Village of Niles Board of Trustees met Oct. 26.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
CALL TO ORDER
The Board of Trustees Regular Meeting was called to order by President George D. Alpogianis at 7:06 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Village of Niles Municipal Building.
PRESENTATION OF COLORS
Boy Scout Troup 821 Color Guard presented the colors.
Boy Scout Panagioti Fruke Boy Scout Thanasi Fruke
Boy Scout Dimitri Zimbrakos Boy Scout Paulos Zimbrakos
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Boy Scout Paulos Zimbrakos led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
In the absence of the Village Clerk, Assistant to the Village Manager Kathy Thake called the roll. Board members present were President George D. Alpogianis and Trustees John C. Jekot, Danette O'Donovan Matyas, Craig Niedermaier and Dean Strzelecki. Trustee Joe LoVerde was absent.
PROCLAMATION
Honoring Our Veterans on Veterans Day, November 11, 2021
Niles Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3579 American Legion Post 134 Vietnam Veterans Chapter 242
VFW POST 3579 PRESENTATION TO PRESIDENT ALPOGIANIS
Niles Memorial VFW Post 3579 Commander Kevin Morrison presented President Alpogianis with a book for his support and participation in the Korean War Veterans Memorial held on July 27, 2021, at the Post. President Alpogianis was instrumental in making this event happen, and it had a special significance for him since his father, Constantine “Gus” Alpogianis, was a Korean War Veteran. On behalf of all Veterans, Commander Morrison thanked President Alpogianis for his support and made him a Lifetime Honorary Member of the VFW Auxiliary.
RECESS
At 7:20 p.m., President Alpogianis called for a short recess.
RECONVENE ROLL CALL
The meeting reconvened at 7:30 p.m. On roll call, President Alpogianis and Trustees Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier and Strzelecki were present. Trustee LoVerde was absent.
AMEND ORDER OF THE AGENDA
At the request of President Alpogianis, Trustee Strzelecki made a motion to amend the order of the agenda by moving the Consent Agenda Items and New Business Items to the beginning of the meeting, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
CONSENT AGENDA - NEW BUSINESS
President Alpogianis stated that all items on the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine and will be enacted in one motion. There will be no individual discussion of these items unless a Trustee so requests. The requested item will then be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered at the end of New Business.
Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Strzelecki, to allow items 1 through 9 to be included on the consent agenda. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 5 Alpogianis, Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 5 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Kathy Thake read consent agenda items 1 through 9 into the record:
#1 Approval of Minutes - September 28, 2021 Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes
#2 Approval of Minutes - October 8, 2021 Board of Trustees Special Meeting Minutes
#3 Ordinance Adding Chapter 18 Building and Building Regulations, Article XV. Fences, Section 18-176 Exempt Fences, to the Niles Code of Ordinances
#4 Resolution Endorsing the 2021 Climate Action Plan for the Chicago Region
#5 Appointment of IT Director Rehman Ali to the General Government/IT Committee
#6 Board Approval - Ratification of Transition Agreement and Release between the Village of Niles and Ioana Ardelean
#7 Board Approval - Reduction to Long-Term Rate of Return on Assets from 7.00% to 6.50% on All Lauterbach & Amen Actuarial Reports
#8 Board Approval - Purchase Temporary Accounting Services Provided by GovTemps USA in the Amount of $3,175
#9 Board Approval - Board Acceptance - IT Organizational Assessment as Presented by Securance Consulting
Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Strzelecki, to approve consent agenda items 1 through 9. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 5 Alpogianis, Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 5 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
NEW BUSINESS
Resolution Approving a Cook County Class 7a Tax Classification for Tribab LLC or its Assignee for the Property Located at 7254 N. Milwaukee Avenue
