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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 10/26/2010 - Community Development Committee COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING \.. Tuesday, October 26, 2010 Aldermen's Conference Room, 7:00 p.m. In Attendance: Committee Members: Chairman Alderman Condon, Alderman Peterson and Alderman Santi. Absent: None. Also in Attendance: Deputy City Administrator Martin, Construction and Neighborhood Services Director Schwalenberg and City Clerk Jones. Also in Atten�lance: Adrian Plante, 1207 Broadway, McHenry, Illinois Public Inqut Session Mr. Adrian Plante, a resident of the City of McHenry, addressed the Committee regarding a proposed change in Section 6-2, subsection (b) of the City of McHenry Animal Ordinance in the Municipal Core. Mr. Plante stated that he would like to see the ordinance amended to permit the keeping and raising of backyard chickens, specifically hens. He announced that several other Councils around the Miclwest and Chicagoland area have approved similar ordinances. Mr. Plante suggested the following restrictions be adopted for the ordinance: • Limit of 6 hens per property; � No roosters; • No slaughter of any kind; � • Notification and acquiescence of neighbors; • Setback of fifteen feet from the residence for the chicken coop; • Coop must be weatherproof, predator proof and specifically constructed for hens; • Annual permit, with a$50.00 annual fee should be required; • Limit of 201icenses in the City limits per year, for the first three years; • All food must be kept in rodent proof containers; and • Fresh water must be available to the animals at all times. Mr. Plante stated that the keeping of hens is a wonderful experience for the family and for children. Additionally, the hens provide a year round supply of fresh, safe eggs and the hens are excellent at c��ntrolling unwanted weeds and pests in the yard. Mr. Plante provided the Committee with a CD and suggested that anyone on the Committee could obtain additional information by going online at www.cluckmchenrv.com. Chairman Alderman Condon thanked Mr. Plante for the presentation. She noted that she and Deputy City Administrator Martin have had a brief discussion regarding this matter. She assured Mr. Plante the matter would be considered further, and will be included on the Agenda for discussion at the January 25, 2011 Community Development Committee meeting. ConNnued Discussion Re�ardin�Code Enforcement Uadate Deputy City Acimmistrator Martin informed the Committee that code enforcement and property maintenance issues continue to be at the forefront of responsibilities for the Construction and � Community Development Committee Meeting October 26, 2010 Page 2 `- Neighborhood Services Department. Currently, the City has one person fully dedicated to code enforcement. Building inspectors also assist on as as-needed basis. Deputy City �dministrator Martin provided the Committee with compazative graphs depicting the number of complaints received in the first nine months of the 2009 and 2010. He explained that there is one graph/violation category. The violations are categorized as one of the following: • Dangerous building; • Housing; • Miscel;aneous Violation; • Nuisance Violation; and • Zoning. Additionally, the chart shows the number of complaints and their disposition. Each violation is described on t}ie graph, along with the number of complaints in 2009 and 2010 for the particular category. Deputy City Administrator Martin noted that an annual update would be provided in an effort to keep the Committee apprised of code enforcement activities on a year to year basis. Chairman Alderman Condon opined that the information provided is interesting to see on an annual, ongoing basis. She noted the graph layout of the information is helpful. Deputy City Administrator Martin noted that periodically the same information is provided in the Friday �-- Report. Discussion Regardin�Incentives for Small and Medium Sized Businesses Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that he recently attended a 3-day class, funded by the Federal Government, entitled "Comprehensive Plan for Economic Development." Deputy City Administrator Martin stated that the City of McHenry has a strong industrial, healthcare and retail base. However, as a result of shifting economic conditions businesses in these sectors must stay lean in order to remain competitive. The relocation, consolidation and/or closings of struggling businesses are possibilities at any time. One of the goals of the Economic Development Plan is to develop strategies to retain existing business in the City by implementing a business retention program. Business retention is an important aspect of economic development with 75% of new jobs created by existing businesses. The objective of the program is to establish a relationship with the business community. Deputy City Administrator Martin reiterated that in 2008, the Community Development Committee discussed business retention. At that time Staff developed a Business Retention Survey targeted at large manufacturing employers. A five-minute marketing video was prepared by the City in ronjunction with the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce. In 2009 the Council adopted an Economic Development Plan and a business retention event was held at Medela, Inc. � This year, Staff has been working with the President of Chirch Global Manufacturing and has Community D��velopment Committee Meeting October 26, 2C 10 Page 3 �' developed a short list of alternative financing options that could be made available to businesses, as opposed to t raditional bank or conventional lending methods. Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that many cities have adopted formal business incentive programs and offer means by which a business could obtain low-interest financing, sale� tax rebates or other programs to leverage potential investment in the community. The programs are common today but funding is often limited due to the financial conditions of many commur�.ities in McHenry County. The City of McHenry currently offers the following economic development incentives: • Tax Inc rement Financing District; • Revolving Loan Fund Program; • Fa�ade Improvement Grant Program; • Business District; and • Industr�al Revenue Bonds. Deputy City Administrator Martin noted that several different methods of economic development incentives exist for the Committee to consider, such as expanding the list of incentives cunently offered, development of a specific economic policy (other than the goals and objectives outlined in the current Economic Development Plan) and establishing preferred or primary economic development areas, corridors or zones. Deputy City Administrator Martin noted that resources are available that are not used to the `-- fullest potential and that few businesses are aware of (i.e., the Small Business Development Center at Shaw Center). The Small Business Development Center offers counseling, information regarding government funded programs, and services are free of charge. Depu,ty City Administrator Martin suggested as a future project a proposal for a strategy encouraging residents to shop locally. Also, next year he proposed a project providing five different and diverse individuals with disposable cameras, requesting that they take photographs of different locations with 12 "likes"and 12 "dislikes." Deputy City Administrator Martin stated he was providing this information to the Committee as an introductio�i to potential economic incentives and programs that could be considered regarding formulation of a draft policy or program. If the Committee is interested in establishing a policy, Staff will research the issues further. Chairman Alderman Condon opined that she is in favor of the idea encouraging people to "Shop McHenry." Alderman Peterson concurred with Alderman Condon, stating he is always in favor of encouraging people to shop locally. Alderman Santi indicated he liked the idea about the distribution of cameras to five individuals, so long as multiple demographics are served. Alderman Santi suggested that whatever the project it be a joint effort with the Chamber of Commerce. � Community D�velopment Committee Meeting October 26, 2G 10 Page 4 `-' Deputy City A dministrator Martin informed the Committee that he was currently in the process of informally ��btaining information from someone with extensive marketing experience. He is also attemptin}; to ascertain the cost of a formal proposal, which would provide direction to the City regarding any marketing efforts. Alderman Peterson opined he would be interested in listening to a ��roposal. Chairman Alderman Condon stated that she would like to see a draft of written policy regarding specific incentives at the next scheduled meeting of the Community Development(;ommittee. It was the con;�ensus of the Committee to direct Staff to prepare a draft form of a written policy regarding specific incentives for economic development to be reviewed at the next scheduled meeting of the Community Development Committee. Discussion Regardin� Review of Fees for ResidenNal Minor Permits Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that it has been over ten years since the City of Mc;Henry reviewed minor permit fees. Minor permits are issued for sheds, decks, driveway construction, swimming pools, siding and re-roofing. Minor permits are primarily sought by homeowners, but can also be issued to businesses. Staff is suggesting that the fees currently char�;ed be updated to enable the City to recover some of the costs associated with review and inspections. Deputy City Administrator Martin noted it would be difficult to recover all costs due to the unique circumstances associated with each permit. Deputy City Administrator Martin provided the Committee with a spreadsheet outlining the �, types of minor permits, including the current cost of each, the number of permits issued during the past nine months and the recommended fee increase. The spreadsheet also includes information regarding the fees charged in Algonquin, Crystal Lake, Lake in the Hills and Woodstock. He noted that the fee updates are solely for residential development. Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that Staff is also proposing: • a plan review fee for new construction, additions and alterations, and; • a fee to issue a temporary occupancy permit. He stated that a plan review fee would help to ensure that a person is serious in their consideration of the project. He noted a plan review fee would not be assessed for minor permits. Deputy City Administrator Martin noted that temporary occupancy permits are often issued for non-life safety and weather-related items such as landscaping and concrete driveway approaches that cannot be completed during the winter months, yet the home is habitable. At the time a temporary occupancy permit is issued, the owner is required to sign an agreement stating that the outstanding item(s) will be completed by a predetermined date. Staff is proposing a fee of$50 to cover the cost to prepare the temporary occupancy permit and additional inspections that must be conducted prior to issuing a certificate of occupancy. Deputy City Administrator Martin stated that most communities charge a fee for occupancy permits, but not temporary occupancy permits. However, Staff is of the opinion that the cost of an occupancy permit is already built �, into the actual huilding permit fee therefore, no additional fee is warranted. Community D��velopment Committee Meeting October 26, 2C 10 Page 5 `' Staff is reques:ing the Committee review the proposed revised fees for residential minor permits and if approve 3, forward a recommendation to the Council to amend Municipal Code Section 7- 3 updating the� permit fees as presented. Staff is also suggesting that in the