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2007 Minutes

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Minutes

A WORK SESSION WAS CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:05 P.M. BY MAYOR WEAVER FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVIEWING ITEMS ON THE OCTOBER 15, 2007 AGENDA WITH THE CITY COUNCIL. THE WORK SESSION ADJOURNED AT 7:30 P.M.

Minutes of the Regular Meeting

of the City Council of the

CITY OF DARIEN

OCTOBER 15, 2007

1. CALL TO ORDER

The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Darien was called to order at 7:35 P.M. by Mayor Weaver.

The meeting was conducted with the assistance of Samantha Crotty, Winner of the “15 Minutes of Fame” Auction Item and members of the Darien’s Junior Girl Scout Troop #11. The participants were introduced by Rosanna Furman and assigned to their specific council member as follows:

Samantha Crotty - Kathleen Moesle Weaver, Mayor Brittany West - Joanne F. Coleman, City Clerk Julia Nigohosian - William R. Durkin Tessa Webster - John Galan Michelle Davis - Carolyn A. Gattuso Cassidy Quinn - Joseph A. Marchese Nikki Webster - John F. Poteraske, Jr. Megan Habel - Bryon D. Vana, City Administrator

Rosanna Furman was thanked for coordinating this event.

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Mayor Weaver led the Council and audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.

3. ROLL CALL — The Roll Call of Aldermen by Clerk Coleman was as follows:

Present: Halil Avci Carolyn A. Gattuso William Durkin Joseph A. Marchese John Galan John F. Poteraske, Jr.

Absent: Sylvia McIvor Also in Attendance: Kathleen Moesle Weaver, Mayor Joanne F. Coleman, City Clerk Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer Judith N. Kolman, City Attorney Bryon D. Vana, City Administrator Daniel Gombac, Director of Community Development/Public Works

4. DECLARATION OF A QUORUM — There being six Aldermen present, Mayor Weaver declared a quorum.

5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – October 1, 2007

It was moved by Alderman Gattuso and seconded by Alderman Galan to approve the minutes of the October 1, 2007 meeting, as presented.

Roll Call: Ayes: Avci, Durkin, Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: McIvor

Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1 MOTION DULY CARRIED

6. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS

Alderman Gattuso…

…informed the Council and audience that Gerry Leganski has started a Neighborhood Watch program for the area from Glen Lane to Sawyer Road, south of 79th Street. Anyone interested in participating should contact Gerry at 4jules2@comcast.net.

…the residents of the Farmingdale Neighborhood Watch Program (south of 79th Street) are requesting street crossing striping and crosswalk signs on Sawyer Road and Farmingdale Drive for the path that leads to the park on Glen Lane. Those making the request feel there is a safety issue for the children who use the path to the park since the streets are not clearly marked for motorists.

Mayor Weaver directed that this request be referred to the Public Works Water/Streets Committee for review.

Alderman Poteraske advised that concerns from residents have been received regarding the removal of the stop sign at Bayberry and 73rd Street. Mayor Weaver directed that these concerns be referred to the November 12, 2007 Administrative/Finance Committee meeting to discuss in more detail.

Alderman Durkin has received several requests from residents of Marco Estates for a “No Outlet” sign on Marco Court.

Mayor Weaver directed that this request be referred to the Public Works Water/Streets Committee meeting for review.

Alderman Galan has received several compliments from residents regarding the installation of the stop sign on Bentley and Maple. Alderman Galan thanked all those who were involved.

7. MAYOR’S REPORT

A. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO REAPPOINT CITIZEN OF THE YEAR COMMITTEE: KATHY ABBATE, JOAN GRAHAM, DEBBY HENIFF, KATHY LYONS, AND FRAN MAZZOLINI.

It was moved by Alderman Gattuso and seconded by Alderman Durkin to reappoint Citizen of the Year Committee: Kathy Abbate, Joan Graham, Debby Heniff, Kathy Lyons, and Fran Mazzolini.

