HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 07/20/2015 - City CouncilREGULAR MEETING
July 20, 2015
Mayor Low called the regularly scheduled July 20, 2015 meeting of the McHenry City Council to
order at 7:00 p.m. In attendance were the following Aldermen: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer,
Peterson and Condon. Absent: Schaefer. Also in attendance were City Administrator Morefield,
Director of Economic Development Martin, Director of Finance Lynch, Director of Public Works
Schmitt, Chief of Police Jones, City Attorney McArdle and City Clerk Jones.
CITY OF MCHENRY MISSION STATEMENT
Mayor Low read aloud the Mission Statement of the City of McHenry.
CALL TO ORDER A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE
ANNEXATION AGREEMENT FOR THE PRESERVES OF BOONE CREEK
• PUBLIC COMMENT
• COUNCIL COMMENT
• MOTION TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING
(A) MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR AND CITY
CLERK'S EXECUTION OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ANNEXATION
AGREEMENT FOR THE PRESERVES OF BOONE CREEK
Mayor Low called to order the continued Public Hearing regarding the proposed
Amendment to the Annexation Agreement for the Preserves of Boone Creek at 7:01 pm.
City Administrator Morefield reiterated that on April 11, 2005, the City entered into an
Annexation Agreement for the subdivision and development of approximately 300 acres north
of Bull Valley Road, and east and west of Curran Road. The Agreement includes the approval of
a concept plan for the development of 414 single-family homes, 136 townhome dwellings and a
commercial property at the intersection of Bull Valley and Curran Roads. Due to the downturn
in the economy the development was annexed and zoned, however, the property has not
received any type of subdivision plat approval, either preliminary or final.
At the June 15, 2015 Council meeting, Staff brought forth a proposed Amendment to the
Preserves of Boone Creek Annexation Agreement. Because of increasing traffic and safety
concerns at the intersection of Bull Valley and Curran Roads, Staff sought funds through the
McHenry County Council of Mayors Surface Transportation Policy program to facilitate the
completion of a traffic signal and corresponding roadway widening and construction of turn
lanes at Curran and Bull Valley Roads. However, to complete the improvements additional
right-of-way at Bull Valley and Curran Roads is required.
Staff approached Mr. Roger Gerstad to discuss obtaining the right-of-way required.
Obtaining the right-of-way in a timely manner was required to complete the project to preserve
grant funding. In exchange for dedicating the right-of-way, Staff proposed extending the
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July 20, 2015
current Preserves of Boone Creek Annexation Agreement for an additional ten years. As a result
of concerns expressed by Council at the June 15, 2015 meeting, Staff again approached Mr.
Gerstad who agreed to revisions in the original Agreement to Paragraph 6 Agricultural Uses.
Mayor Low asked for comments from the Public in attendance and there were none.
Mayor Low asked for comments from Council.
Alderman Santi thanked Mr. Gerstad for his time and cooperation. He indicated that any
questions or concerns he had have been addressed by Staff.
Responding to an inquiry from Council, City Administrator Morefield indicated that the
approximately cash value of the 10.2 acres is $52,000.
Alderman Glab expressed reservations regarding the commercial portion of the
subdivision.
Alderman Wimmer and Alderman Condon concurred with Alderman Santi, thanking Mr.
Gerstad for returning to address Council.
Motion by Wimmer, second by Santi to close the Public Hearing regarding the First
Amendment to the Preserves of Boone Creek Annexation Agreement, including acceptance of a
Plat of Dedication for right-of-way along Bull Valley Road and Curran Road at 7:06 pm.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
The Public Hearing closed at 7:06 pm.
MOTION TO APPROVE THE ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR'S AND CITY CLERK'S
EXECUTION OF THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE ANNEXATION AGREEMENT FOR THE
PRESERVES OF BOONE CREEK
Motion by Condon, second by Curry, approving an Ordinance authorizing the Mayor and
the City Clerk's execution of the First Amendment to the Preserves of Boone Creek Annexation
Agreement between the City of McHenry, First Midwest Bank Trust #4562, First Midwest Bank
Trust #13375 and Gerstad Builders, subject to revisions in the original Agreement to Paragraph
6, Agricultural Uses.
Voting Aye: Mayor Low, Santi, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: Glab.
Absent: Schaefer.
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July 20, 2015
Motion carried.
