City of Darien City Council met Nov. 7.
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 7:30P.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 Ted V. Schauer
Eric K. Gustafson Lester Vaughan
Absent: Mary Coyle Sullivan
Also in Attendance: Joseph Marchese, Mayor
JoAnne E. Ragona, City Clerk
Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer
Bryon Vana, City Administrator
Gregory Thomas, Police Chief
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 – October 17, 2022
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve the minutes of the City Council Meeting of October 17, 2022.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Sullivan
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
7. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS
Alderman Kenny…
…received communication from Fred Wilson regarding landscaping advertisement left at front door at 2:45 A.M., which was captured on ring camera; information was sent to Chief Thomas.
…questioned Bruno Hall’s post on Nextdoor regarding leaves. Administrator Vana clarified and explained that residents are encouraged to call “911” when they see leaves being raked onto street, so issue can be documented and addressed in a timely manner.
Alderman Gustafson…
…received communication from Mr. Gorski regarding street signs that are blocking each other on County roads; Director Gombac contacted DuPage County regarding signage.
…commented that 60 homes were without power in Ward Two due to fallen tree hitting power lines.
…received emails regarding District 66 Referendum that is on election ballot. Alderman Gustafson formally stated, due to his position as an alderman, he does not take a position on any candidate, referendum or amendment. He encouraged residents to educate themselves, to get out and vote.
Alderman Chlystek commented on attending Economic Development Committee Meeting regarding long-term City planning. He inquired if Council would be interested in purchasing property at the corner of Plainfield & Clarendon Hills Road for development of a small park or entrance to the City. Mayor Marchese explained the history behind the property and elaborated on key development parcels in Darien. Council discussion ensued.
Alderman Vaughan…
…commented he would like to see a development on southeast corner of Plainfield & Clarendon Hills Road. Mayor Marchese shared resident feedback about the property and noted the location was a key parcel.
…received communication from Steve Kotwica, 400 block of 71st Street, regarding diverting storm water into the park.
…received communication from John & Tami Hollendonner regarding issues with neighbor’s property. Alderman Vaughan inquired about determining when a property becomes a “blight to the community.” Council discussion ensued.
8. MAYORS REPORT
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE THE REAPPOINTMENT OF ELIZABETH HAYES, STEVEN WERNECKE, TRACY THOMSON AND LESLIE SWEENEY TO THE HOLIDAY HOME DECORATING COMMITTEE
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve the reappointment of Elizabeth Hayes, Steven Wernecke, Tracy Thomson and Leslie Sweeney to the Holiday Home Decorating.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Sullivan
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
Clerk Ragona administered the Oath of Office to Elizabeth Hayes and Steven Wernecke.
Elizabeth Hays and Steven Wernecke explained how the program works and stated nominations must be reported to City Hall by December 5. Winners will be announced at the December 19 City Council Meeting. Details will be available on City website and Direct Connect eNews. Discussion ensued regarding Holiday Lights Tour.
Mayor Marchese provided the following announcements:
• November 7 Direct Connect eNews features details of special branch pickup this week.
• Nomination process is underway for Citizen of the Year; additional information and nomination form are available on City website.
• Darien Historical Society Tree Lighting Ceremony will be held on December 4 at the Darien Historical Museum at 4:00 P.M. Festivities will begin at 1:00 P.M. with a Christkindl market, holiday carols and Santa Claus. Interested crafters should contact April Padalik at 630-202-5407.
• Questions and concerns regarding City activities and events are addressed weekly in Direct Connect eNews; sign up today by contacting Mary Belmonte at mbelmonte@darienil.gov.
• Darien Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Casino Night at Ashton Place on November 11. Tickets are $100.00 and includes (1) drink ticket, food, and $100 worth of chips; monies raised will benefit Cancer Smashers.
9. CITY CLERK’S REPORT
There was no report.
10. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT
There was no report
11. DEPARTMENT HEAD INFORMATION/QUESTIONS
A. POLICE DEPARTMENT
1. Overview Illinois SAFE-T Act
Chief Thomas provided an overview surrounding the Pretrial Fairness Act, Class B & C Misdemeanors, and Electronic Home Monitoring as applied to the Illinois SAFE-T Act.