Roll Call: Ayes: Avci, Durkin, Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: McIvor

Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1 MOTION DULY CARRIED

Mayor Weaver announced that Alderman Gattuso will be the City Council Liaison to the Citizen of the Year Committee.

OATH OF OFFICE

Clerk Coleman administered the Oath of Office to Kathy Abbate, Debby Heniff, Kathy Lyons, and Fran Mazzolini after which they received a round of applause and the congratulations of the Council.

Mayor Weaver…

…announced that the Kiwanis will be holding a fund raiser on October 20, 2007 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. benefiting Juvenile Diabetes and Cancer Research.

8. CITY CLERK’S REPORT

City Clerk Coleman…

…conducted the 2008 vehicle sticker lottery. The following organizations were offered the opportunity to participate: Darien Youth Club, Darien Lions Club, Young at Heart Seniors, Darien Seniors Club, Darien Chamber of Commerce, Darien VFW, Darien Rotary Club, Younger Than Ever Seniors, the Active Seniors Club, and Darien Historical Society. The eligible Darien community organizations that expressed an interest in participating were the Darien Historical Society and Darien VFW. The Darien Historical Society won the lottery.

…invited those in attendance and in the viewing audience to attend Coffee with Mayor Weaver on Saturday, October 20, 2007 from 9 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Dodge Ball Tournament which is being held at Perfect Swing.

…announced that the Environmental Committee meeting of October 16, 2007 has been cancelled. The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, November 20, 2007 at 7:30 p.m.

…advised that Steve Colaizzi, Field Representative of the Local Records Unit of the Illinois State Archives, was at City Hall today working with the Clerk’s office on disposition of records. Clerk Coleman is requesting the purchase of a copier/scanner be included in next year’s budget. The scanner/copier will allow for the readable storage of records which must be maintained.

9. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Administrator Vana…

…announced that on Wednesday, October 24, 2007 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. the City of Darien will be hosting an opportunity for local area residents to visit the Secretary of State’s Office Driver’s License Mobile Unit. Local area residents can come to the Darien Police Department at 1710 Plainfield Road. Residents are invited to utilize this opportunity to renew their driver’s license, obtain a corrected license, acquire I.D. cards for adults and children, purchase license plate stickers (past, current, and upcoming months), and have their vision tested. Identification is required for many of these services. Driving and CDL testing services will not be provided.

…this evening’s visitors were invited to stay for cake and coffee following the Council Meeting. Alderman Gattuso provided the beautifully decorated cake to complete the “15 Minutes of Fame” celebration.

10. DEPARTMENT HEAD REPORT

Dan Gombac…

…provided status updates on several construction projects which were completed last month. These projects include the concrete removal and replacement program, resurfacing of approximately 5.5 miles of roadways, crack filling of 70,000 lineal feet, various road striping, and installation and removal of specified stop and yield signs in accordance with the traffic study for sub areas 1 and 2.

… stated the City recently completed a joint project with the Park District and the residents adjacent to the Park District Maintenance Facility on Plainfield Road. The City is in the process of finishing up the Holly Avenue and Crest roadside ditching project.

…with respect to the concrete program, offered gratitude to staff for their efforts on this project and extended special thanks to Dan Salvato, the project coordinator, for a job well done. The duties and responsibilities of Dan Salvato throughout this project were reviewed.

…reviewed the street sweeping services which began last week. Residents were requested to help keep the curbs and gutters free of leaves, especially around storm sewer inlets. Within the rural sections of town, the Public Works Department requests that leaves be kept out of the ditches, especially those fronting culvert pipes. Any storm sewer inlets or culverts that are clogged with leaves should be reported to the Public Works Department.

…noted the City provides a free leaf pick up program on regular garbage collection days which runs through November 30, 2007.

…residents were reminded not to discard leaves in the roadways or ditches.

…updated the Council on the street name sign replacement project. Public Works has installed street name signs at 50 intersections with a remainder of approximately 450 to be installed over the next year. During the next several weeks, residents will be advised via the cable channel and the City’s website of the time line and location for installation of the new street name signs.