CALL TO ORDER A PUBLIC HEARING REGARDING A PROPOSED ANNEXATION AGREEMENT
ANNEXATION CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW AN ASSEMBLY USE INCLUDING A ONE-
NIGHT/WEEK USE AS A PADS (PUBLIC ACTION TO DELIVER SHELTER) FACILITY AND
TEMPORARY SIGN VARIANCES FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1809 S. ROUTE 31
(UNINCORPORATED), KNOWN AS THE CHAPEL
• PUBLIC COMMENT
• COUNCIL COMMENT
• MOTION TO CLOSE THE PUBLIC HEARING
(A) MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR'S AND THE
CITY CLERK'S EXECUTION OF THE ANNEXATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
CITY OF MCHENRY AND THE CHAPEL;
(B) MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE ANNEXING THE PROPERTY AT 1809
SOUTH ILLINOIS ROUTE 31;
(C) MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING A CONDITIONAL USE
PERMIT TO ALLOW AN ASSEMBLY USE INCLUDING A ONE-NIGHT PER WEEK USE
AS A PADS (PUBLIC ACTION TO DELIVER SHELTER) FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED
AT 1809 SOUTH ILLINOIS ROUTE 31, WITH STATED CONDITIONS;
(D) MOTION TO APPROVE TEMPORARY SIGN VARIANCES TO ALLOW TWO
FREESTANDING SIGNS AND A BILLBOARD, WHICH CURRENTLY EXIST ON THE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1809 SOUTH ROUTE 31
Mayor Low opened the Public Hearing regarding a proposed Annexation Agreement for
the property located at 1809 S. Route 31 at 7:08 pm.
City Administrator Morefield stated The Chapel has held worship services at McHenry
High School West Campus for the past several years. The Chapel appeared before Council on
August 19, 2013, to obtain a Conditional Use Permit to allow an assembly use to construct a
new church building. Council authorized execution of an Annexation Agreement, approved an
Ordinance annexing the property, and granted a Conditional Use Permit to allow an assembly
use. The Chapel subsequently purchased the property located at 414 S. Crystal Lake Road,
formerly the Koehn Farm.
City Administrator Morefield informed Council that The Chapel, in the interim was
provided an opportunity to locate to an existing building located at 1809 South Illinois Route
31, and has decided to pursue annexation of the property to the City of McHenry, renovation of
the existing structure and eventually hold services at the property at 1809 S. Illinois Route 31.
City Administrator Morefield explained The Chapel's intentions for the building and the
necessity for a Conditional Use. City Administrator Morefield informed Council the applicant
also submitted a traffic study.
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July 20, 2015
City Administrator Morefield stated The Chapel has been a good partner with the City of
McHenry and has been cooperative and worked with the City in preparing the property
previously annexed. The Chapel staff has been responsive to all concerns raised by City Staff
regarding the property.
The Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval by a vote of
(5-0) of a Conditional Use Permit to allow assembly use, including a one-night per week use as a
PADS site on the property located at 1809 S. Illinois Route 31, as presented, with conditions.
Mayor Low asked for comments from the Public in attendance and there were none.
Mayor Low asked for comments from Council.
Alderman Condon opined The Chapel is community minded.
Alderman Glab stated in his opinion the location is good for the establishment of a
church. He expressed concerns regarding transportation and safety issues for persons utilizing
the PADS facilities. Mayor Low stated it is her belief that the Pioneer Center provides a bus as a
transportation option for those wishing to utilize it.
Director of Economic Development Martin responded to Alderman Curry's inquiries
regarding signage.
Motion by Santi, second by Wimmer, to close the Public Hearing regarding a proposed
Annexation Agreement, Annexation, Conditional Use Permit to allow an assembly use, including
a one-night per week use as a PADS facility and temporary sign variances for the property
located at 1809 South Illinois Route 31 (unincorporated) at 7:12 pm.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
The Public Hearing was closed at 7:12 pm.
Motion by Condon, second by Santi, to approve the Ordinance authorizing the Mayor's
execution of an Annexation Agreement between the City of McHenry and The Chapel.
Voting Aye: Mayor Low, Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
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July 20, 2015
Motion by Santi, second by Curry, to approve the Ordinance annexing the property
located at 1809 South Illinois Route 31.