Trustee Niedermaier made a motion, seconded by Trustee Strzelecki to approve the Resolution Approving a Cook County Class 7a Tax Classification for Tribab LLC or its Assignee for the Property Located at 7254 N. Milwaukee Avenue. Tribab, LLC is requesting a Village Board resolution supporting and consenting to a Cook County Class 7a property tax classification incentive for the property located at 7254 N. Milwaukee Avenue based on occupation of an abandoned property that has been vacant for greater than 24 continuous months with a purchase for value and substantial rehabilitation. The property is located in the Milwaukee Harlem TIF District thus the blight designation has already been established. The Finance Committee reviewed and recommended approval at their October 6, 2021 meeting. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance Approving a Special Use to Allow a Sign that Exceeds the Amount of Permitted Signage for Property Located at 8034-8074 N. Milwaukee Avenue (21-ZP-38)
Trustee Strzelecki made a motion, seconded by Trustee Matyas, to adopt the Ordinance Approving a Special Use as Required in Chapter 78 Signs, Article IX. Administration and Appeals, Sec. 78-208 Standards for Special Use to Allow a Sign that Exceeds the Amount of Permitted Signage as Defined in Sec. 78-92(1) for Property Located at 8034-8074 N. Milwaukee Avenue. The Planning and Zoning Board voted 7-0-0 to recommend approval of the request at a public hearing held on October 4, 2021. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance Approving a Zoning Map Amendment as Required in Appendix B, Sec. 15.2 From an R-2 - Single-Family Residential to ‘PI - Public/Institutional Lands District for Property Located at 8257 Harrison Street (21-ZP-39)
Trustee Strzelecki made a motion, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier, to adopt the Ordinance Approving a Zoning Map Amendment as Required in Appendix B, Section 15.2 from its Current Zoning Designation of 'R-2 - Single-Family Residential to ‘PI - Public/Institutional Lands District for Property Located at 8257 Harrison Street, Niles. The Planning and Zoning Board voted 7-0-0 to recommend approval of the request at a public hearing held on October 4, 2021. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance Amending Appendix B Zoning Ordinance Section 8.5 to Amend the Definition of 'Firearm Sales' (21-ZP-40)
Trustee Strzelecki made a motion, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier, to adopt the Ordinance Approving a Text Amendment to Appendix B Zoning Ordinance, Section 8.5 to Amend the Definition of 'Firearms Sales'. The Planning and Zoning Board voted 7-0-0 to recommend approval of the request at a public hearing held on October 4, 2021. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative yotes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance Approving a Change Order Number 1 for 2021 Sidewalk, Curb
Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier, to adopt the Ordinance Approving a Change Order Number 1 for 2021 Sidewalk, Curb & Gutter Program from Sumit Construction Company, & Gutter Program from Sumit Construction Company, Inc., by Increasing the Contract Price by $47,200 for a Total Contract Amount of $250,000 and Authorizing the Expenditure of Funds to Pay for Such Change Order
Inc. by Increasing the Contract Price by $47,200 for a Total Contract Amount of $250,000 and Authorizing the Expenditure of Funds to Pay for Such Change Order. The amount of concrete restoration required for Summer 2021- Spring 2022 will exceed the quantities available in the contract. Staff recommends increasing the contract value to the budgeted amount so that work is not unnecessarily deferred until FY22. The work will be completed at the contract unit prices. The change order in the amount of $47,200 will bring the total contract value to $250,000. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Ordinance Approving a Change Order Number 1 at Waukegan Road at Cleveland Road Intersection Improvements From HR Green, Inc., by Increasing the Contract Price by $26,163.10 for a Total Contract Amount of $85,486.66 and Authorizing the Expenditure of Funds to Pay for Such Change Order
Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier, to adopt the Ordinance Approving a Change Order Number 1 at Waukegan Road at Cleveland Road Intersection Improvements from HR Green, Inc., by Increasing the Contract Price by $26,163.10 for a Total Contract Amount of $85,486.66 and Authorizing the Expenditure of Funds to Pay for Such Change Order. Following multiple design review meetings with IDOT for the Cleveland crossing at Waukegan Road, the idea of a road diet was put forth as a possibility on Waukegan Road. This concept will require traffic analysis and additional study not conceived under the original scope of services. The Bike and Pedestrian Advisory Group supports the study of this new option. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4. Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution Authorizing a Bid Waiver and a Second One Year Contract Extension with Artistic Holiday Designs for the 2021 Holiday Light Installation in the Amount of $40,777.60
Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier, to approve the Resolution Authorizing a Bid Waiver and a Second One Year Contract Extension with Artistic Holiday Designs for the 2021 Holiday Light Installation in the Amount of $40,777.60. Over the past four years, Artistic Holiday Designs has provided an excellent product and highly responsive customer service. They have created custom lighting arrangements throughout the Village, such as the Senior Center Wall of Lights. Artistic Holiday Designs has agreed to hold their 2019 pricing an additional year for 2021. By keeping the pricing for 2021 allows the Village to stay under budget. The warranty on the lighting has expired. Being under budget provides for the repair or replacement of any lights that may be malfunctioning. On roll call, the yote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Resolution Authorizing Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier, to a Bid Award and
approve the Resolution Authorizing a Bid Award and Contractual Contractual Agreement Agreement with Bolder Contractors, Inc. to Provide Construction of with Bolder Contractors, the 2021 Tracer Wire Program in the Amount of $52,500. Bids were Inc. to Provide Construction received from one firm for the 2021 Tracer Wire Installation of the 2021 Tracer Wire Program. Bolder Contractors, Inc. provided the only bid of $52,500 Program in the Amount of and has met all bid requirements. The bid was publicly advertised $52,500
including direct bidder outreach, therefore a re-bid is unlikely to generate more interest. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
AMEND ORDER OF THE AGENDA
At the request of President Alpogianis, Trustee Matyas made a motion to amend the order of the agenda by moving up the Financial Report to this point in the meeting, seconded by Trustee Niedermaier. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
FINANCIAL REPORTS
Treasurer's Report August 2021
President Alpogianis made a motion, seconded by Trustee Strzelecki, to approve the accounts payable, including payroll in the amount of $3,888,315 for the month ending September 2021. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Trustee Strzelecki made a motion, seconded by Trustee Matyas, that the Treasurer's Report for the month ending September 30, 2021 be approved and filed for audit with a beginning cash balance of $46,982,013 receipts of $22,359,437 disbursements of $18,825,436 and ending cash balance of $50,516,014. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS: 0
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Resignation Letter from
Trustee Denise M. McCreery
President Alpogianis read a letter of resignation from Trustee Denise McCreery, dated October 1, 2021, into the record:
Dear Mayor, Board of Trustees and Niles Team,
After a great deal of reflection and prayer, I am saddened to share with you that I will be resigning from the Board as trustee effective immediately. Six and a half years ago, I ran for office because I love Niles. Although it is one of the most challenging tasks, I voluntarily entered; it has also been one of the most rewarding. It is my hope that I have had some small positive impact on this community.
I am so thankful to the residents, the Mayor, my fellow Board members and all of the employees for entrusting me with such an important responsibility. I leave this position knowing that Niles has incredible leadership and an amazing team of employees who will continue to make Niles a standout among other communities. I am in awe of your dedication and passion and encourage you all to continue to push against the status quo.
Finally, I want to especially thank the Community Development Department, the Building & Zoning Committee, the EDNR Commission, the Milwaukee Streetscape Committee and the Comprehensive Plan Committee. I am confident the Mayor and Trustees will work with my committees to ensure a seamless transition.
Thank you all,
Denise McCreery
President Alpogianis stated that, due to a referendum that was passed, he cannot appoint a trustee when a vacancy occurs, which goes against State law. He cautioned residents to get all the information when signing petitions. President Alpogianis stressed the importance of having all six Trustees so business can be properly taken care of.