…reported on vandalism which occurred on the weekend of October 5, involving graffiti being painted on approximately 25 various traffic signs between Cass Avenue and Fairview Avenue to 71st Street and Plainfield Road. Residents were urged to call 911 when they see unknown individuals gathering at corners or whenever residents feel that a gathering is suspicious.

…the water tower tank painting has been completed. The process of filling and chlorinating the tank has begun. The tank should be in service by the middle of November. Pump controls and SCADA system hookups are in the process of being completed, and site restoration is in process.

Mayor Weaver requested placement of the City’s name on the water tower be considered.

Alderman Poteraske advised that there is oil on the street at 71st and Emerson as a result of Downers Grove Township’s resurfacing project. Alderman Poteraske inquired what action is being taken to remedy the situation.

Dan Gombac replied that staff is working with Downers Grove Township and Fiala Paving to address this issue.

…reminded all that the final monthly brush pickup is scheduled to take place next Monday, October 22 through Friday, October 26, 2007.

Alderman Galan has received several positive comments on the water tower from residents.

Dan Gombac advised that “Good Morning America” is putting together a segment on the water tower. Notification will be given once the time and date of the segment has been determined.

Clerk Coleman asked for an update on the sidewalk at 71st Street and Clarendon Hills Road.

Dan Gombac advised ComEd caused damage to the bicycle path and sidewalk. Restoration has been completed.

11. TREASURER'S REPORT

A. WARRANT NUMBER 07-08-11

It was moved by Alderman Gattuso and seconded by Alderman Poteraske to approve payment of Warrant Number 07-08-11 in the amount of $107,909.74 from the General Fund; $115,411.68 from the Water Fund; $2,374.43 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund; $8,817.00 from the Impact Fee Agency Fund; $126,259.15 from the Water Depreciation Fund; $481.47 from the Darien Area Dispatch Center; $600.00 from the Joint Use Facility Fund; $86,703.63 from the Capital Improvement Fund; $116,467.43 from the General Fund Payroll for the period ending 09/27/07; $24,174.18 from the Water Fund Payroll for the period ending 09/27/07; $26,913.70 from the D.A.D.C. Fund Payroll for the period ending 09/27/07; for a total to be approved of $616,112.41.

Roll Call: Ayes: Avci, Durkin, Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: McIvor

Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1 MOTION DULY CARRIED

B. TREASURER’S MONTHLY REPORT – SEPTEMBER, 2007

Treasurer Coren reviewed all year-to-date sources of revenue and expenditures and fund balances through the month of September 2007: General Fund Revenue $5,891,271; General Fund Expenditures $5,467,622; Current General Fund Balance $3,913,075. Water Fund Revenue $937,439; Water Fund Expenditures $1,212,493; Current Water Fund Balance $309,652. Motor Fuel Tax Fund Revenue $290,116; Motor Fuel Tax Fund Expenditures $625,067; Current Motor Fuel Tax Fund Balance $(73,083). Water Depreciation Fund Revenue $55,632; Water Depreciation Fund Expenditures $1,683,162; Current Water Depreciation Fund Balance $1,853,420. Capital Improvement Fund Revenue $2,473,548; Capital Improvement Fund Expenditures $2,371,467; Current Capital Improvement Fund Balance $144,302; Capital Projects Debt Service Fund Revenue $2,676,802 with no expenditures and a fund balance of $2,676,802.

Treasurer Coren reviewed the Cash Reserves Summary Report. In anticipation of the lowering of interest, approximately $2 million was put into longer term investments prior to the rate cut.

12. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS

Public Works Water/Streets Committee — Alderman Marchese submitted the minutes of the September 17, 2007 meeting of the Public Works Water/Streets Committee meeting for the record. The next meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday, November 19, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.

Administrative/Finance Committee — Alderman Poteraske advised that the next meeting of the Administrative Finance Committee is scheduled to take place on November 12, 2007 at 6:30 p.m.

13. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS — AGENDA RELATED

Debby Heniff announced that the deadline to submit nominations for Citizen of the Year is January 7, 2008. The Citizen of the Year award dinner is scheduled to take place on March 8, 2008 at Alpine Banquets. The City presentation will take place on January 21, 2008. A cake and coffee reception is scheduled to take place on February 19, 2008.

14. OLD BUSINESS

There was no old business to come before the City Council.

15. CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor Weaver announced that Item A. under New Business has been moved to the Consent Agenda as Item C.

It was moved by Alderman Poteraske and seconded by Alderman Durkin to approve by Omnibus Vote the following items on the Consent Agenda:

A. ORDINANCE NO. O-38-07 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE RECYCLING OR DISPOSAL OF PERSONAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY OF DARIEN (COMPUTER EQUIPMENT).

B. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE THE LEVY DETERMINATION AND DRAFT ORDINANCE LEVYING TAXES FOR GENERAL AND SPECIAL PURPOSES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2007-2008.

C. ORDINANCE NO. O-39-07 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AN EXISTING SPECIAL USE AND VARIATION TO THE DARIEN ZONING ORDINANCE AND SIGN CODE (7417 CASS AVENUE, BUONA BEEF)(PZC 2007 - 15).

Roll Call: Ayes: Avci, Durkin, Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: McIvor

Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1 MOTION DULY CARRIED

16. NEW BUSINESS

There was no new business to come before the City Council.

17. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS — GENERAL

Alderman Marchese thanked the residents for their generous contributions to the Darien Lions Club Candy Day Program.

Alderman Durkin advised that cleanup is needed at Concord School.

Dan Gombac will look at the site and report back.

Alderman Durkin reminded all residents that Halloween will be coming up soon and requested everyone be careful when driving and be generous when handing out candy.

Alderman Marchese invited everyone to attend the Darien Lions Club Halloween party on Wednesday, October 31, 2007 at the Darien Sportsplex from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Events include Bob James Magic Show, Tim Balster Spooky Game Show, Graveyard Picture Taking, Goodie Bags, Ice Skating for teens, and a prize for the best adult costume.

Jim Tikalsky, 8301 Woodland Drive, on behalf of the Historical Society, expressed gratitude at being able to sell next year’s vehicle stickers. He thanked Dan Gombac for his efforts in working with the State of Illinois to repave North Frontage Road between Cass and Clarendon Hills Road.

Mary Wurzer of 2971 Meadow Court complained about the cost for dumpster rental from ARC. In addition to the flat fee, ARC also charges extra based on weight. Ms. Wurzer feels that even if it’s a little higher, there should be a flat fee so that residents know the cost of the dumpster in advance.

Administrator Vana will look into this matter in the morning and get back to Ms. Wurzer.

Clerk Coleman thanked the all the young girls for their participation in this evening’s meeting and commended them on a job well done. She then distributed City of Darien pins to the participants.

Alderman Durkin expressed concern with vehicles blocking the street at Concord School when parents are dropping off or picking up their children.

Administrator Vana advised that Concord School is not located in incorporated Darien, and enforcement is performed by the Sheriff’s office.

Christine Davis of 17W455 Sutton questioned how the City feels about the elimination of the bus service at Concord and what they are doing about it.

Mayor Weaver explained that bus service is solely under the school district’s jurisdiction. The City works with the school district to assist in traffic issues and in street striping.

18. ADJOURNMENT

There being no further business to come before the City Council, it was moved by Alderman Poteraske and seconded by Alderman Durkin to adjourn.

Roll Call: Ayes: Avci, Durkin, Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: McIvor

Results: Ayes 6, Nays 0, Absent 1 MOTION DULY CARRIED

The City Council meeting adjourned at 8:40 P.M.

Mayor ________________________________ City Clerk ld All supporting documentation and report originals of these minutes are on file in the Office of the City Clerk under File Number 10-15-07.

 

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