COW Minutes 2005 05-17-05 Pagel of 10 APPROVED 7/26/051
UNITED CITY OF YORKVILLE
COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
City Conference Room
Tuesday, May 17, 2005 - 7:00 p.m.
In Attendance:
ky
Art Prochaska — Mayor Harold Martin — Chief of Police
Valerie Burd - Alderwoman Tony Graff — City Administrator
Marty Munns - Alderman John Wyeth — City Attorney
Wanda Ohare - Alderwoman Traci Pleckham — City Finance Director
Dean Wolfer — Alderman Bill Powell — City Treasurer
Rose Spears - Alderwoman Eric Dhuse — Director of Public Works
Joe Besco - Alderman Laura Brown — Exec. Director Parks & Recreation
Paul James — Alderman Bart Olson - Intern
Jason Leslie - Alderman Lynn Dubajic — Director of Economic Develop.
Guests
Kathy Farren — Kendall County Record
Allecia Vermillion — The Beacon News
Chuck Brooks
Derke Price — Ancel Glink
David Meek — Quarles & Brady
The meeting was called to order at 7:00pm by Mayor Art Prochaska. .
PUBLIC HEARING:
None
PRESENTATIONS:
None
DETAIL BOARD REPORT BILL LIST):
The following questions on the bill list were addressed:
1. Page 7: DVD equipment: old sewer tapes being transferred to DVD
2. Page 26, 27: Water cooler was purchased rather than continue to rent
3. Page 13: Metropolitan Industries- injector pump repair
4. Page 24: Building & Zoning - regarding annexation of new golf course
5. Page 15: Downtown TIF research has begun
6. Page 2: 05/06 Board report- Employee Benefits core. -new administrative
enrollment fee
7. Page 5: administrative annual membership quarterly seminars for labor -
related matters
The bill list will move to City Council agenda for consideration.
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Page 2 of 10
ITEMS RECOMMENDED BY COMMITTEE FOR CONSENT AGENDA:
1. Treasurer's Reports for May —December 2004 — Admin 515105
Alderwoman Spears asked about the State Statute in regards to more timely reports.
Ms. Pleckham said the reports were delayed due to an audit and that the Statutes
only require them once a year. However, Mayor Prochaska added that he would
like to see these reports on a monthly basis to provide an overall snapshot. It was
suggested by Attorney Wyeth that "Preliminary" could be noted on the reports. Ms.
Pleckham gave a brief overview of the various items on the December report and it
was noted that a year ago, there was no Fund Balance.
Treasurer Powell noted that the City now has "laddered" CD's for greater interest
yield. Because of the new investment policy, the City is now earning 2.5% interest
rather than half a percent. Mr. Powell said that the City is also in the process of
obtaining new signature cards.
This item moves to the consent agenda for the City Council meeting next week.
2. Collateralized Single Family Mortgage Revenue Bonds —Admin 515105
Alderman James reported a positive recommendation to move this item forward
from the Administration Committee.
MAYOR:
1. Ratify Tax Levy
Mayor Prochaska stated that each year the tax levy is based on an estimate of the
EAV until the County provides the final numbers. Ms. Pleckham stated that the
levy rate was determined to be .7326. She said that Bristol township residents
would see a decrease of $40 per house and added that they did not have a
reassessment. Other residents would see a minor decrease of $10 -11.
This item moves forward to the City Council consent agenda for a vote of
ratification.
2. Appointment of Appointed Officials
Mayor Prochaska stated that the aldermen had requested a review of the ordinances
and how they pertained to re- appointments of City officials. Attorney Wyeth
suggested a revision to the Code so that all re- appointment information is in one
place rather than scattered throughout the Code as it is now.
It was noted that the positions of Finance Director and Parks and Recreation
Director are currently shown as annual appointments while the others are shown in
an 1881 ordinance, to be made at the "next election of the Mayor ". The law is
unclear at this time for some of the positions. Mayor Prochaska said he would like a
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Page 3 of 10
recommendation from the committee level, for an update for these appointments.
The Deputy Clerk position was then discussed. That position is re- appointed on an
annual basis according to ordinance, however, a recommendation for re-
appointment has not yet been submitted. It was also noted that the Library Board
appointments are not within the realm of the Council's authority. The employees
who have contracts are not included in the re- appointments at this time, however,
that issue should be discussed.
Alderman James asked why appointments are done since the appointees are City
employees. Currently, some of the positions are appointed by State Statute and
some by City ordinance.
