Park Ridge City Council met April 5.
Here is the minutes as provided by the Council:
I. Call to order
Acting Mayor Maloney called the meeting to order at 7:03 p.m.
II. Roll Call
Deputy Clerk Peterson read the roll call and the following Elected Officials indicated their presence:
Ald. Moran, Van Roeyen, Shubert, Milissis, Mazzuca, Melidosian, and Acting Mayor/Ald. Maloney.
There was a quorum.
City Clerk Henneman was absent.
Staff present: A. Lamberg, J. Sorensen, D. Mellema, F. Kaminski, A. Simon, J. Gilmore, C. Peterson, J.
Brown, W. Zingsheim, M. Suppan, and K. Hodge
III. Pledge of Allegiance
Attendees of the meeting pledged their allegiance to the United States flag.
IV. Approval of Minutes
1. Committee of the Whole – March 20, 2017
Moved by Ald. Moran. Seconded by Ald. Shubert.
Motion carried; voice vote.
Ald. Milissis abstained.
V. Consent Agenda
*All items listed with an asterisk are considered routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion. There
will be no separate discussion of those items unless an Alderman so requests, in which event the item will be
removed from the Consent Agenda and considered in its normal sequence on the Agenda.
VIII.A.2. Approve the final reading of Ordinance Amending the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Park
Ridge regarding Commercial District Purposes and Planned Developments
VIII.H.2. Approve the contract and purchase order for HVAC replacement at Fire Station 36 to The YMI
Group, Inc. of Elk Grove Village, IL
VIII.I.1. Approve FY17 warrants for period ending March 31, 2017 in the amount of $1,451,699.48
reviewed by Alderman Shubert
VIII.I.2. Approve a purchase order increase for Union Pacific
Moved by Ald. Moran. Seconded by Ald. Shubert.
ROLL CALL AYES: Ald. Van Roeyen, Shubert, Melidosian, Mazzuca, Maloney, Moran, and Milissis NAY: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Motion carried, 7 – 0.
VI. Reports of City Officials
A. Mayor’s Report
1. Legislative report
Ald. Maloney reported that he will continue to work with Illinois Legislators and have them attend an upcoming
meeting.
2. Presentation of badge of office to Ald. Charlie Melidosian, Fifth Ward
Acting Mayor Maloney presented Ald. Melidosian with his badge of office.
Ald. Melidosian indicated that he is honored to be able to serve the residents of the Fifth Ward and of the City
and hopes he can provide the same level of service as the late Alderman Daniel Knight.
3. Proclamation – Volunteer Appreciation Month, April 2017
Acting Mayor Maloney presented Deputy Chief Duane Mellema and City Volunteer Coordinator Thomas
Wilson with a Proclamation honoring the dedicated service provided by volunteers representing the City.
4. Proclamation – Healthy Living Month, April 2017
Acting Mayor Maloney read a Proclamation recognizing Health Living Month, and the various activities
planned in the community to promote healthy bodies, healthy minds, and a healthy lifestyle. The
Proclamation was presented to Amy Bartucci, a representative of Go-Green Park Ridge. Go-Green is a cosponsor
of the community-wide event.
5. Proclamation – Education & Sharing Day
Acting Mayor Marty Maloney read and presented the Education and Sharing Day Proclamation to Rabbi
Lazer Hershkovich. The Proclamation is in recognition of an annual national day that commemorates the
achievements of Rabbi Menachen Schneerson and the lessons and visions he set forth in learning and
education.
6. Clay Cichowski – Recognition of accomplishment / 5th place finisher IL Kids State Wrestling
Federation Tournament
Acting Mayor Marty Maloney recognized Clay Cichowski, for his recent accomplishment of placing 5th in the IL
Kids State Wrestling Federation Tournament. Cichowski is in the eighth grade and attends Emerson Middle
School. His season record is 28 – 5.
