Sangamon Sun

Village of La Grange Board of Trustees met Aug. 24.

Here is the minutes provided by the board:

Due to the physical distancing standards required under Governor Pritzker's order and guidance, seating in the Village Hall Auditorium was limited for the meeting.

Face coverings were required to be worn during the meeting and throughout the Village Hall.

Public comments were also accepted in advance of the meeting by phone and e-mail.

Monday, August 24, 2020 - 7:30 p.m.

1. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL

The Board of Trustees of the Village of La Grange meeting was called to order at 7:32 p.m. by Village President, Mark Kuchler. On roll call, as read by Village Clerk John Burns, the following were:

PRESENT: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Holder, Kotynek, McCarty and McGee with President Kuchler presiding.

ABSENT: None

OTHERS: Village Manager Andrianna Peterson 

Village Attorney Mark Burkland 

Public Works Director Ryan Gillingham 

Community Development Director Charity Jones 

Finance Director Lou Cipparrone 

Police Chief Kurt Bluder 

Fire Chief Terrence Vavra

President Kuchler welcomed the Village Board and thanked Trustees for attending the meeting which has been modified to adjust for social distancing and the wearing of face coverings. He reminded everyone to stay six feet apart and wear a mask at all times while in the Village Hall. The video of the meeting was broadcasted on cable television,

YouTube, and will also be available on Facebook and posted to the Village website. Residents were encouraged to submit public comments on the agenda via email or telephone prior to the meeting.

2. PRESIDENT'S REPORT

President Kuchler announced that in April, the Village Board had the honor of appointing Shawana McGee to the vacant Trustee seat. She was sworn in by Clerk Burns as Trustee remotely due to the Coronavirus, as we were unable to do so in person at the time. Trustee McGee was ceremoniously sworn in by Clerk Burns with her family as witnesses.

President Kuchler stated that in mid-July Governor Pritzker announced a new mitigation plan to prevent the resurgence of COVID-19 in Illinois. The plan focused on maintaining the progress Illinois made in bending the curve while continuing to urge vigilance in following medical recommendations. The plan outlines three tiers of general and industry-specific mitigation efforts that can be acted upon to prevent a renewed spread of COVID-19. Illinois had also been divided into an expanded 11 regions. Metrics are being deployed to determine when the spread of the virus in a region requires additional mitigation. While our region has not required additional mitigation efforts, he stressed that we must continue to be vigilant about wearing face coverings, social distancing and hand washing.

A new mask campaign with the tagline "It only Works if you Wear it” has been initiated by Governor Pritzker to help raise awareness of the importance of wearing face coverings. President Kuchler noted that our restaurants and retailers have also been taking the masking and other public health guidance very seriously. This continues to be a very trying and difficult time for everyone, and he expressed gratitude and appreciation

ho are complying with the requirements. In addition, he thanked residents for continuing to support our restaurants, retailers and businesses by continuing to Shop Local whenever possible. Restaurants and retailers are still providing on line and curbside pick-up options for those unable to shop in-person.

President Kuchler clarified that the information provided by the Cook County Department of Public Health regarding cases in La Grange, also includes cases in La Grange Highlands. Recently the Village worked with the County to correct an error in their reporting that made it appear that our rate per 100,000 residents was higher than it actually was. The County was counting La Grange Highland's cases as part of our information but not including their population when calculating the rate. The data for La Grange and La Grange Highlands reflects 353 confirmed cases with a 27% reduction in confirmed cases in the past 14 days. President Kuchler asked Trustee Bill Holder to provide an update regarding the hospital.

Trustee Holder thanked President Kuchler and announced that while the Hospital has maintained single digit daily COVID-19 numbers, all residents should remain vigilant. The Hospital has been recognized by the American Heart Association for their stroke program, meeting the “Gold Plus” status. He announced that the Center for Advanced Joint Replacement has had a very successful opening with elective procedures on the rise and Orthopedic surgeons requesting to join the center. In addition, the Cardiology Center of Excellence has also opened successfully with visits above pre-COVID-19 levels.

President Kuchler thanked Trustee Holder and the Amita Hospital employees. He noted that the Village Board and La Grange community appreciates all of their good work.

President Kuchler announced that the Police Department is investigating a report of shots fired in the 0 to 100 block of Washington Avenue, which occurred at approximately 9:10 p.m. August 23, 2020. This is an active and ongoing investigation and there are no reports of injuries. Anyone with information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Police Department at (708) 579-2333, extension 302. He asked Chief Bluder to provide any updates regarding the investigation.