Voting Aye: Mayor Low, Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
Motion by Condon, second by Curry, to approve the Ordinance authorizing a Conditional
Use Permit to allow an assembly use, including a one-night per week use as a PADS (Public
Action to Deliver Shelter) for the property located at 1809 South Illinois Route 31, with the
conditions stated by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
Motion by Curry, second by Condon, to approve a temporary sign variance to allow two
freestanding signs and a billboard, which currently exists on the property located at 1809 South
Route 31.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
CALL TO ORDER A PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE PRESENTATION OF FISCAL YEAR 20
APPROPRIATION ORDINANCE IN THE AMOUNT OF $44,638,069
(A) MOTION TO APPROVE THE FISCAL YEAR 2015/2016 APPROPRIATION
ORDINANCE IN THE AMOUNT OF 44 638.069. TO BE FILED WITH THE OFFICE
OF THE COUNTY CLERK PURSUANT TO ILLINOIS STATE STATUTE WITHIN 30
DAYS OF ADOPTION
Mayor Low called to order the Public Hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2015/2016
Appropriation Ordinance, in the amount of $44,638,069 at 7:19 pm.
City Administrator Morefield informed Council that the Appropriation Ordinance
provides the legal authority under state statute to allocate funds for specific spending activities.
The Ordinance, which must be adopted no later than the end of the first quarter of the new
fiscal year, also establishes the municipality's legal spending limit for the fiscal year.
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July 20, 2015
The Appropriation Ordinance reflects anticipated expenditure levels found in the annual
operating budget. Budget amendments approved by the City Council during the year and other
adjustments necessitated by unforeseen expenditures would be included in a Supplemental
Appropriation Ordinance.
Mayor Low asked for comments from the Public in attendance and there were none.
Mayor Low asked for comments from Council.
Alderman Curry opined that some of the budgets appear to be overstated.
Motion by Santi, second by Peterson, to close the Public Hearing regarding the Fiscal
Year 2015/2016 Appropriation Ordinance, in the amount of $44,638,069.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
The Public Hearing was closed at 7:21 pm.
Motion by Condon, second by Santi, to approve the Fiscal Year 2015/2016 Appropriation
Ordinance, in the amount of $44,638,069.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
PUBLIC INPUT SESSION
No one signed in to speak at the Public Input Session.
CONSENT AGENDA
A. Special Event Liquor License for St. Patrick Catholic Church Oktoberfest on September 26, 2015;
B. McHenry Elementary School Foundation request to close portions of Glenbrook Trail and Dartmoor Drive and City
support services for the 14th Annual Run/Walk-a-Thon for Literacy on September 6, 2015;
C. Approval of Parks Special Use/Picnic Permits
D. Block Party on Eisenhower Boulevard, Liberty Trail Subdivision;
E. June 15, 2015 City Council meeting minutes;
F. Approval of As Need Checks, in the amount of $110,062.55; and
G. Approval of List of Bills, in the amount of $548,232.23.
Responding to Alderman Santi's inquiry regarding the length of the course for Item B,
Deputy City Administrator Hobson stated it is a 5K, but not a certified course.
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July 20, 2015
Motion by Wimmer, seconded by Santi, to approve the Consent Agenda, as presented.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
MOTION TO APPROVE SIGN VARIANCES FOR REMAX PLAZA 4005 KANE AVENUE TO ALLOW
AN ADDITIONAL WALL SIGN FOR UNITS L M O AND P
City Administrator Morefield reiterated to Council that on July 7, 2015, the Council
considered a sign variance for the property at 4005 Kane Avenue, Unit L, Lucky Poker, to allow a
second wall sign on the south elevation of the ReMax Plaza Shopping Center and Council
expressed the desire for a consistent style sign on rear elevations of buildings, which were not
outlots within shopping centers. Additionally, Council expressed concerns if sign variances are
granted in such instances and there were multiple tenants should the sign have a consistent
appearance as it pertains to size, style and color. Council tabled the variance request submitted
to the July 20, 2015 meeting to provide Staff an opportunity to work with Mr. Jim Schaid, owner
of ReMax Plaza, to present a revised proposal incorporating Councils discussions points.
Mr. Schaid has suggested four sign variances be granted to permit additional wall signs
for Unit 0, L, M and P. He is proposing that each sign would consist of block channel letters
mounted on a raceway or directly onto the wall. Each of the letters would not exceed two feet
in height and lowercase letters would not exceed 1.5 feet in height. All signs would be the same
color. Staff believes this to be a fair compromise and does not believe it to be precedent
setting.