He stated 102 State’s Attorneys, Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police, and Sheriff’s Association believe significant changes are needed. Chief Thomas quoted Governor Pritzker, stated on September 14 – “There have been adjustments made and still need adjustments to continue.”
Chief Thomas covered the following topics: Case Disposed – Pretrial Custody, Levels of Evidence, Cash Bail, Cite & Release, Types of Offenses, Release Options, Pretrial Release, Denial of Pretrial Release, Forcible Felonies – Without Probation, Levels of Release, Forcible Felonies – Probation, Class A Misdemeanors, Release on Own Recognizance, Definition of Willful Flight, Denial of Pretrial Release, Crimes not Listed in 110-6.1, Class 4 Felonies not Subject to Detention, Home Detention, Home Detention with Electronic Monitoring, and Criminal Histories (Rap Sheet).
Chief Thomas addressed Council questions.
B. MUNICIPAL SERVICES – NO REPORT
12. TREASURER’S REPORT
A. WARRANT NUMBER 22-23-13
It was moved by Alderman Kenny and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve payment of Warrant Number 22-23-13 in the amount of $934,591.58 from the enumerated funds and $539,466.52 from payroll funds for the periods ending 10/20/22 and 11/03/22 for a total to be approved of $1,474,058.10.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Sullivan
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
B. MONTHLY REPORT – SEPTEMBER 2022
Treasurer Coren reviewed year-to-date sources of revenue, expenditures, and fund balances through the month of September 2022.
General Fund: Revenue $9,624,418; Expenditures $6,393,722; Current Balance $6,129,631
Water Fund: Revenue $2,461,826; Expenditures $2,555,998 Current Balance $3,352,698
Motor Fuel Tax Fund: Revenue $621,110; Expenditures $305,866; Current Balance $1,253,279
Water Depreciation Fund: Revenue $14,316 Expenditures $1,028,880; Current Balance $2,742,142
Capital Improvement Fund: Revenue $1,728,073; Expenditures $2,683,584; Current Balance $14,717,920
13. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS
Administrative/Finance Committee – Clerk Ragona announced the Administrative/Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for December 5, 2022 at 6:00 P.M.
Municipal Services Committee – Chairman Belczak announced the Municipal Services Committee meeting is scheduled for November 28, 2022 at 6:00 P.M.
Police Committee – Chairman Kenny announced the Police Committee meeting is scheduled for November 21, 2022 at 6:30 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
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Gustafson to approve by Omnibus Vote the following items on the Consent Agenda:
A. RESOLUTION NO. R-75-22 A RESOLUTION TO ENTER INTO AN ENGINEERING AGREEMENT WITH CHRISTOPHER B. BURKE ENGINEERING, LTD. FOR THE 2023 STREET MAINTENANCE PROGRAM CONTRACT BID BOOKLET, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $36,350.00
B. RESOLUTION NO. R-76-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ENTER INTO AN ENGINEERING AGREEMENT WITH CHRISTOPHER B. BURKE ENGINEERING, LTD. FOR PAVEMENT CORINGS FOR THE PROPOSED 2023 STREET MAINTENANCE PROGRAM, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $16,200.00
C. RESOLUTION NO. R-77-22 A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A PROPOSAL FROM CONSULTING ENGINEERING, INC. FOR THE 2022 WATER LEAK SURVEY, IN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $12,916.80
D. RESOLUTION NO. R-78-22 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN EXTENSION OF A PROPOSAL FROM JC LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICES, INC. AT THE PROPOSED SCHEDULE OF PRICES FOR THE REAR YARD DRAINAGE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM FOR A PERIOD OF MAY 1, 2023 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2024
E. RESOLUTION NO. R-79-22 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN EXTENSION OF A PROPOSAL FROM JC LANDSCAPING & TREE SERVICE AT SCHEDULE OF PRICES FOR THE PLACEMENT OF TOPSOIL AND FOR THE PURCHASE AND PLACEMENT OF FERTILIZER AND SOD FOR LANDSCAPE RESTORATION SERVICES FOR A PERIOD OF MAY 1, 2023 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2024
