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2008 Minutes

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Minutes

A WORK SESSION WAS CALLED TO ORDER AT 7:00 P.M. BY MAYOR WEAVER FOR THE PURPOSE OF REVIEWING ITEMS ON THE DECEMBER 15, 2008 AGENDA WITH THE CITY COUNCIL. THE SESSION ADJOURNED AT 7:12 P.M.

Minutes of the Regular Meeting

of the City Council of the

CITY OF DARIEN

DECEMBER 15, 2008

1. CALL TO ORDER

The regular meeting of the City Council of the City of Darien was called to order at 7:30 P.M. by Mayor Weaver.

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: John Galan Sylvia McIvor Carolyn A. Gattuso John F. Poteraske, Jr. John A. Marchese

Absent: Halil Avci William R. Durkin

Also in Attendance: Kathleen Moesle Weaver, Mayor Joanne F. Coleman, City Clerk Michael J. Coren, City Treasurer John B. Murphey, City Attorney Bryon D. Vana, City Administrator Daniel Gombac, Director of Community Development/Municipal Services Robert Pavelchik, Police Chief Scott Coren, Assistant to the City Administrator

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

5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES – December 1, 2008 Committee of the Whole & City Council Meetings

It was moved by Alderman Marchese and seconded by Alderman Gattuso to approve the minutes of the Committee of the Whole Meeting and the City Council Meeting of December 1, 2008, as presented.

Roll Call: Ayes: Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, McIvor, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: Avci, Durkin

Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2 MOTION DULY CARRIED

6. RECEIVING OF COMMUNICATIONS

Mayor Weaver received a letter from Kenneth A. Abraham of 1717 Lakeview Drive in the Saw Mill Creek Subdivision requesting Consent Agenda Items B and E, regarding the stop sign at Wildwood and Lakeview Drive, be removed from the agenda and sent back to Administrative/Finance for review and discussion. Mr. Abraham did not receive notice from his homeowner’s association of the December 8 Administrative/Finance Committee Meeting until December 10. Mayor Weaver recommended Mr. Abraham’s request be granted. Since there were no objections from the Aldermen, Mayor Weaver renumbered the Consent Agenda Items as follows: Item A will remain the same, Item C will become Item B, Item D will become C, Item F will become D, Item G will become E, and Item H will become F.

7. MAYOR’S REPORT

Mayor Weaver turned the floor over to Chief Robert Pavelchik.

Chief Pavelchik advised the Alliance Against Intoxicated Motorists (AAIM) annually recognize police officers for their excellence in the fight against drunk driving. This year, Officers Rich Stutte, Steve Liss, and Tony Hruby were recognized for their exemplary work. Officers Stutte and Hruby were unable to attend this evening’s meeting. Chief Pavelchik presented the Certificate of Appreciation from the AAIM to Officer Liss in recognition of his commendable DUI enforcement.

Chief Pavelchik announced that, this past Saturday, Deputy Chief Skala graduated from Lewis University, earning his Masters Degree in Public Safety Administration. Chief Pavelchik and the City Council Members congratulated Deputy Chief Skala.

A. Chief Pavelchik announced that he was very pleased to be able to celebrate the retirement of Sergeant Christopher Falco. Chief Pavelchik stated that Sergeant Falco is the finest police officer he has ever had the opportunity to work with. Chief Pavelchik advised that Sergeant Falco began his career in 1978 in Forest Park, and joined the Village of Bolingbrook for one year prior to joining the Darien Police Force in 1981. Christopher Falco was promoted to sergeant in 2004, and has served in law enforcement for 30 years….27 ˝ in Darien. Chief Pavelchik awarded Sergeant Falco a plaque honoring his fantastic law enforcement career.

Jim McNally, retired FBI Systems Special Agent, who was Sergeant Falco’s partner in Forest Park, read and presented to Sergeant Falco a Certificate signed by Robert Mueller, Director of the FBI, recognizing Christopher Falco’s many years of distinguished service in law enforcement, his selfless effort to protect and serve the American public, and his cooperation among law enforcement agencies at all levels of government.

