DeKalb Times

City of Dekalb City Council met July 25.

Here are the minutes provided by the council:

The City Council of DeKalb, Illinois held a Regular meeting in the Yusunas Meeting Room of the DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak Street, DeKalb, Illinois.

A. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL

Mayor Barnes called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Recording Secretary Ruth Scott called the roll, and the following members of City Council were present: Alderman Carolyn Morris, Alderman Barb Larson, Alderman Tracy Smith, Alderman Greg Perkins, Alderman Scott McAdams, Alderman Mike Verbic, Alderman Tony Faivre, and Mayor Cohen Barnes.

City Clerk Sasha Cohen was absent.

Others in attendance included City Manager Bill Nicklas, City Attorney Matt Rose, and Transit Manager Mike Neuenkirchen.

B. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Kevin Kedzior led the Pledge of Allegiance.

C. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve the agenda; seconded by Alderman Larson.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

D. PRESENTATIONS

There were none.

E. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION

There was none.

F. APPOINTMENTS

There were none.

G. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

1. Minutes Submitted by the City Clerk

There were none.

2. Minutes Submitted by the Recording Secretary

Mayor Barnes read the following by title only:

a. Minutes of the Regular City Council Meeting of July 11, 2022.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the minutes; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

H. CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor Barnes read the following Consent Agenda items by title only:

1. Accounts Payable and Payroll through July 25, 2022, in the Amount of $2,873,853.60.

2. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Report – June 2022.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve the Consent Agenda; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

I. PUBLIC HEARINGS

1. Public Hearing: Capital Assistance Grant Application, Paratransit Vehicle Acquisition for the City of DeKalb Public Transportation Program.

Mayor Barnes opened the Public Hearing at 6:03 p.m. and read the item above by title only. There was no one in attendance who wanted to speak to this item.

City Manager Nicklas made a brief statement regarding this item. This hearing is required by federal and state guidelines as Transit Manager Neuenkirchen is recommending the submission of an application for paratransit vehicles funded through the Illinois Department of Transportation’s (IDOT) Consolidated Vehicle Procurement (CVP) program. Specifically, the City would be requesting the procurement of four vehicles for a total project request of $287,000.

There was no further discussion.

Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:04 p.m.

2. Public Hearing: Capital Assistance Grant Application, Fixed Route Vehicles and Equipment Acquisition for the City of DeKalb Public Transportation Program.

Mayor Barnes opened the Public Hearing at 6:04 p.m. and read the item above by title only. There was no one in attendance who wanted to speak to this item.

City Manager Nicklas made a brief statement regarding this item. This public hearing is prompted by Transit Manager Neuenkirchen’s recommendation to apply for a Round III Rebuild Illinois Capital Grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) for $5,418,000.00 in equipment divided into five projects to include the purchase of six fixed route buses, paratransit scheduling software, fixed route tracking software, fleet maintenance management software, and bus camera systems.

City Manager Nicklas added there’s concern among the City’s Transit staff that continuing to require contractors to provide the predominance of capital equipment will limit competitive bidding for operations of the service in the future.

Alderman Verbic asked what type of buses would be purchased, for instance environmentally friendly buses. Transit Manager Neuenkirchen replied this grant would be written for traditional diesel vehicle needs. He added there are federal funds available that would address hybrid and electric vehicles. The City could also consider converting the diesel fleet into a natural gas fleet.

Alderman Morris stated the future possibility of hybrid buses is important for the community.

Alderman Perkins asked how the grant process works as far as the amount requested – is it all or nothing or could the City receive a percent of the amount requested. Transit Manager Neuenkirchen replied that with this type of grant there’s a possibility that the City could ask for $5,000,000 and be awarded $3,000,000, which is still a substantial amount.

Alderman Smith stated although the City may want hybrid vehicles, it’s ultimately determined at the federal and state level whether or not they would be approved.

Brief discussion ensued.

There was no further discussion.

Mayor Barnes reiterated a statement he’s made in the past regarding discussion at the Council level during Council meetings because the background material provided by City Manager Nicklas and City staff is substantial. He noted the background material is also provided to the public via the City’s website.