Chief Bluder advised that the investigation was still ongoing. It was believed that one resident of a home in that block was the target of the shots fired and that the public at large was not at risk.

President Kuchler announced that as part of our "Be the Change, Travel Safe in La Grange” traffic safety campaign, the Village would like to remind the public that this week and next week marks the return to school for many elementary and high school students in La Grange. While some students may be attending school online, others will be attending in person. Please obey all traffic signals and crossing guards. Students may also be walking or biking during non-traditional school starting and ending times. Last year, new signs were installed on Ogden Avenue reminding motorists to slow down and be aware of pedestrians within the school zone. IDOT has also installed signage at La Grange Road and Ogden Avenue, reminding motorists not to block the pedestrian crossing. Recently, there was a fatal accident on Ogden Avenue, just east of the railroad bridge. He stated that traffic and pedestrian safety is a priority for the Village, and to please drive safely and be aware of your surroundings. For more information regarding the pedestrian safety campaign as well as motorist and pedestrian safety tips, he asked residents to please visit the Village's website.

President Kuchler announced that on August 10, La Grange, along with the Chicagoland region, was impacted by a severe storm the caused significant damage to trees and the electrical system. ComEd reported that over 800,000 customers throughout northern Illinois were out of power. The Village worked closely with ComEd at several levels of their organization to address the several thousand households that were out of power in La Grange as quickly as possible. ComEd reported that they had technical and communication difficulties which made restoration efforts challenging. President Kuchler thanked Public Works for their quick response to the storm damage and thanked Mike Bojovic in particular for assisting residents during the power outages. He stated that the Village is continuing to work with ComEd to improve resiliency and reliability of the electrical system in La Grange.

President Kuchler announced that in May, there was a significant storm event that resulted in widespread flooding throughout the Village. The Village is continuing to work closely with the MWRD to identify and finalize plans for stormwater relief in La Grange. More information will be provided as more details become available.

President Kuchler announced that Census workers have started to conduct in-person follow ups with residents that have not yet responded to the Census. Census workers will be able to provide identification and will not ask for financial or personal identifying information such as bank or credit card numbers, driver's license or social security card. He stressed the importance of responding to the Census and advised that La Grange is at a 76.6% response rate. La Grange receives over $2.8 million annually based on population. Those funds are essential for providing services to residents. He asked that residents please complete the Census online or by phone.

President Kuchler announced that the CommUnity Diversity Group will host several events during the 29th Annual “Diversity Days” in La Grange beginning Friday, September 11. He recognized organizers Linda Eastman and Marian Honel Wilson who were in attendance. The weekend of events will include a virtual 2020 Summer Read Book Discussion beginning at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, September 11 and a virtual Race Unity Rally at 3 p.m. on Sunday, September 13. To learn more, he asked that the public please visit their website www.communitydiversity.org. He noted that the CommUnity Diversity Group and its programs consistently provide positive messages of inclusion and understanding, which help to improve the quality of life in our community. President Kuchler thanked all those involved in planning and supporting this important annual event.

President Kuchler also noted that the Village and the Police Department have a commitment to serving every member of our community with integrity, professionalism, and equity, without regard for their race, religion, orientation or housing status. He asked Chief Bluder to provide a report on the Village's “Commitment to Community”.

Chief Bluder thanked President Kuchler and stated that as we recognize and celebrate the CommUnity Diversity Group and its longstanding relationship with the Village of La Grange, he noted that the men and women of the La Grange Police Department strive daily to provide the professional Police service that the community expects.

The La Grange Police Department has training and policies in place that address many of the inquiries and questions received throughout the summer. Over the past two years, the Department has trained on cultural competency, constitutional rights, civil rights, de escalation and procedural justice. Some Officers have even participated in more in-depth training, such as the 40 hour Crisis Intervention Team training. This training provides Officers with the skills and knowledge to effectively handle crisis situations involving individuals suffering from mental illness, behavioral disabilities and substance abuse.

Specifically, he noted that Police Officers: (1) cannot use choke holds, including to prevent the destruction of evidence by ingestion; (2) cannot shoot at moving vehicles and officers are directed to move out of the path of an approaching vehicle; (3) are required to intercede when they see another officer using excessive force and to report the incident to a supervisor; (4) use de-escalation techniques in a myriad of circumstances; and (5) shall document and report any use of force incidents – supervisors review such use of force incidents and complete a written review, which is then sent to the Deputy Chief and then onto the Police Chief.