Night of Roses Winners
Kim Biederman, Niles Chamber of Commerce and Industry Executive Director announced the winners from the Night of Roses 50th Anniversary event:
Small Business of the Year: Chasers Sports Bar and Grill Ken Scheel Chamber Member of the Year: Suzanne Wulf, Niles Maine-District Library Corporate Citizen of the Year: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital Niles Citizen of the Year: Rev. Constantine "Fr. Dean" Botsis, St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church Distinguished Voluntary Service Award: Tony Dati, Niles Resident and Public Works Streets Superintendent Dedication to Youth Excellence: Bob Kostuch, Notre Dame College Prep Public Safety Award of Excellence: Tony Dati, Niles Public Works Streets Superintendent Bob Wordel Living Legend: Trustee Dean Strzelecki
COMMUNITY EVENTS
October 31, 2021 Halloween Trick or Treat Safety Tips and Police Department Recommended Hours: 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
November 11, 2021 Veterans Day Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Waterfall and Village Facilities Closed in Observance of Veterans Day
November 27, 2021 Holly Jolly Fest and Tree Lighting Ceremony from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Civic Center Plaza
Firefighter Paramedic Adam John Hoeflich
FIREAND POLICE CEREMONIAL OATH OF OFFICE
PRESENTATIONS
Retirement of Police Officer Danielle Helma Retirement of Police Officer Marijo Zawilla
PRESIDENT'S REPORT
Halloween House Decorating Contest Nominees - Voting Begins October 26 at 7:00 p.m. on the Village's Facebook Page
Community Engagement Coordinator Katie Schneider announced that voting begins at 7:00 p.m. on the Village's Facebook page for the tope nominees for the Halloween House decorating context. Vote for your nominees for the Halloween Hou favorite Halloween house between now, Tuesday until Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. Whoever has the most likes will be the first place winner and they will receive a $100 gift card to a local business of their choice as well as a “winner" yard sign. The second and third place winners will receive a $50 gift card to a local business of their choice and a yard sign. The nominees' addresses and a map will be posted on the Village's Facebook page.
COVID-19 Community Update
Fire Chief Marty Feld reported that the Governor of Illinois extended his Declaration of Emergency through November 15, 2021. Niles has a 7-day positivity rate of 1% and the state positivity rate is 2.2%. Since the last update, 116 residents have tested positive for COVID-19 and 3 residents have been lost to this virus. According to the Cook County Department of Public Health, 62% of eligible residents have received 2 shots. With the assistance of the Finance Department, Chief Feld has reviewed COVID-19 related purchases made during 2021 and has submitted a public assistance project for the reimbursement of $23,600.32 for FEMA'S consideration. On October 15, the Niles Senior Center with the assistance of Jewel Pharmacy provided booster shots to 150 community members and Village employees. Fire Chief Feld encouraged all residents to be a part of the solution to end this pandemic and if you haven't received the vaccine, please do so.
Happy 100th Birthday
President Alpogianis wished resident Rosanna Gasparro a Happy 100th Birthday on November 11, 2021.
VILLAGE MANAGER'S REPORT
Village Manager Joe La Margo reported on construction updates, current road closures and detours due to the Greenwood Stormwater Basin construction. Niles Family Services and the Knights of Columbus will be holding a coat drive through the end of October and coats will be distributed to residents the first week of November. The Village is now endorsing a new green, community solar program through the Metropolitan Mayor's Caucus, which is an optional program and residents have to apply. The Village's leaf pick-up program runs from October through November – see the pick-up schedule on the Village's website. Groot also offers a bag yard-waste collection program, new this year. Manager La Margo reported on rodent activity in the Village and how to inspect for rats and burrows. President Alpogianis expressed how important it is to pick up after your dogs, as rats are attracted to dog waste.
TRUSTEE REPORTS
Trustee Niedermaier
Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Advisory Group Trustee Niedermaier reported that the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan Advisory Group met today, October 26, and Tim Gustafson from the Epstein Group presented the preliminary bike plan update and an existing conditions report. The Group will now begin to prioritize issues and propose safety amendments in the Village, including improvements at Oakton and Caldwell and a partnership project with the Village of Morton Grove to establish a sidewalk leading to Niles West. The Group reviewed the bike trail crossings at Touhy and Howard and discussed potential improvements.
2040 Comprehensive Plan Committee Trustee Niedermaier reported that the 2040 Comp Plan Committee, together with the Lakota Group, hosted a Community Visioning Workshop on September 29, 2021 at the Senior Center. The purpose of the workshop was to present information to the community about the Comprehensive planning process and to gather feedback and ideas to improve the Village, including establishing policy goals, determining priorities for investment, and ultimately helping determine the character and identity of the Village in the future.
General Government/IT Committee Trustee Niedermaier reported that the General Government/IT Committee met on October 12, via Zoom, and briefly discussed the upcoming Employee Handbook amendments and the solid waste hauler program. The Village is currently weighing options for waste removal and leaf and branch removal.
