Village of Clarendon Hills Village Board Met Nov. 2.
Here is the minutes provided by the board:
1. Roll Call
Present at Roll Call: President Austin in person. Trustee Freve, Trustee Jorissen, Trustee Jordan, Trustee Hall, Trustee DeDobbelaere and Trustee Knoll via Teams. Trustee Jorissen excused herself from the meeting to change devices. Trustee Jorissen rejoined (via Teams) at 4:29 p.m.
Also Present: Village Manager Barr in person. Assistant to the Village Manager Creer, Finance Director Potempa, Community Development Director Ungerleider, Police Chief Dalen, Public Works Director McLaughlin, and Fire Chief Leahy via Teams.
President Austin led the group in the pledge of allegiance.
2. Addresses from the Audience
President Austin asked if there were any audience members who wished to
address the Board. There were none.
3. Calendar Year 2021 Budget Workshop
Manager Barr introduced the proceedings highlighting the strong fiscal position of the Village, despite the generally negative impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic. He noted that the much greater than expected grant revenue for the downtown project, full CARES Act reimbursement from the County and other reduced costs have been helpful. Though several sources of revenue, especially related to restaurant and parking operations were reduced, they were not enough to make up for the benefits derived.
Finance Director Potempa presented a power point for the budget beginning with the process and summarized the agenda for the meeting. Director Potempa began the presentation which provided an overview of the budget including a 10 year forecast and overview of all the changes for this year and coverage of the major projects. She said the tax levy will be presented later in November and noted, in the time she has worked for the Village, the Village has not levied the full amount allowed under State statute. She mentioned the Village levies what they need, in this case the 2.3% allowed by the Tax Cap. She estimated this is a full 1% below what could be levied if the Village took advantage of the “new growth” provision. She also noted that most of the added funds are going to the Police and Fire Pension Funds.
She discussed the Village’s challenges which includes only having two primary sales tax generators in town. Additionally, the aging water infrastructure system presents problems though the Village has continually evaluated the system and has replaced water mains during the road program. She also discussed the strengths of the Village, which include the paid-on call Fire Department model, professional management with conservative budgeting and significant investment in infrastructure. Finance Director Potempa mentioned the AAA bond rating the Village currently has as another strength.
Director Potempa reviewed the General Fund, noting that the budget presented shows a 10-year trend well above our designated fund balance level. This includes all proposed expenditures, including compensation adjustments for employees as included in the proposed pay plan. Department goals and budget priorities were reviewed.
Director Potempa reviewed the condition of the Capital Project Fund. She noted that the Fund is in a better condition than it was at this time last year, largely because of the larger grant provided by Metra and our ability to maintain transfers from the General Fund. Projects were reviewed, including the desire to complete the road project on Ann and Byrd using MFT Funds and a set amount for residents to pay. The Board concurred with an investigation of this option.
Director Potempa discussed the condition of the Water Fund, noting that at the end of the 10-year period the Fund is shown going negative. Though this does not meet our fund balance policy, the recommendation is that since it is at the end of the term it can be evaluated further at that time. It also includes substantial water main replacement in the last two years, which can also be reevaluated.
Staff discussed various additional issues that the Board may want to consider. Director Potempa suggested that we could change our long-standing practice of including 2.5% for property tax increases in the 10-year plan to 2.0% and still show a balanced budget. The Board agreed we should use that approach. Staff discussed the idea of aiding businesses struggling with COVID-19 regulations, such as waiver of liquor license fees. The Board agreed that staff should prepare a report on this. Staff also discussed potential projects that might be conducted as part of the downtown TIF District. Members of the Board were concerned that funds remain available for business development assistance. Staff advised that additional information would be provided. The Board also agreed that additional information should be provided regarding the Education Garden for potential construction of the pergola. The Board also agreed that a transfer from the Capital Fund should be budgeted to cover current proposed projects.
4. Addresses from the AudienceThere were none.
5. Other BusinessNone.
6. Adjournment
There being no further business to come before the Board, Trustee Freve
moved to adjourn the meeting and Trustee Hall seconded.
On voice vote the motion was approved. The meeting was adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
https://www.clarendonhills.us/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_11022020-483
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