Mayor Barnes closed the Public Hearing at 6:12 p.m.

J. CONSIDERATIONS

1. Public Discussion Regarding Redevelopment in the Hillcrest/Blackhawk Area and Annie Glidden North Area.

Mayor Barnes read the above item by title only.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to bring this item to the floor for discussion; seconded by Alderman Verbic.

Mayor Barnes stated there’s been a lot of discussion regarding development ideas for the former Hillcrest/Blackhawk property (also known as the “L” since the property is shaped like an L). He added this portion of the meeting gives the public opportunity to provide input to the types of development that could be placed in that area.

Mayor Barnes further stated the “L” is only a component in the Annie Glidden North (AGN) area revitalization, adding that other organizations, such as Opportunity DeKalb, will be holding additional listening sessions in the future.

Joey Moore, a First Ward resident, commented that the Lucinda Avenue area needs improvement and businesses located in that area require more promotion.

Kevin Kedzior, a Northern Illinois University (NIU) alumnus, provided Council with his idea of a student dining and study center located on the “L” property.

Darryl Crumb, a resident of the Ridge Road area, stated that when the City does decide what will be developed on the “L”, it will need to pay attention to the increasing traffic issues in the area, specifically speeding.

Mayor Barnes encouraged Mr. Crumb to reach out to him directly, or to Alderman Morris, with the types of issues he’s having. He further stated that the City is in the process of developing a speed deterrent in the area.

Dan Kenney of Opportunity DeKalb and DeKalb County Community Gardens spoke to the new development in the AGN area. He also stated it’s important to keep in mind that incremental development is most successful. He noted that community meetings are already being held about the types of services needed, as well as the need to reduce density in the area.

Glen Roby of Opportunity DeKalb stated they’re currently working on a plan to meet with non student rental residents that live in the neighborhood, as well as student rental residents.

Alderman Verbic suggested posting the dates and times of all upcoming listening sessions so that Council members can attend. City Manager Nicklas agreed and stated he’d get that information to the Council.

Alderman Perkins asked how many students versus non-students are in the area. Brief discussion ensued about how that information could be collected.

Mr. Roby spoke again, stating the DeKalb Area Rental Association (DARA) can poll landlords connected with the organization to see if they have the data Alderman Perkins asked about.

Brief discussion ensued between Alderman Perkins and Mr. Roby.

Mr. Crumb spoke again about the liability a taxpayer might have to assume in terms of additional police and fire services after the area is developed. He also expressed concern that the heavy police force already in the area takes away from the rest of the community.

Mayor Barnes stated safety is a priority for every DeKalb resident. He added that property taxes have gone down, and economic development is on the rise.

Mr. Crumb expressed his appreciation for what has been done with the Hunter Property residences.

Autumn Morgan, NIU student and First Ward resident, stated there’s been talk among students that a walkable bar in the area would be a good addition. However, she discouraged Council from making such an addition due to the issues that the former Jerk Fuzion added to the area when they were in business. She added the location was a hot spot for crime and violence.

An NIU student, who is also the Director of Greek Affairs, encouraged Council to limit the traffic in the Greek Row area.

Alderman Morris stated that although Suburban Estates is located outside of city limits, it’s important to remember that those residents are still a part of the AGN area. She also mentioned that communication in the area is an issue, for instance, communicating the listening sessions that are being scheduled. She suggested a reader board type sign be placed in the area that lists upcoming events.

Mayor Barnes commented on maintaining connections with organizations within that area.

Alderman Verbic spoke to Alderman Morris’ comments, stating a 2002 Greek Housing report touched on a lot of the issues everyone is speaking of. He stated he’s excited about the things happening in the area.

Alderman Larson stated she recently spoke with former mayor Jerry Smith who said he’s impressed with the moves being made in the AGN area. Alderman Larson further stated the positive changes being made in the AGN area affect everyone in DeKalb.

Mayor Barnes stated another component of this is that the City doesn’t get to pick the businesses that come into the area. The only thing that can be done is come up with ideas of what’s best for the area and economics are going to drive that.

Ms. Moore spoke again, stating that the businesses within the AGN area need support now. Mayor Barnes offered his appreciation to all of those who provided feedback.

