Village of Northbrook Board of Trustees met March 9.
Here is the minutes provided by the board:
1. ROLL CALL
| Attendee Name | Title | Status | Arrived |
| Sandra Frum | Village President | Present | |
| Kathryn Ciesla | Trustee | Present | |
| Bob Israel | Trustee | Present | |
| Muriel Collison | Trustee | Present | |
| Heather Ross | Trustee | Present | |
| Johannah Hebl | Trustee | Present | |
| Dan Pepoon | Trustee | Present |
3. MINUTES APPROVAL
A. Board of Trustees - Regular Meeting - Feb 23, 2021 6:30 PM
| RESULT: ACCEPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Bob Israel, Trustee SECONDER: Johannah Hebl, Trustee AYES: Frum, Ciesla, Israel, Collison, Ross, Hebl, Pepoon |
President Frum noted the public can make comments by emailing publiccomments@northbrook.il.us. Email responses must be under 200 words in length.
President Frum read an email she received from Annette Kohn, stating she sent an email to the Board on January 29, 2021, regarding the legal options of 5G installation. Furthermore, they hired an expert Telecommunication Attorney to assist with strengthening the Wireless Ordinance provision and maximizing ordinance control. She noted they will keep the Board updated on the progress and requested the Board visit the mentioned website.
David Petrich discussed a carjacking incident that occurred on Skokie Blvd and Dundee. He requested the Police Department provide full man power in Northbrook, to protect the public. He expressed disappoint regarding the County Prosecutor Kim Foxx, choosing not to prosecute certain cases and supporting a no cash bond system. He requested full transparency regarding long-term initiatives, public safety and many other pressing topics. In summary, he stated the Board failed in providing full transparency to the public.
5. MANAGER'S REPORT
Village Manager Rich Nahrstadt reported early voting will take place at the Village Hall on March 22, 2021 to April 5, 2021 and more information will be available on the website.
Deputy Director Chan Yu commented thirty restaurants applied for temporary outdoor dining and he is the contact person for businesses interested in applying for outdoor dining this year.
Mr. Nahrstadt commented the Board provided lots of flexibility for businesses to participate in temporary outdoor dining.
Assistant to the Village Manager, Madeline Farrell discussed the COVID-19 vaccine supply. Currently, the vaccine supply is low, but the supply is expected to increase. She noted hospitals also have a low supply of COVID-19 vaccines. The Village will continue working with organizations to provide vaccines to the public and vaccinations are by appointment only. The public can sign up by visiting vaccine.cookcountyil.gov or call 833-308-1988.
Furthermore, information is also available on the website and e-newsletter. She noted vaccine appointments at the United Center are only available to City of Chicago residents.
Mr. Nahrstadt encouraged the public to view the website for vaccine information.
Ms. Farrell commented the traditional Earth Day events will not take place in April, and they shared alternatives in the newsletter. She noted the Northbrook Township Recycling program and Hazardous Waste program is now open to the public. The public can find more information by visiting northfieldtownship.com.
Trustee Hebl asked if the Board has any concerns regarding the carjacking incident.
Mr. Nahrstadt commented the Village issued a press release and the vehicle was recovered in Chicago. He asked the Chief if there is more information available to the public. Chief Adkins responded not at this time.
President Frum encouraged the public to keep a watchful eye on their vehicles.
Trustee Israel encouraged the public to turn off their vehicle, which prevents car idling.
Trustee Collison encouraged Deputy Director Yu to introduce himself to local businesses in Northbrook and share creative solutions with the Board. She noted the Committee of the Whole minutes are available in the archives.
Trustee Pepoon asked Mr. Yu where his contact information is located for businesses. Mr. Yu responded his information is listed on the website.
Trustee Ciesla requested Mr. Yu send the Board his contact information. She noted many businesses are interested in opening early to take advantage of the nice weather.
Mr. Nahrstadt commented businesses who were issued an outdoor dining permit last year must complete a form to notify the Village of any changes. The plan is to make the information readily available to the public.
6. WARRANT LIST
A. Review and Approval of Payments to be Made
Trustee Ciesla Moved for the approval of class A & B Warrants dated February 16, 2021 - February 28, 2021 in the amount of $1,432,887.32.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kathryn Ciesla, Trustee SECONDER: Bob Israel, Trustee AYES: Frum, Ciesla, Israel, Collison, Ross, Hebl, Pepoon |
Trustee Ciesla Moved for the approval of Frontage Deposit refunds totaling $7,700.00 dated February 27, 2021.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Kathryn Ciesla, Trustee SECONDER: Bob Israel, Trustee AYES: Frum, Ciesla, Israel, Collison, Ross, Hebl, Pepoon |
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-22
A Resolution Recognizing Penelope Randel for Over 28 Years of Service at the Northbrook Park District
President Frum commented Penelope Randel was recognized by the Illinois Association Parks District in 2017. During her career, she was involved in many different programs and will be retiring this year.