B. City Council
Acting Mayor Maloney spoke about the results of the recent election which will cause a vacancy of the seat of
the Seventh Ward Alderman. According to State statute, he is allowed 60 days from the date he is sworn in
as Mayor to fill the vacancy. He announced that his plan was to follow the same process that was followed
when filling the Fifth Ward vacancy.
Ald. Mazzuca spoke about his intention to place the item on a future Procedures and Regulations agenda.
Due to the absence of a full representation of the City Council in March, he delayed mentioning the topic until
all Council members were present so that he could receive their input on the matter.
Attorney Simon explained that under State Law, the Mayor has complete discretion on how to select a person
that he nominates for a vacancy and present that person’s name to the Council for advice and consent. The
City Code does not provide any additional conditions or limitations on the Mayors exercise of discretion. If the Council wishes to make additional steps, the direction(s) shall only be perceived as directory
recommendations and not mandatory since state law vests discretion solely with the Mayor.
Acting Mayor Maloney reviewed the process used when filling the seat of the Fifth Ward Alderman. A
publication would be released allowing for any resident from the Seventh Ward who wants to serve on the
selection committee would contact Deputy Clerk Peterson. The committee members would not be
interviewed due to the time constraint. He will consider any change(s) based on consensus. All meetings
would be open to the public.
Ald. Milissis, Ald. Shubert, Ald. Moran, Ald. Van Roeyen, Ald. Melidosian all welcomed a conversation on the
matter.
Although Ald. Mazzuca was comfortable with the current process, he recognized the desire to discuss the
matter further. The agenda item would be Recommendations to the Mayor for changes of the process for
filling an Aldermanic vacancy.
On another topic, he mentioned that City Clerk Henneman plans to be in attendance at the April 17 City
Council meeting.
C. City Attorney
No report.
D. City Clerk
Deputy Clerk Peterson reported on the vote for the following elected municipal offices:
Marty Maloney, Mayor 68.83%
Betty Henneman, City Clerk – 98.92%, unopposed
Ald. Milissis, Second Ward – 97.73%, unopposed
Ald. Gail Wilkening – Third Ward 49.44%
Ald. Roger Shubert – Fourth Ward 57.46%
Ald. Marc Mazzuca – Sixth Ward – 98.47%, unopposed
Deputy Clerk Peterson also spoke to Clerk Henneman; they discussed the swear in date of May 15, 2017.
Attorney Simon indicated that he believes the votes would be certified before the first meeting in May. Acting
According to Acting Mayor Maloney, if the date should change, it would be publicized.
Ald. Mazzuca questioned when the budget would be adopted and if a 30 day period still remains allowing for
revisions to the budget. City Manager Gilmore indicated that the Budget Hearing is April 17, 2017. He would
confirm the deadline for any revisions.
E. City Manager
1. Approve a Collective Bargaining Agreement between the City of Park Ridge and the Operating
Engineers Local 150 representing Public Works Employees for the period of May 1, 2015
through April 30, 2019
Moved by Ald. Moran. Seconded by Ald. Mazzuca.
Human Resource Manager Mike Suppan spoke about the last contract; after consulting with legal, it wasn’t
signed. There was a dispute over health insurance which advanced to an unfair labor practice hearing which
was later resolved. These negotiations are subsequent to that with the health insurance and wages being the
two greatest issues. HR Manager Suppan continued providing details of the contract which includes annual
wage increases averaging .175 percent per year with the higher wages being back loaded. The health
insurance premiums will be paid at 13% of the premium; any cap table was eliminated.
Ald. Melidosian questioned the retroactive nature of the increases.
Ald. Mazzuca referred to insurance premium costs. He sought the controlling language for premium costs
prior to the August 1 date. Human Resource Manager Suppan indicated that contract states August 1 to the
retroactivity. Prior to that, they will pay what is being paid now. Suppan said this was an assumption since they would continue to pay what they are paying now which was clear understanding with the union and
discussed at the table.
Ald. Moran questioned Director Zingsheim if there would be an influx of retirements after this contract is in
place. Director Zingsheim believes one person plans to retire.