An Executive Session was requested by Alderwoman Spears regarding the Deputy
Clerk position. There was discussion regarding the point at which the position
becomes vacant if there is no recommendation or, when the appointment becomes
null. Attorney Wyeth stated that the person holding the office remains in place
unless there is a termination date. A termination date or expiration date for an office
was suggested for discussion on a committee level. Alderman Wolfer asked if
there is a time limit for making recommendations for re- appointments. Currently
there is no time limit.
In summary, Mayor Prochaska said that an Executive Session would be held prior to
the City Council meeting next week. to discuss the Deputy Clerk position.
3. Coffee with the Mayor: May 21 at Cardinal Homes
Mayor Prochaska reminded the committee of the mayoral coffee. In addition, the
American Legion will hold their Blue Star Banner Day on the 21 Volunteer
Appreciation Day will also be observed on this date.
CITY ATTORNEY:
1. Review of Nepotism Policy
Attorney Wyeth reported this policy is in draft form and has been reviewed by the
Labor Attorney. It has two facets: one part regarding employees and one part for
contract employees. After a lengthy discussion, it was decided that this policy is a
good starting point and that it can be revisited when situations occur. Slight
revisions will be made and it will be moved forward to City Council next week.
CITY TREASURER:
1. Treasurer's Annual Police Pension Report
Treasurer Powell reported that State Statute requires this report be done in May. It
is for information only and does not require a vote.
Page 4 of 10
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE:
Before discussion began on these items, Mayor Prochaska stated that in the future,
he wished to schedule only two committee reports on each C.O.W. agenda. When
items are postponed to another C.O.W. meeting, the committee must keep the
proper date in mind. Alderman James suggested that department heads only need to
attend the C.O.W. with respect to their individual committees. Public Safety and
EDC will be scheduled for the first C.O.W., while Public Works and Administration
will be on the second C.O.W. agenda. This procedure will begin on June 7th and
Alderman Munns suggested placing this information on the meeting calendar as a
reminder.
L Lincoln Prairie Yorkville Annexation Agreement — COW 513105
Attorney Wyeth reminded the committee that the hunting clause and reverter clause
were removed from this agreement per an earlier suggestion from the committee.
There was a brief discussion to clarify some items and it was noted that the
petitioner approves of the revisions as requested. Mayor requested that a set of
signed documents be finished by next Tuesday.
2. Aspen Ridge Estates Annexation Agreement
This is the first time this agreement has been brought to C.O.W. This is a 125 -acre
property with 273 lots. Attorney David Meek then spoke about the park and trail in
this development. He added that revisions would be made to the agreement. The
Mayor said the Grande Reserve agreement should be emulated as a model and he
recommended this agreement should come back to a future C.O.W.
Alderman Leslie questioned the land amount for the trail (page 8) and if it was
contiguous with other properties. It is part of a trail system according to Parks
Director Laura Brown and other contiguous land developers have agreed to this trail
system as well.
Mayor Prochaska said he thought the issue of the roadways had not been addressed
yet, however, Mr. Meek said they had contributed $15,000 to a traffic study in this
area to determine what improvements are needed. Modifications will be
incorporated into the agreement.
3. Amendment to Parking Ordinance —COW 513105 & EDC 4121105
There will be a Public Hearing on June 8 regarding the standard width of parking
lane spaces. Notification of the Public Hearing will be forthcoming.
4. Amendment to B -3 Zoning District Regarding Mini - Warehouse Storage -COW
513105 & EDC 4121105
A Public Hearing will be held regarding proposed zoning text amendment.
Alderman James asked if small parking lots such as Blockbuster would be reviewed.
Parking measurements will be verified with Anna Kurtzman.
Page 5of10
PARK BOARD:
1. Acceptance of Cannonball Park OSLAD Grant
This grant is for $128,000 with the same contribution by the Park District for a
budget of $256,000.
This moves to City Council consent agenda.
2. Grande Reserve Park E — Request to Name as Rotary Park
The Park Board accepted a request by the Rotary Club to name the park "Rotary
Park" and it was requested that the City Council approve that name. Ms. Brown
stated that the group also wished to hold an annual event at that location. Ms.
Dubajic added that the Club has already purchased park benches and they also wish
to raise funds for an electronic scoreboard for the baseball field. Additional trees,
benches and other amenities will be purchased as well, to raise awareness of the
Rotary Club. Alderman Besco questioned if the park name could be Rotary Club
Park.
This moves to consent agenda.
PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE:
1. Southwest Interceptor —Illinois Railnet License Agreement —COW 513105 &
PW 4125/05
This item was tabled to wait for some necessary documents.
2. Landscape Irrigation Policy — COW 513105 & PW 4125105
Alderman Besco reported the final draft is finished and Public Works gave a
positive recommendation. This policy will limit the amount of non - residential
acreage that can be irrigated.
This item will be placed on the City Council agenda for discussion.
3. 2005 Joint & Crack Filling Project — Bid Documents & MFT Appropriation
Resolution
The committee approved this yearly project to fill in the cracks in the streets.
This moves to City Council consent agenda. _
4. 2005 In -Town Drainage Improvements — Change Order #1
This was a change order for additional quantities of stone. This was necessary due
to a storm sewer being moved slightly and due to water mains and sanitary sewers.
The committee gave a positive recommendation for this order and it moves to the
consent agenda.
Page 6of10
5. Aux Sable Creek -100 Year Storm Release Rate Modification — COW 513105 &
COW 4/6/05
This item goes to Public Hearing before the Plan Commission to change the release
rate of Aux Sable Creek watershed.
There will be no further action until it goes to Public Hearing.
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE:
1. No Report
ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE:
L Senior Engineering Technician Job Description — Admin 5 -5 -05
Alderman James reported that the committee gave a positive recommendation of the
revision of this previously approved job description. A minor change was made to
the education requirements. Mr. Graff reported that one technician will be
promoted. There will be a 10% pay difference between the Engineering Tech and
Senior Tech. Mr. Wywrot conducted a survey of other similar positions to help
establish a salary range.
i
The GED requirement was questioned by Alderman Besco and the committee
suggested a minimum of a high school diploma should be required for the salary.
The labor attorney will be asked to review. Alderwoman Spears asked that, in the
future, the labor attorney sign these documents to verify they have reviewed them.
Mr. Munns questioned if there were already 2 Senior Techs, however, the Mayor
explained these were different levels. To clarify this description, Alderman James
said that a paragraph had been added pertaining to education. The salary range was
also in question according to Ms. Pleckham. Committee members recommended
this job description be moved back to Administration for clarification.
2 Approval of Engineering Office Assistant's Degree Program
Paul James explained that this tuition reimbursement request had been on hold until
the tuition policy was revised. The policy has now been approved and he said the
employee met the necessary qualifications.
It was the opinion of Alderwoman Spears that this request was not job - related,
however, Mr. James countered that even the police officers must take classes not
directly related to their job. It was noted that this employee's degree would be
Applied Management/Project Management.
Mayor Prochaska said the question to be considered is as follows: is the degree
necessary for career advancement, even though it does not appear to be directly
related to their job? He said the Council had already previously approved that idea.
Page 7 of 10
A previous reimbursement request was referred to by Ms. Spears. She cited the
example of a new engineer who wished to pursue a degree at a cost of $30,000. She
added that she felt the degree requested by the current employee does not pertain to
the job. Alderman Leslie asked what the historical procedure has been and added
that reimbursement cannot be applied haphazardly. Alderman James said that some
employees are currently approved for reimbursement for a general studies degree
and that the Council must be consistent.
Alderwoman Burd reported that she had received emails and calls from residents of
her ward, who feel that taxpayers should not be paying for education. She added
that she is not in favor of open -ended reimbursement and she thought some
situations had been approved on a committee level. It was questioned by Alderman
Wolfer if there is a dollar limit on reimbursement.
Administrator Graff reminded the committee that Administration committee
members had recommended approval of this reimbursement, however, it was put on
hold for the policy to be revised regarding retroactive payments, amount of
reimbursement and terms of employment after the degree is received.
It was noted that the City policy has been to allow one degree beyond what is
required of the job. Since this employee has her high school diploma, Alderwoman
Spears then said that this employee's next degree would be the Associate Degree
that the employee has already earned. At this point, Mr. James said that all
programs should then be put on hold to ensure uniform application of the rules.
Ms. Burd stated that this issue had come before a previous Administration
committee who did not approve of this particular reimbursement. Then, when the
committee appointees changed, the issue was brought forth again. Ms. Ohare added
that the reimbursement plan was approved and is in the City handbook, while Ms.
Burd thought it was to be based on a case -by -case basis.
Committee members then reviewed the employee's job description and it was noted
that the job title is Engineering Assistant. It was also stated that a cap of $435 per
class had been set.
After a lengthy conversation, it was decided that the item will be moved to City
Council for consideration next Tuesday.