Green Moment
Alanna Gordon stated she is speaking on behalf of Marilyn Fish. She discussed how light pollution is hazardous for the environment, wildlife and humans. According to the national geographic, birds use the moonlight for guidance during night traveling, which is being interrupted by light pollution. Furthermore, many insects being killed by artificial night lights. She noted light pollution affects the ability of fireflies to see the glow patterns for mating, which has affected their population growth.
She noted it is very unhealthy to sleep with a light on because it affects the body's ability to produce melatonin. According to Adam Cruzer with the International Dark Sky Association, 35% of outdoor light is wasted, which amounts to $3 billion a year. She suggested residential homes utilize motion censored timed lighting in their home for nighttime safety and protection. Furthermore, lighting should be directed downwards instead of into the sky and the public should use soft yellow bulbs for lighting. She encourages the Village to educate the public on the importance of proper lighting.
President Frum discussed an article she read regarding the shortage of fireflies. Furthermore, she encourages the public to participate in helping to protect the environment.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER: Muriel Collison, Trustee SECONDER: Heather Ross, Trustee AYES: Frum, Ciesla, Israel, Collison, Ross, Hebl, Pepoon |
A Proclamation Proclaiming March 24, 2021 as Education & Sharing Day USA
C. PROCLAMATION:
A Proclamation Proclaiming April as Fair Housing Month
D. PROCLAMATION:
A Proclamation Designating April 11-17 as Public Safety Telecommunicators' Week E. PROCLAMATION:
A Proclamation Proclaiming April as "Child Abuse Prevention Month"
8. CONSENT AGENDA
Trustee Israel moved, seconded by Trustee Ciesla, to move items 10(A), 10(B) and 10(C) be moved to the Consent Agenda. On voice vote all were in favor.
Trustee Hebl moved, seconded by Trustee Pepoon, to move item 13(A) to the Consent Agenda. On voice vote all were in favor.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [6 TO 0]
MOVER: Bob Israel, Trustee SECONDER: Johannah Hebl, Trustee AYES: Ciesla, Israel, Collison, Ross, Hebl, Pepoon ABSTAIN: Frum |
A Resolution Approving and Accepting the Required Site Improvements for the Timbers Edge Subdivision (Formerly 3845, 3925 and 3955 Dundee Road)
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-24
A Resolution Approving and Accepting the Required Site Improvements for the 1000-1200 Skokie Planned Development
C. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-25
A Resolution Authorizing the Partial Transfer and Assumption of Planned Development Approvals for Lot 2 in Lifetime Subdivision (1100 Skokie Boulevard)
D. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-26
A Resolution Authorizing the Execution of an Intergovernmental Agreement with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County for the Mowing of Portions of the Sunset Ridge Meadow in the Chipilly Woods Forest Preserve
E. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-27
A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of Sidewalk Detectable Warning Plates from Chicago Contractor's Supply of Naperville, Illinois
F. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-28
A Resolution Authorizing the Purchase of a Police Department Replacement UPS from Quality Power Solutions, LLC of Madison, WI
G. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-29
A Resolution Authorizing the Transfer and Assumption of Fitness Facility Approvals (Lot 2 in Lifetime Subdivision; 1100 Skokie Boulevard)
H. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-30
A Resolution Approving Renewal of an Agreement with Weidner Farms Material, Inc. of Cary, Illinois for Material Hauling Services
I. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-31
A Resolution Appropriating Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) Funds for the Fiscal Year 2021/22 Asphalt Street Rehabilitation Program
J. RESOLUTION NO. 2021-32
A Resolution Authorizing Renewal of Agreements for Landscape Maintenance Services with BrightView Landscape, LLC of Chicago, Illinois and Right-of-Way Mowing Services with Moore Landscapes. LLC of Northbrook, Illinois.
K. ORDINANCE NO. 2021-8
A Ordinance Approving the Purchase of Police Department Replacement Vehicles from Currie Motors of Frankfort, IL
COMMITTEE REPORTS
9. FINANCE
Trustee Ciesla commented the Committee discussed the draft budget. She noted the Village has not dipped into their reserves during the pandemic and the Village utilized their surplus. The sales tax revenues are 8% higher than anticipated and Northbrook Court will have permits ready for the retail space in the summer. In addition, the residential permits will be available next year. Furthermore, home values have increased, and retail vacancy is only half a point higher this year.
A. ORDINANCE NO. 2021-9
An Ordinance Abating a Portion of the 2020 Property Tax Levy for Debt Service
Trustee Ciesla made a motion to approve abatement of $6 million from the property tax levy for debt service, seconded by Trustee Collison. On voice vote, the motion passed.
