Committee of the Whole Minutes 2012 08-14-12 MINUTES OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
OF THE UNITED CITY OF YORKVILLE, KENDALL COUNTY ILLINOIS
HELD IN THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS,
800 GAME FARM ROAD ON
TUESDAY,AUGUST 14, 2012, 7PM
Mayor Golinski called the meeting to order at 7:00pm and led the attendees in the Pledge
of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Ward I Vacant Absent
Colosimo Present
Ward II Milschewski Present
Kot Present
Ward III Munns Present
Funkhouser Present
Ward IV Spears Present
Teeling Present
City officials present: Mayor Gary Golinski, City Administrator Bart Olson, City
Attorney Kathleen Orr, Public Works Director Eric Dhuse, Community Development
Director Krysti Barksdale-Noble, Director of Finance Rob Fredrickson, Director of Parks
and Recreation Laura Schraw, Chief of Police Rich Hart, Deputy Chief Don
Schwartzkopf, Code Official Peter Ratos, EEI Engineer Brad Sanderson, Administrative
Intern Jeff Weckbach
Other Guests: Lynn Dubajic-YEDC, Steve Lord-Beacon News, Tony Scott-Kendall
County Record, Jillian Duchnowski-Yorkville Patch. See also guest lists.
PRESENTATIONS:
1. Ribs on the River Winners
Mayor Golinski presented plaques to the winners of the Ribs on the River contest and he
reported positive feedback from this contest.
2. Knights of Columbus Recreation Scholarship
Marty Reynolds of the Knights of Columbus was presented a certificate of appreciation
for a Special Recreation Fund scholarship for disabled children in Yorkville. Mr.
Reynolds also presented a $500 check to assist disabled children in the City.
3. RFP Opening for 201 W. Hydraulic (Old Post Office)
One bid package was received and Mr. Olson read it aloud during the meeting. The letter
was from 3 Angels Brewing and was not an actual bid. No further action.
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole–August 14, 2012–Page 2 of 8
4. City Services Survey
The results of this survey were compiled and presented by Administrative Intern Jeff
Weckbach. He noted there were 530 responses and 900 comments and he highlighted
some of the statistics:
1. 50% of the respondents were over 50 years of age
2. 75% of respondents were in their first 10 years in the City
3. 67% had lived in a different western suburb
4. Traffic flow, street maintenance and property maintenance were of most
concern along with communication with elected officials. Maintenance of streets
was of great concern with negative comments about snowplows moving too fast
and hitting mailboxes.
5. Rated best services were quality of police department, police response time
garbage service
6. More police and improved snow removal were most desired
7. The major sources of news are Kendall County Record, utility bills and City
newsletter(newsletter discontinued at this time, might be brought back).
8. Shoppers were asked what type of businesses they would like to see with 1/3
answering they wanted restaurants, grocers, specialty shops and other major
businesses.
9. Improvement suggestions were: lower taxes, development, vibrant downtown
S. Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
Mr. Chris Hamilton, Executive Director of the Bureau gave a presentation and asked the
Council to commit to a 5-year agreement. The Bureau is funded by transient room taxes
and serves 5 counties. He said the Visitor's Guide has a half page ad for Yorkville this
year and will be increasing the size to a full page. While the Bureau still does print ads,
web ads are very important and recent promo ads listed several Yorkville events. Social
media plays a large part in their tourism efforts as well. Kiosks will be built in various
locations including the Aurora Transportation Center and he will work with the City to
determine locations in Yorkville. He noted that Alderman Chris Funkhouser is the
Yorkville representative.
CITIZEN COMMENTS: None
MINUTES FOR APPROVAL:
1. July 9, 2012 Adhoc Committee for Recreation Facility Alternatives
Alderman Kot said there were 2 comments attributed to him that he didn't think he had
made. He asked that the minutes be returned to the minute taker for review and revision.
2. July 10, 2012 Committee of the Whole
Alderman Spears noted on page 2, 2nd paragraph from the bottom—Ashley Flint does not
support.