Ald. Mazzuca questioned whether the beginning date year should be 2012. Attorney Simon indicated that the
agenda motion is fine if all changes made are after May 1, 2015.
Ald. Mazzuca will be voting in favor of the contract. He believed the increases were in line and the contract is
a very reasonable outcome for the City and its taxpayers.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Shubert, Melidosian, Mazzuca, Maloney, Moran, Milissis, and Van Roeyen
NAY: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Motion carried, 7 – 0.
Attorney Simon read a portion of the Municipal Code indicating the regarding Elected Official taking office:
“The term of newly elected officials of the City shall commence, and such officials shall be inaugurated at the
first regular meeting of the City Council in the month of May, following election of such officials and said
inauguration shall be the first order of business of the Council at that meeting. Provided, if the Cook County
vote certification has not occurred prior to the first regular meeting of the City Council in the month of May, the
inauguration of the newly elected officials shall take place at the next regular meeting of the City Council.” The
Elected Officials could be sworn into office on May 1, 2017. “
VII. Citizens Who Wish to Address the City Council on a Non-Agenda Item
VIII. Reports of Boards, Commissions and Committees
A. Planning and Zoning Commission – Ald. Van Roeyen
1. Approve the final reading of Ordinance granting a Special Use for a Professional Office
(Ground Floor) at 110 South Prospect Avenue (17-02-SU)
Moved by Ald. Van Roeyen. Seconded by Ald. Moran.
The final reading on March 20 was tabled until April 5, according to Director Brown. It was tabled
due to a few concerns; parking and the issue of ground floor space occupied by office. He further explained
that Pusheen’s sales includes retail internet sales with a point of origin into Park Ridge. They occupy one
space already in downtown Park Ridge and seek to have another location, also in the City. The owner
resides in Park Ridge.
Andrew Duff, an owner of Pusheen, introduced himself and showed the City Council various products from
His company. He explained more about the company, who they are and what they do. He thanked the City
Council for deferring the matter until tonight. He explained that there is no longer the need for a parking
variance. He grew up and Park Ridge and returned to start his business here. Most employees reside here.
He obtained additional spaces by the building owner which were included in the lease. They conducted an
extensive search to find this space. He walks two blocks to work and would like to stay in Park Ridge.
In response to a question from Ald. Moran, Attorney Simon indicated that the Special Use could be personal
to the business simply but adding a motion.
Leasing Agent Owen Hayes of McLennan Commercial Properties introduced himself. He indicated that the
space has been vacant and for lease since June 2016; there have been no retail interest until now. In
response to a question from Ald. Melidosian, Mr. Hayes spoke about the allowable space available to
Pusheen.
Jeannine Meyer (219 S. Fairview) is a resident of the City and a very happy employee of Pusheen. She
spoke highly of the company and would hate to see the company leave Park Ridge.
Move to strike Section 4, Parking exception from the ordinance.
Motion by Ald. Mazzuca. Seconded by Ald. Moran.
Motion carried; voice vote.
Move to make a condition for the Special Use so that it is for the benefit of Pusheen Corp. only,
terminating upon Pusheen Corporation’s departure from 110 South Prospect Avenue.
Motion by Ald. Moran. Seconded by Ald. Shubert.
Motion carried; voice vote
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Melidosian, Mazzuca, Maloney, Moran, Milissis, Van Roeyen and Shubert (7)
NAY: None (0)
ABSENT: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
Motion carried, 7 – 0.
2. Approve the final reading of Ordinance amending the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Park
Ridge Regarding Commercial District purposes and Planned Developments / Approved by
omnibus vote
3. Approve the first reading of Ordinance granting a Map Amendment for Property at 465 South
Northwest Highway from R-2 Single Family District to R-3 Two-Family District (17-06-MA)
Moved by Ald. Van Roeyen. Seconded by Ald. Shubert.
Ald. Van Roeyen indicated that the case was approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission with a vote
of 5 -2.
Director Brown provided background information on the case which was explained in his cover memorandum.
Approved minutes were also provided to the elected officials which were not available at the last meeting.