Lastly, the La Grange Police Department adopted the 10-Shared Principles in August of 2018. This document was created through a collaborative effort with the Illinois Chiefs of Police Association and the Illinois NAACP State Conference. The values outlined in the document serve as guiding principles regarding the relationship between law enforcement and the communities and people they serve.

A. Proclamation - CommUNITY Diversity Group 29th Annual Race Unity Rally

President Kuchler asked Clerk John Burns to read a proclamation for the CommUNITY Diversity Group 29th Annual Diversity Days in La Grange beginning Friday, September 11. 

Trustee Gale made a motion to approve the proclamation declaring Sunday, September 13 as Race Unity Day in La Grange, seconded by Trustee McCarty. Motion carried on a voice vote.

B. Appointment – Ray Baker, Design Review Commission

A recommendation to appoint Ray Baker to the Design Review Commission was presented by President Kuchler. Trustee Holder made a motion to approve the appointment, seconded by Trustee McGee. Motion carried on a voice vote.

C. Appointment – Kate Hennessy, Zoning Board of Appeals

A recommendation to appoint Kate Hennessy to the Zoning Board of Appeals was presented by President Kuchler. Trustee Holder made a motion to approve the appointment, seconded by Trustee Gale. Motion carried on a voice vote.

D. Resolution of Appreciation - Retired Fire Lieutenant William Kallal

President Kuchler read the Resolution of Appreciation for retired Fire Lieutenant William Kallal into the record. He stated that he appreciated his sacrifices and leadership.

Trustee McCarty noted that Lieutenant Kallal was a neighbor, friend, and professional that could be depended on. He also thanked the Lieutenant on behalf of the residents of La Grange.

E. Resolution of Appreciation – Retired Police Deputy Chief Andrew Peters

President Kuchler read the Resolution of Appreciation for retired Deputy Police Chief Andrew Peters into the record. He stated that he appreciated his sacrifices and leadership.

MANAGER'S REPORT

Village Manager Andrianna Peterson announced that since the beginning of the summer, ComEd has been working on various projects throughout the Village to upgrade their infrastructure to improve system reliability. The overhead work associated with these improvements, which generally includes pole, equipment and cable replacement, is expected to continue through the first quarter of 2021. The work to install underground conduits, such as those in the central business district, is expected to be completed this summer. Specifically the contractor has completed the conduit installations on Ashland and Calendar Avenues and expects to resurface these roadways shortly. The Village will continue to work closely with ComEd to facilitate ongoing equipment upgrades and other targeted improvements throughout La Grange. She asked that residents please contact the Public Works Department with questions regarding construction.

Ms. Peterson announced that the Village is a charter member of the Lyons Township

Quarry Council and is in regular communication with area quarries regarding resident concerns about blasting, truck dust and noise. The two area quarries are not located in La Grange and La Grange does not have jurisdiction over their operations. While the quarry is required to blast within state law requirements, impacts of their operations on residents can vary. Residents impacted by quarry blasting are encouraged to contact the Lyons Township Quarry Council hotline at 1-866-934-3278 or 1-866-WE- HEAR-U to report complaints. Data received from resident reports are used by the quarries to evaluate potential changes to blast intensity, blast configuration and location of blasts within the quarry itself. Residents may also report complaints to the Village by emailing apeterson@lagrangeil.gov.

Ms. Peterson announced that the last day to accept voter registration or transfers of registration for the November 3, 2020 Presidential General Election is October 6 by mail and October 18 online. Residents may register to vote online at the Illinois State Board of Elections website with a Driver's License or State I.D. Residents may also register to vote in person at one of six Cook County locations or at the Village Hall. Two pieces of identification are required, including one with your current address. Any registered suburban Cook County voter may request a mail-in ballot online at the Cook County Clerk's office or in person at the Village Hall. The deadline to apply for a mail-in ballot is five days before the election. Mail-in ballots will be mailed out beginning September 24. Voters are encouraged to complete and mail the ballot back as early as possible once received. As an alternative to mailing, drop boxes for mail in ballots will be located at over 50 Early Voting sites beginning October 9 for some locations and October 19 for others. Early Voting will take place Monday, October 19 through Monday, November 2. For more information please visit the County's website at www.cookcountyclerk.com or call 312-603-0906.