Motion by Condon, second by Peterson, permitting the sign variances for 4005 Kane
Avenue, Unites 0, M and L, with each sign consisting of block channel letters mounted on a
raceway; uppercase letters cannot exceed two feet in height; lowercase letters cannot exceed
1.5 feet in height; signs for all units must be consistent with the color of the current Subway
sign (white); can be backlit; must be mounted directly onto the rear wall or alternatively onto a
raceway and no logos are permitted. Additionally, a sign variance is granted to 4005 Kane
Avenue, Unit P, (currently Subway); consistent with the aforementioned conditions for 4005
Kane Avenue (Units 0, M and Q.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
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MOTION TO APPROVE THE APPLICATION FROM OLD TOWN PIZZA OF MCHENRY D B A OLD
TOWN PIZZA LOCATED AT 514 S. ROUTE 31 FOR A CLASS H LIQUOR LICENSE AND APPROVAL
OF AN ORDINANCE INCREASING THE NUMBER OF CLASS H LIQUOR LICENSES IN EFFECT FROM
FOUR (4) TO FIVE (5)
City Administrator Morefield informed the Council Brian Burkus, owner of Old Town
Pizza, intends to move from his current location on Route 31 to 514 South Route 31 (former site
of Blue Cherry Frozen Yogurt). Mr. Burkus has submitted an application for a Class H liquor
license to serve beer and wine, at tables only, in conjunction with the restaurant.
City Administrator Morefield stated that Mr. Burkus has been fingerprinted by McHenry
Police, all fees have been paid and all required paperwork has been submitted.
Mayor Low announced that she has met with the applicant, Mr. Burkus, and has no
concerns.
Motion by Santi, second by Curry, approving the application from Old Town Pizza of
McHenry d/b/a Old Town Pizza, located at 514 S. Route 31, for a Class H liquor license and an
Ordinance increasing the number of Class H liquor licenses in effect from four (4) to five (5),
with the condition that all employees involved in the sale and service of alcohol obtain BASSET
certification.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
MOTION TO APPROVE AN APPLICATION FROM MCMART, INC. D/B/A MCHENRY MARATHON,
LOCATED AT 4608 W. CRYSTAL LAKE ROAD FOR A CLASS F3 LIQUOR LICENSE AND APPROVAL
OF AN ORDINANCE INCREASING THE NUMBER OF CLASS F3 LIQUOR LICENSES IN EFFECT
FROM FIVE (5) TO SIX (6)
City Administrator Morefield informed the Council that Mr. Kannampallii Esthappan,
owner of McMart, Inc. d/b/a McHenry Marathon, located at 4508 W. Crystal Lake Road, has
submitted an application for a Class F3 liquor license to sell at retail package spirits, beer and
wine in conjunction with a gas station.
City Administrator Morefield stated that Mr. Esthappan and his manager, Mr. Moses
Chinnam have been fingerprinted by McHenry Police, all fees have been paid and all required
paperwork has been submitted.
Mayor Low announced that she has met with the applicant and has no concerns.
Alderman Condon expressed concerns that alcohol would be sold in close proximity to a
school.
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Motion by Santi, second by Curry, approving the application from McMart, Inc. d/b/a
McHenry Marathon, located at 4508 W. Crystal Lake Road, for a Class F3 liquor license and an
Ordinance increasing the number of Class H liquor licenses in effect from five (5) to six (6), with
the condition that all employees involved in the sale and service of alcohol obtain BASSET
certification.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson.
Voting Nay: Condon.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A USE VARIANCE TO ALLOW AN OPEN
SALES LOT OUTDOOR STORAGE AND BULK FUEL STORAGE FOR BIG R STORES LOCATED AT
1860 N. RICHMOND ROAD
City Administrator Morefield informed the Council that Big R Stores, a farm and home
retailer is interested in purchasing the building formerly occupied by Target, located on Lot 1 in
the McHenry Plaza Shopping Center. McHenry Plaza Shopping Center consists of approximately
194,000 square feet and the former Target building is 95,420 square feet. The lot the former
Target building sits on consists of nine acres and contains 521 parking spaces.
Big R is seeking a use variance to allow:
• An open sales lot; and
• Outdoor storage and bulk fuel storage and sales ("Accessory Use") in conjunction with
their retail business ("Principal Use").
A use variance is required because outdoor sales and display and bulk fuel sales are not
permitted uses in the C-3 Zoning District, however, these uses are commonly associated with
this type of business. As an example, Home Depot maintains outdoor storage and display areas.
Home Depot is zoned C-5, and did receive a Conditional Use Permit to allow outdoor sales and
storage. City Administrator Morefield described an open sales lot as defined by the Zoning
Ordinance.