CITY COUNCIL REOUESTS:
1. Selection of Mayor Pro Tem for FY 05106
After a brief discussion, Alderwoman Spears nominated Ms. Burd as the Mayor Pro
Tem. It was seconded by Mr. Munns. A nomination was also made for Mr. James,
however, he declined. This is a one -year appointment.
Page 8 of 10
This will move to City Council for a vote and will be under "Mayor's Report".
(Out of order)
3. Committee Ordinance
Alderman Besco distributed a handout regarding committee structure. It was
suggested that this item should be brought back to Administration and then C.O.W.
after everyone has a chance to review it. Mr. Munns asked what the procedure
would be if the Administration committee gave a negative recommendation on a
given item. He asked if it would be dropped or if it could it be forwarded for
consideration by others. It was determined that a request could be made, to place a
given item on the agenda, even if it were killed at the committee level.
Alderwoman Burd stated that she was upset regarding 3 aldermen/women being
removed from committees without being consulted and she added that she felt
questions should be allowed without fear of retribution. She stated that the
newspaper said the City Council approved the committee appointments. The Mayor
replied that he had asked for discussion following the appointments and that there
was no discussion requested. However, Ms. Spears said she had asked for it to be
tabled, via telephone. Mayor Prochaska said he tried to place the Council members
on the committees of their choice where possible.
After an informal poll of aldermen/women, it was decided that the issue would be
brought back to C.O.W. on June 7 for further discussion.
2. Revised Budget and
4. Administrative Assistant to the City Council
(these 2 items were discussed together)
A proposal was made by Alderman Besco to consider reverting to a stipend for the
Deputy Clerk and using those wages for the Administrative Assistant position. He
suggested the Assistant could assemble the agenda packets previously done by the
Deputy Clerk. Mr. James asked who the Assistant would report to and some
committee members said it would be to the City Council. It was noted that the
Assistant's job description had been presented to the Administration committee,
however, there was no recommendation to move it forward at that time.
Alderman Leslie said it would be difficult to have all the Council members
supervising the Assistant position. He added that the Assistant would be ostracized
because he /she reports to the Council. Mr. Besco said he disagreed because Aurora
has 3 assistants at City Hall. There was a brief discussion regarding removing 1
person from the Clerk's office to become the Assistant. Another suggestion was to
make the Administration Chairman the supervisor of the Assistant and all requests
for research could be funneled through the Chairman. A manhour review was
recommended by the Mayor.
Page 9 of 10
If the Assistant position is created, it must be posted internally. The question of
who would conduct the interview was also raised. It was recommended that the Job
Description be reviewed again by Administration and a recommendation made.
This issue will be brought back to Administration on June 2 for more discussion.
5. Our Legal Representation
Mayor Prochaska stated that Attorney Wyeth was appointed and then approved by
the Council to fulfill the term of Dan Kramer. The Mayor said an evaluation is
being done to determine the hours worked by the attorney to determine if a full time
position is needed. Currently, Mr. Wyeth works at least 20 hours on City business
and some legal work is still being done by other attorneys.
A handout was distributed by Alderwoman Burd that suggested hiring a legislative
attorney. She said other municipalities have done this on occasion. Some of those
costs could be capped at $5,000 annually for the first year to determine the value.
Mr. Munns calculated that this would represent 33 hours of legal advice. This
Attorney would be used on as- needed basis to assist the Council with any issues
they have. Mayor Prochaska responded by saying that the City Attorney is hired to
represent the City, not just the Mayor. He asked if the Council members would seek
another opinion if they did not agree with the legal advice.
Alderwoman Spears said she often consults the States Attorney for legal advice and
concurred with Ms. Burd's recommendation. Mayor Prochaska said that the City
does use other attorneys for certain issues. He asked why the Council needs an
additional law firm and suggested there might be a trust issue. The Illinois
Municipal League (IML) was suggested as a possible legal alternative and a
representative from IML (Derke Price) was present at this meeting.
Ms. Burd stated that she feels that the City Attorney is often viewed as the Mayor's
Attorney and does not believe that legal advice is always in the best interest of the
City Council. She said that while the handbook was being written, she often felt
the Council was losing power. Mayor Prochaska told Ms. Burd that they all must
do what is in the best interest of the City.
The amount of the legal budget was questioned by Alderman Munns. It is about
$35,000. Ms. Spears said from May 2003 to July 2004, approximately $146,000
was spent on legal fees. She requested a copy of a year of invoices of attorney fees,
that are not part of accounts receivable and those that are. She would like to see it
split on that list. It was stated that she could review the legal fees on the bill list.
