Dupage Policy Journal

City of Elmhurst Public Affairs and Safety Committee met April 28

Here are the minutes provided by the committee:

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 7:04 p.m. by Chair Brennan.

2. Roll Call

Committee Members Present: Chair Brennan, Vice Chair Hill, Alderman Nardini

Absent: None

Elected Officials: Mayor Levin, Alderman Bram, Alderman Sienko, and Alderman Irby           

City Staff Present: City Manager James Grabowski, Assistant City Manager Kent Johnson, Police Chief Michael McLean, Deputy Police Chief Brett Kaczorowski, Fire Chief Dick DuFort, History Museum Director Dave Oberg, Communications Manager Kassondra Schref, City Planner Eileen Franz

Guests: None                                                               

3. Public Comment

None

4. Receipt of Written Communications

None

5. Business Before the Committee

A. Minutes of the April 14th , 2025 meeting of the Public Affairs & Safety Committee

Alderman Nardini requested an additional sentence is added stating that Michael LoCicero stated if the City had unlimited funds, he would implement the recommendations of the City of Elmhurst Bicycle and Pedestrian plan. Alderman Hill motioned to approve the minutes of the April 14th, 2025 meeting with that addition. Alderman Nardini seconded. Roll call vote:  Chair Brennan Aye, Hill Aye, Nardini Aye. Motion carried.

B.  ElmhurstTV Production Services

Communications Manager Kassondra Schref presented updated information to the Committee about the proposed ElmhurstTV production services.  Schref provided an updated quote comparison chart and added additional information on how the budget is utilized. Alderman Nardini stated that he was initially apprehensive at the last meeting, but noted he did not have any dissatisfaction with City Staff. Alderman Nardini stated he should have inquired about what other peer communities spend to understand if we are getting a good value. Nardini noted that he recently spoke with market professionals and learned that these were great bids. Alderman Hill noted he was appreciative of the work and appreciative of crafting the additional budget language. Alderman Hill motioned to approve the report. Alderman Nardini seconded. Roll call vote: Chair Brennan Aye, Hill Aye, Nardini Aye. Motion carried.

C.  Short Term Rentals

Alderman Brennan introduced and summarized the Short Term Rental report, noting that this ordinance provides a good framework and can always be amended in the future if it is not working effectively. Alderman Hill noted that he was happy with where the report ended up and provides a good framework. Alderman Hill stated that this a good start and not a heavy handed approach. Alderman Hill stated if this ordinance does not work out, we can look at it again to make sure it meets residents needs. Alderman Nardini noted that he is in general support and this ordinance provides a valuable tool for responding officers, specifically the provision that includes how many occupants can be in a home. 

Alderman Sienko noted that she liked the approach, specifically the provision that states the license can only be issued to the property owner. Alderman Bram stated that he agrees with the approach and agrees with the statements Chairman Brennan said about being able to amend the ordinance in the future. 

Alderman Irby noted that he was concerned about specific regulations concerning zoning, length of stay, and questioned the definition of commercial properties and if fire sprinklers were required. Chairman Brennan noted that this ordinance will be reviewed by the City Attorney. City Planner Eileen Fanz noted that she has had conversations already with the City Attorney. 

Alderman Nardini motioned to approve the report. Alderman Hill seconded. Roll call vote: Chair Brennan Aye, Hill Aye, Nardini Aye. Motion carried.

6. Other Business

Alderman Hill stated it was his pleasure serving with the members of this Committee.

Alderman Nardini he was lucky and appreciative of working with the Committee and having someone as patient and deliberative as Chairman Brennan to run meetings. Chair Brennan stated that they were able to accomplish a lot as a collective group. Chair Brennan thanked the Committee and City Staff. 

Adjournment

Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Alderman Hill and seconded by Alderman Nardini. Roll call vote: Chair Brennan Aye, Hill Aye, Nardini Aye, motion carried. Meeting adjourned 7:39  p.m.

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