The proposed outdoor storage and merchandise pick-up area on the north side of the
building would be utilized for bulk kerosene and propane sales and storage, as well as for farm
and agri-business items and the area will be paved. City Administrator Morefield state that the
State Fire Marshall regulates bulk fuel storage, which is required to be a minimum of 25 feet
from the building. Any above -ground bulk fuel storage tanks must be constructed and
inspected by the State Fire Marshall prior to the tank being filled. Staff has recommended that
bollards be placed adjacent to the bulk fuel storage tanks. Additionally, the area will be
enclosed by a black chain link fence.
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Staff believes the requests Big R is seeking are reasonable, consistent with the Zoning
Ordinance, Comprehensive Plan and will not adversely impact adjacent properties.
City Administrator Morefield noted that the Planning and Zoning Commission
unanimously recommended approval of a use variance to allow an open sales lot; outdoor
storage and bulk fuel storage at 1860 N. Richmond Road, subject to certain conditions.
City Administrator Morefield introduced Mr. Jerald Sherman, Chief Financial Officer of
Big R Stores, whose offices are located in Watseka, Illinois. Mr. Morefield stated that Mr.
Sherman would address any questions.
Responding to concerns expressed by Alderman Glab about storage outside of the store,
Mr. Sherman approached the podium and explained the equipment proposed to be displayed
outside would be lawn and garden displays and surrounded by black chain link fencing.
Motion by Wimmer, seconded by Condon, approving a Use Variance to allow an open
sales lot; outdoor storage and bulk fuel storage at 1860 N. Richmond Road, as presented,
subject to the conditions recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR'S EXECUTION OF AN
ECONOMIC INCENTIVE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF IVICHENRY AND CENTRAL BIG R
STORES RELATED TO THE PROPERTY AT 1860 N. RICHMOND ROAD
City Administrator Morefield explained the proposed Economic Incentive Agreement
between the City of McHenry and Central Big R Stores for the redevelopment of the property
located at 1860 N. Richmond Road. Target purchased the property is 1992 for $2,000,000 and
opened the Target Store in 1994. The proposed Agreement with Central Big R Stores includes a
100% sales tax rebate, which would be rebated to Central Big R Stores annually by the City for a
maximum reimbursement not to exceed $400,000. The Agreement is solely for the
reimbursement of equipment and fixture purchases.
City Administrator Morefield informed Council that the term of the Agreement is five
years and only includes the base sales tax, or 1% of the total gross receipts, and does not
included the additional .5% Home Rule Sales Tax, which the City would retain.
Staff believes the proposed rebate is not excessive and the positive impacts the
redevelopment would have, both financially, aesthetically and to residents and businesses in
the City, far exceeds the requested financial incentive.
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Alderman Wimmer noted the Agreement is short term and appears to benefit all
parties.
Responding to an inquiry by Alderman Peterson regarding the number of employees
proposed for Big R in McHenry, Mr. Sherman stated approximately 40 full-time employees are
anticipated.
Motion by Wimmer, second by Condon, authorizing the Mayor's execution of an
Economic Incentive Agreement between the City of McHenry and Central Big R Stores, as
presented.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 7.50 SIGNS
SECTION 7.50.2 SUBSECTION E PARAGRAPH 2 NONCONFORMING SIGNS
City Administrator Morefield informed Council that in 2006 amendments were made to
the City's Sign Ordinance and adopted by the City Council. Included in those amendments was
the regulation and amortization of non -conforming freestanding signs.
In January and February 2012, the Community Development Committee discussed the
impending August 7, 2013 amortization deadline. Staff was directed by the Committee to
investigate the matter to verify the original intent of the Ordinance. In May 2012 Staff
presented the issue to the Committee and following review of the 2006 changes, conversations
with the City Attorney, compilation of cost estimates to businesses to comply with the
Ordinance, and completion of a comprehensive survey of businesses that had non -conforming
signs; Council approved a two-year extension of the amortization period on October 1, 2012.
The two-year extension was initiated and support by Staff and the Council, with an
understanding of the burden that would be placed on businesses during an uncertain economy.
The amortization deadline was extended to August 7, 2015.