President Frum commented the budget will be voted on at the next Board meeting on April 13, 2021. She noted all departments are being funded in the budget based on business needs.
| RESULT: ADOPTED [6 TO 0]
MOVER: Kathryn Ciesla, Trustee SECONDER: Muriel Collison, Trustee AYES: Ciesla, Israel, Collison, Ross, Hebl, Pepoon ABSTAIN: Frum |
A. A Presentation on the Stormwater Improvement Study at 1657 Shermer Road - Grainger Site
President Frum reviewed the timeline with the Board. She noted stormwater management has always been a high priority of the Board, ever since the implementation of the stormwater master plan. The Board should evaluate whether the project provides structural benefits to properties downstream to justify the costs.
Trustee Israel questioned what the best and highest use of land is.
Matt Farmer discussed the 1675 Shermer stormwater improvement study. The Storm Water Commission requested funds to evaluate potential benefits of retention. The intent of the study was to evaluate the benefits of a portion of the Northbrook Manor subdivision. This area is identified in the master stormwater plan as project #12. However, it was not constructed because the desired benefits were not met.
He noted the existing utilities are significant and the utility corridor can provide access to buildable areas. The stormwater improvement study was completed in January, and additional information was added in February. The study considered rerouting the sewersheds to the potential detention area.
The first alternative uses the entire site, which provides 100-year protection from the upstream sewershed. The second alternative uses the northern building section, which provides 25-year protection from the upstream sewershed. The third alternative uses larger storm sewer only, which provides 10-year protection from the upstream sewershed. The consultant recommends alternative number 2. Mr. Farmer noted the survey for this report cannot identify if properties are structure flooding or yard flooding.
Village staff is requesting Board consideration of the following options:
∙ Continue with the design for alternative 2 as described in the stormwater study. ∙ Stormwater Commission to review alternatives and provide recommendation to the Board. ∙ No further action to be taken toward any alternative presented.
Trustee Ciesla commented she is in favor of taking no further action. She noted the proposed amount is too high for 19 homes. Furthermore, she recommended placing money in the Overhead Sewer Grant Fund to serve more residents.
Trustee Collison commented there is a limited benefit, which does not justify the cost. She noted she is in favor of taking no further action.
Trustee Ross questioned if the design for alternative 2 meant that this portion of the property could not be developed. Mr. Farmer responded the northern portion of the property would be developed as a detention basin, in this alternative.
Trustee Israel commented the portion of the property can be a complimentary use, such as detention in the bottom of a parking structure. However, it is very unlikely a residential development will be built on top of a detention basin.
Trustee Ross asked if the total amount of homes is only 19. Mr. Farmer responded that there were a few properties on the west side of the rail road tracks benefiting also. The total number is estimated about 28 properties.
Trustee Hebl commented the Village has made significant investments in stormwater and spent up to $1.3 million. She noted home flooding depreciates home values, which affects neighboring homes in the community. She requested the development incorporate stormwater detention, such as a public private partnership. If the Village is unable to secure a public private partnership, she is in favor of alternative 2.
Trustee Pepoon commented he is in favor of allowing greater height and density on the 8 acres property.
President Frum commented the price point is very high totaling $3 million and the cost per house is $100,000.00. She noted no developer will be willing to put together a plan for the Village to deny. Furthermore, if the detention needed to be constructed underground the cost is much higher.
Trustee Israel thanked the Village staff and consultant for their hard work. He is interested in discussing the project with a developer to determine the best and highest use of the property. However, he is in favor of taking no further action.
President Frum opened public comment.
President Frum read one public comment she received from Kathryn Caporusso which stated the Village should use native plants instead of turf grass, which are better at absorbing water.
Todd Heller stated he is very passionate about stormwater management. He agrees with President Frum regarding a developer not wanting to waste their time presenting a plan to the Village. Furthermore, the study was used to help correct a horrible investment decision by the Village, which they purchased for $8.3 million. At the October 29, 2020 meeting, the Deputy CFO stated the Village has an $8 million deficit resulting from the property purchase. He noted the property had paid $376,000.00 in property taxes and requested the Board upgrade the property to benefit the Village.
President Frum commented the purchase price of the property was renegotiated to $8 million, after contamination was discovered. Furthermore, the purchase of a property is always discussed in executive session and the decision is announced to the public. The plan was to move the train station to that location; however, the relocation did not take place. Currently, the schools are using the property for storage and remote working.
Trustee Pepoon asked if property taxes are collected for vacant properties.
Trustee Ciesla commented the tax bill amounts to $300,000.00 and the Village portion is significantly less.