Christopher Falco offered his gratitude to Chief Pavelchik and Deputy Chief Skala. Sergeant Falco stated that it has been an honor to serve the people of Darien for the past 27 years. Sergeant Falco expressed pride in and appreciation of the members of Darien’s Police Department. Sergeant Falco thanked the City Council and City Administrator for recognizing his twenty-seven years of service to Darien. Sergeant Falco extended gratitude to his wife, Sarah, for always being there for him.

B. Fire and Police Commissioners Carol Gierut, Frank Noverini, and Mark Piccoli came forward for the promotion of Michael Campo to Police Sergeant. Mark Piccoli administered the Oath of Office to Michael Campo.

Mayor Weaver congratulated Michael Campo and Christopher Falco, and wished them both the best of luck.

Chief Pavelchik extended an invitation for cake and coffee at the Police Department Training Room following the City Council Meeting.

C. Mayor Weaver introduced Jeannette Campo, and invited her to make the Darien Holiday Home Decorating Contest presentations.

Jeannette Campo thanked Mayor Weaver and the City Council for the wonderful time she had as Chairperson of the Darien Holiday Home Decorating Contest. Ms. Campo also extended gratitude to her committee members. Ms. Campo reviewed the selection process, and announced the winners of the contest as follows:

Honorable Mentions: The Serritella Family 1914 McAdam Road Mark Stange & Jeff Wallace 8493 Sandalwood 5th Place The Polakkattin Family 7406 Adams Street 4th Place Jason Zelenik 1521 Norman Drive 3rd Place Ben Santore 7349 Adams Street 2nd Place Ray Listermann 7944 Glen Lane 1st Place Lori & Mark Reczek 1118 70th Street

As each winner was announced, Mayor Weaver presented their respective awards.

Ms. Campo presented Mayor Weaver with a photographic display of the Holiday Home Decorating Contest winners.

Mayor Weaver thanked Ms. Campo for the lovely display, and for all her hard work on this contest. Mayor Weaver announced that the display will be on exhibit in the lobby of City Hall.

At Mayor Weaver’s request, Scott Coren, advised that the Holiday Trolley will be touring the winning homes on December 16, 17, and 18. There are only a few seats available. Anyone interested in taking the tour should call 630-852-5000 to make a reservation.

8. CITY CLERK’S REPORT

City Clerk Coleman…

…announced that the December 17, 2008 Planning and Zoning Commission Meeting has been cancelled due to a lack of agenda items.

…invited all to attend Coffee with Mayor Weaver on Saturday, December 20, 2008 from 9:00 A.M. to 10:00 A.M. at Carmelite Carefree Village.

…advised that Darien City Offices will be closed for the Christmas and New Year’s Holidays on Thursday, December 24, Friday, December 25, and Thursday, January 1.

…announced that the January 5, 2009 City Council Meeting has been cancelled. The next City Council Meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 19, 2009 at 7:30 P.M.

…wished everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

9. CITY ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

There was no report this evening.

10. DEPARTMENT HEAD INFORMATION/QUESTIONS

Director of Community Development/Municipal Services, Daniel Gombac, advised the annual tree trimming contract will be on the January 19, 2009 City Council Agenda for approval. The city was able to obtain excellent prices for residential participation. Residents will be given the opportunity to trim or take down trees on their private property at a reduced cost. The cost for front yard tree trimming is $55 and $100 for rear yard. Tree removal and stumping will also be available for interested residents. Anyone interested in participating in the program should call 630-353-8106.

Director Gombac advised that the city has recently been in touch with a company called “Green Light Go,” who manufacture and promote LED street lights. Last Friday, the city installed a new LED street light at 79th and Farmingdale Drive. The LED street lights will be introduced during the budget review.

Alderman Gattuso commented that the new LED street light is in her neighborhood, and provides a nice, even, bright light.

Alderman McIvor advised that the LED lights not only save energy but have proven to be an operational savings due to their extended life.

Director Gombac added that this year’s tree trimming contract covers Cass Avenue west to Fairview, and 75th Street north to Darien city limits including Darien Club. Alderman Marchese and Director Gombac advised that this year’s residential tree trimming program is open to all residents of Darien.