City Administrator Morefield informed Council that with the approach of the August 7,
2015 deadline, Staff received feedback from multiple property owners expressing concerns
pertaining to the impending deadline and the financial impact of the Ordinance requirements
on their property and businesses. The topic was discussed as an agenda item at the June 22,
2015 Community Development Committee meeting.
As a result of input from property and business owners and discussions by the
Committee and Staff, the Committee directed Staff to develop an Ordinance for Section 7.50
(Signs), Paragraph E (Nonconforming Signs), Sub -paragraph 2 (Other Signs) of the McHenry
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Municipal Code to be amended to allow existing non -conforming signs to exist until/unless
certain criteria were met that would cause the need to bring the signs into compliance.
In summary, the proposed amendment eliminates the deadline by which
nonconforming signs must come into conformance, eliminates the annual re -inspection fee
option, and introduces a set of criteria by which nonconforming signs would be brought into
conformance through the normal redevelopment and reuse process.
Alderman Peterson opined that he believes the Ordinance is too vague and that a period
of time of 180 consecutive days is more reasonable than 90-days, if a property has a
nonconforming sign and is vacant. He stated he would not support the Ordinance.
Alderman Condon stated that should there ever be an issue regarding signage, a
property owner and/or business owner is always welcome to inquire of Staff and if necessary
approach the Council with a request for a variance.
Motion by Condon, second by Wimmer to approve an Ordinance amending Municipal
Code Chapter 7.50 Signs, Sec. 7.50.2, Subsection e, Paragraph 2, Nonconforming Signs.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Condon.
Voting Nay: Peterson.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
City Attorney McArdle departed chambers at 8:21 pm.
MOTION TO APPROVE THE PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION AND APPROVE
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING AND REPLACING AND AMENDING MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 13
MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC ARTICLES 7 AND 8
City Administrator Morefield recognized Police Officer Fisher. City Administrator
Morefield informed Council that Officer Fisher was instrumental in restructuring the proposed
Ordinance.
Chief of Police Jones informed Council that beginning in 2009, the McHenry Police
department began a program to conduct more thorough truck enforcement. The program
included the purchase of portable scales to enforce overweight violations, as well as more
training to specific officers to enforce laws directed specifically at trucks. Through these
enforcement efforts between 2009 and 2014 the enforcement officers have had 2,173 contact
and issued fines in excess of $279,000.
As a result of the enforcement, it was noticed that the local Ordinance pertaining to
truck traffic is very non-specific, antiquated and does not provide the officers the ability to
legally enforce the Ordinance. Chief Jones explained the various Articles of the Ordinance and
the necessity for the revision to the City of McHenry Traffic and Motor Vehicle Code.
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Motion by Wimmer, second by Santi, approving the Ordinance amending Chapter 13 of
the City of McHenry Traffic and Motor Vehicle Code to repeal and replace Article 7 and Article
8, as presented.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
MAYOR STATEMENT AND REPORT
Mayor Low informed Council that the 2015 Fiesta Days celebration was successful and a
positive experience for the community despite the unfortunate weather. Mayor Low
complimented and thanked all the City employees for their time and involvement in the event.
Mayor Low announced the retirement of Pattie Lunkenheimer following 37 years of
employment with the City of McHenry in the Park and Recreation Department. Mayor Low
announced that a reception celebrating Ms. Lunkenheimer's retirement would take place at the
Municipal Center on Friday at 3:30 pm.
Mayor Low announced the Parade Marshall ceremony would take place on Thursday,
July 23, 2015, at 7:00 pm in Veterans Memorial Park as the previous ceremony in the park was
cancelled due to inclement weather.
COMMITTEE REPORTS
Alderman Wimmer reported that a Finance and Personnel Committee meeting was held
prior to the Council meeting this evening. Minutes will be forthcoming.
STAFF REPORTS
Deputy City Administrator Hobson informed Council that the McHenry Pigtail League
2015 Fast Pitch Frenzy Softball Tournament begins today and will last through July 26, 2015.
Deputy City Administrator Hobson informed Council that the annual Rotary Blues, Brews
and Barbeque will be held Friday, July 315t through August 2nd in Petersen Park.
Deputy City Administrator Hobson informed Council that the Farmers Markets held prior
to the weekly City Band Concerts have been well attended.
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Alderman Glab stated he is pleased to see new businesses coming into town. He opined
he would also like to see more effort to retain old businesses.
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ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Wimmer, seconded by Santi, to adjourn the meeting at 8:40 pm.
Voting Aye: Santi, Glab, Curry, Wimmer, Peterson, Condon.
Voting Nay: None.
Absent: Schaefer.
Motion carried.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:40 pm.
City Clerk