Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 04/07/2003 - City Council REGULAR MEETING APRIL 7, 2003 The Regular Meeting of the McHenry City Council was called to order by Deputy - Clerk Kunzer at 7:30 P.M. on Monday, April 7, 2003 in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Center. At roll call the following Aldermen were present: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd and Wimmer. Absent: Mayor Althoff. City Staff in attendance were: City Administrator Maxeiner, Assistant Administrator Lockerby, Deputy Clerk Kunzer, City Attorney McArdle, Chief of Police O'Meara, Director Community Development Napolitano, Director Public Works Marcinko, and Director Parks and Recreation Merkel. Absent: City Clerk Jones. In the absence of Mayor Althoff, Deputy Clerk Kunzer requested a motion from the floor to nominate a Mayor Pro Tem for this evening's meeting. Motion by Glab, seconded by Murgatroyd, to nominate Alderman Low as Mayor Pro Tem for this evening's meeting. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. Mayor Pro Tem Low took the chair. TEN MINUTE PUBLIC INPUT _- Steven Pool of 1909 Trappers Court, president of the Olde Mill Ponds Subdivision Homeowner's Association, addressed Council, noting his continued concern regarding speeding and vandalism occurring within their subdivision. He noted the residents are making every effort to assist the Police Department by being vigilant, however, the violations continue to occur. Mr. Pool suggested the City increase police patrol within the subdivision, and/or reduce the posted speed limit to 20 mph, and/or temporarily locate the speed trailer in the subdivision. At Mayor Pro Tem Low's request, Chief O'Meara agreed to meet with a representative group of Olde Mill Ponds residents on Wednesday, April 9tn at 10 a.m. in the Police Department. CONSENT AGENDA Alderman Bolger requested Consent Agenda Item B, List of As-Needed Checks, be removed from the Consent Agenda for further discussion. Motion by Glab, seconded by Wimmer, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended: • Minutes of the City Council Meeting: o March 17, 2003 regularly scheduled meeting Ratification of NISRA Budget for Fiscal Year 2003-2004; Ordinance authorizing the Execution of a Pre-Annexation Agreement for the property located at 2821 West Lincoln Road. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. April 7, 2003 Page 2 LIST OF AS-NEEDED CHECKS Alderman Bolger, referencing the List of As-Needed Checks, noted he has encouraged the City to spend its money locally. He expressed his concern regarding the City's donation toward a Jack Pettigrew Memorial. He questioned the donation, and suggested the bill should be paid other than by the City taxpayers. Mayor Pro Tem Low suggested the Council be apprised of the circumstances leading to the donation in this week's Friday Report. Motion by Glab, seconded by Murgatroyd, to approve the List of As Needed Checks as presented: GENERAL FUND FIRST MIDWEST BANK 53.67 FOP UNITS I/II 1,485.00 HOME DEPOT/GECF 342.46 ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF 444.00 ILLINOIS STATE POLICE 38.00 IMRF 34,207.57 MARCINKO, DANIEL J 121.21 MCHENRY COUNTY COUNCIL 0 58.00 MCHENRY COUNTY RECORDER 144.00 MCHENRY SAVINGS BANK 610,000.00 MCPOA 660.10 NATIONAL GUARDIAN LIFE I 123.83 NCPERS GROUP LIFE INS. 255.00 PETTY CASH FUND 199.08 POSTMASTER MCHENRY IL 924.08 -. RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE 50.00 SAM'S CLUB 124.62 SECRETARY OF STATE 156.00 SECRETARY OF STATE / POL 78.00 UNITED PARCEL SERVICE 89.92 UNITED STATES LIFE INSUR 934.20 UNITED WAY OF MCHENRY CO 252.00 WALMART COMMUNITY BRC 1,081.62 RECREATION CENTER FUND MCHENRY SAVINGS BANK 615,000.00 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FUND COMED 56,443.88 WATER/SEWER FUND UNITED PARCEL SERVICE 10.40 UNITED STATES LIFE INSUR 137.70 BOND RESERVE FUND MCHENRY SAVINGS BANK 310,000.00 EMPLOYEE INSURANCE FUND BENEFIT SYSTEMS 6 SERVIC 21,177.43 MCHENRY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT MCHENRY DOWNTOWN BUSINES 250.00 RETAINED PERSONNEL ESCROW MCHENRY COUNTY RECORDER 25.00 GRAND TOTALS 1,654,866.77 Voting Aye: Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Bolger. Absent: None. Motion carried. April 7, 2003 Page 3 AWARD OF ONE-YEAR CONTR CT WITH MELROSE PYROTECHNICS FOR THE SATURDAY JULY 5 2003 FIREWORKS DISPLAY City Administrator Maxeiner stated the proposed one-year contract with Melrose Pyrotechnics is being provided for Council consideration and approval at the recommendation of the Parks and Recreation Committee. The Committee at its March 13, 2003 meeting, in response to questions raised by McHenry resident