In response to Alderman McIvor, Director Gombac anticipates tree trimming will begin the middle of January. The charges for tree trimming are based on location (front or rear yard) and not the size of the trees.

11. TREASURER'S REPORT

A. WARRANT NUMBER 08-09-15

It was moved by Alderman Gattuso and seconded by Alderman McIvor to approve payment of Warrant Number 08-09-15 in the amount of $112,705.85 from the General Fund; $138,580.01 from the Water Fund; $5,364.11 from the Motor Fuel Tax Fund; $1,440.00 from the Special Service Area Tax Fund; $24,320.00 from the Water Depreciation Fund; $2,418.71 from the Darien Area Dispatch Center; $1,050.00 from the D.A.R.E. Fund; $193,928.59 from the Capital Improvement Fund; $80,448.52 from the Debt Service Fund; 200,590.47 from the General Fund Payroll for the period ending 12/04/08; $31,444.55 from the Water Fund Payroll for the period ending 12/04/08; $23,337.46 from the D.A.D.C. Fund Payroll for the period ending 12/04/08; for a total to be approved of $815,628.27.

Roll Call: Ayes: Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, McIvor, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: Avci, Durkin

Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2 MOTION DULY CARRIED

B. TREASURER’S MONTHLY REPORT – NOVEMBER, 2008

Treasurer Coren reviewed all year-to-date sources of revenue and expenditures and fund balances through the month of November, 2008: General Fund Revenue $7,404,585; General Fund Expenditures $7,703,467; Current General Fund Balance $3,164,400; Water Fund Revenue $1,744,888; Water Fund Expenditures $1,573,953; Current Water Fund Balance $769,671; Motor Fuel Tax Fund Revenue $379,868; Motor Fuel Tax Fund Expenditures $386,729; Current Motor Fuel Tax Fund Balance $66,192; Water Depreciation Fund Revenue $171,246; Water Depreciation Fund Expenditures $715,261; Current Water Depreciation Fund Balance $686,888; Capital Improvement Fund Revenue $2,738,450; Capital Improvement Fund Expenditures $1,160,582; Current Capital Improvement Fund Balance $2,676,942; Capital Projects Debt Service Fund Revenue $21,648; Capital Projects Debt Service Fund Expenditures $957,267; and a current fund balance of $515,623.

12. STANDING COMMITTEE REPORTS

Public Works Water/Streets Committee — Alderman Marchese submitted the minutes of the Public Works Water/Streets Committee Meeting of November 17, 2008, for the record, and advised that the next Public Works Water/Streets Committee Meeting is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 19, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. in the upstairs conference room, pending agenda items.

Administrative/Finance Committee — Alderman Poteraske advised that the next Administrative/Finance Committee Meeting, which will include the traffic stop sign issue, is scheduled to take place on Monday, January 12, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. The meeting will, most likely, be held in the Police Department Training Room.

Planning/Development Committee — Alderman McIvor announced that there will be a Special Meeting of the Planning/Development Committee, with a date to be determined, and a regularly scheduled meeting to take place on Monday, January 26, 2009 at 6:30 P.M. in the Council Chambers pending agenda items.

13. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS — AGENDA RELATED

There were none.

14. OLD BUSINESS

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

15. CONSENT AGENDA

Mayor Weaver noted that changes were made to the Consent Agenda. Items B and E were removed, and the remaining items were renumbered. Items B and E will be sent back to Administrative/Finance Committee for review.