2. Consideration of a Development Agreement Between the City of DeKalb and Nehring Electrical Works Company.

Mayor Barnes read the above item by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to bring this item to the floor for discussion; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. He offered a brief history of Nehring, as well as information on the type of product they produce, which is a wide range of stranded and solid aluminum and copper wire for the utility and electrical distribution market. He added there’s possibility of a development agreement between City and Nehring to redevelop the area as the company continues to grow.

Continuing, City Manager Nicklas stated the growth of Nehring has rubbed up against neighboring properties, which include primarily industrial or commercial-zoned properties between N. Seventh Street and N. Tenth Street, and several residential-zoned properties east of the intersection of N. Tenth Street and N. Eleventh Street. Recently, Nehring made investments, which promise further growth in production and greater storage needs. He added that he and Alderman Perkins have been meeting with Nehring representatives to find a solution to frictions with neighboring property owners over tractor trailer conflicts with passenger vehicles, limited on-street parking, and night time noise. Given Nehring’s expanding investment in adjoining properties, the conversation has turned to the idea of creating a “campus” type environment that would insulate both Nehring and neighboring properties from potential conflicts. For its part, provided other adjoining properties come under Nehring’s control, the City can vacate portions of its adjacent street areas to create, in effect, additional and non-conflicted parking and loading areas.

City Manager Nicklas then referenced an aerial photo of the area and described what the transformation might look like. The photo included a depiction of Nehring’s existing property, as well as potential property. The redevelopment outlined redresses many inconveniences and conflicts between N. Seventh Street and N. Tenth Street. It does not include further steps that might be taken to address residual noise and truck conflicts that create conflicts between Nehring and residential neighbors on E. Locust Street east of N. Tenth Street. Further discussion is planned to address this challenge; however, Nehring is agreed that the on-street parking on the south side of E. Locust Street between N. Tenth Street and N. Eleventh Street should be restricted to residents only, with the appropriate City signage.

Tom Jackowski, Nehring’s CFO provided a history of Nehring, stating they’ve been in the same location since 1912. He added that Nehring is expanding and growing out of space they have now, and their hope is to continue to grow in DeKalb without having to relocate.

Alderman Perkins asked Nehring representatives the status of potential acquisitions of surrounding property. Mr. Jackowski referenced the aerial depiction of the property, stating those properties outlined in purple are owned by Nehring, and the properties outlined in blue are potential.

Alderman Morris asked if part of the plan would be for Nehring to purchase City property. City Manager Nicklas stated there would be vacations of City property.

Alderman Morris stated she likes the proposed plan.

Alderman Smith commented on his experience of driving within the area. He also commented on signs he’s seen to help control semitruck traffic and help drivers navigate the area. Alderman Smith further stated that he likes the proposed plan.

Brief discussion ensued.

Alderman Larson thanked Nehring representatives for continue to choose DeKalb. She added she wants to make sure the City doesn’t ignore already established companies within DeKalb. Alderman Larson further stated that she likes the proposed plan.

There was consensus among Council to move forward with the plan as presented. City Manager Nicklas stated further information would be brought forward in the near future.

3. Bi-Annual Review of Compensation of Elected Officials as per Chapter 2 “City Council”, Section 2.15 “Elected Officials Salary Review”, Preceding the April 4, 2023, Consolidated Election.

Mayor Barnes read the above item by title only.

Motion: Alderman Verbic moved to bring the item to the floor for discussion; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The Illinois Constitution prohibits an elected official’s compensation from being increased or decreased during an official’s term of office. Section 2 of the Local Government Officer Compensation Act (50 ILCS 145/2) states that compensation of elected officers shall be fixed at least 180 days before the beginning of the terms of the officers whose compensation is to be fixed. The consolidated election for Aldermanic seats in the First, Third, Fifth and Seventh Wards will be held on April 4, 2023, so the 180-day window will close sometime around October 6, 2022. An appropriate ordinance establishing the future compensation of these Council officials will need to be presented before that time.

Brief discussion ensued.