Ms. Peterson announced that the Village Hall would be closed on Monday, September 7 in observance of the Labor Day holiday. Normal business hours resume on Tuesday, September 8. As always, a full complement of public safety personnel would be available in the event of an emergency.

Ms. Peterson stated that in observance of the Labor Day holiday on Monday, September 7 residential refuse collection service would take place one day later than regularly scheduled during that week. Residents north of 47th Street with normal pick up on Monday, will receive refuse collection services on Tuesday, September 8. Residents south of 47th Street with normal pick up on Thursday, will receive refuse collection services on Friday, September 11. Please note that Flood Brothers has advised that some residents on the refuse sticker program may have received a bill for carts in error. Residents should not pay the bill but instead either visit the Flood Brothers website at www.floodbrothersdisposal.com or contact them by phone at 630 261-0400 to resolve the matter.

Ms. Peterson also announced that due to the Labor Day holiday, the free monthly brush pickup for La Grange residents will begin on Tuesday, September 8. For more detailed information please visit the Village website or contact the Public Works Department.

4. PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS

Attorney Phil Fornaro, spoke on behalf of petitioner Heath Tow at 1501 41st Street concerning the variance requests item 6-A. He asked that the Village Board remand the matter back to the Zoning Board of Appeals at the petitioner's request.

Village President Kuchler asked Village Manager Peterson if any comments had been received regarding agenda items. Village Manager Andrianna Peterson advised no public comments had been received.

CONSENT AGENDA AND VOTE A. Ordinance – Design Review Permit #112 – 2 South La Grange Road – Fannie May

B. Award of Contract – 2020 Tree Trimming Program

C. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Village Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Monday, June 13, 2020

D. Consolidated Voucher 200727

E. Consolidated Voucher 200810

F. Consolidated Voucher 200824

Trustee Augustine stated that in consideration of her relationship with the Village Prosecutor, she recused herself from each item on the voucher related to the Village Prosecutor.

Trustee Holder inquired if the bid for the 2020 Tree Trimming Program was awarded based on the cost of tree trimming for each individual tree. Public Works Director

Gillingham responded that the bids are compared based on a set quantity of trees.

President Kuchler inquired what residents should do if they notice an issue with a Village owned tree. Mr. Gillingham advised that residents should contact Public Works and they will evaluate and schedule maintenance as appropriate.

Trustee McCarty thanked Fannie May for updating their materials and maintaining their iconic storefront.

Trustee Augustine inquired if an arborist is present during tree trimming to ensure that the work is being completed correctly. Mr. Gillingham responded that the specifications required for each bid include certain certifications and an arborist on staff in order to be considered as a viable bid. Our own staff and third party arborist also review the work. If residents have questions, he encouraged them to reach out to the Public Works Department.

A motion was made by Trustee Holder to approve the Consent Agenda as presented, seconded by Trustee McCarty.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Holder, Kotynek, McCarty and McGee

Nays: None

Absent: None

6. CURRENT BUSINESS

A. Ordinance – Variations - Specified Structures and Uses in Front Yards / Robert Heath Tow, 1501 West 41st Street

President Kuchler asked the Village Board if there was a motion to return the variance requests regarding 1501 W. 41st Street back to the Zoning Board of Appeals per the applicant's request. Trustee Augustine made a motion to remand the ordinance concerning variations regarding specified structures and uses in front yards for Robert Heath Tow, 1501 West 41st Street to the Zoning Board of Appeals, seconded by Trustee Kotynek.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Holder, Kotynek, McCarty and McGee 

Nays: None 

Absent: None

B. Ordinance – Text Amendments Relating to Articles V and IX of the La Grange Zoning Code

President Kuchler asked Trustee Augustine to introduce the item. Trustee Augustine advised that as part of last year's annual review of the La Grange Zoning Code, staff identified several sections of the Zoning Code for potential amendments. The majority of those proposed Zoning Code amendments were presented and approved at the March 9, 2020 Village Board meeting. The remaining amendments relate to live music. The La Grange Plan Commission conducted a public hearing in two sessions on December 10, 2019 and January 14, 2020 related to live music. After deliberation, the Plan Commission voted unanimously to recommend the text amendments.

Currently, the Village currently allows both indoor and outdoor live music (“live entertainment” per the Zoning Code) as a special use when accessory to an eating place per Section 5-105A5 of the Zoning Code or as a temporary use per Section 9-103C13.1 of the Zoning Code. An eating place can be granted up to eight temporary use permits for indoor or outdoor live music per year. Any establishment wishing to offer live music more than eight times per year is required to apply for a special use permit.

