City of Darien City Council Met Aug. 2.
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 M. Chlystek
Mary Coyle Sullivan
Joseph A. Kenny
Lester Vaughan
Ted V. Schauer
Absent: Thomas J. Belczak
Eric K. Gustafson
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
Jordan Yanke, City Planner
4. DECLARATION OF A QUORUM — There being five aldermen present, Mayor Marchese declared a quorum.
City Council Meeting August 2, 2021
5. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
George Strom, RLS Vice President Municipal Services, provided company background information for waste and recycling services. He asked Council to consider a Request for Proposal (RFP) for services. Katie Neary, RLS Municipal Manager, commented about importance of bid process.
Kurt Mach, Property Manager for Glen Oaks Office Park, voiced parking concerns building owners have with DarienFest, which will be held in the Darien Plaza parking lot. Mayor Marchese responded that all DarienFest parking is to be located on the east side of Cass Avenue.
April Padalik, Darien Chamber of Commerce, explained DarienFest planning had been delayed due to COVID restrictions. Darien Plaza location was chosen to provide exposure for businesses and to promote foot traffic. Ms. Padalik reviewed parking plans, DarienFest schedule, and responded to Council/audience questions.
Residents voiced concerns regarding ongoing issues with Q-Bar: loud music, base/noise level and patrons. Residents and business owners/representatives voiced concerns about DarienFest traffic, parking & signage, loitering, property damage, and cleanup.
Mayor Marchese commented that DarienFest is a Chamber of Commerce event with City providing police protection services.
Mayor Marchese stated he is sensitive to the concerns that residents are experiencing with Q-Bar. He met with Robert Taft, owner of Q-Bar and Darien Plaza; he reviewed the Memorandum of Understanding that was established. He spoke of the enforcement that will occur should a violation of City Code take place.
Alderman Chlystek inquired about purchase of sound meter to assist Police Department.
Arlene Sturgeon commented when she moved to Darien, Cass Avenue was quiet with family-oriented businesses in the plaza.
6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – July 19, 2021 City Council Meeting
It was moved by Alderwoman Sullivan and seconded by Alderman Kenny to approve the minutes of the City Council Meeting of July 19, 2021.
Roll Call: Ayes: Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan Nays: None
Absent: Belczak, Gustafson
Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2
MOTION DULY CARRIED
7. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS
Alderwoman Sullivan received communication from Kelly Glisan regarding need for Request for Proposal (RFP) on future refuse services.
Alderman Kenny received communication from…
…Kelly Glisan regarding RFP.
…Tim Waz, Exner Road, requesting need for RFP and desire to keep stickers.
…Jim Drew, 77th Street, requesting need for RFP and preference for stickers. Mr. Drew inquired about billing and short-term contracts for snowbirds. Administrator Vana responded that refuse company would bill residents directly for services; short-term contracts would need to be addressed in RFP.
Alderman Chlystek…
…received feedback from Alderman Gustafson regarding request for RFP.
…communication from Mr. Waz regarding keeping sticker option.
…shared survey results from his Ward: Sriram Kripa, Gerry Leganski, Steve Leopoldo, Kathy Macal, and Karen Pervisky indicated need for different container sizes and opportunity for competitive bids. Administrator Vana inquired if residents realized service would be unlimited. Alderman Chlystek stated he sent residents link to web page. Alderman Chlystek inquired if special containers that residents in Alderman Vaughan’s Ward purchased would fit proposed cart size. Administrator Vana confirmed special containers met requirements; Director Gombac commented.
Alderwoman Sullivan received communication from Tami Hollendonner regarding rules for backyard items being stored in front yard. Director Gombac responded there are no City Codes against temporary equipment; ordinance applies to permanent structures with concrete footings. He noted that courtesy letters regarding removal of seasonal items
could be sent to residents. Planner Yanke stated that he responded via email to Ms. Hollendonner.
8. MAYORS REPORT
Mayor Marchese provided the following updates.
COVID-19:
• Community transmission rate has moved from “Low” to “Moderate” to “Substantial” over the last four weeks.
• Despite this direction, fully vaccinated residents account for 1.1% of COVID patients and of those 90% occurred in individuals who were immune compromised.