future, fees be reviewed even�two to three years. Responding tc� an inquiry from the Committee, Construction and Neighborhood Services Director Schwalenberg stated that often in the case of an in-ground swimming pool, six or seven inspections are required pending completion of the project. Chairman Aldc;rman Condon opined that the recommendations are reasonable. However, it was noted that even with the recommended changes, it appears that Staff time is not completely compensated fi�r. Director Schwalenberg informed the Committee that Staff made an effort not to put an undue burden on residents. Chairman Alderman Condon stated she is comfortable with the changes recommended by Staff. Alderman Santi concurred with Chairman Alderman Condon. Motion by Santi, seconded by Peterson, to direct Staff to submit the amendments to Municipal Code Section 7-3 updating permit fees to full Council for consideration. Aye: Condon, Santi. Peterson Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. � Discussion Regardin�Main Street Revitalization Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that one of the goals of the Community Development Committee for 2010 was to evaluate short-term strategies to revitalize the Main Street commercial area and to invite Main Street business owners to participate in an open discussion. In September 2008, the Community Development Committee formulated and Council adopted the Main Street Sub-Area Plan. The plan is a long-term tool used as a guide in making future planning decisions in the area, which includes a much larger geographical area than the Main Street commercial district. As part of the planning process, two open houses were held prior to the Public Hearing before the Planning and Zoning Commission. Last year the Committee considered establishing a "Main Street" program, however it was determined this was not feasible. This year the Community Development Committee and the Landmark Commission created historic banners for the Main Street, Green Street and Riverside Drive neighborhoods. The banners are a tool to promote the historical attributes of each area and create neighborhoods. Property owners are given the option of regarding whether or not they desire to pursue historical designation. Deputy City Administrator Martin reiterated that the Committee recommended and Council authorized a contract with Via Wa�nding to design signs for the City that will assist in enhancing the a reas. � Community Development Committee Meeting October 26, 2010 Page 6 �"" Staff is of the opinion that the largest impediment to any short-term improvements along Main Street is comrr unication between Main Street business owners and between the business owners and the City. Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that when the design workshop for the Core Dowr town Sub-Area Plan was held, two things occurred: 1. Property owners conveyed their ideas and concerns to Staff, and; 2. Property owners conversed with one another. Staff suggests �nviting Main Street property owners from Crystal Lake Road (4030 Main Street) on the west tc► just east of North Front Street (3815 West Main Street) for an open house discussion. Staff is recommending that if the Committee is agreeable to an open house that the Committee: • outline potential topics for discussion, • establish a date and time for the meeting, and; � direct Staff to invite property owners from within the boundaries of the previously established geographical area to the open house. Chairman Alderman Condon opined that she believes a "round table discussion" would be more productive than an open house. The City would then be in a position to facilitate discussion. A brief discussion ensued. �-- It was the consensus of the Committee to direct Staff to invite business owners in the designated areas to a round table discussion on a date to be established. It was determined that the invitational letters would be issued by the City. Discussion Re�arding 2010 Accomalishments and 2011 MeetinE Schedule Deputy City Administrator Martin summarized the end of year review and accomplishments of the Community Development Committee. He stated that 2009/2010 was a productive year with the Committee accomplishing many of its goals. Responding to an inquiry from Alderman Peterson regarding the licensing of rental properties, Deputy City Administrator Martin stated that the issue needs to be discussed with the City Attorney. Director Schwalenberg opined that licensing would be ideal for rental properties as it would facilitate inspection on an annual basis. 2011 Meetin Dates: Chairman Alderman Condon informed the Committee that she would be unable to attend the meeting scheduled on January 25, 2011. Additionally, in an effort to conserve the City's resources the total number of ineetings of the Community Development Committee has been limited. She noted that should anything arise that needed to be addressed a special meeting could always be scheduled during the year. Deputy City Administrator Martin suggested not having a meeti�lg in January and instead scheduling a meeting for February 22, 2011, at which time the matter regarding the backyard hens could be discussed in detail. � Community D�,velopment Committee Meeting October 26, 2010 Page 7 �' The Communi•y Development Committee 2011 meetings dates were agreed to as follows: • February 22, 2011 • March l5, 2011 (Main Street meeting?) • April (?10 meeting) � May 1?, 2011 • June (I�o meeting) � July(No meeting) • August 23, 2011 • September(No meeting) • October 25, 2011 • November(No meeting) • December(No meeting) End of the Year Review • Drive-i» Establishments: The Committee created a review criteria for new drive-in establishments. These criteria are listed on a handout, which will be presented to anyone considering the construction of a drive-in establishment. • Rental Properties: The Committee discussed the regulations, tracking and licensing of rental properties in the