In response to a question from Ald. Melidosian, Director Brown indicated that he believed the comprehensive
plan does support in general, multi-family housing land uses along Northwest Highway. The parcel is zoned
R-2.
Ald. Mazzuca questions items struck from the Findings of Fact. According to Director Brown, the property is
not vacant, which was determined during the Public Hearing.
In Ald. Mazzuca’s opinion, the property is not diminished; it is worth more if zoned at a higher level. In
reviewing the Findings of Fact, he sees no hardship and no public benefit. The benefits would accrue to the
property owner in his opinion. He believes the zoning should not be changed.
Ald. Moran drove past the house. He believes the change would improve the neighborhood. Therefore, he
intends to vote for the recommended change.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Maloney, Moran, Milissis, Van Roeyen, and Shubert (5)
NAY: Ald. Mazzuca and Melidosian (2)
ABSENT: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
Motion carried, 5 – 2.
4. Approve the first reading of Ordinance granting a Special Use for a Motor Vehicle Service
Station at 1220 Touhy Avenue (17-07-SU)
Moved by Ald. Van Roeyen. Seconded by Ald. Milissis.
Ald. Van Roeyen indicated that the case was approved at the Planning and Zoning Commission and
recommended with a vote of 7 – 0.
Director Brown provided a brief summary of the process regarding the property. The property was rezoned in
November 2016. There is a desire to greatly transform and improve the site, including an accessory store.
The applicant team was present.
Based on an inquiry from Ald. Moran, Deputy Clerk Peterson indicated she has not received any Liquor
License application for this property.
The curb cuts of the property were questioned by Ald. Melidosian. Director Brown indicated that a traffic
study was done to support the curb cuts as proposed. There is no evidence in the City’s records to
demonstrate an improvement by closing a curb cut on Delphia, as suggested by a neighbor.
Ald. Mazzuca questioned the 20 foot sign pole marked on the plans. Director Brown indicated that the sign,
as proposed, would not be allowed and would require variances which would be addressed during its building
plan review.
Chris Kalischefski of Corporate Design and Development Group LLC indicated the property was approved to
be rezoned to B-2 last November. The intention of the applicant is to make the property more appealing
esthetically and to serve the needs of the community. He reviewed the proposed plans and indicated that the
applicant would be coming back with a variance for the sign, similar in nature to the neighboring competitors.
He claimed to have proof of a hardship.
Ald. Moran made an inquiry about the sign that was there previously and knocked down.
Ald. Mazzuca addressed the sign issue. Attorney Simon confirmed that when you build something new, you
must adhere to the current code. But the matter before the Council now is for a Special Use.
Acting Mayor Maloney confirmed with Mr. Kalischefski that his client also wants to make his business better,
along with improving its appearance; Mr. Kalischefski agreed.
Ald. Mazzuca has no concerns about the Special Use but hopes the applicant follows the code if returning
with a sign plan.
Ald. Milissis indicated the whole conversation regarding the sign illustrates the City’s affliction and disorder
with “anti-sign-i-tis.” He looks forward to revisiting the sign ordinance at a later date. He hopes that the
applicant wants to improve the property and make money, just as any successful business plan would
provide.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Maloney, Moran, Milissis, Van Roeyen, Shubert, Mazzuca, and Melidosian (7)
NAY: None (0)
ABSENT: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
Motion carried, 7 – 0.
B. Zoning Board of Appeals – Ald. Moran
No report.
C. Liquor License Review Board – Acting Mayor Maloney
No report.
D. O’Hare Airport Commission – Ald. Mazzuca
No report.
E. Historic Preservation – Ald. Shubert
Ald. Shubert indicated that the Historic Preservation Commission met earlier this evening to select the
winners of its poster contest. The winners will be present at the May 1 City Council meeting. He also
announced that the official Landmark Application for Prospect Park will be presented at the Commissions next
meeting in May.
