City of Darien City Council Met April 19.
Here is the minutes provided by the council:
1. CALL TO ORDER
The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Darien was called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Mayor Marchese.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Marchese led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
3. ROLL CALL — The Roll Call of Aldermen by Clerk Ragona was as follows:
Present: Thomas J. Belczak Joseph A. Kenny
Thomas M. Chlystek Mary Coyle Sullivan
Eric K. Gustafson Lester Vaughan
Absent: Ted V. Schauer
Also in Attendance: Joseph Marchese, Mayor
JoAnne E. Ragona, City Clerk
Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer
Bryon Vana, City Administrator
Gregory Thomas, Police Chief
Daniel Gombac, Director of Municipal Services
4. DECLARATION OF A QUORUM — There being six aldermen present, Mayor Marchese declared a quorum.
5. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
There were none.
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – April 5, 2021 City Council Meeting
It was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderman Vaughan to approve the minutes of the City Council Meeting of April 5, 2021.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Schauer
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
7. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS
Alderman Kenny received communication from Sharon Poteraske regarding the zoning of Steak n’ Shake location; she was not in favor of cannabis sales in Darien.
Alderwoman Sullivan received extensive communication from residents in Waterfall Glen development regarding proposed Darien Heights Residences that appeared before Planning & Zoning Commission on April 7 and April 21, 2021. She asked all to read communication and informational packet, which will be presented to Council in May.
Alderman Chlystek received communication regarding video taken of person speeding on 67th Street. Chief Thomas commented on current enforcement; he will determine next steps.
Alderman Gustafson summarized his communication with Dave Crawley, A&W Corporate Office Headquarters, regarding potential interest in Steak n’ Shake location. He expressed need for aggressive action in getting businesses to locate to Darien. Mayor Marchese explained the role of the Economic Development Committee and stated that Director Gombac needed to be included in business recruitment.
8. MAYORS REPORT
A. HEART OF DARIEN AWARD – DEBRA KIERAS
Mayor Marchese presented the “Heart of Darien Award” to Debra Kieras. He noted Ms. Kieras is a member of the Darien Historical Society; she has given a tremendous amount of time to the task of inventorying, cataloging, displaying and preserving the Darien Historical Society’s collection of artifacts, housed in the Old Lace School and Museum. Mayor Marchese stated, “Her commitment to our community is her way of giving back to a community that has enriched her life, and in turn enriches our lives. While she has given her heart to her work for the Historical Society, she has shared her heart with our residents through her work and in turn, we honor Debra Kieras by giving her this Heart of Darien Award.”
Ms. Kieras thanked everyone for the honor.
B. CHIEF THOMAS RECOGNITION/AWARDS
Chief Thomas explained he received requests from Mayor Marchese and Administrator Vana to swear in officers during City Council Meetings. He explained the rigorous police hiring and training processes; therefore, he opted for a pinning ceremony.
Chief Thomas introduced each new officer, provided background information, badge numbers, current assignment, and family members. Highlighted were:
• Officer Paulina Noga, Badge Number 310, pinned by her father, Ziggy.
• Officer Konrad Kano, Badge Number 327, pinned by his wife, Vanessa. At the Basic Training Academy, he received Valedictorian Award and George Graves Award.
• Officer Nicholas Nelson, Badge Number 336, pinned by Sergeant Lorek.
• Officer Maciej Cachro, Badge Number 323, unable to attend.
Chief Thomas introduced new K9 Axle and his Handler Dave Milazzo. He summarized Axle’s value with twelve deployments in 2020. Chief Thomas introduced Officer Milazzo, his wife, Kristy and their children. He reviewed arrests made by Officer Milazzo without a K-9 and looks forward to seeing what he accomplishes with a K-9. Chief Thomas presented Kristy with flowers and thanked her for taking on the added responsibility of Axle.
As a lead-in to the award presentations, Chief Thomas played a video of Officer Throm and Officer Pastick assisting a child that was choking and unable to breathe.
Chief Thomas commented on life-saving efforts made by Officer Justin O’Brien and Officer Austin Jump and acknowledged their Lifesaving Awards. He introduced Officer O’Brien and Sergeant Austin Jump. He noted this is the third time Sergeant Jump received the Lifesaving Award, which occurred in 2014, 2015 and 2020.
Chief Thomas stated that in 2020 the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorist (AAIM) honored Officers: Jennifer Dollins, Tony Hruby, Dave Milazzo, Luke Somogye and Sergeant Austin Jump for their commitment to impaired driving enforcement.
Chief Thomas noted receipt of many letters and calls of appreciation; he shared examples that complemented exemplary conduct by Officers: Giza, Yeo, Keough and Somogye. He noted receipt of numerous donations; gift cards received were donated to worthy causes and checks were returned with a thank you.
Chief Thomas introduced K9 Niko, Badge Number 393, who has served the City honorably for eight years; Niko will retire on April 20. Niko has recovered over 400 pounds of drugs, 15 guns and seized over $1,000,000. He reviewed Niko’s track record and stated Niko has earned the privilege to live out his life free of work and in the loving care of Officer Tony Hruby, along with his wife, Erin, and their children. Chief Thomas presented Erin with flowers.
Mayor Marchese expressed his sense of pride in the Police Department; he thanked Chief Thomas for his leadership and the entire Police Department for their service.