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole—August 14, 2012—Page 3 of 8
Also on page 3, 2nd paragraph, Terry Hancock was the Naperville Humane Society
representative.
Alderman Colosimo referred to the bottom of page 3--he wants it made clear in minutes
that he was in favor of doing more research into exotic pets. He also wanted it made
clear in the minutes, the Aldermen who were for or against more research and how the
committee decided not to proceed with the research. He asked that the minutes be
revised and brought back for another review.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE ITEMS:
New Business:
1. EDC 2012-33 Aurora Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (AACVB)Agreement
It was noted that Yorkville has been a member of the AACVB since 1990. Alderman
Colosimo expressed some reservations saying that after 5 years with the Bureau, he feels
the City is getting no return on the investment. He said the website coverage of Yorkville
was very minimal and he would not vote for a 5-year agreement.
The contract length is too long commented Alderman Munns and he would like a shorter
commitment. Alderman Milschewski asked where the tourism booklets are found and
that$45,000 is too much. The booklets are currently found in lodging in the City, at the
Chamber and YEDC to name a few.
Grant opportunities were questioned by Alderman Teeling. The Bureau would assist the
City with this and it was noted they helped with the grant for the old jail. She also noted
the City receives about $51,000 in hotel tax.
Alderman Funkhouser said he is the Board liaison with the Visitor's Bureau and stated
that he has seen improvement since Mr. Hamilton became the Director. He asked the
committee to consider a 2-3 year contract and said that the City can't get the same reach
without AACVB. He said other communities are looking at shorter terms also.
Alderman Kot said 5 years is too long and suggested a 2-year contract. Mr. Hamilton
said his Board of Directors would have to decide if they would accept that. Mr. Kot
noted the City had been with the Bureau for 20 years.
Another concern was voiced by Alderman Spears. She said Yorkville contributes a large
share of the money but only has one representative on the Board. She would not support
more than a 2-year contract.
A breakdown of contributions from each community or a ranking by community was
requested by Alderman Milschewski. Mr. Hamilton said Yorkville and Sandwich are the
largest contributors next to Aurora.
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole—August 14, 2012—Page 4 of 8
Alderman Munns asked why other towns have more than one representative,but
Yorkville only has one. Hamilton said each town has 1 rep and other Board members
come from the Chambers of Commerce. He said the Board is in the process of re-
structuring the by-laws that govern this. Munns said Yorkville pays the 2nd highest
amount but, the City has the same voting privileges as someone who contributes less. He
also questioned why Forest Preserve/County Board members are AACVB Board
members when they have no revenue-producers. Munns said he would not support a 5-
year contract.
Mayor Golinski said AACVB provides a good service, but questioned if the City could
do better internally. He has been approached by a local business that said the City is
under-represented and they could do a better job. The Mayor will meet with them next
week. He asked Mr. Hamilton to advise the AACVB that the Council is not in favor of a
5-year contract. Ms. Milschewki suggested talking with Oswego who uses a private firm
for their tourism.
Alderman Colosimo asked if tourism money can be rolled over from year to year if the
entire amount is not spent that year. Attorney Orr will research the legality.
In summary, Mr. Hamilton will ask his Board about a shorter contract for the City. The
Mayor will meet with the other media firm next week and the item will move forward,
however, there will be more discussion.
2. EDC 2012-3 Swanson Lane Estates—Plat of Vacation
This item is to vacate the final plats and reduce the Letters of Credit. Mr. Colosimo
commented this could help promote a possible sale. This will move to the consent
agenda.
3. EDC 2012-35 Existing Home Sales Incentive Program
After an extension of the B.U.I.L.D. program, it was discussed how the City could
possibly help with foreclosed homes. Other parts of the country are using some loan
programs to help promote sales. Alderman Munns said the City should not be in the
banking business, but lowering fees is a way the City helps. Administrator Olson said if
the committee was in favor of such assistance, the City would have to budget for this.
