Sangamon Sun

Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Met May 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.

1. CALL TO ORDER, ROLL CALL, PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The Board of Trustees of the Village of La Grange meeting was called to order at 7:34 p.m. by Village President Mark Kuchler. On roll call, as read by Village Clerk Paul Saladino, the following were:

PRESENT: Trustees Augustine, Gale, Kotynek, Matteucci and Peterson with President Kuchler presiding.

ABSENT:

Trustee McGee

OTHERS:

Village Manager Andrianna Peterson Village Attorney Mark Burkland Acting Public Works Director Mike Bojovic Community Development Director Charity Jones Finance Director Lou Cipparrone Interim Police Chief Jason Cates Deputy Police Chief Robert Wardlaw Fire Chief Terrence Vavra Planner Heather Valone Executive Assistant Maureen Rush

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 both the public hearing as well as the agenda via email or telephone prior to the meeting.

President Kuchler asked Mike Bojovic's son, Chademir Bojovic, to lead the audience in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

2. PRESIDENT'S REPORT

President Kuchler thanked members of the La Grange Fire Department for attending the meeting. He stated that the Village was heartbroken and in mourning over the death of

Firefighter/Paramedic Adam Van Every, who died suddenly on May 19. It is a devastating loss for his family and friends, the Fire Department, and the entire Village.

The Village has been in contact with Adam's family, and are providing grief / peer counseling and resources for our first responders. The Village is grateful for Adam's service and dedication to La Grange. He noted that Adam will always be a part of our Village family, and that we will keep everyone in our thoughts and prayers. Our deepest sympathies go out to his family and to all members of his Village family. President Kuchler asked all in attendance to rise and observe a moment of silence out of respect for the heroic and courageous service that Adam Van Every provided to the Village.

President Kuchler reminded residents that all residents of Illinois 12 years old and older are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. All state-supported mass vaccination sites, pharmacy partners and others are taking appointments for the vaccine. For more information regarding vaccination locations as well as details on how to book an appointment to receive the vaccine, please visit the state's COVID website at www.coronavirus.illinois.gov. Residents who do not have access to or need assistance navigating online services can call the toll-free IDPH hotline at 833-621-1284 to book an appointment.

President Kuchler announced that the State of Illinois entered the bridge transition period which establishes new, increased capacity limits for restaurants, retailers and other settings determined by risk level. The CDC has issued updated guidance that allows fully vaccinated people to resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing, except where required by federal, state, local laws or regulations. Generally, unvaccinated residents should continue wearing masks in most settings and all residents should continue wearing masks on public transportation, in congregate facilities and in healthcare settings, regardless of their vaccination status. The Governor also announced that barring any significant increases in COVID-19 metrics, the state could move into Phase 5 (Illinois Restored) as early as Friday, June 11. The Village will continue to assess the guidance and consider adjustments to protocols and policies in conjunction with the evolving information. Residents are urged to get the vaccine, wear face coverings if not vaccinated, and continue to socially distance in compliance with CDC and IDPH requirements.

President Kuchler reminded residents that the La Grange Carnival will begin on Friday June 4 and continue through Sunday, June 6 on Harris Avenue between La Grange Road and Ashland Avenue. He also noted that the Farmers Market is held each Thursday morning from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Harris Avenue in front of the Village Hall. All events will be operated in compliance with the requirements of the applicable state public health guidelines. For more information regarding these and other events, visit the LGBA website at www.lgba.com.

President Kuchler announced that the Robert E. Coulter Jr. Post 1941 in La Grange will commemorate Memorial Day on Monday, May 31, 2021 with a memorial ceremony at the Lyons Township High School (north campus) beginning at 9:00 a.m. There will be a ceremonial bell ringing honoring those La Grange area residents who gave their lives in service to our country from the civil war to the present time. A final ceremony and commemoration will be held at the Post at 900 S. La Grange Road at 12 p.m.

President Kuchler announced that the Government Finance Officers Association has advised that the Village's comprehensive annual financial report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2020, qualifies for the GFOA's Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. This is the twenty-sixth consecutive year that the Village has received this prestigious award. President Kuchler recognized Finance Director Lou Cipparrone and Assistant Finance Director Joe Munizza for their efforts related to the achievement.

President Kuchler announced that the previous week was National Public Works Week and the Village Board wanted to recognize the contributions of our valued Public Works employees. The Village is a full service community, and Public Works staff focuses on the infrastructure, facilities and services that are critical to our community. Public Works improves and protects our transportation infrastructure system, water supply and conveyance of water, public buildings, downtown environment, urban forest, sewers, train stations, street lighting, sidewalks, and countless other projects and maintenance activities that have a direct impact on resident's quality of life and the look and feel of our community. He noted that the agenda included a farewell to Mike Bojovic, Acting Director of Public Works, who will be retiring after 34 years of dedicated service to the Village. He noted that Mike, and the rest of the employees of our Public Works Department, provide extraordinary service to the residents and businesses of La Grange each and every day. On behalf of the entire community and the Village Board, President Kuchler expressed gratitude and deep appreciation to the employees of Public Works for their service to the community.

