic beverages, the matter is being considered as a regular Agenda Item. Motion by Glab, seconded by Wimmer, to pass and approve an ordinance granting a conditional use to Cajun Way LLC d/b/a Snapper John's Restaurant located at 4111 West Shamrock Lane to allow the operation of a restaurant serving alcoholic beverages. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. REQUEST TO CONNECT TO MUNICIPAL WATER AND SANITARY SEWER SYSTEM - DON WELCH, 1202 CHARLES STREET In attendance was Mr. Don Welch, property owner of 1202 Charles Street in _ unincorporated McHenry County. Mayor Althoff noted Mr. Welch has approached the Community Development Department regarding the possibility of annexation and connection to the City's municipal sanitary sewer system. If the request to connect is granted, Mr. Welch will proceed with the annexation process within the timeframe specified by Council. December 2, 2002 Page 9 Alderman Glab noted there are no requests to annex to the City unless there is a need for emergency hook-up to the municipal sanitary sewer or water service. He suggested in the future when applicants seek connection prior to annexation, that they be required to pay the non-resident connection and capital development fees without benefit of reimbursement. Mayor Althoff suggested this issue be further discussed at a Community Development Committee Meeting for establishment of a new policy. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Wimmer, to approve the request of Mr. Don Welch to connect to the City of McHenry sanitary sewer system, with the understanding he commence annexation proceedings within 90 days; and that the applicant be required to pay non-resident connection and capital development fees, subject to a refund of the non- resident portion within 90 days of annexation to the City of McHenry. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. FINAL PLAT APPROVAL — KRESSWOOD TRAILS PHASE 2 In attendance was Mr. Jerry Benchawel of Pacini Brothers Inc, developers of Kresswood Trails Subdivision. Director Community Development Napolitano addressed Council stating the Final Plat of Kresswood Trails Phase 2 is located north of Bull Valley Road, west of Colonial Funeral Home. It is essentially a mirror development of Phase 1 previously approved by Council. The engineering for the entire development was approved prior to the construction of Phase 1. In response to Alderman Murgatroyd's inquiry, Mr. Benchawel stated Cross Trail connection to Trails of Winding Creek Subdivision will be made once the curb and streets are installed and prior to the construction of Phase 2 residential units. Motion by Low, seconded by Murgatroyd, to approve the Final Plat of Kresswood Trails Phase 2 as prepared by Vanderstappen Surveying with a revision date of August 27, 2001, subject to the plat being recorded with the McHenry County Recorder of Deeds within six months of approval. Voting Aye: Bolger, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Glab. Absent: None. Motion carried. INTERGOVERNMENTAL AGREEMENT AMONG MCHENRY TOWNSHIP MCHENRY .� COUNTY AND THE CITY OF MCHENRY — TRANSFER OF PROPERTY 8.5 ACRE PARCEL ON GREEN STREET Mayor Althoff reminded Council the 8.5-acre parcel, which is the subject of the December 2, 2002 Page 10 intergovernmental agreement, was transferred to the County in an effort to promote the City's eastern bypass. The land was due to be transferred back to the City once all conditions with regard to wetland mitigation were satisfied. The City has complied with all required conditions. In addition, the City has worked out an agreement with McHenry Township for snowplowing streets within each other's jurisdiction. Mayor Althoff noted it is Staffs recommendation to approve the intergovernmental agreement as submitted this evening. In response to Alderman Bolger's inquiry, Director Public Works Marcinko stated the Elmkirk Lane referenced in the agreement is located east of River Road. Alderman Glab noted the proposed agreement may cause the City's Public Works crews to be spread a little thin on plowing duties. The larger area the City plows, the less services are provided to the remainder of the City's residents. Director Marcinko noted the City has in the past worked out mutually acceptable plowing arrangements with the McHenry Township Road Commissioner. Essentially, there would be no increase in the actual area which must be plowed. In response to Alderman Glab's inquiry, Mayor Althoff noted the intergovernmental agreement includes snowplowing due to the change in jurisdictional responsibilities of each of the respective government entities. Some discussion followed regarding the City's snowplowing of streets not within the corporate boundaries. Alderman Glab noted there are additional responsibilities tied into the agreement, which should not fall on the City of McHenry, and he could therefore not support the execution of the agreement. Director Parks and Recreation Merkel informed Council there is a long history regarding this parcel. The bottom line is the property is being transferred back to the City from the County who purchased it from the City for $425,000. The county cannot simply donate the land back to the City. Consequently, a three-way intergovernmental agreement was created to satisfy members of the County Board with regard to the transfer of land. Included in the agreement is the ongoing maintenance of wetlands on the 8.5-acre parcel, as well as snowplowing responsibilities on specific roadways. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Murgatroyd, to approve and authorize the Mayor's execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement among the City of McHenry, McHenry Township, and McHenry County, for the transfer of 8.5 acres of property on Green Street. Voting Aye: Bolger, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Glab. Absent: None. Motion carried. YEAR 2003 DIAL-A-RIDE LOCAL SHARE AGREEMENT BETWEEN PACE AND THE CITY OF MCHENRY City Administrator Maxeiner noted the agreement before Council for consideration this evening is identical to that presented for Council approval in January 2002. However, the City's share of the contract continues to increase. This year the increase was from 27% December 2, 2002 Page 11 to 31% and the rider fares are likewise decreasing from 7% to 5%. Fares remain the same. Motion by Glab, seconded by Wimmer, to approve and authorize the Mayor's execution of the Year 2003 Dial-A-Ride Local Share Agreement between PACE and the City of McHenry. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. REQUEST FROM NUNDA TOWNSHIP — BOARD OF REVIEW STIPULATION ON FOLLETT TAX APPEALS City Administrator Maxeiner noted he contacted Nunda Township and secured information regarding the Board of Review Stipulation on the Follett Tax Appeals. He stated the Petitioners and the Board of Review came to an agreement. The stipulation requires City Council approval and authorization for the Mayor's execution of the document. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Murgatroyd, to authorize the Mayor's execution of the Board of Review Stipulation regarding the Follett Tax Appeals. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. ORDINANCE FOR THE ABATEMENT OF REAL ESTATE TAXES FOR VARIOUS BOND ISSUES City Administrator Maxeiner stated each time the City approves the issuance of bonds, there is an ordinance filed with the County to levy taxes to pay off the bond, unless there is an ordinance passed to abate them annually. As the City traditionally pledges alternative revenues to pay off the bonds, the City typically passes ordinances providing for the abatement of the real estate taxes with regard to the bonds. City Administrator noted in addition to the ordinances abating the tax with regard to the bonds, there is also an ordinance abating taxes in the amount of $25,000 for Special Service Area No 1A as agreed to at the time of approval of the Special Service Area. Motion by Murgatroyd, seconded by Glab, to pass ordinances abating real estate taxes as follows: • GO Bonds Series 1997 A $328,750.00 • GO Bonds Series 1997 B $115,687.50 • GO Bonds Series 2000 A $438,000.00 • GO Bonds Series 2000 B $334,500.00 • GO Bonds Series 2002 $352,912.50 • SSA#1A $ 25,000.00. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. -�, Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. December 2, 2002 Page 12 Motion carried. AWARD OF BID FOR THE INSTALLATION OF TWO BASEBALL DUGOUTS AT FIELD NO. 2 IN PETERSEN PARK— CARMICHAEL CONSTRUCTION Director Parks and Recreation Merkel stated bids were sought and opened on November 19, 2002 regarding the installation of two new baseball dugouts at Petersen Park Field No. 2. The low bidder was Carmichael Construction in the amount of $18,063. Director Merkel noted the bid exceeded the budgeted amount allocated in the 2002-2003 Budget which indicated a line item of$15,000. In response to Alderman Murgatroyd's inquiry, Director Merkel stated there are no current plans to provide dugouts at other fields. The dugouts are primarily being proposed due to safety reasons with regard to the age group of the youth and the hard ball which is used in the sport. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Wimmer, to award the bid for the installation of two baseball dugouts at Field No. 2 in Petersen Park, to Carmichael Construction in an amount not-to-exceed $18,063. Voting Aye: Bolger, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Glab. Absent: None. Motion carried. MAYOR - STATEMENT AND REPORT Mayor Althoff stated she is seeking a date to schedule a Committee of the Whole Meeting for concept plan presentations by Hallmark Homes, a proposed multi-family development west of Meijer Stores on the King Farm, and a Senior Living Facility, being proposed on 10 acres of property on the north side of Bull Valley Road across the street from Church of Holy Apostles. It was the consensus of Council to schedule a Committee of the Whole Meeting on Monday, December 9, 2003, for the purpose of concept plan presentation by Hallmark Homes