President Frum commented they will discuss the tax bill when it is available.
Trustee Collison commented sixteen taxing entities are listed on the tax bill. She requested clarification on the vacant rate.
Trustee Ross expressed concern regarding a comment made by a member of the public. She noted Northbrook is a very inclusive community.
President Frum discussed the three different options to choose from.
Trustee Pepoon asked if the utility area will remain open. President Frum responded the utility area must remain open.
Trustee Israel made a motion to accept the report and requested additional information for incorporation into potential development activities for the entirety of the site, seconded by Trustee Pepoon. On voice vote, the motion passed.
President Frum read a chat she received from the public speaker named Todd, who wanted to clarify his statement regarding the allocation of property taxes collected on the property.
Trustee Collison commented the Village has received interest from developers wanting to purchase the property.
Village Manager Rich Nahrstadt commented they will present several options to the Board. He discussed how the property can be used to construct affordable housing and special needs developments. He asked if the Board would like to consider more than one developer for the project.
Trustee Collison commented she spoke with the Director of Housing & Opportunity Development, who has great partnership ideas the Village staff can utilize.
11. PLANNING/ZONING
A. PRELIMINARY REVIEW - ZONING & DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
1. Preliminary Review of a Request for Special Permit for a Craft Grow at Facility at 3630 Commercial by Medthos, LLC.
Deputy Director Chan Yu discussed a preliminary application for a special permit craft grow facility at 3630 Commercial Avenue. The subject property is located in the I-1 district, which allows craft growing facilities as a special permit use. The facility is located 600 feet from the nearest residential district. The proposed use is not within 500 feet of any pre-existing school, day-care or childcare facilities. The facility will include between 16-20 employees working 8AM to 6PM shifts, with 2 security guards.
Per the applicant, the total full capacity is 30 employees. The facility will operate between 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., 7 days a week, and will have 24 hours a day, 7 days a week manned security operations. The Applicant is not proposing any changes to the site or exterior of the building. Furthermore, the Applicant is not contemplating any on-site retail sales or cannabis dispensary options.
President Frum commented the main concern is odor control.
Trustee Collison asked if the craft grower has other locations. 01:39:20 Unknown applicant responded they do not have any other cannabis facilities.
Trustee Collison stated she is in favor of the proposed request. She requested the Plan Commission use the feedback given for previous craft growers when evaluating this application. She expressed concern regarding the following: odor control, safety, sustainability and expansion.
Trustee Ciesla stated she has no additional comments and her comments remain the same. She noted she is in favor of the proposed request.
Trustee Israel stated he is in favor of the proposed request. He noted indoor cannabis growers are large producers of greenhouse gases and high energy users. He challenges the Applicant to use sustainability in the building modifications.
Trustee Ross concurs with Trustee Israel. She admires that the Applicant is creating a substance abuse coalition and would like more information.
Trustee Hebl concurs with her fellow Trustees.
Trustee Pepoon requested the Plan Commission evaluate safety, odor control and if the use is appropriate for this location.
President Frum commented the Plan Commission will evaluate the request.
12. COMMUNITY
13. PUBLIC SAFETY
14. LEGISLATION AND COMMUNICATION
A. Continued Review of the Municipal Code
President Frum commented the Village is reviewing chapter 1 and 2of the Municipal Code. She noted the Police and Fire Department have been added to chapter 2. Furthermore, she has one item she would like added to the protocols.
Village Clerk/Administrative Services Manager Debbie Ford commented the Board is reviewing the last two chapters. The Board will review the amendments at the next Board of Trustees meeting on April 13, 2021 or April 27, 2021. In the summer or fall, staff plans on presenting chapter 15, regarding business licenses. The municipal code review process started in May 2019 and was presented to the Board six times for review.
President Frum suggested removing "generally discouraged" from the Ex-parte communication section and read the replacement language to the Board. She noted the language discourages the developer from engaging in Ex-parte communication without a staff member present.
Trustee Hebl commented she supports President Frum's language revision. The language revision will insure that the Village conducts professional business with the public.
President Frum thanked Debbie Ford, Madeline Farrell and Brook Lenneman for their hard work.
15. REMARKS FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER
Village Clerk/Administrative Services Manager Debbie Ford commented the public will not be able to drop off mail-in ballots during early voting at the Village Hall for the April 6 Election. Previously, the Governor’s order allowed mail-in ballots to be dropped off at Village Hall. However, four court houses are allowing the public to drop off mail-in ballots.
President Frum commented the public must mail their ballots through the postal service and they should be postmarked before April 6, 2021. She noted ballot information will be available on the website.
President Frum encourages the public to vote during the elections.
16. CLOSED SESSION
None
17. ADJOURN
President Frum adjourned the meeting at 9:22 p.m.
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