North Cook News

Village of Northbrook Board of Trustees met Aug. 27

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

Village President Kathryn Ciesla called the meeting to order at 7:29 PM

1. ROLL CALL

Attendee Name Title Status

Kathryn Ciesla Village President Present

Robert Israel Trustee Present

Heather Ross Trustee Present

Daniel Pepoon Trustee Present

Johannah Hebl Trustee Present

Joy Ebhomielen Trustee Present

Michelle Kohler Trustee Present

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

3. SWEARING IN OF FIRE LIEUTENANT BRANDON COLLAZO

4. MINUTES APPROVAL

A. August 13, 2024 Regular Board Meeting Minutes for Approval

RESULT: APPROVED [6 – 0]

MOVER: Johannah Hebl, Trustee

SECONDER: Robert Israel, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

5. PUBLIC COMMENT TIME - None

6. MANAGER'S REPORT

Acting Village Manager Kelly Hamill gave an update on the transition from Waste Management to LRS for refuse and recycling; information and updates can be found on the Village’s website.

Encouraged residents to visit the Village’s website to sign up for the e-newsletter and emergency notifications.

Reminded drivers to be more cautious in school zones as the new school year has started.

Unused or expired prescription drugs can be dropped off at the collection box located in the lobby of the Police Department. 

7. WARRANT LIST

A. Review and Approval of Escrow Deposits/Performance Bond Refunds Processed Between August 1, 2024 – August 15, 2024 in the amount of $20,600.00

RESULT: APPROVED [6 – 0]

MOVER: Robert Israel, Trustee

SECONDER: Daniel Pepoon, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

B. Review and Approval of Payments Processed Between August 1, 2024 – August 15, 2024 in the amount of $3,527,908.47.

RESULT: APPROVED [6 – 0]

MOVER: Robert Israel, Trustee

SECONDER: Daniel Pepoon, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

8. PRESIDENT'S REPORT

Northbrook Brewfest is September 7th; tickets are available on the Park District’s website.

Community Moment

Bob Tucker, Community Commission commissioner discussed his experience as a senior resident in Northbrook. 

Overall, in coordination with nearby organizations, Northbrook does a very good job for most of the senior residents; considering factors such as the quality of professional healthcare available, transportation options; quality of leisure and programming services, social services, and mental health support, etc.

Recommended updating the Village’s website and increasing capacity at Crestwood Place

A. A Proclamation Recognizing September 8 – 14 as Chamber Commerce Week Village President Ciesla read the proclamation.

Kathi Quinn thanked the Village Board for the proclamation.

Trustee Hebl spoke in support of the organization’s community events.

B. A Proclamation Recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Village President Ciesla read the proclamation and provided the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline number.

President Ciesla provided a brief overview of economic development post-COVID.

Dissolved the Economic Development Commission and established a new Economic Strategies Commission.

In the process of a complete rewrite of the Zoning Code.

Expedited review process for developments through joint Village Board and Plan Commission meetings.

Working with the Village on projects/development has become efficient, fast, easy, and productive.

The Board has focused on improving the Downtown for existing businesses.

The Board will address the need for expanded sidewalks on the north side of Shermer Road and the east side of Meadow Road dedicated year-round space for outdoor dining.

Economic Strategies Commission’s initiatives for the Downtown include redevelopment, highdensity residential, shared parking, business and restaurant incentives, urban design improvements, events and programming, public-private partnerships, TIFS, and food and beverage tax.

Food and Beverage Tax initiative which has been discussed at a public has been mischaracterized as a tax on business, which it is not.

A brief history of economic development incentives – TIF, sales tax sharing, real estate tax rebate, 6(b) real estate tax incentives, annexation agreement, economic development grants, grants for local organizations, and use of resources for community events.

Neighboring communities’ current incentive agreements – Highland Park, Winnetka, and Glenview.

C. Resolution 2024-R-125 Authorizing a Contract for Engineering and Design of Infrastructure Improvements in the Central Business District (Shermer Road - Railroad Tracks to Meadow Road and 1300 Block of Meadow Road) with KimleyHorn and Associates, Inc. of Warrenville, Illinois

RESULT: APPROVED [7 – 0]

MOVER: Johannah Hebl, Trustee

SECONDER: Joy Ebhomielen, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler, Ciesla

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: None

ABSENT: None

D. A Motion to Consider an Incentive Agreement Term Sheet with Hometown Coffee and Juice and direct the Village Attorney and Village Manager to prepare an Incentive Agreement

President Ciesla discussed the parameters being considered for an Economic Incentive Agreement for Hometown Coffee and Juice; which includes a 5,000 sq ft remodel of an existing building. 