In 2017, the Village commissioned a retail market assessment to evaluate the performance of La Grange's downtown. The market assessment identified changes in retail trends such as the increasing need for retailers to offer “experiences.” Live music is one experience that continues to grow in popularity among eating places.

Staff and the Plan Commission recommends amending the Zoning Code to allow for live music as a permitted use when such live music is 1) accessory to an eating place, 2) contained wholly within the principal building, and 3) is subject to the Village's noise regulations (as proposed to be amended) as contained within Chapter 97 of the La Grange Code of Ordinances. The Plan Commission recommended that live music, when located outdoors, continue to be allowed as a temporary use up to eight times per year, subject to the requirements in 9-103C13.1, including review and approval by the Village Manager. Businesses seeking to have live music outdoors more than eight times per year would be required to obtain a special use permit. This recommendation allows the Plan Commission and Village Board the opportunity to evaluate any potential impacts of regular outdoor live music and also provides parity with the one remaining business with an existing special use permit.

In conjunction with evaluating the proposed live music amendments, staff and the Village Attorney reviewed the Noise Control chapter of the La Grange Code of Ordinances, which was last updated in 1982. Staff and the Village Attorney are proposing to update the entire Noise Control chapter, which regulates noise on public and private properties, as well as vehicle noise.

In researching the proposed changes, staff compared the Village's existing noise control requirements to current best practices, neighboring and peer communities, and State statute. Staff also consulted with a sound engineer and planning consultant firms. The research revealed that noise standards generally fall into one of two categories, 1) technical standards, or 2) a reasonable person standard. Technical standards are based on decibel levels or other similar standards and requires specialized equipment and training to enforce. The reasonable person standard provides more generalized parameters to guide enforcement personnel in determining if a noise is or is not in violation of the Village's regulations. Enforcement of the reasonable person standard does not require specialized equipment or training, but does allow for more discretion in evaluating complaints.

The Village's current regulations are based on technical standards and prohibit any noise during daytime hours emanating from a residential or commercial property to another residential or commercial property at a weighted sound pressure level of 55 dB or more as measured at least 25 ft. from the noise source. Staff is proposing the use of a reasonable person standard due to the benefits of enforceability. The proposed amendments revise the requirements to prohibit noise that is plainly audible for one minute or more at a specified distance from the noise source. The plainly audible standard is intended to better account for ambient noises that impact perceptions of sound. The specified distance varies based on time of day and zoning district and generally relates to Zoning Code requirements for minimum yards, or typical lot or right of-way dimensions.

The proposed Noise Control chapter retains the Village's current definitions of daytime (7:00 am to 10:00 pm) and nighttime (10:00 pm to 7:00 am) hours, as well existing framework of regulating noises by zoning district. It also includes continued prohibitions on noise from industrial properties as required by the Zoning Code.

The amendments reflect a change to the restrictions on noise emanating from residential and commercial properties by shifting from a technical standard to a reasonable person standard and modifying the distances from which noises are measured.

Community Development Director Jones summarized the proposed amendments by stating that restaurants will now be able to host music indoors without obtaining

om the Village. If a restaurant would like live music outdoors, they are allowed to have live music up to 8 times a year after obtaining a no charge, temporary use permit. The permits are designed to be issued quickly and will allow the Village to work with the restaurant on individual requests.

Trustee Augustine commended staff and asked them to continue to make necessary updates to the Village Codes that will help businesses.

A motion was made by Trustee Augustine to approve the ordinance regarding text amendments relating to Articles V and IX of the La Grange Zoning Code, seconded by Trustee Holder.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Holder, Kotynek, McCarty and McGee

Nays: None

Absent: None

Community Development Director Jones explained that the item updates the noise ordinances throughout the Village, including vehicles and residences. The new “reasonable person” standards described in the ordnance are more understandable than the old "technical level” (decibel measurement) standard of measurement. President Kuchler asked about the applicability of the provisions to graduation parties and garage noise. Director Jones stated that the new regulations will make it easier for Police to enforce complaints regarding loud noise, particularly after 10 p.m.