Ms. Spears thought that another legal firm should be retained as a safety net for the
Council. The Mayor said that the Statute will be reviewed regarding this issue.
Page 10 of 10
After a lengthy discussion, Mayor Prochaska asked each committee member if they
felt this matter should be brought back to a future C.O.W. After an informal vote,
it was decided it will be discussed again at a future C.O.W. meeting.
ADDITIONAL BUSINESS:
Alderwoman Ohare read a statement she had written in response to an article in the
Beacon News dated May 17, 2005. (Article and statement attached as part of
official minutes).
Administrator Graff stated Phase 2 has begun on the FS Brownfield project.
There was no further business and the meeting was adjourned at 10:13pm.
Minutes respectfully submitted
By Marlys Young, Minute Taker
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Others have read statements and so I ask for your patients now while I read this. I am
reading so as to NOT repeat myself or miss a point I want to make.
Don't under- estimate the residents of this city. Nor think of short changing
them...... They are much smarter than what some council members are giving them
credit for.
They like the town they live in and believe the city workers do a good job running
it. The citizens of Yorkville have concerns of course, some at the top of that list are
Good water at the kitchen sink, toilets that flush, their street cleared of snow in the
winter and a safe place for themselves and their family. I do believe this city works for
those concerns. When a citizen needs something extra, neighbors often dig in their
pockets and their hearts with offers of prayers and support. Our citizens are people that
have few to none, complaints about how the city is ran. Lately, some do comment on the
petty and nit picking being doing at some city meetings and wordy letters in the local
papers.
The problems the city is dealing with regarding traffic are not new to many of us.
The traffic has been an issue to some degree since I moved here in 1979. The progress
we are witnessing is not the only reason. There are more drivers of all ages with needs to
go some place. Our city employees work diligently with development to contribute to
the needs of the city. And they pay a sizeable sum for the privilege to call our city their
home as well. The departments of the city work long hours over the requirements, rules,
fees and the many forms and paperwork put in place by this council. Control you say,
the council has not lost that, we are ALL city workers. The city must run pretty well as
people are NOT jumping on the band wagon to change the elected positions. At least
maybe until now. So why attempt to analyze and change something that isn't broke.
This new article in today's paper was a total embarrassment to me and I hope to
many of the citizens of this town.
A power grab does NOT exist here. I have witnessed some of the day to day
decisions and dealings our city workers from the public works, parks, building and
zoning, inspectors, police officers and administrations have accomplished in their 40 plus
hour weeks. Council members are here on an average with meetings 18 -20 hours a
MONTH. So when are council members going to do the job of all the clerical workers,
supervisors, weed pullers, directors and everything in between. The mayor should be a
full time position with 25 hours a day to accomplish even a small portion of what he
does. Power grab, no way. Checks and balances? They are there. They have been there
long before we came to office and the city works well so why do you want to upset the
apple cart and the faith our citizens have in our ability to do our job?
Regarding committees and chairmen...... There are only 4 committees; somebody has to
take a turn. If you've had one, just wait, your turn will come again. Everyone needs the
experience. Paragraph 9 through 12 deals more with hurt feelings and not the selection
process. Everyone was asked to turned into the mayor their committee choices. Did
some people forget to do that? Every committee is open to the public and can be
attended by any other elected official as well. Issues can and have been taken from
committee to COW /CC without recommendation. So in paragraph 13 of this article, that
concern is at the alderman discretion.
The quote in paragraph 14 regarding the need to be more streamlined. I support that, our
meetings get carried away some time and the night gets very long. Analyzing and then
re- analyzing again and again gets very old.
In paragraph 24, I need help in understand the WE in, in the - vast, WE did not have a
maioritv on the Citv Council and WE don't know if WE do now. Why do WE need one
and who are WE?
At the end of every agenda is Additional Business. Every elected official and
department heads has the opportunity to say something. That is an open chance. Along
with the accessibility of the other elected officials, department heads. by person or
telephone to communicate. Where is the problem referred to in paragraph 25?
Every elected official, sitting at this table, are here because somebody believe in
them and their oath to work for the betterment of Yorkville. We are NOT prima donnas
who sit in the throne room with a crown upon our head. We were elected Not to take
advantage of our position for personal vendettas against others, but to remember to work
together to make out town the best we can.
