City of Darien City Council met Oct. 4.
Here are 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. SWEARING IN OF “MAYOR FOR THE DAY” FLORIANO GARRO
Clerk Ragona swore in Floriano Garro as “Mayor for the Day.”
4. ROLL CALL — The Roll Call of Aldermen by Clerk Ragona was as follows:
Present: Thomas J. Belczak Ted V. Schauer
Thomas M. Chlystek Mary Coyle Sullivan
Eric K. Gustafson Lester Vaughan
Joseph A. Kenny
Absent: None
Also in Attendance: Joseph Marchese, Mayor
Floriano Garro, Mayor for the Day
JoAnne E. Ragona, City Clerk
Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer
Bryon Vana, City Administrator
Gregory Thomas, Police Chief
Daniel Gombac, Director of Municipal Services
5. DECLARATION OF A QUORUM – There being seven aldermen present, Mayor Garro declared a quorum.
6. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
Mary O’Dowd commented about the streetlight banner, “City of Darien Remembers 911 2001.” She reflected on her time working at Tower 1, Floor 57, and the difficulty experienced in watching footage on television twenty years later; “but watch we must and remember we must…the United States of America is the greatest nation on Earth...” Ms. O’Dowd thanked the City of Darien for remembering, for standing up for liberty and reminding us to never forget.
7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – September 7, 2021 City Council Meeting
It was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderwoman Sullivan to approve the minutes of the City Council Meeting of September 7, 2021.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Kenny, Schauer, Vaughan, Sullivan
Abstain: Gustafson
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
8. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS
Alderman Vaughan received communication from…
…Charlene Vuillaume and Chris Thomas oppose the proposal for refuse carts; they favor stickers.
…Kim Savage favored LRS services proposal.
…resident at 722 70th Street regarding accident and high volume of traffic on Richmond Avenue; they would like to explore installation of a speed bump.
…residents at 713 and 722 70th Street regarding missing mail from their mailboxes.
Alderman Kenny received communication from Chris Thomas, Patricia Courte (Darien Club), Judy Eisenmann and Florence Pipal (Norman Courts) regarding opposition of LRS refuse services proposal.
Alderwoman Sullivan received communication from…
…Chris Thomas regarding LRS refuse services proposal.
…Thelma Hulka regarding infrequent use of garbage disposal; she does not feel participation should be mandatory.
…Dennis Holland inquiring about LRS services proposal.
….Kelly Glisten highlighting sadness of the epidemic our nation and communities are facing with fentanyl laced drugs. He stressed awareness and his continued stance on not allowing a cannabis dispensary in Darien.
…several residents regarding fence down on North Frontage Road (between Bailey & Shell gas station) after accident; they inquired about replacing fence with guardrail. Director Gombac stated he has been in communication with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) regarding modification of that portion of road with alternate roadway configurations and additional safety markers. Alderwoman Sullivan expressed sadness over fatality that occurred and thanked Director Gombac for pursuing resident concerns with IDOT.
9. MAYORS REPORT
A. MAYORAL PROCLAMATION “ARTS DUPAGE” (OCTOBER 2021)
Mayor Marchese read the proclamation into record declaring October 2021 as Arts DuPage Month.
B. MAYORAL PROCLAMATION “HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH” (SEPTEMBER 15 – OCTOBER 15, 2021)
Mayor Marchese read the proclamation into record declaring September 15 – October 15, 2021 as Hispanic Heritage Month.
C. ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT – FOR THE YEAR ENDED APRIL 30, 2021
Treasurer Coren introduced Jim Savio, Partner, with Sikich LLP. Mr. Savio thanked Administrator Vana, Treasurer Coren, Accountant Julie Saenz and Staff for their assistance through the audit process. Mr. Savio reviewed the audit results and highlights from the Annual Financial Report, Auditor’s Communication document, Management Letter, Single Audit Report and Consolidated Year End Financial Report. Mr. Savio addressed Council question.
Alderwoman Sullivan thanked Mr. Savio for his professionalism; Accountant Saenz, Treasurer Coren, Administrator Vana and City Staff for making the process smooth.
Administrator Vana addressed question regarding three outstanding bonds; he referenced the Debt Schedule.
Mayor Marchese provided COVID 19 update from the DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) monthly conference.