City. Detective John Adams made a presentation to the Committee and discussed these issues in the context of the Crime Free Multi-Housing Program. d. • Chairman Alderman Condon stated she would strongly support the purchase of the $400 computer program in the 2010/2011 Budget, which would facilitate this Program. � Creatio�l of Historic District. The committee discussed the creation of an historic district. A public hearing was held on this issue and due to public opposition the Committee chose not to pursue the topic further at this time. • Administrative Adjudication Ordinance. The Committee reviewed and updated the Administration Adjudication Ordinance. Additionally, the Committee reviewed and revised the way the adjudication hearings are conducted in the City. A revised ordinance was adopted by Council. ■ Hearings are held on the 2°d and 4�" Thursday of the month at 1:30 p.m. in the Municipal Center ■ Economic Incentives for Small to Medium-Size Businesses. The Committee discussed economic incentives for small to medium size business and reviewed how other communities in McHenry County address the issue. ■ Residential Setbacks for Garages. The Committee discussed revised setbacks for residential garages in an effort to consider/promoting tandem parking. The Committee chose not to pursue any zoning ordinance amendments at this time. ■ Main Street Revitalization. The Committee discussed how Main Street could be revitalized and how the needs of this area could be met. The Committee also discussed how communication between the business owners could be improved, in addition to commuttication between the business owners and the City. �.- Community Development Committee Meeting October 26, 2(�10 Page 8 `" ■ Creatic n of Historic Neighborhoods. The Committee discussed the concept of creating historic neighborhoods in the areas of Green Street, Riverside Drive and Main Street. The Cc�mmittee and the Landmark Commission reviewed and recommended the creation of thre�; historic banners, which will be brought forth upon completion of the design for the downtown wa�nding signs. ■ Code C'ompliance Activities. The committee discussed and reviewed code enforcement activiti�:s. Statistics were provided by the Construction and Neighborhood Services Depart�nent. ■ Regularion of Commercial Vehicles. The Committee reviewed the regulations for parking commercial vehicles in residential areas. The Council subsequently adopted an amendment to the zoning ordinance regarding this issue. ■ Regulation of Recreation Vehicles and Trailers. The Committee reviewed the regulations for parking recreational vehicles and trailers in residential areas. Council subsequently adopted an amendment to the zoning ordinance regarding this issue. ■ Regulation of Temporary Uses. The Committee discussed revisions to the temporary use section of the zoning ardinance. A revised Temporary Use Permit Application form was created and amendments will be brought to Council in November. • Wa�nding Signs. The Committee considered three wa�nding sign design proposals to create uniform wa�nding signs for the City and specifically to attract and retain businesses in the downtown area. The proposal recommended was approved by Council and the signs will be erected in spring of 2011. ■ Creation of a Nuisance Abatement Ordinance. Detective John Adams attended a `- Committee meeting to discuss a proposed Nuisance Abatement Ordinance, which would give the City more authority to deal with actual properties from which there are many arrests and police calls. The ordinance was adopted by Council. • Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance Regarding Signs. The committee proposed amendments to the sign ordinance to reduce the time period regarding notification of signs not in compliance with City ordinances, as well as to reduce the time period a property owner has to remove a sign advertising a business no longer located on the property. ■ Snow Removal. The committee discussed and recommended Staff enforce snow removal complaints on sidewalks on a complaint basis only during the upcoming winter season. In addition, Staff will track the number and location of complaints together with Staff time involved in resolving them. ■ Update of Minor Permit Fees. The Committee discussed amendments to the Municipal Code regarding minor permit fees. The fees have not been adjusted in more than a decade. The recommendations will be forwarded to Council for consideration and action. Deputy City Administrator Martin suggested that next year's goals should include: ■ Updating the building code; ■ Alternative wind energy(which is in the developmental stages, but ready to take of�; ■ Municipal and Zoning Code updates and ■ Economic Development � Community D�velopment Committee Meeting October 26, 2C 10 Page 9 �"' Chairman Ald�,rman Condon encouraged any of the Committee members with topics they would like to have acidressed at future meetings of the Community Development Committee to please contact Deput}�City Administrator Martin via e-mail. Other Business Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that Panda Express has expressed an interest in property in McHenry. He noted the venture looks promising. Deputy City Administrator Martin informed the Committee that McDonald's is building a third location in the City of McHenry, where the former LaSalle Bank is located. Deputy City A.dministrator Martin informed the Committee that a Party City is opening next door to TJMax K. Deputy City A�iministrator Martin informed that Committee that Staff is planning a meeting with representatives of CVS. They have expressed interest in some property on State Route 120. Additionally, O'Reilly Auto Parts is planning on building a new store in the area. Adiournment Motion by Peterson, seconded by Santi to adjourn the meeting at 8:27 p.m. Aye: Condon, Santi. Peterson � Nay: None. Absent: None. Motion carried. Respectfully su mitted, G ri Condon, Chairman �