Trustee Matyas
Public Works Committee
Trustee Matyas reported that the Public Works Committee met on October 18 to discuss street impact fees should contractors have to cut into Village roadways; a petition from residents for no parking on Western Avenue from Golf Road to Kathy Lane; heard a presentation on the condition of the salt dome and the need for replacement; proper stop sign placement and neighborhood studies, and recommended approval of holiday decorations from Artistic Holiday Designs.
Trustee Jekot
Human Services Committee
Trustee Jekot reported that pickle ball has returned to the Family Fitness Center and more personal training packages have resulted in an increase in revenue. New programs being offered by Family Services include Widow/Widower Support Group, mediation Group for Seniors, Health Relationships and and Self-Care group. The Senior Center November/December program guide is out. The Senior Center has partnered with Oak Point University to be a clinical placement for nursing students enrolled in community and population-focused health. The Teen Center hosted the glow-in-the dark dodge ball event which was very popular, school visits continue to encourage Teen Center attendance which continues to grow on a daily basis.
RECONSIDER NEW BUSINESS ITEM
Reconsider Resolution Authorizing a Bid Waiver and a Second One Year Contract Extension with Artistic Holiday Designs for the 2021 Holiday Light Installation in the Amount of $40,777.60
President Alpogianis asked for a motion to Reconsider the Resolution Authorizing a Bid Waiver and a Second One Year Contract Extension with Artistic Holiday Designs and a revote to obtain a supermajority. Trustee Niedermaier made a motion, seconded by Trustee Strzelecki, to reconsider the Resolution Authorizing a Bid Waiver and a Second One Year Contract Extension with Artistic Holiday Designs for the 2021 Holiday Light Installation in the Amount of $40,777.60. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 4 Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier, Strzelecki
NAYS:
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde
ABSTAIN: 0
There being 4 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
Trustee Matyas made a motion, seconded by Trustee Strzelecki, to approve the Resolution Authorizing a Bid Waiver and a Second One Year Contract Extension with Artistic Holiday Designs for the 2021 Holiday Light Installation in the Amount of $40,777.60. Over the past four years, Artistic Holiday Designs has provided an excellent product and highly responsive customer service. They have created custom lighting arrangements throughout the Village, such as the Senior Center wall of lights. Artistic Holiday Designs has agreed to hold their 2019 pricing an additional year for 2021. By keeping the pricing for 2021 allows the Village to stay under budget. The warranty on the lighting has expired. Being under budget provides for the repair or replacement of any lights that may be malfunctioning. On roll call, the vote was:
YEAS: 5 Alpogianis, Jekot, Matyas, Niedermaier,
Strzelecki NAYS:
ABSENT: 1 LoVerde ABSTAIN: 0
There being 5 affirmative votes, the MOTION CARRIED.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Louella Preston, Niles Ms. Preston thanked Police Officer Marijo Zawilla for her service to the Village. Ms. Preston commented that she attended the 2040 Comprehensive Plan Workshop and was disappointed in the poster board presentation with no opportunity for verbal input. She also would have like to hear a discussion regarding the TIF districts.
COMMENTS FROM THE BOARD
Trustee Dean Strzelecki commended and thanked Trustee Denise McCreery for all of her time, work and input during her tenure as Trustee - she will be greatly missed! Trustee Strzelecki hopes that she will be continue to stay connected with the Board and perhaps serve on a committee and stay involved. He stated that Denise's input is invaluable.
THANK YOU TRUSTEE McCREERY
President Alpogianis thanked Trustee McCreery for her undying commitment to the Village, both prior to becoming a Trustee while she was the Director of the Niles Chamber of Commerce and also as the Village's Economic Development Coordinator. Denise served as a Trustee since 2015, chaired many Village committees and was a strong ally to the Village and supported the Mayor and Board. Denise was very committed to her committees and will be greatly missed!
NEXT MEETING
The next Regular Meeting of the Board of Trustees will be held on Tuesday, November 16 at 7:00 p.m.
https://www.vniles.com/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Minutes/_10262021-2223
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