• Community transmission level metrics are moving in a positive direction that may result in lowering the level from “High” to “Substantial.”
• Nationally the country is at the “High” level of community transmission with Illinois and DuPage County metrics are better by comparison. Illinois is ranked 7th in the country for lowest transmission rate, lowest hospitalizations, lowest ICU beds and lowest deaths due to COVID. DuPage County is ahead of other counties in the state with a vaccination rate of 95% amongst those 65 & older and 71% overall.
• Cases by age group showed the greatest activity in the 0-19 and 20-29 age groups, but vaccination availability results in reduced cases in the latter group.
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommendations for masks/face coverings trigger at low to moderate community transmission levels.
• Cases involving children have increased nationally.
• An update was provided on CDC guidelines concerning boosters; eligibility included first responders and front line employees. Those 65 and older should go to local pharmacies for booster.
• DHDC clarified third doses and the difference from a booster. Third doses are strongly recommended for individuals in high-risk occupational or institutional settings and the elderly.
10. CITY CLERK’S REPORT
There was no report.
11. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
There was no report.
12. DEPARTMENT HEAD INFORMATION/QUESTIONS
A. POLICE DEPARTMENT – NO REPORT
B. MUNICIPAL SERVICES
Director Gombac provided an updated on two grant applications submitted for “Safe Routes to School” including cost information to add neighborhood sidewalk on Clarendon Hills Road from 67th Street to Plainfield Road on the eastern right-of-way and on 79th Street from Cass Avenue to Stratford on the southern right-of-way. He spoke about IDOT requirements, commitment of funding, and support received from Concord and Mark DeLay School Superintendents.
Mayor Marchese commented on the importance of community sidewalks for providing students easier access to Concord School, Hinsdale South High School and Darien Community Park.
Director Gombac stated sidewalks would serve an entire neighborhood.
13. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. WARRANT NUMBER 21-22-10
B. WARRANT NUMBER 21-22-11
It was moved by Alderman Vaughan and seconded Alderman Belczak to approve payment of:
• Warrant Number 21-22-10 in the amount of $770,868.32 from the enumerated funds, and $268,023.46 from payroll funds for the period ending 09/09/21 for a total to be approved of $1,038,891.78.
• Warrant Number 21-22-11 in the amount of $119,549.98 from the enumerated funds, and $289,175.80 from payroll funds for the period ending 09/25/21 for a total to be approved of $408,725.78.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
C. MONTHLY REPORT – AUGUST 2021
Treasurer Coren reviewed year-to-date sources of revenue, expenditures, and fund balances through the month of August 2021.
General Fund: Revenue $6,751,694; Expenditures $4,897,175; Current Balance $6,215,979
Water Fund: Revenue $2,515,369; Expenditures $1,851,300; Current Balance $4,267,031
Motor Fuel Tax Fund: Revenue $535,562; Expenditures $1,281,190; Current Balance $620,695
Water Depreciation Fund: Revenue $718 Expenditures $119,717; Current Balance $2,976,371
Capital Improvement Fund: Revenue $146,964; Expenditures $756,322; Current Balance $7,605,028
14. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
Administrative/Finance Committee – Chairwoman Sullivan announced the next meeting of the Administrative/Finance Committee is scheduled for November 1, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. She stated the Economic Development Committee meeting is scheduled for October 7, 2021 at 7:00 P.M. An Economic Development Workshop will be held on October 23, 2021 from 9:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M.
Municipal Services Committee – Chairman Belczak announced the next meeting of the Municipal Services Committee meeting is scheduled for October 25, 2021 at 7:00 P.M.
Police Committee – Chairman Kenny announced the next meeting of the Police Committee is scheduled for October 18, 2021 at 6:00 P.M. in the Police Department Training Room.
15. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS – AGENDA RELATED
Kathryn Hodak stated reasons for being in favor of keeping the hybrid garbage program. William Heron inquired about the cost of the 35-gallon cart for those that are not seniors.
Chris Emmis was in favor of the sticker program because composting and recycling leaves minimal trash.
16. OLD BUSINESS
There was no Old Business.
