Public Safety Minutes 2004 04-22-04 APPROVED BY THE
COMAArM BOARD
Pagel of 8
UNITED CITY OF YORKVIIILE
PUBLIC SAFETY MEETING
Conference Room
April 22,2004,6:30pm
In Attendance:
Alderman Larry Kot Mayor Art Prochaska(joined meeting at 7pm)
Alderman Rose Spears Police Chief Harold Martin
Alderwoman Wanda Ohare Attorney Kelly Kramer
Alderman Paul James
Guests:
Officer Jon Helland, Yorkville Police Department
The meeting was called to order at 6:40pm by Alderman Kot.
1. A.PPROVAUCORRECTION OF NIINUTES:
REVISED JANUARY 22.2004,AND MARCH 25.2004
janu uy 22, 2004Minutes-
• Add Chief Harold Martin and Sgt.Ron Diederich to those in attendance
Page 2, a paragraph should read"Alderwoman Ohare felt that there should
only be a limit on the liquor licenses for gas stations."
• Page 1, 1"paragraph, should read: "...that they only allow 3-5 bottles of
wine at a wine tasting".
Minutes accepted with above 3 changes
March 25, 2 004 Minutes-
Approved as read
2. UPDATE ONNEW WORLD SOFTWARE
Chief Martin stated there might be a solution for the cost of the software and the city
would be able to save$130,000. Currently,there is a federal grant available for $3 .
million. Two problems would be solved:
1. Radio communications would be on same line—would be able to transmit to
banks, high school etc.
2. In-car video cameras would allow an image from a squad car to be transmitt ed to
other locations, (similar to Oswego).
' r
Page 2 of 8
i
Yorkville may be able to use Kendall County software or Oswego software just by
association, however, copyrights would need to be reviewed as well. Kendall County is
being used as a test case for this system, which the Department of the Defense is working
on. As many as five software users at a time may use the system by just purchasing two
software packages. As the number of users increases, more licenses would need to be
purchased. Chief Martin feels there is a good chance of obtaining this system, with
assistance from the Mayor and County Board Chairman. It could be operational within a
year.
Alderwoman Ohare asked if this software would be available for the squad cars. Chief
Martin reported there would be a minor cost for Yorkville. If Yorkville used the
integrated system, there would be an additional cost of$2000-$3000. A reduction of
current equipment in the squad cars would also be a beneficial possibility. Ms. Ohare
asked if the cost of the software could be shared with Oswego. The Chief reported that
would be a distinct possibility
Alderman James asked if an inter-governmental agreement is needed. Chief Martin
replied there is such an agreement in place at this time, however, a separate one for just
the software might be necessary. The Chief noted that Dennis [Hastert]recommended
this for Kendall County and it is funded by Homeland Security money. The federal grant
should be in place within the next week. Mr. James suggested that the intergovernmental
agreement could be mentioned in conjunction with the federal grant. Kendall County is
already applying for the grant.
Chief Martin suggested that this package be placed on the April 27th C.O.W. agenda for
approval and support of the grant. He further noted that no other City funds would be
expended at this time. He will have additional information soon.
Alderman James reiterated the fact that having an approved inter-governmental
agreement in place at the time of the grant application would be a plus to secure the grant.
Attorney Kramer suggested obtaining a letter from Dwight Baird stating that negotiations
are in process pending the outcome of the grant.
3 UPDATE ONSENIOR DRIVERS SAFETYINITIATIVE INFORMATION
Chief Martin reported he is still waiting to hear from the Department of Aging.
This item will be placed on the agenda for next month.
Page 3 of 8
4. UPDATE ON DIGITAL RECORDING OF INTERVIEW ROOM
Chief Martin stated that the digital recording equipment should be installed as soon as
possible. Until that time, Oswego's facilities could be used in the event of a major
felony. It is hoped thatYorkville's interview room can be completed by the end of May
when the new budget is approved. He will meet with Mayor Prochaska to ascertain if the
$2400 necessary is available in the contingency fund.
This item will be moved forward to C.O.W. on May 4a'.
S UPDATE ONLIOUOR ORDINANCE
Attorney Kramer noted that a breakdown of the liquor licenses was asked for at the
previous meeting. She provided a handout showing who holds the current licenses and
asked how the committee would like the reclassifications done. There was brief
discussion about the winery/brewery slated for Dr. Koch's farm and it was also noted that
Aldi's had applied for a license. Ms. Kramer had reviewed the licenses currently held by
gas station operators and her recommendation was a 5-year sunset clause for these
operators so those licenses could eventually be phased out. She further stated that the
reclassifications should include one for package liquors for gas stations. The general
consensus of the group was to limit how many license are issued.
Alderwoman Ohare stated that she does not favor liquor sales at gas stations because
liquor and gas/driving is not a safe combination. How those should be limited was then
addressed. Attorney Kramer recommended a separate class for gas stations and asked for
a policy decision from Council. A sunset clause provision would be needed and then it
would be specifically written in the ordinance that the license would expire in 5 years.