for a proposed development adjacent to Meijer Stores, and a proposed Senior Living Facility to be located north of Bull Valley Road. Mayor Althoff reported the City has been contacted by the Levy Organization which owns 50 acres of property adjacent to east side of the Shamrock Farms Property. Mayor Althoff noted the Levy Organization is considering the donation of the 50-acre parcel to the City of McHenry. Request has been made to permit the City's Attorney to meet with the Levy Organization attorney, to determine tax ramifications of the possible donation. Mayor Althoff requested authorization to permit the City's Attorney to meet with the attorney for the Levy Organization. Mayor Althoff noted a map depicting the location of the 50-acre parcel would be included in this week's Friday Report. In response to Alderman Glab's inquiry, at this time it is unclear if there would be any stipulations attached to the land donation. ' Motion by Bolger, seconded by Murgatroyd, to authorize the City Attorney's meeting with the attorney for the Levy Organization to explore the possible donation of 50 acres of December 2, 2002 Page 13 land to the City of McHenry. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. COMMITTEE REPORTS Community Development Committee Chairman Alderman Wimmer announced a Community Development Committee Meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, December 4, 2002 at 3:30 p.m. in the Aldermen Conference Room. Parks and Recreation Committee Chairman Alderman Low announced a Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, December 11, 2002 at 7:00 p.m. in the Aldermen Conference Room. Finance and Personnel Committee Chairman Alderman Murgatroyd reported a Finance and Personnel Committee Meeting was held this evening prior to the Council Meeting and minutes will be forthcoming. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS Assistant Administrator Lockerby reported there will be a visioning session at the December 16, 2002 regularly scheduled Council Meeting. This is part of the Downtown Redevelopment Plan. Representatives of Trkla Pettigrew, Allen and Payne will be in attendance and leading the discussion. Assistant Administrator Lockerby noted there would be both small group and large group exercises as members from the community have also been invited to participate in this session. Police Chief O'Meara reported one of the City's dispatchers has been ill and out of the office for approximately seven weeks. There is no current prognosis for her return at this time. The Department is utilizing part time dispatchers to assist in filling in the scheduling gaps. Chief O'Meara also noted a records department employee has been out ill for the past three weeks. Director Parks and Recreation Merkel reminded Council the tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, December 8`n at 4 p.m. Director Merkel also reported the City has been approached about doing an internship in the Parks and Recreation Department. This would be a 10-12 week program which would begin in March. He noted this individual is a City resident who has previously worked for the Parks and Recreation Department. It is anticipated a weekly educational stipend would be paid. Some discussion occurred regarding the payment of a stipend versus no salary being provided. It was the consensus of Council additional information should be provided and that the matter be considered at the Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting to be held on December 11 cn Director Community Development Napolitano reported he received the final report t on the air quality study for Valley View School on Wednesday, November 27t', and the overall conclusion was the levels of the crystalline silica dust and particulate matter were well below the unhealthful levels. Director Napolitano stated he would provided copies of December 2, 2002 Page 14 the report in this week's Friday Report and make a copy available to District 15, as well as �- to members of McCORE. City Clerk Jones reported three events are upcoming: • McHenry Township Building Addition Open House on Saturday, December Ph from 10:00 a.m. until 3 p.m.; • McHenry County Council of Government's Annual Christmas Dinner at the McHenry Country Club on Wednesday, December 18th; • Employee Holiday Celebration is scheduled for Friday, December 20tn NEW BUSINESS Alderman Glab inquired if the detention ponds in Boone Creek Subdivision have been dedicated to the City or is the maintenance responsibility that of the Home Owners Association. Director Marcinko responded the detention ponds are owned by and maintained by the Association. Alderman Glab expressed his displeasure with the "No Trespassing" signs. Alderman Glab suggested Staff draft a letter to alert the Association of the unsightliness of the signs. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Low, seconded by Glab, to adjourn the meeting a 10:40 p.m. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. The Meeting was adjourned at 10:40 p.m. C MA I OR CITY CL