F. Procedures and Regulations Committee – Ald. Mazzuca
1. Approve the final reading of Ordinance amending Article 12, Chapter 6 of the Municipal Code
and Regulations applicable to Package Liquor Licenses (Class P) and the Gourmet Beverage
Endorsement
Moved by Ald. Mazzuca. Seconded by Ald. Shubert.
Attorney Simon provided a summary of the process for this matter. The regulations regarding the volume in a
flight were eliminated at the Procedures and Regulations Committee meeting. The changes in the Ordinance
allow for a Class “P” license holder with a Gourmet endorsement to sell single containers of chilled beer for off
premise consumption; and changes the volume of beer and wine daily consumption per day on the premises
from 12 to 24 ounces of wine and from 24 to 48 ounces of beer.
Ald. Moran recognized the great amount of feedback personally and on social media regarding the matter.
He is willing to revisit the discussion with an amendment based on the volume of consumption per day.
Move to amend the consumption per customer, per day to 18 ounces of wine and 36 ounces of beer.
Motion by Ald. Moran. Seconded by Ald. Mazzuca.
Ryan Tracey (106 Main Street) owner of Beer on the Wall thanked the Elected Officials for taking calls and
comments from residents. He indicated it was a resident driven change for the liquor code change.
According to Mr. Tracey, there was an 89.8% approval rate from the Facebook post. He believes the 36
ounce limit is a good change and great stepping stone.
Acting Mayor Maloney had a concern and questioned Mr. Tracey about whether children are allowed into the
establishment without parental supervision. Mr. Tracey indicated they do not card at the door; children are
normally accompanied by an adult. Some high-schoolers have entered but have been asked to leave.
Acting Mayor Maloney indicated he has received word that middle school and high school kids have been
allowed to purchase root beers and play games. Mr. Trecey indicated that he does not want his
establishment to be a hang-out for teenagers. If they are with a parent that is fine; they will make appropriate
provisions.
Tricia Williams (922 Forestview) believes 12 or 24 ounces is enough to try a beer and take it home. She
asked if the establishment would be back in four more months to increase the amount. She sees no
difference between this, a bar or a tavern; she is not against them. A Gourmet License was created for
Winestyles; Beer on the Wall has the same type license and opened recently.
Tom Sotos loves Beer on the Wall. If a business is asking for more than just a tasting, the businesses should
morph to the City’s existing code, not the other way around. The City cannot continue to change the code
just because a business wants the change. Because there are no food sales at the establishment, he
compared it to a tavern. For this reason, he believes that children under the age of 21 should not be allowed
inside unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Lynn Cosley (311 S. Northwest Highway) supports the proposal calling the place a gem. She hopes the City
supports the change enabling the business to be more successful. It’s a great meeting place for clubs.
Ald. Milissis understood and agreed with most arguments indicated by Mr. Sotos and Ms. Williams. Beer on
the Wall came to the City knowing their business model; now they are changing it. He supports the 36 ounce
daily limit and would not support an increase in amounts in the future.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Moran, Milissis, Van Roeyen, Shubert, Melidosian, Mazzuca, and Maloney (7)
NAY: None (0)
ABSENT: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
Motion carried, 7 – 0.
Ald. Mazzuca will not support the motion. He believes Mr. Sotos’ comments were on the mark. He received
positive comments from many residents. If someone wants a larger business model, there is a license
available but you must serve food. In his opinion it is not setting a good precedent for the business in the
future and inviting other operators who may not be as diligent and not create the same type of enjoyable
atmosphere as beer on the wall.
Ald. Moran does not disagree with Ald. Mazzuca’s point. He acknowledged that the Liquor Code has been
changed a few times since it was rewritten a few years ago. It has changed, both by need and by the request
of businesses; there have been no issues with the changes. He believes this is a deserved amendment.
Ald. Shubert believed when the code was rewritten a few years ago, everything had been considered. This is
a good test case based in terms of the ounce limit. He concurred with comments made by Ald. Milissis
regarding that this would be end of the ounce limit. He is comfortable with this decision and believes it is a
responsible step forward.