F. RESOLUTION NO. R-80-22 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN EXTENSION OF A PROPOSAL FROM SHREVE SERVICES, INC., FOR TOPSOIL AT THE SPECIFIED UNIT OF PRICES FOR VARIOUS PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS FOR A PERIOD OF MAY 1, 2023 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2024
G. RESOLUTION NO. R-81-22 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN EXTENSION OF A PROPOSAL FROM VULCAN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, LLC, FOR THE PURCHASE AND PICK UP OF STONE FOR VARIOUS PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS AT THE PROPOSED UNIT PRICES FOR A PERIOD OF MAY 1, 2023 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2024
H. RESOLUTION NO. R-82-22 A RESOLUTION APPROVING AN EXTENSION OF A PROPOSAL FROM VULCAN CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, LLC, FOR THE PURCHASE AND DELIVERY OF STONE FOR PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS FOR A PERIOD OF MAY 1, 2023 THROUGH APRIL 30, 2024
I. RESOLUTION NO. R-83-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF 125 BANNERS FROM BANNERVILLE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $10,625.00
J. RESOLUTION NO. R-84-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF BIOMELT AG 64, THE ORGANIC DEICING ACCELERATOR PRODUCT, FROM SNI SOLUTIONS, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $11,205(4,500 GALLONS X $2.49/GALLON)
K. RESOLUTION NO. R-85-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE PURCHASE OF ALTERNATIVE LIQUID DE ICER AND ANTI-ICING PRODUCTS FROM INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS, LTD., IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $62,000.00
L. RESOLUTION NO. R-86-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT A PROPOSAL FROM EJ EQUIPMENT, INC., FOR THE PURCHASE OF TWO (2) NEW TRACKLESS TRACTOR MT7 FOR SAFETY SIDEWALK SNOW CLEARING OPERATIONS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $372,950
M. RESOLUTION NO. R-87-22 A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE MAYOR TO ACCEPT A PROPOSAL FROM INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS LTD FOR THE PURCHASE OF DE-ICING STORAGE TANKS AND COMPONENTS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $39,415.00
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Sullivan
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
17. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO DIRECTING THE CITY STAFF TO NEGOTIATE THE FOLLOWING AGREEMENTS AND VARIATIONS AT 7702 CASS AVE (SOUTHWEST CORNER OF CASS AND PLAINFIELD ROAD) PIN# 09-28-410-045, FOR MARQUEE SIGNAGE: LEASE/EASEMENT AGREEMENT, LANDSCAPE AGREEMENT, CONSTRUCTION EASEMENT, MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT AND VARIATIONS-SIGN CODE
It was moved by Alderman Belczak and seconded by Alderman Schauer to approve the motion as presented.
Alderman Belczak voiced agreement with motion and stated he would like to see details for options under consideration.
Administrator Vana stated the easement agreement will be negotiated with property owner for placement of signage. Council will review options.
Roll Call: Ayes: Belczak, Chlystek, Gustafson, Kenny, Schauer, Vaughan
Nays: None
Absent: Sullivan
Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1
MOTION DULY CARRIED
18. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS – GENERAL
Steve Shanks, resident of Ward Six, stressed the importance of the election and the hardship Center Cass School District 66 will face should the referendum not pass. He shared his opinion that Alderman Gustafson was not being the voice of his constituents.
Alderman Gustafson urged people to look at House Bill 7 regarding school district consolidation.
Mayor Marchese stressed the importance of residents exercising their right to vote. No matter the outcome of the referendums for Districts 63 and 66, he hopes disparate sides can come together and make decisions in the best interest of the children.
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 9:07 P.M.
https://www.darien.il.us/getattachment/b934af71-ec4a-4164-abc3-b6084e766bbb/Darien-City-Council-Meeting-November-7,-2022.aspx
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