and owner of New Horizon Pyrotechnics Larry Brodin, determined it•*was too late in the year to request proposals from pyrotechnic firms for a three-year contract. The one-year contract was offered as a compromise with the understanding the City, in conjunction with the McHenry Jaycees, co-sponsors of the annual event, seek Request for Proposals prior to the award of the next contract. Mayor Pro Tem Low recognized Mr. Brodin and invited him to address Council regarding this matter. Mr. Brodin stated he has attempted to secure a fireworks display contract with the City for several years. He most recently approached the City in November, 2002, and again at the Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting held on March 13 2003. He opined the City would have a much better July 4t' display if his firm was utilized. In response to Alderman Bolger's inquiry, Mr. Brodin stated he spoke to Director Parks and Recreation Merkel in November, 2002, regarding the pyrotechnics contract. Alderman Glab opined the cost of fireworks displays continues to escalate annually. He questioned the 1 Y% penalty if a rain date is utilized. Director Merkel indicated the penalty would be incurred only if the initial July 5"' date or its alternative July 61h were not utilized. In response to an inquiry, Director Merkel noted Melrose Pyrotechnics has been providing the fireworks display for the past six or seven years. The event is actually sponsored and run by the Jaycees. However, in order to secure liability insurance, the contract for the event is signed by the City. The McHenry Jaycees still continue to provide the majority of the funding for the event. Additionally, there are donations from individuals and businesses in the community. Alderman Glab opined the issue of cost and vender be addressed prior to signing the contract for the 2004 Fireworks display. City Administrator Maxeiner reiterated the Jaycees provide the major portion of the funding for the fireworks event. He also noted the contract is signed by the City due to the fact the Jaycees would have to purchase liability insurance to cover the event, which currently falls under the umbrella of the City's general liability insurance. City Administrator Maxeiner stated the City, in conjunction with the McHenry Jaycees, would investigate requests for proposals for the fireworks program for July 4, 2004. Discussion continued regarding affording New Horizon Pyrotechnics an opportunity to submit a proposal before next year's contract is executed. Motion by Murgatroyd, seconded by Wimmer, to approve and authorize the Mayor's "�- execution of a contract with Melrose Pyrotechnics of Kingsbury, Indiana in an amount not- to-exceed $25,000 for the July 5, 2003 Fireworks Display, with a rain date of July 6, 2003. April 7, 2003 Page 4 Voting Aye: Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Bolger, Glab. Absent: None. Motion carried. REQUEST FOR STREET CLOSURE ON GREEN STREET—SOAP BOX DERBY EVENT ON JUNE 28, 2003 ' In attendance was Mr. Jim Marinangel of the McHenry Kiwanis Club, sponsor of the Soap Box Derby Event scheduled for June 28, 2008. Mayor Pro Tem Low invited Mr. Marinangel to address Council regarding the closure of Green Street for the Soap Box Derby. Mr. Marinangel reminded Council at its January 6, 2003 regularly scheduled meeting, Staff was directed to work with the Kiwanis to determine the best location for the proposed Soap Box Derby. Staff has recommended the Derby be conducted on Waukegan Road down the hill to the east through its intersection with Green Street to the terminus of the driveway to East Campus High School. Mr. Marinangel stated, as previously approved by Council, that throughout the day, Green Street would be closed from time to time to allow for races to occur. In addition to the periodic closing, the Kiwanis Club is now requesting full closure of Green Street at its intersection with Waukegan from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on June 28t'. Mr. Marinangel noted there could then be a parade of all participating _ vehicles, perhaps the high school band, singing of the national anthem, and an "official" start to the final laps of the race. This would enhance spectator enjoyment and provide recognition for all racers who participate in the event. Mr. Marinangel noted if the intersection were closed between the hours of 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., detours could be arranged around the closure. He also suggested the City might "bag" the "No Left Turn" signs from Green onto Elm Street during the two-hour closure. Aldermen Glab and Wimmer stated they would not.want to interfere with the "No Left