Ald. Melidosian had an opportunity to read over his packet at the establishment recently. He is happy to see
more downtown establishments coming to Park Ridge that serve food and believes the City and Fifth Ward is
striking a good balance. However, the limit of 36 ounces may be pushing the line. He believed most
residents would be against this but based on the recent Facebook post, there were 253 comments, most in
favor of the change. He is in favor of the 36 ounce rule.
Ald. Van Roeyen believes this is in line since a standard pour is about 12 ounces for beer and the
complementary Ordinance has a limit of three drinks per day. It makes sense to support the request.
Ald. Mazzuca spoke about salons being allowed to serve with a complementary license; there was a
competitive concern. Other businesses offered something but utilized other parts of the code to make it work.
His concern was of this business morphing the code so they did not have all the other responsibilities.
Ald. Moran questioned whether the code specifies the amount of seats that are required or the size of display
that is required to call it a package goods store. Director Brown was uncertain. Ald. Moran requested to have
a future discussion to close any loopholes in the code.
Acting Mayor Maloney offered his guarded support. He likes their investment and commitment to Park Ridge.
However, he worries that the Council is back-stepping into a tavern license. They are getting more revenue
From the tap than from package goods. Although 18 / 36 limits are a compromise, he believes the numbers
are squishy. He supports the approval, but cautiously.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Milissis, Van Roeyen, Shubert, Melidosian, Maloney, and Moran (6)
NAY: Ald. Mazzuca (1)
ABSENT: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
Motion carried, 6 – 1.
G. Public Works Committee – Ald. Shubert
No report.
H. Public Safety Committee – Ald. Milissis
1. Authorize the City to approve an Ordinance approving an Intergovernmental Agreement to
establish a Joint Emergency Telephone System Board
Moved by Ald. Milissis. Seconded by Ald. Mazzuca.
Chief Kaminski provided brief information about the matter and the correct forms have been provided. The
City will be in compliance. According to Attorney Simon, the bylaws indicate that the Police Chief and City
Manager be representatives of the City on the ETSB and requested that the naming of the individuals be
included in the motion.
Move Police Chief Frank Kaminski and Acting City Manager Joe Gilmore be representatives of the
City on the ETSB.
Motion by Ald. Melidosian. Seconded by Ald. Ald. Shubert.
Motion carried; voice vote.
Ald. Melidosian questioned Chief Kaminski about the location of where 911 calls are directed. Chief Kaminski
explained the change that occurred with the relocation of the centers; it was cost effective for the City to go to
West Suburban. It is the technology and dispatch capabilities that matter the most. Dispatching is computer
assisted relying on satellites according to Ald. Milissis. Chief Kaminski added that the Illinois State Police
works the entire state from three dispatch centers located within the state.
ROLL CALL
AYES: Ald. Van Roeyen, Shubert, Melidosian, Mazzuca, Maloney, Moran, and Milissis (7)
NAY: None (0)
ABSENT: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
Motion carried, 7 – 0.
2. Approve the contract and purchase order for HVAC replacement at Fire Station 36 to The YMI
Group, Inc. of Elk Grove Village, IL / Approved by omnibus vote
I. Finance and Budget Committee – Ald. Moran
1. Approve FY17 warrants for period ending March 31, 2017 in the amount of $1,451,699.48
reviewed by Alderman Shubert / Approved by omnibus vote
2. Approve a purchase order increase for Union Pacific / Approved by omnibus vote
IX. New Business – For announcement, deliberation, and/or discussion only; no official
action will be taken.
Ald. Melidosian commented on a Special Event Flyer for the Vine Street BBQ competition. Deputy Clerk
Peterson offered a bit of information regarding this Special Event Permit that has been delivered to the City.
Acting Mayor Maloney explained that the City will need to make an appointment to the Solid Waste Agency of
Northern Cook County (SWANCC) for a Director and an Alternation Director which will be placed on the May
1, 2017 City Council Agenda. The City Council will approve the Resolution by consent.
X. Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:03 p.m.
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