• In DuPage County, more than 80% of the population over 12 years of age received at least one dose of the vaccine and 59% were reported fully vaccinated which includes 82% of residents 65 or older and 23.6 % of school age children.
• DuPage County ranks number one in the state for the number of vaccinated residents and in the top 6% of all counties nationally.
• Vaccinations have been identified as offering the greatest protection from severe illness or death.
9/11 Commemorative 20th Anniversary include:
• Proclamation recognizing month of September as: Darien Remembers 9/11.
• Banners on streetlights.
• Medallions will be distributed to participants; they were designed by local school children.
• Friday, September 10, flags will be erected in Darien Community Park to recognize (6) individuals from Darien, CT that died during 9/11. First Selectman, Jayme Stevenson from Darien, CT, is planning on attending.
• Saturday, September 11, First Responders Solemn Parade is scheduled at 9:30 A.M., which includes fire, police, and Emerald Society Bagpipe Group. In the afternoon, a community picnic is planned at Darien Community Park. Student murals and posters “Darien Remembers” mosaic will be featured. Several other activities will take place.
• Sunday, September 12, students will start the morning by singing the National Anthem followed by Darien Dash. Afternoon will include concert at Carriage Greens Golf Course featuring patriotic music by 144th Army National Guard Band.
• On Friday, September 17, at Hinsdale South High School field, there will be a football game played, Hinsdale Central vs. Hinsdale South. Tri-State Fire Department will raise ladders and display flag for moment of silence recognizing all those who perished on 9/11.
• T-shirt fundraiser will raise money for Darien Historical Society.
Mrs. Gomopoulos sent an email of thanks for the wonderful experience Nikos had as “Mayor for the Day.” She stated Nikos will always remember that day, everything he learned and the lasting impression made by all. “Darien really is a special place with great people and thank you again.”
DuPage Mayors and Managers Conference dinner will be held on August 18, 2021. Mayor Marchese stated old/new officers will be recognized; he will serve as Vice-President and Ron Gunter, Mayor of Westmont, as President.
9. CITY CLERK’S REPORT
There was no report.
10. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
A. GARBAGE SERVICE RENEWAL DISCUSSION
Administrator Vana initiated Council discussion regarding scope of garbage services and Request for Proposal (RFP). Council discussion ensued. Staff to prepare draft RFP for Council review.
11. DEPARTMENT HEAD INFORMATION/QUESTIONS
A. POLICE DEPARTMENT
Chief Thomas announced National Night Out will be held at Darien Community Park on August 3, 2021 from 5:00 – 8:00 P.M.
Chief Thomas commented on decibel sound meter suggested by Alderman Chlystek. City Code does not include decibel levels and would not be enforceable. He addressed Council questions regarding identification of a nuisance, clarification of disturbance and National Night Out vendor participation.
B. MUNICIPAL SERVICES – NO REPORT
12. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. WARRANT NUMBER 21-22-07
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Vaughan to approve payment of Warrant Number 21-22-07 in the amount of $820,695.29 from the enumerated funds, and $256,738.44 from payroll funds for the periods ending 7/29/21 for a total to be approved of $1,077,433.73.
Roll Call: Ayes: Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Belczak, Gustafson
Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2
MOTION DULY CARRIED
13. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
Administrative/Finance Committee – Chairwoman Sullivan announced the next Administrative/Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. She stated the Economic Development Committee (EDC) will be meeting on September 2, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.
Municipal Services Committee – Clerk Ragona announced the Municipal Services Committee meeting is scheduled for August 23, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.
Police Committee – Chairman Kenny announced the Police Committee meeting is scheduled for August 16, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. in the Police Department Training Room.
Police Pension Board – Liaison Coren announced the Police Pension Board quarterly meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 5, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. in the Police Department Training Room. He stated actuary will present current year Actuarial Report and results will be presented to Council.
14. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS – AGENDA RELATED
There were none.
15. OLD BUSINESS
There was no Old Business.
16. CONSENT AGENDA
Mayor Marchese stated during the Work Session New Business Items A-H and J were moved to Consent Agenda as Items A-H and I respectively.