Turn" signs, even for a two-hour period. Alderman Bolger expressed concern regarding closing the street during prime time for Saturday evening church services. In response to an inquiry, Mr. Marinangel stated residents on Waukegan east of Green Street would be permitted to utilize the East Campus cut-through drive to John Street. Alderman Murgatroyd expressed concern with confusing motorists if Green Street is closed intermittently throughout the day and permanently closed between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. At Alderman Glab's suggestion, the Kiwanis were encouraged to rent a sign to inform motorists of the closure of Green Street. In response to Mayor Pro Tem Low's inquiry, Chief of Police O'Meara stated the Police Department has no concerns and will assist with the event throughout the day. April 7, 2003 Page 5 Motion by Glab, seconded by Bolger, to approve the closure of Green Street from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday, June 2e for the Soap Box Derby Event sponsored by the McHenry Kiwanis. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. REQUEST FOR VARIATION IN ALLOWABLE HOURS OF CONSTRUCTION ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION ROUTE 120 IMPROVEMENTS Director Public Works Marcinko stated the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has requested a variance from the City of McHenry permitted hours of construction operation as outlined in the Municipal Code: Current Hours of Operation Weekdays Saturdays Sundays and Holidays 7 a.m.until 8 p.m. 8 a.m.until 8 p.m. 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Proposed Hours of Operation Weekdays Saturdays Sundays and Holidays 5:30 a.m.until 9 p.m. 5:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Director Marcinko noted IDOT is also requesting a variance to permit 24-hour saw cutting of curb and pavement. He pointed out if the variance is granted, the project will be substantially completed by fall of this year with just landscaping restoration, and minor cleanup to be concluded next spring. If, however, the variance is not granted, the City would undergo two summers of roadway construction inconveniences. It would be to the City's benefit to accede to the request. A lengthy discussion followed regarding the volume of noise which could be. generated by the project and the impact on the residents. Director Marcinko commented that IDOT does not require City permission to extend its hours of operation, but was requesting same as a courtesy to the City. Motion by Bolger, seconded by Wimmer, to approve the expansion of hours of operation for the Route 120 Road Improvements by the Illinois Department of Transportation as follows: Weekdays Saturdays Sundays and Holidays 5:30 a.m.until 9 p.m. 5:30 a.m.until 9 p.m. 8 a.m.until 6 p.m. Plus 24-hour saw cutting of curb and pavement during the duration of the Project. Voting Aye: Bolger, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: Glab. Absent: None. Motion carried. Apri 17, 2003 Page 6 MAYOR—STATEMENT AND REPORT In the absence of the Mayor, there was no Mayor Statement and Report. COMMITTEE REPORTS Chairman Alderman Wimmer announced a Community Development Committee Meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, 2003 at 3:30 p.m. to discuss the formation of the Aesthetics Committee. Chairman Alderman Murgatroyd of the Finance and Personnel Committee reminded Council of the Finance and Personnel Committee scheduled for Thursday, April 10, 2003 at 7 p.m. in the Aldermen's Conference Room. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the 2003-2004 Budget. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORTS Chief of Police O'Meara reported there was a five vehicle traffic accident on Elm Street last week which forced the complete closure of Elm Street from 4:50 p.m. until approximately 8 p.m. Due to the extent of the injuries to the parties involved, the Crash Investigation Team conducted a detailed investigation of the scene. Further information will be provided in this week's Friday Report. Director Public Works Marcinko announced the raw sewage pump went out at the Wastewater Treatment Plant over the weekend. The City has four other pumps, but is still only pumping at 75% capacity. The pump is being pulled to determine if it can be repaired. If not, an emergency acquisition will be required. Council will be kept apprised of the situation. Director Marcinko also reported a letter has been prepared which will be sent to all Route 120 businesses who will be impacted by the impending road improvement project. The letter invites the business/property owners to attend an informational/construction