It was moved by Alderman Marchese and seconded by Alderman McIvor to approve by Omnibus Vote the following items on the amended Consent Agenda:

A. RESOLUTION NO. R-98-08 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING STAKEHOLDER INPUT AND PUBLIC SAFETY FOCUS FOR THE DUPAGE EMERGENCY TELEPHONE SYSTEM BOARD AND THE INTEROPERABLE RADIO NETWORK

B. CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE THE RECOMMENDATION OF RELEASING EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES THAT NO LONGER REQUIRE CONFIDENTIALITY

C. ORDINANCE NO. O-45-08 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE DISPOSAL OF PERSONAL PROPERTY OWNED BY THE CITY OF DARIEN

D. ORDINANCE NO. O-46-08 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE APPROVING A SPECIAL USE AND VARIATION TO THE DARIEN ZONING ORDINANCE (PZC 2008-10: 1900 75TH STREET, WESTWOOD PARK, DARIEN PARK DISTRICT)

E. ORDINANCE NO. O-47-08 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A MINOR AMENDMENT TO AN APPROVED PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (MARKETPLACE AT DARIEN PUD: FREE-STANDING SIGN)

F. ORDINANCE NO. O-48-08 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE AN ORDINANCE GRANTING A MINOR AMENDMENT TO AN APPROVED PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT (EAGLES NEST PUD: DECKS)

Roll Call: Ayes: Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, McIvor, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: Avci, Durkin

Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2 MOTION DULY CARRIED

16. NEW BUSINESS

It was moved by Alderman Galan and seconded by Alderman Marchese to approve the following resolution as presented:

A. RESOLUTION NO. R-99-08 CONSIDERATION OF A MOTION TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR AND CITY CLERK TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT AGREEMENT FOR THE TREE TRIMMING AND REMOVAL PROGRAM BETWEEN THE CITY OF DARIEN AND HOME TREE CARE INC. IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $68,460.00 FOR PARKWAY TREE MAINTENANCE TRIMMING AND AUTHORIZING THE PROPOSED UNIT PRICING FOR TREE REMOVAL AND STUMP GRINDING

Roll Call: Ayes: Galan, Gattuso, Marchese, McIvor, Poteraske

Nays: None

Absent: Avci, Durkin

Results: Ayes 5, Nays 0, Absent 2 MOTION DULY CARRIED

17. QUESTIONS, COMMENTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS — GENERAL

Alderman Galan apprised the City Council Members of an interesting article in The Doings entitled “Why I Like My Town,” written by students of Theresa West at Cass Junior High School. Alderman Galan read some of the more interesting comments, and suggested the City of Darien adopt Rachel Cundiff’s definition of Darien as one of their mottos.

Alderman Galan requested, for informational purposes, a more detailed, tiered, organizational chart which lists each manager and their employees.

Following discussion, Alderman McIvor suggested that, since employees change, it might be less cumbersome to list the number of subordinates under each manager rather than providing each name.

Administrator Vana noted that the information Alderman Galan is requesting is provided on a separate page within the budget.

Alderman McIvor stated that she would have no objection to a summary sheet.

Since there were no objections, Mayor Weaver confirmed that an organizational chart summary sheet will be included with the budget.

Kevin Monaghan of 7509 Norman Court was in attendance representing two homeowner associations. Mr. Monaghan noted that on March 5, 2005, DuPage County held a town hall meeting in regards to widening 75th Street from Lemont Road to Route 83. The homeowner associations are opposed to the expansion. Mr. Monaghan asked if Mayor Weaver raised objections to this expansion when she met with Chairman Schillerstrom two months ago.

Mayor Weaver advised that when she met with Chairman Schillerstrom and John Kos, Director of Transportation for DuPage County Department of Transportation, it was to discuss the possibility of installing the city’s blue street signs on county roadways. Mayor Weaver reported that during the meeting, Chairman Schillerstrom brought up the fact that the county is issuing a large bond in order to begin traffic projects that were put on hold. Director Kos advised that the county is redesigning the plan for 75th Street, and will present the new plan to Darien when it is completed. According to Director Kos, the road will not be as wide as originally discussed. Mayor Weaver will keep everyone posted once the city learns of the redesigned plan.

Alderman McIvor suggested that any updated information be put on the City’s Direct Connect.

Administrator Vana reminded all that when DuPage County’s first public hearing took place, the city reviewed the county’s plans, and the City Council passed a formal resolution opposing the plan.

18. ADJOURNMENT

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

VIA VOICE VOTE – MOTION DULY CARRIED

The City Council meeting adjourned at 8:27 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 12-15-08. Minutes of 12-15-08 CCM December 15, 2008

 

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