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AURORA — Reviewers are applauding. Ordinary folks story with staff writer David Garbe at (630) 844 -5889. aters also are offering screenings minutes after midnight to Oswe
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teries in their light sabers. film has seen would-be Jedi camped outside some theaters The midnight showings tend to see the best turnout of gatav
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A pop culture saga that has captivated America for nearly The average Fox Valley resident hasn't been quite so en- thafs not particularly common in the Fox Valley, local man-
30 years concludes this week with the release of Star Ways thusiastic. Local theaters say advance ticket sales have been agers said. Sandi
Episode III• Revenge of the Sith early Thursday morning. brisk, but no one has sold out all their shows yet ■ ChE
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30 years concludes this week with the release of Star Ways thusiastic. Local theaters say advance ticket sales have been agers said.
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aldermen
SC p oliceman on roster o
■ Kane memorial service:
Sgt. Daniel R Figgins
want t o first officer in county to
die on duty since 2000
b e heard -ST DeFunr
STAFF WRITER
As the presiding officer at the annual
■ Special agenda tonight: Kane County Police Memorial Service
�]► g g Monday night announced "St. Charles
Some say administrator, Police Department," the silent
congregation somehow became quieter.
_may OI" , ha ve too m uch power ...... .............. ........ , Officer James Finley
Inside came forward to light one
BY Allecia Vermillion of the 33 candles, one for
STAFF WRITER ■ Complete each law enforcement
list of Police agency in Kane County.
YORKVILLE —"City Council Requests" isn't Week Finley paused for a
usually a category on city meeting agendas. activities. moment to remember
But tonight, under that heading, aldermen Page A2 his friend of 27 years,
will discuss several issues involving control. Sgt. Daniel P. Figgins, the first Kane
Half of the eight City Council members say city County police officer to die in the line of 1 W 4W
decisions are increasingly centralized in the of-
in five
fices of the mayor and city alan administrator. s du I's l t ke disaster," said
"Democrac t tsunami
afterward. When the
no checks and balances in this situation," Al- happened, there was a big outpouring of
derman Valerie Burd said. support. That problem still exists out e
Since two new aldermen joined the ranks last there, but you never hear about it
week, Burd said its time to revisit the role the anymore."
council plays in city government. "Our intention is to not let the
• Minutiae like committee appointments and survivors be left behind and forgotten,"
the hierarchy of municipal law aren't glam- said Finley, who is also the liaison officer
orous, attention - grabbing issues, but Burd and for Figgins' family. St. Charles Police Officer Jeff Finley pauses for a moment before lighting a candle in hoi
fellow aldermen Joe Besco, Marty Munns and Figgins died on April 9 from a heart Daniel Figgins, who died in the line of duty in April. Kane County law enforcement agenc
Dose Spears say these topics are key to making attack after chasing a group of teenagers the Mooseheart House of God on Monday to honor police officers who have died on duty
Sure all council members' opinions are heard. who were later arrested. He was 53.
The items to be discussed include appoint-
He was only the 19th officer in Kane About 100 Kane County law year, including Figgins.
ments for committees, the city's legal represen- County history line o
to die in the lif duty. enforcement officials, j oined b family It is necessary or us to honor those
,. Y - famY - - - ry - - - - -
Som Say aanmistrator, roiice liepartment," the silent
congregation somehow became quieter.
- mayor, have t00 m uch p OWer Officer James Finley
Inside came forward to light one
By Allecia Vermillion ■ Comp lete of the 33 candles, one for
STAFF WRITER P each law enforcement
list of Police
YORKVILLE — "City Council Requests" isn't Week agency in Kane County.
Finley paused for a
usually a category on city meeting agendas. activities. moment to remember
But tonight, under that heading, aldermen Page A2 his friend of 27 years,
will discuss several issues involving control. Sgt. Daniel P. Figgins, the first Kane
Half of the eight City Council members say city County police officer to die in the line of
decisions are increasingly centralized in the of- duty in five years.
fices of the mayor and the city administrator. "It's like any disaster," he said
"Democracy is checks and balances. There's afterward. "When the tsunami first
no checks and balances in this situation," Al- happened, there was a big outpouring of
derman Valerie Burd said. support. That problem still exists out
' Since two new aldermen joined the ranks last there, but you never hear about it
week, Burd said it's time to revisit the role the anymore."
council plays in city government "Our intention is to not let the
Minutiae like committee appointments and survivors be left behind and forgotten,"
the hierarchy of municipal law aren't glam- said Finley, who is also the liaison officer
orous, attention - grabbing issues, but Burd and for Figgins' family.
fellow aldermen Joe Besco, Marty Munns and Figgins died on April from a heart St. Charles Police Officer Jeff Finley pauses for a moment before lighting a candle in hone
� hose Spears say these topics are key to making attack after chasing a of teem Daniel Figgins, who died in the line of duty in April. Kane County law enforcement agencil
. sure all council members' opinions are heard. who were later arrested H e was 53. g ers th Mooseheart House of God on Monday to honor police officers who have died on duty 1
' The items to be discussed include appoint He was only the 19th officer in Kane
About 100 Dane County law t. year, including
ments for committees, the city's legal represen- County history to die in the line of duty. " Figgins.