A. Resolution of Appreciation - Retirement of Acting Public Works Director Mike Bojovic

President Kuchler thanked Acting Director Bojovic for his service and for being the face of Public Works throughout the years. President Kuchler praised his professionalism, mentorship and commitment to putting residents first. He wished him the best in his retirement.

Trustee Augustine thanked Mr. Bojovic for his service to the Village and noted that his love of La Grange and pride in his career are apparent in his actions and deliverables. She noted that previous Public Works Director Gillingham praised Mr. Bojovic's “can do” attitude, commitment to safety, and training opportunities for employees. Trustee Augustine noted that Mr. Bojovic was a wonderful Village ambassador who will be missed, but takes the best wishes of all on his well-deserved retirement.

Trustee Kotynek noted that Mr. Bojovic is an important part of La Grange and wished him well on his next chapter in life.

Trustee Matteucci appreciates the support Mr. Bojovic provides to residents, especially in difficult situations.

La Grange Business Association Director Nancy Cummings thanked Mr. Bojovic for all of his assistance over the years. She noted that Mr. Bojovic takes great pride in his work and that he would be missed. The LGBA then presented him with a gift of appreciation.

President Kuchler read the Resolution of Appreciation for retiring Acting Public Works Director Mike Bojovic into the record.

Trustee Kotynek made a motion to approve the Resolution of Appreciation for retiring Acting Public Works Director Mike Bojovic, seconded by Trustee Gale. Motion carried on a voice vote.

Mr. Bojovic thanked everyone for all their kind words. He expressed that the Public Works staff are the backbone of the team that takes care of the community. He noted that he trusted these employees to continue to carry out good work. He expressed his thanks to the Village Board and the community as a whole for helping him and his family create a home in La Grange.

B. Resolution of Appreciation - Retirement of Acting Auxiliary Police Director Robert Grimm

President Kuchler read the Resolution of Appreciation for retiring Acting Auxiliary Police Director Robert Grimm into the record. He stated that he appreciated his service and countless volunteer hours to the community over his many years with the Village of La Grange.

Trustee Kotynek made a motion to approve the Resolution of Appreciation for retiring Auxiliary Police Director Robert Grimm, seconded by Trustee Gale. Motion carried on a voice vote.

C. Recognition of Citizen Volunteers

In appreciation for the citizen volunteers who have rendered thoughtful and dedicated service to the Village by participating on various advisory boards and commissions over the past year, President Kuchler stated that Trustees along with Village staff would give a brief synopsis of the functions of each advisory board and commission, and announce the names of the members along with their years of service.

Board of Fire and Police Commissioner (3-year term, 3 members)

It was noted that for the BOFPC is responsible for the initial appointment of all full time firefighter/paramedics and police officers.

Members are: Elyse Hoffenberg, 7 years and current Chairperson; Brian Boersma, 3 years of service; and Tom Levato, 2 years of service.

Community and Economic Development Commission (3-year term, 15 members)

It was noted that the CEDC has continued to stay abreast of current economic trends and issues through discussion at their quarterly meetings. Additionally, the CEDC continued to provide oversight for the downtown valet program and make recommendations to the Village Board related to its operation. The CEDC also provided valuable input into the development of a Village brand strategy, which was completed in 2019.

Members are: Russ Riberto, 7 years of service and current chair of the commission; Marty Dunne and Justin Hanson, both served one year; Beverly Hayes and Maurice McGee, both with 2 years of service; Michael Buttron, 3 years of service; Tom Cassidy, 5 years of service; Caroline Dillon, Camille Hall, James Janevski, Lisa Sher all with 6 years of service; Margaret Carlson, 13 years of service; and Steve Palmer, 21 years of service. The Village also recognized the service of Greg DiDomenico who served from 2016 to 2021 and Michael Matteucci who served from 2018 - 2021.

Design Review Commission (3-year term, 7 members)

It was noted that since 2019, the DRC recommended approval of several renovations to existing businesses and improvements to accommodate new businesses. The DRC reviewed and recommended approval of significant façade renovations to accommodate Milk Money Brewing at 75 S. La Grange Road and Fannie May located at 2 S. La Grange Road.

Members are: Tim Reardon, 14 years of service and current Chairperson; Gina Lavorato, appointed October 12, 2020; Ray Baker, appointed August 24, 2020; Kevin Cahill, 2 years of service; Christine Banks, 3 years of service; and Kurt Wisthuff, 5 years of service. The Village also recognized the service of Marcy Dunne who served from 2018 – 2021.

Environmental Quality Commission (3-year term, 15 members)

It was noted that since 2019, the EQC has continued to consider a wider range of environmental matters. These matters include both short-term and long-term sustainability initiatives in concert with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Greenest Region 2 Compact. The EQC also held a holiday light recycling event, worked with La Grange Park on a pumpkin recycling event, and held an Earth Day Celebration.