One city that does offer assistance does not use City money, but uses grants, etc.
4. EDC 2012-36 Kendallwood Estates Development Agreement Amendment
Alderman Spears noted that in the past, there had been flooding on the north side of Van
Emmon and said that property owners there be notified of the proposed amendment. Mr.
Olson said the City could do that and said that the affected homes are in the floodway.
Carlo Colosimo agreed with Ms. Spears and said this is part of the process of
communication the City needed to do. Approximately 12 residents will be notified.
This item will come back for discussion in 2 weeks.
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole—August 14, 2012— Page 5 of 8
S. EDC 2012-37 Downtown Brownfields Study
Phases 1 and 2 were completed in the past on the former F. S.property. There are new
owners at this time and they want phase 3 completed. The environmental cleanup is TIF
eligible. Mayor Golinski said the City should move forward due to the TIF funds.
Alderman Colosimo said he has gotten comments from residents who think the City is
paying for the phase 3 cleanup. He said 2 of the 3 property owners are benefiting even
though they did not contribute. Mayor Golinski commented that overall the City wants to
move forward with downtown development. Mr. Olson said the proposals received have
to be reviewed by Attorney Orr and will be available at the next meeting. Mr. Kot
verified that the entire amount the City is spending would come from the TIF funds. This
item moves to the next City Council meeting regular agenda in 2 weeks.
6 EDC 2012-38 Urban Chicken Regulations
Alderman Colosimo said he had been approached by residents wondering if chickens are
legal in the City. His interpretation of the ordinance is that they are not legal. Mr. Olson
said about 6 homes have pet chickens. After a brief discussion, the Aldermen said they
were not in favor in allowing them in the City. Ms. Milschewski commented there is a
fine line between a pet and farm animal. Mr. Olson said inspections had been done by
the City and half the chickens were indoor pets. Ms. Orr suggested no further action
unless it becomes a problem.
7. EDC 2012-39 Old Post Office Property RFP
No discussion was held since there were no bids.
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE ITEMS:
New Business
1. PS 2012-19 Disposal of Property
Chief Hart submitted a list of outdated and old police equipment including light bars, old
computers and radios. It was noted that hard drives will be removed. Mayor Golinski
asked how the equipment would be disposed of. Auctioneers will be contacted, ads could
be placed and some items may be scrapped. It was also suggested that citizens could bid
on some of the items. It was noted that City employees could bid on property at open
auctions. Mr. Olson said City Council authorization would be needed to dispose of the
property. This will move forward to the City Council.
2. PS 2012-20 Golf Carts in Subdivisions
Alderman Colosimo said this item came from citizens from his Ward, who were unable
to attend this meeting. He asked to pull this item from the agenda and move it to the next
Public Safety committee meeting.
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole—August 14,2012— Page 6 of 8
Old Business
1. PS 2012-16 L igh to ing Detectors for City Parks
Laura Schraw contacted other companies for bids and reported only 7 companies in the
nation sell detectors, but not all deal with municipalities. ThorGuard was the least
expensive company with a bid of$38,860. There is currently $52,000 in the lightning
detector fund that has to be spent within a certain time. Ms. Schraw said the schools
would like to help fund the purchase. Aldermen Kot and Colosimo recommended
moving ahead quickly with this purchase. This item will move to the consent agenda.
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE ITEMS:
New Business: None
Old Business:
1. PW 2012-35 Recommendation of Award for the 2012 MFT Maintenance Program
Mayor Golinski said the bids came back very favorable and$20,000 less than the
engineering estimate. There was no discussion and this item moves to the City Council
consent agenda.
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE ITEMS:
New Business
1. ADM 2012-44 Appointment of FOIA Officer—Jeff Weckbach
Mr. Weckbach has taken the training and will be a backup for FOIA requests. This will
move to the Council consent agenda.