• tation, and, in regular city business, the ap- The last officer who died was S enforcement officials, joined by family It is necessary for us to honor those
p tion n , city department heads. g and friends at the House of God church ai who have become heroes, not by birth,
Our noun ' over m last two terms has lost Gregory M. Sears of the Hampshire Mooseheart, honored the 154 police not by right, but by choices made," said
y Police Department in 2000. officers in the United States who died last Chaplain Gary Vet of the St. Charles
.the majority of its power," Spears said. That au- P rY
thority "is why the citizens, I believe, elected us."
Burd said it is particularly difficult to be
heard at meetings when members disagree
with Mayor Art Prochaska. Last risk, mentsfortheuurcitysommit We i sner chooses leaders Police bell
mended assignments for the four city commit
tees. Spears and Burd, the two most senior al- of N a p er berme were the ce e a ch i r council mem tiers wh did not re to re lace those he f red o ce e a chaimanship. p t(
Both women said they were overlooked be-
cause they often question Prochaska's deci- By Bill Bird
sions. Prochaska could not be reached for com- By Ed Fanselow Corporation Counsel Patricia Supergan.
Daryl Devick the assistant director of p ub STAFF WRITER
ment on Monday. STAFF WRITER P
"I like the mayor; ifs his politics I don't buy lic works, was moved up to lead the depart An Arizona man has confesses
into," Burd said. "If he called me up and used AURORA — Three days after a City Hall ment in place of former director Robert Reis - killing a teenage acquaintance fr,
persuasion, he could talk me into something be- house - cleaning that cost nine high- ranking er while former Deputy Chief of Staff Bill Naperville, pocketing the $25,(
cause I value his opinion." employees their jobs, Mayor Tom Weisner Catching was named as airport manager, also the youth had with him and la
Aldermen must approve the committee on Monday began the process of finding their replacing Reiser. di cemetery grave a
PP digging up a cemete
- roster, but Burd said the council should replacements. Assistant Water Production Director burying the teen's body atop a (
determine committees in the first place. Weisner announced that six current city Roger Goodson was promoted to replace fin, authorities confirmed Monda
Munns also said he was concerned that staffers have been promoted as the interim Arnold Eggleston, Freda Davis - Mendoza was While Naperville police on M�
items discussed in committees make it to full leaders of the six departments whose direc- tabbed to replace Charles Huff as the director day would not declare their
tors lost their positions on Friday. of neighborhood redevelopment and Youth month -old "missing- person" cc"
In the Law Department, city prosecutor closed, a Phoenix police detect
❖ Turn to YORKVILLE, A2 Alayne Scatterday will fill the post of former ❖ Turn to WEISNER, A2 said investigators there were `'
flog 12 All
.... u. g vu -n- I— u uie iaw, Lae love or � _ -- - -- - -- --
Home delivery times going on in hisylife. Naperville police `have amissing- Morales said.
g g the job you do, and the love of the
i 6:30 . Saturdays. weekdays and holidays "There are some of ou who » person investigation that's still on- Morales added that whilf
7 a.m. Saturdays. 8 a.m. Sundays. Y people you protect. going, and until we get word from body had not been positively
If you do not receive your paper by
might say, `Oh, I feel sorry for that The ceremony ended on the Phoenix to the contrary, this is still tified as of Monday, "we're, lik
poor man.' ' " Don't," he said with a front our delivery deadline please call p steps of the church with a missing- person investigation," percent sure" it is that of Mar
customer service before 10 a.m. stirring pause. "I'm very happy to officers playing Amazing Grace on Truemper said. The 2004 Waubonsie V�
weekdays deliver ou w ee k ends) be here with my f amily, and my bagpipes followed by Taps on two Truemper would not say High School yearbook indic
Y pa p e r Y artners and with you." bugles, and finally firing a 21 -gun whether Martin had a criminal Marlin was not involved in sp
noon. The service included three songs salute.