update meeting on Wednesday, April le, and alternate Wednesdays thereafter until the project is completed. Council will be provided a copy of the letter in this week's Friday Report. Director Parks and Recreation Merkel reported the 8.5-acre parcel across Green Street from the Municipal Center now belongs to the City. The real estate transaction closed last week. He noted the disposition of the property and the two structures located on it will be an Agenda item at the Parks and Recreation Committee Meeting scheduled for May 15cn Director Merkel, referencing the $88,000 grant award from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources for installation of a boat launch, noted the project calls for seeding the area following installation of the boat launch. He suggested Council consider planting sod _ in this area, as well as the area affected by the McCullom Lake Sanitary Sewer line installation, in order to make the Petersen Park Beach area more usable for summer activities such as the July 4`h Program, Fiesta Days, and general beach and park usage. In order to move forward and ensure the sod takes root before heavy summer usage, he stated he will be seeking waiver of bid from Council. April 7, 2003 Page 7 Director Community Development Napolitano reported he had met with Adjudication Officer Semrow, Assistant Administrator Lockerby, and the City's Code Compliance Inspectors to determine the best procedure to proceed with ways to address overcrowding in the City. He requested this matter be placed on the Agenda for the April 30, 2003 Community Development Committee Meeting. Chairman Wimmer concurred. Director Napolitano also reported on the two fires at China Light last Friday. The second floor of the building has been tagged inhabitable. The restaurant has sustained water damage and there may be some electrical repairs required. Director Napolitano announced April 61h through the 12th is International Building Safety Week. The Community Development Department is promoting the annual event which encourages building safety. City Administrator Maxeiner reported he had received the Tax Cap Worksheets from the County Clerk. He noted the TIF generated $38,500 in its first year. A complete report of the Worksheet will be provided in this week's Friday Report. -- City Administrator Maxeiner also reported he had spoken with Mike Etten of Park Ridge Estates Subdivision. Mr. Etten requested the services of City Attorney McArdle, at the City's expense, at the upcoming subdivision meetings to be held at the Municipal Center. City Administrator Maxeiner requested Council direction regarding the request. Following some discussion, it was the consensus of Council that the request be denied. City Administrator Maxeiner stated he would inform Mr. Etten of Council's decision. Deputy Clerk Kunzer informed Council the canvassing board met and verified the results of the April 1, 2003 Consolidated Election. Certification of the results has been sent to the State Board of Elections and a certified copy will be filed with the Local Election Official, the McHenry County Clerk, on Tuesday, April 8, 2003. NEW BUSINESS Alderman Bolger reported he visited Anne Street and Grove Avenue residents in an effort to secure easements for the Edgebrook Drainage Project. He noted he received a favorable response from the residents. Alderman Bolger also reported the redevelopment of the Handy Pantry property on Elm Street is moving forward. The case was presented before the Planning and Zoning Commission last Thursday and received a favorable recommendation. More than 200 letters requesting donations toward the Riverwalk have been sent out. In conclusion, Alderman Bolger stated he had been contacted by someone desiring to hold a one-time showing at the McHenry Theater. Alderman Murgatroyd reported he has been contacted by area businesses regarding a possible relocation of a local bar on Elm Street adjacent to Happy Jacks Family Restaurant. He noted area residents and business owners are opposed to the relocation of the tavern. City Administrator Maxeiner stated the closing on the property was scheduled for Thursday, April 101h, however, the new owners have not initiated proceedings to request a conditional use and/or liquor license for the new location as April 7, 2003 Page 8 required by ordinance. He noted Council will be kept apprised of the situation. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Wimmer, seconded by Glab, to adjourn the meeting at 8:52 p.m. Voting Aye: Bolger, Glab, Low, Murgatroyd, Wimmer. Voting Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. The Meeting was adjourned at 8:52 p.m. EPUTY CLERK MAYOR PRO TEM D