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Vaughan to approve by Omnibus Vote the following items on the Consent Agenda:
A. Consideration Of A Motion To Approve A Petition Requesting Relief From City Code Section 7-5-1(B)(8) Of The Chicken Ordinance To Grant Approval For An Existing Perimeter Fence To Remain At A Height Of Five (5) Feet Instead Of The Required Six (6) Feet By Ordinance. Request Is Made Pursuant To City Code Section 7-5-1(C) For Property Located At 911 Hickory Lane That Is Zoned Single Family Residence District (R-2)
B. Consideration Of A Motion To Approve A Petition Requesting Relief From City Code Sections 7-5-1(B)(5) & 7-5-1(B)(8) Of The Chicken Ordinance To Grant Approval For An Existing Chicken Coop To Remain At Eleven (11) Feet From The Rear Lot Line Instead Of The Required Twenty (20) Feet, And To Allow A Portion (Rear Yard) Of An Existing Perimeter Fence To Remain At A Height Of Five (5) Feet Instead Of The Required Six (6) Feet By Ordinance. Request Is Made Pursuant To City Code Section 7-5- 1(C) For Property Located At 7934 Farmingdale Drive That Is Zoned Single Family Residence District (R-2)
C. RESOLUTION NO. R-55-21 A Resolution Authorizing The Mayor And City Clerk To Accept A Proposal From Patten Cat For Purchase And Installation Of One (1) New Cat End Loader Payload Bucket Monitor System From Altorfer Cat In An Amount Not To Exceed $6,213.65
D. RESOLUTION NO. R-56-21 A Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Accept A Proposal From Suburban Laboratories, Inc. For The 2021/22 Bacteriological And Chemical/Radiological/Lt2 Water Sampling Program In An Amount Not To Exceed $5,846.80
E. RESOLUTION NO. R-57-21 A Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Accept A Proposal From Christopher B. Burke Engineering, Ltd. For The Professional Design Services Related To The Lawn Conversion To Native Plantings At The South East Quadrant Of 74th Street And Elm Street In An Amount Not To Exceed $8,000
F. Consideration Of A Motion Authorizing City Staff To Proceed With Securing Materials, Installation And Restoration For The Sanitary Sewer Project For The Municipal Services Facility Located At 1041 South Frontage Road In An Amount Not To Exceed $35,671.76
G. RESOLUTION NO. R-58-21 A Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Accept A Proposal To Purchase Sanitary Sewer Related Items From Norwalk Tank Company In An Amount Not To Exceed $9,306.21
H. RESOLUTION NO. R-59-21 A Resolution Authorizing The Mayor To Accept A Proposal To Purchase Sanitary Sewer Iron Frames And Lids From Ej Usa, Inc. In An Amount Not To Exceed $2,735.30
I. Consideration Of A Motion To Grant A Waiver Of The Raffle License Bond Requirement For The Woodridge Rotary Club
Roll Call: Ayes: Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Belczak, Gustafson
Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2
MOTION DULY CARRIED
17. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE:
• August 12th, 13th, 14th And 15th As The Date For The Darien Chamber Of Commerce To Hold The DarienFest 2021 Celebration At Darien Plaza Parking Lot
• Providing Police Protection For The DarienFest 2021 As Per Attached Agreement
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Vaughan to approve the motion as presented.
Alderman Chlystek stated DarienFest is a family event.
Alderwoman Sullivan commented DarienFest is a great family-friendly event for the community. She said that due to location residents and businesses will need enforcement of no parking on the west side of Cass Avenue.
Alderman Schauer clarified that Council is approving police protection for DarienFest.
Roll Call: Ayes: Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Belczak, Gustafson
Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2
MOTION DULY CARRIED
18. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
Mayor Marchese thanked Darien Park District for sponsoring band, Cadillac Grove, and Darien Lions Club for selling food that made for a wonderful “Darien Day in the Park” on August 1, 2021.
19. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business to come before the City Council, it was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderman Schauer to adjourn the City Council meeting.
VIA VOICE VOTE – MOTION DULY CARRIED
The City Council meeting adjourned at 9:15 P.M.
https://www.darien.il.us/getattachment/5d6d2ad4-f821-4639-aacb-2680fa2f5766/Darien-City-Council-Meeting-August-2,-2021.aspx
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