17. CONSENT AGENDA
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve by Omnibus Vote the following items on the Consent Agenda:
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO GRANT A WAIVER OF THE RAFFLE LICENSE BOND REQUIREMENT FOR THE HINSDALE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC BOOSTER ASSOCIATION
B. RESOLUTION NO. R-61-21 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A PROPOSAL FROM ADS LLC D.B.A. ADS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES FOR THE 2021 WATER LEAK SURVEY, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $12,019.80
C. RESOLUTION NO. R-62-21 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ONE NEW CHALLENGER VEHICLE LIFT FROM LIFTNOW AUTOMOTIVE EQUIPMENT CORP., IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $52,917.80
D. RESOLUTION NO. R-63-21 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A PROPOSAL FROM EJ EQUIPMENT FOR A LEASE AGREEMENT OF A VACTOR TRUCK FOR HYDRO EXCAVATION AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS THROUGHOUT THE CITY FOR BUFFALO BOX REPAIRS DURING THE METER REPLACEMENT PROGRAM, AT THE PROPOSED UNIT PRICE AND NOT TO EXCEED $72,000
E. RESOLUTION NO. R-64-21 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A PROPOSAL FROM BAXTER AND WOODMAN NATURAL RESOURCES, LLC (BWNR) FOR THE NATIVE PLANTING MATERIALS, INSTALLATION AND A THREE YEAR MONITORING PERIOD AS 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 $23,470
F. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION APPROVING A TRANSFER FROM THE GENERAL FUND TO THE CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND OF $1,800,000
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
18. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ONE NEW 2022 FORD F-350 XL 4X2 PICK-UP FROM ROESCH FORD IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $48,666.00
It was moved by Alderman Schauer and seconded by Alderman Gustafson to approve the motion as presented.
RESOLUTION NO. R-65-21 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ONE NEW 2022 FORD F-350
XL 4X2 PICK-UP FROM ROESCH FORD IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $48,666.00
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
B. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO DIRECT STAFF TO NEGOTIATE A CONTRACT WITH LRS FOR OPTION 2 (CARTS ONLY) IN SUBSTANTIAL CONFORMANCE WITH THE LRS PROPOSAL DATED SEPTEMBER 15, 2021
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Chlystek to approve the motion as presented.
Alderwoman Sullivan reiterated Alderman Kenny’s request in Work Session to initiate discussion for the viewing audience to addressing concerns regarding cart sizing, costs and value of proposed plan.
LRS representatives George Strom, Vice President Municipal Services, and Joshua Connell, Managing Partner, introduced themselves. Council discussion ensued. LRS representatives addressed Council questions concerning option 1 (sticker/cart) and option 2 (carts only) services, recycling, electronic waste, household hazardous waste, education and communication tools available to transition residents to program.
Mayor Marchese asked Council if they would consider incorporating cost for electronic waste in City budget; usage data would be provided by LRS after year one to determine future cost efficiencies.
Administrator Vana stated LRS references were excellent. He indicated proposal included 5-year pricing with 2-year option with price increasing 2.5% annually. Mayor Marchese noted the 5-year pricing proposed by LRS is below the other Request for Proposal submittals.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Sullivan, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: None
Results: Ayes 7, Nays 0, Absent 0
MOTION DULY CARRIED
19. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
Alderwoman Sullivan announced Hinsdale South High School will present four performances of “RENT School Edition” from November 11 – 14, 2021.
Alderman Kenny commented that a benefit will be hosted by Frank Trilla on October 16, 2021 at King Car Wash donating $1 for every car washed to the National Kidney Foundation.
Mayor Marchese…
…commented that he started “Mayor for the Day” to assist Kingswood Academy with their fundraising event. He explained the event has been successful and Mayor Frank Trilla asked if the program could be expanded to raise money for the National Kidney Foundation. Proceeds would assist individuals on the kidney donor list. Mayor Trilla asked DuPage County Mayors and Managers for their support. Mayor Marchese will be putting “Mayor for the Day” and “Lunch with the Mayor” up for bidding with hopes of raising money for the cause. Additional information will be on Direct Connect.
...thanked Mayor Floriano Garro and asked him what was his favorite part of the day; Mayor Garro stated going up in the cherry picker truck was “pretty cool.”
20. 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 8:50 P.M.
https://www.darien.il.us/getattachment/3a623d8f-e721-4bc2-80b9-b8f776e99983/Darien-City-Council-Meeting-October-4,-2021.aspx
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