A motion was made by Trustee Augustine to approve the ordinance regarding amendments to Chapter 97 of the La Grange Code of Ordinances, seconded by Trustee Holder.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Holder, Kotynek, McCarty and McGee

Nays: None

Absent: None

C. Resolution - Authorizing the Village Manager to Submit an Application for Coronavirus Relief Funds Provided to Cook County Under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES ACT) and Approving an Intergovernmental Agreement

President Kuchler asked Trustee Gale to introduce the item. Trustee Gale advised that the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, also known as the CARES Act, is a $2.2 trillion economic stimulus bill signed into law in March, 2020. The Act includes funding and relief for businesses, organizations, individuals, states and municipalities as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. Cook County received approximately $429 million from the U.S. Treasury from the CARES Act for certain expenses incurred as a result of the Coronavirus and approximately $51 million of the relief has been allocated to Cook County municipalities to apply for on a reimbursement basis.

The amount allocated to each Cook County community through the CARES Act is based on a formula that includes both population and need. The maximum amount available for La Grange to apply for at this time is $209,122.55. The Village intends to apply for reimbursement for eligible expenses incurred as a result of managing the Coronavirus pandemic, through the CARES Act and other potential funding opportunities such as the FEMA Public Assistance Grant Program.

Trustee Holder inquired if the CARES Act was a grant or a loan. Ms. Peterson responded that the Act allows for reimbursement for eligible expenses and is not a loan.

Trustee Kotynek noted that this item is welcome but that it will only cover a small portion of the expenses incurred due to the Coronavirus.

A motion was made by Trustee Gale to approve the resolution authorizing the Village Manager to submit an application for Coronavirus relief funds provided to Cook County under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act (CARES ACT) and approving an Intergovernmental Agreement, seconded by Trustee Holder.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Holder, Kotynek, McCarty and McGee

Nays: None

Absent: None

7. PUBLIC COMMENT

Village President Kuchler asked Village Manager Peterson if any comments had been received. Village Manager Peterson advised that one comment had been received and proceeded to read the submitted comment.

Rosanne Welenc, 613 9th Avenue, submitted a comment expressing frustration over the length of time that the power was out following the derecho on August 10. While she understands that the derecho was a severe storm event, she was concerned with the length of time that homes in La Grange were out of power. She also referenced other outages that have occurred in the area and noted that the length and frequency of the outage events were high. She noted that these sorts of events put residents at risk of other troubles including increased risk of flooding due to sump pump failure, food waste, temperature extremes, medical device malfunction, and during COVID-19, loss of wages or education due to lack of access to the internet. She requested that the Village work with ComEd to survey the electrical infrastructure in the Sedgwick Park area and make improvements that will lessen the severity and frequency of power outages.

President Kuchler inquired as to what individuals with medical conditions that require medical devices should do in situations where they lose power. Ms. Peterson responded that they should contact LTACC and Com Ed.

President Kuchler noted that the power outage beginning August 10 lasted longer than the Village was initially told. He inquired if the Village would play a role in auditing the system and asked what steps the Village took to assist. Ms. Peterson responded that since the Village does not have the jurisdiction or expertise needed to audit the energy system, we forward the request for audit on to Com Ed and advocate on behalf of our citizens to receive system improvements. She explained that communication was a challenge during this storm due to a breakdown of the systems at Com Ed, but that the entire Village team was involved in responding to residents and working with Com Ed to restore the outages as soon as possible.

President Kuchler noted that the Village will continue to work with Com Ed to provide upgrades to the existing infrastructure within La Grange

8. TRUSTEE COMMENTS

Trustee Holder noted that during the derecho on August 10, that the automated response system from ComEd failed and many residents were left confused. However, he thanked both President Kuchler and Ms. Peterson for their actions in managing the problem. He expressed appreciation for the work of the Public Works Department in cleaning up debris.

Trustee Holder requested further clarification on how front yards and side yards are defined. He also inquired as to the status of the permit. Ms. Jones responded that the construction was completed without a permit and determined through photos that the applicant submitted. The side of the lot that has the shorter frontage is the front yard, whereas the side with the longer frontage is considered the backyard.

Trustee Holder inquired if the group “Watch My Feet” would be performing at this year's Race Unity Rally. Trustee McGee responded that they would have representation during the event. President Kuchler encouraged residents to sign up for the event.

Trustee Gale encouraged residents to consider being an election judge this year. There is a shortage of applicants this year due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Trustee Augustine asked where residents could sign up for Village Alerts including “Notify Me" and "RAVE” Emergency Alerts. Ms. Peterson responded that there are links on the website to receive Village Alerts and Emergency Alerts via email and text.

9. CLOSED SESSION

None.

10. ADJOURNMENT At 9:13 p.m. Trustee Holder made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Trustee Gale. Approved by a voice vote.

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