Alderman McAdams stated this is a matter of public serve and believes no one does this job for compensation. He further stated he believes compensation is sufficient doesn’t think increases are in order.

There was consensus to leave current compensation as is for the upcoming term. No further resolution required.

K. RESOLUTIONS

1. Resolution 2022-062 Authorizing Submission of an Application for Capital Assistance Grant for Paratransit Vehicles Under the Illinois Department of Transportation’s General Authority to Make Such Grants for the Purpose of Off-Setting Certain Public Transportation Facility Capital Costs the City of DeKalb.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Smith moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Larson.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The first public hearing at the beginning of the meeting invited public opinion on a City application for state grant funding to purchase four vehicles to assist paratransit needs within the DeKalb service area. The total project request of $287,000 would help replace vehicles now out of service due to age and failed condition and will also create capacity to dedicate several vehicles at any given time to driver training, the temporary replacement of vehicles in need of maintenance, and special groups trips.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Resolution 2022-063 Authorizing Submission of an Application for a Public Transportation Capital Assistance Grant Under the Illinois Department of Transportation’s General Authority to Make Such Grants for the Purpose of Off-Setting Eligible Public Transportation Capital Costs of the City of DeKalb.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The second public hearing at the beginning of this meeting invited public opinion about an application for a variety of capital purchases under the Rebuild Illinois III Capital grant program. If fully funded, the grants would pay for the purchase of six fixed route buses, paratransit scheduling software, fixed route tracking software, fleet maintenance management software, and bus camera systems. The current Transit operations contractor, Transdev, uses its own fleet to provide fixed route services. The purpose of these purchases is to build the City’s capital capacity in the event of a change in transit providers through a future bidding process.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

3. Resolution 2022-064 Authorizing thePurchase of Two Ford E-450 Type Ill Osage Ambulances from North Central Emergency Vehicles Plus Upfitting Expenses Necessary to Place the Ambulances in Service in an Amount Not to Exceed $431,084.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Smith.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. Ground Emergency Medical Transportation (GEMT) funds are sufficient to provide capital money for the purchase of two new ambulances. Lead time for ambulances could be as much as one-and-a-half to two years. Since the vehicles would not be charged against the budget until their receipt, the Council was asked to commit to the North Central purchases so their manufacture can be put in process, and they can be purchased in FY2023.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

4. Resolution 2022-065 Authorizing the Waiver of Competitive Bidding and the Execution of an Agreement with Layne Christensen Company for a Maintenance Inspection and Repair to Well #14 in an Amount Not to Exceed $60,000.

Mayor Barnes read the resolution by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve the resolution; seconded by Alderman Larson.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. Well #14 was scheduled to be pulled this year for routine preventative maintenance. However, it failed to operate on July 6 of this year and has resisted all attempts to restart it. With the well out of service, daily water demands are being met by relying more heavily on the City’s other remaining eight wells.

Therefore, City staff are requesting approval to waive competitive bidding and accept a quote by Layne Christensen Company at the base amount of $55,000 for the purpose of performing the inspection and repair of the well, with subsequent staff authority to approve expenses for required repairs in an amount not to exceed $60,000 in total project cost.

There was no discussion among Council.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

L. ORDINANCES – SECOND READING

There were none.

M. ORDINANCES – FIRST READING

1. Ordinance 2022-030 Amending Chapter 2 “City Council”, Section 2.12 “Rules of Order and Procedure” to Permit Attendance by a Means Other Than Physical Presence.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Morris moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. This item would bring the Municipal Code up to date by amending Chapter 2, Section 2.12 to expressly allow remote attendance for Council meetings as permitted under the Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 140/7).

Alderman Faivre asked if a timeline should be set for how soon before a meeting notification should be received from a Council member who needs to attend a meeting remotely. City Attorney Rose stated the notice should be when practical, such as in an emergency.

Discussion ensued about how much advance notification a Council member should give to allow staff to set up for remote attendance.

City Attorney Rose stated if Council wants to insert a specific time requirement for advance notice, the ordinance as written would need to be amended. He added that if a Council member attends remotely, the Council members attending in person would need to vote at the top of the meeting to allow such attendance.