Old Business: None
MAYOR'S REPORT:
New Business:
1. COW 2012-02 Kendall County 911 Referendum
Mayor Golinski received a call from Oswego Village President LeClerq stating he asked
the County Board to delay a vote in light of the tax decrease referendum. County
Administrator Wilkins asked Mayor Golinski about Yorkville's position on this matter.
The City supports a delay in the vote and Alderman Spears said a letter detailing
Yorkville's position should be sent. Alderman Colosimo added that it is a moot point,
since no referendum to raise taxes would pass. Mayor Golinski also noted that there will
be a new County Board in a few months
PARK BOARD:
New Business:
1. COW 2012-03 Land Cash Recommendation
Mayor Golinski said an appraisal had been done and was quite low at $30,000 an acre,
down from the current amount of$101,000. The amount can be reduced, however, if the
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole—August 14, 2012—Page 7 of 8
Council sees fit. Or the City could take no action now and consider on a case-by-case
basis. Colosimo commented that if the city does case-by-case, a developer would be
responsible for an appraisal thus allowing for negotiations. Mayor Golinski said the Park
Board had discussed this matter and how it would affect annexation agreements in
regards to parks. Alderman Teeling asked how many annexation agreements the City
currently has. Ms. Schraw referred to a chart with that information and also the number
of Letters of Credit. It was noted that the agreements could be re-negotiated. It was the
Mayor's opinion that the City has had good press with the B.U.I.L.D. program and any
changes should be done on an individual basis.
Alderman Funkhouser said $30,000 is too low for what the City needs but, the City is
finally moving forward with new development. A correction may be needed in a couple
of years. Mr. Munns agreed with Funkhouser and said to leave it the same and see what
happens in the next development. If the amount is left as is, Alderman Colosimo said
the City would gain leverage and sends a message that the City Council listens. Ms.
Spears favored staying with the Park Board recommendation..
In conclusion, it was decided to keep the recommended amount and re-visit this at a later
time.
ITEMS RECOMMENDED FOR CONSENT AGENDA:
1. PW 2012-46 Water Department Reports for May and June 2012
2. ADM 2012-45 Banking RFP
3. ADM 2012-46 Treasurer's Report for July 2012
4. PS 2012-21 Code Amendments Regarding Disorderly Conduct&Possession of
Drug Paraphernalia
5. COW 2012-04 Ordinance Indemnifying Administrative Hearing Officers
There was no discussion on any of the items and they will move forward to the next
consent agenda.
INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
1. EDC 2012-40 Building Permit Report for July 2012
2. EDC 2012-41 Building Inspection Report Summary for July 2012
3. EDC 2012-42 Property Maintenance Reports for July 2012
4. PS 2012-22 Monthly Police Reports for July 2012
5. PW 2012-47 Road Maintenance Study Update
6. PW 2012-48 River Road Bridge Update
7. ADM 2012-47 Monthly Budget Report for July 2012
8. ADM 2012-48 Mon th ly Cash Statem en t R eport for Ju ly 2012
No discussion on any of the items.
Minutes of the Committee of the Whole—August 14, 2012—Page 8 of 8
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:
Alderman Munns had previously inquired about the poor condition of the pavement
between the Moose and BP Amoco. Pete Ratos reported the Moose will have a solution
within a month since the pavement will need to re-done, not just repaired. They will be
cited if no action is taken.
Alderman Kot had some concerns about the parking around Town Square Park. Chief
Hart explained the restrictions of the parking and said the department spoke with the
person in violation.
Mr. Colosimo said he had asked to have the old jail RFP item on the agenda. If the City
sells the building, some money will need to be refunded. Alderman Milschewski asked
about the nearby parking if the building was sold. This will be discussed in the Executive
Session.
Mayor Golinski said he had received 4 applications for the vacant aldermanic seat and he
intends to name Ken Koch as the replacement. Mr. Koch has served on the Park Board
for 12 years. A vote will be taken in an upcoming meeting.
At 8:45pm the committee adjourned the regular meeting to enter into Executive Session.
Respectfully submitted by
Marlys Young, Minute Taker
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