C. COMED UPDATE – PHIL HALLIBURTON
Phillip Halliburton noted three of his ComEd colleagues were in the audience to address questions. Mr. Halliburton provided an update on the ComEd infrastructure and system improvement plans, Darien reliability performance, Darien system improvement work, Voltage Optimization Program and the Smart/LED Streetlight Program. Mr. Halliburton stated ComEd customers can find system improvements on ComEd website at: https://systemimprovementsmap.comed.com. Residents experiencing hardship should call 1-800-EDISON1 and speak with customer service for direction to right program for assistance. He addressed Council questions.
Mayor Marchese announced April 30 is Arbor Day. He stated the first planting will take place at 9:30 A.M. at Darien Community Park for the 2020/21 year. To commemorate Darien’s 22nd Annual Arbor Day Celebration a second planting will take place at 11:00 A.M. in Smart Oaks Park.
Mayor Marchese encouraged all to read Inspector General’s comprehensive report regarding the EPA’s handling of Sterigenics ethylene oxide issue, which will be featured in Direct Connect eNews on April 22.
9. CITY CLERK’S REPORT
Clerk Ragona announced…
…Statements of Economic Interest for DuPage County are due on May 1, 2021.
…Ethic Statements with the City are due on May 1, 2021.
10. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
There was no report.
11. DEPARTMENT HEAD INFORMATION/QUESTIONS
A. POLICE DEPARTMENT – NO REPORT
B. MUNICIPAL SERVICES
Director Gombac announced Dunkin’ will be opening this week; Padrino’s will follow shortly. Alderman Gustafson inquired regarding ribbon cutting; Director Gombac advised ribbon cutting ceremonies are handled by Darien Chamber of Commerce.
Mayor Marchese added the Chamber of Commerce is working with the Economic Development Committee to have all new businesses introduced at a Council meeting.
12. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. WARRANT NUMBER 20-21-24
It was moved by Alderwoman Sullivan and seconded Alderman Belczak to approve payment of Warrant Number 20-21-24 in the amount of $447,498.23 from the enumerated funds, and $254,151.80 from payroll funds for the period ending 04/08/21 for a total to be approved of $701,650.03.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Schauer
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
Treasurer Coren complemented Chief Thomas on his refreshing award presentation.
B. MONTHLY REPORT – MARCH 2021
Treasurer Coren reviewed year-to-date sources of revenue, expenditures, and fund balances through the month of March 2021.
General Fund: Revenue $15,486,016; Expenditures $10,612,506; Current Balance $5,839,046
Water Fund: Revenue $6,839,588; Expenditures $6,404,395; Current Balance $3,894,717
Motor Fuel Tax Fund: Revenue $1,451,717; Expenditures $655,486; Current Balance $1,355,201
Water Depreciation Fund: Revenue $7,154; Expenditures $15,604; Current Balance $2,430,543
Capital Improvement Fund: Revenue $263,747; Expenditures $570,158; Current Balance $6,336,116
13. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
Administrative/Finance Committee – Chairwoman Sullivan announced the Administrative/Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for May 3, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. She provided highlights from the Economic Development Committee (EDC) meeting of April 12 regarding collaboration with Darien Chamber of Commerce to showcase new businesses. She stated the EDC meeting is scheduled for May 6, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.
Municipal Services Committee – Chairman Belczak announced the Municipal Services Committee meeting is scheduled for April 26, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.
Police Committee – Chairman Kenny announced the next meeting of the Police Committee is scheduled for May 17, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. in the Police Department Training Room.
Police Pension Board – Liaison Coren announced the next quarterly meeting of the Police Pension Board is scheduled for April 29, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. in the Police Department Training Room.
14. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS – AGENDA RELATED
There were none.
15. OLD BUSINESS
There was no Old Business.
16. CONSENT AGENDA
There was no Consent Agenda.
17. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ONE (1) NEW 2021 FORD POLICE INTERCEPTOR AWD HYBRID FROM CURRIE MOTORS COMMERCIAL CENTER IN THE AMOUNT OF $40,927
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Kenny to approve the motion as presented.
Mayor Marchese noted this is the first hybrid vehicle in the City’s fleet.
RESOLUTION NO. R-25-21 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ONE (1) NEW 2021 FORD
POLICE INTERCEPTOR AWD HYBRID
FROM CURRIE MOTORS COMMERCIAL
CENTER IN THE AMOUNT OF $40,927
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Schauer
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
18. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
Alderman Chylstek…
…noted the advocacy group in Darien is called “Stop Sterigenics.” He thanked all those involved.
…explained his previous “laid back” comment; he felt “proper process” would better describe what is needed for new businesses. Mayor Marchese clarified the role EDC plays in maintaining and promoting business in Darien. He felt an aggressive approach is currently being taken.
Alderwoman Sullivan noted she thoroughly enjoyed the presentation by Chief Thomas. Getting to know officers and hearing the amazing work being done by officers and canine officers left her bursting with civic pride and joy as an elected official and community member.
Mayor Machese…
…stated invitations have been sent out to eight Police & eight Fire Departments, County Board Members, Representative Jim Durkin, Senator John Curran, Sheriff Mendrick and Illinois State Police regarding the first responder parade on September 11.
…congratulated Aldermen Schauer, Kenny, Sullivan and Belczak on their victories and dedication to their constituents; congratulated Alderman Chlystek on running a very good campaign. He looks forward to working with all.
19. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council, it was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderman Vaughan to adjourn the City Council meeting.
VIA VOICE VOTE – MOTION DULY CARRIED
The City Council meeting adjourned at 9:05 P.M.
https://www.darien.il.us/getattachment/4fac63ca-aa8c-41f9-a622-a8ad10a464cf/Darien-City-Council-Meeting-April-19,-2021.aspx
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