Jeff Bennett, Director, of Hometown Coffee and Juice, read a letter on behalf of founder Lou Rubin.

Trustee Israel asked for clarification on the loan terms.

Village Attorney Steve Elrod spoke on the loan terms and sales tax impacts.

President Ciesla opened public comment.

Jeff Piell spoke in support of the incentive agreement.

Maddie Pfeiffer spoke in support of the incentive agreement.

Thomas Philbin provided the Village Board with several questions to be answered by the applicant.

Serah Ciecek stated she owns several businesses in Northbrook; including BEAN BAR. She spoke in opposition to the incentive agreement.

Brian Zatz spoke in opposition to the incentive agreement.

Kadir Ciecek spoke in opposition to the incentive agreement.

Matt Dundman spoke in opposition to the incentive agreement.

Anthony Riccardi spoke in opposition to the incentive agreement.

Village Attorney Elrod clarified the loan terms and confirmed the Village Board is not voting on the agreement tonight; just the terms.

Trustee Israel spoke in favor of the proposed improvements and incentive agreement. The Village will strive to support small businesses in the community. The proposed incentive agreement will greatly benefit the public.

Trustee Ross spoke in favor of the proposed improvements and incentive agreement. She requested the applicant provide answers to the Village Board's questions. Furthermore, she provided a brief overview of economic development. The business expansion to Northbrook will benefit businesses in the community.

Trustee Hebl spoke in favor of the proposed improvements and incentive agreement. The business expansion to Northbrook will greatly benefit businesses in the community. The goal is to improve the Downtown area and support businesses.

Trustee Pepoon spoke in favor of the proposed improvements and incentive agreement. He requested staff incorporate his modifications into the term sheet.

Trustee Ebhomielen spoke in favor of the proposed improvements and incentive agreement. She requested the applicant provide information on business impacts in neighboring communities. The goal is to improve Downtown for the public. 

Trustee Kohler spoke in favor of the proposed improvements and incentive agreement. She requested the applicant provide information on business impacts in neighboring communities and sales tax revenues. The Village is working hard to renovate Downtown to improve foot traffic.

President Ciesla requested staff draft a recommendation regarding incentives for new businesses. The funding will be used to improve businesses in the community. Furthermore, she provided a brief overview of the TIF process.

RESULT: APPROVED [7 – 0]

MOVER: Johannah Hebl, Trustee

SECONDER: Heather Ross, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler, Ciesla

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: None

ABSENT: None

President Ciesla requested a five-minute recess

President Ciesla reconvened the meeting

9. CONSENT AGENDA

Trustee Ross commented that item E is a renewal of the Village electricity arrogation program and item F involves the purchase of a hybrid vehicle.

RESULT: APPROVED [6 – 0] ITEMS A - I

MOVER: Heather Ross, Trustee

SECONDER: Daniel Pepoon, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

A. Ordinance 2024-45 Amending the Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Budget for the Village of Northbrook, Illinois

B. Resolution 2024-R-126 Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Village and the Village of Northfield Regarding Disconnection and Annexation of Certain Property

C. Resolution 2024-R-127 Approving the Final Sign Design and Authorizing an Agreement with Right Way Signs, LLC for the Design, Fabrication, and Installation of New Village Gateway Signs

D. Resolution 2024-R-128 Approving a Three-Year Contract with Vector Solutions for Software Subscription Services

E. Resolution 2024-R-129 Approving a First Amendment to the Power Supply Agreement with MC Squared Energy Services, LLC, for the Village's Electricity Aggregation Program

F. Ordinance 2024-46 Authorizing the Disposal of a Surplus Vehicle and Approving the Purchase of a Replacement Police Department Vehicle from Currie Motors of Frankfort, IL

G. Motion to Approve the June 25, 2024, July 9, 2024, and July 23 Closed Session Minutes

H. A Motion to Accept a Staff Recommendation to Adopt an "Overhire Program" and Overhire Police Officer and Firefighter/Paramedic Positions in FY25

I. Resolution 2024-R-130 Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement Between the Village, the Village of Wilmette, and the Northeastern Illinois Public Safety Training Academy for the Shared Use of a Community Resilience Specialist

10. ADMINISTRATION AND FINANCE – None

11. PLANNING AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

A. Preliminary Review of a Zoning Request for a Wall Sign at 707 Skokie Boulevard

Trustee Israel moved to waive the presentation.