The liquor licenses would then be limited after the 5-year period—by elimination of
eligibility. In addition, licenses cannot be limited or disqualified due to the location of
the business.
Ms. Kramer suggested tabling this issue so she could confer with Mokena about their
current efforts to eliminate sales at gas stations. She will ask their city attorneys about
any ramifications they have experienced. Mayor Prochaska asked Ms. Kramer to review
the ordinance which pertains to shopping centers and revise the ordinance to limit
package liquor sales. Alderman Kot supported limitations on the number of liquor
licenses and further suggested a possible zoning restriction.
The sampling ordinance will moved forward to C.O.W. on May 4�' . New classifications
are still being worked on.
Page 4 of 8
In conjunction with the classification review, Mayor Prochaska related an issue with
property at Rt. 34 and Cannonball. The property owner first requested a restaurant
license,then changed to a tavern license. The owner stated he wants a license that does
not allow anyone under 21 in the establishment after l Opm. The Mayor told him
something written would be forthcoming. Geneva's ordinance addresses this issue, so
Ms. Kramer will write a sample ordinance from this example.
8. POLICE CADET PROGRAM PRESENTATION
Note: The committee moved forward to this item on the agenda so Officer Jon Helland
could give his presentation.
Yorkville Police Officer Jon Helland presented information he gathered about Aurora's
police cadet program. The following points were made:
• Cadets perform menial tasks providing them training and public relations work
• Program grooms cadets in preparation for being an officer, at less cost
• Average pay is $7.80 per hour plus paid tuition for a 2-year program at
Waubonsee Community College (WCC)
• If cadets test for APD, cadets are elevated towards top of eligibility list
• Cadets gain knowledge of streets
• Nearly retired squad cars are used by cadets
• WCC classwork is monitored and must maintain certain GPA
• Cadets wear distinctive uniforms from officers
• Average work time per week is 20 hours during school time
• 40 hours a week are worked in the summer when not in school
• APD very happy with program, 70-75%of cadets become officers
• Main focus is adequate training for future officers
• Starting age is at least 17 and not over 21
• Cadets are recruited through school resource officer
In further discussion, Officer Helland stated that the cadets are hired by the City
rather than through the Police Commission. If a cadet changes his/her mind about
being a police officer, the costs of college courses are not recouped. The cost of the
courses comes from Aurora's general budget. He noted that Joliet pays for four
years of college.
Some of the duties of the cadets are: private property accident reports, criminal
damage to property reports, mail runs and taking cars for service. They do not handle
emergencies or crimes against people. Officer Helland will begin the funding
r
Page 5 of 8
process for such a program. Mayor Prochaska favored this program as the
community grows and new officers will be hired each year. Officer Helland fiuther
stated that Joliet cadets must test for the police department, but it is not mandatory to
accept the position. In Yorkville, cadets would not be placed at the top of the
eligibility list because of the Board of Fire and Police. No points are given because
Yorkville is governed by this board. The cadets also accompany trained officers to
the shooting range.
Chief Martin would like to see a written policy while the Mayor asked for a
breakdown of costs for budgeting purposes. Alderman Kot suggested bringing this
back to the committee after costs and other information are gathered and this item
could possibly be a mid-year budget program.
Attorney Kramer left the meeting at 7:45pm
6. 2003 ANNUAL REPORT
Chief Martin asked the committee to review and after approval, move this item to the
second City Council meeting. It was decided to move this to C.O.W. on May I for
any questions and then move forward to the City Council meeting on May 25h for the
actual presentation of the report.
7. POLICE REPORTS—MARCH 2004
Chief Martin noted that 500 tickets were not issued as stated on the report. There
were actually 195 tickets, 4 verbal warnings and 383 written warnings. The report
will be revised and moved forward to the consent agenda of the C.O.W. on May e.
Other points noted on the police reports were: personnel activity costs were higher at
a cost of$837 and increased runaway reports(working with Aunt Martha's on this
problem).
This item(with corrections)will be moved to the C.O.W. consent agenda on May
9.CLEAR SYSTEM
The Clear System will be dependent on receiving grant money. A LEADS terminal
or restricted terminal may not be necessary to gain access to the Chicago system,
however, if hard copies of paperwork are needed,the terminal would be needed.
Page 6 of 8
Alderman Kot stated that the procurement of the LEADS terminal should be put on
hold dependent on the grant outcome. Chief Martin expects to receive further
information in the coming days.
The Clear system, actually named I-Clear, is Chicago's intelligence database, which
is being made available to other agencies. The State Police are merging intelligence
information with the Chicago Police Department. It was noted that the Clear system
access will be free.
This item will be brought back to the committee.
10. AA LE PROBLEM WH 2003 CROWN VICTORIAS
A nationwide alert had been received regarding a possible axle problem with these
vehicles. Both Police Department squads were checked and one was fixed under
warranty, while the other squad was sound
11. TOOTSIE ROLL CANDYDONATION
A donation of tootsie roll candy was received for distribution at 4t'of July, Boy Scout
tours, for the front lobby of the Police Department, in squad cars, on bike patrol and
other uses. This donation was received as a result of a letter being composed by
Police Department office personnel. Chief Martin asked that the City send a letter of
acknowledgment and thanks to the candy company.