Members are: Rose Naseef, 7 years and current Chairperson; Aakruti Liva, appointed February 22, 2021; Molly Mahoney, appointed January 25, 2021; Jana Svec, appointed January 25, 2021; Laurie Braun, David May, Brandon Simak, Stan Zarnowiecki, all with two years of service; and Linda Christianson, 12 years of service. The Village also recognized the service of Peggy Peterson who served from 2019 – 2021; Dave Bryant, Tim Sheldon, and Joel Baise, all who served from 2018 – 2021; and Bill Robison who served from 2017 – 2021.

Plan Commission (3-vear term, 7 members)

It was noted that since 2019, the Plan Commission conducted public hearings and considered text amendments to update requirements for: accessory structures in single family zoning districts; solar energy systems; personal wireless facilities; fees and definitions, commercial uses; and nonconforming structures.

The Plan Commission also reviewed applications for two resubdivisions (resulting in four new single family lots), and a rezoning request from the Park District for their recently acquired property at 610 East Avenue.

The Plan Commission continues to review the Zoning Code and provide recommendations for updates and revisions as warranted.

Members are: Greg Paice, 12 years of service and current Chairperson; Peter O'Connor, 1 year of service; Suzanne Mosher, 2 years of service; Glenn Wentink, 4 years of service: Jeffrey Hoffenberg, 5 years of service; Dave Schwartz, 6 years of service; Julie Egan, 7 years of service.

Zoning Board of Appeals (5-year term, 7 members)

It was noted that since 2019, the ZBA has heard four applications for variations seeking relief from the following code requirements: two variations seeking relief from the required yard restrictions for patios, one variation was seeking relief from the front yard requirement for the construction of an addition, and one variation seeking relief from the building coverage maximum for the construction of a new two car garage.

Members are: Michael Finder 9 years of service and current Chairperson; Kate Hennessy, appointed August 24, 2020; Anjali Peterson, 1 year of service; Paul Kerpan, 2 years of service; Clayton Edwards, 4 years of service. The Village also recognized the service of Laura Tussing who served from 2016 - 2021 and John Pappas who served from 2015 - 2021.

Citizen Volunteers Appointed to Individual Positions

Village Manager Andrianna Peterson expressed the Village's gratitude to former West Suburban Mass Transit District Trustee Curtis Linder who represented the Village of La Grange from 2009 – 2020. Manager Peterson noted that in November, 2020, the Village and other member Villages passed a resolution dissolving the West Suburban Mass Transit District after the District Board determined that services would no longer be provided. During his tenure, Mr. Linder was instrumental in assisting the Village in securing grant funding for initiatives at both La Grange Road and Stone Avenue Train Stations.

Fire Chief Terry Vavra explained that the Firemen's Pension Board was created according to Illinois State Statute to review pension investment activity, and evaluate disability claims, fitness for duty and other matters of an operational nature. Jon Peterson, member since June 2015, and William O'Brien, member since October 2020, are the two resident members of the 5-member Fireman's Pension Board.

Police Chief Jason Cates explained that the Police Pension Board was created according to Illinois State Statute to review pension investment activity, and evaluate disability claims, fitness for duty and other matters of an operational nature. Andrew James, member since July 2017, and John Mattern, member since July 2020, are the two resident members of the 5-member Police Pension Board.

President Kuchler thanked the many volunteers in our community that enhance the vibrancy and quality of life in La Grange and make the Village a great place to live and raise a family.

MANAGER'S REPORT

Village Manager Andrianna Peterson announced that the Illinois Department of Transportation reports that construction work is proceeding on schedule for the Ogden Avenue Resurfacing Project. Sidewalk and landscaping work is expected to be completed before the end of the May, followed by milling, patching and resurfacing of the roadway. Depending on weather, the project is expected to be completed by the end of June. Motorists are asked to use caution while driving through the construction zone.

PUBLIC COMMENT REGARDING AGENDA ITEMS

None.

5. CONSENT AGENDA AND VOTE 

A. Ordinance – Creating an Additional Class A-2 Liquor License, Giuseppe & Paolo LLC d/b/a GP Italiano

B. Contract Amendment - Concrete Repairs to the Fire Department Apparatus Floor

C. Agreement -- Eberly / East Avenue Resurfacing Project

D. Ordinance – Disposal of Surplus Property – Police Department

E. Minutes of the Village of La Grange Board of Trustees Regular Meeting, Monday, May 10, 2021

F. Consolidated Voucher 210524

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 Gale asked if Item C was for the small spur of road north of Ogden Avenue. Acting Director Bojovic confirmed that was correct.

President Kuchler noted that two of the items that would be sold at auction by the Police Department were Segway's.

A motion was made by Trustee Kotynek to approve the Consent Agenda, seconded by Trustee Augustine.

Approved by a roll call vote:

Ayes: Nays: Absent:

Trustees Augustine, Gale, Kotynek, Matteucci and Peterson None Trustee McGee

6. CURRENT BUSINESS

None.

7. PUBLIC COMMENT

None.

8. TRUSTEE COMMENTS

None.

9. CLOSED SESSION

None.

10. ADJOURNMENT At 8:21 p.m. Trustee Augustine made a motion to adjourn, seconded by Trustee Peterson. Approved by a voice vote.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/103op88sQ07-qQj-xV3jK2rmloyKjs-BjodZMLk-U8Qk/edit