Alderman Verbic asked if remote participants can still vote. City Attorney Rose stated they could as long as the Council members attending in person have approved the remote attendance.

Brief discussion ensued.

City Manager Nicklas recommended notification at 12:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.

Brief discussion ensued regarding the amendment of the ordinance in question. It was decided that the ordinance would be left as is for now. The topic could be readdressed if notification becomes problematic.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to waive second reading and approve; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

2. Ordinance 2022-031 Amending Chapter 59 “Economic Development Commission”, Section 59.01 “Commission Created” to Change the Annual Minimum Meetings Requirements.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. look at background. On July 8, 2022, the Economic Development Commission (EDC) agreed to suspend their regular meeting schedule for an ad hoc or has needed schedule.

Alderman Morris stated she is the Council Liaison for the EDC and expressed support for this recommendation.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Morris moved to waive second reading and approve; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

3. Ordinance 2022-032 Approving an Amendment to the Final Plan of The Bridges of Rivermist, Phase 2, Approved by Ordinance 1997-110, to Allow a Modular Classroom at Gwendolyn Brooks Elementary School, 3225 Sangamon Road (DeKalb Community Unit School District No. 428).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Larson moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. Brooks Elementary School has indicated need for additional classroom space inside the building for an intensive instructional space. The school district wants to add a modular classroom on the site to provide space for the current music room. The music room would then be converted to the intensive classroom. The school district expects that the modular classroom would be needed for about three (3) years.

Alderman Morris asked what the intensive instructional space would be used for. Tammy Carlson, representing the school district, replied it would be used for special needs students at the elementary level.

Alderman Morris asked how many of the district’s schools have mobile units. Ms. Carlson replied there’s one at Little John Elementary and Lincoln Elementary at this time. She added that Jefferson Elementary has one as well, which was just recently put into use. A unit will also be added to Cortland Elementary.

Noting these are temporary accommodations, Alderman Larson asked if there are metrics in place to determine when a new school is needed. Ms. Carlson stated the school district is looking at ways to reduce class size, which in turn requires additional class space. A demographer study and building space capacity study has been done over the past year. Several options are being considered but it takes time.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman McAdams moved to waive second reading and approve; seconded by Alderman Morris.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

4. Ordinance 2022-033 Approving a Special Use Permit for a Drive-Through Restaurant at 922 S. Fourth Street (Proper Hospitality Group, LLC – Peter Panagakis).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. Proper Hospitality Group, LLC, represented by local restauranter Peter Panagakis, is requesting approval of a special use permit for a drive-through restaurant at the former KFC Restaurant site on S. Fourth Street. The proposed restaurant will be called Anna’s Sandwich Shoppe and will contain 40 inside seats with a limited drive-thru consisting of a mobile order pick-up window. Outside seating will also be provided.

Alderman McAdams thanked Mr. Panagakis for his investment on S. Fourth Street, noting it will help with the economic development in the area.

Alderman Morris expressed her excitement for this development.

Mayor Barnes agreed with the comments made by Alderman McAdams and Alderman Morris, stating he thinks it’s wonderful that Mr. Panagakis is investing in that property and on the south side of DeKalb.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to waive second reading and approve; seconded by Alderman Verbic.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

5. Ordinance 2022-034 Approving a Final Plat for the SV CSG DeKalb County Subdivision Along Gurler Road (Midland Trust Company – James Planey).

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Perkins.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. The applicant, James Planey, requests approval of a minor subdivision plat for a one-lot subdivision consisting of 23.6 acres along the north side of Gurler Road, just east of S. First Street. The proposed lot is part of a larger 36.3-acre parcel owned by the applicant. When a development project comes forward for the remaining 12.7 acres, the applicant will subdivide the entire parcel to create two lots. At that time the appropriate public improvements (e.g., water and sewer) will be extended to the property.

Mr. Planey expressed his gratitude to Council and Principal Director Dan Olson for their assistance during this process.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Morris moved to waive second reading and approve; seconded by Alderman Larson.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

Mayor Barnes thanked Mr. Planey for investing in DeKalb. He also thanked City staff for the assistance offered to entrepreneurs and residents and making them a priority.