12. THANK YOULETTER FROM THE YMCA
Chief Martin presented a letter he received from the YMCA thanking the Police
Department for their donation of $4,000 for the purchase of vans. This donation was
made, due to grant reductions to the YMCA.
13 OFFICER BARRY GROESCH- VOLUNTEER SERVICE AIVARD
Officer Barry Groesch was selected as the Kendall County Youth Service Board's
annual Volunteer Service Award. This selection was made as a result of a
nomination by Alderwoman Rose Spears. He was nominated for his volunteerism
with Kendall County youths and honored at a ceremony in April. Alderman Larry
Kot suggested that Officer Groesch should be recognized at a City Council meeting.
Chief Martin will coordinate that recognition.
Page 7 of 8
14. THANK YOU FROM THE U.S DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE
Chief Martin presented a letter he received from the U.S. Department of Justice in
recognition of a drug threat survey in which the Police Department participated. The
survey concerned current emerging drug trafficking threats.
15. SILVER SPRINGS 60 2004 BIKE RIDE SUNDAY.APRIL 25
The Police Department was notified that the Fox Valley Bicycle& Ski Club would be
having a bike ride on April 25. The start and finish will be at Beecher Center and will
include about 600 riders. Chief Martin stated that the Sheriff had been notified as
well.
16. ADDITIONAL BUSINESS
Chief Martin asked Mayor Prochaska to speak about the RICP meeting which was
held. Mayor Prochaska stated that Yorkville had been selected to be part of a pilot
program and grant. Five meetings would be conducted and the current disaster plan
would be reviewed. All organizations concerned with disaster assistance, such as the
Fire and Police Departments,would be involved in the meetings.
A$10,000 federal grant (through Homeland Security)would be given to revise the
City's plan to resemble the State plan. The Mayor and Chief will be asked to speak at
the Illinois Municipal League and share their experiences of this process, which
would be used as a model program. Presently, only 3 towns in Illinois will be taking
part in this program.
This item will be brought forth to City Council on April 270`before the Mayor signs
this agreement.
An update on dog problems was given. Chief Martin reported continued dialog with
KenCom and also noted that 2 dog snares had been received. The use of the stun gun
is not feasible because the weight of the dog must be obtained,therefore, making this
an unsatisfactory solution. Alderman Ohare asked if anything could be done on a 24
hour basis to apprehend loose dogs.
Fliers have not been circulated yet regarding the problem dog discussed at the prior
meeting. He will discuss this option. The problem dog has been sighted by the river,
though no recent complaints have been received. Chief Martin has asked KenCom to
dispatch officers to a complaining person's home if the dog is sighted.
f
Page 8 of 8
Alderman James inquired if there was a cat ordinance. It was noted that cats are to be
kept on their own property. He asked if there should be an ordinance concerning the
number of cats allowed per household. The committee felt that would be a zoning
issue. It was suggested that the animal ordinance be published, however,the board
decided to review the ordinance prior to that. It will be placed on the next agenda.
Mayor Prochaska commended the Police personnel for their actions on the night of
the recent tornado and thanked Chief Martin for going to Utica to assist in their
tornado cleanup. The Mayor also shared the thanks he received from Utica..
Alderman Kot felt there was some confusion about the all-clear siren. Mayor
Prochaska stated there is actually no"all clear" and suggested the April newsletter
should annually contain information regarding tornadoes. In addition, it was
suggested that siren information be posted near receptionists in all public buildings
defining what the sirens mean so that it can be explained to the public when they call.
There was also discussion regarding proper signage within the city hall and the fact
that the door to the basement stairs is normally locked.
Alderwoman Ohare said the weather siren is not audible on Bruell Street at the
present time. A siren will be placed on the new left station near that area. This
installation should be made a priority as a result of the recent bad weather. She also
mentioned a recent concern brought to her attention from a citizen. The citizen's 3
year old granddaughter wears hearing aids and there was concern about the decibel
level for the young child. Information regarding the number of decibels emitted by
the siren, was provided to the citizen
In a recent newsletter Bill Dettmer wrote an article regarding safety issues for ponds
as part of home landscaping. Currently there is no ordinance covering ponds. A
citizen suggested limitations on the square footage. Depth is also a factor. This item
will be brought back to the committee.
Alderman Kot said a press release had been written by Chief Martin regarding the
enforcement of the dam area. Officers will be checking fishing licenses and other
issues with the park. Patrol of the area will also be increased. Mayor Prochaska
reported concern for the safety at the bridge where rebar has been cut. Warning signs
were requested from IDOT for the bridge area, but the signs have not been received
as of yet. It was noted the IDOT is responsible for the bridge and down to the water
while IDNR is responsible for the water.
As there was no further additional business,the meeting was adjourned at 8:40pm.
Minutes respectfully submitted by,
Marlys Young, Minute Taker