RESULT: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THE PUBLIC HEARING BE HELD BY THE PLAN

COMMISSION [6 – 0]

MOVER: Daniel Pepoon, Trustee

SECONDER: Johannah Hebl, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

B. Preliminary Review of a Zoning Request for a Cannabis Infuser at 306 – 310 Era Drive

Michaela Kohlstedt, Deputy Director of Development and Planning, discussed an application submitted by SBMP Holdings LLC, for the property located at 306 – 310 Era Drive.

The applicant is requesting zoning relief for a special permit to allow a cannabis infuser of edibles.

She provided a brief overview of the following: the property’s history, zoning, proposed use, and business operations. She noted the requested relief/primary issues the Village Board should consider. Furthermore, she confirmed the cannabis will be infused onsite.

Michael Piermont, the applicant, explained how the cannabis is infused with oil.

Trustee Ross requested the applicant incorporate sustainability items. She recognized the applicant for creating a sustainable product.

The Village Board supports sending the application to the Plan Commission.

RESULT: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THE PUBLIC HEARING BE HELD BY THE PLAN

COMMISSION [6 – 0]

MOVER: Daniel Pepoon, Trustee

SECONDER: Robert Israel, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

C. Preliminary Review of a Zoning Request to Amend an Existing Ordinance and Development Agreement to Allow a Child Day Care Facility at 3210 Dundee Road Michaela Kohlstedt, Deputy Director of Development and Planning, discussed an application submitted by Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago, for the property located at 3210 Dundee Road.

The applicant is requesting to amend an existing ordinance and development agreement to allow a child daycare facility. She provided a brief overview of the following: the property’s history, zoning, proposed use, and business operations. She noted the requested relief/primary issues the Village Board should consider.

Trustee Hebl favors the proposed use and hours of operation.

Zahava Berman, Director of Early Childhood Center, confirmed the play area is located in the west courtyard. The plan is to build a new play area.

Village Attorney Steve Elrod clarified the applicant's request with Trustee Pepoon.

The Village Board favors the application.

RESULT: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THE PUBLIC HEARING BE HELD BY THE PLAN

COMMISSION [6 – 0]

MOVER: Michelle Kohler, Trustee

SECONDER: Heather Ross, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

D. Preliminary Review of a Zoning Request for a Child Day Camp Facility at 1350 Willow Road (Willow Hill)

Michaela Kohlstedt, Deputy Director of Development and Planning, discussed an application submitted by Hi-Five Sports Clubs Northshore LLC, for the property located at 1350 Willow Road.

The applicant is requesting a zoning code text amendment to allow a child day camp. She provided a brief overview of the following: the property’s history, zoning, proposed use, and business operations. She noted the requested relief/primary issues the Village Board should consider. Furthermore, she confirmed

Danny Tuchman, Hi-Five Sports Clubs Northshore LLC, confirmed the facility will not transfer students to other locations. The program activities will take place onsite.

Trustee Hebl favors the proposed use. She requested the Plan Commission evaluate parking and proposed access points.

President Ciesla requested the Plan Commission verify the proposed use does not impact liquor licenses in the area.

Trustee Ross spoke in support of the application.

The Village Board supports the applicant’s request.

RESULT: MOTION TO RECOMMEND THE PUBLIC HEARING BE HELD BY THE PLAN

COMMISSION [6 – 0]

MOVER: Robert Israel, Trustee

SECONDER: Heather Ross, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

12. COMMUNITY AND SUSTAINABILITY – None

13. PUBLIC WORKS AND FACILITIES – None

14. PUBLIC SAFETY – None

15. COMMUNICATIONS AND OUTREACH – None

16. REMARKS FOR THE GOOD OF THE ORDER

Trustee Pepoon welcomed back Fire Chief Schweihs

17. CLOSED SESSION – None

18. ADJOURN

RESULT: ADJOURN AT 10:06 P.M. [6 – 0]

MOVER: Daniel Pepoon, Trustee

SECONDER: Heather Ross, Trustee

AYES: Israel, Ross, Pepoon, Hebl, Ebhomielen, Kohler

NAYES: None

ABSTAIN: Kathryn Ciesla, President

ABSENT: None

https://northbrook-il.granicus.com/DocumentViewer.php?file=northbrook-il_b1abde267ab8f4fc5eabfe95e1eb3b6e.pdf&view=1