6. Ordinance 2022-035 Amending Chapter 51 “Traffic”, Schedule B “Through Streets, Stop Intersections and Yield Intersections”, to Establish a Stop Condition for Both Fifth Street and Sixth Street as they Intersect Culver Street.

Mayor Barnes read the ordinance by title only.

MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to approve first reading of the ordinance; seconded by Alderman Faivre.

City Manager Nicklas provided an overview of this item based on the information provided in the agenda packet. Approval of this ordinance would convert the approach onto Culver Street to a stop-controlled intersection at both Fifth Street and Sixth Street. Currently, S. Fifth Street and S. Sixth Street terminate in T-intersections at Culver Street but there are no controlling traffic signs to assure safety at pedestrian crossings. This ordinance creates full stop signs to provide additional safety along the roadway. Contributing factors for the request are the proximity of the intersections to Founder’s Elementary School, as well as the absence of traffic control signs at the intersections. This will not impede through traffic on the primary street (Culver) and will increase traffic control and safety near the school.

Alderman Verbic stated other intersections throughout the city should be reviewed for the same situation.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

MOTION: Alderman Verbic moved to waive second reading and approve; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed.

N. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

1. Council Member Reports.

Alderman Verbic reported on the upcoming 50 Men Who Cook Event on August 13, 2022, to be held at NIU’s Barsema Alumni and Visitor’s Center, noting this will be the event’s 18th year. He also noted that tickets for the event are available at casadekalb.org.

Alderman Morris reported on her recent ward meeting. One topic of discussion was Ridge Road safety. City Engineer Gill attended the meeting and provided some insight to traffic calming plans for the area. Other topics included affordable housing, encouraging housing starts, and the addition of cul-de-sacs on Blackhawk Road in the AGN area.

Alderman Smith thanked City Engineer Gill for providing updates on the work being done on 13th Street and 14th Street. He also thanked the residents of that area for their patience during the project.

Alderman McAdams reported he will be holding a Fifth Ward meeting on August 3, 2022, at Cornerstone.

Mayor Barnes reported on events and meetings he’s attended recently, which included the First United Methodist Church groundbreaking ceremony, a meeting with Daily Chronicle reporter Meghann Horstead, a meeting he and City Manager Nicklas had with Police Chief Byrd to discuss crime within the community and Crime Free Housing, and a University Village Collaborative meeting. Mayor Barnes also reported that he and Alderman Perkins met recently to discuss topics concerning DeKalb and encouraged Council to reach out to him to schedule similar meetings.

Continuing, Mayor Barnes stated he attended a recent Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission meeting where they discussed adding murals throughout the city.

Closing his report, Mayor Barnea addressed the Police Department directly, stating there have been comments posted recently about the Police Department that have left him appalled. He stated his appreciation for their professionalism and the respect they show while conducting business. In closing, Mayor Barnes stated the Police Department is doing a great job and not everyone reflects the Council in any way shape or form.

2. City Manager Report.

City Manager Nicklas thanked Mayor Barnes for his comments to the Police Department and noted he shares the same sentiment. He stated he’s proud of the Police Department’s around the clock unselfish service.

O. EXECUTIVE SESSION

Mayor Barnes read the following Executive Session exemption titles as follows:

Approval to Hold an Executive Session in order to discuss Collective Bargaining as provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(2), the Sale or Lease of Real Property as provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(6), and Executive Session Minutes as provided for in 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21).

MOTION: Alderman Faivre moved to recess for Executive Session; seconded by Alderman Verbic.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 roll call vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and recessed the meeting at 8:05 p.m.

Following adjournment of the Executive Session, Mayor Barnes opened the meeting to the public at 8:43 p.m.

P. Adjournment

MOTION: Alderman Perkins moved to adjourn the Regular meeting; seconded by Alderman McAdams.

VOTE: Motion carried by an 8-0 voice vote. Aye: Morris, Larson, Smith, Perkins, McAdams, Verbic, Faivre, Barnes. Nay: None. Mayor Barnes declared the motion passed and adjourned the meeting at 8:43 p.m.

https://www.cityofdekalb.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_07252022-2213