Pricing record. clubs or other student activ
-Home delivery: $3.25 weekly; $2.25 Morales, citing Arizona law, there.
Friday- Sunday; $1.50 Sunday (plus in- likewise said he could not discuss Palmer is being held at
termittent holiday is sues). Mail sub-
scriptions: $4 weekly. N prices: whether Martin or Palmer had a Maricopa County Jail on a ch
:50 cents daily, $1.50 Sunday. criminal record in that state. of second - degree murder.
YORKVI LLE
administrator
the since 2001, said he is
Advertising performing the duties outlined in his
Dis play advertising official job description, and "at City _
'Robert Wall, manager From p y the g a e Al Council
.Call (630) 844 -5858 from 8 a.m. to 5 have a right to review
p.m. weekdays. and assess what the city
Classified advertising: council meetings whether they are administrator's duties are."
,pall p 6 0) 844-5811 from 8:30 a.m. to approved, rejected or tied in "In a growing community where e • • - • .
committee voting. there's change, I can understand that
011 -line advertising: "It needs to be more str- n—lin - " the w
Brent Albrecht, manager 1 y ant to re- evaluate this, he
r 'Call (815) 439 -4377 from 8:30 a.m. to he said. " If we've got a system in said. Before stepping into his Current
b p.m. weekdays place, lets stick with it." job, Graff was Yorkville's police chief
Obituaries The role of City Administrator for nine years.
Call (630) 844 -5837 between 8 a.m. Tony Graff is a particular lightning The four aldermen also expressed _
and 8 p.m. weekdays or 4 to 8 p.m. rod among some of these City concern that the city code governing
weekends and holidays Council members, who say he and administration and legal
Newsroom other staff make too many decisions representation is unclear, adding to ' * • w p
Rick Nagel managing editor that should be left up to elected confusion over authority.
Main newsroom number.(630)844- officials. Yorkville's two newest aldermei
'5900; Newsroom far: (630) 844 -1043
Send e-mail to staff members at « f+
He refuses even to speak to us," Jason Leslie and Dean Wolfer, have'F d ' "
Spears said. "That's his j ob said the will evaluate their future
m
first initial last name @ scnl.com j S'
Example: jrussell @scnl.com description — he reports to the votes based on information and • . ; , . _¢ "��` , V r� "�
News questions, complaints or to suggest mayor and the City Council. Two discussion, and not on affiliation with
,u
d
a story or photo :Call Associate Editor individuals, the city administrator any other group within the council.
,John Russell (630) 844 -5902 and the mayor, can no longer run the But even those staunchly pushing
To submit a press release for any section entire city solo:' for change said that to ' ) `
Call Service Editor Bryan Noonan mghts agenda
1630) 844 -5885 or e-mail Munns said he doesn't see the is about being able to voice opinions,
"
° oaf vii
beaconourtowns @scnl.com imbalance as an 80 percent rather than a power grab.
Local news editors: Associate Editor administration and 20 ercent - '
p In the past, we did not have a - • , -, _ ;� +�1i�1�i
John Russell (630) 844 -5902 council, but maybe 60 to 40. "-
Associate Editor Denise Crosby majority on the City Council, and We
(630) 844 -5870 Associate Editor Joe "I think he's trying to do a good don't know if we do now," Burd said.
630 844 -5938; C Editor + _ • _�'` `
( ) ty job," he said of Prochaska. "But it Any alderman should be able to
Mike Cetera (630) 844 -5853; Service
Corrado needs to be pulled back in the middle tall:; about an that ertains to = i
Editor Bryan Noonan (630) 844 -5885 a little." any thing p
Reporters: Ed Fanselow (630) 844- city business. I don t care if I agree
630
5957; Angela Fornelli 844 -5955• Graff who has been city with them or disagree."
-
I ( )
� Dave Garbe (630) 844 -5889; Matt
Hanley (630) 801 -5414; Steve Lord
(630) 844 -5926; Tim Wagner (630)
B01 -5487; Dan Waitt (630) 844 -5829;
Allecia Vermillion (630) 8445903; each of the p ositions.
Justina Wang (630) 8445891 WEISN ER He also S aid Mond that the re-
Photographers: Photo Editor Marianne 3'
Mather (630) 801 -5413; Donnell sponsibilities of former Community
Collins (630) 844 -5917 Heather From page Al Safety Director Larry n will
Eidson (630) 844 -5803 h tran Cfprri-d t 1' Pnliry Tlannrh_